Africa-Press – Ghana. Barley six months into the tenure of office of President John Dramani Mahama, residents in Sunyani, the Bono Regional capital said they have higher hopes in the government and anticipate progressive growth and economic prosperity.
According to them, the government’s performance within the six months remained credible, however, they expected an expeditious action on the implementation of government’s socio-economic intervention for wealth creation and poverty reduction.
In a random interview on the streets of the regional capital, the residents shared their views and sentiments, blended with hope and frustrations.
Madam Efua Anima, a trader said: “The continuation and improvement of Free SHS policy by the government has brought a significant relief to me because two of my children are still in SHS and we have to commend President Mahama.”
A commercial driver, Mr Abraham Duah, said he was also content with the performance of the government, saying the scrapping of some taxes, the decrease in the prices of petroleum products and the appreciation of the cedi signified a positive outlook for the future.
He urged the government to do more to sustain the progress so far, urging the implementation of policies and programmes so as to secure economic independence for accelerated national growth development.
In her view, Miss Sarah Ansah, a graduate, said she was concerned about the rising unemployment rate in the country, adding “not everyone is content now and the government must tackle the unemployment situation.”
She said: “In fact we are seriously waiting for the government to implement policies and programmes to create job opportunities for graduates and the youthful population,” admitting however that “the six months is insufficient for the government to achieve more.”
Comparatively, Mr Anthony Owusu, a pensioner noted that the cost of living now “has achieved a slight balance,” nonetheless added that “utility bills are increasing and the government must implement measures to alleviate the plight of the people.
Mr Samuel Baah, an educationist said: “We also look to see a more transparent administration and the government must improve their communication.”
On the whole, many of the residents also acknowledged that being in power for only six months were not enough period for the government to achieve his vision for the nation, and praised President Mahama for his performance so far.
They said they expected more from the government in tackling the illegal mining menace, urging the “Operation Recover All Loots” team to also remain proactive and work hard to achieve their mandate.
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