In what could be described as a powerful acceptance speech delivered at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, the running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama has outlined the National Democratic Congress’s bold vision for Ghana’s future while addressing the urgent need for accountability and progress.
Professor Opoku Agyemang began her speech by expressing gratitude for the opportunity bestowed upon her by the National Democratic Congress flagbearer former President John Dramani Mahama, describing it as an affirmation of Mr Mahama’s belief in the capabilities of Ghanaian women.
“As I stated in my brief acceptance note on March 7, 2024, by renominating me you have demonstrated your remarkable consistency and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and innovation. I have heard you share with the public your rationale for choosing me, again. I have found that very touching. Thank you very much; as the Gonjas express it with meaning ‘ansan kushun”
Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang
She further pledged loyalty, understanding, and steadfast devotion to duty, vowing to demonstrate through her actions the immense potential of women to achieve greatness for the next National Democratic Congress administration when elected by Ghanaians into power.
Commenting on the upcoming December election, Professor Naana Opoku Agyemang emphasized that the upcoming election transcends mere historical milestones, such as potentially electing the first female Vice President or returning a former President to power.
Instead, she underscored the election’s critical purpose to unite Ghana, heal its wounds, and steer the country away from the brink of destruction and despair.
Citing widespread grievances against the incumbent government’s perceived record of corruption, arrogance, and incompetence, Professor Opoku Agyemang called for a united effort to rebuild the country.
She invoked the resilience of Ghana’s ancestors in times of adversity, urging citizens to draw inspiration from their legacy of perseverance and selflessness.
Addressing specific concerns, she criticized the current administration’s mismanagement of resources and failure to address pressing issues such as unemployment and energy instability.
Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, the running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama, articulated a bold vision for Ghana’s future centred on accountability, progress, and unity.
Addressing a diverse audience spanning political, social, and professional spheres, Professor Opoku Agyemang lamented the perceived prevailing state capture, where the current government has wielded power to favour a select few rather than serving the broader interests of all Ghanaians.
She condemned the promotion of ethnocentric elitism, nepotism, and crony capitalism, which she argued have led to near insolvency, resource mismanagement, and a culture of intimidation and silence.
Asserting her commitment to accountability, Professor Opoku Agyemang declared that those involved in plundering state resources must be held to task, stressing the National Democratic Congress’s commitment to accountability.
NDC’s Superior Alternative Policies
Moreover, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang presented a stark contrast between the current administration’s perceived failures and the potential for progress under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) led by former President John Dramani Mahama.
In outlining the achievements of the NDC under Mahama’s previous leadership, Professor Opoku Agyemang highlighted investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development.
She emphasized initiatives such as the construction of clinics, hospitals, and universities, the abolition of the debilitating shift system in education, and the expansion of access to textbooks and quality training.
Her speech also underscored Mr Mahama’s respectful leadership style, characterized by consensus-building, respect for opposing voices, and a commitment to democratic principles.
Professor Opoku Agyemang praised Mr Mahama’s approach to governance, which she noted prioritized the dignity of citizens and focused on inclusive development.
Furthermore, she outlined former President John Dramani Mahama’s proposal for a 24-hour economy, developed in consultation with stakeholders and aimed at fostering innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
She highlighted widespread support for this initiative among labour groups, businesses, and individuals as evidence of its potential to transform Ghana’s economy and society.
Professor Opoku Agyemang also addressed concerns about corruption, transparency, and justice, pledging to strengthen institutions and protect Ghana’s resources from exploitation.
She outlined a vision for a future where equality, equity, and justice prevail, and where every Ghanaian can aspire to a better life free from bias and limitation.
The former first female Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast emphasized the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs and modernizing markets to drive economic growth and social progress.
Calls for Electoral Transparency
Her speech also touched upon the need for electoral transparency, accountability, and justice. Professor Opoku Agyemang called for the strengthening of institutions and the protection of Ghana’s natural resources from exploitation.
In a passionate plea to all Ghanaians, she urged unity and collaboration across political divides to realize a shared vision of a prosperous and equitable Ghana.
She emphasized the transformative potential of collective action and appealed to every citizen to contribute to the nation’s renewal.
In closing, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang reiterated her commitment to serving Ghana with integrity, compassion, and determination.
She called on all Ghanaians to join the National Democratic Congress flagbearer, former President John Dramani in building a brighter future for generations to come.
