In a heartfelt address to church leaders in the Ashanti Region, John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) worshiped with the Clergy in Kumasi.
Mahama emphasized the important role of the church in promoting peace and unity, particularly during challenging times.
Mahama acknowledged the pivotal role played by religious leaders in maintaining peace in Ghana.
“The first [meeting] was in Accra, and we had a very good representation of the various denominations in Accra. And today is the second, and I’m very happy to see a very wide array of leaders of churches in Ashanti and around who have answered to our call. May God richly bless you.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
He expressed the desire to hold another meeting in northern Ghana before the upcoming elections if time permits.
“We believe that it’s your prayers and your intercessions that have kept Ghana at peace as an island of peace in a turbulent sub-region.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Reflecting on Ghana’s Peaceful History
“Since 1957, we’ve been blessed by God to live in peace. Even in times of crisis around us, God has always managed to protect us.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Citing Thessalonians 5:18, he reminded his audience to give thanks to God in all circumstances, a principle he upholds in both prosperity and adversity.
Addressing Economic Hardships and Debt Restructuring
Mahama then turned to the current economic challenges facing the nation, highlighting the impact of debt restructuring on ordinary Ghanaians, particularly pensioners.
“In times of crisis, sometimes retired generals are brought back to come in,” he said, alluding to his return to political leadership.
He lamented the nation’s economic woes, including a recent debt restructuring program that caused significant hardships for citizens who had invested in government bonds.
“We declared ourselves bankrupt because we announced to the world that we can’t pay the debts that we owe.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
He outlined how the economic crisis forced Ghana to seek assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He acknowledged the sacrifices of those affected, specifically pensioners who lost substantial sums due to the “haircuts” imposed on their investments.
“The debt restructuring caused a lot of pain to our people. There are many people who had their money in bonds and other government instruments.”
The Human Cost of Economic Crisis
Mahama emphasized the human toll of the economic crisis, sharing the story of the late Michael Ajekum Addo, CEO of Kama Industries, who had publicly disclosed financial difficulties resulting from the bond losses.
“Before then, he had announced that he had lost a lot of money in the bonds and that he was finding it very difficult to survive.”
“We must remember all those people in prayer, and we believe that as government, we have a responsibility to work hard so that we can recover their money earlier for them than the tenure that has been given.”
John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Ban on LGBTQ+ in Ghana
Moving to other substantial matters, Mahama emphasized that when the NDC comes to power all same-sex-related activities as well as all activities of the alphabet community shall not have a stay within the country and such acts would be criminalized. He referred to the fact that even in the U.S. most Christian communities do not accept such people into their gatherings.
A Call for Unity and Hope
Mahama stressed the importance of unity and collective effort in facing these challenges.
He expressed confidence that with the support of both religious leaders and the general public, Ghana could overcome its current difficulties.
He reiterated his commitment to alleviating the economic struggles faced by the people, particularly those who have been most affected by the recent policies.
Through this address, Mahama highlighted his vision of a government that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens and partners closely with the faith community to foster peace and stability in Ghana.
His message resonated with the audience, particularly his appeal to religious leaders for continued prayers and guidance in these uncertain times.
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