By Kafui Dey
In an interview with Thelma Tackie on GTV Breakfast on June 25, 2024, Alan Kyerematen, the presidential candidate for the Movement for Change, shared his comprehensive vision for transforming Ghana’s economy and governance structure.
Kyerematen proposed significant restructuring within the government, including combining the Ministry of Finance with the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
He believes this merger would streamline economic management and foster a more integrated approach to economic policy.
“We need to consolidate our economic oversight to ensure efficiency and coordinated development,” Kyerematen explained.
Additionally, he suggested creating an Infrastructure Ministry by merging the Transport Ministry with the Ministry of Communication and Digitalisation. “Our infrastructure development must be holistic, embracing both physical and digital realms,” Kyerematen stated.
In a bid to create a lean and effective government, Kyerematen announced plans to govern with just 40 ministers. He emphasized the importance of efficiency and accountability in his administration, stating, “A smaller, more focused team can deliver better results for the nation.”
Addressing concerns about his previous role in government, Kyerematen was forthright. “Because you were part of government, does it mean you can’t have your own views?” he asked rhetorically.
He highlighted his contributions to many of the current government’s policies, asserting his right to offer a new direction when things were not going as they should. “If things were not going the way they should, I have the right to come out,” he said, adding that people knew things would change under his leadership.
To stabilize the Cedi, Kyerematen stressed the need for increased exports and adding value to Ghana’s oil and gas sectors. “To halt the Cedi’s depreciation, we have to do more exports,” he urged.
Furthermore, he advocated for a pragmatic approach to tackling illegal mining, or galamsey, by licensing small-scale miners and providing them with management support.
Kyerematen’s vision for a modern, industrialized economy is built on the principles of equal opportunity and resilience. “I want to lead the process of building a modern industrialized economy that provides equal opportunities to all citizens regardless of their background,” he stated.
This vision is encapsulated in his Great Transformational Plan, which aims to transition the country from instability to stability, growth, resilience, and prosperity.
In addressing political dynamics, Kyerematen clarified that the Yellow Ghana is not affiliated with the Movement for Change, describing it as an undercover operation aimed at destabilizing their efforts. He also introduced his youth wing, the Yellow Army, as a driving force behind his campaign.
Alan Kyerematen’s interview on GTV Breakfast provided a detailed look at his plans and aspirations for Ghana, offering a blend of economic pragmatism and visionary leadership that promises significant change for the nation.