President-elect John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Ghana’s economic stability as the foremost priority of his incoming administration.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by British High Commissioner Harriet Thompson, Mr. Mahama highlighted the urgency of addressing key challenges, particularly within the energy sector, which he described as critical to the nation’s economic recovery efforts.
“Our priorities are clear: first, restoring economic stability, and second, reigniting economic growth to create more job opportunities for our young people,” he said. “However, we have immediate emergencies to address, especially in the energy sector, which forms the backbone of our recovery efforts.”
Restoring Economic Stability Through Partnerships
Mr. Mahama emphasized the importance of engaging Ghana’s international partners in bilateral and multilateral discussions to strengthen economic cooperation.
He expressed gratitude for Ghana’s long-standing partnership with the United Kingdom, describing it as a “historic relationship” rooted in mutual interests.
“We look forward to exploring areas of cooperation with the UK and other partners. This includes technical assistance and resource mobilization to address pressing challenges, particularly in the energy value chain,” he stated.
The president-elect warned of the consequences of neglecting the energy sector, stressing that its instability could derail the government’s broader economic plans.
“If we do not address issues in the energy sector urgently, it could undermine everything we are trying to achieve,” he cautioned.
Concerns Over Transitional Challenges
Mr. Mahama raised concerns about last-minute contracts and mass recruitments being conducted by the outgoing administration, which he believes could burden the incoming government.
“There are reports of contracts being signed at the eleventh hour that will commit the new government before it even assumes office. Additionally, there is widespread recruitment into various agencies, creating liabilities we must address,” he said. “I trust that the joint transition team will review these matters and resolve them appropriately.”
A Call for Responsible Governance
Reflecting on his party’s unprecedented victory in securing over 180 parliamentary seats, Mr. Mahama acknowledged the responsibility that comes with such a strong mandate.
“When I cast my vote, I projected we might win around 150 seats. To secure over 180 is both surprising and humbling. It is a clear statement from Ghanaians that they want change and expect us to fix the challenges they face,” he remarked.
He warned his party against complacency, emphasizing the need to address citizens’ concerns or risk facing a similar fate as the outgoing government.
“This majority is not for us to misuse. It is a mandate to deliver results in the national interest,” he said.
Promising Consensus in Leadership
Mr. Mahama assured that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would not abuse its parliamentary majority. Instead, he pledged to govern inclusively by fostering consensus and collaboration with the minority in parliament.
“Even with such a significant majority, we are committed to working with the minority. We aim to achieve progress through consensus rather than imposing decisions unilaterally,” he assured.
Gratitude for International Support
Concluding his remarks, the president-elect expressed gratitude to the UK for its support before, during, and after the elections. “We deeply appreciate the UK’s cooperation and look forward to working together to advance Ghana’s development,” he said.
With a clear focus on economic recovery, sustainable energy solutions, and inclusive governance, Mr. Mahama’s remarks reflect his vision for addressing Ghana’s challenges while fostering unity and progress.
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Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites✍️) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 🇬🇭
