John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has confidently declared that his position as number eight on the ballot paper for the 2024 elections holds great significance.
According to Mahama, the 8th spot symbolizes his ability to prevent the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, from winning the upcoming elections.
Mahama emphasized that the number eight represents his strength and readiness for the challenge ahead, boldly daring his opponents to contest his claim over the symbolic importance of this position. His remarks came during a visit to the Kokompe Spare Parts Market in Darkuman, located in the Ablekuma North Constituency of the Greater Accra Region, on Friday, September 27, 2024. During his visit, he engaged with traders and residents, addressing various issues and sharing his campaign message.
“The person who was claiming he would break the eight should break it and let’s see. The eight is with me. I have arrested the eight,” Mahama declared, referring to the NPP’s slogan of “breaking the eight,” which signifies their ambition to retain power for a third consecutive term.
Mahama’s statement was a direct response to the NPP’s goal of continuing their hold on power beyond the two-term limit that has historically alternated between the two major political parties in Ghana. The former president’s message was clear: he believes that the 8th position on the ballot paper is a sign of his readiness to reclaim the presidency and stop the NPP from achieving their goal.
Throughout his address to supporters, Mahama called for unity within the NDC, stressing the importance of an overwhelming turnout at the polls. He urged his supporters to embrace the symbolic power of the number eight and to leverage it to secure victory in the 2024 elections. Mahama explained that the party’s success would depend on the strength of their campaign and the unity of their members. He encouraged NDC supporters to rally behind him and work tirelessly to ensure that the symbolism of his 8th position translates into a win at the polls.
Mahama’s visit to the Kokompe Spare Parts Market was not only an opportunity to share his political message but also to engage directly with traders and residents in the area. During the visit, he addressed the economic concerns of the people, particularly those involved in the spare parts business. Recognizing the challenges they face due to fluctuating currency rates and high taxes, Mahama made specific promises aimed at improving their livelihoods if elected president.
One of his key promises was to stabilize the dollar exchange rate, which has been a major concern for traders who rely on importing spare parts and other goods. A fluctuating dollar rate has often led to increased prices for goods, making it difficult for traders to plan their businesses effectively. Mahama assured the spare parts dealers that his administration would implement a fixed dollar exchange rate to bring stability to the market and reduce the financial burden on them.
In addition to stabilizing the exchange rate, Mahama pledged to reduce taxes that affect spare parts dealers and other businesses. He noted that the high tax regime under the current government has made it difficult for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to thrive. His promise to cut taxes was met with enthusiasm from the traders, who have long called for tax relief to enable them to grow their businesses and contribute more effectively to the economy.
“We will implement a fixed dollar rate, and we will reduce taxes,” Mahama assured the crowd, reinforcing his commitment to addressing the economic challenges faced by the business community.
Mahama’s interaction with the traders at Kokompe also highlighted his broader campaign message of economic stability and relief for the average Ghanaian. He pointed out that his administration, if elected, would prioritize policies that directly benefit the people, especially those in the informal sector who have been hardest hit by economic difficulties.
As the 2024 elections approach, Mahama’s strategy appears to be centered on positioning himself as the candidate who can bring about real economic change. By focusing on issues like the dollar exchange rate and tax relief, he is tapping into the concerns of a significant portion of the electorate who feel burdened by the current economic situation. His emphasis on the symbolic power of the 8th position on the ballot paper further strengthens his campaign narrative, casting him as the candidate poised to stop the NPP from “breaking the eight” and securing another term in office.
The NDC leader’s visit to Kokompe was part of a broader campaign tour aimed at engaging directly with voters and addressing their concerns. Mahama’s message of unity and strength resonated with the crowd, as he encouraged them to remain committed to the party’s cause and to work together for a decisive victory in 2024.
As the political landscape heats up ahead of the elections, Mahama’s bold declaration about the significance of the 8th position on the ballot is likely to become a central theme of his campaign. By aligning his campaign with this powerful symbol, he aims to inspire confidence among his supporters and send a clear message to his opponents that he is ready to reclaim the presidency.
In conclusion, John Dramani Mahama’s assertion that the 8th position on the ballot paper signifies his ability to stop the NPP from winning the 2024 elections reflects his confidence and determination. His promises of a stable dollar exchange rate and tax reductions further solidify his commitment to addressing the economic challenges facing Ghanaians. As the election draws closer, Mahama’s message of unity and strength will continue to resonate with voters who are eager for change.
