Don’t despair, you elected us to solve the problems, not to apportion blames – President John Mahama
President Mahama has emphasized that his leadership was not about shifting blame but rather about facing challenges head-on and finding solutions. His words, “Don’t despair, you elected us to solve the problems, not apportion blames,” have sparked conversations around the expectations of leaders and the role of accountability in governance.
The remark was made in the context of political discourse, where blame games often take center stage during times of crisis. Whether it’s a national economic downturn, an infrastructure issue, or a social dilemma, political opponents frequently point fingers at each other, rather than working collaboratively to solve the issue at hand. Mahama’s statement sought to remind both his supporters and detractors that the core responsibility of leadership is not about deflecting responsibility but about addressing the issues faced by the people.
In his call for problem-solving rather than blame allocation, Mahama has highlighted the need for a united front in addressing national concerns. He stressed that citizens elect their leaders to bring about tangible improvements in their lives, not to engage in divisive rhetoric. When leadership becomes bogged down in blame, it detracts from the primary mission—solving problems, building infrastructure, and advancing the collective well-being of the population.
Furthermore, Mahama’s words underscore the importance of accountability. While he advocates for a focus on solutions, he also implicitly calls on leaders to take responsibility for the challenges faced during their time in office. Accountability is crucial in ensuring that leaders are held to the standards expected of them. It prevents the culture of blame-shifting and encourages a proactive approach to governance.
Leaders are often judged by how they handle times of crisis. Whether it’s a health pandemic, economic recession, or natural disaster, the public looks to its leaders for guidance, empathy, and action. Mahama’s statement reminds us that leadership is not just about managing crises but also about providing a vision for the future.
In the political arena, especially in emerging democracies like Ghana, the tendency to blame political opponents can be strong. This is often a result of fierce competition, contrasting ideologies, and a lack of unity. However, as Mahama aptly pointed out, effective leadership should not center on political rivalry but on creating tangible progress.
His call to action serves as a reminder to all political figures—current and future—that they are elected to serve the people, not to engage in personal vendettas. It is a call for politicians to look beyond partisanship and work together for the greater good of the nation, as this ultimately leads to better governance and a more prosperous society.
WATCH VIDEO BELOW:
