John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticized the current government for its role in the 35% decline in Ghana’s petroleum production, attributing the drop to widespread corruption that has driven away major investors, including ExxonMobil, to other countries like Ivory Coast.
Key Statements by Mahama:
- Corruption in the Petroleum Sector:
Mahama alleged that some government officials demand exorbitant sums from petroleum investors for oil blocks, creating an environment of uncertainty and mistrust that has discouraged foreign investment in the sector. - Contrasting Current Challenges with Past Achievements:
Mahama highlighted that during his tenure as president, his administration attracted significant investment into the petroleum industry. He lamented how corruption has undermined the gains achieved under his leadership. - Strategy to Revitalize the Sector:
In addressing the chiefs of the Western Region, Mahama assured that a future NDC government would work to restore investor confidence and revitalize the petroleum sector. He acknowledged that reviving the industry would be a difficult and challenging task but emphasized that the NDC has the necessary people to lead the effort. - Climate Change and the Petroleum Market:
Mahama also pointed out the impact of climate change on the global petroleum market, noting that the rise of electric vehicles is pushing for a shift away from oil investments. He stressed the urgency of selling oil reserves quickly to maximize returns before the market becomes less profitable.
Concerns Raised by Local Chiefs:
- Healthcare and Galamsey Impact:
The Paramount Chief of Lower Axim, Awulae Attribrukusu, and the Paramount Queen Mother of Shama, Nana Akosua Gyamfiaba, expressed concerns about the poor state of healthcare and the devastation caused by illegal mining (galamsey) in their regions. They called on Mahama to ban the manufacturing and importation of Changfans (machines used in illegal mining) should he become president.
Mahama’s Regional Tour:
Mahama is currently on a three-day tour of the Western Region, where he has been engaging with local chiefs, clergy, and citizens. By the end of his tour, Mahama plans to visit all 17 constituencies in the region, continuing to lay the groundwork for the NDC’s campaign ahead of the December 7 elections.
He is accompanied by his campaign manager, Joshua Alarbi, and other NDC officials, including Totobi Kwarkyi, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and Julius Debrah.
