A lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Dr Bernie Asher, has downplayed the impact of President John Dramani Mahama’s address at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, stressing that such speeches carry little to no policy weight.

Speaking in an interview on Joy News and monitored by GhanaWeb on October 1, 2025, Dr Asher acknowledged Mahama’s strong delivery, describing him as an orator who effectively conveyed his sentiments.

However, he said Ghanaians should not be overly excited about the address.

“This forum is a free-for-all where every leader can say everything they want. These things don’t mean much. This is not policy. This is just a forum for people to rant, for presidents to say what they want on their mind. It carries no policy impact, there are no consequences of it, and nobody has to listen or act on it,” he said.

Dr Asher recalled how leaders like Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi and Cuba’s Fidel Castro once delivered marathon speeches at the Assembly that made no tangible impact on global policy.

He added that even in recent times, speeches by world leaders such as US President Donald Trump and the Israeli Prime Minister have been met with walkouts or dismissal.

Mahama's UNGA 80 Address: Three bold statements that have won widespread plaudits

He emphasised that while Mahama’s delivery was commendable, the address should not be mistaken for an achievement.

“Let’s not trick ourselves that something very powerful has been achieved. Nothing has been achieved. This is just a speech,” Dr Asher reiterated.

President Mahama in his address at the UNGA pressed for permanent African representation on the Security Council with veto power, arguing that the current arrangement is outdated and unjust.

Gov't spokesperson outlines why President Mahama's UNGA 80 address was 'historic and highly successful'

He also demanded reforms to the global financial system, which he said is “Rigged against Africa.”

The president also called for reparations for slavery and colonization, the return of stolen African artefacts, and a fairer share of natural resource benefits for African nations.

“We are tired of people extracting the most they can from us and offering the least in return,” he added.

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