NPP Member of Parliament for Walewale, Abdul Kabiru Tiah Mahama, has criticized the just-ended National Economic Dialogue, arguing that the discussions failed to introduce any groundbreaking solutions to Ghana’s economic challenges.
Speaking on Newsfile on JoyNews, the MP noted that while the government promised to release further details from the event, there was nothing significantly new in the discussions.
“Admittedly, they mentioned that the fine details will be presented to the President, and probably the good people of Ghana will get to read them. But like you said, you took the words right out of my mouth—not even one single thing from the dialogue sounded strikingly new. Not even one,” he stated.
His remarks add to growing skepticism over the impact and effectiveness of the dialogue, with some, including political activist Arthur Kennedy, questioning whether it will lead to real policy changes or become another routine political exercise.
Meanwhile, IMANI Africa’s Vice President, Kofi Bentil, has called for a more structured and solution-driven approach to the National Economic Dialogue.
He expressed concerns that the event could become yet another talk shop without concrete outcomes if not properly guided.
Mr. Bentil acknowledged the importance of dialogue and inclusivity in shaping economic policy but stressed that discussions must be highly focused to yield meaningful results.
“It is always good to discuss issues, to dialogue, to widen the net, and bring ideas beyond just your political party. So to that extent, it is a very useful exercise. It helps avoid the echo chamber effect,” he stated on Saturday, March 8.