Former President and flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama has urged a fair and universal application of the Representation of People’s Act (ROPAL).
According to him, “no Ghanaian should be disenfranchised because of where he or she is living, if the law is to be applied, I am in support and will assist in enfranchising all our citizens in the diaspora and I will caution against selective application of the law.”
Speaking at the 40th Anniversary Dinner Dance of Ghana Union, UK and Ireland, former President Mahama commend the leadership of the Ghana Union, UK and Ireland on the occasion of their 40th anniversary and noted that remittances from Ghanaians living abroad amounted to $3.8 billion in 2018.
While appreciating the significant contribution of Ghanaians abroad to the economic growth and development of Ghana, the former president also indicated that “the challenges of brain drain on the resources of the nation were incubated abroad and later realised in the country.
Former President Mahama reminded the audience about “the benefit of inward investment, Ghana must walk the talk of home-coming events by making sure they yield positive outcomes for the country’s growth and development” saying the fight against corruption must be intensified since the demoralising effect of corruption and poor work ethic discouraged potential investors.
“We must create business opportunities for Ghanaians irrespective of political affiliation, encourage the need to intensify the uptake of technology, particularly in the use of mobile telecommunication for commercial transactions, the rising spectre of the far right in the west and its effect on migration of the youth who take many risks in seeking greener pastures abroad.
“I’m motivated to dream and look at the future of our country with hope, I have always believed in a united nation with Ghanaians best placed to develop Ghana since nobody, but ourselves, can do that,” former President Mahama declared. -kasapafmonline.com
