Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana, has been the subject of both praise and criticism throughout his tenure. While his government has undertaken various initiatives, there are several decisions and actions that have left many Ghanaians frustrated.
Below, we elaborate on 12 major issues that have caused public outcry and dissatisfaction.
1. The National Cathedral Controversy
The construction of the National Cathedral has sparked widespread debate in Ghana. While the project was marketed as a symbol of national unity and religious pride, critics argue that it is an unnecessary expenditure amidst Ghana’s economic struggles.
The use of state funds for a supposedly “personal promise to God” has left many questioning the priorities of the government. Additionally, the demolition of key public institutions to make way for the cathedral further fueled public anger, as many believe those resources could have been directed toward healthcare, education, or infrastructure development.
2. E-Levy Implementation
The Electronic Transactions Levy (E-Levy) was introduced as a tax on mobile money and other electronic transactions. While the government justified it as a means to increase revenue, the levy has been seen as a burden on the average Ghanaian, especially in a struggling economy.
The introduction of the E-Levy faced stiff opposition, with many arguing it disproportionately affected the poor, who rely heavily on mobile money for daily transactions. The implementation was marred by confusion and widespread protests, further alienating the populace.
3. 10% Tax on Sports Betting
The imposition of a 10% tax on sports betting winnings angered many young Ghanaians who rely on betting as a source of income.
While the government claimed the tax was necessary to regulate the betting industry and raise revenue, it was perceived as a move that targeted the youth unfairly.
This policy added to the perception that the government is out of touch with the struggles of ordinary citizens.
4. Cedi Depreciation
The Ghanaian cedi’s sharp depreciation against major currencies has caused significant economic hardships. Importers and businesses have been hit hard, with rising costs passed on to consumers.
The government’s inability to stabilize the currency has been seen as a failure of economic management.
The cedi’s poor performance has eroded public confidence in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises of economic prosperity.
5. Maintaining Incompetence
Many Ghanaians have accused the president of retaining incompetent appointees in his government. Despite numerous scandals and allegations of poor performance, key officials have remained in their positions.
This has led to frustration among the populace, who feel that meritocracy has taken a backseat to political loyalty. Critics argue that this has contributed to the inefficiency and corruption plaguing various sectors of the government.
6. Turning a Blind Eye to Corruption
Corruption scandals have been a recurring theme in Akufo-Addo’s administration. From allegations of embezzlement to dubious contracts, many feel the president has not done enough to tackle corruption.
His promise to protect the public purse has been called into question, as high-profile cases often go unpunished. The perceived lack of accountability has eroded trust in his leadership.
7. Erecting His Own Statue
The erection of a statue in Nana Akufo-Addo’s honor was seen as an act of self-aggrandizement, especially during a time when many Ghanaians were struggling economically.
Critics argue that the funds used for the statue could have been better spent on pressing national issues.
The move was widely condemned as tone-deaf and unnecessary.
8. Awarding Dubious Contracts to His Daughter
Reports of the president awarding government contracts to his daughter raised concerns about nepotism and lack of transparency.
While the government denied any wrongdoing, the perception of favoritism further damaged public trust. Many Ghanaians believe such actions contribute to inequality and undermine fair competition.
9. Covid-19 Levy
The introduction of a Covid-19 levy to fund pandemic-related expenditures was met with criticism.
While the pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, many felt the levy was another example of the government’s over-reliance on taxation rather than innovative economic solutions.
The lack of clarity on how the funds were utilized also fueled suspicions of mismanagement.
10. Increased Data Charges and Ignored Protests
The rise in data charges angered many Ghanaians who rely on affordable internet for work, education, and communication.
The government’s silence on the issue, despite public outcry, was seen as dismissive and unresponsive. This decision particularly affected young people and small business owners, who felt their concerns were being ignored.
11. Ignoring Galamsey and Its Effects
The fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, has been one of the biggest failures of Akufo-Addo’s administration. Despite initial promises to curb the practice, illegal mining has continued unabated, causing severe environmental damage.
Rivers and farmlands have been destroyed, affecting livelihoods and public health. The lack of enforcement and alleged complicity of government officials have left many feeling betrayed.
12. Cheeky Response to Voltarians
Nana Akufo-Addo’s comments about the people of the Volta Region have been perceived as dismissive and disrespectful.
During a time when Voltarians expressed concerns about marginalization and neglect, the president’s response came across as insensitive.
This strained relations with a region that already felt alienated from his administration.
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