Pressure group Arise Ghana has released an extensive independent assessment of Ghanas state of affairs after one year under President John Dramani Mahama, describing the period as one of economic stabilization, cautious optimism, and persistent structural challenges.
At a press conference dubbed Mahama at One, the group emphasized that its review was non-partisan and intended to stimulate a broad national conversation on governance, accountability, and the social contract between the state and citizens.
According to Arise Ghana, the Mahama administration assumed office in January 2025 amid severe economic distress, characterized by inflation above 23 percent, a rapidly depreciating cedi approaching GH¢16 to the dollar, soaring food and fuel prices, weak foreign reserves, unsustainable public debt, and eroded investor confidence.
One year on, the group acknowledged what it described as significant macroeconomic improvements. It cited a drop in inflation to 6.3 percent, economic growth exceeding 6 percent, foreign reserves rising above US$11 billion, treasury bill rates declining to about 11 percent, and a more stable cedi trading between GH¢9.4 and GH¢10.6 to the dollar.
These are not cosmetic gains, Arise Ghana stated, noting that Ghana had stepped back from the brink of economic free fall and regained a sense of direction. However, the group cautioned that macroeconomic stability alone does not automatically translate into shared prosperity for citizens.
The assessment attributed the turnaround to fiscal discipline, debt restructuring, and export growth driven by institutions such as GoldBod and COCOBOD, and renewed investor confidence. It warned, however, that corruption and weak accountability could easily undermine these gains if not decisively addressed.
On governance, Arise Ghana welcomed the introduction of a Code of Conduct for public appointees, renewed anti-corruption reforms, and the launch of Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL). It stressed that the real test of these initiatives would be measured by prosecutions and convictions rather than policy pronouncements.
The group specifically called for accountability in past financial scandals, urging the arrest and extradition of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to face justice.
Arise Ghana also highlighted sector-specific reforms, praising the stabilization of COCOBOD, the establishment of GoldBod to curb gold smuggling and boost state revenues, and the revival of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), describing TORs restart as a symbolic step toward restoring economic sovereignty.
The group further assessed the governments proposed 24-Hour Economy as a promising initiative but cautioned that its success would depend on reliable electricity supply, improved security, efficient transport systems, and clear regulatory frameworks.
Despite the positive outlook, Arise Ghana warned of lingering challenges, including illegal mining, youth unemployment, environmental degradation, and widening social inequality.
The group also firmly rejected any calls for a third presidential term, describing such agitation as unconstitutional and dangerous to Ghanas democratic stability.
Ghana needs strong institutions, not perpetual leaders, Arise Ghana stated, urging President Mahama to govern effectively within constitutional limits and exit office accordingly.
The pressure group concluded that Ghana stands at a critical threshold, calling on government, civil society, the media, and citizens to protect democratic gains and transform economic stability into inclusive and sustainable development.
Source: Eric Asare/MyRepublicOnline
