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Tag: Bawumia

  • Bawumia’s silence on same-sex marriage raises concerns – Akandoh

    Bawumia’s silence on same-sex marriage raises concerns – Akandoh

    Member of Parliament for Juaboso Constituency, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has expressed worry over Dr Bawumia‘s reluctance to clarify his stance on same-sex marriage.

    Akandoh suggests that both the president and vice president are hesitant to support the Anti-LGBT+ bill due to potential financial gains they might lose if it becomes law.

    In an interview with UTV, Akandoh emphasised the need for clarity from the Akufo-Addo government regarding their position on LGBT+ issues, particularly questioning Dr. Bawumia’s silence on the matter given his presidential ambitions.

    Meanwhile, Nana Bediatuo Asante, Secretary to the President, issued a statement on Monday, March 18, 2024, urging Parliament not to send the recently passed Anti-LGBT+ Bill to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for approval.

    The presidency cited ongoing legal challenges, with two applications for an order of interlocutory injunction against the Bill pending before the Supreme Court.

    In a letter dated March 18, 2024, the Attorney-General informed President Akufo-Addo about these legal actions, cautioning against transmitting the Bill for assent while the matters are under judicial review.

    “It has come to the attention of this Office that while the President and other senior officials of the Presidency were at Peduase for a Cabinet Retreat on Thursday, 14th March 2024, you attempted to submit the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024 (the ‘Bill’) to Jubilee House for the President to signify his assent or otherwise to the Bill,” part of the statement read.

  • Stop sabotaging GRA for votes, only “vegetable minds” will believe your tax amnesty game – Lecturer to Bawumia

    Stop sabotaging GRA for votes, only “vegetable minds” will believe your tax amnesty game – Lecturer to Bawumia

    A lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Professor Kobby Mensah, has criticized Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia‘s recent pledge to grant tax amnesty to all businesses and individuals if he wins the 2024 elections.

    Professor Mensah argued that if Bawumia, who also serves as the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has the capability to deliver on such a commitment, he should implement it during his current tenure in government rather than waiting for electoral victory.

    In a series of messages on social media, he accused the Vice President of potentially inciting businesses and individuals against the government, particularly the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), with his recent comments.

    “Because of political expediency a Vice President decides to illegitimise the business processes of a public institution, potentially inciting the people against the state,” he said in one of his posts.

    He added, “Only vegetable minds will believe Bawumia’s tax amnesty.

    “You are in govt, grant it now! You can only play with veggie minds.”

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to grant tax amnesty to businesses and individuals with outstanding tax arrears if he is elected to lead Ghana in 2025. He believes this measure will allow businesses to start anew and encourage tax compliance.

    Speaking at an event organized by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the Ghana Bar Association on March 20, 2024, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of providing businesses and individuals with a fresh start.

    “I am going to start with a clean slate in 2025, and that is why in 2025, we are going to grant a tax amnesty to all businesses and individuals and start afresh.

    “All businesses and individuals will have a tax amnesty, and we will start afresh,” he said.

  • Bawumia supporter takes on Bagbin for suspending vetting of Akufo-Addo’s appointees

    Bawumia supporter takes on Bagbin for suspending vetting of Akufo-Addo’s appointees

    A member of NPP flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia’s 2024 campaign team, Krobea Kwabena Asante, has criticized Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin’s decision to suspend the consideration of President Akufo-Addo’s ministerial nominees.

    Mr Asante questioned the legal basis for the suspension, arguing that there is no direct link between the court case mentioned by the speaker and the vetting and approval process of ministerial and deputy ministerial nominees.

    He described Bagbin’s decision as flawed and based on erroneous reasoning.

    “Assuming Dafeamekpor Etse Rockson Nelson even has a case which I think does not have, how does a suit in relation to reassigned ministers got to do with vetting ministerial and deputy ministerial nominees? What is the linkage?

    “Bagbin should come again. He and his hatchet guy got the plan wrong,” he said in a Facebook post on March 20, 2024.

    On March 20, 2024, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin suspended the consideration of ministerial nominees, citing a case challenging part of the process. The suspension was prompted by an interlocutory injunction filed at the Supreme Court by Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Etse K. Dafeamekpor, which restricted him from proceeding with the process.

    However, the underlying cause of this parliamentary deadlock can be traced back to a cease-and-desist letter issued by the presidency to Parliament. The letter advised Parliament to refrain from transmitting the recent Anti-LGBT+ Bill for President Akufo-Addo’s assent, citing two pending interlocutory applications at the Supreme Court.

    In response to these legal complexities, Speaker Bagbin reiterated Parliament’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and explained the institution’s decision to suspend the approval of new ministers due to similar circumstances.

  • ‘Angry’ Bawumia calls out GRA for harassing business with tax

    ‘Angry’ Bawumia calls out GRA for harassing business with tax

    The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has criticized the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for what he perceives as excessive harassment of businesses in the name of tax collection.

    Dr. Bawumia expressed his concerns during a dialogue with members of the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry, seeking their input as the manifesto committee crafts ideas for the upcoming 2024 elections.

    He attributed the current situation to the GRA’s practice of setting unrealistic targets for its officers, forcing them to resort to overly taxing existing businesses.

    To address this issue, Dr. Bawumia pledged to implement a flat tax rate in 2025 and provide tax amnesty to all businesses upon assuming office.

    “They are harassing businesses. That harassment is coming from the sort of target that are created at their office. They are setting unrealistic targets. And this is because the tax base is so narrow you say to them, this is your target for this month, and they are trying to figure out where do I go.

    “Then for them, it is very easy, you go back to where you had it the last time. You go to taxpayers, the people who are already paying taxes and then you have to come up with a new reason why they should pay more and so you come up with all sorts of stuff.”

    ‘Because of the harassment and the need to make money, we are going to start with a clean slate in 2025. And that is why in 2025, we are going to grant a tax amnesty to all businesses and individuals and start afresh.

    “So we are going to start the new system, it’s a flat tax system so we are going to wipe the slate clean for every individual and business.”

  • Bawumia to prioritise private sector development if made president

    Bawumia to prioritise private sector development if made president

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has restated his dedication to redirecting the development agenda from social interventions, which have been a key feature of the Akufo-Addo administration, towards strengthening businesses and the private sector.

    In a meeting with the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Accra, he sought their insights as the manifesto committee prepares ideas for the upcoming 2024 elections.

    Dr. Bawumia stressed the importance of a transformative strategy, calling for innovative approaches to drive the nation’s progress.

    “We need to be transformational. And so, we need to be taking decisions that will transform the country. And I don’t believe going forward, we are going to be doing the same things. I want us to do new things. I want us to do things we have not done before.”

    Highlighting a shift in focus, he stated, “In our first couple of terms in office, we have focused as a government a lot more on social interventions. But now I want us to move the focus to business and the private sector.”

    In reply, the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry advised Dr. Bawumia to contemplate several actions, including the elimination of specific taxes like the COVID-19 levy, minimizing government competition with businesses for loans from local banks, and resolving intermittent power supply problems.

    Dr. Clement Osei Amoako, the Chamber’s President, stressed the significance of decreasing the budget deficit to avoid unnecessary competition with the private sector for financial assets.

    “There should be a significant reduction in budget deficit to prevent competition with the private sector for funds. Given the prevailing economic condition and tight monetary policies, further attempts to compete with the private sector for funds in the domestic money market will introduce significant distortion in our economy.

    “That the chamber supports your proposition to amend the fiscal responsibility act to add a fiscal rule that requires a budgeted expenditure in any year does not exceed 105% of the previous year tax revenue.”

  • We will win the majority in Parliament – Bawumia tells NPP parliamentary candidates

    We will win the majority in Parliament – Bawumia tells NPP parliamentary candidates

    Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the leadership of the 2024 national campaign team have held discussions with the party’s parliamentary candidates in ‘orphan’ constituencies.

    In his address to the candidates, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the crucial role of parliamentary candidates in securing victory for the NPP in their respective constituencies.

    He highlighted the achievements of the Akufo-Addo-led government, stating that the candidates should find it easy to campaign given the government’s strong performance.

    Dr. Bawumia expressed confidence that, with the right enthusiasm and approach to campaigning, the party will emerge victorious in the upcoming December general elections.

    The Vice President also said, “I have observed first-hand, the enthusiasm and readiness of the Party’s Parliamentary Candidates, and I am confident that the Party will win the 2024 general elections and also secure a clear parliamentary majority.”

  • John Kumah was not on list of Bawumia’s running mate hopefuls – Vim Lady

    John Kumah was not on list of Bawumia’s running mate hopefuls – Vim Lady

    Outspoken media personality Afia Pokua, widely known as Vim Lady, has refuted speculations suggesting that the late former Minister of Finance, John Kumah, was being considered as a potential running mate by the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Vim Lady clarified that Kumah was not among the individuals under consideration to serve as the running mate to Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. She emphasized that the late Member of Parliament (MP) for the Ejisu constituency had never expressed any interest in assuming such a role, thus dismissing the claims as unfounded and unsubstantiated.

    Addressing the issue on Okay FM, as monitored by GhanaWeb, Vim Lady emphasized that Kumah’s name was not on the list of candidates being considered for the position of running mate. She reiterated that Kumah had never indicated any desire to become Dr. Bawumia’s running mate, thereby urging the public to disregard such assertions.

    The clarification follows widespread reports suggesting that the late deputy finance minister was being touted as a potential running mate.

    In a related development, an autopsy report has ruled out poisoning as the cause of Kumah’s demise.

    John Kumah passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the Suhum Government Hospital after a prolonged battle with illness. The autopsy results revealed that his death was not related to poisoning. Kumah, aged 45, was a highly esteemed figure within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and was viewed by certain factions within the party as a potential running mate to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Prior to his passing, Kumah had secured a resounding victory in the party’s parliamentary primaries in his constituency, positioning him to represent the constituency in the upcoming general elections. He was renowned for his multifaceted roles as an entrepreneur, preacher, and lawyer.

    John Kumah previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) before venturing into parliamentary politics in 2020.

    He is survived by his wife, Apostle Mrs. Lillian Kumah, and six children.

