Election 2024 is about change, not interchanges – Mahama slams 'Commissioner General' Akufo-Addo

John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has taken aim at the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for inaugurating several interchanges ahead of the December 7 elections.

He pointed out the apparent hypocrisy, as the NPP had previously accused him of using similar infrastructure projects for political gain during his time in office.

Mahama referred to a 2016 social media post by NPP member Gabby Otchere-Darko, who had urged voters to focus on the economy rather than infrastructure projects. Otchere-Darko had argued that such projects were not the priority, especially when the nation was grappling with economic challenges.

Mahama highlighted this statement as a stark contrast to the current government's actions, as they inaugurate key road projects in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.

Among the projects launched were the Flowerpot Interchange and the Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange Phase II, which were unveiled by President Akufo-Addo during the final stretch of the campaign season. These inaugurations have sparked criticism from Mahama, who claims that the NPP’s past criticisms of his administration’s focus on infrastructure are now coming back to haunt them.

Speaking during a campaign stop in Bawaleshie, part of his Greater Accra tour, Mahama expressed frustration over the NPP’s change in stance, accusing the government of engaging in the same tactics they once criticized.

“How correct are his words eight years ago? So, don’t let them divert your attention. This election is about change and not an interchange. This election is about unemployment and economic hardship.

“This election is about corrupt and incompetent leadership. Clearly, the NPP administration has failed to make the lives of Ghanaians better. Why we vote in elections to elect leaders is for them to improve our lives. But in eight years, the NPP has taken Ghana 10 years backwards,” he stated.