The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has taken a swipe at the outgoing Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, describing him as being on his way to becoming a âmicro Minority Leader.â
At a press conference on Friday, December 13, Mr. Asiedu Nketia responded to comments made earlier by Afenyo-Markin, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus leader and Member of Parliament-elect for Effutu, regarding chaos at collation centres. Afenyo-Markin had urged NDC leadership to rein in their supporters, claiming their actions undermined democracy.
Addressing the media, Mr. Asiedu Nketia hit back, referencing reported invasions of state institutions and looting allegedly linked to young NDC supporters.
âI heard my junior brother Afenyo-Markin, who, having rejected the position of Minority Leader, is now on his way to becoming a micro Minority Leader. He is bragging that he belongs to a party of the rule of law and all that,â Mr. Asiedu Nketia stated.
He further dismissed Afenyo-Markin’s remarks, adding, âWe in the National Democratic Congress donât need lectures from Afenyo-Markin about democracy at all. Indeed, if there were any lectures on impunity, we would invite him as our lecturer.â
Mr. Asiedu Nketia urged Afenyo-Markin to address challenges within his own party rather than directing blame at the NDC.
He also issued a stern warning, stating that any acts of violence or abuse of power during the transition period would be investigated and dealt with under the NDC administration.
âAnd so, anybody who is thinking about abusing these three weeks, abusing power during these three weeks to create any problems, must know that there will be consequences for them after the takeover,â he cautioned.
President-elect John Dramani Mahama has announced the members of his transition team following his victory in the December 7, 2024, general elections.
The appointments, made in line with the Presidential (Transition) Act, 2012 (Act 845), are aimed at ensuring a seamless transfer of power from the outgoing administration to the incoming government.
The transition team comprises seasoned professionals and political figures with extensive experience in finance, governance, and public administration.
Below is the full list of appointed members:
Hon. Julius Debrah â Co-Chairperson
Hon. Johnson Asiedu Nketia â Member
Hon. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey â Member
Dr. Callistus Mahama â Member/Secretary to the Transition Team
Dr. Valerie Sawyer â Member
Prof. Kwamena Ahwoi â Member
Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson â Member
Hon. Mahama Ayariga â Member
Hon. Goosie Tanoh â Member
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah â Member
The transition team will collaborate with officials from the outgoing government to facilitate a smooth and orderly transfer of political power to the new administration.
National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia,has expressed great joy over the victory of President-elect John Dramani Mahama.
His excitement was evident during his speech on December 9, after the Electoral Commission announced the results of the 2024 general election.
Known as General Mosquito, he described the NDCâs hard-fought win against the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a historic achievement for the party.
âI believe that the party has never seen this level of total mobilization of its rank and file to fight and achieve a purpose. At long last, the battle has ended, and the great elephant has been slaughtered mercilessly,â he declared.
He extended special commendations to the technical team at the NDC headquarters, acknowledging their pivotal role in managing the election campaign.
âI want to specially commend the technical staff of our headquarters, who managed this election very, very successfully. I mean the directors of elections, directors of IT, and all other persons who played roles in this success,â he said.
While celebrating the victory, Mr Asiedu Nketia urged party members to exercise modesty in their celebrations and focus on the enormous responsibility ahead.
âLet me advise that we should be modest in our celebrations because I can almost feel the weight of responsibility on our shoulders. Ghanaians have given us this mandate to accomplish the task of national reconstruction,â he reiterated.
He reminded the NDC leadership and supporters of the high expectations of Ghanaians, adding, âWe cannot afford to disappoint them.â
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has accused the Electoral Commission (EC) of fueling suspicion and tension across the country by delaying the declaration of certified results from the 2024 elections.
Addressing the media, Mr. Asiedu Nketia criticised the EC for its âfeet-draggingâ despite both the NDC and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presenting consistent collated results.
According to the NDCâs figures, their candidate, John Mahama, secured over 56% of the vote, a result which Asiedu Nketia claims has been further validated by the NPPâs concession.
âIf we, as stakeholders, have our results, what is preventing the EC, which holds the originals, from doing the same? Their silence is fueling agitation and confusion, especially among the youth,â he said.
He attributed reports of growing unrest at collation centres to the ECâs lack of communication, stating:
âOur agents are at these centres, and they are frustrated. The youth are reacting to the uncertainty created by the ECâs refusal to declare the results.â
The NDC Chairman accused the EC of neglecting its duty to ease tensions and promote peace.
âWhen the EC delays, it sends the wrong signals and creates suspicion. If there are challenges impeding their work, they should be transparent and communicate that to the public,â he urged.
Mr. Asiedu Nketia also criticised the ECâs perceived dismissive attitude, referencing a recent statement by a Deputy Commissioner who indicated the EC would not bow to pressure.
âThis isnât about pressure; itâs about their mandate to serve the people. They must rise above any external influences and do the right thing,â he said.
He emphasized the NDCâs commitment to maintaining calm but warned that their supportersâ patience was running thin.
âI have been called upon to calm the youth, but I cannot do that when they feel cheated. Justice must first be done, and that starts with the EC declaring the results,â he insisted.
Asiedu Nketia called on the National Peace Council and civil society organizations to intervene and ensure the EC fulfills its obligation promptly.
âGhanaâs peace depends on justice, and justice in this case is tied to the EC performing its duties transparently and promptly,â he concluded.
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC),Johnson Asiedu Nketiahas instructed his partyâs Members of Parliament to abstain from any emergency recall of the House, which is currently on an indefinite recess.
Asiedu Nketiah asserted that with Ghana’s general election just three weeks away, any such recall would likely serve as an opportunity for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to engage in corrupt practices rather than addressing urgent government business.
ââŠLet no NDC MP set foot in Parliament. If they like, they can go and burn the sea. Thereâs no work in Parliament that can be said to be an emergency. Thereâs no emergency. Parliament will only be recalled so they can continue with the insatiable corruption they have perpetrated for the past eight years.
They still want to advance the corruption with just three weeks left. We wonât go close to them today or tomorrow,â he stated while addressing a crowd of party enthusiasts as part of his ongoing national campaign.
BREAKING NEWSâŒïžâŒïžâŒïž NDC National Chairman directs all NDC MPs not to attend any emergency Parliament recall in Parliament. The chief justice can go and occupy the seat of the speaker for npp businesses! #VoteWiselyVoteJohnMahamapic.twitter.com/r4dkKo48zH
Johnson Asiedu Nketiahâs remarks follow a Supreme Court ruling that overturned Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant, including three held by the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The Speaker had justified his decision by citing Articles 97(g) and (h) of the Constitution, along with precedent, arguing that the affected MPs forfeited their seats by opting to contest the upcoming elections either as independent candidates or under the banner of a different political party.
However, the Supreme Court, in a 5-2 majority ruling, held that an MP can only vacate their seat under Articles 97(g) and (h) if they choose to remain in Parliament while adopting a new political identity.
Reacting to this decision, Asiedu Nketiah accused the Supreme Court of overstepping its constitutional mandate, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to Ghanaâs democracy and must be firmly opposed.âThe judges can say what they want. We will also use the rules ofParliament to workin Parliament. When we speak of democracy standing firm, democracy does not exist if you take out Parliament.
That is why every nation interested in their democracy must collectively protect their Parliament because your democracy falters if Parliament is weakened, and that would not be allowed to happen. Our Parliament and democracy were built off our blood. We wonât sit and watch one person come and destroy our democracy. That will not happen today or tomorrow,â he stated.
Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has reiterated the partyâs dedication to reviewing the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, despite attempts by political opponents to distort the partyâs intentions.
Addressing a doctored video that falsely suggested the NDC planned to abolish the policy, Nketia expressed frustration with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for using such tactics to mislead the public.
He made it clear that these efforts would not deter the NDC from addressing the policy’s flaws.
âThey must create avenues for their party people to make money.â They have taken away the responsibility of the headmasters to procure foodstuffs for students under their care, and have awarded the contract for supplying the schools to their cronies,” Nketia alleged.
Nketia stressed that the current implementation of the Free SHS policy has had negative effects on the quality of education, and the NDC is determined to rectify these issues. He criticized the policy for undermining the educational experience of students due to poor planning and improper execution.
A key issue, according to Nketia, is the stripping of headmastersâ responsibilities for procuring food for students, with contracts now being awarded to party supporters.
“This is why we advised them not to rush the implementation until adequate infrastructure has been built but they refused to reason with us, thereby leading us into this mess,” the National Chairman pointed out.
Mr Nketia also pointed out the significant lack of infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of students, leading to overcrowded schools and reduced learning time. He blamed the NPP for rushing the policyâs rollout without ensuring adequate facilities, ignoring advice from various stakeholders, including members of their own party.
The NDC, he assured, will focus on expanding school infrastructure, completing the stalled E-blocks, and ensuring that adequate facilities are in place to accommodate students effectively.
He urged the public to ignore the misleading video, calling it part of the NPP’s desperate attempts to hold onto power.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Asiedu Nketia, has urged residents of Asunafo South and North to prioritise competence over familial connections when casting their votes in the upcoming elections.
His remarks highlight a growing concern within the party and among voters regarding the importance of choosing capable leaders who can effectively serve the community and address its pressing issues.
Speaking at a recent gathering in the region, Nketia emphasised the necessity of evaluating candidates based on their qualifications, track record, and ability to deliver on promises, rather than personal relationships.
“If we were to base things on family connections, I could have easily become the National Chairman of the NPP. The party originated in Wenchi, and all of you had the chance to be part of it. Today, the Busia-led party that we started in Wenchi, where Busia himself was born, has seen the Wenchi district split into three constituencies: Banda, Tain, and Wenchi East. By the grace of God, all these constituencies have shifted, and we now have NDC MPs representing them,” Asiedu Nketia expressed.
In less than 50 days, Ghana will be heading to the polls. However there is a palpable sense of tension as political parties ramp up their campaigns and strategies.
The stakes are higher than ever, with both major partiesâthe National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP)â vying for the public’s trust amidst economic challenges, social unrest, and a highly divided electorate.
With each side working to consolidate their bases and win over undecided voters, the atmosphere is charged. The NPP, led by its flagbearer Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, is keen to defend its policies, while the NDC represented by John Dramani Mahama is pressing hard on issues such as governance, corruption, and the high cost of living, aiming to sway public sentiment in their favour.
The National Chairman for the National Democratic Congress, Asiedu Nketia, has advised the people of Asunafo South and North not to vote based on family relationships but for a competent person or government.#3NewsGHpic.twitter.com/m8bMTuCxhz
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has cautioned that any attempts to disenfranchise Ghanaians living in Togo in the upcoming general elections will not be tolerated.
He emphasized that the opposition party would strongly oppose any form of discrimination against individuals crossing into Ghana by land to vote.
Speaking at a rally in Ziope, located in the Agotime Ziope Constituency along the Ghana-Togo border, Asiedu Nketia questioned the rationale behind the ROPAL Law, which was passed by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). He criticized what he perceived as a double standard in the voting process for Ghanaians living abroad.
âSo, the logic they want us to understand is that if you are a Ghanaian living in America and you fly to Kotoka International Airport, they will allow you to go and vote, but if you are a Ghanaian living in Togo and you want to come and vote in your hometown, that one you are a Togolese, you are a stranger, so we must not allow you to vote. We shall not accept that discrimination,â he asserted.
He urged the electorate in the NDC-stronghold constituency to remain resolute, warning that the NPP might attempt to suppress their votes by blocking their relatives from crossing the border to vote.
âThey [NPP] will find every reason to prevent you from voting and to prevent those who live in Togo from coming to their own country to vote,â he stressed.
Asiedu Nketia further appealed to the constituents to vote for the NDC in the upcoming elections to free themselves from the hardships they are currently experiencing under the NPP government.
âOur compatriots in Agotime Ziope, we don’t need to convince you to vote for NDC because you suffer most when NPP is in power, and if you want to continue living under that suffering, it is up to you,â he added.
The NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Agotime Ziope, Charles Agbeve, also called on the electorate to come out in large numbers and vote on December 7th, 2024, aiming to meet the constituencyâs target of 25,000 votes for the NDC.
Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Asiedu Nketia, has emphasized the partyâs commitment to maintaining peace through transparent and credible elections.Â
Addressing supporters during the NDCâs âEnough is Enoughâ demonstration, Nketia declared that the party’s efforts to audit the voter register are aimed at preventing electoral disputes, which could lead to unrest.
Nketia underscored the importance of citizen participation in defending democratic values. âDemocracy alone does not guarantee itself; it is the democratic-minded citizens who are ready to fight for their rights and for democracy. Today is our time to stand firm. We must not fail our ancestors or future generations. We must fight for peace, not war,â he stated, adding that addressing the root causes of potential conflict is essential to avoid unrest.
âTo avoid war, we must address and eliminate factors that could lead to it. There is no room for complacency, we must not allow the country to drift into turmoil,â he declared.
Nketia also called on the Electoral Commission to heed the demands of Ghanaians and conduct an audit of the voter register.
He asserted, “In our democracy, we demand nothing less than transparent elections, which guarantee our right to choose our leaders. Every democracy faces challenges, and Ghana’s democracy is currently under serious threat. However, we are determined to overcome this. The resilience of Ghana’s democracy lies in its ability to confront tyranny and uphold democratic values.”
Chairman of the National Peace Council, Rev. Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to allow the Electoral Commission (EC) to clean-up the votersâ register before demanding a forensic audit.
Rev. Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi explained that it would be of the best interest if the NDC waits for the EC to correct the errors identified in the register and publish the final votersâ register before making any demands.
The EC had previously denied the NDC’s request for a forensic audit and instead called for a meeting to address their concerns.
In an interview on 3FM, Rev. Dr. Gyamfi advised the NDC to engage in discussions with the EC, rather than airing grievances publicly.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has filed his nomination papers for the 2024 presidential election on Monday, September 9, 2024.
National Chairman of the opposition party, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, filed the forms on behalf of the flagbearer. Mahama was not able to physically submit his forms due to his tour of the country ahead of the country.
He began a four-day tour of the Bono Region on Sunday. The #Mahama4Change2024 tour will cover all 12 constituencies, including visits to traditional councils, community engagements, meetings with religious leaders, and an interaction with the Bono Regional House of Chiefs.
During the tour, Mahama will also host a youth forum at Sunyani Technical University.
Earlier the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia also submitted his nomination forms.
Dr Bawumia was accompanied by his wife Samira Bawumia, his running mate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and his wife Alma Pokua Adade-Prempeh.
Party executives, including the National Chairman, Stephen Ntim, General Secretary Justin Koduah Frimpong, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and other leading members of the NPP, are also at the EC to provide support and solidarity.
Several presidential candidates submitted their nomination forms on Monday, September 9, 2024, ahead of the upcoming December elections.
Among those who filed were Dr. Hassan Ayariga of the All Peopleâs Congress (APC), Samuel Apea-Danquah of Yellow Ghana, and independent candidate George Twum Barima Adu. Additionally, Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as Cheddar, also submitted his nomination at the Electoral Commissionâs (EC) headquarters.
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has accused the Interior Minister of attempting to bribe Minority MPs with offers of police recruitment slots.
During an appearance on Joy News’ PM Express, he claimed that Henry Quartey made these offers to suppress opposition from NDC legislators who were challenging the recruitment of approximately 10,000 party foot soldiers into the police force.
Asiedu Nketia, also known as General Mosquito, voiced serious concerns about the potential impact of such actions on the upcoming election, warning that the Interior Minister’s alleged clandestine activities could threaten peace.
He urged organizations like the National Peace Council and the Catholic Bishops Conference to publicly address the matter, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability.
Additionally, General Mosquito elaborated that the Interior Minister had attempted to bring these individuals into the security services but encountered resistance.
âAt some point, the Interior Minister himself went to Parliament to try to, like, bribe our MPs and say, âLook, bring two persons each from your constituency, and let’s add them so that you allow me to do it.â Our MPs rejected it flatly,â he alleged on Wednesday.
Mr Asiedu Nketia revealed that he had followed up on the matter, advising NDC MPs not to accept the offer.
âI said, donât give them even one person because if you add one person, they recruit 10,000,â he stated.
He further claimed that the Interior Minister made the offer privately to the Minority leadership, but the NDC firmly opposed it.
âWe made it clear that any NDC member who falls for that will face challenges in their constituency because what is wrong is wrong.
If there is an opportunity for recruitment into the security services, it must follow the proper procedure, ensuring equal opportunity for all qualified Ghanaians,â he asserted.
Mr. Asiedu Nketia revealed that the NDC has lodged a petition with the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) concerning the alleged bribery attempt by the Interior Minister.
He claimed that despite the petition, the government is continuing with the recruitment process, supposedly under the pretense of adhering to legal procedures.
When asked for proof, Mr. Asiedu Nketia pointed to letters sent to party candidates, emphasizing that even those who lost their primaries were not considered for the recruitment.
He added that the NDC has included these letters in their petition to CHRAJ as evidence.
âThere is no denial of these facts, and we are insisting that if they believe in the rule of law, they should withdraw those advertisements and wait for CHRAJ to make a determination,â he concluded.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he expressed doubts about the effectiveness of such agreements, citing previous experiences as a basis for his scepticism.
âSigning a peace declaration doesnât mean anything to the party, as previous pacts have not yielded any real results,â Asiedu Nketia stated.
He stated that preventing violence requires proactive measures rather than symbolic gestures.
âIf you allow violence to brew, it will happen whether you sign a declaration or not. Thatâs why, more than a year ago, I started talking about the need to remove the building blocks for a violent election,â he explained.
He further criticised the focus on signing peace agreements after tensions have already escalated, urging authorities to address the root causes of potential violence before it spirals out of control.
âAt any stage when something is happening, I call on those who, in the future, will call us to sign a declaration to speak up and stop it from happening.
“Otherwise, if you let these issues build up and then say, âLetâs play a peace football match, sign a declaration, and hope for a peaceful election,â it wonât work. We did all this and more in 2020,â he said.
Mr Asiedu Nketia, affectionately known as General Mosquito, pointed out that despite the involvement of bodies like the Council of State and the Peace Council in previous peace declarations, the 2020 election was still marred by violence.
âSigning or not signing is not the issue. What we need to address are the building blocks that lead to violence,â he insisted.
He also highlighted concerns about the illegal recruitment of about 10,000 individuals into the security services, warning that this could be a brewing source of unrest.
âItâs brewing now,â he added.
In the 2020 election, theNDC challenged the results, labeling them as “flawed” and accusing state security forces of voter intimidation in their key areas.
According to the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF), the 2020 general elections saw five fatalities and 61 incidents of electoral and post-electoral violence nationwide, including six cases involving gunfire.
The Ghana Police Service has refuted claims made by the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, that senior police officials, including the Accra Regional Police Commander, CID Director-General, and Inspector-General of Police (IGP), stated that the arrest of three individuals with firearms in Ofaakor was directed by higher authorities.
In a statement, the police revealed that they had received a video in which Asiedu Nketia asserted that certain senior officers informed him the arrest was ordered from above.
The police have labeled Asiedu Nketiaâs accusations as “false and baseless,” emphasizing that the arrest was a straightforward enforcement of the law with no external influence.
According to the police, the suspects were detained at the Electoral Commission offices in Ofaakor, found in possession of a Pump Action gun and ammunition.
The police also clarified that none of the senior officers mentioned by Asiedu Nketia had made any such statements.
Addressing the media after the release of the NDCâs parliamentary candidate for Awutu Senya East, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, from police custody, Asiedu Nketia cautioned the police and security agencies to be vigilant ahead of the 2024 elections, insisting that no laws should be used to intimidate citizens.
Find below the statement
The attention of the Ghana Police Service has been drawn to a video in which Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia is heard claiming that the Accra Regional Police Commander, the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Inspector-General of Police had indicated to him that the arrest of some three persons for possession of firearms at Ofaakor in the Awutu Senya East Constituency was based on an order from above.
We would like to categorically state that the claims are false and without any bases. None of the officers mentioned in the video has at any point in time made any such pronouncement.
We wish to emphasize that all three suspects were arrested when a Pump Action gun with four rounds of ammunition was found in their vehicle at the offices of the Electoral Commission at Ofaakor in the Awutu Senya East constituency of the Central region. They have subsequently been cautioned and granted bail.
The Ghana Police Service has refuted claims made by Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), suggesting that the arrest of three individuals for possession of firearms at Ofaakor in the Awutu Senya East Constituency was due to an “order from above.”
In a video circulating online, Mr. Asiedu Nketia alleged that the Accra Regional Police Commander, the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and the Inspector-General of Police had informed him that the arrests were directed by higher authorities.
The Police Service has categorically denied these assertions, stating that they are false and without any basis. According to the police, none of the officers mentioned in the video has ever made such a pronouncement.
The incident in question involved the discovery of a Pump Action gun with four rounds of ammunition in a vehicle at the Electoral Commission’s offices in Ofaakor.
The individuals involved were Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, the NDC parliamentary candidate for Awutu Senya East, along with Abdulai Aziz and Mustapha Mohammed. Naa Koryoo was cautioned for the unauthorized transfer of firearms, while Aziz and Mohammed were cautioned for possessing firearms without authority. All three have since been granted bail.
Naa Koryoo’s detention on June 7, 2024, sparked significant unrest among NDC supporters, who gathered at the Cantonments Police Station demanding her release.
The incident drew widespread condemnation, including from former President John Dramani Mahama and other NDC officials, who labeled the detention as politically motivated.
In addition to the firearms charges, Usman Haruna was arrested and remanded into custody in connection with the stabbing of the son of Mavis Hawa Koomson, the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, during the disturbances at the Electoral Commission’s office. Haruna is scheduled to reappear in court on June 19, 2024.
The Police Service has emphasized that the arrests were a result of standard procedures and ongoing investigations, which are being conducted without external influence. The case docket has been forwarded to the Office of the Attorney-General for review and advice, as part of the ongoing legal process.
The police have reiterated their commitment to impartiality and due process as they continue their investigations.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has issued a stern warning to the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to exercise caution as the 2024 general elections approach.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, June 8, following the release of the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Awutu Senya East, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, from police custody, General Mosquito (as he is affectionately known) emphasized that no Ghanaian law is designed to intimidate or coerce citizens.
He stated that the NDC will not tolerate any state agency intimidating sympathizers of the party.
He further cautioned that the NDC will persist in its fight until the rights of its members are duly respected.
âThe laws of the country are meant for all of us. There should be no discrimination in applying them. We will not be victims of the peace that the country enjoys. Freedom is not free. We will fight for freedom. We will not allow the coercive powers of the state to be used against us.â
Naa Koryoo was detained at the Cantonments Police Station on Friday, June 7, after being summoned, which sparked outrage among NDC supporters who later gathered at the station demanding her release.
Her detention drew widespread condemnation, including from former president John Dramani Mahama.
Additionally, Naa Koryooâs assistant, Delali Sewarkpor, labeled the detention as political persecution orchestrated by members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has cautioned the MP for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson, over her alleged illegal activities and her role in the arrest of Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, NDC’s candidate contesting the 2024 parliamentary election in the Awutu Senya East constituency of the Central Region.
Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor who was arrested and detained by the police on Friday, June 7, and was released the following Saturday morning after intense backlash from the opposition party.
Addressing the media at a press conference after the release, the NDC cautioned the Police to be professional in carrying out its mandate.
Mr Asiedu Nketia also cautioned Hawa Koomson to desist from engaging in any activities that contradict the laws of the country.
He noted that despite the forces that may be supporting the MP, “the day of accountability is near.”
The police have not issued any public statements regarding the arrest.
The initial disclosure of Okunorâs detention came from the NDCâs National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi. Gyamfi highlighted that the police provided no explanation for her arrest and detention, characterizing it as an attempt to silence the NDC.
On Sunday, June 2, 2024, the Ghana Police Service announced the arrest of three individuals, including Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, for possessing a firearm without lawful authority. They were apprehended while traveling in a Honda CRV near the Electoral Commission Office at Ofaakor. A pump-action gun with four rounds of ammunition was seized during the arrest.
In an interview on Wednesday, June 5, Okunor clarified that she was invited by the police and not formally arrested. She maintained that the firearm found in her car was legally licensed and was obtained for self-protection against the incumbent NPP MP and Minister for Fisheries, Hawa Koomson. Okunor alleged that the police had failed to protect her during previous altercations with the MP, where she was attacked and gunshots were fired.
Before Okunorâs arrest related to firearm possession, a clash between NDC and NPP supporters occurred at the ECâs office in Ofaakor during the ongoing votes transfer exercise. This altercation resulted in the stabbing of Ato Koomson, the son of the incumbent MP and Minister for Fisheries, Hawa Koomson. The suspect involved in the stabbing has also been arrested and detained.
It remains uncertain whether Okunorâs subsequent arrest is linked to the stabbing incident or solely related to the firearm possession charge.
The Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has fought claims that the party’s Chairman abandoned party supporters that were present at the Cantonments Police Station in Accra, demanding the release of Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, the party’s parliamentary candidate for Awutu Senya East in the Central Region.
Former Deputy General Secretary for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, has slammed the Chairman of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketia for allegedly abandoning party folks.
Okunor’s detention on Friday evening sparked widespread outrage among NDC members and sympathizers.
Following her arrest, the party’s flagbearer condemned the police action and called for her immediate release to maintain national stability.
Sammy Gyamfi, the party’s National Communications Officer, urged party members to assemble at the Cantonments Police Station to protest the detention.
The demonstrators, clad in the party’s colors and chanting slogans supporting Okunor, expressed their anger at what they perceive as an unjust and politically motivated arrest.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Awutu Senya East, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor
Engaging the supporters, Mr Nketia, in a video shared by Mr Anyidoho expressed his frustration over the police to make known details on the arrest of Naa Koryoo who detained after an order from above.
He noted that he told the officers that he is leaving Deputy Secretary for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Mustapha Gbande in charge and would not be held responsible for what takes place after his absence.
Reacting to this, Mr Anyidoho in a post on X wrote, “How does a general lead people to battle and tell them that he is abandoning them and will not be responsible for anything that happens to them?”
But engaging the media after her release on Saturday morning, Mr Gyamfi noted that Mr Asiedu Nketia was at the CID office engaging the authorities for over 6 hours throughout the night.
Former President John Mahama issued a statement alleging that the Inspector General of Police, George Dampare, ordered the detention under the instructions of National Security Minister Albert Kan Dapaah. He suggested this move was intended to intimidate the NDC candidate in her campaign against the incumbent Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hawa Koomson, in the upcoming elections.
Mahama warned that such actions could heighten political tensions and threaten national peace and stability ahead of the crucial 2024 elections. He demanded Okunor’s immediate release and called on the police and government to uphold justice and fairness.
The police station was heavily guarded, with law enforcement officers present to maintain order.
How does a general lead people to battle and tell them that he is abandoning them and will not be responsible for anything that happens to them? đđđđđđ pic.twitter.com/vACKQhLJ1T
— Samuel Koku AnyidohođŹđ (@KokuAnyidoho) June 8, 2024
Former Deputy General Secretary for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, has slammed the Chairman of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketia for allegedly abandoning party folks that are present at the Cantonments Police Station in Accra, demanding the release of Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, the party’s parliamentary candidate for Awutu Senya East in the Central Region.
Okunor’s detention on Friday evening sparked widespread outrage among NDC members and sympathizers.
Following her arrest, the party’s flagbearer condemned the police action and called for her immediate release to maintain national stability.
Sammy Gyamfi, the party’s National Communications Officer, urged party members to assemble at the Cantonments Police Station to protest the detention.
The demonstrators, clad in the party’s colors and chanting slogans supporting Okunor, expressed their anger at what they perceive as an unjust and politically motivated arrest.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Awutu Senya East, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor
Engaging the supporters, Mr Nketia, in a video shared by Mr Anyidoho expressed his frustration over the police to make known details on the arrest of Naa Koryoo who detained after an order from above.
He noted that he told the officers that he is leaving Deputy Secretary for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Mustapha Gbande in charge and would not be held responsible for what takes place after his absence.
Reacting to this, Mr Anyidoho in a post on X wrote, “How does a general lead people to battle and tell them that he is abandoning them and will not be responsible for anything that happens to them?”
Former President John Mahama issued a statement alleging that the Inspector General of Police, George Dampare, ordered the detention under the instructions of National Security Minister Albert Kan Dapaah. He suggested this move was intended to intimidate the NDC candidate in her campaign against the incumbent Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Hawa Koomson, in the upcoming elections.
Mahama warned that such actions could heighten political tensions and threaten national peace and stability ahead of the crucial 2024 elections. He demanded Okunor’s immediate release and called on the police and government to uphold justice and fairness.
The police station was heavily guarded, with law enforcement officers present to maintain order.
How does a general lead people to battle and tell them that he is abandoning them and will not be responsible for anything that happens to them? đđđđđđ pic.twitter.com/vACKQhLJ1T
— Samuel Koku AnyidohođŹđ (@KokuAnyidoho) June 8, 2024
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has released a 16-minute recording to support the claims made by Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the faulty ambulance case involving Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
The tape captures a conversation between Attorney General Godfred Dame and Jakpa, in which Dame allegedly instructs Jakpa on what to say in court, specifically implicating Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
READ THE FULL STATEMENT BY THE NDC BELOW
STATEMENT READ BY HON. JOHNSON ASIEDU NKETIA, NATIONAL CHAIRMAN OF THE NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS, AT A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE UNPROFESSIONAL AND CRIMINAL CONDUCT BY THE ATTORNEYGENERAL, GODFRED YEBOAH DAME, IN THE AMBULANCE CASE.
Tuesday, 28th May, 2024
Good afternoon, distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the media.
I welcome you on behalf of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to this crucial Moment of Truth press conference.
We have called you here over a very grave matter that has the potential to completely undermine the administration of justice in Ghana.
As you may be aware, since late 2021, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government has been persecuting the Minority Leader in Parliament, Hon. Dr. Cassiel AtoForson, over the purchase of some ambulances by the Ministry of Health under the erstwhile NDC/Mahama government.
As a law-abiding political party, we have restrained ourselves from commenting on this matter publicly. This is because we respect the principle that matters pending in court should not be commented on in a manner that prejudices the outcome. We therefore have no intention of doing so today.
However, in the light of repeated falsehoods, deliberate misrepresentations and distortions churned out by Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and NPP propagandists, we are compelled to correct certain misconceptions in the public domain about the said ambulance transaction and situate this discussion in its proper context.
This is without prejudice to any matters pending before the law courts in this case.
Every reasonable person would agree that, it will be irresponsible of us to sit aloof and allow deliberate falsehood to be peddled about us without putting out the truth.
For the avoidance of doubt, the specific claim that the Attorney-General has based his persecution of the Minority Leader on is that, in the Attorney-Generalâs view, there has been financial loss to the state because he as Deputy Minister of Finance, wrote letters to the Bank of Ghana requesting the Bank to set up Letters of Credit in favour of Big Sea Trading Limited of Dubai, suppliers of the ambulances in question, without authorisation from his then boss and Finance Minister, Hon. Seth Terkper. This is publicly available information captured in the records of the High Court, Accra.
It is also a matter of public record, that Hon. Seth Terkper has appeared before the trial court and stated unequivocally under oath that he gave express authorisation to his then Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon. Ato Forson, to write the said letters to the Bank of Ghana for Letters of Credit to be established in respect of the ambulance transaction. This authorisation is evidenced by the seal of the Ministry of Finance that is apparent on the face of the letter written by Hon. Ato Forson.
It is instructive to note that the establishment of the Letters of Credit was done on the advice of the Attorney-General then, that failure to do so was going to make it difficult for the Government of Ghana to defend any suit brought by Big Sea Trading for breach of contract.
Godfred Dame and hordes of NPP propagandists also continue to falsely claim that the NDC government brought in ordinary vans purporting to be ambulances without medical equipment under the said transaction.
We want to state emphatically that the first set of 30 ambulances supplied under the transaction arrived in the country with the necessary fittings in them sometime in the year 2015.
On the screen are pictures of the exterior and interior of the ambulances as they arrived in the country. It is clear from these pictures that the ambulances that were procured were not empty vans as claimed by dishonest Godfred Dame and the NPP.
In addition, a container load of medical equipment to be installed in these ambulances were shipped by Big Sea and arrived in the country around the end of 2016. Sadly, these medical equipment have been sitting at the Tema port for the last eight (8) years because this government, specifically the Ministry of Health, which is the consignee, has refused to clear them just so they can falsely claim that there were no equipment.
Once again, we have projected on the screen a copy of the bill of lading dated 8th October, 2016 covering this shipment. As can be seen, this container has 30 sets of medical equipment and defibrillators for installation, as well as spare parts for the 30 ambulances.
All that was required for this government to do was to clear the medical equipment from the ports and give engineers of Big Sea access to the ambulances, which have since been parked at the Airforce Base in Accra, to install them, train personnel of the Ghana Ambulance Service to use them and then formally take possession of the said ambulances.
It therefore makes no sense that after refusing to do this simple task and allowing the ambulances to deteriorate for 8 years, Godfred Dame would turn around to persecute Hon. Ato Forson for allegedly causing financial loss to the State, when that loss has been clearly occasioned by the deliberate negligence of the government he represents.
We firmly believe that the decision to take the Minority Leader and some others to Court over this matter was born out of a malicious, sinister and wicked desire to silence him through unjust imprisonment and nothing more.
As we publicly stated from the very outset of this case, the timing and circumstances of this socalled prosecution, show that it was instituted mainly to intimidate and silence the then ranking member on Finance, now Minority Leader, following his vehement opposition to the governmentâs 2022 budget, the E-levy and the general economic mismanagement by the AkufoAddo/Bawumia government. This is the very embodiment of political witch-hunt and persecution.
Having set out the factual background of this whole matter, I will now proceed to address certain grave matters that have emerged from the ongoing trial, which border on professional misconduct and crime on the part of the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame.
Ladies and gentlemen of the media, last Thursday, 23rd May 2024, the 3rd Accused person in this case, Richard Jakpa, took the stand to be cross-examined by counsel for Dr. Ato Forson. During this cross-examination, Attorney-General Godfred Dame, shot up from his seat to accuse Mr. Richard Jakpa of defending Dr. Ato Forson rather than himself.
In response to the Attorney-Generalâs accusation, Mr. Jakpa who was testifying under oath and felt attacked without provocation, dropped a bombshell that Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Attorney-General, has been having clandestine meetings and telephone conversations with him at odd hours to persuade him to falsely testify against the Minority Leader, Dr. Ato Forson, so that the prosecution can secure a conviction. This testimony by Mr. Jakpa was given to the court under oath and captured by the courtâs record.
At last Thursdayâs hearing, the Attorney-General who was personally present in court, could not object to this damning evidence of Mr. Jakpa. He did not deny calling and meeting Jakpa at odd hours. Neither did he deny Jakpaâs claim that he has been impressing on him to skew his testimony in a manner that will allow the State to secure a conviction against the Minority Leader.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the media, in the period following these startling revelations, the National Democratic Congress, has obtained compelling evidence which supports Mr. Richard Jakpaâs claim that the Attorney-General indeed has engaged him on countless occasions and urged him to falsify his testimony to aid the case of the Attorney-General against Dr. Ato Forson.
This evidence points to a devious, diabolic and dangerous plan by the Attorney-General to secure conviction against Minority Leader Dr. Ato Forson at all cost, contrary to what the 3rd Accused knows and believes to be the truth.
We have in our possession a series of recordings in which the Attorney-General, Godfred Dame, is clearly heard goading, urging, impressing upon and coaching Mr. Jakpa to bear false testimony against the Minority Leader, Dr. Ato Forson.
All of this desperate subornation by Mr. Dame is just because he is hellbent on securing the incarceration of the Minority Leader.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the first of these recordings is a 16-minute five seconds telephone conversation between Godfred Dame and Richard Jakpa, the 3rd Accused person, held on the morning (7:12am) of 9th April, 2024, a day that the 3rd Accused Richard Jakpa was preparing to go to court to continue his testimony.
In this recording which we will play to your hearing and share with you shortly, Godfred Dame, the Attorney-General, is clearly heard doing the following:
A) Witness tampering
In this recording, Godfred Dame is heard impressing upon Richard Jakpa, the 3rd Accused, Richard Jakpa, to skew his answers and testimony to support the prosecutionâs case.
