Ibrahim Adjei, a former Assistant Secretary in the Office of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has praised Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his honesty in addressing the reasons behind the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) loss in the 2024 elections, while placing the bulk of the blame on Akufo-Addo’s leadership style.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Monday, April 28, Adjei defended Bawumia’s candid assessment during his “Thank You” tour in Takoradi, describing it as an act of accountability and political integrity rather than betrayal.
According to Adjei, Ghanaians appreciate honesty from political leaders, and Bawumia’s willingness to openly discuss key issues like the arrogance of power, rising cost of living, failure to reshuffle government ministers, and controversial economic policies demonstrates leadership worth emulating.
“Honesty and integrity are high currencies in Ghanaian politics,” Adjei emphasized. “Bawumia is not shirking responsibility; he is providing an honest reflection that Ghanaians deserve.”
However, Adjei did not spare former President Akufo-Addo from criticism. He argued that Akufo-Addo’s steadfast refusal to reorganize his government—even in the face of mounting internal and public pressure—was a major factor in the party’s defeat.
“You had 120 MPs demanding the dismissal of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, but loyalty to friends outweighed the need for change. That decision cost the party dearly,” Adjei lamented.
He stressed that while loyalty is admirable, governance requires responsiveness to public sentiment, particularly when conditions deteriorate.
Dr. Bawumia had earlier highlighted that the NPP’s challenges were compounded by unpopular policies such as the E-Levy and the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme, as well as the broader economic hardship caused by the IMF restructuring.
As the NPP reflects on its electoral defeat, Adjei’s comments underscore a growing internal conversation about the need for renewed leadership accountability and responsiveness moving forward.
