Ghanaians must understand the current economic circumstances
Leaders are often judged by their words—especially their pledges and promises to improve the lives of the people. When these promises are not fulfilled, some level of forgiveness and understanding is usually extended.
However, political leaders around the world rarely enjoy such understanding from their electorates when they assume power and later apologise for not meeting certain expectations. Ghana is no exception.
Since the establishment of the Fourth Republic in 1992, political leaders, especially presidential candidates, have made grand campaign promises that sometimes leave one wondering whether they consulted experts before making such commitments or if they were living on a different planet.
As many Ghanaians recognize, certain promises are made only during campaign periods and only on campaign platforms. These statements often defy logic and reality, yet they remain a staple of politics in our part of the world. Unfortunately, this trend persists.
It is for this reason that I call on fellow Ghanaians to critically and objectively analyse the campaign promises made by the ruling party, the great National Democratic Congress (NDC), as they now assume full responsibility for governing the country.
I understand that some right-wing thinkers and academics may object to such a call, arguing that it could compromise democratic principles. However, being objective means being realistic.
Facing the realities of governance requires truthfulness, transparency, and honesty.
As Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And do not let the hatred of a people for having obstructed you from al-Masjid al-Haram lead you to transgress. And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.” (Qur’an 5:2)
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) also emphasized truthfulness:
“You must be truthful. Verily, truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise… And beware of falsehood. Verily, falsehood leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Hellfire…” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 6094, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2607)
I write this article to awaken the consciousness of Ghanaians—to emphasize that sincerity and logic are inseparable.
One cannot demand sincerity and honesty from a leader while refusing to apply reason and logic in assessing the leader’s challenges and decisions.
Ghanaians are the ultimate beneficiaries of the president’s policies and actions. It is, therefore, crucial that we support him with prayers and cooperation.
At this moment, before the government marks its first year in office, the most important support we can offer is understanding and patience.
Understanding cannot thrive in an environment hostile to logic and honesty.
Governance—regardless of a country’s size, population, or demographics—is far more complex than managing a political party, even in the most populous nations like India or China.
The NDC made several promises during their campaigns in 2016, 2020, and 2024, which ultimately led to their victory in the recent elections.
By giving President Mahama a resounding mandate, Ghanaians have expressed their confidence in his leadership and his ability to manage the nation’s resources.
On one hand, his victory can be seen as an endorsement of his policies and promises.
On the other hand, it can be interpreted as a rejection of the NPP’s governance over the past eight years.
Whichever way one sees it, both interpretations are valid.
The harsh economic realities
Despite these expectations, Ghanaians must be reasonable and logical in assessing our current economic situation.
We cannot ignore the negative global effects of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war or the cessation of critical USAID funding from the United States.
Additionally, Ghana remains under the IMF’s economic supervision, with strict conditions imposed on our economic management team.
Moreover, the controversial Domestic Debt Exchange Program introduced by the previous government is still in place as part of these IMF conditions, making it nearly impossible for the new administration to reverse certain financial policies overnight.
Given these challenges, it is unrealistic to expect the government to immediately:
1. Abolish certain revenue-generating taxes, despite their unpopularity.
2. Implement all campaign promises without first stabilizing the economy.
For instance, while the E-Levy and Betting Tax were widely criticized, they generate significant revenue that the government cannot afford to sacrifice at this moment.
A call for national unity
and responsibility
In light of these realities, I make a clarion call for the following:
1. All “Hands-on-Deck” Approach: Every Ghanaian must actively contribute to resetting and rebuilding the nation.
We must sacrifice short-term comforts for long-term, sustainable development.
2. Educating the NDC Grassroots: While the party has won power, Ghana’s resources belong to all Ghanaians, not just party members.
Grassroots supporters must respect their leadership and acknowledge that governance requires national cooperation.
3. Patience for the President: Resetting Ghana’s economy and governance structures will take time.
Citizens must exercise patience and trust in the leadership as they navigate these challenges.
As the Qur’an reminds us:
“Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is free of need and forbearing.” (Qur’an 2:263)
In conclusion, Ghana stands at a critical moment in its political and economic history. While expectations are high, we must balance accountability with realism.
Let us work together in good faith, exercise patience, and contribute meaningfully to rebuilding our nation.
God bless our homeland Ghana and make her greater and stronger.
The writer is a Member and Chairman, Finance and Fundraising Committee, Greater Accra Regional Peace Council (National Peace Council of Ghana).
Executive Secretary, Tijjaniya Muslims of Ghana
BY ALHAJI KHUZAIMA MOHAMMED OSMAN
