Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, is set to join the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team, ahead of the country’s upcoming polls.
This information was provided by Alex Tetteh, a prominent figure in Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign and the convener for Citizen Eye, Ghana.
He revealed that Mr Agyapong, currently in the United States, will return in the coming weeks to bolster the New Patriotic Party’s efforts towards securing a victory.
“Kennedy Agyapong is in the United States of America currently. He will be back soon and he will join the campaign to get Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to become President. He said after the primaries that he will join the campaign and that is what he will do,” he said.
“We even counselled him to go Independent but he saw what we said as not making sense. Kennedy is an institution and so he decided to stay with the party unlike Alan Kyerematen who decided to leave when he lost.”
Speaking on Accra-based Okay FM, Alex Tetteh took the opportunity to apologize to anyone who may have been offended during the primaries, urging everyone to unite and support Bawumia in his bid to win the election.
The Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah has cautioned Nana Ohene Ntow, an advisor to Independent Presidential Candidate Alan Kyerematen, against his remarks concerning the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the government.
Mr. Ahiagbah emphasized the NPP’s respect for Ohene Ntow’s candidate, Mr. Kyerematen, stating they would refrain from making harsh comments against him.
This came after Ohene Ntow suggested on Peace FM’s Kokroko show that major institutions under the current government are more corrupt than previous administrations, a statement Mr. Ahiagbah deemed subjective.
Ahiagbah stressed that corruption allegations are inconclusive, as the law ultimately determines guilt. He also acknowledged Ohene Ntow’s remark that digitalization doesn’t encompass the entire economy but pointed out its pivotal role in driving economic growth and prosperity today.
“In a recent appearance on Peace FM’s Kokroko show, the former general secretary and ex-member of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Ohene Ntow, made some comments about Dr. Bawumia that need to be corrected: 1. Dr. Bawumia’s competence and ability to effectively manage Ghana’s economy as president remain unquestioned.
“The current economic challenges, which may have influenced Nana Ohene Ntow’s remarks, are primarily due to external factors such as COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine War and do not accurately reflect Bawumia’s capabilities. 2. It would be beneficial for Nana Ohene-Ntow to revisit economic data from 2017, 2018, and 2019, when the economy was growing at an average of 7% before the impact of COVID-19.
“This would provide a more accurate assessment of the current government’s economic management record. 3. Nana Ohene Ntow’s assertion that major institutions under this government are more corrupt than previous administrations is subjective. Allegations of corruption are not conclusive, as the law has the final say in such matters.
“Nana Ohene Ntow’s suggestion that digitalization is not the entire economy can be pardoned. However, it is widely recognized that digitalization is a significant driver of economic growth and prosperity today. 5. Nana Ohene-Ntow supports Alan Kyerematen, whom we respect and would not want to speak roughly about his candidacy or campaign.”
In a recent appearance on Peace FM's Kokroko show, the former general secretary and ex-member of the New Patriotic Party, Nana Ohene Ntow, made some comments about Dr. Bawumia that need to be corrected:
1. Dr. Bawumia's competence and ability to effectively manage Ghana's…
Supporters and MPs surprised Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia at his residence in Kumasi as he geared up to kickstart his campaign tour in the Ashanti region.
Dr. Bawumia was greeted with enthusiasm on June 10 as a sizable crowd gathered at his Ahodwo Daban residence.
They accompanied him to Tru Vine Hotel in Nhyiaeso, the venue for his first scheduled meeting.
Leading the procession was Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi, joined by Minister for Education Osei Adutwum, Campaign Coordinator for the Middle-Belt and MP for Effiduase Asokore, Dr. Ayew Afriyie, and Deputy Minister of Finance Dr. Steven Amoah.
The welcoming committee set a vibrant mood, resonating with cheers and applause.
In a widely circulated video, the Vice President was seen smiling and interacting with the exuberant crowd, showcasing the robust backing he commands in the region.
Dr. Bawumia’s campaign tour spans three days in the Ashanti region, encompassing engagements with party members, door-to-door canvassing, and meetings with various organized groups and religious bodies.
Furthermore, he plans to extend a courtesy visit to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace.
The senior national team, Black Stars, has called on the government to construct a stadium that will stand the test of time.
Captain of the Black Stars, Thomas Partey, during a visit by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, said that without a good stadium, the national team is not able to play better football that would satisfy the desire of football fanatics.
“I have one request from all the players, asking for a good stadium because we want to play better football,” Captain Thomas Partey said.
“We are asking for a good stadium because we want to play better football.”
Black Stars assistant captain, Thomas Partey, to Veep Mahamudu Bawumia when he visited the team this morning ahead of their World Cup qualifier against C.A.R 🇨🇫 #JoySportspic.twitter.com/VlK5cxAjlW
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia paid a visit to the Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, to convey his best wishes for their upcoming World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR).
The Black Stars, under the guidance of head coach Otto Addo, are preparing for a challenging encounter against CAR in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The match is scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Stadium on Monday, with kickoff set for 19:00 GMT.
Coach Otto Addo has emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, especially after their impressive come-from-behind victory against Mali in Bamako during the third round of matches.
Despite this recent success, Addo acknowledges the tough challenge that CAR poses and is preparing his team accordingly.
“It’s going to be very difficult. For everyone who thinks we can just play them, I don’t think it will happen,” said the former Borussia Dortmund coach.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia visits the Black Stars to wish them success ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Central African Republic.#UTVGhanapic.twitter.com/UCFa6TCmXN
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has paid a visit to the Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, to convey his best wishes for their upcoming World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR).
The Black Stars, under the guidance of head coach Otto Addo, are preparing for a challenging encounter against CAR in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The match is scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Stadium on Monday, with kickoff set for 19:00 GMT.
Coach Otto Addo has emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, especially after their impressive come-from-behind victory against Mali in Bamako during the third round of matches.
Despite this recent success, Addo acknowledges the tough challenge that CAR poses and is preparing his team accordingly.
“It’s going to be very difficult. For everyone who thinks we can just play them, I don’t think it will happen,” said the former Borussia Dortmund coach.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia visits the Black Stars to wish them success ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Central African Republic.#UTVGhanapic.twitter.com/UCFa6TCmXN
The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, has highlighted several innovative policies he initiated and implemented over the past seven years as Vice-President of Ghana.
“I have initiated and championed 33 policies as Vice President, and I want former President Mahama to show us the policies he championed under his tenure as Vice President,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that Ghana needs a leader who is innovative, consistent, and hardworking to transform the country. He expressed confidence in his readiness to ascend to the presidency and propel Ghana to new heights in the fourth industrial revolution.
These remarks were made in Accra on Wednesday during the ‘Youth Connect’ program, where Dr. Bawumia outlined his vision to youth from various tertiary institutions.
During his tenure, Dr. Bawumia championed numerous policies, including the issuance of the GhanaCard, making the GhanaCard an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) certified travel document for travel to Ghana, the GhanaPost Digital Property Address System, Mobile Money Interoperability, and using the GhanaCard number as a Tax Identification Number, SSNIT, and NHIS number.
Other initiatives included paperless ports, digitalization of the passport office, the motor insurance database, the Ghana.gov platform, E-pharmacy, Zipline Medical Drones Delivery, digitalization of tax filing, no guarantor student loans with GhanaCard, one constituency, one ambulance, Agenda 111, the Sinohydro Barter Agreement, provision of Hydroxyurea under NHIS for sickle cell patients, and the Zongo Development Fund.
Additional initiatives were the Bank of Ghana Gold Purchase Programme, the Gold for Oil Policy, the Go Ride Taxi Service for local drivers, a system to tackle ghost names on government payroll, automation of premix fuel distribution, the purchase of ECG credit on mobile phones, and the digitalization of ECG revenue collection.
Also included were the enrollment and renewal of NHIS membership on mobile phones, the digitalization of the Births and Deaths Registry, assigning a GhanaCard number at birth for newborns, and providing one student with one laptop for SHS students.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted that Ghana now hosts the largest medical drone delivery service in the world, with six operational centers supplying medicines and blood products to 2,800 health facilities nationwide.
He also noted the E-pharmacy platform, which connects 2,500 pharmacies, and the networking of all teaching and regional hospitals to enhance healthcare services.
On Thursday, June 6, 2024, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia announced plans to engage Cabinet regarding the potential involvement of parents in overseeing food distribution for students enrolled in the free SHS program.
Concerns have been raised about the quality of food provided to students, as well as reports of some school authorities misappropriating food items for personal use.
