Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to use his influence and leadership to support efforts to address Ghana’s current economic crisis.
He made this appeal during a visit to the Manhyia Palace on January 19, where he also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing development in the Ashanti Region.
Addressing the gathering at the first Akwasidae celebration of the year, President Mahama highlighted the severe economic challenges facing the nation. “Our nation Ghana is facing a dire economic crisis. While this is not the first time we have been in such a crisis, this particular one is characterised by a high rate of inflation, macroeconomic instability, a depreciating currency, and a debt default which has shut us out of the international credit market,” he said.
Reflecting on his time in office, Mahama praised the Asantehene’s critical role in supporting economic recovery during his previous administration. “As a former president between 2013 and 2017, we faced macroeconomic instability, and I remember the obstacles we encountered in restoring economic growth. I had the privilege of calling on you to use your influence and diplomacy to smoothen the path towards prosperity. Anytime I called on you, you didn’t hesitate, and I would like to thank you for the cooperation I enjoyed with you at that time,” he added.
He assured the Asantehene of his continued collaboration to overcome the current crisis. “As we have inherited a difficult economic situation, I will be calling on you again from time to time. And I know that anytime I call on you, you will not hesitate so that we work together to put our nation back on its feet,” Mahama stated.
In response, the Asantehene, through the paramount chief of Mampong Traditional Area, Dasebre Osei Bonsu II, reminded President Mahama of the importance of fulfilling promises made to Ghanaians. “We would like you to please remember always the undertakings and promises you have made. I implore you to fulfil all your promises to us in the great Asante Kingdom. We have absolute trust in you that you shall not let us down. All ongoing developmental projects within the kingdom and across all kingdoms, you will fulfil them,” Dasebre Osei Bonsu II emphasized on behalf of the Asantehene.
Mahama concluded his visit by pledging to complete stalled and abandoned infrastructure projects in the region, particularly in healthcare, as part of his commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaians.