Gyedu, Asutifi North District – Former President and opposition leader John Dramani Mahama, who is also the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has weighed in on the recent demands by FIFA, calling for the Ghana national football team to play its away matches outside of the country due to the deteriorating condition of Ghana’s football stadia and pitches. Speaking to a crowd in Gyedu during his campaign trail, Mahama criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for failing to maintain the country’s sports infrastructure, which has led to international embarrassment. This comes just a day after the Nationwide demonstration against the Electoral Commission of Ghana by the opposition NDC.
According to FIFA, Ghana’s national stadiums no longer meet the required standards for hosting international matches. Mahama, in his address, blamed this on the government’s neglect, adding that sports infrastructure is crucial not only for national pride but also for economic development.
“How can we expect our athletes to excel on the world stage when our facilities are in such disrepair? This government has failed to invest in what matters,” Mahama stated to applause from his supporters.
Addressing Massive Unemployment
The former President also took the opportunity to criticize the NPP administration’s inability to address the rising unemployment rates in the country. He acknowledged that the lack of job opportunities has been a persistent issue, particularly for the youth.
“Unemployment has reached unprecedented levels under the current government. Our youth are losing hope,” he said. “But I promise, under my 24-hour policy, we will create jobs for all.” This address comes off the back of a Nationwide demonstration against the Electoral Commission of Ghana as the NDC demands an independent audit of the voter register ahead of the December 7th election.
Mahama’s Economic Proposals: Removal of E-Levy and Betting Tax
Mahama pledged to scrap controversial taxes introduced by the NPP government, including the electronic transfer levy (e-levy) and the betting tax, which have been widely criticized for adding financial burdens on the populace, especially the youth and small businesses. He assured the people of Gyedu that his government would focus on reducing these burdens and creating a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
“In my next government, we will scrap the e-levy and betting tax. These taxes are hurting ordinary Ghanaians. We need a government that understands the struggles of the people,” he emphasized.
Promising 1 Million Women Access to Loans Without Collateral
In one of his boldest campaign promises, Mahama outlined his plan to create a special bank aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs. He announced that the bank would provide loans to up to 1 million women, without the need for collateral, and with very low-interest rates.
“We must empower our women. When we support women, we support families, communities, and the entire nation,” Mahama stated. He stressed that his government would work tirelessly to uplift women, ensuring they had the resources to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Support for Youth Entrepreneurship: 10,000 Youth to Start Businesses
Mahama also pledged to create opportunities for 10,000 young people to start their own businesses, providing them with the necessary financial support, mentorship, and training. This initiative is part of his broader plan to tackle youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurship among the younger population.
“Our youth are innovative, but they lack the support needed to turn their ideas into reality. Under my leadership, we will provide that support,” he said.
Small-Scale Mining Regularisation and Environmental Reclamation
The former president also touched on the controversial issue of small-scale mining, or “galamsey,” which has led to widespread environmental degradation, particularly of water bodies and land. Mahama promised that his government would regularize small-scale mining activities while focusing on environmental reclamation.
“We cannot allow illegal mining to destroy our water bodies and land. But we also cannot ignore the fact that many depend on mining for their livelihoods. My government will provide training and support to make small-scale mining sustainable. We will reclaim the water bodies and land, ensuring future generations can benefit,” Mahama said.
He also highlighted plans for reforestation and recultivation to heal the land ravaged by illegal mining activities, promising a sustainable balance between economic activity and environmental preservation.
Reconstruction of the Tanoso Bridge
Addressing infrastructure needs in the area, Mahama promised the people of Gyedu that his government would reconstruct the Tanoso Bridge, a vital link that has deteriorated and is crucial for transportation and local commerce.
“The Tanoso Bridge is a lifeline for this community. Its reconstruction will not only enhance connectivity but also stimulate economic activity in the region,” he said.
Introducing the Parliamentary Candidate
During the rally, Mahama introduced the NDC’s Parliamentary candidate for the Asutifi North constituency. He called on the people to vote for the candidate, stressing the importance of electing NDC leaders at both the national and local levels to achieve the party’s goals for development.
As the 2024 election campaign intensifies, Mahama’s promises to tackle unemployment, reform Ghana’s sports infrastructure, empower women, and regularize small-scale mining have garnered attention. His speech in Gyedu underscores his vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Ghana, offering a stark contrast to the policies of the current NPP government. This comes after his address in Kukuom in Asunafo South where he addressed a number of issues.
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