Former Vice President and 2024 flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has acknowledged that many Ghanaians endured significant hardship over the past year, despite signs of improved macroeconomic stability.
In his New Year address to the nation, Dr. Bawumia said the lived realities of ordinary citizens show that economic recovery figures have not yet translated into relief for households.
“I know that for many Ghanaians the past year has not been easy,” he said.
He noted that families across the country have struggled to cope with rising pressures, particularly parents and young people battling unemployment.
“Parents have worried about providing for their families and unemployed young people have wondered when the 24-hour economy will provide them the promised jobs,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
According to him, the burden has been widely felt across different sectors of society, including traders, professionals, and farmers.
“Traders, workers, professionals and farmers have all felt the pressure in different ways notwithstanding the improved macroeconomic stability,” he added.
Dr. Bawumia said the period following the December 7, 2024 elections has been one of deep reflection for many citizens, as they assess the country’s direction and leadership choices.
“A lot has happened since 7th December 2024 and I know many of us continue to reflect on it every day,” he said.
While congratulating President John Dramani Mahama on his first year in office, the former Vice President stressed that economic recovery must ultimately be judged by its impact on the daily lives of Ghanaians.
He urged the government to remain focused on restoring confidence, strengthening institutions, and ensuring that economic policies translate into jobs, opportunity, and improved living conditions for all citizens.
