Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s promise to provide free dialysis treatment from December 1 has been dismissed as an “empty campaign gimmick” by Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Health Committee.
Mr Akandoh criticised the announcement, describing it as a reactionary move by a government that has consistently neglected healthcare.
In a statement released on Friday, November 15, he questioned the feasibility of the promise, arguing that it lacks a clear policy framework or budgetary support.
“This hollow commitment is a deceptive attempt to win public favour ahead of the elections,” the statement read.
Lack of Policy Backing
The NPP’s 2024 manifesto makes no mention of free dialysis treatment, according to Mr Akandoh, who also pointed out that the 2024 National Health Insurance Fund Allocation Formula fails to adequately provide for such a scheme.
He revealed that only GH₵2 million has been allocated for dialysis care in the 2024 budget—a sum added only after pressure from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Additionally, the National Health Insurance Authority’s (NHIA) announcement of a GH₵3.24 million allocation for dialysis from its Corporate Social Responsibility budget was described as insufficient to address the scope of the issue.
Political Motivation?
Mr Akandoh claimed the promise was a direct response to former President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge to fund dialysis and cancer treatment under the “Mahama Cares” programme.
“Dr. Bawumia’s desperation to match this commitment has resulted in erratic, knee-jerk policies devoid of careful planning,” he alleged.
Calling on Ghanaians to reject the vice president’s bid for power, Mr Akandoh labelled the current administration’s governance as a “nightmare” for the nation.
Source:TheDotNews