As Ghana approaches its critical December 7 elections, many Ghanaians living abroad are making their way back home to cast their votes, driven by a shared frustration with the current state of the economy and governance. Among these returnees is UK-based Ghanaian lawyer Senyo McKenzie, who has become a vocal critic of the present administration. Leading a group of Ghanaians from the diaspora, McKenzie hopes to make a difference in the elections and bring attention to the struggles citizens face daily.
Speaking to Starr FM, McKenzie did not hold back in expressing his disappointment. He highlighted the crippling effects of high import duties and what he described as unbearable taxation on individuals and businesses. "Every part of the economy affects us," he said, "but the one that has the greatest impact is import duties. You can’t clear anything as a business person. The high taxes in the country are unbearable and extortionate. How much more can you take from poor citizens? This is the problem we face."
The lawyer, who has spent months engaging with Ghanaian communities abroad, painted a picture of widespread anger and discontent. His travels have taken him to countries like France, Canada, Germany, and the United States, where he has interacted with Ghanaian communities. According to McKenzie, the mood is the same everywhere: frustration over how the economy is being run and disillusionment with the direction in which the current regime has taken the country.
"In France, I spoke to a few people. In Canada, I met with many Ghanaians who were angry. In Düsseldorf, I had discussions with the Ghanaian community there. In the US, I engaged with even more groups. Everyone is upset about the way things are going," he shared. "The path this government has led Ghana on is simply unacceptable. That’s why we are here to support efforts to bring about change."
McKenzie was especially critical of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, whom he blamed for much of the country’s economic challenges. His words were sharp and direct. "Dr. Bawumia is a leap in the darkness. He is chasing mosquitoes in the darkness. For the past eight years, this administration has led Ghana into oblivion. There is no exit. The exit is completely blocked, and we need to create a new path forward."
Having aligned himself with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), McKenzie is actively involved in efforts to ensure a smooth election process. He has joined the NDC’s working committee in the Eastern Region, where he is helping to mobilize support for the party and its presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama. His goal is to contribute to a fair election process and to secure a victory that he believes can restore hope for Ghanaians.
McKenzie’s call to action is clear. He has urged NDC members and supporters to stay vigilant on election day, ensuring that the integrity of the polls is not compromised. "We must protect the process. Everyone has a role to play in making sure that the elections are fair and that the voice of the people is heard," he said.
The frustrations McKenzie and others have voiced are reflective of the broader challenges facing Ghana today. Citizens, both at home and abroad, are grappling with a high cost of living, rising taxes, and limited economic opportunities. For those in the diaspora, these issues hit close to home, as they often support family members back in Ghana and see firsthand how economic hardships affect loved ones.
For many, this election represents more than just a vote; it is a chance to change the trajectory of the nation. McKenzie’s journey back to Ghana and his passionate efforts to support the NDC underline the high stakes of this year’s elections. His story is one of many that illustrate how deeply Ghanaians care about the future of their country.
As election day draws near, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and hope. Ghanaians from all walks of life are preparing to exercise their democratic right to vote, knowing that their decision could shape the country for years to come. For those like McKenzie, who have traveled great distances to be part of this moment, the journey is not just about casting a ballot but about standing up for the values and aspirations they hold dear.
This election is not just about political parties or candidates—it is about the people of Ghana and their vision for a brighter future.
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