The historic re-election of John Dramani Mahama has sparked renewed hopes in many Ghanaians, particularly in the areas of economic recovery, corruption, and the stabilisation of the cedi.

Ahead of his inauguration, some Ghanaians are hopeful that he will take decisive steps to address the high costs of living, the surge in youth unemployment, and restore confidence in the Ghanaian economy.

Speaking with GhanaWeb TV, on Wednesday, December 12, 2024, some individuals shared high expectations of the incoming administration.

One person urged John Mahama not to be indifferent but rather work hard to address the challenges faced by Ghanaians.

"I want to address the cost-of-living crisis that has plagued Ghanaians. Prices of goods have skyrocketed because of the depreciation of the cedi. He should not be complacent; he should work hard. Even if the cedi depreciates further to 10 cedis to the dollar, we will be satisfied if he tackles these challenges. If he doesn't, we will vote against the NDC in the next election," she said.

Another person stressed the need for the incoming government to combat corruption, which has become endemic in the country.

"I want the incoming government to step up efforts in tackling corruption. They should prosecute all officials from the previous government who were corrupt. This will inspire more confidence in his administration and deter his appointees from engaging in corrupt practices. It will set a precedent for all other government appointees in the future.

"He should also complete all the projects initiated by the previous government that were abandoned by the Akufo-Addo government, he should also ensure the stabilisation of the cedi so that prices of petrol can be reduced," he emphasised.

Another also urged the Mahama-led administration not to disappoint Ghanaians following his decisive victory in the recent election.

"For those of us who voted for the NDC, I pray he doesn’t disappoint us. He should put his best foot forward. I urge John Mahama to work hard and not let Ghanaians down. With his four-year mandate, we are hoping to see transformation in the country," he noted.

Improving the Free Senior High School (SHS) program, one of the flagship initiatives introduced by the Akufo-Addo government, was a concern for one individual.

"Under the double-track system, some students stay in school for just two weeks before going on vacation. With his re-election, I am hoping that he expands infrastructure in senior high schools," he noted.

He further urged the NDC government to probe the National Cathedral project.

"I want him to probe the National Cathedral project and prosecute all officials who are cited for corruption," he added.

Another also appealed to the government to abolish some of the taxes introduced by the Akufo-Addo-led government.

"I want the government to cancel the Betting Tax, E-Levy, and COVID-19 Levy to alleviate the plight of Ghanaians. I also want him to create jobs for the youth," she stated.

For one individual, his appeal to the government was to ensure that his appointees do not abuse his trust.

"He should keep a close eye on all his appointees. This will keep them on their toes and ensure they do not engage in corrupt practices. He should also ensure his appointees are on the right track.

"He should also stabilise the cedi, the prices of goods are too high; we are indeed suffering," he noted.

As the country anticipates this new chapter under Mahama’s leadership, the weight of expectations is significant.

The nation’s hopes are pinned on policies that will bring relief and prosperity, but only time will tell if these aspirations will be realised.

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