NDC Majority blames NPP for economic distress, defends government recovery measures

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority in Parliament has accused the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) of leaving Ghana in severe economic and social difficulty, while insisting that the current administration is implementing deliberate measures to stabilise the economy, revive public services and tackle corruption.

The response follows claims by the NPP Minority that recent economic gains are largely driven by external factors such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, debt restructuring and favourable commodity prices, rather than government policy decisions. The Minority also alleged that the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has exacerbated illegal mining.

In a statement dated January 26, 2026, and signed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, the NDC caucus said it would soon remind Ghanaians of the difficult circumstances inherited from the previous NPP administration.

According to the statement, the government took office amid a weakened financial sector, a sharply depreciated cedi, high inflation, collapsing social services and a struggling public transport system.

Mr Ayariga cited examples including schools unable to reopen due to unpaid school feeding grants, hospitals turning away patients because the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) could not settle claims, and escalating debts in the energy sector, which he described as deeply affected by corruption.

He noted that the government has since begun rebuilding state-owned transport fleets and encouraging private sector participation to improve public transport services.

The Majority Leader also revealed that, when Parliament reconvenes, the caucus will request a comprehensive audit of the One District One Factory initiative, describing it as a failed programme characterised by corruption and minimal impact on youth employment.

Additionally, he announced plans to formalise the 24-hour economy, with legislation to establish a 24-Hour Economy Authority expected to be presented to Parliament in early February.

In defence of the government’s economic management, the NDC Majority referenced favourable assessments from the IMF, the World Bank and international credit rating agencies, pointing to improved exchange rate stability, easing inflation and stronger foreign reserves.

The caucus further defended the creation of GoldBod, describing it as a key tool for cedi stabilisation, and said intensified operations against illegal mining have reduced environmental damage, with land reclamation efforts currently underway.