A female participant in the recently concluded #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest organized by Democracy Hub and concerned citizens, Naseebah, did not mince her words when criticizing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, branding him as the “most ineffective president to date.”
During an emotionally charged interview with JoyNews, Naseebah voiced her deep-seated frustration with the state of affairs in Ghana, with a particular focus on the hardships faced by the country’s youth and the ailing healthcare system.
Naseebah’s anger resonated through her words as she painted a stark picture of the dire circumstances confronting many Ghanaians. She recounted the heart-wrenching story of a dedicated teacher who had devoted more than three decades of his life to public service, only to tragically lose his son due to an inability to cover the GH¢400 weekly cost of dialysis treatment.
In addition to this, she leveled allegations at the government, accusing it of misappropriating funds on frivolous expenses while pressing issues continued to plague the nation. Naseebah raised pertinent questions about the government’s priorities, particularly in light of the heavy tax burden on citizens and the ever-rising cost of living.
“I am very angry, I am angrier this morning, people are dying each day, and the dialysis machine in Korle Bu got spoilt, do you know the number of people who died? A 24-year-old boy died this morning; the father is a teacher and over thirty years of his life in the service could not afford dialysis of GH¢400 a week. What do you mean? Do you know how much taxes they charge us every day, the cost of living in this country but you bring flowers to celebrate your daughter’s birthday, you bring a cake to celebrate E-Levy.”
On the final day of the three-day #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstrations, protesters made an attempt to breach a police barricade late into the night with the aim of marching towards the presidential residence.
This move came despite the unlawful detentions and heavy-handedness displayed by the police on Day 1, during which they arrested 49 protesters, who were subsequently held for hours on charges of unlawful assembly. Eventually, all of them were released on bail.
Days 2 and 3 transpired with minimal incidents as the police maintained a barricade on the main road leading to the presidential residence, Jubilee House, even before the protesters commenced their march towards the location.
While Day 2 involved the blockage of one section of the 37-Accra Road, the final day saw both sides blocked, significantly impeding vehicular traffic for a considerable portion of the day.
Ghanaian socialite, Efia Odo, has strongly criticized the police’s treatment of #OccupyJulorBiHouse demonstrators.
Efia Odo, known for her active participation in the ‘Fix The Country’ protest in 2021, expressed her disapproval of the arrest of 50 protestors on Thursday, September 21, 2023.
In her tweet, she implied that President Nana Akufo-Addo’s actions resembled those of a dictator in response to the police’s handling of the protestors.
“We put these people in power only for them to turn and make a mockery of us. Something as simple as a demonstration which is our human right, look at how they treat us. We truly voted for a Dictator!! #OccupyJulorbiHouse,” she wrote on Twitter.
We put these people in power only for them to turn and make a mockery of us. Something as simple as a demonstration which is our human right, look at how they treat us. We truly voted for a Dictator!! #OccupyJulorbiHouse
Efia Odo is just one of the numerous showbiz personalities expressing their disappointment with the arrest of citizens participating in the demonstration.
Prominent figures from the entertainment industry, including Kofi Kinaata, KiDi, KoJo Cue, Lydia Forson, Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and others, have taken to social media to voice their frustration over these developments.
The civil society group behind the protest, Democracy Hub, had initially informed the Ghana Police Service of their intention to hold the demonstration on Nkrumah Memorial Day. Their objective was to call for action to address economic mismanagement and corruption within the government.
Despite police warnings and an injunction application filed by law enforcement on the eve of the protest, the organizers proceeded with the planned picket at Jubilee House.
The protestors remain determined to convey their message and have reconvened for Day 2 of the demonstration, despite a strong police presence.
Cocoa farmers in the Agona West Municipality of the Central Region have expressed their dissatisfaction with the cocoa season price for 2023–2024, as recently announced by the government. They argue that the price for a bag of cocoa for the season should have been GH¢2000 Ghana Cedis, as opposed to the GH¢1308 announced by President Akufo-Addo.
Initially, the farmers commended the government for the increase and acknowledged its positive aspect. However, they firmly believed that the increment could have been more substantial.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo declared a 63.6% upward adjustment of the farm gate price of cocoa beans, raising it from GH₵800 to GH₵1,308 per bag for the new cocoa season. He emphasized that this increment represents the highest in West Africa over the past 15 years.
The president made this significant announcement at Tepa in the Ashanti Region during the launch of the 2023–2024 cocoa season. The farmers in the Agona West Municipality reiterated their appreciation for the government’s efforts in increasing the cocoa price.
“However, we would have been happy if he announced that the newprice has moved to GHC 2,000. The price announced by the president could have been better than what was announced. We first appreciate the increment, but it is not enough. Like Oliver Twist, we are demanding more,” one of the farmers said.
Another said, “We will first appreciate the government for the new price. But we would have preferred that the increase get to GHC 2,000”.
“The new price announced is woefully inadequate. Some prefer to smuggle their cocoa to neighbouring countries just because the price compared to even the previous one is not up to their level. So we would have preferred GHC 2,000,” a different farmer added.
President Nana Akufo-Addo has appealed to the global community to support Africa in its efforts to address the challenges of terrorism in the Sahel region and the resurgence of coups across the continent.
Speaking at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Akufo-Addo highlighted the significant impact of instability in the Sahel, which has placed political and economic burdens on West African nations. He urged the international community to provide immediate assistance to aid in the region’s recovery and enhance the quality of life for the affected citizens.
“Instability in the Sahel and widespread terrorist activities have put West African countries under severe political pressure and economic strain. Several countries in the region have lost vast stretches of territory to the rampaging terrorists,” he said.
According to a report by Vision of Humanity1, the Sahel region has become the new epicentre of terrorism, with deaths rising ten times between 2007 and 2021. The report also noted that groups such as Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaeda continue to wage a violent campaign in the region, accounting for 35% of global total of terrorism deaths in 2021.
Akufo-Addo said that West African countries are trying their best to deal with the situation, but they need more support from the international community, especially from Europe and its allies. He reminded them of the historical ties between Africa and the Allies in World War II, when Africans fought and died in defence of Europe’s freedom and prosperity.
“Africans fought and died in the Second World War in defence of Europe and her Allies, who reset the world towards the path of peace and prosperity that their nations and citizens have enjoyed for decades now. It is surely time for the world to reciprocate in our time of need,” he said.
He also expressed concern about the “misconception” that coups are the solution to the threats that confront some African nations. He said that coups undermine democracy and development, and create more problems than they solve.
“Coup d’états have reemerged as what some mistakenly hope would be the solution to the threats that confront their nations,” he said.
Akufo-Addo called on the international community to respect and support the efforts of regional and continental organisations, such as ECOWAS and AU, to resolve conflicts and restore stability in Africa.
He also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to democracy, human rights, rule of law, and good governance.
“Ghana remains firmly committed to democracy as a system of governance that best serves our interests as a people. We will continue to work with our partners across Africa and beyond to promote democracy, human rights, rule of law, and good governance on our continent,” he said.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly’s 78th session, His Excellency urged European countries to make amends for the harm caused to Africa by this tragic historical episode.
Akufo Addo expressed his dissatisfaction with the international community’s persistent unwillingness to acknowledge and address the severe consequences and atrocities of the slave trade, emphasising that such delicate issues should no longer be ignored.
President Akufo-Addo emphasised that although the slave trade was a state-sanctioned and intentional activity with long-lasting economic implications for the nations that organised it, the current generation cannot be held accountable for it. Nevertheless, he argued that it is high time the subject of reparations is brought to the forefront of international discussions.
He argued that making reparations would be a significant acknowledgement of the severe injustices done to Africans, even though he understood that no amount of money could fully make up for the horrors endured by them during the slave trade.
“Reparations must be paid for the slave trade. No amount of money will ever make up for the horrors, but it would make the point that evil was perpetrated, that millions of productive Africans were snatched from the embrace of our continent, and put to work in the Americas and the Caribbean without compensation for their labor”
In addition, President Akufo-Addo noted that because slaves were viewed as commodities, owners of slaves received compensation for the loss of their “property” when slavery was outlawed.
The African Union (AU) has given Ghana permission to host a world conference on reparations in November in Accra, he declared, arguing that this historical precedent highlights the necessity of addressing the issue of reparations head-on.
President Akufo-Addo has appealed to the global community for assistance in addressing the issues of terrorism in the Sahel and the surge in coups across Africa.
Addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Akufo-Addo expressed concern over the instability in the Sahel, which has placed significant political and economic stress on West African nations.
He called upon the international community to offer immediate support to help the region recover and improve the living conditions of those affected.
Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that it’s time for Europe and its allies to reciprocate the support Africans provided during the Second World War by assisting Africa in eliminating terrorism and coups.
“Instability in the Sahel and widespread terrorist activities have put West African countries under severe political pressure and economic strain. Several countries in the region have lost vast stretches of territory to the rampaging terrorists. Coup d’états have reemerged as what some mistakenly hope would be the solution to the threats that confront their nations,” he said.
“We, in the West African Region, are trying as best as we can, under the very trying conditions we face, to deal with the situation. We are convinced that the conflicts that continue to plague our continent and our Region, in particular, would be more satisfactorily resolved if the international community was to support, not undermine, the efforts of our regional and continental organisations to deal with them,” he added.
“Africans fought and died in the Second World War in defence of Europe and her Allies, who reset the world towards the path of peace and prosperity that their nations and citizens have enjoyed for decades now. It is surely time for the world to reciprocate in our time of need,” President Akufo-Addo said.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, during his address at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), expressed his concerns about the current state of the world, highlighting the rising levels of mistrust and unhappiness. He also discussed various challenges, including economic difficulties and political instability in the West African region.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that the world is facing a period of unhappiness and a significant loss of confidence in the international structures that have guided global governance since the end of World War II. He did not use hyperbole or elaborate language to convey this reality.
“I do not need to employ any hyperbole, nor find any fancy words to state the reality of the situation humanity currently faces. Our world is not a happy place today.
“Wherever we look, and in whichever area of our lives to which we turn our attention, there is unhappiness, distrust and loss of confidence in the structures that have guided the governance of the world since the end of the second world war, nearly eight (8) decades ago,” Akufo-Addo stated.
The UNGA provides an opportunity for world leaders to address a wide range of local, subregional, and global issues. President Akufo-Addo was one of several leaders who spoke during the session, and his address highlighted the theme of the 2023 General Debate: “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability for all.”
It’s worth noting that the UNGA is a platform where leaders can share their perspectives on global challenges and propose solutions, and the remarks made by President Akufo-Addo reflect his observations and concerns about the current global climate.
The Minority in Parliament has accused President Akufo-Addo of unlawfully instructing the state oil company, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), to borrow funds for its operations without obtaining the necessary approval from Parliament.
Prior to Parliament’s recess, GNPC had requested approval from the Mines and Energy Committee to borrow over $600 million. However, the committee instructed the company to present the loan’s terms and conditions to the House for review in accordance with Article 181 of the Constitution.
Nevertheless, the Minority contends that the President has directed GNPC to proceed with the borrowing process in violation of Ghana’s legal framework.
“To our utmost shock, I have come across documents – the Minority side in particular has become aware that the presidency is using coercive force to compel the GNPC to proceed and execute this loan agreement without parliamentary approval,” said Minority Spokesperson on Mines and Energy, John Jinapor.
He added “This is unconstitutional, this is unlawful and this is a blatant disregard to the directive and resolution of Parliament.”
Mr. Jinapor informed journalists that copies of the loan terms their side has obtained are heavily biased against Ghana, as the country stands to lose more than five years’ worth of oil revenue from the TEN oil field.
According to him, “If we allow government to plunder our oil resources will affect future generations.”
“Indeed, all of the oil in the TEN field has been incumbent including royalties, surface rentals and our current participatory interest – all of it for the next five and half years. Every year, the minimum of 3.8 million barrels of our crude oil will be given to Litasco,” he said.
President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo has been accused of failing to report on alleged dealings within the Ghana Gas Company presumably due to concerns that addressing them could lead to accusations of attempting to tarnish the image of Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.
A report by The Herald, suggests that the organization is grappling with various issues, including contentious procurement deals.
There is mounting speculation that a future government may find it imperative to initiate a comprehensive investigation into this state-owned enterprise, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Energy, helmed by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. Such an investigation would be necessary to gain a thorough understanding of the extent of the challenges plaguing the company.
