Rawlings Was Right Over Victor Smith

An outspoken member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Binduri constituency, Stephen Atubiga says Victor Smith’s comments on the selection of Paa Kwesi Amissah-Arthur as vice presidential nominee has vindicated former President Jerry John Rawlings’ conduct.

Former President Rawlings, in one of his several outbursts, indicated that many selfish and greedy people advised former President Atta Mills, stressing that they do not have the welfare of the President or the country at heart.

Somehow these persons managed to insulate former President Mills from the truth while they continued to grab whatever their hands could reach, he said.

According to him, Victor Smith was not the right person to comment on the nomination of the former Governor of the Bank of Ghana since he had enjoyed so much under this government.

“Victor Smith was an ambassador and due to his interest in Abuakwa North parliamentary seat he was made the Eastern Regional Minister so that he could gain the favour of the people of the region and the constituency ahead of the election in December 2012. What more does he want.

I will not be surprised if I am told that Victor Smith was among some persons around the former president who frustrated John Mahama and undermined his authority as the then Vice President.”

According to him, “If Amissah-Arthur has a good message on how to develop the economy of the nation, it doesn’t matter whether he is known within the NDC or not discerning Ghanaians will vote for the NDC to enable him to implement his plans.”

Stephen Atubiga advised President John Mahama to be mindful of some personalities, especially those drove away sincere and dedicated people like former President Rawlings and Martin Amidu due to their parochial interests.

“Ghanaians deserve better so even if a technocrat who has not contributed to a party is selected to lead, let us all rally behind that person to succeed for the good of Ghana. People like Victor Smith must be ignored.”