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Tag: 2024

  • Election 2024: The 24 individuals running for president

    Election 2024: The 24 individuals running for president

    On Monday, September 9, 2024, the Electoral Commission (EC) headquarters began accepting nominations for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

    From the 39 individuals who collected nomination forms, 24 successfully submitted their nominations by the September 13, 2024 deadline.

    Among these, there are candidates from different political parties and independent aspirants, including three women.

    Several independent candidates have submitted their nominations for the 2024 presidential election, including Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, Samuel Apea-Danquah, George Twum Barima Adu, Nana Kwame Bediako (widely known as Cheddar), and Desmond Abrefah.

    Other independents are Nana Stephens Adjepong, Paul Perkoh, James Kwesi Oppong, John Enyonam Kwakwu Kpikpi, Dr. Samuel Sampong Ankrah, Nii Amu Darko, and Kofi Koranteng.
    Candidates from Political Parties

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was the first among political party candidates to file his nomination, with party officials by his side.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) also submitted their flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, on the same day.

    Other political candidates who have filed include Dr. Hassan Ayariga of the All People’s Congress, Bernard Mornah of the People’s National Convention, Kofi Akpaloo of the Liberal Party of Ghana, and Dr. Daniel Augustus Lartey Jnr of the Great Consolidated People’s Party.

    Additionally, Rev. Christian Kwabena Andrews of the Ghana Union Movement, Kofi Asamoah Siaw of the Progressive People’s Party, and Mohammed Frimpong of the National Democratic Party have also submitted their nominations.

    The three female candidates who have entered the race are Akua Donkor of the Ghana Freedom Party, Janet Nabla of the People’s National Party, and Nana Frimpomaa Sarpong Kumankumah.

    The successful submission of these nominations represents a key step towards the 2024 presidential election.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has promised a comprehensive review of all nomination forms.

  • We have not stolen the ideologies, principles of PNC – PNP

    We have not stolen the ideologies, principles of PNC – PNP

    The People’s National Party (PNP) founder, Janet Nabla, has refuted claims made by her organization that it is adopting the philosophies and values of the People’s National Convention (PNC).

    She claims that the PNP and the PNC are completely unlike from one another and that the PNP has no plans to steal PNC members or mislead voters.

    The PNC has filed an appeal with the Electoral Commission (EC) asking that the final certificate of PNP registration be withheld.

    Given that the PNP was the previous party that paved the way for the PNC’s formation, the PNC’s legal representatives voiced concerns about the name similarity in a statement sent to the EC on July 16.

    They contend that voters may become confused as a result of this similarity.

    Nabla vehemently denied this assertion in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on Thursday.

    She urged the PNC’s leader, “Mr Apasera, work hard with your PNC. Trust me, we have nothing in common. Our party symbols and things are different.

    “The truth is that we don’t want anybody from the PNC who loves you to come to us, that is the truth. We don’t because we know the challenges of the PNC.”

    She added, “When you have a new party you will want to work with people who love the truth, transparency, and have integrity.

    “Those are the people we want to work with and believe me, those who love the PNC now cannot qualify to be under those brackets I have just mentioned.”

  • The keys to NPP’s victory in 2024 election is unity – Bawumia

    The keys to NPP’s victory in 2024 election is unity – Bawumia

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged members of his campaign and manifesto teams to unite in their efforts to secure victory in the 2024 General Election.

    Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of unity for the party’s success, calling on all members to contribute towards achieving victory.

    Addressing the official unveiling of the committees in Accra on February 28, 2024, Dr. Bawumia highlighted unity as a crucial factor for NPP’s triumph in the upcoming elections. He emphasized the inclusion of all members, as advised by party elders, to ensure no one is left behind.

    The campaign committee, chaired by former Minister Dan Kweku Botwe, and the manifesto committee, chaired by MP Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, were officially inaugurated under Dr. Bawumia’s direction.

    Dr. Bawumia expressed confidence in NPP’s ability to win the elections, citing the party’s track record of outperforming its main opponent, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), across all sectors since assuming office in 2017.

    He stressed that NPP’s vision for economic growth was clear and backed by concrete achievements, contrasting it with what he described as the NDC’s vague promises.

    The formation of the campaign and manifesto teams signals NPP’s commitment to kickstart the campaign effectively, Dr. Bawumia stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

    Chairman Botwe outlined the campaign committee’s objective to secure a majority in Parliament and elect Dr. Bawumia as President, pledging disciplined and coordinated efforts with the support of internal and external resources.

