By Sarah Baafi
Governments and their leaders often prioritise short-term applause over long-term solutions, Senior Lecturer and political analyst, Dr Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, has warned is dangerous for the nation.
Speaking during a news review segment on Channel One TV, Dr Zaato highlighted how this obsession with quick wins undermines effective governance and public trust.
“Politicians are obsessed with instant gratification; they want to take the credit now,” he said, referencing recurring debates around fuel price changes and the risks of a political culture focused on short-term gains.
He explained that governments often rush to claim credit when fuel prices drop but shy away from accountability when prices rise.
“You cannot accept the glory when fuel prices are down and then run away from the pain when they go up,” he stated, emphasising the need for honesty and consistency in public communication.
Dr Zaato likened the situation to the stock market, noting that external factors often influence fuel costs beyond the government’s control. He urged politicians to adopt a long-term perspective, acknowledging both the successes and limitations of their interventions.
“If we claim both the glory and the blame, we can then focus on preventing future shocks and serving ordinary Ghanaians better,” he said.
The analyst warned that without this shift in mindset, political decisions will continue to favour immediate recognition over sustainable economic planning, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of volatility in essential services.
