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Tag: Clement Apaak

  • Govt has not banned English in basic schools – Education Ministry

    Govt has not banned English in basic schools – Education Ministry

    English has not been scrapped as a language of instruction in Ghanaian basic schools, the Ministry of Education has clarified. This was contained in a statement signed and issued by the Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, on Thursday, October 30.

    The clarification comes at a time when the Ministry has directed the compulsory teaching of Ghanaian languages in basic schools, specifically for pupils from Kindergarten to Primary Three.

    However, Dr. Clement Apaak explained that the new policy is to ensure that children are not only fluent in the English language but also in their home languages. He emphasized that the initiative is also intended to strengthen learning outcomes across all subjects.

    “Teaching in a language the child does not understand or speak well creates major barriers to literacy acquisition. So, we are committing to revisit the policy, based on global evidence, to ensure that we are teaching effectively from KG to Basic Year Three to improve learning outcomes.

    “This includes looking at how we can draw upon the success of Ghanaian programmes such as Complementary Basic Education to involve communities and extend early grade teaching beyond our 12 official languages,” he added.

    According to the statement, “As evidence has shown, the practice in countries such as China, Finland, Japan and Malaysia indicates that proficiency in a home language or playground language is key to learning other languages effectively.

    “It also helps in developing in young learners, national identity and appreciation of cultural values,” the statement said, adding that the Ministry of Education was keen to ensure that no learner was left behind in receiving the quality education they deserve. “It is their right. We respect their right. At the end, we are nurturing individuals into responsible national adults and global citizens.”

    In 2023, Ghanaian historian, Nana Osei-Bonsu Sarfo-Kantanka, called on managers of educational institutions across the country to desist from punishing students who speak local languages while in school.

    He said students should be encouraged to speak local languages to better understand the culture and heritage of the country.

    The historian attributed his point to the fact that some foreign countries prioritize their local languages, thereby requiring that a person, upon arrival in the country, speak and understand the language.

    Speaking to KMJ on Prime Morning, he said, “If you go to school, it is written ‘Speak English.’ If you spoke the local dialect, you would be spanked. All these things must be removed.”

    “If you go to India, you have to learn Hindi to be able to study at the university. Why can’t we learn from them?” he quizzed.

    Despite the fact that English is an international language that cannot be abolished, Nana Osei-Bonsu opined that it could be blended with local languages to activate the country’s heritage.

    He also believes that Ghanaian languages are likely to fade out as generations pass if parents do not insist on speaking local dialects with their children.

    Nana Osei-Bonsu encouraged people to make efforts to speak their local languages at all levels to maintain the cultural heritage of the country and its relevance.

    “Even if just twenty people are speaking the language, it should be encouraged at all levels. If we’re able to do that, gradually ours will take over the so-called international language. In our houses, parents should be serious and speak our local languages with their children,” he entreated.

    The country celebrates Ghana Month throughout March every year to commemorate her independence. The historian believes that people’s enthusiasm for the celebration is depleting as the years go by.

    He attributes the dwindling interest partly to the trend of designers incorporating foreign products into their designs. The historian also indicated that opinion leaders can be blamed for the low interest among the public, as they have failed to insist on the inclusion of local languages in the school curriculum.

    As to whether the late Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah would have maintained the country’s heritage if he were alive, Nana Osei-Bonsu said, “Who knows that he would have kept doing what he was doing because politicians are dictated to.”

    However, Ghanaians are encouraged to project their culture globally by wearing locally made designs, eating Ghanaian food, and speaking local languages, among others, throughout March.

    Earlier this year, Member of Parliament for Atwima Nwabiagya North, Frank Yeboah, urged Ghanaians to protect and preserve their indigenous languages. According to him, the country’s indigenous languages play a crucial role in national identity and cultural heritage.

    He made this statement during the commemoration of International Mother Language Day in February.

    Addressing Parliament, he urged all citizens to recognize the value of their native tongues and take proactive steps to safeguard them. Mr. Yeboah highlighted the importance of community-driven efforts in language preservation, stressing that initiatives such as storytelling, oral history documentation, and intergenerational language transmission programmes must be actively promoted.

    He encouraged schools, traditional authorities, and cultural institutions to collaborate to ensure that local languages remain relevant in contemporary Ghanaian society.

    “Mr Speaker, we cannot afford to lose our indigenous languages, for in them lies the heart and soul of our identity as Ghanaians,” he stated. “Let us act now to protect and promote them, ensuring that future generations inherit not just the words, but the history, values, and wisdom they carry.”

    He further called on policymakers to incorporate indigenous language education into the national curriculum and promote its usage in both public and private sectors.

    The MP also emphasized the need for media platforms to dedicate more airtime to local languages, ensuring that they remain widely spoken and appreciated.

    He concluded by urging all Ghanaians to take pride in their linguistic heritage, noting that preserving mother languages is not merely about communication but about protecting a rich legacy of knowledge and identity.

  • Only lower primary pupils will be taught in mother tongue – Education Ministry clarifies

    Only lower primary pupils will be taught in mother tongue – Education Ministry clarifies

    The Ministry of Education has clarified that the recent directive on the compulsory teaching of Ghanaian languages in schools does not apply to all basic school levels. The clarification was made by the Deputy Education Minister, Clement Apaak, at the launch of the Foundational Learning Action Tracker on Monday, October 27.


    According to him, only Kindergarten to Primary three pupils will be taught in Ghanaian languages by their teachers as part of the new language policy.


    “The Honorable Minister for Education has asked me to clarify that the policy directive he announced on Friday regarding the compulsory use of mother tongue as a medium of instruction in our public basic schools is confined, emphasis, confined to KG up to Primary 3. In other words, KG and Lower Primary. Having clarified what seems to have given a few persons sleepless nights, I bring you greetings,” the deputy minister said.


    Speaking at the launch of the Free Tertiary Education Program for Persons Living with Disabilities on Friday, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu stressed that the directive will enhance comprehension and learning outcomes in basic schools.


    “I am directing the DG of the GES and the GES that from today, teacher use of mother tongue instruction is now compulsory in all Ghanaian schools. The GES is to ensure strict enforcement of this…This is part of President Mahama’s reset agenda,” the Minister firmly stated.


    In 2023, Ghanaian historian, Nana Osei-Bonsu Sarfo-Kantanka called on managers of educational institutions across the country to desist from punishing students who speak local languages while in school.


    He said they should be encouraged to speak the local languages to better understand the culture and heritage of the country.


    The historian attributed his point to the fact that some foreign countries prioritise their local languages, thereby requiring that a person upon arrival in the country speak and understand the language.


    Speaking to KMJ on Prime Morning, he said, “If you go to school, it is written ‘Speak English.’ If you spoke the local dialect, you would be spanked. All these things must be removed.”


    “If you go to India, you have to learn Hindi to be able to study at the university. Why can’t we learn from them?” He quizzed.


    Despite the fact that English is an international language that cannot be abolished, Nana Osei-Bonsu opined that it could be blended with the local languages so as to activate the country’s heritage.


    He also believes that the Ghanaian languages are likely to fade out as generations pass, if parents do not insist on speaking the local dialects with their children.


    Nana Osei-Bonsu encouraged people to make efforts and speak their local languages at all levels to maintain the cultural heritage of the country and its relevance.


    “Even if just twenty people are speaking the language, it should be encouraged at all levels. If we’re able to do that, gradually ours will take over the so-called international language.” In our houses, parents should be serious and speak our local languages with their children,” he entreated.


    The country celebrates Ghana throughout the month of March every year to commemorate her Independence. The historian thinks that people’s enthusiasm for the celebration is depleting as the years evolve.


    He believes people’s interest is dwindling because most designers in recent times are adding foreign products to their designs.
    The historian also indicated that opinion leaders can be blamed for the low interest of the people, as they have failed to insist on the involvement of local languages in the school curricula.


    As to whether the late Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah would have maintained the country’s heritage if he were alive, Nana Osei-Bonsu said, “Who knows that he would have kept doing what he was doing because politicians are dictated to.”


    However, Ghanaians are encouraged to project the culture globally by wearing locally made designs, eating Ghanaian food, and speaking the local languages, among others, throughout March.


    Earlier this year, Member of Parliament for Atwima Nwabiagya North, Frank Yeboah, urged Ghanaians to protect and preserve their indigenous languages.
    According to him, the country’s indigenous languages play a crucial role in national identity and cultural heritage.


    He made this statement on during the commemoration of the International Day of Mother Language in February.


    Addressing Parliament, he urged all citizens to recognize the value of their native tongues and take proactive steps to safeguard them.
    Mr Yeboah highlighted the importance of community-driven efforts in language preservation, stressing that initiatives such as storytelling, oral history documentation, and intergenerational language transmission programmes must be actively promoted.


    He encouraged schools, traditional authorities, and cultural institutions to collaborate in ensuring that local languages remain relevant in contemporary Ghanaian society.


    “Mr Speaker, we cannot afford to lose our indigenous languages, for in them lies the heart and soul of our identity as Ghanaians,” he stated.
    “Let us act now to protect and promote them, ensuring that future generations inherit not just the words, but the history, values, and wisdom they carry.”


    He further called on policymakers to incorporate indigenous language education into the national curriculum and promote its usage in public and private sectors.


    The MP also emphasized the need for media platforms to dedicate more airtime to local languages, ensuring that they remain widely spoken and appreciated.


    He concluded by urging all Ghanaians to take pride in their linguistic heritage, noting that preserving mother languages is not merely about communication but about protecting a rich legacy of knowledge and identity.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Appointments Committee vets Dumelo, Deputy Ministers-designate

    LIVESTREAMING: Appointments Committee vets Dumelo, Deputy Ministers-designate

    Parliament’s Appointments Committee has resumed vetting of President John Mahama’s Deputy Ministers-designate.

    Presently before the committee is John Dumelo, the Deputy Minister-designate for Deputy Minister designate for Food and Agriculture.

    Deputy Minister-designate for Education, Dr Clement Apaak appeared before the committee.

    On Monday, Minister of State-designate for Public Sector Reforms, Lydia Akanvariba, Deputy Minister-designate for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem were among the nominees that appeared before the committee.

  • Free University tuition under NDC will not be forced on parents – Apaak

    Free University tuition under NDC will not be forced on parents – Apaak

    The Builsa South Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Clement Apaak, has reiterated the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) commitment to providing free first-year university tuition.

    He further clarified that the initiative will be voluntary, allowing parents who wish to opt out the freedom to do so.

    In an interview with Accra-based Citi FM Dr. Apaak clarified “That is an opinion. In any case, it is not going to be by compulsion. If there are persons who feel that they don’t need it and would not want to be beneficiaries of this arrangement, they are free to opt out. But as far as this is a manifesto promise made by John Mahama and the NDC to the people of Ghana, based on which we are now in government, we intend to carry it through”.

    The former Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Education Committee emphasized that the NDC is fully committed to its campaign pledges, pointing to the significant electoral support they garnered as a mandate to uphold those promises.

    “John Dramani Mahama and the NDC campaigned vehemently, and if for nothing at all, the magnitude of the NDC’s victory in terms of parliamentary seats and the gap between our candidate, now President, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President, should be a testament that this, among many other worthy and accepted policies, accounted for the overwhelming support we have received.

    “So, we intend to proceed with the promise made by John Dramani Mahama and the NDC to support students in tertiary institutions with their fees,” he said.

    At the unveiling of the Youth Manifesto ahead of the 2024 election, President Mahama pledged to implement a tuition-free policy for first-year students in public universities.

    He highlighted that the initiative aims to broaden access to higher education, particularly for students from underprivileged backgrounds.

    In response, some Ghanaians have expressed doubts about the policy’s long-term viability and the funding sources. Nonetheless, the NDC maintains that thorough research and planning have been carried out to ensure the successful execution of the program.

  • You can’t employ new teachers to replace those on strike over poor conditions – Apaak to GTEC

    You can’t employ new teachers to replace those on strike over poor conditions – Apaak to GTEC

    Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Education Committee, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has expressed strong disapproval of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission’s (GTEC) response to the ongoing Colleges of Education Teachers’ Association of Ghana (CETAG) strike.

    He criticized GTEC for suggesting the recruitment of more tutors as a solution to the two-month impasse, rather than addressing the teachers’ grievances.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on August 16, Dr. Apaak described the government’s decision to hire new lecturers as an ill-advised move, which fails to resolve the underlying issues raised by CETAG. He urged the government to focus on meeting its obligations to the striking teachers instead.

    “I think that this move is a very bad move; it ought to be withdrawn. Government must provide the needed resources to fulfill its commitments to the teachers and allow them to return to their duties,” Dr. Apaak emphasized.

    He further questioned the practicality of GTEC’s plan to recruit 2,500 new lecturers, noting that there were no provisions in the 2024 budget or the Mid-Year Budget Review for such recruitment.

    Dr. Apaak, who is also a lecturer, pointed out that the process of hiring teaching staff is neither quick nor feasible within the proposed timeframe.

    “We know that we passed the 2024 budget, and we’ve seen the Finance Minister present the Mid-Year Review. There are no allocations or estimations to cater for the recruitment of 2,500 lecturers. This cannot happen within the next two to three months—I can tell you that with authority,” Dr. Apaak stated.

    “The process of recruiting lecturers is not something that can be done within two weeks or even a month. Clearly, it is not feasible,” he added.

    Earlier on Friday, GTEC announced that it had processed the top-up of research allowances for 44 of the 46 Colleges of Education, with the exceptions of McCoy and Dambai Colleges due to technical issues.

    The Commission also revealed that it was seeking financial clearance from the Education Ministry to hire new teaching staff to help resume academic activities while negotiating with CETAG to resolve the strike.

    However, Dr. Apaak argued that the suggestion of replacing CETAG members with new recruits was misplaced and counterproductive. He stressed that the focus should remain on negotiating with the teachers’ association to resolve their concerns.

    CETAG’s demands include the payment of one month’s salary for additional duties performed in 2022, and the application of agreed allowances given to public university staff to qualified CETAG members.

    Teachers in various colleges of education initiated the strike on June 14, demanding better working conditions and remuneration packages in response to the government’s delay in implementing the National Labour Commission’s Arbitral Award Orders and the negotiated service conditions.

  • Free tuition for freshers to cost govt GHS300m annually; it is feasible – Clement Apaak

    Free tuition for freshers to cost govt GHS300m annually; it is feasible – Clement Apaak

    Member of the NDC Manifesto Committee on Education, Clement Apaak, has justified the party’s plan to eliminate academic fees for all first-year students.

    During the NDC youth manifesto launch in Accra on August 12, their flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, pledged to implement this policy to assist students facing financial difficulties.

    Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle on August 13, the Builsa South MP explained that many WASSCE graduates are unable to pursue tertiary education due to financial barriers.

    He emphasized that the proposed policy is designed to address this challenge if the NDC secures victory in the upcoming general elections.

    “One of the challenges students face is their ability to pay fees and it has recently become obvious that the number of students who write WASSCE and proceed to the university is not encouraging and this is because the money to pay fees is a problem.

    “When we engaged with youth groups on how to resolve this, waiving off fees for first-year students came up strongly.

    “From the figures that we have, if we are to go by some information that has been put out by our good brother Kofi Asare of Africa Education Watch, they estimate that if one was to look at the number of students who took up places in tertiary institutions in the 2023/2024 academic year, they are less than 200,000 and when you look at the academic fees of first-year students on average, it works out to anywhere between GH¢2,000 and GH¢2,300 thereabout.

    “So if we were to use that as a base, we could posit that the policy will cost less than GH¢300 million a year and of course, student numbers fluctuate each year, so it is doable and if we were to pluck revenue loopholes, we should be able to mobilise the resources to fund this proposal.”

  • We will continue discussing the ‘Agyapadie’ document, no one can stop us – Clement Apaak

    We will continue discussing the ‘Agyapadie’ document, no one can stop us – Clement Apaak

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has asserted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will persist in addressing the contentious “Agyapadie” document despite efforts to stifle discussion.

    In a statement shared with Metro TV, Dr. Apaak alleged that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has tried to suppress discourse on the document due to its negative impact on their campaign.

    He further claimed that the NPP intends to falsely accuse NDC members of creating and distributing the document and plans to seek a court injunction to prevent its circulation and media coverage.

    “No one can use state institutions, police, or courts to gag us from discussing the Agyapadie document and its contents. We’ll continue exposing the evidence confirming its implementation,” Dr. Clement Apaak vowed.

    The Builsa South MP emphasized that the document’s authors are not NDC members or functionaries, adding, “We won’t be intimidated or gagged.”

    About the Agyapadie document

    The Agyapadie book has stirred controversy and debate across Ghana due to its contentious claims.

    The document is purported to detail a plan for the Akyem people to exert control over Ghana’s economy, politics, and societal institutions, suggesting they aim to dominate crucial sectors such as finance, commerce, and industry.

    Its origins remain ambiguous, with speculation that it was produced by unknown entities or individuals.

    In response to the book’s circulation, the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, has strongly refuted its validity, dismissing it as a falsehood and part of an ongoing campaign of animosity against the Ofori Panin family and the Okyeman.

  • Akufo-Addo has failed to supply textbooks to Basic Schools for years – Clement Apaak

    Akufo-Addo has failed to supply textbooks to Basic Schools for years – Clement Apaak

    Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Select Committee on Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has expressed grave concern over the Akufo-Addo government’s prolonged failure to procure textbooks for basic schools, thereby hindering the learning experience.

    In an interview with Kwame Minkah on TV XYZ’s Dwaboase programme, the MP for Builsa South emphasized that this governmental oversight will adversely affect the performance of candidates in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

    Dr. Apaak, an educator and legislator, voiced his bewilderment at the government’s persistent inability to fulfill its obligations to publishers, leading to a refusal to print essential textbooks for students.

    He described the situation as alarming.

    “The government owes publishers and has failed to settle the debt, resulting in their refusal to print textbooks for the students… The situation is worrying,” the legislator remarked in Akan.

    He criticized the government for what he sees as a lack of commitment to enhancing educational standards in the country, specifically under President Akufo-Addo’s administration.

    “It is only under President Akufo-Addo that we are experiencing this,” he asserted, arguing that the government is jeopardizing the future of the upcoming generation.

    Despite efforts by the Minority to press the government to address education sector challenges, Dr. Apaak lamented the apparent reluctance of education sector authorities to resolve the textbook procurement issue.

    Dr. Apaak’s concerns coincide with the ongoing BECE examinations for Form Three students, which are crucial for their transition from Junior High School.

    2024 BECE

    According to the West African Examination Council (WAEC), the BECE includes 282,648 male and 286,447 female candidates, with 19,506 schools participating across the country.

    The examinations are being conducted in 2,123 locations nationwide, supervised by 2,123 supervisors, 1,889 assistant supervisors, and 19,973 invigilators.

  • Free SHS bill hasn’t been subjected to rigorous stakeholder consultation – Apaak 

    Free SHS bill hasn’t been subjected to rigorous stakeholder consultation – Apaak 

    The Minority in Parliament has voiced disappointment over what it perceives as inadequate stakeholder consultation regarding the upcoming Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill, slated for debate in Cabinet this week.

    The bill, currently being formulated by the Ministry of Education (MoE), aims to establish legal provisions for free and compulsory education at the senior high school level.

    Announced last Friday by the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the bill includes proposals to extend secondary education to six years by integrating Junior High School (JHS) into the secondary school system.

    Additionally, it proposes to modify the role of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), transforming it from an admission requirement to a tool for school selection.

    However, concerns have been raised by stakeholders, including education think tank Africa Education Watch, which stated it was not consulted during the bill’s drafting process. This lack of consultation has sparked apprehension about the inclusiveness and thoroughness of the bill’s development.

    In an interview with Citi FM on Monday, July 1, Dr. Clement Apaak, Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Education Committee, expressed disappointment over the absence of stakeholder engagement in the bill’s formulation.

    “It is unfortunate that such a bill has not been subjected to rigorous stakeholder consultation and inputs. I think that is most unfortunate even as we wait to see the bill and examine its content in full so that we can see whether it meets the requirement that we all expected or not,” Dr. Apaak remarked.

    He emphasized the significance of involving all relevant parties to ensure that the Free SHS Bill addresses the diverse needs and concerns within the education sector effectively.

  • Education Minister to be summoned to parliament over GHS84m free Wi-Fi deal – Apaak

    Education Minister to be summoned to parliament over GHS84m free Wi-Fi deal – Apaak

    +Deputy Ranking Member of Parliament’s Education Committee, Dr. Clement Apaak, has announced plans to summon Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum to Parliament regarding the provision of free Wi-Fi to Senior High Schools.

