Rally behind leader with skills to unlock country’s potential — Kwaku Kwarteng

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Obuasi West, Kwaku Kwarteng, has called on Ghanaians to rally behind a leader with exceptional skills required to unlock and transform the economic potential of the country.

“A bold leadership is what we need to confront and disrupt this unhealthy status quo that has retarded economic progress.  

Addressing the Tertiary Education Confederacy Network (TESCON) meeting at the University of Cape Coast last Saturday, he said, “The country’s leadership meltdown over the years indicates that we need a radical leadership to transform our ailing economy from the doldrums.”

The meeting, held on the theme: “Navigating the entrepreneurial journey and social networking,” assembled stalwarts of the New Patriotic Party, particularly current and former Members of Parliament and parliamentary candidates, some Central Regional executives and a host of the party’s former ministers and appointees. 

Political class

Mr Kwarteng, who is also a former Deputy Minister of Finance, described the country’s persistent political leadership crisis as not merely a failure of the political class but a symptom of a bleak generational future if the leadership status quo is not changed.

“As for the suit-wearing leaders, we have seen them, but the time has come for a change by leaders with the conviction to confront and disrupt the status quo and return the country to growth and prosperity,” he said.

He said if governance was all about leading for leading’s sake, awarding contracts and taking kickbacks, then anyone could lead with ease,” he stated. 

Nation-building

Mr Kwarteng said governments were to play a crucial role in nation-building by creating and maintaining political, economic, security and social institutions that unify the people and ensure political stability and viability.  

“It should act as a steward with collective interest, mediating between public, private and civil society, and provide public goods and services that foster social harmony and economic growth,” he said.

In fostering economic growth and sustainability, he said, governments must foster entrepreneurship by creating a supportive environment and implementing initiatives that encourage business growth and job creation, particularly for young people.

He, however, said it was “sad” that over the years, across governments, the political class had failed its duties towards the people.

“Sometimes, politicians with very high interests set out to do their best, but fail along the way by joining the loot,” he noted. 

Technology

For his part, the NPP MP for Nhyiaeso, Dr Stephen Amoah, urged students to leverage digital tools that could enhance education and personal growth, preparing students for future opportunities.  

With expertise in computer science and finance, Dr Amoah advocated youth empowerment through education and technology, supporting initiatives such as building classrooms and providing computers in his constituency.

The UCC TESCON President, Emmanuel Essel, reiterated the commitment of members to political mobilisation, advocacy and community engagements, aiming to strengthen the party’s presence and impact among the youth. — GNA