WEAK OPPOSITION IS MAKING THE NDC GOVERNMENT MORE POPULAR – William Boadi, EAI
By William Boadi
Experienced Educator, Political Analyst, and Executive Director, Educate Africa Institute (EAI)
In every vibrant democracy, the opposition serves as the watchdog of government. Its responsibility is not to engage in needless attacks or propaganda but to provide constructive criticism, expose policy failures, demand accountability, and offer alternative solutions.
Unfortunately, the current weakness of the opposition is inadvertently making the NDC government appear more successful and popular than it may actually be. While government communicators continue to dominate the public space with announcements and promises, many critical questions regarding policy implementation remain unanswered.
One of the flagship promises of the NDC was the introduction of the 24-Hour Economy, a policy designed to create jobs through a three-shift system operating around the clock. The policy was presented as a major solution to unemployment and economic transformation. According to the party’s manifesto, the initiative was expected to encourage businesses and public institutions to operate continuously, thereby creating thousands of new jobs.
However, many Ghanaians are still waiting to see the full-scale implementation and measurable impact of this policy. Questions remain regarding how many sustainable jobs have been created, which industries are benefiting, and whether the necessary infrastructure and reliable power supply exist to support a genuine 24-hour economy. Analysts have also raised concerns that persistent power challenges could undermine the effectiveness of the policy.
Similarly, the Women’s Development Bank was one of the NDC’s major promises aimed at providing low-interest financing and economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs. While government officials have indicated that progress is being made toward its establishment, many women across the country are still awaiting its operational rollout and direct benefits.
Other major promises, including large-scale job creation initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and economic transformation projects, continue to attract public interest and scrutiny. Ghanaians deserve periodic updates, measurable outcomes, and transparent reporting on these commitments.
The responsibility of the opposition is not to wish for the government’s failure. Rather, it is to ensure that promises made to the people are fulfilled. A strong opposition should continuously ask difficult but necessary questions:
• What is the current status of the 24-Hour Economy?
• How many jobs have been created under the initiative?
• When will the Women’s Development Bank become fully operational?
• What measurable progress has been made on youth employment and entrepreneurship?
• How are ordinary Ghanaians benefiting from these policies?
Constructive criticism strengthens governance. It forces governments to remain focused on delivery rather than rhetoric. It also ensures that citizens receive value for the mandate they have given.
The opposition must therefore wake up from its apparent slumber and return to its constitutional duty of scrutinizing government actions. Silence should never be mistaken for effectiveness, and public relations should never be confused with performance.
Democracy thrives when governments are challenged, promises are monitored, and leaders are held accountable. Ghana deserves a strong government, but it equally deserves a strong opposition.
The opposition must rise, not for political advantage, but for the advancement of accountability, transparency, and national development. This version keeps the criticism policy-focused and constructive while avoiding unverified claims.
We’re one people. Ghana first.
Signed
William Boadi
Executive Director Educate Africa Institute (EAI), Educationist, Political analyst, and Social Worker.
0541935106
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