Economy Good on Paper, but Ghanaians Still Suffering Hardship – Afenyo-Markin

Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has criticised the Mahama administration over the economic conditions facing ordinary Ghanaians, arguing that despite improvements in official economic indicators, many households continue to struggle with the high cost of living.

Afenyo-Markin made the remarks on November 13, 2026, during a press conference in Parliament following the presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.

He described the government’s economic performance as impressive on paper but insisted that the reported progress was not translating into meaningful relief for citizens.

“The economy is good on paper, but there is hardship in our pockets,” he stated.

The Minority Leader accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of relying heavily on political slogans instead of introducing practical measures to address unemployment, rising food prices and the difficulties confronting businesses.

He cited markets in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Koforidua and Winneba, arguing that the prices of essential food items remained beyond the reach of many households.

Afenyo-Markin also questioned the government’s agricultural interventions, claiming that locally produced staples such as rice, maize, sorghum and yam remained expensive despite promises to support farmers and strengthen domestic production.

On employment, he argued that the 2027 Budget did not provide sufficient clarity on how the government’s proposed New Economy programme would translate into sustainable jobs.

He further questioned the relationship between the New Economy initiative and the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy, demanding details about the projects and funding arrangements expected to drive the programme.

Although he acknowledged the government’s plans to meet certain domestic debt obligations, he questioned the availability of funds to settle outstanding payments involving public-sector workers, including teachers, nurses and Judicial Service staff.

Afenyo-Markin assured Ghanaians that the Minority would thoroughly scrutinise the 2027 Budget, particularly its revenue projections, expenditure plans and employment commitments.

He maintained that economic success should be measured by improvements in people’s living conditions rather than figures presented in official documents.

The Minority’s criticism adds to the political debate over whether the government’s reported economic gains are translating into tangible benefits for ordinary Ghanaians.

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