Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, the former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has taken a critical stance against the economic policies of the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, asserting that these policies are the primary cause of the hardships faced by Ghanaians. Speaking in Battor during a campaign event for the NDC’s vice presidential candidate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, he characterized the government’s approach as akin to “weapons of mass destruction.” Ofosu Ampofo articulated a grave concern that these policies have led to significant economic damage and loss of life, citing the plight of prominent individuals affected by the prevailing economic conditions.
During his address, he referenced the struggles articulated by Mr. Michael Agyekum Addo, CEO of KAMA Group, who, prior to his passing, expressed the extreme difficulties posed by the government’s policies. Dr. Ofosu Ampofo emphasized the destructive nature of these economic strategies, specifically accusing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, head of the Economic Management Team, of failing to acknowledge the dire situation and instead diverting attention toward digitalization efforts. This shift, he argued, serves as a distraction from the real economic challenges that continue to afflict everyday Ghanaians.
Furthermore, Dr. Ofosu Ampofo critiqued the government’s current digitalization agenda, claiming it relies on the foundational infrastructure, including fiber optics, set up during the previous Mahama administration. This assertion aimed to highlight that the groundwork for such technological advancements was not established under the NPP but rather by the prior NDC leadership. By focusing on what he sees as the inadequacies of the NPP’s economic management, he believes the party seeks to misrepresent their leadership capabilities and achievements, particularly as election season approaches.
As the country gears up for elections, Ofosu Ampofo framed the current political landscape as a choice grounded in trust and reliable leadership. He underscored former President John Dramani Mahama’s track record and capability, suggesting he is the candidate best positioned to restore confidence in governance among the electorate. He emphasized that Mahama “reigns supreme” in terms of trustworthiness as a leader who has previously served the nation well, urging voters to mobilize support for his candidacy.
Dr. Ofosu Ampofo’s rhetoric not only aimed to galvanize support for Mahama but also reinforced the necessity for constituents in North Tongu to vote for local representative Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa—acknowledging his service and accomplishments in the constituency. This localized appeal serves to connect the national narrative of economic hardship directly with the actions of local political leaders, encouraging voters to consider both the broader implications of national policies and the impact of their immediate representatives on their lives.
In conclusion, the speech delivered by Dr. Ofosu Ampofo encapsulates the NDC’s strategic effort to critique the NPP’s governance while rallying support for their candidates ahead of the elections. His strong denunciation of the government’s economic measures reflects a broader campaign strategy of positioning the NDC as the party capable of delivering the change needed to address the pressing issues affecting Ghanaians. By drawing a stark contrast between the policies of the current administration and the previous successes of the NDC, the party seeks to build a compelling case for voters to place their trust in Mahama, thereby aiming to reclaim leadership in the upcoming elections.
