Democracy must deliver food, jobs and healthcare, not just elections – Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has said democracy must be judged not only by the conduct of elections but also by its ability to improve the living conditions of citizens.
President John Dramani Mahama emphasized that democracy must transcend mere electoral processes and be measured by its impact on citizens' daily lives. Speaking at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Mahama stressed that democratic governance loses its significance when citizens do not witness tangible improvements in their lives.
"Democracy must deliver tangible social benefits," he asserted. He elaborated that citizens should experience democracy beyond the four-year vote, through enhanced access to food, quality education, decent housing, reliable healthcare, and economic opportunities. Mahama emphasized that democratic governments bear the responsibility to ensure that political freedoms coexist with citizens' opportunities to enhance their livelihoods.
He connected this principle to Ghana's development strategy, asserting that investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, social protection, and economic prospects are essential to imbue democracy with meaning for ordinary people. Mahama concluded by asserting that the essence of a democratic system is contingent upon citizens observing a correlation between the elected institutions and advancements in their everyday lives.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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