Akufo-Addo admits economic hardships and protests weakened his government

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has acknowledged that economic challenges and frequent public protests during his tenure significantly eroded his government’s popularity.

Speaking at the launch of a book by former Nigerian Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, Akufo-Addo reflected on the economic turbulence that defined his presidency, particularly the impact of COVID-19, which disrupted Ghana’s financial stability.

With international capital markets inaccessible, his administration was forced to seek assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

He admitted that the resulting economic hardships fueled public dissatisfaction, leading to widespread protests that further weakened confidence in his government.

While comparing the demonstrations to the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) riots of the 1980s, he acknowledged their severity, stating that they contributed to the growing discontent against his administration.