SUMMARY: NPP Minority’s True State of the Nation Address

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Parliament has delivered its version of the “True State of the Nation Address,” challenging the claims made by President John Dramani Mahama in his official address on March 3, 2025. In a detailed counter-narrative, the NPP accuses the Mahama administration of misrepresenting economic and governance realities, while highlighting what they view as their own achievements during their tenure in government.

Economic Performance and Inflation

The NPP strongly refutes Mahama’s critique of their economic management, emphasizing that inflation was significantly reduced from a high of 54% in 2022 to 23% by the end of 2024. They argue that this progress was made despite global economic challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. They also highlight Ghana’s economic growth, improved trade balance, and strong international reserves as evidence of their competent financial stewardship.

On inflation and exchange rates, the NPP asserts that the 23.8% inflation rate and 19% Cedi depreciation in 2024 were influenced by global factors. They argue that the Mahama government is benefiting from the high international reserves left behind by the previous administration, which contributed to exchange rate stability.

Financial and Debt Management

The NPP disputes Mahama’s claim that there were no financial buffers, listing several accounts used for debt obligations, including the Sinking Fund and IMF Proceeds Account. They claim to have left over GHS5 billion in the Treasury Main 2 Account. Additionally, they highlight their debt management efforts, including securing debt cancellations from Eurobond holders and restructuring agreements with bilateral creditors. They criticize Mahama for taking credit for initiatives that were already in motion under the previous government.

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Energy Sector and ‘Dumsor’

The NPP rejects Mahama’s assertion that he resolved Ghana’s chronic power outage issues, popularly known as ‘dumsor.’ Instead, they accuse him of failing to fix the problem during his previous term and mismanaging the energy sector. They call for the publication of a load-shedding timetable and criticize what they describe as unfavourable energy contracts signed under Mahama that led to significant debt for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Job Losses and Economic Setbacks

The NPP raises concerns over job losses, accusing Mahama’s government of dismissing young professionals to make room for party loyalists, labelling it as “Terminator 1.” They also claim that contractors are not being paid despite available funds, which they argue is reversing economic progress.

Illegal Mining and Security Concerns

On illegal mining (galamsey), the NPP alleges that key figures within the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) are now involved in the practice, leading to increased lawlessness in forest reserves. They also argue that the country’s security situation has worsened under Mahama’s leadership, citing a rise in violence and lawlessness.

Education and Infrastructure

The NPP defends its record in education, particularly the Free SHS policy and the expansion of STEM and TVET education. They criticize Mahama for downplaying their achievements in infrastructure, including the Agenda 111 hospital project and various road developments.

Taxation and Governance

Looking ahead, the NPP anticipates that Mahama’s 2025 budget will introduce new taxes, despite previous campaign promises to reduce levies. They vow to resist any attempts to increase taxes. The party also rejects Mahama’s claim that the judiciary is politically biased, insisting that the appointment process remains independent.

Conclusion

The NPP’s “True State of the Nation Address” serves as a direct rebuttal to Mahama’s official address, painting a picture of a well-managed economy and robust governance under their administration. They argue that Ghana’s current challenges are a result of the Mahama government’s mismanagement rather than inherited problems. This political divide sets the stage for continued scrutiny and debate over the direction of the country’s economy and governance in the coming years.