In a bid to address Ghana’s pressing economic challenges, President John Dramani Mahama has reached out to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, seeking his influential support. During a recent visit to the Manhyia Palace, President Mahama lauded the Asantehene for his instrumental role in driving economic growth during his previous tenure.
President Mahama emphasized his unwavering commitment to the development of the Ashanti Region, promising to revive and complete various stalled and abandoned infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on the healthcare sector. He underscored the importance of collaboration between political and traditional leaders in overcoming the nation’s economic difficulties.
Addressing the gathering at the first Akwasidae celebration of the year at the Manhyia Palace on January 19, President Mahama highlighted the significant contributions of the Asantehene to Ghana’s progress. He called on Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to continue playing a pivotal role in the country’s economic recovery efforts.
And I remember. That at a time some of the times we had obstacles in our way. Of bringing stability to our economy and restoring economic growth. I Had the privilege of calling on you. To use your influence and diplomacy to smoothen the path so that it could open up the path towards prosperity and progress. Anytime I called on you, you did not hesitate. And I wish. To thank you for the cooperation that I enjoyed with you at that time. And to publicly acclaim and acknowledge that some of the economic progress that we achieved in that period was due to the work that you did.
Your Royal Majesty. As we have inherited a difficult economic situation, I’ll be calling on you again from time to time. And I know that when I call on you, you will not hesitate so that we can work together to put our nation Ghana back on its feet.
The visit and appeal to the Asantehene underscore the crucial role of traditional leadership in Ghana’s socio-economic development. As the nation navigates its economic challenges, the collaboration between political and traditional leaders will be vital in ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for all Ghanaians.
President Mahama’s call for support from the Asantehene reflects a broader strategy to unite various sectors of society in addressing the economic issues facing the country. By leveraging the influence and leadership of traditional authorities, the government aims to foster a more inclusive and effective approach to economic recovery.
Story by: Sarah Esinam Atiemo | univers.ug.edu.gh
