TIG Post

Tag: Bawumia

  • NDC, NPP will find it difficult garnering 52% of total votes cast – Anyaa-Sowutuom MP

    NDC, NPP will find it difficult garnering 52% of total votes cast – Anyaa-Sowutuom MP

    Member of Parliament for Anyaa-Sowutuom, Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi, has voiced his skepticism regarding any individual or political party achieving over 52% of the vote in the upcoming general elections.

    This comes in response to Fitch Solutions’ forecast, which suggests a victory for John Mahama and the NDC in the December 2024 general elections.

    Fitch Solutions, an international research and data firm, in its mid-year review for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted that the prevailing economic conditions are likely to play a significant role in shaping voters’ decisions on December 7.

    Mike Kruiniger, an Associate Director of Country Risk at Fitch Solutions, stated, “We believe that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has a stronger chance of winning the upcoming general elections compared to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). Recent polls consistently place the NDC ahead, with the most recent survey showing 54% of respondents favouring the NDC.”

    During an appearance on The Big Issue on Channel One TV, Dr. Adomako expressed his doubts about the accuracy of Fitch Solutions’ prediction.

    Dr. Dickson Adomako Kissi

    “I am a bit weary about their results because I am rather of the opinion that December 7 for any strong party, be it the NDC or the NPP, to go beyond 52% will not be easy. That is my opinion, especially because of the trends worldwide.”

    He continued, “Looking at the trend of voters and their sophistication at this point, for anybody to pronounce a 54% win puts me in doubt. I think that even if people might change the government because of the trend in this country where after two terms Ghanaians naturally would rather prefer to have a change in governance, it gives the opposition party some edge for doing nothing because of the nature of Ghanaians and our voters.”

    Dr. Adomako further noted, “Moving above 51% will surprise me because, admittedly, the likes of Cheddar and the likes of the movement for change will grab some of the votes from either party. That is why I am questioning.”

    He concluded by emphasizing that the NPP would not disregard the reviews. “For the NPP, I must say that we will not take the reviews for granted. The appropriate thing for us to do is to keep at what we are doing and to demonstrate how the digital economy is still above the economy.”

  • Bawumia is ready to challenge Mahama in debate – Nana B

    Bawumia is ready to challenge Mahama in debate – Nana B

    The National Organizer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) has affirmed the party’s eagerness to participate in a debate with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) under any circumstances.

    In a recent Facebook post, Nana B announced the NPP’s readiness to debate the NDC, even if the event is held at the NDC’s headquarters or moderated by the NDC’s General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia.

    “DMB is ready to debate JDM even with Asiedu Nketia as the moderator and at the NDC’s headquarters or JDM’s office as the venue,” Nana B stated.

    This statement follows a call from the NPP’s flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for a debate with the NDC’s flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama.

    So far, Mahama has not officially addressed the debate challenge. His aide, Joyce Bawah, has dismissed the suggestion, arguing that given the current economic situation, there is nothing substantial to debate.

  • Fitch or no Fitch, we’re focused on winning election 2024 – Miracles Aboagye

    Fitch or no Fitch, we’re focused on winning election 2024 – Miracles Aboagye

    As Ghana’s December 7 general elections approach, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, spokesperson for the Bawumia campaign, has expressed confidence that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will secure a victory despite Fitch Solutions’ forecast favoring the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Aboagye acknowledged the current economic difficulties but highlighted the NPP’s commitment to economic improvement, noting that inflation has decreased from approximately 54% to 23%.

    He emphasized that the party is intensifying its campaign efforts, particularly in the northern regions, to persuade voters and demonstrate their dedication to bettering the economic situation.

    “As we speak, we are campaigning in the five northern regions.

    “Until we get to the polls and ballot in December, we believe that we have a responsibility to ensure that the Ghanaian voter has a reason to vote for us.

    “That is what we are doing,” he said.

    Fitch Solutions’ prediction suggests that 54% of respondents support the NDC candidate, John Mahama. Fitch analyst Mike Kruiniger pointed out that economic conditions are likely to play a crucial role in the election outcome.

    In response to the forecast, NDC Communications Officer Sammy Gyamfi welcomed the prediction but cautioned against complacency.

    He reiterated the party’s determination to work diligently to achieve a decisive victory and address what he described as issues under the current Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration.

    Gyamfi emphasized the need for the NDC to stay focused and committed to their campaign strategy.

  • Bawumia and Napo can’t win the election for NPP fairly – Nyaho Tamakloe claims

    Bawumia and Napo can’t win the election for NPP fairly – Nyaho Tamakloe claims

    A founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has expressed significant doubts about the party’s chances of success in the upcoming December elections.

    Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe questioned the viability of the ticket comprising NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his running mate, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh.

    In an exclusive interview with JoySports’ Atsu Tamakloe, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stated, “That ticket I personally don’t believe can win a genuine election in this country.”

    He suggested that the choice of running mate might hinder the ticket’s success.

    Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also implied that Dr. Bawumia did not have a significant role in selecting his running mate, which he believes will affect the ticket’s overall effectiveness.

    “And as I predicted earlier, that there is no way Bawumia will have a free hand to pick his running mate? Never. I said it earlier, I have the tape. [I said] his running mate was picked for him. And that’s exactly what happened,” he asserted.

    He further questioned the rationale behind not allowing Dr. Bawumia to choose his own running mate, implying that this decision could create a lack of synergy between the two candidates.

    “Why should Bawumia not be allowed to pick his own running mate? Whether he will gel with his running mate, that is his palava,” he added.

    Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe also criticized recent controversial statements made by Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as Napo, regarding Kwame Nkrumah. He suggested that Napo’s remarks have led to significant backlash, which could be challenging for him to overcome.

    “Certain mistakes are made and they are difficult to correct. So that mistake made by Napo, look at the reaction as a result of his statement that has sort of degenerated almost everywhere, even outside the country. Nigerians are even talking about it,” he explained.

    Additionally, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe issued a warning to the Electoral Commission, cautioning that any attempts to manipulate election results could have severe consequences.

    “Any tricks they will play to change the results will lead this country into a serious disaster,” he warned.

  • Ghana has witnessed significant transformation of the Police under Akufo-Addo’s govt – Bawumia

    Ghana has witnessed significant transformation of the Police under Akufo-Addo’s govt – Bawumia

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has lauded the substantial advancements in the Ghana Police Service under the leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo.

    Speaking at the commissioning of the Ghana Police Service Shop on July 17, Dr. Bawumia praised the transformative initiatives spearheaded by Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, which have markedly improved public safety and enhanced the relationship between the Police Service and the community.

    Dr. Bawumia highlighted that the reforms introduced by Dr. Dampare and his management team have led to significant improvements in policing and community engagement. He expressed pride in the achievements of the Police Service, which have made a tangible impact on national security and public trust.

    “The people of Ghana have witnessed a remarkable transformation in the Police Service under this administration,” Dr. Bawumia remarked.

    He noted several key improvements, including the facelift of the National Police Headquarters, the expansion and decentralisation of the Formed Police Unit (FPU) to all 25 Police Regions, increased police visibility, and the decentralisation of police background checks. A

    dditionally, active community and stakeholder engagements have brought policing closer to the people, alongside enhanced intelligence operations, uniform uniformity, and the Snatch Them Young Policing Initiative aimed at school children.

    Dr. Bawumia commended the IGP, the Police Management Board, and all officers for their efforts under the Police transformation agenda. He urged them to continue their excellent work, especially as Ghana prepares for the general elections on December 7th.

    The commissioning of the Police Service Shop, a new facility at the Police Headquarters, marks another step towards enhancing the operational efficiency and professionalism of the Ghana Police Service. The shop provides officers with additional uniform items and institutional souvenirs, supporting both their daily duties and official events.

    This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that the Police Service remains responsive, accountable, and operationally effective, reflecting the government’s commitment to transforming national security.

  • We are rather making Bawumia too popular, let’s change strategy – Top NDC member tells party

    We are rather making Bawumia too popular, let’s change strategy – Top NDC member tells party

    A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised serious concerns over the party’s current strategy to discredit Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    In an open letter published on ghanaguardian.com, James Essilfie Conduah, warned that the party’s attempts to label Dr. Bawumia as a liar are not only ineffective but are inadvertently increasing his popularity.

    Conduah, who has closely followed Ghanaian elections since 1996, criticized the NDC’s messaging approach for the 2024 campaign.

    He expressed his dismay, stating, “Having actively followed seven general elections, from the 1996 election, which the late President Rawlings won, I must admit, rather reluctantly and with disappointment, that the 2024 elections campaign of our party is the least effective in terms of messaging.”

    Despite the NDC’s efforts to tarnish Dr. Bawumia’s reputation, Conduah observed that the Vice President’s popularity continues to surge.

    He explained, “It was obvious to us over the last couple of years that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would be the likely flagbearer for the NPP in the 2024 Presidential elections. We, therefore, set out with a strategy to destroy his credibility by labelling him a liar at every opportunity.”

    Initially, Conduah supported this strategy, but he has since re-evaluated its effectiveness.

    “This strategy appears to be backfiring because, as Dr. Bawumia goes around the country, he appears to be more popular than ever. How come a man we have spent all our time with our communicators, labeling and branding a liar, is still popular with the people? The answer, obviously, is simple. When you label somebody a liar, you have to be able to prove, with evidence, the lies he has told.”

    Conduah admitted that Dr. Bawumia has fulfilled many promises that the NDC previously dismissed.

    “While we continue to tag him a liar, hoping it will stain his image, Bawumia is going around selling his message about what he has done as Vice President to Ghanaians. He is pointing out his achievements and explaining his vision. To be honest, I have watched videos of Dr. Bawumia on the campaign trail, and his message is compelling. And as a sympathiser of the NDC, this worries me.”

    The open letter also highlighted the growing support for Dr. Bawumia in various Northern regions, where he has received enthusiastic receptions during his campaign tour. Conduah’s concerns are echoed by other NDC members, who have noted the large crowds welcoming the Vice President.

    Member of Parliament for Tolon Constituency, Habib Iddrisu, remarked on the NDC’s anxiety over Dr. Bawumia’s campaign momentum.

    “… they are frightened by the movement of our flagbearer; he is a serious campaigner, the message. So they get the feedback from their constituencies,” Iddrisu said on State of Affairs on GHOne TV with Lantam Papanko.

    Conduah’s letter also underscored the various government initiatives spearheaded by Dr. Bawumia that have resonated with voters, including Agenda 111, One Constituency One Ambulance, Zongo Development Fund, and the Digital Address System. He argued that these achievements have strengthened Dr. Bawumia’s appeal to the electorate.

