A former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Frederick Worsemao Armah Blay, has described the Akufo-Addo-led administration as one of the best governments in Ghana’s history.
According to the veteran politician, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo delivered a solid performance despite the difficult circumstances under which he governed.
Speaking in an interview on Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV on Saturday, June 14, Mr. Blay noted that the now-criticised NPP government would be favourably judged by posterity.
“The government didn’t cause the mess. The NPP, under the circumstances for the eight years, I would say, will go down in history as one of the best governments that have ruled this country, irrespective of what people’s opinions may be,” he said.
He added, “Of course, everybody is entitled to their own opinion. But I’m saying, having worked closely with that government as a party chairman and a member of the cabinet, I don’t think the performance can be described as bad. It was a solid performance on the part of the government—particularly the president and, indeed, the finance minister that you mentioned.”
Mr. Blay admitted that some government policies may have been unpopular, but insisted that principled leadership sometimes requires standing firm.
“When you’re keeping to the past, sometimes people will have their own opinion about you not opening your arms widely or sticking to policies that may be controversial. But if you’re convinced about it out of principle, you push it. People may disagree and condemn you, but over time, the results of your decisions become clear to the people of this country,” he stated.
Mr. Blay also defended embattled former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, describing him as a “fine Finance Minister” who gave his best to the country but is now being treated unfairly.
Mr. Ofori-Atta is currently under investigation for corruption-related offences. He has been declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor and listed on Interpol’s red notice.