The concerns laid out in the article revolve around the reluctance of both the government and the Bawumia camp to address issues related to the Ghana Gas Company, primarily due to apprehensions regarding potential legal repercussions and political consequences.
Within this context, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, known for his assertive and confrontational style, holds a prominent position. His use of bullying tactics, intimidation, political leverage, and aggressive attacks on opponents, including his private dealings with the state, have created a situation where many individuals tend to distance themselves from him.
Notably, there is a Contempt of Court case against Mr. Agyapong, initiated after he verbally abused and threatened a High Court Judge, Justice Amos Wuntah Wuni.
Despite this legal matter, both the government and the Bawumia camp have refrained from addressing it openly, potentially due to concerns that it could be construed as a political attack on Mr. Agyapong, who is actively vying for the NPP flagbearer position.
Additionally, Mr. Agyapong is facing disciplinary proceedings within the NPP following his summons based on accusations and threats he made against various individuals, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. These allegations were made in a viral video, and Mr. Agyapong has been subject to questioning by the party’s disciplinary committee. The party has committed to addressing these allegations transparently and fairly.
Furthermore, it has been suggested that the party leadership asked Mr. Agyapong to issue an apology to President Akufo-Addo for his earlier threat, but he reportedly declined.
The article highlights the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the timing of resolving the disciplinary issues involving Mr. Agyapong, especially with the upcoming presidential primaries scheduled for November 4, 2023.
In summary, the article underscores the delicate political dynamics and legal matters surrounding Mr. Agyapong’s actions and the Ghana Gas Company, which have implications for both the government and the NPP.
Ace Sports Journalist, Dan Kwaku Yeboah has weighed in on the various concerns raised by Ghanaians regarding the governance of the Akufo-Addo administration.
Kwaku Yeboah, known for his expertise in sports journalism, has traditionally focused on sports-related matters within the government.
He commended the administration for its numerous development projects, notably highlighting the success of the free Senior High School (SHS) initiative.
While acknowledging the positive strides made by the government, Kwaku Yeboah, who also serves as the Head of Sports at Despite Media, expressed his reservations about certain ministers whom he believes have not met the public’s expectations and should no longer hold their positions.
During an appearance on the Peace FM morning show called ‘Kokrookoo,’ the experienced sports journalist criticized President Akufo-Addo for not taking appropriate actions to address and replace underperforming ministers, which has led to public criticism of the government.
Kwaku Yeboah specifically mentioned Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, Roads Minister Kwasi Amoako-Attah, and Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, asserting that these individuals, in his opinion, have not lived up to the standards expected of their positions.
For instance, he pointed out concerns about the Roads Minister, highlighting an issue related to payment for a modernized toilet.
He also raised questions about the Finance Minister, using an analogy related to church leadership.
Regarding the Health Minister, he referred to post-COVID-19 events, expressing disappointment over certain actions and financial decisions made within the ministry.
“For instance, the road minister, he should have been far gone. How can you say we should pay both for a modernized toilet? The finance minister, and I am sure the finance minister is a Christian and goes to church and the Pastor spends money, we don’t dissolve the church but rather bring in a new Pastor”.
“For the health minister after the Covid-19 we all saw what happened. After covid, he said what was mounted at the Kotoka International Airport was nowhere to be found. After covid, the Auditor General’s report said he went to buy lands in the Volta Regions for millions of dollars but how much is even lands sold at East Legon”, he added.
The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has heightened its efforts to safeguard the marine environment, particularly against oil spills, through the acquisition of a new versatile vessel.
MV Esther Ocloo, the new vessel, was officially commissioned at the Sekondi Naval Base by President Akufo-Addo over the weekend. During the same ceremony, the President also commissioned two boundary-class vessels, the Ghana Navy Ship (GNS) Aflao and GNS Half Assini, which were donated by the United States to the Ghana Navy.
Named “Esther Afua Ocloo” in honor of the pioneering industrialist behind the Nkulenu canned foods brand, the vessel is equipped with a modern oil spill recovery system, featuring a Desmi DBD 16 combination skimmer, HARBO oil spill Boom, and an oil spray Dispersant System capable of addressing TIER 1 and 2 spills both in harbors and offshore areas.
Furthermore, the vessel is equipped with two Aerial Drones designed for wide-area surveillance to detect activities and potential spills within the country’s waters.
President Akufo-Addo, in his speech, emphasized the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity by equipping the Navy for its responsibilities. He expressed concern about criminal activities in Ghana’s waters, citing previous ship attacks and crew kidnappings in 2021.
Transport Minister Kwaku Ofori Asiamah commended the Authority for its efforts in protecting Ghana’s marine environment from oil spills, which can have severe repercussions on marine life. He noted that the acquisition of the Oil Spill Response Vessel, MV Esther Ocloo, represented a significant milestone in the country’s maritime sector, as it provided a crucial platform for the Authority to fulfill its mandate of fostering a vibrant, safe, and secure maritime ecosystem for economic growth and development.
Built in Singapore by renowned shipbuilders Penguin Shipyard Asia Pte Ltd., MV Esther Ocloo boasts an overall length of 40.00 meters, a molded breadth of 7.60 meters, a molded depth of 3.65 meters, and a draught of 1.89 meters. It is powered by three Cummins KTA36-m2 engines and features three Caterpillar SR4 Alternator 86eKW generators.
Considering the rapid expansion of ports and offshore activities in Ghana, the Ghana Maritime Authority has recognized the need to enhance its Oil Spill Response Recovery capabilities to meet the increasing demand.
The Authority has outlined a long-term plan that includes expanding its fleet of vessels and equipment, training and equipping personnel to respond to Tier 1 and 2 oil spills, implementing measures for detecting spills within Ghana’s maritime jurisdiction, and engaging stakeholders to raise awareness and preparedness.
2. When reps. of United Nations Environment Programme (@UNEP) called on the Ghana Maritime Authority on a fact-finding mission last week, Mr. Numbu Issahaque Sumabe, an Officer at the Technical Division, gave them an overview of the Authority's mandate. Here is an excerpt: pic.twitter.com/gaRWrxUO7n
The 2023 edition of this prestigious event was held in Cape Coast on the 11th of September, centered around the thought-provoking theme, “Ensuring High Standards and Integrity in Public Life; The Role of the Legal Profession.”
Remarkably, this marked the seventh consecutive year that President Akufo-Addo had graced the conference with his presence and delivered an address, underscoring his enduring commitment to the legal profession and his dedication to fostering an environment of principled governance and professionalism in Ghana’s public sphere.
Addressing the audience he said “I am aware that it is a privilege, which I will continue not to abuse,”
There were a number of topics covered in the speech, including issues of governance, the need for cooperation between the three branches of government, and attacks on the judiciary.
During his speech on corruption, Akufo-Addo vowed to continue putting in place measures to combat the menace, rejecting the clearing agent tag he has been referred to as repeatedly, and listing a number of corruption cases involving his appointees to show his commitment to fighting the issue.
“It is not my job to clear or convict any person accused of wrongdoing, or of engaging in acts of corruption. That is the job of the courts and the law enforcement agencies.
“My job is to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issue or issues to the proper investigative agencies for the relevant enquiry and action, including, if necessary, the suspension of the affected official, pending the conclusion of investigations.
“That is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership on 7th January 2017,” he stressed.
Below are the cases he listed:
During the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) conference, various significant cases and allegations that have stirred public interest and concern over the years were brought to the forefront for discussion. These included:
The allegations raised against Boakye Agyarko, the then Minister-Designate for Energy, during his parliamentary confirmation hearings in 2017.
Accusations against Hon. Alfred Obeng, the former CEO of BOST (Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited).
Allegations against Hon. Francis Asenso Boakye and Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, who served as the deputy Chiefs of Staff at the Office of the President.
Conflict of interest allegations involving Ken Ofori-Atta, the Minister for Finance.
Claims of extortion made against Alan Kyerematen, the then Trade and Industry Minister-designate, during his parliamentary confirmation hearings in 2017.
Allegations of involvement in visa racketeering against Pius Hadzide, the then deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, and Hon. Robert Sarfo Mensah, the then Director General of the National Sports Authority. Although they were exonerated by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Hon. Robert Sarfo Mensah later resigned. Also mentioned was Hon. Kwadwo Baah Agyemang, Chairperson of the Board of the National Sports Authority.
Accusations of bribery against Charles Bissue, the Secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining.
Cases involving A. B Adjei, the dismissed acting CEO of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), and Emmanuel Asigiri, the dismissed CEO of the National Youth Authority. It was noted that they had been investigated and, in most cases, cleared by authorized state institutions, not by President Akufo-Addo.
The most recent episode concerning Hon. Cecilia Abena Dapaah, the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources.
The conference saw the presence of key figures, including the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Dame, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, GBA executives, and several retired Justices of the courts.
President Akufo-Addo has provided evidence to back his claim that his administration has combatted corruption better than any other government in the 4th Republic.
In his speech at the opening ceremony of the 2023–2024 Ghana Bar Conference in Cape Coast, he made this known.
He noted that, personifying the adage “charity begins at home”, every single alleged act of corruption levelled against any of his appointees has been investigated by independent bodies, such as CHRAJ, the CID, and, in some cases, by Parliament itself.
He said: “From the allegations against the then Minister-Designate for Energy, Boakye Agyarko, at his parliamentary confirmation hearings in 2017; to that against the former CEO of BOST, Hon. Alfred Obeng; to those against the then two deputy Chiefs of Staff at the Office of the President, Hon. Francis Asenso Boakye and Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor; to the conflict of interest allegations against the Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta; to the claims of extortion against the then Trade and Industry Minister-designate, Alan Kyerematen, at his parliamentary confirmation hearings in 2017;
Also, “allegations of doubling in visa racketeering against the then deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, Pius Hadzide, and the then Director General of the National Sports Authority, Hon. Robert Sarfo Mensah who, even though exonerated by the CID, later resigned; the Chairperson of the Board of the National Sports Authority, Hon. Kwadwo Baah Agyemang ; to the allegations of bribery levelled against the Secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining, Charles Bissue; to those involving the dismissed acting CEO of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), A. B Adjei; and the dismissed CEO of the National Youth Authority, Emmanuel Asigiri,” he named as other cases.
The president stressed that “they have all been investigated and, in most cases, cleared by the authorised institutions of our state, and not by President Akufo-Addo. “
“The latest episode involving the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Hon. Cecilia Abena Dapaah, is evident for all to see. I am not aware of any government in the 4th Republic subjecting so many of its officials to such investigations and inquiries. At the same time, several officials of the previous Mahama administration, such as William Matthew Tetteh Tevie, Alhaji Salifu Mimina Osman and Eugene Baffoe-Bonnie, in the infamous $4 million NCA scandal, have been tried and convicted of various corruption-related offences, and several others, including Dr. Stephen Opuni, the former CEO of COCOBOD, and Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament, are standing trial as we speak.”
He clarified that none of the accountability institutions of state, including the new Office of Special Prosecutor, have ever indicated any pressure from the Executive over their investigations.
“There are some who refuse to accept my method of proceeding and have characterised me as a ‘clearing agent’, because, for them, the mere allegation without more is enough to merit condemnation of the public official. For my part, I will not set aside due process in the fight against corruption, no matter how much opprobrium this incurs for me,” he added.
President Akufo-Addo has announced that the government is in the process of drafting legislation pertaining to the Conduct of Public Officers.
In pursuit of this objective, the Attorney General has engaged in extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including public sector organizations, civil society, and other interest groups.
The President made this announcement during the 2023 Bar Conference of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) in Cape Coast, Central Region, on Monday.
He specified that this legislation would draw inspiration from similar laws in other jurisdictions, such as the United States Ethics in Government Act of 1978, Kenya’s Public Officers Ethics Act of 2003, and the UK’s Constitutional and Governance Act of 2010.
The proposed legislation aims to address various aspects of public officers’ conduct, including their financial interests prior to assuming public office, familial business connections, improper enrichment, responsible care of public assets, professional ethics, property ownership, investments and shareholdings, conflicts of interest, impartiality in duty performance, and the misuse of public or confidential information for personal gain, among other matters.
“The Bill will provide a gamut of stringent administrative measures and sanctions to deal with violations of the law, ranging from a bar against holding public office for limited and indefinite periods, to penal measures.
“The Bill will also seek to strengthen the role of CHRAJ in the investigation of allegations of contravention of or non-compliance with the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, including conflict of interest, non-declaration of assets, and illicit enrichment. The Attorney General will bring the Bill soon for the consideration of Cabinet and subsequent enactment by Parliament, upon the conclusion of his consultations,“ the President said.
President Akufo-Addo assured the gathering that the fight to enhance standards and integrity in public life would continue under his government.
“We will enforce the law, no matter who is affected because it is a necessary foundation for the successful fight against corruption, and for guaranteeing integrity in public life.
“The law must truly be no respecter of persons,” he added.
The President highlighted that corruption flourishes when conditions allow it to remain hidden and stressed the importance of access to information in combating corruption.
For this reason, during his first term, his government took the initiative to pass the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), which serves to fully implement Article 21(1)(f) of the Constitution, providing genuine significance and impact.
“The Act, which successive governments had failed to pass, sees to the implementation of the constitutional right to information, held by a public institution, to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in public affairs, subject to exemptions necessary and consistent with the protection of the public interest in a democratic society,” he said.
President Akufo-Addo noted that the Right to Information Act is presently in full execution, overseen by a governing board led by a seasoned, retired High Court Judge.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the Ministry of Information has conducted training for information officers across different Ministries, Departments, and Government Agencies to facilitate the comprehensive enforcement of this law.
“In 2018, again during my first term, Parliament passed the Witness Protection Act, 2018, (Act 975), to which I gave assent on 24th August the same year. The Act established a Witness Protection Agency to establish a witness protection scheme as a vehicle for offering protection to persons, who are required to co-operate with law enforcement agencies as witnesses in the investigation and prosecution of cases, particularly corruption cases affecting public officers,” he stated.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the enactment of the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Act, 2020 (Act 1034), which amended section 239 of the Criminal Offences Act, elevating corruption from a misdemeanor to a felony. This amendment imposes stricter penalties of imprisonment ranging from 12 to 25 years.
He also mentioned several other laws passed by Parliament under his administration’s direction, which have significantly strengthened the state’s capacity in the battle against corruption. These include the Revenue Administration (Amendment) Act, 2020 (Act 1029); the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2018 (Act 982); State Interests and Governance Authority Act, 2019 (Act 990); Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 (Act 1044); Corporate Restructuring and Insolvency Act, 2020 (Act 1015); Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992); Narcotics Control Commission Act, 2020 (Act 1019); and Real Estate Agency Act, 2020 (Act 1047).
Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo mentioned that his administration has implemented numerous other significant measures aimed at aiding the fight against corruption.
“A Memorandum of Understanding, on information exchange and collaboration in combating corruption and crime in general, has been signed by CHRAJ, EOCO, Parliament, Office of the Attorney-General, Ghana Audit Service, Ghana Police Service, Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), Narcotics Control Commission, Internal Audit Agency, National Investigations Bureau (NIB), and the Office of the Special Prosecutor, to this end,” he stated.
The President emphasized that the primary goal of his government’s digitalization agenda, encompassing a comprehensive national identification system, digital property address system, paperless port system, e-justice system, pensions and insurance data management, digitized land registry, and mobile money interoperability system, is to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency within the public sector.
“A digitised environment helps to eliminate and prevent corruption in various institutions and agencies. The passport office, ports and harbours, Registrar-General’s Department, National Health Insurance Service, Driver Vehicle and Licensing Authority, which, hitherto, were fertile grounds for corrupt activity, are being transformed beyond recognition.
He stated that the Ghana.Gov platform “has significantly reduced the risk of public sector corruption through embezzlement, allowing services to be accessed and payments made online by card or mobile money, with a significant reduction in the conduit of middlemen or ‘goro boys.’”
President Akufo-Addo has called upon chiefs and other traditional leaders to facilitate the availability of land for large-scale agricultural ventures in the country.
As custodians of the land, the chiefs have a vital role in releasing land to support large-scale commercial farming within the framework of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) phase II project.
This appeal was made by President Akufo-Addo during a round-table discussion with members of the National House of Chiefs in Kumasi.
The purpose of the meeting was to deliberate on the active involvement of chiefs in the second phase of the PFJ II project, an initiative led by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture under the leadership of Mr. Bryan Acheampong.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that agriculture remains the driving force behind all activities in Ghana and that positioning it effectively is crucial for national development.
Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 on global economies, the government has continued to work diligently to ensure economic sustainability through various interventions.
The President noted that the high cost of upfront land payments has discouraged agricultural activities in the country, and therefore, the government is shifting away from state land acquisition for agricultural purposes. Under the PFJ II, a new policy direction will be explored.
He highlighted the significant role traditional authorities play in the implementation of government programs and policies, emphasizing their importance in facilitating development.
Through government policies and interventions in the agriculture sector, Ghana has started to witness positive changes in its economic stability, despite the challenges posed by climate change.
President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for the chieftaincy institution to continue playing an active role in supporting the government’s historic PFJ II project by releasing land for agricultural activities.
The meeting was attended by notable figures such as Mr. Simon Osei Mensah, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr. Kennedy Kankam, the Municipal Chief Executive for Asokore-Mampong, among others. Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, chaired the meeting.
The launch of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy, aimed at addressing challenges within the maritime industry, has been announced.
One of the primary objectives of this strategy is to cultivate a robust blue economy that not only contributes significantly to the national income but also enhances the quality of life for the people.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo unveiled this initiative during the inauguration of the third International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) 2023, which took place at Burma Camp in Accra.
The comprehensive six-point strategy encompasses the following key elements: enhancing the framework for maritime governance, ensuring the safety and security of Ghana’s maritime domain, fostering the growth of a robust blue economy, safeguarding the marine and coastal environment, promoting capacity-building, research, awareness, and knowledge-sharing within the maritime sector, Cultivating dynamic and diversified regional and international cooperation.
Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, the Minister for Transport, emphasized that the collaborative efforts of the government, industry stakeholders, civil society organizations, and academia in implementing this strategy reflect a shared commitment to elevating Ghana’s maritime sector to unprecedented levels of success.
He said, “The Ministries of Transport and National Security commends the development of the National Integrated Maritime Strategy with an overreaching goal of contributing to the growth of Ghana’s blue economy, Working through various technical committees, NIMS has been carefully crafted through collaborative effort, drawing up the expertise of various stakeholders including government agencies, industry leaders and civil society organizations.”
President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Akufo Addo doubled up on calls for maritime agencies to leverage technology for the development of the sector.
“I believe the maritime security agencies attending this program would engage the same spirit of collaboration in the conference deliberations to tackle the high cases of SAIKO and illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing in this region. It is important to indicate that IUU fishing for instance is linked to piracy, human trafficking, and illicit drug and weapon smuggling. I thus urge the maritime law enforcers to consider using technology to break the vital link between these crimes and criminal syndicates.”
He expressed worry over inaccurate reportage damaging Ghana’s reputation so far as maritime security is concerned.
“The fact that some ship owners reported a few unverified petty theft incidents at anchorages could not be equated to piracy in the context of international maritime law definition. As much as maritime rating stakeholder organizations contribute towards international shipping, they should be mindful of the implications of inaccurate reportage on the nation’s ability to participate in global trade.”
Netizens are reacting to recent comments by President Akufo-Addo with regards to his government’s fight against corruption in the country.
Speaking the 2023–2024 Ghana Bar Conference in Cape Coast today, the president noted that his government has undertaken, arguably, the boldest initiatives since our nation attained independence, nearly sixty-six (66) years ago, to reform and strengthen the capacity of our institutions to tackle corruption in the public sector.
He, however, noted that his responsibility has been “to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issue or issues to the proper investigative agencies for the relevant enquiry and action, including, if necessary, the suspension of the affected official, pending the conclusion of investigations.”
“That is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership on 7th January, 2017,” he added.
Some social media users beg to disagree. They note that corruption has heightened under the tutelage of President Akufo-Addo.
The words of Ghana’s first Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, have been adopted by the critics to run down the government’s claim. They argue that the president is the “mother serpent of corruption”.
No Ghanaian leader has been as irresponsible in the destruction of our economy and institutions as you,the Mother Serpent of Corruption,have been.Ghanaians didnt have a difficulty electing you and they will have none electing @JDMahama who is far better than you. https://t.co/m9xC9ENaCu
Court description of Gov't Official One indeed clearly points to former President Mahama but what is the link between that and his supposed attack on the Judiciary?
Also didn't the same First Special Prosecutor describe President Akufo-Addo as the mother serpent of corruption? https://t.co/2EXJ5bTszc
You were caught on camera grabbing fat brown envelope with both hands yet you have the effontory to labelled someone who has cleared by an international investigative body for NO corruption or whatsoever. You mother serpent of corruption, you do not have shame pic.twitter.com/GpKgDNHpcZ
President Akufo-Addo has asserted that his government’s actions in combating corruption are among the most robust anti-graft measures implemented since Ghana gained independence.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that he has not provided protection to any of his appointees facing allegations of misconduct.
He made this known while addressing the 2023 Ghana Bar Conference held at the University of Cape Coast on Monday, September 11.
“I accepted the invitation to speak here in order to take advantage of this occasion to place, once again, my government’s record on corruption for public scrutiny. It will show that my government has undertaken, arguably, the boldest initiatives since our nation attained independence, nearly sixty-six (66) years ago, to reform and strengthen the capacity of our institutions to tackle corruption in the public sector.
“What I have done is to show you that my government has fought and is fighting corruption not just in high-sounding words, but, actually, in concrete deeds. We have shunned mere exhortations and showy denunciations of unproved corruption. It has been a holistic approach.”
To ensure government officials do not take their position for granted, engage in corrupt activities, the president noted that his administration has made institutional reforms, enacted additional requisite laws.
“Our fight against corruption has been grounded in legislative, financial, and institutional action, and not on mere lip service,” he added.
With all these achievements, the president noted that they were not done solely by his effort, as he is not mandated by the law to sanction corrupt government officials.
Such responsibility, he said, lies in the hands of the courts and law enforcement agencies.
He admitted that “My job is to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issue or issues to the proper investigative agencies for the relevant enquiry and action, including, if necessary, the suspension of the affected official, pending the conclusion of investigations.
“That is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership on January 7, 2017. The latest episode involving the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Hon. Cecilia Abena Dapaah, is evident for all to see.”
For the second time, President Akufo-Addo has urged his critics to channel their concerns regarding what they perceive as a delay in the delivery of justice for corruption and related activities through the proper channels.
The president emphasized that the responsibility for investigating and passing judgment on individuals accused of corruption rests with law enforcement agencies, not with him.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2023–2024 Ghana Bar Association (GBA) conference on Monday, he emphasised that “It is not my job to clear or convict any person accused of wrongdoing or engaging in acts of corruption.”
“That is the job of the courts and the law enforcement agencies,” he added.
His remarks follow criticisms from both the general public and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have accused the government of not taking sufficient measures to penalize individuals allegedly involved in corrupt practices.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has asserted that President Akufo-Addo’s leadership has fostered an environment conducive to corruption.
However, President Akufo-Addo has absolved himself of responsibility and directed attention to the relevant institutions that should handle such matters.
This is not the first instance where the President has clarified his stance on addressing corruption. Back in 2019, during the same event hosted by the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), concerns about corruption were raised, particularly regarding the government’s crackdown on illegal mining and the confiscation and destruction of mining equipment.
Allegations had surfaced implicating some government officials in illegal mining activities, prompting calls for the President to take stern action against his appointees.
The President, however, noted that “It is not my job to clear or convict any person accused of wrongdoing or of engaging in acts of corruption”.
“My job is to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issue or issues to the proper investigative agencies for the relevant inquiry and necessary action. That is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership on 7th January 2017”.
The President said this while addressing members of the Ghana Bar Association at the Annual Bar Conference in Takoradi Tuesday, September 9, 2019.
President Akufo-Addo has for the second time entreated his critics to divert their frustrations over what they deem a delay in justice delivery on corruption and corruption-related activities through the appropriate channels.
According to the president, the onus to investigate or pass judgement on individuals accused of corruption does not fall on him but on law enforcement agencies.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2023–2024 Ghana Bar Association (GBA) conference on Monday, he emphasised that “It is not my job to clear or convict any person accused of wrongdoing or engaging in acts of corruption.”
“That is the job of the courts and the law enforcement agencies,” he added.
His comments come after some members of the general public and the opposition National Democratic Congress condemned the government for failing to ensure individuals allegedly caught engaging in corrupt activities are sanctioned.
Former President John Dramani Mahama believes that President Akufo-Addo has created a conducive environment for corruption to thrive.
