The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has delivered a scathing critique of the government immediately following President John Dramani Mahama’s 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Mr Afenyo-Markin argued that after one year in office, the administration continues to rely on slogans rather than implementing tangible actions.

Addressing the House, he highlighted pressing national concerns, including soaring electricity tariffs, youth unemployment, the welfare of cocoa farmers, illegal mining, and alleged irregularities in government contracts.

“What the President failed to tell the people of Ghana is that one year into government, he is still acting with slogans and no concrete actions. Electricity tariffs have skyrocketed, and Ghanaians cannot afford electricity,” he said.

The Minority Leader accused the government of dismissing thousands of Ghanaian youth through letters issued by the Chief of Staff. He also warned of a potential scandal in the recruitment of security personnel, promising that the minority will demand full accountability.

“As we speak, there is a scandal looming in security services recruitment. We know who brought that company to the ministry. Karma has a way, and we, the minority, will pursue the person and ensure full disclosure,” he stated.

Mr Afenyo-Markin also criticised the government’s treatment of cocoa farmers, noting reductions in producer prices and the absence of Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku. He questioned the administration’s emphasis on macroeconomic indicators while neglecting the welfare of farmers.

“Mr Speaker, the cocoa farmers — their producer price has been reduced, and Eric Opoku cannot be found. They don’t care about cocoa farmers, yet they are here talking about inflation and macroeconomics,” he said.

Illegal small-scale mining, or galamsey, was another focus of his address. The Minority Leader highlighted the continuing hardships faced by ordinary Ghanaians and called for urgent action.

“Mr Speaker, galamsey continues to cause suffering for Ghanaians, and we expect concrete measures to be taken,” he emphasised.

While acknowledging some economic gains mentioned by the President, Mr Afenyo-Markin attributed these successes to previous policy initiatives, particularly the Gold-for-Reserve policy, urging the government to recognise the role of former Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia.

“Our elders say give credit where credit is due. Mr President spoke of some gains today; those gains come from the Gold-for-Reserve policy. What the government failed to tell Ghanaians is that Bawumia is the brain behind this policy. I urge the government: give Bawumia what belongs to Bawumia,” he stated.