John Dramani Mahama
Former President John Mahama says his bid to become the National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2024 election is a result of the country’s financial situation and government’s inability to run the affairs of the country.
He made this pronouncement yesterday when he addressed some jubilant NDC members at the party’s headquarters in Accra.
He said he was confident of passing the vetting process to enable him start with his campaign.
The former President also expressed his commitment to fight corruption and solve other issues facing the country.
According to him, a review of the 1992 Constitution will be a priority while his leadership works towards restoring anti-corruption institutions that have been destroyed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government as well.
Other flagbearer hopefuls who were yet to be vetted by the party apart from former President John Mahama include former Finance Minister Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, former Kumasi Mayor, Kojo Bonsu and businessman Ernest Kwaku Kobeah, who have successfully filed their nominations.
According to the Elections Committee of the party, the flagbearer aspirants were vetted on their qualifications for the position, ideologies and vision for the party.
On March 2, Mr. Mahama launched his campaign themed “Building The Ghana We Want Together.”
Addressing party faithful in Ho, Mr. Mahama explained that trust in the Akufo-Addo-led government has been eroded due to the economic mismanagement resulting from incompetent, inefficient leadership and general non-performance.
Former President Mahama also promised to scrap the benefits enjoyed by Article 71 holders, abolish ex-gratia and restore confidence in public institutions.
He also mentioned amongst other things that he would investigate how public funds were used, particularly COVID-19 expenditure and improve tolerance and criticism, especially in the media space.
He also promised to run a lean government not based on sloganeering but government with actionable policies from an experienced leader.
“Ghana needs experience and not experiment. Ghana needs a leader who will hit the ground running on January 7, 2025. Ghana needs a leader who will not be given an orientation and excursion through the Flagstaff House – the seat of government. Ghana used to be the shining light on the continent of Africa and I am of the strongest conviction that we can attain those heights again. I believe it and we’ll lead by example,” he said.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah