Story written by Bright Philip Donkor
[Writer’s email: bpdonkor@gmail.com]
Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia has likened his political journey and impact on the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) to that of the biblical figure Paul with a surety to ‘break the eight’ years governance cycle for the party.
Speaking during a campaign tour to Ayawaso Central Constituency at the Accra Technical Training Centre (ATTC) on Saturday, the Vice-President reflected on his rise to power and the transformative changes he believes he has brought to the country.
He said sometimes, great individuals emerge at pivotal moments in history, just like the Apostle Paul emerged to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ, proclaiming that “in the same way, my coming could be seen as a turning point for our nation”.
The Vice-President highlighted the similarities he perceives between himself and the Apostle Paul. Both figures, he suggested, possessed a deep conviction and a transformative message that brought about significant change. Dr Bawumia emphasised that, like Paul, he aimed to bring about positive change and development in Ghana, utilising his position and influence.
“My focus has always been on creating economic growth, fostering innovation, and improving the lives of Ghanaians. Just as Paul spread the message of salvation, I am spreading the message of progress and development.
“I stand before you today as a testament to the transformative power of politics. My journey has been like that of Paul, who went from being a persecutor to an apostle. Similarly, I have grown and evolved within the NPP, and I believe I am the ideal and surest candidate to ‘break the eight-year cycle,” Dr Bawumia stated.
Instrumentality
Having been instrumental in the government’s economic policies and initiatives, Dr Bawumia stressed that he had succeeded in transforming the Vice Presidency from one of docility to activism, symbolic representation to policy implementation and from mysticism to realism.
The NPP Presidential hopeful, therefore, believes he can effectively lead the NPP and bring about positive change for the nation. “I have dedicated my life to public service, and I am determined to bring progress and prosperity to the people of Ghana. Together, we can build a nation that thrives on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable development,’ he added.
The Vice-President also indicated that he had played pivotal role in formulating and implementing programmes such as Zongo Development Fund, One District One Factory, Planting for Food and Jobs, Free Senior High School, Gold for Oil programme, among others.
He also emphasised that no one can deny the passion and attachment he had demonstrated to making sure Ghana is not left behind human development, ensuring that the gospel of digitisation is not only preached but permeates every aspect of Ghanaian life.
Constituency welfare
The Vice President further revealed plans to collect comprehensive welfare data for executives in all constituencies of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), which would aim at addressing the pressing and urgent needs of the party’s executives across the country.
Dr Bawumia highlighted the importance of understanding and catering to the needs of the party’s grassroots leaders. He emphasised the need for a targeted approach to welfare support, noting that data collection would be instrumental in achieving this goal.
“With the data we collect, we will have a better understanding of the specific challenges faced by our party executives in each constituency. This will allow us to design and implement tailored solutions to address their pressing needs. The welfare data collection initiative will involve gathering information on various aspects of the executives’ lives, including their healthcare needs, housing situations, scholarships for their wards, educational requirements, business support… The data will also help identify any financial constraints they may be facing,” he explained.
To ensure accuracy and transparency, the Vice-President assured that the data collection process would adhere to strict protocols. He emphasized the importance of confidentiality and stated that the information collected would be used solely for the purpose of providing targeted assistance to the NPP executives.
“The welfare of our party’s executives is crucial for the overall success of the New Patriotic Party. By addressing their pressing needs, we are fostering a stronger and more supportive political environment. Government is committed to improving the lives of Ghanaians across the country and it’s my plan to ensure equitable development and uplift communities. I will ensure that every constituency has a God father and God mother,” he told delegates.
Religious/tribal politics
He also accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of engaging in religious and tribal politics. He asserted that the NDC is only resorting to divisive tactics by exploiting religious and tribal sentiments for political gain. He urged delegates to be mindful of such tendencies since the NDC has no message of hope for them.
He claimed that the party was using these strategies to appeal to specific voter bases and consolidate power, rather than focusing on the needs and aspirations of the Ghanaian people.
Dr Bawumia further argued that the NDC’s approach is detrimental to the unity and progress of Ghana as a nation, and stressed the importance of politics based on issues, policies, and the overall welfare of the population, rather than identity-based divisions.
[Writer’s email: bpdonkor@gmail.com]