We’ll finish uncompleted projects in Ashanti - Mahama assures Otumfuo

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to finish all uncompleted projects in the Ashanti Region when given the nod in Saturday’s election.

He cited some projects he started in the region during his first tenure of office that the current government had abandoned, including the Afari Military Hospital, phase two of the Kejetia Market, and phase two of the Kumasi Airport.

“We finished with some, while others were not finished before we left office. We looked forward to this government that replaced us to have completed them, but for about eight years, the projects have been abandoned even though we had already secured funding for them,” the former President added.

Mr Mahama gave the assurance when he paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Tuesday to seek his blessings ahead of the polls.

He was accompanied by former government appointees, including Betty Mould Iddrisu, Kojo Bonsu and Akwasi Oppong-Fosu. 

Experience

The NDC presidential candidate touted his experience as a former President and politician and the need for seasoned leadership in the country.

Mr Mahama said he considered the Manhyia Palace as home, for which reason he would complete all abandoned projects and initiate new ones when he returned to power. He added that he would prioritise the development of the region, which is the second largest in the country.

“I know that Manhyia is my home and you know me, so when I return to power I will ensure that I complete projects they have abandoned and also initiate new ones.

“I remember you once advised me to tell the people what I have done and what I intend to do, so the other day when I was here, I mentioned the things we have done in this region.

“We finished with some and others were not finished before we left and we looked forward to this government that replaced us to have completed them but for eight years these projects are still abandoned,” he said.

Mr Mahama further said that although his government allocated 13 E-blocks for the region, many of them were yet to be completed, adding “The airport should have been completed by now if we were in government”.

He, therefore, said he had decided to return to complete such projects, likening himself to a retired army general called for battle. 

Manhyia is home

For his part, the Asantehene dispelled the public perception that Manhyia does not like the NDC, saying “Today you have mentioned for everyone to hear that Manhyia is your home”.

He, however, said that Ghana was bigger than any individual, as such, the development of the nation should be everyone’s priority.

Speaking through his linguist, the Asantehene said: “The laws of the country allow for elections after every four years. And after your term, the people will assess your performance, and if you have not performed well, they set you aside; that is where we are now”. 

Day four

The former president proceeded to Tebeso II, in the Bosome Freho Constituency in the region, where he engaged community members on pressing issues affecting their lives.

The NDC flag bearer also attended a mini-campaign durbar in Banka, Asante Akim South, where he reiterated his pledge to address the region's infrastructure deficits.

He extended his visit to Konongo Zango in Asante Akim Central, Agogo in Asante Akim North and Mosi Panin in Sekyere Afram Plains.

He also made a stop at Kumawu and attended durbars in Asokore Zango and Effiduase, where he was warmly received by the electorate.

The former president kicked off his campaigns in the region last Saturday with a courtesy call on the Asantehene. The meeting was held behind closed doors.