It's true, Mahama deserves 'honeymoon period' to fulfil promises if he wins — Stephen Atubiga

Stephen Atubiga, a dismissed member of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has thrown his support behind the party's 2024 flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, for requesting a grace period to fulfil campaign promises should he win elections.

Mr. Atubiga, who has previously advised Mr. Mahama to be cautious about unrealistic promises, said he agrees with the former President's call for a honeymoon period in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

"For the first time, I support the honesty of the NDC presidential candidate as to needing more time to forfeit promises in case he wins," Mr. Atubiga said.

He added that "no new government can fix their demands immediately after taking over as a new government."

The former NDC member's statement comes amid disapproval from labour unions to grant the one-time President a grace period to address their needs if elected, demanding immediate action.

However, Mr. Atubiga backed Mr. Mahama's position, citing the realities of taking over a political office under difficult times.

"As it takes about 2years for a new government to settle down. From handing over as in transition, to settling down, to making 5000 appointments as president," he said.

Mr. Atubiga said the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and other unions should be "more realistic" and understand that an incoming administration requires time to assess priorities before taking on new commitments.

"Any new government must have a balance sheet of All inherited depts and obligation in control , before making room for adding more," he stated.