    “John Kumah was never considered by Bawumia as a running mate. He was not on the list. Kumah had never spoken about his interest in becoming the running mate,” she said.

  • Franklin Cudjoe lauds Bawumia’s digitization drive amidst network challenges

    Franklin Cudjoe lauds Bawumia’s digitization drive amidst network challenges

    The President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has emphasized the crucial role of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s digitalization efforts in light of recent internet disruptions.

    He underscored the importance of Dr. Bawumia’s initiatives, especially during times when the nation and other West African countries are grappling with internet interruptions affecting businesses.

    Mr Cudjoe urged the Vice President and his team to establish a transparent framework facilitating partnerships for satellite technology provision to mitigate future internet disruptions.

    He highlighted the significance of reliable internet access, comparing it to essential lifeblood.

    In a post on his Facebook page, Franklin Cudjoe expressed concern over reported incidents of underground fiber optic cable cuts and subsequent internet access challenges.

    “The reported cuts in underground fibre optic cables and the lack of Internet access tell how the Internet is almost equal to blood. Surely you appreciate Bawumia’s digitalisation drive. Now his team should be thinking about a transparent framework that encourages true public-private partnership in the provision of satellite technology for communication.

    “Nothing like SUBAH, KELNI GVG, and jocular clever scams like the location apps when Google exists,” he wrote on his Facebook page,

    He advocated for a strategic approach, emphasizing genuine public-private partnerships over past controversial schemes like SUBAH, KELNI GVG, and other location-based applications, particularly when reliable alternatives like Google exist.

    Mr Cudjoe’s remarks come amidst widespread internet outages across Ghana since March 14, attributed to undersea fiber optic cable cuts.

    The National Communications Authority (NCA) has alerted the public that four subsea cables connecting Ghana to Europe via Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal remain out of service.

    The NCA anticipates resolving these issues within approximately five weeks to restore normal internet connectivity nationwide.

  • Network crisis: Govt’s digitalisation drive has been vindicated – Franklin Cudjoe tells Bawumia

    Network crisis: Govt’s digitalisation drive has been vindicated – Franklin Cudjoe tells Bawumia

    In a recent development, Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has highlighted the government’s digitalization agenda, spearheaded by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, amidst disruptions in internet access in Ghana and several African countries.

    Mr Cudjoe took to his Facebook page to emphasize the critical role of the internet in today’s world, likening it to blood due to its essential nature.

    He commended Bawumia’s efforts in driving the digitalization agenda but also called for a transparent framework to encourage true public-private partnerships in providing satellite technology for communication.

    Mr Cudjoe cautioned against past experiences with projects like SUBAH, KELNI GVG, and other location apps, urging a more sincere approach.

    “The reported cuts in underground fibre optic cables and the lack of lnternet access tells how the Internet is almost equal to blood.

    “Surely you appreciate Bawumia’s digitalisation drive. Now his team should be thinking about a transparent framework that encourages true public-private partnership in the provision of satellite technology for communication. Nothing like SUBAH, KELNI GVG, and jocular clever scams like the location apps when Google exists,” he wrote.

    The disruptions in internet access have affected countries like Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Guinea, Nigeria, and South Africa due to damages to major undersea cables. Engineers are working to resolve the issues, but it is estimated to take four to five weeks.

    Bawumia’s digitalization agenda has been central to his vision for Ghana’s development, aiming to formalize sectors of the economy and improve access to services like healthcare and government documents. His efforts have been lauded for their potential to enhance job creation and business flexibility in the country.

  • Pray for me – Adwoa Safo on Bawumia’s running mate claim

    Pray for me – Adwoa Safo on Bawumia’s running mate claim

    Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has responded to rumors of being considered as a running mate by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the upcoming general elections.

    Adwoa Safo acknowledged that it is the vice president’s prerogative to choose his running mate and stated that if her name is indeed on the list, then she asks for prayers from the public.

    When asked if she believes it is time for a woman to be considered as a running mate, Adwoa Safo did not directly answer but instead highlighted the importance of the decision and the need for the public to pray for her if she is indeed being considered.

    The selection of a running mate for the 2024 elections by Dr. Bawumia is highly anticipated, especially after the National Democratic Congress (NDC) named Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as their running mate. The final decision on Dr. Bawumia’s running mate is yet to be announced.

  • Online School Licensing and Inspection System launched by Bawumia

    Online School Licensing and Inspection System launched by Bawumia

    In a significant stride towards enhancing the quality of education in Ghana, Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has inaugurated the School Licensing and Inspection Management System (SLIMS), a groundbreaking initiative by the National Schools Inspectorate Authority (NaSIA).

    The launch, which took place yesterday at the Alisa Hotel Accra, aims to modernize educational administration in both private and public schools. Its objective is to bolster efficiency and transparency by streamlining inspection planning and execution, automating report generation, and ensuring immediate and transparent transactions.

    Addressing the gathering, Vice President Dr. Bawumia commended NaSIA for its innovative endeavors in transforming education regulation through SLIMS. He remarked, “The system fundamentally embodies the Government’s commitment to leveraging technology to revolutionize education and ensure that every child in Ghana accesses high-quality education.”

    Dr. Bawumia emphasized the significant role of private education providers in Ghana’s educational landscape, acknowledging a historical lack of regulation before 2017.

    The NPP administration, as outlined in its 2016 manifesto, pledged to enhance collaboration with the private sector for quality education delivery. This commitment materialized through the establishment of NaSIA, entrusted with overseeing private schools.

    “In 2017, when the Akufo-Addo-led administration set out to fulfill the promises we made in our 2016 Manifesto, this included shifting the structure and content of our education system. We have clothed the National Schools Inspectorate Authority (NaSIA) with the needed regulatory powers for efficient supervision and regulation of pre-tertiary schools. This has empowered, strengthened, and equipped the Authority as an independent body to fully carry out its mandate leading to the development of SLIMS,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

    The Inspector General of Schools at NaSIA, Dr. Hilda Haggar Ampadu, expressed gratitude for the government and stakeholders’ support in implementing SLIMS.

    She noted, “The launch of SLIMS signifies a significant milestone in our journey towards enhancing educational quality and accountability in Ghana. This system will streamline our inspection and licensing processes, alleviate constraints due to limited resources and cumbersome procedures, and empower schools with the tools necessary to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.”

    Before the Authority’s comprehensive digitalization initiative in June 2019, school inspections were labor-intensive and manual, resulting in excessive paperwork and significant delays in generating inspection reports.

    The licensing process was equally burdensome, hindering progress. To address these challenges, the Authority revamped its Inspection Evaluation Framework (IEF), Inspection Handbook, and digitized forms.

    This overhaul markedly streamlined the inspection process, reducing the average inspection time per school from a week to just a day, and condensing the inspection report length from 46 pages to a concise 10 pages.

    Currently, the Authority has successfully implemented the Inspection and Licensing Modules, with the remaining three modules in progress, promising further enhancements for seamless processes.

    SLIMS will be accessible through password-controlled login and will feature mini dashboards for schools to monitor their progress and seamlessly submit data to the Ministry of Education’s dashboard.

  • Will Ghana’s economic woes resolve if Bawumia selects a running mate from Ashanti Region? – Kwesi Pratt quizzes

    Will Ghana’s economic woes resolve if Bawumia selects a running mate from Ashanti Region? – Kwesi Pratt quizzes

    Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr. has criticized individuals who are resorting to ethnic considerations in the selection of a Running Mate for the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.


    According to CEO of STC and a prominent member of the Vice President’s campaign team, Nana Akomea, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is expected to announce his Running Mate by May this year.


    Various names, including Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Energy Minister, former EPA Boss Henry Kwabena Kokofu, and several others, have emerged as potential candidates.


    However, there is a growing push within the party for Dr. Bawumia to choose a Running Mate from the Ashanti Region.

    The rationale behind this argument is that, as a Northerner, Dr. Bawumia would benefit from partnering with an Asante to ensure political harmony within the NPP.


    Speaking on Peace Fm, Kwesi Pratt opposed the trend, emphasizing that ethnicity should not be a determining factor in the selection of a Running Mate.

    “If you pick an Asante, how does that resolve the economic problems confronting us? How does it bring down the inflation? How does that improve the value of the cedi?”

    “If you are from the Eastern Region and love your country and have a vision to help in the development of the country and you and the presidential candidate are compatible…why not? Why should your coming from the Eastern Region be a qualification?”.

    “He should look for competence. He should look for people with party history. He should select from among those who are able to do the work and stop those regionalism, ethnicity and so forth. It is all nonsensical”, he added.


    Questioning the logic behind prioritizing ethnicity, Pratt argued that a person’s regional background should not serve as a qualification for the position.

    Instead, he urged Dr. Bawumia to focus on selecting a Running Mate based on competence and alignment with his vision.

  • Why do you want to be president? – NPP bigwig asks Bawumia

    Why do you want to be president? – NPP bigwig asks Bawumia

    A prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Pianim, has questioned the political philosophy of the party’s 2024 presidential flagbearer, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

    The respected economist stated in an interview on TV3 that he would seek to understand Mahamudu Bawumia’s political philosophy to assess why the vice president is aspiring to become president.

    Asked whether he would accept to join the Bawumia campaign ahead of the 2024 elections, he responded: “I will ask him, first of all, why do you want to become president of Ghana and he has to tell me, because I don’t know his political philosophy.

    “I know him as an economist, I don’t know what he believes in. You know, the NPP, we believe in certain basic principles and I find out that even some of my cherished members pay lip service to private entrepreneurship and giving Ghanaians control of this economy and yet they are jealous of businessmen making money,” he submitted.

    He emphasized that businessmen should be viewed as performing national service by creating jobs, stating that it was “time to support them with sovereign guarantees.”

    During the same interview, he refuted reports that he had been appointed as an economic advisor to the Bawumia campaign manifesto team, dismissing them as “fake news.”

  • Prove I am selling Bawumia’s running mate slot – Wontumi to Manhyia South Constituency Chairman

    Prove I am selling Bawumia’s running mate slot – Wontumi to Manhyia South Constituency Chairman


    the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a warning of legal action against a constituency chairman in the Ashanti Region.

