During his recent tour of the Northern Region, former president and National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama raised critical questions for his opponent, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flag bearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
These questions touched upon Bawumia’s apparent shift from economic policies to digitalization initiatives, as well as ongoing national challenges such as illegal mining.
Mahama noted that Bawumia once demanded accountability from the late Vice President Kwesi Amissah-Arthur by posing 170 questions about the economy, yet he now seems reluctant to address similar questions himself.
This shift, according to Mahama, signals a potential reluctance on Bawumia’s part to address Ghana’s economic issues head-on. Mahama’s questions aim to redirect the political discourse toward economic accountability and transparency.
Former President John Mahama issued a pointed critique of the current administration, calling out its handling of economic challenges.
His questions focused on core issues affecting Ghanaians, including the exchange rate, inflation, national debt, and borrowing practices.
Through a set of targeted questions, he aimed to underscore the need for transparency and accountability on the state of the nation’s economy. John Mahama posed four concrete questions to Dr. Bawumia He began; “Why is the exchange rate 17 cedis to the dollar?”
By emphasizing the rising exchange rate, Mahama highlighted the impact on local businesses and households, asserting that the government’s economic policies have worsened the situation. He queried “Why has Ghana’s debt risen from 120 billion to 767 billion in just eight years?”
This rhetorical question pointed out the stark contrast between the government’s initial promises of financial prudence and the actual outcomes. The former president implied that this debt burden is unsustainable, affecting both current and future generations.
“Why is inflation where it is? Why did it rise to 54 percent under your administration?”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress ( NDC)
In questioning the inflation spike, Mahama argued that such high inflation impacts the purchasing power of ordinary Ghanaians and drives up the cost of living, adding that the current administration has failed to implement effective measures to stabilize prices.
Mahama’s fourth question addressed the issue of government borrowing, specifically targeting the administration’s extensive reliance on the Bank of Ghana. He asked; “Why did you borrow 42 billion cedis from the Bank of Ghana?”
By raising this issue, Mahama highlighted concerns about the government’s approach to financing, arguing that over-reliance on the central bank could have long-term economic consequences, including currency devaluation and inflation.
Finally, Mahama took a swipe at Dr. Bawumia for shifting priorities, suggesting that the government now avoids discussing economic matters He questioned; “He used to ”gwegwegwe” about the economy. Today, he can’t mention the economy.”
Mahama’s remarks pointed to what he sees from Dr Bawumia as a diversion from critical economic issues in favor of digitalization projects. He implied that these projects, while useful, cannot replace robust economic management. He charged; “All he asks is, I want a debate.”
Through these queries, he framed a powerful argument, highlighting issues that he believes demand immediate answers for the welfare of Ghanaians.
In furtherance, Mahama also urged for peace amidst the Bawku conflict and promised a series of developmental projects should the NDC be re-elected into office.
Call for Peace Amidst Bawku Conflict
While touring the Saboba, Chereponi, Katalga, and Zabzugu constituencies, Mahama took the opportunity to address the escalating conflict in Bawku.
He expressed deep concern over the deteriorating peace and pointed out that similar conflicts often arise during NPP administrations, stating, “Anytime the peace of Ghana is disturbed, it is the NPP government that is in power.”
“ I appeal to the people of Bawku, and all those who are stakeholders in what is ahppeneing there to exercise patience, exercise restraint. We know that there are some sinister hands who are trying to stoke the fires of ethnic conflict, they should not allow themselves to be provoked into violence. And so the people in the Bawku area am begging you, I’m pleading with you, remain calm, be restrained. don’t resort to violence. NDC is coming, When we come, we will make sure there’s peace in Bawku and surrounding areas.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress ( NDC)
Promises of Development for Northern Ghana
As part of his campaign, Mahama also made a series of commitments aimed at boosting development in Northern Ghana, including infrastructure projects and economic improvements. He promised that an NDC administration would prioritize road network upgrades in the Saboba area.
“In the first year of an NDC government, we will begin with the bridge over the Oti River, so that we can connect with our territories across the river.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress ( NDC)
Mahama’s development agenda aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas, enabling Northern communities to better integrate into the national economy.
Criticism of NPP’s Record on Illegal Mining
“When Akufo-Addo said I should state my position on free SHS, I should state my position on Galamsey, am not like him, he came and said he was going to deal with galamsey, that he was willing to put his presidency on the line for Galamsey, and today, galamsey is worse than it’s ever been in this country.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress ( NDC)
Mahama accused the current administration of failing to take decisive action against the illegal mining industry, which continues to have a devastating impact on Ghana’s water bodies and farmlands. He assured voters that the NDC would address these environmental concerns and enforce stricter regulations on galamsey operators.
Mahama’s first day in the Northern Region underscored his commitment to addressing both the social issues and developmental needs of the area.
His call for peace in Bawku, coupled with his infrastructure promises and criticisms of the NPP’s economic and environmental policies, set the tone for a campaign rooted in accountability and tangible change.
Through these statements and promises, Mahama reinforced his vision for a Ghana where peace, development, and responsible governance take precedence.
As the campaign progresses, his questions for Bawumia and pledges for the Northern Region could prove central to the upcoming election.
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