CPP to adopt non-partisan approach to governance

Accra, May 14, GNA - The Convention Peoples Party (CPP) government will adopt non-partisan governance approach for accelerated development if voted into power, Dr Paa Kwesi Nduom CPP flag bearer stated in Accra on Wednesday. "I believe strongly in inclusiveness governance; my experience as a CPP person in the administration of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government has given me the strength and ability to reach out to other political party members to find common ground in solving national issues.

"I am convinced that a non-partisan approach to government will move us speedily out of the third world," Dr. Nduom also known as Joseph Hubster Yorke Junior stated at a platform created by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) for the four flag bearers whose parties have representation in parliament dubbed: "An Evening Encounter With Presidential Candidates."

The Evening Encounter seeks to provide the platform to presidential candidates of four political parties with representation in parliament to educate the electorate on their vision and plans.

The programme is collaboration by the IEA, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) and Joy FM, an Accra-based private radio station. Dr Nduom explained that his inclusive governance agenda would also harness the experience, expertise, works habit and financial strength of Ghanaians abroad for the benefit of the country.

The CPP flag bearer said Ghana needs a leader with great sense of urgency with the political will to implement policies for positive results, "we know the problems that confront us as a people. We know what we should do to grow our economy and develop the country. "We need a leader who will focus on solving our problems and implementing ideas to free our people from poverty."

On election 2008, Dr Nduom said the electorate are confronted with the difficulty of selecting a leader to solve the unemployment problem, corruption, shortage of water, and a caring government who effect a change in their economic status.

"All that the they want are the basics; a job that will pay a living wage, a roof over the head, good drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, a good education for their children, good health and freedom to be what they choose to be."

Dr Nduom said he represent the change that Ghanaian electorate are looking forward for to bring development, "change that Ghanaians can feel, change that will benefit all Ghanaians not just a privileged few, change we can all feel in our individual pockets."

He said other candidates are offering more of the same -continuity to benefit those who have become well-connected since 1993, professional politicians and elites in society.

On his track record as sector Minister of Energy, Dr Nduom commended the energy policy of the NDC during its governance; saying, all the energy policies are there, what is left the implementation. He said he views energy as a critical ingredient for development as such it will receive the highest level of attention, implement policies that will make Ghanaians share in the ownership of the profits of the oil and gas revenue.

"We will review the tax structure for the petroleum products to ensure that they are pro-poor and remove any unnecessary burdens on the poor and working class," he stated. Answering questions from the audience which included representatives from Labour Movements, Politicians, Academia, Journalists, Gender Advocates and Students, Dr. Nduom reiterated a call for presidential debate among flag bearers. 14 May 08