But President Akufo-Addo has absolved himself of blame, pointing to the institutions that need to be engaged over the matter.
This is not the first time the President has made his mandate clear when it comes to tackling corruption. In 2019, at the same event held by the GBA, the confiscation and destruction of mining equipment due to the government’s fight against illegal mining raised corruption concerns. It was alleged that some government officials were involved in galamsey. Some individuals called on the President to go hard on his appointees.
The President, however, noted that “It is not my job to clear or convict any person accused of wrongdoing or of engaging in acts of corruption”.
“My job is to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issue or issues to the proper investigative agencies for the relevant inquiry and necessary action. That is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership on 7th January 2017”.
The President said this while addressing members of the Ghana Bar Association at the Annual Bar Conference in Takoradi Tuesday, September 9, 2019.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasized the significance of the TEN field, which holds “significant gas reserves,” stating that it plays a crucial role in Ghana’s natural gas production and the stability of the nation’s power sector in the years ahead.
The President also highlighted that the success of the Jubilee South East Project aligns with the broader plan for the Jubilee field, aimed at enhancing overall production from the eastern side of the field.
President Akufo-Addo expressed the government’s determination to attract further investments from partners involved in the TEN field project. He made these remarks during the commissioning of the First Oil from the JSE project on Friday, September 8, 2023, underscoring how this expansion will solidify the government’s accomplishments in the oil and gas sector.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasized the significance of the TEN field, which holds “significant gas reserves,” stating that it plays a crucial role in Ghana’s natural gas production and the stability of the nation’s power sector in the years ahead.
The President also highlighted that the success of the Jubilee South East Project aligns with the broader plan for the Jubilee field, aimed at enhancing overall production from the eastern side of the field.
President Akufo-Addo expressed the government’s determination to attract further investments from partners involved in the TEN field project. He made these remarks during the commissioning of the First Oil from the JSE project on Friday, September 8, 2023, underscoring how this expansion will solidify the government’s accomplishments in the oil and gas sector.
In cooperation with the Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC), Kosmos Energy, Jubilee Oil Holdings Limited, and Petro SA, Tullow is managing the JSE.
President Akufo-Addo spoke about local content and Ghanaian involvement in upstream petroleum activities and said that the government’s attitude on local content is not just about providing ancillary services to the sector, but also having a stake in the resources as well.
“We must collectively endeavour to train our people to get to a level where they have the capacity to be able to participate fully in the industry, and our position is to strengthen all training vehicles in the various industries of the energy sector, like the Accelerated Oil and Gas Capacity Building Programme, to ensure that Ghanaians have the relevant certification to become competitive, and play a fuller role in the industry”.
“That fuller role will be most effectively anchored when we ensure Ghanaian equity participation in the upstream development of our oil and gas resources”, he stated.
President Akufo-Addo stated that it has become essential for Ghana to develop plans and strategies toward the creation of a net-zero energy sector because the country is a signatory to the Paris Agreement, which obliges it to cut its carbon dioxide emission levels.
However, he pointed out, “as I have reiterated on previous occasions, whilst working hard to combat the effects of climate change, it is also important to protect our development by making sure that our oil reserves do not become stranded assets, but, rather, a catalyst for our economic growth. Our position remains unchanged”.
The president reaffirmed that Ghana has a stable political system, a strong legal system, a workable fiscal regime, a good telecommunications system, a dedicated, talented labor force, and a friendly, welcoming populace, making it an ideal location for investment.
“I wish to assure the investor community of our continued support to ensure that their investments are safe in law and in fact, and that they are able to flourish in our country within the context of our relevant laws. Our doors are always open for conversations on your presence in Ghana, and I hope the good, warm relations we have fostered over the years will continue to endure in the times ahead”, he added.
President Akufo-Addo has slammed his predecessor for his recent comment on the composition of the judiciary.
The president is of the assertion that the Judiciary is not politically biased, as suggested by former President John Dramani Mahama.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has claimed that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government has selected individuals with close ties to the ruling party to hold positions within the judiciary.
Mr Mahama contended that President Akufo-Addo’s appointments to the judiciary seem to be a deliberate strategy aimed at installing judges who might lean toward his interests once his tenure ends.
The 2024 National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer proposed that the president’s actions are designed to protect himself from accountability once he finishes his term in office.
Mr Mahama said: “Currently, the judiciary is packed with NPP-inclined judges because this government has carried out a deliberate policy of putting their people onto the bench.”
“He has appointed the biggest number of judges onto the bench, it is more than 80 towards 100 and counting. You can see what the current president has done. He has packed the court, and we know they have packed the court because they want to avoid accountability after they have left office.”
He made this assertion while addressing the closing ceremony of the 3rd Annual Lawyers Conference of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Saturday, September 2.
Reacting to his comment at the 2023/2024 annual general conference of the Ghana Bar Association which began on Monday, September 11, President Akufo-Addo noted that such statements attack the integrity and independence of the Judiciary. According to the President, such comments must not be uttered by “an allegedly responsible politician of the 4th Republic.”
“He has told the world that I have packed the courts with so called NPP judges and that one of the key purposes of opposition NDC in 2024 will be to enable him to balance the courts with so called NDC judges.
“Not only are these concepts of “NPP NDC Judges” new in our public discourse, they are also extremely dangerous. They represent the most brazen attack on the Independence of the Judiciary by an allegedly responsible politician of the 4th Republic,” the president said.
This year’s conference is on the theme: “Ensuring High Standards and Integrity in Public Life: The Role of Legal Profession.”
President Akufo-Addo has once again refuted the tag ‘clearing agent’ in the country’s fight against corruption and corruption-related activities.
In recent times, government officials such as former Sanitation Minister, Madam Cecilia Dapaah, have been involved in corruption and corruption-related activities for which they are being investigated.
Pending the determination of the case, President Akufo-Addo expressed his confidence in the integrity of Madam Dapaah. This prompted condemnation by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and some members of the public.
Reacting to this concern at the 2023/2024 annual general conference of the Ghana Bar Association on the theme: “Ensuring High Standard and Integrity in Public Life: The Role of Legal Profession,” the president noted that it is unwise to pass judgement on his subjects before investigations are concluded.
“There are some who refuse to accept my method of proceeding and characterise me as a clearing agent. Because for them, the mere allegation without more is enough to merit the condemnation of the public officer,” he said.
According to the president, he will continue to chart this course despite being labelled a “clearing agent” by some critics.
“For my part, I will not set aside due process in the fight against corruption. No matter how much opprobrium this incurs for me,” he added.
For the president, he has done no ill, as none of the state’s accountability institutions, including the new Office of Special Prosecutor, have reported any interference from the executive branch regarding their investigations.
This is not the first time the president has been tagged as a “clearing agent”. In 2021, the President came out to the public to indicate that he had no power to absolve any individual accused of corruption, as that was not part of his mandate.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo officially launched the commencement of oil production from the Jubilee South East (JSE) Project on September 8, 2023. This project is a collaborative effort involving Tullow, the Ghana National Petroleum Company (GNPC), Kosmos Energy, Jubilee Oil Holdings Limited, and Petro SA.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted that the achievement of the South East Project is in accordance with the overarching Jubilee field strategy, which seeks to enhance overall production from the eastern sector of the field.
“With a collective investment of some one billion United States dollars (US$1 billion), our target of maintaining production above one hundred thousand (100,000) barrels of oil per day from this field, by year-end, is well within reach. With some three hundred million (300 million) barrels of oil estimated within the Jubilee field, this triumph augments our confidence in other prospects across the nation,” the President said.
In his address to the assembly, the President emphasized that the success of the JSE Project underscores his administration’s commitment to attract further investments from partners in the TEN field project.
He pointed out that this expansion would solidify the government’s accomplishments in the oil and gas sector, underscoring the significance of the TEN field, which boasts substantial gas reserves, in bolstering the nation’s natural gas production and ensuring the stability of the power sector in the forthcoming years.
President Akufo-Addo acknowledged awareness of discussions, both in the media and various circles, regarding the optimal utilization of domestically produced natural gas to meet the country’s power sector requirements.
“Players in the oil and gas sector have been advocating for a commitment by the Government to consider deploying more natural gas produced domestically to solve the challenges in providing sustainable electricity for individuals, households and businesses,” he said.
The President continued, “I want to re-emphasize our commitment to expedite discussions and agree on mutually acceptable terms for a combined gas sales agreement between Tullow, its Joint Venture Partners and Government. This step will pave the way for heightened success and revenue generation in the sector, fostering the use of natural gas for domestic purposes, and the creation of allied industries. Such utilisation is especially critical in meeting approximately half of our power generation requirements.”
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of Local Content and Ghanaian involvement in upstream petroleum operations. He clarified that the government’s stance on local content extends beyond merely providing support services to the sector; it also encompasses having a significant stake in the available resources.
“We must collectively endeavour to train our people to get to a level where they have the capacity to be able to participate fully in the industry, and our position is to strengthen all training vehicles in the various industries of the Energy sector, like the Accelerated Oil and Gas Capacity Building Programme, to ensure that Ghanaians have the relevant certification to become competitive, and play a fuller role in the industry. That fuller role will be most effectively anchored when we ensure Ghanaian equity participation in the upstream development of our oil and gas resources,” he stated.
Considering Ghana’s commitment as a signatory to the Paris Agreement, where the 2nd President of the 4th Republic, His Excellency John Agyekum Kufuor, played a prominent role as a co-chair during its discussions, and its participation in other international agreements aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions, President Akufo-Addo recognized the pressing need for Ghana to formulate plans and strategies for achieving a net-zero energy sector.
“However, as I have reiterated on previous occasions, whilst working hard to combat the effects of climate change, it is also important to protect our development by making sure that our oil reserves do not become stranded assets, but, rather, a catalyst for our economic growth. Our position remains unchanged,” he added.
The President reaffirmed that Ghana possesses numerous attributes that make it an attractive investment destination, including a stable political system, a well-established legal framework, a sustainable fiscal regime, a reliable telecommunications infrastructure, a diligent and skilled workforce, and a friendly and welcoming population.
“I wish to assure the investor community of our continued support to ensure that their investments are safe in law and in fact, and that they are able to flourish in our country within the context of our relevant laws. Our doors are always open for conversations on your presence in Ghana, and I hope the good, warm relations we have fostered over the years will continue to endure in the times ahead,” he added.
President Akufo-Addo has urged the international community to strengthen its dedication to climate financing in Africa. In his address concerning climate change on the continent, he emphasized the moral and strategic imperative for global climate action, asserting that more substantial efforts should be made at the international level.
Speaking at the inaugural African Climate Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the crucial necessity to streamline access to international climate finance as a complement to national funding.
This summit, organized by the Kenyan Government and the African Union (AU), centers around the theme “Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World.” Its overarching aim is to influence climate commitments, pledges, and outcomes, including the formulation of the Nairobi Declaration, a blueprint for Africa’s transition to green energy.
Despite contributing only two to three percent of the world’s carbon emissions, Africa has borne the brunt of global warming, according to United Nations (UN) statistics. It is estimated that 17 of the world’s 20 most severely affected nations are in Africa, while the 20 wealthiest nations worldwide are responsible for 80 percent of the carbon emissions driving climate change.
The United Nations (UN) reports that the rapidly expanding African continent, with a population of over 1.3 billion, is experiencing an annual loss of 5% to 15% of its gross domestic product (GDP) growth due to the extensive impacts of climate change.
President Akufo-Addo underscored the urgency of taking swift and resolute action to mitigate these effects, ensuring a sustainable future for future generations. He emphasized the importance of the summit in illuminating practical strategies for mobilizing financial resources to bolster the execution of national climate initiatives.
“Especially, how we can guarantee a different future from the past and ensure that the commitment of the developed world towards climate finance, which had not been met in the past, will be in the future.”
Also, the government has established an advisory group of prominent private sector Chief Executives who are setting up a US$100 million Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) delivery fund and a US$200 million green fund.
The President explained that the vision was to complement the government’s efforts in tackling climate change and funding the implementation of the SDGs.
The Government, he said, had embarked on a comprehensive tree–planting exercise and declared war on illegal mining– all geared towards enhancing the country’s environment and ecosystem.
At present, the promise made by wealthier nations to provide $100 billion annually to assist developing countries in achieving their climate objectives remains unmet.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted that Ghana’s nationally determined contribution to combat climate change has been seamlessly integrated into the government’s coordinated program for economic and social development policies. These policies are meticulously designed to facilitate the effective implementation of these climate goals.
