Mahama promises enhanced role for traditional leaders
The flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has promised to enhance the role of traditional leaders in local governance and address infrastructural deficits in newly created regions if elected.
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At the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, Mr Mahama emphasised his resolve to collaborate with traditional rulers to particularly ensure improved sanitation practices across the country.
He encouraged traditional and religious leaders to speak out against bad governance and not shy away from contributing to discussions of national interests.
Mr Mahama's pledges, he said, were aimed at bridging gaps between traditional authorities and government officials, to ensure effective governance and regional development.
Failure
He criticised the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration's regional development approach, citing unfulfilled promises. He vowed to prioritise infrastructure growth in these regions to bring them up to speed in development.
The former president also blamed the current government for the decline in Ghana’s cocoa production, attributing it to mismanagement.
The former President argued that the mismanagement of funds had left cocoa farmers underpaid, leading to lower production.
“When cocoa farmers are not well paid, they won’t be able to harvest the cocoa beans. Farmers need to know that cocoa is valuable in order to take good care of it,” he said
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The former president also criticised the government for the near collapse of the Produce Buying Company (PBC).
The company, which plays a significant role in the cocoa industry, according to Mr Mahama, was functioning efficiently during his administration eight years ago.
Mr Mahama said the collapse of PBC was also a direct result of the government’s excessive borrowing.
Tour
Mr Mahama has been meeting with traditional leaders and voters across the region, holding community engagements to seek their support in the December election.
He is promising enhanced agricultural productivity through better access to modern farming techniques and financial support through the Farmer Services Centres, ensuring our farmers thrive and contribute significantly to our economy.
Mr Mahama is also promising investment in local industries, especially in mining and agro-processing, to create sustainable employment opportunities under the 24-hour economy initiative for the youth in Ahafo, reducing unemployment and fostering economic growth.
He has also pledged to promote environmentally sustainable practices in all sectors and implement a free primary healthcare programme and establish a Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund (MahamaCares) to support the cost of treatment for persons with chronic diseases.