John Dramani Mahama: A Historic Comeback as President with a Bold 120-Day Agenda.
Ghana has once again witnessed history as His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, alongside his Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, was sworn into office on Tuesday, 7th January 2025, at the iconic Black Star Square in Accra. This marks an extraordinary comeback for President Mahama, who now embarks on a mission to lead Ghana towards a brighter and more inclusive future.
In his presidential acceptance speech, President Mahama outlined his vision for economic recovery, governance reforms, job creation, and social development. With a pledge to work tirelessly for the people, he unveiled an ambitious 120-day plan, describing it as a “covenant with the good people of Ghana.”
He stated, “Actions have always spoken louder than words… With faith, you believe what you know. And that is why we need faith to be able to achieve our reset.” These words encapsulated his determination to tackle the nation’s challenges head-on.
A Bold Social Contract: The 120-Day Agenda
President Mahama’s first 120 days in office promise decisive reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy, addressing pressing social issues, and restoring public confidence. Here are some key highlights of his social contract:
1. A Lean and Efficient Government: Within 14 days, a complete list of Cabinet Ministers will be nominated for parliamentary approval, followed by the establishment of the leanest government in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
2. Economic Stabilization: A National Economic Dialogue will convene to discuss the true state of the economy and formulate a homegrown fiscal consolidation program. Additionally, draconian taxes such as the E-Levy, COVID levy, and the 10% tax on bet winnings will be scrapped.
3. Youth Empowerment: The agenda includes job creation programs like the ‘Adwumawura’ Programme and the ‘National Apprenticeship Programme’, alongside the introduction of the ‘One Million Coders Programme’ to prepare Ghana’s youth for the digital economy.
4. Free Education and Social Interventions: First-year students in public tertiary institutions will benefit from a ‘No-Academic-Fee’ policy, while persons with disabilities will enjoy free tertiary education. Female students in primary and secondary schools will receive free sanitary pads to improve school attendance and hygiene.
5. Tackling Corruption: A commitment to accountability is evident in plans to conduct forensic audits into major public interest cases, including the National Cathedral scandal and COVID-19 expenditure.
6. Illegal Mining and Environmental Conservation: Illegal mining will be banned, and initiatives like ‘Tree for Life’ and the ‘Blue Water Initiative’ will rehabilitate degraded lands and water bodies.
7. Empowering Women and Enhancing Security: Seed funding will be allocated to establish the Women’s Development Bank, and state security agencies will be purged of militia and vigilante elements.
Restoring Hope and Confidence
President Mahama’s bold plan reflects his resolve to create a Ghana where no one is left behind. The introduction of policies like the ‘MahamaCares Fund’ to strengthen healthcare systems, the Accelerated Export Development Council to promote exports, and efforts to boost tourism through ‘The Black Star Experience’ all point to a comprehensive approach to national development.
A Nation Watching Closely
The President’s 120-day agenda has raised high expectations among Ghanaians. His focus on governance reforms, economic revival, and inclusivity signals a commitment to transformative leadership. However, the real test lies in the implementation of these promises.
As President Mahama takes on this enormous task, the nation eagerly anticipates the fulfillment of his pledges. His leadership will undoubtedly shape Ghana’s trajectory in the coming years, as citizens and stakeholders continue to monitor his progress.
This historic moment marks not just the return of a leader but the dawn of a new chapter for Ghana. With a clear roadmap and a determined leadership, Ghanaians can look forward to a future of hope, faith, and prosperity under the Mahama administration.