A former Ho Central Constituency Parliamentary Candidate and leading member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Rasford Delali Kasu, has commended President John Dramani Mahama for what he describes as a strong and transformative first year in office, saying the administration has successfully stabilised the economy and restored confidence in Ghana’s governance.

Speaking on the one-year administration of President John Dramani Mahama, Mr Kasu noted that the economy, which he described as the backbone of both national and individual wellbeing, has seen significant improvement compared to what the president inherited upon assuming office.

According to him, President Mahama took over an economy that was virtually in “Ebola status,” having been downgraded to junk by international rating agencies. However, within the first year, the administration has managed to stabilise the economic environment, secure positive outlooks from rating agencies, and restore Ghana’s international credibility.

“This is a clear demonstration of how a nation ought to be managed, as opposed to what we witnessed under the administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia,” Mr Kasu said.

He attributed the current economic recovery to prudent and judicious management by President Mahama, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana. He said their collective efforts have brought renewed hope and confidence to Ghanaians.

Mr Kasu highlighted the strengthening of the Ghana cedi against the US dollar as a key achievement, noting that the exchange rate has improved significantly compared to previous levels that hovered around GH₵17 to a dollar. He added that this stability has reduced foreign exchange pressures, lowered the cost of imports, and brought substantial savings to businesses.

He also cited the reduction in fuel prices as a major relief to citizens, recalling a time when many vehicle owners had no choice but to park their cars due to high fuel costs. “Today, people can comfortably drive, travel, and conduct business,” he said, stressing that lower fuel prices have reduced the cost of doing business nationwide.

Mr Kasu further praised the government for meeting its international debt obligations, including the recent payment of about US$709 million in Eurobond commitments. He noted that, due to the strengthened cedi, Ghana was able to make savings that would not have been possible under previous economic conditions. Additionally, he pointed to the significant increase in the country’s foreign reserves as another indicator of improved economic health.

On the productive sector, he acknowledged progress in the oil and energy space, noting that the oil refinery has seen renewed activity after several years of stagnation.

Turning to infrastructure, Mr Kasu lauded the government’s “Big Push” agenda, which has seen extensive road construction and rehabilitation projects across the country. He emphasized that the distribution of projects has been based on needs assessment and available funding, rather than political considerations.

In the Volta Region, he cited ongoing works on the Eastern Corridor Road, the Hohoe–Fodome stretch, and the Aplaku Road as evidence that the region is receiving its fair share of development. He also praised the payment of contractors and the awarding of new road contracts nationwide.

Mr Kasu commended the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, describing his performance as “phenomenal,” and acknowledged the supportive roles played by the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in advancing the government’s resetting agenda in the region. He also recognized the efforts of the NDC Regional Chairman, Hon. Agbavitor, and his team.

On national security, Mr Kasu said Ghana is steadily being restored to a safer path. He praised the small arms amnesty initiative being implemented by the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, led by Dr Adam Bonaa, describing it as a proactive measure aimed at retrieving illegal firearms without prosecution to enhance public safety.

He also commended the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies for their professionalism and dedication in maintaining law and order.

While expressing satisfaction with the progress made so far, Mr Kasu acknowledged that more work remains in areas such as the fight against illegal mining (galamsey), employment creation, and educational infrastructure, particularly to address deficits that have affected the quality of education.

Overall, he said the foundation laid in President Mahama’s first year is solid and encouraging.

“The country is moving in a positive direction,” Mr Kasu stated. “We are confident that by the end of President Mahama’s four-year tenure, Ghana would have witnessed a comprehensive transformation that benefits all citizens.”