Let us all live up to our responsibilities- President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday called on Ghanaians to play their roles meaningfully and responsibly to create an opportunity for the advancement and prosperity of Ghanaians.

He said: “Governance is a shared responsibility which every citizen needs to contribute his or her quota to enhance the development of democracy and good governance, irrespective of who you are, where you come from, who your parents are and the religion and ethnic group you come from.”

President Mahama made the call during the 56th Independence Anniversary Parade at the Black Star Square on the theme: “Partnership and Innovation for Building a new and Better Ghana.”

President Mahama explained that Ghana had risen above her peers and beyond in the areas of democracy and rule of law because while others were engaged in fruitless wars and conflicts, Ghana was building her democratic institutions.

He appealed to Ghanaians to spearhead the consolidation of the democratic credentials by eschewing negative tendencies that undermine peace and unity.

“Our actions that we put up today come with repercussions either in the short or long term… and we need to avoid those negative actions and make constructive contribution for the advancement of this country in succeeding years,” President Mahama added.

He said his administration would continue to fight against poverty by providing a fertile ground for economic freedom.

President Mahama asked the citizenry to put their hands on the deck towards the achievement of a vibrant and meaningful economy that would make the country self-reliant.

He admitted the challenges the country was facing in terms of water and electricity supply and gave the assurance that government was working around the clock to reverse the deficits that had been registered a couple of weeks ago.

The President called on all to be part of the reverse system by helping to eliminate illegal connections of utility services that disrupt services to genuine customers.

President Mahama paid tribute to the late President Kwame Nkrumah and other leaders who led the struggle for independence for their courage, perseverance and self-determination.

“I want to use this occasion to salute all leaders especially the ex- servicemen, farmers, students, market women and miners who stood up against colonialism for the courage with which they had with self-determination, and dignity.”