The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).
This request follows the NDC’s expression of numerous concerns regarding the use of the new Constitutional Instrument (CI) by the Electoral Commission (EC) during the ongoing limited voter registration exercise.
During a roundtable discussion organized by a coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Accra, the Director of Elections for the NPP, Evans Nimako, expressed the opinion that the NDC’s return to IPAC would provide the most effective avenue for addressing their concerns.
“If you look at the current CI, the 91, it says that the EC must conduct continuous registration and it says also that there must be a modality committee and that committee has been formed at IPAC. We expected NDC to be part, to be around so that we can all discuss issues that will take on board the interests of all stakeholders,” Nimako said.
“And this they have reneged. And so we will rather continue to call on them to come back to IPAC for all parties to discuss,” he added.
The NDC has boycotted IPAC meetings since 2020, citing concerns about the EC’s neutrality and independence.
The Police have initiated a manhunt for two siblings who are alleged to have murdered a 60-year-old woman in Janga, located in the West Mamprusi Municipality of the North East Region.
The victim, Musah Azaratu Poanaa, was fatally shot by the suspects, who accused her of practicing witchcraft and being responsible for misfortunes within the community.
The two individuals, identified as Sumani Abila and Fataw Sumani, purportedly attributed their father’s illness in the community to the deceased after consulting a traditional healer.
Consequently, they forcibly entered her residence, pulled her from her room, and shot her with a single-barrel gun, according to information obtained by Graphic Online.
After the attack, she was promptly taken to the Walewale Municipal Hospital, but upon her arrival, medical professionals pronounced her deceased.
According to findings from Graphic Online, the North East Regional Police Command has initiated a manhunt for the suspects, who are presently evading capture.
Musah Asana, the daughter of the deceased, recounted the incident, stating that she was inside the room with her siblings on Sunday morning when the two siblings forcibly entered their residence and began firing warning shots.
She added that “they dragged my mother out of the room and shot her after accusing her of trying to kill their father”.
The North East Regional Minister, Yidana Zakaria, has strongly denounced the incident and has called for a prompt investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He characterized the incident as barbaric and a violation of human rights, urging individuals in the region to refrain from such acts.
A Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) gas pipeline in Tema Industrial Area has caught fire.
The fire which gutted a booster station behind GTP in Tema Industrial Area has, however, been knocked out by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
The Service employed 5 pumps made up of Titus 4, Titus 5, Motor 4 and two (2) engines from Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).
The affected pipeline found leaking gas has been isolated.
The remaining gas stuck in the pipeline is being managed with foam compound and sacks, according to the Ghana National Fire Service.
Breaking News: Tema Oil Refinery gas pipeline catches fire#INDNews Medikal | Sam Larry | Daddy Lumba | Pastor | Barcelona | Samini | Free SHS | Ayalolo pic.twitter.com/SYOctZiRjt
In the suburb of Central Gonja in the Savannah Region, two elephants were reportedly shot and killed, with their meat purportedly distributed among local households.
Certain residents in the vicinity of Fufulso and Tuluwe have made claims that these elephants originated from the Mole National Park, a significant tourist attraction.
According to their accounts, these two animals, along with a baby elephant, had managed to escape from the park. They were closely observed as they ventured into the dense forest, only to reemerge in Tuluwe, where they met their unfortunate demise.
A resident in Fufulso told our news team that officials from, “Mole National Park were here yesterday [Wednesday] to tell us about the elephants from their park and pleaded we send word across to them if we see them. So, when I heard about what happened at Tuluwe, I informed them. But the meat was shared among the locals in Tuluwe,” the source alleged.
According to Myjoyonline, it has been reported that the two elephants separated from the baby elephant and proceeded to cross the White Volta River via Yapei before arriving in Tuluwe, where they met their demise.
However, Mahama Ali, the Manager of Mole National Park, expressed uncertainty regarding whether these animals truly originated from the park.
“Yes, we got information about the incident and it’s about 100 km away from Mole. So, we are not sure the animals may be from Mole but that area is also, quite close to Bimbila, Damongo, probably, they are coming from Northern Togo to this part of the country,” he indicated.
“So, I’m not very sure where the elephants are coming from but what I can confirm, is, I don’t believe they are from here”, Mahama Ali said.
He, however, said he has deployed a seven-member team to Tuluwe to investigate the matter.
Today, September 29, marks World Heart Day, a day set aside annually to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year.
CVDs are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and include coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease and other conditions.
More than four out of five CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, and one third of these deaths occur prematurely in people under 70 years of age.
The most important behavioural risk factors of heart disease and stroke are unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol.
The effects of behavioural risk factors may show up in individuals as raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose, raised blood lipids, and overweight and obesity.
These “intermediate risks factors” can be measured in primary care facilities and indicate an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other complications.
Cessation of tobacco use, reduction of salt in the diet, eating more fruit and vegetables, regular physical activity and avoiding harmful use of alcohol have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Health policies that create conducive environments for making healthy choices affordable and available are essential for motivating people to adopt and sustain healthy behaviours.
Identifying those at highest risk of CVDs and ensuring they receive appropriate treatment can prevent premature deaths. Access to noncommunicable disease medicines and basic health technologies in all primary health care facilities is essential to ensure that those in need receive treatment and counselling.
Heart attack and stroke
Often, there are no symptoms of the underlying disease of the blood vessels. A heart attack or stroke may be the first sign of underlying disease. Symptoms of a heart attack include:
pain or discomfort in the centre of the chest; and/or
pain or discomfort in the arms, the left shoulder, elbows, jaw, or back.
In addition the person may experience difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath; nausea or vomiting; light-headedness or faintness; a cold sweat; and turning pale. Women are more likely than men to have shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
The most common symptom of a stroke is sudden weakness of the face, arm, or leg, most often on one side of the body. Other symptoms include sudden onset of:
numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body;
confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech;
difficulty seeing with one or both eyes;
difficulty walking, dizziness and/or loss of balance or coordination;
severe headache with no known cause; and/or
fainting or unconsciousness.
People experiencing these symptoms should seek medical care immediately.
Rheumatic heart disease
Symptoms of rheumatic heart disease include: shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, chest pain and fainting. Symptoms of rheumatic fever (which can cause rheumatic heart disease if not treated) include: fever, pain and swelling of the joints, nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting.
The Ministry of Health has called for a meeting with the management of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital regarding a recent fee that kidney patients visiting the Renal Unit are being charged for dialysis sessions.
Criticism has mounted against the hospital in response to reports of revised dialysis fees.
Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Health, Isaac Ofie, has stated that the hospital’s management will be summoned to the ministry to provide an explanation for the introduction of the new fee without obtaining prior approval from the Ministry or Parliament.
“Before you increase [fees], there is a need for proper procedure or caution to be taken, extending the proposal or the proposed price to Parliament for approval thus the fees before you charge,” Ofie said. “But this has not gotten to us yet and even if it has gotten to the ministry, it should be before Parliament and Parliament will have to approve that before it is charged.”
“It is in line with this that the ministry has summoned [the hospital’s management] for an urgent meeting and then quickly they have to withdraw the urgent price that they have put out there,” he added.
In the meantime, Dr. Opoku Ware Ampomah, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, has informed Citi News that only six individuals have been impacted by the recent fee adjustments, and steps will be taken to address the situation.
“Fortunately, this was noticed very quickly and so when we checked, it was only six people who had paid this amount but it is going to be offset because these are patients that are on chronic dialysis so it is going to be offset,” Ampomah said. “It has already been internally remedied and we are also looking at what went wrong and how to avoid it next time.”
In a statement on Wednesday, September 27, management of the hospital explained that it is yet to submit the proposed rate to Parliament for approval.
“Any proposed fee will be forwarded to Parliament through the Ministry of Health for approval. It is only after the due parliamentary approval that any revised fees will be implemented,” a part of the statement read.
Meanwhile, the management of Korle Bu Teaching Hospital says it will continue to collaborate with stakeholders and philanthropists to help subsidize dialysis reagents and services for the treatment of many patients.
Independent presidential aspirant, Alan Kyerematen, has asserted that there are prominent figures within the administration led by President Akufo-Addo who wield more influence than government ministers.
Mr Kyerematen, who recently distanced himself from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), went on to emphasize that the current dynamics in both the government and the party depart from the typical practices of the NPP.
During an interview with Accra-based Citi TV, one of the founding members of the NPP raised questions about the roles played by these “behind-the-scenes” individuals during the party’s establishment.
“Are you not aware or have you not heard there are people behind the curtain who have more influence in governance now than even ministers?… You have not heard about people behind the curtain who have significant influence and control in the party?” he said on September 27,” he said.
“When we started in 1992, where were they, the so-called behind-the-curtain people,” he quizzed.
On the other hand, Alan Kyerematen has refuted allegations that he presented a facade of unity to the NPP chairman, Stephen Ntim, during his final days with the party.
In an exclusive interview with JoyNews, the former NPP flagbearer aspirant clarified that he had engaged in conversations with Mr. Ntim on various occasions. During these discussions, he pointed out numerous shortcomings within the party. Despite receiving acknowledgment from the party chairman, his concerns remained unaddressed.
As a result, Mr. Kyerematen not only finds the chairman’s assertion that he had no grievances with the party to be untrue but also considers it “disingenuous and very unfortunate.”
“He’s a very good friend of mine. You are the chairman of a party. You come to me to ask whether I have any challenges with what is going on. I scope for you all the things I believe have been going wrong. I’ve had personal conversations with him before and he’s aware of that.”
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has voiced his concerns about what he perceives as entrenched factionalism within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
During an interview with Accra-based TV3, Mr. Kufuor, who led the nation from 2000 to 2008, pointed out that he has observed significant differences in the NPP compared to its earlier state.
He stressed the necessity for the NPP to conduct a thorough evaluation of its activities as it progresses. Mr. Kufuor emphasized the significance of a robust commitment within the party, akin to a kind of dedication similar to a religious belief.
The former president noted that the strong commitment he once sensed within the party appears to have diminished. He underscored the importance of upholding true democratic principles, with an emphasis on inclusivity rather than factionalism.
