The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, delivered a blistering critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration immediately after the 2026 State of the Nation Address, accusing the government of trading slogans for substance.
Addressing the House, Afenyo-Markin highlighted key national frustrations, including soaring electricity tariffs, youth unemployment, cocoa farmers’ woes, galamsey, and alleged irregularities in government contracts.
“What the President failed to tell Ghanaians is that one year into office, it’s still slogans, not actions. Electricity tariffs have skyrocketed, and citizens are struggling to pay,” he said.
He went on to condemn the dismissal of thousands of youth via letters from the Chief of Staff and warned of an impending scandal in security services recruitment. “Karma has a way. The minority will pursue those responsible and demand full accountability,” he declared.
The plight of cocoa farmers was also highlighted. Afenyo-Markin criticised reductions in producer prices and the absence of Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, noting the government’s focus on macroeconomic indicators while neglecting farmers’ livelihoods.
“Cocoa farmers are being shortchanged, yet the government talks about inflation and macroeconomics. Where is the Minister?” he asked.
Illegal mining, or galamsey, remained another target. “Galamsey continues to destroy lives and livelihoods. Concrete measures must follow,” he stressed.
Even on economic wins, the Minority Leader pointed to prior initiatives, crediting former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia for the Gold-for-Reserve policy. “Give credit where it’s due. These gains are Bawumia’s brainchild. Mr. President, give him what belongs to him,” Afenyo-Markin urged.
