Political Commentator Ryan Kimadi has cautioned President John Dramani Mahama against what he describes as the “neglect of key allies” who helped the National Democratic Congress (NDC) reclaim power in 2024.
In an open letter to the President titled “Open Letter to President John Dramani Mahama on the Dangers of Neglecting Key Allies of the Struggle for Regime Change,” Mr. Kimadi expressed fear “for the eroding of the peoples goodwill towards your government due to myriad of factors including neglect of your key allies including civil society who stood shoulder to shoulder with you as opposition leader.”
He reminded the President that “political allies play significant roles in helping parties to win power,” adding that “NDC’s 2024 victory was no exception.”
According to him, between 2020 down to 2024, he saw firsthand how some dedicated and fearless pressure groups including Arise Ghana defied the odds and grounded Akuffo Addo’s government.
Mr. Kimadi wrote that “civil society organizations which were your fierce defenders in opposition are now being mischievously undermined by your government especially some staff at the presidency.”
“It’s on record that two major civil society engagements have taken place ever since you took over the reins of government but unfortunately, progressive CSOs who contributed immensely to your victory were never invited,” he added.
“Yes, they were violently excluded when it matters most on critical national issues. Yet, some of those who worked against your reelection bid are the ones the government is blindly dealing with.”
He warned that turning his back on worthy allies in unfair.
“With the greatest of respect to you, Mr. President, turning your back at worthy allies in your collective struggle for power can only be said to be unfair.”
He urged the President not to allow CSOs and pressure group leaders who feasted with Nana Addo to come close to his government.
“I know their modus operandi. In fact, they are political chameleons changing colors anytime trying to outsmart governments for their parochial interests. Never trust such recalcitrant individuals and groups who carry themselves as moral voices of society,” he advised.
“If truly they are, where were they when you were being persecuted in opposition? Did they ever spoke in your defense when things were getting bad for you?” he questioned.
Mr. Kimadi reminded the President of his responsibility to “ensure all allies who helped one way or the other get the necessary recognition on the high political front even if meekly.”
He recommended that President John Dramani Mahama should meet with his true allies and extend a hand of appreciation to them.
