The UK branch of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to take concrete steps towards economic independence rather than relying on political slogans and rhetoric.
In a statement signed by Kwame Nkrumah Agyapong (KNA), the party emphasized that the struggle for economic freedom should not be reduced to mere phrases like “Ghana Beyond Aid” or be limited to speeches during Independence Day celebrations.
Instead, they urged the government to adopt a clear, actionable plan that can be measured periodically to assess the country’s progress.
“The interests of Ghanaian citizens should be the top priority for the NDC government, as they are more concerned with improving their declining living conditions and ensuring safety rather than just hearing catchphrases and empty talk,” the statement read.
The CPP UK highlighted Ghana’s heavy dependence on imported staple food items, despite the country’s agricultural potential. They argued that if neighboring countries such as Niger and Burkina Faso can produce onions and tomatoes to supply Ghana, then the country is equally capable of mass-producing staple foods to feed itself and the broader West African region.
The statement also drew attention to Ghana’s worsening energy situation, pointing out that most cities experience darkness after 6 PM due to a lack of streetlights and rising energy costs.
To address this, the CPP UK urged the NDC government to invest in a solar assembly plant to promote economic self-sufficiency, create jobs, and provide sustainable energy solutions. They warned against importing solar streetlights, emphasizing the importance of long-term investments that reduce costs for government institutions, businesses, and households.
“Our estimate suggests that a large-scale solar assembly plant or facility would cost between $5 million and $20 million. In the grand scheme of things, this is not a huge amount for the government,” the statement noted, drawing comparisons to the $58 million spent on the controversial National Cathedral project by the previous NPP administration.
The CPP UK further criticized what they described as misplaced priorities, urging the NDC government to focus on job creation and policies that drive economic independence. They argued that investments should be directed towards productive ventures rather than projects like the Hajj Village, which they claim do not contribute significantly to economic growth.
The statement concluded with a call for action: “Think Ghana, think CPP.”
Source: www.kumasimail.com
