In a compelling and thought-provoking speech, Ms. Shamima Muslim, the Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, articulated the essence of Presidential Mahama’s 68th Independence address, emphasizing governance transparency, economic resilience, and national unity.
She outlined key messages that Ghanaians should take away from the President’s speech, stressing that leadership must remain people-centered, accountable, and dedicated to economic transformation.
One of the most striking themes in her address was the President’s commitment to making the seat of government accessible to the people. According to Shamima Muslim;
“The President is a President for the people of Ghana, and at every point in time, it is the citizens that will be most important to him. He wants to demystify the seat of government and let Ghanaians know that sovereignty lies in them. Many of the people working in that building [government] are there because they were voted into office by the people.”
Ms. Shamima Muslim Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
This assertion underscores the administration’s philosophy of bringing governance closer to the people, ensuring that decision-making remains inclusive and reflective of the electorate’s needs.
“In an era where the clarion call is to work together to build the Ghana we want, collaboration is key. It includes cooperation, accountability, congruence, and integrity. The President has been seen preaching prudence, [advocating] for servant leadership, and admonishing his officials to [avoid wasteful] public spending.”
Ms. Shamima Muslim Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
Her remarks reinforced the administration’s stance against extravagance, calling for all public appointees to ensure value for money in government engagements.
Acknowledging the pressing economic difficulties facing Ghana, Shamima Muslim underscored the government’s responsibility to implement cost-cutting measures and enhance revenue mobilization. She warned against inconsistent governance ideologies, emphasizing that actions must align with public pledges. She stressed that the government’s ability to restore economic stability depends on efficient resource management and disciplined spending.
The Fiscal Crisis and Urgent Need for Reforms
Shamima Muslim painted a stark picture of Ghana’s current fiscal situation, revealing alarming figures on the country’s debt obligations.
“As I speak to you, we will require over GHS 200 billion over the next four years to service our domestic debt, which alone stands at GHS 150 billion. Our foreign debt obligations exceed GHS 130 billion, while ECG’s books show a staggering GHS 68 billion in unpaid bills.”
“We need urgent cost-saving and cost-cutting mechanisms to raise the revenues needed to service our debts while simultaneously boosting productivity.”
Ms. Shamima Muslim Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
Shamima Muslim also questioned the rationale behind the regional Independence Day celebrations, given the country’s economic challenges.
“If we look at our situation, I think we cannot afford to spend GHS 20 million on the commemoration of our Independence Day—a day that many believe has little to celebrate after 68 years of political liberation. The real economic liberation that should have followed remains unachieved.”
Ms. Shamima Muslim Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
She further lamented Ghana’s economic dependency, pointing out that Africa continues to be excluded from the global economic system despite providing the resources that power European and Western civilizations.
Reviving National Pride and Patriotism
Despite these challenges, Shamima Muslim urged Ghanaians to adopt an attitude of optimism rather than despair.
“Some may argue that Ghana is not worth dying for, that patriotism is at an all-time low. But we cannot hold onto that view, because it disempowers us. Instead, we must ask ourselves—how do we change the situation?”
Ms. Shamima Muslim Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
She reminded Ghanaians that their forebears faced even greater adversities, yet they mobilized effectively to fight for independence. Ghana’s economic independence, she argued, would require the same level of commitment and strategic action.
Meanwhile, Ghana has remained a beacon of democracy and stability within the West African sub-region, a fact that Ms. Shamima acknowledged with pride. However, she warned against complacency, citing the threats posed by corruption and divisive politics. She further called for an end to corruption and greed, which continue to undermine national development.
Shamima Muslim ended her speech with a powerful call to action, emphasizing that the Mahama administration has been given a historic opportunity to reset Ghana’s economic and governance trajectory. She encouraged stakeholders across all sectors to work together in shaping the country’s future.
She further noted that the National Economic Dialogue has provided a platform for extensive consultations and collective problem-solving. She expressed optimism about the engagement of captains of industry, labor unions, civil society, and students in shaping practical economic recovery strategies.
Shamima Muslim’s remarks encapsulated President Mahaam’s vision for a Ghana that prioritizes inclusion, accountability, and economic transformation. Her address reinforced the need for cost-cutting measures, fiscal discipline, and governance that truly serves the people.
Her message was clear; Ghana is at a crossroads, and the collective efforts of all citizens will determine the nation’s future. The time for empty rhetoric is over—pragmatic action is the only path forward.
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