    Wontumi, has stated that he would resort to the courts if Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta, the Manhyia South Constituency Chairman, fails to provide evidence supporting allegations of influence peddling in the selection of the NPP’s 2024 flagbearer’s running mate.

    The constituency chairman had accused Wontumi, a close ally of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, of engaging in the unethical practice of “selling the NPP’s presidential running mate slot to the highest bidder.”

    In a statement released by an aide, Chairman Wontumi urged the public to dismiss these allegations as baseless propaganda and demanded substantiation within 48 hours, failing which legal action would be pursued.

    Read below the full statement

    SUBSTANTIATE YOUR CLAIMS AGAINST CHAIRMAN WONTUMI OR APOLOGISE IN 48 HOURS, OR FACE LEGAL ACTIONS

    Our attention has been drawn to a vicious smear campaign against the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Mr. Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, about the selection of a running mate to partner with our Flagbearer, His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for the 2024 Presidential Elections.

    According to some malicious claims made by the Manhyia South Constituency Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Mr. Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta, also known as TomTom, which was monitored on Accra-based Okay FM, the Ashanti Regional Chairman has been “trading the presidential running mate slot of the party for his personal gains.”

    He repeated these unfounded allegations in a separate interview with Sompa FM, the same day, Monday, 11th March 2024, and went further to subtly accuse the Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum and the late Hon. Lawyer Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, of “paying bribes” to Chairman Wontumi for the running mate position.

    These unsubstantiated claims are totally unfortunate and reprehensible, particularly when they seek to demean the reputation of, not only Chairman Wontumi, but also that of Dr. Adutwum, and most abhorrently, the reputation of our departed brother, Dr. John Kumah, whose passing is barely a week old.

    Well, it is necessary to educate Tomtom and all those who have bought into this vile propaganda that; while Chairman Wontumi, as the Ashanti Regional Chairman and member of the National Council of the party, would undoubtedly have a say in the consultative process leading to the selection of a Running Mate, the ultimate decision lies with the Flagbearer. Every Tom, Dick and Harry in the party know this fact. So it beggars belief TomTom would want to push this derisive narrative regarding astute senior members of our party and in government “paying” monies to Chairman Wontumi for the Running Mate position.

    It is however not surprising that TomTom would seize the moment to defame the reputation of these personalities, as it has been his methods and modus operandi these past two months or more, particularly when he perceives one does not sympathise with his “interest”.

    Indeed, TomTom, in recent months, has conducted himself in such a brutally cynical manner, demonstrating his utter disregard for authority and high offices in the party, which even the National Organiser was not spared. The fabricated claims of disrespect for the Asantehene he (TomTom) made against Chairman Wontumi is still fresh in our minds.

    Ordinarily, these unfounded claims would not have been glorified with a response as Chairman Wontumi is usually unfazed by such acts, especially when he is currently distraught and devastated by the untimely demise of his faithful brother and loyal friend, Dr. John Kumah.

    However, the timing of these insensitive pronouncements of TomTom clearly shows that, the orchestrated and coordinated attempt to undermine the leadership of the Regional Chairman since the latter’s reelection about two (2) years ago has reached such crescendo where all persons, dead or alive, affiliated to him, are not spared.

    It is therefore worthy to note that, the continued nonchalant shrug of Chairman Wontumi towards this conduct of TomTom, in the interest of the Party’s cohesion and unity, could rather become a harbinger for more of such acts, which would go a long way to harm the very cohesion and unity we seek to preserve ahead of the 2024 Presidential Elections. Although there is no blazing fury among the party people, there is a simmering discontent with the behaviour of Tomtom, which if not quickly dealt with, would spark reactions and counter-accusations in the region.

    While the public is urged to dismiss and disregard these unfounded claims as they are bereft of, and lack, substance, Mr. Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori-Atta is given Forty Eight(48) hours to either substantiate these allegations or render an unqualified apology to Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako and the Party in the Ashanti Region. There would be no other option than to take legal action against him should he fail to do so.

    Signed,
    Nana Poku Frefre
    (Political Assistant, Chairman Wontumi)

  • You cannot be let off the hook for Ghana’s economic crisis – Bunkpurugu MP to Bawumia

    You cannot be let off the hook for Ghana’s economic crisis – Bunkpurugu MP to Bawumia


    Dr. Abed Lamangin Bandim, representing Bunkpurugu in Parliament, has asserted that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia cannot evade responsibility for the nation’s economic challenges.

    In an interview with Pan African TV on March 12, 2024, Dr. Bandim criticized President Akufo-Addo’s recent State of the Nation Address (SONA), dismissing it as mere propaganda.

    He highlighted the substantial funds left by the previous administration under John Mahama and criticized the current government’s borrowing practices.

    Dr. Bandim pointed out that despite these financial resources and additional COVID-19 funds and tax increments, unemployment remains high.

    He juxtaposed Akufo-Addo’s current remarks with his 2018 SONA, where he lauded Dr. Bawumia’s role in economic successes, highlighting an apparent contradiction.

    Reminding Ghanaians of unfulfilled promises by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to transition from taxation to production, Dr. Bandim cited stagnant economic growth and increasing inflation rates.

    He emphasized the necessity of recognizing the groundwork laid by previous administrations, particularly under Mahama’s leadership.

    Dr. Bandim underscored initiatives like telecommunications development, Mobile Money introduction, and fibre optic infrastructure as crucial elements of Ghana’s digital advancement during Mahama’s tenure.

    He criticized the current administration for overlooking past contributions and failing to adequately address economic challenges.

    Calling for a more honest assessment of the economic situation, Dr. Bandim urged concerted efforts to build upon existing foundations for sustainable development.

    “There were three funds that John Mahama left with so much money in there.

    “The Stabilization Fund had accrued about $300 million. Then you take the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund which had accrued about $250 million, and then you take the Sinking Fund which also had about $500 million. All of this put together with the monies that Akufo-Addo and Bawumia came to borrow”.

    Dr Bandim added that “In addition, if you add the COVID-19 funds to it and the taxes that they have raised, we are still where we are with so much unemployment.”

  • We only know you as an economist, what is your political philosophy? – Kwame Pianim quizzes Bawumia

    We only know you as an economist, what is your political philosophy? – Kwame Pianim quizzes Bawumia

    Kwame Pianim, a prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised questions about the political philosophy of the party’s 2024 presidential flagbearer.

    The respected economist expressed his curiosity about Mahamudu Bawumia’s political philosophy during an interview on TV3.

    Mr Pianim indicated that understanding the vice president’s political philosophy is crucial in assessing his motivations for seeking the presidency.

    “I will ask him, first of all, why do you want to become president of Ghana and he has to tell me, because I don’t know his political philosophy.

    “I know him as an economist, I don’t know what he believes in. You know, the NPP, we believe in certain basic principles and I find out that even some of my cherished members pay lip service to private entrepreneurship and giving Ghanaians control of this economy and yet they are jealous of businessmen making money,” he submitted.

    He emphasized that businessmen should be viewed as contributing to national service by creating jobs, advocating for their support through sovereign guarantees.

    During the same interview, Kwame Pianim refuted reports labeling him as an economic advisor to the Bawumia campaign manifesto team, dismissing them as “fake news.”

  • Wontumi selling Bawumia’s running mate position – Manhyia South chairman

    Wontumi selling Bawumia’s running mate position – Manhyia South chairman

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, faces accusations of allegedly exploiting the party’s presidential running mate position for personal gain.

    The Manhyia South Constituency Chairman of the NPP, Richard Adjei Mensah Ofori Atta, also known as Tom Tom, raised concerns about this perceived harmful trend, warning of potential consequences for the party’s unity in the Ashanti Region.

    In interviews with Kumasi-based Sompa FM and Accra-based Okay FM on Monday, March 11, 2024, Tom Tom urged the party’s national executives to intervene and rein in Chairman Wontumi.

    Tom Tom claimed that Wontumi, knowing that the running mate would likely be chosen from the Ashanti Region, had allegedly devised a scheme to exploit the situation for personal gain.

    “He [Wontumi] is allegedly engaging in the trading of the running mate slot. Initially, he attempted to secure it for Education Minister Dr. Adutwum, and when that failed, he turned to Dr. John Kumah until his unfortunate demise,” Tom Tom asserted.

    Furthermore, Tom Tom alleged that following Dr. Kumah’s death, Chairman Wontumi was allegedly tarnishing the reputation of potential running mates he opposed, with the assistance of his associates, particularly a presenter on Wontumi media named Oheneba Nana Asiedu.

    Tom Tom emphasized that recent developments on Wontumi FM/radio seemed to corroborate this narrative, indicating a concerted effort by the Ashanti Regional Chairman.

    He urged the party’s leadership to urgently intervene and restrain Chairman Wontumi, highlighting the importance of preserving unity within the region.

    “He [ Wontumi] is trading the running mate slot. First, he did it with Education Minister, Dr Adutwum and when it failed, he shifted to Dr John Kumah until his untimely death, “ Tom Tom stated.

    “He is doing this using his aides led by a presenter of Wontumi media, Oheneba Nana Asiedu,” he stressed.

    “Already, divisions are being created in the region and this must be arrested as early as possible because we cannot toy with our stronghold, “ he said.

  • Ghana card at birth initiative to be launched by Bawumia on Thursday

    Ghana card at birth initiative to be launched by Bawumia on Thursday

    On Thursday, March 14, 2024, Vice-President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is slated to unveil the ‘Ghana card number at birth’ initiative.

    The launch will take place at Ga North Hospital in Ofankor, Greater Accra Region, laying the groundwork for assigning a unique identity number to every child born in Ghana. Notably, the Ghana Card will be presented to the individual upon reaching the age of 15.

    The initiative, dubbed “Ghana card number at birth,” is spearheaded by the Office of the Vice-President, contributing to the government’s broader efforts to ensure universal access to a Ghana Card, facilitating easy access to essential social services for all Ghanaians.

    To date, the National Identification Authority (NIA) has successfully registered 17.5 million Ghanaians in its biometric data register.

  • Joshua Makubu appointed as NPP Campaign Coordinator for PWDs

    Joshua Makubu appointed as NPP Campaign Coordinator for PWDs

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has appointed former Oti Regional Minister, Joshua Makubu, as the Campaign Coordinator for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs.

    The appointment, effective immediately, tasks Makubu with advocating for the interests of persons with disabilities (PWDs) within the campaign.

    Additionally, he is responsible for ensuring proper representation of their concerns in the party’s manifesto and campaign strategies.

    Mr Makubu’s role includes facilitating dialogue between the PWD community and the campaign and manifesto committees to promote inclusivity and accessibility in party initiatives, as stated in a communication from the Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign.

    “The Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has appointed Hon. Joshua Makubu, the immediate past Oti Regional Minister, as the Campaign Coordinator for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs,” an excerpt of the statement said.

  • Ken Agyapong helps attendant serve Bawumia food at Wofa KK’s one-week observance service

    Ken Agyapong helps attendant serve Bawumia food at Wofa KK’s one-week observance service

    During the one-week observance service for the late radio presenter of Oman FM, Kwabena Kwakye, also known as Wofa K.K., Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Ken Agyapong, was seen assisting an attendant in serving food to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    In a light-hearted moment, Ken Agyapong directed the attendant to a large piece of chicken that would complement Dr. Bawumia’s rice dish.

    As the Vice President was being served, the NPP bigwigs were engaged in a conversation and, at a moment, burst into laughter.

    Kwabena Kwakye, a well-known broadcaster at Oman 107.1FM, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. He had arrived for work but fell ill, leading to his untimely demise.

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia paid tribute to the late Martin Kwabena Kwakye, acknowledging him as a staunch supporter of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and a respected figure in the media industry who served his country diligently.

  • Bawumia beats Mahama in recent poll – Report

    Bawumia beats Mahama in recent poll – Report

    A survey conducted and published by The Outcomes International, Ghana, has indicated that the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is gaining ground in crucial swing constituencies compared to his main rival, John Dramani Mahama.

    In key areas like Greater Accra, Central, and Bono regions, where the majority of respondents (977) were sampled, Dr. Bawumia is perceived to have strengthened his electoral support and increased his popularity.

    Conducted between February 10th and 25th, 2024, the research team posed a fundamental question to voters: if elections were held today, who would they vote for? The majority expressed greater confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s ability to address economic challenges as president, surpassing John Dramani Mahama.

    According to the survey report, while former President Mahama secured victories in Ablekuma Central, Adentan, Ledzokuku, and Awutu Senya West, Dr. Bawumia dominated in La Dadekotopon, Cape Coast North, Twifo-Atti Morkwa, Dormaa West, and Jaman North.

    In terms of overall performance, Dr. Bawumia holds a slight lead with 43.5%, while Mr. Mahama follows closely with 42.1%.

    Notably, 6.9% of respondents expressed intent to vote for other candidates, and 7.4% remained undecided during the polling period.

  • Bawumia only resolved Ghana’s economic challenges at lectures – Ato Forson

    Bawumia only resolved Ghana’s economic challenges at lectures – Ato Forson

    The Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has once again faced criticism from the Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, over the ongoing economic challenges in the country.

    Despite Dr. Bawumia’s reputation for economic expertise, Dr. Forson criticized his performance, stating that he has not lived up to expectations since taking office alongside President Akufo-Addo.

    Representing Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam, Dr. Forson described Dr. Bawumia’s tenure as abysmal and called for accountability from Ghanaian voters in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    During his contribution to the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, March 11, 2024, Dr. Ato Forson accused Dr. Bawumia of mismanaging the fiscal space inherited from the previous John Mahama government.

    Dr. Forson condemned the Akufo-Addo administration’s management of the country, alleging that it has led to significant hardships for the Ghanaian populace.

    “Mr Speaker, those who held various lectures on textbook management of the economy have been in charge of Ghana’s economy for the last seven years.”

    “Despite “resolving” all issues of the economy at those lectures, the reality is that the economy has collapsed on the watch of Dr. Bawumia, the chief lecturer,” he said.

  • Bawumia holds talks with Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber

    Bawumia holds talks with Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber

    Members of the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber recently convened for a breakfast meeting with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    The primary purpose of the gathering was to apprise the Vice President of the challenges confronting the sector and explore collaborative efforts between the industry and the government to address these issues.

    During the presentation to the Vice President and his team, the Chamber offered a comprehensive overview of the oil and gas industry, shedding light on the challenges that have contributed to the absence of new petroleum agreements since 2017.

    CEO of the Chamber, David Ampofo, emphasized the urgency of addressing the situation, stating, “Peak oil production occurred in 2019, but since then, there has been a 32 percent decline.

    This requires more exploration and new discoveries if the decline is to be arrested.”

    In response, Vice President Dr. Bawumia expressed his commitment to fostering deeper collaboration between the government and the industry.

    He assured the members of his dedication to making Ghana a more appealing oil and gas destination, mentioning his intention to benchmark Ghana’s fiscal regime against other attractive destinations like Guyana, Namibia, and Côte D’Ivoire.

    The meeting facilitated meaningful engagement between the Vice President and representatives from exploration and production, as well as local and international service companies within the industry. It provided a platform for the Vice President to actively listen to the concerns and perspectives of the industry stakeholders.

  • An NPP big wig angrily chastised Chairman Wontumi for aiding Bawumia-John Kumah ticket

    An NPP big wig angrily chastised Chairman Wontumi for aiding Bawumia-John Kumah ticket

    The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has alleged that the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, came under attack for allegedly attempting to put the late Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah in the limelight for the running mate role.

    Oheneba Nana Asiedu noted that while in Tamale to aid Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s political campaign, Chairman Wontumi received a call from a high-profile personality of the NPP.

    According to him, the purpose of the call was to question Chairman Wontumi over the presence of John Kumah in Tamale.

    “In Tamale, a high-profile personality of this party called Chairman Wontumi, fighting him that why Chairman Wontumi had send John Kumah to Tamale and projecting him there to become running mate.”

    Oheneba Nana Asiedu made this revelation on Wontumi radio following the death of John Kumah on Thursday, March 7, which he linked to the alleged poisoning case in October last year.

    “No one can tell me that this incident that happened is not related or has no link to the running mate,” he insisted.

    Oheneba is of the assertion that the late John Kumah and Chairman Wontumi were poisoned during their stay in Tamale in October 2023. He believes the Guinea fowl meat the duo consumed had been poisoned.

  • ‘Poisoned’ Wontumi was in boxer shorts and had vomited everywhere – Radio host reveals

    ‘Poisoned’ Wontumi was in boxer shorts and had vomited everywhere – Radio host reveals

    A radio presenter with Wontumi Radio, Oheneba Asiedu, has stated that the Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Bosiako(Chairman Wontumi), has detailed the series of incidents Wontumi faced after consuming the poisoned guinea fowl meat (akomfem).

    He recounted that shortly after Wontumi completed the meal, he received numerous missed calls from him.

    According to him, he swiftly went to Wontumi’s door and knocked for over three minutes.

    He stressed that when Wontumi eventually opened the door, he was in his boxer shorts and had vomited extensively throughout his room, including the bed, floor, and washroom.

    “On 22nd October Myself, Wontumi, John Kumah and Kwaku Marfo were at Tamale to assist Dr. Bawumia over there with his campaign. When we got to Mariam Hotel, someone brought them akonfeh and they ate it.

    “At 1am Chairman called my phone fifteen (15) times and when I returned his calls, he couldn’t pick up. I knocked his door for more than 3 minutes and when he finally came to open the door, he was in his boxer shorts and had vomited all over the place- on his bed, floor and the washroom”, Oheneba Nana Asiedu said.

    “John Kumah told me he only ate small portion of the meat (akonfeh) but Chairman ate a lot,” he added.

    This revelation comes in the aftermath of the death of the deputy finance minister, John Kumah.

    Revealing details surrounding John Kumah’s death, Oheneba Asidu explained that Wontumi and the deceased succumbed to a food poisoning incident while at Mariam Hotel in Tamale.

    “John Kumah did not die, he has been killed for what I know and what I saw. John Kumah may not be perfect but is this how he is supposed to die?,” he added.

     Additionally, he mentioned that the poisoned guinea fowl meat, commonly known as ‘akonfem’, was presented by a stranger to the duo was meant to end the life of Chairman Wontumi.

    Unfortunately, Chairman Wontumi started reacting to the poison after he, together with John Kumah had consumed the food.

    Oheneba Asidu who is also the morning host of Wontumi Radio, John Kumah, he said, did not show any sign of unfitness unlike Wontumi.

    He added that certain individuals within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are hiding behind the party to terminate the lives of innocent individuals.

    “People are being evil in the name of the party and I am saying this, the possible names we are hearing concerning Bawumia’s running mate, if Dr Bawumia mentions his name it will be an insult and a stab at the Chairman. 

    John Kumah passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

    According to reports, he collapsed in his office and was swiftly transported to a hospital for medical treatment. Subsequently, due to a decline in his condition, he was flown out of the country.

    The cause of his death is currently unknown and has taken the country by shock.

    The Member of Parliament for Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, Dr. Kumah, was known for his diverse roles as a Lawyer, Entrepreneur, and dedicated Politician.

  • Bawumia, Chief of Staff, other NPP big wigs visit John Kumah’s family after MP’s death

    Bawumia, Chief of Staff, other NPP big wigs visit John Kumah’s family after MP’s death

    The New Patriotic Party flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Chief of Staff, Frema Opare, and other prominent members of the ruling party paid a visit to the family of the late Deputy Finance Minister and MP for Ejisu, Dr John Kumah today.

    Former General Secretary of the ruling party Kwabena Agyepong and the Director General for the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Sammi Awuku per reports, also paid a courtesy visit to the family.

    Deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah, passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024. According to reports, he collapsed in his office and was swiftly transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

    Subsequently, due to a decline in his condition, he was flown out of the country. Sources say he was flown back into the country to aid his recovery. Other reports have it that John Kumah was poisoned.

    This claim is yet to be clarified but as it stands now, the cause of his death is currently unknown.

    Dr. Kumah, the Member of Parliament for Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, was known for his diverse roles as a Lawyer, Entrepreneur, and dedicated Politician.

    He is survived by Apostle Mrs. Lilian Kumah, and six children.

  • Bawumia’s medical team treated ‘poisoned’ Chairman Wontumi in Tamale – Oheneba Asiedu claims

    Bawumia’s medical team treated ‘poisoned’ Chairman Wontumi in Tamale – Oheneba Asiedu claims

    The morning show host of Wontumi Tv and Radio, Oheneba Nana Asiedu, has provided details of how Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, was taken care of after being poisoned while assisting Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign in Tamale.

    Oheneba noted that on October 23, he woke up at dawn to see 15 missed calls from Chairman Wontumi after he ate ‘poisoned’ Guinea fowl meat with the late Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah. He then proceeded to his place (Modern Hotel) to find out the issue after failing to reach him via phone.

    “I woke up around 1 am check on what Chairman would wear. I had seen Chairman’s calls about 15 of them. I tried calling. I asked Marfo if he had gotten calls from Chairman. He saw 2 missed calls and tried reaching Chairman but no response. So I went to Chairman’s place.”

    He revealed that he knocked for about 3 to 5 minutes until Chairman Wontumi came to open the door.

    When Chairman opened the door, he was just in boxers and not in a good state, he said.

    “You could tell he had crawled and opened the door. He had thrown up on his bed and the ground. He had vomited in the washroom.”

    Oheneba said he reached out to a member of Dr Bawumia’s team, who got some members of the Vice President’s medical team to assist.

    “I called Kamar, he is part of Bawumia’s team. So he called someone. So a top doctor of Bawumia and two other nurses came.

    Instantly, they placed about 7 drips of water on Chairman and injected him,” he said, adding that “I heard the doctor say they suspect food poisoning and so they are going to treat them on food poisoning.”

    According to him, John Kumah felt he was okay, so he was not treated.

    “It was only Chairman who was treated. John Kumah’s reaction was not like Chairman’s,” he reiterated.

    But it took the next day for John Kumah to call for assistance as he saw his condition worsen.

  • Bawumia was also poisoned, he can’t even drink water in public anymore – Captain Smart

    Radio and TV presenter at Onua TV/FM,  Captain Smart, also known as Blessed Godsbrain Smart, has alleged that an attempt was made on the life of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

    In one of his shows, Captain Smart claimed that Dr Bawumia was poisoned and for that reason, had to be flown to the UK for medical attention.

    According to him, since that striking incident, the Vice President has ceased drinking water whenever he attends cabinet meetings.

    “What happened before Bawumia was rushed to UK. Statements were flying all over. Some said he had suffered mild stroke. Am I telling lies. It was no stroke. He was poisoned. If he says I’m telling lies, he should go to any media house and call me, or he should sue me and leave Media General.”

    Captain Smart alleged that poisoning has become a medium that some individuals in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) use to get rid of people.

    “Bawumia was poisoned. When was the last time he went to a cabinet meeting and drank water. Common water he can’t drink. This issue of poisoning, where is it coming from that it is being used in the NPP. When the doctors noticed what happened they said we can look at you but the machines needed for you to be better are not here.”

    “I’m telling you, putting my job on the line at Media General if I’m lying I should be sacked or sued by His Excellence or Dr. Bawumia or Samira that her husband was poisoned, she nearly lost her husband some time ago, they don’t want to reveal the secret but I know, some members of the NPP want to silence her husband,” Captain Smart added.

    In January 2018, photos of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia who was on a medical leave in London hit social media amid claims that his health was worsening.

    Some members of the opposition National Democratic Congress speculated that the Vice President’s health was deteriorating and was likely to be replaced by President Akufo-Addo.

    This allegation by Captain Smart comes at a time when the country is mourning the late Dr John Kumah, a deputy finance minister who passed away on March 7, 2024.

    According to reports, he collapsed in his office and was swiftly transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

    Subsequently, due to a decline in his condition, he was flown out of the country. Sources say he was flown back into the country to aid his recovery.

    There are other reports that he was poisoned. This claim was also made by Captain Smart and other users on social media who say they are residents of Ejisu, the constituency Dr Kumah represented up until his death.

    “John Kumah and some prominent individuals met. The whole issue is due to John Kumah’s ambitions, he must be stopped from reaching a level that would make him unstoppable. Someone should call Chairman Wontumi and ask him if he did not also eat the same food.”

    “John Kumah was intentionally poisoned,” Captain Smart’s voice can be heard in a video circulating on social media.

    The cause of his death is currently unknown.

  • Set my church on fire if my prophecy about Bawumia’s victory does not come to pass – Prophet Azuka

    Set my church on fire if my prophecy about Bawumia’s victory does not come to pass – Prophet Azuka


    Prophet Azuka has confidently proclaimed that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, will emerge victorious in the upcoming general elections.

    As a man of God, Prophet Azuka asserts that this prediction is rooted in divine revelation, firmly believing that Dr. Bawumia is destined to lead Ghana as its president.

    Expressing unwavering certainty in his prophecy, Prophet Azuka boldly declares that if Dr. Bawumia’s electoral success does not materialize, his church premises should be set ablaze.

    A video shared by Express GH TV on YouTube and noticed by GhanaWeb captures Prophet Azuka’s resolute stance on the matter.

    “Today’s date should be marked, I am saying that Bawumia will win the presidential elections. I am speaking on authority. If he does not win, burn my church premises into ashes,” he said.

    Dr. Bawumia will face off against former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, along with other contenders, in the upcoming general elections.

    Scheduled for December 7, 2024, the elections will determine the successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    Watch the video below for more details.

  • NAPO is Bawumia’s top choice for running mate role – Dr Asah-Asante

    NAPO is Bawumia’s top choice for running mate role – Dr Asah-Asante

    A senior Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, has suggested that Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh also known as NAPO is the ideal candidate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate.

    Dr. Asah-Asante highlighted Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s outstanding competence in various capacities, making him a strong contender for the running mate position.

    In an interview, Dr. Asah-Asante expressed confidence that Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s inclusion would bolster Dr. Bawumia’s electoral prospects in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    He underscored Dr. Bawumia’s recognition of Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s strengths and advantages, ensuring a thoughtful and strategic decision-making process.

    “As for me, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is number one. In his area of work, he has demonstrated that he has what it takes to lead anytime the call comes and all that. So he will be Dr Bawumia’s top choice for his running mate,” he said.

    On November 4, 2023, Vice President Dr. Bawumia secured the New Patriotic Party’s nomination for the presidential race, setting the stage for the upcoming December elections.

    While Dr. Bawumia has not yet announced his running mate, several potential candidates have been speculated upon by analysts. Among them are Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Dr. John Kumah, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Joseph Osei Owusu, and former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Prof. Opoku Onyinah.

    Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare and Communications Minister Ursula Owusu Ekulful have also been mentioned as possible contenders for the running mate position alongside Dr. Bawumia.

  • EC to declare 2024 presidential election results in 3 days – Reports

    EC to declare 2024 presidential election results in 3 days – Reports

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has outlined a comprehensive schedule of activities for the 2024 general election.

    Per reports by the Daily Graphic, the EC aims to declare the results of the 2024 presidential polls within three days of the voting exercise, barring any unforeseen circumstances despite there not being a legal requirement for the EC to declare the results within a specified period.

    Regional Collation Centres will be maintained to announce results at the regional level.

    The Electoral Commission’s programme of activities for the 2024 general election, as reported, includes a voters’ registration exercise scheduled to take place from May 7 to May 27, 2024.

    Following this, a nationwide exercise to replace missing voter ID cards will commence on May 30, 2024.

    The programme includes 56 days of public education on the voter registration exercise, scheduled to take place from April 1 to May 26, 2024. Following this, the EC will conduct the voters’ registration exercise from May 7 to May 27, 2024, and then proceed with a nationwide exercise to replace missing voter ID cards from May 30, 2024.

    The EC plans to submit the provisional voters’ register to political parties between July 9 and 18, 2024, and conduct an exhibition of the voters’ register from July 15 to 24, 2024. The final voter register is expected to be submitted to political parties between August 30 and September 5, 2024.

    Nominations of candidates for the presidential and parliamentary elections will be received by the EC from September 9 to 13, 2024. This will be followed by the balloting for positions on the presidential ballot paper on September 23, 2024, and the parliamentary balloting on September 24, 2024.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has outlined a series of engagements and activities as part of its schedule for the 2024 general election, aimed at ensuring transparency and inclusivity in the electoral process.

    According to sources within the EC, the commission will hold meetings with stakeholders outside the political parties’ framework and engage the public through its “Let The Citizen Know” series. These efforts are intended to promote understanding and appreciation of the EC’s efforts towards a free and fair electoral process, thereby reducing suspicion and mistrust among stakeholders.

    Additionally, the EC will conduct Special Voting for selected professionals on December 2, five days before the main polls. This will be open to security agencies and accredited media personnel.

    It is important to note that all dates provided are subject to review, as indicated by the sources within the EC.

  • Your attempt to take Bawumia away from economic mess will fail – Suhuyini tells Akufo-Addo

    Your attempt to take Bawumia away from economic mess will fail – Suhuyini tells Akufo-Addo

    Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, has criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for trying to distance Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia from the current economic challenges facing Ghana.

    During his State of the Nation Address on Tuesday, February 27, the President accepted responsibility for the economic challenges, emphasizing that executive powers ultimately lie with him.

    The President’s acknowledgment comes after recent comments by Vice President Bawumia, who clarified that the Economic Management Team (EMT), which he heads, only provides advisory services to the cabinet and does not have decision-making authority.

    Suhuyini, speaking on the Big Issue on Citi TV, and other stakeholders believe that the Vice President cannot be exempt from responsibility for the economic crisis.

    He asserted that Dr. Bawumia, who plays a significant role on the Economic Management Team (EMT), should take full responsibility for the hardships the country is currently facing.

    The MP for Tamale North criticized the President for praising his Vice and then reversing his stance.

    “The exoneration and responsibility, the President in his State of the Nation Address in 2018 said that ‘I’m glad to be able to report that the Economic Management Team, under the stellar leadership of the strong, brilliant, economist, Vice President Dr Bawumia has risen to the challenge and the hard work is beginning to show positive results’. That was the President informing us who was in charge of the programmes they were implementing as far as EMT was concerned.

    He further asserted, “Suddenly, because things are bad, the President now says that he’s responsible. But even in that same breath, he says that when it comes to digitalization, he’s responsible [Bawumia]. It’s an irony, what a bizarre attempt to repackage and sell a very bad product to the people of Ghana.

    “Why is there the need to distance him now from this very bad economic record, when you told us that under the economy wizard’s leadership that is why you were doing well.”

  • Bawumia talks Obiri Boahen out of leaving NPP

    Bawumia talks Obiri Boahen out of leaving NPP

    Prior to the NPP flagbearer race, Nana Obiri Boahen declared that his primary goal was to see Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia elected as the party’s presidential candidate for 2024.

    Describing himself as the captain of the Bawumia campaign train, Nana Obiri Boahen expressed disappointment when his name did not appear in the party’s national campaign team and manifesto committee.

    Following the announcement of the members comprising Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign manifesto committee, Nana Obiri Boahen, a former Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), revealed his intentions to resign from the party.

    In a widely circulated audio recording, the NPP stalwart lamented feeling neglected by the party since it assumed power in 2017. He further accused Dr. Bawumia of failing to acknowledge his support for his flagbearer bid.

    However, following his public outburst, Nana Obiri Boahen was named co-chair of the manifesto sub-committee on local government. Subsequently, he rescinded his decision to quit the NPP.

    According to a report by Wontumionline.com, Obiri Boahen reversed his decision to leave the NPP after a conversation with Dr. Bawumia. In the reported conversation, Dr. Bawumia pleaded with him not to abandon him and his campaign.

    “Bawumia called me and he asked me you have brought your train and I am the passenger so why are you leaving me behind,” the report quoted the former deputy general secretary as saying.

  • You’re part of Ghana’s mess; stop deceiving us – Isaac Adongo to Bawumia

    You’re part of Ghana’s mess; stop deceiving us – Isaac Adongo to Bawumia

    The Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, has asserted that if the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, believes he can quietly win the favor of Ghanaians after contributing to an economic crisis, he needs to reconsider his strategy.

    Mr Adongo notes that he has observed Vice President Bawumia employing tactics to divert attention from his role in the country’s economic challenges in a bid to secure victory in the December 2024 polls and become Ghana’s president.

    However, Mr Adongo questioned why anyone should vote for Dr. Bawumia if he fails to present solutions to these issues during the remaining 10 months of his vice presidency.

    He further stated that Dr. Bawumia has practically checked out of office and the economy, leaving the country to its fate, except to exploit the hardships imposed on citizens as leverage for the presidency.

    “As for Alhaji, he uses very derogatory and often inferiority minded descriptions of himself such as I’m a driver’s mate, I’m not my own man etc to con and blackmail Ghanaians to make him President before he clears his own mess. As a matter of fact he says he knows how to resolve the hardships he has imposed on us and even though he still has some 10 months left, he will not do it unless we make him President.

    “Technically Alhaji has checked out of office and the economy and leaving us to our fate except to use the hardship he has imposed on us to blackmail us to the Presidency to finish us ‘kwatakwata,’” he said.

  • Why did you support Alan if you are proud of Bawumia? – Ablakwa asks Abena Osei-Asare

    Why did you support Alan if you are proud of Bawumia? – Ablakwa asks Abena Osei-Asare

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has questioned the rationality of Abena Osei-Asare, the Minister of State-designate at the Ministry of Finance over her recent political remark about government.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, while debating the State of the Nation Address, Abena Osei-Asare noted that she is proud of President Akufo-Addo and his Vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for the good work done to ensure the economy stays afloat.

    But Mr Ablakwa holds the assertion that such a remark cannot be taken seriously, especially when Abena Osei-Asare decided to support another presidential candidate instead of Dr Bawumia during the NPP’s flagbearership race.

    Abena Osei-Asare threw her weight behind former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen before his exit from the party.

    Mr Ablakwa said if indeed Abena Osei-Asare was indeed proud of the Vice President, her support would have been directed towards him and not another candidate.

    “I’ve been left totally shocked, dumbfounded, listening to my good friend Honourable Abena tell us that she felt so proud listening to this president and proud working with the chair of the Economic Management team, the now infamous mate or Aplanke as Sam George will call him in GA.

    “I’ve been asking myself, if the Honourable Deputy Minister for Finance now Minister of State designate felt so proud about this team, why did we see her in the news joining the Honourable Alan Kyerematen to go and pick forms to contest the Vice President who she says she is so proud of,” he said while speaking on the floor of Parliament.

    In September 2023, Abena Osei-Asare, has distanced herself from the decision taken by former New Patriotic Party (NPP), presidential aspirant, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, to run as an independent candidate.

    Abena Osei-Asare, one of the supporters of Mr Kyerematen acknowledged the personal and professional relationship she has with him but emphasized that her “dedication to the New Patriotic Party is deep-seated, and rooted” in their shared values.

  • Bawumia is part of the team that caused current economic mess – Prof Adei

    Bawumia is part of the team that caused current economic mess – Prof Adei

    Former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Professor Stephen Adei, insists that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia cannot evade accountability for the economic challenges faced during President Akufo-Addo’s tenure.

    Prof. Adei asserts that as the head of the Economic Management Team, Dr. Bawumia played a crucial role in the country’s economy and therefore cannot absolve himself of responsibility.

    He emphasizes that accountability and taking ownership of shortcomings are essential qualities of good leadership, and Dr. Bawumia must embody these traits.

    Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Thursday, February 29, the economist highlighted that the state of the economy would be a significant issue in the upcoming December 2024 elections.

    He stated that any attempt by Dr. Bawumia and his associates to justify his “driver and mate analogy” would be perceived as an insult to the intelligence of the Ghanaian people.

    “I think it’s actually insulting the intelligence of Ghanaians to say now that ‘I wasn’t part of it’. Was he the one who was claiming the wonderful things they achieved before COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine War? At the time was he a mate or a second driver? I think that politicians don’t take us seriously, but I will not hold him accountable solely for what has happened, I think that he played a critical role in the economy of Ghana, and he cannot say now Ken Ofori-Atta was the Finance Minister, because he is the Head of Economic Management Team,” he said, according to JoyNews.

    Amid recent criticisms aimed at Vice President and New Patriotic Party flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, regarding his portrayal of serving as a mere advisor to the President in governance, Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment to leading Ghana towards economic recovery at a conference in Accra.

    In parallel, President Akufo-Addo reiterated that he bears ultimate responsibility for the administration he has overseen.

    During his State of the Nation Address to Parliament on Tuesday, February 27, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the collaborative role of cabinet members and ministers in providing advisory support.

    “Under the Constitution, the executive power of the state is vested in the President of the Republic. He or she is the Executive. There is no ambiguity about where the buck stops when it comes to responsibility for what happens in the government. It stops with the President, he or she has ultimate responsibility. It would be an unwise President that would pretend to have all the answers, and refuse the advice of his officials, but the fact remains that the President holds the executive power.”

    “The Cabinet, the Ministers of State all act in an advisory manner. Of course, a member of the government might take an idea, be it generated by the President or the official or a committee, and turn it into a huge success, and the honour would be claimed or shared where public perception falls. But, ultimately, the President is responsible, and, therefore, takes the credit or the blame for whatever happens in his or her government.”

  • NPP has done better than the NDC in every sector – Bawumia

    NPP has done better than the NDC in every sector – Bawumia

    New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reiterated the party’s unwavering confidence in winning the upcoming December elections.

    He attributed this confidence to the NPP’s impressive track record in governance, highlighting superior performance across all sectors of the economy compared to their rivals, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Speaking at the inauguration of the NPP’s Campaign and Manifesto Teams in Accra, Dr. Bawumia expressed optimism and determination for success in the December polls.

    He outlined the party’s clear vision and significant achievements, as outlined by the president during his State of the Nation Address on Tuesday, February 27.

    “We have the vision and we have the record and it is very clear in the exhilarating speech that was given by the president at the State of the Nation Address.

    “As I listened to the president, it was very clear that we have outperformed the NDC government in every single sector. I can’t see even one sector where they outperformed us.”

  • Bawumia, the “economic whizkid” – See full text of Isaac Adongo’s public lecture on Ghana’s economic woes

    Bawumia, the “economic whizkid” – See full text of Isaac Adongo’s public lecture on Ghana’s economic woes

    Ranking Member of the Finance Committee in Parliament and MP for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo, delivered a public lecture titled “Ghana’s Economic Mess: Victim of Poor Economic Governance?” at UPSA in Accra on February 28, 2024.

    As a vocal critic of the Akufo-Addo government, Adongo did not hesitate to point fingers at Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, holding him responsible for overseeing the current economic crisis while serving as Head of the Economic Management Team.

    He also addressed Ghana’s ongoing IMF programme and criticised the government’s decisions leading up to the need for a 17th bailout package.

    “Where was our much touted and overhyped economic whizkid, the man with the magic wand, Alhaji Bawumia, the inventor of the Mallam-Atta Market inflation calculator and the rate of change cedi depreciation calculator specialist?,” the lawmaker questioned.

    CFS_Lecture Series_Response-1 final_2Download

  • Bawumia will secure over 50% votes in 2024 elections – Dan Botwe

    Bawumia will secure over 50% votes in 2024 elections – Dan Botwe

    Campaign Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dan Botwe, has expressed confidence in Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s chances of winning the upcoming December elections.

    Mr Botwe believes that Dr. Bawumia will secure no less than 50% of the votes needed to win the presidency.

    He emphasized the NPP’s readiness to govern and achieve a majority in both the parliamentary and presidential elections scheduled for later this year. Speaking to journalists in Accra on Wednesday, February 28, Botwe expressed a strong belief in the NPP’s ability to break the eight-year election cycle pattern and emerge victorious.

    He highlighted the party’s commitment to diligent efforts aimed at achieving their goals, including securing a majority of the 275 parliamentary seats.

    “…We will work very hard to make sure that we achieve our objectives. And we shall win the majority of the 275 seats in Parliament and over 50 per cent in the presidential election.”