Additionally, recent issues with food supply shortages have been highlighted, with the National Food Buffer Stock citing government arrears.
During a meeting with clergy members as part of his Greater Accra Region tour on Wednesday, June 5, Vice President Bawumia was urged by a clergy member to consider involving Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) in supervising food distribution to schools if he assumes the presidency.
Dr. Bawumia expressed support for the idea, noting that he had already written on the proposal. He pledged to inform Cabinet about the initiative during their meeting on Thursday.
Acknowledging the potential for misuse in the current system, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of implementing effective solutions. He cited his longstanding interest in improving governance and efficiency, referencing his past writings on similar topics.
Additionally, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the importance of commercial agriculture in addressing high food prices. He proposed expanding food production through technology-driven precision agriculture, mechanization, and irrigation to reduce food costs.
“If they get five bags, they may declare one bag. If nobody is looking. And so, this is a brilliant, really, suggestion. So, tomorrow I’ll be in Cabinet with the Education Minister and this is one of the first things I’m going to tell him that we are going to have to do. This makes a lot of sense,” Dr. Bawumia noted.
“I’ve even written a book in 2010 on some of these things. And you’ll find some of these ideas. These are the ideas that keep playing in my mind. I’m always thinking of how to get things done, how to do things better, and all of that. So, I take your point very well.”
Furthermore, he mentioned plans to explore electric vehicles for public transportation as part of broader efforts to address environmental and economic challenges.
“Going forward, this is why I’m focusing on a few areas. First of all, I think agriculture and the expansion in food production will bring down food prices so that the hunger that we feel will come down. So Agric becomes very important in bringing down food prices.
“This is why I believe that commercial agriculture, technology-driven precision agriculture, irrigated agriculture, mechanized agriculture is the way for Ghana to go, as many countries will do. I’ve also made a suggestion. We hope to start experimenting this year for public transport to move towards electric vehicles,” he explained.
US-based Vlogger Kevin Taylor has claimed that the Vice Chancellor of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof Rita Akosua Dickson, is poised to become the running mate of the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr Bawumia.
On his X timeline, the US-Ghanaian journalist posted that, barring any last-minute changes, the academic could secure the position of running mate.
“Baring (sic) any last minute changes Rita Akosua Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST is expected to be named running mate of Dr Bawumia,” he wrote.
Baring any last minute changes Rita Akosua Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST is expected to be named running mate of Dr Bawumia. 😂😂😂😂😂 GYATA BE WI SALAD pic.twitter.com/HJMOj6Hpem
However, reports show that this information lacks authentication, as there has been no formal or informal communication within the party regarding a final nominee.
It’s worth noting that Prof Akosua Dickson’s tenure is due to expire next month, with uncertainty surrounding the commencement of renewal procedures.
The academic originates from the Ashanti Region, where she attended St. Monica’s Secondary school in Asante Mampong and is affiliated with the Amakom branch of a popular church.
Profile of Prof Rita Akosua Dickson:
Rita Akosua Dickson is a Ghanaian phytochemist. In September 2018, she was appointed as the pro-vice chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, becoming the first woman to hold this position.
She serves as a board member of the Pharmacy Council and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana.
On June 25, 2020, KNUST announced her appointment as the first woman Vice Chancellor of the University, effective August 1, 2020, for a four-year term.
She obtained her bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 1994 and earned an MParm in pharmacognosy from the same university in 1999. In 2003, she won a Commonwealth Scholarship and pursued a PhD at Kings’ College London, University of London.
Dickson began her career as a lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 2000. After completing further studies in the UK, she returned to Ghana in 2007 and resumed lecturing at the same university.
In 2009, she was promoted to senior lecturer and later to associate professor in 2014. Prior to her appointment as pro-vice-chancellor in 2018, she served as the dean of the faculty of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences.
Her work as a phytochemist focuses on bioactive natural products in the management of communicable and non-communicable diseases.
General Secretary of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has expressed strong confidence that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s flagbearer, will announce his running mate by the end of July.
During the June 5, 2024, edition of Peace FM’s ‘Kokrokoo’, Kodua emphasized that the decision on the running mate will certainly not extend beyond July.
“I have had conversations with a lot of people, and I have also spoken to Dr. Bawumia. One thing I am very clear in my mind about is that we nominated our running mate in August 2008, but that did not help us. This time, as we aim to ‘break the 8’, if that is to happen, certain things that did not help us in the past must not be repeated. We are optimistic Bawumia will present the name of his running mate to Steering Committee latest by June, the name will be given to NEC and then National Committee. So his running mate will be named before August,” he stated.
With about six months remaining until the December 7 general elections, Dr. Bawumia has yet to name his running mate.
The competition for the NPP running mate position is intensifying, with several prominent names being considered. Potential candidates include Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, and Bryan Acheampong.
The Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC), Nana Akomea, has expressed his regret regarding Alan Kyerematen’s departure from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He believes that if Kyerematen, whom he considers a stalwart of the party, had remained, he would have likely been selected as the running mate.
Mr Akomea emphasized that third parties face challenges in Ghana’s political landscape, asserting that Kyerematen’s stature within the NPP could have resolved the running mate issue had he stayed.
“He’s a stalwart in the political party. If he had stayed, this issue about running mate would have been settled,” he said.
In the upcoming 2024 elections, numerous Independent candidates and minor political parties are vying to challenge the existing political order.
Notably, Alan Kyerematen leads the Movement for Change, which has formed an alliance with Abu Sakara.
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has released another installment of his ongoing revelations regarding the proposed sale of four government-majority-owned hotels.
Over the past few weeks, Ablakwa has shared documents supporting his belief that the intended sale of majority shares of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to a company owned by Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong is not in the state’s best interest.
He has pointed out that certain documents indicate profitability for the hotels in question, while the selected buyer, Rock City Hotels Limited, reportedly operated at a loss during the same period.
In his latest disclosure, Ablakwa highlighted how a senior aide to the Vice President, Prof. Kwaku Appiah-Adu, serves as the board chairman of one of the hotels, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.
This raises questions about the advice this political appointee might offer regarding the controversial sale.
Ablakwa’s post on June 5, 2024, posed probing questions about Vice President Bawumia‘s stance on the deal, given the involvement of his close aide.
“Prof. Kwaku Appiah-Adu is not only a Senior Advisor to Ghana’s Vice President, Alhaji Bawumia, he is the current board chair of La Palm Royal Hotel.
“It would be interesting to know what his advice to the Vice President is as regards the infamous sale of SSNIT’s hotels to Minister of Agric, Bryan Acheampong,” Ablakwa’s post dated June 5, 2024, read in part.
Additionally, he questioned how Prof. Appiah-Adu responds to claims from some members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) that the current board and management of La Palm Royal Hotel are incompetent and inefficient, suggesting that the sale to Bryan Acheampong is justified due to his competence.
Furthermore, Ablakwa raised concerns about the quality of advice Prof. Appiah-Adu provides to the Vice President, particularly if the allegations against the current board and management of La Palm Royal Hotel are true.
“How does Prof. Appiah-Adu also respond to claims from NPP propagandists and Majority Group Leader Afenyo-Markin that the current board and management of La Palm Royal Hotel are incompetent, inefficient and lack ideas, so in their opinion the sale to the extraordinarily competent and visionary Bryan Acheampong is justified?
“If what these NPP propagandists and Majority Group Leader have said about the current board and management of La Palm Royal is true, what does that say about the quality of advice he’s giving the Vice President at the expense of suffering taxpayers who pay him for that kind of advice?” the post concluded.
Prof. Kwaku Appiah-Adu is not only a Senior Advisor to Ghana’s Vice President, Alhaji Bawumia, he is the current board chair of La Palm Royal Hotel.
It would be interesting to know what his advice to the Vice President is as regards the infamous sale of SSNIT’s hotels to… pic.twitter.com/EPLi932fF5
— Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa (@S_OkudzetoAblak) June 5, 2024
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has instructed the Labour Minister to engage with organized labor, who are demanding the suspension of the planned sale.
With fewer than seven months remaining until the December 2024 general elections, a study by political analyst Prof Smart Sarpong, has revealed that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) stands as the most favored political party among Ghanaian voters.
As per the survey conducted in April 2024, the NDC commands 38.8% of the votes in terms of popularity, closely trailed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) with 34.5%.
The study, serving as a fundamental report on 275 constituencies, encompassed a total sample size of 59,547 individuals drawn from the entire 275 sub-samples. Each sub-sample represents a proportionate portion of the overall contribution to the voter population according to the 2020 voter register.
