John Dramani Mahama, flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has openly criticized the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he describes as their politically motivated inauguration of infrastructure projects ahead of the December 7 elections.
Speaking during his campaign stop in Bawaleshie, part of the final phase of his Greater Accra tour, Mahama accused the NPP of hypocrisy and of failing to address the pressing needs of Ghanaians, such as unemployment and economic hardship.
Mahama expressed frustration that the NPP, which had harshly criticized his administration for focusing on infrastructure development in the run-up to elections, is now engaging in the same practice. He pointed to several key projects inaugurated by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, including the Flowerpot Interchange and the Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange Phase II. These projects, along with others, were launched in the final weeks leading up to the elections, raising questions about the timing of their completion and unveiling.
The former president highlighted a 2016 social media post by prominent NPP member Gabby Otchere-Darko as evidence of the party’s inconsistent stance on infrastructure projects. In the post, Otchere-Darko had urged voters to focus on economic issues rather than infrastructure development, suggesting that the latter was merely a strategy to win political favor. Mahama used this example to argue that the NPP’s actions contradict their previous rhetoric and demonstrate a lack of genuine commitment to the country’s development.
“How correct are his words eight years ago? So, don’t let them divert your attention,” Mahama urged voters. “This election is about change and not an interchange. This election is about unemployment and economic hardship. This election is about corrupt and incompetent leadership.”
Mahama went further to criticize the NPP’s overall governance, claiming that the party has failed to make meaningful improvements in the lives of Ghanaians during its eight years in power. Instead, he argued, the NPP has set the country back by a decade, leaving many citizens struggling to cope with rising costs of living, limited job opportunities, and inadequate social services.
“Why we vote in elections to elect leaders is for them to improve our lives. But in eight years, the NPP has taken Ghana 10 years backwards,” Mahama stated. He called on Ghanaians to demand better leadership and to focus on addressing the fundamental challenges facing the country.
While Mahama acknowledged the importance of infrastructure development, he argued that it should not be used as a substitute for addressing broader economic and social issues. He noted that the NDC’s approach during his tenure had been to balance infrastructure projects with policies aimed at creating jobs, improving education, and reducing poverty.
The former president’s remarks reflect his broader campaign message, which emphasizes the need for change and the importance of prioritizing the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians. Mahama has consistently framed the 2024 elections as a referendum on the NPP’s leadership, urging voters to reject what he describes as a corrupt and incompetent administration.
Mahama’s criticism comes at a time when infrastructure development has become a central theme of political discourse in Ghana. The NPP has touted its achievements in this area, including major road projects and interchanges, as evidence of its commitment to national progress. However, Mahama has argued that these efforts are superficial and politically motivated, aimed more at securing votes than at addressing the country’s long-term development needs.
As the December 7 elections approach, the NDC and NPP continue to vie for the support of voters across the country. For Mahama, the challenge lies not only in contrasting his record with that of the current administration but also in convincing Ghanaians that his leadership will bring about meaningful and lasting change. He has pledged to focus on creating jobs, tackling corruption, and improving access to education and healthcare if elected.
Mahama’s campaign has also sought to highlight what he describes as the NPP’s failure to address the economic hardships faced by many Ghanaians. He has pointed to rising inflation, a depreciating currency, and high levels of public debt as evidence of the government’s inability to manage the economy effectively. According to Mahama, these issues have had a devastating impact on households across the country, making it even more important for voters to demand accountability and change.
In addition to his criticism of the NPP, Mahama has used his campaign to outline his vision for Ghana’s future. He has promised to implement policies aimed at reducing unemployment, supporting small businesses, and promoting industrialization. Mahama has also pledged to invest in education and healthcare, ensuring that all Ghanaians have access to quality services regardless of their income level or location.
For Mahama, the upcoming elections represent an opportunity to reset the country’s trajectory and to build a more inclusive and prosperous Ghana. He has urged voters to look beyond the promises and rhetoric of political parties and to focus instead on the track records and visions of the candidates.
“This election is about the future of our country. It’s about ensuring that every Ghanaian has the opportunity to live a dignified and fulfilling life. We cannot afford to settle for leadership that prioritizes political expediency over genuine progress,” Mahama stated.
As the campaigns intensify, both the NDC and NPP will need to address the concerns and aspirations of voters across the country. For Mahama, the task is to convince Ghanaians that his leadership represents a break from the past and a step toward a brighter future.