    “How can a voter ignore someone who has initiated or championed so many good policies such as Agenda 111, One Constituency One Ambulance, Zongo Development Fund, Ghanacard, and the Gold for Oil policy, among others? When Bawumia announced that drones would deliver medical supplies to remote areas, we called him a liar! He has achieved this, so how do we convince Ghanaians that he is a liar? What he is selling he has done are real issues that matter to the populace, and they appreciate Dr. Bawumia for it,” Conduah said.

    Conduah concluded his letter with a call for the NDC to reassess its campaign tactics. He urged the party to shift focus from undermining Dr. Bawumia’s credibility to presenting a compelling and policy-driven alternative to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

  • Branding Bawumia a liar is no longer working – Top NDC member worries over 2024 election

    Branding Bawumia a liar is no longer working – Top NDC member worries over 2024 election

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is apparently experiencing internal unease as its strategy to undermine Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s credibility appears to be backfiring.

    In an open letter published by ghanaguardian.com, a concerned NDC sympathiser, James Essilfie Conduah, expressed salient concerns and called for a change in the party’s campaign approach, highlighting the ineffectiveness of branding Dr. Bawumia as a liar.

    Conduah, who has actively followed Ghanaian elections since 1996, voiced his disappointment with the main opposition party’s current campaign strategy.

    “Having actively followed seven general elections, from the 1996 election, which the late President Rawlings won, I must admit, rather reluctantly and with disappointment, that the 2024 elections campaign of our party is the least effective in terms of messaging,” he wrote.

    Despite the NDC’s efforts to label Dr. Bawumia as untruthful, the Vice President’s popularity continues to rise.

    Conduah noted, “It was obvious to us over the last couple of years that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would be the likely flagbearer for the NPP in the 2024 Presidential elections. We, therefore, set out with a strategy to destroy his credibility by labelling him a liar at every opportunity.”

    Initially, Conduah believed this strategy was effective. However, he has since reconsidered its wisdom.

    “This strategy appears to be backfiring because, as Dr. Bawumia goes around the country, he appears to be more popular than ever. How come a man we have spent all our time with our communicators, labeling and branding a liar, is still popular with the people? The answer, obviously, is simple. When you label somebody a liar, you have to be able to prove, with evidence, the lies he has told.”

    Conduah acknowledged that Dr. Bawumia has delivered on many promises that the NDC dismissed as unattainable.

    Contrary to the NDC’s assertions, Dr. Bawumia, the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming 2024 Presidential elections, has been showcasing his achievements and vision during his campaign trail, which, according to Conduah, is resonating with many Ghanaians.

    “While we continue to tag him a liar, hoping it will stain his image, Bawumia is going around selling his message about what he has done as Vice President to Ghanaians. He is pointing out his achievements and explaining his vision. To be honest, I have watched videos of Dr. Bawumia on the campaign trail, and his message is compelling. And as a sympathiser of the NDC, this worries me,” Conduah stated in the open letter.

    Information gathered from the NDC suggests that the large crowds welcoming Dr. Bawumia during his tours in certain Northern areas are causing significant worry among opposition party leaders. In his ongoing campaign tour, Dr. Bawumia’s entourage made stops at Yendi, Nanton, and Karaga, receiving a massive outpouring of love from party supporters and sympathisers.

    In a recent media commentary, the Member of Parliament for Tolon Constituency, Habib Iddrisu, noted that the NDC has been stricken with fear by the movement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. “… they are frightened by the movement of our flagbearer; he is a serious campaigner, the message. So they get the feedback from their constituencies,” Iddrisu said on State of Affairs on GHOne TV with Lantam Papanko.

    James Essilfie Conduah, in his open letter, also highlighted various government initiatives spearheaded by Dr. Bawumia that have gained significant traction among voters. These initiatives include Agenda 111, One Constituency One Ambulance, Zongo Development Fund, Ghanacard, Digital Address System, Mobile Money Interoperability, Paperless Ports, and the Gold for Oil policy, among others.

    “How can a voter ignore someone who has initiated or championed so many good policies such as Agenda 111, One Constituency One Ambulance, Zongo Development Fund, Ghanacard, the ability to travel to Ghana with your Ghanacard, Digital Address System, Mobile Money Interoperability, Paperless Ports, Gold for Oil, buying ECG credit on the mobile phone, renewing NHIS membership on your mobile phone, solving the problem of ghost workers, amongst others?”

    Conduah admitted to the failure and lack of credibility in the NDC’s attempt to label Dr. Bawumia a liar, noting that the evidence points to the contrary, making the strategy impractical.

    He called on the party’s campaign leadership to reassess its tactics and focus on policies to regain voter confidence and present a compelling alternative to the ruling NPP.

    Read Conduah’s open letter below:

    Let’s change our campaign strategy on Dr Bawumia – an open letter by a concerned NDC sympathiser

    Dear Comrades,

    As a concerned sympathiser of the great National Democratic Congress, I write this open letter to the leadership of my party, with reservations and disappointment; and also with unusual frankness from a party fanatic.

    Having actively followed seven general elections, from the 1996 election which the late President Rawlings won, I must admit, rather reluctantly and with disappointment, that the 2024 elections campaign of our party, is the least effective, in terms of messaging

    It was obvious to us over the last couple of years that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will be the likely flagbearer for the NPP, in the 2024 Presidential elections. We therefore set out with a strategy to destroy his credibility by labeling him a liar at every opportunity.

    Initially I thought this was a very good strategy and it appeared to be working for some time. However, as the campaign has started in earnest, I am having second thoughts about the wisdom of this strategy. This strategy appears to be backfiring because as Dr. Bawumia goes around the country he appears to be more popular than ever.

    How come a man we have spent all our time, with our communicators, to label and brand a liar, still popular with the people? The answer, obviously is simple. When you label somebody a liar, you have to be able to prove, with evidence the lies he has told. But over the years, we have branded him a liar, yet, Bawumia continues to point to many things he said he would do, which we said he could not do, which, he has been able to do. This is an honest admission, which any strategist for my party should point out.

    While we continue to tag him a liar, hoping it will stain his image, Bawumia is going round selling his message about what he has done as Vice President to Ghanaians. He is pointing out his achievements and explaining his vision.

    To be honest, I have watched videos of Dr. Bawumia on the campaign trail and his message is compelling. And as a sympathiser of the NDC, this worries me.

    How can a voter ignore some one who has initiated or championed so many good policies such as the Agenda 111, One Constituency One Ambulance, Zongo Development Fund, Ghanacard, the ability to travel to Ghana with your Ghanacard, Digital Address System, Mobile Money Interoperability, Paperless Ports, Gold for Oil, Buying ECG credit on the mobile phone, renewing NHIS membership on your mobile phone, solving the problem of ghost workers, amongst others.

    When Bawumia announced that drone would deliver medical supplies to remote areas, we called him a liar! He has achieved this, so how do we convince Ghanaians that he is a liar? What he is selling he has done are real issues that matter to the populace and they appreciate Dr. Bawumia for it.

    Our strategy of trying to label him as somewhat untruthful does not hold water with most voters who have come to acknowledge Dr Bawumia as the best VP in the fourth republic.

    My advice to our NDC campaign leadership is that we should change course and rather attack Dr. Bawumia on his policies. We are rather making him more popular by trying to brand him as a liar because we rather appear to be lying to the Ghanaian public.

    We cannot continuously tag him a liar, when the evidence to the public points to the contrary.

    A word to the wise…… !

    James Essilfie Conduah

    Concerned NDC sympathiser

  • Bawumia applauds Dampare for ‘transforming’ the Police Service

    Bawumia applauds Dampare for ‘transforming’ the Police Service

    Vice President and Chairman of the Police Council, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has lauded the significant impact of the initiatives led by Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

    He noted that these efforts have noticeably improved national safety and bolstered the relationship between the Police Service and the community.

    Dr. Bawumia made these comments during the inauguration of the Ghana Police Service Shop at the Police Headquarters on Wednesday, July 17.

    He praised the work of the IGP and his team, highlighting their contributions to enhancing policing and community relations.

    The Vice President stressed the government’s pride in the accomplishments of Dr. Dampare and his team.

    He recognized that the improvements made under their leadership are having a real and noticeable impact on national security and public trust.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, the people of Ghana have witnessed the significant transformation of the Police Service under this administration. The facelift of the National Police Headquarters, the expansion and decentralisation of the Formed Police Unit (FPU) to all 25 Police Regions, enhanced police visibility, decentralisation of the police background checks to all police regions, active community and stakeholder engagements which have taken policing closer to the people, enhanced intelligence operations, uniform uniformity, the Snatch Them Young Policing Initiative which focuses on school Children among several other initiatives have ensured a more responsive, accountable and operationally effective policing institution,” the Vice President said.

    He stressed, “Once again, I wish to commend the IGP, the members of the Police Management Board and all officers and men for executing these initiatives under the Police transformation agenda.”

    “I would like to urge you to continue to do more, especially as the nation prepares to go into a general election come December 7th”

    The opening of the Police Service Shop marks a significant advancement in enhancing the operations and accessibility of the service.

    The Police Shop serves as a specialized venue where security personnel can acquire additional uniform pieces beyond what their agencies provide.

    In addition, the shop offers institutional memorabilia, which can be utilized for international exchange programs and official functions.

    The goal of the Police Shop is to guarantee that officers maintain a professional appearance in their uniforms and have access to supplementary resources required for their roles.

    This initiative is part of a larger strategy aimed at boosting the professionalism and efficiency of the security services.

  • Fix the economy and stop making vain campaign promises – Mahama to NPP

    Fix the economy and stop making vain campaign promises – Mahama to NPP

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has criticized the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing them of prioritizing campaigning and making empty promises over addressing economic issues.

    He pointed out that claims by the party’s running mate, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, suggesting that Akufo-Addo’s achievements surpass those of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, highlight the government’s disconnect from the country’s hardships.

    Mahama emphasized that the government should focus on resolving the nation’s current economic challenges.

    Speaking at a mini durbar during his visit to the Chiefs and Elders of La-Bawuleshie and Mempeasem in the Ayawaso West Constituency, Mahama urged the NPP government to concentrate on economic improvement instead of making unfounded promises.

    “Unfortunately, the people who have caused this economic crisis do not even realise there is a crisis. Because you hear them say they are the best government and even Nkrumah doesn’t compare, it shows they don’t even understand the situation in which Ghana is.