Furthermore, it revealed that 23.1% of voters remain undecided, while smaller parties collectively secure a minimal 3.6% of voter backing, as reported by 3news.com.
Moreover, the survey unveiled that regarding the presidential candidate, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, leads with 38.9% support.
In a closely contested race, the flagbearer of the NDC, John Dramani Mahama, trails closely with 36.1% support.
Over 21% of voters indicated indecision, while the remaining candidates in the presidential race collectively amass 3.6% of the votes.
Additionally, more than half of the respondents highlighted that their decision regarding whom to vote for in the presidential race was influenced by competence, with 22.5% considering the track records of presidential candidates, 19.1% leaning on party affiliations, and 3.7% swayed by financial inducement.
With less than seven months to the December 2024 general elections, a survey by political analyst Prof Smart Sarpong has shown that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is the most popular political party in the country among Ghanaian voters.
According to the poll, which was conducted in April 2024, the NDC holds 38.8% of the votes when it comes to popularity, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) follows closely with 34.5%.
The survey, a baseline report on 275 constituencies, had a total sample size of 59,547, selected from the full 275 sub-samples. Each sub-sample represents a proportional share of the total contribution to the voter population per the 2020 voter register.
It also showed that 23.1% remain undecided, while smaller parties, collectively, hold a marginal 3.6% of voter support, 3news.com reports.
Additionally, the survey found that when it comes to the presidential candidate, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, leads with 38.9% support.
The flagbearer of the NDC, John Dramani Mahama, comes in a close second with 36.1% support.
Over 21% of voters indicated they are undecided, while the other candidates in the presidential race collectively account for 3.6% of the votes.
Also, over 50% of the respondents indicated that their decision on whom to vote for in the presidential race was based on competence; 22.5% on the track records of presidential candidates; 19.1% on party affiliations; and 3.7% on financial inducement.
A prominent religious leader has urged Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia to lead efforts in completing the contentious National Cathedral of Ghana project.
Prophet Amoako Attah expressed his belief that it would be significant if a major Christian place of worship were completed and dedicated by a Muslim President, potentially Bawumia if he assumes the presidency.
Speaking at an event in Accra attended by Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and several clergymen from the Greater Accra Region as part of his campaign, Attah suggested that it might be prophetic for Bawumia to play a role in fulfilling the completion of the Cathedral.
Drawing parallels with historical examples, Attah referenced how King Herod, though not Jewish, oversaw the construction of temples for Jews in Israel.
“Maybe prophetically, the reason why that hole is there, is that maybe, God wants you to fulfill (completion of Cathedral),” he said in comments after Bawumia had addressed the issue.
“So it is going to be prophetic that once upon a time a temple was built and the president who dedicated the temple for the Christians was a Muslim,” he added tasking Bawumia to rope in the private sector to complete the stalled project.
He stressed the necessity for collaboration between the church and government, highlighting the need for discussions on the way forward and the potential involvement of private resources to complete the Cathedral.
The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia,has urged the clergy to collaborate with the government in seeking alternative funding methods to complete the National Cathedral project, which has been beset by transparency issues.
Addressing the clergy in the Greater Accra Region, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the significance of the National Cathedral but stressed the necessity for the church and government to jointly explore private-sector funding to finish the project.
“The question on the National Cathedral is a very important one. The National Cathedral, I have contributed to it personally and I believe it is a very important thing for Ghana but I think as it stands now, the church has to come together with the government and let us sit down and talk about the way forward for the National Cathedral.
“The church should come together and let’s know the best way forward, how we can even get private resources to help us complete the Cathedral.”
The National Cathedral project has been under intense public scrutiny, with minority MPs raising concerns over its expenditure and the lack of transparency in fund allocation.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho, has weighed in on a viral photo of New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The photo shows Bawumia enjoying coconut water during a campaign stop.
Anyidoho, who has praised Bawumia’s campaign style, shared the picture on his X page. He compared the Vice President’s coconut moment to then-candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo‘s viral Kalyppo picture from the 2016 presidential campaign.
“It was once Kalyppo; now it is coconut water. A man must quench his campaign thirst one way or the other. It’s not easy,” Anyidoho remarked.
In 2016, Akufo-Addo’s popularity surged after a picture of him sipping a box of Kalyppo fruit juice went viral. The picture sparked a trend where NPP members and supporters created their own versions of the image with Kalyppo.
It was once, kalypo; now it is coconut water. A man must quench his campaign thirst one way or the other. E no be easy ooo😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/LQjljr5Skw
— Samuel Koku Anyidoho🇬🇭 (@KokuAnyidoho) June 4, 2024
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has urged for cooperation between the religious leaders and the government to finalize the construction of the National Cathedral.
He highlighted the necessity to find a resolution to the ongoing controversy surrounding the project during a gathering with religious leaders in the Greater Accra Region.
Dr. Bawumia underscored the significance of the project for Ghana and emphasized the importance of unity within the church to collaborate with the government in seeking private funding avenues to complete the endeavor.
“The church has to come together and meet the government so that we talk about the way forward. The church must come together and let the government know the best way forward on how we can get private resources to help us complete the National Cathedral,” he said on Monday.
He expressed optimism that a collective effort can find a solution, saying “if we all come together, we will figure it out.”
“I think if we all come together we will figure it out because we cannot leave it where it is,” he added.
The construction of the National Cathedral is seen as a fulfillment of a promise President Akufo-Addo made to God before winning the 2016 elections.
The project, featuring a 5,000-seater auditorium, aims to provide Ghana with a grand national park accessible to all citizens, while also bringing new skills, technology, and job opportunities to the country. It is intended to serve as a landmark for national, regional, and international tourists.
In 2021, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta announced plans to commission the ongoing National Cathedral project on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. However, the project has faced delays, despite significant expenditure, casting doubt on the timeline.
The Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs has expressed strong confidence in Vice President and NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia‘s potential to positively impact the nation.
As part of his Greater Accra Regional campaign tour, which began on Tuesday, Dr. Bawumia met with members of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs in Dodowa to present his vision and policies for Ghana under his prospective presidency.
Welcoming Dr. Bawumia, the Acting President of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs, Obuade Tse Nii King Odaifio III, affirmed the House’s belief in Dr. Bawumia’s potential for the country “when” he becomes the President of Ghana.
“Having observed you from afar, we believe you have a lot to offer this country,” added Obiade Tse Nii Odaifio III, who is also the Paramount Chief of the Nungua Traditional Area.
“Do not disappoint, because your records will always be there—they will be used to evaluate you,” he added.
The Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs praised Dr. Bawumia’s selflessness and urged him to maintain this quality, noting that some African leaders have failed in this regard.
“On selfless leadership, we have little to say about you. Your Excellency, you are an accomplished man. You’re a successful man. You are a selfless and caring man. Therefore, we are convinced you will not fail the test when it comes to selfless leadership,” they stated.
“However, the challenge for most political leaders in Ghana, and Africa at large when it comes to selfless leadership, is their appointees, party folks, and followers. While the leader may be content with what he/she has personally achieved and what the state provides, the appointees and political handlers only want to grab and loot the insufficient state resources. This is the test we want to see, whether you will fail or pass. We shall all be watching you from a distance,” they continued.
The Greater Accra House of Chiefs has expressed its confidence in the leadership abilities of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The House of Chiefs believes that Dr. Bawumia possesses the potential to excel as President and make a positive impact on the country.
During a meeting on Tuesday, June 4, Obuade Tse Nii King Odaifio III, the Paramount Chief of Nungua and Acting President of the Greater Accra House of Chiefs, commended Dr. Bawumia’s calm and composed demeanor, noting that it is an asset that will serve him well in leadership.
The House of Chiefs views Dr. Bawumia’s leadership style as a departure from the violent and radical approach that has characterized some leaders in the past.
Greater Accra House of Chiefs
They believe that his calm and informed approach will enable him to make decisions that will benefit the country and its citizens.
“We state with all emphasis that when it comes to effective leadership, you don’t have to be radical, violent, or pompous to be a bold leader. Being a bold leader is not about brawls, but rather brains.”
“Having observed you from afar, we believe you have a lot of potential to offer this country. Do not disappoint, because your records will always be there – they will be used to evaluate you.”
“On selfless leadership, we have less to say about you. Your Excellency, you are an accomplished man. You’re a successful man. Therefore, we are convinced you will not fail the test when it comes to selfless leadership,” he stated.
Dr. Bawumia thanked the Greater Accra House of Chiefs for their endorsement and assured them that he will not disappoint the country when elected President.
