By Lord Fiifi Quayle
As a proud member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), my journey across Ghana during John Dramani Mahama’s campaign was more than just political; it was deeply personal. I traveled from the bustling streets of Accra to some of the serene villages in Ghana, joining Mahama in his quest to reconnect with the people. Late nights spent engaging with the youth and the elderly, listening to their aspirations, fears, and dreams, left an indelible mark on my heart. Their hope and trust in us were palpable, and I often found myself reflecting on the weight of their expectations. Are we truly delivering our best in governance now that we hold the reins of power? Am I asking too much, or is it fair to be expecting a lot more from our government?
The reality of governance is complex. While doing things “by the books” is the ideal path, it often feels agonizingly slow. In a system where corruption can lurk in the shadows, the temptation to cut corners can be overwhelming. Yet, as I look back on the first 120 days of Mahama’s second term, it is essential to acknowledge the significant strides made thus far.
From the outset, Mahama has committed to establishing the leanest and most efficient government in Ghana’s history. The cancellation of the e-levy, the betting tax, and other nuisance taxes have been met with widespread approval. These decisions resonate deeply with the citizens who have long felt the burden of excessive taxation. Initiatives like “Adwumawura,” “Mahama Cares,” and the “Black Star Experience” have ignited hope for a revitalized economy. The promise of a 24-hour economy, if executed effectively, could transform our economic landscape, creating jobs and opportunities for countless Ghanaians.
Moreover, the introduction of the Operation ORAL and Anti-Corruption measures, alongside a robust government code of ethics, signals a commitment to transparency and accountability. Even Professor Addae a leading critic of the NDC asserts that “no logical thinking person would ever write John Mahama down for his current performance” which true. We know the caliber of this leader, and I firmly believe that this is indeed his “Legacy Moment.” He is poised to leave a lasting impact on our nation if these initiatives are implemented with diligence and integrity.
Am I impressed with what has been achieved in these first 120 days? Absolutely. Mahama has set a solid foundation, but I remain convinced that there is room for improvement. The words of an elderly woman I met in Kuntanase in the Ashanti region during the campaign, who was part of the several dozens of youth,children and the elderly that waited for us until 1 a.m. to share her hopes and fears, echo in my mind. Her heartfelt plea, “aa memma mmombra na monbegye yen wai na yebre,” translates to “my children, you people should come and save us; you are our only hope.” This sentiment is a constant reminder of the responsibility we bear as leaders.
With this in mind, I find it impossible to rest. I am driven by the desire to contribute my utmost to building a better Ghana for all of us. As we move forward, let us remember that the expectations of our citizens are not burdens; they are our guiding light. We must strive to meet their hopes with action, ensuring that our governance reflects the trust they have placed in us.
In summary, the first 120 days of John Dramani Mahama’s leadership have been marked by significant achievements and a renewed sense of hope. Yet, the journey is far from over. We must remain vigilant, committed, and responsive to the needs of our people. Together, we can build a Ghana that not only meets the expectations of its citizens but exceeds them, leaving a legacy of which we can all be proud.
GHANA IS WORKING AGAIN
African economic strategist, sovereign risk analyst, and public intellectual. Author of Pricing Uncertainty. Creator of the Africa Macro Intelligence Terminal.