Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang embarked on a three-day official visit to the Central and Western regions of Ghana, commencing with a significant meeting with regional and constituency executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Central Region. The purpose of this gathering was to express profound gratitude and commendation for their instrumental role in the party’s resounding victory in the 2024 general elections. The NDC achieved a remarkable feat in the region, securing 18 out of the 23 parliamentary seats, a testament to the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of the party executives. Professor Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged their crucial contribution to President John Dramani Mahama’s unprecedented landslide victory. This visit served as a platform to celebrate their success and reinforce the importance of their continued commitment to the party’s progress.
During the meeting held at the Central Regional Coordinating Council (CRCC) in Cape Coast, the Vice President lauded the executives for their relentless hard work, which culminated in the NDC’s significant electoral triumph. She emphasized the potential for even greater achievements in future elections if they maintained their dedication and strengthened their collaborative efforts. Professor Opoku-Agyemang assured the executives that their invaluable contributions would not go unnoticed and that they would be duly rewarded in due course. She appealed for patience as the government diligently worked to stabilize the nation’s economy and create a more favorable environment for comprehensive development. Her visit, therefore, served not only as a celebratory occasion but also as an opportunity to motivate the party machinery for future endeavors.
Addressing the concerns regarding appointments within the government, the Vice President reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining a lean and efficient administration. She explained that the previous administration’s over-reliance on bloating the public sector had detrimental consequences for the country’s financial stability, a precedent the current government was determined to avoid. Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that appointing a large number of individuals without the capacity to pay their salaries would be counterproductive and would ultimately lead to dissatisfaction and unrest. She stressed that the government’s primary focus was on creating an enabling environment where all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations, could thrive and contribute to national development.
The Vice President’s visit also included attendance at key cultural and national events. She graced the grand durbar of the festival of the chiefs and people of Komenda, her hometown, further solidifying her connection with the local community. Additionally, she participated in the Ghana Navy Memorial Day celebration at the Naval Base in Takoradi, demonstrating her respect for the nation’s armed forces and their contribution to national security. These engagements highlighted the Vice President’s commitment to both local traditions and national commemorations.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang concluded her address by extending an apology for the delay in visiting the Central Region executives, citing the demanding nature of her responsibilities and a recent period of ill health. This personal touch further emphasized the Vice President’s genuine appreciation for the executives’ unwavering support. Mr. Richard Kofi Asiedu, the Central Regional Chairman of the NDC, echoed the Vice President’s sentiments, calling for unity and calm within the party. He assured the gathering that any internal challenges would be addressed through amicable dialogue and resolution, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a cohesive front for the betterment of the party and the nation.
The Vice President’s visit served multiple purposes, effectively combining celebration, motivation, and reassurance. By commending the party executives for their significant contribution to the NDC’s victory, she reinforced their value and encouraged continued dedication. Simultaneously, her address tackled sensitive issues like government appointments, providing a transparent explanation of the administration’s approach to governance. Furthermore, her participation in key events demonstrated a commitment to both local communities and national interests. This carefully orchestrated visit served to strengthen party unity, address potential concerns, and reaffirm the government’s commitment to the nation’s overall development.