President John Dramani Mahama has called for democracy to be judged not only by the conduct of elections but also by its ability to improve the living conditions of citizens.
Addressing the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Mahama said democratic governance must translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of citizens.
“I have always believed that democracy must deliver tangible social benefits. Citizens must experience democracy not only through the ballot box every four years, but through improved access to food, quality education, decent housing, accessible healthcare, and economic opportunity,” he said.
President Mahama said African leaders must uphold transparency and accountability while ensuring that public resources are used efficiently in the interest of citizens.
“As the legal maxim goes: ‘Whoever comes into equity must come with clean hands.’ African leadership must be transparent and accountable. We must fight corruption and ensure that every dollar of our people’s money counts and is used efficiently in their interest,” he said.
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