The Minority in Parliament has accused the Mahama administration of focusing on political optics rather than long-term economic stability, arguing that recent economic gains mask deeper structural weaknesses.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, January 8, Deputy Minority Leader and Asokwa MP, Patricia Appiagyei, dismissed government claims of an economic turnaround as a “manufactured miracle” driven more by favourable headlines than sound policy foundations.
She questioned the benefits of reported achievements, including 6 per cent GDP growth, falling inflation, and a 40 per cent appreciation of the cedi, asking what impact these have had on ordinary Ghanaians. According to her, much of the recovery predates President John Mahama’s return and is largely anchored on external factors and policies initiated under the previous administration.
“Much of the recovery began before President Mahama returned to power. It is resting on an IMF programme we negotiated, fiscal consolidation we implemented, and a global gold boom we did not create,” Madam Appiagyei said.
She also accused the government of selectively highlighting favourable aspects of the IMF programme while ignoring cautionary notes regarding fiscal risks and economic vulnerabilities.
Madam Appiagyei warned that the sharp 40 per cent appreciation of the cedi could harm productive sectors, eroding competitiveness and negatively affecting exporters, farmers, and manufacturers.
She concluded that the government’s approach prioritises short-term applause over policies aimed at securing sustainable economic growth, emphasizing that real progress requires more than headline figures.