Tag: campaign

  • “The team that makes the most noise does not win” – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    “The team that makes the most noise does not win” – Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    Former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has emphasised that political victories are achieved through careful preparation and clear messaging, rather than by being the loudest voice in the room.

    According to him, the key to winning political contests lies in planning and delivering campaign messages that genuinely connect with voters.

    “Most of the time, the team that makes the most noise does not win. It is the team that has really prepared that wins,” he stated.

    Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu highlighted that former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign message is resonating strongly with the electorate, particularly at the grassroots level.

    He recalled a recent campaign event in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, where Dr Bawumia’s speech reportedly moved several attendees to tears.

    “After we finished speaking, an elderly man sitting a few seats away from me was visibly moved. I also saw another person wiping away tears. When I asked the elderly man what had happened, he told me Dr Bawumia’s speech had made him cry,” the former MP for Suame said on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show on Thursday, January 22.

    The former MP said such emotional responses reinforced his belief that Dr Bawumia’s message is connecting deeply with the people, and he expressed confidence that the former Vice President would improve on his 2023 performance in the Ashanti Region. He projected support could rise from 63 per cent to around 70 per cent.

    Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu also pointed to the campaign’s meticulous grassroots approach, noting that the team has been evaluating performance constituency by constituency and polling station by polling station.

    “We have been with him across the country. They are doing assessments constituency by constituency, polling station by polling station. They have already toured all the regions twice,” he added.

    Commenting on previous flagbearer polls, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu said he was surprised at the 37 per cent secured by Kennedy Ohene Agyapong. He attributed that performance to Mr Agyapong’s established influence and party network.

    “The 37 percent Ken got really surprised me. He harvested from the content he had built in the system, and the way he pulled out, with his people following him,” he said, noting that such support may not be easily replicated this time, even with prominent figures backing him.

    The NPP is on a journey of reset, reinforcement, and healing following its historic defeat in the 2024 elections. Dr. Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

    https://youtube.com/watch?v=R9GwtixNqXs%3Frel%3D0%26modestbranding%3D1

    Since the beginning of this year, the party has undertaken several reforms to position itself strongly against its main opponent, the NDC, and to recapture power.

    Among these reforms is the abolition of the electoral college in favour of a broader base of delegates. The party has also added 19 new delegate categories and granted amnesty to suspended members.

    The NPP has announced that suspended members have been reinstated, and all charges against those facing the disciplinary committee have been dropped.

    This decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25. In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, members were informed that as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all banned members had been given the right to return.

    “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead.

    “I write to inform you that the National Council, at its Emergency Meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.

    The party further urged all relevant bodies, including Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, to reinstate suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles.

    “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” the statement added.

    However, the party clarified that this recall does not apply to members who willfully forfeited their membership. In cases where such individuals wish to return, they are required to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat. Upon acceptance, a two-year ban will be imposed, preventing them from contesting in any internal elections.

  • Prophecies are predictions, not reality – Bawumia’s campaign team

    Prophecies are predictions, not reality – Bawumia’s campaign team

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team has made it clear that they will not be influenced by prophecies regarding the outcome of the December 7 general elections.

    This comes after several pastors, during a recent meeting with National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, claimed he would win the 2024 elections.

    In an interview with Citi News, Anthony Karbo, a senior aide to Dr. Bawumia, dismissed these claims, stating that they regard such statements as mere predictions rather than divine revelations.

    Karbo further emphasized that the campaign is focused on its strategic plans and voter engagement, rather than being swayed by external commentary.

    He also referred to the 2020 U.S. elections, pointing out how several prophets predicted Kamala Harris’s victory but were proven wrong, questioning the reliability of such prophecies.

    “I find those prophecies to be predictions. I don’t understand why prophecies are prevalent in Africa. I don’t understand it. Nobody talks about prophecies in other jurisdictions like China, America, Germany, and London. Those prophecies are only in Africa.

    “We saw and heard prophets who said Kamala Harris was going to win, and what happened? What would have happened if we chose to believe in them? What would have happened because people said there was no way Donald Trump would ever be president?”

  • There’s money in Ghana; you are just not close to where it is – M.anifest on expensive political campaigns

    There’s money in Ghana; you are just not close to where it is – M.anifest on expensive political campaigns

    Ghanaian rapper M.anifest has expressed his views on the country’s ongoing economic difficulties.

    In a recent post on social media, he highlighted the paradox of wealth in Ghana, noting that while the nation has abundant resources, many citizens continue to struggle due to a lack of connection with those who possess this wealth.

    The artist, known for his hit song “We Dey Manage,” also pointed to the increasing visibility of campaign billboards, advertisements, and vehicles used by politicians in preparation for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

    He suggested that this proliferation is indicative of the financial resources circulating within the economy.

    “You might think there’s no money in the system, but just look at the multitude of campaign billboards, advertisements, and the luxury vehicles on display,” he stated. “Then you’ll realise it’s you who’s not close to where the money is.”

    M.anifest’s remarks on X have sparked various reactions online, with some users praising his comments, while others echoed his observations about the economic landscape in the country.

  • Mahama kicks off two-day campaign tour of North East Region today

    Mahama kicks off two-day campaign tour of North East Region today

    John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is set to kick off a two-day campaign tour of the North East Region today.

    This visit aims to engage with constituents and strengthen his party’s message as the upcoming elections approach. During the tour, Mahama plans to conduct a series of rallies and meetings with community leaders, party supporters, and other stakeholders in the region.

    The campaign forms part of his broader strategy to mobilize support and articulate his vision for the nation, with a focus on critical issues such as education, healthcare, and economic development.

    The North East Region, recognized for its rich cultural heritage and agricultural potential, has been a key focus of Mahama’s campaign efforts. He aims to connect with voters personally, addressing their concerns while highlighting the NDC’s commitment to enhancing the lives of Ghanaians in the region.

  • Engineering council of Ghana to implement Act 819 by 2025

    Engineering council of Ghana to implement Act 819 by 2025

    The Engineering Council of Ghana is preparing to fully implement the Engineering Council Act (Act 819) by June 2025, a move that will impact engineering professionals, firms, and educational institutions across the country.

    Currently, the Council is conducting a nationwide sensitisation campaign to promote adherence to the Act and its associated regulations, ensuring compliance before enforcement begins.

    Act 819, which was enacted in 2011, requires all engineers, firms, and educational institutions in Ghana’s engineering sector to obtain proper licencing.

    Mr. Isaac Bedu, the Council’s Registrar, explained that the focus on sensitisation before strict enforcement is aimed at ensuring that all stakeholders understand the Act’s requirements.

    Enforcement will commence only after sufficient time has been provided for practitioners and institutions to comply with licencing standards.

    Non-compliance with the licencing rules will carry serious penalties, as unlicensed engineers, firms, and educational institutions will not be allowed to operate in Ghana. The Council’s goal is to prevent substandard engineering practices, which have previously led to issues such as the production of subpar building materials like cement, raising significant public safety concerns.

    By enforcing the Act, the Council seeks to improve the quality of engineering practices in Ghana, ensuring adherence to professional standards.

    “Licensure is supposed to ensure public safety and confidence in the engineering community,” the Registrar noted, adding that licenced engineers will practice with greater assurance – knowing they are meeting the highest standards.

    The enforcement of Act 819 is regarded as a vital measure for cleansing the engineering sector. As a result, the Engineering Council’s initiatives are anticipated to foster a more regulated and professional industry, ultimately enhancing public confidence and contributing to the nation’s infrastructure development.

    So far, the Engineering Council has registered more than 4,500 individual practitioners, a figure that is expected to rise by the year’s end. However, the registration process for firms and educational institutions has yet to begin.

    Following the completion of the sensitisation program, these institutions will initiate their registration processes, paving the way for full enforcement of the Act by mid-2025. This transition aims to solidify the standards of engineering practices across the country, ensuring a higher level of professionalism within the sector.

  • Secondhand failed President – Bawumia tags Mahama

    Secondhand failed President – Bawumia tags Mahama

    The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has criticized NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama as a secondhand failed president.

    While campaigning in the Ofoase-Ayirebi constituency in the Eastern Region, he assured Ghanaians that, if elected, he would serve as a fresh, new president, in contrast to John Mahama, who would return as a recycled, failed leader.

    “If you vote for me, you are going to have a brand new tear rubber president, unlike John Mahama who will become your secondhand failed president if you give him your votes,” Bawumia told the constituents.

  • NAPO halts campaign to focus on NPP manifesto launch

    NAPO halts campaign to focus on NPP manifesto launch

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s campaign team for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has temporarily halted its activities to prepare for the party’s forthcoming manifesto launch.

    The NPP is set to unveil its “It is Possible” manifesto on Sunday in Takoradi in the Western Region.

    The upcoming manifesto is anticipated to focus on job creation and creating a favorable environment for the private sector.

    In a Friday interview on Joy News’ AM Show, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, Director of Communications for the Bawumia campaign, provided a preview of what Ghanaians can look forward to when the manifesto is unveiled on Sunday, August 18.

    “The manifesto is designed to ensure that the private sector not only thrives but also expands, increases production, and empowers citizens to access the opportunities generated. As businesses grow, they will naturally need to hire more people, leading to increased employment,” he explained.