Mr. Kufuor highlighted that giving prominence to factions within the party, be it at the constituency or national level, results in division and obstructs cooperation.
“The way I feel it, I don’t sense the same strong commitment. I have likened commitment to almost a religion. I don’t sense that now. We are talking proper democracy, an inclusive one, you wouldn’t emphasise factions.”
“Once the practice of selecting constituency or [a] national, you wouldn’t be so divisive and emphasising faction. He belongs to that side so no cooperation. You do that you are dividing the force,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the former General Secretary of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), John Boadu, has urged party members to maintain their focus despite the recent departure of a prominent member and former presidential aspirant, Alan Kyerematen.
Mr. Boadu acknowledged his divergence from Mr. Kyerematen’s stated reasons but emphasized the need to accept and respect his decision.
During an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News, Mr. Boadu underscored the significance of unity and staying on course within the party.
He recognized that differences in opinions might arise, but he stressed that the party should stay resolute and united in pursuing its objectives, regardless of individual departures.
Founder of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, has lent his support to the allegations made by the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) implementing strategies to ensure that no formidable opposition emerges in the forthcoming 2024 general elections.
During an appearance on the Class Morning Show on Thursday, September 28, 2023, Mr. Ayariga affirmed the claims put forth by the NDC, suggesting that the current government has aligned the Electoral Commission, security services, and the judiciary in its favor in preparation for the 2024 elections.
Mr Ayariga explained that: “Because when the smaller political parties decided to go to court and we got the injunction application against the Electoral Commission, [from carrying out the limited voter registration exercise] you saw what happened, it was thrown to the dustbin. So clearly what it means is that the Chief Justice did not want to listen to such an application, so if the NDC is saying that, of course there’s iota of truth in this, you cannot just debunk it because they themselves have done it in the past.”
The leader of the APC, Hassan Ayariga, has put forward a proposal advocating for a constitutional amendment that would prevent any government from having the authority to appoint an Electoral Commissioner.
“So they[NDC] know what they’re talking that any anytime they are all in power they keep changing the Electoral Commission to their own and why would you keep changing an Electoral Commissioner every time your party was in power and so I would even say that the Electoral Commissioner should not be elected by the President of the day, we should have a constitution that makes them independent. None of their commissioners should be elected by the president or appointed by the president,” Mr Ayariga proposed.
Mr Ayariga stressed: “Those allegations the NDC has put out there there’s some iota of truth in it.”
Mr. Ayariga underscored the detrimental consequences of Presidents being responsible for appointing Electoral Commissioners. He recounted an incident in the Dome Kwabenya Constituency, his place of residence, where despite his driver and friends voting for him, the Electoral Commission reported that he received no votes, leaving him with a tally of zero votes.
“He stood there, he voted for me, but when they counted them I didn’t get one single vote, but he voted, his wife voted, friends of mine within the community voted, but I got zero. My agent was there, they counted the votes and I was given the number, when they were recording I got zero.
“I got 422 votes in Suame, my Parliamentary candidate got 600 votes, when they were writing they wrote 200 for my parliamentary candidate and they gave me 22 votes and when they contested they asked him that what is Ayariga going to do with 400 votes and the Electoral Commissioner was there,” Mr Ayariga intimated.
Deputy Ranking Member of the Finance Committee of Parliament, Isaac Adongo, has raised concerns that the National Investment Bank (NIB) has not received the level of attention it requires, resulting in its ongoing financial crisis.
During an appearance on the Top Story program on Joy FM, the Member of Parliament for Bolga Central disclosed that the Managing Director of the bank, Samuel Sarpong, has been remotely managing the troubled institution for nearly a year, all the way from Canada.
Mr Adongo attributed this situation to a lack of effective corporate governance, which he believes has contributed to the bank’s current predicament.
“We haven’t given NIB the kind of attention that it deserves given that it has been in crisis… the Managing Director sat in Canada and zoom-managed NIB for almost a year. How can we be serious with that?
“A bank that requires arm holding, proper nurturing, the Managing Director sat in Canada for one year and what he was doing was zoom managing that bank. Even very good performing banks cannot be managed by zoom for one year so clearly there are issues,” he said on JoyFM’s Top Story.
“I want to tell you that the bank itself was not established by the Companies Act, it was established by a National Investment Bank Act 612, and that Act is very clear under Section 22 under liquidation proceedings that nobody can liquidate or take any action that will ultimately lead to the demise of NIB unless it comes back to parliament for parliament to pass a law giving direction as to how that process should be pursued.
“So, there’s clearly a legal mandate and that legal mandate rests with the people who set up NIB and it is the parliament of Ghana. So, we don’t expect anything other than a poor regulation action by the Central Bank under Act 930 either to bring it under administration, to revoke the license or to place it under receivership as provided because they have a license of the bank of Ghana.
“But it’s quite clear that’s not the action the Bank of Ghana wants to take, it is not the action the government is interested in, the only action left now is to come under Act 612 and particularly under Section 22 of the Act,” he explained.
Previously, the Member of Parliament (MP) had asserted that the merger proposal served as a camouflage for the eventual sale of both banks, post-merger, to individuals with close ties to the government.
This, according to him, was perceived as a strategy employed in the context of state capture efforts.
“It is clear that this is not about the interest of NIB. This is the last step towards passing through the back door to acquire NIB and ABD for themselves in a state capture,” he said.
Previously, the Member of Parliament (MP) had asserted that the merger proposal served as a camouflage for the eventual sale of both banks, post-merger, to individuals with close ties to the government. This, according to him, was perceived as a strategy employed in the context of state capture efforts.
“I don’t think merging NIB and ADB is solving any problem, it is not a solution at all,” he told Evans Mensah.
He pointed out that the National Investment Bank (NIB) has not only been grappling with fiscal challenges but has also faced corporate governance issues, with the roots of the current situation dating back to 2016.
Additionally, he mentioned that the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) is experiencing similar challenges, as indicated in a 2022 report, and lacks the capacity to absorb the National Investment Bank (NIB). Furthermore, he noted that even if the government were to provide financial support to ADB, it might not be sufficient to cover NIB’s outstanding debts.
He suggested that both banks be recapitalised, explaining that “you don’t bring a weak institution to buy a bad institution. You have what we call a good bank buying a bad bank, there is a theory there but the two of them are not good for anything.”
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have distanced themselves from allegations made by the Electoral Commission (EC) suggesting that political parties are encouraging minors and foreigners to participate in the limited voter registration exercise.
During a press conference held on Thursday, the EC expressed concerns about the involvement of minors and foreigners in the registration process, noting that some members of political parties appeared to be facilitating this through the guarantor system.
Dr. Bossman Asare, a Deputy Chairperson of the EC, emphasized their commitment to establishing a credible voter register. He pointed out that including the names of unqualified individuals could compromise the integrity of the register.
However, on the Newsnight program on Joy FM, Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, countered these allegations. He revealed that many individuals had faced challenges during registration due to suspicions raised by political party agents. These agents were actively challenging registrants to provide documentation to verify their age, part of a concerted effort to ensure that only eligible voters were registered.
“I think that is an alarmist assessment of the issues…You don’t go accusing political parties when your own officials are the ones administering the process. You have seen NPP people challenging NDC people they suspect and NDC people challenging them. So how do you come out to accuse political parties when the system is running naturally?” he quizzed.
“NDC dissociate itself from that accusation. We are not bussed minors. We have no involvement in bussing minors. We believe that the procedure, when you walk to the registration centre, you will be taken through a process and that process is by law enough to be able to detect,” Mr Gbande said.
The Deputy General Secretary of the NDC expressed his disappointment in the Electoral Commission’s decision to exploit the issue as an opportunity to criticize the guarantor system, which allows individuals to vouch for eligible voters who do not possess Ghana Cards, and their attempts to determine people’s ages based on photographs.
He emphasized that this very system is utilized by the National Identification Authority to grant Ghana Cards to a significant number of Ghanaian citizens.
On the other hand, Haruna Mohammed, a Deputy General Secretary of the NPP, not only refuted the allegations but also asserted that the NDC was actually supportive of the registration of minors. He pointed to instances where NDC agents were reportedly advocating for the registration of a 14-year-old as evidence of their endorsement of such practices.
“As a political party we (NPP) are law-abiding we have stated this fact; we are not going to accept the issue of registration of minors. This is clearly stated in Ghana’s constitution that if you don’t attain the age of 18 you should not be registered and we are going to support this particular process”
“I am happy that the electoral commission is talking about a number of people being challenged I hope that these minors will be the chunk of that,” Mr Mohammed added.
Additionally, he voiced his support for the Electoral Commission’s call to discontinue the guarantor system, citing it as one of the factors contributing to the sluggishness of the registration process and other associated challenges.
Mr. Mohammed argued that implementing a more robust system, which exclusively relies on Ghana Cards, would be beneficial in guaranteeing the establishment of a pristine voter register.
Official sources within the Bank of Ghana (BoG) have discredited a video circulating on social media that purportedly shows stacks of cash, allegedly printed by the BoG on behalf of the government for election-related purposes.
The BoG sources have unequivocally labeled the video as “fake” and “propagandish.”
The widely circulated video is accompanied by commentary suggesting that the money was intended for election-related activities. However, the central bank has dismissed these claims.
According to the BoG, a careful examination of the purported cash stash revealed that the currency displayed in the video is not denominated in Ghana cedis.
Furthermore, sources within the Bank of Ghana have urged the Ghanaian public to disregard the “propaganda” video and to “treat it with contempt.” They have clarified that it is an old video that resurfaces periodically for propaganda purposes.
The BoG has urged the public to exercise caution and refrain from disseminating misinformation based on this “misleading” video.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has reported that 673,276 new voters have been registered in the sixteen days since the limited voter registration exercise began nationwide.
During a press briefing held on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at the Electoral Commission’s headquarters, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Bossman Asare announced that the registration process has been proceeding smoothly and as per the established plan at its district offices across the country.
Dr. Asare also reassured the general public that the ongoing registration exercise will not be the sole opportunity for voter registration before the 2024 general elections.
Plans are in place to conduct another limited registration exercise in selected electoral areas and hard-to-reach regions prior to the polls.