    “Because if they understood the situation, we are still five months to an election there are urgent measures they can take to ameliorate the situation. You don’t go saying vote for me and when I come I will do this or that; you can do it now.

    “You say you will rationalise taxes, five months to an election, is enough time to rationalise taxes. All the promises you are making, you have enough time to start implementing them now but you say, no, vote for me first then I will come and do it. What they did in 2016, they can’t do again,” he stated.

  • This is how TV3 will kill Tilapia’s creativity – Bridget Otoo on TV3’s apology to Bawumia

    This is how TV3 will kill Tilapia’s creativity – Bridget Otoo on TV3’s apology to Bawumia

    Media personality, Bridget Otoo, has reacted to an apology issued by TV3, a subsidiary of Media General, to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), following recent publications that subjected him to public ridicule.

    The media house expressed regret over a flyer created by satirist Tilapia Da Cartoonist, which mocked the Vice President regarding the payment of Nurses Trainee allowances.

    The graphic design showed a nurse giving the Vice President a jab to cure and stop “the allawa lies”.

    Earlier this year, Dr. Bawumia had announced that the government would release outstanding nursing trainee allowances, stating, “I am assuring our trainees that come this Thursday, the Controller and Accountant General shall transfer funds (177 million) to the Ministry of Finance for onward crediting of the trainee allowances accounts. So, hopefully by next week the ‘Alawa’ will drop.”

    Reacting to the apology statement, Bridget Otoo noted that such an action will impede the creativity of the satirist.

    “This is how TV3 will kill Tilapia’s creativity,” she write in a post on X.

    TV3 acknowledged the graphic representation created by Tilapia Da Cartoonist and stated, “We retract and apologize for the depiction of the NPP Flagbearer in the said publication and any related unsavoury comments made on any of our platforms in recent times.”

    “As a responsible media organization, we value fairness, accuracy, and respect in our reporting and content creation,” the media house added in its statement.

  • Bawumia cut sod to open ultra-modern police shop in Accra

    Bawumia cut sod to open ultra-modern police shop in Accra

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has inaugurated the Ghana Police Shop at the National Police Headquarters on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

    During the ceremony in Accra, Vice President Bawumia reiterated the Government’s commitment to backing the Ghana Police Service.

    The establishment of the Police Shop is a key aspect of the Government’s initiative to improve police infrastructure.

    Dr. Bawumia highlighted that the shop is intended to support, not replace, the Government’s duty of providing mandatory uniforms, aiming to enhance efforts in maintaining police uniformity.

    The Police Shop serves as a convenient all-in-one location where officers can acquire essential items such as office attire, operational gear, ceremonial wear, boots, and bags, supplementing the standard issue supplied by the Service.

    The shop also includes an online platform, enabling officers to place orders remotely.

    Vice President Bawumia pointed out significant investments made since 2017, such as the provision of housing, vehicles, motorbikes, and the recruitment of approximately 7,000 personnel.

    The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Henry Quartey, thanked the organizations and individuals who contributed to setting up the Police Shop.

    He stated that the government is dedicated to prioritizing national security and ensuring peaceful elections in December 2024.

    Hon. Quartey assured that the Police Service and other security agencies would fulfill their duties with professionalism to uphold law and order at all times.

  • “That is not how he is” – Buipe-Wura Jinapor II defends NAPO over arrogant tag

    “That is not how he is” – Buipe-Wura Jinapor II defends NAPO over arrogant tag

    Buipe-Wura Abdulai Jinapor II has denied claims that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), the vice-presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, is arrogant.

    Speaking during a visit from the NPP flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on July 16, 2024, Buipe-Wura Abdulai Jinapor II expressed that he is well-acquainted with NAPO, as NAPO is one of his subjects.

    The chief assured Dr. Bawumia that, similar to the guidance provided by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, he would advise NAPO to serve Dr. Bawumia with unwavering dedication.

    “Bawumia, listen to me very well. You are wise enough today. When you go, tell Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) that the Buipe-Wura said ‘I should greet you’.

    “Matthew Opoku Prempeh is not only coming from the Asantehene’s palace; Matthew Opoku Prempeh also comes from this particular parish. He is from this palace. When you ask him, he will tell you the rest of the story.

    He added, “And I know very well. When he tells you the story, you will come back. The way Asantehene has spoken to him, I would equally speak to him. The way people perceive or look at him to be, that is not how he is. And when you go, greet him for me.”

  • TV3 apologizes for unsavory ‘cartoons’ attacking Bawumia

    TV3 apologizes for unsavory ‘cartoons’ attacking Bawumia

    TV3, a subsidiary of Media General, has issued an apology to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), following recent publications that subjected him to public ridicule.

    The media house expressed regret over a flyer created by satirist Tilapia Da Cartoonist, which mocked the Vice President regarding the payment of Nurses Trainee allowances.

    Earlier this year, Dr. Bawumia had announced that the government would release outstanding nursing trainee allowances, stating, “I am assuring our trainees that come this Thursday, the Controller and Accountant General shall transfer funds (177 million) to the Ministry of Finance for onward crediting of the trainee allowances accounts. So, hopefully by next week the ‘Alawa’ will drop,” during the launch of International Nurses Day organized by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) in Accra, following threats of protest from affected nurses.

    TV3 acknowledged the graphic representation created by Tilapia Da Cartoonist and stated, “We retract and apologize for the depiction of the NPP Flagbearer in the said publication and any related unsavoury comments made on any of our platforms in recent times.”

    “As a responsible media organization, we value fairness, accuracy, and respect in our reporting and content creation,” the media house added in its statement.

  • FACT CHECK: Napo hasn’t resigned as Bawumia’s running mate

    FACT CHECK: Napo hasn’t resigned as Bawumia’s running mate

    GhanaFact.com has investigated a widely circulated press statement claiming the resignation of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, as the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    The media house confirmed on July 16, 2024, that the letter alleging Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s resignation is not authentic and does not originate from the ruling party.

    The press release in question, adorned with the NPP logo and Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s name, purported his resignation following controversial remarks he made about Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

    The statement claimed Dr. Opoku Prempeh made the decision after reflecting on public reactions and consulting with family members, including the Asantehene, HRM Otumfour Osei Tutu.

    According to GhanaFact’s investigation, the press release has been widely shared on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), garnering significant attention with over 91,000 views, 729 likes, and 185 comments. Various accounts amplified the false claim with captions suggesting his resignation was in the best interest of the country.

    Background checks by GhanaFact revealed that neither the NPP nor Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s official spokesperson, Fiifi Boafo, have endorsed or published any resignation letter. Fiifi Boafo explicitly refuted the press release, labeling it as entirely false.

    In conclusion, GhanaFact rates the claim as false and emphasizes that the purported resignation letter is fabricated. There is no credible evidence or official statement corroborating the misinformation spread on social media.

  • Upholding professionalism is crucial as we head towards December polls – Bawumia urges police

    Upholding professionalism is crucial as we head towards December polls – Bawumia urges police

    Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the importance of professionalism among Ghana Police Service personnel as the country approaches the general elections.

    Speaking in Accra on July 17, he praised the significant role of the Police Service in maintaining peace and highlighted Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare’s efforts in revitalizing the institution.

    Dr. Bawumia also called for increased dedication from the service members, noting the administration’s achievements in enhancing community engagement, intelligence operations, and readiness for the elections.

    “The people of Ghana have witnessed a significant transformation of the Police Service under our administration, a community and stakeholder engagement, enhanced intelligence operations and ensured a more responsive preparation, especially in the general elections,” Dr Bawumia said.

    Minister for the Interior Henry Quartey issued a stern warning against social media threats aimed at destabilizing the electoral process, promising legal action against offenders.

    “Often times, we read in the papers, and we see people threatening on social media. Very soon, anybody who makes a threatening statement to incite violence before, during and after the elections we will make sure the law deals with the person in a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Dr. Dampare reaffirmed the Police Service’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral environment through collaboration with other security agencies.

    “Under the National Election Committee, we will do our utmost best working once again with all security agencies to ensure that this year’s elections are peaceful. And the country will continually be seen as a trail blazer and the rest of the continent will know, and we will go all out to ensure there is peace,” Dr Dampare said.

    Later, Dr. Bawumia inaugurated the Ghana Police Shop, which will provide officers nationwide with uniforms and essential equipment, enhancing their operational capabilities.

    “The Police Shop is a dedicated shop where officers of the Police Service can purchase additional uniform items in support of what their respective institutions can provide, this will ensure officers always come out smart in their uniforms and also procure additional logistics to deliver on their mandate,” Dr Bawumia stated.

  • Ghana’s economic managers have lost it but Bawumia’s priority is a debate – John Jinapor

    Ghana’s economic managers have lost it but Bawumia’s priority is a debate – John Jinapor

    Member of Parliament for Yapei Kusawgu, John Jinapor, has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to address the pressing issue of the Cedi’s depreciation to mitigate rising fuel prices rather than focusing on debates ahead of the December elections.

    Mr Jinapor’s comments come in response to the recent increase in petroleum product prices, which has sparked widespread concern among Ghanaians.

    Speaking to journalists, Mr Jinapor criticized the government’s economic management, particularly highlighting the ineffective implementation of the gold-for-oil policy.

    This policy was intended to stabilize fuel prices by leveraging gold reserves, but according to Jinapor, it has failed to achieve its objectives.

    “The managers of the economy have to sit up. And clearly, the Bank of Ghana is losing it. While the Bank of Ghana is spending millions of Cedis and dollars on the gold-for-oil programme, the currency is not stabilizing,” Jinapor stated.

    He emphasized that the Cedi’s continued depreciation is driving up fuel prices and worsening the cost of living for Ghanaians.

    “The Cedi is depreciating, fuel prices are going up, cost of living is going up, and everybody is suffering. But worst of all, wages and salaries are stagnating. Wages and salaries are not going up. The managers of the economy have lost it.”

    Mr Jinapor urged Dr. Bawumia, who heads the government’s economic management team, to focus on these critical economic issues instead of engaging in political debates.

    “I think that Dr. Bawumia, instead of calling for a debate, should rather spend some time concentrating on managing the economy. He should stop the unnecessary call for a debate, do his work as the head of the economic management team and ensure that we deal with the ever-rising cost of fuel.”

  • You’re being “fooled” if you think you will win December polls – Koku Anyidoho to NDC

    You’re being “fooled” if you think you will win December polls – Koku Anyidoho to NDC

    The former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Sitsofe Anyidoho, has urged party members to dismiss a survey conducted by Executive Director of Global Info Analytics, Musa Danquah, which suggests that the party will emerge victorious in the December polls.