    Dr. Bawumia, following a session with his campaign and manifesto teams, expressed confidence in his chances of winning the December elections. He asserted that the NPP has a superior track record of performance compared to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    “We have the vision, and we have the record, and it is very clear in the exhilarating speech that was given by the president at the State of the Nation Address.”

    “As I listened to the president, it was very clear that we have outperformed the NDC government in every single sector. I can’t see even one sector where they outperformed us.”

  • We want a leader who can command respect – Ahmadiyya Muslim cleric disowns President tag on Bawumia

    We want a leader who can command respect – Ahmadiyya Muslim cleric disowns President tag on Bawumia

    During the Centenary Anniversary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Ghana at Pomadze in the Central Region, Trade Minister Kobina Tahir Hammond stirred controversy by referring to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the future president of Ghana.

    However, this statement has been met with disapproval from a Muslim cleric within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

    Kobina Tahir Hammond, in his remarks, said, “The Vice President of Ghana, he (moderator) didn’t add the other necessary things. The president of Ghana for January 2025, Mr. Current Vice President, President to be.”

    The Muslim cleric representing the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community promptly distanced the community from Hammond’s statement, emphasizing that they do not endorse or support it. He stressed that their desire is for a leader who will restore Ghana’s position and respect in the international community.

    “We members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community completely and categorically disown the statement that Honourable K. T. Hammond has made,” the cleric stated. “Our desire is for that leader who will lead Ghana once more into its position in the committee of nations so that we can command that respect which Ghana is known for. That is the leader we are praying to Allah for.”

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, on his part, commended the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Ghana for its contributions to the development of the country over the past 100 years. 

    Speaking at the Centenary Anniversary of the Mission at Pomadze in the Central Region, Dr Bawumia acknowledged the Ahmadiyya Community’s efforts to Ghana’s development. 

    “From its establishement in the Gold Goast a century ago, the Ahmadiyya Mission, undoubtedly, has contributed significantly to the state of Islam in Ghana today,” Dr. Bawumia said.   

     “The story of Islam in contemporary Ghana, especially the story of the continuous quest to propagate the true tenets of the religion, such as peace, equality, compassion, pursuit of knowledge and respect for all, cannot be fully told without the remarkable contributions of the Ahmadiyya Community.” 

    “One hundred years after setting out a noble revival mission, the revival that the  Ahmadiyya Mission Ghana aimed, has manifestations in the spheres of education, health, enhancement of social relations for the promotion of national peace, fostering   co-existence in our multi-cultural and multi-religious country, as well as engendering good governance.” 

  • What do you get for over-criticizing govt? – Bawumia’s aide hits at Citi TV’s Bernard Avle

    What do you get for over-criticizing govt? – Bawumia’s aide hits at Citi TV’s Bernard Avle

    Spokesperson for Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Gideon Boako, has issued a response to recent editorials penned by Bernard Avle, the host of Citi FM’s morning show.

    In a post dated February 19, 2024, on platform X, Dr. Boako raised concerns about the appropriateness of Avle’s suggestion for the government to explore a Negative Interest Rate Policy (NIRP).

    He expressed surprise at Avle’s stance, particularly in light of his previous commentary on exchange rates and interest rates.

    Dr. Boako’s remarks underscore the significance of Avle’s proposal and invite further discussion on its merits within the context of economic policy.

    “In this country of highly opinionated people, let the Central Bank bring a negative interest rate policy, and you would hear the same people talking as if the country is collapsing,” his post read in part.

    The Tano North parliamentary candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) went on to give an economic explanation of how unrealistic Avle’s position was.

    In his concluding remarks, he asked whether criticism of the government was just for the sake of it.

    “Let’s be measured in our policy prescriptions in our attempt to criticise. Is there a reward for overly criticising the government? I would like to know,” Boako asked.

    According to a 2020 article on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) website, a negative interest rate is a concept that has emerged as central banks seek to navigate economic cycles through monetary policy.

    Traditionally, central banks have implemented positive nominal interest rates when lending short-term funds to regulate economic activity.

    However, in response to persistently weak growth following the 2008 global financial crisis, several central banks, such as the European Central Bank and those of Denmark, Japan, Sweden, and Switzerland, have adopted low-rate policies, including experimenting with negative interest rates.

    In essence, negative interest rates entail central banks charging financial institutions for holding excess reserves, essentially incentivizing banks to lend out these funds rather than keeping them idle.

    The objective is to stimulate lending activity and boost economic growth by discouraging banks from hoarding cash.

    This unconventional approach challenges conventional notions of finance: savers may experience negative returns on their deposits, while borrowers may effectively receive payments to borrow money.

    Fundamentally, interest represents the cost of borrowing or the price of money. It reflects the compensation a borrower agrees to pay a lender for the use of their funds, taking into account associated risks and market conditions.

    However, the implementation of negative interest rates introduces complexities and nuances to this traditional understanding of interest dynamics.

    Read his full post below:

    I listened to my friend @benkoku on many things he considers the ills of government. He may have some points right, but the talk about this government inheriting a cedi-dollar exchange rate of 3.8 in 2017 is a bit surprising.

    Where is that figure coming from? Also, is he asking the central bank to come up with a negative interest rate policy (NIRP)?. And why?

    Yes, we need to get the current levels of nominal interest rates down but the call for a negative interest rate is not the way to go, if indeed we understand what a negative interest rate is/means.

    In this country of highly opinionated people, let the Central Bank introduce a negative interest rate policy, and you would hear the same people talking as if the country were collapsing.

    It is instructive to note that while the real interest rate can flexibly fall into the negatives when inflation exceeds the normal interest rate, the latter is bounded by zero.

    The zero bound nominal interest rate means that to have a negative interest rate, it is simply saying the nominal interest rate must fall below zero.

    The practical effect is that instead of earning interest on your savings, you would rather be required to pay the banks to keep your money for you. In a crude way, negative interest rates impose a tax on your savings instead of earning income from them. Is this something @benkoku will support if it happens in Ghana? Central banks only adopt the policy of negative interest rates as a ‘desperate’ measure to stimulate spending.

    Yes, we need interest rates to go down but the call for stepping beyond the theoretical bound of zero is not something that will ultimately be beneficial to Ghana and its citizens. Let’s be measured in our policy prescriptions in our attempt to criticize. Is there a reward for overly criticising the government? I would like to know.

  • I am responsible for Ghana’s economic mess – Akufo-Addo

    I am responsible for Ghana’s economic mess – Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo has taken full responsibility for the current state of the economy, acknowledging his role as the executive authority.

    He emphasized that there should be no confusion regarding who bears the consequences of any decision implemented among the population.

    While delivering the State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2024 in Parliament on Tuesday, 27 February, he said, “under the Constitution, the executive power of the state is vested in the President of the Republic. He or she is the executive. There’s no ambiguity about where the buck stops when it comes to responsibility for what happens in government. It stops with the President.”

    He added: “Of course, a member of the government might turn an idea generated by the President or an official into a huge success, and the honours will be claimed or shared when public perception is favourable,” 

    “But ultimately, the President is responsible and therefore takes the credit or the blame for whatever happens in his or her government.”

    This admission follows a recent remark by Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, where he compared himself to a “driver’s mate”, distancing himself from the country’s current economic crisis. 

    This comment faced criticism from the opposition, accusing him of trying to distance himself from the failures of the Akufo-Addo government.

    Vice-President Bawumia outlined his vision for Ghana on Wednesday, 7 January 2024, expressing his desire to be in the “driver’s seat” with constitutionally mandated authority if he were to become President. 

    He emphasized the need for a vision that accommodates all Ghanaians, tapping into their resourcefulness and talents, irrespective of ethnic, political, or religious backgrounds.

  • “Dr Digitalisation” – Akufo-Addo nicknames Bawumia

    “Dr Digitalisation” – Akufo-Addo nicknames Bawumia

    President Akufo-Addo bestowed a new nickname upon his Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, during the 2024 State of the Nation Address in Parliament.

    Referring to him as “Dr. Digitalisation,” Akufo-Addo praised Bawumia for spearheading Ghana’s digitalisation drive over the past seven years.

    Akufo-Addo highlighted the government’s commitment to digitalisation, calling it the “Digitalization government.”

    He announced a new initiative, the Performance Tracker, which aims to provide transparency by allowing everyone to check on every government project.

    “This year we are taking things to a higher level. This government after all is the Digitalization government and the man who has led the entire digitalisation process these past 7 years, my indefatigable Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr Digitalization.

    “The NPP’s excellent president candidate for the 2024 elections is coming up with what will allow everyone and everybody and anyone to check on every project undertaken by the government.

    “We are calling it the Performance Tracker,” he said.

    The nickname “Dr. Digitalisation” received strong condemnation from the Minority in Parliament.

    Prior to this, Dr Bawumia was tagged as “Economic Wizard” and “Economic Maguire” owing to his in-depth knowledge of Economics and his inability to resolve Ghana’s economic crisis, respectively.

  • Battle of chants: NPP, NDC MPs clash over Bawumia and Mahama during SONA 2024

    Battle of chants: NPP, NDC MPs clash over Bawumia and Mahama during SONA 2024

    There was turmoil in Parliament when the Speaker of Parliament, Kingsford Bagbin, introduced former President John Dramani Mahama ahead of the State of the Nation Address to be delivered by President Akufo-Addo.

    Immediately after the name of the NDC flagbearer was mentioned, the NDC MPs began chanting, “No matter what you do, JM’s time is now”.

    Peeved by the Minority’s action, the NPP MPs retaliated, “Dead goat.”

    This went on for close to two minutes, which got Speaker Bagbin infuriated. He reminded the lawmakers that they are present for an official sitting, hence should behave in the accepted manner.

    Both Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and former President John Mahama, who are present for the 2024 SONA in Parliament, will slug it out in the 2024 polls for the highest office in the land.

  • I want to be the mediator between the Ken-Bawumia camp – Afenyo Markin

    I want to be the mediator between the Ken-Bawumia camp – Afenyo Markin

    Majority Leader Alex Afenyo Markin has revealed that he plays a crucial role as a mediator between the factions led by Kennedy Agyapong and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    He disclosed that both he and his close associate, Kennedy Agyapong, initially supported Dr. Bawumia. However, when Agyapong decided to contest the NPP presidential primaries, Markin found himself in a delicate situation.

