Former President John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), addressed skeptics of his campaign promise to establish a 24-hour economy during the second phase of his ‘Building Ghana Together’ tour, while hinting on more policies to address Ghana’s economic woes.
While some institutions already operate around the clock, Mahama emphasized that a future NDC government would implement inclusive policies, ensuring widespread participation.
The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has repeatedly downplayed the significance of the 24-hour economy promise, asserting that some institutions are already practicing it. However, Mahama contends that the NDC’s proposed policy, backed by necessary resources and incentives, will create a framework for broader participation, benefiting the entire nation.
“It is not only the 24-hour economy we are propagating. Going into January, we will put out a lot on our economic policies that will revamp Ghana’s economy.”
John Mahama
Mahama’s vision for a 24-hour economy is not solely about operational hours but encompasses a comprehensive approach to encourage institutions to adopt this model. He envisions providing the necessary support to interested entities, making it easier for them to operate around the clock. The policy aims to stimulate economic growth, enhance productivity, and create more job opportunities.
Furthermore, during the tour, Mahama highlighted the importance of party unity and leadership exemplified by his main contender in the party’s presidential primary, Dr. Kwabena DuFour. Mahama encouraged party members to follow their exemplary leadership, emphasizing that unity is crucial for success in the upcoming 2024 elections. He emphasized the need for unity within the party and urged members to work towards a common goal for victory in the upcoming elections.
Addressing the issue of his running mate for the 2024 general elections, Mahama clarified that the selection process would adhere to the NDC’s constitution. He stated that the Functional Executive Committee (FEC), the Council of Elders, and the flagbearer would collectively decide on the vice-presidential candidate in February 2024.
“It appears every region I go everyone has a vice presidential candidate for me. I said in Bono Region that the NDC constitution has stipulated how a running mate should be selected, I cannot take that decision alone. I have to do that with the Functional Executive Committee and the Council of Elders and then go through the list of people who are qualified to be running mate then we select one. We are going to do that God willing February.
“So all those who want their preferred persons to be selected should pray that our hearts will be touched to select that person. Let us all be patient and when the time is due we will.”
John Mahama
Chiefs Petition Mahama To Restore Their Powers
In a meeting with Okatakyie Kwasi Bumangama II, Chief of Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region, concerns were raised about the diminishing powers of chiefs. The chief lamented that the authority once held by chiefs had been eroded, making it challenging for them to assert their traditional roles.
Okatakyie Kwasi Bumangama II attributed the decline in the powers of chiefs to constitutional provisions that limit their authority.
“I am glad you have visited me in my palace. Let me make this point that politicians have taken the powers of the chiefs, who are now powerless to the extent that people I summon to appear before threaten to take me to court but this was not the case in the past.
“If [Mr Mahama] wants to come back then he should give us that power again and we will all support him.”
Okatakyie Kwasi Bumangama II
In response, Mahama acknowledged the concerns raised by the chief and promised to consider ways to address the challenges faced by traditional leaders, affirming his commitment to preserving and respecting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.
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