Professor Ransford Gyampo, CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, has called on communicators of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to intensify efforts to counter mounting criticism against President John Mahama’s administration.
Speaking on KeyPoints with Alfred Ocansey on April 19, Gyampo stressed the need for a robust defense of the government to safeguard the president’s focus amid growing public scrutiny.
“President Mahama has to concentrate, but he is human. These needless noises can divert or worry him,” Gyampo said, urging party spokespersons to “activate all available channels” to rebut critiques from those he claimed “know next to nothing about governance.” His remarks come amid heightened debates over the government’s handling of economic challenges and environmental crises like illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
Gyampo, a vocal advocate against galamsey, acknowledged recent progress in addressing the issue, citing a shift in public consensus. “Those who once defended illegal mining now call for its eradication,” he noted, praising Environment Minister Armah Kofi Buah for responsiveness compared to predecessors. “At least now, we have a minister who listens and acts,” he said, though he emphasized activists would not relent in their campaign despite broader alignment on the issue.
Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, echoed the urgency, rejecting any slowdown in efforts. “We are in a system where we are dying,” he declared, urging renewed public support for government actions while maintaining accountability. “We must applaud progress but also highlight missteps,” Ashigbey added, referencing Minister Buah’s invitation for collaborative action.
The calls for amplified political messaging coincide with Ghana’s charged electoral climate, as the NDC seeks to consolidate support ahead of future polls. Gyampo’s appeal underscores concerns within the ruling party over sustaining public confidence amid economic pressures and environmental degradation. Critics, however, argue that constructive scrutiny remains vital for democratic accountability, particularly on issues like galamsey, where past governmental inaction exacerbated ecological damage.
Ghana’s political landscape remains deeply polarized, with both major parties frequently accusing each other of misinformation a tension highlighted recently by the NPP’s dismissal of leaked internal reports as opposition fabrications. As debates over governance and environmental stewardship intensify, the balancing act between shielding leadership from “noise” and upholding transparency will likely define public discourse in the lead-up to the 2028 elections.
