President John Mahama appeals for a second mandate; says he will be the main driver

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to give him a second term to continue the Better Ghana Agenda propounded by his predecessor, late President John Atta Mills.

He urged Ghanaians to renew his mandate by voting him into power come December.

Speaking at the second IEA Presidential debate, President John Mahama noted that as a “spare driver”, he has proven beyond doubt that he best suits the Presidential slot to lead Ghana as the main driver.

“The NDC government has done a lot in four years. Our constitution gives presidents two terms. Take it that I am the spare driver or caretaker. Prof Mills of blessed memory started the process and I am finishing his unexpired term. I believe the NDC government deserves a second term to be able to build on the foundation that it has laid in these four years. I am certain that Ghanaians will vote for me and turn me from the spare driver that I have been described as into the actual driver leading us to our destination.”

The second and final IEA Presidential debate was held on Wednesday, November 21 at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Accra.

The debate featured Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, President John Mahama, the Convention People’s Party’s flagbearer Michael Abu Sakara, Presidential candidate of People’s National Convention, Hassan Ayariga and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo of the New Patriotic Party.

The Presidential candidates answered questions bordering on good governance, particularly issues such as corruption, the rule of law, bureaucracy, peace and security, the management of the country’s natural resources and gender issues among others.

Touching on the issue of women development, President John Mahama said he will set up a fund for women who aspire for public office.

Presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party, Nana Akufo Addo, speaking on the issue of foreign policy explained that under his leadership, he will enhance West African integration in terms of commerce and political stability.

He said an NPP government will bring to an end the “dzi wo fie asem” mantra as quoted by the late President John Mills.

"Dzi wo fie asem" is an Akan language which literally means "mind your own business".

He recounted that the “Dzi wo fie asem" policy has ruined international relations between Ghana and foreign countries.

He further stated that his leadership will ensure mutual relationships and cooperation among Ghanaians.

PNC Presidential candidate, Hassan Ayariga, in his closing remarks at the IEA debate asserted that he will win the elections “one touch”.

Dr. Michael Abu Sakara, CPP flagbearer also remarked that a CPP government will bring prosperity to the doorstep of all Ghanaians if voted into power on December 7, 2012.  

Source: Adu Gyamfi Ameyaw