In a compelling speech delivered at the 50th Anniversary celebrations of the Christian Service University in Kumasi, former President John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) underscored the importance of democratic governance.
Mr Mahama delivered his address under the theme: “Sustainability of Democracy in Africa: The Ghanaian Experience”, highlighting the significant milestones, challenges, and future directions for democracy in Ghana and Africa at large.
“I firmly believe that democracy is the surest path to sustained progress and development for Africa, particularly Ghana. This belief has driven my active involvement in democratic pursuits and governance in various capacities for over three decades, from the grassroots to the highest offices”.
former President John Dramani Mahama, Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress
Mr Mahama began by congratulating Christian Service University for its remarkable contributions to academic advancement, knowledge sharing, and the provision of quality human resources for Ghana.
He emphasized the importance of the university’s commitment to stimulating crucial discussions on governance and nation-building, setting the stage for his in-depth analysis of democracy’s role in Ghana’s development.
The Journey of Ghana’s Democracy
Reflecting on Ghana’s democratic journey, Mr Mahama noted that the upcoming elections, slated for six months from now, will be the eighth consecutive democratic exercise under the Fourth Republic, marking 32 years of sustained democratic governance.
He highlighted the significant strides the country has made since the return to democracy in 1992, despite its tumultuous history with military rule, which accounted for nearly a third of its post-independence years.
“Late last year, over 6,200 assembly members and even more unit committee members were elected across the country to help local-level governance. For many of our younger compatriots, democratic governance in Ghana seems routine, but those of us who have been around for a while know it was not always the case”.
former President John Dramani Mahama, Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress
The Threats to Democratic Gains
Despite these advancements, Mr Mahama expressed concern over recent murmurings of a desire for a return to military rule amidst the current economic crisis.
He underscored that such sentiments, particularly among the youth, are a call for introspection and a reevaluation of the democratic dividend’s delivery.
The former President attributed the frustration among the general public to economic mismanagement, corruption, and a lack of opportunities, which he noted have eroded the populace’s confidence in democratic governance.
Regional Context of Democratic Setbacks
Furthermore, former President John Dramani Mahama contextualized Ghana’s democratic challenges within the broader African experience, where several countries according to him have witnessed a resurgence of military coups.
He cited the cases of Chad, Sudan, Gabon, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, pointing out that military rule historically worsened the circumstances it was meant to rectify.
The National Democratic Congress flagbearer thus advocated for the need for political leaders in the country to learn from history, asserting that democracy, despite its flaws, remains preferable to authoritarian rule.
“Over the last thirty years, our democratic country has experienced periods of strong economic performance, with some of the highest growth rates in the world. However, this democratic transition may have lulled us into a false sense of security and accomplishment, leading us to take our eyes off the ball. Economic mismanagement, corruption, and other governance issues have returned, diminishing many citizens’ hopes in their government and state institutions”.
former President John Dramani Mahama, Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress
Economic and Social Crises
Moreover, the National Democratic Congress flagbearer for the 2024 general elections painted a grim picture of Ghana’s current economic situation, marked by high unemployment, a depreciating currency, and widespread poverty.
Mr Mahama highlighted alarming statistics, including a 33% unemployment rate among youth aged 15 to 24 and severe food inflation, which according to him has left a quarter of the population struggling to afford basic necessities.
He connected these economic woes to systemic corruption and poor governance, which he stated have undermined the nation’s potential.
“A recent Ghana Statistical Service publication revealed that up to 8.4 million Ghanaians, representing a quarter of our population, have gone a day without food. This economic downturn has had a cascading impact on almost every aspect of national life, with education, health, energy, and other sectors steeped in deep crisis”.
former President John Dramani Mahama, Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress
A Vision for Economic Recovery
Highlighting his vision towards Ghana’s economic recovery, former President John Dramani Mahama presented a detailed plan to address these crises, should he be elected President again.
His proposals included the 24-hour economy policy aimed at job creation, the One Million Coders programme to boost digital employment, and a $3 billion investment in ICT.
Mr Mahama also stressed the need for sound economic management, focusing on sustainable growth, equitable wealth distribution, and value addition to Ghana’s natural resources.
“That is why I have decided to run for office as President. My experience and disposition are needed at this moment to provide the leadership necessary to address our myriad problems. Given our dire economic circumstances, I am keenly aware of the weight of expectations that will rest on the next government. Real work must go into winning back our people’s trust in democratic governance and structures”.
former President John Dramani Mahama, Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress
Tackling Corruption and Governance Reforms
A significant portion of Mr Mahama’s address was dedicated to combating corruption and reforming governance.
He promised a crackdown on corruption, ensuring that anti-corruption institutions operate without political interference.
He also called for major constitutional reforms to depoliticize institutions like the Judiciary and the Electoral Commission and advocated for a leaner government to reduce governance costs.
Infrastructure and Investment Plans
In addition, former President John Dramani Mahama outlined the Big Push programme, which aims to channel GH¢150 billion over five years into priority infrastructure projects across various sectors, including roads, energy, healthcare, and agriculture.
This ambitious plan according to him seeks to boost economic growth and prosperity, leveraging Ghana’s untapped potential.
The Call for Responsible Leadership
Concluding his address, the National Democratic Congress flagbearer for the upcoming general elections, former President John Dramani Mahama emphasized the need for honest, responsible leadership to restore faith in Ghana’s democracy.
He warned against rewarding those responsible for the current economic mismanagement and urged Ghanaians to make informed choices in the upcoming elections.
He expressed confidence in the electorate’s ability to signal a new dawn for Ghana, one where democratic governance delivers tangible benefits for all citizens.
READ ALSO: Gov’t Secures Delayed Interest Payments in Debt Restructuring Deal with Bilateral Creditors
