The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama emphasized his commitment to avoiding empty promises in his campaign, distinguishing himself from the governing New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) approach to securing power.
Citing the challenging state of Ghana’s economy, Mahama expressed reluctance to make unrealistic commitments, asserting, “I don’t want to be like those dishonest people who came and promised you heaven.”
Addressing the concerns of pre-tertiary teachers in Tamale, Mahama acknowledged the economic difficulties they face.
“The economy is in a big mess and so I cannot promise everybody that we are going to increase your salaries and all that.
“I don’t want to be like those dishonest people who came and promised you heaven and said they would build factories in every district, they would build dams in every village, they would give every constituency one million dollars a year, I’m not that kind of person,” he explained.
Although he refrained from promising salary increments, he highlighted the critical issue of inadequate accommodation for teachers in rural communities.
“But we have suggested a solution for all this, we will help you with accommodation in some of the schools, so that more teachers can stay in school.”
Mahama pledged that, if elected, his government would prioritize providing suitable housing for teachers posted to such areas, aiming to alleviate the challenges they currently encounter.
Mahama further noted the reluctance of many teachers to accept postings in rural communities due to the lack of accommodation, resulting in substantial expenditures on daily commutes.
He stressed the importance of stakeholders understanding the country’s economic reality and pledged to promote transparency if he assumes power.
By doing so, Mahama aims to discourage unrealistic demands and foster a pragmatic approach to addressing Ghana’s challenges.
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Labour demands: It will be dishonest for me to promise revised conditions of service in current economic mess. – John Mahama #ElectionHQ pic.twitter.com/zjpNKaAWYb
— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) February 12, 2024