Mahama: Veep’s Illness Highlights Urgent Need to Improve Ghana’s Healthcare System
Former President John Dramani Mahama has stated that the recent health scare involving NDC Vice Presidential candidate Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a wake-up call for Ghana to invest in its healthcare infrastructure. He emphasized that no citizen—regardless of status—should have to seek emergency care abroad.
Accra, Ghana – Former President John Dramani Mahama has weighed in on the recent illness of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, describing it as a critical reminder of the importance of a strong and responsive healthcare system in Ghana.
Speaking at a gathering of party supporters and media following Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s return from medical treatment in the United Kingdom, Mahama stressed the need for substantial investment in the country’s health sector, especially in emergency care and specialist services.
“Her condition was serious enough to require specialized care. This raises fundamental questions: What if it were a rural woman with no means to travel abroad? Our healthcare system must work for everyone, not just the privileged few,” Mahama said.
A National Concern
Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Vice Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), returned to Ghana this week after undergoing medical treatment in the UK. Her absence had sparked concern, and her return brought relief to supporters and raised broader issues about the state of emergency healthcare in the country.
Mahama, speaking candidly, said her situation is symbolic of the inequalities in healthcare access in Ghana and reflects a wider need for reform.
“If a former Minister of Education and university professor had to seek urgent medical attention outside the country, it shows we have a long way to go in building confidence in our local health facilities,” he added.
Call for Action
The former president renewed his party’s pledge to prioritize healthcare reforms in their 2024 manifesto, focusing on equipping district hospitals, upgrading emergency services, and investing in medical personnel.
He also hinted at plans to expand the National Ambulance Service, strengthen health insurance coverage, and support local pharmaceutical production.
Public Reaction
Social media reactions have been mixed. While some praised Mahama’s frankness, others questioned why previous administrations, including his own, had not already resolved these systemic issues.
Nevertheless, many agreed that the situation has reignited a national conversation about the readiness of Ghana’s health system to handle emergencies, pandemics, and specialist care without reliance on foreign medical trips.
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