In his New Year message, President-elect John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to implementing policies geared towards resetting the Ghanaian economy.
Speaking to the nation for the first since the turn of the year, Mr. Mahama said he intended to pursue his reset agenda by implementing his much-touted 24-hour economy policy proposal when he takes office in the coming week.
The incoming president, whose address was particularly centred on the economy, said his administration will seek to create jobs and achieve economic growth which will realise “shared prosperity” of the Ghanaian people.
“This year marks not merely the beginning of another chapter but a renewed promise to you. A promise of hope, progress and shared prosperity. In the coming months, we will embark on a purposeful, enthusiastic and enterprising journey to reset the Ghanaian economy for growth and jobs.
“My administration is committed to implementing the 24-hour economy policy, expanding job opportunities and transforming Ghana into an export-driven economy,” he told the nation.
He said the overarching goal was to encourage entreneurship and achieve sustainable development so as to assure young people that they could achieve their dreams “right here at home”.
The incoming president took a subtle dig at the outgoing Akufo-Addo government, saying that his team would “correct the outgoing administration’s many wrongs”.
Offering a hint of what he planned to do differently, he said his government would be tougher on corruption and rein in on government spending.
“We will tackle corruption with doggett determination, reduce excessive expenditures. Each citizen’s voice will be heard and together, we will build a Ghana that reflects our collective hopes and dreams,” Mr. Mahama asserted.
The president-elect reserved special recognition for the youth, saying that their participation in the new year will be “crucial” as his administration works to achieve a thriving economy.
“I urge you to believe in yourselves and in the endless possibilities that lie ahead of you,” he said directly to young people across the country.
Mr. Mahama further promised a pro-business government that will “create jobs and wealth”. He indicated that he will “remove barriers, simplify processes and provide the necessary resources” to help businesspersons “build and expand”.
Tbe president-elect will become head of state on January 7, 2025 after he is sworn into office by the Chief Justice at the Independence Square in Accra.
