The Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has passionately appealed to Ghanaians to vote for the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the December 7 general elections. Ahiagbah described this decision as one of the most significant and transformative choices the nation could make since gaining independence in 1957.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV, Ahiagbah outlined Dr. Bawumia’s visionary approach to addressing Ghana’s longstanding challenges while positioning the country as a leader in the emerging global technological and industrial revolution.
A Vision for Transformation
According to Ahiagbah, Bawumia’s leadership offers a pragmatic and forward-thinking roadmap for sustainable development. He highlighted the candidate’s commitment to digitalization, economic diversification, and policies aimed at alleviating hardships and ensuring Ghana’s active participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s vision ensures Ghana is not left behind. His policies are aimed at aligning us with global developments, particularly in technology and innovation, while addressing systemic issues that have hindered our growth,” Ahiagbah noted.
He emphasized that a mandate for the NPP in the upcoming elections would secure a brighter future for Ghana, positioning the country to thrive in a rapidly changing global environment.
The Legacy of the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia Administration
Ahiagbah’s assertion of Dr. Bawumia’s transformational potential builds on the achievements of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led administration, which has governed Ghana for two terms since assuming office in 2017.
State of Affairs in 2017
When the NPP government took office, it inherited significant challenges, including:
- High public debt levels exceeding 70% of GDP.
- Dumsor (erratic power supply), which stifled productivity and economic growth.
- An IMF bailout program initiated by the John Mahama-led administration.
- High unemployment rates, particularly among the youth.
- Weak industrial and agricultural output, contributing to economic stagnation.
Achievements Since 2017
- Economic Stabilization and Growth
- Successfully exited the IMF bailout program in 2019.
- Pre-COVID economic growth peaked at 6.5%, making Ghana one of the fastest-growing economies globally.
- Introduction of the Ghana CARES Obaatan Pa program to revitalize the economy post-COVID.
- Digitalization Drive
- Implementation of the National Digital Property Address System.
- Introduction of the Ghana Card for national identification and integration with key services.
- Mobile Money Interoperability system, which has significantly boosted financial inclusion.
- Paperless ports system to enhance trade efficiency.
- Social Interventions
- Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which has provided access to education for over 1.6 million students.
- Restoration of teacher and nursing trainee allowances.
- Expansion of the LEAP (Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty) program.
- Industrialization and Job Creation
- Launch of the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative, with over 125 factories operational.
- Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program to boost agricultural output and food security.
- Implementation of the National Builders Corps (NABCO), creating jobs for 100,000 young graduates.
- Infrastructure Development
- Road infrastructure improvements under the Year of Roads initiative.
- Construction and commissioning of interchanges, including the Pokuase, Tamale, and Flower Pot interchanges.
- Expansion of healthcare facilities and the launch of Agenda 111 to improve healthcare access nationwide.
- Energy Sector Reforms
- Stabilization of power supply and the resolution of Dumsor.
- Renegotiation of power purchase agreements to save billions in excess capacity charges.
- COVID-19 Response
- Implementation of free water and electricity for households during the pandemic.
- Establishment of local PPE production hubs and vaccination campaigns.
Looking Ahead
Ahiagbah argued that Dr. Bawumia’s vision builds on these foundations, with an agenda to further strengthen Ghana’s technological, economic, and industrial base. He urged voters to support the NPP for a sustained path toward national development.
“Bawumia is not just a choice; he is the best choice since independence to lead Ghana into a prosperous future,” Ahiagbah concluded.
Conclusion
The upcoming elections present Ghanaians with an opportunity to consolidate the gains made over the past seven years. As the nation debates the best path forward, the NPP positions itself as a party with a proven track record and a clear vision for the future under the leadership of Dr. Bawumia.
