The founder and leader of the United Progressive Party, AKWASI ADDAI ODIKE, has criticized defenders of President John Dramani Mahama’s nine-month governance, arguing that the administration has little to show for its time in office.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show, monitored by AkuapemHann, Odike stated that nine months is sufficient for the government to deliver results, given the promises made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) prior to the 2024 polls. He emphasized that there is no room for excuses or complaints. “You can’t tell me that nine months is just,” he said.
Odike highlighted President Mahama’s pledge to declare a state of emergency on illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, which resonated with many Ghanaians. However, he noted that no tangible progress has been made in combating the menace.
The UPP founder called for an audit of all mining licenses, including those held by so-called legal operators, as he believes it is difficult to distinguish between legal and illegal mining operations at mining sites. “We are losing everything” to galamsey, he cautioned accusing President Mahama of repeating the failures of former President Akufo-Addo.
Odike asserted that the involvement of influential figures from both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in illegal mining is the primary reason galamsey persists. He also cited greed and personal interests as significant barriers to halting the practice, warning that the country faces imminent danger if the issue is not addressed.
Expressing concern over the escalating prices of foodstuffs, Odike noted that three fingers of plantain now cost 20 cedis, while the minimum wage in Ghana is only 18 cedis.
Odike further stated that neither the NPP nor the NDC can lead Ghana to progress, even if given a million years to govern. He argued that the country continues to “trek around the globe with a begging bowl,” despite democracy promising both political and economic freedom. He accused leaders since 1992 of being deceptive, implementing poor policies, and allowing foreigners to dominate the nation.
Source: AKUAPEM-HANN KWAME OMONO ASAMOAH
