Dr. Kwasi Amakye-Boateng, a political analyst, has stated that the current economic challenges, compounded by the ongoing galamsey (illegal mining) issues, highlight an urgent need for change.
Dr. Amakye-Boateng emphasized that Ghanaians should be outraged and prepared to take the necessary actions to bring about the critical changes needed to save the country.
He expressed shock at a survey from the Office of the President, which suggests that the ruling party maintains its dominance in five regions, stating that Ghanaians should be prepared for change.
“It does so [shocks] because, at the end of the day, elections are supposed to enable political parties – especially the ones in government – accountable. That is the only opportunity for us the electorates to really come in and get the political leadership to be mindful of what they do while in office”.
“If we don’t do that, we are supporting impunity. So, I am really taken aback by this particular study. It is a bit surprising to me”.
Dr. Kwasi Amakye-Boateng
Dr. Amakye-Boateng stated that the menace of galamsey has evolved into a political issue and a struggle for power, urging Ghanaians to make it a key factor in driving political change.
He stated that galamsey, Ghana’s long-standing illegal mining issue, should be a decisive factor in influencing Ghanaians’ votes, especially considering its severe environmental and socio-economic consequences
The impact of galamsey is multifaceted, affecting not only the environment but also the livelihoods of many citizens.
The Political Analyst insisted that citizens must be outraged by the many wrongs in this government, especially the existential effects of galamsey as these are due to the inaction of the political class.
He observed that widespread disappointment and disillusionment in the country increase the likelihood of third-party forces pushing the election to a run-off, aligning with the survey’s findings.
Dr. Amakye-Boateng suggested that if third-party movements, such as the New Force and MFC, effectively communicate their message of change to the public, they could gain significant traction in the elections.
Five Northern Regions Emerge As Key Battleground For NDC and NPP
According to Dr. Kwaku Amakye-Boateng, the five Northern regions have become a crucial battleground for both the NDC and NPP, given the significant development projects undertaken by both parties in these areas, making the regions highly contested.
Dr. Amakye-Boateng suggested that the Greater and Central regions have emerged as pivotal swing regions, crucial for political parties to focus on in their campaigns.
These regions hold significant influence in shaping the country’s electoral landscape, making them a key target for parties seeking to gain a competitive edge.
He stated that, according to the survey, the Eastern Region is likely to be secured by the NPP, while the Greater Accra and Central Regions swinging in favor of the NDC would significantly boost the party’s chances of winning.
“This will possibly help get the whole outcome in a one-traction fashion. The Central region is an interesting place and very difficult to predict how they are voting”.
“I think the NDC should come out loudly about this galamsey thing. What exactly is their position if they should come into office? They should come out with a radical position on that because people are wondering what it is that they are not so loud on this issue”.
Dr. Kwasi Amakye-Boateng
Dr. Amakye-Boateng pointed out that ongoing discussions around galamsey have not produced any tangible results, emphasizing the need for voters to address this issue politically and cast their ballots accordingly.
He urged Ghanaians to use the December 7th elections as an opportunity to hold the current political leadership accountable for its inaction.
The political analyst expressed concern over the tendency of politicians to take citizens for granted, underscoring the importance of ensuring that democratic institutions function effectively.
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