“These policy initiatives are already yielding positive results to the attainment of the SDG goals, particularly the goal of reducing our carbon emissions,” he noted.
The Presidential Candidate from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has strongly criticized the government for the ongoing economic challenges being faced by the citizens.
John Dramani Mahama asserts that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has not effectively tackled the urgent issues confronting the people of Ghana.
In his view, the President and his chosen officials are misallocating the limited resources, prioritizing their own comfort and that of their associates.
During a live Facebook address on Wednesday, the former President encouraged Ghanaians to vote against the NPP in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
“President Akufo-Addo and his administration have failed to address the pressing economic challenges they have exerted on the people of our country – misapplying our precious scarce resources and overspending on their comfort and largesse instead of building the critical infrastructure this country needs for job creation and development.”
He also added that the Akufo-Addo-led government has failed to fulfil its promises made to Ghanaians in the run up to the 2020 elections.
“Their promises during their campaigns are yet to be fulfilled, leaving the ordinary Ghanaian burdened with the consequences of their incompetence, cluelessness, and shameless arrogance.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Mahama has urged the Ghanaian people not to consider the ongoing corruption, which he characterizes as unprecedented, as a regular occurrence under the current government. He emphasized that this scourge is impeding the nation’s advancement and limiting job prospects for the unemployed youth of Ghana.
“Today, some Ghanaians glorify and make excuses for corruption because the NPP has allowed it to permeate every facet of our society. This must never be accepted as the norm. It hinders progress on many fronts, denying our youth opportunities that should have come their way if state resources were meaningfully applied.”
Ghanaian broadcaster Kofi Okyere Darko and founder of the Nineteen57 Fashion (KOD), has urged President Nana Akufo-Addo to include local creatives on international trips to boost Ghana’s arts on the global stage.
In an interview with Kwame Dadzie, he cited an example from the Global Citizen Festival in 2018, held in South Africa, where the President attended without any Ghanaian performers.
KOD suggested that Nana Akufo-Addo should have insisted on having a Ghanaian artist perform at the event to showcase Ghana’s talent internationally.
“I was in South Africa when we had the first Global Citizen Festival [in Africa]. I was angry. I was so angry. Nana Akufo-Addo was one of the few Presidents on the platform. We didn’t have a single Ghanaian musician. I was like ‘hello who is opening the doors for us?’
This is when we have to be very intentional about what we do. When Kamala Harris came to Ghana he came with Spike Lee. Was he just here to document her trip to Ghana?” he said.
KOD also recalled an instance when American Idol winner Jordin Sparks visited Ghana alongside former U.S. President George W. Bush in 2008. During President Bush’s visit to the U.S. Ambassador’s residence in Accra on February 20, 2008, Jordin Sparks performed the U.S. National Anthem before his speech.
In addition to this, there’s a historical account of Ghana’s first President traveling with Ghanaian musical bands during his foreign trips. Chief Moomen, a poet and playwright, supported KOD’s suggestion, highlighting that it’s a commendable idea to have poets, musicians, or other creatives accompany the President on international journeys.
Chief Moomen also proposed that the President could actively advocate for performances by Ghanaian artists during his diplomatic visits. These suggestions were made in the context of a discussion on strategies to enhance the visibility of Ghanaian arts on the global stage.
President Akufo-Addo has indicated that Ghana is making strides in its effort to lower carbon emissions, primarily due to two of its flagship policy initiatives.
Speaking at the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, the president pointed out the ban on illegal mining and the Green Ghana Day initiative as the forerunners to the enhancement of the nation’s resilience to the adverse effects of climate change.
He explained that the waterbodies and vegetation cover are being saved from pollution, and more trees have been planted to save the depleting vegetation cover due to the aforementioned initiatives.
“We placed a ban on illegal mining the phenomenon we call galamsey which was destroying our water bodies, vegetation and our forest. Some 20, 000 young people have been engaged to plant more than 30 million trees in two years to create jobs and restore degraded lands.
“These policy initiatives are already yielding positive results in the attainment of SDG Goals, particularly the goal of reducing our carbon emissions,” President Akufo-Addo said.
President Akufo-Addo therefore urged other African nations to follow suit by implementing similar measures to decrease their carbon emissions and bolster their capacity to withstand the consequences of climate change.
In January 2023, Ghana became the second African country, after Mozambique, to receive compensation from a World Bank trust fund dedicated to curbing emissions resulting from deforestation and forest degradation, known as REDD+.
Ghana received a payment of $4,862,280 from the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) for its successful efforts in reducing carbon emissions by 972,456 tons during the initial monitoring period of the program, spanning from June to December 2019.
Ghana has developed an Energy Transition Framework to facilitate work on the global, long-term goal of net zero. This Framework seeks to guide the country’s transition to a net-zero economy by 2070 in a just and equitable manner and to minimize possible stranded assets and job losses in Ghana’s oil and gas sector.
The Framework provides the optimal and sustainable pathway for fuel supply security, diversified energy mix and cost-efficient electricity generation, with an estimated generation tariff of less than U.S. $4.5 cents per kilowatt hour to accelerate Ghana’s socio-economic development.
Although the government asserts that the ban on illegal mining has been effective, much more needs to be done as reports indicate that galamsey activities are underway in forests and waterbodies.
Due to the havoc caused by illegal miners, the Chiefs and residents of Akyem Hemang, a farming community situated in the Fanteakwa South District of the Eastern Region, have issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Ghana Police Service, Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, and the local assembly.
They are demanding that these authorities take immediate action to either remove or apprehend illegal miners who have been polluting water bodies and causing damage to farmlands in the area.
The Chiefs have made it clear that if these agencies do not intervene and put a stop to the mining activities within the stipulated 10-day period, the community will resort to taking matters into their own hands to safeguard their water resources and agricultural lands.
Chief of Akyem Hemang, Osabarima Mmirrikkissi Okasum Apori Atta, expressed his frustration, stating that the community can no longer tolerate the ongoing environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities.
“We know you have done your best, but it is not good enough, if you can’t do it, give us about 10 policemen to accompany us. Who has authorised them to come and mine our waterbodies in the first place? We cannot build Ghana in this way…I cannot hold back the anger of my people again.
“Within 10 days, if we don’t hear anything we will apply officially, to follow due process to go on demonstration and we will need police guard to drive them away. If there are no laws in this land, let us know so we take the laws into our own hands.”
In just 18 months, the Ghana Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) has defied global economic challenges, experiencing remarkable growth.
Starting at approximately US$125 million in October 2021, the fund’s Assets Under Management (AUM) are poised to reach the one-billion-dollar milestone by January 2024, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing specialized funds during this period.
“The growth trajectory of the Fund is attributed to the hard work of the entire team at MIIF. They have fueled this incredible rise in the last 18 months. Our primary focus as a Fund is to remain true to the founding law and the President’s vision of creating long-term sustainable value for Ghanaians. We have achieved AUM growth through innovative expansion of our royalties base, the strong performance of the gold sector, strategic investments, sound asset allocation, and effective treasury management,” said Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng, the Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Koranteng highlighted Ghana’s historical significance as the heart of West African mining for centuries and its current status as the continent’s leading gold producer. However, the mining industry has not fully delivered on its promise of bringing lasting prosperity and opportunities to Ghana.
In response to this, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo established the Minerals Income Investment Fund in 2018 through an Act of Parliament (Act 978). The fund’s mandate includes managing all of the Government of Ghana’s equity interests in mining companies, overseeing and investing royalties and dividends received from mineral resources in strategic investments across the entire mining value chain, and implementing measures to mitigate the Republic’s exposure to fluctuations in minerals income.
The President’s Charge
“Hopeful this Fund, when properly managed and selectively invested, will over the period of time erase that image and give us a new architecture in the mining industry which includes significant Ghanaian players.” President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo
Bongo, 64, succeeded his father Omar Bongo, who ruled the Central African nation with an iron fist for more than four decades before his death in 2009.
A new MIIF Board of Directors was established in October 2021 under the leadership of Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng, a lawyer and investment banker with experience in Ghana, the United Kingdom, and sub-Saharan Africa. Professor Douglas Boateng, a Professor Extraordinaire in Supply Chain Management, served as the board’s chair.
“The President charged us to create long-term value for Ghanaians. Create a conducive investment environment around the participation of Ghanaians in the mining sector and to make Ghanaians the primary beneficiaries of the natural resources God has bestowed on our dear motherland. “These words underpin the objectives of the Fund and are fundamental in the way we approach business” says Edward Koranteng.
Establishing a Strong Foundation Expanding Royalties Sources The Ghana Minerals Income Investment Fund primarily relies on royalties and dividend payments for its income. Among these, royalties from mineral resources, particularly gold, account for approximately 93% of all royalties collected. While gold is a significant contributor, the Fund recognized the need to diversify its royalties sources beyond gold. To achieve this, the Fund initiated two key strategies.
Inter-Agency Framework and Committee To expand the royalties base and include non-gold minerals such as manganese, salt, sand winning, limestone, and quarrying activities, an inter-agency framework and task force were established. This task force comprises organizations like the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Minerals Development Fund (MDF), Ghana Standards Authority, Minerals Commission, and the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO). This strategic approach aims to enhance royalty collection, broaden the royalties net, and improve communication regarding royalty payments from non-gold mining companies. Since its inception in December 2021, this initiative has enabled MIIF to receive royalties from previously untapped sources such as sand winners, salt, and silver. Royalties from quarries and limestone activities have seen remarkable increases of over 105% and 125%, respectively.
Royalty Tracking System Additionally, MIIF developed an in-house geo-mapping and monitoring system that provides real-time monitoring of mining activities at selected mines in Ghana. This system facilitates accurate tracking of mining companies and ensures timely royalty payments with the support of the Inter-Agency Framework.
Beyond Gold: A Diverse Mineral Sector While gold remains a vital contributor, MIIF recognizes the importance of developing other mineral resources in Ghana. To create a comprehensive and value-driven integrated mining sector that benefits Ghanaians, MIIF has initiated programs and investment plans to support the growth of all 16 mineral types in the country. The objective is to establish significant equity positions across the entire value chain for each mineral type, fostering sustainable development.
The Salt Opportunity Industrial salt, if well-developed across its value chain, has the potential to generate over US$1 billion in direct revenue annually. The Songhor Salt pans in Ada, Ghana, span 41,000 acres and can become Africa’s largest producing facility. The development of the salt industry has applications across various sectors, including oil and gas, mining, food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and more. With industrial salt projected to become a US$49 billion market by 2030, MIIF aims to transform the Ada enclave, making it a vital contributor to Ghana’s economy.
The Lithium Opportunity Lithium, a mineral of high strategic importance in the era of global decarbonization and green energy, presents significant growth potential. The global lithium market, valued at about US$38 billion, is projected to reach US$90 billion by 2030. MIIF is finalizing an equity investment in the Australian and UK-listed Atlantic Lithium, which is developing the Ewoyaa lithium finds in Ghana. This project is expected to be Ghana’s first lithium mine operation, producing spodumene concentrate with significant value. MIIF plans to invest approximately $35 million in the Ewoyaa lithium project, focusing on value addition components, including chemical plants, aligning with Ghana’s Critical Minerals Policy.
Formalizing Ghana’s Gold Sector and Creating a Mining Financial Ecosystem The Small Scale Mining Incubation Program (SSMIP) Recognizing the importance of the small-scale gold mining sector, MIIF has introduced the Small Scale Mining Incubation Program (SSMIP). This investment package aims to support and formalize small-scale gold mining in Ghana. The licensed small-scale sector contributes up to 40% of Ghana’s total gold output and employs over 10% of the workforce. SSMIP provides capital support, mining equipment, gold traceability mechanisms, corporate governance training, and responsible mining practices to beneficiary firms. Additionally, the program offers a ready market through the MIIF Gold Trade Desk. SSMIP has the potential to triple the small-scale gold output, currently valued at around US$2 billion annually.
Developing the Capital Market MIIF has signed an MOU with the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) to establish a framework for trading minerals securities on GSE’s markets. MIIF is working toward listing all its investments on the GSE, contributing to the development of a robust capital market in Ghana. Additionally, MIIF plans to introduce a gold-backed ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) listed on the GSE, offering investors an opportunity to invest in physical gold.
