You have my blessing – Otumfuo to Mahama

The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has assured President John Mahama of his full blessing, as long as he remains the country’s leader, for accelerated development.

The Asantehene, who was speaking during a courtesy call on him by the President and his entourage as part of his ‘Accounting to the People Tour’ of the Ashanti region also said he will hold the President and the NPP Flagbearer who have both committed themselves to sustain the peace in the country responsible for any breach before, during and after the elections.

“You are the one Ghanaians have voted for to rule us. Whatever I will do to help you for Ghana to progress, I shall do. I did same during President Kufuor’s regime when he went to Washington to seal the deal on HIPC,” Otumfuo said.

“He used the proceeds to improve the nation. You have also gone to the IMF. It is because of the betterment of the people of Ghana that’s why you took that decision. Whatever I need to do for you to succeed, I will provide,” he added.

The Asantehene sat in the state together with sub-chiefs of the Asanteman Council before the arrival of the President.

President Mahama was accompanied by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, Ashanti Regional Minister, John Alexander Ackon, the Roads and Highways Minister, Alhaji Inusah Fuseini, the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, COP Kofi Boakye, top party officials and some appointees including Ghana's Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Victor Smith and Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu.

Mahama reiterated his commitment to peace and appealed to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to continue his good counsel to help him succeed. He briefed the chiefs about his initiatives and expected impact on the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.

“In my government’s work, some have received hospitals, schools, water and many more. If we do not go round and give the bigger picture, it is not easy to appreciate [them],” Mahama said.

He announcement that the Kumasi Central Market will be the biggest and modern in Africa when completed.

President Mahama also mentioned some key projects in the Ashanti regional capital including a 70-kilometer asphalt overlay in Kumasi and surrounding communities as well as a massive Military hospital project that includes accommodation for 125 medical doctors and a helipad.

“The only Military Hospital was set up during the second world war. We have decided that the place where we deem it fit to build another one is here in Asanteman. It has accommodation for 125 Doctors and other medical professionals and a helipad, and it will be given a soft opening by the end of the first quarter of 2017 when I will come for you and I to go and inaugurate it,” he said.

Economy

On the economy, he emphasized that the IMF programme even though has been difficult has helped to address the challenges.

“The currency is stable, inflation is stable, and the deficit is going down. And so I want to thank you [for your understanding and support],” he explained.

The President used the occasion to thank the Otumfuo for sending a delegation to him both in Accra and Busunu to support the burial of his late mother. He also went on to express his gratitude for the good advice, counsel and guidance the Asantehene has been giving him from his days as Vice President till date.

He concluded by assuring the Chiefs of a comprehensive arrangement and dedication to ensure the general elections are peaceful.

“We believe that when we vote there will be no confusion. I am one person who does not like confusion. If there is any confusion, it will not come from me,” Mahama asserted.

Earlier the President inaugurated the Adobewora Community Day SHS in the Atwima Mponua District. The school which can accommodate 1,500 students is equipped with a well-stocked library, staff common rooms, Chemistry, Physics and Biology laboratories, an ICT lab and 6 washrooms.

The school also received a 60-seater bus and a pickup to facilitate movement of teachers and students.