The Burden of Leadership: Why Ghanaians' Expectations from JM and the NDC Must Be Managed

The 2024 election has once again demonstrated the power of the Ghanaian voter. Frustrated by the hardships inflicted by the NPP government—characterized by pervasive corruption, empty promises, aggressive arrogance, and palpable lies—Ghanaians have made a decisive statement by voting the government out of power. However, this victory for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is only the beginning of a daunting challenge.

The enormity of the task awaiting the NDC cannot be overstated. The economic damage wrought by the current government is not just a matter of figures on a spreadsheet; it is deeply entrenched in the social and economic fabric of the nation. Hunger has become a grim reality for many, businesses are struggling under the weight of inflation, and trust in public institutions has been severely eroded. It is against this backdrop that former President John Dramani Mahama (JM) and the NDC must now govern.

During the campaign period, many—including myself—urged JM and the NDC to exercise caution in their promises. Ghanaians, while desperate for change, must understand that the road to economic recovery is long and arduous. It is not an overnight journey but one that requires patience, sacrifice, and a collective effort. The new administration will inherit a battered economy with depleted reserves, high debt levels, and a fractured public trust. Can the NDC perform any magic to have all these issues restored in a jiffy? Your guess is as good as mine.

While it is tempting to make sweeping promises to gain political traction, the NDC must manage expectations. Campaign pledges should be grounded in realism and pragmatism. Overpromising and underdelivering would only deepen the cynicism of the electorate and undermine the very change they fought to bring about. This is where I plead with the good people of Ghana to exercise patience and support the new administration to deliver.

The damage inflicted by the NPP government cannot be undone in two years or even a single term. Economic policies take time to yield tangible results, and the scars of mismanagement and corruption are not easily healed. Structural reforms are necessary, but they are often painful and unpopular in the short term. Hence, once we have voted out the nation's wreckers, it is time to endure a little till things get back to normal. The NPP is very good at propaganda, and they may activate their propaganda machinery soon after the NDC takes over office. But Ghanaians must try hard to ignore them. However, we must also watch with open eyes, the very people who openly chastised the NPP and their voodoo policies. Basintale and the rest must be watched how they live their lives.

The NDC must focus on these key areas to rebuild the economy:

Strengthening Institutions: Corruption has eroded the integrity of public institutions. Restoring accountability and transparency is crucial.

Economic Stabilization: Stabilizing the cedi, curbing inflation, and ensuring fiscal discipline must be immediate priorities.

Social Interventions: Programmes aimed at alleviating hunger and unemployment will demonstrate that the government is responsive to the needs of the people.

Public Engagement: Regular communication with the populace about the state of the economy and the steps being taken to address issues will build trust and patience.

While the government has a critical role to play, Ghanaians themselves must temper their expectations. The frustrations of the past cannot be resolved in a day. Rebuilding the economy requires collective sacrifice, resilience, and a willingness to endure short-term pain for long-term gain.

Citizens must hold the new government accountable but also support its efforts to address the challenges inherited from the previous administration. Constructive criticism and active participation in national development will be essential in navigating this difficult period.

The election may have been a victory for JM and the NDC, but the real test lies ahead. Ghanaians have entrusted them with the monumental task of rebuilding a broken nation. By being meticulous and measured in their approach, the NDC can lay the foundation for a brighter future. However, both the government and the people must recognize that this journey will take time, effort, and unwavering commitment.

The frustrations of the past must not cloud the vision for tomorrow. With patience, unity, and responsible governance, Ghana can rise from its challenges and reclaim its path to progress as the founder, Nkrumah wished to have done for this country.