Mahama’s first 100 days is baptism of fire – Sam P. Yarley

A leading member of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has described President John Mahama’s first 100 days, which falls on Monday 15th April, as a “baptism of fire”.

Speaking on Radio Gold’s Alhaji and Alhaji talk show, Saturday 12th April, Mr. Sam P Yarley said in spite of the “dumso dumso” power problem, erratic supply of water to some parts of country and recent labour agitations, the President at each stage has demonstrated leadership and commitment to resolving the problems.

“All his ups and downs are periods of learning”, he said.

According to him, because these problems have come up in the early stages of President John Mahama’s administration, there is a strong possibility for finding solutions to them before the President’s term ends

Mr. Yarley, however proposed that the President must adopt strategies for effective use of its own internally generated funds as well as the Pensions Fund to develop the country.

In his view, instead of borrowing from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), government can use part of the pensions fund for developmental projects, including the construction of roads on which tolls will be collected for further revenue generation.

Mr. Samuel Yarley said his expectation beyond the 100 days would be a strategy by government that will move the country from the grips of IMF and its allied institutions.

He sent a strong word to the Ministers and their deputies, saying they must be results oriented.

He said NDC members must stop the “it's our pay day” mentality and allow government to work in the interest of the whole nation.

Prof. Nii Noi Dowuona, Head of Department of Soil Science at the University of Ghana and who was also on the show said the urgency with which the President made his appointments must be applauded.

He said all over the world, the first 100 days have become a barometer to ascertain whether an administration is on track towards delivering on its mandate.

He gave President John Mahama a 90% rating in his first 100 days.