https://www.myjoyonline.com/the-state-of-the-nation-at-68-is-president-mahama-our-hope/-------https://www.myjoyonline.com/the-state-of-the-nation-at-68-is-president-mahama-our-hope/
President John Mahama

Since Ghana's independence in 1957, the country's economy has struggled to realise full potential. Numerous hurdles have slowed our development, and some critical initiatives must be made to restart and reinvigorate our economy.

But was the economy in the last eight years governed in a criminal and incompetent manner? Was the previous government living in a bubble, believing everyone was enjoying when in reality, people were trying to make ends meet? Was it true that instead of accepting responsibility, they repeatedly passed the buck, blaming everyone but themselves for the country's economic woes?

Election 2024 in Ghana has been described as more akin to a revolution, raising questions about the incoming administration's approach to governance. As the new regime inherits an overheated economy, it faces significant challenges in fulfilling its commitments and delivering necessary services to the people.

Ghana's financial situation has been a topic of concern, with President Mahama's recent speech to Parliament highlighting the sinking fund of $64,000 in the dollar account and GHS 200 million in the cedi account.

This raises questions about the nation's ability to fulfill its commitments and deliver necessary services. The opposition has not disputed the data's veracity, suggesting that the previous administration mismanaged the economy. The crisis affects areas like infrastructure development, healthcare, and education, necessitating budgetary restraint, waste reduction, and corruption reduction.

We are glad to learn that President Mahama has vowed to address all economic difficulties, same to how he handled the Power Crisis (aka Dumsor). This demonstrates that he inherited an issue that was not his fault, but committed himself to resolve it.

President John Dramani Mahama highlighted in his state of the nation address that Ghana's free Senior High School (SHS) policy will not be cancelled. He understands that the policy has been a game changer for many families.

The only issue is its implementation. He wants to make sure that everyone has access to a high-quality education. His goal is to provide more opportunities for young people to contribute to Ghana's growth. However, particular efforts are required to improve the policy, overcome challenges, and ensure its long-term survival.

Constituting Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) who received over 2000 complaints demonstrates his commitment to combating corruption, which is an important step toward Ghana's prosperity.

Despite ranking 80th on the Corruption Perceptions Index, Ghana has established institutions such as the Office of the Special Prosecutor and anti-corruption organizations like the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition. Supporting these programs and holding authorities accountable are essential components of Ghana's anti-corruption efforts.

The allegations of corruption against President Mahama are based on conjecture and hearsay, with no evidence to support them. This demonstrates that the assertions were politically motivated, or driven by personal interests, hatred and malice. It once again underscores Mahama's integrity, as he can be trusted when he says he would fight corruption. The NSS saga, the sky train fiasco, and the National Cathedral saga are only a few examples of cases that must be thoroughly investigated and those culpable held accountable.

This will be a positive step towards combating corruption, and his administration's efforts to strengthen institutions and hold public officials accountable can help build a more corrupt-free society.

Regardless of political affiliation, it is critical to support the current administration's success, which benefits all citizens by improving the economy, infrastructure, and social services. A failed government will harm individuals, families, and communities.

Citizens should not support every policy or decision, but instead offer constructive criticism and proposals for reform. Opposition criticism acts as a check and balance on the ruling party while keeping the government accountable.

It can raise key questions, highlight issues, and offer alternative perspectives, resulting in better decision-making. However, some criticism may be motivated by political benefit, so be wary and perform thorough research. Being aware and discerning can help you distinguish between constructive criticism and politically motivated attacks.

A healthy democracy necessitates a balance between a functional government and a strong opposition. Engaging in opposing critique leads to a more informed and active public discourse.

President John Dramani Mahama's historic speech to Parliament emphasized Ghana's vision of young empowerment and inclusive governance. His appointees, often youthful, demonstrate openness and understanding of the public's emotions.

The efficacy of Mahama's administration is largely determined by his leadership and the performance of his appointments. A cohesive group of officials is essential for Mahama's administration, as they must understand his policies, put in effort, be honest, open, and accountable. They must also be willing to collaborate with other stakeholders and listen to criticism.

The capacity of Mahama's team to work effectively together, support his vision, and carry out their duties is critical to the administration's success and Ghana's full potential. As activists, we will continue to hold government officials accountable for their decisions, demand the removal of those who fail to deliver, and praise those who thrive.

This civic involvement encourages openness, good governance, and advances human rights. By instilling a culture of accountability, appointees understand their actions will be evaluated, leading to improved governance and more efficient public service delivery.

Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the CEO of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exemplifies dedication and hard effort to duty. Her hands-on attitude and dedication to her work are critical for fostering good change and environmental sustainability. She is usually working out in the field.  Ghana suffers from severe pollution, including air, noise, and water contamination. These problems require a passionate and determined leader, such as Prof Klutse, to assist tackle them. Her appointment is proper and in place; it's a round peg in a round hole.

Appointees such as Professor Klutse appear to share President Mahama's vision and are working toward common aims to create a better future for Ghana and the people of Ghana. Her passion and hard work are commendable and should be emulated by other appointees and public officials.

Ghanaian politics is facing a crisis in recruitment and appointments, with last-minute appointments and hiring being common.

To address this, the government is implementing systemic changes, such as encouraging merit-based employment, reducing exorbitant allowances for public officials, and modifying the Transitional Act to prohibit last-minute recruitment. The president may also put newly recruited personnel on standby while evaluating their skills and credentials.

The current administration is also introducing among other things, National Sign Language for hard-of-hearing students, reviewing school curricula, expanding social intervention programs, and promoting inclusion and equity through programs like the National Apprenticeship Program, STEM and TVET schools, the Islamic Education Unit, a short military discipline for National service personnel’s, Women Development bank, and scholarships etc.

The introduction of Adwumawura Program and the Ministry for youth Development and Empowerment aim to address youth unemployment and promote inclusion and equity.

Revitalising Ghana's Economy, Ghana's economic recovery will be dependent on the current administration's capacity to implement successful policies and initiatives, such as budgetary discipline, waste reduction, corruption reduction, controlled borrowing that encourage long-term growth and development. We all need to roll up our sleeves and support this government, rather than letting it go belly up.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.


DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.