Ghanaians will have to pass judgement on Mahama’s first-year efficiency – Ho West MP – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a recent interview on Nhyria FM, Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, the Member of Parliament for Ho West in Ghana’s Volta Region, called on citizens to objectively evaluate the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration’s performance in its first year of governance. As President John Dramani Mahama’s second non-consecutive term unfolds, Bedzrah emphasized that while party members may express favorable views, true assessment must come from the electorate. This article breaks down his statements, examines the economic indicators he cited, compares the NDC’s early record with that of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, and provides practical guidance for citizens evaluating government performance.

Key Points

Background

The 2024 Economic Crisis

Ghana faced a severe economic downturn in 2024, marked by high inflation, currency depreciation, and a fiscal crisis that brought the country to the brink of a sovereign debt default. The government at the time sought assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and initiated an Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program. Analysts warned that recovery could take years, and public confidence in the economy was low.

The 2024 General Elections

In December 2024, the NDC, led by John Mahama, won the presidency and a majority in Parliament, defeating the incumbent NPP. Mahama’s campaign focused on economic recovery, job creation, and restoring public trust in governance. His administration took office in January 2025, inheriting the IMF program and a fragile economic environment.

Analysis

Macroeconomic Performance Under the NDC

Bedzrah pointed to several macroeconomic indicators to support his assessment:

• Inflation: The headline inflation rate, which peaked at over 50% in 2023, had declined to single digits by late 2025, according to the Ghana Statistical Service. This reduction helped ease the cost of living for many households.
• Cedi Stability: The Ghanaian cedi, which had depreciated sharply against the US dollar in previous years, stabilized in 2025, with the exchange rate fluctuating within a narrower band. This stability supported import costs and investor confidence.
• Debt Repayment: The government reported repaying approximately $1.3 billion to domestic and international creditors, including clearing arrears to suppliers and meeting scheduled debt service payments. This improved Ghana’s creditworthiness and reduced default risk.
• Fiscal Discipline: The budget deficit was reduced from over 10% of GDP in 2024 to around 5% in 2025, aligning with IMF program targets.

Comparison with the NPP’s First Year

Bedzrah contrasted the NDC’s achievements with the NPP’s early term following the 2017 elections. The NPP, under President Nana Akufo-Addo, faced initial challenges including revenue shortfalls, high borrowing costs, and delays in implementing flagship programs. While the economy grew in subsequent years, the first year was marked by fiscal adjustments and public sector wage negotiations that caused unrest.

In contrast, the NDC’s first year focused on stabilizing the economy, fulfilling IMF commitments, and restoring credibility. Infrastructure projects such as road construction and school rehabilitation were restarted, and the government launched initiatives to support smallholder farmers and small businesses.

Public Perception and Media Narratives

Bedzrah acknowledged that supporters of the ruling party may offer biased assessments. He stressed that independent evaluation by citizens, based on observable outcomes rather than political rhetoric, is essential for democratic accountability. This call aligns with broader calls for evidence-based political discourse in Ghana.

Practical Advice

How Citizens Can Evaluate Government Performance

For Ghanaians seeking to assess the NDC’s first-year performance objectively, consider the following steps:

1. Review Official Data: Consult reports from the Bank of Ghana, Ghana Statistical Service, and Ministry of Finance for inflation, exchange rates, GDP growth, and fiscal indicators.
2. Assess Service Delivery: Evaluate the quality and accessibility of public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure in your community.
3. Monitor Debt and Fiscal Policies: Track government borrowing, debt servicing costs, and revenue collection trends through budget statements and auditor-general reports.
4. Engage in Civic Discourse: Participate in community forums, follow credible media analyses, and discuss performance with peers to form a balanced view.
5. Use Independent Sources: Refer to assessments by international organizations like the IMF, World Bank, and regional bodies such as the African Development Bank.

Key Indicators to Watch in 2026

• Sustained low inflation and price stability
• Further cedi appreciation or stability
• Progress in the IMF program and debt sustainability
• Job creation and youth employment rates
• Improvements in education and healthcare access

FAQ

Conclusion

The call by Ho West MP Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah for citizens to judge the NDC’s first-year performance underscores the importance of accountability in democratic governance. While the administration points to macroeconomic stabilization, debt repayment, and improved living standards as achievements, the ultimate verdict rests with the people. By relying on verifiable data, engaging in informed discourse, and comparing outcomes with past administrations, Ghanaians can make fair and constructive assessments that guide future policy and leadership choices.