    The opinion survey, conducted on May 31, 2024, across selected constituencies in the Greater Accra Region, highlighted challenges faced by the ruling party, traditionally strong in these areas, six months prior to the general election.


    The poll revealed notable shifts in voting preferences. In constituencies like Okaikwei Central, Okaikwei South, Anyaa Sowutuom, and Trobu—where the NPP garnered an average of 62% of the vote in 2020—former President John Mahama now leads with 40.5%.

    Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flag bearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia followed closely with 36%, while Nana Kwame Bediako of New Force and Alan Kyeremanten of Movement for Change trail with 1.8% and 1.7%, respectively.


    Significantly, 10.4% of voters remain undecided, and 9.4% have declared they will abstain from voting.


    Taking to the X platform Mr. Anyidoho, criticized the survey, alleging it was crafted to mislead and exploit the party for personal gain.

    “John Mahana is busy cooling off in Russia enjoying while Greater Accra NDC is on fire . So if Musa Danquah lies to the NDC that JM will win G/A by 70%, they should know that he is just fooling them and chopping money freeeeee!!!!!!!,” he wrote.

  • Calling for a debate with Mahama unnecessary – Jinapor to Bawumia

    Calling for a debate with Mahama unnecessary – Jinapor to Bawumia

    The MP for Yapei Kusawgu, John Jinapor, has urged the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to prioritize addressing the depreciation of the Cedi to counter the escalating fuel prices rather than focusing on debates ahead of the December elections.

    Jinapor’s remarks follow the recent surge in petroleum product prices.

    During a media interaction, Yapei Kusawgu criticized the government for allegedly causing financial losses to the state due to the ineffectual implementation of the gold-for-oil policy aimed at curbing the persistent rise in fuel costs.

    “The managers of the economy have to sit up. And clearly, the Bank of Ghana is losing it. While the Bank of Ghana is spending millions of Cedis and dollars on the gold-for-oil programme, the currency is not stabilising.

    “The Cedi is depreciating, fuel prices are going up, cost of living is going up, and everybody is suffering. But worst of all, wages and salaries are stagnating. Wages and salaries are not going up. The managers of the economy have lost it.

    “And I think that Dr. Bawumia, instead of calling for a debate, should rather spend some time concentrating on managing the economy. He should stop the unnecessary call for a debate, do his work as the head of the economic management team and ensure that we deal with the ever-rising cost of fuel.

  • Bawumia is a threat to NDC – Tolon MP

    Bawumia is a threat to NDC – Tolon MP

    Member of Parliament (MP) for Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, has asserted that National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs are uneasy about the activities of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, prompting deliberate moves to force parliamentary adjournments due to insufficient quorum.

    Speaking on GHOne TV’s State of Affairs with Lantam Papanko, the lawmaker revealed that the adjournment strategy was a direct response to concerns over Dr. Bawumia‘s extensive campaigning in their constituencies.

    “They have said we were in their constituency campaigning. They are fighting about the movement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. They said on the floor of Parliament that while they are sitting here doing the government business we are in their constituencies campaigning.

    “So they are frightened by the movement of our flagbearer; he is a serious campaigner, the message. So they get the feedback from their constituencies,” the deputy Majority Chief Whip stated.

    “So they say that ‘if we don’t have the numbers, then we adjourn’. But we will get there, we will talk to each other and get our members into the chamber, and then we will be able to do the government business.”

    Background:

    The minority acted on their threat to disrupt proceedings when New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs failed to attend. At the start of business today, fewer than 50 MPs were present instead of the required 92, prompting MP for Tamale Central, Murtala Mohammed, to bring this to the Speaker’s attention.

    He criticized the NPP MPs for campaigning in NDC constituencies while expecting government business to proceed.

    “Lying on our numbers to have a business of government executed, for me, demonstrates a lack of seriousness. And I don’t think that we need to be giving them this opportunity. Mr Speaker, last week and the last two weeks, I raised this issue. They are in our constituencies, campaigning, yet they expect us to execute their business for them,” Mohammed Murtala.

    Following warnings from Bole-Bamboi MP Yussif Sulemana and minority chief whip Governs Kwame Agbodza, the minority suspended proceedings until the Speaker intervened, eventually adjourning to reconvene on Tuesday.

  • Leave Mahama and debate the unemployed Ghanaian youth – Ayariga to Bawumia

    Leave Mahama and debate the unemployed Ghanaian youth – Ayariga to Bawumia

    The Deputy National Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Osman Ayariga, has thrown a challenge to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, urging him to debate the unemployed youth of Ghana before considering a political face-off with former President John Dramani Mahama.

    In a Facebook post dated Tuesday, July 16, Ayariga emphasized that the youth, who are grappling with unemployment, are prepared and eager for such a debate with Dr. Bawumia.

    He argued that Dr. Bawumia should focus on addressing the pressing issue of job creation rather than engaging in political debates.

    “1.9 million youth have no jobs yet this wicked government claimed they have created over 3 million jobs! Where are the jobs? Come and debate them, sir,” Ayariga stated.

    He criticized the current administration’s claims and highlighting the disconnect between the government’s assertions and the lived reality of many Ghanaians.

    Dr. Bawumia, who is the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), had earlier challenged his NDC counterpart, John Dramani Mahama, to a debate ahead of the upcoming elections. However, the NDC has dismissed the need for such a debate, arguing that the real issues facing Ghanaians are evident in the current harsh economic conditions.

    Ayariga further lambasted the Akufo-Addo-led government, describing it as indifferent to the struggles of the Ghanaian people.

    He urged Dr. Bawumia to prioritize creating tangible solutions for the youth’s unemployment crisis rather than seeking political showdowns.

  • Road projects completed in Tatale/Sanguli proves I can be trusted – Bawumia

    Road projects completed in Tatale/Sanguli proves I can be trusted – Bawumia

    Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has presented convincing evidence of road infrastructure projects completed in the Tatale/Sanguli constituency of the Northern Region, demonstrating that the government has fulfilled its promises to the community.

    “When I came here to campaign in 2020, I promised you that if you give me and the NPP the mandate, we will fix this very important road linking Tatale to Yendi and Tamale.”

    “Today you can all see the extensive work done on this road. 167km of road is almost completed. The contractor tells me he will be done in two months.”

    “This is the longest road constructed by this government. So, you can see that even as Vice President, I have fulfilled the promise I made to you.”

    “When you make me President, you can be confident that I will fulfil my promises to you.”

    These remarks were made by NPP flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia, during a community engagement in Tatale, located in the Tatale/Sanguli constituency of the Northern Region, over the weekend.

    Dr. Bawumia stated that the NPP government, where he serves as Vice President, has diligently worked to meet the promises made to the people of the Tatale/Sanguli constituency. He added that if elected President on December 7, he would strive to achieve even more.

    “When we came into the office in 2017, only 17 communities in Tatale/Sanguli had been connected to the national electricity grid. Today, in just eight years, we now have 44 communities connected to the grid. Before the end of the year, 15 more will be added,” he assured the gathering.

    “We are addressing the water challenge in your face. So far, we have sunk 175 boreholes in various communities in the Constituency, with more in the offing.

    “There will be an Agenda 111 hospital in Tatale/Sanguli. We are expanding access to agricultural inputs, healthcare, and education as well.

    Dr. Bawumia encouraged the residents to continue supporting him and the NPP in the 2024 elections, emphasizing that the party has proven its dedication to the constituency’s development.

    “We are addressing the challenges that have bedevilled the people of this constituency. If you look at the body of work, we have done in Tatale/Sanguli, you can see that I have brought more development to Tatale/Sanguli as Vice President than my main opponent, John Mahama when he was Vice President and President,” Dr Bawumia declared.

    “Under John Mahama, the north went backwards, but under Nana Akufo-Addo and Dr Bawumia, the north has seen massive development. With me as President, you will witness even more,” he pledged.

  • 8 detained for taking down Bawumia, NPP PC’s billboard in Agona East

    8 detained for taking down Bawumia, NPP PC’s billboard in Agona East

    The Swedru Police Command has apprehended eight individuals for allegedly dismantling a billboard featuring Hannah Asamoah, the parliamentary candidate for Agona East Constituency, and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    According to a report from EDHUB, the billboard was taken down at Mankrong Nkwanta under the direction and oversight of local town chiefs and elders.

    Video footage of the incident depicts two men using a shovel and pickaxe to excavate beneath the billboard’s supports.

    A voice in the background accuses the area’s current Member of Parliament of orchestrating the billboard’s removal.

    During the dismantling, several chiefs and elders were observed nearby, some seated in close proximity.

  • Gideon Boako goes hard on Ohene Ntow for remarks against Bawumia’s father

    Gideon Boako goes hard on Ohene Ntow for remarks against Bawumia’s father

    Spokesperson for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Gideon Boako, has sharply criticized Nana Ohene Ntow, former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and current adviser to Mr. Alan Kyerematen, for his derogatory remarks about Bawumia’s late father.

    The controversy arose after Mr. Ohene Ntow referred to Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia as a gossip during a public discussion on Peace FM’s morning show on Monday, July 15.

    During the broadcast, Ohene Ntow’s comments sparked widespread backlash. Dr. Boako, who was also present on the program, condemned the remarks as disrespectful and baseless.

    He emphasized that Dr. Bawumia’s father was a respected statesman who made significant contributions to Ghana’s political landscape.

    Gideon Boako stressed that such disparaging comments about a deceased elder statesman are not only inappropriate but also unbecoming of a senior party member.

    He argued that Ohene Ntow’s statements do not reflect the values and principles of the NPP, a party that prides itself on respect for individuals and their contributions to national development.

    A member of the Alan Kyerematen campaign team, Nana Ohene Ntow

    Dr. Boako urged Mr. Ohene Ntow to desist from making personal attacks and instead focus on constructive discussions that will advance the country’s democratic agenda.

    He emphasized the importance of upholding the dignity and legacy of past leaders who have sacrificed for the progress of the nation.

    “Where is the evidence? It’s just hearsay, and with your experience in politics, I don’t expect you to be saying something like this. You’re peddling falsehoods about the vice president’s father, and it is totally unnecessary and uncalled for. I urge you to stop making them,” Dr. Boako stated.

    “Until you have any evidence, you shouldn’t be making these comments. This is the job of amateurs in politics, not someone as experienced as you are,” he added.

  • IEA prepares for 2024 presidential debate

    IEA prepares for 2024 presidential debate

    The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has announced the organization of a debate among some of the political parties intending to contest in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    This debate, according to the IEA, is essential for voters to critically assess both presidential and vice-presidential candidates, thereby enabling informed decision-making.

