The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has emphasized his commitment to accountability if elected president.
During the NPP International Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Saturday, March 23, 2024, he contrasted his approach with that of his main contender, former President John Mahama, whom he suggested would not be as accountable because Mahama has stated he would not seek re-election.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted his lack of prior presidency, explaining that this would make him more accountable to Ghanaians as he would have the opportunity to seek re-election and be judged by the people again. This, he argued, contrasts with Mahama’s situation, as Mahama has indicated he will serve only one term in office.
“Apart from my proven track record as Vice President, hard work, credibility and vision for the future of Ghana, another reason I should be voted for is that I will be more accountable to the people of Ghana than John Mahama.” Dr. Bawumia said.
“As President, I will be more accountable because I will have another opportunity to seek the mandate of the people after 2024. Mahama has just one term and he will not come back to Ghanaians to seek re-elections so he will not be accountable,” Dr. Bawumia added.
Article 66 of the 1992 Constitution indicates the following:
(1) A person elected as President shall, subject to clause (3) of this article, hold office for a term of four years beginning from the date on which he is sworn in as President.
(2) A person shall not be elected to hold office as President of Ghana for more than two terms.
(3) The office of President shall become vacant—
(a) on the expiration of the period specified in clause (1) of this article; or
(b) if the incumbent dies or resigns from office or ceases to hold office under article 69 of this Constitution.
The late Atta-Mills passed away in July 2012, and as such his then Vice President, Mahama became President due to the vacancy left. He completed Mills’ tenure and in 2013, managed to win the elections to be elected President. He lost the seat to now President Akufo-Addo in the 2016 elections. As such he governed Ghana for one term and per the constitution he is entitled to another as he laces his boots for the 2024 elections.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need for Ghana to have a leader with credibility and a proven track record to address generational problems and combat corruption. He asserted that his record as Vice President demonstrates his ability to solve problems and advocate against corruption through the policies he has championed.
“Ghana needs problem solvers, generational thinkers and people with innovative ideas,” Dr. Bawumia said.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted several key policy initiatives he has led that are addressing long-standing issues in Ghana. These include the digital national identity system, the national property address system, mobile money interoperability, and the digitalization of public services. He also mentioned the delivery of essential drugs to remote areas through drones and initiatives like One Ambulance One Constituency and Agenda 111 hospitals.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized his strong commitment to fighting corruption, stating that the digitalization of public services has been instrumental in this effort. He contrasted this with what he perceives as a lack of action from former President Mahama, suggesting that tangible steps, not just rhetoric, are needed to combat corruption effectively.
“What policies did former President Mahama initiate to fight corruption as President or Vice President? If you ask him, he cannot state one because he was not committed to fighting corruption as Vice President and President.”
“I am a problem solver and a generational thinker with innovative ideas. I have a solid track record as Vice-President to prove it,” he added.