In a sharp critique of the ruling government, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, spokesperson for the Mahama 2024 Campaign, has expressed significant doubt on the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) assertion that over 12,000 kilometres of roads have been constructed during President Akufo-Addo’s tenure.
The former Deputy Minister of Transport under the erstwhile NDC’s administration’s comments come after months spent travelling across the nation with National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate former President John Dramani Mahama.
“We have been on the campaign trail for the last few months and have witnessed some truly deplorable roads,” Joyce Bawah Mogtari stated, highlighting the stark difference between the government’s claims and the reality experienced by many Ghanaians.
The NPP’s recent claim of constructing over 12,000 kilometers of roads has been met with widespread skepticism from the opposition National Democratic Congress including its flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama.
To illustrate the enormity of the claim, Joyce Bawah Mogtari noted that the distance from Accra to California is approximately 12,000 kilometers—a comparison intended to underscore the scale of the government’s reported accomplishment.
“If the NPP has indeed built 12,000 kilometers of roads, it would mean Ghana’s road network is developed enough to link Accra to all 16 regions, effectively eliminating poor road conditions nationwide.”
Joyce Bawah Mogtari Esq., Spokesperson for the Mahama 2024 Campaign
Joyce Bawah Mogtari, who also doubles as a Special Aide to the National Democratic Congress flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama contradicted the governing New Patriotic Party’s narrative.
Poor State of Roads and Complaints from Chiefs
According to her, the poor state of numerous roads and the recurring complaints from chiefs and residents encountered during the National Democratic Congress flagbearer, former President Mahama’s 2024 campaign highlight a major gap between government claims and the day-to-day reality for Ghanaians.
This gap, she noted has fueled doubts not only among opposition members but also within the wider public, casting doubt on the NPP’s infrastructure achievements.
She reiterated former President Mahama pledge to scrutinize the validity of the 12,000-kilometer figure if he wins the upcoming elections
“Mahama has also expressed skepticism about the accuracy of the 12,000-kilometer claim, citing a lack of visible evidence to support the government’s assertion, especially when almost every chief in the traditional areas he has campaigned in, as part of his 2024 campaign has complained about the poor state of roads”.
Joyce Bawah Mogtari Esq., Spokesperson for the Mahama 2024 Campaign
Joyce Bawah Mogtari’s critical assessment ended with a blunt dismissal of the NPP’s claim. “We certainly still don’t eat roads, though,” she quipped, using a familiar metaphor to stress that while infrastructure is important, it does not directly improve living standards.
Her concluding hashtag, #Alakpatorwo, reflected disbelief and resistance to what she called a “big fat lie.” The impact of this discussion reaches beyond politics into the everyday lives of citizens dealing with inadequate road infrastructure. For many, promises of significant road projects symbolize progress and are vital for economic and social advancement.
This issue, coupled with broader concerns about transparency and public service, will likely become a measure of the credibility of campaign promises and government achievements in the eyes of voters.
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