Franklin Cudjoe, President of the policy think tank IMANI Africa, has openly questioned former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s silence on the pressing challenges facing Ghanaians today. In his view, Kufuor has failed to stand up for ordinary citizens at a time when they are grappling with the consequences of economic mismanagement under President Nana Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s administration.
Cudjoe expressed deep concern over the lack of advocacy from the former President when some of Ghana’s most vulnerable—frail and elderly men and women—were forced to queue under the blazing sun, pleading with the government to safeguard their savings and pensions. These individuals, who worked hard to secure a future for themselves, were left helpless as their contributions were put at risk by policies they had no control over.
The IMANI leader also pointed to the harsh financial policies introduced under the current government, which he described as “ugly financial haircuts.” Millions of Ghanaians saw the value of their investments and savings slashed, leading to widespread financial distress. According to Cudjoe, this was the direct result of reckless economic management by the government’s Economic Management Team, which has driven the country into a dire economic situation.
Against this backdrop, Cudjoe questioned why Kufuor, a figure many Ghanaians revere as a statesman, has remained silent on these pressing issues. Instead of using his influence to hold the current administration accountable or stand with ordinary Ghanaians, Kufuor recently called on citizens to support the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in upcoming elections. For Cudjoe, this stance is not only disappointing but also deeply concerning. He believes Kufuor should be urging Ghanaians to make thoughtful, informed decisions rather than endorsing a party that has, in his view, failed to prioritize the welfare of the people.
Cudjoe argued that perhaps the former President is unaware of the full extent of the economic crisis under the current administration. The NPP, which returned to power in 2016 under President Akufo-Addo, promised progress and prosperity but instead has presided over a period of unprecedented financial hardship. Spiraling debt, inflation, and a series of mismanaged policies have left Ghanaians struggling to make ends meet. To Cudjoe, this track record should disqualify the NPP from seeking another chance to govern.
As someone who has held the highest office in the land, Kufuor has a unique position and responsibility to advocate for the greater good, Cudjoe noted. He stressed that Ghanaians expect their leaders—especially elder statesmen like Kufuor—to remain impartial and prioritize the well-being of the nation over partisan loyalties. By openly endorsing the NPP, Cudjoe believes Kufuor risks alienating the many Ghanaians who feel let down by the party’s current leadership.
This, Cudjoe says, is not the time for political endorsements or silence. It is a time for leaders to speak out against poor governance and advocate for policies that address the struggles of ordinary citizens. He lamented that the former President’s silence during critical moments—when Ghanaians faced severe economic challenges—raises questions about his commitment to the people and their concerns.
Cudjoe’s criticism reflects a growing frustration among Ghanaians who are bearing the brunt of the country’s economic challenges. From job losses to skyrocketing prices, many feel abandoned by a government that promised to improve their lives but has instead made things harder. In such a climate, the absence of vocal support from respected leaders like Kufuor becomes even more glaring.
Franklin Cudjoe ended his remarks with a call to action for the former President. He urged Kufuor to reconsider his role in the national discourse and use his influence to advocate for better governance and policies that truly serve the people. “This is the moment to rise above partisan politics,” Cudjoe emphasized, “and to be the voice of reason that Ghanaians so desperately need.”
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