Nana Aba Anamoah Gives High Marks to President Mahama’s First Year in Office

Introduction

Ghanaian media personality Nana Aba Anamoah has delivered a strong assessment of President John Dramani Mahama’s first year back in office, awarding the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration a solid 75% to 80% grade. Her evaluation, shared during an interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z program with host Kwame Dadzie on February 21, 2026, highlights significant improvements in economic management and government communication style compared to the previous administration.

Key Points

Background

The assessment comes as the NDC government marks its first anniversary following the January 2025 transition of power. Nana Aba Anamoah, a respected media figure known for her straightforward commentary, provided her evaluation during a nationally broadcast interview. Her perspective carries weight given her reputation for holding public officials accountable and maintaining high standards in governance critique.

Analysis

Economic Stabilization

The centerpiece of Nana Aba’s evaluation focused on the notable recovery of Ghana’s economy. She contrasted the current fiscal environment with the final years of the previous NPP administration, praising both President Mahama and Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson for steering the country away from a turbulent period.

“I think that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has stabilized the economy… I think his Finance Minister is doing an excellent job. The economy is doing very well now compared to the last three, four years. Things were quite turbulent,” she observed.

This assessment aligns with broader economic indicators showing improved fiscal management and reduced economic volatility during the first year of the current administration.

Shift in Government Communication

Nana Aba highlighted a significant change in the posture of political leadership. She claimed the previous administration was marred by a dismissive attitude toward the media and the public, a trait she believes the current appointees have largely avoided.

“There was too much arrogance… from the previous administration. You could listen from their utterances on the radio, the way they were so dismissive of journalists and their commentary. It was just very, very arrogant,” she remarked.

This observation points to a broader shift in governance style, with the current administration appearing more accessible and responsive to public concerns.

Learning from Past Mistakes

The media personality noted that President Mahama himself appears to have evolved, ensuring his current team doesn’t repeat the errors of his first term (2012-2017).

“I think that the second coming of JM is a great one. He’s learned his lessons because his first term also had bouts of arrogance—not with him, but with his appointees. But things are different now,” she added.

This self-awareness and adaptation demonstrate political maturity and responsiveness to previous criticisms.

Ministerial Performance Highlights

Nana Aba was quick to name specific officials who have set new standards for government responsiveness:

– **Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey**, Gender Minister, praised for her proactive approach to social issues
– **Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa**, Foreign Affairs Minister, recognized for digital accessibility
– **Oboubia** (likely referring to a presidential aide or minister), commended for regular hospital visits that have become a weekly initiative

“My favorite really is Oboubia. I like what Oboubia is doing with Mahama. The way she goes to the hospitals and it’s become a weekly thing… I like that,” Nana Aba shared.

These examples illustrate a government that appears more connected to grassroots concerns and willing to engage directly with citizens.

Practical Advice

For citizens and observers looking to evaluate government performance:

1. **Look beyond rhetoric**: Focus on tangible economic indicators and policy implementations rather than political speeches
2. **Track consistency**: Monitor whether positive changes are sustained over time or merely initial impressions
3. **Consider multiple perspectives**: While respected figures like Nana Aba provide valuable insights, seek diverse viewpoints for a balanced assessment
4. **Engage constructively**: Use platforms to provide feedback to officials who demonstrate accessibility

FAQ

Conclusion

Nana Aba Anamoah’s assessment provides a significant endorsement from a media figure known for exacting standards. Her 75-80% rating for President Mahama’s first year reflects tangible improvements in economic management and government communication style. However, she also sets a high bar for the administration to maintain as they approach the mid-term mark of their four-year mandate. The evaluation suggests that while substantial progress has been made, continued vigilance and improvement remain necessary for sustained success.