This was despite Mr. Jakpaâs insistence that the line the Attorney-General wanted him to tow was dishonest, untenable and that his conscience could not allow him to do so.
The dishonourable Attorney-General then dangled the assurance that Richard Jakpaâs acceptance to testify the Attorney-Generalâs way was not going to get him into any difficulty.
B) Conspiracy against an accused person
In the recording under reference, Richard Jakpa reveals that Godfred Dame had met him on several occasions at the residence of a sitting Supreme Court Judge to impress upon him to testify in a manner that the Prosecution wants in order to fix and wrongfully jail the Minority Leader Dr. Ato Forson.
Godfred Dame did not refute this statement by Richard Jakpa except to caution him that they were speaking on phone, and that he was not sure if anyone was recording their conversation.
Also, Godfred Dame is heard in the recording urging and coaching Richard Jakpa, albeit with strong protest from Mr. Jakpa, to provide answers that Jakpa knows to be false to the Court.
C) Professional Misconduct
The audio recording provides incontrovertible evidence of professional misconduct on the part of Godfred Dame as a Lawyer and a prosecutor.
By talking to a represented person in an ongoing trial, on the blindside of the represented personâs lawyer and urging the represented person to testify in a manner that aids the prosecutionâs case, Godfred Dame violently violated the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules, 2020 (L.I. 2423) in many ways.
This gross professional misconduct on the part of no less a person than the Attorney-General, who as the leader of the Bar bears a high responsibility to adhere to the rules of ethics of the legal profession, is reprehensible and totally unpardonable.
D) Fabrication of evidence to pervert the course of Justice
It is instructive to note that in the audio recording, Godfred Dame is heard persuading Mr. Jakpa not to end his testimony by a particular time to allow him to travel.
The dishonourable Attorney-General is also heard persuading Mr. Jakpa to procure and submit a fake medical excuse duty to the court which he was scheduled to testify before that morning. This was to enable Godfred Dame travel abroad without missing Jakpaâs testimony.
By asking a witness to fabricate evidence to deceive a court, Godfred Dame, the AttorneyGeneral, sought to undermine the judicial and justice administration process.
This conduct of Godfred Dame constitutes the offense of perjury which is a crime punishable under the laws of Ghana, specifically sections 213 and 214 of the Criminal and Other Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Ladies and Gentlemen of the media, I would at this stage invite you to listen to the content of this recording after which I will make some important observations.
(Play audio recording)
Ladies and gentlemen of the media, the recording you just heard is one that is worrying and all Ghanaians must be concerned about it.
This is a scandal of unimaginable proportions that seriously exposes the criminal-mindedness and lack of integrity of the Attorney-General, Godfred Dame.
It also highlights the dishonesty of the prosecution in the Ambulance trial and the desperate lengths they are prepared to go to secure wrongful conviction against Hon. Ato Forson at all cost.
Clearly, Mr. Dame, who as Attorney-General ought to know better, was doing everything he could, including criminal acts, to defeat the long cherished legal principle that it is better to set a thousand guilty persons free than to convict one innocent person.
Again, this recording, confirms our long-held position on Godfred Dameâs notoriety for judicial manipulation against opponents of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia regime.
After many years of getting away with his shady, crooked and underhand dealings, Godfred Dameâs cup has become full and his day of reckoning has finally come.
Today, Godfred Dame stands exposed as an unethical, scheming and devious Attorney-General who will go to whatever length, including engaging in criminality to unjustly silence, persecute and imprison critics of his government. Dame is clearly a devious character bereft of integrity, honour and unfit to occupy the high and hallowed public office of Attorney-General.
Ladies and gentlemen of the media, why should we be concerned about this tape recording?
As I have already intimated, this tape recording captures professional misconduct, unethical behaviour and criminal conduct on the part of no less a person than the Attorney-General of the Republic of Ghana, Godfred Yeboah Dame.
This conduct of Attorney-General Godfred Dame offends Rules 13, 40 and 54 of the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette Rules) L.I. 2324.
Rule 13 of L.I 2324 , which is on Communication with a represented party states:
âA lawyer shall not approach, communicate or deal with a represented person on a matter or attempt to negotiate or compromise a matter directly with a represented person except through or with the consent of the lawyer of that represented personâ.
At the time that Mr. Godfred Dame was calling and meeting Richard Jakpa at odd hours to urge, goad, impress upon and coach him to testify the Attorney-Generalâs way, Mr. Jakpa was represented by a lawyer.
The claim that the Attorney General has been engaging the 3rd Accused directly because he has been changing lawyers frequently is totally false.
For instance, at the time Godfred Dame engaged the 3rd Accused, Richard Jakpa in the phone call conversation that we just played to you on 9th April, 2024, the 3rd Accused was represented by the distinguished lawyer, Thaddeus Sory.
It is clear from the tape recording that Godfred Dame was communicating with the 3rd Accused, Richard Jakpa, on the blindside of his lawyer as well as the court, and he was attempting to compromise Jakpa in order to wrongfully convict Dr. Ato Forson. This is a cardinal sin against the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette Rules) L.I. 2324.
Again, Rule 40 (1) of LI 2324, which highlights special responsibilities of a prosecutor states:
âWhere a lawyer acts as a prosecutor, the lawyer shall act resolutely and honourably within the limits of the law and shall treat the court or tribunal with candour, fairness, courtesy and respectâ.
It is clear from this tape that Godfred Dameâs conduct violates Rule 40 (1) of LI 2324. He consciously, deliberately and knowingly did not act resolutely nor honourably. Neither did Dame treat the court with the candour, fairness and respect that all lawyers, and in this particular case prosecutors, are required by law to do.
The standard for Integrity of evidence is provided for by Rule 54 of LI 2423. It states:
Rule 54 (1) A lawyer shall not advise or suggest to a witness to give false evidence. (2) A lawyer shall not (a) suggest, or (b) condone a client or another person suggesting to a prospective witness, the content of any particular evidence which the witness should give at any stage in a proceeding.
This is the duty placed by law on all lawyers, including the Attorney-General. Godfred Dame by his conduct, which are captured on this tape, clearly violates this duty placed on him as a lawyer.
Again, Godfred Dameâs conduct violates section 213 of the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29) which is on fabrication of evidence and states as follows:
âWhoever fabricates evidence, with intent to defeat, obstruct, or pervert the course of justice in any proceeding, shall be liable to the same penalties as if he had committed perjury in that proceeding.â
It is clear from the tape recording that Mr. Dame was urging, goading and encouraging the 3rd Accused to fabricate evidence in the form of a fake medical excuse duty to deceive the trial court.
FALSE ENTRAPMENT EXCUSE Ladies and gentlemen of the media, we note that following Mr Richard Jakpaâs explosive testimony last Thursday and the widespread controversy it has generated, Godfred Dame has resorted to peddling more lies in an attempt to escape accountability.
First, the Attorney General publicly stated at paragraph 2 of his press release of 23rd May, 2024 that;
âThe Republic has never required or desired the cooperation of any of the accused persons in the matter, in which it has already succeeded in establishing a prima facie case against all the accused persons. Neither the Attorney-General nor any officer from the Office of the Attorney-General has approached any of the accused persons with the view to obtaining evidence from themâ.
It is glaringly clear from the tape recording you just listened to that this claim is a barefaced lie peddled by the dishonourable Attorney-General and his office to deceive the public.
In sharp contrast to his earlier claim that he has never met any of the accused persons, the Attorney-General now claims that he has actually contacted and met the 3rd Accused, Richard Jakpa, but that he met him only once at the residence of a Supreme Court Judge and that this meeting was not at his behest but rather at the behest of a sitting Supreme Court judge who entrapped him.
Ladies and gentlemen, all these claims by the Attorney-General through his spokesperson are lies, and we have evidence to prove so.
In addition to the voice recordings, we have other evidence by way of screenshots of chats on WhatsApp between Godfred Dame and Mr. Jakpa which further prove that the Attorney-General contacted a represented person without recourse to the represented personâs lawyer.
The chats further show, that it was Godfred Dame who chose to meet Richard Jakpa at the house of the Supreme Court Judge (Project WhatsApp Exhibit 1).
As you can see from the screen this is a WhatsApp chat dated 16th February, 2022 in which Godfred Dame undertakes to arrange a meeting with Mr. Jakpa through his brother (actually, his cousin, the Supreme Court Judge) through a WhatsApp message sent at 7:32pm. This evidence totally belies Dameâs contrived and ridiculous claim that he was entrapped.
The next set of WhatsApp chats (Project WhatsApp exhibits 2, 3 and 4) dated 17th July, 2022, shows Godfred Dame, receiving certain soft copies of documents from Mr. Richard Jakpa to facilitate his prosecution of the Minority Leader at 11:29pm. This was immediately after the Attorney-General had met Mr. Jakpa at the residence of the Supreme Court judge, at the instance of the Attorney-General.
In the next WhatsApp chat (WhatsApp exhibit 5) dated 23rd November, 2023, Godfred Dame is seen to have placed a call at 10:40am to Richard Jakpa and followed it with a message at 10:49am acknowledging a message sent to him by Mr. Jakpa that the case had been adjourned to Thursday, the following week.
The final WhatsApp chat (WhatsApp exhibit 6) dated Tuesday 9th April, 2024 shows evidence of a 26- minute phone call placed to Richard Jakpa by GodfredDame at 7:12am, the morning of a day Jakpa was scheduled to testify in court.
It is this telephone conversation that we have played to you and it was in this conversation that Godfred Dame, among others, asked Jakpa to fabricate a fake medical excuse duty to deceive the trial court.
Thus, the claim by the dishonourable Attorney-General Godfred Dame that he only met the 3rd Accused person once and that same was through entrapment by a Supreme Court judge is not only false but hogwash.
CONTRIVED PLEA BARGAIN EXCUSE Ladies and gentlemen, following Mr. Jakpaâs explosive testimony in court, the Attorney-General has falsely claimed through his spokesperson and various assigns that his engagement with the 3rd Accused was for purposes of plea bargain negotiations at the instance of the 3rd Accused.
We want to state for the records that there has not been any plea bargain meetings between the Attorney-General and the 3rd Accused throughout this trial.
All the letters being circulated by the Attorney-General in the media dated 27th April, 2023, 16th May, 2023, 30th May, 2023 and 12th June, 2023, were proposals for amicable settlement and plea bargaining from Big Sea LLC and Mr. Jakpa.
All these proposals were rejected by the Attorney-General, whereupon the trial court decided to continue with the hearing and adjudication of the case.
Since then, the court has not been informed of the commencement of any plea bargain negotiations as required by section 162C(3) of Plea Bargaining Act, 2022 (Act 1079).
For emphasis, aside the letters submitted by Mr. Jakpato the Attorney-General for settlement or plea bargaining, which proposals were all rejected by the Attorney General, there has not been any meeting between either Mr. Jakpa or his lawyers on one hand and the Attorney-General or his assigns on the other hand.
It is worthy of note that all those letters were signed by lawyers for Mr. Jakpa. This means that assuming the Attorney-General had accepted to engage the 3rd Accused in plea bargain negotiations, same should have been done with the lawyers of the 3rd Accused as required by section 162A(3) of Plea Bargaining Act, 2022 (Act 1079).
More importantly, the evidence of clandestine communication and meetings between the Attorney-General and the 3rd Accused which we have shown you, dates back to as far back as 16th February, 2022 and 17th July, 2022 when no settlement or plea bargain proposal had even been made by Big Sea and Mr. Jakpa.
We have also played to you a recording of a phone call conversation held between the AttorneyGeneral and Mr. Jakpa as recent as 9th April, 2024, a day Mr. Jakpa was scheduled to testify in court.
It is evidently clear from the foregoing facts that the plea bargain excuse being mounted by the Attorney-General and his assigns are palpable lies calculated to divert attention from the critical issues at stake.
The question every well-meaning Ghanaian should be asking is, why the Attorney-General will refuse a proposal to settle this case, which will ensure the payment of Two Million Euros to the State, at a time our country is faced with economic bankruptcy.
DEMANDS Considering the scandalous nature of this recording and other forms of evidence we have shown you, we wish to make the following pressing demands as part of efforts to restore credibility to the Attorney-Generalâs office and Ghanaâs judicial system as a whole.
The immediate and unconditional resignation or dismissal of Godfred Dame for bringing the high office of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice into disrepute and public opprobrium. Clearly, Mr. Dame is not fit to hold himself out as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice. He is unfit to be the Leader of the Ghanaian Bar.
The immediate prosecution of Godfred Dame for multiple violations of the laws of Ghana. We wish to make it clear that should President Akufo-Addo fail to prosecute him, a future NDC government will prosecute Godfred Dame for this heinous crime of fabrication of evidence.
Commencement of disciplinary proceedings by the General Legal Council against Godfred Dame and his disbarment for conduct unbecoming of a lawyer and more importantly the leader of the Ghana Bar.
A publicly-televised Parliamentary inquiry into this and other reports of judicial manipulations by GodfredDame with a view to censure Godfred Dame to prevent the recurrence of such judicial manipulations.
CONCLUSION Friends from the media, it is clear from the incontrovertible evidence we have adduced today, that the government has no evidence of wrongdoing against the Minority Leader but is only involved in fabrications to persecute him as retribution for his strong opposition to the economic mismanagement and general misrule of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government.
These damning revelations call into question the integrity of the case of the prosecution in the ongoing Ambulance trial and the necessity for same.
Godfred Dame has brought shame and disrepute to the honourable office of the Attorney-General with his criminal, devious and vicious conduct. He is a danger to fairness and justice in our judicial system and represents the lowest point in the history of persons who have occupied the hallowed office of Attorney-General and Minister of Justice.
While we have pointed out many times that GodfredDame epitomises all that is inherently wrong in vesting both the office of the Attorney-General and the Minister of Justice in the same person, we believe that he has recklessly abused both offices and his continuous stay in office is no longer tenable.
The primary responsibility of the Attorney-General is to be the voice of rule of law, ensure the impartial enforcement of law and advise the President and government to take actions that conform to law.
More importantly, an Attorney-General must be a shining example and a leading light for the Bar, not a criminal-minded, crooked, devious and vicious person who is pre-occupied with witchhunting and victimisation, as has become the cup of tea of Godfred Dame.
Mr. Dame has demonstrated time without number that he cannot prioritise the national interest over his partyâs parochial and self-serving interest. He must therefore resign or be sacked by the President without delay.
SIGNED. HON. JOHNSON ASIEDU NKETIA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, NDC
The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has expressed his loss of faith in the principles of the esteemed legal luminary and former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu.
He stated that he once believed Mr. Amidu to be a very principled man until his recent petition to President Akufo-Addo, seeking the removal of Kissi Agyebeng as Special Prosecutor.
Speaking on JoyNewsâ AM Show on May 23, he said, âThe Martin Amidu I know, until this thing was done, I trusted that he was a very principled person. My faith in his being principled is badly shaken.â
This comment follows a petition, dated April 30, 2024, which Mr. Amidu sent to President Akufo-Addo and was subsequently forwarded to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on May 6, 2024.
In his petition, Mr. Amidu alleged procurement breaches in the purchase of vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and abuses involving judges and the administration of justice.
He also cited violations of citizensâ rights through arrests and detentions, violations of the right to information, and improper appointments of personnel to the office.
According to the National Chairman of the NDC, the motive behind Mr. Amiduâs petition remains unclear to him.
He expressed surprise that Mr. Amidu, who once referred to President Akufo-Addo as the âMother serpent of corruption,â would petition him to address perceived corrupt acts.
The NDC Chairman stated that Mr. Amidu’s decision to petition the President has weakened his credibility and undermined his previous efforts to fight corruption.
âHe shouldnât have done that at all. I am still trying to understand why. Comrade Martin, have you abandoned your view that Nana Akufo-Addo is the mother serpent of corruption? Or you still hold that view? If you still hold that view, when you came to a roadblock that I want to do this thing against finance minister and the president said no way, you resigned and came to open up.
“If your successor has come to a similar road block and the president is demanding his resignation, wonât you show solidarity? But you are rather making yourself the tool for the president to be able to achieve his objective of fighting those who are fighting corruption.â
Mr. Asiedu Nketia stated that he cannot support either Amidu or the Special Prosecutor until ongoing investigations are completed and more information is made available.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, has called the party’s Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, a traitor for opting out of the Ejisu by-election set for April 30, following the demise of the constituencyâs Member of Parliament, John Ampontuah Kumah.
In a post on X, Mr Anyidoho noted that Mr Nketia could be regarded as a traitor for ‘selling the by-election’ since he, Mr Nketia, chastised his predecessor, Ofosu-Ampofo, for opting out of the Ayawaso West Wuogon.
Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo is the immediate-past National Chairman of the NDC
“At the zenith of his political perfidy, Mosquito accused Ofosu-Ampofo of being a traitor who sold Ayawaso West by-election to NPP when the then NDC Chmn took a wise decision to pull out from a bloody contest. Is Mosquito too a traitor who has sold Ejisu by-election? Karma”.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the NDC, stated that the party is redirecting its efforts toward preparing for the main parliamentary elections in December and not the Ejisu by-election.
In 2022, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, said the National Chairman of the party, Samuel Ofosu Ampofoâs courage as a leader was tested during the violent Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election.
According to him, Mr Ofosu Ampofoâs announcement of the NDCâs withdrawal from that crucial by-election was an outright wrong move.
The Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election held in 2019 was marred by violence after National Security Operatives brutalized voters resulting in some having their legs broken and being admitted to the hospital.
Mr Ofosu Ampofo has said he arrived at the decision for the NDC to pull out based on the advice given by the partyâs security experts, adding that both ex-President John Mahama and Asiedu Nketia were consulted before the decision was made public.
But Asiedu Nketiah in an interview on Kasapa 102.5FM/Agoo TV denied consenting to that decision. âI was attending a conference in the Dominican Republic as the Vice President of Socialist International when Chairman Ofosu Ampofo called me saying that some vigilantes had fired gunshots all over the place and so he thinks the NDC should withdraw from the election. I told him donât, it is a bad decision, and that heâll set a bad precedent in the NDC. I told him with violence or not, the NDC will win so the party shouldnât withdraw.â
He added: âRight after I was done with him, I received a call from ex-President Mahama telling me heâs picked up information that Ofosu Ampofo intends to announce the partyâs withdrawal, itâs a bad move, tell him he shouldnât do it. I told him Iâd spoken to him (Ofosu Ampofo) not to do so. Shortly after, I saw news flashing of Ofosu Ampofo flanked by the partyâs security capos announcing the NDCâs withdrawal from the election.
One of the reasons he cited was that the NDC Parliamentary candidate is unable to step out of his room.
“So if the candidate is not able to come out, should the party withdraw from an election,â Asiedu Nketia asked.
Asked by the host, Bonohene Baffuor Awuah whether he sees Ofosu Ampofo as a weak leader, Asiedu Nketia responded: âhis (Ofosu Ampofo) courage was tested at the battlefield and we all saw the results.
Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has expressed concern over the lack of progress in solving the murders of some Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
During an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr. Nketia raised alarm about the increasing trend of violence in Ghanaian politics, stating, “The country is degenerating into a situation where people can kill for power and get away with it.”
He referred to the cases of J.B. Danquah Adu, Ekow Quansah Hayford, and John Kumah, alleging that all these MPs were killed under mysterious circumstances.
“We have J.B. Danquah Adu (MP for Abuakwa North) who was stabbed to death in his bedroom. Then Ekow Quansah Hayford (MP for Mfantseman) was shot on a highway. All we heard of his matter was that his wife should take his place. And this current one, John Kumah (MP for Ejisu). After his death, weâve had someone go on a TV station claiming that he was poisoned. This individual mentioned the name of the hotel where he ate the food and the person who served the food and bragged that he was available to testify to all the claims he was making.
“This individual is walking, nothing has happened, no hotel manager has been apprehended and NPP is approaching this as if they are just filling the vacancy and nothing else,” he said on Wednesday.
Expressing frustration over the lack of closure in these cases, Mr. Nketia criticized the authorities for failing to apprehend the perpetrators. He called for urgent action from the police and demanded transparency in the investigation process.
The NDC Chairman urged the police to address the nation and provide updates on the progress of the investigations into these deaths. He also called on the government to prioritize the safety of elected officials and ensure that such heinous crimes do not go unpunished.
“This is a critical issue, the police should be addressing the nation, as to the steps they are taking. We havenât heard anything so far. We havenât heard anything about how they are proceeding to find the killers of the Mfantseman MP. For J.B. Danquah Aduâs case, the state withdrew the case and there was a public outcry they claimed they were investigating the issue, at some point they said the laptop of the doctor who carried out the post-mortem had been stolen, such cock and bull stories. About three MPs have been killed and all that we hear is that their wives have been rehabilitated into parliament to replace their husbands. Is that where our democracy is moving?â he quizzed.
The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has strongly asserted that President Akufo-Addo orchestrated the lawsuit that is supposedly preventing him from assenting to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill recently passed by Parliament.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, April 10, the seasoned politician claimed that it was not a coincidence that the President could refer to a lawsuit that had not yet been filed as the basis for his decision not to sign the bill.
As a result, Asiedu Nketia concluded that the President was part of an alleged plan to thwart the anti-LGBTQI+ bill from becoming law.
âIt is clearly an excuse and itâs a wrong excuse because he [President Akufo-Addo] was citing the court case even before anybody could file it. It tells you that he [President Akufo-Addo] orchestrated the filing.â
As at the time the President spoke, nobody had gone to court. If thereâs an intention to file and the person has not filed, how do you restrain yourself over that? So, it means that you donât want to do something but you want an excuse to cite not to do it. Because if you have heard that somebody is going to court, the person has not gone to court and yet you are injuncting yourself, then it means that youâre part of an orchestration to go to court in the first place.â
Based on this, Mr Asiedu Nketia said, âI donât trust in the independent-mindedness of whoever that filed the process.”
The NDC Chair pointed to Richard Dela Sky, a private legal practitioner and journalist who filed the suit, suggesting that he was closely aligned with the government.
âWho doesnât know the Citi FM man, Richard Sky? Richard Sky works in the chamber of the Attorney-General, and he was sponsored to do his law course by this government. And the man has returned and heâs working with the Majority Leader. Thereâs circumstantial evidence and thatâs my belief.”
When the host raised the issue of the wild claims, the NDC Chair insisted that he was aware of those details about the plaintiff and had evidence to support them.
The NDC National Chairman expressed particular disappointment that the President requested Parliament not to transmit the bill to him.
âI am on the side of Parliament because the President has no reason to ask that Parliament should not submit the bill because the cases that are in court, the last time I checked, there’s no application for an injunction or any actual injunction granted that prevents the President from receiving the bill.
The only application for an injunction that I have seen is to block the President from signing the bill. Receiving and signing are different things. So, if you donât want to receive the bill, you donât blame anyone who has gone to court because the reliefs being sought in court do not border on you not receiving. They say donât work on it. But for the office receiving it, itâs a matter of impunity that is being shown by the President to frustrate the work of parliamentâ he argued.
Mr Asiedu Nketia believes the President does not want to sign the bill but simply lacks the courage to state that clearly.
âBecause parliament has done their work up to a point, and they say to transmit this to the President. You donât have the right not to receive. You can receive it, and after receiving it, you have options that have been provided under the constitution.
And somebody is in court trying to injunct you from acting on the bill; that injunction does not say donât receive the bill. So, for you to write to parliament that because I am on some injunction not to sign it, donât bring it at all, it means you have a pre-meditated agenda. You donât want to receive it or work on it or do anything with it, but you are not man enough to tell Ghanaians that I donât want to do itâ he noted.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Supreme Court is yet to sit on the case filed against the bill.
The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has claimed that President Akufo-Addo lacks the courage to openly state his opposition to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values bill, also known as the anti-gay bill.
Despite the bill being unanimously passed by Parliament, it remains on the President’s desk. President Akufo-Addo has stated that he will not sign the bill until the Supreme Court decides on a lawsuit challenging its passage.
This stance has drawn criticism, especially from the NDC, which accuses the President of double standards.
During an appearance on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday, the NDC Chair stated that the President’s rationale for not assenting to the bill clearly indicates his unwillingness to sign it, but he lacks the courage to outrightly express this position.
âBecause parliament has done their work up to a point, and they say transmit this to the President. You donât have the right not to receive. You can receive it, and after receiving it, you have options that have been provided under the constitution.
And somebody is in court trying to injunct you from acting on the bill; that injunction does not say donât receive the bill. So, for you to write to parliament that because I am on some injunction not to sign it, donât bring it at all, it means you have a pre-meditated agenda. You donât want to receive it or work on it or do anything with it, but you are not man enough to tell Ghanaians that I donât want to do itâ he noted.
The NDC National Chairman expressed particular disappointment that the President requested Parliament not to transmit the bill to him.
âI am on the side of Parliament because the President has no reason to ask that Parliament should not submit the bill because the cases that are in court, the last time I checked, there’s no application for an injunction or any actual injunction granted that prevents the President from receiving the bill.
The only application for an injunction that I have seen is to block the President from signing the bill. Receiving and signing are different things. So, if you donât want to receive the bill, you donât blame anyone who has gone to court because the reliefs being sought in court do not border on you not receiving. They say donât work on it. But for the office receiving it, itâs a matter of impunity that is being shown by the President to frustrate the work of parliament,â he argued.
The former NDC scribe alleged that President Akufo-Addo orchestrated the lawsuit that is supposedly preventing him from assenting to the bill.
He suggested that it was not a coincidence that the President could refer to a lawsuit that had not yet been filed as the basis for his decision not to sign the bill. As a result, he concluded that the President was involved in a plan to frustrate the anti-LGBTQI+ bill from becoming law.
âIt is clearly an excuse and itâs a wrong excuse because he [President Akufo-Addo] was citing the court case even before anybody could file it. It tells you that he [President Akufo-Addo] orchestrated the filing.â
“As at the time the President spoke, nobody had gone to court. If thereâs an intention to file and the person has not filed, how do you restrain yourself over that? So, it means that you donât want to do something but you want an excuse to cite not to do it. Because if you have heard that somebody is going to court, the person has not gone to court and yet you are injuncting yourself, then it means that youâre part of an orchestration to go to court in the first place.â
Based on this, Mr Asiedu Nketia said, âI donât trust in the independent-mindedness of whoever that filed the process.
The NDC Chair pointed to Richard Dela Sky, a private legal practitioner and journalist who filed the suit, suggesting that he was closely aligned with the government.
âWho doesnât know the Citi FM man, Richard Sky? Richard Sky works in the chamber of the Attorney-General, and he was sponsored to do his law course by this government. And the man has returned and heâs working with the Majority Leader. Thereâs circumstantial evidence and thatâs my belief.”
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has lambasted President Nana Akufo-Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for what he perceives as a lack of transparency regarding his stance on the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.
President Akufo-Addo has postponed his decision on whether to sign the Bill into law, citing a pending constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court.
Nketiah, popularly known as General Mosquito, has asserted that President Akufo-Addo’s reluctance to openly address the bill indicates an effort to evade taking a clear position.
He suggested that the president might be seeking to shift responsibility onto the judiciary or other parties, thereby distancing himself from potential backlash.
“The truth is that he doesnât have the courage to say his position on the bill. That is why he wants to shift that responsibility to the judiciary or another person so he can later go and stand somewhere to say that he didnât sign the bill.
âIf he wanted to do something about the bill, he would have done it.
“He doesnât want people to know that he is not in support of the Anti-LGBT+ Bill that is why there are some hurdles. That is the truth. If he had been able to stand his ground to say that he was not in support of the bill, his MPs would have also stood their ground to say that they were not in support,” citinewsroom.com quoted him to have said in an interview on Asempa FM on March 27, 2024.
Metropolitan Chief Executive of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, Sam Pyne, has stated that Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the NDC, lacks a comprehensive understanding of John Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy policy.
This policy was introduced by Mahama as part of his vision for the nation if he becomes president.
Pyne alleges that Asiedu Nketia, who should possess a thorough knowledge of the policy, was observed struggling to explain its meaning to a group of people.
“The other day, Asiedu Nketia was seen somewhere trying to explain the 24-Hour Economy policy, and you could observe the sweat dripping as he struggled. By the end, even he admitted the ordeal, as it became evident that he lacks a comprehensive understanding of the policy,”
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has cautioned Ghanaians against succumbing to what he describes as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) numerous “phantom” and “unfulfilled” promises leading up to the 2024 general election.
He emphasized that as the incumbent government nearing the conclusion of its second term, the natural expectation would be for the government to present its re-election bid grounded in its present achievements and track record.
âInstead, we see the NPP making very grandiose promises to Ghanaians of what they would do if re-elected while staying silent on how their abysmal current performance, an indicator of how well they will do if re-elected,â he said.Â
Speaking at separate durbars in the Central Region, he described the 2016, 2020 and the yet-to-be-announced 2024 manifesto of the NPP as âpromises made, promises broken and promises repeated.âÂ
Acknowledging the NDC National Chairman’s call for the residents of the Central Region to assume responsibility for the party and enhance its standing as a stronghold, particularly given the significant presence of several party stalwarts in leadership roles, he highlighted the influential contributions of past leaders. These include the late Kow Nkensen Arkaah and Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur, both former Vice Presidents, as well as the late Prof John Evans Atta Mills, former President. Additionally, he noted the roles of Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, a former Education Minister, and the late Ama Benyiwa Doe, former Central Regional Minister.
The National Chairman stressed the importance of reconsidering the region’s voting patterns, asserting that it was evident Ghana needed a new direction. This necessitates the election of a new leader who can leverage their credibility with the people to uplift the region and the country as a whole.
âElection 2024 is very critical in the countryâs history with greater emphasis on a leader who will be the preference of the majority of Ghanaians and not just a leader of a political party,â he said.Â
Addressing the concerns raised by Mr. Nketia, Prof Richard Kofi Asiedu, the Central Regional Chairman of the NDC, reassured that in the 2020 election, the party demonstrated strength by winning 13 out of the 23 parliamentary seats and securing 45.9 per cent of the presidential votes.
Despite this achievement, the regional party leadership remains steadfast in its commitment to enhance the NDC’s performance in the region. Their ambitious goal for the 2024 elections is to surpass the 45.9 per cent presidential vote from 2020 and achieve over 60 per cent.
As part of their strategic plans, the party aims to secure victories in at least 20 out of the 23 parliamentary seats and garner more than 60 per cent of the presidential votes. The set targets involve elevating the parliamentary seats from 13 to 20 and increasing the presidential votes from 45.9 per cent to 60 per cent in the upcoming elections.
Former NPP Member of Parliament (MP) for the Manhyia North constituency, Collins Owusu Amankwah, has strongly rebuked the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its announced intention to rejoin the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC).
IPAC serves as a platform where political parties in Ghana collaborate with the Electoral Commission to establish agreements related to electoral processes.
The NDC, during a stakeholder conference organized by the National Peace Council, revealed its decision to end its abstention from IPAC meetings.
However, Amankwah expressed skepticism about the sincerity of the NDC’s return, emphasizing that the opposition party must first address and rectify its past actions.
“We will return to IPAC, but outstanding issues have to be resolved,” NDC National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah stated, citing lack of consensus building as the reason for the partyâs exit from IPAC.
“IPAC was put together by the parties with the Electoral Commission, EC, the Referee…We are impressed with the Olive Branch extended to us…but we must make sure that the issues are resolved,” he added.
He specifically pointed to the need for the NDC to issue an apology to the Electoral Commission.
During their absence from IPAC, the NDC had levied accusations and implications against both the Electoral Commission and the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In his remarks on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning programme, Amankwah underscored that the NDC should demonstrate genuine remorse and accountability for its previous indictments before considering a return to IPAC.
He insisted that an apology to the Electoral Commission is essential as part of rebuilding trust and fostering a cooperative atmosphere within the political landscape.
Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has ridiculed the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for casting doubt over the formerâs 24 hour economy policy.
Speaking in an interview on JoyNews, he noted that the proposed policy has taken their opponents by storm.
According to Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the NPP is just engaging in rhetoric due to the 24-hour economy policy outlined by the NDC’s 2024 flagbearer, John Mahama.
Speaking on Friday, December 15, the NDC Chairman said, “Our opponents are just blowing hot air because that policy appears to have taken them by storm. This is not a complicated policy to adapt or implement at all.â
He stated that Ghana, which currently operates for just 8 hours, cannot compare itself and compete with European countries that operate 24 hours.
He stressed that the country has infrastructures that are being underutilised or badly utilised.
Mr Nketia stated that in every economy, there are essential services that by nature already run 24 hours, adding that “When you go to the government services, there are areas where the customer base is high, you can look at the possibility of introducing a three-hour shift system.”
“Go to the court now and look at the backlog of cases, that creates the impression that our judiciary system is not functioning. So if we have a system where we can have judges sit at night and clear all these backlogs of cases – if anybody wants to invest in the economy and knows that when he runs into a business dispute, the matter can be dealt with expeditiously, won’t he choose that economy to invest rather than going where cases will be in court for 10 years,” he said.
Mr. Asiedu Nketia was however quick to add that his party will not compel anyone to go according to the 24-hour economy.
“But when the policy is rolled out, you will see the business sense in signing up to it and it will be a win-win situation. The government will win and businesses will win.
“When businesses are able to win and have profits, they expand and create more jobs”, he explained.
The NDC Chairman’s remarks come on the back of some assertions made by the Vice President and NPP flagbearer for elections 2024, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Dr Bawumia, in an address, alleged that Mr Mahama lacks an understanding of the policy he is promising Ghanaians.
But Mr Mahama insists the idea is a game-changer because it has been well thought through.
He pledged that the next NDC administration will pursue projects and programmes to transform Ghana into a fully-fledged 24-hour economy by optimising available resources.
He said the 24-hour economy forms part of the NDC’s vision to build the ‘Ghana we want’ and will be premised on building an industrialised, inclusive, and resilient economy that creates well-paying jobs, an equitable, healthy, and prosperous nation, and strengthening Ghana’s role in African and international affairs.
âThe 24-hour economy may have finally resonated with Ghanaians. It may be classified as an idea whose time has come due to Ghana’s self-inflicted economic crisis today because the 24-hour economy initiative was well-thought-through and captured on page 105 of the NDCâs 2020 Peopleâs Manifesto,â Mr. Mahama said.
The highly anticipated “KAVOD” concert by Ghanaian gospel singer Nana Osei, also known as Nacee, unfolded in Accra with a grandeur that attracted celebrities and prominent politicians.
Nacee captivated the audience with a spectacular performance and soul-stirring ministrations, transforming the auditorium into a vibrant space resonating with heartfelt songs sung in unison.
Distinguished political figures in attendance included Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Boamah Otokunor, the former deputy general secretary of the NDC, and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Ghana Digital Centres (GDCL).
In the realm of entertainment, notable personalities such as gospel artists Piesie Esther, Empress Gifty, Sonnie Badu, and Shatta Wale’s manager, Sammy Flex, were also present.
Taking place at the National Theatre on Sunday, November 26, 2023, Nacee’s “KAVOD” concert was a spiritual journey where the gospel singer’s renditions resonated with attendees, creating an atmosphere where the presence of God was deeply felt.
The event concluded on a triumphant note as a multitude gathered to engage in worship and express gratitude to God.
Preceding Nacee’s performance, a compelling play depicting his life unfolded, featuring talented actors like Clemento Suarez, Foster Romanus, and Delong, among others.
Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, expressed concerns about the diminishing caliber of individuals representing constituencies in parliament.
He noted that in the past, those who seeking parliamentary representation were individuals committed to hard work for the betterment of their constituents.
However, he lamented that this is no longer the case in contemporary times. Asiedu Nketiah observed that individuals now approach political roles with ulterior motives, emphasizing that some of the present Members of Parliament (MPs) are solely driven by monetary gains.
âIt is true that the quality of representation has declined, and it is not just an opinion, there is one survey report which has cited what the speakers have been talking about.
âOne of the key causes has been the over-monetisation of politics, in the past people went to parliament out of the passion to serve the nation. Now people go to parliament as a means of investmentâŠsome just want a service passport to do their business,â he shared on Citi TV.
National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has acknowledged the increasing apprehension about a decline in the standard of representation in Ghana’s Parliament.