    The call for debates comes amidst ongoing disagreements between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the necessity of holding such debates.

    Professor Alexander Bilson Darku, a senior fellow at the IEA, emphasized the importance of these debates in an interview with Citi News. He revealed that preliminary engagements have already commenced with various political parties to ensure a debate is held before the December 7 elections.

    “Let me make this very clear from the beginning. The need for debate is the right of the people. The people of Ghana ought to know what their presidential candidate, and for that matter, the party they represent, have in stock for them,” Professor Darku stated. He added, “We are at a very early stage now, talking to them [the political parties]. We have our timetable, and very soon, it will be known to the public as to the programme that the IEA has outlined to make this all-important presidential debate come on.”

    Professor Darku assured that the debates would be scheduled at a time beneficial for both the participating parties and the nation. He refrained from delving into specific details but affirmed that the timing would be advantageous.

    Additionally, Professor Darku mentioned that the selection of participating parties and candidates would follow the Afrobarometer criteria.

    “It has established a threshold, and we will use that threshold to invite the parties that meet the threshold to participate in the debate. This might be four or five parties, and their presidential candidates and vice-presidential candidates will be invited to participate in the debate.”

  • Flashback: My father and Bawumia’s father were quite close friends – Mahama

    Flashback: My father and Bawumia’s father were quite close friends – Mahama

    An old video featuring former President, John Dramani Mahama discussing his familial ties with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has recently emerged on social media.

    Back in 2008, John Evans Atta Mills, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), chose John Dramani Mahama, then the Member of Parliament for Bole Constituency, as his running mate.

    During the same period, Akufo-Addo, the leader of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), selected Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as his running mate for the general election.

    In this video, Mahama recounts the coincidental nature of their political careers and familial connections, noting the uncanny similarities that have marked Ghana’s political landscape.

    He went on to describe how their fathers were neighbors, living in the same area in Tamale and often visiting each other’s homes.

    “Actually, the coincidence in our politics has been very uncanny. Because my father and Dr. Bawumia’s father were quite close friends in the CPP together, and they kind of followed a certain or the same track; they got educated about the same time together [at Tamale Secondary School], my father became Regional Minister for the Northern Region after Mumuni Bawumia became Regional Minister for the Northern Region. They all had large families; I think they both had the same number of children.

    “I think Mumuni Bawumia had 19 children; my dad too had 19 children,” he stated.

    He went on to describe how their fathers were neighbors, living in the same area in Tamale and often visiting each other’s homes.

    “There were many parallels between their lives; they were close friends and neighbors, living in the same vicinity in Tamale,” Mahama added.

    Reflecting on his relationship with Dr. Bawumia, Mahama noted that while he was closer in age to Dr. Bawumia’s elder brothers, their families were well-acquainted.

    “We grew up together, myself and Mahamudu. He was younger than me, and so his elder brothers were closer to me than he was. But we knew each other; the families knew each other very well,” John Mahama said.

    Mahama also highlighted the influence of his late father, who served as his mentor and chief advisor, shaping his political journey. He credited his brothers with playing a role in his entry into parliament.

    In the 2008 elections, the Mills-Mahama ticket triumphed over the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia ticket.

    Following the death of Prof. Mills ahead of the 2012 election, Mahama, who succeeded him, went on to win the general election against the same Akufo-Addo-Bawumia pair.

    However, in 2016, the tables turned, with Nana Addo and Dr. Bawumia defeating Mahama, who had then partnered with the late Amissah Arthur as his vice-presidential candidate.

    Mahama was unsuccessful in regaining power in the 2020 general elections, running with Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as his vice-presidential candidate.

    Looking ahead to the 2024 election, Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer, has once again partnered with Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, facing an NPP ticket led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who has succeeded Nana Akufo-Addo as the party’s flagbearer.

    Watch video

  • I missed NAPO’s unveiling because I was working on a report for Bawumia – Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    I missed NAPO’s unveiling because I was working on a report for Bawumia – Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    The Member of Parliament for Suame Constituency, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has explained the absence of key New Patriotic Party (NPP) figures from the event unveiling Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh(NAPO), as the party’s running mate in Kumasi.

    In a recent interview shared on YouTube, Mensah-Bonsu clarified that his absence, along with that of the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu (Joe Wise), was due to their commitments to parliamentary and party responsibilities.

    Mensah-Bonsu revealed that NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia tasked him with drafting the party’s manifesto for the 2024 elections.

    This role required him to be engaged in intensive work sessions, including a crucial meeting the day before the unveiling ceremony.

    “The work that the vice president tasked me with as the manifesto committee head required me to work with the team to draft the report for him. We worked on Monday, the day before the unveiling.

    “We had other discussions that we needed to include in the manifesto, so we had to stay and work on those things because Bawumia needed such information for his regional tours a few days after the event.

    “I have already informed my younger brother, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, about why I couldn’t go,” he said.

    Mensah-Bonsu stated that he had informed Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh about his inability to attend the event.

    He also mentioned that Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister of Education, was engaged in parliamentary duties, specifically related to the National Service Authority Bill, where his presence was crucial as the sponsoring minister.

    “I was in the office working during the time my younger brother NAPO was being unveiled. I was in the office working when they called from parliament, asking me to come help with the National Service Authority bill.

    “So, I went to parliament and met former mayor Osei Assibey, who is the chief executive at the National Service Secretariat. He told me they had a problem with the bill, and Hon. Osei Owusu had told him to call me to come and help.

    “The sponsoring minister for the national service is Adutwum, so he was also supposed to be in parliament as the Minister of Education. Bagbin was also occupied with other matters, so he had summoned Osei Owusu to sit in for the proceedings. When I arrived, I realized Osei Owusu was the one presiding,” he asserted.

    Mr Mensah-Bonsu further noted that the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Bekwai Constituency, Joseph Osei Owusu, was also engaged in parliamentary proceedings, presiding over the session due to other commitments of Speaker Bagbin.

    “We sat and worked on the bill, and even when I wanted to visit the washroom, Osei Assibey thought I was running away and had to follow me.

    “Adutwum had to be there because of the national service bill, and Osei Owusu was also presiding that day, which is why he couldn’t go. I haven’t asked them yet, but based on what I saw, this is why I am saying this,” he added.

    NAPO was unveiled as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate on June 9, 2024, in Kumasi.

  • Flashback: Bawumia and I grew up together – Mahama

    Flashback: Bawumia and I grew up together – Mahama

    An old video featuring former President John Dramani Mahama discussing his familial ties with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has recently emerged on social media.

    Back in 2008, John Evans Atta Mills, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), chose John Dramani Mahama, then the Member of Parliament for Bole Constituency, as his running mate.

    During the same period, Akufo-Addo, the leader of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), selected Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as his running mate for the general election.

    In this video, Mahama recounts the coincidental nature of their political careers and familial connections, noting the uncanny similarities that have marked Ghana’s political landscape.

    He went on to describe how their fathers were neighbors, living in the same area in Tamale and often visiting each other’s homes.

    “Actually, the coincidence in our politics has been very uncanny. Because my father and Dr. Bawumia’s father were quite close friends in the CPP together, and they kind of followed a certain or the same track; they got educated about the same time together [at Tamale Secondary School], my father became Regional Minister for the Northern Region after Mumuni Bawumia became Regional Minister for the Northern Region. They all had large families; I think they both had the same number of children.

    “I think Mumuni Bawumia had 19 children; my dad too had 19 children,” he stated.

    He went on to describe how their fathers were neighbors, living in the same area in Tamale and often visiting each other’s homes.

    “There were many parallels between their lives; they were close friends and neighbors, living in the same vicinity in Tamale,” Mahama added.

    Reflecting on his relationship with Dr. Bawumia, Mahama noted that while he was closer in age to Dr. Bawumia’s elder brothers, their families were well-acquainted.

    “We grew up together, myself and Mahamudu. He was younger than me, and so his elder brothers were closer to me than he was. But we knew each other; the families knew each other very well,” John Mahama said.

    Mahama also highlighted the influence of his late father, who served as his mentor and chief advisor, shaping his political journey. He credited his brothers with playing a role in his entry into parliament.

    In the 2008 elections, the Mills-Mahama ticket triumphed over the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia ticket.

    Following the death of Prof. Mills ahead of the 2012 election, Mahama, who succeeded him, went on to win the general election against the same Akufo-Addo-Bawumia pair.

    However, in 2016, the tables turned, with Nana Addo and Dr. Bawumia defeating Mahama, who had then partnered with the late Amissah Arthur as his vice-presidential candidate.

    Mahama was unsuccessful in regaining power in the 2020 general elections, running with Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as his vice-presidential candidate.

    Looking ahead to the 2024 election, Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer, has once again partnered with Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, facing an NPP ticket led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who has succeeded Nana Akufo-Addo as the party’s flagbearer.

    Watch video

  • There’s no need to debate with Mahama over the economy you have crashed – NDC to Bawumia

    There’s no need to debate with Mahama over the economy you have crashed – NDC to Bawumia

    Joyce Bawah Mogtari, spokesperson for the John Mahama Campaign Team, reiterated her stance that a pre-election debate between the NDC flagbearer and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP flagbearer, is unnecessary.

    Despite calls from political analysts and stakeholders, Bawah Mogtari dismissed the idea of a debate between the two primary contenders.

    On Saturday, July 13, Bawah Mogtari posted on X (formerly Twitter) that there is no longer any need for a debate, pointing to the country’s economic challenges. She encouraged voters to make informed decisions in the 2024 elections.

    “My Dear Brothers and Sisters, what really is there to debate about, there is absolutely nothing left to debate. The economy has crashed and the country broke. “We dey for gutter inside”. A steering wheel without a car can’t get anyone anywhere. Let’s vote wisely, choose experience.”

    In an earlier interview on The Point of View on Channel One TV, Bawah Mogtari expressed her reservations about a debate between the two main candidates. While acknowledging Mahama’s energy and extensive knowledge, she was hesitant to accept a debate invitation.

  • “He is a man of his words” – Tatale Chief praises Bawumia

    “He is a man of his words” – Tatale Chief praises Bawumia

    The chief of Kuyuli in the Tatale Sanguli constituency, Ubore Nambu Jakobiki IV, has lauded NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, praising him as a man who keeps his promises.

    In a meeting with stakeholders and opinion leaders during a campaign tour, the Chief commended Dr. Bawumia for his dedication to delivering on his commitments to the constituency.

    The Chief noted that Dr. Bawumia has honored his pledges, proving himself to be a dependable and trustworthy leader.

