The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has fiercely criticised the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia administration while outlining his vision for a transformed and unified Ghana.

Addressing the media on Sunday, July 7, under the theme “This is the Time for Change,” the former President advocated for a profound overhaul in governance, job creation, and improved social services.

Mr Mahama did not hold back in his criticism of the current leadership, accusing them of steering Ghana into “a serious economic abyss.”

He portrayed a grim picture of the country’s economic condition, pointing out widespread poverty, unemployment, and social inequality that have afflicted Ghanaians throughout the past eight years.

“The current economic mess sums up the verdict on this NPP government,” Mahama stated. “The harsh reality is that for most citizens, the journey over this period has been a bitter experience of economic and social deprivation."

"The unprecedented levels of poverty, unemployment, and deterioration in livelihoods have exposed the dubious strategy of hiding incompetence under slogans.”

Despite the grim assessment, Mahama expressed optimism about Ghana’s future. 

He commended the resilience and creativity of the Ghanaian people and reaffirmed his dedication to steering the country out of its current crisis.

“Together, we shall turn this government’s destructive tide into positive and progressive waves—waves that will reverberate in every home and corner of our country and across the globe, demonstrating that Ghana has once again gotten back on track,” he assured.

Mahama laid out five key reasons why he believes he can reset Ghana’s course:

1. Experience: Drawing on his previous tenure as president, Mahama highlighted his achievements in infrastructure development and economic stability. He emphasised his understanding of crisis management and his readiness to tackle the current economic challenges.

2. Visionary Leadership for Economic Revival: Mahama’s vision includes sustainable development through industrialisation, enhanced agriculture, and efficient resource use. He promised inclusive and growth-oriented policies to restore hope to the youth.

3. Commitment to Job Creation: Focusing on the youth, Mahama pledged to create decent, well-paying, and sustainable jobs. He stressed the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation to tackle unemployment and inspire change-makers.

4. Championing Social Justice and Equality: Mahama committed to strengthening social interventions and educational reforms to ensure equal opportunities for all citizens. He proposed establishing a national women’s bank to empower women financially, aiming to benefit one million women.

5. A Call to National Unity: Mahama emphasised the need for national cohesion, advocating for an end to the polarization and partisan politics that have characterised the current administration. 

He called for all Ghanaians to unite in nation-building, regardless of political or ethnic affiliation.