The stark economic challenges Ghana has faced since the New Patriotic Party (NPP) assumed leadership signal significant mismanagement by the economic management team, led by Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia. Regrettably, the handling of financial and fiscal policies by the government has exacerbated these issues, with policies marked by high interest rates and unregulated cash injections into the economy, weakening the value of the cedi against other currencies.
Dr. Richard Fiadomor, President of the Chamber of Local Governance, voiced these concerns on the morning show “Adekyee Mu Nsem” on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He expressed disappointment in Vice President Bawumia’s leadership, calling for a presidential political debate to address these pressing economic issues. Dr. Fiadomor emphasized the importance of Vice President Bawumia addressing the questions posed to the late Vice President Amissah-Arthur before engaging in any debate.
Furthermore, Dr. Fiadomor questioned Vice President Bawumia’s ability to offer effective solutions to the current economic challenges, given the downturn in various productive sectors without significant economic gains.
Former Finance Minister Seth Terkper echoed these sentiments, urging Vice President Bawumia to address the questions he posed to late Vice President Amissah-Arthur before seeking a “showdown” with former President John Mahama. Mr. Terkper highlighted the achievements of former Vice President Mahama, including the creation of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) as an autonomous body, emphasizing the importance of fair and thorough debate preparation.
Mr. Terkper also pointed out discrepancies in the government’s adherence to fiscal responsibility, citing a deficit of 12 percent compared to the mandated five percent outlined in the Fiscal Responsibility Act championed by Vice President Bawumia.