    Minority MPs are demanding that the Minister address lingering questions about the free Wi-Fi contract.

    During an appearance on the Super Morning Show on Monday, June 10, Dr. Apaak stated that if the Minister fails to appear before the Committee, he will be compelled to bring the matter before the plenary.

    Dr. Apaak disclosed that he has been pursuing answers from the Minister about this deal for three years without success.

    He stressed the urgency of resolving the matter and emphasized the importance of transparency in the Minister’s dealings.

    The Builsa South MP reiterated the Minority’s commitment to holding all individuals involved in the free Wi-Fi deal accountable.

    He emphasized that the Minister’s prolonged avoidance of the issue has only heightened the need for a thorough investigation.

    “When we resume tomorrow [Tuesday], I will speak to my leadership and I believe the committee of education now has a justifiable basis to wheel in the minister to respond to these questions before the committee and if he refuses to do so, then, we will have no choice than to file a motion to the speaker asking for him to be brought to answer the questions that I posed that he should have answered two-three years ago,” he said.

    This development comes after an investigation by The Fourth Estate revealed that a five-year contract was awarded to Busy Internet without the necessary parliamentary approval, as mandated by Ghana’s Public Financial Management Act in 2018.

    The investigation highlighted that Busy Internet was chosen over industry leaders like MTN, which had recently been licensed to provide 4G internet services, and Surfline Ghana Limited, another 4G service provider.

    When questioned by The Fourth Estate, Free Senior High School Coordinator William Darkwa explained that the major players were not interested in the project due to concerns about delayed government payments.

    Despite winning the contract, Busy Internet subcontracted MTN Ghana and AirtelTigo to deliver the services it had promised to provide to secondary schools and education offices nationwide.

    Initially, the Wi-Fi system functioned well, providing internet access to some schools. However, connectivity issues soon arose, and many schools lost access.

    A visit by The Fourth Estate to 50 schools in 2023 revealed that 48 of them had been without internet connection for several months. Numerous complaints to Busy Internet’s customer service went unresolved, leading to frustration and anger among the schools.

    The investigation raised further questions about how an unqualified company was selected as the sole-source candidate for such a significant government contract.

    The original contract between Busy Internet and the Ministry of Education set the project cost at GHS84.4 million, with the Education Ministry also committed to a monthly recurrent cost of GHS6.4 million for maintaining internet connectivity in schools and educational offices.

    This project aimed to fulfil a 2016 manifesto promise by the governing New Patriotic Party to provide free Wi-Fi coverage for senior secondary and tertiary institutions, enhancing learning, administration, and research capabilities.

    As of February 2024, the contract with Busy Internet had connected over 1,000 institutions to the internet, although the effectiveness and sustainability of these connections remain in question.

  • Challenges with payment of stipend for scholarship students will be resolved by next NDC gov’t – Apaak

    Challenges with payment of stipend for scholarship students will be resolved by next NDC gov’t – Apaak

    The Minority Caucus in Parliament has criticized the government’s delays in releasing funds for the payment of stipends for Ghanaian students on scholarships abroad, describing the situation as unreasonable.

    On Friday, May 24, some Ghanaian students studying in Morocco under the Morocco Scholarship Programme staged a protest at the Ghana Embassy in Rabat.

    They expressed frustration over the delays in the release of their stipends.

    Speaking to Citi News, the Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Dr. Clement Apaak, urged the government to act immediately to prevent the embarrassment of Ghanaian students demonstrating in other countries to demand their allowances.

    “I remember not long ago, we had to contend with Ghanaian students in the UK. Before that, we had to contend with Ghanaian students across the whole of Europe, from Hungary to Holland to Norway to Sweden. When is this going to stop?

    “When are we going to have a situation where our students abroad will not have to be reduced to puppets and beggars? When they do not have to come out and cry? Is this too difficult to do as a nation? A new NDC government, led by John Dramani Mahama, would address this issue of unreasonable, outrageous delays in remitting our students abroad.”

    Meanwhile, Ghanaian students in Morroco say they have been subjected to hardship amid academic challenges and risk being evacuated from their abode.

  • Ghana doesn’t need a joker but a focused, trustworthy president – Apaak jabs Bawumia

    Ghana doesn’t need a joker but a focused, trustworthy president – Apaak jabs Bawumia

    Dr. Clement Apaak, representing Builsa South in Parliament, has responded to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent comments, where Bawumia stated that his remarks about compensating churches were meant in jest.

    Apaak emphasized that the present circumstances demand a serious leader, not one who jests, given the nation’s pressing issues.

    Vice President Bawumia clarified that his previous statement about compensating churches rather than taxing them was misconstrued. He explained that he intended to acknowledge the significant contributions of religious institutions in areas such as education and healthcare, advocating for further support for their efforts.

    However, Apaak, known for his critical stance towards Bawumia, dismissed the notion of considering a leader he labeled as a “comical liar” for the presidency.

    He stressed the need for a competent and sincere leader to address the country’s challenges, advocating for the visionary leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama.

    Mr Apaak asserted that Mahama is the best-suited candidate to navigate the nation through its difficulties, emphasizing Mahama’s qualities of sincerity, honesty, and vision.

    “Now is not the time to consider a comical liar. Certainly not a joker at this critical juncture.

    “With the serious challenges we face as a nation, we need a serious, focused, visionary, sincere, and honest leader. This leader is John Dramani Mahama, the man equipped to tackle our challenges, not a joker.”

  • Close to 1 million students in Ghana are forced to study on the floor – Apaak

    Close to 1 million students in Ghana are forced to study on the floor – Apaak

    The representative for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has highlighted that approximately 1 million students in Ghana are forced to learn while seated on the floor.

    In an interview on TV3’s Hot Issues with Kemmini Amanor on Sunday, May 12, Dr. Apaak noted that this situation is considered acceptable.

    He further stated that his party’s leader, Former President John Dramani Mahama, pledges to resolve the issue of furniture deficits in basic schools.

    As the ranking member on the parliament’s education committee, Dr. Apaak emphasized Mahama’s commitment to addressing the shortage.

    “What that means is that about one million of our wards go to school every day and they have to sit on the floor or sit on blocks to study. That clearly cannot be acceptable.”

  • Mahama eradicated schools under trees before leaving office – Apaak

    Mahama eradicated schools under trees before leaving office – Apaak

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South , Dr. Clement Apaak, has highlighted the alarming reality of over 5,000 schools currently operating under trees in Ghana.

    He criticized the Akufo-Addo administration for allowing this situation to persist, contrasting it with the efforts of the previous Mahama administration, which he claimed had nearly eradicated schools under trees.

    Speaking on TV3’s Hot Issues, Dr. Apaak underscored another pressing issue: the shortage of furniture in basic schools, affecting approximately 1 million pupils who are forced to study while seated on the floor.

    He emphasized that Former President John Dramani Mahama, his party’s flagbearer, would prioritize addressing this furniture deficit to improve the learning environment in basic schools.

    “What that means is that about one million of our wards go to school every day and they have to sit on the floor or sit on blocks to study. That clearly cannot be acceptable.”

  • Abusing energy drinks could lead to kidney failure – Apaak

    Abusing energy drinks could lead to kidney failure – Apaak


    In response to growing concerns regarding the harmful effects of certain energy drinks on kidney health, Member of Parliament for the Builsa South constituency, Dr. Clement Apaak, has urged health professionals to intensify awareness campaigns.

    He cautioned that the widespread misuse and abuse of these beverages in local markets could significantly contribute to the rising incidence of kidney diseases among young people.

    Dr. Apaak emphasized the lack of awareness regarding the potential dangers posed by these drinks, noting that many individuals consume them excessively without fully understanding the associated health risks.

    “We need to conscientize efforts, from both the health perspective and that of lawmakers, to address this pressing issue,” he stressed.

    His comments coincided with a generous donation of GHS 5,000.00 towards the establishment of a much-needed Dialysis Center at the Upper East Regional Hospital.

    This contribution aims to ease the burden of managing kidney disease in the region, providing vital assistance to affected individuals.

    Expressing heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Apaak’s donation, a Physician Assistant and advocate for the Dialysis Center initiative, Emmanuel Akatibo, stressed the importance of the contribution in advancing the center’s establishment.

    He pledged to ensure its effective utilization for the community’s benefit.

    In addition to expressing gratitude, Akatibo vowed to lead advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness about kidney health and promoting proactive measures.

    He highlighted the critical role of early detection and lifestyle changes in reducing the prevalence of kidney diseases, pledging to prioritize community education and outreach initiatives.

  • Halt plans to paint public basic schools in NPP colours – Apaak to gov’t

    Halt plans to paint public basic schools in NPP colours – Apaak to gov’t

    Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has criticized the Akufo-Addo administration’s purported plan to repaint public basic schools in the colours of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Reports had suggested that the government intended to repaint existing public basic schools from brown and yellow to blue and white, sparking concerns over the use of public resources for political purposes.

    However, the Ministry of Education clarified that the initiative was solely for newly constructed basic schools and that there were no plans to change the uniforms in all public schools.

    In a statement, Dr. Apaak urged the government to prioritize addressing pressing issues facing the education sector, such as the lack of access to furniture for over a million public basic school pupils and delays in the release of capitation grants.

    He emphasized that resources should be allocated to tackle challenges such as infrastructural deficits, lack of textbooks, inadequate security, unpaid utility bills, and other issues affecting teaching and learning in public basic schools.

    “According to the Head Teacher, basic school administrators are struggling to manage the affairs of schools, because of inadequate funding, neglect and delay in the releases of the capitation grants, etc.

    “These are issues Hon. Yaw Adutwum should be worried about, not the colours of school blocks and school uniforms. Spending public time and resources painting schools in Blue and White, and introducing Blue and White uniforms are clearly misplaced priorities.

    “Besides the overt attempt to brand public basic schools in NPP colours, the only other reason is to create an avenue to award sole sourced contracts to families, friends, and party members,” he wrote in a statement.

    Dr. Apaak criticized the government for considering repainting schools and introducing new uniforms when there were more urgent needs to address in the education sector.

    He called on Ghanaians to join in resisting what he described as a “needless initiative” and urged the Ministry of Education to prioritize addressing the challenges facing public basic schools.

