Samuel Sarkodee, widely recognized as Sam Sarks and former Chairman of the NPP-USA Columbus Ohio Chapter, has recently voiced strong criticism of Ghana’s opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). His remarks were made during an interview on Asaase Radio’s “Press Pass,” where he noted the NDC’s attempts to align with Donald Trump’s political resurgence, arguing that such comparisons are unfounded and misplaced. Sarkodee contended that the NDC’s celebration of Trump’s comeback would prove ineffective in the context of the impending December 7 elections in Ghana, asserting that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) is poised to maintain its grip on power due to its achievements and ongoing economic initiatives.
Sarkodee expressed bewilderment over the NDC’s eagerness to celebrate Trump’s victory, suggesting that the political landscapes of the U.S. and Ghana should not be conflated. He highlighted the absurdity of the NDC’s strategy, asserting that there is no valid correlation between the two parties’ situations. Pointing to past electoral outcomes, he referenced the NPP’s ability to retain power in Ghana even during challenging times, including the temporary loss of leadership in the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic. By recounting these events, Sarkodee underscored the NPP’s resilience under the leadership of President Nana Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Delving into the factors that contributed to Trump’s earlier success, Sarkodee highlighted the former president’s economic policies, which he argued parallel the accomplishments of the NPP in Ghana. He asserted that Trump’s focus on domestic job retention and economic stability resonates deeply with the NPP’s governance model, particularly in its efforts to boost the Ghanaian economy. In contrast, he criticized the tenure of former President John Mahama, blaming him for significant economic challenges, including the infamous energy crisis known as “Dumsor,” and the discontinuation of teacher and nursing allowances.
In his discussion of the current economic situation in Ghana, Sarkodee praised the performance of the NPP government under Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He argued that the NPP has successfully navigated the turbulent waters of a global pandemic, a task that has proven immensely challenging for governments worldwide. While he acknowledged that the country faces economic hurdles, he insisted that these challenges are less severe than those experienced during the NDC’s administration. Sarkodee maintained that the NPP’s governance reflects a commitment to economic recovery and growth.
Projecting the outcome of the upcoming elections, Sarkodee expressed confidence that Ghanaians would choose to support the NPP once again, driven by the party’s efforts in economic modernization and digitalization. He voiced particular optimism about Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s capacity to carry forward President Akufo-Addo’s legacy, particularly in the realm of digital economic initiatives that are vital for Ghana’s revival. Sarkodee argued that the electorate will recognize the progress and vision of the NPP, translating that into electoral support.
In conclusion, Sarkodee dismissed the NDC as lacking a substantive message to present to voters and warned that their attempts to draw parallels with Trump’s political fortunes are misguided. He expressed a strong belief that the NPP’s track record in economic management, alongside its initiatives aimed at development and modernization, would resonate with Ghanaians. As the country gears up for the December 7 elections, Sarkodee remains adamant that the NPP’s achievements will lead to another electoral victory, placing the onus on the NDC to develop a clear, compelling platform if they wish to compete effectively.