    Dr. Prempeh, who has been vigorously campaigning in the Ashanti Region, has paused his campaign tours to prepare for this major event.

    Sources reveal that Dr. Prempeh is now in the Greater Accra Region to participate in meetings with the National Council and the National Executive Committee.

  • Bawumia’s campaign halted ahead of NPP manifesto launch

    Bawumia’s campaign halted ahead of NPP manifesto launch

    New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer for the 2024 elections, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has temporarily paused his campaign efforts to rest and prepare for the party’s upcoming manifesto launch this weekend.

    According to a statement from Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Director of Communications for the Bawumia 2024 campaign, the Vice President is taking this short break to refine key elements of the manifesto before its official release.

    “The Leader of the New Patriotic Party will, together with the team, spend the next few days preparing and finalizing the NPP 2024 Manifesto, which is scheduled to be launched on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia resumes the campaign tour immediately after the manifesto launch,” the release read.

    Dr. Bawumia has been actively campaigning across the country, making several noteworthy promises. Among them, he has pledged to abolish the Electronic Levy (E-levy) and eliminate the tax on sports betting.

    Additionally, he has committed to allocating 3 percent of Ghana’s GDP to infrastructure and road development.

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is set to unveil its manifesto in Takoradi, the capital of the Western Region, on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

  • NDC’s campaign launch is a sign of desperation – NPP

    NDC’s campaign launch is a sign of desperation – NPP

    Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan has described the National Campaign Launch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Tamale as a reaction driven by “panic”.

    Mr Duncan argues that the NDC’s anxiety stems from the increasing support for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the northern regions, attributed to the numerous development projects under President Akufo-Addo’s administration.

    In an interview on Peace FM on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Duncan suggested that the NDC’s event in Tamale was an attempt to counteract the growing popularity of NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who has been drawing large crowds to his constituency campaigns in the north.

    He stated, “Everyone who is being truthful would tell you that the NDC event that took place in Tamale on Saturday was a panic reaction. If you compare the number of people who attended the NDC’s National Campaign Launch and its organization to the constituency-by-constituency campaign of Bawumia, no one would tell you that there is great fear in the NDC and in John Dramani Mahama.

    “This is why they went to hold the event we saw in Tamale on Saturday,” he said in Twi.

    Duncan also criticized the NDC for failing to present clear policy alternatives during their campaign launch.

    He noted that while the NDC’s flagbearer promised not to mislead Ghanaians, there were no specific policy proposals outlined to address the needs of the citizens.

  • IEA has not officially informed NDC about a presidential debate – Mahama’s campaign team

    IEA has not officially informed NDC about a presidential debate – Mahama’s campaign team

    The 2024 Campaign team for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has expressed strong disapproval of the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) following its recent announcement of a presidential debate for the 2024 elections.

    The IEA has revealed plans to organize both Presidential and Vice-Presidential Debates in the lead-up to Ghana’s 2024 General Elections.

    However, in a statement issued on Friday, July 19, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the spokesperson for the Mahama 2024 Campaign, criticized the IEA for not extending an official invitation to the NDC before making the announcement.

    Madam Mogtari labeled this oversight as “completely unacceptable.”

    “The Mahama 2024 Campaign strongly condemns the recent announcement by the Institute of Economic Affairs (lEA) Ghana regarding a presidential debate for the 2024 elections. It is completely unacceptable that the lEA would make such an announcement without engaging or informing the National Democratic Congress, one of the major political parties in Ghana.”

    The Mahama 2024 Campaign Team has asserted that the IEA lacks the authority to organize activities related to the elections.

    “The Constitution of Ghana does not grant the IEA any authority to organise elections-related activities. The fact that the IEA has not shown the decency or respect to at least inform the NDC of its plans raises serious questions about its motives.”

    The Mahama Campaign has accused the IEA of attempting to manipulate the electoral process in favor of the NPP.

    They argued that Mr. Mahama and his running mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, have been actively engaging with the public for many years.

    “The IEA is clearly acting as a front for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and seeks to manipulate the electoral process in favour of the ruling party.

    “It is important to remind the lEA and the Ghanaian public that the NDC, led by our presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama and running mate Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, has been engaging with the citizenry for many years. Mahama’s online and offline conversations have targeted a wide range of audiences and focused on addressing the needs and concerns of the people of Ghana.”

  • Trump campaign shooting: Details about the suspect, Thomas Matthew Crooks

    Trump campaign shooting: Details about the suspect, Thomas Matthew Crooks

    The Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, is grappling with shock following the FBI’s identification of Thomas Matthew Crooks as the individual who shot at Donald Trump during a campaign rally, causing nationwide alarm.

    Investigators believe Crooks, armed with an AR-style rifle, fired at the former president while he addressed a crowd in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulting in the death of one audience member and critical injuries to two others.

    The 20-year-old kitchen worker was promptly neutralized at the scene by a Secret Service sniper, according to officials.

    In his quiet and affluent hometown, neighbors are struggling to comprehend how a seemingly quiet young man could be implicated in such a violent act.

    The FBI has confirmed Crooks’ involvement in the assassination attempt on the former president and is actively investigating the incident. Due to the absence of identification, investigators used DNA to ascertain his identity.

    Crooks hailed from Bethel Park, approximately 43 miles from the site of the attempted assassination, and graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, where he was recognized for his achievements in mathematics and science.

    He worked at a local nursing home kitchen near his residence, according to reports.

    Public records indicate Crooks was a registered Republican, although he reportedly made a donation to the liberal campaign group ActBlue in 2021.

    Reports indicate Crooks was wearing a T-shirt from Demolition Ranch, a popular YouTube channel known for its firearms and demolition content.

    Law enforcement officials believe the weapon used in the shooting was purchased by Crooks’ father, as reported by the Associated Press.

    Following the incident, law enforcement discovered suspicious devices in Crooks’ vehicle, prompting a bomb investigation at his residence, according to CBS.

    “We do not currently have an identified motive,” said Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge, at a briefing on Saturday night.

    Authorities continue to investigate Crooks’ motive, with no clear motive identified thus far, according to FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge Kevin Rojek.

    Crooks’ father, Matthew Crooks, expressed bewilderment and stated he would wait to speak with law enforcement before commenting further.

    “what the hell is going on” but would “wait until I talk to law enforcement” before speaking about his son.

    According to CBS News, police cordoned off the road leading to Crooks’s parental home.

    A neighbor informed CBS that officers evacuated her in the middle of the night without prior notice.

    Bethel Park Police have initiated a bomb investigation centered around Crooks’s residence, leading to strict control of the area with police vehicles blocking access. Only residents are permitted entry or exit.

    According to sources from law enforcement speaking to CBS, there is a belief that some level of planning occurred prior to the shooting. The extent of this planning remains under active investigation.

    Authorities maintain the belief that Crooks acted alone but are ongoing in their investigation into whether he had any companions at the rally.

    Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks?

    Thus far, a complex and occasionally contradictory portrayal of Crooks has emerged.

    According to interviews with local news outlet KDKA, some former classmates described him as a loner who faced bullying and occasionally wore “hunting outfits” to school.

    However, Summer Barkley, another former classmate, presented a contrasting view to the BBC, highlighting his academic excellence and deep passion for history, noting that he consistently performed well on tests.

    “always getting good grades on tests” and was “very passionate about history”.

    “Anything on government and history he seemed to know about,” he said. “But it was nothing out of the ordinary….he was always nice.”
    Others simply remembered him as quiet.

    “He was there but I can’t think of anyone who knew him well,” one former classmate, who asked to remain nameless, told the BBC. “He’s just not a guy I really think about. But he seemed fine.

    Jameson Myers, a former member of the Bethel Park High School varsity rifle team who graduated alongside Crooks in 2022, told CBS that he did not make the team.

    “He did not even make the junior varsity team after trying out,” Mr Myers added.

    “He never returned to try-outs for the remainder of high school.”

    Mr Myers remembers Crooks as seemingly a “normal boy” who was “not particularly popular but never got picked on or anything.”

    “He was a nice kid who never talked poorly of anyone and I never have thought him capable of anything I’ve seen him do in the last few days.”
    Other community members said simply that they were shocked that the alleged perpetrator of the shooting could have come from the quiet, green streets of Bethel Park.

    Jason Mackey, a 27-year-old local resident who lives near the Crooks’ home and worked at his school, expressed disbelief despite not knowing Crooks personally.

    “It’s shocking. You never expect something like this to happen so close to home,” Mackey said. “It’s just a surreal situation.”

    As for casualties, one person was killed and two others were injured during the shooting at the campaign rally, according to CBS News. All three victims were adult men who were part of the audience.

    At a press conference, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro identified the deceased as Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old volunteer fire chief who heroically shielded his family during the attack.

    A GoFundMe page, initiated by the Trump campaign’s national finance director Meredith O’Rourke, has raised over $340,000 (£267,000) to support the injured victims’ families.

    In a social media post on his Truth Social platform, Donald Trump described being hit by a bullet that grazed his right ear, causing him to feel the bullet “ripping through the skin.” Blood was visible on his ear and face as security personnel swiftly moved him to safety.

    Trump’s statement on the Republican National Committee (RNC) website indicates that he is recovering well and appreciative of law enforcement’s swift response.

