The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has issued a strong call to Ghanaians to reject Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in the December 7, 2024, general elections. According to Kwetey, Dr. Bawumia’s attempts to distance himself from the economic turmoil under his tenure as head of the government’s Economic Management Team reveal a lack of accountability and leadership.
Speaking during an interview on Channel One TV’s *The Point of View*, Kwetey accused Dr. Bawumia of using selective acknowledgment to position himself favorably. He claimed that while Bawumia is eager to take credit for perceived achievements, he has consistently avoided responsibility for the severe economic challenges currently facing the nation.
"As far as this election is concerned, we see a candidate [Dr. Bawumia] who is trying hard to dissociate himself from the difficulties the country faces. Yet, he wants to capitalize on the limited successes. It’s a real conundrum," Kwetey stated. He went further to argue that such behavior reflects a lack of courage and integrity, as Bawumia has failed to own up to his role in driving Ghana’s economic policies during a challenging period.
According to Kwetey, the economic crisis under the NPP administration has left Ghanaians grappling with soaring inflation, unemployment, and dwindling living standards. This has eroded public trust and created a fertile ground for discontent. "If a leader cannot admit his role in the failures of his administration, how can he lead effectively in the future?" Kwetey asked, emphasizing the importance of accountability in leadership.
Kwetey also compared Bawumia’s leadership approach to that of previous vice presidents under both the NDC and NPP administrations. He cited the late Prof. John Evans Atta Mills and former President John Mahama, who, he argued, never shied away from acknowledging collective challenges during their time as vice presidents.
“In the past, we’ve seen vice presidents like Prof. Mills and John Mahama take responsibility for their roles in governance, even during tough times. However, Dr. Bawumia appears to think he can outsmart the Ghanaian people by playing victim while claiming credit for anything positive,” Kwetey remarked.
He went on to describe Dr. Bawumia as "desperate" for power, accusing him of spreading false narratives and engaging in what he termed "convenient lies." "This is an individual who will do anything for power. He has no problem lying if it suits his agenda. His character speaks volumes about his suitability as a leader," Kwetey asserted.
Kwetey’s criticism comes as the nation prepares for one of its most closely contested elections in recent history. Ghana’s economic struggles, including a cost-of-living crisis and the fallout from debt restructuring efforts, have taken center stage in the campaigns of both the NPP and the NDC.
Dr. Bawumia, the ruling party’s candidate, has campaigned on promises to stabilize the economy and usher in a new era of growth. However, the NDC, led by former President John Dramani Mahama, has sought to highlight the hardships endured under the NPP government, arguing that a change in leadership is necessary to restore hope to the nation.
Kwetey also questioned the character and reliability of Dr. Bawumia’s leadership. He pointed to the vice president's inconsistent narrative surrounding his role in the government’s achievements and failures. "The issue of character becomes critical when evaluating a leader. Ghanaians deserve someone who is honest and accountable, not someone who only claims successes while deflecting blame for failures," he said.
As the election draws closer, the stakes are high for both major parties. With public trust in institutions, including the Electoral Commission, reportedly low, there are concerns about the credibility of the election process. Both the NPP and the NDC have traded accusations over potential irregularities in the voter roll, heightening tensions ahead of the polls.
Kwetey’s statements have added to the political fervor, as the NDC continues to build its case against the ruling party. For the opposition, this election represents a pivotal moment to reclaim power and address the pressing issues facing the nation. For the ruling party, it is an opportunity to defend its record and convince voters that it remains the best choice for Ghana’s future.
Ghanaians, however, appear increasingly disillusioned with the political process, as many express frustration with the lack of tangible improvements in their lives. Whether the criticisms leveled by Kwetey resonate with voters or not, the election results will ultimately determine the direction of the nation in the coming years.
The call by Fifi Kwetey to reject Dr. Bawumia underscores the high stakes of this election. As Ghanaians head to the polls, the decisions they make will shape the nation’s path forward, with the hopes and frustrations of millions hanging in the balance.
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