A Joy News survey conducted through social media platforms has pointed to former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the primary reason for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the December 2024 elections, as reported by Adomonline.
Respondents highlighted his administration’s harsh economic policies, perceived nepotism, corruption, and the arrogance of his appointees as key factors contributing to the party’s loss.
The survey sought to understand public sentiments regarding the NPP’s unexpected loss in both presidential and parliamentary elections.
Many respondents criticized Akufo-Addo’s leadership, particularly his handling of economic policies and his reluctance to act decisively on public grievances.
A significant portion of the criticism centered around economic policies such as the e-levy, betting tax, COVID-19 levy, and poor debt management strategies.
Respondents argued that these policies imposed severe economic hardships on Ghanaians and alienated even the party’s core supporters.
Additionally, Akufo-Addo was accused of shielding his cousin, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, despite mounting public and parliamentary pressure to remove him.
This decision, respondents claimed, portrayed the administration as unresponsive to public concerns and deepened discontent within the party.
The former President also faced backlash for instances of perceived arrogance, such as allegedly instructing chiefs to stand to greet him.
Respondents viewed such actions as disrespectful to traditional authorities, further eroding public trust.
The survey revealed that internal dissatisfaction within the NPP also played a significant role. Respondents claimed that Akufo-Addo’s refusal to heed advice and make timely changes in his government fostered apathy among party members.
This inaction was said to have denied deserving members opportunities and fueled dissatisfaction at the grassroots level.
Apart from leadership issues, respondents criticized appointees within Akufo-Addo’s government for their alleged arrogance and inaccessibility.
Many accused them of being disconnected from the electorate, leading to further disaffection.
Corruption scandals under his administration also resurfaced, with respondents referencing Akufo-Addo’s reputation as a “clearing agent” for exonerating accused appointees without thorough investigations.
The neglect of key projects in NPP strongholds, particularly in the Ashanti, Western, and Bono/Ahafo regions, was another significant point of contention.
Respondents cited unfulfilled promises, such as the Suame Interchange, as missed opportunities to strengthen voter loyalty.