    Chairman Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu urged members to prioritize the party’s interests over personal agendas, emphasizing their role in shaping Dr. Bawumia’s vision for the country.

    NPP Chairman Stephen Ntim emphasized the importance of remaining focused and avoiding conflicts to achieve the party’s objectives, assuring full support from the party and Dr. Bawumia for the successful execution of the committees’ mandates.

    “We are very aware that one of the keys to victory for NPP in 2024 is unity. It’s the most important key to victory. And so, putting together these committees we have taken cognizance, listening to advice of our elders to make sure that we do not leave anyone behind,” the Vice President said when he officially unveiled the committees, in Accra, on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

  • Lydia Seyram Alhassan shares branded pens to UG first year students ahead of 2024 elections

    Lydia Seyram Alhassan shares branded pens to UG first year students ahead of 2024 elections

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Hon. Lydia Seyram Alhassan, has distributed pens to first-year students at the University of Ghana (UG). 

    The pens are branded pens that have Hon. Lydia Seyram Alhassan’s name and title.

      The initiative, which took place at the University of Ghana campus, was met with gratitude and appreciation from the recipients.

    Lydia Seyram Alhassan’s entrance into politics stands as a testament to resilience, dedication, and a commitment to preserving a legacy.

    As the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, her trajectory in political prominence intertwines personal loss, public service, and a fervent dedication to advocacy, particularly for women and children.

    Early Life and Background

    Before venturing into politics, Lydia led a life marked by a strong commitment to her family and profession. Her academic and professional backgrounds formed a robust foundation for her future in governance and public service. As a widow and mother, her inspiring personal narrative reflects her strength and ability to navigate life’s challenges with grace.

    Entry into Politics

    Lydia’s political initiation stemmed from the tragic death of her husband, Emmanuel Kyeremanteng Agyarko, a respected MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon.

    Following his passing, Lydia stepped into the political spotlight, winning the by-election to fill her late husband’s seat. This transition was not merely about continuing her husband’s legacy; it marked a bold entry into the public service arena, where she aimed to make a tangible difference.

    Challenges and Triumphs

    Lydia’s political journey encountered challenges, from navigating the intricacies of Ghanaian politics as a newcomer to facing the scrutiny and expectations accompanying public service. Her remarkable resilience in overcoming these hurdles has established her as a respected voice in Parliament, showcasing her determination and leadership qualities.

    Contributions and Achievements

    Since assuming office, Lydia Seyram Alhassan has been a proactive lawmaker, focusing on issues affecting her constituents and the nation at large. Her contributions span various sectors, with a particular emphasis on education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. Her advocacy for policies supporting the welfare of women and children underscores her commitment to using her platform for meaningful change.

    Vision and Future Aspirations

    Looking ahead, Lydia remains focused on advancing her contributions to her constituency and national development. Her vision extends beyond immediate political gains, aiming for sustainable impact in the lives of her constituents and the broader Ghanaian society. As she continues her work in Parliament, her aspirations for a more inclusive and equitable governance system guide her efforts.

  • Allowing religious beliefs to dictate election dates create confusion – Prof Gyampo

    Allowing religious beliefs to dictate election dates create confusion – Prof Gyampo

    A Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has argued against the advisability of the Electoral Commission accommodating the Seventh Day Adventist Church’s request to change the date for the 2024 general elections.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, he contends that agreeing to such a change could set a precedent for similar requests in the future.

    He emphasizes the constitutional guarantee of the free expression of religion in Ghana, coupled with the acknowledgment that the country is a secular state.

    Prof. Gyampo expressed concern that altering the election date based on religious preferences might project one religious group’s beliefs over others, potentially leading to a series of similar requests.

    “With the greatest of respect to them, Ghana is our constitution that guarantees the free expression of our religion. At the same time, the constitution says we are a secular state. And so if it is a secular state, people have the right to exercise their religion, but this must not be exercised in a manner that sort of projects their religious beliefs and faith and ideals over those of the other people who also have different religious beliefs and faith and ideals.”

    “So the point is that given that it is a secular state any day is fine. Otherwise, if we allow this tomorrow if election day is on Friday, Muslims will tell us that, well, they go to the mosque on Friday and go, we shouldn’t. If it falls on Sunday, you have a ponderance, majority of Ghanaians being Christian, they may say that it is going to disturb the day selected to worship their God.”

