The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has released its highly anticipated first-year assessment of the John Mahama II Administration. The report, launched in
Accra on Thursday, February 19, paints a picture of a "dual-speed" presidency: one characterized by "exceptional" macroeconomic recovery but hampered by persistent challenges in governance, environmental protection, and anti-corruption.
Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Policy at CDD-Ghana, noted that while the government’s "Reset Agenda" is credible in its intent, it remains "unbalanced in its approach."
1. The Macroeconomic "Miracle"
The standout feature of the report is the praise for Ghana’s rapid economic stabilization. CDD-Ghana described the performance as "exceptional," citing tangible relief for ordinary citizens.
Economic Indicators (Jan 2025 vs. Dec 2025)
| Metric | January 2025 | December 2025 | Impact |
| Food Inflation | 28.3% | 4.9% | Significant drop in the cost of basic meals. |
| Fuel Prices | Peak Levels | -4% to -8% | Led to a 15% reduction in transport fares. |
| Cedi Stability | Volatile | Appreciating | Reduced costs for medicines and raw materials. |
However, Dr. Asante warned that regional disparities remain a "pain point." While cities like Accra and Kumasi felt the relief, Northern Ghana saw slower price reductions due to logistical and supply chain constraints.
2. Governance: Transparency and "Vigilante" Concerns
While the report lauded the establishment of a Constitution Review Committee and the publication of a Code of Conduct for appointees, it raised "red flags" regarding institutional transparency.
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The Judiciary Standoff: CDD-Ghana cited a "transparency deficit" regarding the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, noting that the investigative committee’s report has yet to be published.
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Vigilantism: The report highlighted illegal entries into public installations, specifically citing incidents at Ghana Gas, which it termed as "vigilante violence."
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Legislative Overdrive: The frequent use of "Certificates of Urgency" in Parliament—most notably for the Energy Sector Levy Bill—was criticized for bypassing thorough public scrutiny.
3. The Anti-Corruption "Reset"
The "Operation Recover All Loot" (ORAL) initiative received a mixed review. While the government was commended for keeping its promise to cap ministerial appointments at 60, the anti-corruption drive faces a "credibility gap."
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The Perception: Critics and the CDD report suggest a perception of "selective justice," where the focus remains heavily on past officials while current appointees face less scrutiny.
4. Social Protection and Education Successes
The administration’s social sector performance was identified as a strong pillar of the first year:
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Education: A massive GH₵9.1 billion was allocated to basic education. The "No Academic Fee Policy" successfully removed financial barriers for over 120,000 first-year tertiary students.
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Health: The uncapping of the National Health Insurance Levy has improved liquidity, significantly reducing arrears to service providers.
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LEAP: Beneficiary households increased to 400,000, with monthly transfers now indexed to inflation to protect the purchasing power of the poor.
5. Security and Environment: The "Unsustainable" Burden
On the security front, the report described the GH₵6 million monthly cost of the Bawku Security Task Force as "financially unsustainable." It also cited aging equipment as a major risk, referencing a fatal 2025 helicopter crash.
Meanwhile, the environment remains the administration's "weakest link." CDD-Ghana reported that illegal mining (Galamsey) continues largely unabated within forest reserves and major water bodies, despite the "Reset" rhetoric.
The Bottom Line
CDD-Ghana’s assessment suggests that while the "engine" of the economy has been successfully restarted, the "steering" of governance and environmental protection requires urgent alignment. The "Reset" is working for the wallet, but its success in the courtroom and the forest remains to be seen.
