Samuel Atta Akyea, a former Works and Housing minister and ex–Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, has defended Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s record, arguing that he was unfairly blamed for Ghana’s economic challenges and sidelined within government.
Speaking on Good Evening Ghana on Metro TV, Atta Akyea said Dr Bawumia did not have full control over economic policy despite being widely perceived as chair of the Economic Management Team. He suggested that key decisions were dominated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo and close associates, limiting the vice president’s influence.
Atta Akyea dismissed claims that Dr Bawumia personally failed in efforts to stabilise the economy, including the Gold-for-Oil policy, arguing that the initiative was not adequately resourced. He questioned how the vice president could be held responsible without the necessary authority or financial backing from the Bank of Ghana.
“It is a cruel argument to expect results without power or resources,” he said, likening the criticism to demanding the impossible.
He also pointed to parliamentary actions during the economic crisis, noting that lawmakers called for the dismissal of the finance minister rather than Dr Bawumia, which he said underscored who was truly in charge.
Atta Akyea said these factors informed his support for Dr Bawumia’s bid to lead the New Patriotic Party, insisting the vice president should be judged fairly on his actual role rather than public perception.
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