Promises of employment by politicians are just for winning elections – Political scientist

The issue of unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges in Ghana, with political campaigns consistently revolving around job creation as a key promise.

Head of the Political Science Department at the University of Ghana, Professor Seidu Alidu has highlighted the need for a national approach to tackling the growing unemployment crisis.

Speaking with Berla Mundi on Ghana Decides on Tv3, Professor Alidu stressed that while unemployment has been a critical issue since Ghana’s independence, it has now reached alarming levels, particularly among the youth.

With over two million young people currently unemployed, the situation has become a serious concern that impacts not only the country’s economy but also its security.

Historically, political parties have promised large numbers of jobs during election years. However, Professor Alidu pointed out the gap between these promises and the reality on the ground.

He cited examples where manifestos boast about creating jobs, but the unemployment figures continue to rise, indicating that the efforts have not been effective enough.

“The problem is that many of the promises made by political parties are often tailored towards winning elections rather than providing a sustainable, long-term solution to unemployment,” he said on December 6.

He criticized the lack of transparency and accountability in the job creation figures often presented in political manifestos, which are sometimes hard to verify.

Professor Alidu called for a comprehensive and holistic employment strategy that would be developed by the National Development Planning Commission.

This strategy, he argued, should transcend political party lines and be implemented in a way that is merit-based, open, and inclusive, ensuring equal opportunities for all Ghanaian citizens, regardless of political affiliation.

“We need to move beyond political gimmicks and focus on a national plan that addresses unemployment head-on,” he said.

“The time has come for political parties to come together and prioritize long-term solutions over short-term promises,” Prof Alidu added.

The professor’s comments come at a critical time, as the country grapples with the economic consequences of unemployment and goes to the polls in less than 24 hours, which has become an issue of national urgency.

While job creation has remained a central campaign promise, the effectiveness of such pledges has been questioned by experts who urge a more structured and unified approach to job creation and economic development.

As Ghana prepares for future elections, experts like Professor Alidu continue to emphasize the importance of strategic, data-driven policies that move beyond electioneering and address the country’s unemployment crisis at its roots.

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By Christabel Success Treve

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