Capacity Building and Human Resource Development MIIF has implemented a corporate social investment policy focusing on education, health, and resource capacity building. The fund is sponsoring the construction of the Technical Building at the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa, which includes a jewelry-making training center to develop the gold value chain. MIIF is also launching a “women in mining” scholarship scheme in January 2024, supporting underprivileged girls from mining communities in pursuing education at the University of Mines and Technology.
Investing in Local Content MIIF recognizes the importance of local content in the mining sector. With the recent local content directive, MIIF is facilitating equity investments in various opportunities, including heavy mining, to promote local content in the supply chain. The fund has injected GHS25 million into the Injaro Private Equity Fund to support mining SMEs and micro-suppliers. This approach aligns with Ghana’s local content policy and contributes to Ghanaian participation in the mining sector.
MIIF as an Engine for Long-Term Development MIIF’s Chairman, Prof. Douglas Boateng, emphasizes the fund’s generational perspective. MIIF’s initiatives are aimed at creating a lasting impact for future generations in Ghana. By investing in the mining sector and supporting various programs, MIIF aims to transform Ghana’s mining industry,
Social commentator and youth activist, Ivan Kyei Innocent, is of the assertion that the effects of aging may be distorting President Akufo-Addo’s perception of reality and his decision-making abilities.
He made this sharp criticism over the president’s statement announcing his government’s ability to protect the public purse.
Ivan Kyei Innocent referenced a Facebook post reportedly on the president’s Facebook wall.
According to the youth activist, all variables on the ground point to the fact that the government has failed to protect taxpayers money and has rather accepted a culture where corruption is the order of the day.
He therefore held the assertion, the president’s view of Ghana is twisted due to his old age.
“I think that is an insult. When I saw the President post that on his Facebook, I told someone it could be that the President’s account has been hacked and is being used to play this prank.
“I don’t think anyone who is vigilant would say that Nana Akufo-Addo has protected the public purse. I always say, old age hormones have a way of teasing people’s realities. Maybe that is what is happening. He has lost touch with reality. Someone who has observed what has happened in the last five years, there is no way Nana Akufo-Addo will be brave to say he has fought corruption or is fighting it.
“Under his administration, corruption has been accepted. They are just perfecting the art of stealing. That is what he is doing. If he says he is fighting corruption, then that is an insult to the ordinary Ghanaian,” he said.
In December 2021, President Akufo-Addo bragged that his government had protected the public purse as promised since he assumed office.
Delivering a keynote address at the National Anti-Corruption Conference, organized by the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), on Friday, December 10, 2021, President Akufo-Addo stressed that his government has been up and doing in the quest to fight corruption in the country.
“We have protected the public purse, we have made institutional reforms, we have enacted additional, requisite laws, and we have resourced more adequately the accountability organs of state. Our fight against corruption has been grounded on legislative, financial, and institutional action, and not on lip-service,” the 2021 Forbes Africa African of the Year winner said.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has claimed that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government has selected individuals with close ties to the ruling party to hold positions within the judiciary.
Mr Mahama contended that President Akufo-Addo’s appointments to the judiciary seem to be a deliberate strategy aimed at installing judges who might lean toward his interests once his tenure ends.
The 2024 National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer proposed that the president’s actions are designed to protect himself from accountability once he finishes his term in office.
He made this assertion while addressing the closing ceremony of the 3rd Annual Lawyers Conference of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Saturday, September 2.
Mr. Mahama said: “Currently, the judiciary is packed with NPP-inclined judges because this government has carried out a deliberate policy of putting their people onto the bench.”
“He has appointed the biggest number of judges onto the bench, it is more than 80 towards 100 and counting. You can see what the current president has done. He has packed the court, and we know they have packed the court because they want to avoid accountability after they have left office.”
The former president therefore encouraged NDC members to contemplate pursuing careers within the judiciary to help establish a more balanced representation within the third arm of government.
“So, I encourage some of you to look at careers on the bench so that we can balance out what the current situation is. We must be prepared as NDC legal persons to also go onto the bench so that we can balance out the judiciary,” he urged.
A potential flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, reportedly received a request from the party’s leadership to apologize to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his threat to engage in a “showdown.”
The Assin Central Member of Parliament flatly declined the request when he stood before the party’s disciplinary committee, according to Me Man Nti host Adakabre Frimpong Manso of Neat FM.
“As a party you could not take a firm position to say Kwame Akompreko did this and that so this.
“He came before you and as elders you were asking him to go and beg the president. So if he goes to beg the president the party would not have any other initiative to take?
“Now you watch him tell it to your face that he won’t beg the president today or tomorrow. Is that not disgraceful to you?” he stated on the September 1 2023, edition of his show.
Amidst the fervor of the party’s Special Delegates Election on August 26, 2023, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, a hopeful candidate for the flagbearer position, was captured on video launching a vehement verbal attack aimed at President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also in contention for the flagbearer role.
Kennedy Agyapong’s outburst stemmed from allegations of threats and intimidation against his campaign representatives, leading him to issue a stern warning of a potential “showdown” with the President and Vice President.
Following this incident, he was summoned and subjected to a comprehensive five-hour inquiry by the party’s disciplinary committee.
As of now, the party has not disclosed any details of the outcome of the meeting to the public.
In the meantime, the NPP has scheduled November 4, 2023, as the date for its national delegates congress, during which they will select their flagbearer for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Bismark Aborbi-Ayitey, has called upon President Nana Akufo Addo to respond to recent revelations involving Bugri Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Aborbi-Ayitey’s plea comes in the wake of a recent audio recording in which Bugri Naabu is heard in discussion with senior police officers about a plot to remove the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akufo-Dampare.
During a panel discussion on Peace FM on August 30, 2023, Aborbi-Ayitey pointed out specific comments made by Bugri Naabu during a parliamentary committee hearing.
He expressed his concerns about Bugri Naabu’s alleged reference to the President’s involvement in the matter. Aborbi-Ayitey emphasized the need for the President to address these allegations and hold Bugri Naabu accountable for making such claims.
Aborbi-Ayitey also highlighted the gravity of these allegations, drawing a parallel with former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu’s characterization of President Akufo Addo as the “mother serpent of all corruption.”
To safeguard the President’s reputation and credibility, Aborbi-Ayitey argued that decisive action against Bugri Naabu is imperative.
“This is the President who is on record according to Martin Amidu, saying he is the mother serpent of all corruption.
“He should punish Bugri Naabu for spreading lies about him. If he fails to take action, similar to his handling of the Nyantakyi case, we will have to accept the unfortunate reality that our President is corrupt.”
President Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians to throw their support behind his government to complete its 4-year tenure successfully.
Addressing a valedictory service for outgoing chairperson of Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rev. Dr. Seth Kissi, at Kyebi in the Eastern Region on August 29, the president noted that it is his dream to continue serving with integrity and humility.
According to President Akufo-Addo, his dream cannot be materialised should the peace the country enjoys be disrupted, thus entreated all to pray for Ghana’s peace.
“At the end of my tenure of office on 7th January 2025, I want with humility to be able to say just as St. Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 that I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing,” he said.
He added: “Pray for me and the people I have appointed to various positions with responsibilities that we will continue to exercise our responsibilities with humility and integrity.
“Pray for Ghana that it remains united in peace and continues to thrive for progress and prosperity. I continue to abide in faith in the Almighty God to help advance the fortunes of our nation accompanied by appropriate policies, determination, and hard work on our part.”
He made the comment at a time when the African continent, particularly West Africa, has witnessed an alarming number of military takeover.
Since 2020, eight coups have been executed successfully. Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, Niger have experienced military takeover. The most recent is Gabon, where President Ali Bongo, on August 30, was placed under house arrest by the military.
The trend of military takeover has been condemned by the African Union and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Some security experts have cited bad governance, extension of tenure, human insecurity as some factors for the removal of democratic elected leaders.
The government of Ghana has been cautioned to right its wrongs to prevent a military takeover.
President Akufo-Addo assumed office on January 7, 2017, with ambitious promises that included a transformation of the economy within 18 months and a robust stance against corruption. These pledges had played a significant role in his victory and the success of the ruling New Patriotic Party in the 2016 Presidential election.
While the administration did deliver on some of its commitments, notably the implementation of the Free Senior High School program, a substantial portion of the Ghanaian populace is disheartened by the economy’s lackluster performance and the escalating instances of corruption.
In January 2023, Ghana witnessed a startling surge in year-on-year inflation, reaching a record high of 54.1%. This was accompanied by a notable spike in food inflation, which stood at 59.7%, and a staggering 71.4% increase in transportation costs.
The country was eventually compelled to enter into a $3 billion IMF bailout program due to the unsustainable levels of debt the economy had accrued. As part of their commitment to the conditions set forth by the IMF, the government has initiated a domestic debt exchange programme.
Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru constituency in the Eastern region, Kennedy Nyarko Osei, has called upon the citizens of Ghana to exercise patience in light of the promised improvements in road infrastructure.
During his inspection of the Akim Swedru to Akim Aduasa route, extending through to Apoli-Ningo road construction project, the chairman of the Roads and Transport Committee in Parliament assured that the government remains dedicated to addressing the state of deteriorated roads despite global challenges.
Despite seven years of road construction efforts under President Akufo- Addo’s administration, challenges persist in maintaining the quality of roads, he acknowledged.
“70% of our roads are unpaved with various issues, and you should expect people to become agitated about the poor roads in their communities.” However, I am pleased that Akufo-Addo has performed admirably in the field of road construction. No government in our history has constructed more roads than Akufo-Addo’s.
In his capacity as the Chairman of the Roads and Transport Committee in Parliament, he assured Ghanaians that the government is resolute in completing the majority of ongoing road construction projects, while emphasizing the need for patience.
According to his perspective, President Akufo-Addo’s track record in road infrastructure is unparalleled.
However, he acknowledged that challenges are multifaceted, and the frustration is growing as some residents notice road networks in other towns being restored while their own remain unaddressed. Kennedy Nyarko Osei encouraged citizens to remain patient, highlighting the costliness of road construction in Ghana.
In conclusion, Kennedy Nyarko Osei’s remarks emphasize the importance of understanding the complexity of road construction challenges and the need for citizens to remain patient as the government continues its efforts to improve infrastructure across the nation.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo emphasized that the establishment of the Ada Songor Salt project exemplifies the outcomes achievable through government policies partnered with private sector involvement in Ghana’s pursuit of self-sufficiency in its resources.
He noted that the project’s objective is to enable the nation to attain self-sufficiency in the salt commodity while positioning itself to potentially become a net exporter.
During the inauguration of the Electrochem Salt Mine and Processing Plant at Ada-Sege on August 30, 2023, President Akufo-Addo highlighted that over the course of about 64 years, various administrations have endeavored, albeit unsuccessfully, to fully harness the value and advantages of the Ada-Songor Lagoon.
He expressed his elation that such a project has been initiated during his tenure, particularly for the well-being of Ada area residents and the broader Ghanaian populace.
“This is the first time in recent history that an indigenous Ghanaian businessman owns one of the biggest extractive industries in Africa. He [McDan] is a shinning an example of what determination and perseverance can produce,” Akufo-Addo praised.
“In the run-up to the 2008 elections, I was startled by the news reports that Nigeria was in the process of importing US$2 billion worth of salt from Brazil and you can imagine the thoughts that were running through my mind,” he recounted.
President Akufo-Addo noted that the ongoing Ada Songor project, currently with a capacity to yield around 650,000 metric tons of salt products annually, is set to increase to 1 million metric tons in 2024 and further elevate to 2 million metric tons by 2027. Ultimately, this endeavor is poised to transform it into the largest salt mining facility on the African continent.
“As an advocate for value addition since I assumed office in 2017, it has been evident in the implementation of the 1D1F policy which I am delighted that Electrochem is in the process of constructing a salt refinery in addition to a port for the purpose of exporting refined salt products to wider African markets,” Akufo-Addo stated.
He continued, “With Accra serving as the host secretariat of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area, I am confident that the expected revenues of some US$1 billion to the company will be considerably surpassed.”
However, President Akufo-Addo requested assistance from the chiefs and residents of Ada to help ensure the project’s success.
Social commentator and youth activist, Ivan Kyei Innocent, has entreated President Akufo-Addo to change his ways, lest he become the worst president ever in the history of the country.
Ivan Kyei Innocent, during an interview on Onua TV’s Maakye Show, expressed his immense dissatisfaction with the running of the economy by the Akufo-Addo-led government.
He bemoaned the huge debt stock that has been accumulated by the government and the absence of a conducive environment that propels job creation.
