John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has voiced his concerns about the state of the Ghanaian economy under the eight-year administration of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Speaking at a mini-rally in Kyebi, a town in the Abuakwa South Constituency, Mahama criticized the current government, attributing Ghana’s economic challenges and widespread hardships to what he described as poor leadership and mismanagement by the NPP.
The former President is currently on a five-day tour of the region, engaging with residents and outlining his vision for the future should the NDC be given the mandate to govern. Addressing the crowd on Monday, November 18, Mahama highlighted what he sees as the failures of the NPP and urged Ghanaians to consider the consequences of misplaced priorities and poor governance. He emphasized that the current hardships are avoidable and are the result of decisions made by the ruling government.
“Ghanaians have seen the consequences of misplaced priorities and poor leadership. It’s time for a change that truly prioritizes the people,” Mahama stated passionately, drawing loud applause from the gathered supporters. His remarks were focused on the rising cost of living, diminished purchasing power, and what he referred to as the retrogressive performance of the NPP government over the past eight years.
Mahama compared the present economic difficulties to the relative stability experienced during his tenure as President. “Life was easier under the NDC government compared to today,” he said. He painted a vivid picture of how much things have changed for the worse, explaining that the value of money has significantly eroded. “Money that could buy a meal during the NDC administration cannot get you the same meal now. Things have been tough under the NPP government,” he stressed, eliciting nods of agreement from the audience.
The former President’s comments come at a time when Ghanaians are grappling with high inflation, a weakening currency, and other economic challenges that have made daily life difficult for many. He described the situation as a direct result of poor policy choices and a lack of focus on the needs of the ordinary citizen. In his view, the NPP government has failed to prioritize the well-being of the people, instead pursuing policies that have exacerbated the hardships faced by Ghanaians.
Mahama’s campaign during this tour has largely focused on drawing contrasts between the NDC and the NPP, with an emphasis on showcasing the achievements of his previous administration. He has been reminding voters of the infrastructural projects and social interventions implemented under the NDC, suggesting that these efforts contributed to better living conditions compared to what Ghanaians are experiencing today.
During the rally in Kyebi, Mahama urged residents to reject the NPP’s promises, arguing that the ruling party has had ample time to address the country’s challenges but has instead delivered disappointment. He urged the crowd to reflect on their experiences over the past eight years and consider the impact of the current administration’s policies on their lives.
“It’s clear that the NPP government has not lived up to the expectations of Ghanaians. They’ve had eight years to make things better, but instead, they’ve taken us backwards. We cannot afford another term of this kind of leadership,” Mahama said, his voice resonating with conviction.
The NDC flagbearer also used the platform to highlight his vision for a better Ghana, promising a government that will be focused on addressing the pressing issues facing the country. He reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the needs of the people, creating jobs, and improving access to social services. Mahama assured the crowd that the NDC has a clear plan to address the economic challenges and put Ghana back on the path to progress.
As he continued his address, Mahama reflected on the struggles of ordinary Ghanaians under the current administration, mentioning how small business owners, farmers, and market women have been hit hard by the economic downturn. He argued that the NPP’s policies have not only failed to provide relief but have also created additional burdens for the average Ghanaian.
“The hardships we are experiencing are not normal. They are the result of deliberate choices made by the government. We must choose leaders who understand the challenges of the people and are willing to make the tough decisions to improve lives,” he added.
The rally in Kyebi was just one of many stops on Mahama’s regional tour, which aims to drum up support for the NDC ahead of the 2024 general elections. His message has been consistent: Ghana needs a change in leadership to move past the current difficulties and chart a new course for the future.
Mahama’s criticisms of the NPP have been met with a mix of support and opposition, as the political climate in Ghana continues to heat up in the run-up to the elections. Supporters of the NPP have defended the government’s track record, arguing that global factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict have played a significant role in the country’s economic challenges. However, Mahama has dismissed these explanations, insisting that the NPP’s domestic policies are to blame for Ghana’s current state.
The former President concluded his address by urging residents to spread the word about the need for change and to come out in their numbers to vote in the upcoming elections. “The power to change the direction of this country lies in your hands. Let’s work together to build a better Ghana for ourselves and future generations,” he said, leaving the crowd energized and hopeful.
As the NDC campaign gains momentum, Mahama’s message is clear: Ghana deserves better, and he believes the NDC is ready to provide the leadership needed to address the nation’s challenges and restore hope to its people.