He also sought their wisdom and guidance in his quest to lead Ghana forward.
On Tuesday, June 4, the Greater Accra House of Chiefs held a meeting with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), as part of his nationwide stakeholder engagement tour.
During the meeting, Oboade Notse King Professor Odaifio Welentsi III, the Paramount Chief of Nungua and Acting President of the Greater Accra House of Chiefs, acknowledged Dr. Bawumia’s leadership qualities, particularly his calm and humble demeanor.
He emphasized the importance of these traits in effective leadership and encouraged Dr. Bawumia to continue demonstrating them.
The meeting provided a platform for both parties to discuss matters of mutual interest and national significance. The House of Chiefs expressed their appreciation for Dr. Bawumia’s leadership qualities and encouraged him to continue exhibiting the traits that have earned him widespread recognition.
“As we gather here to listen to His Excellency the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana on what his leadership vision is or will be, should the electorates vote for him to become the next President of Ghana, it is our firm belief that someday if we measure your words now vis-à-vis your actions, decisions, and conducts, later when you become the President, you will score higher, compared to what we’ve had or seen in the past.”
“There have been some rumours circulating round in the media, and even from your own political party, that Dr Bawumia will be a pushover, even when he becomes the President. We dare to make a wild guess on why they think so: It is because of your calm, gentle and polite disposition,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia thanked the Greater Accra House of Chiefs for their kind words and assured them that he would continue to uphold the values of humility, calmness, and inclusivity in his pursuit of the presidency.
He also sought the wisdom and guidance of the chiefs in his quest to lead Ghana forward.
According to Dr. Bawumia, Ghana is not an exception to the current global economic problems.
As part of his campaign visit, Dr. Bawumia gave an assurance to the clergy in the Central Region that the government is doing everything in its power to lessen the challenges that Ghanaians confront.
“It is very clear that the cost of living has gone up across the world. Even when I was in Canada just a few weeks ago, there were similar complaints.
“There has been a major increase in the cost of living, and global inflation has increased fivefold, so there is a problem.”
Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons,revealed that Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent announcement to launch an e-gate project at Ghana’s main airport would amount to blatant misappropriation of donor cash.
He claims that the project has twice received funding from the World Bank and has been declared “complete & successful.”
Dr. Bawumia announced the remark while outlining planned technical developments meant to expedite immigration procedures during a speech to clergy in Cape Coast at the beginning of his regional trip.
“In fact, before the end of this year, if you arrive in Ghana at Kotoka Airport, you don’t even need to go to an immigration officer. We are putting together the e-gates.
“You put your Ghana Card; it will open for you, and you’ll pass and enter. The e-gates will come into service in Ghana before the end of this year. In Ghana, before the end of this year,” Dr. Bawumia stressed.
In a post on X (June 3) addressing the development, Simons wrote: “If this new e-gate project uses a single pesewa of Ghanaian money, then it will be the most brazen abuse of @WorldBank money ever in the history of the world.
The truth is that the World Bank has paid TWICE for this same project. And recorded the project as complete & successful.”
He posted a link to an article he wrote in April 2024 under the heading, ‘Is the World Bank saving or harming Ghana?’ to back his claims.
A portion under e-immigration read as follows: “Of the different e-Transform modules, the e-Immigration system presents the most bewildering account.
It was envisaged to deliver automated immigration clearance at the airport (using biometrically-enabled e-gates), digital visa processing, and the phasing out of paper-based procedures across all borders (including land and sea).
“In short, a big deal. The e-gates submodule alone was budgeted at nearly $20 million.
Central to all this was a Secure Border Management System (SBMS) meant to replace a US-donated platform on the grounds of enhanced data security.
“6 years after SBMS was expected to launch, the web version of the US-donated system continues to be the primary immigration clearance solution in use at Ghana’s sole international airport.
“Despite claims to the contrary in the official World Bank recordsabout the project, the fact on the ground is that no SBMS was rolled out.
The $16.3 million e-gates that the official records claim were already functional and just needed to be transferred from terminal 2 to terminal 3 of the international airport, at the cost of an extra $2.9 million, have not been deployed to automate immigration clearance five years on.
“The multi-million-dollar electronic visa management system launched, according to World Bank records, in February 2019, failed to deploy to most of Ghana’s diplomatic missions abroad.
The individual missions have had to engage service providers to build and manage separate systems at their own cost,” he added.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) outcast and former secretary of the party,Koku Anyidohohas reacted to a video of New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer and Vice President of Ghana, Dr Bawumia at a gathering with a supposed group of students who were captured chanting the vice president’s name during a ‘jama’ session.
In a tweet, the former head of Communications under the Presidency of John Atta Mills expressed surprise at how Dr. Bawumia was gradually connecting with the people while he embarks on his campaign tour.
The video captures the Majoriy leader, Afenyo-Markin dancing to the instruments and chants of the ecstatic group of boys while the Vice president convinced another gentleman to partake in the session.
In reaction to this, “This Bawumia man is really connecting paaa ooo!!! Look at how he got his guy to join the Jama. Reminds me of my student politics days on Legon Campus“
This Bawumia man is really connecting paaa ooo!!! Look at how he got his guy to join the Jama💪💪💪. Reminds me of my student politics days on Legon Campus 🔥🔥🔥👍👍👍 pic.twitter.com/NQkf2eLxUA
— Samuel Koku Anyidoho🇬🇭 (@KokuAnyidoho) June 3, 2024
An opinion poll conducted by Global Info Analytics across four constituencies in the Greater Accra Region reveals that John Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, currently holds the majority of votes.
These constituencies—Okaikwei Central, Okaikwei South, Anyaa Sowutuom, and Trobu—have historically been strongholds of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), evidenced by their voting patterns in previous elections.
However, the poll results, released on May 31, 2024, indicate a significant shift just six months before the general election. In constituencies where the NPP secured an average of 62% of the vote in the 2020 election, the leading opposition candidate, John Mahama, now leads with 40.5%.
“The current vice president and flag bearer of the governing NPP, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is on 36%, Nana Kwame Bediako, the New Force with 1.8%, Alan Kyeremanten, Movement for Change with 1.7%. 10.4% of voters say they will not vote and 9.4% are undecided,” the poll revealed.
In the parliamentary election, Patrick Yaw Boamah leads in Okaikwei Central with 50.5%, Baba Sadiq, 36%, 6.9% of voters do not intend to vote while 7.6% are undecided. Hon. Patrick Boamah won the seat in the 2020 election with nearly 19% margin.
According to Global InfoAnalytics, in Okaikwei South, the incumbent member of parliament’s chances of retaining her seat is hanging by the thread as poll shows the race is tied with Dakoa Newman leading with 40.4%, followed closely by Ernest Adomako, 38.5%. 10.6% are undecided and 10.5% will not vote. In the 2020 election, the incumbent won her race with nearly 22% margin.
“In the Anyaa Sowutuom, Elder Emmanuel Tobin leads the race with 41.8% followed by Emmanuel A. Allotey, NDC, 31.9%, Grace Ashley, Movement for Change, 2.7%, undecided, 10.1% and I will not vote, 13.5%. Hon. Dickson Adomako Kissi, the outgoing member of parliament, won the seat in the 2020 elections with nearly 30% margin,” Global Info Analytics indicated.
The Poll’s outcome shows that in the Trobu constituency, where Gloria Owusu, the NPP parliamentary candidate who ousted Hon. Moses Anim, leads with 44.8%, Dr John Kofi Halm with 36.7%, others, 0.5%, undecided, 5.8% and I will not vote, 12.2%. Hon. Moses Anim won the 2020 elections with nearly 28% margin.
“Analysis of the poll shows that in all the four BLUE constituencies, there is strong evidence from the data to suggest “skirt and blouse voting” tactical voting as all NPP candidates outperform their presidential candidate,” Mussa Dankwa’s outfit revealed.
Regarding voter inducement through projects during the election period, the poll reveals that only 28% of voters would support the government if they initiate projects just before the elections.
In contrast, 64% would not be swayed to vote for the ruling party, and 5% remain indifferent.
Similarly, on the question of whether the One-Student-One-Tablet policy might influence voters in the December election, only 31% indicated it would affect their vote in favor of the government.
Meanwhile, 64% said it would not influence their decision, and 5% were indifferent.
Starting June 17 of this year, all children attending basic school nationwide will be assigned Ghana Card identity numbers.
This announcement was made byDr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), during his visit to the Oti region in Dambai.
He explained that the Government has collaborated with various agencies including the Ghana Health Service, the Births and Deaths Registry (BDR), the Ghana Statistical Service, and the National Identification Authority (NIA) to integrate their systems for seamless deployment.
This integration aims to provide every child aged 0 to 13 years in Ghana with a unique identity number, linking them to their parents’ identity and ensuring their inclusion in the national identity system.
Dr Bawumia said the Ghana Card “is not just an ID, but also a promise to our children of a future, where their identity and rights are recognised from their very first birth.”
“It is a testament to our commitment to building an effective, efficient responsive and accountable public sector that meet the needs of the Ghanaian citizenry,” Dr Bawumia said.
Following this, he embarked on a tour to the Dambai Saturday market, where the market women warmly greeted him.
Other traders and residents also gathered around, eager to catch a glimpse of him as he stopped to exchange pleasantries with them.
This visit extended Dr. Bawumia and his campaign team’s time by close to an hour before they proceeded to the Presbyterian Church, where he was scheduled to meet with the participants of ‘Youth Connect.’
Throughout the campaign tour, supporters have demonstrated vibrant hospitality, expressing their confidence in his leadership and the NPP’s capacity to guide the country towards greater success.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has reaffirmed Ghana’s opposition to LGBT+ activities, stressing that the country’s cultural and religious values do not condone such practices.
He made these remarks during a campaign tour in Dambai, where he spoke to a gathering of local chiefs and community members.
“Nananom, I want to comment on the issue of LGBTQ. For that practice, Ghana will never agree.
“Our culture doesn’t accept it, our religion doesn’t accept it. No matter what the consequences are, we are going to stand firm on our beliefs. We will never agree to such a thing. It is no, no, no!” he said.
On Wednesday, February 28, 2024, the Parliament of Ghana passed the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the anti-LGBT+ bill.
This legislation, pending presidential assent, bans LGBT+ activities and criminalizes their promotion, advocacy, and funding.
Individuals found engaging in these activities could face jail terms ranging from six months to three years, while promoters and sponsors could face three to five years in prison.
The bill requires presidential approval to become law within seven days.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia and his bid for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer position in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
They described his recent visit to the Volta Region as a “waste of time and resources.”
According to the NDC, Dr. Bawumia’s visit was viewed as a farewell tour, signaling his imminent departure from the political arena. James Gunu, the NDC Volta Regional Secretary, reiterated this sentiment in a statement released on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
Gunu stated, “We are also not surprised that Dr. Bawumia miserably lost the NPP’s flagbearer contest to Ken Agyepong in the Volta Region. Voltarians, whether NDC or NPP, naturally prefer honest, truthful, and trustworthy people.”
Highlighting the disparity between Dr. Bawumia’s reception and the overwhelming support former President John Dramani Mahama received from Voltarians during the NDC presidential primaries, Gunu attributed this to the perceived neglect of the Volta Region by the Nana Akufo-Addo and Bawumia-led government.
Furthermore, the NDC demanded the payment of $126 million cedi equivalent, which they allege is owed to Volta Region constituencies as part of the “One Million Dollar Per Constituency” promise made over the past seven years.
Gunu also criticized the government’s failure to fulfill its promise of building model schools in all Zongo communities, labeling it “a big deception.”
The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ablekuma West, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has expressed her readiness to serve as a running mate if selected.
Owusu-Ekuful is in contention for the running mate position of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), alongside other candidates such as Energy Minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh.
Despite her qualifications, the Communications Minister emphasized that she will not lobby for the position.
“This position is not something we lobby for. If women are running affairs, it’s not bad. I love working and doing every job assigned to me. I won’t go begging, but when I get the chance, I will do it and do it nicely,” she said on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on Thursday.
She continued, “For now, I am a Minister and an MP and doing my job very well. If they mention my name to go and do another job, I will do it gladly, but for now, I have to concentrate on what I have been assigned to do.”
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has vowed to add 2,000 MW of solar power to Ghana’s energy mix if elected President in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
He expressed confidence that this initiative would enhance the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses.
Presently, the high cost of electricity is largely influenced by fuel costs and forex rates.
During a meeting with clergy in the Volta region, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that adopting green energy would help mitigate these issues.
“To reduce the cost of living, we must look at our power generation,” he noted, adding: “Ghana currently relies heavily on oil and gas to generate power, and their costs are quite high. So, anytime the prices increase in the Middle East, fuel, electricity, and transport prices also rise. Therefore, I want us to transition from oil and gas to solar power,” he stated.
“It is crucial for us in the generation of electricity,” Dr. Bawumia emphasized.
He elaborated that, “My goal, which I have stated, is that in the next four years, Ghana should add 2,000 megawatts of solar power to our power generation. This amount is more than half of our current electricity consumption. Combining that with Akosombo, we could nearly halve the cost of power, which would give our businesses a significant competitive edge.”
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged members of his campaign and manifesto teams to unite in their efforts to secure victory in the 2024 General Election.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of unity for the party’s success, calling on all members to contribute towards achieving victory.
Addressing the official unveiling of the committees in Accra on February 28, 2024, Dr. Bawumia highlighted unity as a crucial factor for NPP’s triumph in the upcoming elections. He emphasized the inclusion of all members, as advised by party elders, to ensure no one is left behind.
The campaign committee, chaired by former Minister Dan Kweku Botwe, and the manifesto committee, chaired by MP Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, were officially inaugurated under Dr. Bawumia’s direction.
Dr. Bawumia expressed confidence in NPP’s ability to win the elections, citing the party’s track record of outperforming its main opponent, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), across all sectors since assuming office in 2017.
He stressed that NPP’s vision for economic growth was clear and backed by concrete achievements, contrasting it with what he described as the NDC’s vague promises.
The formation of the campaign and manifesto teams signals NPP’s commitment to kickstart the campaign effectively, Dr. Bawumia stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
Chairman Botwe outlined the campaign committee’s objective to secure a majority in Parliament and elect Dr. Bawumia as President, pledging disciplined and coordinated efforts with the support of internal and external resources.
Chairman Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu urged members to prioritize the party’s interests over personal agendas, emphasizing their role in shaping Dr. Bawumia’s vision for the country.
NPP Chairman Stephen Ntim emphasized the importance of remaining focused and avoiding conflicts to achieve the party’s objectives, assuring full support from the party and Dr. Bawumia for the successful execution of the committees’ mandates.
“We are very aware that one of the keys to victory for NPP in 2024 is unity. It’s the most important key to victory. And so, putting together these committees we have taken cognizance, listening to advice of our elders to make sure that we do not leave anyone behind,” the Vice President said when he officially unveiled the committees, in Accra, on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.
The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that the government’s payroll is now free from ghost names.
He attributed this achievement to the integration of the Ghana Card into the national digital system.
In an audio excerpt circulated on GHOne TV, Dr. Bawumia, also serving as the country’s Vice President, confidently asserted that the absence of ghost workers on the government payroll is directly linked to the utilization of the Ghana Card.
“So now, we can confidently say that because of the use of the Ghana Card, we don’t have ghost workers on government payroll anymore,” he stated.
While the exact context of his statement remains unclear, it’s noteworthy that the Ghana Card has emerged as the primary identification card in the nation.
Furthermore, the Electoral Commission has signaled its intent to reintroduce a bill in parliament, advocating for the Ghana Card to serve as the sole document for citizenship identification during voter registration.
In the meantime, viewers are encouraged to catch up on the latest episode of The Lowdown on GhanaWeb TV.
Etsey Atisu hosts a discussion with Davis Ansah Opoku, the MP for Mpraeso, addressing pertinent issues such as the E-Levy, the Saglemi Housing Controversy, and the ongoing OSP Impeachment saga.
Join us for a comprehensive examination of these significant topics shaping Ghana’s current landscape.
The Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, will imminently announce his running mate.
It is reliably gathered that within days, the NPP flagbearer will present the chosen nominee’s name to the National Council of the party for deliberation.
While the identity of the nominee remains tightly guarded, it is known who has not made the cut.
Despite earlier speculations suggesting influential church leader Opoku Onyinah as a contender, reports reveal he was never under consideration.
Instead, Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng was in contention until his involvement in a double identity scandal related to gold dealings, details of which have been disclosed.
Chief of Staff Frema Opare and Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum were also not selected, contrary to previous reports.
Isaac Osei declined a shortlist offer citing health concerns and age, while Naa Torshie Addo has been informed she won’t be chosen.
The Administrator of the Common Fund has expressed her aspiration to become Chief of Staff in a future Bawumia administration, notifying party Kingmakers and the flagbearer.