Under the Akufo-Addo led government, he noted that Ghanaians have been worse off in comparison to any individual on the continent in the last five years.
“As a government, we vote for you to create job opportunities. Even creating the enabling environment for the private sector to create more jobs is a problem. This is a government that has not been able to create the capacity to take in people. But for the few that have been taken and are receiving meager salaries, he has weaned them off.
“It shows you that we don’t have a rational government. Sometimes, some of the decisions they make make you question their motivations. Look at the huge amounts of loans we have taken in the last five years, the whole of Africa, there is no single country that has done what Ghana has,” he said.
Ivan Kyei Innocent
He therefore noted that President Akufo-Addo risks having his name in the bad records of Ghanaians, which would transcend to future generations yet to come.
He noted that although Ghana’s first president, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, had no special backing, he was able to do so much for the country, for which he is still remembered.
“At the end of the day, what legacy are you leaving. If you couldn’t create jobs, what was your use then. What legacy are you leaving so that when people mention your name, something good is said. Nkrumah was never a magic child, but he has left a legacy that transcends generations.
“If you use the Tema Motorway, you’ll see his name. As President, the legacy you are leaving behind. Nana Akufo-Addo, if he is not careful, will become the most miserable former president in the history of this country.
“Because what citizens would use to remember him would be the huge debt he left. There will be nothing positive. With all this debt, what legacy are you leaving?” he said.
The Bank of Ghana’s January 2023 economic and financial data summary revealed that the debt stock increased by GH¢108.3 billion between September and November 2021. The external component of the country’s public debt shot up to GH¢382.7 billion in November 2022, equivalent to 62.1% of GDP.
A member of the New Patriotic Party, has firmly denied allegations suggesting that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is engaged in corrupt activities.
According to George Ayisi, despite hearing various accusations, he is yet to come across any reports in local or international media linking the President of the Republic to a corruption scandal.
However, there is one individual among the former presidents he has encountered in an international newspaper associated with corruption.
Speaking on a panel alongside Edem Agbana and Bernard Mornah on TV3 Newday, George Ayisi advised individuals who are quick to label Akufo-Addo as corrupt to reconsider their stance.
“ I’m yet to see any international or local newspaper splash on their front page the ‘corrupt President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.’ he defended.
Meanwhile, in the April 2023 release of Al Jazeera’s investigative film “Gold Mafia,” the identities of six African leaders, including President Akufo-Addo, were disclosed by a notorious gold smuggler.
Alistair Mathias, the self-proclaimed gold dealer, implicated the six leaders in various roles. He openly confessed in the documentary to his involvement in money laundering and the retention of illicit payments on behalf of prominent African politicians, which included sitting presidents.
The majority of the mentioned presidents are from the Southern African region. The documentary named King Mswati of eSwatini, along with the presidents of Zimbabwe (a country where much of their fraudulent activities are centered), South Africa, Zambia, DR Congo, and Ghana.
When undercover agents met him in South Africa and asked about his continental connections, he spoke up: “Next door Swaziland, the king is a close friend of mine. Zambia’s president is a close friend of my friend.
“DRC Congo, the president is inviting me several times to come and build a refinery. Ghana’s president is a good friend of mine, in fact, he was my lawyer. Cyril Ramaphosa here, I know his kids,” he said while a close ally added: ”Zimbabwe is easy.”
Nevertheless, President Akufo-Addo countered the claim by clarifying to Al Jazeera via email that he had no memory of having represented the gold mafia in any legal capacity during his time as a lawyer.
I am yet to see any local or international newspaper report that President Akufo-Addo is corrupt but I have seen John Mahama on The Sun newspaper in relation to corruption – George Ayisi on corruption.#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/H92qfiTHE8
President Akufo-Addo has affirmed government’s commitment to improving Ghana’s security infrastructure to withstand and protect the country from possible terrorist attacks.
Delivering a speech at the inauguration of the International Maritime and Exhibition Conference held at Burma Camp, the president noted that one of government’s concerns is Ghana’s territorial waters.
As such, the Navy is being provided the necessary machinery to be armed to the teeth to protect the maritime domain, the president stated.
According to President Akufo-Addo, “the government recognises the need for a well-resourced and technologically advanced Navy” and has therefore provided the following equipment; “drones, coastal radars, real-time surveillance, and tracking protocols.”
President Akufo-Addo emphasized Ghana’s susceptibility to terrorist attacks due to the proximity of terrorist activities in neighboring countries.
Burkina Faso, which shares the northern border with Ghana, has been heavily hit by terrorist attacks.
On August 6, Twenty people were killed in Burkina Faso in an attack by suspected jihadists in Nohao, near the town of Bittou, in the Center-East region bordering Togo.
More than 16,000 civilians, troops and police have died in terror attacks, according to an NGO count, including more than 5,000 since the start of this year.
More than 2 million people have also been displaced within their country, making it one of the worst internal displacement crises in Africa.
President Akufo-Addo has provided assurance that the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative will generate an annual average of two hundred and ten thousand (210,000) new jobs related to farming.
The President emphasized that this projection specifically pertains to employment within the agricultural sector, excluding other roles along the broader agricultural value chains.
Speaking at the launch of the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs program in Tamale, President Akufo-Addo highlighted that this new phase is geared towards bolstering food security and job creation.
“The second phase, by design, takes a holistic view and places greater emphasis on value chain approaches by focusing on strengthening linkages between actors along eleven selected agricultural commodity value chains broadly categorised into grains, roots and tuber, vegetables and poultry.
President Akufo-Addo outlined that the second phase of the PFJ initiative is characterized by a comprehensive perspective, placing strong emphasis on the value chain approach.
This involves enhancing the connections and interactions among participants within eleven chosen agricultural commodity value chains, which are categorized broadly as grains, roots and tubers, vegetables, and poultry.
The President underscored that this new phase is also designed to improve service delivery, ultimately maximizing its overall impact.
Furthermore, the phase entails a shift from direct input subsidies to intelligent agricultural financial support, achieved through a comprehensive input credit mechanism that even includes provisions for in-kind payment.
President Akufo-Addo’s previous launch of the inaugural “Planting for Food and Jobs” program on April 19, 2017, in the Ahafo region, signified a pivotal step towards modernizing agriculture, enhancing production efficiency, ensuring food security, and promoting the prosperity of farmers. The program aimed to significantly elevate agricultural productivity and adopt a value-addition strategy, focused on expediting agro-processing and fostering new, stable markets.
President Akufo-Addo has given assurance that the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative will generate an annual average of 210,000 new jobs directly related to farming.
Furthermore, the President noted that these new jobs will not only be limited to farming but will also encompass various positions within the agricultural value chains.
President Akufo-Addo made this announcement during the launch of the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs program in Tamale on Monday, August 28.
He emphasized that this upcoming phase of the program is aimed at enhancing food security and creating employment opportunities.
“The impact of the Programme is expected to be in the area of job creation, with some one-point-two million (1.2 million) farmers to be enrolled in the first year. In the next four (4) years, the Programme is destined to record an annual average of two hundred and ten thousand (210,000) new farm-related jobs,” the president said.
This will not encompass other jobs along the agricultural value chains, which are projected to average around four hundred and twenty thousand annually during the same period, President Akufo-Addo confirmed.
He further highlighted that the second phase of the Program is also aimed at enhancing service delivery to optimize its effects.
“The second phase, by design, takes a holistic view and places greater emphasis on value chain approaches by focusing on strengthening linkages between actors along eleven selected agricultural commodity value chains broadly categorised into grains, roots and tuber, vegetables and poultry.
Phase Two of the Programme also seeks to improve service delivery to maximise impact, substitutes direct input subsidy with smart agricultural financial support in the form of comprehensive input credit, with provision for in-kind payment,” the President indicated.
On April 19, 2017, President Akufo-Addo inaugurated the inaugural “Planting for Food and Jobs” program in Goaso, situated in the Ahafo region.
This initiative marked a pivotal step by the government towards the modernization of agriculture, the enhancement of production efficiency, and the attainment of both food security and increased profitability for farmers.
The primary goal was to substantially boost agricultural productivity while concurrently pursuing a value-addition approach, with a focus on accelerating agro-processing and establishing new, stable markets.
Two new High Court Judges, both females, have been sworn into office and charged with the mandate to apply Ghana’s laws fairly, strictly, and without fear, favour or ill-will.
President Akufo-Addo on Monday, August 28, moderated the induction ceremony held a the Jubilee House, Accra.
The newly appointed judges, Justices Dorothy Ayodele Kingsly-Nyinah and Ama Sefenya Ayittey, took their oaths of allegiance, secrecy, and the judicial oath.
President Akufo-Addo asserted that the country’s development hinged on the Judiciary earning the respect of the people through the quality of justice delivery and the conduct of judges.
He then congratulated them on their appointments and encouraged them to set themselves apart in their roles by demonstrating honesty, integrity, and a solid grasp of the law.
The President expressed his disapproval of judges basing their judgments on lower court decisions and presenting them as legal precedents.
He found it even more unacceptable when judges made rulings without citing any legal authority. He urged the newly appointed judges to be well-versed in case law and ensure that their decisions and judgments were properly motivated.
Furthermore, President Akufo-Addo urged the judges to adjudicate cases without bias or partiality and always safeguard the fundamental rights of citizens.
He also charged them to be sensitive to undue delays that projected the image of Ghana as a destination where litigation took too long, stressing that “This affects the attractiveness of the country as an investment destination.”
The President urged the judges to leverage the capabilities of technology to promote the rule of law, ensuring that they maintain the trust of the Ghanaian populace and bolster the country’s standing as a nation governed by principles of the rule of law.
“We know that harnessing the power of technology to advance the rule of law is critical in this modern era, if we are to maintain the confidence of the Ghanaian people and shore-up our nations reputation as a country governed by the rule of law.
“I encourage both of you to take full advantage of the E-justice system in order to expedite the conduct of cases that comes before you and enhance the management of cases before the court,” he said.
President Akufo-Addo is set to unveil the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS) on August 29, 2023, at Burma Hall in Accra.
This significant launch will take place as part of the opening ceremony of the 3rd Edition of the International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) in Accra.
IMDEC serves as a platform for key players within the international maritime industry to convene and collaborate.
Below is a press statement on the launch:
Read below the statement on NIMS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESIDENT AKUFO-ADDO TO LAUNCH NATIONAL INTEGRATED MARITIME STRATEGY OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA (NIMS) AT 3RD INTERNATIONAL MARITIME DEFENSE EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE ON AUGUST 29, 2023
In his maiden address at the National Blue Economy Summit, held from 31 May -1 June 2023, H.E. President Nana Addo Dankwa AKUFO-ADDO, declared the National Integrated Maritime Strategy (NIMS) a strategic national document, highlighting its relevance and a need to expedite processes for its official launch.
2. Pursuant to this, the Joint Ministerial Committee on NIMS is happy to announce the launch of the much anticipated national maritime strategy on August 29, 2023 at Burma Hall, during the opening ceremony of the 3rd Edition of the International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference 2023 (IMDEC) in Accra. IMDEC brings together major stakeholders from the international maritime industry.
3. Developed jointly by the Ministries of Transport, National Security, Defence, Energy, Fisheries, Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Justice along with international and private sector partners, NIMS is a forward-thinking strategy designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and address challenges facing Ghana’s maritime sector.
4. Proceedings will commence at 8.00 am. There will be welcome remarks by the Chief of the Naval Staff, the Ministers for Transport, National Security and finally a keynote address by H.E. the President.
5. The Committee meanwhile wishes to acknowledge the immense contribution made by the following local and international organisations towards the realisation of the NIMS – the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of National Security, Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana Navy, United States Embassy, Danish Embassy, Norwegian Embassy, UNODC, CSDS AFRICA, CEMLAWS, GOGMI, the Heyl Group, Lex Mundus & Cencla, and Tullow Oil.
CHAIRMAN, JOINT MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE ON NIMS 27 August, 2023
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed his profound sympathy to Ghanaians over the current state of the economy.
During an interaction with the press after casting his vote during the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Conference, he acknowledged that times are really hard.
He, however, expressed the hope that the new NPP candidate will get Ghanaians out of the mess.Akufo-Addo told the press after casting his ballot in the NPP super delegates conference (August 26) at the party headquarters that he is the first to admit that things are hard.
“Ghanaians say they are not happy with the way conditions are, they are tired, they are suffering,” a journalist asked the president who was departing from the premises after casting his ballot.
