Bawumia’s ‘economic wizard’ tag doesn’t match reality – Fomena MP

Member of Parliament for Fomena and Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Andrew Asiamah Amoako, has questioned the credibility of the “Economic Wizard” label often associated with former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He said the economic outcomes under the previous administration do not justify such a description.

According to Mr. Asiamah Amoako, the economic challenges Ghana faced towards the end of the last administration — including high inflation, currency depreciation, rising debt levels, and the country’s eventual return to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) — contradict claims of exceptional economic stewardship.

Speaking at a political engagement, the Second Deputy Speaker noted that Dr. Bawumia played a central role in shaping economic policy during his tenure as Vice President, making it appropriate for his record to be assessed within that context.

“You cannot brand someone an economic wizard when the economy collapsed under the very administration he was part of,” he argued.

He stressed that economic leadership must be judged on outcomes rather than rhetoric, adding that Ghanaians continue to bear the consequences of decisions taken during the previous government’s time in office.

The Fomena MP further stated that while government communicators aggressively promoted Dr. Bawumia’s economic credentials, the lived realities of citizens — particularly rising living costs and job losses — told a different story.

Mr. Asiamah Amoako urged political actors to be honest in assessing the country’s recent economic past, noting that accountability is essential for rebuilding public trust.

He also called on voters to critically interrogate political branding and campaign narratives as the nation reflects on the economic record of past administrations.

Supporters of Dr. Bawumia have often pointed to digitisation initiatives and financial sector reforms undertaken during his tenure. However, critics argue these measures failed to prevent macroeconomic instability.

The Second Deputy Speaker maintained that innovation and reforms are important, but must be accompanied by fiscal discipline and sound economic management to deliver meaningful results.

Meanwhile the New Patriotic Party is set to elect it’s flag bearer for the 2028 general election on January 31, 2026.