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Ghana's future under Mahama: Hope or illusion?

John Dramani Mahama John Mahama John Dramani Mahama John MahamaFotoJet(1) Former President, John Mahama

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 Source: Isaac Ofori

I have been closely following John Mahama’s explanation of why he believes he is the best choice to address the current economic hardships. After listening carefully, it appears he does not have a firm grasp of NDC policies and the specific changes they aim to implement.

He often references the frustration of the youth and asks for their continued hope in him. However, Mahama struggles to clearly articulate the NDC's plans and how these could lead to positive outcomes.

This lack of clear communication seems to undermine the NDC's agenda. Instead, Mahama focuses more on criticizing the NPP government and engaging in propaganda, rather than effectively communicating the NDC's vision for change to Ghanaians.

My main concern lies in the feasibility of Mahama implementing his proposed changes if he wins the election. The NDC appears to overlook the fact that their Presidential Candidate has a four-year term to enact his plans. Any suggestion that Ghana is beyond repair could raise doubts about the practicality and achievability of its transformational agenda.

Despite acknowledging the constraints of time, Mahama gives the impression that he has ample time to transform Ghana. This is contradictory to his previous remark that four years is insufficient for meaningful change, which conflicts with his current promises to Ghanaians.

It is problematic when a leader, bound to a four-year term, expresses confidence in his ability to change Ghana’s economic fortunes. The processes involved in passing laws, establishing institutions, and appointing ministers are so elaborate that it would be difficult for Mahama and the NDC to expedite their agenda within the limited timeframe.

Therefore, it seems somewhat dishonest for Mahama and the NDC to give the youth false hope, knowing the time constraints on implementing certain policies quickly. Several pressing questions remain unanswered: How long will it take for the NDC to stabilize the cedi and bring it to a reasonable exchange rate? How long will it take to create businesses and provide employment for the youth?

How will the NDC generate sufficient resources or acquire funds to rebuild Ghana, given their claim that Akufo-Addo has wrecked everything? These are just a few of the questions the NDC must address considering Mahama’s repeated promises of hope.

It's crucial for Ghanaians to carefully consider the 2024 elections. The NDC seems focused on gaining power to rebrand and reorganize their party, with Mahama as their key to achieving this. With tough competition from Dr Bawumia, who presents a stark contrast to Mahama, the decision should be based on which leader can be more accountable and has a clear plan for Ghana's future.

We should not switch between the NDC and NPP without holding them accountable. It’s essential to thoroughly scrutinize both candidates and consider the potential impact of returning the NDC to power.

It seems the NDC is mainly interested in power, and allowing the NPP's Bawumia to continue could lead to better accountability based on current indications and observations.

Columnist: Isaac Ofori