In the 2024 NDC Manifesto titled “Resetting Ghana: Jobs, Accountability, and Prosperity,” former President John Dramani Mahama outlines a vision aimed at revamping the legal education system in Ghana. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive legal reforms to improve access to professional legal education. This will involve a thorough review of the Professional Law Course and the accreditation of certified law faculties, all under the oversight of the General Legal Council. Additionally, Mahama plans to facilitate the establishment of a law faculty in the Northern Region to cater specifically to that area. The proposed changes reflect an urgent response to the challenges posed by modernization and technology, with a commitment to revising the Legal Profession Act through collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
An integral part of Mahama’s vision includes a commitment to reform the scholarship award system in Ghana. He proposes the introduction of new legislation that would eliminate the awarding of government scholarships to political appointees and their families, aiming to promote fairness and transparency. The intent is to streamline the scholarship allocation process across various sectors and align it with national development priorities. By abolishing practices such as political patronage, cronyism, and nepotism, the NDC aims to advocate for a meritocratic system that prioritizes the vulnerable and marginalized in society. This ambitious agenda seeks to ensure equity in the distribution of educational resources, creating opportunities for all rather than a select few.
Acknowledging Mahama’s leadership qualities, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the NDC’s running mate, expressed admiration for him, emphasizing his unwavering love for Ghana. She hailed Mahama as a visionary leader with a remarkable legacy characterized by a focus on inclusivity and a commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the Ghanaian populace. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the historical significance of the NDC presidential ticket, suggesting that the NDC’s leadership will offer transformational changes that restore hope in the country’s democracy. She reinforced the need for integrity among public officials, stating that the NDC is steadfast in its goal of dedicated service to all Ghanaians.
In articulating the party’s objectives, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang asserted that the NDC intends to create a future where every Ghanaian can thrive, particularly emphasizing support for vulnerable groups such as women and youth. She reiterated the party’s commitment to uphold national interests when making policy decisions, describing it as a “solemn pledge” to the electorate. The NDC’s leadership aims to foster a new era of public service that is not only capable but also trustworthy, striving to pave a way forward for Ghana. This pledge speaks to a deep sense of responsibility in governing—a promise to build a better nation for upcoming generations with a focus on diligence and patriotism.
The NDC’s campaign slogans encapsulate a broader narrative, calling on the electorate to support their vision by voting for John Dramani Mahama and all NDC parliamentary candidates. The party seeks a strong mandate to implement its proposed reforms and policies, aiming to restore integrity and confidence in the nation’s governance. The appeal is not just for votes but also for collective action towards realizing a more equitable and transparent administration. The urgency of their message reflects a desire to engage citizens in a partnership that goes beyond mere electoral participation; it is an invitation for the citizenry to take part in the process of national renewal.
In summary, the NDC under John Dramani Mahama presents a series of ambitious reforms focused on legal education, scholarship allocation, and public service integrity. By emphasizing inclusivity, transparency, and the empowerment of marginalized groups, the party aims to inspire confidence in its capacity to govern effectively. With Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s strong endorsement of Mahama’s character and vision for the future, the NDC positions itself as the agent of transformational change for Ghana, seeking not just electoral victory but a sustained commitment to national development and unity.
