The reign and legacy of President Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo took office as the fifth President of the Fourth Republic of Ghana on January 7, 2017 has made significant contributions to the country’s political landscape.

As Ghana approaches the end of his term in January 7, 2025, analysts and citizens alike are evaluating the multifaceted legacy of his administration.

His tenure has been marked by both significant achievements and notable controversies, shaping his legacy in a multifaceted manner. This article explores the various facets of his leadership, including his successes, failures, criticisms, economic hardship and challenges, cathedral scandals, galamsey fight and the ongoing debates surrounding corruption.

Success and failures

In evaluating Akufo-Addo’s presidency, it becomes evident that he has experienced a mix of success and failure. His educational reforms and infrastructure initiatives stand out as key successes, positively impacting many Ghanaians.

Conversely, the persistence of corruption and accountability issues reflects significant areas of failure, undermining confidence in his leadership.

One of President Akufo-Addo’s hallmark initiatives has been the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, launched in 2017.

This initiative aimed to provide free education to all Ghanaian students at the senior high school level, particularly for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

However, it has also faced criticism for its implementation challenges, including lack of funding, inadequate infrastructure and resources leading to issues such as overcrowded classrooms which some argue have compromised the quality of education.

This program has had a profound positive impact, however many of these claims have been challenged and debunked by various stakeholders, including opposition parties and independent analysts. One of the most contentious claims made by Akufo Addo is that 5.1 million students have benefited from FSHS policy, while the Minister of Education, Dr. Yao Osei Adutwum claimed 5.7 million on the same platform. This figure has been widely disputed by many.

According to Dr. Clement Apaah, a Member of Parliament and deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee, this claim is a “blatant lie.” Data from the mid-year fiscal policy review of the budget statement for 2018 to 2024 indicates that the number of students who have benefited from the policy is significantly lower.

President Akufo-Addo’s government has made strides in infrastructure development, including investments in roads and healthcare, aimed at fostering economic growth and improving living standards. However, the road network and healthcare infrastructure have become points of contention. Many roads and healthcare facilities remain incomplete or poorly constructed, particularly in rural areas and along “Cocoa roads.”

According to the Auditor General’s Reports, many of these roads and healthcare infrastructures have been abandoned, which affects transportation and economic activities.

The Agenda 111 hospital initiative has also not materialized, with only a few of these hospitals completed. Additionally, the existing healthcare facilities are often under-resourced and overcrowded, leading to inadequate patient care.

Despite numerous promises to create jobs, the unemployment rate soared. According to data from the Ghana Statistical Service, the unemployment rate rose from 6.8% in 2017 to 8.4% in 2023. Many of the jobs created under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration are temporary and underpaid, failing to provide a sustainable livelihood for Ghanaian youth.

The Planting for Food and Jobs program sought to bolster food security and agricultural productivity, but only few positive responses from farmers.

Leadership styles and relatonships

President Akufo-Addo’s leadership style has been characterized by his commitment to certain key allies and friends within political and business spheres. Families and political connections have often been scrutinized during his presidency.

Allegations of nepotism have arisen, with critics pointing to the appointment of family members, including his daughter and close associates to key government positions. This has raised questions about governance and the prioritization of meritocracy in his administration.

Moreover, accusations of tyranny have been leveled against Akufo-Addo, particularly in relation to his handling of dissent and protests. Critics argue that his government has adopted heavy-handed tactics against opposition voices, raising concerns about human rights and freedom of expression in Ghana. Such actions have sparked debates about the balance between maintaining order and upholding democratic principles.

Economic hardship and challenges

Economic challenges have also marked Akufo-Addo’s two terms in office. The public debt has surged, leading to criticism regarding fiscal responsibility. As Ghana navigates through global economic turbulence, the effects have been felt domestically.

Many Ghanaians have experienced heightened economic hardship with rising living costs during his tenure, leading to widespread protests, disillusionment and public discontent. The combination of inflation and an unstable currency has created significant challenges for ordinary Ghanaians, affecting their quality of life.

Criticism and challenges

President Akufo-Addo’s administration has faced considerable criticism, particularly regarding issues of corruption, despite his initial promises to fight corruption and promote transparency, various allegations have surfaced during his time in office, including accusations against members of his government.

Several high-profile corruption scandals have marred his presidency, including allegations surrounding the controversial Agyapa Royalties deal and accusations of financial mismanagement within state-owned enterprises. Critics argue that promises made during his campaign to eradicate corruption have not been fulfilled, leading to a perception of growing impunity among government officials.

Additionally, Akufo Addo’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, though initially praised for swift action, later attracted scrutiny relating to procurement processes and the distribution of relief funds. However, the public’s trust in government institutions has been challenged, prompting calls for greater accountability and transparency.

These corruption scandals undermine the promise of transparency and accountability, leading to public outcry and demands for stricter measures to combat graft. The government’s response to these allegations is often perceived as inadequate, further eroding public trust.

Mational cathedral scandals and galamsey fight

The controversial National Cathedral project, a cornerstone of Akufo-Addo’s vision, has been another point of contention. Supporters view it as a necessary endeavor for national identity and unity, while others criticize its allocation of resources amidst pressing social needs.

“I made a pledge to almighty God that He was gracious enough to grant my party, the NPP, and I victory in the 2016 elections after two unsuccessful attempts, so I will help build a cathedral to his glory and honour,” President Nana Akufo-Addo said at the sod-cutting ceremony in 2020.

“The interdenominational national cathedral will help unify the Christian community and thereby help promote national unity and social cohesion,” he said.

However, the construction of the president’s pet project, which is meant to cover 3.5 hectares (9 acres) of prime real estate in Accra, has stalled due to a lack of funds.

Eight years later, Ghana’s taxpayers have spent $58 million on the project, which has not progressed as the government had hoped.

Another most contentious issues during his presidency has been the fight against illegal mining, known locally as “Galamsey.” While Akufo-Addo has publicly condemned the practice and launched initiatives to curb it, illegal mining continues to pose significant environmental and economic challenges.

Many Ghanaians have criticized his administration for not effectively addressing the problem, leading to degradation of land and water resources, which has had a detrimental impact on local communities.

As President Akufo-Addo’s time in office draws to a close, his legacy is a tapestry woven with both triumphs and tribulations.

The duality of Akufo-Addo’s presidency is evident in the contrast between his ambitious policies and the criticisms levied against his administration. While his legacy includes significant strides in education and infrastructural development, it is also marred by economic difficulties, corruption, and allegations of tyranny.

The impact of his leadership on Ghanaians will be debated for years to come, as citizens reflect on both the advancements and setbacks experienced during his reign. Ultimately, President Akufo-Addo’s legacy will serve as a complex case study in governance, illustrating the challenges and triumphs that define political leadership in contemporary Ghana.