“We are happy to note that the number of registrations has gone up considerably, and we are currently averaging 50,000 registrations per day since last week and this is very remarkable. To date, we have registered 673,276. The Commission is within a striking distance of the targeted 700,000 persons to be registered in this exercise.”
“We want to also state emphatically that this is not going to be the last registration exercise before the general elections in 2024. We will roll out another round of continuous registration exercise in 2024 in our district offices and also register people in difficult-to-reach areas in some selected areas.”
Dr. Asare provided a breakdown of the registration progress, revealing that the Ashanti region had the highest number of individuals registered.
“Western Region recorded 42,269 representing 6.3 percent; Western North recorded 22,386 representing 3.3 percent; Central registered 63,228 representing 9.4 percent; Greater Accra recorded 90,099 representing 13.4 percent; Volta recorded 43,099 representing 6.4 percent; Oti recorded 18,468 representing 2.7 percent; Eastern region registered 69,597 representing 10.3 percent; Ashanti region registered 111,593 representing 16.6 percent; Bono region registered 23,365 representing 3.5 percent; Ahafo region registered 17,210 representing 2.6 percent; Bono East registered 28,687 representing 4.3 percent’ Savannah recorded 16,045 representing 2.4 percent; Norther registered 52,410 representing 7.8 percent; North East recorded 17,692 representing 2.6 percent; Upper East registered 33,778 representing 5 percent and Upper West region registered 23,350 representing 3.5 percent.”
The limited voter registration exercise which began on September 12, 2023, will end on October 2.
Supporters of Alan Kyerematen in the Northern Region have expressed deep disappointment and a sense of betrayal following the former NPP presidential candidate’s recent withdrawal from the race.
Speaking to the press in Tamale, these dedicated supporters revealed their unwavering allegiance to Kyerematen’s leadership within the party, spanning a remarkable 17-year period. They emphasized their active involvement in his campaigns and their belief in his ability to lead the NPP, especially in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
The supporters conveyed their shock and disappointment at Mr. Kyerematen’s sudden decision to exit the race, particularly after the Special Delegates’ Conference. They highlighted the significant challenges this unexpected move had imposed on them, as they had wholeheartedly supported his candidacy and had perceived widespread grassroots backing.
They questioned the reasoning behind his departure at such a crucial juncture, seeking clarity on the matter.
“We can only describe this action as ‘cowardly’ and a betrayal of his loyal supporters,” they remarked.
Furthermore, they underscored the New Patriotic Party’s democratic principles and highlighted the rights of all members to endorse their preferred candidates during internal elections.
Their steadfast support for Alan Kyerematen stemmed from his extensive history as a member of the NPP, with many considering him one of the party’s foundational members capable of upholding its core principles and traditions.
Mr. Chabile Moses Moye, a prominent figure among Alan Kyerematen’s supporters in the Northern Region, reminisced about their campaign efforts, where they fervently defended Alan’s unwavering loyalty to the party. They vehemently refuted any claims suggesting that he would resign if he did not emerge victorious in the race.
He remarked, “We now find ourselves faced with the stark reality of his resignation. Is this the man we remained loyal to for the sake of the NPP? We want to make it clear that our support for Alan was contingent on his NPP affiliation. We will not betray our party for any individual, not even the President of the Republic. If we identify issues within our party, we believe in staying, working together to resolve differences, and moving forward in unity.”
Moye reminded Alan Kyerematen that he had previously indicated his concerns about the handling of certain policies and decisions and had proposed to revisit them if elected.
He highlighted that Kyerematen had been a member of the cabinet in the capacity of a minister when those decisions were made. Thus, he cautioned against any attempts to mislead them now that he had chosen an independent path.
“We cannot allow one individual to undermine our party and jeopardize our chances of achieving victory in 2024. We want to emphasize that we stand firmly with our party and will work tirelessly to unite our members within the NPP,” Mr. Moye concluded.
Ghana’s debt has reached GHS 575.5 billion, which is equivalent to 71.9% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) as of the first half of 2023.
This represents an increase of GHS 27.7 billion compared to the GHS 547.8 billion debt recorded in January 2023, making it the highest level since January 2023.
The external portion of the debt, which was GHS 315.8 billion in January (equivalent to 39.4% of GDP), has risen to GHS 328.6 billion in June, constituting 41% of GDP.
Meanwhile, the domestic component, which stood at GHS 232.0 billion in January (29% of GDP), has increased to GHS 246.9 billion in June, accounting for 30.8% of GDP.
It’s noteworthy that Ghana’s debt is increasing while the government is implementing a three-year US$3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan-support program aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the country’s debt.
“The recent increment in our debt stock is mainly as a result of the weak performance of the cedi against the dollar, Dr Daniel Anim Prempeh, Chief Economist, Policy Initiative for Economic Development (PIED), said.
“The high debt we’re incurring is because the cedi is not performing well, so, once you convert your debt to the prevailing dollar rate, you should expect increases in the value. Therefore, once the cedi depreciates, you expect the value of most of the dollar denominated debts to increase,” he explained.
The domestic debt decreased from GHS 247.9 billion in April 2023 to GHS 246.9 billion in June, primarily due to the implementation of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), as pointed out by economists.
“We’re hoping that our external creditors will agree for the kind of restructuring that the Government wants to do, and if that’s done, there will be room for us to be able to sustain the high debt that we’re incurring,” Dr Anim-Prempeh said.
“The impact of the IMF first tranche will not be immediate. It’s until the end of the fiscal year when the analysis is done before we’ll be able to see any significant impact that it might have had within the domestic economy,” he said.
He urged the Government to reduce its appetite for both domestic and external debt to balance the credibility and investor confidence associated with the implementation of the IMF programme.
He added that: “Even if all the US$3bn is released, it will not bring about any immediate growth and stability within the macroeconomic environment, it will take a certain time to actually feel the impact.”
Dr Anim-Prempeh urged government to “focus on policies that will bring about macroeconomic stability by being fiscally disciplined as we enter into an election year in 2024.”
According to social media users, Agyapong’s suggestion is seen as impractical and counterproductive, as it may alienate young people rather than garner their support.
During a recent interview, the NPP flagbearer floated the idea of a new national service program that would involve military training. He argued that the youth exhibit too much indiscipline, and compulsory military training for all could be advantageous for the country.
“Because of indiscipline in Ghana, every national service person and every university graduate will undergo six-month military training,” he said.
Responding to his statement on Twitter, some young Ghanaians collectively expressed their strong opposition to the proposal while others thought it was a brilliant idea.
The persistent traffic congestion on the Accra-bound section of the motorway, attributable to numerous potholes, has prompted two ride-hailing app drivers to take matters into their own hands on Thursday morning.
They voluntarily patched some of the many potholes along the expressway near the Lakpakpla Bridge, close to the Accra Abattoir.
These two drivers, named Kojo Asante and Emmanuel Boateng, used laterite to fill the potholes along this busy stretch.
In an interview with JoyNews, the drivers shared the motivation behind their actions on this critical and heavily trafficked highway.
They explained that, being motorists themselves who often encounter problems with their vehicles while traveling on this route, they felt compelled to help alleviate the situation before any long-term solutions could be implemented by the government.
“What motivated us was that, I was just lying down and I called my friend lamenting about the present state of the Motorway. I told him we are the motorists so we should do something about it. He then asked what should be done. The I replied by saying we should get some wheelbarrow and tools, and that’s how we started something this morning around 5.30 a.m.,” one of the drivers shared.
The other driver also said, “Most of the drivers have flat tyres on the road and accidents also happen on the road. But we have seen that we can help.”
However, after dedicating six hours to repairing several potholes along the stretch, members of the Tema Police Patrol Unit eventually arrived at the scene and instructed them to depart.
The volunteers expressed their disappointment with the police’s directive.
The government has introduced a comprehensive National Energy Policy aimed at reshaping the country’s energy sector to support its economic development objectives.
This extensive policy, which received cabinet approval earlier this year, encompasses various aspects of the energy sector, including power generation, transmission, distribution, petroleum, renewable energy, nuclear power, and energy efficiency.
Key highlights of the new policy comprise:
Universal Access to Electricity: The objective of achieving universal access to electricity by 2024 through an expansion of the national grid and the establishment of mini-grids. Presently, 86% of households have access to electricity.
Renewable Energy Growth: A commitment to increasing the proportion of renewable energy sources to meet rising electricity demand in an environmentally sustainable manner. This includes the implementation of utility-scale solar and wind projects, as well as off-grid solutions.
Nuclear Energy Integration: The incorporation of nuclear power into the energy mix by 2030, with the aim of providing cost-effective baseload electricity. The government has already initiated steps to establish a nuclear program.
Petroleum Sector Expansion: An expansion of petroleum exploration efforts to boost oil and gas production. This involves conducting additional seismic surveys, promoting enhanced recovery techniques, and developing necessary infrastructure.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation: Promotion of energy efficiency and conservation measures to minimize waste. This includes the introduction of new building codes, appliance standards, and public awareness campaigns.
Inclusivity: A commitment to mainstream gender and disabilities considerations into the energy sector. This involves capacity building and data collection initiatives to ensure inclusivity.
Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has stated that the effective implementation of the policy will necessitate the enactment of new legislation spanning the entire energy sector.
He expressed hope that the policy will help make Ghana’s energy sector “a sustainable climate-resilient low-carbon energy economy.”
The 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference to be held under the distinguished patronage of the Speaker of Parliament, the Rt Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, will begin on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
The conference, expected to end on 6th October, 2023 will be held at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) under the theme “The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and Principles for Parliaments to Uphold”.
The conference is aimed at fostering dialogue and cooperation among member countries to address pressing global challenges within the context of Commonwealth values.
According to Clerk to Parliament, Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, who interacted with members of the media last Wednesday, the conference will emphasize the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing these challenges and highlight the role of parliaments in shaping policies that benefit their citizens.
The 7-day Conference will be attended by Speakers and Presiding Officers, Parliamentarians, Clerks-to-Parliaments, Parliamentary Staff, and key stakeholders in the parliamentary governance sector.
The Parliament of Ghana expects to host about six hundred (600) delegates, observers and accompanying officials from 56 National branches (National Legislatures) and 111 Sub-National Branches (State/Provincial Legislatures) across the nine (9) geographic regions of the Commonwealth.
