A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Communications Team, Alfred Ahiatsi Believe, has criticised the government’s response to the escalating tensions involving Iran, describing the President’s statement on the matter as inadequate.
He said the response appeared “watered down” considering the seriousness of the geopolitical developments and their potential implications for Ghana’s economy.
Mr Ahiatsi said while issuing statements was important, the government must go beyond rhetoric and outline clear strategies to protect Ghana’s economic interests, particularly in the face of possible disruptions in global energy markets.
“The distance from Ghana to Ukraine is about 7,000 kilometres, yet the impact of that conflict has been felt strongly in our economy,” he said.
“Similarly, tensions in the Middle East can easily affect fuel prices, inflation and the cost of living in Ghana.”
He said that the government must present concrete measures to address the potential economic consequences of rising global crude oil prices and supply disruptions.
Mr Ahiatsi indicated that Ghanaians needed to know how the government intended to cushion businesses and households from the possible economic shocks that could arise from the crisis.
“We need concrete actions, not just statements. The government must explain how it plans to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices on Ghana’s economy and how it will support businesses and families who may struggle with the economic fallout,” he said.
Mr Ahiatsi also criticised what he described as “reset rhetoric” by the government, arguing that the country required practical policy responses rather than slogans.
He indicated that the NPP believed Ghana should adopt proactive measures to reduce vulnerability to external economic shocks.
Among the proposals suggested by the party were: diversifying Ghana’s sources of crude oil imports to reduce dependence on supplies from the Middle East, providing targeted support for local businesses that could be affected by rising operational costs, and strengthening engagement with international partners to secure favourable trade arrangements.
Mr Ahiatsi further called on the government to intensify diplomatic engagement and economic planning to protect the country from the ripple effects of global geopolitical tensions.
He reiterated the opposition party’s commitment to holding the government accountable on issues affecting the economic welfare of Ghanaians.
