Analysis by Nana Adu Koranteng
Since returning to power in 2024, President John Dramani Mahama’s administration has come under intense scrutiny, with critics pointing to a pattern of unfulfilled promises, policy inconsistencies, and controversial governance decisions. What was once a hopeful political comeback is increasingly being framed as a period marked by public disappointment and economic anxiety.
- Cocoa Price Reversal
Perhaps the most striking grievance comes from cocoa farmers. Having promised to increase cocoa prices to around GH₵7,000, the administration instead presided over a drop to approximately GH₵2,500. This sharp reversal has deepened rural hardship and eroded trust among one of Ghana’s most critical economic groups. - Teacher Licensure Exams U-Turn
Teachers who anticipated relief from licensure examinations have been left disillusioned. The policy remains firmly in place, contradicting earlier campaign assurances. - Employment Promises vs Reality
The much-publicized 24-hour economy was expected to unlock jobs and stimulate productivity. Instead, the reported dismissal of over 5,000 civil servants has fueled perceptions of policy failure and economic mismanagement. - Security Recruitment Controversy
The recruitment drive into the security services has been marred by allegations of exploitation. Hundreds of thousands of applicants reportedly paid for forms, only for the overwhelming majority to be disqualified—raising serious ethical and governance concerns. - Nepotism Allegations
Despite pledges to end “family and friends” governance, critics argue that key appointments reflect the very practice the administration condemned. This has reinforced long-standing concerns about patronage politics in Ghana. - Failure to Implement 24-Hour Governance
The promise to transform state institutions into 24-hour operational entities remains largely unrealized, exposing a gap between ambition and execution. - Presidential Jet Controversy
The acquisition of a $70 million presidential jet, reportedly linked to close family management, has drawn sharp criticism—particularly in the context of economic hardship and austerity for ordinary citizens. - Gold Board Losses
The establishment of the gold board, intended to streamline and strengthen gold sector management, has instead been associated with significant financial losses, raising questions about transparency and competence. - Gold Reserve Sales
The sale of over 20 tonnes of gold reserves, justified as a measure to stabilize the cedi, remains controversial due to limited public disclosure and accountability. - Free SHS Challenges
Education reforms have also come under fire. The persistence of the double-track system and perceived weakening of the Free SHS programme contradict earlier commitments to improve and stabilize the policy. - Fuel Price Instability
Although initial reductions in fuel prices provided temporary relief, the subsequent surge has intensified cost-of-living pressures, undermining confidence in the administration’s economic strategy.
Final Reflection
Whether viewed as policy missteps, broken promises, or the complex realities of governance, these issues have collectively reshaped public perception of the Mahama administration. The political consequences may not be immediate, but the growing dissatisfaction across key sectors—farmers, teachers, youth, and urban consumers—suggests a challenging road ahead.
As Ghana approaches the 2028 general elections, accountability, credibility, and delivery—not rhetoric—will define the political landscape.
