The Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has acknowledged the current economic challenges facing the people of Ghana, particularly the hardships experienced by the youth.
In his address to NPP supporters at the Accra Sports Stadium following his election as the NPP flagbearer on November 4, Dr. Bawumia empathized with the difficulties faced by Ghanaians.
However, he offered hope, stating that the government is diligently working to address these challenges and encouraged citizens to support these efforts.
“While on the campaign trail, I became aware of a three-day demonstration by the youth of our country. Their message was clear: they needed more job opportunities, improved living conditions, and better public services. These are legitimate demands, and we cannot ignore them. We will continue to work hard for the people of Ghana.”t
“I have spent the last seven years working alongside the President to fulfill many of these demands, including creating opportunities for the youth, improving the well-being of our people, expanding access to secondary education and healthcare, enhancing the country’s road infrastructure, streamlining access to public services, and leveraging technology for development.”
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the government’s achievements.
“However, the unexpected global economic downturn over the past three years, which derailed the significant economic progress we made between 2017 and 2021, has had a significant impact on our economy over the past two years, as it has in many other countries.”
“The cost of living has risen considerably, and Ghanaians are feeling the financial strain. I have witnessed the sacrifices and hardships that many Ghanaians are enduring, and I share the concerns of my fellow citizens.”
Dr. Bawumia also outlined the progress made in addressing these economic challenges, including improvements in GDP growth, declining consumer price inflation, slower exchange rate depreciation, and a decreasing budget deficit as a percentage of GDP.
Certified election results revealed that Dr. Bawumia secured 61.47% of the votes, with Mr. Agyapong as his closest competitor, garnering 37.41%. Dr. Afriyie Akoto and Addai-Nimoh received 1,459 and 731 votes, respectively.
A total of 192,446 delegates participated in the presidential primary, with a turnout of 94.63%. While Dr. Bawumia’s victory was expected, he fell short of the 80% target set by his campaign team.
Dr. Bawumia’s win is historic, marking the first time a non-Akan leader will represent the NPP in a general election. He has been the running mate to President Akufo-Addo since 2008.
The 2024 election is anticipated to be highly competitive, with both Dr. Bawumia and former President Mahama considered formidable candidates. The outcome will depend on several factors, including the state of the economy, campaign strategies, and voter turnout.
Furthermore, all other candidates have pledged their support to Dr. Bawumia.