John Dramani Mahama, president-elect
There is a saying: “The memory of the dead is a warning to the living.” Before the elections, I had a dream in which I saw H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), dressed in all white, holding my daughter as we celebrated his victory. That was when I knew he would be president again.
However, the overwhelming endorsement by Ghanaians came as a surprise. As the saying goes, “To whom much is given, much is expected.”
While we all celebrate this victory, I am cautiously optimistic. I urge the NDC not to treat this as business as usual. The rot, corruption, impudence, arrogance, and disrespect for the people of Ghana that characterized previous administrations—regardless of party—cannot continue. There is urgent work to be done, and we must collectively rescue this nation.
To those who will be entrusted with the public purse, remember this: Public service is a sacred duty. It is not an avenue for arrogance or looting. If even those of us outside government have managed to secure investments for Ghana, then much more is expected from those in power. This is a call for collective action; all hands must be on deck to rebuild Ghana.
Criticism of one’s own party is not hatred but an act of love and accountability. Anyone unwilling to be audited or criticized should venture into private business, where they can operate without public scrutiny. Public servants must remember their role is to serve—not themselves, but the people.
The NDC must rise to meet the expectations of Ghanaians and remain above reproach. Posterity will judge you based on what you do in this tenure.
This election has demonstrated once again that Ghana is not a one-party state.
No political party has an unshakable stronghold, and no government can take Ghanaians for granted. The same cane that was used to whip the NPP will be used to whip the NDC if it fails to deliver. Ghanaians are a people of God and guts, and when they cry out in dissatisfaction, God hears them.
We cannot transform Ghana entirely in four years, but we can bring about significant and positive changes. The NDC must focus on:
1. Ending Galamsey: Protecting our environment and natural resources.
2. Creating Jobs: Establishing a 24-hour economy to generate employment.
3. Reducing Tariffs: Making importation more affordable for businesses and citizens.
4. Trimming Government: Reducing the number of ministerial appointments.
5. Abolishing Licensure Exams: Removing unnecessary barriers for professionals.
6. Boosting Local Production: Increasing manufacturing and reducing import dependency.
7. Stabilizing the Cedi: Encouraging exports and reducing imports.
8. Recovering Looted Funds: Taking firm steps to identify and retrieve funds and assets stolen from the state.
9. Overhauling the Judicial System: Ensuring justice is fair, transparent, and serves the people, not political interests.
10. Reforming the Electoral Commission (EC): Strengthening its independence and efficiency to prevent future controversies.
11. Revamping Government Institutions: Making them more accountable, efficient, and service-oriented.
12. Completing NPP’s Unfinished Projects: Demonstrating continuity and responsibility.
13. Tax Reform: Reducing or abolishing taxes like the COVID levy and e-levy.
14. Supporting Entrepreneurship: Establishing funding opportunities for young entrepreneurs, alongside training and capacity-building initiatives, to foster innovation and self-employment.
15. Supporting AfCFTA: Leveraging Ghana’s position as the trade capital of Africa and the host of the AfCFTA Secretariat to enhance intra-African trade, create jobs, and position the nation as a hub for commerce and innovation.
16. Enhancing the Road Network in Northern Ghana: This is critical for attracting development and investment. I will personally hold His Excellency accountable for this. If he does not address this issue within four years, he will lose my respect. Northern Ghana’s roads are a priority, and I will work tirelessly to engage investors, institutions like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Afreximbank, as well as other stakeholders, to support these infrastructure projects. This is non-negotiable, and I am personally committed to ensuring this happens.
Leadership must be grounded, approachable, and inclusive. We need leaders who can attract investors to partner with local businesses and promote sustainable development. If the NDC can deliver on these priorities in four years, Ghanaians will undoubtedly entrust you with another term to continue developing the nation.
Let this be clear: Any minister or appointee who fails to deliver or becomes arrogant will be held accountable—by the people and by us who continue to speak truth to power. Ghana deserves honest, humble, and diligent leadership. This is your opportunity to rise to the occasion. Let us not fail our nation.