Ghana’s ruling New Patriotic Party presented its election manifesto at an atmospheric event in Takoradi on Sunday, preparing for a bitter campaign in the politically explosive elections in December.
The party’s presidential candidate, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, presented the document, which places great emphasis on job creation and economic development.
“Our vision is clear,” Bawumia told his enthusiastic supporters dressed in the NPP’s signature red, white and blue colors.
“We will create jobs, empower youth, provide tax amnesty and unleash the potential of the private sector to drive Ghana’s economic transformation.”
“We are the party of jobs and under our government, every Ghanaian who wants to work will have the opportunity to do so.”
The event attracted a large crowd, including senior party officials, members of the diplomatic corps and President Nana Akufo-Addo, who will step down after completing the maximum two terms allowed.
Unemployment is one of the country’s most pressing problems.
Since young people make up a significant portion of the electorate, the NPP seeks to appeal to young voters by promising more opportunities and a better future.
“We know the challenges facing our youth and we are determined to tackle unemployment head-on,” said Bawumia.
The manifesto also highlights a tax amnesty program to encourage companies to comply with tax regulations without facing penalties.
This will “bring more businesses into the formal economy, increase government revenue and ultimately create more jobs,” Bawumia said.
Bawumia also promised to expand access to education and improve infrastructure.
“We will ensure that every child, no matter where they come from, has access to quality education. This is not just a promise, but a commitment that we will fulfill.”
However, some observers remain skeptical.
For Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, a lecturer in political science at the University of Ghana, party manifestos are “shopping lists” that often remain unfulfilled.
“Political parties tend to make big promises during election campaigns, but the reality of governance often limits what can actually be delivered,” he told AFP.
The NPP is seeking an unprecedented third consecutive term in office, but faces a formidable challenge from the opposition National Democratic Congress led by former President John Mahama.
Mahama is determined to regain power. Both Bawumia and Mahama are from northern Ghana, giving the struggle a regional dimension.
Ghana, one of West Africa’s stable democracies, faces significant economic challenges, including a $3 billion loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund, after an economic downturn led to record inflation of 54 percent in 2022.
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This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without any modifications.
