Ernest Owusu Bempah, Deputy National Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has offered unexpected praise for the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government's handling of the economy. Speaking in an interview on Net 2 TV this week, Mr. Owusu Bempah commended the NDC for effectively stabilising the Ghanaian cedi—an achievement that marks a notable improvement in the country’s economic outlook.
His comments, surprising given his position in the opposition, also contained a veiled critique of the previous NPP administration, particularly former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s economic stewardship. He remarked, “All Ghanaians wanted to see was the appreciation of the cedi, and that is what the majority of business people wanted.” He went on to acknowledge the NDC’s success, stating plainly: “They know how to manage the cedi.”
These remarks signify a rare moment of cross-party recognition, highlighting a shift in public discourse surrounding the government's economic strategy.
Recent economic data supports his assessment. The Ghanaian cedi has seen significant appreciation against major international currencies, especially the US dollar. Between March and mid-May 2025, the cedi strengthened from approximately GH¢15.53 to GH¢13.09 per dollar. This recovery follows a period of steep depreciation under the NPP, where the cedi closed 2024 at around GH¢14.70 to the dollar—reflecting a 28% loss in value during that year alone.
The NDC credits the rebound to a mix of prudent fiscal policies, renewed investor confidence following the Eurobond restructuring in late 2024, and strategic foreign exchange inflows, particularly from the Ghana Gold Board. The strengthening of the cedi is expected to ease inflationary pressure, improve access to essential goods and services, and reduce the cost of living.
In addition, electricity and other utility tariffs—often benchmarked to exchange rates—may see downward adjustments, offering relief to both households and businesses.
Update on Ken Ofori-Atta’s Health and Legal Proceedings.
Meanwhile, the spouse of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has responded to recent developments involving the Office of the Special Prosecutor. Professor Angela Ofori-Atta disclosed that her husband is recovering from a surgical procedure performed on June 13, and is expected to require approximately three months for full recovery before he can respond to a summons for in-person questioning.
“He has quite a bit of pain. We have to make sure his wounds don't get infected,” she explained. “There will be a period of about three months for observation, and hopefully, if all goes well, he should be fully recovered by then.”
Her statement follows the June 2 press conference by Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, during which Mr. Ofori-Atta was declared wanted for failing to appear before the office as scheduled.
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