Fuel shortage, cancellation of allowances, and 'dumsor' – Bawumia recalls Mahama's 'failings' as President
The Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has sharply criticized the administration of former President John Mahama, highlighting what he described as significant failures during Mahama’s presidency from 2012 to 2016.
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During a campaign tour in Akyem Akoroso in the Eastern Region on Saturday, Dr. Bawumia recounted the difficulties Ghanaians faced under Mahama’s leadership, asserting that the country was so poorly managed that even basic supplies, such as chalk, were not provided to schools.
“Mahama told Ghanaians that the economy under him was completely broke after his party had been in power for eight years. He said the meat on the bones of the economy was all gone, leaving only the bones,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
The Vice President then detailed several challenges and frustrations that he claimed were emblematic of Mahama’s tenure.
“Because of these 'bones,' his government could not provide Ghanaians with basic amenities. He couldn’t pay teacher trainees their allowances; he couldn’t pay nursing trainees their allowances; he couldn’t even provide chalk to basic schools to teach our children. He also canceled the allowances for Arabic instructors,” Dr. Bawumia added.
Dr. Bawumia further recalled the severe energy crisis, commonly referred to as ‘dumsor,’ that plagued the country during Mahama’s presidency.
“Because of these 'bones,' there was dumsor for four years, which destroyed businesses. The entire country was plunged into darkness for four years between 2012 and 2016. And due to the poor management of the country, we also had to line up to buy fuel because of shortages under his government,” he said.
In contrast, Dr. Bawumia argued that despite facing numerous global economic challenges, the current government has fulfilled its commitments, including paying salaries, recruiting more young people, undertaking development projects, paying nursing and trainee allowances, and keeping the lights on.
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Looking ahead, Dr. Bawumia shared his vision for the future, outlining plans for several sectors, including a new business-friendly tax system, a modern digital economy, a strong partnership with the private sector, an improved mining and agriculture sector, and the creation of jobs for the youth through ICT and vocational training, among others.