National Executive Committee lauded President John Dramani Mahama’s exemplary economic leadership

A National Executive Committee (NEC) member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Cecilia Asaga, has lauded President John Dramani Mahama’s exemplary economic leadership, crediting him for the remarkable stabilisation of the Ghana cedi.

This achievement, the NDC NEC member said, stands as a testament to the President’s unwavering commitment to fiscal discipline and prudent economic management.

Ms Asaga, in an interview with the Daily Graphic, highlighted how the cedi’s newfound resilience has restored confidence among investors, traders and ordinary Ghanaians alike.

“This renewed trust is especially significant as the country witnesses a gradual decline in inflation, signalling a brighter economic outlook for all?

“Under President Mahama’s leadership, Ghana has experienced strategic, consistent and people-centred governance — the very leadership style that the Ghanaian people voted for,” she said.

“Stabilising the cedi is more than just balancing numbers; it is about safeguarding livelihoods, empowering businesses and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth,” she emphasised.

Maintain momentum

Ms Asaga further urged the government and the Bank of Ghana to maintain this positive momentum by implementing additional measures aimed at reducing inflation, boosting purchasing power and fostering local production.

She said such initiatives were vital for building an economy that works for every Ghanaian.

Salvage vehicle

Ms Asaga also commended the government’s progressive move to review the Customs (Amendment) Act, 2020, which imposed a ban on the importation of salvage vehicles under the previous administration.

She called for a pragmatic and balanced regulatory framework that prioritised stringent safety inspections and compliance standards over blanket prohibitions on salvage vehicles.

She stressed the importance of safeguarding public safety while nurturing the economic potential inherent in this sector.

“The government’s decision to revisit the ban is a timely and welcome development.”

“A comprehensive regulatory approach, rather than outright bans, will enable Ghana to harness the immense benefits of the salvage vehicle trade, supporting livelihoods, fostering entrepreneurship, and boosting local industrial hubs,” she said.

Ms Asaga stressed the vital role of the country’s informal automotive sector, citing industrial clusters such as Suame Magazine, Abossey Okai, Kokompe and others, which serve as engines of innovation, skill development and employment for thousands of artisans, mechanics and traders across the country.

“These industrial enclaves are not just workplaces; they are the backbone of local economic empowerment. President Mahama’s government has shown remarkable responsiveness to the economic realities confronting ordinary Ghanaians by initiating this review,” she noted.

Drawing on her extensive personal and professional experience spanning over two decades abroad, Ms Asaga observed the positive response from the Ghanaian diaspora, many of whom rely on the ability to import salvage vehicles as affordable and practical means of mobility and business.

“This policy shift signals fairness and inclusivity. Salvage vehicles offer an accessible transport solution to many Ghanaians who cannot afford new cars, while simultaneously sustaining thousands of jobs within the local automotive ecosystem,” she added.

Safety protocols

Ms Asaga urged the government to implement robust safety protocols and quality assurance measures to complement the review.

She emphasised that striking the right regulatory balance was essential to protect public safety without stifling economic growth.