Hon.Haruna Iddrisu stands today as one of Ghana’s most admired political figures, a man whose generosity, humility, and devotion to humanity echo through every facet of his life. He often says that one should “spend as if there is no tomorrow; let tomorrow take care of itself,” a philosophy reminiscent of legendary philanthropists like Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela, whose lives were defined not by what they kept, but by what they gave.
In the same spirit, Hon. Iddrisu gives without hesitation, supports without desire for praise, and serves without expectation of reward. His leadership reminds many of the timeless truth that power is at its noblest when rooted in compassion.
Deeply connected to his community, he spends his weekends in Tamale, where he joins peers for football at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium and immerses himself fully in the daily realities of his people. Much like Kwame Nkrumah, who made the aspirations of ordinary citizens the center of his vision, Hon. Iddrisu walks among his people, listens to them, and stands with them. Across the districts of the Northern Region, his presence at naming ceremonies, weddings, funerals, and social gatherings has become a defining symbol of respect, unity, and unwavering loyalty. In the Tamale South Constituency, he is not just a political leader but also a son, a brother, and a constant companion in both joy and sorrow. Yet perhaps his most remarkable acts of service are those unseen, the quiet interventions and private support he offers to individuals who seek his help. Like Dag Hammarskjöld, the revered UN Secretary-General known for serving humanity “in silence,” Hon. Iddrisu helps quietly, restores hope secretly, and uplifts lives without seeking applause.
His personal discipline and dignity mark him as a leader of rare temperament. When he was removed as Minority Leader in Parliament, he responded with the calmness of a seasoned statesman, choosing peace over anger, and unity over division. His conduct during that period brought to mind the grace of George Washington, who relinquished power to protect the greater good, and the composure of Kofi Annan, who taught the world that leadership is not noise—it is character. In that defining moment, Hon. Iddrisu demonstrated an unshakeable maturity and an unbreakable loyalty to the National Democratic Congress, a loyalty that continues to earn him profound admiration and respect.
His love for Dagbon and Tamale is not merely declared; it is lived with devotion. Despite the demanding pressures of national service in Accra, he returns to Tamale every weekend to connect with his roots, engage with his people, and strengthen the bond that has shaped his political journey for decades. His kindness extends to his colleagues as well, assisting fellow Members of Parliament in reaching their constituencies. This willingness to serve others reflects the spirit of Julius Nyerere, whose humility and solidarity made him a father of African leadership.
A visionary by nature, Hon. Iddrisu has helped shape Ghana’s technological transformation. His leadership in establishing the Accra Digital Centre, implementing Mobile Number Portability, and expanding the national fibre optic network exemplifies the bold foresight of innovators like Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore, who saw technology as the gateway to national advancement. Through his efforts, Ghana stepped confidently into a new digital era, strengthening its competitiveness and opening new opportunities for youth and businesses alike.
His courage and determination have defined his work across public office. As Minister of Education, he championed groundbreaking policies such as the “no fee stress” initiative, the provision of free sanitary pads for schoolgirls, and free tertiary education for persons living with disabilities.
His commitment to women’s empowerment brought life-changing interventions to countless households—business training, financial support, and new pathways for economic independence. These efforts recall the passion of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female President, whose mission was similarly rooted in opening doors for women and reshaping the continent’s social landscape.
Guided by a deep understanding of national needs, he once declared that Ghana requires three foundational pillars: good housing, effective transport systems, and forward-looking social policies. In pursuit of this vision, he initiated a five-member committee to design a teacher-friendly housing scheme leveraging pension guarantees, building a cooperative model between teachers and government. This initiative reflects the spirit of Franklin D. Roosevelt, whose New Deal reforms reshaped American livelihoods through bold and empathetic policies.
From his destiny call to his everyday conduct, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu appears shaped by history, experience, and purpose for a higher calling in service of Ghana.
His discipline, political maturity, and professional ingenuity have shaped him into a leader whose influence continues to expand with dignity and depth.
Those who know him best say that much about him is yet to be unraveled. They observe that Ghana has waited long enough for this selfless son of its soil.
And indeed, in every life he touches, every vision he advances, and every hope he restores, Hon. Iddrisu stands tall among the great figures whose leadership transforms nations and inspires generations.
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu inspires thee.
“The wake of the sleeping Dragon”
Written by:
Yakubu Abdul-Jalil Bawa
2015 Mion Parliamentary Aspirant/NDC NR Communication Team member