  • Clement Apaak fumes over govt’s silence on MIGOP’s alleged takeover of cocoa farms

    Clement Apaak fumes over govt’s silence on MIGOP’s alleged takeover of cocoa farms

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has strongly criticized the government in light of reports alleging that a foreign company, MIGOP Mining Limited, has encroached upon 100 hectares of rehabilitated cocoa farms in Nkawie, Ashanti region.

    Expressing his dismay, Dr. Apaak questioned the government’s silence regarding this issue. MIGOP Mining Limited is reportedly engaging in mining exploration and development activities across five cocoa communities in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality.

    These farms, rehabilitated by the Ghana Cocoa Board following an outbreak of Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease, are now allegedly under the control of the company without proper authorization.

    Dr. Apaak condemned the government’s lack of action, suggesting that their silence raises concerns about potential complicity in the matter.

    In a tweet on X, he wrote “What kind of government allows a foreign-owned mining firm to hijack over 100ha of rehabilitated cocoa farms? Gov’t has been mute since this came to light. Doesn’t this suggest gov’t complicity? A sensible and sensitive gov’t should be protecting our farmers and our environment, not the opposite”.

  • Mahama can make free SHS excel – Apaak

    Mahama can make free SHS excel – Apaak

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Dr. Clement Apaak, has urged Ghanaians to disregard Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s outdated assertions regarding the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy.

    In a recent statement, Dr. Apaak emphasized that the FSHS initiative will continue to progress under John Mahama’s presidency, as he plans to collaborate with stakeholders to address any existing challenges.

    Dr. Apaak criticized Dr. Bawumia and his associates for diverting attention from substantive issues to propagate baseless claims about Mr. Mahama’s intentions towards FSHS, which he deems unfounded and irrational.

    He further highlighted discrepancies in Dr. Bawumia’s stance, pointing out that while the Vice President acknowledged the need for a review of the FSHS program to the IMF, he continues to mislead the Ghanaian public by insinuating that any review equates to cancellation.

    Dr. Apaak underlined Mr. Mahama’s recent engagement with the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), where he actively listened to concerns and pledged to work towards resolving them if elected.

    This demonstrates Mr. Mahama’s commitment to enhancing the FSHS policy, contrary to allegations of its abolishment.

    In addition, Dr. Apaak reiterated Mr. Mahama’s proposed measures to improve the FSHS program, such as decentralizing feeding arrangements and addressing infrastructure deficits in secondary schools.

    Overall, Dr. Apaak affirmed his confidence in Mr. Mahama’s ability to strengthen and enhance the FSHS initiative through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, contrasting with what he perceives as misleading narratives from Dr. Bawumia’s camp.

    READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW

    STATEMENT: IGNORE THE STALE LIE – FSHS WILL THRIVE UNDER JDM
    ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

    For the information of DMB and his camp, JDM held a very successful meeting with the leadership of CHASS on how to address the challenges affecting teaching and learning in our secondary schools on April 8th, 2024.

    Why would JDM waste precious time by engaging the heads of our secondary schools to discuss how to resolve challenges bedevilling the implementation of the FSHS policy if he intends to cancel FSHS?

    At the meeting, JDM listened to the long list of challenges narrated by the heads of our secondary schools and promised to work with them to address their raised concerns when he gets the nod. He restated his intention to convene a national stakeholders forum to deliberate on the FSHS Programme as a first step towards reviewing it to make it better.

    JDM’s position on the decentralisation of the feeding arrangements in our secondary school system to ensure that feeding grants go directly to schools to procure food for students, was welcomed.

    Equally, his promise to end the obnoxious double track system by completing uncompleted structures and adding new ones, to increase educational infrastructure also received commendation.

    If DMB is honest and worth his salt, he should tell Ghanaians that the current government he is a part of told the IMF that the FSHS Programme will be reviewed and rationalised.

    The duplicity of DMB is affirmed by the fact that he, the vice President, was captured in the said report, dated January 2024, as the highest government official who represented government during the review meeting with the IMF. Why was he comfortable telling the IMF the truth but continues deceiving Ghanaians, that review means cancel?

    DMB should be bold enough to tell Ghanaians, that JDM was right in calling for a review of the FSHS Programme just as he represented government to admit to the IMF, as captured, on page 76 paragraph 47 of the first review of the IMF program.

    Instead of DMB and his camp focusing on how to rescue their flopped campaign, they are busy pushing the stale and impotent lie, that JDM will collapse FSHS. No reasonable Ghanaian believes the nonsensical claim that JDM will cancel FSHS.

    FSHS will thrive and blossom under JDM as President because he will work with stakeholders to fix the challenges.

    Dr. Clement Apaak
    MP, Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament

  • Clement Apaak in mourning over death of father

    Clement Apaak in mourning over death of father

    Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Builsa South Constituency in the Upper East Region, is in mourning following the passing of his father, Paul Asikisimi.

    Mr. Asikisimi passed away on Sunday, March 3, at his residence in Sandema. Dr. Apaak, serving as the family spokesperson, shared that his father passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

    Dr. Apaak took to Facebook to announce the sad news and indicated that further details regarding his father’s funeral arrangements would be communicated in due course. He requested privacy during this challenging time and asked the public to respect the family’s grieving process.

    “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the death of our father, Mr. Paul Asikisimi. Mr. Asikisimi passed on in the early hours of March 3, 2024, at his home in Sandema. He was surrounded by loved ones and immediate family when he transitioned peacefully. “

    “The family will announce details of his funeral at the appropriate time. We call on the general public to respect the privacy of the family at this sorrowful time.”

  • Clement Apaak ‘fires’ Kofi Bentil for tagging Akufo-Addo’s govt as corrupt yet extricating Bawumia 

    Clement Apaak ‘fires’ Kofi Bentil for tagging Akufo-Addo’s govt as corrupt yet extricating Bawumia 

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has raised concerns over the rationale behind Kofi Bentil’s defense of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia amidst corruption allegations against the Akufo-Addo government.

    In a recent edition of Newsfile, Kofi Bentil asserted that the Akufo-Addo government is more corrupt than the previous John Dramani Mahama administration. 

    However, he urged Ghanaians to consider voting for Dr. Bawumia as president, suggesting that Dr Bawumia should not be held accountable for the failures of the Akufo-Addo government.

    Dr Apaak criticized this argument, stating that it lacks logical coherence. He argued that if the current government is indeed more corrupt than the previous administration, then Dr. Bawumia cannot be absolved of responsibility for the alleged corruption.

    “The Vice President is part of the corrupt government, which has mismanaged the economy. In fact, he is the 2nd in command. So, how can we blame the government yet excuse the Vice President? Such an illogical argument can not be without some form of inducement,” Dr. Apaak emphasized.

    Furthermore, Dr. Apaak urged Ghanaians to pay attention to Mr. Isaac Adongo’s presentation on February 14, 2024. Mr. Adongo’s presentation is titled “Ghana’s Next Chapter, the Height of Clueless Leadership, next installment of Bold LIES, Hardship and Aggravated Economic Mismanagement!”

    This ongoing debate underscores the contentious issue of corruption within the Akufo-Addo administration and raises questions about the accountability of high-ranking officials, including Dr. Bawumia, in addressing these allegations.

    Read Dr Apaak’s full post below

    What logic is this? You publicly admit that the government is corrupt and has mismanaged the economy. The Vice President is part of the corrupt government, which has mismanaged the economy. In fact, he is the 2nd in command. So, how can we blame the government yet excuse the Vice President? Such an illogical argument can not be without some form of inducement.

    Make a date! “Ghana’s Next Chapter, the height of Clueless leadership, next instalment of Bold LIES, Hardship, and Aggravated Economic Mismanagement!

  • Clement Apaak slams Bawumia over proposal to make National Service optional

    Clement Apaak slams Bawumia over proposal to make National Service optional

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Clement Abas Apaak, has voiced strong opposition to Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent proposal to make National Service optional, raising doubts about Bawumia’s comprehension of the program’s objectives.

    In a tweet, Apaak questioned whether Dr Bawumia himself had undergone National Service, suggesting that if he had, he would not have made what he termed an “unpatriotic proposal.”

    Apaak expressed skepticism about Dr. Bawumia’s understanding of the purpose and objectives of the National Service program, hinting that the Vice President may not have participated in National Service himself.

    “Did DMB do National Service? I don’t know, do you? If he did National Service, I doubt he would have made the unpatriotic proposal to make it optional,” Apaak tweeted. “What is clear to me is that he doesn’t understand the concept of National Service, and neither does he appreciate the objectives of the National Service Programme. I suspect DMB didn’t do National Service. Prove me wrong.”

    The controversy erupted following Dr. Bawumia’s recent pledge, made during the presentation of his vision as the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, to make National Service voluntary if elected into office. Dr. Bawumia argued that this change would open up job opportunities for the youth, proposing that those who secure employment after completing their education be exempted from National Service.

    Under Dr. Bawumia’s proposed plan, National Service would no longer be mandatory, and students would have the option to decide whether to participate. He asserted that this shift would encourage companies to engage in campus recruitment activities annually.

    Apaak’s comments have ignited a debate on social media, with many users weighing in on the merits and drawbacks of Dr. Bawumia’s proposal. While some have echoed Apaak’s concerns about the potential impact on national unity and the importance of civic duty, others have supported Dr. Bawumia’s argument for increased flexibility and job opportunities for graduates.

    As the discourse continues, the future of the National Service program remains a topic of contention, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments and awaiting further clarifications from both government officials and opposition figures.

  • Clement Apaak commends Mahama’s move to restore original names of public universities

    Clement Apaak commends Mahama’s move to restore original names of public universities

    Member of Parliament for Bulsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, expressed his enthusiasm for ex President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to restore the original names of public universities previously renamed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    During Mahama’s interaction with stakeholders in the Zuarungu Constituency, Dr. Apaak joyfully welcomed the announcement, stating that he believes the Operation Restoration would extend to the seat of government as well.

    Dr. Apaak emphasized the historical significance, affirming that the original name, Flagstaff House, would be reinstated.

    “Seated behind him [JM] during his interaction with stakeholders in the Zuarungu Constituency, I leapt with joy when he announced that he would restore the original names of the universities renamed by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I have no doubt that Operation Restoration will include the seat of government. Flagstaff House it was, and so would it be again. Our history will definitely be restored,” he wrote on his X platform.

