As President John Dramani Mahama clocks 100 days in office following his resounding victory in the 2024 presidential election, Ghanaians find themselves caught between optimism and concern. While the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s “Reset Agenda” sparked widespread hope, the administration's early tenure has been marred by contentious arrests, allegations of political witch-hunting, and worrying governance stagnation.

Public Goodwill Surges — Except in Ashanti Region

According to the latest Global InfoAnalytics survey, optimism under Mahama’s leadership has notably surged across most regions, with 62% of voters believing the country is on the right track — a dramatic turnaround from just 32% in October 2024, when the majority felt the nation was veering off course under the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Yet this wave of goodwill has failed to reach the Ashanti Region, traditionally an NPP stronghold, where skepticism toward the Mahama-led reset remains high.

Arrests Spark “Reset or Repeat” Debate

Despite commendation for decisive actions like tax cuts and speedy government formations, the Mahama administration faces backlash over a string of politically charged arrests. Former officials from the Akufo-Addo era, including ex-Bank of Ghana Governor Ernest Addison, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, and MP for Assin South John Ntim Fordjour, have all faced high-profile raids in recent months.

Critics like former government spokesperson Kofi Tonto accuse Mahama of perpetuating the same authoritarian tactics the NDC once condemned:

"Government is knee-deep in dictatorial actions. These are the very things you opposed, yet you’re repeating them," Tonto remarked.

Analysts Sound Alarm: “Witch-Hunt Clouding Economic Gains”

Political analyst Reindolph Afrifa-Oware also acknowledged positive strides, including a stabilizing cedi and a well-received 2025 budget. However, he warned that the administration’s aggressive pursuit of perceived political adversaries could undermine public trust.

“The reset now feels like a witch-hunt more than genuine reform. If the goal is development, then systemic change, not vendettas, must take center stage,” Oware argued.

Structural Reforms: The Missing Piece

Beyond the controversy, experts point to deeper governance shortfalls, especially in areas like housing, sanitation, and environmental protection. Oware emphasized that without a comprehensive overhaul, the NDC’s reset may become little more than a slogan:

“Strong leadership and structural change are the real reset Ghanaians are waiting for — not piecemeal fixes,” he warned.

Gold Board Formation and Galamsey Debate Add to Tensions

The administration’s swift establishment of a Gold Board — designed to manage Ghana’s gold value chain — has also drawn sharp criticism. Tonto questioned the move, suggesting it contradicts Mahama’s anti-galamsey stance.

At the same time, the government has walked back on an earlier promise to repeal the ban on mining in forest reserves, now shifting to pursue amendments rather than full repeal.

Women’s Representation Falls Short

Despite campaigning on a promise to appoint at least 30% women to Cabinet roles, the Mahama administration has so far fallen short of this benchmark, adding to the growing list of unfulfilled pledges.

“If the government is committed to transparency and reform, it must face the Ghanaian people and admit where it falls short, rather than pretend the problems don’t exist,” Tonto advised.

Survey: Galamsey Fight Sees Mixed Reactions

In the ongoing fight against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, the Global InfoAnalytics survey found that 38% of Ghanaians believe the situation has improved, while only 10% believe it has worsened. However, opinions in mining-heavy regions remain split — highlighting a complicated battle for both perception and results.

Final Verdict: Reset or Rerun?

While President Mahama’s early months have delivered flashes of hope — including currency stabilization and tax relief — political observers warn that governance must move beyond optics and partisan reprisals.

“The reset agenda must address the country’s systemic development needs, not just produce headline-grabbing arrests,” Oware concluded.

Fast Facts:

• Milestone: Mahama marks 100 days in office.
• Survey Results: 62% believe Ghana is on the right track.
• Key Concern: Politically charged arrests and unfulfilled reform promises.
• Public Mood: Optimistic but increasingly cautious.