In a recent campaign address at Mankessim, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has made a compelling case for the constituents to reject the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the forthcoming elections. He emphasized that their decision would resonate significantly, sending a clear message that Ghanaians will not tolerate being taken for granted by politicians. Forson underscored the gravity of the upcoming election, stating it would be pivotal in determining the future trajectory of Ghana, which he believes is currently veering off course. He characterized the NPP’s governance as damaging, arguing that their policies have negatively impacted the nation’s economy.
Dr. Forson was particularly critical of the NPP’s financial management, highlighting an alarming rise in the national debt, which he estimated to have reached GHS 761 billion. He urged voters not to reward what he termed “terrible performance” by the ruling party. Forson also accused the government of compromising citizens’ financial security through its domestic debt exchange program, branding it an act of “wickedness” that should not go unpunished at the ballot box. He articulated that such fiscal strategies have eroded the investments of many Ghanaians, leading to greater economic distress.
The context of Forson’s remarks took place during a stakeholders forum attended by influential community leaders, including those from Christian and Muslim backgrounds, as well as teachers, traders, and artisans. This diverse gathering allowed Dr. Forson to connect with various sectors of society, emphasizing that every segment of the community has a role in shaping the political landscape. By rallying these groups, he aimed to galvanize support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its vision for economic recovery and development.
In his speech, Dr. Forson reiterated the commitment of the NDC to uplift the micro and small business sectors, which are vital components of the Ghanaian economy. He accentuated the NDC’s plans to implement transformative policies that would not only stabilize but also foster growth in these sectors. By doing so, Forson hoped to instill confidence among business owners and artisans that their contributions would be valued under a new administration.
Furthermore, he highlighted a significant infrastructure initiative that would resonate well within Mankessim—the promise to establish a modern market akin to the ultra-modern Kotokuraba market in Cape Coast. This proposal seeks to improve local commerce and provide a more conducive environment for traders, thereby enhancing the community’s economic landscape. Forson’s detailed focus on infrastructure development illustrated the NDC’s broader commitment to local governance and community upliftment.
As Dr. Forson concluded his address, the overarching message was clear: the upcoming election is not merely a contest of party allegiance but a defining moment for Ghana’s future. He called on the electorate to critically assess the performance of the NPP and make a decisive choice that prioritizes accountability, economic stability, and progressive leadership. His invitation to embrace change, coupled with tangible proposals for development, represents the NDC’s strategy to reconnect with the electorate and reclaim their mandate.