    Mr. Mahama, in announcing his intention to revert the names of public universities, explained that the current names would be assigned to noteworthy infrastructure within the institutions.

    As the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), he asserted that each public university was initiated and constructed by the NDC. Mahama criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP), claiming their involvement was limited to renaming these universities.

    “We are known as nation builders because of the number of schools we have built. Every public university was initiated and built by us. All the NPP knows how to do is name universities that people have built.

    “After NDC builds a university, then they will give it the name of one of their heroes or people. We are going to rename the universities. Ghana has many heroes, and not only the heroes of the NPP tradition.

    “We can name an administration block, hostel, and library after somebody. But the university must reflect its core mandate. And so we will restore the original names, and the names that they have given them will be given to significant infrastructure in the universities.

    “And we will add other people and name the infrastructure in the universities after them. But if the university is the University for Development Studies, that is its core mandate. It will be called the University for Development Studies,” he said while addressing party supporters, chiefs, and students at Zuarungu in the Upper East Region.

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is remembered for renaming the Wa campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS) after Simon Diedong (SD) Dombo, a political figure associated with the United Party tradition.

  • Know that Cecilia Dapaah will go free once her case is in EOCO’s hands – Clement Apaak

    Know that Cecilia Dapaah will go free once her case is in EOCO’s hands – Clement Apaak

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has cautioned Ghanaians disappointed by the Special Prosecutor’s decision to drop the case against Cecilia Dapaah to brace themselves for further letdowns.

    He suggested that the recent development is just the beginning, and more disappointments may follow.

    Dr. Apaak responded to the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) decision to abandon the application confirming the freezing of Cecilia Dapaah’s money and bank accounts, as well as dropping a criminal trial for failure to declare assets.

    The OSP stated that after seven months of investigation, the matter involves money laundering, and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is tasked with handling it.

    Despite public disappointment in the OSP’s handling of the case, Dr. Apaak hinted that Cecilia Dapaah could be cleared and exonerated now that EOCO has taken over.

    He referred to President Akufo-Addo’s earlier expression of confidence in her exoneration following her resignation amid allegations of stolen cash from her residence.

    Dr. Apaak argued that the president’s statement was part of an orchestrated attempt to clear her name.

    “Those disappointed with the way the OSP has handled the Cecilia Dapaah matter should get ready for further disappointment now that the matter has been transferred to EOCO.

    “She will be cleared and exonerated, as was hinted in Akufo-Addo’s letter accepting her resignation.”

  • #NewForce: Misuse of state power by failed Akufo-Addo-led gov’t must be condemned – Clement Apaak

    #NewForce: Misuse of state power by failed Akufo-Addo-led gov’t must be condemned – Clement Apaak

    A prominent political figure, and Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Clement Apaak, has spoken out against what he perceives as the misuse of state power by the Akufo-Addo-led government. 

    Apaak, known for his vocal stance on governance issues, in a tweet raised concerns about the alleged misconduct of members of the current administration and has called for a critical examination of the government’s actions.

    Speaking on the matter, Apaak asserts that the reported misuse of state power reflects a failure on the part of the Akufo-Addo administration. 

    He emphasizes the importance of condemning such actions to safeguard democratic principles and ensure accountability within the government.

    “Such misuse of state power by this failed Akufo-Addo/Bawumia gov’t doesn’t augur well for our democracy and must be condemned,” he said.

    His comment was in reaction to the cancellation of the intended unveiling of the face behind #TheNewForce.

    “Doesn’t the 1992 constitution guarantee freedom of speech and association? Ironically, today is CONSTITUTION Day. Our democracy has indeed retrogressed under this gov’t,” he noted.

  • 24-hour economy has nothing to do with your sex life – Clement Apaak

    24-hour economy has nothing to do with your sex life – Clement Apaak

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has strongly criticized Minister Stephen Yakubu for suggesting that farmers might risk losing their wives if the 24-hour economy proposal by former President John Dramani Mahama is implemented.

    In a post shared on Sunday, November 26, 2023, Dr. Clement expressed shock at the regional minister’s suggestion, pointing out that couples in war-torn countries still manage to maintain intimate relationships.

    Dr. Apaak accused Stephen Yakubu and other members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) of making baseless statements against Mahama’s policy proposal, suggesting that this is because they are aware that Ghanaians have embraced the idea.

    “What has a 24-hour economy got to do with farming at night and sleeping or not sleeping with wives at night? Don’t men in 24-hour economies sleep with their wives? Even in war zones, couples manage to do the needful.

    “The comments of the Upper East Regional Minister in reaction to JM’s much welcomed 24-hour economy proposal in the attached video typifies the silly and deliberate ignorance of Dr Bawumia and the NPP,” he wrote.

    He urged Ghanaians to disregard the assertions made by NPP members, saying they have nothing constructive to offer.

    “Indeed, Bawumia and the NPP have nothing to offer Ghanaians. Ghanaians are not that stupid to give the USELESS, corrupt, and reckless Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP gov’t an extension in office.

    “No rational human being will choose a group that has inflicted such pain and suffering on him/her whiles living large as if there is no tomorrow. The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP gov’t must pay dearly for the excruciating hardship they have subjected Ghanaians to,” the post concluded.

    ABOUT THE 24-HOUR ECONOMY

    What Bawumia and Mahama have said about the 24-hour economy proposal:

    The next NDC administration would implement policies to incentivize businesses in Ghana to remain open for business around the clock, according to former president John Dramani Mahama.

    He clarified that as part of the policy measure, businesses would be given incentives to operate day and night, potentially in three shifts, which would result in more jobs for Ghana’s young people who work well together.

    He continued by saying that having a police force that can guarantee business protection during the night economy is essential to putting the 24-hour economy plan into action.

    “A new NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future. We will introduce a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers who will run extra shifts to create more room for employment,” he said.

    However, some Ghanaians are not so thrilled about the former president’s proposal. These people are primarily members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), including vice president Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s presidential candidate.

    On Monday, November 20, 2023, at a campaign event in Nalerigu, in the North East Region, Vice President Dr. Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticized the 24-hour economy policy proposal made by Mahama.

    It seems Mahama does not grasp the concept of a 24-hour economy, according to Bawumia, who clarified that the idea was not new to Ghana.

    “John Mahama says he has a new idea, what is this new idea, he says he wants a 24-hour economy. He doesn’t even understand that promise,” Bawumia told a teeming crowd up north on his first visit since his election as flagbearer.

    He listed among others; hospitals, power and fuel service providers and some chop bars, that are already operating 24 hours adding that thanks to digitalization, “you can transfer and receive money 24 hours.”

    “He (Mahama) doesn’t understand his own policy, it does not make sense. I want you to note in 2024 we are having a new vision. I will bring new policy and we will transform this country. John Mahama is the past, Dr. Bawumia is the future,” Bawumia added to cheers from the crowd.

    He again criticised the proposal at another campaign event calling it “a bad idea”.

    “So, what is this 2024-hour economy, that you want to bring? It is purely an issue for any business. If you feel you would make money opening 24 hours; there is no law preventing you from opening.

    “But this is one idea that John Mahama thinks he has brought. It is a bad idea. It is an idea that has not been thought through. It is a bad idea,” he said.

  • Mahama’s decision to scrap teacher licensure exams commonsensical, justified – Clement Apaak

    Mahama’s decision to scrap teacher licensure exams commonsensical, justified – Clement Apaak

    Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has expressed his support for former President Mahama’s decision to review the Free Senior High School (SHS) program and cancel the nationwide teacher licensure examination.

    According to the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, various stakeholders in Ghana’s education sector are in favor of reevaluating the Free SHS program and discontinuing the teacher licensure examination.

    Despite resistance from government, Dr. Apaak believes that the promises made by Mr Mahama are sensible, justified, and will be implemented if he assumes the presidency.

    “JM is not opposed to examining teachers as a basis of certifying them as professionals. However, like teacher trainees and stakeholders in teacher training, JM is opposed to the current arrangement towards certification. His reasonable alternative is to make the examination towards professional certification a final-year compulsory course to be written alongside other final-year courses.”

    “In JM’s variant, when a teacher trainee passes all final year courses, including the course tailored to certify a trainee as a professional teacher, the trainee is given a licence. If the trainee passes all courses but fails the certification course, he/she doesn’t get a licence and would have to re-register the course and write it in his/her college as is the case with final year compulsory courses,” he added.

    Dr. Apaak made these comments in response to Deputy Minister of Education, Mr. John Ntim Fordjour’s criticism of the former president, where Fordjour described Mahama as the most significant threat to Ghana’s progress.

    Dr. Apaak argued that Mr. Fordjour and the NPP government either lack an understanding of public sentiment or are out of touch with reality. He reiterated his support for Mahama’s proposed education policy reforms, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review to address challenges within the education sector.

    Below is the full statement:

    JM’s Promises To Review fSHS and To Cancel Teacher Lincensure Examination Make Sense

    Every stakeholder in education in Ghana is in favor of reviewing the fSHS programme and the cancellation of the Teacher Lincensure examination, but NADAA, DMB, Hon. Fordjour and the NPP gov’t.

    The promises made by JM are commonsensical, justified and will be implemented when he takes over as President.

    Hon. Fordjour and the NPP gov’t are either out of touch with reality or haven’t followed public sentiments.

    If JM has plans to cancel fSHS he wouldn’t be planning to invite stakeholders to a national forum to discuss fSHS.

    JM has on several occasions said that fSHS has come to stay. Like most Ghanaians however, he is concerned about the well documented implementation challenges and how to address them to make the fSHS better for national good.

    Ghanaians of all walks of life are calling for a review of the fSHS policy, which has been implemented for over six years, and JM will honour this call because the fSHS programme is challenged by: erratic academic calendar; inadequate and unwholesome food; inadequate academic and residential space; overworked teaching and non-teaching staff amongst others.

    Equally, JM’s proposed forum on fSHS will also consider the role of PTA’s and private secondary schools in the delivery of the policy.

    JM is not opposed to examining teachers as a basis of certifying them as professionals.

    However, like teacher trainees and stakeholders in teacher training, JM is opposed to the current arrangement towards certification.

    His reasonable alternative is to make the examination towards professional certification a final-year compulsory course to be written alongside other final-year courses.

