Opinions of Wednesday, 27 November 2024

Columnist: Cletus Siebune

Blueprint for redemption: How the NDC’s manifesto and John Mahama’s leadership can rescue Ghana’s economy

Flagbearer of NDC, John Dramani Mahama Flagbearer of NDC, John Dramani Mahama

Ghana stands at a crossroad, facing one of the most challenging economic crises in its modern history. Inflation has eroded the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, businesses are collapsing under unsustainable taxes, dumsor is back full swing, cocoa sector debt-ridden, and unemployment remains alarmingly high.

The once-promising Ghanaian economy is now a shadow of itself, battered by the incompetence and mismanagement of the Nana Addo/Bawumia administration.

In this bleak landscape, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its leader, John Dramani Mahama, offer a beacon of hope. Their manifesto is not just a collection of promises but a strategic plan grounded in practical solutions and informed by the realities of Ghana’s challenges. With Mahama’s track record of integrity, intelligence, and competence, the NDC’s vision is precisely what Ghana needs to rebuild and prosper.

The 24-Hour Economy Policy: Unleashing Productivity: The NDC’s proposal to establish a 24-hour economy is a revolutionary idea that will transform productivity across key sectors. By creating an environment where businesses can operate round the clock, Ghana can significantly increase its economic output.

This policy will create jobs, optimize the use of infrastructure, and attract investments in areas like logistics, manufacturing, and retail. It will also ensure that essential services, such as healthcare and transportation, operate efficiently at all times, improving the quality of life for all Ghanaians.

The Big Push: Infrastructure for Economic Expansion: The Big Push initiative is another cornerstone of the NDC’s manifesto. This ambitious infrastructure drive focuses on completing stalled projects and initiating new ones that will catalyze economic growth. From roads and railways to hospitals and schools, these projects will not only create thousands of jobs but also enhance connectivity, reduce transportation costs, inject money into the local economy, and improve access to essential services.

Women’s Development Bank: Empowering Half the Population: Recognizing the untapped potential of Ghanaian women, the NDC plans to establish a Women’s Development Bank. This institution will provide targeted financial support to women entrepreneurs, farmers, and small business owners, enabling them to expand their businesses and create jobs. Empowering women economically will have a ripple effect on families and communities, contributing significantly to poverty reduction and economic stability.

Decentralizing the National Buffer Stock: Feeding SHS students, supporting farmers: The decentralization of the National Buffer Stock system is a masterstroke in addressing two critical issues: feeding Senior High School (SHS) students and supporting local farmers. By sourcing food locally and ensuring efficient distribution, this policy will inject money into rural economies and reduce post-harvest losses. The multiplier effect of this policy will be profound, stimulating agricultural production and increasing incomes for farmers while ensuring food security for students.

A Leader for the Times: The Case for John Dramani Mahama: John Dramani Mahama’s leadership is pivotal to the successful implementation of these bold policies. Unlike his opponents, Mahama brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of managing the economy effectively. During his tenure, Ghana experienced significant economic growth, infrastructure development, and social progress. His calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and ability to unite people make him the ideal leader for Ghana’s recovery.

Furthermore, Mahama’s humility and commitment to accountability set him apart in an era when trust in political leadership is at an all-time low. Under his leadership, Ghanaians can expect a government that prioritizes their needs and upholds the principles of transparency and fairness.
The Multiplier Effect: A Foundation for Sustainable Growth: The combined impact of these policies will set Ghana on a path to economic expansion.

By stimulating local economies, creating jobs, and empowering marginalized groups, the NDC’s manifesto addresses the root causes of Ghana’s economic challenges. The multiplier effect will be enormous, as increased incomes lead to higher consumption, business growth, and a more vibrant economy.

Conclusion: The upcoming elections present Ghanaians with a clear choice: continue on the current path of economic decline or embrace a vision of hope and transformation. The NDC’s manifesto is not just a promise-it is a well-thought-out blueprint for rebuilding Ghana’s economy and improving the lives of its citizens.

With John Dramani Mahama at the helm, Ghanaians can be confident in a brighter future. His leadership, combined with the NDC’s innovative policies, offers a chance to redeem Ghana from the brink of economic collapse. This is not just an election; it is an opportunity to rewrite Ghana’s story and chart a course towards prosperity and equity. A vote for John Mahama and NDC is a vote for hope and transformation.