The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has sharply criticized the government in the wake of President John Dramani Mahama’s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), arguing that the administration has failed to translate its rhetoric into real results.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament after the President’s address, Mr Afenyo-Markin contended that one year into its mandate, the government is still leaning on catchphrases instead of delivering measurable outcomes.
He pointed to what he described as worsening economic pressures, including rising electricity tariffs, persistent youth unemployment, challenges facing cocoa farmers, illegal mining activities and concerns over public procurement practices.
“What the President did not tell Ghanaians is that one year into his administration, we are still hearing slogans without concrete action. Electricity tariffs have gone up significantly, and many citizens are struggling to pay,” he asserted.
The Minority Leader further alleged that thousands of young people have lost their jobs through termination letters issued from the Office of the Chief of Staff. He also signalled what he described as an impending controversy surrounding recruitment into the security services, indicating that the Minority would push for transparency.
“There is a looming issue in the recruitment of security personnel. We are aware of how certain arrangements were made, and we will demand full accountability,” he said.
On agriculture, Mr Afenyo-Markin criticised what he termed the government’s neglect of cocoa farmers, claiming that producer prices have been reduced while broader macroeconomic indicators are being highlighted.
“Cocoa farmers are struggling with reduced producer prices, yet the focus is on inflation and macroeconomic figures. The welfare of farmers must not be sidelined,” he argued.
Illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, also featured prominently in his remarks. He maintained that the problem continues to inflict hardship on communities and called for decisive intervention.
“Galamsey is still causing untold difficulties for many Ghanaians. We expect to see firm and practical measures to address it,” he stressed.
Although he acknowledged improvements in certain economic indicators referenced by the President, Mr. Afenyo-Markin attributed those gains to policies introduced under the previous administration particularly the Gold-for-Reserve programme.
He insisted that former Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia deserves recognition for the initiative.
“Where credit is due, it must be given. Some of the gains highlighted today stem from the Gold-for-Reserve policy, and that policy was conceptualised under Dr. Bawumia. The government should acknowledge that,” he said.
The Minority Leader maintained that while progress in certain areas is welcome, the government must move beyond messaging and demonstrate tangible improvements in the daily lives of Ghanaians.
