Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former President John Dramani Mahama recently voiced his strong disapproval of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s approach to governance. He accused Akufo-Addo of deliberately neglecting certain communities due to their political affiliations, suggesting this neglect stems from “petty partisan political reasons.”
Mahama expressed his disappointment following a tour through 14 constituencies in Ghana’s Central Region, where he engaged with local residents and assessed the current state of development.
In a detailed post on Facebook, Mahama conveyed the distress he observed among communities that have reportedly suffered from what he perceives as political bias. According to him, Akufo-Addo’s administration has failed to address the developmental needs of areas that do not support the New Patriotic Party (NPP), causing significant hardship for their residents.
He recounted seeing communities struggling with inadequate infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other essential services shortcomings he attributes to a lack of governmental support due to political differences.
“It pains me to see our cherished communities grappling with the neglect of crucial development projects vital for their growth and well-being,” Mahama stated, underscoring the detrimental impact of partisan bias on these communities.
He asserted that every community in Ghana deserves equal access to developmental projects and services regardless of its political leanings. In his statement, Mahama condemned governance that, in his view, penalizes communities based on their support for the NDC.
He pointed to the frustration and hardship he witnessed firsthand as evidence of the negative effects of such divisive policies.
“After touring fourteen constituencies in the Central Region so far, I cannot help but join the chiefs and people in condemning the neglect of our communities for petty partisan political reasons, as President Akufo-Addo himself has stated,” Mahama wrote.
He questioned the reasoning behind this perceived neglect and emphasized the principle that governance should be inclusive, providing for all citizens rather than favoring select groups.
“How does a government ignore the needs of the people it governs, seemingly punishing communities for their democratic choices in voting for the NDC and electing its parliamentary candidates?” Mahama asked.
He further argued that this issue transcends politics and is a matter of justice, as all citizens, regardless of their political beliefs, deserve fair treatment from their government.
Mahama reiterated his belief in democracy and equal representation, stressing that every Ghanaian has the right to benefit from government programmes and initiatives. He highlighted that this fundamental principle should guide any administration and should not be influenced by political bias. He contended that fair governance is essential to uphold the values of democracy and national unity.
Reflecting on his time as president, Mahama reassured citizens that, if elected again, his administration would prioritize the development of every Ghanaian community, regardless of political affiliation. He pledged to lead an inclusive government that would focus on meeting the needs of all communities, ensuring no one is left behind.
“As I have done before when I was president and will lead this country to achieve again, development shall be a right for all, not a privilege for a few,” he asserted.
He added that under the leadership of himself and Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the NDC’s 2024 vice-presidential candidate, no community would suffer from the kind of neglect he observed.
According to Mahama, the administration would address the pressing needs of every community and implement initiatives that would support the well-being and growth of all Ghanaians, aiming to foster a more inclusive society.
The former president concluded his remarks by urging citizens to hold their leaders accountable and to advocate for policies that genuinely serve the interests of every Ghanaian. He emphasized that the responsibility of government is to work in the service of the people and that the state has an obligation to ensure all communities benefit from the country’s resources and development programmes.
Mahama’s comments underscore his broader commitment to promoting fairness and equity in governance, highlighting the NDC’s intent to bridge political divides and serve the interests of all Ghanaians if elected into office.
