The Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has been warned by a group of Ga-Dangme youth to retract what they consider derogatory comments made against their tribe, or risk facing their wrath in the coming weeks.
During an interaction with NDC supporters in the Ablekuma South Constituency, as part of his tour of the Greater Accra region to canvass for votes, the former President expressed confusion over why the Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would want to implement nationwide digitization, suggesting that not all Ghanaians need such a policy.
He is quoted to have said Gas and Dangmes only need kenkey and fish to survive, not digitization as promoted by Dr. Bawumia.
“They will digitalize the kenkey. Does that mean you will eat digitization? But I know, by the grace of God, we will not eat digital kenkey. We eat real kenkey and fried fish,” Mahama said at a rally in Chorkor.
This comment has not been well-received by Ga youth, who insist that the Gas and Dangmes are disappointed in the former leader for what they view as an immature statement.
Daniel Tetteh, spokesperson for the Concerned Ga-Dangme Youth, addressed the media at a press conference in Accra, stating that Mahama’s comment suggests that the people of the capital city don’t require any form of development, only food.
Mr. Tetteh demanded an immediate retraction and apology from the former President.
“This derogatory statement is not only disrespectful but malicious, intended to inflame prejudice and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. We remind former President John Dramani Mahama that every community, tribe, and ethnic group in this country deserves respect, dignity, and equality,” Tetteh said.
Mr. Tetteh further questioned how a former leader, who has benefitted significantly from Ga votes since 2012, could conclude that all the Ga people need is kenkey and fish, and not development.
“What informed your thoughts to conclude that Gas do not need any form of development but only care about their stomachs? How and what do you take Gas for? What exactly did you do as President for the Gas during your tenure in office? What is your plan for Gas according to your current manifesto?” These were among the many questions posed to Mahama during the press conference.
The furious youth expressed their disappointment that the former President, who, according to them, did little to advance development in the Greater Accra Region during his presidency, would now insult them.
“We are, through this press conference, giving you, John Mahama, one week to retract the statement and render an unqualified apology to the entire Ga-Dangme community. If you have nothing to offer us, do not add salt to our wounds by insulting us. It is clear you take the Gas for granted because, as the Bible says, ‘Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.’ We will consider this and vote accordingly,” Tetteh added.
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