The Member of Parliament for Bekwai Constituency, Hon. Ralph Poku-Adusei, has expressed his disappointment with the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), describing it as an address of lamentations and complaints without any clear plan.
According to Hon. Poku-Adusei, the President’s address was a repetition of campaign promises, lacking concrete solutions to the country’s pressing issues. He noted that the President’s promise not to lament was ironic, given the tone of the address.
Selective Presentation of Facts
The MP criticized the President for selectively mentioning accounts with low balances while ignoring the growth in foreign reserves and the expansion of the economy. He highlighted that Ghana’s foreign reserves have increased by 29% from 2017 to 2024, from $6.2 billion to $8 billion.
Unfulfilled Promises
Hon. Poku-Adusei also questioned the President’s claim of fixing the economy, citing the unresolved issue of Dumsor. He further criticized the President’s promise to reduce borrowing, pointing out that over 50 billion Cedis have been borrowed in just two months.
Contradictions and Double Standards
The MP highlighted several contradictions and double standards in the President’s address. For instance, the President promised to solve unemployment but has started by revoking appointments of thousands of young people. Additionally, the President talks of fighting corruption with law but has filed Nolle Prosequis for over 15 NDC kingpins who were on trial before he assumed office.
Renaming Existing Programs
Hon. Poku-Adusei noted that the President has renamed several existing programs, including national apprenticeship programs, agric mechanization centers, Arabic teachers, and TVET. He questioned the sense in renaming programs instead of implementing new initiatives.
Avoiding Key Issues
The MP pointed out that the President avoided talking about several key issues, including the fight against LGBT rights, growth of the economy, fuel prices, currency depreciation, jobs, and cost of living. He questioned whether the President’s silence on these issues was due to a lack of plan or strategy.
In conclusion, Hon. Poku-Adusei’s critique of the President’s address highlights the need for a more comprehensive and realistic approach to addressing Ghana’s challenges. As the country moves forward, it is essential to prioritize transparency, accountability, and effective governance.
