The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama has commended the MP for Ketu North for demonstrating maturity while urging party supporters in the Ketu North Constituency to champion unity, underscoring his commitment to sustainable development.
Speaking to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters in Ehi within the Ketu North Constituency as part of his ongoing four-day tour of the Volta Region, the NDC flagbearer lauded the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ketu North Constituency, Hon. James Klutse Avedzi, for his exemplary leadership and maturity in passing the baton to a younger generation.
“In politics, one of the things you need to know is that we are all actors. We come on the stage, play our part, and when we finish, we leave and other actors come to take our place.
“Not every actor knows when the time has come for him to leave. But I respect Hon. Avedzi greatly for recognizing the moment and handing over to a young, enterprising, and hardworking individual like Edem Agbana. Hon. Avedzi’s decision is a testament to his high political sense of responsibility.”
Former President John Dramani Mahama, NDC flagbearer
Calls for Unity
The former President also commended Eric Edem Agbana, who is set to step into the shoes of Hon. Avedzi, acknowledging the significant challenge ahead for Agbana, given Avedzi’s vast experience as a parliamentarian, former Deputy Minority Leader, and current Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee.
“Edem has a lot of work to do to fill those shoes, but I believe he is more than capable,” Mahama asserted.
In his speech, former President Mahama also addressed the broader NDC family, urging party members to welcome new and returning members with open arms.
Drawing a parallel to the biblical story of the prodigal son, he emphasized the importance of unity and inclusion.
“When our brothers who were lost see the light and decide to come back, let us not drive them away but welcome them warmly. Like the father of the prodigal son, let’s embrace them and move forward together.”
Former President John Dramani Mahama, NDC flagbearer
Mahama Criticizes NPP Government
Furthermore, former President John Dramani Mahama criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing them of neglecting critical infrastructure projects in the Volta Region.
He pointed out that the NPP’s approach to development has been inconsistent and opportunistic, particularly in areas like Ketu North.
“Look at this community. Ehi is central to Ketu North, and when we were in office, we prioritized road projects here. But this government halted those projects, only to restart them briefly before elections to gain votes”.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, NDC flagbearer
The National Democratic Congress flagbearer and leader expressed frustration over the stalled progress in electrification, water supply, and educational infrastructure, all of which were initiated under the NDC.
“In this area alone, we electrified nearly 100 communities. But since the NPP came into office, many of our people have been left in darkness,” he lamented.
Looking ahead to the 2024 general elections, former President Mahama expressed confidence in the NDC’s chances, urging voters not to repeat past mistakes.
“If we made a mistake in 2016 and again in 2020, there is no way we’ll make a mistake in 2024. Our people say, ‘First fool no be fool, second fool no be fool, but the third fool is a big fool.’ We cannot afford to be fools for the third time”.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, NDC flagbearer
Former President Mahama also outlined his vision for the future, emphasizing the need for job creation and sustainable development.
He highlighted plans to invest in cassava processing factories in Ketu North, which would leverage the area’s strong cassava production.
“We intend to empower our young people, particularly in agro-processing. This is not about 1 district, 1 factory, but about strategic investments that create real opportunities for our people”.
Former President John Dramani Mahama, NDC flagbearer
He further proposed expanding the rice irrigation project at Aveyime to increase rice cultivation and establish a rice processing plant.
The NDC flagbearer envisioned branding locally produced rice to compete with imported varieties and even exporting it under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He concluded by reiterating his belief that the NDC is the party that can deliver meaningful change, asserting that “NDC will create the opportunities we need to transform the lives of our people”.
“This is our mission, and I am confident that on December 7, 2024, by the grace of God, NDC will win and return to power to continue this important work,” he affirmed.
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