The flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama met with the Dededo traders in the Volta Region and delivered a powerful speech touching on various critical issues affecting Ghana.
John Dramani Mahama began by expressing gratitude to the traditional rulers for their presence, acknowledging that it’s a rare occurrence to have chiefs and queen mothers in attendance at such events. He also appreciated the Member of Parliament (MP) for choosing Dededo as the campaign site within the West Constituency, highlighting the importance of government support in creating opportunities for the youth in blessed yet underdeveloped areas like Dededo.
John Dramani Mahama emphasized on the solemnity of the presidential oath, which mandates the president to serve all Ghanaians equally, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation.
However, John Dramani Mahama contrasted his tenure with the current administration, accusing the sitting president of partiality and neglect. He cited instances where the president allegedly prioritized those who supported him, especially during the Akosombo dam spillage, where several villages were submerged, and people lost their homes and livelihoods.
The president, according to John Mahama, flag bearer of the NDC remarked insensitively that he only visited the affected areas out of duty, not out of genuine concern, since they did not vote for him.
John Dramani Mahama criticized the president for previous remarks made to the chief of Aflao, Togbe Amenya Fiti, regarding the completion of a school block.
The president allegedly responded dismissively, telling the chief to find his funds to complete the project. This, according to the flag bearer, was an unbecoming statement for a president, who should be committed to serving all citizens equally.
The State of Ghanaian’s livelihoods in the current Government
John Dramani Mahama further argued on the president’s handling of the economy, stating that 8 million Ghanaians went a day without food in 2023 because they could not afford it, while the president spent $17,000 an hour renting a jet with luxury amenities. He asserted how past government regimes cared for the people of Ghana with exceptions to the current government.
“President Rawlings cared about everybody in this country, President Kuffour cared about everybody in this country., President Mills cared about every Ghanaian anywhere in this country. I cared about every Ghanaian anywhere in this country. Unfortunately for us, we have a current president who for him, those he cares about are those who voted for him.”
John Dramani Mahama Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Reflecting on the 2016 election, John Dramani Mahama reminded the Dededo traders of the NPP’s promises, including $1 million per constituency annually and a factory in every district.
He pointed out that these promises were not fulfilled. Highlighting on the closure of the Drabon Textiles factory, John Dramani Mahama argued that the government’s failed to deliver on its industrialization promises. He accused the NPP of dishonesty and warned that some politicians would lie for political power, only to neglect the people once in office.
“There are governments like NDC that invest in people, [and] invest in infrastructure. So, when NDC comes, it builds schools for you, will build health facilities for you, and connects communities to electricity. [It would] provide you with water. We fix the roads.”
John Dramani Mahama Flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Moreover, John Dramani Mahama cautioned voters to be wary of the NPP’s tactics in the upcoming elections. He recounted how, during the Asin North by-election, the NPP distributed cash to voters in an attempt to sway their votes.
He advised the people of Dededo to accept any money offered to them, as it was their own money that had been misappropriated by the government, but to vote according to their conscience, remembering the hardships of the past eight years.
The flag bearer emphasized that the country cannot afford to “try” another inexperienced leader. He argued that what Ghana needs now is an experienced hand, someone who has previously managed the country and demonstrated their capability. He positioned himself as the candidate with the necessary experience and expertise to lead Ghana out of its current difficulties and provide a brighter future for the youth.
He further congratulated the traditional leaders of the region for their unity, acknowledging that the constituency is large and complex. He noted that, following population censuses, it is common to re-evaluate and potentially re-demarcate constituencies and districts to better serve the population’s needs.
The flag bearer of the NDC delivered a clear message that the NPP has failed Ghana, and it is time for a change in leadership. He then called for the support of the people, urging them to choose a leader who will invest in the country’s infrastructure and the well-being of its citizens rather than one who prioritizes personal and familial gain.
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