By King Amoah
In the bustling city of Kumasi, amidst the ongoing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Richmond Essel, a respected private medical practitioner, has raised his voice against what he perceives as an unfortunate trend of using the pandemic as a scapegoat for existing and persisting economic challenges.
Dr. Essel’s statement comes at a time when numerous sectors in Ghana are still struggling to regain their footing following the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
While acknowledging the profound impact of COVID-19 on the global economy, he argues that not all economic hardships can be attributed to the pandemic.
In a chat with the reporter he said many issues, including inflation, unemployment, and declining public services, had roots before the virus emerged and have only been exacerbated by the pandemic response.
The affable health officer explained that Ghana, like many nations worldwide, faced substantial economic challenges in the wake of COVID-19.
Job losses, reduced income, and increased poverty rates painted a bleak picture for many families, insisting that the current economic malaise cannot be solely blamed on the pandemic.
According to him, issues such as mismanagement, corruption, and inadequate economic policy reform have long plagued the country, leading to systemic vulnerabilities.
The government’s stimulus measures and various economic recovery initiatives were initially seen as promising steps toward revitalization.
Dr. Essel emphasizes that the government must take ownership of its policies and decisions, rather than cloaking failures in the shadow of the pandemic.
He encourages Ghanaians to engage in constructive dialogue with policymakers and advocate for transparent discussions about the state of the economy and the healthcare system.
Furthermore, he proposes that policymakers should focus on creating adaptable economic policies that address both immediate and long-term challenges.
He indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic may have been a significant disruptor, but it should not serve as a blanket excuse for economic hardships that were already present in Ghana.
Dr. Richmond Essel’s insights bring to light the need for accountability, transparency, and proactive measures from the government adding that as the nation moves forward, it is crucial to recognize the multifaceted issues at play and to strive for holistic solutions that prioritize the well-being of all Ghanaians, fostering a more resilient society for the future.
