Ghana’s opposition leader and former President John Dramani Mahama has blamed a 35% decline in the country’s petroleum production on corruption within the current government, claiming it has deterred major investors such as ExxonMobil.
Speaking to the Western Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi as part of a three-day tour, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer accused government officials of demanding exorbitant payments from oil investors, eroding confidence in the sector.
Mahama contrasted the current situation with the growth recorded during his presidency, stressing that corruption has undermined the progress achieved under his administration. He also outlined plans to restore investor confidence in Ghana’s petroleum sector if elected in 2024.
“There is a lot of hard work required to revive the country, especially the petroleum sector,” Mahama said. “We have decided to re-engage oil companies to return and work with us. With the shift toward electric vehicles and climate change concerns, this is the time to optimize the benefits of our oil resources before demand diminishes.”
Mahama emphasized that a future NDC government would adopt a comprehensive strategy to attract investors and revitalize the sector.
Chiefs Raise Concerns
During the meeting, traditional leaders, including Awulae Attribrukusu, Paramount Chief of Lower Axim, and Nana Akosua Gyamfiaba, Paramount Queen Mother of Shama, voiced concerns about the poor state of healthcare and environmental devastation caused by illegal mining.
They urged Mahama to ban the production and importation of Changfan equipment, used in illegal mining, if he returns to power.
Engagements in Western Region
As part of his tour, Mahama also met with members of the Western Regional Clergy in the Effia Constituency and pledged to visit all 17 constituencies in the region by Wednesday.
He was accompanied by key NDC officials, including Campaign Manager Joshua Alabi, Totobi Kwarkyi, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and Julius Debrah.
Mahama’s comments come amid ongoing debates about Ghana’s management of its natural resources and efforts to combat corruption in critical sectors.
Source:TheDotNews