He replied: “It is difficult. I am the first to admit it, I have said it several times, I am the first to admit it. But at the end of the day, believe that when the moment comes, Ghanaians will refer to a good person and get us out of these difficulties and take us to the next stage. That is the New Patriotic Party.”
Former Energy Minister and presidential aspirant within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Boakye Agyarko, has revealed that he was compelled by President Akufo-Addo to resign from his position.
Mr Agyarko stated that he had not committed any wrongdoing, and the President did not provide any explanation for his decision to part ways with him.
According to Mr Agyarko, some members of the NPP held a negative view of him, and he believes this may have influenced President Akufo-Addo’s choice to remove him from his role as Energy Minister. Consequently, he was not taken aback by the decision.
During an interview with United Television (UTV) on August 25, 2023, the former Energy Minister detailed how President Akufo-Addo requested his resignation without offering any specific reasons.
“I [Boakye Agyarko] did not resign, it was the chief of staff who called me and told me the president [Akufo-Addo] said he could not work with me again so I should resign. I told him that, if the president did not want to work with me again, I didn’t have a problem. Because I had seen certain steps along the way, I had prepared myself already for that. But if I am resigning, am I doing that because I have committed an offense? No. I have to explain to Ghanaians why I am resigning. The president gave me the job so if he wants to take it back that’s fine. And that is why finally he relieved me of my post and sacked me,” he said in Twi on United Television (UTV)
Boakye Agyarko also mentioned that he remained undisturbed after President Akufo-Addo’s dismissal because he had faced more challenging experiences in life.
“I was not worried at all because of what I’ve experienced in life before getting to this level, I don’t let things disturb me,” he added.
Mr Boakye Agyarko was relieved of his position following the controversy surrounding the review of the Ameri power deal in August 2018.
A press statement signed and issued by Mr Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Presidency on Monday evening, August 6, said President Akufo-Addo by a letter dated August 6, 2018, “relieved the Minister of Energy, Mr Boakye Agyarko, of his position, with immediate effect.”
“President Akufo-Addo has asked Mr Boakye Agyarko to hand over his office to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr John Peter Amewu, who will act temporarily as Minister of Energy, until a substantive appointment is made,” the statement said.
“The President wishes Mr Boakye Agyarko well in his future endeavours,” the statement added.
Ameri deal saga
The Ameri Power Plant project was initiated in response to Ghana’s power generation challenges and the need to increase the country’s electricity supply to meet the growing demand for energy.
The project was awarded to Ameri Group, a Dubai-based energy company. Ameri was tasked with supplying and operating the power plant.
The Ameri deal was signed in 2015 under an emergency power agreement to quickly address the power crisis in Ghana. The agreement was signed during the tenure of former President John Dramani Mahama.
After the initial agreement was signed, the Ameri deal became a subject of controversy in Ghana due to concerns over its cost and terms. There were allegations of overpricing and lack of transparency in the agreement.
Following the change of government in 2017, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, initiated a renegotiation of the Ameri deal. The government sought to amend the terms of the agreement to reduce costs and make it more favorable to Ghana.
The renegotiation process led to the signing of a novation agreement with a new company called Mytilineos International Trading Company in 2018. Under this agreement, Mytilineos took over the management and operation of the Ameri Power Plant from Ameri Group.
The novation agreement was brought before the Ghanaian Parliament for approval, and after heated debates, it was eventually ratified by Parliament in March 2018.
Gabby-Otchere Darko and Boakye Agyarko on Ameri deal
Mr Agyarko claimed that Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, a prominent figure in the NPP, renegotiated the Ameri deal without obtaining consent from the government committee assigned to work on the deal.
Upon confronting Gabby about the matter, Agyarko asserted that he was told to keep quiet because President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was already informed about the actions taken by Gabby.
Agyarko recounted that he received a call from Gabby while he was on a flight to the United States, during which Gabby expressed frustration at not being able to reach him.
“I told him I was onboard a flight travelling. Then he (Gabby) told me that he was sending me a document via email so I should check.
“When I arrived safely and went to my hotel room, I opened my email address and saw the document. To my surprise, Gabby had, on the blind side of the Committee set up and approved by the President to renegotiate with Ameri Energy Group, contracted a law firm to engage Ameri Energy Group and completed their negotiation and recommended a certain company to operate the Ameri Power Plant and extended the contract to 20 years.
“I sent Gabby a mail and asked him what authority he had to do that. And I told him Cabinet has given specific instructions to follow and his response was what makes me think that my Boss (President Akufo-Addo) doesn’t know about what he has done…so I kept quiet,” he is quoted to have said by energynewsafrica.com.
According to the former energy minister, when he discussed the matter with President Akufo-Addo, the president inquired whether there was anything inappropriate about Gabby’s actions.
Boakye Agyarko said that he told the president that, “the authority to renegotiate the terms of the Ameri Power Plant doesn’t lie in the hands of Gabby and that the proposal the firm he contracted made had violated all the Cabinet instructions and extended the contract to 20 years.”
Agyarko added that Akufo-Addo agreed with his reasoning but went ahead and asked him to forward the deal Gabby had negotiated to the committee that was set up to renegotiate the deal.
President Akufo-Addo has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s unemployment rate, deeming it to be in an unacceptable state.
The unemployment rate in Ghana is anticipated to reach 5.00 percent by the conclusion of 2023, as indicated by the global macro models and analysts’ expectations reported by Trading Economics.
Looking ahead, according to Trading Economics’ econometric models, the Ghana Unemployment Rate is forecasted to follow a trend of approximately 4.70 percent in 2024 and 4.50 percent in 2025.
President Akufo-Addo conveyed these sentiments during an event where he recognized and celebrated young male and female entrepreneurs in connection with the Presidential Pitch initiative, which took place on Friday, August 18, 2023.
He said: “Entrepreneurship is a vital component of economic growth and development, and has been embraced globally as an important driver of economic transformation.
“I believe firmly that the fastest way to deal with the challenges confronting our economy and the unacceptable rate of unemployment is the fusion of technology, entrepreneurship, and business.
“Governments, the world over, recognise youth entrepreneurship as the appropriate tool to address the unemployment challenges of our times.”
He added: “That is why I am happy that, under Seasons One, Two, and Three of the Presidential Pitch, 702 direct and thousands of indirect jobs have been created by our winners, with majority of these jobs being established in rural communities.
“I want to single out the Chief Executive Officer of Pizzaman Chickenman, Christian Boakye Yiadom, the tenth-place winner from Season Two for special mention. He started his pizza business on the campus of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi.
“He received twenty-five thousand cedis (25,000), which he used to scale-up his business. It eventually led to the opening of the first Pizzaman Chickenman branch on KNUST campus on 17th January 2020, some six months after the competition. Today, Pizzaman Chickenman has become a household name and a favourite bite for many.”
Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has expressed admiration for the achievements of the Akufo-Addo-led administration, highlighting its success in extending the economy’s reach to all corners of the country.
He emphasized that the current government has excelled in the decentralization of the economy, a feat unprecedented by any prior administration.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, August 15, Dr. Boakye-Danquah pointed to the flagship ‘One District-One Factory’ Policy as tangible evidence of this decentralization.
Dr. Boakye-Danquah noted that in the past, the Greater Accra Region used to account for more than 90 percent of the country’s tax contributions to the economy.
However, he asserted that due to the effective policies implemented by President Akufo-Addo, all other regions are now making significant contributions.
He affirmed, “President Nana Akufo-Addo is dedicated to Ghana’s development,” adding, “The newly introduced taxes aim to ensure that every responsible Ghanaian contributes to the country’s progress. Failing to achieve this would impede our nation’s advancement.”
Dr. Boakye-Danquah also highlighted the statement made by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta that the government has successfully navigated a turning point in the economy. During his presentation of the mid-year budget review in Parliament on Monday, July 31, Mr. Ofori-Atta assured that the economy is on a path of recovery and resurgence.
Dr. Boakye-Danquah commended the government for translating the sacrifices made during the challenging period of the Covid-19 pandemic into positive outcomes.
Expressing apprehension about Ghana’s economic condition during President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s tenure, Professor Steve Hanke, an economist at Johns Hopkins University in the United States, has raised his concerns.
Hanke highlights that the president’s limited grasp of economic principles has played a role in the nation’s challenges with inflation, a matter that had initially aimed for an 8% target.
Hanke posted his views on Twitter, stating, “Pres. Akufo-Addo is quite unfamiliar with the science behind economics. No surprise that Ghana is MILES from its 8% inflation target.”
Furthermore, he put forth an alternative remedy to tackle the prevailing economic difficulties.
Highlighting Ghana’s past implementation of a currency board between 1912 and 1958, he recommended that the nation contemplate reintroducing a currency board system as a means to navigate the current situation.
The currency board system involves the rigorous pegging of a country’s currency to that of a prominent and stable currency. This linkage typically relies on a substantial reserve of foreign currency.
This mechanism is designed to establish a dependable commitment to maintaining price stability and restraining inflation.
#GhanaWatch: Pres. Akufo-Addo is quite unfamiliar with the science behind economics. No surprise that Ghana is MILES from its 8% inflation target. It’s time for Ghana to install a currency board, like the one it had from 1912-58. pic.twitter.com/ZTNNdOn8KB
Chairman of the Political Affairs Committee of the Conventional People’s Party (CPP), Kwame Jantuah, has advised President Akufo-Addo to strongly oppose the deployment of the ECOWAS standby force to Niger.
The ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff has declared their determination to use all available means to restore constitutional order in Niger.
During a two-day extraordinary meeting held in Ghana, the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff discussed the deployment of the ECOWAS standby force in the Republic of Niger.
In a session with high-ranking officers, Ambassador Abdul Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, explained that while diplomatic engagement with the military rulers in Niger remains ongoing, any further defiance by the junta could prompt a response to protect the regional bloc’s principles, involving contingency plans.
Speaking on the Weekly Review segment of the Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Mr. Jantuah, the Political Affairs Chairman of CPP, cautioned against the deployment of the ECOWAS standby force in Niger.
“May I ask a question, what is the interest of Ghana, is the interest of Ghana in Niger Ghanaians? Is that what it is because right now the price of onions has gone up. Some of the trucks are stacked at the border. Are you saying, sometimes you don’t seem to understand it, onions, tomatoes can we not grow them here?
“Listen to President Obasanjo when he talks about this particular issue, it is because of the intransigence of our leaders, who are not able to do what they are supposed to do that is creating this. Look in Ghana here, our government should thank the people, the people don’t want these kinds of things, the people don’t want a coup. But the people are suffering and people believe in the thumb,” Mr. Jantuah stated.
He questioned Ghana’s vested interest, underscoring economic challenges and potential repercussions.
Jantuah emphasized that a military invasion of Niger might result in adverse consequences for supporting nations as well.
He warned about the risk of retaliatory missile strikes and referred to the insurgency along the Bawku border.
He urged President Akufo-Addo to take a stand against military intervention, given Ghana’s history with coups, and advocated for a diplomatic approach instead.
“The missiles won’t start flying in Niger, all the countries that have come together to attack them and the others who are defending them will throw missiles into your country. Remember Bawku and we have insurgence on that border. When the people start coming and taking our gold deposits we are in big trouble.
“They should think about this clearly, and let me end by saying President Akufo-Addo should be one President in the midst of all to say no, Ghana has experienced coups and coups haven’t helped us, yes, but this isn’t the way to go. Let’s negotiate.”
Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has urged President Nana Addo DankwaAkufo-Addo to intervene on behalf of the Ghanaian populace and put a stop to the Bank of Ghana’s intentions to construct a new headquarters valued at US$250 million.
He emphasized that this US$250 million sum constitutes roughly a quarter of the amount the government is seeking from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
According to his perspective, the pursuit of a new central bank headquarters is a misguided priority, particularly during a period when the local economy remains in a state of disarray.
“We heard that the BoG is building a new headquarters at a cost of 250 million dollars. That is about a quarter of the money we are seeking from the IMF. We want the President to intervene. He should meet with them and rescind that decision and communicate same to us,” he said.
On Thursday, August 17, 2023, a delegation paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Dormaa, in the Bono Region, and the Dormaahene made these remarks.
The Bank of Ghana stated in a release that they needed a new office building because their current structure was no longer functional.
Additionally, it stated that the BoG’s structural integrity examination showed the current head office building, constructed in the early 1960s, could not withstand any significant earth earthquakes.