There’s an ongoing struggle within the NPP and among traditional opinion leaders and influencers to mitigate dissent over the candidate selection, particularly in the Ashanti Region.
Reportedly, the Akyem faction of the party has yielded to pressure to support the flagbearer’s choice of candidate.
Once approved by the National Council, the submitted nominee’s name will be disclosed to the party.
The Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has asserted that the government payroll is now free of phantom employees.
He attributed this achievement to the incorporation of the Ghana Card into the nation’s digital infrastructure.
In an audio recording aired on X by GHOne TV, the presidential candidate, who also serves as the country’s incumbent vice president, confidently stated that the absence of fictitious workers from the government payroll is a direct result of the implementation of the Ghana Card system.
“So now, we can confidently say that because of the use of the Ghana Card, we don’t have ghost workers on government payroll anymore,” he stated.
The source of his statement remains unclear, but it’s noteworthy that the Ghana Card has emerged as the primary identification card in the nation.
Additionally, the Electoral Commission has announced its intention to reintroduce a bill in Ghana’s parliament, advocating for the Ghana Card to serve as the exclusive document for verifying citizenship during voter registration.
In the meantime, don’t miss the latest episode of The Lowdown on GhanaWeb TV, where Etsey Atisu engages in a conversation with Mpraeso’s Member of Parliament, Davis Ansah Opoku, addressing topics such as the E-Levy, the Saglemi Housing Controversy, and the OSP Impeachment.
The flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has committed to adding 2,000 megawatts of solar power to Ghana’s energy mix during his presidency.
Dr. Bawumia believes that the rising cost of electricity makes businesses uncompetitive, highlighting the necessity for the country to harness solar power.
He attributed the increasing cost of electricity to exchange rates and the international price of petroleum.
The NPP leader made this pledge during a meeting with clergy in the Volta Region, as part of his regional campaign tour.
According to Dr. Bawumia, Ghana’s reliance on crude oil prices and foreign exchange fluctuations for energy generation escalates the cost of living and impacts business competitiveness.
“To reduce the cost of living is to look at our power generation. Ghana currently relies a lot on oil and gas to generate power and if you look at their [oil and gas] costs, they are quite high so anytime the prices move up in the Middle East, fuel, electricity, and transport prices also move up and so I want us to move away from oil and gas to solar power. It is the key for us in the generation of electricity.
“My goal and the goal that I have stated is that in the next four years, Ghana should add 2,000 megawatts of solar power to the generation of power and that is more than half of our consumption of electricity and so combine that with Akosombo and you would nearly reduce the cost of power by nearly 50 percent and that will give our businesses a competitive advantage.”
Dr. Bawumia emphasized his vision to aggressively expand solar power over the next four years to alleviate the burden of high fuel costs on Ghanaians and businesses.
According to the International Energy Agency, in 2021, Ghana’s electricity mix was heavily dependent on natural gas (62.6%) and hydropower (34.1%), with solar power accounting for less than one percent.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed his commitment to amending the constitution to reduce presidential powers if elected.
He believes in returning power to the people. In an interview with JoyNews, Dr. Bawumia stated, “Our Constitution has served us very well over the last 30 years or so.”
“It has served us very well. And it was built to provide us political stability after the turbulent years that we went through, the focus of the framers, if you see how it was put together, is more to provide Ghana with political stability.
“But I think that we have attained political stability. We need a constitution that will provide us with economic development and so I want to see a review of the Constitution with that view, with a focus on economic development, and also, we need to reduce the power of the presidency, even though I’m running to be a president, I don’t think we need to have that as much power. We need to give some of that back to the people.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Isaac Bampoe, Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), has expressed support for Dr. Bawumia’s stance.
He said, “And he wants to believe that he’s got good intentions. We’ll see what happens. I’m a civil servant, we support any government in power. So whoever comes will support him, but these are great ideas that will move the country forward,” Dr Bampoe stated.
Dr. Bawumia also addressed issues in public service, including political interference and inefficiencies at district assemblies. He emphasized the need for reforms to ensure that public services are more effective and less influenced by political agendas, aiming for a more transparent and accountable system.
Dr. Bampoe added, “CLOGSAG association we’ve spoken about a presidential Act which we say it contradicts the constitution, well if that’s what is going to do then I think is going to move the country forward, because was too much power, too much power in one person.
He concluded, “When he comes into power, we will hold him to his promises. He told us he would perform, so we expect him to do so.”
Members of the clergy in the Volta Region have expressed deep concerns about the deplorable state of roads in various parts of the region.
These concerns were raised during a recent meeting with Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential candidate for the 2024 election, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is currently touring the region.
The clergy highlighted the severe impact of the poor road network on the daily lives of residents, especially those in rural areas.
They emphasized that the lack of adequate infrastructure hinders economic activities, affects healthcare delivery, and poses significant safety risks.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Reverend Emmanuel Kofi Nyarko, a prominent figure in the Volta religious community, emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to alleviate the suffering of the people.
“Our roads are deplorable, making it extremely difficult for us to carry out our pastoral duties and for our congregants to go about their daily activities. The government must take immediate action to improve these roads to enhance the quality of life for our people,” Reverend Nyarko stated.
Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the challenges posed by the poor road infrastructure in response to the clergy’s concerns.
He assured them that the government is committed to addressing the issue and mentioned that several road projects are already in the pipeline as part of the government’s broader infrastructural development agenda.
“The government is fully aware of the difficulties faced by the people of the Volta Region due to the poor state of roads. We are doing everything possible to ensure that these roads are constructed and rehabilitated. However, we also believe that involving the private sector in road construction can expedite the process and ensure higher quality,” Dr Bawumia remarked.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the potential of public-private partnerships in enhancing infrastructure development nationwide. He suggested that involving the private sector could bring in expertise, efficiency, and funding needed to improve the road network more swiftly and sustainably.
His remarks have sparked a debate about the private sector’s role in national infrastructure development. While some stakeholders support the idea, others are concerned about potential cost implications for end-users and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure accountability and quality.
As part of his tour of the Volta Region, the Vice President is meeting with various community leaders, stakeholders, and residents to address pressing issues and reinforce the government’s commitment to regional development.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced plans for the next New Patriotic Party (NPP) government to integrate at least 2,000 megawatts of solar power into Ghana’s energy mix within the next four years.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the growing challenge of high electricity costs for businesses in Ghana, which he attributed to fluctuating forex rates and international petroleum prices.
Speaking to religious leaders in the Volta Region, he emphasized that the country’s reliance on world crude prices and foreign exchange rates contributes to higher living expenses for Ghanaians and diminishes the competitiveness of local businesses.
Dr. Bawumia outlined his vision to aggressively pursue solar energy initiatives over the next four years.
“To reduce the cost of living is to look at our power generation. Ghana currently relies a lot on oil and gas to generate power and if you look at their [oil and gas] costs, they are quite high so anytime the prices move up in the Middle East, fuel, electricity, and transport prices also move up and so I want us to move away from oil and gas to solar power. It is the key for us in the generation of electricity.
“My goal and the goal that I have stated is that in the next four years, Ghana should add 2,000 megawatts of solar power to the generation of power and that is more than half of our consumption of electricity and so combine that with Akosombo and you would nearly reduce the cost of power by nearly 50 per cent and that will give our businesses a competitive advantage,” he said.
This move aims to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices on Ghanaians and businesses alike.
Mr Badu-Aboagye emphasized the urgent need for the government to implement short-term measures to halt the rapid decline of the local currency. He warned that without immediate intervention, many businesses could collapse before any long-term solutions take effect.
On May 30, Deputy Minister for Finance, Dr. Stephen Amoah, stated in an interview that the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would draft a long-term national framework to combat and reverse the Cedi’s sharp depreciation against the US dollar if elected president.
“We are doing our best to stabilise the Cedi, which I said is a short-term approach, but we need a long-term approach to resolve the issue through a framework, and then I proposed that to achieve that, we will design a long-term approach when Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is elected president.”
In an interview with Bernard Avle on the Citi Breakfast Show, Mark Badu-Aboagye cautioned against relying solely on long-term plans, stressing the immediate needs of businesses.
“For a business, we need to survive in the short term before we talk about the long term. Fine, the minister said that Bawumia will come out with a longer-term structure. That is fine but by the time he comes back with that long-term structure, I bet you a lot of businesses would have collapsed,” he stated.
He also highlighted challenges in Ghana’s competitiveness in the international market, questioning the viability of the country’s export strategy.