The 66th CPC will be held alongside other Conferences, Meetings, and Workshops at the Accra International Conference Centre, including the: 66th CPA General Assembly; Meetings of the CPA Executive Committee; 39th CPA Small Branches Conference; Meetings of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP); Meeting of Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) networks; 57th Meeting of the Society of Clerks at the Table (SoCATT); and Presentation of the 2023 Commonwealth Parliamentarian of the Year awards.
Prior to the official opening of the Conference, there will be an Inaugural Lecture in memory of Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka on Monday, 2nd October, 2023 from 19:00 to 20:00 GMT at the Accra International Conference Centre, Ghana.
This year’s conference will officially commence with an opening ceremony on Wednesday, 4th October, 2023 under the distinguished patronage of the President of the Republic of Ghana and Vice-Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who is the keynote speaker.
The opening ceremony will be followed by workshops to discuss various topics relating to security, human rights, the environment, economy, gender, and other cross-cutting issues.
In September 2019, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), at its 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) held in Kampala, Uganda adopted a request from Ghana among those from other commonwealth nations to host the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.
Former presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has rejected the tag “Aduru wo su” used to label his campaign during his days with the ruling party.
Since the 1990s, Mr Kyerematen has failed in all his attempts to be elected the NPP flagbearer. In most cases, he lost to now-President Akufo-Addo.
Owing to his consistency, the motto “Aduru wo su” to wit, “It is your turn” emerged as he once against fought for the flagbearership race ahead of the 2024 general elections.
According to Mr Kyerematen, such a label is unbefitting of him, as he has proven himself capable of leading the country. He noted that such a tag places him in the position of an entitled individual.
“I disagree with my own team. They kept on making some of these statements. This “eduru wo so” thing, I told them you are underselling me by making it seem as if Alan is just sitting there and he feels entitled and so.. No I kept on telling them.
That is not the kind of label befitting somebody who has worked to deserve to lead the party. So I disagreed with them on the “eduru wo so” label,” he said in an interview on CitiTV.
Meanwhile, the leader of the Movement for Change has shot down claims that his exit from the ruling party will affect his fan base.
He noted that the abysmal performance at the NPP’s Super Delegates Conference does not reflect his actual support from the ruling party.
“I also disagreed with them on their own understanding that the super delegates conference already predicts where their allegiance will be and that if it gets to 200,000. I said the value will be the same. It is not going to change because the delegates who put them there.
“I told the team my strength lies with the rank and file of the party. When we talk about the rank and file of the party, it is not the 200,000 people. Over 6.5 million people voted for NPP in our elections. They are the strength of the party, not the delegates,” he added.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia won the super delegates conference with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the total valid votes.
Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong came in second with 132 votes, or 14.30% while former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes, or 10.29%.
Following the elections, Mr Kyerematen on September 5, withdrew from the race citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has entreated members of the general public who have dogs as pets to ensure they are vaccinated regularly to prevent rabies infection.
The GHS made the appeal as part of measures to commemorate World Rabies Day today, September 28, 2023.
The Service noted that the regular vaccination of dogs will ensure the entire community is protected.
“Remember, 100% of Rabies cases are preventable,” the GHS noted in a Twitter post.
According to Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, the country has witnessed 615 cases of rabies infections among individuals, resulting in 72 fatalities, from 2020 to 2023.
Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Ghana, Dr. Kingsley Mickey Aryee, notes that the vaccination coverage of dogs in the country is alarmingly low, with only 8.5 percent of dogs being vaccinated nationwide.
Ghana has responded to the global initiative of eliminating dog-mediated human rabies by 2030. To support this goal, the country has implemented a National Rabies Control and Prevention Action Plan for the period of 2018-2030. This plan serves as a roadmap for achieving the target.
What to know about Rabies
Rabies is a viral disease that affects mammals, including humans. It is caused by the rabies virus, which is typically transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, often via bites or scratches.
Once the virus enters the body, it travels through the nerves to the brain, leading to inflammation of the brain and, ultimately, death if not treated promptly.
About 70,000 people die of rabies every year across the world.
Rabies kills 144 people daily and every 10 minutes a life is lost to rabies.
Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms develops.
In humans, symptoms of rabies can include fever, headache, muscle weakness, and confusion, which can progress to paralysis, hallucinations, and seizures.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Congress, originally scheduled for October 5, 2023, has been postponed due to a court-ordered adjournment stemming from the dispute between King Faisal Football Club and the governing body of football in Ghana.
The new date for the court hearing is now set for Thursday, October 12, 2023.
Initially, the GFA had planned to hold its Congress in Tamale on September 27, 2023. However, King Faisal sought an injunction on the process, leading to the rescheduling of the assembly for early October.
King Faisal, a relegated team from the Ghana Premier League, seeks to maintain this restraint until elections for National League club representatives, Regional Football Associations, and related bodies are completed.
Furthermore, King Faisal contends that a valid Congress cannot proceed to elect the President until new representatives for the Executive Council (Exco) are duly elected.
The club also argues that initiating nominations for the GFA President’s election before Exco elections take place is both improper and illegal.
In addition, King Faisal, based in Kumasi, seeks a declaration that any resolutions passed by the current Exco regarding the GFA President’s election before Exco representatives are chosen constitute a breach of trust, confidence, and loyalty.
Following the disqualification of George Afriyie, Kurt Okraku is poised to continue his tenure as the FA President immediately after the Congress. However, the outcome of the elections hinges on the Court’s ruling in this matter.
It’s important to note that George Afriyie has filed a case with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to challenge his disqualification from participating in the GFA presidential elections scheduled for the near future.
Renowned actor Sir Michael Gambon has passed away at the age of 82, according to his family.
Sir Michael was most famous for his portrayal of Professor Albus Dumbledore in six out of the eight Harry Potter films.
He had a prolific career spanning six decades, during which he excelled in television, film, theater, and radio, earning four Bafta awards. His wife, Lady Gambon, and son, Fergus, shared that their “beloved husband and father” passed away peacefully in a hospital, surrounded by his family, after battling pneumonia.
Sir Michael’s family relocated to London when he was a child, but he marked his inaugural stage performance in Ireland in 1962, starring in a production of Othello in Dublin.
His career soared when he became one of the founding members of Laurence Olivier’s National Theatre acting ensemble in London, ultimately securing three Olivier awards for his outstanding performances in National Theatre productions.
He was notably recognized for his role as French detective Jules Maigret in the ITV series Maigret and gained acclaim for portraying Philip Marlow in Dennis Potter’s The Singing Detective on the BBC.
Sir Michael assumed the iconic role of Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, in the immensely popular Harry Potter film series, taking over the character following the passing of Richard Harris in 2003.
His extensive filmography includes appearances in the big-screen adaptation of Dad’s Army, Gosford Park, and The King’s Speech, where he portrayed King George V, the father of King George VI who struggled with a stutter.
RIP Michael Gambon
“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light” – Albus Dumbledore pic.twitter.com/xl8ircdql6
He received Emmy nominations for his role as Mr. Woodhouse in an adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma in 2010 and for his portrayal of President Lyndon B Johnson in Path to War in 2002. Additionally, he received a Tony nomination in 1997 for his performance in David Hare’s play Skylight.
Sir Michael Gambon was knighted in 1998 in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry. Despite his Irish heritage, he had become a British citizen during his childhood.
Revered as “The Great Gambon” within acting circles, his final stage appearance occurred in 2012 in a London production of Samuel Beckett’s play All That Fall.
The Tertiary Education Workers Union (TEWU) and two other university unions, namely the Senior Staff Association of the University of Ghana (SSA-UoG) and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA), have issued a two-week ultimatum to the government, demanding the reinstatement of their withheld allowances.
During a press conference held in Accra, the National President of GAUA, Dr. Beth Offei-Awuku, expressed concern that the non-payment of these allowances was causing undue hardship for their members.
The unions have warned that if the government does not restore their allowances by October 15, 2023, they will initiate a service withdrawal across all public universities in the country.
Meanwhile, Organized Labour has advised its members to follow the proper procedures and seek police approval when planning demonstrations.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joshua Ansah, emphasized that adhering to these protocols would grant them the necessary authorization to proceed with their protests.
“We are a law-abiding organisation. We normally write to the police the number of days that is required which is five days to the police,” Ansah said.
“The police also have the duty to respond. If they are satisfied with all the arrangements, the routes, the destination, the starting points, and the time of closing, I think that they can give us the go-ahead.”
“I don’t think the police would dream of stopping us from having our demonstration or strike after we have informed them in accordance with the law,” he stated.
The Minority in Parliament has opposed the government’s proposal to either dissolve the National Investment Bank (NIB) or amalgamate it with the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB).
In recent years, the government has been actively pursuing the merger of ADB and NIB to establish the National Development Bank, citing ongoing challenges faced by both institutions.
During a press briefing in Parliament, Isaac Adongo, the Minority Spokesperson on Finance, asserted that this initiative is, in fact, a diversionary tactic aimed at ultimately selling off the merged banks to individuals with close government ties, as part of what he characterizes as efforts to exert undue influence over state assets.
“It is clear that this is not about the interest of NIB. This is the last step towards passing through the back door to acquire NIB and ABD for themselves in a state capture,” he said on Thursday, September 28.
The Minority has called on the government to settle the outstanding debt owed to the bank. Additionally, they have recommended a set of measures aimed at ensuring the bank’s financial viability.
“Government should just restructure the balance sheet of NIB to swap all the NIB debt that it owes to government and give government equity. Government says it doesn’t have money to capitalize the bank, but it has given 500 million debt to NIB, it has given 800 million debt… The two will give you 1.3 billion. It is your money. You owe the bank. The money is already sitting there. Commit to saying that this is my contributing towards capitalisation so that we issue shares to you and move the money to equity,” he added.
Isaac Adongo emphasized that the potential collapse of NIB and its subsequent acquisition by ADB would result in the loss of approximately 800 jobs.
He also pointed out that contractors who were engaged by NIB for government projects are still awaiting payment from the Finance Ministry.
