Akufo-Addo gov’t took difficult decisions that protected Ghana’s economy – Egyapa Mercer

By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi / Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | July 28,2026

Former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and former Member of Parliament for Sekondi, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, has defended the economic record of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, insisting that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration made difficult but necessary decisions that helped stabilize Ghana’s economy during one of its most challenging periods. 

Speaking during a political discussion on JoyNews, Mercer rejected suggestions that the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government should receive sole credit for recent signs of economic improvement. According to him, the foundation for Ghana’s recovery was laid by the previous administration through a series of difficult reforms and policy interventions. 

“Tough Decisions Were Necessary”

Mercer argued that the Akufo-Addo government inherited and later confronted multiple economic shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, global supply chain disruptions, and the economic impact of the Russia–Ukraine war. He maintained that despite these challenges, the government implemented reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability.

He said measures such as fiscal adjustments, debt restructuring, and engagement with international financial institutions were politically difficult but necessary to protect the country’s long-term economic future. 

Debate Over Ghana’s Economic Recovery

His comments come amid ongoing debate between the NPP and NDC over which administration deserves credit for Ghana’s improving economic indicators.

Mercer contended that the current government’s progress is partly the result of policies and structural reforms initiated before the 2024 transition of power. He argued that economic recovery is often a continuation of policies implemented over several years rather than the work of a single administration. 

A Divisive Political Conversation

The remarks have fueled renewed political discussions, with supporters of both major parties presenting contrasting views on Ghana’s economic performance.

Critics of the Akufo-Addo administration point to the severe economic crisis that led Ghana to seek financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), citing rising inflation, debt, and currency depreciation during the later years of the administration. 

Supporters, however, argue that many of the economic difficulties were driven by extraordinary global events and that the reforms introduced during that period created the basis for improved fiscal stability.

Economy Remains a Central Political Issue

As Ghana continues its economic recovery, the performance of both the previous and current administrations is expected to remain a major issue in national politics ahead of future elections.

Mercer’s comments reflect the continuing contest between the NPP and NDC over economic stewardship, with each side seeking to convince Ghanaians that its policies offer the best path toward sustainable growth and national development.

GhanaianNewsCanada will continue to follow developments and provide balanced coverage of Ghana’s political and economic landscape.