John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has entered the discourse on whether holding a Dutch passport is more advantageous than obtaining a PhD in Ghana, attributing the underlying economic distress to the current administration’s mismanagement.
Mahama asserted that the debate, which has sparked widespread concern, should not be allowed to continue, emphasizing that such comparisons are unjustifiable.
Speaking at a public lecture themed “Sustainability of Democracy in Africa: The Ghanaian Experience” organized by the Christian Service University in Kumasi, Mahama highlighted that the discussion reflects a loss of confidence and hope in Ghana’s future, exacerbated by economic challenges, corruption, and misallocation of national resources under the current government.
He stated, “There is a prevailing sense of despair and frustration among our people, leading to a lively debate on social media about whether obtaining a foreign passport for menial work in Europe holds more value than earning a PhD in Ghana. It is the hardship our nation has been plunged into; otherwise, such a comparison would not arise between a Visa and a PhD.”
Mahama argued that leadership responsible for the current economic hardship should not be entrusted with the presidency, asserting that sustaining democracy in Ghana and Africa requires leadership grounded in truthfulness and accountability to the citizens.
He emphasized, “Those who have failed in economic management and contributed to our current state of despair, despite their promises while in opposition, cannot be rewarded with the presidency in this profound crisis. The presidency should not be handed over to those who claim to represent the future while being at the heart of our current predicament.”
Mahama concluded by advocating for leadership that acknowledges challenges honestly and takes responsibility, describing this approach as essential for the preservation of democracy.
The public lecture was part of the Christian Service University’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