    Regarding the shooting incident itself, eyewitnesses reported seeing a man, believed to be Crooks, on a nearby rooftop with a rifle before the shooting occurred.

    Video footage obtained by TMZ captured the moment the shooting began, showing the assailant using an AR-style rifle.

    How far was the suspected gunman from Donald Trump?

    Law enforcement sources informed CBS that the gunman was initially flagged as suspicious by a bystander and police, though officers lost track of him before the shooting began.

    The FBI, however, has not yet confirmed details about the type of firearm used or the number of shots fired.

    Ultimately, a Secret Service sniper returned fire and neutralized the gunman, with subsequent footage showing law enforcement approaching the gunman’s body on the rooftop.

  • Cheddar completes his four-day road show in Accra

    Cheddar completes his four-day road show in Accra

    Leader and founder of The New Force Movement, Nana Kwame Bediako (Cheddar), has emphasized the necessity for voters to consider a fresh leadership alternative outside the two major political parties that have led the country into turmoil.

    Concluding his four-day road show in the Ashaiman and Tema East constituencies of Greater Accra, Nana Kwame Bediako presented himself as a transformative figure poised to revolutionize the country’s development if elected in the upcoming December 7 election.

    Welcomed enthusiastically into Ashaiman Constituency by a massive crowd, the leader of the New Force Movement marked the apex of the movement’s road show in Accra’s Ashaiman and Tema East constituencies.

    The road show aimed to bolster support for the New Force Movement and saw Ashaiman, already bustling, gridlocked with eager constituents vying for Nana Kwame Bediako’s branded t-shirts and other memorabilia.

    Engaging market women and eligible voters, the founder urged them to consider him as the next leader to rescue the country from its current state, which he attributed to the dominance of the National Democratic Congress and New Patriotic Party.

    Bediako articulated his revolutionary vision, stating, ”I am bringing the sixteen regional revolutions. It seeks to empower the youth and rally them for positive change.”

    “We don’t want to export our raw materials again, but we will refine them here and create jobs for ourselves”.

    Bediako promised a comprehensive manifesto focused on youth empowerment.

    The entourage then proceeded to Tema East Constituency, where constituents advocated for a youthful leadership choice for the nation.

    The New Force Movement plans to extend its road show to other cities in the near future.

  • Homowo clean-up campaign and Asafoatse sanitation initiative launched by Ga Mantse

    Homowo clean-up campaign and Asafoatse sanitation initiative launched by Ga Mantse

    An initiative aimed at tackling critical sanitation challenges in the Greater Accra Region and promoting a cleaner environment ahead of the annual Homowo festival has been launched.

    Dubbed the “Homowo Clean-Up Exercise and Asafoatse Sanitation Taskforce,” the initiative was officially launched at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) under the theme “Unite to Clean.” It is scheduled to run from July 2 to August 20, 2024.

    Led by the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) in collaboration with the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) and supported by several ministries including Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, Sanitation and Water Resources, Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Zoomlion Ghana Limited, the initiative will kick off from Ga Mashie in the Accra Metropolis to the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, among other assemblies in the region.

    King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, who inaugurated the 2024 Homowo Clean-Up Exercise, called for collective action and responsibility to combat environmental degradation across the Greater Accra Region. He emphasized the closure of all shops and businesses in designated areas on the event day and urged leaders of various groups, associations, and residents to actively participate.

    The King stressed strict adherence to sanitation bye-laws and urged stringent enforcement without external interference. He also appealed to corporate bodies to adopt eco-friendly policies and collaborate with the Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) to declutter billboards and enhance the city’s aesthetics.

    Mayor of Accra, Elizabeth Kwatsoe Sackey, highlighted that the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area generates about four thousand metric tonnes of municipal waste daily, underscoring the need for robust measures to support President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s vision of making Accra the cleanest city in Africa.

    She expressed confidence that the initiative would renew commitments to proper sanitation practices and assured sustained efforts beyond the Homowo Festival.

    Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, outlined the resources mobilized, including 30 compaction trucks, over 30 motorized cycles (Borla Taxis), and various cleaning equipment. He announced the deployment of approximately 1,500 security personnel and a dedicated task force comprising Asafoatsemei, Environmental Health Officers, and community members to enforce sanitation regulations and uphold cleanliness standards.

    Hon. Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making Accra Africa’s cleanest city. She highlighted the establishment of a sanitation committee to oversee activities, engage communities, and promote sustainable practices in municipalities.

    The gathering was attended by Traditional Authorities, Policymakers, Members of Parliament (MPs), Civil Servants, Sanitation Ambassadors, and Religious Leaders, among others.

    “Let us roll up our sleeves, equip ourselves, and pledge to make a lasting impact, together, we can achieve our vision of making Accra one of the cleanest cities in Africa,” he said.

  • NDC lost 2020 election due to Rawlings’ death, COVID-19 – Joshua Alabi

    NDC lost 2020 election due to Rawlings’ death, COVID-19 – Joshua Alabi

    The Campaign Manager for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, Professor Joshua Alabi, has attributed the party’s loss in the 2020 presidential election to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the passing of the party’s founder, Jerry John Rawlings.

    According to Prof. Alabi, the pandemic disrupted campaign activities, while the government utilized its COVID-19 relief efforts, including free food, water, and electricity, for indirect campaigning.

    In an interview with Channel One News following his re-appointment as Campaign Manager for John Mahama, the NDC’s 2024 flagbearer, Alabi expressed optimism. He acknowledged past mistakes and highlighted readiness to enhance campaign strategies for the upcoming election.

    “So what this means to me is that it has offered me the opportunity to make a critical analysis of what was last time and then see how best we can polish what gaps we had and fix that in the 2024 campaign. As you are aware, in 2020…we had a covid in this country.

    “We were released to the campaign around somewhere in July. Yes, we had to set our machinery in place. Of course, setting all your machinery in place from July to December was quite a difficult task for us, but we had to do our best. Midway in our campaign again, we had a bad match, and that was the demise of our father, the founding father of the party, John Jerry Rawlings. So we had to truncate our campaign.”

    Prof. Alabi outlined strategies for the upcoming campaign, including door-to-door canvassing, engaging constituencies, and focusing on substantive issues to present the candidate positively to voters.

    He stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance and avoiding complacency within the party ranks.

    “There is a belief out there that the NDC has won the election already, we don’t want to take that because if something belongs to you and you don’t protect it, the thief will take it so we have to work. So we are going to work with various constituencies, we are going to go out there, door to door like we did in 2008 which added up to our campaign and we are also going to look at our messages and the plan of work and I am confident that the with all this we’ll get the flagbearer [elected].”

  • Campaigns must be done in a civilised manner to ensure peace – NCCE tells political parties

    The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has urged political parties to maintain tolerance and conduct their campaigns with civility to ensure peace before, during, and after the 2024 election.

    Garu District Director of the Commission, Samuel Akolgo, emphasized the crucial role of political parties in maintaining peace ahead of the election. He urged party leadership to cultivate tolerance and promote peace.

    Akolgo stressed the importance of political parties being civil and respectful in their communication to foster peace and tranquility.

    The call was made during an Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC) meeting in Garu, which brought together stakeholders including security agencies, political parties, the Electoral Commission, women, youth, persons with disabilities, and others.

    Organized by the NCCE as part of the European Union-sponsored project “Preventing and Containing Violent Extremism (PCVE),” the meeting aimed to raise awareness about violent extremism and promote security consciousness, social inclusiveness, community cohesion, and situational awareness for peace building and sustainable development.

    Mr Akolgo acknowledged that disagreements are normal but emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve differences and prevent escalation. He highlighted the challenge of violent extremism and the importance of not allowing extremists to exploit volatile situations to destabilize the country.

    “I appeal particularly to political parties to always resort to the use of dialogue in settling differences to promote peace and social cohesion, free, fair, and peaceful general elections this year,” he added.

    The Garu District Chief Executive, Mr. Haruna Ali, emphasized the critical importance of peace in accelerating the development needed in Ghana. He urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant and safeguard the country against the threats of terrorism.

    “I made a solemn promise to the political parties that government will take the necessary measures to preserve their safety, and security in the upcoming general elections. We recognise that we must prevent and combat violent extremist groups and terrorists who threaten the security of our country, and protect our national interests from such attacks,” he said.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Victor Gakpey, the Garu District Police Commander, provided training on monitoring and reporting threats and vulnerabilities to violent extremism. He also discussed detecting youth radicalization, signs of recruitment, and empowered participants with mediation and conflict resolution mechanisms.

    Mr. Gakpey urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security agencies.

    Mr. David Amoah, the District Director of the Electoral Commission, advised political parties to avoid making negative comments that could incite tension and undermine the electoral process.

    He assured the parties that the Electoral Commission would create a conducive environment for free, fair, and transparent elections. Mr. Amoah encouraged parties to focus on constructive campaigning, presenting their policies and visions in a way that promotes unity and respect among voters.

  • Bawumia is drawing crowd with his campaign strategy – MP

    Bawumia is drawing crowd with his campaign strategy – MP

    The Member of Parliament representing Dormaa East, Paul Apraku Twum Barimah, has remarked that the strategic campaign approach of the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has left members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and their flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, in awe.

    Dr. Bawumia’s campaign strategy, labeled “Bawumia face-to-face, street-to-street, door-to-door, and joint-to-joint,” is gaining momentum across various regions of Ghana.

    This strategy involves walking through streets, districts, and communities, engaging citizens in one-on-one discussions, and introducing his policies and vision for the upcoming December 7 general elections.

    Having already visited the Eastern, Western, Ashanti, Bono East, Bono, Northern, and parts of the Greater Accra regions, Dr. Bawumia’s presence is drawing large crowds eager to hear about his proposed policies and programs for implementation from 2025.

    According to Honorable Twum Barimah, Dr. Bawumia’s campaign strategy is proving highly effective for the NPP, as evidenced by the increasing numbers of supporters joining the campaign trail.

    “Dr. Bawumia is doing something great and extraordinary in his campaign tour. Walking on the streets and meeting food vendors, shop operators, commuters, as well as taxi and trotro drivers, is very strategic and is giving the NPP the numbers,” Paul Twum Barimah stated.

    “This is also because the campaign message the Vice President is rolling out is stunning and attracts and pulls the people along. The increasing numbers on the campaign tour are good for the party, and we are replicating it in all the regions to sell the good message of the party,” Honorable Twum Barimah revealed.

    “I can tell you that the NDC members are dazed by the high rate and level of crowds the Vice President is pulling across the regions with his iconic campaign bus, with the inscription ‘IT IS POSSIBLE,’” he explained.

    “I can assure you that with this rate of campaign from the NPP and Dr. Bawumia, Mahama and his NDC will fall out and lose the coming elections,” Honorable Twum Barimah added.

    On Monday, April 29, 2024, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia initiated his presidential campaign for the December 2024 elections with a historic event in the Eastern Region. Surrounded by enthusiastic supporters, Bawumia emphasized the imperative of youth empowerment nationwide.

    He underscored the urgency of innovative solutions to address the challenges confronting Ghana’s youth and pledged to lead the charge. Bawumia articulated a comprehensive vision aimed at tackling unemployment, improving quality of life, and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

    Drawing on his problem-solving expertise, Bawumia highlighted the transformative potential of digitization and emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector in job creation. He envisioned Ghana following the footsteps of global tech giants, laying the foundation for sustainable job growth independent of government finances.

    Central to his agenda are initiatives such as the establishment of a national identification system and the implementation of mobile money interoperability, both of which Bawumia has actively advocated for. These initiatives serve as foundational steps towards greater achievements in propelling Ghana into the league of developed nations.

    Bawumia’s message resonated with hope and determination, reaffirming his steadfast commitment to empowering Ghana’s youth. Through initiatives aimed at enhancing access to credit and promoting financial inclusion, barriers to entrepreneurship could be overcome, unlocking the full potential of Ghana’s youth.

    Applause reverberated across the Eastern Region as Bawumia’s message of hope spread far and wide. With digitization as the cornerstone of his presidency, Ghana’s future appeared promising for its youth. As Bawumia continues his nationwide tour, his unwavering message remains clear: the time for transformation is now. Together, every young Ghanaian can anticipate a future filled with opportunity and prosperity.

  • FLASHBACK: Akufo-Addo stoned while campaigning at Klottey Korle

    FLASHBACK: Akufo-Addo stoned while campaigning at Klottey Korle

    In 2016, during a New Patriotic Party (NPP) rally in Osu, an unidentified individual in the crowd threw a stone at opposition leader Akufo-Addo while he addressed supporters.

    Akufo-Addo, who was on the second leg of his tour in the Greater Accra Region, had visited Alajo in the Ayawaso Central constituency before proceeding to Osu Klottey Korle on October 5, 2016.

    As Akufo-Addo spoke about the need to remove President Mahama and the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) due to alleged economic mismanagement, he was interrupted by a stone thrown by an unknown individual.

    Although momentarily disrupted, he continued his speech, stressing the importance of supporting the NPP’s parliamentary aspirant for the area, Philip Addison.

    Addressing the incident, Akufo-Addo expressed disappointment but urged supporters to remain focused on the party’s objectives.

    “Someone just threw a stone at me, why?” he asked. But he quickly resumed his delivery, saying: “No problem, this is our politics in Ghana.

    “I would wish that when we are moving [to the Flagstaff House], you allow Philip Addison to come along with me. Our party, the party of the Elephant, we know of only one candidate for Klottey Korle. He is Philip Addison. We know of no other person. We go to primaries to elect someone before he can contest [on our ticket]. So please make no mistake – NPP is the only party capable of removing the NDC from power. No other political organisation in Ghana can do it.”

    He emphasized that the NPP, represented by Addison, was the sole viable option for replacing the NDC in power.

    No arrests were made in connection with the incident, and the motive remains unclear.

    Watch video below:

    @young.tv #tiktoktrendingvideo #tiktoktrending #showdown #poorleadership #wickedleaders #fyppppppppppppppppppppppppppppp #occupyjulorbihouse #occupybogprotest #saveourmotherlandghana #fyyyyyyyyyyypppppppp ♬ original sound – Young TV
  • Recap of phase one campaign activities announced by Bawumia’s campaign team

    Recap of phase one campaign activities announced by Bawumia’s campaign team


    Director of Communications for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has declared the completion of the initial stage of the Vice President’s bid for the 2024 presidential election.

    This inaugural phase commenced on Monday, April 29, 2024, and concluded on May 4, 2024.

    In a statement released on Sunday, May 5, 2024, Aboagye outlined the three regions traversed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer: the Eastern, Western, and Western North Regions.

    “In each of the regions, Dr. Bawumia engaged with religious leaders, traditional authorities, youth groups, and other key stakeholders, as well as conducted a rigorous door-to-door and street campaign,” the statement said.

    Central to Dr. Bawumia’s campaign narrative was his unwavering commitment to integrity.

    Regarding policy, the campaign spotlighted a range of initiatives and commitments made by the Vice President aimed at specific demographics, such as the mining sector, individuals with disabilities, and fishermen.

    The announcement specified that the Vice President will recommence his campaign activities on Wednesday, April 8, 2024, with plans to tour the Ahafo, Bono, and Bono East Regions for the subsequent phase.

    For a comprehensive overview of phase one of the Vice President’s campaign, please refer to the full statement below.

  • Cheddar tours Volta Region; visits Ho market

    Cheddar tours Volta Region; visits Ho market

    Founder of the New Force Movement, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar is embarking on a strategic tour across the Volta Region.

    This tour is designed to engage stakeholders, present policies, and rally support for his presidential aspirations.

    Amidst Ghana’s evolving political landscape, Nana Kwame Bediako (NKB) and the New Force Movement are gaining momentum, particularly among the youth and those seeking alternatives to traditional political structures.

    The tour, deemed pivotal by his team, aims to fortify their presence and garner support across various regions.

    At the core of NKB’s campaign is the call for transformative change and development within Ghana. Rooted in principles of service and innovation, he believes his leadership can enact necessary reforms to propel the nation forward.

    “I am committed to being the voice of the people, the bridge between communities, and the catalyst for progress,” NKB stated ahead of his Volta Region tour.

    Expected to address topics including entrepreneurship, technical training, support for startups, and industrialization, NKB plans to engage with local leaders, community representatives, and residents across the region.

    This engagement serves as a platform to listen to concerns, share his vision, and discuss policies envisioned by the New Force Movement.

    Central to the campaign is the pledge to bring tangible change, focusing on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. NKB emphasizes these pillars as crucial for holistic national development and citizen well-being.

    With Ghana’s presidential election scheduled for December, NKB and New Force position themselves as a viable option for those seeking fresh perspectives and committed leadership.

    The Volta Region tour marks the beginning of a nationwide campaign effort, aiming not only to garner support but also foster unity and purpose among Ghanaians.

    Nana Kwame Bediako’s message is clear: a new era of bold, visionary leadership, dedicated to serving the people, is imperative. As the tour commences in Ho, all eyes are on NKB, anticipating the resonance of his message across the Volta Region and beyond.

    The New Force Movement tour has already traversed Tamale, Bolgatanga, Navrongo, Goaso, Techiman, Sefwi Wiawso, Sunyani, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Cape Coast, illustrating a widespread effort to connect with Ghanaians nationwide.

  • “See Something, Say Something” campaign initiative launched in schools

    “See Something, Say Something” campaign initiative launched in schools

    The Ministry of National Security has extended the “See Something, Say Something” campaign to educational institutions in the Greater Accra Region, aiming to bolster public safety and promote community vigilance.

    As part of this initiative, a team from the Ministry visited selected schools such as St. Joseph R/C Basic School, Adabraka Cluster of Schools, King Tackie Cluster of Schools, Liberty Cluster of Schools, Calvary Basic School, and Gray Memorial Basic School.

    During these visits, students were provided with awareness materials like posters and pamphlets, enlightening them on the importance of vigilance and reporting any suspicious activities they encounter.

    Addressing the students individually at each school, the campaign’s lead, Akosua Danquah Ntim-Sekyere, emphasized the campaign’s significance amidst rising security concerns in the West African sub-region. She highlighted security challenges faced by neighboring countries and stressed the need for proactive citizen participation in ensuring security.

