By Issah Olegor
President John Dramani Mahama’s return to Ghana’s presidency after a four-year hiatus has unfolded into a turbulent first 100 days that critics describe as chaotic, regressive, and out of step with the promises he made during the 2024 electioneering campaign.
With mounting criticism from opposition parties, civil society groups, and policy analysts, Mahama’s early months in office are being defined more by political controversy and public dissatisfaction than reform or progress.
A Presidency Under Fire
Mahama took office on January 7, 2025, following a tightly contested election that was billed as a referendum on the governing New Patriotic Party’s performance.
He returned to power promising a 24-hour economy, improved governance, protection of civil liberties, job creation, and an inclusive administration.
However, his first 100 days have, in the eyes of many, failed to live up to those expectations.
Governance Woes and Institutional Unrest
Almost immediately, allegations of political violence and misconduct by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) erupted across the country.
NDC foot soldiers were reportedly involved in looting and destruction of public property in what many saw as reprisals or celebrations gone wrong.
At the same time, mass dismissals of public servants—some of whom had been legally employed under the previous government—sparked outrage and legal threats.
The administration defended some dismissals as targeting “ghost names” and retired officials, but these actions have raised concerns about political witch-hunting.
Within the public sector, Mahama’s government established over 45 committees to advise on various policy issues.
Yet, critics argue that these bodies have so far produced little to justify their existence.
Gender and Inclusion Promises Broken
Despite championing gender equality during his campaign, President Mahama has fallen short of his commitment to appoint 30% of women to ministerial and cabinet positions.
So far, only about 10% of appointed officials are women, raising questions about his administration’s commitment to affirmative action laws and gender representation.
Economic Instability and Fiscal Policy Concerns
Mahama’s government has borrowed more than GH¢70 billion from the domestic market in under four months, with no major infrastructure project or job creation initiative to show for it.
The cedi has depreciated by over 5% against the dollar, pound, and euro, while inflationary pressures are mounting.
Electricity and water tariffs were increased by 14% and 4%, respectively.
Simultaneously, although the president campaigned on tax relief, his administration has abolished three existing taxes only to introduce five new ones, including extending the special import levy to 2028.
A planned repeal of Legislative Instrument 2462 has also stalled.
Policy Flip-Flops and Social Challenges
The President’s vow to abolish the double-track system within 90 days has already been abandoned, with the new target date pushed to 2027.
No clear framework has been published for his flagship 24-hour economy initiative, and his first budget failed to cancel the controversial COVID-19 levy.
