Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah, a member of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has voiced strong criticism regarding the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration’s foreign policy and diplomatic engagements. He asserts that the NPP has merely continued an inadequate approach toward building relationships with neighboring countries and fostering regional cooperation. According to Ankrah, previous administrations, particularly the NDC, were able to create productive political relationships and economic ties throughout the African continent, enhancing security collaborations and facilitating people-to-people exchanges. In contrast, he believes the NPP’s current efforts lack ambition and effectiveness, potentially jeopardizing Ghana’s international standing and bilateral relations.
Ankrah highlights concerns about the inexperience of the NPP’s presidential candidate, Bawumia, and his running mate, suggesting that their lack of diplomatic savvy could pose significant challenges for Ghana’s future. He argues that Bawumia’s performance as Vice-President did not demonstrate the necessary diplomatic skills or understanding of international relations that are vital for leading the country. This perceived inadequacy, according to Ankrah, warrants consideration for Ghanaians to support more seasoned leadership, particularly that of former President John Dramani Mahama and his deputy, Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, whom he believes possess the requisite experience and global recognition to elevate Ghana’s diplomatic stature.
The discourse emphasizes the increasing importance of diplomacy in an interconnected world. Ankrah points out that the rhetoric of ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’ touted by President Akufo-Addo and Bawumia has devolved into what he describes as a “crippled Ghana” plagued by economic setbacks. He attributes this decline, in part, to their failure to grasp essential aspects of diplomatic engagement like mission, urgency, competence, responsibility, drive, and enthusiasm. He posits that lacking these qualities undermines Ghana’s sovereignty, national security, and sustainable development—a critical predicament that he claims both Bawumia and his running mate have failed to adequately address.
Ankrah argues the significance of a strong foundation in diplomatic relations as vital to national development, underscoring that the attributes exemplified by Mahama—friendship, reciprocity, sincerity, and inclusiveness—are where the NPP has faltered. He insists that these qualities are essential for fostering goodwill and collaboration with other countries, particularly in a time when global challenges require united responses and collective action. On the contrary, he contends that Bawumia and his team lack the sincerity needed to cultivate these connections effectively, which could hinder Ghana’s opportunity for growth and influence in the region.
Furthermore, Ankrah’s commentary serves as a call for reflection among the electorate regarding the implications of leadership choices they face in the upcoming elections. By emphasizing the experience and diplomatic efficacy of Mahama and Opoku Agyemang, he aims to steer public sentiment towards appreciating the value of experienced leadership in navigating complex international waters. As Ghana continues to engage with neighboring nations, Ankrah advocates for elected leaders who can effectively manage foreign relations and ensure the country’s interests are prioritized, arguing that the NPP’s current strategy is insufficient for these demands.
In conclusion, the discourse around Ghana’s foreign relations and diplomatic posture reveals critical views about the current leadership under the NPP as expressed by Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah. With a call for experienced governance and diplomatic competence, he presents a case for the NDC’s leadership in establishing robust international relations based on reciprocity and sincerity. The statement underscores the urgent need for Ghanaians to consider the qualifications and capabilities of their leaders as they decide the trajectory of the country’s future on the global stage, particularly in terms of fostering international relationships that are essential for national growth and security.
