The Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC) Dr. Hassan Ayariga, has addressed the press, ahead of the Tomorrow December 7 Polls.

He presented a bold vision to rescue Ghana from its current challenges. Highlighting the severe hardships Ghanaians face, Dr. Ayariga unveiled a seven-pillar policy framework aimed at fostering self-reliance, resilience, and economic freedom.

He stressed that the time for promises was over, and transformational policies were needed to change Ghana’s trajectory. He remarked;

“Our oil, mining, bauxite, diamond, cocoa, and manganese sectors are controlled by foreigners. Where is the ownership for Ghanaians?”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

He emphasized the need for policies that prioritize Ghanaian citizens. He emphasized;

“We must empower our local citizens. Local content must be given to Ghanaian citizens and not foreigners. Foreign companies enjoy tax holidays while Ghanaian businesses suffer under heavy tax burdens. This must change.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

Dr. Ayariga identified modernization and digitalization as critical to transforming Ghana’s governance and development landscape.

To achieve this, he proposed the establishment of a comprehensive National Data System (NDS).

“We do not know our citizens, their living conditions, or what they do. I will roll out a national database that captures biometrics, phone numbers, property details, and even blood types. This will integrate with key institutions like the DVLA, Electoral Commission, and Immigration to streamline governance and planning.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

He argued that the NDS would eliminate inefficiencies such as limited voter registration exercises.

“At age 18, every citizen will automatically receive a voter’s ID through the system. This is a governance system built on institutions, not ad-hoc interventions. Ghanaians are losing ownership of their nation. We need a leader who will make citizens the priority and give back Ghana to Ghanaians.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

He reiterated his commitment to empowering Ghanaian entrepreneurs and businesses through favorable policies and reduced competition from foreign firms in retail and other sectors.

“We’ve been talking about a national development plan for 30 or 40 years. Who will be alive to implement it in 30 years? We need a plan that works now, one based on data that allows us to execute immediately.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

He proposed leveraging the NDS to inform planning in key areas, including infrastructure, education, and workforce development.

“We must know the exact number of engineers, doctors, and IT specialists we need. Recruitment into the police and military will also follow a quota system informed by data.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

Economic Lockdown: Building Resilience and Food Security

Reflecting on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Ayariga introduced the concept of an economic lockdown. He lamented;

“The pandemic exposed our inability to sustain ourselves during crises. Ghana couldn’t survive a three-week lockdown due to a lack of food security. We need to address this urgently.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

He pledged to establish mechanisms that make Ghana a self-reliant economy, capable of withstanding global shocks.

“Until we change our mindset and embrace a culture of truth, good leadership, and patriotism, nothing will work for Ghana. We must abandon the dependency mentality and work together as a nation.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

He also called for leaders who are transparent, trustworthy, and accountable to the people.

The final pillar of Dr. Ayariga’s agenda is globalization. He envisioned;

“We must not isolate ourselves but integrate smartly, ensuring that Ghanaians benefit from globalization while retaining control of our resources.”
Dr. Hassan Ayariga Flagbearer of the All People’s Congress (APC)

The APC leader’s comprehensive plan presents a clear roadmap for addressing Ghana’s challenges and unlocking its potential. The question remains whether this vision will resonate with voters in the 2024 elections.