Nkrumah secured political freedom; Mahama will deliver economic freedom – Gyakye Quayson

Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister and Assin North MP James Gyakye Quayson says President John Dramani Mahama has an opportunity to build on Ghana’s political independence by securing economic freedom for its citizens.

He believes the President is committed to ensuring that the country's natural and economic resources benefit the wider population rather than remain concentrated in the hands of a privileged few.

Mr Quayson also stressed the need to create opportunities for young people to earn decent incomes and improve their living conditions, arguing that Ghana's resources should work for the benefit of all citizens.

He said political leadership must ultimately be judged by its commitment to the welfare of the majority, insisting that those who fail to prioritise the interests of the people should be held accountable.

Speaking in an interview with Channel One TV's Akwasi Addo during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regional executive election on Saturday, November 14, the Assin North MP urged Ghanaians to support President Mahama in delivering on his mandate.

"Kwame Nkrumah gave us political independence. President Mahama is going to give us economic independence," he said.

Mr Quayson questioned the fairness of a system in which many young people struggled without regular incomes despite the country's considerable resources.

"Look at all of you here. I bet 50% of you don't have a monthly income or resources. You know, it's not fair to anybody. The resources in this country belong to all of us," he said.

He maintained that citizens must demand accountability from anyone entrusted with political leadership if their welfare is neglected.

"I don't care who becomes the leader. If you come as a leader and you don't care about the majority of the population, then they should take you out," he stated.

Mr Quayson said the NDC government recognised the responsibility that came with the mandate given to it by Ghanaians and was determined not to disappoint the electorate.

"The mandate that Ghanaians have given to the NDC, led by President John Dramani Mahama, we are not taking it for granted," he added.

He expressed confidence that President Mahama would leave a lasting legacy and called on Ghanaians to support his efforts.