
Richard Ahiagbah, the Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has defended the economic management record of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, stating that his administration performed admirably in the face of significant external challenges.
In an interview on Point Blank, a segment of Eyewitness News, Ahiagbah emphasized that external shocks heavily impacted the economy during Akufo-Addo’s tenure, but noted that the administration was able to stabilize and revive growth.
“The task given to Akufo-Addo to manage the economy, he didn’t do bad at all. Take away all the shocks that we had, which are real shocks, this economy would have been in a much better place than we are ending up with,” Ahiagbah remarked.
Signs of Economic Recovery
Ahiagbah highlighted the impressive growth figures reported in recent quarters, indicating an economic rebound.
“This year, the first three quarters that have come, the economy is growing about 7%. This indicates that by 2025, you have that momentum going forward, which will drive growth. That must be noted,” he said.
External Shocks and Their Impact
Ahiagbah argued that external factors such as the global economic downturn, supply chain disruptions, and the COVID-19 pandemic were largely responsible for Ghana’s economic challenges. Despite these obstacles, he credited the Akufo-Addo administration with steering the country back onto a growth trajectory.
Campaign and Economic Achievements
Responding to criticisms that the NPP avoided discussing the economy during the 2024 campaign, Ahiagbah refuted such claims, asserting that the party consistently highlighted the strides made in restoring growth and stability.
“Yes, the economy went down, but the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration brought it back. So, it is never true that during the campaign, we ran away from the conversation about the economy,” he concluded.
Ahiagbah’s comments come as the NPP reflects on its electoral defeat, with many party officials beginning to evaluate the administration’s legacy and its impact on voter sentiments.