Former President and former flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama, has intimated that the democracy being practiced in the country is one that must move beyond family and friends relations.

In a statement to mark NDC’s 30th anniversary, John Mahama explained that democracy involves using the nation’s resources responsibly to address the felt needs of all Ghanaians, as such, must not be done on relationship basis. “The NDC also believes democracy goes beyond enriching family and friends.”

The former President posited that the NDC genuinely believes that the essence of democracy is to make life better for all citizens. According to him, it is for this reason that every time the party has had the privilege of leading the country, the NDC strives to create opportunities for all Ghanaians, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political affiliation.

John Mahama averred that democracy, transparency and accountability are bed fellows, and therefore, while creating opportunities for all, leaders are also required to wage a strong battle against corruption.

“The NDC knows that a media cowed into silence and an intimidated citizenry do not constitute the appropriate resource for sustainable progress and national development. We believe, therefore, that the ability of citizens to express themselves freely is a right and not a privilege.”
John Mahama

Tolerate criticisms and enhance free speech

John Mahama intimated that the current administration must learn to tolerate criticisms and enhance free speech while protecting journalists from harm. He then added that the NDC assures every Ghanaian of better years ahead.

“We have done it before; bringing tangible socio-economic infrastructure to your communities and ensuring the economy works for all of us and not just a privileged few.”
John Mahama

According to the former President, thirty (30) years ago, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) was birthed with the objective of delivering Unity, Stability and Development to all Ghanaians.

John Mahama intimated that through the leadership of Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings (Rtd), supported by his formidable team, the NDC emerged out of the PNDC as the vanguard leading the nation in the establishment of a new constitutional democracy, which guaranteed the rights and freedoms of all Ghanaians.

“On this solemn day, I commend our forebears who have sacrificed their all to get us here. On this auspicious 30th anniversary day, June 10, 2022, I ask all NDC members and sympathizers including the youth of Ghana; and all Ghanaians to Arise, Arise for Ghana wherever we find ourselves. Ghana needs our collective and patriotic energies to rescue her from the decay we see today. Arise, Arise for Ghana!”
John Mahama