Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has addressed concerns regarding the unfulfilled manifesto promises from his tenure, particularly those related to tax reforms like import duty reductions and tax amnesties.
During a media briefing on Sunday, August 25, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, Dr. Bawumia explained the limitations of his role as Vice President when questioned about the lack of progress on these key issues.
“The budget that goes to Parliament and is passed is not my budget; it’s the President’s budget, not the Vice President’s,” he clarified, highlighting the constraints of his position.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that his vision for these reforms is connected to his aspirations for the presidency, drawing a parallel with former President John Mahama. He noted that even Mahama, with full presidential power, was unable to fulfill all his promises during his term.
“President Mahama, who had full authority as President, couldn’t accomplish everything he promised. I, as Vice President, have even less authority,” he pointed out, stressing the distinction between the roles of President and Vice President.
He further explained that candidates must present new ideas for future governance, noting that his current proposals are meant for implementation if he is elected President in the upcoming December 7 election.
“When you consider what new things you want to achieve, you develop new ideas, and I’ve done that with plans for when we come into office,” Dr. Bawumia stated, making it clear that his current commitments are intended for his potential presidency.