During an appearance on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, November 16, the former NDC General Secretary affirmed his alignment with the perception that there has been a noticeable shift in how individuals perceive and approach parliamentary roles.
He highlighted the transformation from the traditional view of parliament as a platform for serving citizens to a more contemporary perspective where people view it as an investment.
âIt is true that the quality of representation has declined, and it is not just an opinion; there is one survey report that has cited what the speakers have been talking about,â stated Asiedu Nketia.
The National Chairman of the NDC pointed out a crucial factor contributing to this decline, emphasising the negative impact of the increasing monetization of politics.
He added that in the past, individuals were driven to enter parliament by a genuine passion to serve the nation. However, the current scenario paints a different picture, with individuals now viewing parliamentary positions as a strategic investment opportunity.
âOne of the key causes has been the overmonetization of politics; in the past, people went to parliament out of a passion to serve the nation. Now people go to parliament as a means of investment. Some just want a service passport to do their business.â
Asiedu Nketia advocated for a collaborative effort to overturn this trend, stressing the necessity of returning to the values of authentic public service that were once synonymous with Ghanaâs Parliament.
However, he acknowledged the difficulty in implementing criteria, particularly educational qualifications, for political parties to consider before approving an aspirant to contest a parliamentary seat.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has indicated that the party’s 2024 manifesto will be revealed soon.
During an interview on TV3’s Hot Issues on Sunday, November 5, Mr Nketia suggested that the NDC will not run its campaign on free promises, especially at a time when production must be elevated to sustain the economy.
For him, this would prevent a situation where money will be printed to help address the country’s economic woes..
âWe will bring our manifesto out very soon,â he hinted, âand you will know what it is that we are going to do.â
âWhatever you promise to do can only succeed on a strong economy,â he stated, citing agriculture and energy as key areas to be given attention.
âWe will give you the details of what our manifesto will look like but the bottom line is that you cannot build anything on nothing. So, those who go about promising free this, free that, free this, free that, the free can only happen on solid production.
âIf there is no solid production and you go about promising free, free, free, you can only print money and when you print money you will make the economy worse.â
He also conveyed his confidence in the party’s candidate, John Dramani Mahama, prevailing over the candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections.
Mr. Mahama, during his ‘Thank You’ tours, gave indications about some of the policies he intends to pursue if he is re-elected to lead the country.
âThe payment of ex gratia to members of the executive will be scrapped,â he announced when he launched his bid to contest the NDC presidential primaries held in May.
âThe necessary constitutional steps to take this will start in earnest in 2025,â he added.
âWe will also persuade members of the other arms of government to accept its removal.â
Mr. Asiedu Nketia disclosed that some individuals who had criticized Mr. Mahama during his presidency are now offering apologies to him.
âThose who are talking today are the same people who condemned John Dramani Mahama and over the past two years, people are coming out to apologise.
âPeople are coming out to say that they were misled into believing in certain things and that is a stronger vote for President John Dramani Mahama.â
Former Central Regional chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) Allotey Jacobs has made an interesting remarks about the national chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah
According to Allotey Jacobs, Asiedu Nketiah popularly known as General Mosquito one of the richest politicians in Ghana up to date.
“Asiedu Nketiah is a rich politician. He has monies that others don’t have so he shouldn’t sit on radio make such remarks. He is one of the richest Ghanaian politicians. By virtue of his DNA, he doesn’t grow big but he is loaded” he said on Accra based Angel FM.
Mr Allotey comments was a sharp response to earlier remarks by Asiedu Nketiah arguing that Ghana ready for a coup.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, earlier this week expressed apprehension about the state of Ghanaâs democratic stability, primarily due to ongoing economic hardships.
During an interview on Joy News, he voiced concerns regarding the potential for political instability in the country.
Nketiah emphasised that the prevailing tolerance among Ghanaian citizens has been a crucial factor in preventing the nation from sliding into turmoil.
He also drew attention to Ghanaâs historical instances of coups that were instigated by conditions less severe than the current economic challenges.
But this remarks doesn’t sit well with lot of Ghanaians including Allotey Jacobs who argued that he understands why a national chairman of the leading opposition party in Ghana will call for coup.
“He has been a beneficiary of coups in Ghana, in 1981. I was victim of that coup and I saw people suffered. How many people have you helped that you are saying Ghana is ripe for a coup. Instead you giving hope to people this what you saying”. he added
Host of Peace FM’s flagship programme “Kokrokoo”, Kwami Sefa Kayi together with former Central Region chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Bernard Allotey Jacobs, have condemned the recent remarks made by the General Secretary of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
He elaborated by pointing out historical instances where the conditions leading to previous coups were arguably less severe than the current situation.
He rather emphasized the need for political leaders to exercise restraint and responsibility when making public statements.
Adding his voice to the criticism, Allotey Jacobs, rebuked Asiedu Nketia’s statements as baseless and detrimental to the country’s political climate.
Mr Jacobs stressed the significance of maintaining a healthy and constructive political environment, urging leaders to focus on issues of substance that truly matter to the citizens.
He emphasized the importance of vigilance within the military high command, since such a scenario is unwelcome in contemporary Ghana, particularly under the context of the 4th republic.
“All I can say is the military high command should be on the lookout maybe this is a singnal because we do not need this in our modern day Ghana under our 4th republic, for a national chairman for a major party to make such statements,” he indicated.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress(NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah is of the belief that the wrath of the people was visited on the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Assin North during the just-ended by-elections.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) won the Assin North by-election after the Supreme Court had declared the seat vacant because the sitting Member of Parliament was not qualified to contest.
Gyakye Quayson contested the seat again and won massively regardless of all the efforts put in by the NPP to snatch the seat.
Speaking in an interview on Accra-based Okay Fm monitored by MyNewsGh.com after the election, Asiedu Nketiah who leads the NDC as its Chairman said, âIt is the Grace of God,â.
He continued,
âWhen Ghanaians get angry, you canât control it. They are slow to anger and you may even think that they are not sensible people. But with time, you cannot stop them. Thatâs what happened in Assin North. The people are fed up with the NPPâ.Â
âI also believe that our spirit has been rejuvenated as a political party. Our Members of Parliament came in their numbers to support massively to ensure that we win. Our MPs did not even have money donated to support the election. Even those who the media claimed were angry with the party were all available. So I think the unity and the support and togetherness did the magic for us,â he said.
National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Johnson Asiedu Nketia says no meeting has been held so far with leadership of the various political parties ahead of the Assin North by-election, a situation which only foments suspicions among parties.
âThese are all deliberate mechanisms in making sure that the elections are rigged,â hesaid in an interview with TV3 on Sunday, June 25.
A meeting has, however, been scheduled to be held between the Ghana Police Service and leadership of the various political parties on Monday, June 26.
Mr Asiedu Nketia is not convinced, however, as he says no measure can be taken to avert a security risk less than 24 hours to the D-day.
He, nonetheless, pledged to work with the state security agencies, without any other options, to ensure peaceful polls on Tuesday.
âIf the security is going to be provided by the police service that is organizing medical screening to facilitate the victory of one side, that is NPP, but we still trust that we donât have any option than to cooperate with state security.â
The NDC has maintained James Gyakye Quayson for the by-election despite being the cause of it after the courts declared his election in 2020 null and void and of no legal effect.
The NPP has, however, changed its candidate, going for Charles Opoku, who hails from the same town, Assin Breku, as Mr Quayson.
During a press conference on Friday, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), announced that 47 parliamentary aspirants have already been declared candidates for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
These candidates applied to represent the party and were unopposed, subsequently passing the vetting process.
According to the NDC rules, they have been granted a direct pass to the 2024 elections. As a result, parliamentary primaries will not take place in the constituencies of these 47 candidates, as they are already considered elected candidates.
âWe have 47 aspirants who have already been declared candidates for our 2024 elections. We have seen other places where people are contesting unopposed candidates by going to court to seek an injunction to prevent the parliamentary elections. There is not going to be parliamentary elections in those places because our candidates have already been elected by law,â Mr Asiedu noted.
Among them is North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
Meanwhile, the NDC Chairman said the primaries would not be conducted in 16 constituencies, stating that these constituencies need special attention.
He said that âthe partyâs preparation in those constituencies is not complete, so, we have decided to put them on hold. After the main elections, we will appraise each constituency and deal with the specific issues there to pave the way for the elections.â
The NDC primaries will proceed as planned on Saturday. This decision comes after Dr. Kwabena Duffour, a flagbearer hopeful, withdrew the lawsuit he filed against the party on May 9.
Dr. Duffour cited discrepancies in the party’s voters’ register as the reason for his team’s withdrawal. The Accra High Court had previously dismissed Dr. Duffour’s injunction application after his lawyers chose to withdraw the case.
The former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho, has stated that he will serve as a representative for Dr Kwabena Duffuor in the incoming presidential primaries.
Mr Anyidoho was expelled from the party in 2021 after the disciplinary committee of the NDC found him guilty of misconduct and anti-party behaviour.
However, speaking to the media inKoforidua at the sidelines of an event which he was guest speaker, Mr Anyidoho described his dismissal from the party as mere persecution which is not grounded in law, therefore, is null and void.
He believes he is still a bonafide member of the NDC, hence he will take part in the upcoming primaries.
âToday is 6th of May technically we were supposed to be voting a week from today to elect Flag-bearer and our parliamentarians. I will vote in my capacity as a former national officer and a former appointee. I have a new a new card and let Asiedu Nketia come and remove my vote from the register.â
Mr Anyidoho declared support for Dr Duffuor, adding that he will serve as agent for him in the primaries.
âSecondary on that score, I am supporting Dr Kwabena Duffuor in the Presidential primary. I am not supporting John Mahama and that is one of the reasons why they said they have sacked me from the party because I have said I wonât support John Mahama, I am not a slave to John Mahama and I refuse to be a slave to him.â
Mr Anyidoho emphasised that Dr Duffuorâs competency in managing the economy far outweighs former President Mahama.
âDr Duffuor was the Finance Minister under John Evans Atta Mills so he worked with President Mills I worked with him I know what Dr Duffuor stands for in terms of building the economy that President Mills built: 32, 34 months single digit inflation, introduction of single spine, clearing of the arrears , Infrastructure expansion, three public Universities in three and half years, health facilities all over, I believe that Dr Duffuor has the potential by training, by competence, by experience both in public and private life,â he said.
Mr Anyidoho further urged the Electoral Commission to address concerns raised by the campaign team of Dr Duffuor on delayed release of voters register.
According to him, if the concerns raised by the Duffuor campaign team are not immediately addressed before Saturday 12th May, 2023 there will be legal consequences.
Meanwhile, Dr Duffuor says the May 13 presidential primary must be free, fair and transparent to ensure unity after the elections.
Presidential staffer apologises to Asiedu Nketia for spreading falsehood about him
Director of Local Government Services at the Office of the President, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has rendered an apology to the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress for sharing an altered video of him.
In a video shared by the Presidential staffer of the Chairman, Mr. Asiedu Nketia was purportedly admonishing members of the NDC to risk their lives for the 2024 elections no matter the cost.
But after realising the video he put out had been doctored, he has come out to apologise to General Mosquito.
He subsequently withdrew the earlier post and expressed remorse for any misunderstanding caused.
He tweeted: âI sincerely apologise and have subsequently removed the Asiedu Nketia Video I shared earlier. My attention has been drawn to an original video which clearly shows the earlier one I viewed and shared was doctored. Obviously, this version I saw and shared had been tempered with, which isnât right. I withdraw accordingly, with apologies.â
Mr. Aboagye had shared the visual as a counter to the NDCâs reaction towards Bryan Acheampongâs comments to the fact that the NPP was not ready to bequeath power to the umbrella family under any circumstance.
The Chairman of the National Media Commission of Ghana (NMC), Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, has said that the newly elected National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, can no longer serve on the Parliamentary Service Board.
Speaking at an event in Accra, Boadu Ayeboafo, explained that Asiedu Nketiah can no longer serve on the Parliamentary Service Board because the Constitution of Ghana indicates that members of such boards should be apolitical.
He also suggested that Asiedu Nketiah, as the leader of the NDC, may not give objective advice to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin.