    Asserting that any day is suitable in a secular state, he cautions against allowing religious beliefs to dictate election dates.

    He provided examples of potential future scenarios where different religious groups might request changes based on their respective holy days, leading to confusion and factionalism in the political landscape.

    “So long as the fundamental laws of the land says you’re a secular country, we should be careful not to allow all religious beliefs and sects to also come in making pleas and demands.”

    “Today it is SDA if it is granted, tomorrow it will be Harikrishnas, Muslims, Christians and it creates a state of confusion and a state of factionalism in the body politics. It’s not something that we should encourage.”

    Prof. Gyampo acknowledges that voting is a national duty but argues for the importance of individuals having the choice to prioritize their religious obligations over voting.

    He underscored the need to be cautious about allowing various religious beliefs and sects to make pleas and demands, as it could lead to a divisive and confused political environment.

    The context for this discussion arises from the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s request to move the 2024 December 7 election date, falling on a Saturday, to a different day due to Sabbath conflicts.

    The church proposes the first or second Tuesday as a more convenient alternative to uphold inclusive democracy. Additionally, they are pursuing a constitutional amendment to broaden the scope of organizing parliamentary and presidential elections in Ghana.

  • Central Bank of Nigeria settle $2 billion backlog in forex – Report

    Central Bank of Nigeria settle $2 billion backlog in forex – Report

    Nigeria’s central bank has reportedly paid approximately $2 billion to settle matured foreign exchange contracts with lenders, as reported by Thisday newspaper.

    The payments, spanning over three months, include $61.64 million to address outstanding liabilities owed to foreign airlines operating in the country.

    Government officials estimate the total overdue forward payments at around $6.7 billion, while Thisday suggests a range between $7 billion and $10 billion, inclusive of at least $744 million owed to foreign airlines as of March of the previous year.

    The clearance of this backlog is seen as a commitment by the central bank to alleviate pressure on the depreciating naira.

    The currency has experienced a more than 50% decline in value since it began trading more flexibly against the dollar in June of the preceding year.

  • Ghana will be delivered from it’s difficulties in 2024 – Agyinasare predicts

    Ghana will be delivered from it’s difficulties in 2024 – Agyinasare predicts

    Founder and leader of Perez Chapel International, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, has predicted that the economic challenges facing the country will be resolved in the coming year.

    The Archbishop emphasised that this transformation would not be attributed to political parties but rather to the divine intervention of God.

    Speaking at the Church’s 31st ‘Night of Prophecy and Power’ in Accra, Archbishop Agyinasare urged Christians to prepare themselves for a more favourable year ahead.

    “This country is going through difficulties, but there are difficulties that will be resolved in 2024, not because of political parties, but because God has decided that it is His year of great power,” he said.

    Ghana has grappled with economic challenges since 2022, marked by high inflation, an elevated cost of living, and the depreciation of the cedi against the dollar. Seeking assistance, the country has turned to the International Monetary Fund to stabilise and restore confidence in the economy.

    In a positive turn, the last quarter of 2023 exhibited signs of economic recovery, with inflation reaching as low as 26.4 percent—the lowest in 13 months.

    Archbishop Agyinasare characterised 2023 as the Year of God’s faithfulness, highlighting God’s steadfastness in the face of political turmoil and challenges witnessed in some African countries. He prophesied that 2024 would be a year of experiencing the power of God, hence the Church adopting “Our Year of God’s Power” as its theme for 2024.

    Encouraging Christians, Archbishop Agyinasare urged them to commit themselves to the work of God in 2024. Additionally, he appealed to affluent individuals to invest in the church, contributing to the broader dissemination of the gospel across all areas.

  • I am extremely confident about 2024 – Bawumia  says in his New Year message  

    I am extremely confident about 2024 – Bawumia  says in his New Year message  

    Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, in a compelling New Year message, has shared his unwavering confidence in the prospects of 2024, outlining a vision of optimism and possibilities for the nation.

    In a video exceeding three minutes, shared on his official Facebook page, Bawumia, also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the upcoming 2024 general elections, underscored the imperative of solidifying the achievements made by the present administration.

    “The New Year opens the door for us to review the old year and reset for the future, reaffirm and recommit to what has worked while exploring new paths to a world of possibilities. I am extremely confident about 2024,” he stressed.

