Accra, Ghana —John Mahama, the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has committed to revitalizing sports infrastructure across Ghana if elected president. This announcement came during a press conference on Sunday, where Mahama addressed the long-standing issue of inadequate and deteriorating sports facilities in the country.
Mahama outlined his “Big Push” initiative, which includes substantial investments in infrastructure over five years, covering roads, bridges, agro-industrial parks, and sports facilities. He emphasized the role of sports in a 24-hour economy and pledged to support private sector engagement in providing sports services.
Currently, only the Borteyman and Legon Sports Complexes, built for the 2023 African Games, are in suitable condition to host major events. Mahama’s plan aims to address this deficiency and improve the nation’s sports venues.
In addition to his infrastructure promises, Mahama announced Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as his running mate for the 2024 elections. Opoku-Agyemang, a former education minister, is expected to attract support for the NDC, particularly in the Central Region. If elected, she could become Ghana’s first female vice president.
During the press conference, Mahama delivered a scathing critique of the current administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. He accused them of leading Ghana into economic turmoil, citing widespread poverty, unemployment, and social inequality.
“The current economic mess sums up the verdict on this NPP government,” Mahama stated. “For most citizens, the journey over this period has been a bitter experience of economic and social deprivation.”
Despite his criticism, Mahama expressed optimism about Ghana’s future, praising the resilience and creativity of the Ghanaian people. He outlined five key reasons why he believes he can lead Ghana out of its current crisis:
- Experience: Mahama highlighted his previous achievements in infrastructure development and economic stability, emphasizing his crisis management skills.
- Visionary Leadership: His vision includes sustainable development through industrialization, enhanced agriculture, and efficient resource use.
- Commitment to Job Creation: Mahama pledged to create decent, well-paying jobs, focusing on entrepreneurship and innovation to tackle unemployment.
- Social Justice and Equality: He promised to strengthen social interventions and educational reforms, including establishing a national women’s bank to empower women financially.
- National Unity: Mahama called for national cohesion, urging an end to polarization and partisan politics.