“As a result of that, NIB has incurred 1 billion on its load books, resulting from Ken Ofori-Atta’s refusal to pay, now you say NIB is week,” he said.
Commissioner Joseph Whittal emphasized that by doing so, these agencies would be better equipped to understand and respect the rights of demonstrators, rather than viewing them as instigators of trouble, ultimately leading to smoother and more peaceful protest events.
According to the Commission, the “police’s response over the years against protesters has been disproportionate and leaves much to be desired.”
In a press release issued on Wednesday, September 27, the Commissioner, among others, also recommended that “law enforcement agencies in all their considerations must facilitate the realisation of the freedom of assembly and other protected rights unless restrictions are reasonably necessary in a democratic society.”
This comes after Organisers of the #OccupyJulorBiHouse protest, Democracy Hub, led by Oliver Barker-Vormawor on Thursday, September 21, 2023 began a three-day protest aimed at compelling the government to address the current economic hardships Ghanaians are facing.
On Day 1 of the demonstration, protestors were not able to do much as 49 individuals within the vicinity of the Jubilee House and the 37 Military Hospital area were arrested by the police for unlawful assembly, which the police said violated the Public Order Act.
This action followed an application filed by the police at the court on the eve of the protest to halt the demonstration.
Following the arrest, reports of assault against the protestors, including Ghanaian journalist Bridget Otoo, emerged on social media, with many citizens calling for calm and condemning the police.
24 hours later, there were reports that some protestors who were detained had been released. Media reports were not able to provide the specific number of protestors released.
Adding its voice to condemning the actions of the police, CHRAJ reminded the police that the Constitution grants citizens the freedom to assemble.
Following the protest, the Police Management Board (POMAB) has summoned COP Sayibu Gariba, the Accra Regional Police Commander, to provide explanations regarding the use of excessive force against participants in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest.
Again, the police has expressed gratitude to members of the public, especially those in Accra, for their support and understanding while we worked within our mandate to maintain law and order during the demonstration.
The Service has also apologized to members of the public who were inconvenienced in one way or the other, especially those who were caught up in the vehicular holdups during the demonstration.
Meanwhile, the police has announced plans to meet with the organizers of the protest for a debriefing session with the aim of fostering a more fruitful engagement in the future.
Attorney General (AG) and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has expressed his concern over the duration of high-profile criminal trials in the country.
According to the AG, it is unjust for cases involving high-profile individuals accused of summary offenses such as fraud to drag on for extended periods, while cases involving ordinary members of the public are typically concluded within six months.
In his address at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Annual General Conference of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana in Accra on Tuesday, Godfred Dame urged the judiciary to ensure that their legal processes are free from undue delays and inefficiencies.
“My Lady, I will only urge the Judiciary to ensure that their processes are devoid of undue delays and inefficiencies, for a robust legal system, underpinned by the rule of law, goes hand in hand with economic prosperity, bolsters the confidence of the people and deters the perpetration of wrongdoing.
“A court system in which summary trials of criminal cases can last for more than four years militates against the right to a fair trial, defeats the ends of justice and must be looked at again.
“It is unjust and unfair for so-called high profile criminal cases involving the summary offences of fraud, willfully causing financial loss to the State and money laundering to drag on for years whilst similar cases filed against the perceived ordinary members of society are concluded within six months to one year,” the AG intimated.
He emphasized that a robust legal system, guided by the rule of law, is essential for fostering economic prosperity.
Former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, has boasted of being the originator of a well-known initiative in Ghana that seeks to ensure the patronage of made-in-Ghana goods.
According to Mr Kyerematen, he is the brain behind the “Friday wear” agenda which has now been widely accepted by Ghanaians.
In an interview on Citi TV with host Bernard Avle, he noted that he conceived the idea during the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor as Minister of Trade and Industry.
“I introduced the Friday wear during my term of office under President Kufuor’s administration. The whole objective was to get us as a people to be proud of what we produce.”
He indicated that the initiative “gave a strong stimulus to the textile industry, our tailors and seamstresses.”
“It was an entry point strategy when I said Friday wear. You know Ghana, so conservative. I wasn’t sure that if you made it everyday from the beginning, people would buy into it. But once people got comfortable. As much as possible, I try to wear made in Ghana always,” he added.
Schools, workplaces have all adopted the “Friday wear” agenda where on Fridays, outfits made from Ghanaian fabric are worn to encourage the use of made-in-Ghana goods.
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has refuted allegations that he portrayed an “all is well” facade to the New Patriotic Party’s chairman, Stephen Ntim, during his final days within the party.
In an interview with JoyNews, the former NPP flagbearer aspirant stated, “I had conversations with Mr. Ntim on different occasions and highlighted the many things the party was doing wrong, but, my concerns, despite an acknowledgement from the party chairman, were left unresolved.”
Mr. Kyerematen expressed his disagreement with the chairman’s assertion that he had no grievances with the party, deeming it untrue, disingenuous, and very unfortunate.
“He’s a very good friend of mine. You are the chairman of a party. You come to me to ask whether I have any challenges with what is going on. I scope for you all the things I believe have been going wrong. I’ve had personal conversations with him before and he’s aware of that.”
“So he comes, I tell him that look, I’ve complained about these things, you have not done anything about them, so, I’m reinforcing those concerns for your consideration. He actually confirms, ‘well, Alan, you’ve been part of this and you know how our system works’. So for you now to turn around and come and give a public statement about the fact that you came and everything was okay. I find that to be very unfortunate,” Mr Kyerematen said.
As an independent presidential candidate, he pointed out several concerns he had raised within the party. These included his reservations about the party’s voters’ register, despite substantial donations aimed at ensuring its credibility, the absence of an exhibition for delegates to confirm their names, and violations of party regulations following the super delegates’ conference.
“I’ve gone through this promise on three occasions with the current president… But if I’m going into this again and I’m concerned about the voters register, which is the basic document that will guarantee free-fair elections, I make representations, I put this in writing and I’m not sure that the representations that I’ve made in respect of that are being taken seriously.”
“He (NPP Chairman) cannot in all sincerity come and say that he came there and we didn’t have a discussion on all these challenges,” Mr Kyerematen added.
The former Minister tendered his resignation from the ruling NPP on Monday, September 26. Having secured third place in the party’s Super Delegates Congress, he has announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election as an independent candidate.
At a much-publicised press conference, he indicated that “my decision to contest as an Independent Candidate will not destroy the Party, but instead provide the Party an opportunity to participate in a Government of National Unity in the future, and avoid the risk of going into opposition with no dividends, in what arguably will be a difficult general election in 2024.”
However, despite uncertainties surrounding his potential success, Mr. Kyerematen remains optimistic about his ability to have a substantial impact on floating voters in the 2024 election.
He believes this is achievable because these voters, being independent, do not have allegiance to any political party. He emphasized that the sizable segment of floating voters, approximately 25%, holds significant potential to make a difference in the election.
“I will make a significant difference with floating voters. I am convinced that because of my disposition in politics, I am the type of candidate that the average floating voter has been waiting for. And if I am a candidate, particularly an independent candidate, then that is a major part of my constituency,” he stressed.
Former presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has issued a stern warning to the party’s leadership over attempts to undermine his significant contributions, following his resignation.
Mr. Kyerematen affirmed his strong belief in the party’s traditions and values, making it clear that he would not passively tolerate any misconduct within the party.
He highlighted his distinguished professional track record, both locally and internationally, emphasizing that he does not engage in trivial matters.
In an interview with Bernard Avle on the Point of View on Citi TV, Alan said, “I was part of the founding members of the party. I have paid my dues to the party, and I believe in the traditions and values of the party. But if things are going wrong, I can only commit to remaining calm for a certain time. But when it is going to jeopardise the very existence of our party, which is where we have got to now, I will not stay and countenance that.”
“After all, I’m not a young man, I can make my own decisions, and I have a very distinguished record in my profession, locally and externally. So I don’t waste my time on matters like this. And that is why I’m giving a caution to the party leadership, that if they want to play that kind of game by trying to discredit me about what has gone on, it will not be an interesting exercise,” Mr. Kyerematen warned.
He pledged to challenge the party vigorously in the 2024 elections, emphasizing the significance of individuals being elected based on their own merits rather than relying solely on the support of a political party.
“As an independent candidate, whether the party likes it or not, let the occasion arise, and they will see how much of that base I will harvest votes. Because we are not talking about delegates now, we are talking about the 6.5 million people who are not delegates. And who are looking for people who represent the true ideals of their tradition.”
“The political ecosystem, philosophy and foundation, that we have now, drives us more towards an executive-presidential system. People say it’s a hybrid, but the truth of the matter is that power is vested in one person, the president. If that is the case, then does it not make sense that people who are selected and elected as president must be elected on their own merits and not on the back of a political party,” he stated.
Mr. Kyerematen’s resignation from the party occurred on Monday, September 25. He cited reasons such as the intimidation of his supporters and allegations of nepotism within the party.
In a surprising turn of events, he subsequently announced his intention to run as an independent candidate, a decision that has left many in the country astonished.
The management of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has made a clarification regarding the recently announced review of dialysis costs at the facility.
Contrary to earlier reports, the health facility has not yet implemented the revised dialysis charges.
A notice issued by the head of the dialysis unit had earlier indicated an increase in the cost of renal dialysis from GHS¢380 to GHS¢765.42, which had raised concerns among the public regarding the affordability of this vital medical treatment.
In a statement, the hospital’s management has clarified that they have not yet submitted the proposed fee adjustment to Parliament for approval.
Meanwhile, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the ranking member on the Health Committee of Parliament, has voiced his concerns, stating that the proposed fee increase places undue financial pressure on the public.
“If you are charging GH¢765 per dialysis, in some cases you have to do it three times within one week. And so we are talking about more than GH¢2000, within one month you are talking about in the region of about GH¢9000. Even me as a MP I can’t afford that and so the main objective of a public health facility is not profit making.”
“The main objective of every public health facility in this country is to offer quality healthcare to the people, it is not profit-making. Because we even know other private and quasi-health facilities that are charging less than 700 and yet they are running their departments and units,” he stated.
A founding member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has accused President Akufo-Addo of infringing on the rights and freedoms of citizens.
