Private private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu
Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has strongly criticised economist Dr. George Domfeh for what he describes as an analysis that ignores the everyday struggles of Ghanaians.
Speaking on TV3’s KeyPoints, Kpebu argued that economic growth figures mean little if they do not translate into real improvements in people’s lives.
“Dr. Domfeh, if you don’t analyse and put the citizen at the center—front and center—your analysis is going nowhere,” Kpebu stated.
“The Constitution is clear: it’s not just about economic growth but about securing the maximum welfare, freedom, and happiness of every Ghanaian,” he said.
His comments came in response to Dr. Domfeh’s economic assessment, which, while acknowledging economic hardships, quickly shifted focus to macroeconomic indicators.
Kpebu found this approach unacceptable, questioning the relevance of economic growth if it fails to create jobs.
“You admit people are suffering but quickly move on to macroeconomic figures. What’s the use of economic growth if it’s jobless growth?” he asked.
Kpebu also challenged Dr. Domfeh’s omission of key facts regarding Ghana’s history with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He emphasised that economic discussions must be grounded in reality, pointing out inconsistencies in past and present policies.
“From John Mahama’s time, Ghana was under an IMF program. Did we receive IMF money or not? Did we extend the IMF program or not? These are facts, yet you left them out of your analysis,” he stated.
Using real-life examples, Kpebu highlighted the increasing cost of living, stressing that economic growth must be felt at the grassroots level.
“Kenkey is between five and seven cedis, and Koko is no less than three cedis. The prices of basic goods have skyrocketed, yet you talk about economic growth as though that’s all that matters. This is why your analysis falls short.”
