Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, has offered a measured assessment of President John Dramani Mahama’s first year in office, commending certain policy interventions while highlighting financial bottlenecks affecting cocoa farmers and local governance structures.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Agyemang noted that the government’s performance should not be dismissed outright, but urgent attention is needed to address the economic pressures faced by ordinary Ghanaians.
He revealed that many Assembly Members have not received their full allowances despite government assurances.
“What I know is that Assembly Members have been paid only two months despite assurances of allowances,” he said.
The MP also expressed concern over cocoa farmers, who have reportedly gone unpaid for months after delivering their produce.
“Cocoa farmers have not been paid since November after sending their cocoa. Cocoa farmers did not spend Christmas. They were told there is no money,” Dr. Agyemang said.
He stressed that while macro-level economic discussions continue, the everyday cost of living remains high for citizens. Using transportation as an example, he noted that fares have barely changed.
“In 2024, when I pick a car from Asiakwa to Bunso, I am paying the same price today,” he said, highlighting the persistent economic strain at the grassroots level.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Agyemang cautioned against portraying the Mahama administration as having done nothing in its first year. He said the government’s electoral mandate reflects public trust and that some reforms deserve recognition.
“The government has done well in one or two places, but the way we are behaving is as if it is unprecedented, and that was the reason we voted for them,” he said.
He also referenced President Mahama’s strong electoral showing, noting that “for you to get 57 per cent in the election reflects the confidence reposed in you. He has done his part.”
Among the positives, Dr. Agyemang highlighted reforms in the health sector, including adjustments to National Health Insurance funding and the introduction of new programmes.
“For instance, the uncapping of the National Health Insurance and the introduction of their own programmes in the health sector — so we can’t say they haven’t done anything,” he explained.
He emphasized that criticism must be balanced with accountability from all who are part of governance.
“If we say they haven’t done anything, then we also haven’t done anything because we are part of governance,” he said.
While acknowledging progress in certain sectors, the Abuakwa South MP urged the government to act faster in resolving cash flow constraints, particularly for farmers and local officials who rely on timely payments.
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