Some leading academics and governance experts have advised the New Patriotic Party to apologize to Ghanaians over its role leading to the country’s economic crisis.
Experts argued that an apology would be inconsistent with the party’s narrative that the economy’s challenges are a result of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war.
Professor Kobby Mensah, a Political Marketing Consultant, in a compelling statement, emphasized that apologizing is a sign of strength, not weakness, and is essential in today’s customer-centric political landscape but advised that an apology must be genuine and not apologetic.
“In this era, institutions own up to their failures and apologize to customers… You do not want to be pandering people by just giving out fake apologies. People have to be convinced that you are showing remorse.”
Professor Kobby Mensah Political Marketing Consultant
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante a Political Science lecturer and Head of Centre for European Studies at the University of Ghana however questioned the sincerity of an apology, emphasizing the need for clarity on what exactly the party would be apologizing for.
Dr. Asah Asante further pointed that, to apologize is one thing and for the people to accept the apology is another thing.
But then Dr. Asante maintained that if for nothing, at least it would be a good sign to the people of Ghana and to governance as a whole because an unexamined life is not worth living.
In contrast, he added that he is confident to say he does not think the NPP would come out to apologize.
Dr. Asante further argued on the rationale, the imperative and comprehensive consequence behind the NPP’s decision to apologize.
“Are they saying they have mismanaged the economy? Or are they still blaming it on Russia and Ukraine?… If you want to render an apology, we want to know which of the problems you want to admit you have caused.”
Dr. Kwame Asah Asante, Political Science Lecturer University of Ghana
Voters Decision Remain indispensable to an Apology
The NPP’s decision to apologize or not may not significantly impact their chances in the upcoming elections, as the economy remains a critical factor in voters’ decisions.
Dr. Asante pointed out “The economy is a major issue for voters… If the economy is not healthy, it affects other areas of human life, and that will be a deciding factor.”
Moreover, Dr. John Osae Kwapong a Political Scientist and CDD fellow highlighted that when it comes to being genuine to the concerns of the country in terms of wanting to apologize then “The apology must be sincere and accompanied by concrete actions… Ghanaians are tired of empty promises.”
He emphasized that ultimately, the NPP’s decision will have far-reaching consequences for the party’s future and the country’s economic trajectory.
In an earlier remark, the MP for Assin Central Constituency, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong advised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that it is wise the party admits culpability and apologize to Ghanaians for the harm done to the country’s economy.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing a crucial decision ahead of the 2024 elections – whether to apologize for the country’s economic woes or maintain their stance that external factors are to blame.
The Chairman of Parliament Defense and Interior Committee, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, despite his unwavering advised given to his compatriot the party may not side with him.
As the clock ticks closer to the 2024 elections, the NPP’s apology dilemma remains a pressing issue, with the fate of the party and the country hanging in the balance.
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