John Mahama Rejects 'Experimental' Leadership Ahead of 2024 Elections

Former President and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has emphasized that the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections are critical for Ghana's future and should not be a testing ground for unproven candidates.

“Our young people have no more time to waste on experiments. We do not want any experimental leader to come and say we should try him. The time for experimentation is past,” Mahama declared during a recent tour of the Upper East Region.

He stressed that the country’s current economic challenges demand a leader with a proven track record. “This is not the time for try me. This is the time when we need a safe pair of hands,” he said, likening the situation to needing an experienced driver rather than a novice.

Mahama made these remarks while addressing the people of Sandema in the Builsa North Constituency. His visit to the Upper East Region was part of a broader campaign tour, aiming to galvanize support for the NDC ahead of the December 7 elections.

Accompanied by key members of his campaign team, including Professor Joshua Alabi, Mr Julius Debrah, and Madam Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Mahama covered significant ground over the four-day tour. He engaged with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, clergy, and the electorate, to discuss the NDC's policies, notably the “24-Hour Economy” policy.

Mahama warned against the deceptive tactics of some politicians who he claimed only seek power for personal gain. He underscored the importance of truthfulness in leadership, a value he says he has always upheld. “That is why I was brought up to tell the truth always,” he noted.

Reflecting on his previous roles as Deputy Minister, MP, Vice President, and President, Mahama promised to leverage his extensive experience to address the country’s economic challenges. He assured Ghanaians that his administration would create jobs and employment opportunities, particularly for the youth. “We have the men and the women to be able to turn things around,” he asserted.

Mahama also called on voters to reject the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), referencing the Assin North bye-election, where the NDC's James Gyakye Quayson emerged victorious. He urged the people of Builsa North to support their incumbent MP, James Agalga, to ensure the NDC's majority in Parliament.

“Your simple job is to elect him to Parliament, my simple job is to put him in a position in my government,” Mahama told the Constituents, expressing confidence in Agalga's competence and his role as a key member of the NDC.

As Mahama concluded his tour in the Bolgatanga Central Constituency with a media engagement, his message was clear: the 2024 elections are a pivotal moment for Ghana, requiring seasoned leadership to steer the nation through its economic recovery.