The Caucus for Mature Democrats (CMD) has issued a fervent call to all patriotic citizens of Ghana to take a critical stance against the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), citing numerous instances of what its describe as arrogance and mismanagement by the government.
The group in a press statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Baba Iddrisu highlighted several key points of concern, urging voters to make informed decisions based on the credibility and policies of candidates in the upcoming general elections.
”As a Civil Society Organisation responsible for commending good governance and condemning irresponsible and bad governance, the CMD urges all patriotic citizens to take serious note of the arrogance exhibited by many members of the ruling NPP government to ensure that, Ghanaians make very well and informed decisions in the upcoming general elections come 7 December 2024”.
Baba Iddrisu the Executive Secretary of CMD
The statement further emphasized the deteriorating state of Ghana’s economy, attributing it to corruption, mismanagement, and waste of taxpayers’ resources.
It also pointed to the government’s inability to service debts and the unaccounted taxes revealed in the Auditor General’s Department reports as evidence of the governing New Patriotic Party’s failures.
E-Levy Controversy
Highlighting the ills of the ruling party, the Caucus for Mature Democrats criticized the New Patriotic Party’s introduction of the E-levy, a tax policy that faced significant public opposition.
The statement recalled a minister’s dismissive remark that the levy would be passed despite the protests, highlighting the government’s perceived disregard for public opinion.
Disparaging Remarks and Cement Price Control
Again, the Executive Secretary for the Caucus for Mature Democrats referenced derogatory comments made by Trade Minister, Honorable KT Hammond, who referred to the youth of the country as “bearded, coconut-like but empty-headed”, underscoring the insensitivity of the officials of the ruling party towards the general public.
He condemned the Trade Minister’s proposed cement price control bill, criticizing the lack of consultation with cement producers and ignoring the economic factors influencing prices.
Presidential Disrespect and Regional Neglect
Furthermore, the Executive Secretary for the Caucus for Mature Democrats, Baba Iddrisu accused President Akufo-Addo of disrespecting traditional leaders, particularly in the Volta Region, where he allegedly admitted to withholding development efforts due to the region’s voting patterns.
This, the Caucus for Mature Democrats Executive Secretary argued, contradicts the President’s oath to treat all citizens with respect and dignity.
Misinformation on Legislative Processes
Mr Iddrisu also highlighted an instance where Majority Leader Hon. Alexander Afenyo Markin announced a non-existent Free SHS bill, which the minority in parliament opposed, adding that such conduct demonstrates a pattern of misinformation and manipulation.
In addition, the Caucus for Mature Democrats criticized the Energy Minister Hon. Mathew Opoku Prempeh’s response to demands for a timetable for the recent power outages in the country.
The statement emphasized that the Manhyia South lawmaker’s suggestion that citizens should prepare their timetables if needed is indicative of the government’s lack of accountability and insensitivity.
“For all the undemocratic and powerful drunken public statements made by leaders of the ruling NPP led by the mother serpent of corruption, we urge Ghanaians to be very mindful, by electing people who respect the citizens, the suggestions and rights of Ghanaians as the constitution so enshrined”.
Baba Iddrisu the Executive Secretary of CMD
Call for Professionalism and Peace
In a fervent call to action, the Caucus for Mature Democrats called on security agencies to exercise professionalism in the discharge of their duties, recalling the tragic events of the 2020 elections where eight citizens were killed.
The group also urged the National Peace Council to fulfill its mandate to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
Support for John Dramani Mahama
In a bold endorsement, the Caucus for Mature Democrats urged Ghanaians to support former President John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), presenting them as the only viable alternative to revive Ghana’s struggling economy.
The statement underscored the Caucus for Mature Democrats’s belief that the National Democratic Congress, with its visionary leadership, is best equipped to address the country’s economic challenges.
The CMD concluded with a challenge to the NPP for a factual debate on the reasons behind Ghana’s economic collapse.
They criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, accusing him of abandoning his economic responsibilities in favor of promoting his digital initiatives.
The statement closed with a passionate appeal to Ghanaians to reject the New Patriotic Party and elect leaders who respect the citizens and uphold democratic values.
Baba Iddrisu, Executive Secretary of CMD underscored the urgency of the group’s message, asserting that Ghanaians deserve better leadership than what the New Patriotic Party administration has provided.
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