Stephen Atubiga, a former member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and founder of the National Liberation Congress (NLC), has publicly commended President-elect John Dramani Mahama for his demonstrable commitment to rewarding loyalty within the party. This commendation, expressed via a social media post on January 6, 2025, marks a significant shift in Atubiga’s stance, as he has historically been a vocal critic of Mahama’s leadership, frequently accusing him of neglecting grassroots supporters and favoring cronies in appointments during his previous term. Atubiga’s newfound support suggests that Mahama’s recent actions have resonated positively with even his former detractors, creating a sense of optimism and unity within the party.
Atubiga’s post specifically highlighted Mahama’s focus on addressing long-standing concerns raised by party loyalists. He emphasized the significance of Mahama’s apparent willingness to “implement things we used against him,” particularly the issue of rewarding loyalty. This acknowledgement underscores the perceived change in Mahama’s approach and suggests a commitment to rectifying past grievances. The timing of Atubiga’s statement, just a day before Mahama’s scheduled inauguration on January 7, 2025, amplifies its impact and further contributes to the narrative of a renewed and unified NDC.
The shift in Atubiga’s perspective could be interpreted as a reflection of Mahama’s broader efforts to consolidate party support and project an image of inclusivity following his decisive victory in the December 2024 elections. Mahama’s victory likely provided him with a mandate to address internal party dynamics and prioritize unity. By seemingly acknowledging and acting upon previous criticisms regarding loyalty and inclusivity, Mahama appears to be strategically cultivating a more cohesive and supportive party base as he embarks on his new term.
This emphasis on rewarding loyalty is particularly noteworthy given the previous criticisms leveled against Mahama. Addressing these concerns directly could be a calculated move to bridge divides within the party and foster a greater sense of shared purpose. By demonstrating a commitment to valuing and recognizing the contributions of loyal members, Mahama aims to strengthen party morale and ensure a more unified front moving forward. This strategy of acknowledging past shortcomings and implementing corrective measures could be crucial for maintaining internal stability and maximizing the NDC’s effectiveness during Mahama’s upcoming presidency.
Furthermore, Atubiga’s public endorsement of Mahama’s actions holds symbolic weight. As a former critic and a figure who established his own political entity, the NLC, Atubiga’s praise carries a degree of credibility and signals a potential reconciliation within the broader political landscape. His statement could influence other dissenting voices within the NDC and encourage a broader embrace of Mahama’s leadership. This reconciliation could prove vital for Mahama’s ability to effectively govern and implement his agenda, as a united party front can provide a stronger foundation for political action and legislative success.
In conclusion, Stephen Atubiga’s unexpected praise of President-elect John Dramani Mahama signifies a potential turning point in the internal dynamics of the NDC. Atubiga’s acknowledgement of Mahama’s efforts to address concerns regarding loyalty and inclusivity suggests a concerted effort by Mahama to unify the party following his election victory. This focus on internal cohesion, coupled with Mahama’s decisive win, could provide a strong platform for the incoming administration to pursue its policy goals and navigate the challenges of governance. The apparent reconciliation between former critics like Atubiga and Mahama offers a promising outlook for the NDC and potentially signals a more unified and effective political force in the years to come.