“We keep saying that we want to structure our economy and export more. The question we should ask is what are we exporting? Are we competitive in the international market?
“If we take our product to the international market, will somebody choose our product against the one coming from our another country with high quality and low price?
“… It is extremely difficult to produce in this country. So, people will produce and would not be able to sell on the international market and he will not be able to get the foreign exchange into this country,” he stated.
Banking Consultant Dr. Richmond Atuahene has expressed his opposition to the proposed Minerals Development Bank by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, aimed at increasing Ghana’s gold reserves and supporting the cedi.
The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has announced plans to establish a Minerals Development Bank if he becomes President.
Speaking at the 3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small Scale Mining in Ghana at the University of Energy and Natural Resources in the Bono Region, the Vice President highlighted that this initiative would revolutionize financial support for mining projects in the country.
“We also want to, as I said, in collaboration with the relevant state institutions like MIIF, PMMC, the Bank of Ghana, the private sector, and others, we want to establish a minerals development bank to finance viable local mineral projects and to mitigate foreign financing of local mining projects, which leads to heavy smuggling of the produce afterwards,” he said.
“I don’t think Ghana needs another institution to be talking about mining, I think they should really be thinking about the environment. Setting up a new bank, I have a different view about it. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah set up Agric Bank we destroyed it and he came up with NIB. Acheampong talks about Banking and Construction. Social Security Bank go and ask the history about it.”
“We set up development banks and don’t know what will come over them. So for me, I beg to differ especially when it comes to development banks like a mining bank. I totally disagree with them because, number one do we discourage the destruction of the environment?” Dr. Atuahene asked.
He continued: “We are destroying it, they should take it as a joke because I have travelled far in the country and I know what degradation is. So for me, I don’t support those ideas so I don’t even talk about it.”
However, Dr. Atuahene believes this move will exacerbate illegal mining and environmental degradation.
Dr. Atuahene emphasized the need for a focus on environmental conservation rather than creating new financial institutions for the mining sector.
Vice-President and New Patriotic Party presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, assured the Trades Union Congress (TUC) on Wednesday (29 May) that he would strengthen the National Labour Commission (NLC) under his Presidency by establishing offices across the country.
He emphasized that this step would ensure the NLC’s effective and full-time operation.
Dr Bawumia made these remarks during a meeting with the TUC membership in Accra.
He also stated that if the new Labour Act is not reviewed by the end of this year, he would ensure its review and passage under his administration to safeguard workers’ rights.
The Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) governs employment and labour matters in Ghana, consolidating all related laws.
The National Labour Commission (NLC) is responsible for administering these laws.
Dr Bawumia reiterated his intention to implement a flat tax rate in 2025 after granting tax amnesty to all individuals in the country.
Regarding stabilizing the cedi’s value, he mentioned that the Bank of Ghana (BoG), with sufficient gold reserves, would provide the needed stability to prevent frequent depreciation of the Ghanaian currency.
To achieve this, Bawumia stated that his government would ensure all gold concessions are owned by Ghanaians, and gold processed in the country is sold to the central bank to bolster reserves.
He also pledged to support the Geological Survey Authority and technical universities in exploring the country’s seven gold belts to ensure positive outcomes from the gold concessions.
Dr Bawumia restated his plan to establish a Minerals Development Bank to assist small-scale miners in securing funding, noting that the sector could generate three billion dollars annually.
In terms of fiscal discipline improvement, the NPP presidential candidate assured that his administration would ensure the Fiscal Responsibility Council operates independently, overseeing the Ministry of Finance.
He promised to reduce government expenditure by 3% of the gross domestic product (GDP), equivalent to about GHc30 billion annually.
Dr Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment not to appoint more than 50 Ministers under his administration.
Regarding constitutional matters, the NPP Flagbearer pledged to review Article 87 of the 1992 Constitution and the National Development Planning Commission Act (Act 479) to align with the nation’s development aspirations.
Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, the general secretary of TUC, welcomed Dr Bawumia and expressed confidence in the presidential candidates’ plans for the nation, noting that ideas, systems, and institutions are crucial for transforming a country.
He suggested that the two major political parties, the NDC and NPP, could even form an alliance to implement a “24-hour Economy with Digitisation,” which elicited laughter from the audience.
Dr Baah presented the TUC’s manifesto, which focuses on six key thematic areas: social and human development, economic policy, labour market policy, energy and power, governance policy, and climate change and environmental policy.
He emphasized that these thematic areas are crucial for transforming the nation.
The TUC presented Dr Bawumia with 10 copies of its manifesto.
Accompanying the NPP presidential candidate were Osei-Kyei Mensah Bonsu, the chairman of the NPP manifesto committee; Joseph Cudjoe, Minister of Public Enterprises; and Ignatius Baffour Awuah, the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations.
Deputy Minister for Finance, Dr. Stephen Amoah, HAS assured that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, if elected, plans to develop a long-term strategy to address the depreciation of the cedi.
He described the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi as a chronic issue stemming from the country’s import-driven economy.
In a media address on Wednesday, he emphasized that the high demand for the dollar, driven by imports, perpetuates the cedi’s depreciation.
He asserted that this issue demands national attention and extends beyond the capabilities of any single government to resolve.
“Cedi depreciation is a ritual problem, I agree with you. It’s not because of one particular government…It’s an issue that has nationalistic or that needs nationalistic attention,” Dr Amoah said.
The Deputy Finance Minister added “so far as we keep on being an importer-driven economy, we’ll be having problems with the cedi because we import almost everything. But Inshallah, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, next year if he comes, we’re going to design a long-term framework to deal with the cedi.”
Over the past month, the Ghanaian cedi has weakened further against the US dollar and other major foreign currencies.
Meanwhile, on May 24, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam assured that the Ministry of Finance is collaborating with the Bank of Ghana to implement measures to address the depreciation of the cedi.
These measures include expediting the fiscal consolidation process by rationalizing spending and enhancing revenue mobilization, intensifying the gold-for-oil program, and appropriate foreign exchange interventions by the Bank of Ghana, among other strategies.
Cedi depreciation: Issue is a ritual problem; Bawumia will design a long-term framework to deal with it. – Deputy Finance Minister #ElectionHQpic.twitter.com/XrzETrpi2u
Additionally, on Monday, May 27, in response to regulatory concerns, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) established a task force dedicated to overseeing all foreign exchange bureaus and enforcing compliance with regulatory standards.
The primary objective of this task force is to address the activities of illegal operators within the foreign exchange market and promote enhanced market transparency.
By closely monitoring the operations of these bureaus, the BoG aims to mitigate unauthorized practices and foster a more regulated and transparent environment within the foreign exchange sector.
Angry youth in an undisclosed location have reportedly blocked the convoy of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), from using a road.
The incident, which was captured in a video circulating on social media, shows the youth pelting stones and throwing broken bottles at the vehicles in the convoy.
While the exact reason for the youth’s actions is unclear, voices in the video referenced the elections. Police officers were present at the scene but were unable to prevent the situation from escalating.
As of now, there has been no comment from Dr. Bawumia’s campaign team regarding the incident. The location of the incident has also not been disclosed.
Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, is urging Ghanaians to consider Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the next president, asserting that he would be the best president the country has ever had.
He emphasized that Dr. Bawumia, who has never served as Vice President, represents the best choice for Ghana at this time.
In an interview with Adom FM on the Burning Issue Show, Mr Glover stated, “We are advocating for Dr Bawumia because he has never been president before, but we have all seen the contributions of John Dramani Mahama (JDM). We need to give Bawumia a chance to show what he can achieve.”
“I believe that Bawumia will be one of the finest presidents we will ever have. The progress made by President Akufo Addo will be continued by Bawumia, taking our development to the next level,” he added.
Mr. Glover pointed out the significant infrastructural development under the current administration, such as roads and schools, attributing these achievements to the effective use of resources.
“When a capable person is in charge, they deserve recognition for their good work,” he said.
“I don’t mind if you criticize us, but if you think President Akufo-Addo’s efforts aren’t enough, then I take issue with that.”
Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has denied allegations of reckless spending by the Akufo-Addo administration.
He stated that the NPP government has judiciously used funds to implement projects that will benefit the country in the long term.
The Vice President also announced plans to run a government with 50 ministers to reduce expenditure and save public funds.
Speaking at the 8th Ghana CEOs Summit in Accra on Monday, May 27, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need to cut government spending by 3 to 5 percent.
“The networking of the hospitals—you know, Ghana.gov—all of these things have been spearheaded. So the government is not uploading and spending upfront. And I want us to apply this model.
