Ghanaians living in the United States are set to demonstrate in New York on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, to demand accountability from President John Dramani Mahama over promises made during the 2024 election campaign. The protest, themed “GHANA AYƐ MMƆBƆ“, aims to draw attention to what protesters consider outstanding commitments by the government.
Kwasi Obeng-Ofosu, an organiser of the demonstration, stated that the protesters would gather near the United Nations headquarters at 7 a.m. New York time. He emphasised that the demonstration was not intended to oppose the government but to remind it of promises made to Ghanaians.
Obeng-Ofosu highlighted concerns about jobs, the implementation of the 24-hour economy, illegal mining, education, support for women-owned businesses, and freedom of speech. He questioned the pace of implementation of the government’s 24-hour economy policy, arguing that the passage of legislation alone was not enough to demonstrate that the policy was delivering jobs.
The 24-Hour Economy Authority Act, 2026, was passed by Parliament to establish an authority to coordinate implementation of the policy. However, Obeng-Ofosu said protesters wanted to see measurable outcomes, including permanent and decent-paying jobs. He also raised concerns about the Women’s Development Bank, saying the government needed to move beyond announcing capital allocations and demonstrate that women were actually receiving financing.
The government’s 2026 Budget allocated GH¢401 million to the Women’s Development Bank to provide affordable finance to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Obeng-Ofosu said protesters would also demand answers on what he described as delays in fulfilling other campaign commitments, including the abolition of the double-track system in schools and support for persons with disabilities.
The demonstration is expected to draw Ghanaians from several US states, with participants wearing black and red and carrying placards highlighting what they regard as unfulfilled promises. Obeng-Ofosu stated that the group planned to present a petition and would monitor the government’s response after the demonstration.
According to Obeng-Ofosu, the group may produce a public scorecard tracking the government’s manifesto commitments, including the promised action, evidence of implementation, and outstanding obligations. He added that the group would also acknowledge progress if the government delivered on its commitments.
Key points
- Protesters demand fulfillment of 2024 election campaign promises.
- Demonstration aims to draw attention to outstanding government commitments.
- Protesters seek measurable outcomes, including job creation and financing for women-owned businesses.