He noted that even senior members of the party are not able to condemn the actions of the president owing to they being afraid of him, a sentiment Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe says he does not share.
Addressing the noticeable reticence of senior members within the NPP regarding party matters, he singled out Kwame Pianim, a former government official from the party, as one of the exceptions who have voiced their opinions.
While acknowledging that the elder members may have their valid justifications for maintaining their silence, he underscored that he personally harbored no fear in openly articulating his concerns.
“Our party was not like this and as I speak now, all the senior people in the party, the elderly people in the party are mute. I know what is happening that we have aligned Akufo-Addo to One District One Factory as his own personal property, how.
“The motto of the party is Development in Freedom, without freedom, there’s no NPP,” he stressed.
He continued: “I’m not afraid of Akufo-Addo, no because Akufo-Addo made me understand that the fight for this country is a fight for freedom and that was why I was close to him but I have seen that he himself doesn’t believe in freedom.
“If he believes in freedom, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” he stressed.
According to him, the ruling party has placed communicators in various media outlets to defend the “wrongs” of the government.
A horrific accident which took place at Gomoa Potsin on the Kasoa-Winneba Highway in the Central Region on Wednesday has left two drivers in critical condition.
This tragic incident unfolded during the late afternoon of September 27 and involved four vehicles.
The vehicles involved were a Toyota Hiace, carrying a load of pineapples with the registration number GN 9868-11, and a Kia Rino transporting tires and wheelbarrows with the registration number GN 3408-21.
Additionally, there were a Toyota Corolla with the registration number GR7892-14 and a Nissan Patrol with the registration number GN 9275-17, both headed towards Kasoa.
According to an eyewitness account shared with Adom News, the accident occurred when one of the drivers attempted an ill-advised overtaking maneuver, resulting in a collision with the other vehicles.
Another witness emphasized that the drivers of the Toyota Hiace and Kia Rino sustained severe injuries, prompting a Good Samaritan to rush them to the hospital for urgent medical attention.
It was noted that the consequences of the crash could have been even more devastating if the Toyota Hiace had been carrying passengers instead of pineapples.
Leader of the newly established political group known as the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, has vehemently denied allegations that his candidacy in the 2007 presidential primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was orchestrated by former President John Kufuor.
Kyerematen, who recently left the NPP to pursue an independent presidential candidacy in the upcoming 2024 elections, firmly stated that the claim attributing his candidacy solely to Kufuor’s influence is unfounded and based on unfounded rumors.
These assertions were made during an interview with Bernard Avle on Citi TV’s program “The Point of View.” The former NPP presidential aspirant clarified that he was treated no differently than other aspirants during the 2007 race by President Kufuor.
“It is unfair to President Kufour for people to create the impression that because I was his favourite, he did all in his power to install me as his heir apparent and the reason I am saying that is that in 2005, all the people who eventually contested [the 2007 presidential primaries] had started doing underground moves and operations and I had made up my mind at that time that I would contest.
“When I went to inform him [President Kufour] that I had an interest and that my other colleagues had started moves undercover and that if he sees me also operating he should not be surprised, he told me to wait and do my work and that if people felt that I was the right person, they themselves would promote me.
“I went back three months after to tell him that people are campaigning openly and so I want to serve you notice that I will be going and he said, I cannot stop you but I want to tell you that, I will not support you and if there are people that I will support, it will be Nana Akufo-Addo, Aliu Mahama, Papa Owusu Ankomah, and then yourself and if any of you wins, I will be happy.”
A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has recounted how he attempted to take over the leadership of the country via a military takeover.
In an interview with Citi TV’s Umaru Sanda Amadu on the Face to Face show, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe revealed that in the 1970s, he sought to depose General Kutu Acheampong, who seized power from Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia.
General Kutu Acheampong’s government in Ghana was in power from January 13, 1972, to July 5, 1978.
According to Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe, the betrayal of an individual whose identity he failed to disclose nearly cost him his life. But for luck, he managed to keep his head, however, he was sacked from the military, got arrested, and had to serve his sentence at Usher Fort prison.
“My stay in the military was eventful. If I had not been lucky, I wouldn’t be sitting here today, I would have been killed. I and other four colleagues planned a coup d’état. It was abortive because we were betrayed. We were planning to stage a coup against General Kutu Acheampong long ago, but we were arrested. He was overthrown when we were in prison at Usher Fort,” he recounted.
General Kutu Acheampong was deposed in another military coup led by General Fred Akuffo in 1978.
Per Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe’s account, he was first sent to a prison at Akosombo but later transferred to Usher Fort due to fear of a comeback.
He, however, did not meet the ousted military leader as he had been released.
“When we left, he was brought there. First, he was sent to Akosombo and I think he started playing some tricks of staging a comeback. Security got to know about it, so they brought him to Usher Fort, and it was difficult to escape. I was sacked for planning a coup, I left the military as a captain,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe recalled.
General Kutu Acheampong was executed by firing squad in June 1979 for corruption.
Kuami Eugene, a former signee to Lynx Entertainment, has disclosed that he contributed to approximately eighty percent of Mr. Drew’s popular song, “Case.”
He clarified that he was responsible for crafting the song’s hook and a portion of the second verse.
“Mr Drew’s song, “Case” I wrote the hook, and some part of the second verse. I wrote like 80 percent of that song. In fact, before he came to record the song that hook and everything was already done, he heard it and sang it back. So, I do writing for other artists as well,” Kuami Eugene told Naana Donkor Arthur in an interview.
Kuami Eugene elaborated on the fact that despite his contribution to what is currently one of Ghana’s biggest songs, he feels that he hasn’t received the recognition he deserves.
According to him, he feels hurt that he has to use this platform to address the issue concerning Mr. Drew.
“It’s quite unfortunate that this is the platform I have to send a message to Mr Drew to prompt him to do what he needs to do because the song is doing good. That hook is great. If I had sang it by myself, it would have still been a hit song because I wrote that song thinking about wish me well,” he lamented.
Kuami Eugene also emphasized the importance of giving due credit to talents within the entertainment industry.
“He’s a brother. I wish we could appropriate where credit is due in the industry and give respect so we can move on as individuals,” he stated.
He continued; All I heard from him was like bro, the song, make we drop and that was when I was in America. That was when he texted to ask if we should drop the song but because of the time difference, I was asleep and when I woke up, he didn’t inform my manager or anything and the second person who was around when we recorded the song texted me later to inform me he (Drew) had dropped the song. I texted him (Drew) to ask and he left me on read.
Member of Parliament representing Yapei-Kusawgu, John Abdulai Jinapor, has made an appeal to both the government and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) for immediate relief assistance to the victims of the devastating floods in the Buipe township, Central Gonja District.
“It is very critical that immediate relief is brought to mitigate the human suffering that is getting unbearable,” Mr Jinapor said.
Last week, the Bui Dam experienced a spillage that resulted in severe flooding in Buipe Town, causing extensive damage. This flood has been one of the most severe in recent memory, submerging roads, homes, farmlands, and causing significant structural damage, including roof damage.
The resulting impact on the area’s infrastructure is substantial, with estimated damages and the need for assistance totaling millions of Ghana Cedis.
Mr Jinapor has therefore called on the government, non-governmental organisations, international aid agencies, and philanthropists to urgently support the victims, as those displaced by the catastrophe are in dire need of shelter, food, and clean drinking water.
Over the past two years, the government of Ghana has grappled with salvaging its economy from a crisis characterized by the worsening of the local currency against foreign counterparts such as the dollar and pound.
The weakening of the cedi has exacerbated the country’s inflation, interest rate, price of fuel products, among others.
This article analyses a visual representation on the current state of Ghana’s economy. The video shows the Ghana map, all cracked up and being dragged down by the dollar, pound and euro (serving as the anchor), sinking close to what looks like The Titanic ship.
Individuals try to save their lives by staying on the ship while others hold on to a rope. Others seek safety from an aeroplane. Unfortunately, some fall and drown.
A character that looks like President Akufo-Addo stands at the very top of the Ghana map with two others to receive assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
An animated Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President, looks at the situation with so much pain from above. He is disheartened by the current conditions.
Below is the video in question:
Video: Ghana's economy sinking like The Titanic#INDnews Adwoa Sarfo | Ashantis | Herh | Ashantis | Victor Osimhen | E-levy | Di Maria | Napoli pic.twitter.com/JNn7MeCwOL
Between January and August this year, a total of 1,433 individuals tragically lost their lives in road accidents across the country.
This number, according to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), reflects a decline of 11.27 percent in fatalities compared to the same period last year when 1,615 deaths were recorded.
Furthermore, over 10,000 individuals have suffered injuries as a result of these road accidents.
While there is a noticeable decrease in these figures, the NRSA has noted that it has not yet achieved its target for the year.
Speaking to JoyNews, the Public Relations Officer of NRSA said: “Looking at August, we didn’t do very well as compared to last year. Although some of the indicators show a decrease, there was an increase in two of the indicators which is not what we hoped for.”
Madam Pearl Adusu Gyasi added that, “We say that road safety management is complete when the four E’s come into play. Which is education, engineering, enforcement and emergency response. And so if one of the four E’s is not well catered for, there is a gap.”
The NRSA has issued an appeal to road engineers, urging them to address the deteriorating safety measures on the roads. They emphasize the importance of installing these measures in accordance with the highest standards and best practices.
The Right to Information (RTI) Commission has imposed a fine of GH¢200,000 on Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) for its failure to adhere to instructions regarding the release of information.
This decision by the Commission was prompted by a communication dated September 7, 2023, from GACL’s Managing Director, Mrs. Pamela Djamson-Tettey.
In her letter, she had sought a one-week extension to gather and provide information to Raymond Acquah, JoyNews’ Head of Research, as directed by the Commission.
In a letter dated September 20, 2023, bearing reference number RTIG/RF/voL4/856, the Commission expressed its dissatisfaction with GACL’s delay in furnishing the requested information.
It should be noted that the Commission had previously issued directives on February 3, 2023, and February 16, 2023, outlining the required format for the information’s submission and emphasizing that the information was already accessible.
While acknowledging the importance of fairness, the Commission did grant GACL a one-week extension in response to their request.
