President John Dramani Mahama has called for democracy to be measured not only by elections and constitutional processes, but also by its ability to improve the everyday lives of citizens.
Speaking at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday, September 24, 2026, President Mahama said democratic governance must translate into tangible social and economic benefits for citizens.
“I have always believed that democracy must deliver tangible social benefits,” President Mahama said, stressing that citizens should experience democracy not only through the ballot box but also through improved access to food, quality education, decent housing, accessible healthcare and economic opportunities.
According to the President, economic growth and democratic governance must ultimately have a direct impact on people’s living conditions. He said macroeconomic indicators would mean little if they did not translate into improvements in the daily lives of citizens.
President Mahama highlighted his administration’s infrastructure agenda, including the construction of roads, schools and health facilities, as well as efforts to expand digital connectivity and improve access to basic services.
He also pointed to the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme and the proposed New Ghana, New Economy policy as initiatives intended to expand production, promote value addition and create jobs.
On healthcare, President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which he said is designed to provide essential primary healthcare services at the community level without direct cost to beneficiaries. He also referenced the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCare, which he said is intended to support people living with serious non-communicable diseases.
The President further argued that democracy must protect vulnerable citizens and ensure that political freedoms are accompanied by meaningful opportunities to improve livelihoods.
“Democracy loses its soul when it protects elite privileges while abandoning the vulnerable,” he said.
President Mahama also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to constitutional governance, the rule of law, human rights and peaceful transitions of power, while linking the country’s democratic experience to its broader role in Africa and the international community.
His remarks formed part of a wider address at the UN General Assembly in which he discussed Ghana’s economic programme, healthcare, infrastructure, climate change, global governance and Africa’s role in the international system.
Source: MyJoyOnline / President John Dramani Mahama’s UN General Assembly address.
