Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, John Mahama has pledged to operationalise the Affirmative Action Bill if he is elected as the President on December 7.

The former President pointed out the importance of gender equality and vowed to increase women’s representation in politics.

According to him, his administration would ensure that women hold at least 30% of all political appointments, with a goal of reaching 50% by 2030.

Speaking at the launch of the party’s Women’s manifesto in Kumasi he said, “We will increase women representation in parliament and in leadership role across all sectors. We will do this not only because it is the right thing to do but also Ghana needs the best of its humans resource . We will ensure that women hold at least 30% of political appointment. By 2028, it must be 35% and by 2030, it must be 50%."

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The flagbearer also highlighted the alarming poverty levels among women in Ghana, emphasising the need for change.

“Why should poverty wear a female face in Ghana? With 1.44 women classified as extremely poor and living on less than one dollar, 90 cents a day. These numbers should not only shock us but also move us to action. This tells a painful story.”

“This could be a mother or a sister who works tirelessly everyday but still goes to bed hungry and poor. They are the backbone of our communities and yet they bear the heaviest burden of inequality. This must change,” he said on September 30, 2024.

 Additionally, Mahama urged his supporters to enhance voter education in order to reduce the number of spoiled ballots in the upcoming elections.  

“Many voters spoil their ballots due to a lack of understanding. In every region, the Electoral Commission allows voters to be accompanied by someone to assist them. We want to ensure that everyone, especially the elderly, knows how to vote properly.”