Accra, Ghana – Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has shed light on the reasons behind some unfulfilled manifesto promises during his tenure as Vice President, citing his limited influence in the role.
Speaking at a media engagement on Sunday, August 25, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the constraints of his position. “The budget that has gone to Parliament, which has been passed, is not my budget, is it my budget? It’s not my budget. The budget goes in the name of the President; it doesn’t go in the name of the Vice President,” he explained. His remarks highlighted the Vice President’s limited authority in executing certain policies and reforms.
Dr. Bawumia also addressed his presidential ambitions, drawing a parallel with former President John Mahama. He noted that even as President, Mahama did not accomplish all his goals, asking, “Why didn’t he do everything then? I mean, why is he coming back? He had full authority. I don’t have full authority.”
He further clarified that like any presidential candidate, he has a fresh agenda and new ideas that he plans to implement if elected President. “When you have to think about what new you want to do, you come up with new ideas, and I’ve come up with new ideas which I want to do when we come into office,” Dr. Bawumia stated, reaffirming his commitment to future leadership.
Addressing the economic performance of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) under Mahama’s leadership, Dr. Bawumia asserted that the NDC’s track record was not something to be proud of. He argued that Mahama lacks the moral authority to lecture the NPP on economic management, given the challenges faced during his administration.
In addition to discussing his political ambitions, Dr. Bawumia also called for a peaceful political environment in the run-up to the next election. He stressed the importance of safeguarding human life in the political arena, urging all political actors to prioritize peace and stability. “No Ghanaian life should be sacrificed for political power,” he said, warning against inflammatory rhetoric that could incite violence and undermine national unity.
As the 2024 elections approach, Dr. Bawumia’s statements underscore his intention to chart a new path for Ghana if given the mandate to lead. His remarks also serve as a reminder of the complexities and limitations inherent in the role of Vice President, as well as the significant challenges that lie ahead in the quest for national development.