    Students were encouraged to utilize the toll-free line 999 to report any pertinent information, with the campaign adopting the acronym “SALUTE” for reporting specifics.

    Another team member, Irene Yaa Frimponmaah Sasu, urged students to report anything unusual, emphasizing the importance of reliable information sharing to thwart criminal activities, particularly those of terrorists.

    The Ministry has introduced dedicated hotlines and online platforms for easy and confidential incident reporting, ensuring that all information is treated with utmost confidentiality.

    Students expressed their commitment to the campaign, understanding the importance of vigilance in maintaining the safety of their communities and families.

  • We were delayed in 2008 but they can’t stop us now – Wontumi on breaking the 8

    We were delayed in 2008 but they can’t stop us now – Wontumi on breaking the 8

    Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Bosiako, widely recognized as Chairman Wontumi, has confidently stated that the ruling party is poised to emerge victorious in the upcoming general elections.

    He expressed strong belief that the NPP is set to achieve an unprecedented milestone in Ghanaian politics by securing a third consecutive electoral victory.

    Chairman Wontumi emphasized that the reins of power will not shift to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and their presidential candidate, former President John Dramani Mahama.

    “I can assure you that in 2024 we are breaking the 8, they delayed us in 2008 but they can’t stop us, we are more united than before. They can’t stop us; we are united and we are breaking the 8.

    “We are not going to give it to you. John Dramani Mahama you are not the option, we are not going to give it to you to spoil the good work that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has done.

    “Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is going to succeed Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,” he said during the inauguration of the Ashanti Region NPP campaign team over the weekend.

    Echoing the resolute sentiments, Dan Kwaku Botwe, the Campaign Chairman of the NPP for the upcoming 2024 general elections, assured supporters of the party’s unwavering unity and dedication to triumph.

    Addressing the gathering, he spotlighted the smooth conduct of internal elections across different tiers of the party structure, emphasizing the cohesive spirit prevailing within the NPP.

  • Joshua Makubu appointed as NPP Campaign Coordinator for PWDs

    Joshua Makubu appointed as NPP Campaign Coordinator for PWDs

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

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

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

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

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

  • Bawumia’s campaign team to be unveiled on February 19

    Bawumia’s campaign team to be unveiled on February 19

    On Monday, 19 February 2024, Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is set to present his campaign team list to the National Executive Committee (NEC) for consideration and approval.

    Sources reveal that Dr. Bawumia has engaged in extensive consultations within the party to ensure broad representation.

    “The list to be presented to NEC during its scheduled meeting on Monday will reflect the philosophy, strategy, and focus of the NPP’s 2024 campaign,” one source at the party headquarters at Asylum Down said.

    The list, to be showcased during the NEC meeting, is expected to embody the NPP’s philosophy, strategy, and focus for the 2024 campaign.

    Following NEC approval, the unveiling of “Team Bawumia” will feature prominent political figures and dynamic individuals.

    In a recent major reshuffle by President Akufo-Addo, significant changes occurred in the government, with several ministers and deputy ministers being replaced or reassigned.

    Noteworthy figures anticipated to be part of Dr. Bawumia’s campaign team include Dan Botwe, Justin Frimpong Kodua, Frederick Opare-Ansah, Kwabena Agyepong, Nana Akomea, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, Anthony Karbo, and Krobea Asante.

  • Akufo-Addo’s 2016 campaign promise to put an end to sole sourcing revisited

    In Akufo-Addo’s 2016 presidential campaign, he assured Ghanaians that if elected, government projects and contracts would no longer be exclusively awarded through sole sourcing.

    He emphatically declared an end to the era of sole sourcing.

    This statement resurfaced amidst ongoing discussions about the government predominantly opting for sole sourcing in contract awards.

    Notably, the Ghana Revenue Authority faced criticism on Twitter for awarding contracts through sole sourcing for items like office curtains, furniture, and notepad diaries.

    See details of some of the contracts below:

    Supply of Office Furniture

    Contract date – December 1, 2022
    Contract Award Price – GH¢1,275,253.20
    Contract Type – Single Sourced
    Contract Awarded to – Jaide Solutions

    Supply of Office Furniture

    Contract date – December 1, 2022
    Contract Award Price – $225,056.00
    Contract Type – Single Sourced
    Contract Awarded to – Precision Hub Service International

    Supply and Installation of Office Curtains at Head Office Annex
    Contract date – December 30, 2022
    Contract Award Price – GH¢198,524.40
    Contract Type – Single Sourced
    Contract Awarded to – Emperor Hive Limited

    Procurement of Furniture and Fittings

    Contract date – September 27, 2022
    Contract Award Price – GH¢1,060,476.56
    Contract Type – Single Sourced
    Contract Awarded to – Favrace Company Limited

    Printing and Supply of 2023 Notepad Diaries

    Contract date – October 14, 2022
    Contract Award Price – GH¢1,275,253.20
    Contract Type – Single Sourced
    Contract Awarded to – JIT Magazine and Diaries Services Ltd

    Another Procurement for Office Furniture

    Contract date – June 30, 2022
    Contract Award Price – GH¢1,767,846.60
    Contract Type – Single Sourced
    Contract Awarded to – Sams Firma Ltd

    The primary issues made about contract awarding have been over the use of sole sourcing because the items do not meet the criteria for sole sourcing.

    The Public Procurement Authority acknowledges the following arguments for sole sourcing, according to the PPA:

    (a) Where goods, works or services are only available from a particular supplier or contractor, or if a particular supplier or contractor has exclusive rights in respect of the goods, works, or services, and no reasonable alternative or substitute exists;

    (b) Where there is an urgent need for the goods, works, or services and engaging in tender proceedings or any other method of procurement is impractical due to unforeseeable circumstances giving rise to the urgency which is not the result of dilatory conduct on the part of the procurement entity;

    (c) Where owing to a catastrophic event, there is an urgent need for the goods, works, or technical services, making it impractical to use other methods of procurement because of the time involved in using those methods.

  • Police initiate ‘Snatch them young’ campaign to combat crime

    Police initiate ‘Snatch them young’ campaign to combat crime

    The Police Administration has initiated a campaign named “Snatch them young” aimed at instilling security awareness in children and fostering their appreciation of the police force’s work. The campaign intends to bolster children’s confidence in the police’s mission to prevent and solve crimes, apprehend wrongdoers, and maintain public order and safety. As part of this initiative, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) have been visiting schools nationwide to engage with students.

    In a special arrangement, students from the Police Depot Cluster of Schools in Tesano, Accra, had the opportunity to visit the Police Headquarters. During their visit, they explored various units within the headquarters, including a television station within the Public Affairs Department. The students also enjoyed music from the Police central band and interacted with horses from the Mounted Squadron Unit of the police. POMAB members took turns educating the children about the police’s hierarchy, responsibilities, and operations.

    The children were treated to assorted drinks and food and had the chance to exchange pleasantries with their hosts, including the IGP and senior officers, while taking photos together. The students were advised to be responsible citizens and reassured of police protection. They were encouraged to view the police as friends whom they could approach for assistance at any time.

    Assistant Superintendent of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Director of the Police Public Directorate, emphasized that the initiative aimed to make “the police is your friend” slogan meaningful. She highlighted that interactions like these would help children feel comfortable approaching police officers in times of need, rather than fearing them based on parental threats.

    Michealla Annane, an 11-year-old Class Four student from the Police Depot One basic school, expressed her joy and appreciation for the opportunity to meet the IGP. She stated that she had learned a lot and would always remember the day.

    Eugenia Modenu, a primary two teacher at the school, commended the Police for the initiative, emphasizing its role in deepening students’ understanding of the police force’s duties. Headmistress Evelyn Akorfa-Doe of the Police Depot Three and Four Junior High Schools acknowledged the unique experience provided to the children, allowing them to visit the headquarters of the institution that owns their school.

  • 100 customers to be rewarded each week during MoMo promotion

    100 customers to be rewarded each week during MoMo promotion

    MobileMoney Limited (MML) has initiated a promotional campaign aimed at acknowledging customer loyalty and encouraging the adoption of digital payments through MoMo.

    Over the upcoming two months, commencing from August 17 until September 30, the company will grant rewards to one hundred customers every week. These prizes will encompass e-cash amounts of up to ¢1000.

    The promotion operates on a point-based system, necessitating customers to utilize the MoMo Pay service for settling payments related to goods and services through Merchant IDs or QR codes.

    In doing so, they will accrue points based on their transactional activities.

    For every ¢10 spent, customers will accumulate five points. The top one hundred points earners each week will be granted an e-cash prize of up to ¢1000.

    Using the MoMo App for transactions will yield triple the points earned through USSD. You can get the MoMo App from either PlayStore or App Store.

    MoMo agents and merchants are encouraged to amplify transaction volume, transaction value, and minimize fraud incidents to secure appealing rewards.

    During the launch of the MoMo Season celebrations, CEO of MobileMoney Limited, Shaibu Haruna, discussed the focal points of the season’s activities, centered around the theme “Tackling Barriers to Embracing Digital Payments in Ghana.”

    Haruna stated, “Obstacles like interoperability issues, counterfeit identification cards, platform infrastructure, customer onboarding, and MoMo fraud have hindered the widespread adoption of digital payments in Ghana.”

