In a spirited response to former President John Dramani Mahama’s call for a “reset” of Ghana, the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has drawn a clear distinction between his vision for the country and the one espoused by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer.
The confrontation between these two political heavyweights underscores the stakes of the upcoming 2024 general elections and reveals the contrasting ideologies that will define Ghana’s future.
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Presidential Candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, asserted that what the country truly needs is an upgrade, not a reset.
Dr. Bawumia, during a media engagement, outlined a different vision for the future, underscoring the need for continuity and enhancement of the progress the NPP has made under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration.
“I represent the future, and Ghana needs an upgrade, not a reset,” Dr. Bawumia declared. He then unveiled 14 key commitments he plans to implement if elected, aimed at sustaining and expanding Ghana’s rebounding economy, creating jobs, and transforming the nation into a world-class digital economy.
His outlined priorities included reducing the cost of living, expanding public infrastructure, providing better healthcare, implementing affirmative action for women and girls, ensuring good governance, caring for the elderly, and expanding educational opportunities.
Banking Sector Clean-Up
In addition to these commitments, Dr Bawumia took a firm stance against former President Mahama’s promise to restore the licenses of some financial institutions that collapsed during the NPP’s tenure.
Expressing surprise at former President Mahama’s promise, Dr Bawumia argued that the NPP’s intervention in the financial sector saved the deposits of 4.6 million bank customers, who would have otherwise lost their funds due to the banks’ mismanagement and illegal practices.
He elaborated on the situation that led to the financial sector clean-up, revealing that some banks had engaged in gross misconduct, such as extending loans beyond legal limits, misusing capital, and investing in private properties.
According to Dr. Bawumia, the banking sector was on the brink of collapse, which necessitated the merger of some banks to avert a systemic crisis.
He advised former President Mahama to thoroughly review the reports of the Receiver and the Bank of Ghana to gain a proper understanding of the situation before making further comments.
“We saved the deposits of 4.6 million bank depositors who were at risk of losing their money if those banks were not saved. I urge the former president to read the reports of the Receiver and the Bank of Ghana to acquaint himself with the facts before making further comments. The licences cannot simply be handed back; there are legal procedures to follow”.
Vice Presdient Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, NPP Flagbearer
NPP Government Achieves 80% of Manifesto Promise
Dr. Bawumia also took the opportunity to highlight the NPP government’s achievements, claiming that the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration had fulfilled 80% of the promises outlined in their 2020 manifesto.
He contrasted this with what he described as Former President Mahama’s poor record, alleging that the former President only fulfilled 28% of the commitments in his 2012 manifesto.
Dr Bawumia further criticized former President Mahama for failing to deliver on 203 out of the 280 promises made during his 2012 campaign.
“We have a strong record when it comes to honouring our promises. Despite the challenges, we’ve fulfilled 80% of our 2020 manifesto commitments. In contrast, my opponent only fulfilled 28% of his 2012 manifesto promises. The difference is clear: we deliver on our promises”.
Vice Presdient Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, NPP Flagbearer
Commendation of Ghanaian Media
Moreover, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia commended the Ghanaian media for their crucial role in national development and his political campaigns.
He assured that an NPP-led government would continue to collaborate closely with the media, emphasising a commitment to upholding media freedom.
“The NPP views the media as a crucial partner in national development. We’re committed to deepening media freedom, and I will continue to maintain this partnership as the new leader of the NPP,”
Vice Presdient Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, NPP Flagbearer
As part of his commitment to media freedom, Dr Bawumia pledged to ensure the passage of the Broadcasting Bill before the 8th Parliament dissolves.
He assured journalists that the government is dedicated to passing the bill during the final session of Parliament this year, a move aimed at safeguarding media freedoms and pluralism in the country.
Additionally, he promised to further resource the Media Capacity Enhancement Programme to continue enhancing the knowledge and skills of journalists.
As the 2024 elections approach, the political discourse between the NPP and NDC continues to intensify, with each candidate presenting their vision for the future of Ghana.
Dr Bawumia’s strong defence of the NPP’s track record and his vision for upgrading the country will undoubtedly play critical role in determining the choice of Ghanaians as they prepare to cast their votes on December 7, 2024.
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