By Ashiadey Dotse
Alhaji Mohammed Frimpong, presidential candidate for the National Democratic Party (NDP), has outlined his vision for Ghana, with a focus on grassroots empowerment and participatory governance.
Speaking on GBC’s Presidential Encounter on 20th November 2024, Mr. Frimpong introduced his proposal to create a COVID Community Organisation Bureau as a key initiative to address unemployment and strengthen community engagement.
Leveraging Community Expertise
Mr. Frimpong explained that the proposed bureau would focus on empowering residential and professional communities, as well as civil society organizations (CSOs).
“We are placing our population as our primary wealth,” he said, highlighting the importance of using local expertise and capacity to implement government policies. He noted that this approach would ensure that development initiatives reach communities effectively.
Tackling Unemployment with Participation
The NDP candidate identified unemployment as one of Ghana’s most pressing challenges. While acknowledging past government efforts, he criticised the lack of community involvement in policy implementation.
“Governments have not lacked policies, but the issue of participation is just not there,” Mr. Frimpong stated.
He argued that inclusive governance is essential for tackling unemployment and ensuring social interventions achieve their intended impact.
Reviving Grassroots Governance
Mr. Frimpong also criticised the neglect of local governance structures, such as unit committees, which were designed to promote community participation. Describing these structures as “dead on arrival,” he called for reforms to make them functional and relevant. “The Constitution envisions inclusive leadership, but this has not been taken seriously,” he said.
A Call for Change
Reflecting on Ghana’s democratic journey, Mr. Frimpong acknowledged the relative stability the nation enjoys but stressed the need for structural reforms. He invoked the vision of the late President Jerry John Rawlings, who envisioned a democracy where diverse voices could thrive. “Our democracy lacks the wheels to move forward as envisioned by its founders,” he remarked.
A Vision for the Future
Concluding his address, Mr. Frimpong called on Ghanaians to support his vision for a more inclusive and participatory governance system. “The progress we seek in our democracy requires putting people at the center of leadership and decision-making,” he said.
The 2024 presidential race is heating up, with candidates like Mr. Frimpong offering ideas to address the nation’s challenges.
His focus on grassroots empowerment and inclusive governance sets the stage for a compelling electoral debate.
