Legacies of Mahama, and their impact on national development

Awudu Razak Jehoney
Politics is about making impact and leaving a great legacy that will benefit generations yet unborn. Doing so requires a selfless leader with vision and love for their people. If there is any politician who has exhibited these sterling qualities, it is Former President John Dramani Mahama.

He lost the 2016 general elections due to the numerous malicious and fabricated lies by the New Patriotic Party (NPP). For the love of this country, the Former President has not given up on his determination to win back power and stop this country from collapsing due to the greediness, and selfishness of the current Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government. This is the perfect description of sacrifice and patriotism, a real leader who doesn’t fold his arms and say he does not care when he sees evil in the land, he reacts and yearns for an opportunity to put things right.

The name of John Dramani Mahama is one of the most recognisable names in the annals of Ghana’s politics. He has been around for a very long time and has made impact no matter what his critics may say or think.

Serving as the President of Ghana from 2012 to 2017, Mahama's leadership qualities and vision left an indelible mark on the nation. It is important to highlight the commendable work of John Mahama during his tenure as president in order to realistically come to a conclusion if he did enough to deserve another tenure. Despite being the only President to have lost his bid for a second term, he has achieved more than any other president since 1992. Below are some of his achievements in just four years.

Infrastructure Development:
Former President John Mahama carved a niche for himself as the most infrastructural oriented president in the Fourth Republic. One of the hallmarks of Mahama's presidency was his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development. Under his leadership, Ghana witnessed significant advancements in road networks, transportation, and energy infrastructure. The "Better Ghana Agenda," a key initiative of Mahama's administration, aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Ghanaians through improved infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

During his tenure, John Mahama's government successfully initiated and completed several infrastructural projects, including the expansion and rehabilitation of major highways, the construction of new schools and hospitals, and the improvement of the energy sector. These efforts were pivotal in fostering economic growth and creating a more conducive environment for both local and foreign investment.

He recognised the essence of education and its role in shaping the future, his government implemented policies aimed at improving access to quality education. The "Progressively Free Senior High School" policy, for instance, played a crucial role in ensuring that more young Ghanaians had access to higher education, irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds. This initiative significantly contributed to the empowerment of the youth and the development of human capital in the country.

Economic Stewardship:
Former President Mahama’s administration faced global economic challenges, however, he exhibited adept economic stewardship, steering Ghana through turbulent times. Through consultations and stakeholder engagements, his government implemented measures to stabilize the economy and promote sustainable growth. Despite external pressures, Mahama's administration worked tirelessly to maintain fiscal discipline, resulting in positive outcomes for the Ghanaian economy.

Commitment to Peace and Unity:
Throughout his presidency, John Mahama consistently emphasized the importance of national unity and cohesion. His level of tolerance is exceptional, he played a crucial role in maintaining and sustaining peace during critical moments, demonstrating a commitment to democratic principles. His leadership during elections and efforts to ensure a smooth transition of power showcased his dedication to the democratic process and the well-being of the nation.

Despite the numerous fabricated and vicious lies propagated against his person and administration by his political opponents, Former President John Dramani Mahama's tenure in office was marked by a steadfast commitment to progress, unity, and the well-being of the Ghanaian people. His legacy is etched in the numerous infrastructural developments, youth empowerment initiatives, and economic stability achieved under his leadership. As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of governance, the positive impact of Mahama's work serves as a testament to the enduring contributions of a leader devoted to the advancement of his nation. In view of the above, John Dramani Mahama deserves another chance to lead Ghana, because his first tenure has certainly contributed immensely to the development of this country.