Accra: The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority in Parliament has expressed strong criticism of President John Dramani Mahama's performance during his first year in office. They describe it as a "relapse into dangerous economic experiments, lawless governance, and predatory partisanship."
According to Ghana News Agency, the Deputy Minority Leader, Madam Patricia Appiagyei, addressed the Parliamentary Press Corps on Thursday at Parliament House, Accra, to highlight several concerns. These concerns included an alleged $214 million loss in the Gold-for-Reserves programme, the neglect of farmers, and a worsening security situation.
The Gold-for-Reserves Programme, initiated by the previous NPP Government, has reportedly suffered significant losses under the current administration, as noted by the Deputy Minority Leader. She further explained that while farmers are dealing with bumper harvests without adequate support, the government is celebrating the appreciation of the cedi.
Security issues were also a focal point, with Madam Appiagyei, who is also the NPP Member of Parliament for Asokwa, alleging a rise in insecurity characterized by increased incidents of armed robbery, murders, and kidnappings. Additionally, she highlighted the persistent issue of unemployment, stating that over a million young people remain jobless or underemployed.
In response to these concerns, the Minority has called for parliamentary investigations into the Gold-for-Reserves programme to ensure accountability for the alleged financial losses. This criticism comes as President Mahama marks one year since officially assuming office on January 7, 2026, beginning his second term following a decisive victory in the 2024 general elections.