By Kafui Dey
In a highly anticipated address to the media on July 7, 2024, former President John Dramani Mahama outlined his vision for Ghana ahead of the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections, declaring it the “Time for Change.”
Speaking to a packed audience and millions watching and listening across the country and the world, Mr. John Mahama delivered a passionate speech highlighting the nation’s current state and his plans for the future.
Former President Mahama criticized the current administration under President Nana Akufo-Addo and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, stating that the past eight years have seen the country sink into a serious economic abyss.
He emphasized the harsh realities faced by many Ghanaians, including unprecedented levels of poverty, unemployment, and social inequity. Mr. Mahama argued that the country’s economic and social challenges are a result of the government’s incompetence, arrogance, and selfishness.
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism and confidence in Ghana’s ability to overcome its difficulties. He outlined five key reasons why he believes he can reset the country and turn the tide:
Experience
Former President Mahama highlighted his previous tenure as president, during which he navigated Ghana through tough economic waters and achieved significant infrastructure development.
Visionary Leadership for Economic Revival
He promised to focus on sustainable development, job creation through industrialization, and efficient use of natural resources.
Commitment to Job Creation
Former President Mahama emphasized the importance of creating decent, well-paying jobs for the youth, fostering entrepreneurship, and inspiring change-makers.
Championing Social Justice and Equality
He pledged to strengthen social interventions and educational reforms, promote gender equality, and protect the vulnerable.
A Call to National Unity
Mr. Mahama stressed the importance of national cohesion and encouraged all Ghanaians to contribute towards nation-building, regardless of political or ethnic affiliations.
He also introduced his vision for a 24-hour economy, aimed at accelerating economic growth, creating jobs, and boosting exports. He described this initiative as a means to put Ghana on a solid path to development and eliminate poverty.
Addressing corruption, former President Mahama committed to running a lean government with no more than 60 ministers and deputy ministers. He promised to launch a renewed fight against corruption, increase accountability in government procurement processes, and set up an independent value-for-money office to scrutinize all significant procurements.
Mr. Mahama also highlighted his plans for the agriculture and agribusiness sector, promising to establish specialized agro-industrial zones, create farmer service centers, and launch a program to make Ghana self-sufficient in basic staples.
Recognizing the importance of the digital revolution, he pledged to provide universal and affordable internet access, train one million coding professionals, and create 300,000 skilled employment opportunities for the youth through a “Digital Jobs Initiative.”
In conclusion, Mr. Mahama called on Ghanaians to seize the moment and build a brighter future together, emphasizing that the time for change has come. He invited questions from the media, signaling his commitment to transparency and accountability.
The speech marked former President Mahama’s first major media encounter ahead of the December 7 elections, setting the tone for his campaign and vision for Ghana’s future.