    He couldn’t betray his friend Agyapong, nor could he retract his commitment to Vice President Bawumia.

    In an interview with Citi News, Afenyo Markin emphasised his impartial stance, expressing openness to both factions and even consulting with party elders.

    He reiterated his loyalty to Agyapong while acknowledging his responsibility to maintain cohesion within the party.

    “Both of us were Bawumia and out of the blue, he informed me that, Alex, I want to contest. I said okay, but as it is, I am a Freemason and a Catholic. I know how to respect friendship, and if you give your word to a brother, you have to keep it. So I told him that our friendship would remain, but it would be difficult to be seen out there doing this or that.

    However, I will want to play the role of resolving issues and being the bridge. He understood where I was coming from. I am an open-minded person, and no one suspected me.

    I told Dr. Bawumia what the situation was; I told Ken what the situation was; and I told Mr President what the situation was and the party elders.

    This is a man who, when I was going through a crisis in Parliament, said that positions had been shared and nobody considered Afenyo Markin.

    He calls me at midnight into his house; we talk business and Alex says I will give you capital to revive your business. He gives me capital to revive my business and I turn around to betray him. No, I can’t do that,” he said.


    On whether Kennedy Agyapong will support the Dr Mahamudu Bawumia campaign, he indicated that everything will be alright.

  • How can ‘useless’ Ofori-Atta be an envoy? – Bawumia’s Economic advisor questions Akufo-Addo

    How can ‘useless’ Ofori-Atta be an envoy? – Bawumia’s Economic advisor questions Akufo-Addo

    Economic Advisor on Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s Manifesto Committee, Kwame Pianim, has criticized President Akufo-Addo’s appointment of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta as a Senior Presidential Adviser and Special Envoy for International Trade.

    Mr Pianim, a renowned economist, described the appointment as unfortunate, stating that it has eroded the goodwill that came with the recent reshuffle of ministers.

    Ofori-Atta was relieved of his position as Finance Minister on Wednesday, February 14, and replaced by Mohammed Amin Adam. Subsequently, Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare announced Ofori-Atta’s new role in a statement dated February 15.

    Speaking on the AM Show on JoyNews, Mr. Pianim, a leading member of the NPP, expressed his disapproval of the appointment, emphasizing that it was not a wise decision.

    “Ken Ofori-Atta going is good for the optics. But the person who led us into the financial and economic crisis that we are in, we haven’t been here before… there has never been a time where Ghana has not been able to pay its bills and we are not going to start paying them until 2025 and this is the same guy who gets us kicked out of the Eurobond market, how can he be an envoy?

    “I think Nana (President Akufo-Addo) knows that the international community are not that gullible so you don’t send him there. We don’t have an economy now, so what is he going to advise on?

    “Too many people are walking around the Presidency. Let’s remove them. Both governments when they come, they remove a minister and he becomes special adviser at the presidency. We don’t want that,” he stressed.

    Mr. Pianim further expressed his dissatisfaction with the resignation of Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu from his role as Majority Leader in Parliament.

    He believes that the Suame MP should have been retained to manage Parliament and facilitate connections between MPs and other party groups in preparation for the 2024 elections.

    “Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu is an icon in Parliament. I think that managing Parliament is not easy. He has to make sure that all the bills that cabinet ministers and the president send are in line with the constitution.

    “I am saddened. I think he should have been left there to manage Parliament and also lead the Parliamentary group to join forces with the presidential group of the party and then the party itself that is the chairman and his group and the leader of the party that is the flagbearer.”

    Touching on the NDC flagbearer, John Mahama’s proposed 24-hour economy if voted into power in the December general election, Mr. Pianim said the policy lacks clarity.

    “People are talking about the 24-hour economy but I don’t understand it. What is it? We don’t even have electricity for one shift so where are we going to get electricity for three shifts?

    “We started the 24-hour economy. I was Minister of Finance and we told PwD that all the repairs should be done at night, so that traffic will move. But when they started doing that the managers were refusing to go and supervise because they didn’t have security to go around.

    “So let’s think through everything carefully and say what can we do now. There is nowhere in the world that they run a 24-hour economy.”



  • Wasn’t e-levy introduced to help govt generate revenue, what went wrong? – Student quizzes Bawumia

    Wasn’t e-levy introduced to help govt generate revenue, what went wrong? – Student quizzes Bawumia

    A student at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UNIMAC) has challenged Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s commitment to eliminating the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) once he assumes the presidency of Ghana.

    In an interview with TV3, the UNIMAC student expressed skepticism about Bawumia’s decision to reverse an initiative introduced by his own government, questioning his credibility.

    The student believes that Bawumia’s stance portrays Ghanaians as easily manipulated individuals.

    “E-levy he bought himself scraping it off as in how? I mean sometimes they say things that they think that the youth are foolish, I don’t know if I can use the word. For me I think it doesn’t make sense. Scrapping it, he brought it, you are taking us on a path that you think is leading us on the right place and at the end of the day you are blacking us off telling us you will scrap it. Are you lying to us? I mean everyone knows what he is saying doesn’t make sense,” he added.

    The E-levy, introduced by the Akufo-Addo-led administration in the 2022 Budget, targets basic digital payments and electronic platform transactions exceeding GH¢100 daily.

    It’s crucial to distinguish this levy from the 1 percent charge imposed by telecommunication companies on transactions.

    Upon its inclusion in the 2022 Budget statement, the E-levy stirred controversy, raising concerns about potential double taxation and its impact on the economic challenges faced by ordinary Ghanaians.

    Critics argue that the levy could disproportionately affect low-income earners who heavily rely on daily mobile money transfers for their livelihoods.

    On February 7, 2024, Dr. Bawumia declared his intention to abolish the tax on electronic financial transactions, emphasizing its role in achieving a digital and cashless economy.

    “To transition to a cashless economy, we need to encourage the use of electronic payment channels. To facilitate this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. Therefore, the e-levy will be abolished,” he added. 

    Dr. Bawumia also outlined plans to eliminate the emission tax, betting tax, and the proposed 15% VAT on electricity tariffs.

    He further announced the introduction of a straightforward and business-friendly flat tax regime in Ghana, with a focus on providing support to individuals and businesses, particularly small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

    “My administration will implement a straightforward, citizen- and business-friendly flat tax regime.” 

    “This will involve a flat tax percentage of income for individuals and SMEs, which represent 98% of all businesses in Ghana, with appropriate exemption thresholds to safeguard the poor.” 

  • I can’t be Bawumia’s vice because “I will speak my mind” – Ken Agyapong

    I can’t be Bawumia’s vice because “I will speak my mind” – Ken Agyapong

    The Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has categorically expressed his disinterest in teaming up with the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for the upcoming December elections.

    While Dr. Bawumia has not officially disclosed his running mate, Mr. Agyapong made it clear during an interview on the KSM Show on Pan African Television in Accra on Friday, February 23, that he prefers to remain on the sidelines and contribute in other capacities.

    He explicitly stated that he has no desire to become the Vice President alongside Dr. Bawumia.

    “I don’t want to be vice. What am I going to say? I believe in democracy, so I want it to work. I will stay back and watch, and whatever I have to do, I will do to contribute,” he remarked.

    “But I won’t accept vice as if, at all costs, Kennedy Agyapong has to be among the leaders. One thing I have always said is that you don’t need to be president to effect change in people’s lives. I have businesses that have employed many Ghanaians and put food on their table, and it’s self-gratifying,” Agyapong added.

    In elucidating his decision to decline the role of vice president, Mr. Agyapong emphasized his inclination to speak his mind, a characteristic he believes could potentially undermine his superior.

    “I have businesses that have employed many Ghanaians and put food on their table and it’s self-gratifying.

    He candidly stated, “To tell you the truth, I can’t be vice president because I will speak my mind, and am not going to be mate and in Ghana if you speak your mind, you will be branded…”

  • I have not been approached by NPP to be on Bawumia’s Manifesto campaign team – Abena Amoah

    I have not been approached by NPP to be on Bawumia’s Manifesto campaign team – Abena Amoah

    The list of the manifesto committee for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for the 2024 presidential elections, has seen some individuals decline the offer to serve or indicate that they have not been contacted.

    The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) issued an official statement clarifying that its CEO, Abena Amoah, had not been approached by the campaign team at any point.

    The statement also mentioned that she was not the person listed as co-chair of the specific subcommittee.

    “We wish to state categorically that the named Ms. Abena Amoah on the list is NOT Ms. Abena Amoah, Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange. Our Ms. Abena Amoah has not been approached or had any discussion or agreement on the subject matter with the Campaign Team,” the GSE statement read in part.

    Disclaimer-from-GSE-230224-1-1Download
  • Charles Osei Asibey refuses to serve on Bawumia campaign manifesto team

    Charles Osei Asibey refuses to serve on Bawumia campaign manifesto team

    Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Africa Armwrestling Federation, has declined an invitation from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to serve on his 2024 Campaign Manifesto Sub-committee on Youth and Sports.

    Dr. Bawumia had named Asibey as part of his manifesto committee for the 2024 election campaign, along with Asamoah Gyan.

    However, Asibey, who also serves as the Vice President of the World Armwrestling Federation, has opted to decline the invitation. He stated that his decision is to maintain neutrality in political matters and avoid affiliations with any party.

    Mr Asibey explained his decision in a statement released on Sunday, February 25, 2024.

    “Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Africa Armwrestling Federation and Vice President of the World Armwrestling Federation, has respectfully declined an appointment to serve on H.E Dr. Bawumia’s 2024 Campaign Manifesto Sub-Committee on Youth and Sports,” the statement said.

    “Mr Osei Asibey, known for his dedication to sports development and advocacy, has decided not to join the campaign sub-committee to maintain his apolitical stance. He believes it’s important to stay neutral and impartial in his current roles within the sporting community.

    “In a statement today, Mr Osei Asibey stressed the importance of keeping politics separate from sports, given his leadership positions in Armwrestling at both local, continental and global levels. As President of the Africa Armwrestling Federation and Vice President of the World Armwrestling Federation, he’s responsible for promoting fairness and integrity in the sport.”

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