    Both MTN Ghana and MobileMoney Limited are dedicated to overcoming these challenges through collaborative efforts with stakeholders and partners, with the aim of establishing a resilient, effective, and more inclusive digital payments ecosystem within the country.

    Winners of the weekly prizes will obtain their rewards by the end of each month, after they’ve been contacted by MTN MoMo via 0244 300 000.

  • I will not relent on my presidential campaign if I’m jailed – Trump

    I will not relent on my presidential campaign if I’m jailed – Trump

    Former US president Donald Trump said Friday he would not end his run for the White House if convicted and sentenced in any of the criminal investigations threatening to derail his tumultuous comeback bid.

    The Republican frontrunner was discussing the multiple indictments he faces as he pushes for a second term, a day after prosecutors broadened the charges against him over his handling of classified government documents.

    Asked by radio host John Fredericks if being sentenced would stop his campaign, Trump quickly responded: “Not at all. There’s nothing in the constitution to say that it could.

    “And even the radical left crazies are saying not at all, that wouldn’t stop (me) – and it wouldn’t stop me, either,” the 77-year-old added. “These people are sick. What they are doing is absolutely horrible.”

    The former president, who has been impeached twice, was recently indicted in the classified documents case. He is accused of endangering national security by retaining top-secret nuclear and defense information after leaving the White House.

    The Justice Department has now added charges against Trump, bringing the total count to more than three dozen. In May, a judge in a civil trial found him liable for raping a writer in Manhattan during the 1990s.

    Apart from the documents probe, Trump is facing numerous felony charges related to hush money payments to a porn star in New York. Additionally, he is anticipating indictment in state and federal investigations into his attempts to overturn the 2020 election.

    In a significant development, Special Counsel Jack Smith accused Trump of asking a worker at his Florida estate to delete surveillance footage, obstructing the investigators. Trump is scheduled to go on trial in March and May next year during the height of the campaign.

    Despite the mounting legal challenges, Trump remains defiant, denying any wrongdoing. He recently gave a radio interview and is set to appear alongside his rival, Ron DeSantis, in the Iowa party’s annual Lincoln Dinner.

    As for DeSantis, he has been facing his own difficulties, with Trump’s lead over him widening from 13 to 34 points. DeSantis has struggled to connect with voters and has been embroiled in controversies, including issues related to Nazi imagery promotion, vaccine conspiracy theories, and overspending in his campaign.

    Other Republican presidential candidates, including Mike Pence, Nikki Haley, and Tim Scott, will also speak at the Lincoln Dinner. DeSantis, despite being attacked relentlessly by Trump, expressed that he is against the former president’s prosecution, advocating for a “fresh start” for the country.

  • Nigeria to begin Africa’s World Cup campaign on Friday

    Nigeria to begin Africa’s World Cup campaign on Friday

    The much-anticipated ninth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup has arrived, with Australia and New Zealand serving as the hosts for this unique event.

    Nigeria, a nine-time African champion, is determined to change their fortunes in the World Cup. They kick off their campaign against Olympic champions Canada in their opening match on Friday at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.

    In Group B, they will also face the co-hosts Australia and Ireland, making it a challenging group for them.

    Making history as the first country from the Arab region to qualify for a FIFA Women’s World Cup, Morocco is eager to leave a lasting impression in Australia and New Zealand 2023. Meanwhile, Zambia faces a tough task in their Group C opener against the 2011 World Champions Japan, followed by matches against Spain and Costa Rica.

    South Africa, the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions, is prepared to make their second appearance in the Women’s World Cup.

    They will aim to secure a victory in their first match against Sweden on July 23.

    Morocco’s remaining group stage fixtures include a match against South Korea on July 30, followed by a final group stage encounter against Colombia on August 3.

  • You have done nothing extraordinary for the NPP – Kwabena Agyepong tells Ken Agyapong

    You have done nothing extraordinary for the NPP – Kwabena Agyepong tells Ken Agyapong

    Former general secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Agyepong has remarked that no one can claim to be the party’s principal funder because the party has been sponsored at various times by different people for various reasons.

    This is in response to a recent back and forth with Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, over the latter’s claim that he supported the party with a US$3m loan in 1992.

    Kwabena had earlier disputed the claim citing the logistical challenges that he was privy to in 1992 and the unfavourable political conditions at the time.

    In the wake of confirmation of the transaction by a partner of the Assin Central MP, Mr. Oppong Bio, Agyepong has conceded that he may have been oblivious to certain details but that it was immaterial to the extent that the party is supported by all members with the capacity so to do.

    Kwabena Agyepong and Ken Agyapong

    “He mentioned the names of persons including President Kufuor, indicating that President Kufuor led them to take a loan for Adu Boahene’s campaign. President Kufuor is alive and so is Kwame Mpianin…I don’t want to go further into the matter.

    “If you claim certain things happened and some persons are aware, it is possible. But don’t go about bragging that you initiated it and paid off a loan for campaigns in 1992.

    “There are a lot of people who have supported the party in one way or the other”, he said.

  • Mahama refutes claim of attacking Asantes in campaign speech

    Mahama refutes claim of attacking Asantes in campaign speech

    Former President, John Dramani Mahama has refuted claims of attacking Asantes during his campaign at Eastern Region.

    It was reported in some media circles that the former President made some disparaging comments about the people in the Ashanti Region.

    Mr. Mahama is alleged to have advised residents in the Eastern Region not to learn from their counterparts in the Ashanti Region who are emotionally attached to the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and do not think before voting for the elephant-symbol party.

    But rubbishing this claim in a statement on April 14, the spokesperson for Mr. Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari asserted, “The said publication, which has been sourced to UTV, an Accra-based television station is false. President Mahama has not made any such statement, either on his campaign rounds or to UTV”.

    Madam Bawah Mogtari underscored that the former President is focused on his campaign.

    “Mr. Mahama remains focused on his ‘Building the Ghana we want Together’ campaign and will not be distracted by such dirty propaganda,” she noted.

    Read below the full statement by Madam Joyce Bawah Mogtari

    DISCLAIMER

    The attention of the John Mahama Campaign has been drawn to a fake quote attributed to the former President purportedly attacking Ashantis.

    The said publication, which has been sourced to UTV, an Accra based television station is false.

    President Mahama has not made any such statement, either on his campaign rounds or to UTV.

    We believe this is yet another disinformation campaign to cause disaffection for Mr. John Mahama, and demand a retraction and apology from UTV.

    Mr. Mahama remains focused on his ‘Building the Ghana we want Together’ campaign and will not be distracted by such dirty propaganda.

    Joyce Bawah Mogtari
    Spokesperson
    April 14, 2023

  • Mahama to campaign in Eastern region today

    Mahama to campaign in Eastern region today

    The National Democratic Congress‘s (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, prospective presidential candidate will begin a three-day tour in the Eastern Region today.

    Mr. Mahama will visit thirty-one (31) constituencies where he will meet and interact with branch and constituency executives. He has so far toured 7 regions, touching ground in 106 constituencies.

    In the Eastern Region, former President Mahama will speak about his vision of “Building the Ghana we want together,” and why securing a convincing win in the NDC primaries will be a great boost for the 2024 presidential election.

    He will also share his plans towards improving the party’s polling and electoral area campaign, through voter mobilizing and canvassing, and the effective utilization of campaign materials and resources.

    Mr. Mahama has announced a reward scheme to recognize branches of the party that increase their polling station votes in both the parliamentary and presidential elections.

    From the Eastern Region, ex-President Mahama will spend a day touring some constituencies in the Greater Accra Region on Friday, April 14, before heading to the Oti Region.

  • Ato Duncan receives Peace Ambassador Award

    Ato Duncan receives Peace Ambassador Award

    Prof. Samuel AtoDunan, CEO of COA Research and Manufacturing Company Limited, has been selected for the worldwide humanitarian peace award.

    The award which aims to honour outstanding personalities for their contributions to peace and conflicts resolution as well as poverty eradication is being given by the united international peace and governance council of Africa.

    Prof. Ato Duncan who is also the president general for the center of awareness global peace mission was recognized for his immense contributions to world peace.

    The renowned businessman, philanthropist and researcher has been holding series of lectures on peace and effective leadership to check poverty.

    He allocated $2 million towards a global peace campaign and missions last year in a five-year strategic plan to promote world peace.

    The impact of the initiative was to end world violence, by targeting the campaign through traditional leaders, youth groups, and thought leaders in society with much focus on the political class.

    The International Peace and Governance Council Incorporation, organisers of the award was established for Diplomatic Missions to contribute to the acceleration of Peace, Good Governance and Poverty Eradication across the globe.

    The organization is in partnership with various United Nations organs and Associations for project implementation.

    It aims to consolidate and strengthen efforts of organizations and individuals around the world to handle Civil and ethnic conflicts, inter-state wars, terrorism, poverty eradication among others.

  • How loyalty to Joshua Alabi helped Elvis Ankrah gain a major employment at UPSA in 2005

    Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, a former Director of Elections for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has recalled some good memories of working together with the first Vice Chancellor of the University for Professional Studies (UPSA), Prof. Joshua Alabi.