    Bawumia spoke about hope and optimism and the need to team up, to create a new layer in the development process.

    He also expressed excitement at the landmark of 30 years of democracy under the current Fourth Republic.

    Bawumia said the government will work at building a resilient economy based on digitalization and in the process making the youth future-ready.

  • 2024 elections will foster economic growth – Economist

    2024 elections will foster economic growth – Economist


    Economist Professor, Godfred Alufar Bokpin has suggested that Ghana’s economy will witness notable growth in 2024 due to election-related activities.

    Prof. Bokpin explained that the elections would lead to increased usage of hospitality services, particularly hotels and car rentals, injecting more liquidity into the economy and providing relief to Ghanaians.

    In an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency reflecting on the 2023 fiscal year and the country’s economic outlook for the coming year, he emphasized the importance of policies aimed at enhancing productivity and stability.

    The economist highlighted the positive impact of election-year spending by politicians on businesses such as car rentals and the hotel industry.

    However, he cautioned the government to implement measures preventing inflation from rising due to increased liquidity from political expenditures.

    “There’s some good news next year because it’s an election year; politicians are going to spend, including travels across all the regions, and that in itself, would inject some liquidity into the system,” he stated.

    “This means that there are some related businesses that will also pick up next year – car rentals and the hotel industry, and some Ghanaians whose lifestyles are indexed to political activities, this will be their harvest season,” he noted.

    While acknowledging potential benefits for some Ghanaians, Prof. Bokpin advised caution, as excessive liquidity without a corresponding rise in production could lead to inflation.

    Looking ahead, he predicted a reduction in external funds flowing into the country from the second half of 2024, potentially putting pressure on the Ghanaian Cedi. Prof. Bokpin explained that investors tend to adopt a “wait and see” approach during election periods.

    “That pickup can benefit some Ghanaians, but we should be mindful that the same situation could cause inflation to go up, because there may be a lot more liquidity injection without a corresponding increase in production,” Prof Bokpin said.

    He urged Ghanaians to moderate their growth expectations for 2024, emphasizing that challenges still exist and a sustained recovery requires careful management.

    Regarding the government, Prof. Bokpin called for expeditious agreements with bilateral and commercial creditors for the second tranche of the $600 million loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the syndicated cocoa loan.

    He emphasized that such agreements would mitigate economic uncertainty, support the Cedi, and maintain overall economic stability.

    “The election fever begins from the second half of the year as experienced in all previous competitive elections, and many investors would not like to bring their funds into the country, but adopt the attitude of wait and see.

    “We should be moderate with our expectations because we’re not entirely out of the woods and there’s still some considerable price that we have to pay to sustain the recovery.We need to conclude doing so, in addition to the syndicated cocoa loan,” the economist explained.

  • May 2024 inspire renewed hope, optimism, and a collective vision in building the Ghana we want – NDC

    May 2024 inspire renewed hope, optimism, and a collective vision in building the Ghana we want – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has extended its warm wishes to Ghanaians as they bid farewell to 2023.

    According to the party, the country faced a year marked by economic hardships inflicted by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.

    In a press statement signed by the General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, and released on Sunday, December 31, the NDC stated that it acknowledges the difficulties faced under the current administration, however, “we embrace the hope that 2024, being an election year, brings forth the chance for positive change.”

    The party further admonishes Ghanaians to recognize the 2024 general elections as an opportunity to shape a brighter future and address the challenges imposed by the NPP government.

    “As we stand at the threshold of a crucial election year, may it inspire renewed hope, optimism, and a collective vision in building the Ghana we want.

    “Together, let us navigate the path of change, building a nation that thrives on the principles of democracy, equality, and justice,” the NDC said.

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  • Preserving Ghana’s peace must be paramount in 2024 – Agortime-Ziope MP

    Preserving Ghana’s peace must be paramount in 2024 – Agortime-Ziope MP

    In a heartfelt Christmas message, the Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Agortime-Ziope Constituency in the Volta Region, Charles Agbeve, passionately appealed to the people of Ghana to prioritize the promotion of peace as the nation approaches the crucial election year of 2024.

    Recognizing the significance of maintaining a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere, especially in the realm of politics, Agbeve underscored the need for citizens, particularly those engaged in political activities, to center their campaigns on substantive issues.

    He eloquently expressed that violence, rather than fostering lasting peace, only results in fleeting tranquility.

