Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, has promised that persons with disabilities will receive free tertiary education under his government.
This, he said is line with vision to enhance livelihood by ensuring access to higher education and putting measures in place to secure their employment.
He made this known at a rally at the Dansoman Tony Park in Ablekuma West Constituency of Accra.
Dr. Bawumia also commits to reducing electricity tariffs by 50 percent when elected highlighting plans to invest in solar energy to provide cheaper and more sustainable electricity.
He added that his government will prioritise renewable energy sources to reduce the cost of power and making solar power a central component of the country’s energy strategy.
On transportation, he announced plans to reduce transport fares by 40 percent with the introduction of electric buses.
The flagbearer boasted about the digital advancements made under his leadership as Vice President, referencing initiatives such as the use of drones for medical deliveries and the issuance of over 18 million Ghana Cards by the National Identification Authority (NIA).
He assured of expanding these digital services and infrastructure further, noting, “We have already laid a strong foundation with our digital drive, and under my presidency, we will take this even further.”
For a more self-reliant economy, Dr. Bawumia proposed a “Buy Ghana First” policy, which aims to prioritise local products in all public sector procurement processes. This, he believes, will boost local businesses and encourage Ghanaians to support domestic products.
He also proposed introducing a flat rate for port charges on imported goods to reduce the cost of imports.
He further highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in opening up job opportunities and promoting skills development, particularly in digital technologies, to enable remote work from Ghana.
Dr. Bawumia reiterated simplifying the passport application process, assuring that during his tenure, those with Ghana Card will not need to fill out the usual passport forms.
He also resounded plans to back the cedi with gold, a move he believes would stabilise the currency, which has seen significant volatility in recent years.
Despite doubts from some economic experts about the feasibility of this strategy, Dr. Bawumia remains confident that it is a viable solution to address the cedi’s depreciation.
Banking consultant Dr. Richmond Atuahene, in his essay titled “The Politics of Ghana’s Gold Standard: Is it a Myth or Reality?” pointed out the challenges of backing the cedi with gold and stressed the importance of a stable macroeconomic environment to support such a measure.
Dr. Bawumia’s rally in the Ablekuma West Constituency was part of a larger campaign in the Greater Accra region, where he is expected to visit other constituencies.
Member of Parliament for the area, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, also addressed the gathering emphasising her commitment to fostering strong relationships within the community and working collaboratively towards its development.
The MP further urged the people of Ablekuma West to support her efforts in driving growth and positive change in the constituency by voting for her and the NPP presidential candidate in the upcoming election.
