As Ghana braces for its general election in December, former President John Dramani Mahama has called on citizens to actively uphold their civic responsibilities to sustain the nation’s democratic framework.
Speaking on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the 1992 Constitution, Mr Mahama underscored the importance of vigilance during the election period. He emphasized that such attentiveness is crucial to prevent any abuses of the system and ensure that the people’s choice prevails.
Mahama, who also serves as the 2024 flagbearer for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), highlighted the significant role of democratic governance in Ghana. While acknowledging its imperfections, he stressed that democracy has been a beacon of hope and a driver of progress in the country.
According to a report by Graphic Online, he urged the nation to use this anniversary as a reflective period, focusing on past missteps and consolidating achievements. Mahama stated, “True democracy extends beyond just elections. It’s about improving governance, enhancing individual freedoms, and crucially, securing a decent quality of life for all citizens.”
Addressing the challenges in implementing the recommendations of the Constitution Review Implementation Committee, Mr. Mahama expressed his commitment to continuing these processes. If elected in December 2024, he plans to focus on strengthening governance institutions, protecting citizens’ rights, and combating corruption.
His proposed reforms aim to diminish the overwhelming influence of the executive, halt the politicization of state institutions, and reduce spending disparities between different categories of workers. These changes, he believes, are vital for strengthening the fundamental rights of all citizens.
Mr. Mahama also raised concerns about the government’s actions that, in his view, undermine democratic rights. He referred to the use of unauthorized elements within security agencies during elections, notably the 2020 elections, which tragically resulted in eight fatalities. Mahama criticized the current President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for his silence on these events, underscoring the government’s duty to ensure peaceful elections this year.
In conclusion, former President Mahama’s call to the Ghanaian citizenry stresses the significance of active participation and vigilance in maintaining a robust democratic system. His remarks come at a pivotal moment as Ghana prepares for another crucial test of its democratic resilience.
