Mr Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko has expressed surprise at recent comments made by Dr. Daniel McKorley, Chairman of the McDan Group, who criticized government policies for hindering private sector growth.

During the Ghana CEO Presidential Gala Dinner on November 7, Dr. McKorley shared his frustration, stating that government policies have not adequately supported local entrepreneurs, stifling their potential.

“Government policies have really not helped the private sector,” he remarked, calling for frank discussions about the challenges facing businesses.

He detailed the difficulties of doing business in Ghana, saying, “If you want to do business in Ghana, you have to be prepared. Being a Ghanaian doing business in Ghana, you have to be brave.” McKorley further emphasized the need for policies that support innovation and growth, adding, “Many times, it looks like we don’t support our own… I have tasted it, I have slept with it, and I’m living with it, and it’s quite dangerous and difficult.”

In response, Dr. McKorley reiterated his call for stronger collaboration between the government and private sector, emphasizing that local businesses have the potential to contribute significantly to national revenue.

“If you build the livelihood of my businesses, we can generate $3.2 billion for the government every year,” he proposed, highlighting how other countries rely on their major businesses in times of need.

Mr Otchere-Darko, a prominent member of the ruling party, reacted with confusion to McKorley’s remarks.

In a post on X, he pointed out the significant government support McKorley has received, including his acquisition of Africa’s largest salt concession.

“I am perplexed! This is from an entrepreneur who enjoyed the full support of gov't to own the largest salt concession in Africa, with the capacity to produce some $2bn of salt annually; a project that for 45 years various governments failed to commercialize,” Otchere-Darko commented.