Opunion: John Mahama can’t have it both ways; Northerners will remember his 2012 advice to them

As we approach the 2024 general elections, it is crucial to reflect on the leadership choices that will shape the future of our country. A significant development in this regard is the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) decision to select Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, a distinguished northerner, as their flagbearer.

This decision not only shatters the NDC’s long-standing claim that the NPP neglects northerners, but also exposes John Mahama’s hypocrisy on the subject. The decision also offers the NPP the chance of winning over northern voters who value genuine representation.

In 2012, John Mahama, during a rally in Zuarungu in the Upper East region, boldly challenged the NPP to select a northerner as their leader if they were serious about winning votes in the northern regions.

He pointed out that northerners had grown tired of playing deputy roles, citing his own tenure and that of former Vice President Aliu Mahama.

President Mahama claimed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) provided equal opportunities for all, irrespective of background, and urged the NPP to elevate Dr Bawumia to the leadership position.

In fact, he categorically told northerners that if the NPP “want to win here, they should put him (Dr. Bawumia) in number one…and then they will get something from here”.

Fast forward to 2024, and the NPP has taken up this challenge, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and recognition of the north’s potential.

Dr Bawumia’s selection as the NPP’s flagbearer is a testament to his competence, dedication, and vision for our country.

However, despite his previous statements, John Mahama, in a move which clearly demonstrates his inconsistency and political opportunism is contesting Dr Bawumia in the 2024 elections.

John Mahama’s current stance is a stark contrast to his 2012 position. His opposition to Dr Bawumia’s candidacy reveals a pattern of using northerners for political gains while disregarding their aspirations when it suits his agenda.

It is evident that Mahama’s challenge to the NPP and advice to northern voters in 2012 was not a genuine call for northern representation but a tactic to undermine his political opponents.

Dr Bawumia represents a new era of leadership for the north and the entire nation. His economic expertise, innovative thinking, and dedication to development are qualities that will drive our country forward.

He has proven his ability to address critical issues and implement policies that benefit all Ghanaians, regardless of region.

It is time for northerners to unite behind Dr Bawumia and reject the empty promises and double standards of John Mahama. Supporting Dr Bawumia is not just about regional representation; it is about endorsing a leader who genuinely values inclusivity and progress.

Let us seize this opportunity to elect a leader who will bring tangible development and prosperity to the north and the entire nation.

Together, we can ensure a brighter future for our region and our country by electing Dr Bawumia who embodies integrity, competence, and a genuine commitment to progress.

This opinion piece was written by Dr Issah Imoro (issahwuni@gmail.com)

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