The people of Ghana are witnessing, yet again, the consequences of falling for empty promises and unprepared leadership. Barely four months into the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) under John Dramani Mahama, I am deeply concerned by the alarming state of our economy, the rising cost of living, and the glaring failure of leadership that continues to erode public trust and national progress.
The Economy Is Suffering, and So Are Ghanaians
The cedi continues to fall sharply against the US dollar, creating instability in the market and weakening the purchasing power of ordinary citizens. Prices of essential goods such as cement and fuel have increased rapidly. “Dumsor” has returned, yet electricity tariffs have also been raised — worsening the burden on homes and businesses.
Galamsey: A Case of Dangerous Hypocrisy
I am particularly disturbed by the government’s hypocrisy on illegal mining. While in opposition, the NDC boldly promised: “We will release every small-scale miner who has been jailed. We believe they were only trying to survive, and the law was unfair to them.”
Now in office, the same government is overwhelmed by the very consequences of the promise they made. The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has been seen crying on national television, visibly broken by the galamsey menace. This isn’t leadership — this is recklessness catching up with reality.
The Betrayal of Cocoa Farmers
The NDC also criticized the previous administration for not increasing cocoa producer prices despite rising global market rates. They insisted: “When cocoa prices go up on the world market, government must show respect to farmers by paying them more. Anything less is exploitation.”
Today, global cocoa prices have surged to record levels — yet the NDC has failed to increase local producer prices. This is a betrayal of our hardworking farmers and a direct contradiction of their own words. It shows a government more interested in slogans than in substance.
Unlawful Dismissals and Broken Promises to Workers
Even more troubling is the NDC’s recent wave of dismissals targeting government workers who were employed as recently as October 2024. These dismissals are politically motivated and deeply unlawful — especially in light of a directive from the new Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who stated unequivocally:
“All appointments and recruitments made into the Public Service after December 7, 2024, are hereby revoked.”
This sweeping and arbitrary decision has resulted in the unlawful dismissal of legitimate civil and public servants, many of whom do not fall under political appointments or contract categories. This action not only violates their rights but also threatens the professionalism and stability of Ghana’s public institutions.
Ghana Deserves Better
The NDC promised change, but what they’ve delivered is confusion, rising hardship, and broken trust. The signs are clear: this is a leadership that was never prepared to govern. The Ghanaian people deserve more than propaganda, crocodile tears, and excuses.
Signed by
Moses Antwi
Fmr Vice Chairman, NPP China
