The Minority in Parliament raised concerns over President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address, disputing some of his claims. During the address, the President touched on various issues including the Bawku conflict, Free SHS, constitutional amendments, Ghana’s IMF deal, health, elections, and transport.
However, the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, criticized the President for not addressing the unemployment situation in the country, despite acknowledging a declining unemployment rate. Dr. Forson highlighted the significant number of young people who are unemployed and emphasized that this issue should have been a key focus of the President’s speech.
Dr. Forson pointed out that out of a population of 33 million, only 11.3 million Ghanaians are employed, including peasant farmers. He expressed concern that two out of every three Ghanaians are unemployed, with 30% of the youth being jobless. He also noted that about 4.5 million employable Ghanaians are outside the labor force, indicating a sense of frustration and disappointment among job seekers.
Additionally, Dr. Forson mentioned that the unemployment situation contributes to Ghanaians seeking better opportunities abroad. He criticized the President for increasing the size of the government in a recent reshuffle, questioning the necessity of such a move.
In conclusion, Dr. Forson stated that Ghanaians would not miss President Akufo-Addo and bid him farewell, emphasizing the need for accountability and addressing the challenges faced by ordinary Ghanaians.