However, the Commission firmly rejected GACL’s plea for the waiver of the administrative penalty amounting to ¢200,000, which had been imposed by the Commission in a letter dated August 23, 2023.
The Commission justified its stance by underscoring the lack of cooperation demonstrated by GACL in adhering to their earlier directives. This was perceived as a deliberate effort to obstruct the implementation of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), which empowers the Commission to impose administrative penalties on entities that fail to fulfill their obligations under the Act.
In a letter signed by Executive Secretary Yaw Sarpong Boateng, the Commission clarified that it lacked the authority to waive the already imposed ¢200,000 penalty and advised GACL to make the payment as per the Commission’s directive.
The controversy emerged when JoyNews requested access to the contract between GACL and Frontiers Healthcare Services, the entity responsible for COVID-19 testing at the airport.
GACL declined to disclose this information, citing Section 10 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), which allows for exemptions under specific conditions.
GACL’s argument rested on the claim that the contract contained exempted information, such as trade secrets and financial data with potential monetary value. They contended that disclosing this data could harm the state’s financial interests, disrupt business and trade, and potentially provide a competitive advantage or disadvantage to specific individuals by offering advanced knowledge of future economic measures.
Furthermore, GACL stated that some contract-related information and revenue details from testing were not within their possession.
JoyNews challenged this stance, asserting that the requested information did not fall within the broad exemptions outlined in Section 10 of the RTI law.
The Right to Information Commission intervened and, following a comprehensive review, conveyed its decision to GACL through a letter dated February 3, 2023.
The Commission’s findings contradicted GACL’s position, emphasizing that the contract had already been executed and did not hold any monetary or potential monetary value for the state.
Additionally, the Commission determined that disclosing the requested information would not compromise the financial interests of the state.
As a result, the Commission issued a directive to GACL, mandating the release of not only the Frontiers contract but also a summary of procurement details related to the transaction between GACL and Frontiers Healthcare Services Ltd, excluding tax information and evaluative processes.
Furthermore, GACL was instructed to furnish information regarding the total revenue generated from Covid-19 testing at the airport since the commencement of the agreement with Frontiers, including the amounts earned by Frontiers Health Services and the government from these operations.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has responded to comments made by independent presidential hopeful Alan Kyerematen, following his recent exit from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In his inaugural public interview since his departure from the political party he co-founded in 1992, Alan Kyerematen delivered a firm message to Chairman Wontumi, reminding him of the past assistance he provided.
Alan also recounted the initial encounter between himself and Chairman Wontumi, along with the subsequent events that led to him personally introducing Chairman Wontumi to the party’s leadership, advocating for his acceptance into the party.
“Who brought Wontumi to the party? Today, Wontumi is going round making all kinds of noise. If he has someone to thank, it should be Alan Kyerematen. I’m the one who held his hands to the party. Who is Wontumi?
“There are some things we should not be saying but we have been quiet for too long. I brought Wontumi to the NPP and I brought him to the party for a good reason. He was a small-time businessman. Today, when we are talking about party issues, Wontumi is the one dictating,” he said in Twi.
In a statement dated Tuesday, September 27, 2023, Chairman Wontumi contested the assertion, labeling it a clear and deliberate untruth.
Released by his Special Assistant, Andy Owusu, the statement argued that Alan Kyerematen’s statements lacked accuracy, as Chairman Wontumi had been a member of the NPP before their initial encounter.
“Although Chairman Wontumi was once a staunch supporter of Mr. Kyerematen, it is never true that he brought him (Chairman Wontumi) to mainstream politics or political limelight. As a matter of fact, Chairman Wontumi became the NPP Constituency Chairman of Bosomtwe as a staunch loyalist of Nana Akufo-Addo. It was during his time as the Bosomtwe Constituency Chairman that he met Mr. Kyerematen.
“And it was actually the current District Chief Executive for Atwima Nwabiagya North, Hon. Rebecca Yeboah, popularly known as ‘Sister Bantama’, who was at the time a member of the NPP Volunteer Media Communication, who took Chairman Wontumi to the residence of the then NPP Constituency Chairman for Asokwa, Mr. Robert Asare Bediako, where he met Mr. Kyerematen. During their meeting, someone recorded and leaked the engagement to the then opposition leader, HE Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,” the statement said, a 3news.com report stated.
The statement went on to make additional rebuttals, stating that not only did Alan Kyerematen and other prominent figures, including the incumbent president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, fail to endorse his candidacy, but they also did not lend their support to his election campaign.
“Indeed, 100% credit goes to the late Dr. Amoako Tuffour so far as the successful regional chairmanship bid of Chairman Wontumi is concerned. Chairman Asare Bediako, Agya Sei and my good self, Andy Owusu who was the Campaign Manager at the time, also played various instrumental roles in the campaign.
“I will conclude by stating that, Mr. Kyerematen’s claims of introducing Chairman Wontumi to political limelight, and making him Constituency Chairman and subsequently, Ashanti Regional Chairman are palpable falsehoods and must be treated with the contempt they deserve,” the statement added.
Former presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, has slammed the party’s national organizer, Henry Nana Boakye, for his recent comments in reaction to his breakaway from the party.
Henry Nana Boakye poplularly referred to as Nana B, has challenged some of the claims by Mr Kyerematen, when he said fuelled the reason for his exit from the NPP.
According to Mr Kyerematen, the party has been hijacked by some individuals, whom he says frustrated himself and supporters in the party’s recent electoral process to elect a flagbearer for the 2024 elections.
But Nana B said the former Minister of Trade and Industry had to “orchestrate” and “conjure” some of his reasons just to make them sweet to the ears of Ghanaians.
“For me some of these assertions are not backed by facts,” Mr Nana Boakye said on Ghana Tonight on TV3 on Monday, September 25.
“They are not backed by evidence. So I think that yes he intended to leave, so certain reasons must be orchestrated and conjured so that he will hang these personal decisions, the rationale behind it, on the orchestrations and conjecturings.”
In response to the recent cricitism, Mr Kyerematen belittled Nana B, stating that he cannot make such unfounded comments as he was nowhere to be found when he joined the party.
“You Nana B, when did you join the NPP. You Nana B when did you come for you to utter such controversial comments.”
He added: “I pick my fights. If you say something I think is false, I will address it.”
Meanwhile, former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen was among the contenders for the NPP flagbearer position, but on September 5, he declared his withdrawal from the race, citing reasons such as electoral irregularities, unfair treatment, and bias during the super delegates’ conference held on August 26, 2023.
Mr Kyerematen first resigned from the party in 2008 following alleged attacks on his supporters after the NPP held its 2007 presidential primaries.
Mr Kyerematen has been an active member of the NPP following its establishment in 1992. He was part of a group of young dynamic Business Executives and Professionals came together to establish the Young Executives Forum (YEF) that became the financial backbone of the Party and provided significant financial resources to support the Party in all its endeavours, including the seed fund for the purchase of the Party’s first national headquarters building.
Tourism enthusiast and entertainment pundit, Kwame Boadu Ansong, has questioned the moral standing of Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Awal, over his concept of funeral tourism within the country.
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Awal has suggested a strategic plan whereby the government arranges transportation for individuals to attend funerals, particularly in areas where additional tourist attractions exist.
This approach, he said seeks to enable people to not only participate in the funeral ceremonies but also utilize the occasion to explore and enjoy the various tourist destinations that complement these funeral events.
“We will find funerals at places where there are tourist attractions. When they finish the funeral, the people will be served local dishes and drinks including sobolo. So that when we finish, we will bus them to these tourist attractions. Ghanaians adore funerals, and attendance is optional. When there is a funeral here, we will announce that we can go to Bonwire. People are selling Kente there, and when they go there, they will spend money.”
Reacting to this plan, Kwame Boadu Ansong has noted that the government cannot leverage the pain of citizens to rake in money on the basis of promoting tourism in the country.
“Are you going to gain from somebody’s pain. There is a moral question. Are you going to make money when people are mourning?
He wondered if government would encourage more death cases to promote such an agenda.
“How are you going to promote it. Are you going to say that more people should die so that there will be more funeral tourism. That’s another question.”
For Mr Ansong, “this is not an idea we should promote.”
He rather suggested that “what the Ministry and GRA should do is to capture it as tourism to boost our revenue. People do it anyway. You don’t need a policy to say you are going promote funeral tourism. It raises some moral questions.”
A member of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) communication team, Kwadwo Danquah, has asserted that Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong will part ways with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) following the party’s presidential primaries.
According to Mr Kwadwo Danquah, he expects Mr Agaypong to follow the footsteps of former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen owing to the alleged maltreatment meted out to them by the leadership of the ruling party.
The Eastern Regional Communications Office made the prediction during an interview on Power FM on September 26, 2023.
“When they go to their office, they go for Kan Dapaah’s boys to come and beat them and destroy their cars. That is what they did to Alan and for that, he has resigned from the party. That thing Akufo-Addo is doing may cause the downfall of the NPP. Mark my words today, Ken Agyapong will also go independent. He will resign and go independent.”
“I am the Eastern Regional Communications Officer; I am saying it on your platform. Today is 26th September 2023, I’m saying after they conclude the November primaries, Kennedy Agyapong will go independent.”
Mr Kyerematen announced his resignation when he addressed the country during a press conference at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra today, September 25, 2023.
He noted that he no longer recognizes the NPP, which has been unfair to himself and his supporters, as its current aims and agenda no longer reflect what the founding fathers had hoped to achieve.
According to the former Trade Minister, he will contest for the office of president as an independent candidate in 2024 with his new party, Movement for Change.
Mr Kyerematen first resigned from the party in 2008 following alleged attacks on his supporters after the NPP held its 2007 presidential primaries.
Reacting to his resignation, the NPP has expressed disappointment over Mr Kyerematen’s inability to inform its leadership of his decision before going public.
In response, Mr Kyerematen said he found no reason to, as he is able to decide for himself.
Mr Kyerematen has been an active member of the NPP following its establishment in 1992.
He was part of a group of young dynamic Business Executives and Professionals came together to establish the Young Executives Forum (YEF) that became the financial backbone of the Party and provided significant financial resources to support the Party in all its endeavours, including the seed fund for the purchase of the Party’s first national headquarters building.
Leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, has announced that the majority of ministerial positions within his government will be occupied by the youth.
He revealed that those between the ages of 25 and 45 years will make up 60 per cent of his ministers.
In an interview on TV3’s New Day show on Wednesday, September 27, he said; “The commitment I want to make it that at least 60 percent of ministerial appointments will be made for young people between the ages of let’s say 25 or 23 to 40, 45.”
According to the former Trade Minister, it is his dream to have a cabinet dominated by young people.
“That is the kind of cabinet I’ll like to have,” he said.
Also, Mr Kyerematen announced his plans to consolidate some of the ministries to enable him to run a lean government.
He assures that his government will be one that comprises all competent individuals, irrespective of whatever political party they affiliate with.
In a Twitter post on Tuesday, September 26, the former Trade Minister pledged that “when I am elected as President, Ministers and other key Government officials will be appointed from ALL PARTIES, and shall also include individuals who are APOLITICAL but have a demonstrable and proven track record of performance, in their field of specialization.”
He also noted that he will promote the establishment of a Government of National Unity, “which will include people from all walks of life, irrespective of their political, religious, and ethnic affiliations: rich or poor, able-bodied or physically challenged, young or old, women and men.”
Mr Kyerematen has therefore called on every Ghanaian citizen to join him in his movement.
I am working on a plan to consolidate some of the ministries so that we run a lean government. 60% of ministerial appointments will be made for young people – Alan Kyerematen#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/m900UurmQA
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has refuted claims that he had always planned to abandon the New Patriotic Party over unresolved issues.
Such claims have arisen following Mr Kyerematen’s second departure from the ruling party. On September 25, Mr Kyerematen announced his exit from the party owing to a number of reasons including a change in the party’s virtues and challenges with its electoral process.
But in an interview on TV3, Mr Kyerematen noted that it was his initial desire to utilize the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the platform through which he could promote and execute his vision for the nation if elected president.
However, due to the challenges he encountered within the party, he ultimately decided to part ways.
“I have been very staged about how I have positioned myself over the years,” he told Berla Mundi on the New Day show on Wednesday, September 27.
“I would have wished to use the party, but for various reasons, I have decided that I will go directly to the people of Ghana,” he added.
When he announced his second resignation from the NPP, Mr Kyerematen said that he had come to the realisation that his contributions were no longer needed in the party.
He said this followed the harsh treatment meted out to his supporters by the party.
“Persons associated with me are treated with disdain and outright outcast.”
He accused the leadership of the NPP of skewing the internal elections in favour of one particular aspirant.
In 2008, Mr Kyerematen resigned from the party owing to challenges with the 2007 presidential primaries were he lost to now President Akufo-Addo.
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has faulted the current government over the mode in which it implemented the Nation Builders Corps (NABCO) programme.
NABCO was introduced by the Akufo-Addo led administration in 2017 as part of measures to address graduate unemployment in the country.
The initiative which temporarily employed thousands of youth, was run under seven modules: Educate Ghana, Heal Ghana, Feed Ghana, Revenue Ghana, Digitize Ghana, Enterprise Ghana, and Civic Ghana.
The program, however, collapsed in 2022 despite government assurances to make the beneficiaries permanent employers.
Reacting to the issue that has left many youth dissatisfied, Mr Alan Kyerematen noted that the programme was not sustainable in the first place owing to its structure.
The initiative which temporarily employed thousands of youth, was run under seven modules: Educate Ghana, Heal Ghana, Feed Ghana, Revenue Ghana, Digitize Ghana, Enterprise Ghana, and Civic Ghana.
According to Mr Kyereman in an interview on TV3, stated that it would have beneficial if the funds invested into NABCO programme was channeled to companies participating in the One District One Factory programme to provide more job opportunities to the youth.
The NABCO programme could have been better designed – Alan Kyerematen speaks about how he feels about the initiative.#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/f5w3cjcaiU
“The NABCO programme itself could have been better designed. For example, the amount of money that was put into NABCO. If we have given the same amount to let’s say the companies in the One District One Factory for people who would be employed, that would have been a more sustainable way of utilizing the skills of these personnel.
“I don’t think the NABCO programme would have been sustainable anyway. It grieves my heart. It is unfortunate that they have gone through this programme with a promise of transitioning to permanent jobs. But it ain’t gonna happen.
“If that same money had been given to the private sector as an incentive to employ these same people, I think it would have been a better business model.”
When asked if he had informed the incumbent government of his views on the programme, he noted that “we had different views on this.”
He added: “We have an oath of secrecy that we sign as Cabinet Ministers and I don’t think this is the right forum for us to say who said what and our different views on programmes”
Thousands of beneficiaries have since not been been paid 8 months arrears of stipends.
The Aggrieved Nation Builders Corps (NABCo) Association threatened to stage a protest if the Ministry of Finance failed to settle their 9 months’ arrears by August 31, 2023. Government was not able to make the necessary payments, however, the Association failed to protest as earlier indicated.
Former Abuakwa North Municipal Coordinator of Nation Building Corps (NABCO), Otuo Serebuor, is said to have now resorted to selling salt to earn a living.
Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen has clarified that his resignation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was not carried out secretly.
He made this statement during an appearance on the New Day show with Berla Mundi on TV3, addressing criticisms of his departure being described as “clandestine.”
In response to the NPP’s expressed disappointment regarding the way he resigned from the party, Kyerematen explained that he had informed the national chair of his intention to resign.
The NPP’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, had stated that Kyerematen’s decision seemed “premeditated” due to his announcement without prior notice to the party.
Before Kyerematen’s resignation on September 25, the National Chairman of the party, Stephen Ayesu Ntim, had a significant meeting with him, during which Kyerematen reportedly affirmed his dedication to the party. As a result, the public announcement of his decision was seen as a betrayal by some party members.
Kodua Frimpong urged NPP supporters to stand firm and demonstrate determination as they approach the 2024 elections, emphasizing the importance of unity and reaffirming their commitment to the party.
In addition to leaving the party, Kyerematen also declared his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 elections.
Former presidential aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, appears unperturbed by the defection of several prominent figures from his political camp within the ruling party.
Following his resignation from the ruling party, several individuals who registered their support for Mr Alan Kyerematen ahead of the NPP primaries slated for November 4 have all rescinded their support.
Former Tourism Minister, Catharine Afeku, has made it clear that she is not aligning herself with Alan Kyerematen’s decision to resign from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and run as an Independent Candidate in the 2024 elections.
Catharine Afeku, who actively supported Alan Kyerematen has emphasized her commitment to remaining a member of the NPP and has no intentions of joining any other political party.
Also, Deputy Finance Minister, Abena Osei-Asare and Member of Parliament for the Mpraeso Constituency, Davis Ansah Opoku, have distanced themselves from Alan’s camp citing loyalty to the party as reason.
But reacting to this development, Mr Kyerematen says he is unperturbed, as this move comes as no surprise to him.
According to the leader of the Movement for Change, this was anticipated as such individuals are riding on the influence of the party to enter or retain their seat in Parliament. In his words, such individuals have “no choice” but to abandon the Alan camp
In an interview on TV3 on Wednesday, he said: “Why would you be surprised. These are people who are Parliamentarians. They in Parliament on the ticket of the NPP. I have exited from the party to contest and an independent candidate. Why should they still want to be outside the party. I don’t see it as anything negative.
“If I wanted to create a new party to have MPs to contest, I could have done that. But if they have to stay within the party I don’t have a problem. They actually have no choice unless they are going to abandon their constituents which I don’t encourage. How many are Parliamentarians. Whether parliamentary candidates or Parliamentarians, how many votes are we taking about. This is a general election.”
He, however, noted that “the only challenge I’ll have is when somebody who is working with me will go out and make negative comments. Other than that, I think they deserve the right to stick with the party.”
Meanwhile, recent reports also have it that members of the campaign team of Alan Kyerematen in the Northern Region have declared support for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
The group says that following Mr Kyerematen’s resignation, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia now stands as the best candidate to lead the NPP into the 2024 election, hence their resolve to support him.
“All signs show that the vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia who is also contesting will win. We have to work for the party. We will surely work with him and make sure that he gets the nod and continue to work for NPP to win power in 2024,” Chabite Moses Moye, an administrator of the Alan campaign team in the region stated.
Leader of the Movement for Change, John Alan Kyerematen, has noted that one of the initiatives his administration would see to is the review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme.
According to him, this has become imperative as the cost of implementing the “excellent” programme has become a challenge.
In an interview on TV3, the former Trade Minister noted that the government’s budget has been hit hard owing to the programme, hence the need for a more sustainable financing mechanism.
“Normally, for program implementation, after five years, you need a review. So in my own thinking, I feel that it is an excellent idea. We have made a lot of progress in terms of school enrollment. Fantastic results. But then the cost associated with the implementation of the Free SHS has had a significant impact on our national budget. And so if we are going to continue with the programme, we have to find a more sustainable financing mechanism for it,” he said.
On the matter, Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. John Kumah, has debunked speculations about the government’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy burdening public purse.
He clarified that the expenditure on Free SHS is not a significant factor compared to the country’s overall budget and highlighted that the real concern is the nation’s debt.
In a recent interview before the 2023 mid-year budget review, Dr. Kumah emphasized that the allocation for Free SHS in the 2023 budget was GH¢2.9 billion, while the entire appropriation for the year amounted to GH¢228 billion.
“It’s not true that Free SHS is a huge elephant in the room. The allocation for Free SHS in the 2023 budget was GH¢2.9 billion, and the entire appropriation for the year was GH¢228 billion. You cannot tell me that if you are spending GH¢2.9 billion out of GH¢228 billion, that is the elephant in the room. And this is covering over 1.3 million Ghanaian children. The elephant in the room is our debt, the interest payments we made.
“The impact and benefits of Free SHS go to the core of the vulnerable and, of course, the future of the human resource of our country. And for me, that is non-negotiable,” he stated.
He argued that spending GH¢2.9 billion out of GH¢228 billion could not be considered the “elephant in the room.” Moreover, he stressed that the Free SHS program was instrumental in benefiting over 1.3 million Ghanaian children and was crucial for the vulnerable sections of society.
