By Ato Kwamena Danso
Dear Osagyefo,
There’s a lot going on in the motherland, but I’m particularly struck by the recent performance of the cedi. In the absence of the Vice President, who heads the economic management team, the cedi has actually gained ground against the dollar. This has sparked a lively debate on the airwaves about who or what caused this rise against the major currency. However, I believe we should be focusing our energy not on who is responsible for the current situation, but rather on how to sustain the cedi’s growth long-term.
Despite the cedi’s appreciation over the past month, the price of goods and services continues to skyrocket, notably the price of cement. This situation, where the currency strengthens but consumer prices remain high, is a concern.
I hope Jane Naana’s return and her majestic walk on the tarmac today will even strengthen the cedi further. Sustained economic policies and a focus on fundamental factors like inflation control and increased domestic production are what will truly solidify the cedi’s position and bring down the cost of living.Lest we forget, the bloke with orange hair initiated a “traffic war with the entire world” and that the dollar has lost its value as a result, leading most economists to predict a recession for the US economy. As Madela said, experts have different opinions.
When the dollar inevitably starts gaining ground again, I too hope that those who now seem to be taking credit for the cedi’s recent rise will be equally willing to take the blame for its eventual fall. Economic stability is a complex and continuous endeavor, and true accountability requires acknowledging both the good and the challenging times.
In a legal twist, Osagyefo, the Chief Justice is now in court challenging her suspension. What’s more, she has reportedly lost the sympathy of most Ghanaians, and she has chosen the former Attorney General to represent her. I, for one, understand the CJ having the former Attorney General as her lawyer, especially given his past “semi-success” in convincing two Supreme Court judges that the suspension of a Chief Justice was unlawful, despite what was perceived as clear constitutional provisions granting the President such authority. This legal battle will undoubtedly be closely watched, particularly given the implications for the separation of powers and judicial independence in the motherland, although I suspect these suits are dead on arrival .
Osagyefo, this week also provided a rather loud example of traditionalists taking the law into their own hands, invading a church to enforce a ban on noise, drumming, and dancing. Sometimes, I scratch my little remaining hair on my head, wondering what kind of system we’re truly operating under. Is it the “Zuba Burundi Style,” where tradition dictates the pace and silence, or are we still pretending to run a democracy
Taking the good advice of well-meaning friends to be less verbose, I’ll end by saying a gentleman has offered to create a website to archive these letters for posterity. More updates to follow.
Auntie Jane is back, Ato_KD