    He pointed out that recent improvements in infrastructure, particularly the roads, have made travel between Tatale and Tamale much more accessible.

    “The chiefs and people of Tatale will not turn our backs to you. We will stand solidly behind you. In fact in 2020, I was privileged to be the moderator of your rally here in Tatale and my late paramount chief made a clarion call on this road. Today we wish he was alive to meet with you but God has done his part.”

    “Today we comfortably travel from Tatale to Tamale without having to change our clothes unlike before. Our women, when thy were delivering and had to be referred, the ‘azonto’ dance on the road is now a thing of the past. So we are giving you all the assurance that the people of Tatale are much grateful to the government of NPP and we don’t want to retrogress, we want to make progress,” he said.

    The chief expressed hope in Dr Bawumia’s re-election to achieve anticipated developmental goals.

    “In making progress, it is wise to choose a man God has sent who will have the opportunity to serve us for two terms so that, our much anticipated development will become a reality.”

  • Bawumia shuts down Bimbila

    Bawumia shuts down Bimbila

    New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer and Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is massively campaigning across the nation, leaving no town, region, or village untouched.

    This forms part of his extensive campaign efforts to connect with voters at every level.

    A video shared on Twitter by National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) former deputy secretary Koku Anyidho shows a huge crowd with chants and drums cheering on Dr Bawumia during a campaign rally at Bimbila in the Northern Region of Ghana.

    The vice president was captured reacting to accolades and cheering on from the MC of the programme to the loud chants of the people.

    His new favourite song, King Paluta’s “Aseda,” which appears to be his current campaign song, was also being played in the background.

    Koku Anyidoho in his caption, said, ” Bawumia in Bimbila. He is coming across as a go-getter who continues to remain very determined and focused on his campaign, not allowing himself to be swayed away from what he has to do. I keep saying that this type of campaign has nothing to do with GDP/FX rates etc”.

  • Former NDC MP offers himself, Adongo to Bawumia for debate instead of Mahama

    Former NDC MP offers himself, Adongo to Bawumia for debate instead of Mahama

    Former Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency under the National Democratic Congress (NDC),Daniel Kwesi Ashaimah has issued a challenge to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    He proposed a debate involving himself and Honourable Isaac Adongo, MP for Bolgatanga Constituency, alongside the Vice President.

    Ashaimah questioned the Vice President’s call for a debate with former President John Dramani Mahama, suggesting it lacked credibility. He recalled a past incident where Dr. Bawumia had dismissed Mahama’s debate request in 2016, telling him to engage farmers in his hometown instead.

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has accused former President John Mahama of avoiding a live debate, insinuating that Mahama is unable to adequately explain his policies.

    Addressing thousands of his supporters yesterday (July 10, 2024) in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia said, “I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on governance.” “But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. I have never heard of an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies.”

    Mr. Ashaimah, however, lambasted Dr. Bawumia, painting him as lacking integrity and moral strength to initiate a debate.

    He argued that a leader who has not clarified why Ghana’s economy is struggling, nor demonstrated his ability to fulfill promises made to his constituents, is not worthy of a debate.

    According to Ashaimah, Mahama, as a candidate, has the prerogative to accept or reject a debate with someone he views as dishonest. Ultimately, he asserted that Dr. Bawumia lacks the former president’s sophistication.

    Appearing on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the former lawmaker said, “In 2016, Mahama called for a debate, and Bawumia told him to go to his hometown and debate with businessmen and tell them why businesses were collapsing. He also went on to tell him to debate farmers about why fertilisers were being sold to them when, in actuality, they were never sold. That was what he told Mahama. Mahama is our flag bearer, and the decision to debate or not debate lies with him.

    Bawumia should also travel to Walewale and explain why the promise to build a watermelon factory has not materialised. Mahama requested a debate in 2016, but your government refused to engage in one. You also wrote 177 questions to the late Amissah Arthur, which you have yet to answer. He should travel to Pawlugu and explain to his people why they spent our resources while there is no dam there. He should also explain to Ghanaians why the Bank of Ghana incurred losses of GH₵60.8 billion in two years.

    He should also explain why they stole $50 million to dig the world’s most expensive hole. After that, he should return to debate with me (Ashaimah) and Isaac Adongo, so I will show him the Bank of Ghana Hospital, Ridge Hospital, Afari Hospital, Mampong, and Konongo Water projects, and they will show us theirs.

    Take a look at the people that are talking and appealing for a debate. We will use the same fundamentals to evaluate you, such as inflation, the exchange rate, cedi depreciation, and debt-to-GDP growth. He should quit joking. Myself and Adongo are ready to debate him any time, any day.”

  • 2024 polls: Vote me out if I don’t deliver after my first term – ‘Confident’ Bawumia says

    2024 polls: Vote me out if I don’t deliver after my first term – ‘Confident’ Bawumia says

    Presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has appealed to the Nanung community for their support in the upcoming December elections.

    Highlighting his potential to lead for two terms, Bawumia contrasted this with former President John Mahama’s single-term capability.

    He urged the people to entrust him with the presidency, promising accountability and the option to reconsider if he does not meet their expectations.

    These statements were made during his campaign visit to Bimbilla in the Northern region.

    “I am the Vice President; I’ve not been president yet and I want to plead with you. I am going to the contest with my senior, John Mahama; he has been president before, and when he comes, he has only four years.

    “When I come, I have eight years, so, if you look at the presidency, do we want four years or eight? After four years, he won’t come but I will come for renewal, so please give me the chance so that I can be accountable.”

    Regent Nyelinbolgu Naa Dassana Andani Yakubu of Bimbilla has declared unwavering backing for Dr. Bawumia, citing the NPP government’s impactful initiatives in the constituency.

    He voiced optimism that Dr. Bawumia, if elected, would institute a healthcare facility, enhance the Bimbilla municipal hospital, establish a university, and upgrade water infrastructure across Nanung.

  • Mahama accept Bawumia’s debate challenge – Financial analyst advices

    Mahama accept Bawumia’s debate challenge – Financial analyst advices

    Financial analyst Prince Obiri Yeboah has called on John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), to accept the challenge of debating Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Vice President Bawumia expressed his readiness to debate former President Mahama on the economy and governance, asserting that the NPP has a superior record. During a youth connect program in Bunkpurugu in the North East Region, Dr. Bawumia provoked Mahama, suggesting that Mahama is avoiding the debate to prevent exposing the weaknesses in his policies.

    “I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, and governance. I fear that he is avoiding the debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. He doesn’t want to debate because he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies.

    “He says he has a 24-hour economy that he cannot explain; it is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it, none of his people can. They say we will be exporting lions and elephants, but when we meet mano a mano, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies lie. That is where we should go; we should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. But if he chooses not to debate, I will sell my policies to the people of Ghana, and you will take the decision.”

    But commenting on the issue in an interview on Ghana Kasa on Kasapa 102.5FM Friday, Financial Analyst Prince Obiri Yeboah said Mr. Mahama should avail himself of the debate because the data and figures on the economy indicate that the NPP government has failed.

    “I urge former President Mahama to accept the challenge and debate the vice president. If Ghanaians base their votes on the December 7 election on economic management, then the NPP should lose this election. The economic data shows that the NPP government has failed. There is a lot of hardship in the system.

    The reason why Ghanaians are not crying out too much nowadays about the hardship is that they have tuned up their minds, not because there has been a significant improvement in their lives. The data and figures show that things are not right with the economy.

    “NPP is good at terminologies, everything they do, they have a unique way of couching it and making it appealing to the citizenry, but the overall impact of those catchy terminologies on the living conditions of Ghanaians is negligible. Politicians should be consistent with their principles or standards.

    “… Things started going wrong in Ghana two years ago, but the vice president decided not to address concerns raised by Ghanaians about the economy. Today, what has changed and is pushing the Vice President to call for a debate with Mahama?” Prince Obiri Yeboah asked.

  • Minority vows to frustrate Parliamentary business over Majority’s absence for Bawumia’s campaign

    Minority vows to frustrate Parliamentary business over Majority’s absence for Bawumia’s campaign

    Minority in Parliament is threatening to obstruct parliamentary business if the Majority’s attendance does not improve starting next week.

    Since Parliament resumed in July, attendance from NPP MPs has been sparse, with rarely more than 30 present, leaving the Minority to shoulder the responsibility of conducting government business.

    This situation follows the recent unveiling of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the running mate by NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Speaking on the floor of the House, Deputy Minority Whip Ahmed Ibrahim criticised the NPP MPs for prioritising campaigning with Dr. Bawumia over their parliamentary duties.

    Mr. Ibrahim warned that if the situation persists, the Minority will instruct their legislators to also focus on campaigning, potentially crippling the House’s functionality.

  • People are looking forward to a Bawumia-Mahama debate; forget the other parties – Nana B

    People are looking forward to a Bawumia-Mahama debate; forget the other parties – Nana B

    The National Organiser of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has underscored the public anticipation for a debate between John Mahama, the main opposition party candidate, and the NPP flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia.

    Mr. Boakye also known as Nana B emphasized that such a debate is crucial given the prominence of the NPP and NDC in Ghanaian politics.

    Speaking on the JoyNews AM show, Mr. Boakye expressed the view that a debate between Dr. Bawumia and Mr. Mahama would provide a critical platform for discussing policy issues directly with the Ghanaian electorate.

    He highlighted the importance of debates in clarifying the positions of both parties on key national issues, especially amidst discussions about the economy and policy decisions.

    “I think that for me, we should not even include any other political party. I mean, these are the two main political parties. NPP, NDC, and I think they need to log on to this particular debate because, the NDC claims that a sitting vice president who is also the chairperson for the economic management team made some decisions, and they want to blame some of the challenges that we have regarding the economy on him. That is fine. That is their view. That view can be respected by some people. So why not debate?,” Mr. Boakye remarked.

    He noted that organisations like the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) are eagerly awaiting such a debate between the two main contenders for the presidency.

    “People are looking for it, and it is very important we need to have it,” Mr. Boakye emphasized, highlighting the public interest in seeing both Dr. Bawumia and Mr. Mahama engage in an intellectual discussion about their respective policies and visions for Ghana’s future.

  • Watch Bawumia’s Kinatso dance moves

    Watch Bawumia’s Kinatso dance moves

    The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has once again thrilled supporters with his energetic dance moves during a trip to Mion in the Northern Region.

    The viral video showed the Vice President in high spirits performing the Kinatso culture dance as enthusiastic supporters cheered him on.

