The political atmosphere in Ghana became more charged this week when Kwesi Botchway, a former aide to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, criticized President John Dramani Mahama during a live broadcast on Asempa FM.
Botchway accused Mahama of deceiving citizens with populist policies and short-term political gestures. In one of his boldest remarks, he warned that the President’s current goodwill among Ghanaians is temporary. “Let him enjoy it while it lasts, but his time will come. Ghanaians cannot be misled forever,” Botchway stated.
He sharply attacked Mahama’s “Professional Galamsay” initiative, calling it a gimmick with no real planning, structure, or accountability. According to him, the initiative is insufficient for addressing the country’s need for sustainable job creation and development.
“People want practical policies that produce lasting results, not slogans designed to maintain political power,” he said.
Botchway added that Mahama’s popularity might blind him to the responsibilities of leadership. “Power is fleeting. Those who cheer today may hold you accountable tomorrow. Leaders must be mindful of their promises,” he cautioned.
Analysts suggest that Botchway’s statements align with the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) broader strategy to counter Mahama’s influence as elections approach. While the ruling party emphasizes progress in digitalization, infrastructure, and economic reforms, the opposition NDC, under Mahama, continues to highlight issues of corruption and governance failures.
The comments reflect the sharp rivalry between Ghana’s main political parties and are expected to motivate NPP supporters wary of Mahama’s comeback.
Reactions across social media have been mixed, with some dismissing the criticism as an attempt to remain politically relevant, while others see it as a sign of fear regarding Mahama’s popularity.
Botchway remained steadfast, stressing that leadership must be rooted in honesty, integrity, and effective policies. “Any government that betrays the trust of Ghanaians will not be forgiven,” he said.
As the election period intensifies, confrontations like this highlight the divisions within Ghanaian politics and raise the key question of whether citizens will be influenced by political rhetoric or by results that impact their daily lives.
Source:ASEMPA FM