Dr. Arthur Kennedy Questions Feasibility of Bawumia's Promise to Cut Government Expenditure

Dr. Arthur Kennedy, a US-based medical practitioner and former presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed skepticism regarding the recent promise by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP's flagbearer, to reduce government expenditure by 3 percent if elected President.

During the NPP’s manifesto launch in Takoradi on Sunday, August 18, Dr. Bawumia committed to slashing government spending to foster business growth and enhance job creation. This pledge was one of the key highlights of his campaign, aiming to appeal to voters concerned about economic management and fiscal responsibility.

However, in a candid interview on Channel One TV’s program, The Big Issue, Dr. Kennedy raised doubts about the practicality of Dr. Bawumia's commitment, questioning why such measures have not been implemented during his tenure as Vice President. "It’s an interesting point. It poses the question of where he has been the last seven years," Dr. Kennedy stated, emphasizing the need for consistency and accountability from leaders.

Dr. Kennedy challenged the notion that electoral promises could simply reset the expectations from an incumbent leader, especially when they have held significant power and influence in government. He pointed out the irony of Dr. Bawumia’s promise to enact policies that could, in theory, be executed presently given his current position. "It’s not as if every election, you wipe the slate clean. Somebody who’s already in power, who can do certain things, and he’s telling you he’s going to do things that reasonably he would be able to do now, and he says, give me power, in the next election I’ll do it wisely; the obvious question is why aren’t you doing it now," Dr. Kennedy argued.

Analysis of Bawumia's Pledge

Dr. Bawumia’s promise to reduce government expenditure by 3 percent has been framed as a necessary step towards economic stabilization and growth. As Vice President and head of Ghana's Economic Management Team, Dr. Bawumia has played a pivotal role in the country's economic strategy over the past seven years, overseeing various economic reforms and policy initiatives.

However, the pledge to cut spending comes amidst growing public concern over government expenditure and its impact on the national debt and inflation. Critics argue that the government's spending habits have contributed to economic challenges, including high inflation rates and a depreciating currency.

Political Implications

Dr. Kennedy’s remarks highlight a critical point of contention within the NPP and the broader Ghanaian political landscape: the effectiveness and accountability of incumbents running for higher office. His comments may resonate with a section of the electorate that is increasingly skeptical of promises made by sitting government officials who seek election based on future commitments, rather than their track record.

As the 2024 elections approach, this debate over fiscal responsibility and economic policy is likely to intensify. Dr. Bawumia’s opponents, both within and outside the NPP, may use his current role and past performance to question his ability to deliver on new promises, thus framing the upcoming election as a referendum on the current administration’s economic management.

Conclusion

Dr. Arthur Kennedy’s criticism underscores the challenges Dr. Bawumia faces in convincing voters of his new economic agenda. As the campaign progresses, it remains to be seen how Dr. Bawumia and his team will address these concerns and articulate a vision that separates his future plans from his current and past performance as Vice President. With the electorate keenly observing, the unfolding political dynamics promise a rigorous debate on the direction of Ghana’s economic policy and governance.