Correspondence from Ashanti Region

Dr William Atta Owusu, a staunch member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ashanti Region, has expressed strong optimism for a significantly better economic outlook in 2026, attributing this to what he describes as the "excellent economic recovery" spearheaded by the John Dramani Mahama-led NDC government.

In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb's Ashanti Regional Correspondent Nana Peprah, as part of his end of year message, Dr Atta Owusu offered a robust endorsement of Mahama's leadership, proclaiming that the current administration is doing it marvellously well.

He further asserted that the president's return to power signifies a 'second coming of Jesus Christ' to revitalize Ghana's economy.

Dr Owusu highlighted a remarkable turnaround in the economy, specifically pointing to a substantial appreciation of the Ghana Cedi against the US dollar under the current NDC administration.

He claimed the dollar rate, which stood at GHC 16 during the previous NPP regime, has now fallen to GH¢11.

Illustrating the tangible impact on businesses, he stated that a businessman with $100,000, which would have converted to GH¢1.6 million under the NPP, now yields GH¢1.1 million, providing a significant GH¢500,000 advantage for business expansion and job creation.

This economic improvement, Dr Owusu argued, has directly led to a reduction in the prices of essential commodities.

He cited a bag of rice that previously sold for GH¢800-GH¢900 under the NPP now costing GH¢480-500. Bulk purchases of 100 bags, he added, have reportedly dropped from GH¢99,000 to GH¢88,000, easing the financial burden on ordinary Ghanaians.

Dr Atta Owusu further touted the government's initiatives, including a flagship program and the activation of the 24- Hour Market, as key drivers of employment and business growth.

He shared an anecdote of a friend whose business expanded from a single branch in Kumasi to include outlets in Sunyani and Accra under the current administration, leading to a demonstrable decrease in unemployment rates.

In a sharp critique of the previous NPP government under the Nana Addo-Bawumia regime, Dr Atta Owusu claimed, "they oversaw galloping inflation and lacked the techniques and knowledge to foster an enabling environment for businesses, making access to loan facilities very difficult".

Conversely, Dr Atta Owusu lauded the NDC government for significant reductions in import duties at the Tema Harbour.

He stated that the cost for a 20- feet container has purportedly fallen from GH¢1.5 million to GH¢70,000-GH¢80,000, and a 40-feet container from GH¢3.5 million to GH¢1.7 million.

Beyond economic metrics, Dr Atta Owusu credited John Dramani Mahama's government of reducing financial burdens on families, such as covering tertiary entry fees with the 'no fee stress policy' and providing support for persons with disabilities.

He also claimed the government has curtailed profligate expenditure witnessed under the NPP.

He further asserted that under Mahama, traditional leaders have redeemed their image, and customs have deepened due to the president's profound respect for them.

Dr Owusu dismissed former negative perceptions about the NDC as propaganda that has now been erased, expressing confidence that "Ghanaians are comfortable with the NDC".

He urged Ghanaians to be patient and supportive, stating that John Dramani Mahama is committed to leaving an unparalleled legacy, including major infrastructure projects like the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange in addition to others, in contrast to what he described as the previous government's unfulfilled promises.