News
NPP criticises Mahama Government, claims economic gains are being reversed
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has criticised the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, accusing it of reversing economic gains and failing to improve the living conditions of Ghanaians.
Addressing a press conference on March 24 at the party’s headquarters , the Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagba said the Mahama-led government inherited an economy that was recovering but has not sustained that progress.
He argued that by the end of 2024, key indicators such as inflation, exchange rate stability and GDP growth showed signs of recovery.
According to him, inflation had dropped from over 54 percent in 2022 to the mid-20 percent range, while GDP growth exceeded 3 percent.
He said, however, that these gains have not translated into better living conditions under the current administration.
“It is inarguable that President Mahama inherited a recovering economy, but has failed to sustain and translate that recovery into improved living conditions,” he said.
He also raised concerns about developments in the cocoa sector.
He accused the government of mismanaging pricing decisions, claiming that a reduction in producer prices has affected farmers’ incomes.
According to him, cocoa farmers are losing about GH₵1,038 per bag due to what it described as a price “haircut,” which it said could significantly affect rural livelihoods.
On employment, he mentioned that the government has failed to deliver on its promise to create jobs through its proposed 24-hour economy policy.
He questioned claims by the President that over one million jobs had been created, citing data it said suggests a much lower figure.
He pointed to rising fuel prices, arguing that the government has not put in place adequate measures to cushion citizens from global shocks.
He further raised concerns about illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, saying the situation has worsened despite earlier promises by the government to address it.
On labour relations,he noted increasing tensions between the government and several public sector unions, which it said could affect service delivery.
He questioned governance and ethical standards, citing allegations of conflict of interest involving individuals close to the President. It said such issues could undermine public trust if not addressed.
While acknowledging that global economic challenges exist, Richard Ahiagba insisted that leadership should focus on reducing the burden on citizens.
He concluded that the current situation reflects a gap between the government’s campaign promises and its performance in office.
He said the party will continue to hold the government accountable and urged Ghanaians to closely assess its performance.
By: Jacob Aggrey
![Dr.Newman [middle] being assited by Prof Abotsi [second from right] and Prof Acakpovi [left] to launched the Strategic Plan document photo Okai Elizabeth](https://spectator.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Dr.Newman-middle-being-assited-by-Prof-Abotsi-second-from-right-and-Prof-Acakpovi-left-to-launched-the-Strategic-Plan-document-photo-Okai-Elizabeth-400x240.jpg)
![Dr.Newman [middle] being assited by Prof Abotsi [second from right] and Prof Acakpovi [left] to launched the Strategic Plan document photo Okai Elizabeth](https://spectator.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Dr.Newman-middle-being-assited-by-Prof-Abotsi-second-from-right-and-Prof-Acakpovi-left-to-launched-the-Strategic-Plan-document-photo-Okai-Elizabeth-80x80.jpg)
![Dr.Newman [middle] being assited by Prof Abotsi [second from right] and Prof Acakpovi [left] to launched the Strategic Plan document photo Okai Elizabeth](https://spectator.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Dr.Newman-middle-being-assited-by-Prof-Abotsi-second-from-right-and-Prof-Acakpovi-left-to-launched-the-Strategic-Plan-document-photo-Okai-Elizabeth.jpg)
THE Accra Technical University (ATU) on Tuesday officially launched its Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 in Accra, aimed at driving innovation and strengthening institutional capacity across key operational areas.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Humphrey Awuletey Williams, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oswal Investments Limited, explained that the strategic plan seeks to respond to emerging challenges while positioning the institution as a forward-thinking leader in development.
He urged the university’s leadership to leverage their expertise to train students to be innovative and produce competitive products for both African and international markets.
According to him, employers increasingly demand competence-based human capital beyond academic certificates to drive development.
Mr Williams commended the Governing Council, Academic Board, Management, and other stakeholders for developing what he described as a ‘formative tool,’ and encouraged them to ensure its full implementation.
The Vice Chancellor of ATU, Mr Amevi Acapkvovi, emphasised that the strategic plan focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening stakeholder engagement.
“The strategic plan is not just a document, but a commitment to excellence, accountability and progress,” he said, adding that inclusivity is also central to the institution’s operations.
He outlined seven key focus areas of the plan: industry-based education; digital transformation and modernised infrastructure; quality assurance and institutional excellence; industry-driven research, innovation and entrepreneurship; staff development, motivation and welfare; strategic partnerships and increased visibility; and sustainable and green technologies.
Prof. Ernest Abotsi, stressed that the plan must not ‘gather dust’ but should be actively implemented to achieve success.
“Currently, ATU is adopting measures to assess the cost of running the institution, and this plan will serve as a guide to promote the university at every level,” he said.
Stakeholders present lauded the initiative, noting that its clear framework and measurable targets would help track progress and ensure transparency in the institution’s operations.
The university expressed confidence that, with support from partners and staff, the plan would significantly contribute to national development and set a benchmark for excellence in the sector.
The ceremony brought together stakeholders from government, traditional leadership, academia, industry, and civil society.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
It was an exciting moment as hundreds of revellers from various parts of Accra trooped to the Independence Square beach in Osu to celebrate Easter.
Dressed in all kinds of beach costumes, parents were seen with their children having fun and enjoying the moment.
Others made the best of their outing by engaging in other fun activities.
The revellers engaged in games such as football, ampe, athletics while others just sat, relaxed to release stress amidst music provided by some revellers.
By Lizzy Okai
