A pressure group Arise Ghana has presented a detailed independent national evaluation of the current situation in Ghana, marking one year of John Dramani Mahama’s administration. They described this time as one of economic stabilization, cautious optimism, and ongoing structural issues.
During a press conference, the group emphasized that their engagement was non-partisan and aimed at initiating a national dialogue on governance, accountability, and the relationship between the government and its citizens.
Arise Ghana reported that Ghana faced a severely troubled economy in January 2025, with inflation over 23%, a rapidly falling cedi close to GH¢16 to the dollar, rising food and fuel prices, low foreign reserves, high public debt, and diminishing investor confidence.
A year later, the group recognized notable macroeconomic improvements, including a reduction in inflation to 6.3%, economic growth surpassing 6%, foreign reserves exceeding $11 billion, treasury bill rates dropping to around 11%, and a more stable cedi fluctuating between GH¢9.4 and GH¢10.6 to the dollar.
“These are not superficial gains,” stated Arise Ghana, pointing out that Ghana has moved away from economic decline and regained a sense of direction, although mere stability does not equate to prosperity.
The group attributed the turnaround to fiscal discipline, debt restructuring, export growth through GoldBod and COCOBOD, and renewed investor confidence, while cautioning that corruption could undermine these achievements if not addressed decisively.
Regarding governance, Arise Ghana welcomed the implementation of a Code of Conduct for public appointees, anti-corruption reforms, and Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), but emphasized that credibility would hinge on actual prosecutions and convictions, rather than mere announcements.
The group specifically demanded accountability for previous financial scandals, calling for the arrest and extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to face justice.
Arise Ghana also pointed out sector reforms, commending the stabilization of COCOBOD, the creation of GoldBod to reduce smuggling and boost state revenues, and the revival of the Tema Oil Refinery, calling TOR’s restart a symbol of economic independence.
The group evaluated the 24-Hour Economy initiative as hopeful but reliant on dependable electricity, security, transport, and clear regulations to thrive.
Despite the advancements, Arise Ghana cautioned about ongoing issues, such as illegal mining, youth unemployment, environmental harm, and social inequality.
The group firmly opposed any calls for a third presidential term, labeling such demands as unconstitutional and a threat to Ghana’s democracy.
“Ghana requires strong institutions, not endless leaders,” the statement emphasized, urging President Mahama to govern effectively and step down according to the constitution.
Arise Ghana concluded that Ghana is at a crucial juncture, calling on the government, civil society, the media, and citizens to safeguard democratic achievements and transform stability into inclusive development.