Mahama’s honeymoon plea perplexing; a serious leader must kick-start right after elections — NPP UK

Former President John Dramani Mahama

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) UK branch has criticized former President John Mahama for requesting a "honeymoon period" if elected in the 2024 elections.

In a letter issued by its Communications Director Kwaku Bimpeh, the NPP UK said Mr. Mahama's plea is "perplexing" given Ghana's pressing challenges that demand immediate presidential action.

"Leadership, especially in a country as vibrant and filled with potential as Ghana, should be about action from the onset, not seeking respite before the work has even begun," said Mr. Bimpeh in the statement addressed to Mr. Mahama.

The NPP UK noted that with Ghana's four-year presidential term already constrained for effective governance, "the notion of a honeymoon period, traditionally a grace phase for new governments, seems an unaffordable luxury."

"It is contradictory to acknowledge the limitations of a term, yet simultaneously advocate for a period of reduced pressure and scrutiny at the start of it," the statement added.

Mr. Bimpeh urged Mr. Mahama to "reconsider his stance" as Ghanaians "deserve a leader who recognises the preciousness of time in governance."

The former President's comment comes amid Ghana's spiralling economic downturn, rising living costs and public sector industrial action.

Speaking at his Building Ghana tour in Hohoe, the 2024 NDC flagbearer told labour unions to give him time to put things together before attending to their needs if re-elected.