Deputy Director of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Nii Tetteh Laryea Cyril, has come to the defense of the Mahama administration, stating that its performance should be judged based on economic data rather than political rhetoric. He made these remarks during an interview on Ahotor FM's Yepe Ahunu programme. As the NDC Greater Accra Regional Communications Officer hopeful, Nii Laryea argued that any assessment of the government's performance must consider the economic conditions it inherited.
Nii Laryea pointed to several indicators that have improved since the NDC returned to power, including food inflation, which was around 8% in 2017 when the NPP took over but rose to approximately 27.8% by 2024. He noted that the subsequent decline in food inflation under the current administration demonstrates an improvement in economic management. This, he believes, is a key aspect of the government's performance that should be taken into account.
The YEA Deputy Director also highlighted developments in the foreign exchange market, stressing that currency stability is crucial for businesses to plan, price their products, and make investment decisions. A stable cedi, he argued, allows businesses to forecast, price properly, and invest, which can lead to expansion and job creation. This, in turn, can contribute to economic growth and stability.
On infrastructure development, Nii Laryea defended President John Dramani Mahama's pledge to turn the country into a construction site, citing the implementation of road and other infrastructure projects. He said this is part of the broader Reset Agenda, which encompasses economic stabilisation, infrastructure development, an improved business environment, and job creation. The agenda, he believes, is a comprehensive plan to drive economic growth and development.
Nii Laryea also disclosed that over 86,000 young people have secured jobs through various government interventions, describing investment in employment opportunities for young people as an investment in Ghana's future. He believes that creating decent employment opportunities locally can reduce the pressure on young Ghanaians to seek opportunities abroad and contribute directly to economic activity.
Turning to the opposition NPP, Nii Laryea called for introspection, urging the party to examine the factors that contributed to its defeat in the 2024 general election. He said the NPP should reflect on its record in government, particularly the economic difficulties experienced during its tenure, as well as the concerns expressed by voters at the polls. This, he believes, is essential for the party to reorganise and reconnect with the concerns of the electorate.
Ultimately, Nii Laryea maintained that the NDC administration's performance should be assessed based on the implementation of its programmes under the Reset Agenda, including economic measures, infrastructure development, and youth employment. He urged the NPP to use its time in opposition to reflect on its past performance and account for its record, just as the NDC had done while in opposition.
Key points
- The Mahama administration's performance should be judged based on economic data rather than political rhetoric.
- Over 86,000 young people have secured jobs through various government interventions.
- Nii Laryea urges the NPP to reflect on its past record and account for its economic management while in government.
