Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu and President John Dramani Mahama
Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has criticized President John Dramani Mahama over his remark that “Ghana is a crime scene” in reference to the handling of the country’s economy by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.
According to a report by mynewsgh.com, Amidu, who is also a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, described Mahama’s criticism of the Akufo-Addo administration as “a worn-out excuse.”
He argued that every government since 2001 has used the same rhetoric to justify borrowing and tough economic decisions.
Amidu urged Mahama to focus on fixing the economy, as that is what Ghanaians elected him to do.
“The electorate is not foolish, Mr. President. We voted for action, not excuses.
“Every government under the 1992 Constitution has blamed its predecessor. But the real question is: what are you doing differently?” Amidu is quoted as saying.
The former Special Prosecutor also cautioned Mahama against following past administrations by resorting to borrowing from China or opting for HIPC relief.
“Ghanaians put their trust in you to fix the problems, not to prepare them for another loan or bailout. Walk your pre-election can-do talk!” he added.
What President Mahama said
Addressing officials of Organised Labour during an engagement on Thursday, February 20, 2025, President Mahama lamented the poor management of the economy by his predecessor, describing the country as a “crime scene” due to its current state.
He acknowledged that while he was aware the economy was in poor condition, he was astounded by the extent of the damage since assuming office.
President Mahama accused the previous administration of reckless economic management, which, he said, had left the country in an even worse state.
“We all knew the economy was in crisis, but some of the things I’m discovering myself—it’s been a criminal handling of our economy, and Ghana is a crime scene. How a government can be so reckless, I cannot understand,” he said.
He also pointed out how public distrust of the political class has grown due to their self-centered behavior, failing to make sacrifices while expecting other institutions to do so to help stabilize the economy.
Mahama highlighted instances where various institutions have been required to cut costs and make sacrifices, while politicians, in contrast, continue to engage in wasteful spending to the detriment of citizens.
However, he assured Ghanaians that under his administration, the era of wasteful spending and excessive expenditure would come to an end. He pledged to implement measures that would help revive and stabilize the economy.
“A certain distrust of the political class has arisen because when everybody else is tightening their belts, the political class is loosening theirs. But I want to assure you that we’re all going to tighten our belts, and there will be no wasteful expenditure,” he added.
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