    Dressed in a brown beautiful handwoven fabric, Fugu, Dr. Bawumia connected with the crowd through music and dance.

    Watch video below:

  • A vote against Bawumia is a civic duty – Bridget Otoo

    A vote against Bawumia is a civic duty – Bridget Otoo

    Prominent Ghanaian journalist Bridget Otoo has urged the public to vote against the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    “Bawumia is needed here…. A vote against Bawumia is a civic duty,” she wrote on the X platform.

    Her plea follows a recent report highlighting discrepancies in remittance tracking by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Auditor General (AG), revealing that approximately $12 billion in remittances to Ghana from 2018 to 2022 are unaccounted for.

    The report shows conflicting data between the World Bank and the Bank of Ghana.

    While the World Bank tracked $21.1 billion in remittances to Ghana during this period, the Auditor General’s reports on the BoG’s consolidated statements of foreign exchange receipts and payments only accounted for $9.5 billion, leaving a gap of about $11.6 billion.

    Furthermore, the Bank of Ghana’s 2023 annual financial statement disclosed that 11 licensed FinTech companies provided inward remittance services, with remittances totaling GH¢57 billion (US$5 billion) in 2023, up from GH¢18 billion (US$3 billion) in 2022.

    However, the BoG failed to disclose the actual amounts received in foreign currencies for both years, violating Accounting Standard 21 (IAS 21).

    Additionally, the BoG’s consolidated statements have consistently failed to capture remittances held by payment platforms other than the 23 dealer banks, allowing significant leakages and enabling some FinTech companies to illegally hold foreign exchange at the state’s expense due to inadequate regulatory frameworks.

    According to the World Bank, $4 billion in remittances flowed into Ghana’s economy between 2016 and 2022, making forex inflows from remittances higher than those from cocoa, oil, and even gold when seasonalized to reflect the true amounts received.

  • You have a lot of potential which cannot be swept under the carpet – Regent of Mion to Bawumia

    You have a lot of potential which cannot be swept under the carpet – Regent of Mion to Bawumia

    The Regent of Mion, Mion-Gbonlana Alhassan Abdulai Mahamadu, has expressed strong support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, ahead of the upcoming election.

    During a recent courtesy call by Dr. Bawumia, the Regent highlighted the Vice President’s impressive contributions to the nation and his exceptional leadership qualities.

    In a speech read on his behalf on Thursday, July 11, the Mion Regent emphasized the unparalleled nature of Dr. Bawumia’s service as Vice President in Ghana’s democratic history.

    He noted that Bawumia’s efforts in promoting peace in Dagbon and initiating numerous projects in the Mion traditional area demonstrate his potential to excel as President.

    “Your Excellency, your call on me today reminds me of the special role of my father, the late Mion-Lana Abdulai II. He offered a lot of prayers for Dagbon peace and initiated a lot of projects in the Mion traditional enclave. It is also public knowledge that he held a close affinity with your tradition and charted paths of projects to enhance the living standards of the people of the Mion area,” the Regent stated.

    He further acknowledged that these collaborative projects have significantly contributed to the NPP’s success in the constituency. The Regent’s speech highlighted the mutual efforts between his late father and Dr. Bawumia in achieving tangible benefits for the community.

    “These projects no doubt have contributed to the success of your party in the constituency. It is in collaboration with you that these efforts have yielded a lot of dividends in our traditional area,” he continued.

    The Regent concluded by praising Dr. Bawumia’s potential, saying, “Your Excellency, having watched your performance as Vice President of our Republic, I have seen a lot of good potentials which cannot be swept under the carpet. Your sterling qualities and most effective leadership are undoubtedly unparalleled by any Vice President in the history of our democratic governance.”

  • My track record surpasses Mahama’s – Bawumia

    My track record surpasses Mahama’s – Bawumia

    The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, has highlighted his extensive execution of developmental projects in northern Ghana, particularly in Chereponi.

    He questioned the track record of John Mahama during his presidency, particularly scrutinizing the projects initiated in the northern region. Bawumia emphasized that despite Mahama’s tenure as president, there were no substantial projects attributed to him in Chereponi.

    In contrast, Bawumia emphasized his achievements as vice president, citing significant impacts made through various developmental initiatives. Addressing a gathering of chiefs and elders in Chereponi, he asserted that John Mahama lacks new offerings for the region.

    “My main opponent in this election, former president John Dramani Mahama, was president before. I have not been president before. I am vice president, but John Mahama cannot point to one project in Chereponi.

    “I can point to many projects as vice president in Chereponi and so if as vice president, I have been able to start many things in Chereponi, as president, I will be able to finish many things in Chereponi.”

  • NAPO officially resigns as Minister for Energy

    NAPO officially resigns as Minister for Energy

    Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, has stepped down from his role as Energy Minister.

    His resignation follows his unveiling as the running mate to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer for the 2024 Presidential elections, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has accepted Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s resignation from the Energy Ministry, effective July 18, 2024.

    This decision allows Dr. Opoku Prempeh to fully focus on his new role as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate.

    In a statement issued by the Presidency’s Director of Communications, Eugene Arhin, President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude to Dr. Opoku Prempeh for his dedicated service to Ghana.

    “His tenure as Minister for Education and as Minister for Energy has been marked by a stellar record of accomplishments and significant contributions to the education and energy sectors.

    “In light of Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s resignation, President Akufo-Addo has asked the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo, to exercise Cabinet oversight responsibility over the Ministry of Energy.

    “Additionally, the Minister-of-State-designate at the Ministry of Energy, Herbert Krapa, will be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Ministry.

    “The President has asked the two persons to liaise closely with Dr. Opoku Prempeh to ensure a smooth transition in the affairs of the Ministry.

  • ‘Empty’ Mahama running from debate – Bawumia

    ‘Empty’ Mahama running from debate – Bawumia

    Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has criticized John Dramani Mahama, his counterpart from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), for refusing to participate in a debate with him.

    In response, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, spokesperson for the John Mahama Campaign Team, stated that there is no necessity for a debate between Mahama and Bawumia.

    Speaking to supporters during the second leg of his nationwide campaign in Nalerigu on Thursday, July 11, Dr. Bawumia accused Mahama of evading the debate, alleging that he would expose Mahama’s impractical promises and confidently defeat him.

    He labelled Mahama as “empty as an empty barrel”.

    “I’m looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, the governance, the country, but I’m afraid he’s running away from a debate. Isn’t it? His people are saying he doesn’t want to debate, he doesn’t want to debate because he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies, he says he has a 24- economy that he cannot explain.”

    “He’s as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it, none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants. But when we meet man-to-man, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies lie.

    And that is where we should go. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. But if he refuses, I will continue to sell my policies to the country, and they will take a decision.”

  • Bawumia dares Mahama to have a presidential debate

    Bawumia dares Mahama to have a presidential debate

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has openly challenged former President John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to a live presidential debate.

    Dr. Bawumia’s call for a debate was done in a spirited address to thousands of supporters in Bunkpurugu, North East Region,

    “I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on governance,” Dr. Bawumia declared.

    However, he expressed skepticism about the possibility of such a debate taking place, accusing Mahama of avoiding the challenge.

    “But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. I have never heard an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies.”

    Dr. Bawumia also criticized Mahama’s proposed “24-hour economy” plan, claiming that the former President and his team are unable to articulate and defend the details of this policy.

    “He says he has a 24-hour economy which he cannot explain. It is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it and none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants,” Bawumia said, mocking the feasibility of Mahama’s proposals.

    Emphasizing the importance of public discourse and transparency in the democratic process, Dr. Bawumia stated, “When we meet mano a mano, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies lie and that is where we should go. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. If he chooses not to debate, I’ll continue to sell my policies.”

  • You want to be president yet your policies are empty – Bawumia mocks Mahama

    You want to be president yet your policies are empty – Bawumia mocks Mahama

    The flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has ridiculed his counterpart from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, alleging that he cannot articulate his own 24-hour economy policy to Ghanaians.

    John Mahama, a former President of Ghana, advocates for a 24-hour economy initiative aimed at enabling businesses to operate in three shifts per day.

    His objective is to generate new job opportunities, particularly for young people, combat unemployment, and improve living standards in Ghana through a partnership between government and the private sector.

    Mahama’s plan includes implementing new legislation to support businesses adopting a 24/7 operational model, encompassing labor laws and tax incentives.

    He proposes favorable tax policies, stimulus packages, and financial aid for sectors like agro-processing and manufacturing.

    Furthermore, he stresses the government’s commitment to prioritizing local procurement and implementing measures to ensure the effective functioning of the 24-hour economy.

    However, speaking at a Youth Connect event in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia criticized Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy, dismissing it as unsubstantial.

    He stated, “He claims to have a 24-hour economy that he cannot explain; it is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it, nor can any of his associates. They claim we will be exporting lions and elephants, but when we meet face-to-face, we can debate, and the country will see where our policies stand.”

    Emphasizing the importance of open policy debates, Dr. Bawumia stated, “That is the direction we should take; we should afford the country an opportunity to listen to us. But if he opts not to debate, I will present my policies to the people of Ghana, and they will make the decision.”

  • “I am your son and husband”- Bawumia fetes widows at Bunkprugu

    “I am your son and husband”- Bawumia fetes widows at Bunkprugu

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed his profound concern and dedication to the welfare of widows in Ghana.

    On Wednesday, 10th July 2024, during his tour of the North East region, Dr. Bawumia hosted a gathering of thousands of widows in Bunkprugu, highlighting his commitment to their well-being.

    Addressing the large assembly, Dr. Bawumia conveyed his compassion and assured the widows of his steadfast support. As a token of his commitment, he made a generous cash donation to their association.

    He emphasized the significance of their backing and urged the widows to vote for him in the upcoming elections, promising that his presidency would bring policies aimed at improving their lives.

    “Your support is crucial,” Dr. Bawumia stated, “and if elected President, I will implement actions that will significantly enhance your well-being.”

    This event marked the launch of Dr. Bawumia’s constituency-to-constituency campaign, which he proudly began in his home region.

    He articulated his vision for national progress and development, underscoring the importance of grassroots engagement and inclusive growth.

    “I am deeply touched and grateful to be with you this evening as the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party for the 2024 presidential elections. Today is the first day of my campaign in every constituency, and I chose to start it at home, with you,” he expressed.

    Dr. Bawumia also reaffirmed his intent to connect directly with voters and understand their concerns, emphasizing his role as both a son and a husband to the community.

    “I am your son and your husband,” he declared, “and I ask for your support so that I can help you when I become the President of Ghana in 2025.”