    In JM’s variant, when a teacher trainee passes all final year courses, including the course tailored to certify a trainee as a professional teacher, the trainee is given a licence.

    If the trainee passes all courses but fails the certification course, he/she doesn’t get a licence and would have to re-register the course and write it in his/her college as is the case with final year compulsory courses.

    This mode of teacher certification in addition to JM’s promise to cancel the one-year compulsory national service, which is currently an additional requirement for appointment as a teacher by the Ghana Education Service, has additional advantages.

    Under JM’s proposal, teacher trainees who pass all courses, including the certification course, are immediately posted to the classroom; no wasting a year doing national service and no need to pay, after national service, to write a licensure examination.

    We can certify our teacher trainees to professional teachers and deploy them in the classrooms sooner, where they are most needed, through a cheaper, simplified yet rigorous process.

    Dr Clement Abas Apaak

    MP, Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member On the Education Committee of Parliament.

  • Mahama has not announced his running mate, no fake news will distract him – Clement Apaak

    Mahama has not announced his running mate, no fake news will distract him – Clement Apaak

    Member of Parliament representing Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has firmly asserted that the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) cannot sway the attention of former President John Mahama with fabricated news.

    Addressing the circulation of false information related to the former President’s choice of a running mate, the Builsa South legislator emphasized that Mr. Mahama remains unwaveringly focused and cannot be diverted by any means.

    “The outgoing corrupt, reckless, galamsey NPP has been exposed. John Mahama has made no comment anywhere about Prof or a running mate. JM will announce his running mate at the right time in consultation with NEC,” he said.

    “Let the looting enterprise know that fake stories won’t divert our attention. We are focused on exposing their terrible deeds and despicable record,” Dr. Apaak reiterated.

    In a prior statement, the Member of Parliament representing Builsa South had offered advice to activists within the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    He suggested that their focus should be on exposing the actions and policies of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, rather than fixating on who might be selected as the running mate for former President John Mahama in the upcoming 2024 elections.

    This counsel comes in response to various interest groups and individuals engaging in public discussions and campaigns regarding potential running mates for the former President in the 2024 presidential elections.

    The Builsa South legislator firmly stated that any attempt to impose a candidate on the former President would ultimately prove futile.

    “NDC activists should focus their energies at exposing the reckless, corrupt, galamsey Nana Addo/Bawumia NPP gov’t; taking up and leading efforts to make the case as to why our party is the only option; galvanize our base and help reconcile fallouts from constituency, regional, national and parliamentary primary elections.

    “Any effort to push anyone, with the hope that that person will catch John Dramani Mahama’s eye to be made his running mate is an exercise in futility,” Dr. Apaak indicated in a statement copied to Starrfm.com.gh.

    He continued: “JM is the most experienced politician in our party and in Ghana today. He is the only person to have been selected a running mate by a Flagbearer, who himself as a Flagbearer has selected a running mate.”

    According to Dr. Apaak, the former President cannot be influenced in any way in the selection of his running mate ahead of the 2024 General Election.

    “Consequently, he knows what he wants, and no one can cajole or influence him to select a running mate. He will announce his choice when the time is right, after consulting with NEC,” Dr. Apaak stated.

  • NDC MP rejects Ghana Education Awards nomination

    NDC MP rejects Ghana Education Awards nomination

    Member of Parliament (MP) who represents Builsa South, Clement Apaak, has declined a nomination for the “Educational Activist of the Year” award from the Ghana Education Awards.

    The MP has stated that he refused the nomination because he believes that his responsibilities as a public servant and a member of the Parliament’s Education Committee should not lead to personal acknowledgment.

    He further mentioned that his duty to his constituents and his obligations within the Parliament’s Education Committee are inherent aspects of his role.

    He further mentioned that his duty to his constituents and his obligations within the Parliament’s Education Committee are inherent aspects of his role.

    In a statement, the MP explained, “Honestly, I don’t think I should be considered. I’m only doing my work as a representative of the people of Builsa South and a member of the Education Committee of Parliament. My people sent me to Parliament because they know I have the needed competence to effectively represent them, advocate, and canvas issues of concern to them and Ghanaians.

    “My party put me up as Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament because of its confidence in my abilities and experience to deal with matters affecting teaching and learning at all levels. I don’t deserve an award for doing my job. I will humbly ask the organisers to consider those more worthy.”

    Dr. Clement Apaak has been vocal on matters of education in the country, especially in his constituency. 

    He has contributed to the sector by providing teaching and learning materials to various schools. He has been a vocal advocate for reform within the school feeding program, consistently highlighting challenges that have arisen in its implementation.

  • Builsa South MP warns govt of more boycotts in solidarity with Quayson

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr Clement Apaak, has stated that members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) should anticipate further boycotts in the House of Parliament.

    He explained that due to the perception that the government is prosecuting members of the Minority, they feel compelled to demonstrate solidarity with their colleagues.

    “I’m surprised NPP MPs are crying that our boycotts are to sabotage the government. What did they expect when the government is persecuting our comrade(s)? If piking says moda no go sleep, piking too no go sleep! They should expect more than the current boycotts!.

    “You chastise us for boycotts in reaction to the persecution of our colleagues yet have no problem with NPP MPs who never show up? Are they, not 137+1? How come they can’t do business without us, is it not their gov’t? At least we have a reason for not showing up, what is theirs?” Dr. Apaak asked.

    He continued “Don’t ask us not to boycott in solidarity with Quayson because NPP MPs didn’t boycott when Adamu was in court. They didn’t boycott because they knew he made no attempt to renounce his other citizenships: travelled on 3 passports. Adamu was prosecuted, Quayson is being persecuted!”

    According to the MPs from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the Attorney General is more focused on prosecuting political opponents of the government and securing their imprisonment rather than actively participating in the lawmaking process.

    During the presentation of the business statement on Friday, July 7, 2023, Minority Chief Whip, Governs Kwame Agbodza, raised concerns about the absence of certain Ministers when their presence was required in Parliament.

    In response, Deputy Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin suggested that the Minority should also bear some responsibility since Ministers were available to answer questions on the day of their boycott in solidarity with Mr. Gyakye Quayson.

    “Mr. Speaker yesterday for instance all the Ministers were here to answer questions. Unfortunately, the Minority side was absent for reasons best known to them,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated.

    The Adaklu MP however emphasized that Ministers like Godfred Yeboah Dame should not only take delight in prosecuting cases at the law courts but do the same in parliament too.

  • 43 boreholes fixed by Builsa South MP

    43 boreholes fixed by Builsa South MP

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for the Builsa South seat in the Upper East region, Dr. Clement Apaak, has repaired 43 broken boreholes in the area.

    Dr. Apaak noted that boreholes would help alleviate the water challenges facing his constituency. 

    He said he was elected to serve his people, not the other way around.

    According to the vociferous MP, the entire cost of the project was calculated at GHS 103,100. 

    The Al-Shaa Company first repaired 38 of the 43 boreholes at a cost of GHS 99,200, while Akanbongnaaba restored the remaining five (5) at GHS 3,900. 

    The Builsa South MP promised to be there for his constituents either in parliament or out of parliament. 

    ‘’My first duty as an MP is to see to the welfare of my people, and that is exactly what I am doing’’, he said. 

    Phase one of the project witnessed the completion of 29 boreholes for GHS 54,800. 

    Meanwhile, a KG Block has been completed, and two are ongoing.

  • Ghana’s Basic Education teeters on the brink of collapse – Dr Apaak warns

    Ghana’s Basic Education teeters on the brink of collapse – Dr Apaak warns

    Dr. Clement Apaak, the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, has expressed deep concerns about the potential collapse of basic education in Ghana.

    Clement Apaak identified several factors contributing to this alarming situation, including the government’s failure to pay caterers under the school feeding program and its inability to adequately increase the funding allocated for providing meals to students.

    Highlighting the gravity of the issue, Dr. Apaak emphasized that the current allocation of 97 pesewas per student for meals is grossly insufficient.

    He went as far as stating that this amount is inadequate even to feed a cat, considering the high cost of basic food items such as eggs.

    Speaking in an interview on the point of view show on Citi TV ohe said; “If you want my honest opinion, Ghana’s public basic education system is at the verge of collapsing. Seriously. Yes, it is that bad. And I think that parents who are listening, have some basic schools across the country who are listening. And if not, they will confirm what I’m saying.

    ”First of all, we all know that the basic sector is the foundation and if you have to get it right, the foundation must be solid. I mean, you can compare it or in terms of analogy.

    ”As you know, currently it is just 97 pesewas. That is worse as in the current state of affairs and the economy is woefully inadequate. I’ve said before and I’ll say again, that what is of interest to us is not even sufficient to feed a pet cut. As we speak now even an egg cost more than 97 pesewas with the cost of food items, food inflation, you know, going up, you cannot expect these women to prepare what the program itself describes as a nutritious, hot meal a day to feed our walls in the various public schools across the country”, he said.

    Dr. Apaak stressed the critical importance of a solid foundation in basic education, stating that any challenges in this foundation will inevitably impact the higher levels of education, such as senior high school.

    He called for urgent action to address the deficiencies in the provision of meals to students, as this issue directly impacts their health, nutrition, and overall educational experience.

    “The collapse of basic education, if left unaddressed, could have severe long-term consequences for the country. It undermines the government’s efforts to provide quality education to all Ghanaian children and jeopardizes the future prospects of the nation’s youth.”

  • Your feeble jabs cannot tickle us – Annoh Dompreh jibes NDC in Bawumia’s defence

    Your feeble jabs cannot tickle us – Annoh Dompreh jibes NDC in Bawumia’s defence

    Social media platform Twitter was set ablaze with comments from two members of the leading political party in the country.

    Two Members of Parliament were throwing jabs at each other on social media platform Twitter as they sought to make points backing their preferred presidential candidates.

    It started with Builsa South MP, Clement Apaak’s usual jab at the Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in a May 18, 2023 tweet.

    The Builsa South MP shared a GhanaWeb link to a story of some farmers saying the NPP should not elect a liar as its presidential candidate. Apaak captioned his post: “It’s now obvious that Bawumia’s reputation as a LIAR is common knowledge!”

    The post which did not sit well with Nsawam Adoagyiri MP, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, a pro-Bawumia lawmaker and Majority Chief Whip; who hit back before Apaak staged a comeback.

