The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has commended His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, for his decision to scale down the cost of Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebration, aligning with the party’s long-standing advocacy for economic prudence in national commemorations.
In a statement signed by its Chairperson and Leader, Comrade Wing Commander Patrick Nelson Sogbodjor, the CPP lauded the decision as a step in the right direction, calling on all Ghanaians to support the President’s “Reset Agenda.”
Ghana’s Independence Day, traditionally marked with grand parades and expensive ceremonies, was significantly scaled down this year, saving the state an estimated GHS 13.5 million.
This decision, the CPP noted, is consistent with its previous calls for a review of the manner in which the country observes such national events.
“It is interesting to note that, on record, the CPP message on the 66th Independence Anniversary in 2023, was for a boycott of the Independence Celebrations until the Country was in a better state.
“And further, even as far back as the 55th Independence Anniversary in 2012, the same call was made by prominent members of the CPP, even going as far as launching a social media campaign in addition to street engagement.”
Patrick Nelson Sogbodjor, Chairman Convention Peoples’ Party
According to the CPP, President Mahama’s move to redirect resources toward more pressing national concerns is a clear acknowledgment of the party’s vision for Ghana’s economic and developmental priorities.
The party views this as an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on the nation’s journey and the collective responsibility of citizens in shaping a prosperous future.
Recognizing the Strength of Nkrumaist Policies
The CPP further emphasized that Ghana’s past economic successes under the first Republic, led by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, should serve as a blueprint for future governance.
The party referenced the recently held National Economic Dialogue, where key stakeholders acknowledged the unmatched economic achievements of the CPP era.
The event underscored the importance of learning from the policies of Ghana’s first government, particularly in areas of industrialization, education, and economic self-sufficiency.
“Indeed, it is refreshing to note that His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Government took many leaves from the CPP book of wisdom and implemented Nkrumaist-inspired policies, such as the Free Senior High School policy and other socialist policies.
“Policies that were evident in the CPP’s 7-year development plan, as far back as 1963, built on its highly successful Accelerated Development Plan for Education in 1952, which made basic education free.”
Patrick Nelson Sogbodjor, Chairman Convention Peoples’ Party
The CPP believes that any government that aspires to bring true economic transformation must adopt and refine these Nkrumaist ideals.
A Call for National Support in Resetting Ghana’s Economy
With the country at a crossroads, the CPP is urging all citizens to support the government’s call to “Reflect, Review, and Reset.” The party believes that building the economy must be a collective effort, transcending political affiliations, ideological differences, and personal interests.
It argued that Ghana’s development should not be held hostage by partisanship but should rather be guided by policies that prioritize the well-being of the people.
The statement reiterated the CPP’s commitment to advocating for policies that reflect the aspirations of Ghanaians.
It called for a renewed focus on industrialization, job creation, and economic self-reliance, stressing that these are the pathways to sustainable national development.
As Ghana marked its 68th Independence Anniversary, the CPP reminded citizens of the significance of the milestone.
The party noted that while there is much to celebrate, the challenges that continue to confront the nation demand sober reflection. From economic hardships to governance inefficiencies, the country must take stock of its progress and failures and chart a course that ensures long-term stability and prosperity.
The CPP believes that Ghana’s independence should not only be symbolic but must be reflected in economic independence, industrial growth, and the empowerment of its citizens.
As the nation moves forward, it must remain committed to the principles of self-determination, social justice, and economic liberation.
In concluding its statement, the CPP reaffirmed its dedication to the ideals of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and the vision of a prosperous Ghana.
The party called on all Ghanaians to rally behind the Reset Agenda and contribute to the building of a nation that thrives on unity, equity, and sustainable development.
As the nation takes steps toward economic recovery and governance reforms, the CPP remains steadfast in its role as the custodian of Ghana’s original development blueprint.
It reiterated its commitment to ensuring that policies that prioritize the well-being of the people remain at the center of national discourse.
READ ALSO: Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor Offers Key Insights for Entrepreneurs in 2024