The economic legacy of the Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration in Ghana has become a contentious issue, sparking a heated debate between the current and former administrations. Manasseh Azure Awuni, a prominent Ghanaian investigative journalist, has weighed in on the controversy, arguing that President John Dramani Mahama’s characterization of the previous government’s economic management as “criminal” is, in fact, an understatement. Azure contends that the mismanagement is evident and substantiated by admissions from key figures within the former NPP government itself.
Azure points to a 2024 statement by Kwaku Kwarteng, a former Deputy Finance Minister under the Akufo-Addo administration, where he described the economic management as akin to a “Ponzi scheme.” This admission, according to Azure, provides compelling evidence of the reckless handling of the Ghanaian economy under the NPP. He argues that journalists have a responsibility to remind the public of these statements and hold the NPP accountable for their economic record. Azure believes President Mahama’s description of the economic situation as “criminal” is charitable, given the extent of the alleged mismanagement.
President Mahama, in an address to labor unions, echoed these sentiments, stating that the economic situation he inherited was far worse than anticipated. He described Ghana as a “crime scene,” emphasizing the gravity of the economic challenges facing the country. Mahama’s strong words underscore the deep concerns about the previous administration’s economic policies and their impact on the nation’s financial stability. He questioned how such reckless management could have occurred and expressed his commitment to transparency in addressing the economic crisis.
The NPP, however, vehemently denies these allegations. Richard Ahiagbah, the party’s National Communications Director, refutes the claims of mismanagement, arguing that the Akufo-Addo administration built a more resilient and prosperous economy. Ahiagbah points to the implementation of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program, the establishment of STEM schools, and investments in educational infrastructure as evidence of the NPP’s commitment to national development. He questions how such achievements could be possible if the economy was indeed in the dire state described by President Mahama.
Ahiagbah’s counter-argument highlights the complexities of evaluating economic performance. While the NPP points to social programs like Free SHS as indicators of progress, critics argue that these initiatives were implemented without adequate financial planning, contributing to the economic downturn. The debate underscores the importance of considering a range of indicators when assessing economic health, including not only social programs but also factors like debt levels, inflation, and unemployment rates.
The clashing narratives presented by the current and former administrations underscore the deeply polarized political landscape in Ghana. The accusations of economic mismanagement have become a central theme in the political discourse, with both sides attempting to shape public perception of their economic performance. The debate highlights the need for objective analysis and transparent data to provide a clear picture of the true state of the Ghanaian economy and the long-term consequences of policy decisions made by previous administrations. The ongoing debate also underscores the importance of holding political leaders accountable for their economic stewardship and ensuring responsible fiscal management for the benefit of all citizens.
