As political landscapes evolve, former leaders may seek to reclaim positions of power and authority. However, it is crucial for citizens to critically assess the track record and motivations of these individuals before casting their votes. In Ghana, the upcoming elections pose a unique challenge as a former president vies for the presidency once again without accepting his faults of the mismanagement of the economy during his administration.
Taking a retrospective look at history, it is essential to acknowledge that this former president has previously held the highest office in the country after the death of his predecessor and was elected as substantive President afterwards, but was unable to secure re-election after spending one and half term without significant impacts on the lives of the ordinary Ghanaian and public sector.
This raises concerns about his inability to deliver on their promises and effectively govern the nation as expected. While it is true that individuals may learn from their experiences, electing a leader who has previously been rejected by the electorates two times on the same party ticket warrants careful consideration for a prompt rejection of the former president.
My concern regarding H.E John Dramani Mahama’s bid, is the potential threat he pose to ordinary Ghanaian taxpayers public purse, I think it is imperative to evaluate his past performance and actions while in office. His tenure witnessed routine mismanagement, embezzlement of funds, misappropriation, high rate of corruption, incompetency and lack of accountability and transparency at the public sector.
Ghanaians most specially my colleagues students should remember the mess caused by the former president at the various sectors before defeat in 2016 general elections.
We should all be reminded of the students utility bills payment at University halls, three months out of three years teachers payment system, cancellation of Teacher and Nursing Trainings allowances, graduates unemployment association, and the worse of it all, the Burkina Faso guinea fowls scandal and many others under his administration even when he has the chance to seek for reelection. What will happen when he has only one constitutional term?
Rather than rallying behind a former president with a questionable track record, because of the global economy crisis, Covid-19 and Russia-Ukraine war, Ghanaians should explore alternative candidates who demonstrate a fresh vision, impeccable integrity, and a proven commitment to public service. It is essential to know that, we are in an era of entrepreneurship and innovations and not propaganda and usual lies of the NDC.
It is crucial to approach 2024 election with a critical mindset. While a former president may arouse nostalgia or familiarity, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of the citizens over personal sentiments.
Fellow students or citizens to be careful of the former president’s bid, is a necessary step to safeguard public resources and contribute to the growth and development of Ghana, by considering alternative candidates who possess integrity, competence, loyalty and a genuine commitment to national progress, Ghanaians can pave the way for a brighter future with more entrepreneurial oriented leaders.
ANEFOR CHRISTIAN
EX- TESCON-UEW COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER.
0243597666.