The Vice President of the Republic, His Excellency Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has beseeched the King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for blessings and counsel ahead of the general elections slated for December 7, 2024.
Accompanied by National and Regional Executives of the party as well as some government officials, the 2024 Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) visited the Manhyia Palace on June 12, 2024, to seek blessings to advance his ambition.
His entourage included the NPP National Chairman, Stephen Ntim, the Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, MP for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Sarfo and MP for Suame, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu.
Vision
The Vice President told Otumfuo his intention is to advance his vision for the country for development as he conceded there remains a lot of work to be done in the country.
“We (Akufo-Addo-led-government) have done a lot but there is still a lot of work to be done.”
One of his visions, he said, is to undertake enhanced railway system development to link ports and mining sites.
“The country is blessed with mineral resources like gold, bauxite and lithium and we can’t always depend on the trucks. I will collaborate with the private sector to construct them. There is the Boankra Inland Port here but it won’t be effective without the rails.”
He also informed the Asantehene about his intention to reduce energy costs by shifting to solar panels. Under this, he said, 2,000mg of solar power, approximately 50 per cent of total energy consumed in the country.
Other things he talked about included a collaboration with the private sector to reduce government expenditure, implementation of a flat tax system, involvement of chiefs in governance, review of Section 63 (d) of the Chieftaincy Act and the provision of digital skills to one million youth.
Stick to Promises
The Kontire Division promised to hold him accountable if he fails to deliver on the promises he has made to chiefs upon election.
“The last time we met at the Regional House, you promised to support chiefs, restore our power of summon, restore our power of consent and cost of living allowance. All these will require boldness to implement. Make sure you do as you have said when you get power.”
The Oyoko Division on its part called for decentralization of government powers while the Nkosuo Division urged him to fulfil his promises when he gains the mandate.
“You have a good message and must stick to the promises when you get elected. We will always be here to hold you accountable when you fail.”
Be Real
Otumfuo in his remarks advised him to make realistic promises to Ghanaians and acknowledge the shortcomings of his government as it stands.
He, however expressed confidence in the Vice President and urged him to remain humble and respectful towards Ghanaians.
“All Ghana is seeking is development. The current government led by President Akufo-Addo will end its tenure very soon. It’s now time to prove the reason he chose you as his Vice; that trust he had that you could help him and that trust that he could train you to take over one day…If by God’s grace, Ghanaians give you the mandate, I know you can do it well.”
His Majesty also urged the entire party to support their flagbearer with their unflinching support and direction.
“He is human, when he errs, don’t fail to draw his attention and direct him toward the appropriate path. Prioritise the development of Ghana against personal interests.”
Source: Manhyia Palace
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