Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of failing to deliver on its key campaign promises. Speaking at the NPP's National Delegates Conference in Kumasi on October 3, Dr. Bawumia questioned the government's record on job creation, citing the NDC's flagship 24-Hour Economy policy as an example. He claimed that the policy, which aimed to create employment opportunities for young people through a three-shift work system, had yet to produce the promised benefits for Ghanaians.
Dr. Bawumia took particular aim at the recent demolition of structures at La Beach, which he used to mock the government's employment pledge. He stated that the promised 24-hour economy jobs had turned into 24-hour demolitions of buildings for so-called 24-hour markets. The NPP flagbearer argued that young graduates, artisans, and other supporters who backed the NDC on the expectation of more jobs were still waiting for the opportunities they had been promised.
The demolition exercise at La Beach has affected traders, artisans, and small business owners whose livelihoods were tied to activities in the area. Dr. Bawumia criticized the government for not providing alternative solutions for those who would be displaced by the demolition. He also expressed concern about the impact of the demolition on the local economy.
Beyond employment, Dr. Bawumia questioned the government's progress on its proposed Women's Development Bank and its pledge to reduce electricity tariffs. He noted that the cost of electricity, transport, and rent continued to weigh heavily on households and businesses, despite the decline in inflation. The NPP flagbearer emphasized the need for the government to address these pressing concerns.
Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the need for the NPP to reflect on its own shortcomings while in opposition. He stated that the party had used the period to listen to Ghanaians and review its performance. The NPP is working on its governance programme ahead of the 2028 general election, with a focus on addressing the concerns of Ghanaians.
The NDC's 24-Hour Economy policy was a major campaign promise ahead of the 2024 general election. The policy aimed to create employment opportunities for young people, but its implementation has been criticized by many. Dr. Bawumia's comments reflect the NPP's strategy to capitalize on the perceived shortcomings of the NDC government.
The NPP's National Delegates Conference in Kumasi was attended by party members and supporters. The conference provided a platform for Dr. Bawumia to outline his vision for the country and to criticize the NDC government's performance. The NPP is expected to use the conference as a springboard for its campaign ahead of the 2028 general election.
Key points
- Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia accuses NDC of failing to fulfill campaign promises, particularly the 24-Hour Economy policy.
- The demolition exercise at La Beach has affected traders, artisans, and small business owners.
- Dr. Bawumia questions government's progress on Women's Development Bank and electricity tariffs.
