The Unified Group, a Ghanaian advocacy group, has expressed strong disapproval of the recent appointment of Ken Ofori-Atta as Senior Presidential Advisor and Special Envoy for International Finance and Private Sector Investment.
The group views the move as unparalleled in Ghana’s history and suggests a concerned lack of separation between Mr. Ofori-Atta and President Akufo-Addo.
Nana Kwakye Anarfi, National Communication Coordinator, in a press statement disclosed that, The Unified Group is perplexed about Mr. Ofori-Atta’s tenure as Finance Minister raising concerns about his effectiveness and the impact on the nation’s economy.
According to him, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s perceived shortcomings in managing the economy and the negative consequences of his policies, including Debt distress, High inflation, Declining living standards, Currency depreciation, controversial debt exchange programme, escalating public debt, and a struggling private sector and increased taxation explain the group’s current position.
The Group expressed skepticism regarding Mr. Ofori-Atta’s ability to succeed in his new role, citing the perceived failure as Finance Minister.
According to the group, there is the potential of conflicting advice because Mr. Ofori-Atta’s appointment has the potential to hinder the current Finance Minister’s ability to act independently.
Mr. Anarfi noted that they were in high spirits that Akufo-Addo was coming to fulfil one of his numerous promises that he would not govern this country with many ministers not knowing he is now adding up to the size of his government.
He revealed that, Ghana has been ranked the most corrupt under Ken Ofori Atta’s leadership as Minister of Finance, having carried out policies that have not produced any beneficial outcomes, including the channelling of US$450 million into the National Cathedral project, the US$12 million Agyapa deal, the collapse of our economy, the signing of a US$100 million SML deal and numerous other poor initiatives.
The Unified Group has expressed a sense of disappointment in the leadership and the executives for the perceived disregard for public opinion and a preference for what they perceive as family and friend affairs.
It has, therefore, urged President Akufo-Addo to reconsider the appointment and prioritise the concerns of the Ghanaian people.