  • Bawumia’s selection of NAPO the genesis of his campaign doom – NDC’s Osei Akoto

    Bawumia’s selection of NAPO the genesis of his campaign doom – NDC’s Osei Akoto

    Prominent figure in the National Democratic Congress, Henry Osei Akoto, has ridiculed the Bawumia/NAPO ticket for the upcoming December elections.

    The former NDC National Organizer aspirant suggested that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh was deliberately chosen as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate to hinder his chances of winning.

    Expressing his opinion on his official X account, Henry Osei Akoto sarcastically said, “I’m fully convinced Bawumia selected Napo to finish off his campaign, kwatakwata,” accompanied by laughing emojis.

    His remark follows Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s statements made during his unveiling at Jubilee Park in Kumasi on June 9.

    In his address to party members, NAPO praised the accomplishments of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, claiming that no president in the nation’s history, including Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has developed the country as significantly as the current president.

    “Since independence from 1957 until today, we’ve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo. I say from 1957 until today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah… no president who has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo,” he said.

    He has since come under heavy backlash from the public, as Ghanaians claim his statement was disrespectful to the revered Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

  • Bawumia and NAPO are friends – Akufo-Addo

    Bawumia and NAPO are friends – Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo has stated that the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahumudu Bawumia and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) are friends who have joined forces to diligently serve Ghanaians.

    Akufo-Addo described the duo as a perfect team committed to advancing the coutry’s prosperity and well-being when given the nod December 7.

    The president urged Ghanains to give Dr Bawumia and NAPO the necessary support to their efforts of breaking the eight governance cycle.

    The president stated this during a ceremony held in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, to publicly announce NAPO as the party’s running mate.

    “Just as you stuck with me nicely, so should you relate with them. These two are friends. They will have a good relationship with you just like I had with you.Thank you for the love and support you have given me all these years,” he added.

    In recent times, many have stated that the NPP’s chances of seeking another term are low as compared to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    To them, president Akufo-Addo’s poor performance and Bawumia’s lack of expertise will impede their victory in the upcoming December polls .

    On Friday, July 5, the NPP’s National Council formally endorsed NAPO as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate, a decision that has garnered praise from top party officials, including President Akufo-Addo, who expressed confidence in their leadership abilities ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh expressed gratitude to Dr. Bawumia for entrusting him with the role of running mate, pledging full commitment to ensuring victory for the party.

    In response to criticisms of his perceived arrogance, the NPP has defended NAPO staunchly, with suggestions emerging that he should use prepared scripts to manage his public appearances effectively.

  • Bawumia’s campaign will collapse if he tries a ‘meet the press’ session – Osei Akoto

    Bawumia’s campaign will collapse if he tries a ‘meet the press’ session – Osei Akoto

    A former National Organizer hopeful of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Henry Osei Akoto, has challenged the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to participate in a ‘meet the press’ session with Ghanaian media.

    In a statement shared on Monday, July 8, 2024, Osei Akoto asserted that Vice President Bawumia would avoid such an engagement because it could jeopardize his campaign.

    “If Bawumia tries any ‘meet the press’, his campaign will collapse. He won’t dare,” he wrote.

    Osei Akoto’s comments came following a press engagement by former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC flagbearer, on Sunday, July 7, 2024.

    During this event, Mahama outlined his proposed policies, including social intervention programs and measures to tackle corruption, aimed at revitalizing Ghana’s development trajectory.

    Below are the 20 key takeaways from the media engagement:

    1. The 24-hour economy policy will increase the local production of goods for import substitution, exports, and create decent well-paying jobs for the youth.
    2. My government will scrap the COVID levy, E-levy, bet winnings levy, and nuisance port levies to ameliorate the plight of suffering Ghanaians.
    3. Free SHS has come to stay. No one can cancel it. I am coming to improve its implementation and make it better. I will support any bill intended to improve education in Ghana.
    4. My government will invest $3 billion in ICT and partner with local tech start-ups and businesses to launch a ‘Digital Jobs Initiative’ that will create at least 300,000 skilled employment opportunities for the youth in the digital space.
    5. I will establish a National Women’s Development Bank that will be run by women to support one million women-led and women-owned businesses.
    6. I will roll out the One Million Coders Program that will train one million youth in coding and other IT programs for job creation.
    7. I am a staunch Christian who has supported my local Assemblies of God church to build churches for God. But I don’t condone stealing in the name of God. I will conduct a forensic audit into the cathedral loot.
    8. I will not allow any of my appointees to involve themselves in mining or illegal mining. Mining in forest reserves will be banned under my government.
    9. No appointee of mine will be allowed to buy state assets.
    10. I will prioritize fiscal discipline to restore investor confidence in the economy and pursue prudent measures that will boost cocoa and oil production to increase our forex earnings and stabilize the exchange rate.
    11. I will fight corruption and ensure accountability on the part of government officials, whether they be NPP or NDC. I will not scrap the OSP. Neither will I be a corruption clearing agent.
    12. I have been out of office for seven years, seven months. The NPP has not found any evidence of wrongdoing against me. Their lies against me to the effect that I own hotels in Dubai and that my government spent $10 million on presidential diaries have all been exposed. Don’t fall for the NPP’s lies.
    13. My track record in the fight against corruption is there for all to see. I prosecuted my own appointees, including my own friend, and retrieved about GHS50 million for the state in the GYEEDA scandal.
    14. I will run a lean government of not more than 60 ministers and cut down on government expenditure and waste.
    15. I will create a safe and congenial atmosphere for the media and anti-corruption agencies to work.
    16. I will pursue justice for the families of the eight Ghanaians who were murdered during the 2020 general elections and other victims of state-sponsored brutalities and punish the culprits.
    17. I will modernize agriculture to boost food production to reduce food inflation and hardships. I will also prioritize agribusiness and agro-processing for import substitution and exports.
    18. I have been exorcised from the ‘father for all’ syndrome.
    19. We shall protect the votes of Ghanaians through vigilance.
    20. Four years is enough for me to reset Ghana, create a 24-hour economy, wage a serious fight against corruption, and restore our nation back to the path of development and progress.
  • Bawumia to publicly endorse NAPO as running mate in Kumasi today

    Bawumia to publicly endorse NAPO as running mate in Kumasi today

    The Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), will be officially unveiled as Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on today, Tuesday, July 9, in Kumasi, Ashanti Region.

    According to the Ashanti Regional Organiser of the NPP, Francis Adomako, the region is eagerly anticipating the event.

    On Friday, July 5, the NPP’s National Council formally endorsed NAPO as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate, a decision that has garnered praise from top party officials, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who expressed confidence in their leadership abilities ahead of the 2024 general elections.

    Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh expressed gratitude to Dr. Bawumia for entrusting him with the role of running mate, pledging full commitment to ensuring victory for the party.

    In response to criticisms of his perceived arrogance, the NPP has defended NAPO staunchly, with suggestions emerging that he should use prepared scripts to manage his public appearances effectively.

    Following NAPO’s elevation, the NPP has opened nominations for the Manhyia South constituency, leaving the parliamentary seat vacant pending an official declaration by Parliament. The party has assured a fair nomination process and cautioned aspirants to maintain decorum, stressing the internal nature of the selection.

    In a potentially intriguing development, NAPO’s brother, Nana Owusu Afriyie Prempeh, is reportedly seeking the same parliamentary seat, setting the stage for a family rivalry in local politics.

    The 2024 presidential election is shaping up to be fiercely contested, with the NPP’s duo, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), facing off against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket led by former President John Dramani Mahama and Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.

  • Stay focused, supportive, follow Bawumia – Gabby tells Napo

    Stay focused, supportive, follow Bawumia – Gabby tells Napo

    Gabby Otchere-Darko, a prominent figure within New Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued a message of encouragement to Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, known affectionately as NAPO, following his selection as the running mate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the upcoming December elections.

    The selection of NAPO as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate was officially announced on Thursday, July 4, 2024.

    In a congratulatory message delivered on Saturday, Mr. Otchere-Darko emphasized the importance of unity and support within the party as they prepare for the electoral contest ahead.

    He urged NAPO to remain focused and fully supportive of Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, describing him as the ideal partner to assist in securing victory in the 2024 presidential election.

    “Congratulations, Napo! The Presidential Candidate settled on you for very obvious reasons. He believes you to be the best partner to help him as his number two to win the 2024 presidential election and to help him deliver on his promises to Ghanaians if elected,” Mr. Otchere-Darko conveyed in his message.

    Drawing from their shared history, including their time at the Danquah Institute, Mr. Otchere-Darko highlighted NAPO’s intellectual acumen, work ethic, generosity, and commitment to the values of the party. He emphasized these qualities as crucial assets in advancing the NPP’s vision and maintaining its achievements.

    “Stay focused; stay supportive, follow the leader, show empathy, defend the record, project the vision, sell the Candidate and help him energise the base,” Mr. Otchere-Darko urged NAPO. He emphasized the importance of rallying the party’s supporters and reinforcing their belief in the achievable goals set forth by Dr. Bawumia.

    In conclusion, Mr. Otchere-Darko expressed confidence in NAPO’s abilities and called for a united effort to ensure success in the upcoming elections.

  • Bawumia, Gyan launch All Regional Games at Baba Yara stadium

    Bawumia, Gyan launch All Regional Games at Baba Yara stadium

    Former Ghanaian football star Asamoah Gyan and his team officially launched the All Regional Games on Saturday, July 6, 2024.

    The event, aimed at discovering and nurturing talent across various sports disciplines, was held at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

    The initiative seeks to identify and develop young athletes aged 18 to 23 from all regions of Ghana, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills.

    During the press launch in April, Gyan and his team outlined plans for regional trials to select top sportsmen and women who will compete against counterparts from other regions.

    The launch event attracted numerous notable figures, including Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif, Director General of the National Sports Authority Numekevor Dodzie, and several of Gyan’s former teammates.

    Entertainment was provided by celebrities such as comedian Ras Nene (now Dr. Likee), and musicians Fancy Gadam, Guru, and Wendy Shay, adding vibrancy to the occasion.

    Hundreds of fans gathered to support the former Black Stars captain in his new endeavor. Gyan emphasized the importance of the competition in unearthing new talent and fostering the development of sports in Ghana. The All Regional Games are expected to bring together the best young athletes in the country, creating opportunities for them to excel and gain recognition.

    This initiative is seen as a significant step towards enhancing the sporting landscape in Ghana, encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams and achieve excellence in their respective disciplines.

    The specific date for the regional competitions will be announced soon, marking the beginning of a new era for sports development in Ghana.