Lacking true leadership or a team of COMPETENT LEADERS makes nations like Ghana perish in corruption and poor economy. The 2028 general election in Ghana promises to be a pivotal moment. An historic clash of legacies, ideologies and leadership records. It is not merely a contest between two political parties. It is a referendum on truth, development, and the enduring impact of governance.
Legacy Matters in Leadership. The concept of legacy has emerged as a driving force in Ghanaian politics. Leaders, past and present, now confront the reality that history does not forget. The policies they champion, the promises they break, and the dreams they either build or betray are etched in the nation’s memory. Ghanaians are signaling loudly: legacy will be the measure of leadership.
A Nation Demanding Accountability. Recent political trends suggest a shift in national consciousness—an awakening among voters who are fed up with partisan dishonesty, failed promises, and economic mismanagement. Former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s reflections on the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) waning credibility have validated the growing public distrust in NPP. Ghana’s political maturity is being tested, and its citizens are more discerning than ever.
A Record of Discontent: NPP’s Years Under Scrutiny. From the scandals surrounding Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, the controversial Wontumi road contracts, and the GIHOC saga, to the unfulfilled promises of monumental projects like the Cape Coast Harbour—many Ghanaians feel betrayed. Vice President Bawumia’s reversal on the E-Levy and his inability to tackle inflation have further amplified skepticism.
Instead of progress, the past eight years under the NPP have been marred by:
Inflation and currency instability IMF bailouts that raise questions on fiscal prudence Failed flagship projects like 1D1F and Planting for Food and Jobs Public frustration with corruption and lack of transparency
These missteps have reinforced the belief that retaining NPP leadership without reform risks prolonging Ghana’s economic stagnation.
Mahama and the NDC: Restoring Faith in Leadership. In contrast, President John Mahama’s legacy stands on the foundation of social infrastructure and statesmanship. His policies on education expansion, Ridge Hospital development, and inclusive governance have earned continued respect from many communities. More than charisma, Mahama offers:
A 24-hour economy policy aimed at revitalizing productivity. A team of strong successors like Dr. Ato Forson, Ablakwa, Sammy Gyamfi, and Sam George. A leadership style grounded in calm diplomacy and developmental focus.
His return to politics represents a vision many Ghanaians resonate with—one that prioritizes people over partisanship.
Why 2028 Is a Test of Electoral Maturity. Choosing the next leader is not just a ballot exercise—it’s a declaration of national intent. Ghana’s electorate faces a defining question:
Do we vote based on loyalty—or do we vote based on competence and results?
A vote to maintain the NDC in power may symbolize:
Rejection of political propaganda and dishonesty. Embrace of development-driven leadership. A stand against elitism and corruption fatigue. Preference for inclusive policies over divisive rhetoric.
The Verdict Ghana Must Deliver. If Ghanaians reward failure and mismanagement with re-election, it would reflect not just a political setback—but a crisis in democratic reasoning. Leadership should be earned through integrity, vision, and results—not party tradition or charismatic deception. As history watches, Ghana must choose wisely: the road to national development begins at the ballot box.
It can be affirmed and confirmed that re-electing the NPP without demanding reform reflects a national struggle to prioritize competence over loyalty. For Ghana to thrive, leadership must be chosen based on vision, integrity and results—not tradition or party allegiance. In short, retaining the NDC in 2028 could reflect a Ghanaian electorate that values competence over charisma, truth over propaganda, nationalism over partyism and development over party loyalty.
LEADERSHIP NEEDS REQUIRED TEMPARAMENTS-Character too matters in leadership.
As a keen supporter of Mr. Kennedy Agyapong as unifier to get NPP party on track he still faces pragmatic leadership gaps. We admire his fearlessness and populist appeal, but Ghana needs more than bold talk—it needs bold plans. Organizing a party is one thing; organizing a nation for transformation is another.Kennedy Agyapong’s Development Agenda are questionable for the reasons stated below.
No Comprehensive Policy Framework. His campaign has yet to present a detailed plan for economic recovery, education reform, or healthcare transformation.
