We can’t keep starving the poor to feed the rich– Kwesi Pratt

Prominent political commentator Kwesi Pratt Jnr. is calling for fairer wealth distribution in Ghana. He warns that the country is heading toward a serious class divide. This divide could reflect some of the worst inequalities seen globally.

Mr. Pratt referenced ActionAid’s latest report. The report blames International Monetary Fund (IMF) policies for forcing African governments to cut public spending. This has led to reduced salaries for health and education workers.

During his appearance on Good Morning Ghana, he questioned why basic workers earn less than GHC600 monthly. In contrast, others in the same public system earn over GHC60,000 each month.

“Are we really saying we want to become like the U.S., where 2% of the population owns 98% of the wealth? Is that our goal?” he asked.

He emphasized that the government must act to reverse growing inequality. All citizens should receive a living wage, he argued. “Every Ghanaian needs food, clean water, healthcare, and decent shelter,” he said. “Denying this is not just unfair—it’s harmful.”

Mr. Pratt supports academics like Professor Kwaku Asare, who criticized “elite capture” of public funds. “I may not call it elite capture, but I understand exactly what he means,” Pratt stated. He believes it’s time to slow down and work towards a fairer society.

He acknowledged that some salary structures are legally determined, such as those for judges. However, he argued this shouldn’t excuse large disparities that harm national unity and productivity.

“The judge and the cleaner at the court have different roles,” he noted. “But they both go to the same market and pay rent.” He concluded that this gap is too wide and creates resentment among citizens.