Lyn Frans
As President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo wraps up his time in office, it’s natural to wonder how history will judge his leadership.
History often acts as a discerning judge, evaluating the complexities of political figures long after their time has ended. For Akufo-Addo, who faces significant criticism and low approval ratings, the assessment of his presidency will be both challenging and insightful.
A Legacy of Stagnation
Akufo-Addo’s presidency has been marked by ambitious policies that aimed to transform various sectors in Ghana. His Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program and Free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiatives provided secondary education to 5.7 million students, dramatically changing the educational landscape. Although he promised to build 350 secondary schools, in his first term, it became a mere wishful thinking as he was only able to fully complete 80 schools and renovated 0ver 2000 delipidated classrooms blocks.
In infrastructure, his administration has been noteworthy. With over 12,000 kilometers of roads and numerous interchanges constructed, his government claims to have achieved the most extensive infrastructure development in Ghana’s history leaves many in doubt as he failed to honour his promises in this sector. In fact why he failed to accomplish his most prioritized policies amongst all this long list in the eight years he was was given the mandate , raises lots of questions on exactly what he truly focused on and tangibly achieved to the fullest.
The health sector also saw minimal advancements. Akufo-Addo’s Agenda 111 project aimed to build hospitals in every district, addressing long-standing healthcare gaps although not accomplished , the establishment of the few some what eased the pressure in some of the hospitals.
The early response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including securing vaccines and establishing Ghana’s first vaccine manufacturing facility, were significant to have earned him praise for balancing public health with economic livelihood.
Economic Challenges and Recovery
Economically, Akufo-Addo’s presidency has been a mixed bag. His first term experienced robust growth, averaging a 7% GDP increase. However, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities, leading to a partnership with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a recovery program A situation he vowed never to consider no matter what. By the end of 2024, signs of economic recovery were emerging, with efforts to stabilize public finances and improve growth , the “i will transform Ghana in eighteen months” president, had no option but to run to the IMF for a bailout.
IMF approved a $3 billion, three-year credit facility for Ghana to help stabilize its economy, amid the worst economic crisis the country has faced in decades. The country’s current bailout was necessitated by a combination of global shocks, including the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine, as well as domestic factors, primarily a spending spree by the administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo that drove record levels of debt accumulation and ultimately economic collapse.
Indeed the woeful economic situation under Akuffo Addo was the key reason why Ghanaians overrwhemely booted the New Patriotic Party out for the worse economic hardship citizens were facing .Evidently it was a vote for change and not necessarily about who is leading which party.
Ghanaians had simply had enough of the bad leadership of Akuffo Addo and were visibly angry . This , the citizens countlessly expressed through demonstrations.
Analysts argue that despite strides in the mining sector, where Ghana became Africa’s leading gold producer, public perception often overshadowed these achievements due to rising inflation and living costs. Indeed ,balancing immediate economic difficulties with long-term stability has been a critical aspect of his presidency.
Combating Corruption and Governance Reform
Akufo-Addo’s administration attempted making strides in tackling corruption through systemic reforms, like the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor. However, critics argue that these measures were inadequate, and public trust in government accountability remained fragile. His efforts at decentralization and democratic empowerment through the creation of new regions and advocacy for elected local leaders showcased his commitment to governance reform, but challenges persisted as his tenure goes down in history as the most corrupt administration in the country’s political space.
The Nature of Historical Judgment
History often evaluates leaders not just based on approval ratings but on their contributions to transformative changes. Figures like Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, faced opposition but is now celebrated for his visionary leadership. Similarly, leaders like Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela,Abraham Lincoln, despite the many hurdles and criticisms they faced are revered today. Perhaps ,the passage of time can reframe narratives once clouded by contemporary controversies and shortfalls for the now former President Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo.
Historical judgment also considers the context in which leaders operate. Economic crises, global pandemics, or political instability can influence perceptions, as seen in Akufo-Addo’s tenure during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The tangible legacy left behind—such as a few infrastructure projects, policy reforms, and social programs, abolishment of the payment of utility bills by students, the implementation of a the Visa-Free Policy for all African Countries —will heavily influence historical assessments. 
The Dual Lens of Leadership
The gap between public perception and historical evaluation illustrates the complexities of leadership. Decisions that may be unpopular in the short term can yield benefits in the long run. Akufo-Addo’s efforts to tackle illegal mining and implement difficult economic reforms reflect this duality, prioritizing national interest over immediate popularity as many faced several arrests and detentions few months before the general elections. The interplay between public sentiment and historical judgment remains a captivating aspect of political leadership.
Will history be kind to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo? The answer lies in balancing his administration’s minimal achievements with the criticisms he faced. While economic challenges and controversies marked his tenure, his transformative efforts in education, infrastructure, and healthcare lay the groundwork for potential historical redemption.
If the initiatives he championed had lead to lasting benefits, history may reflect favorably on his leadership. Unfortunately , he failed to accomplished all the key promises he made. Notably amongs them is the construction of a huge monument for workship called the cathedral. After whole 8 years , the site demarcated for this structure is just a pit dug awaiting for something serious to take place.
Ultimately, the assessment of Akufo-Addo’s era will evolve as Ghana continues to develop. Whether viewed as a transformative visionary or a polarizing figure, his impact be it positive or negative on Ghana’s trajectory , rest in the lenses of the citizens and the world at large.