Overreliance on Personal Success Stories. He stays to be among the NPP leaders who have the arrogance of power and richness. He often cites his business achievements, but honestly, personal wealth doesn’t automatically translate into national development strategy.
Limited Track Record in National Governance. Though he served in Parliament over a decade, he hasn’t held executive office or managed large-scale national programs.
Lack of Institutional Reform Proposals. There’s little clarity on how he would tackle corruption systemically or strengthen institutions like CHRAJ or EOCO.
Absence of Economic Roadmap. Unlike technocrats like Ato Forson or Kwabena Duffuor, Kennedy hasn’t outlined fiscal policies or industrialization plans.
Minimal Focus on Youth and Job Creation. His speeches rarely address youth unemployment or vocational training initiatives. He has no detailed plan for the youth unemployment. The able question is that what did he do in 8 years with Nana Addo on unemployment? Talking without walking the talk.
No Clear Foreign Policy Vision. Ghana’s global partnerships and trade strategies remain untouched in his public discourse. He only talks about winning power.
Weak Engagement with Civil Society. He hasn’t built strong alliances with NGOs, academia, or policy think tanks to shape inclusive governance. He has no national plan. He only has national talk show.
Reactive Leadership Style. His responses often come after crises, not through proactive planning or strategic foresight. He has not steered any plan to fix anything by his government. He could not help unfix e-levy, he had no idea about double tracking education system that Mahama has fixed by Haruna Idrisu and he could not help control the economy that the Bawumia messed up. If Kennedy can’t, why not Ghanaian cry for Ato Forson to lead?
Bravado Over Substance. His campaign leans heavily on charisma, attacks and confrontation, rather than policy depth and developmental vision.
His Public Feud Against Afia Schwarzenegger. This is too serious for a gentleman to use his mouth to insult anyone limitlessly. It is too a bad temparament that ghanaian women and husbands, wives and brothers will use to reward him by rejecting such an honorable man. We reap what we sow. Some choices still matter in life. This issue will stir a significant controversy and add another layer to Ghana’s political discourse.
How it happened was that Afia was against corruption anas exposed but Ken was covering it because the scandal was against his party and instead of insulting her as reasonal people do, ken who has problem with his mouth and boldness went beyond repairs. Afia launched scathing verbal attacks on Ken Agyapong after watching Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ exposé on corruption in Ghanaian football. She accused Ken of being corrupt and used highly inflammatory language. In response, Ken Agyapong claimed that Anas had instructed Afia to insult him and threatened to release evidence to support his claim.
Why It Matters Politically. This feud isn’t just personal, it reflects broader concerns about:
The tone of political discourse in Ghana, where insults and personal attacks often overshadow policy debates. Public accountability, as both figures are influential and their behavior shapes public perception. Media and political ethics, especially when allegations of corruption and misconduct are involved.
Impact on the 2028 Election Narrative. In the context of my earlier commentary, this incident reinforces the argument that Ghanaians are tired of drama and dishonesty. Ghanaians need leaders who respect women, the poor and focus on development, integrity and respectful engagement, not personal vendettas or sensationalism. Look at how Mr. Mahama greeted Agradaa at national thanksgiving party and the manner he picked the Old man’s stick for him.
Organizing a party is one thing; organizing a nation for transformation is another. While Kennedy Agyapong has built a reputation for mobilizing the grassroots and challenging internal party dynamics, he still lacks presidential temparament.
Ghans first means leaders respect and value ordinary Ghana above party color.
By
Gaddiel R. Ackah
[email protected]
U.S. Navy veteran. Lives in U.S.A.
Social Advocate for economic independence, spiritual growth and ethical leadership. His work spans military, education, business, spirituality, leadership, politics, personal development, national transformation, character development and creative arts, making him a multifaceted influencer.
Author of Many Leadership and Inspiring books.
Competent Leadership: Becoming Successful Our Happiness. Some Choices Matter Respect Matters Faith Wipes Tears The Power of Faith.
