NPP questions Prez. Mahama’s economic record, cites rising hardships, governance concerns

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched a sharp critique of the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, arguing that the government has failed to build on what it describes as a recovering economy inherited in January 2025.

At a press briefing on March 24, 2026, the NPP’s Director of Communications said the Mahama-led administration has instead reversed key gains made prior to the transition, leading to worsening living conditions for many Ghanaians.

Framing the briefing around what he called a “critical national question,” the NPP asked what the current government inherited and how it has managed the economy since assuming office.

According to the party, macroeconomic indicators at the end of 2024 pointed to recovery rather than collapse, citing a decline in inflation from over 54 percent in December 2022 to the mid-20 percent range, GDP growth exceeding 3 percent, and relative stability of the Ghana cedi.

The NPP argued that these trends reflected fiscal discipline, improved reserves and policy interventions under the previous administration.

However, the party contends that these gains have not translated into improved living standards under the current government.

It pointed to rising fuel prices, increasing cost of living, and persistent youth unemployment as evidence of what it described as a disconnect between macroeconomic data and everyday realities.

On the cocoa sector, the NPP accused the government of mismanaging a window of opportunity presented by high global prices in 2025.

It alleged that the Ghana Cocoa Board failed to secure favourable forward sales and subsequently imposed a price reduction that has negatively impacted farmers’ incomes.

The party said the move has had serious implications for rural livelihoods and export revenues, while also criticising government’s response to calls by stakeholders, including religious leaders, to reverse the decision.

Youth employment was another major concern raised at the briefing.

The NPP argued that the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy has yet to yield tangible results, despite campaign promises of large-scale job creation.

It further questioned claims by President Mahama that over one million jobs were created in 2025, citing data it said suggests significantly lower figures.

The party also linked recent increases in fuel prices to what it described as weak economic management, noting that while global geopolitical tensions may play a role, governments are expected to implement measures to cushion citizens from such shocks.

On environmental governance, the NPP claimed illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, has worsened, with increased reports of water pollution and weak enforcement. I

It said this falls short of expectations set by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) while in opposition.

The briefing also highlighted tensions between government and organised labour, pointing to a series of industrial actions by various public sector unions as a sign of strained relations and declining confidence.

Additionally, the NPP raised concerns about governance and ethics, citing allegations of conflicts of interest involving individuals close to the presidency. It argued that such perceptions, whether proven or not, risk undermining public trust and accountability.

Despite the criticisms, the party commended the Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, for what it described as efforts to advocate for cocoa farmers and hold the government accountable.

The NPP concluded that while Ghana entered 2025 on a path of economic recovery, the current administration has failed to sustain the momentum, urging Ghanaians to closely assess the government’s performance and its impact on their daily lives.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith