Accra, Ghana – A year into President John Mahama's second administration, Ghana has achieved "exceptional" macroeconomic stability, according to a new assessment by the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). However, the report, launched on Thursday, strikes a balanced tone, pointing to persistent challenges in governance, corruption, and environmental protection that risk undermining the broader "Reset Agenda."
The CDD's first-year scorecard credits the administration with delivering tangible economic relief to citizens. It notes a significant cooling of inflation and, crucially, real price reductions in key sectors. For instance, fuel prices dropped by four to eight percent between December and January, triggering a 15 percent cut in commercial transport fares. Food inflation fell sharply from 28.3 percent to 4.9 percent within 2025, while a strengthening cedi lowered the cost of imported goods like medicines.
While disposable incomes have improved in major urban centers like Accra and Kumasi, the report highlights regional disparities, noting that northern areas are yet to feel the same benefits due to logistical challenges. It also cautions that the true test of economic sustainability will come with the major debt repayment cycle beginning in 2027.
On the governance front, the administration inherited low public trust, with only 28% confidence in the presidency early last year. The CDD acknowledged positive steps, including a new Code of Conduct for appointees and the formation of a Constitution Review Committee.
However, it raised serious red flags. The report specifically criticized a "transparency deficit" surrounding the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, as the investigative committee's findings were never published. It also expressed concern over the government's use of "certificates of urgency" in Parliament to fast-track bills like the Energy Sector Levy, and documented incidents of what it termed "vigilante violence," including unlawful entries at state installations like Ghana Gas.
On anti-corruption, while initiatives like the 'Operation Recover All Loots' (ORAL) and capped ministerial appointments were praised, the CDD warned that the credibility of the "Reset" is facing perceptions of "selective justice."
Environmental challenges remain stark, with the report confirming ongoing illegal mining activities in protected forest reserves and water bodies. Meanwhile, in the security sector, the monthly GH¢6 million cost of the Bawku Security Task Force was described as "financially unsustainable."
The assessment also noted progress in social interventions. The "No Academic Fee Policy" benefited over 120,000 tertiary students, and LEAP cash transfer coverage was expanded to 400,000 households, with payments now indexed to inflation. Funding to local assemblies also reached 80% of allocated common fund resources.
In its conclusion, the CDD described the "Reset Agenda" as a work in progress—"credible in its intent but unbalanced in its approach."
Source: GNA