    Recalling how, together with Prof. Alabi, who was at the time the Campaign Manager of the NDC, they worked at trying to win power for the party, he explained that one of the things that worked for him was knowing his place.

    He told GhanaWeb’s Edward Smith Anamale in an interview on Election Desk that although it was clear to many people at the time that he, Elvis, was the one seemingly doing all the work, he did not allow any of that to get to his head.

    He said he knew his place and played his part accordingly.

    “He was then the Pro-Vice Chancellor of UPSA and so he had to juggle the two and so at certain times, when he was on holidays, then he’ll join the campaign full time but during school time, he wasn’t full time. So, I was virtually running but we had a very solid relationship.

    “I reported to him morning, evening every day – morning, evening. And there’s a lesson in that; loyalty, because people were saying now you are in charge and I said No, I was not appointed Campaign Manager,” he said.

    Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, who is eyeing the position of General Secretary of the NDC in its pending December 17, 2022, congress, reiterated that, unknown to him, it would all pay one day.

    He narrated how one day, when he was seeking a job at the UPSA, having been in the good books of Prof Joshua Alabi, it paid off very well for him.

    “He is my boss and it paid off because after that election, then in 2005, I contested for and won as the Deputy General Secretary at the Koforidua Congress.

    “So, when we came back, I was put in charge of operations, and we were in opposition – we had been in opposition from 2000 and I believe that you must always work; earn your keep, so I applied for a job at the UPSA and on the panel, of course, was Prof. Alabi, who I’d been loyal to.

    “Of course, I was qualified, but can you imagine if there had been a frosty relationship and I had been arrogant and disrespectful to him that now I’m in charge, I’m sure I wouldn’t have had that job,” he explained.

     

  • Atiku takes presidential campaign to America

    Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Abubakar Atiku has departed Nigeria the United States of America to intensify his political campaigns ahead of the 2023 elections.

    Atiku is proceeding on a weeklong political campaign in the US, where he would be meeting Nigerians and business community during the visit.

    While in the US, Atiku would be meeting with Nigerians in Diaspora as well as with the PDP members in North America.

    According to report, the PDP presidential candidate would also meet with top Nigerian business leaders based in the US, as well as young Nigerian professionals in the diaspora.

    Atiku will also hold meeting with some other business communities in the US during the visit.

    Recall that Atiku flagged off his campaign in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State three weeks ago. He has also followed his campaign flag-off with the Kaduna campaign last Saturday, with another campaign in Benin, the Edo State capital respectively.

    Atiku is expected to return to Nigeria on Monday. He is expected to resume his campaign Ekiti state on Tuesday, November 1, 2022, while the campaign rally in Ondo State would hold on Wednesday November 2.

    Atiku’s trip to the US has laid to rest controversies that the former vice president could not travel to the US.

    Source: Vanguard News

     

  • 250 women undergo breast screening at Kaneshie Market Complex

    About 50 to 60 percent of suspected cases of breast cancer has been recorded during a breast cancer screening for over 250 women at the Kaneshie Medical Centre(KMC) during the breast cancer month-long campaign.

    This was disclosed by the Medical Officer of the Kaneshie Medical Centre, Dr Obed Boamah,in an interview with the Ghanaian Times in Accra on Friday.

    Organised by the New Times Corporation (NTC) in partnership with other organisations such as Kaneshie Medical Centre, Unichem Ghana Group, World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Kaneshie Polyclinic, the exercise was to create awareness about breast cancer, leading to low mortality rate.

    When the Ghanaian Times got to the Medical Centre at the Kaneshie Market Complex, it observed that some women who had made their way to the place were seated patiently waiting to go through the screening process.

    The women were also educated on the disease by the nurses who were attending to them while ensuring that the screening process went on smoothly.

    According to Dr Boamah, those who had suspicious cases were recommended to visit scanning centres depending on their proximity and later report back to the Medical Centre.

    Additionally, he said the screening would also afford the Medical Centre the opportunity to determine who needed urgent attention based on the medical report after the scan had been done.

    Dr Boamahnoted that illiteracy was proving a challenge in the fight against the disease as he asserted that through his interaction with the women,it came to light that most of them had little or no knowledge about the disease.

    This, Dr Boamah indicated, called for intensified awareness creation by showing images of the disease on various media platforms including broadcast, print and online media and the use of a language that would be understood by the women.

    Heappealed to government to include breast cancer screening such as mammogram and ultra-sound screening to the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) as most clients found it costly.

    For his part, the Acting Head of Clinical Service at the KMC, Dr Seth KwabenaMawuena, lauded NTC and its associate partners for the exercise, describing it as impressive considering the enthusiasm with which it had been received by the women.

    He said through the exercise, breast cancer cases and other health-related cases that would have gone unnoticed had been detected with the appropriate medical assistance being offered.

    Dr Mawuena noted that early detection was key in the fight against breast cancer, saying “early detection is very important because when there is late detection it becomes complicated and there is a high chance of death.”

    He, therefore, urged the public, especially women, to take advantage of breast cancer screening in order to know their status.

    Some women whom the Ghanaian Times spoke to expressed high level of satisfaction about the whole exercise and called for intensified awareness creation about the disease.

    They also urged women not to wait until the cancer became severe before visiting the health centre for treatment but rather make frequent check-up a habit.

  • 6.9m children to be vaccinated during 2nd round vaccination campaign – GHS

    Over 6.9 million children under five years are expected to be vaccinated in the second round of the National Polio Vaccination Campaign (PVC) from yesterday, October 6 to October 9, 2022.

    The round is a follow-up to an earlier exercise that administered the novel oral poliovirus type 2 (nOPV2) vaccine to the targeted children, nationwide.

    The Director-General of Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye at a news conference in Accra on Tuesday said the entire campaign was to halt the local transmission of the circulating vaccine-derived polio virus type 2, (cVDPV2), recorded in parts of the country.

    “The vaccination would also maintain high population immunity, strengthen surveillance on polio disease, and prevent further polio outbreaks in the country,” he said.

    Dr Kuma-Aboagye explained that, although the first round of the polio vaccination in September yielded impressive results, health authorities were not resting on their oars until all targeted children were vaccinated.

    “The initial target for the first round was 6.3 million children but after the vaccination, we realised we had vaccinated nearly 6.6 million children meaning, we had more children than targeted and we must build on this achievement to do more during the upcoming second round of the PVC so that no child is left behind,” he added.

    Further, the Director-General advised parents and caregivers to ensure their children complete all vaccinations by age two as well as patronise child welfare clinics dotted across the country in order to fully vaccinate and protect their children against vaccine-preventable diseases.

    In a speech read on his behalf, the World Health Organisation (WHO) representative to Ghana, Dr Francis Kasolo underscored the need for enhanced polio surveillance to close the gap of the polio outbreak.

    “WHO, the UN System in Ghana and other partners of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) will continue to support the Government of Ghana to respond to public health emergencies and accompany Ghana on the road to achieving universal health coverage,” he said.

    The Expanded Programme on Immunisation(EPI) Programme Manager, Dr Kwame Amponsa-Achiano recalled some challenges faced during the first round of the PVC and advised parents and caregivers to make their children available for the vaccines to kick out polio from the country.

    “Some children were sent to the farms and couldn’t partake. Other parents also denied their wards because of some religious beliefs and did not see it as necessary while some house markings were washed away by heavy downpours,” he highlighted.

    Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a disabling and life-threatening disease caused by the poliovirus and spreads from person to person through faecal routes and may multiply in the intestines from where it subsequently invades the nervous system causing paralysis, most often in the limbs.

    The disease affects both children and adults, but children under five years are most at risk.

    Some signs and symptoms of polio may include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, and stiffness in the neck, pain and weakness in the limbs.

    Treatment is mainly supportive and can be prevented through vaccination, improved sanitation and personal hygiene.

     

  • Let’s wage relentless fight against breast cancer disease – NTC Managing Director

    The Managing Director of the New Times Corporation (NTC), Mr. Martin Adu-Owusu has advised the public to be tenacious and relentless in the fight against breast cancer disease.

    “It is our collective and decisive resolve to fight breast cancer in all its tendencies that would have positive impact on both present and future generation,” he said.

    Mr Martin Adu-Owusu (middle) speaking at the programme. With him are Ms Dakoa Newman (left) and other dignitaries Photo Victor A. Buxton

    He said this when The Spectator, The corporation’s weekly newspaper, organised the maiden Breast Cancer Campaign at the Kaneshie Market Complex yesterday in Accra, to create awareness and also screen market women for  the disease.

    The two-day Campaign is on the theme “Life before and after Breast Cancer: A future of Positivity and Hope” and it is the NTC’s contribution to raise awareness of the disease.

    Mr Adu-Owusu made reference to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 2020 report which said, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths globally, “At the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years making it the world’s most prevalent cancer.”

    Mr Martin Adu-Owusu (middle),MD,NTC with Ms Dakoa Newman (fourth from right) and other stakeholders after the launch Photo Geoffrey Buta

    He described the situation as worrying, adding that NTC’s campaign was one of the strategies to help reduce the incidence of breast cancer in the country.

    He, therefore,called on individuals, and organisations to be ambassadors of breast cancer to fight the menace.