    Annoh-Dompreh: “Dr. Your feeble jabs can not tickle us, not in the least. We remain focused on the ball. DMB. we are possessed, JM’s nightmare & Ghana’s darling boy!.”

    Apaak: “Hon. Dompre, Dr. Bawumia is NOT a flagbearer yet, so what you describe as my feeble jabs are only teasers. The main show will commence if your Galamsey party makes the Lying One your flagbearer. Good news is that I won’t sweat listing pages of his lies, Google will assist me!”

    The NDC on May 14 declared Mahama winner of its presidential primary and its candidate for the 2024 elections.

    The NPP is yet to hold its congress to elect a flagbearer for the 2024 polls, Bawumia is seen as a frontrunner along with former trade minister Alan Kyerematen and Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong.

  • NDC primaries: 19 candidates who are likely to win

    NDC primaries: 19 candidates who are likely to win

    As the National Democratic Congress (NDC) prepares for its presidential and parliamentary primaries on May 13, 2023, several candidates face little to no competition.

    These are candidates whose win is most certainly guaranteed as they are either running unopposed, there are however expected to be declared winners in lieu of being sole aspirants.

    Haruna Iddrisu

    Former Minority Leader of the current parliament of Ghana, Haruna Iddrisu is set for a for a sixth consecutive term in parliament having joined the contest for the NDC’s parliamentary ticket for the Tamale South Constituency ahead of the 2024 general election.

    With a rich history and political influence acquired as a result of his long years in the NDC and parliament, Haruna is expected to shake off competition from his only contender, Bawa Abdul Fatawu on Saturday.

    For the MP who has spent almost 19 years in parliament, he is one of only few incumbent MPs whose win is guaranteed beyond their party’s parliamentary primaries.

    Clement Apaak

    Dr Clement Apaak is currently in his second term as member of parliament for Builsa South in the Upper East Region.

    His contesting the NDC primaries with no opposition.

    Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba

    Lydia Akanvariba is one of few female candidates guaranteed a win the NDC’s upcoming primaries.

    She is a first-time MP representing the people of Tempane in the Upper East Region and is running unopposed.

    Isaac Adongo

    Incumbent MP for Bolgatanga Central, Isaac Adongo has no opponent in Saturday’s primaries.

    He is MP for a second term and is seeking a third term to represent the constituency.

    Murtala Mohammed Ibrahim

    Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed is seeking a third term as MP for Tamale Central after making a come back to the house in 2020 having lost the seat after his first term.

    He is unopposed in the upcoming primaries.

    Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini

    Tamale North MP, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini goes into Saturday’s internal party polls as unopposed.

    He is currently serving his second consecutive term as MP for the area.

    Daniel Nsala Wakpal

    Daniel Wakpal is the incumbent MP for Kpandai Constituency.

    The first term MP is seeking to extend his stay in parliament and is guaranteed the NDC’s parliamentary ticket going into the contest unopposed.

    Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui

    She will have to worry about the 2024 election because she is contesting the NDC’s upcoming primaries unopposed.

    She first won the Awutu West Constituency seat in 2020 and is seeking a second term.

    Cassiel Ato Forson

    Former Deputy Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is currently a major force in the NDC.

    The current minority leader is in his fourth term and is running unopposed in the primaries for the NDC ticket in the Ejumako Enyan Esiam Constituency.

    Daniel Ohene Darko

    Daniel Ohene Darko is the incumbent MP for Denkyira West Constituency.

    The first term MP is contesting the NDC primaries unopposed.

    Emilia Ankomah

    Former Municipal Chief Executive for Denkyira East, Emilia Ankomah is once again making an attempt at entering parliament having previously failed on more than one occasion.

    The former MCE was the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Upper Denkyira East in 2016 and 2020 and will go in the party’s race unopposed.

    Nurien Shaibu Migyimah

    Shaibu Nurien is getting a free pass to contest the 2024 parliamentary election on the ticket of the NDC in one of the constituencies held by the ruling New Patriotic Party.

    The Assin Central seat has been under the belt of Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who is now moving on to contest for the NPP’s presidential primaries, for five consecutive parliamentary terms.

    Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah

    Member of Parliament for Ellembelle Constituency, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah is going into the NDC’s primaries unopposed.

    The current deputy minority leader is doing his fourth term in parliament and is hoping to extend it to a fifth.

    Robert Wisdom Cudjoe

    Robert Wisdom Cudjoe is a first term Member of Parliament for Prestea Huni Valley Constituency.

    He gets a free pass in the upcoming NDC contest with no opponent to contend with.

    Isaac Adjei Mensah

    Isaac Adjei Mensah has been elected MP for Wassa East Constituency three consecutive times on the ticket of the NDC.

    He will be unopposed on Saturday.

    Eric Afful

    Eric Afful has been in parliament on the NDC’s ticket since 2012 and is seeking to extend his stay in 2024.

    He will be running unopposed for the NDC’s Amenfi West parliamentary ticket.

    Dr Emmanuel Okumi Andoh

    Dr Emmanuel Okumi Andoh run for the Ahanta West parliamentary seat on the ticket of the NDC in 2020.

    He is making another attempt again after suffering a defeat in the 2020 general election. His bid to become the NDC parliamentary candidate is without contest.

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was one of the youngest people to enter the parliament of Ghana in 2012.

    After three consecutive terms, the now matured MP is going into the 2023 parliamentary primaries of the NDC in the North Tongu Constituency unopposed.

    Charles Agbeve

    Charles Agebve is a second-term MP for Agotime-Ziope Constituency in the Volta Region

    He is likely to achieve his third term in parliament with his bid to represent the NDC receiving no contest.

    Ashanti Region

    In the Ashanti Region which, a stronghold of the ruling New Patriotic Party, a number of candidates will be running unopposed in Saturday’s parliamentary primaries.

    Their constituencies are mostly safe seats of the NPP thereby limiting their chances in the general elections.

    The candidates going unopposed are Samuel Aboagye who will run for the Obuasi East Constituency, Joseph Azumah for Akrofuom and Samuel Prempeh Jnr for Bekwai.

    The rest are Kwasi Amankwah who will contest the Kumawu by-election, Shamudeen Mohammed Kamil for Old Tafo and Hamzah Swallah in Manhyia North.

  • Galamsey Republic! – MP describes Ghana under Akufo-Addo

    Galamsey Republic! – MP describes Ghana under Akufo-Addo

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has reacted to claims by the Chief of New Denkyira Obuasi, Nana Agyei Nkyere II, that some government officials, soldiers, policemen, and pastors are deeply involved in galamsey.

    The lawmaker says the allegation by the traditional ruler is not surprising but only a confirmation of what is already known.

    In his remarks, the chief wants the formation of task forces by chiefs in their communities to check illegal mining since those in charge have failed to fight it because of their involvement.

    For the chief, this would help protect our water bodies and forests for future generations’ benefit and save them from being blamed by posterity.

    He said this during the observation of the Akwasidae festival.

    “The fight against galamsey must not be seen as political because it affects every Ghanaian,” he said.

    He added that not only have illegal mining activities destroyed the water bodies and degraded our forests, but has also adversely affected the livelihood of the good people.

    Reacting to this in a tweet, Dr. Apaak said it would be important for this country to be rescued from the NPP before it becomes a galamsey republic.

    He said under this administration, government appointees, pastors, soldiers, and police officers are all part of the galamsey.

    He believes it will take the NDC government to rescue Ghana from the hands of this administration.

    “Under the corrupt, reckless, duplicitous galamsey Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP gov’t, we may as well be a republic of galamsey. Well, if gov’t officials, soldiers, police, and pastors are deeply involved in galamsey, what does that make us? Walahi, we must rescue and reinstate Ghana!”

  • Mahama lauds Builsa South MP for contributing to national development

    Mahama lauds Builsa South MP for contributing to national development

    Former President, John Mahama has lauded Dr. Clement Apaak, Member of Parliament for Builsa South, for his immense contributions towards the development of the country, especially the education sector.

    The aspiring National Democratic Congress (NDC) flag bearer disclosed this while on a campaign tour in the Upper East Region which started on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

    During his two-day visit, Mr. Mahama embarked on canvassing for voteS from the delegates in the various constituencies.

    Addressing the Builsa South constituents at the Rawlings Park in Fumbisi, Mr. Mahama also commended Dr. Apaak for his dealing accurately with issues on education in the country.

    “Thank you for letting Clement Apaak go unopposed. He is one of our best Members of Parliament. If you take the top ten MPs on our side he is one of them. He’s being our main spokesperson on education and deals with the issues very well,” the former President added.

    Mr. Mahama has visited other regions and is expected to receive an overwhelming endorsement from the party’s delegates to the May 13, 2023, presidential primaries.

    The highly contested NDC primaries will take place in all 275 constituencies across the country on May 13, 2023.

  • Commonwealth hall saga: Do the right thing; reinstate students – Clement Apaak tells UG

    Commonwealth hall saga: Do the right thing; reinstate students – Clement Apaak tells UG

    The Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr Clement Apaak, has asked the management of the University of Ghana to reinstate students of the Commonwealth who were evicted from the hostel.

    He called on parliament and Ghanaians to impress upon the University of Ghana to do the needful by respecting the laws of the land.

    According to him, the Management of the university has refused to reinstate students who resided in the Commonwealth Hall as ordered by the Court.

    He described the action as unacceptable, unlawful adding that it must not be tolerated.

    “Mr. Speaker, we the alumni of Commonwealth Hall, known popularly as OLD VANDALS in this Parliament of Ghana, back calls by associations and individuals who have called on the Management of the University of Ghana to heed the decision of the Court, and to ensure that continuing students who resided in the Commonwealth Hall are reinstated to provide them the peace of mind for their academic activities pending the final determination of the case.

    “The continuous refusal by the Management of the University of Ghana to reinstate the affected students as ordered by the Court is unacceptable, unlawful and must not be countenanced. Mr. Speaker, we call on you, and this august house, to join us and well-meaning Ghanaians to impress upon the University of Ghana to do the needful by respecting the laws of the land,” he said on the floor of the house.

    A decision by the Council of the University of Ghana to eject all continuing students from two halls of residence; Mensah Sarbah Hall and Commonwealth Hall has resulted in a tussle between the management of the school on one hand and students as well as some old students on another hand.

    On the night of August 6, 2022, students of the Commonwealth Hall and Mensah Sarbah Hall engaged in a series of clashes that resulted in some injuries and the destruction of several properties.