“My view, as I have stated, is that let us bring down government expenditure between 3 to 5 percent. I believe that I can run a government with 50 ministers rather than what we are doing today.”
It was a captivating scene on Monday, May 27, 2024, at the 8th Ghana CEOs Summit in Accra, Ghana, as significant developments unfolded during the event.
The organizers had arranged for the two main presidential contenders for the 2024 elections, Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and former President and NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, to deliver speeches.
Due to his official trip to Canada and the USA, Vice President Bawumia could not attend in person but opted to participate via Zoom, acknowledging the importance of the event.
Unaware that Vice President Bawumia was monitoring his presentation, former President Mahama began his speech with vigor, believing he was the sole speaker.
In a surprising turn of events, the host, Jerry Adjorlolo, read a text message from the Vice President, stating that he had listened to former President Mahama and was ready to respond.
The message sent by Vice President Bawumia read:
“Jerry, please let the moderator know I have been listening from the beginning, and I’ve heard the entire submission of my brother, former President Mahama. I am poised and ready to respond to him boot for boot and ask that he sits and listens to my submission like I have done for him.”
Mr Mahama’s mood immediately switched, and he started to fumble over what was not immediately known.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia took a swipe at former President John Dramani Mahama during the 8th Ghana CEO Summit, highlighting the Akufo-Addo administration’s significant achievements in advancing the country’s development agenda.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the current government’s developmental projects are tangible and easily verifiable, contrasting them with what he termed the “guinea fowl” projects of Mr. Mahama’s tenure.
Speaking at the summit on Monday, May 27, Dr. Bawumia underscored that the projects under the Akufo-Addo administration are real and trackable by the public. He argued that this transparency and accountability demonstrate the government’s commitment to genuine development efforts.
Participating in the summit via Zoom from Canada, Dr. Bawumia reiterated the government’s dedication to sustainable development. He noted that the strides made under the Akufo-Addo administration are not only visible but also have a lasting impact on the country’s infrastructure and economic growth. According to Bawumia, these accomplishments lay a solid foundation for future progress.
In his address, the Vice President outlined various projects undertaken by the current administration, including improvements in healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
He stressed that these projects have been executed with precision and are benefiting many communities across Ghana.
“There were no vehicles for some of the projects we have done. We have done over 200 projects in the area of zongo development across all the zongos in the country. You look at our investment in technical and vocational education, over six billion Ghana Cedis in the last 7 years.”
“The highest investment in TVET by any government in the fourth republic, and we’ve made technical and vocational education also free in that context. You see in terms of our development authority, there are 1,609 projects completed. And under the Northern Development Authority, it has also completed over 304 projects so far and so we are not talking about Guinea fowl projects but real projects,” he said.
The Founder and leader of the Action People’s Party (APP), Kenneth Nana Kwame Asamoah, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, despite his qualifications and accolades as an accomplished economist, for failing Ghana.
Mr Asamoah has expressed that Ghanaians are enduring hardships due to Dr. Bawumia’s poor performance and mismanagement of the economy as the head of the Economic Management Team.
Before the 2016 general elections, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was hailed by many as the savior of the economy, expected to collaborate with Akufo-Addo to rescue the country from economic turmoil.
During that period, Dr. Bawumia conducted a series of public lectures criticizing the Economic Management Team of the previous Mahama administration.
However, there is growing disappointment among sections of the public, who feel that the Vice President has not lived up to expectations in his almost 8-year tenure as head of the Economic Management Team.
Nana Kwame Asamoah now questions Dr. Bawumia’s economic expertise, asserting that he has shifted his focus to digitalization and is no longer the esteemed economist he was once perceived to be.
Asamoah believes that Dr. Bawumia was manipulated by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to deceive Ghanaians for their votes.
“Bawumia knows nothing about the economy, and he was used to deceive Akufo Addo and Ghanaians for their votes,” he stated on Onua FM Etifi Nsem show on May 25.
The leader of the APP insists that traders in the country have a better understanding of the economy than Dr. Bawumia and hopes that Ghanaians will recognize this and reject him in the upcoming December 7 elections.
“Bawumia knows nothing about the economy, and he was used to scam Akufo Addo and Ghanaians for their votes,” he told Isaac Ekow J.B, host of Onua FM Etifi Nsem show on May 25.
Nursing students across the country are jubilant following the government’s payment of overdue allowances.
A video posted by Accra’s Neat FM on Facebook on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, captures the joyous reactions of several trainees from a nursing college as they celebrate receiving their payments.
In the video, some trainees can be heard expressing their gratitude to Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia while showing messages on their phones as proof of the payment of the allowance, commonly referred to as “allawa.”
“Allawa, allawa, allawa. Four more for Bawumia, four more for Bawumia,” one female student could be heard saying as she showed a notification on her phone.
Meanwhile, a nursing student who spoke to GhanaWeb confirmed that some of their arrears have been paid.
She said that second and third-year students in her school have received three months of arrears owed to them for October, November and December of 2023.
She indicated that they have not been paid any of their allowances for 2024.
— Samuel Koku Anyidoho🇬🇭 (@KokuAnyidoho) May 22, 2024
It can be recalled that Dr. Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), was confronted by a female final-year nursing student who said she had never received the government allowance (allawa) meant for students during a campaign event in the Bono Region.
“The question I want to ask is, when are we getting our ‘allowance’? Since I started school, I have not received my allowance to date, and I’m in my last semester. Some of us are not even able to pay our school fees.
“Those who are not able to pay their fees would be sacked; they wouldn’t be allowed to write the exams. If the ‘allowance’ had been given to us, they would have been able to pay their fees. So, my question is, when are we getting the allawa?” she asked.
The NPP flagbearer, in his response, promised to take up the issue with the Ministry of Finance.
“I wasn’t sure of where you were with your ‘allowance’, but I think that I will check with the Ministry of Finance immediately after I return. And I will make sure they pay you your ‘allawa’ if it has not been paid,”Bawumia assured.
Member of Parliament for Afigya Kwabre North Constituency, Collins Adomako-Mensah, has hinted that the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has selected Energy Minister Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate.
According to him, Ghanaians had expressed a preference for a running mate from the Ashanti region, and in response, someone from Manhyia has been chosen—Matthew Opoku Prempeh.
Reports from Ghanaweb reveal that the MP made this known this during an interview with Angel FM: “We say we want a running mate from the Ashanti region and isn’t the Ashanti region Manhyia, so what’s the problem? If you want a typical Ashanti, who is an Ashanti, and who is his nephew?”
The host then suggested that all fingers pointed to Napo. Collins Adomako in response said, “Do we have any better car than Rolls-Royce, and now we have someone who has a Rolls-Royce engine within him (Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh) what else will you want.”
He also addressed the perception of the Energy Minister being rude and arrogant, saying, “Matthew Opoku Prempeh is different; I don’t know why people think he is arrogant. Get close to him, and you will love him; he is a giver and does everything.”
The names of three prominent members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who are all cabinet ministers and sitting Members of Parliament, have emerged as potential candidates for the position of running mate to the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in the December 2024 general elections.
All three potential running mates bear the title Doctor (Dr). They are Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe Constituency in the Ashanti Region and Minister for Education; Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo), Member of Parliament for Manhyia South Constituency also in the Ashanti Region and Minister for Energy; and Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Member of Parliament for Abetifi in the Eastern Region and Minister for Food and Agriculture.
On May 21, 2024, President Akufo-Addo announced that the flagbearer would reveal his running mate in June.
In a significant step towards improving the lives of head porters, commonly known as kayayei, the government has delivered on its promise to construct a state-of-the-art hostel facility.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia highlighted the transformative impact of the project, noting that many had doubted its feasibility when first announced.
“They thought it was not a realistic promise, they thought it wasn’t possible, they said it was a 419 scheme, but I knew that insha Allah was possible for us to do it,” Dr. Bawumia remarked.
“However, today, we have proven that with a possibility mindset and the right partnership, nothing is impossible.”
The new hostel facility aims to provide safe, secure, and sanitary living conditions for kayayei, who often endure harsh living environments.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to support vulnerable groups and enhance their quality of life through targeted social interventions.
The project has been realized through a collaborative effort involving public and private sector partners, showcasing the power of synergy in addressing social challenges.
The hostel is equipped with modern amenities designed to cater to the specific needs of the kayayei community, ensuring they have a conducive environment to rest and rejuvenate after long days of work.
In his speech, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the government’s commitment to social equity and inclusion. “