“There is this concern that once Mr. Asiedu Nketiah is now the chairman of the NDC, he should not be part of the advisory group to the speaker and serve on the board.
“Because I know that Mr. Peter Ala Adjetey was a member of the National Media Commission, and because of him, the Constitution was amended to say that anybody who holds political office should not be a member of the National Media Commission.
“So, if somebody holding political office cannot be a member of the commission. How can somebody leading a political party advise the speaker, who is supposed to demonstrate objectivity and neutrality in the highest sense?” He questioned.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah won the party’s chairmanship race at the National Delegates Congress held at the Accra Sports Stadium last Saturday.
Asiedu Nketia received 5574 votes, with Ofosu Ampofo receiving 2892 votes, Samuel Yaw Adusei receiving 52 votes, and Nii Armah Ashietey receiving 38 votes.
On Saturday, December 17, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the main opposition party in the nation, conducted its 10th National Delegates Congress to elect new national executives.
9,200 delegates from the 276 constituencies gathered at the Accra Sports Stadium for the exercise, which was attended by party delegates from all over the country.
The winners are listed below.
Chairmanship
Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, former General Secretary of the party, won the chairmanship contest.
The 65-year-old politician received 5,569 votes, while the incumbent National Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo received 2,892 votes, making him the closest rival.
Vice chairmanship positionÂ
Eight people competed for three spots in this category, but the three people listed below won the positions in the end.
Sheriff Abdul-Naziru, Dr. Sherry Ayittey, and Awudu Sofo Azourka were chosen as the first, second, and third vice chairs, respectively.
General SecretaryÂ
Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, a former NDC member from Ketu South, won the election to succeed Johnson Asiedu Nketiah as general secretary.
The former Propaganda Secretary ran against former Sports Minister Elvis Afriyie Ankrah and Mr. Nketiah’s deputy Peter Boamah Otukunor.
Deputy General SecretaryÂ
For the two openings in this post, there were seven applicants.
With Gbande Foyo Mustapha, Barbara Serwaa Asamoah kept her job as deputy general secretary.
National Organiser
The former Deputy Ashanti Regional Minister, Mr Joseph Yamin, won the position.
Deputy National Organiser
In addition, just two of the four candidates were required for this position.
Kobby Barlon and Elikem Kotoko were chosen following the election.
National Communications OfficerÂ
Sammy Gyamfi has been retained as the Communication Officer position after he contested unopposed.
Deputy Communications OfficerÂ
Malik Basintale and Ako Gunn were elected the deputy National Communication Officers.
Zongo Caucus Coordinator
Five people competed for this position, but Mamah Mohammed Cole Younger ultimately prevailed.
NEC members
This position saw the highest number of contestants. Nineteen persons contested for five slots.
Victor Wonder Kutor, Araba Tagoe, Cecillia N. Asaga, Victoria Kuma-Mintah and Ephraim Nii Tan Sackey were elected.
According to Johnson Asiedu Nketia, he is not prepared to end his friendship with Samuel Ofosu Ampofo in the name of party elections.
In order to take over as Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), General Mosquito, as he is often known, deposed Mr. Ofosu Ampofo.
Asiedu Nketiah received 65.17% of the vote during the 10th National Delegates Congress, which made him the only candidate for the Party’s upcoming 2022 National Delegates Congress.
Asiedu Nketia pledged to protect the bond he has developed with his former boss, who has been a friend for more than 20 years, during his swearing-in speech.
âI will like to thank, most importantly, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo who has been my friend for 25 years. I value the friendship, so I donât think we are going to sacrifice that friendship because of this contest,â he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Ofosu-Ampofo got 2,892 votes representing 33.81% of the votes cast.
About an hour to the end of the collation, Mr Ofosu Ampofo was spotted leaving the stadium in his vehicle.
General Mosquito insists that this election calls for unity among the partyâs rank and file toward victory in 2024.
This is the only way, according to him, that Ghanaâs economic crisis can be lessened.
Former president John Dramani Mahama has instructed the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) newly elected national executives to get ready to work right away.
Mr. Mahama described the 2024 general election as crucial and said the difficult task ahead demands the executives’ undivided focus while carrying out their mandates.
Delivering a speech at the just-ended national congress, the 2020 presidential candidate of the NDC said âWe must cut the celebration and set to work immediately.â
âThese executives have been elected by the delegates to serve a mandate until 2026 and it is going to be a very important mandate because a most critical election with a higher stake is due in 2024 and these executives are going to oversee it.
âI believe they understand the responsibility that has been thrust on their shoulders. So this celebration must be very short. We must cut the celebration and set to work immediately,â he stressed on Sunday morning.
Further urging unity following the internal elections, Mr. Mahama galvanized both election winners and losers to take part in amicable activities.
He claims that there is space under the umbrella for anyone.
âWe are all the winners, but those who were elected must be gracious in victory and those who have lost, let us understand that there is a lot of room under the umbrella.
âThe party might be asking them to serve in other capacities and we are all going to work together to ensure that those who were not elected have a role to play in the victory of 2024,â he noted.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC), the opposition party, has pledged to work to retake power in 2024 through its newly elected national executives.
They contend that the party must win the elections in 2024, period.
This was said in the National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia‘s victory address.
The immediate-past General Secretary, Mr. Asiedu Nketia, declared that he and his executives are ready to give up everything for the benefit of the party as a whole.
He claims that the delegates have given them the difficult task to complete.
âYou the delegates of our party have given us the mandate to secure the second independence of Ghana.
âWe know the path will not be smooth but we will stand up to the challenge and we are prepared to sacrifice everything and I mean everything including our lives to make sure this country is delivered,â he said.
The party organised its 10th National Delegates Congress to elect its new executives on Saturday, December 17.
Delegates of the party converged at the Accra sports Stadium for the exercise.
Some 9,200 delegates from the 276 constituencies took part in the exercise.
At the end of the contest, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia won the ultimate position of National Chairman.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, a former Ketu South NDC MP, won by a landslide at the party’s 10th National Delegates conference on Saturday, and will succeed Johnson Asiedu Nketia as general secretary.
The former Propaganda Secretary ran against Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, a former Sports Minister, and Dr. Peter Boamah Otukunor, Mr. Nketia’s deputy.
Dr. Otukunor received 2,595 votes, and Mr. Afriyie Ankrah received 1,408 votes, while the NDC firebrand received 4,543 votes.
Johnson Asiedu Nketia bowed out as General Secretary after 17 years of service in order to run for a more senior position within the party.
For the Chairmanship position, General Mosquito, as he is more commonly known, faced off against Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, the current occupant.
Confirming his victory in a Facebook post, the jubilant former Deputy Finance Minister in the Mahama administration, said one of his contenders had called to congratulate him.
âMy Brother and Comrade Boamah Otokunor called me a few minutes ago to congratulate me. Very gracious of him. I had earlier told him yesterday that I was proud of his competitive campaigning and I repeated same this morning. I reassured him of my complete readiness to work closely with him to make our party greater and stronger,â he wrote.
According to the 55-year-old, âhe looks forward to working closely together with himâ as the party gears up to wrestle power from the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).
While applauding his competitors for the healthy competition, Mr Kwetey said he checks all the boxes the delegates wanted.
âI was not being complacent when saying what I was saying on the back of travelling to all 275 constituencies; spoken to them and listening to them. Therefore, I could feel exactly what they were yearning for so I knew what I was talking about when I said I was confident of winning,â He told Joy Newsâ Kweku Asante.
âI was not underrating my opponents, they also conducted a very strong campaign as well but I just felt that the mood of our teeming party supporters and delegates here wanted a different kind of leader and I fitted that pedigree far more,â he said on Saturday.
Mr Kwetey said uniting the members of the NDC after the internal election is pivotal to the partyâs victory in the 2024 elections.
Regarding returning the NDC to IPAC Meeting, he said all the options are on the table for consideration.
âWe are not going to be doing things the same way we have been doing them in the past,â the incoming General Secretary said.
At the current 2022 National Delegates Congress of the Party, the politician, 65, won 65.17% of the vote to defeat the opposition.
This is the result of the elections that were held on December 17, 2022, on Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo who had vowed to emerge victor ahead of the congress got 33.81% of the votes.
He was spotted leaving the stadium in his vehicle about an hour before the end of the collation,
Popularly known as General Mosquito, Mr Asiedu Nketia relinquished his 17-year reign as the NDCâs General Secretary to run for the Chairmanship role.
Ahead of the polls, the General Secretary bade farewell to his members and urged all to forgive any transgressions that may have emanated from his office while serving as the chief scribe.
As delegates of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) prepare to converge at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday to elect their new crop of leaders, a leading member of the NDC planning committee has assured that the partyâs legal team is handling possible cases of injunction ahead of the conference.
Speaking in an interview on Joy FMâs Midday News on Friday, Mr Alex Segbefia noted that by the close of Friday, the party would be settled on candidates who would be allowed to vote or not.
âWe do have potential injunction cases but they are being dealt with. We know that we will reach some amicable resolution of all those matters by close of today,â he reiterated.
According to him, the party is optimistic about this yearâs election and believes it will be more successful than the previous ones.
Touching on the lessons learned from the youth and womenâs congress, held almost a week ago, he stated that the party has identified the triggers of the clashes, therefore to avoid a repetition of the violent clashes, âNo T-shirts of aspirants will be allowed in the premisesâ, adding that party colours are however, allowed.
This, the Chairman of the national congress planning committee of the NDC explained, is because the T-shirts of aspirants âare means of infuriating or identifying people and once they are groups, things can then spark off.â
He also stated that members of the public without properly identified tags or observer tags will not be allowed in the stadium.
The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, says there were attempts by party bigwigs to halt Asiedu Nketiaâs decision to unseat him.
In a yet-to-air interview on Adom TV, he told host, Daakyehene Nana Yaw Asante, that the partyâs 2020 flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and other prominent NDC figures made efforts to stop the contest between himself and the partyâs General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia.
According to him, even though the move by Asiedu Nketiato unseat him is politically incorrect; the efforts to talk him out of the decision proved futile.
âAs far Iâm concerned, Asiedu Nketiaâs decision to contest me was not necessary. This move is a wrong move. It is not a politically correct decision. And there were moves by the Council of Elders. His Excellency, John Dramani Mahamahimself made moves to stop itâ, he said in a trailer to the yet-to-air interview.
The interview will be aired on Saturday, November 19 at 10:00pm on Adom TVâs weekend current affairs programme, SÉdea ÆteÉ Nie.
Meanwhile, ahead of the airing of the interview, some supporters of the NDC have expressed disgust over some comments by the partyâs National Chairman.
In the yet-to-air interview, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo, said elements within his own party are behind a leaked audio tape, based on which he is currently standing trial.
The embattled NDC Chairman said the leaked audio is an evidence of how cruel the NDC can be when they want to destroy one of their own.
Substantiating his claims, he said the in-house traitors secretly recorded his comments in a closed door meeting and leaked the recording to the New Patriotic Party for him to be prosecuted.
According to him, he has been to court on seventy separate occasions as a result of the internally orchestrated treachery.
âWhen NDC wants to disgrace you, they first tag you as anti-Mahama. My own party folks recorded me at a meeting that I held with the party, with the people and went to sell the recording to the NPP, for which reason Iâm standing trial. Iâve been to court 70 timesâ, he stated in a trailer to the yet to air interview.
In addition to tagging an individual as anti-Mahama, he said some elements within the party can travel all length to cause disaffection for someone they do not like.
But according to his critics, his sentiments are unnecessary, as they will wreak more havoc for himself and the party at large.
Others have however sympathized with him, and expressed solidarity with him in relation to the alleged treachery claims.
In their view, the revelations by the NDC Chairman is understandably from a place of pain, and therefore he should not be chastised.
Currently, Mr. Ofosu Ampofoâs role as the NDCâs National Chairman is being threatened by the decision of the partyâs General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia to unseat him.
In what has been described as the main contest in the partyâs upcoming national delegates election, Mr. Asiedu Nketia is frantically taking steps to take control of the party as National Chairman ahead of the 2024 general election.
The upcoming national delegates conference will take place on 10th December, 2022 in the Ashanti Regional capital of Kumasi.
Eligible party delegates will elect a new crop of executives to man the affairs of the party at the national level for the next four years.
