Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has launched a scathing critique of the previous Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration, accusing them of operating a “Ponzi scheme” that prioritized self-enrichment over the welfare of Ghanaians. Speaking to the media following the finance minister’s mid-year review presentation on July 24, 2025, Ablakwa argued that the Akufo-Addo government’s eight years in power were marked by reckless mismanagement of national resources, leading to widespread suffering and ultimately, their electoral defeat. He contrasted this with the current administration, led by President John Dramani Mahama, emphasizing the lessons learned from the past and the commitment to utilizing their parliamentary majority to improve the lives of Ghanaians.
Ablakwa’s condemnation centered on the alleged misuse of public funds under the previous administration. He accused them of engaging in dubious expenditures that failed to translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens. This, he argued, was a key factor in their loss at the polls, signifying a public rejection of their economic policies. He emphasized that the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, having witnessed the consequences of such mismanagement, is determined to chart a different course, prioritizing the needs of the people and ensuring responsible stewardship of national resources.
Ablakwa expressed strong confidence in the current finance minister and President Mahama’s leadership. He highlighted Mahama’s experience, both in power and in opposition, as invaluable assets in navigating the country towards economic recovery and prosperity. He stressed the importance of learning from past mistakes, suggesting that Mahama’s time out of office provided him with the opportunity to reflect and refine his approach to governance. This, according to Ablakwa, positions him uniquely to address the challenges facing the nation and put Ghana back on a path of sustainable growth.
The North Tongu MP further underscored the stark contrast between the current administration’s vision and the legacy of the previous government. He lamented the economic hardships faced by Ghanaians under Akufo-Addo, including the need for debt restructuring and the denial of access to life savings for senior citizens. These issues, according to Ablakwa, represent the direct consequences of the previous administration’s mismanagement and serve as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible economic governance. He emphasized the NDC’s commitment to rectifying these issues and ensuring a more secure and prosperous future for all Ghanaians.
Ablakwa’s statement reflects a broader political narrative that often emerges following a change in government. The incumbent administration frequently criticizes the economic policies of its predecessor, highlighting perceived failures and promising a new direction. This rhetoric serves to distinguish the current government’s approach and justify its policy choices. While such critiques can offer valuable insights into past shortcomings and potential areas for improvement, they also need to be considered within the context of political discourse.
In essence, Ablakwa’s remarks are a strong indictment of the previous administration’s economic policies, portraying them as self-serving and detrimental to the welfare of the Ghanaian people. He contrasts this with the current government’s purported commitment to responsible governance and economic recovery, emphasizing the lessons learned from the past and the determination to prioritize the needs of the citizens. His statement serves as a clear articulation of the NDC’s economic vision and their commitment to delivering on their promises to the Ghanaian electorate.