    “Breast cancer is preventable and curable when we do regular self-examination and screening. This is not a difficult task and we can save many lives and bring solace, hope and prosperity to many families if we continue with our aggressive campaign on regular self-examination and breast screening,” he said.

    The Editor of The Spectator, Mr Emmanuel Amponsah said the campaign would educate the public on early symptoms and signs of Breast Cancer; preventive measures, diagnostic and treatment centres, the measures put in place for early detection and to assist in the management of patients of Breast Cancer, among others.

    He referred to the Globocan statistics carried by the Global Cancer Observatory website in March 2021, which said 4,482 women in Ghana were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, “In the same year, it said 2,055 deaths were recorded. In fact, it is estimated that 4,650 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in Ghana while more than 2,000 women die of the disease yearly.”

    Mr Amponsah said the campaign would be taken to the door-steps of the Labone Senior High School to educate the students on Breast Cancer in order to prepare them in the fight against the diseases.

    The Member of Parliament for Okaikoi South, Ms Dakoa Newman, urged the market women to desist from storing their mobile phones and other items in their brassieres, adding that this act could expose the breast to radiations emitting from the mobile device

    She encouraged women to seek early health check-ups and avoid self-treatment at homes, especially using unprescribed medicines

    In a speech read on behalf WHO Representative Dr Francis Kasolo said  2.3 million women in 2020,  were diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths globally.

    “As of the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women alive who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past five years, making it the world’s most prevalent cancer,” he said.

    According to him, there were more lost disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by women to breast cancer globally than any other type of cancer.

    Dr Kasolo said approximately  half of breast cancer  develop in women who have no identifiable  breast cancer risk factors  other than gender and age over 40 years

    He said certain factors that increase risk of breast cancer are obesity, harmful use of alcohol, family history of breast cancer, History of radiation exposure, reproductive history (such as age that menstrual periods began and age at first pregnancy),  tobacco use and postmenopausal hormone therapy.

    Dr Kasolo said strategies for improving breast cancer outcomes depended on fundamental health system strengthening to deliver the treatments that are already known to work.

    He expressed the hope that every woman in Ghana diagnosed with breast cancer would have access to specialised care without causing financial catastrophe in line with Universal Health Coverage.

  • Global Citizen Festival raises $2.4 Billion to end extreme poverty

    Pledges totalling $2.4billion were announced as part of activities to mark the Global Citizen Festival in New York City and Accra on Saturday, September 24, 2022.

    Key commitments were announced to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the festival’s impact and advocacy, through the hard work of many partner organizations.

    A statement issued by Global Citizen said the 2022 Festival saw “more than US$800 million announced to end extreme poverty NOW and US$1.6 billion announced by the European Commission and Canada as part of the seventh replenishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria on Sept. 21, in addition to the announcement of five companies signing on to the UN-led Race to Zero initiative to reach net-zero emissions by 2050”.

    Of this funding, more than US$440 million was earmarked exclusively to initiatives to end extreme poverty on the African continent, with the remainder intended to reach people around the world, including across Africa.

    The Global Citizen Festival campaign announced commitments by world leaders and governments in support of ending poverty now, including Canada, Belgium, Denmark, the European Commission, Germany, Ghana, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, United Nations, and the United States.

    From around the world, messages of support for Global Citizen’s End Extreme Poverty NOW campaign were received by President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, President of France Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sánchez, COP27 Youth Envoy Dr. Omnia el Omrani, Taoiseach of Ireland Micheál Martin, Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros, COP26 President Alok Sharma, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon, US Rep. Jamie Raskin, US Rep. Ann Wagner, and US Rep. John Curtis.

    Financial and policy announcements were also made by many corporate, philanthropic, and NGO partners including Accenture, Cisco, Citi, Delta, the Dutch Postcode Lottery, Ford Foundation, Gavi and Girl Effect, the Global Menstrual Equity Hygiene Accelerator, Lego Foundation, Procter & Gamble, Rotary International, Verizon, WWT, YouTube and Google.org.

    “Amidst all the doomsday messages we hear today, hope lies in the fact that millions of citizens are rising up to take action, more than any other point in history. 10 years ago, Global Citizen was just an idea – and 10 years from now we’ll see a generation of Global Citizens running for office, starting companies, and transforming communities,” said Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO, Global Citizen.

    In support of the Global Citizen campaign to defend the planet and take climate action NOW, five businesses officially signed on to the Race to Zero campaign to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 as a part of Global Citizen Festival, including American Eagle Outfitters, Betterfly, Harith General Partners, Juan Valdez Café, and WWT.

    Global Citizens have taken more than 2 million actions with Global Citizen in 2022 to help achieve Global Citizen’s mission to End Extreme Poverty NOW, more than doubling the record previously set by the international advocacy organization.

    “With 43 days to go to COP, we need countries to move from pledges to implementation — as youth we have a critical role to play in making sure our nations do not backtrack on their promises,” said Dr. Omnia el Omrani, COP27 youth envoy, in a video message to Global Citizens at Global Citizen Festival.

    With stages in Accra and New York, the event captured the Global Citizen ethos, channeling an eclectic array of musical talent in support of our efforts to End Extreme Poverty NOW and build momentum ahead of the G20 summit and UN Climate Conference, COP27, both in November.

  • Don’t blame others for your failures – John Jinapor to Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo when he met chiefs in the Yapei-Kusawgu area last week when he visited the Savanna Region MP said their MP, John Jinapor when he was deputy minister of Power was unable to connect some 17 communities to the national electricity grid and was also not able to help establish a Senior High school in the area.

    Reacting to President Akufo-Addo’s comment, John Jinapor enquired from the President when he will fulfil his campaign promise of creating a new district out of the Central Gonja District and the establishment of a new Senior High school in the Kusawgu area.

    Mr Jinapor said, President Akufo-Addo instead of answering the constituents when he was going to fulfil his campaign promise, “rather chose to throw wild and flippant allegations against me, John Abdulai Jinapor, for what he described as my inability to connect some 17 communities to the national electricity grid. As if that was not enough, he proceeded to accuse me of not helping to establish the Senior High school that he, President Akufo-Addo promised.”

    In a post on Facebook, the Yapei-Kusawgu legislator asked President Akufo-Addo to “crosscheck his facts in future before seeking to deceive the citizenry with concocted, unsubstantiated, and fabricated allegations.”

    Exposing the fabrications of a non-performing president

    During the recent visit of President Akufo-Addo to the Savannah Region, the chiefs of the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency sought to enquire from the President when he will fulfil his campaign promises of creating a new district out of the Central Gonja District and the establishment of a new Senior High school in the Kusawgu area.

    In response, President Akuffo-Addo rather chose to throw wild and flippant allegations against me, John Abdulai Jinapor, for what he described as my inability to connect some 17 communities to the national electricity grid. As if that was not enough, he proceeded to accuse me of not helping to establish the Senior High school that he, President Akufo-Addo promised.

    For the record, when I was appointed Deputy Minister for Energy and Petroleum, the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency had only 4 towns connected to the national grid (i.e., Buipe, Yapei, Sankpala and Kusawgu).

    By dint of hard work, the constituency currently has about 100 communities connected to the national grid as part of an aggressive national electrification programme under the John Mahama NDC administration.

    So, Mr. President, if we have only 17 towns yet to be connected to the national grid, the critical question you should answer is what have you done so far to complement what you inherited? You cannot be sleeping on the job and blame others for your own failures.

    More importantly, at national level, the NDC Government expanded access to electricity from 50% to 83.24%. This can be confirmed in Paragraph 463 of the 2017 budget as presented by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta: “Under rural electrification, 1,212 communities were connected to the national grid, increasing the national electricity access rate from 80.5 percent to 83.24 percent”.

    President Akufo-Addo since assuming office and despite receiving over GH¢20 billion in ESLA Revenues, has only increased the access rate by a paltry 3%— from 83.24% to 86.63% as captured under Paragraph 810 of the 2022 budget: “In pursuit of H.E. The President’s aspiration to achieve universal coverage of electricity by 2024, a total of 162 communities were connected to the national grid thereby increasing the national electricity access rate from 85.17 percent in 2020 to 86.63 percent in 2021.”

    On the education front, President Mahama can be credited for the provision of three (3) Senior High Schools (Buipe Senior High, Buipe Technical and Mpaha Senior High) in the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency.

    It is an undeniable fact that under the leadership of President Mahama, the Yapei-Kusawgu witnessed the commencement and commissioning of the Buipe Cement Factory and the Sheanut Processing factory not to mention the ultramodern Buipe District Hospital.

    Unfortunately, under President Akuffo-Addo, the Sheanut factory has been grossly mismanaged and run-down for some time now. No wonder he conveniently refused to visit Buipe, the district capital of the Central Gonja District.

    For someone who failed to provide portable drinking water for his own people as Minister and MP, until President Mahama provided portable water for the people of Kyebi, the least President Akufo-Addo can do is to acknowledge the good works of his predecessor.

    I wish to entreat President Akufo-Addo to crosscheck his facts in future before seeking to deceive the citizenry with concocted, unsubstantiated, and fabricated allegations.

    Ghanaians are indeed suffering under the abysmal performance of the Nana and Bawumia government and the least they can expect from this non-performing government is to be truthful and honest with the facts.

    Source: Graphiconline