Goosie Tanoh, the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Manifesto Committee on Employment and Job Creation, has delivered a sharp critique of the Akufo-Addo administration, accusing it of aggravating Ghana’s economic challenges.
Speaking on The Point of View on Channel One TV with Bernard Avle, Tanoh described the current economic crisis as more severe than the difficulties experienced between 1999 and 2000, a period marked by significant economic turmoil.
During the interview, Tanoh highlighted the contributions of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) government, which he credited with saving Ghana from becoming a failed state during its tenure. He praised the PNDC’s strategic interventions, emphasizing their importance in stabilizing the economy and steering the country away from collapse. “It saved this country from becoming a failed state,” he asserted, pointing to the government’s success in laying the foundation for economic recovery.
Tanoh’s remarks come at a time of growing public discontent over the nation’s economic trajectory. Many Ghanaians are grappling with rising inflation, unemployment, and a depreciating currency, leading to heightened concerns about the country’s leadership and economic management. With the 2024 general elections approaching, these issues have become central to the political debate, drawing sharp contrasts between the policies of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the NDC.
According to Tanoh, Ghana’s economic woes stem from systemic failures that successive governments have failed to address. He criticized the Akufo-Addo administration for relying on short-term fixes instead of implementing long-term, sustainable solutions. Tanoh argued that meaningful progress requires a shift in focus, emphasizing the need to tackle deep-rooted structural issues rather than adopting temporary measures.
“What was the debt-to-GDP ratio in those days? There’s no more HIPC at the moment; all you have is the G20 framework, OCC, and the Eurobond. The reality of the matter is that whether it is PNDC, NDC, or New Patriotic Party (NPP), the problems we have are structural. And people keep saying that but they refuse to address it,” Tanoh remarked, underscoring the persistent nature of the country’s economic challenges.
Tanoh also introduced the NDC’s 24-hour economy initiative as a solution to Ghana’s economic difficulties. This initiative, he explained, aims to revitalize the economy by harnessing the country’s resources and expanding productive output. By promoting efficiency and encouraging continuous economic activity, the NDC hopes to create a transformative impact that goes beyond traditional approaches.
“One of the reasons why the 24-hour economy is being promoted and utilized as a benchmark for transformation is that you have to achieve the efficiencies in this economy that allow you to go and expand your productive output, and the only way you do that is to harness those resources,” Tanoh explained.
The initiative, which forms a key component of the NDC’s manifesto, seeks to address critical issues such as unemployment and low productivity. By adopting innovative strategies and leveraging Ghana’s human and natural resources, the NDC aims to build a resilient and inclusive economy that benefits all citizens.
Tanoh’s critique of the Akufo-Addo administration reflects broader frustrations among opposition figures, who accuse the government of mismanaging the economy and failing to deliver on its promises. These criticisms have been amplified by the worsening economic conditions, which have eroded public confidence in the government’s ability to steer the country toward recovery.
In his remarks, Tanoh stressed the importance of addressing Ghana’s economic challenges through collective effort and visionary leadership. He called for a paradigm shift in how the country approaches development, urging leaders to prioritize policies that promote sustainability and long-term growth.
The debate over Ghana’s economic future has become increasingly polarized, with the NPP defending its record and the NDC positioning itself as the party best equipped to lead the country out of its current difficulties. As the 2024 elections draw closer, the economy is expected to remain a focal point of political discourse, with both parties seeking to convince voters of their ability to deliver meaningful change.
Tanoh’s comments have added to the growing chorus of voices demanding accountability and reform in Ghana’s economic management. For many Ghanaians, the upcoming elections represent an opportunity to chart a new course for the country, one that prioritizes sustainable development and addresses the structural issues that have hindered progress for decades.
While the challenges facing Ghana are significant, Tanoh’s vision for a 24-hour economy offers a glimpse of hope for a brighter future. By adopting innovative solutions and focusing on long-term goals, the NDC aims to provide a clear alternative to the current administration, one that promises to create jobs, reduce poverty, and build a stronger, more resilient economy.
As the political landscape evolves, Ghanaians will be closely watching how the parties navigate the complex issues facing the nation. For now, Tanoh’s critique serves as a reminder of the urgent need for leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people and works toward sustainable solutions to Ghana’s economic challenges. Whether this vision will resonate with voters remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly sparked an important conversation about the country’s future.