    Quoting the profound words, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter,” Agbeve emphasized the importance of addressing critical concerns and engaging in constructive dialogue.

    The seasoned Legislator shared his aspirations for a Christmas season that transcends mere fleeting moments of joy, wishing instead for a lasting presence of peace and happiness in the hearts of his constituents.

    Mr Agbeve extended his heartfelt message, aiming to instill a genuine spirit of the season that goes beyond festivities to embrace the values of unity, understanding, and a commitment to addressing pertinent issues in the coming year.

    “May the joy of Christmas be more than a fleeting moment, but a lasting presence in their heart, bringing peace, happiness, and that true spirit of the season,” he added.

  • GHS259.05bn approved for 2024 budget by parliament

    GHS259.05bn approved for 2024 budget by parliament

    On Saturday, December 23, 2023, Parliament approved the Appropriation Bill, 2023, allowing the Government to access GH¢259.05 billion from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds for its expenditures in the 2024 financial year.

    The Bill’s primary purpose is to facilitate appropriation for the year 2024, as mandated by the constitutional requirement outlined in paragraph (a) of clause (2) of Article 179.

    This article stipulates that estimates of public office expenditures must be included in an Appropriation Bill introduced in Parliament, authorizing the release of funds from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds to cover Government expenses.

    In line with the constitutional provision, an amount not exceeding GH¢259.05 billion is mandated to be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds throughout the financial year commencing on January 1, 2024, and concluding on December 31, 2024.

    These funds will be allocated for the purposes specified in the First Schedule, corresponding to the Third and Fourth Schedules, representing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, along with Other Government Obligations and their respective programs.

    Furthermore, the Bill grants specific Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) the authority to retain and utilize GH¢12.33 billion during the financial year spanning from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.

    Addressing the disbursement of funds on the Finance Minister’s authorization, the Bill specifies that the Controller and Accountant-General can disburse any sum not exceeding GH¢259.05 billion from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds during the financial year concluding on December 31, 2024, based on a warrant issued by the Minister responsible for Finance.

  • Bunch of Kleptocrats, thieves! – Sam George, Sylvester lock horns over description of Akufo-Addo gov’t

    Bunch of Kleptocrats, thieves! – Sam George, Sylvester lock horns over description of Akufo-Addo gov’t

    Member of parliament for Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfro, Sylvester Matthew Tetteh, has criticized member of parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, for chastising the Akufo-Addo-led administration over the current state of the economy.

    Speaking on a panel discussion on TV3’s ‘The Big Issue’ programme, on Monday, Sam George said that the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government are full of thieves, whose only aim is to steal from the people of Ghana.

    He said that after stealing all the country’s resources, the government is now going into the pockets of Ghanaians to also steal them through its domestic exchange programme,

    “The recklessness and callousness of these bunch of kleptocrats that we have running this country are…,” Sam George was saying before he was interjected by Sylvester Tetteh.

    The MP for Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfro described Sam George’s comments as uncivilised and urged the host of the programme to check him.

    “The words being used are not the best… We should have a very civil conversation… you come to a programme and all you get is insults,” he said.

    Sam George rebutted; “there can be no civility when you are stealing from me, you are stealing from my parent, you are stealing from our grandparents and you say I should be civil”.

    Sylvester Tetteh, who was getting frustrated, berated Sam George for his comments saying, “a lot of people are watching including our kids. You don’t come on TV and come and insult people.

    “We come and sit on national television and all we heap on the good people of this country is full of insults. Why are you not discussing issues, the content of the subject matter you are not discussing it and you come here and insult people? What kind of attitude is this.”

  • Experts say UK economy will return to pre-pandemic levels in 2024

    The UK economy will return to its pre-pandemic levels only in 2024, experts have now said.

    In its latest economic update, Deutsche Bank said: “Since our last growth update, the UK economic outlook has weakened further.

    “We now see the UK in a recessionary orbit with growth likely to remain subdued for much of the next year or so, with GDP slowing from 4.5% this year (previously: 3.5%) to -0.5% next year (previously: 0%), and rising by 1% in 2024 (previously: 1%).

    “We now expect GDP to return to its pre-pandemic level only in 2024, with growth recovering to its trend rate (1.25%) around the middle of the decade.”

    The last few weeks have been full of turmoil for the British economy, in the wake of Kwasi Kwarteng’s controversial mini-budget.

    The pound plummeted shortly afterward – but is now climbing back up.