This is starting to appear to be ‘419’ – Egyapa Mercer criticises Mahama’s flagship insurance policies – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a striking political commentary, former Sekondi Member of Parliament, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, has launched a scathing critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s first year in office, accusing the administration of failing to fulfill key campaign promises. Central to Mercer’s criticism are two flagship policies: the Women’s Development Bank and the 24-hour market system, both of which were heavily promoted during the 2024 elections but remain unimplemented. This article examines Mercer’s allegations, the implications for the government’s credibility, and the broader context of campaign promises and governance in Ghana.

Key Points

Background

President Mahama’s 2024 Campaign Promises

John Dramani Mahama returned to office in January 2025 after winning the December 2024 elections. His campaign was built on a platform of economic restructuring and inclusive growth, with a particular focus on women’s empowerment and economic development. The Women’s Development Bank and the 24-hour market system were central to this platform, promising to create jobs and stimulate economic activity.

Andrew Egyapa Mercer’s Political Background

Andrew Egyapa Mercer served as the Member of Parliament for Sekondi from 2017 to 2025. Known for his outspoken nature and commitment to development, Mercer has been a vocal critic of government policies that he perceives as lacking substance or failing to deliver tangible results.

Analysis

The Women’s Development Bank: A Promise Unfulfilled

The Women’s Development Bank was presented as a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to empower women economically. Mercer noted that during the State of the Nation Address in February 2025, President Mahama assured Ghanaians that the bank would be operational by July 2025. However, as of the time of Mercer’s remarks, no such institution had been established.

The failure to launch the Women’s Development Bank raises questions about the government’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment and its ability to execute complex financial initiatives. It also underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public projects, particularly those that are highly publicized during election campaigns.

The 24-Hour Market System: Ambiguity and Lack of Clarity

The 24-hour market system was another key promise that featured prominently in the NDC’s campaign materials. Mercer pointed out that while the policy was aggressively marketed, its implementation remains unclear. The absence of a concrete plan or visible progress has led to skepticism among the public, with some comparing the situation to a “419” scam—a term in Ghana referring to fraudulent schemes.

This criticism highlights the need for governments to provide clear, actionable plans for their policies, rather than relying solely on catchy slogans or broad promises. The lack of specificity can erode public trust and make it difficult for citizens to hold leaders accountable.

The Formula 133 vs. Formula 419: A Shift in Narrative

Mercer’s comparison of the government’s approach to a “Formula 419” instead of the promised “Formula 133” is particularly telling. The term “Formula 419” implies deceit and failure, suggesting that the administration’s actions do not align with its campaign promises. This shift in narrative could have significant implications for the government’s credibility and its ability to maintain public support.

Practical Advice

For Citizens: Holding Leaders Accountable

Citizens should demand transparency and accountability from their leaders. This includes:

• Monitoring the progress of announced policies and projects.
• Engaging with representatives and demanding regular updates.
• Supporting independent media and civil society organizations that track government performance.

For Policymakers: Ensuring Credibility

To maintain public trust, policymakers should:

• Provide detailed implementation plans for major policies.
• Set realistic timelines and milestones for project completion.
• Engage in regular communication with the public about progress and challenges.
• Be transparent about any obstacles or delays that may arise.

For the Media: Investigative Reporting

The media plays a crucial role in holding governments accountable. Journalists should:

• Investigate the status of key projects and policies.
• Report on any discrepancies between promises and actions.
• Provide platforms for public discourse on governance issues.
• Fact-check government statements and campaign promises.

FAQ

Conclusion

The criticism leveled by Andrew Egyapa Mercer against President Mahama’s administration serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in governance. The failure to deliver on key campaign promises, such as the Women’s Development Bank and the 24-hour market system, not only undermines public trust but also raises questions about the government’s ability to execute its agenda.

For Ghana to achieve sustainable development and inclusive growth, it is essential that leaders follow through on their commitments and maintain open lines of communication with the public. Citizens, media, and civil society all have roles to play in ensuring that governance is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people.