We Should Not Use Healthcare for Politics

Political analyst Siaw Mandela has urged Ghanaians not to politicise the debate surrounding Ghana’s decision to reject a proposed United States health compact. Speaking to journalist Nhyiraba Kwabena Asirifi, Mr. Mandela said President John Dramani Mahama’s decision should be viewed from the perspective of Ghana’s health interests rather than partisan politics. He questioned why the President would deliberately support an agreement that, in his view, could affect Ghana’s ability to access essential healthcare services. «“We should not use this issue for politics,” Mr. Mandela stressed.» President Mahama has said Ghana rejected the proposed compact after Cabinet raised concerns about provisions relating to the country’s pathogen profile and medical records, counterpart funding, and the regulatory authority of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) over medicines and medical products supplied under the arrangement. Mr. Mandela also commended the President for the decision, describing it as an indication of concern for the health and welfare of Ghanaians. His comments come as the government promotes greater domestic capacity and self-reliance in healthcare under the broader Accra Reset agenda. The Presidency has said the initiative seeks to strengthen African-led health systems and reduce dependence on external aid. Ghana has also launched its Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which began with a rollout in 150 underserved districts and is intended to expand nationwide by 2028. The programme focuses on preventive care, screening, basic treatment and improved access to primary healthcare services. Mr. Mandela therefore called for the debate over the rejected health compact to be treated as a national health matter rather than a partisan political contest. He maintained that discussions on healthcare should prioritise the welfare of Ghanaians and the country's long-term health needs.