The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flag bearer has clarified his request for a potential honeymoon period upon assuming the presidency, emphasizing that it was misunderstood and taken out of context.
Former President John Mahama clarified his recent plea for a grace period, particularly addressing trade and labor groups, amid their increasing demands for improved conditions.
During a ‘Campus Connect’ event in Hohoe as part of his ‘Building Ghana’ tour of the Volta Region, Mahama urged Ghanaians to grant his administration time to revive the economy before addressing specific demands.
He emphasized the need to assess the damage caused by the previous administration before taking action.
“And you will realise the harm that the NPP administration has done to Ghana’s economy. This country is broke, and so we will beg you that when we come into office, give us a bit of a honeymoon. Let’s put things in place so that we can bring the economy back onto its feet.”
“And I will plead with the teachers union, GNAT, NAGRAT, UTAG, and TEWU, and all of them. I know all of you are clamouring for allowances. Let me caution you that in 2025, when we take over, we will show you the books and the finances of this country.”
After facing criticism, especially from the ruling government, for his comments, Mahama stressed that he did not seek a personal relaxation period but rather an opportunity to assess the economy’s state and address the damage caused by the previous government.
He clarified his remarks during an interaction with teacher unions, including the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT), who presented their concerns for consideration in the NDC manifesto.
In response to their requests for a review of their conditions of service and improvements in the education sector, Mahama reiterated his stance on avoiding hasty promises in light of the country’s economic challenges.
“So I said I was not going to make that promise and that they should give a bit of a honeymoon, and that is what I said that was misinterpreted to say that I want a honeymoon when I become president. I had my honeymoon with Auntie Lordina thirty-something years ago. And so I don’t require any honeymoons. I meant we should give the economy a honeymoon; we will see what is there, and as we create, we can share,” he explained.
He emphasized the need to focus on practical solutions rather than making unrealistic promises driven by crowd excitement, which, he believed, contributed to the current economic crisis.