Kumasi:The Director of Research and Innovation at Kumasi Technical University, Professor Smart Sarpong, has identified five ministries under President John Dramani Mahama's administration as underperforming, urging their ministers to improve their efforts to avoid becoming liabilities for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2028 general elections.
According to Ghana Web, Professor Sarpong specifically criticized the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, headed by Kofi Adams, citing issues such as the African Athletics Championships, the performance of the Black Stars, and a recent World Cup visa scandal as factors negatively impacting the ministry's image. He emphasized the need for Kofi Adams to take responsibility for these challenges and enhance the ministry's performance.
Professor Sarpong also expressed disappointment in the Ministry of Education, led by Haruna Iddrisu, highlighting widespread challenges within the sector, particularly concerning teacher-related issues and industrial actions. He described the education sector as being in chaos and lacking any glory for the government.
Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, headed by Abla Dzifa Gomashie; the Ministry of Transport, led by Joseph Bukari Nikpe; and the Ministry of the Interior, headed by Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, were also criticized for their disappointing performances. He mentioned cocaine smuggling and other security-related concerns as issues in the Interior Ministry.
Professor Sarpong warned that without urgent improvements, these ministries' performances could negatively impact public confidence in the government, posing a significant political challenge for the NDC in the upcoming elections.