    In a statement dated August 6, 2022, the management said it had commenced efforts to identify the perpetrators while working to ensure the peace and stability on all the campuses of the university.

    The management would later announce a ban on the holding of events and the gathering of students as a measure to curb the violence.

    Following the decision by the Management of the university to remove all continuing students who resided in the Commonwealth Hall and to replace same with freshers and graduate students, some students sought redress in Court.

    The High Court, on January 6 2023, granted an ex parte application for an interlocutory injunction to the students and ordered the University of Ghana and its officers, assigns, privies, agents, workmen and all persons working under its instructions to refrain from implementing the decision of the Respondent’s Residence Board taken at its meeting held on 26th October 2022, in respect of the residential policy affecting all continuing students of the Commonwealth Hall for 10 days.

    Since the granting of this order, the Management of the University of Ghana have refused to act in accordance with the dictates of the order.

  • Instruct Ofori-Atta to pay all outstanding capitation grant arrears– Clement Apaak to Akufo-Addo

    Instruct Ofori-Atta to pay all outstanding capitation grant arrears– Clement Apaak to Akufo-Addo

    The Minority’s Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Education Committee and MP for Builsa South, Clement Apaak, has asked President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to direct the Finance Minister to release capitation grants to public basic schools immediately.

    He revealed that the Akufo-Addo and Dr. Bawumia administration has failed to disburse Capitation grants, which are necessary to ensure the smooth operation of Basic Schools in the country, for the past two years.

    Speaking to the Parliamentary Press Corps about the matter and what he calls “embarrassing issues affecting Ghana’s education,” he said the government must be responsible.

    This, he lamented, has an impact on teaching and learning.

    The Builsa South legislator went on to say that, contrary to popular belief that Akufo Addo’s record in education is unsurpassed is a blatant lie.

    Regardless, he urged the president to take appropriate action.

    “It has become necessary for me to address you today because of a very pressing and embarrassing issue affecting Ghana’s education. I speak about what is going on with our public basic school system in our country.”

    “As we speak, for two years now, the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia-led NPP government has failed to disburse capitation grants to ensure the smooth running of public basic schools in the country. The situation has become so dire that the conference of heads of public basic schools has publicly lamented. As a member of parliament on the NDC side of the education committee, my caucus has decided that we use your medium to call on the president to instruct the minister for finance to release the capitation grants for the basic schools.”

    He stated that the capitation scheme, which was implemented in 2005, serves this purpose.

    Dr. Apaak further noted that the purpose of the capitation grant was instituted to ensure that basic school was accessed free and to also finance administration and day-to-day needs of public basic schools including procurement of chalks, renovations, and attendance registers among other things.

    However, due to the government’s inability to fulfil its mandate, most basic school principals have had to borrow money to keep their schools running smoothly.

    He lamented that, despite a budget allocation of 60 million Ghana Cedis for capitation grants for the year 2022, the government owes 45 million Ghana Cedis for the previous budget year.

    He said for the current year in question, the request was GHC61 million but the government only brought in GHC11 million for parliamentary approval and so ideally, the government should release an amount of GHC106 million.

  • Dr Apaak demands probe into Prof. Boateng’s NPP galamsey claim

    Dr Apaak demands probe into Prof. Boateng’s NPP galamsey claim

    Builsa South MP Clement Apaak has demanded a probe into allegations by former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Kwabena Frimpong Boateng, that some NPP bigwigs are involved in illegal mining.

    The Professor, last week, alleged that there are many top government officials engaged in the canker popularly known as ‘galamsey’.

    The renowned professor who served under President Akufo-Addo insists that the rot goes as high as the government seat, Jubilee House.

    “Let me tell you that I did not take one excavator for anything, they know the truth. Now things are coming up, we know those who are behind it and the party people who are there, people in government including Jubilee House who are doing galamsey and so on, even now,” he said on GBC.

    But Mr Apaak believes this assertion is enough grounds to commence a full-blown investigation.

    “We DEMAND an investigation into allegations by Prof. Boateng, a former NPP Minister, then head of the anti-galamsey fight, that “People in the NPP, people in gov’t and people at Jubilee House are engaged in galamsey”. Galamsey is a crime and those involved must be punished.

    In a brief statement, the Builsa South MP explained that the investigative bodies owe Ghanaians a duty to get to the bottom of the matter.

    “Ghanaians expect the requisite state agencies/institutions (OSP, BIN, CID) to show loyalty to Ghana by initiating investigations into the allegations made by Prof. Boateng. By his stature and previous position in this NPP gov’t, these allegations cannot and must not be ignored,” he wrote.

    During the interview with GBC, Prof Frimpong Boateng further suggested that it was his effort that prevented the forest reserves from further dissipation by these government officials for which reason there are reports of breaches now that he is no more in office.

    “There was an orchestrated scheme, even within the party and government to get me out. Why is it that when I left now everyone is in the forest?” he added.

  • NPP may hold a retreat in response to Mahama’s campaign launch – Clement Apaak alleges

    NPP may hold a retreat in response to Mahama’s campaign launch – Clement Apaak alleges

    As a result of John Dramani’s campaign launch, Builsa South MP, Clement Apaak, has pondered what the current administration will do next.

    According to him, the NPP held an emergaency meeting when John Mahama declared his intention to contest, and they are likely to hold a retreat this weekend after his campaign launch.

    In a Twitter post, Clement Apaak said;

    “When JM met NDC MPs to declare his intentions to contest for the Flagbearership of the NDC YAANUM called an urgent meeting. Now that JM has launched his campaign YAANUM will likely hold a retreat over the weekend. JM is the IT, they know it, we know it, Ghanaians know it #JM2024.”

    Ghana’s former president, John Dramani Mahama officially launched his campaign towards the 2024 general elections on March 2.

    This comes barely a week after he picked up nomination forms once again to contest the vacant position in the party.

    The event was held at Ho, in the Volta Region as he prepares to win the party primaries and work towards wrestling power from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

  • Baako, American Amb. must expose ‘powerful forces’ fueling galamsey – Apaak

    The Builsa South Member of Parliament, Clement Apaak, has urged the Veteran Journalist, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako Jnr and the American Ambassador to Ghana to expose the “powerful forces” fueling and profiting from illegal mining.

    According to him, failure of the duo to expose these persons makes them become accessories to the illegal activity.

    “Who are these powerful forces we are told are fueling illegal mining (galamsey). So powerful the state or its institutions and agencies are incapable of dealing with them?

    “Is it that the nation is powerless or those to take action have been compromised, rendering them powerless? Why are those who know the “powerful forces” fueling and profiting from illegal mining not telling us who these forces are? Mr. Apaak quizzed.

    He continued: “Kweko Baako, and recently the American Ambassador to Ghana, have referenced these powerful forces. They ought to expose them, if not they are accessories.”

    His comments come on the back of Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor directing the Forestry Commission to stop operations by Akonta Mining Limited in the Tano Nimiri Forest in the Western North region.

    In a statement, the Ministry noted that Akonta Mining Limited which is believed to belong to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako a.k.a Chairman Wontumi has no mining right to operate in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The bold action of the Minister for Lands has been widely commended by stakeholders.

    However, the Builsa South lawmaker says the government must show commitment to the fight against the illegal mining menace and deal with offenders within the government circles.

    Meanwhile, the opposition NDC has also served notice that they will investigate and prosecute Chairman Wontumi, Ekow Awusi, and Charles Bissue among others for their involvement in galamsey in the country.

    According to the party, the President’s call to action on the illegal mining menace remains mere rhetoric if it is not backed by the appropriate action such as going after his offending appointees.

    “We demand the immediate prosecution of all government functionaries and NPP officials who have engaged themselves in illegal mining (galamsey) activities such as Charles Bissue, Chairman Wontumi, Andy Owusu, Ekow Awusi, Prof. Frimpomg Boateng among others. This will be the first step to redemption and serve as a deterrent to other people within your government and party. You need to send a clear signal to Ghanaians that anyone caught in “galamsey” will be dealt with without fear or favour, regardless of party colours,” the party said at a press conference Thursday.

    The National Communications officer of the Party Sammy Gyamfi who addressed the media also noted “We demand that all the so-called illegal mining companies like the Akonta Mining Limited which belongs to Chairman Wontumi and Heritage Imperial Mining Company which belongs to Mr. Donald Enstuah, a known financier of the NPP who have invaded forest reserves without any mining leases or permits, must be closed down and prosecuted. The assets of these companies must be confiscated and their owners surcharged with costs of the destruction of those forest reserves.

    “We demand that all security personnel complicit in illegal mining activities should be made to face internal investigations and discharged from the various services to serve as a deterrent to others”.

  • E-Levy not an option, consider best IMF programme to rescue Ghana Apaak to government

    The Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr Clement Apaak, has said government is better off debating which IMF programme will rescue the nation and give policy credibility rather than thinking about reintroducing the E-levy in any form, which according to him, is not an option.

    According to Dr Apaak, the Minority will support the government if it decides to seek help from the IMF but will continually oppose the E-levy.

    In a Facebook post, he reminded President Akufo-Addo that he would have the embarrassing record of not presenting the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in February as has been the trend with all past Ghanaian leaders.

    His post read: “Government Crisis Retreat – What is there to debate? KILLER E-LEVY is not an option. They are better off spending their retreat time at Peduase debating amongst themselves the best IMF programme that will rescue the nation and give policy credibility.

    “With seeking the support of the IMF, they have the mandate, with KILLER E-LEVY, they don’t. Let no one deceive them at Peduase, it is still 137 No votes against E-levy any day it comes to the floor of Parliament resurrected, revived or resuscitated.

    “While at their retreat, they should not forget that SONA, a constitutional obligation, is yet to be fulfilled. In fact, from 2017 to 2021 NADAA presented SONA in the month of February as did his predecessors. It is clear that NADAA will have the embarrassing record of NOT presenting SONA in February in the history of the 4th Republic.”

    Meanwhile, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has announced that Cabinet has concluded its deliberations on ways to revive the economy and President Nana Akufo-Addo has taken some decisions aimed at mitigating the impact of the global economic difficulties on Ghana.

    To this end, he said: “Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will provide details of these measures later this week after consultations with key social and economic stakeholders”. 

    “In addition to the scheduled appraisal of the performance of government programmes, Cabinet also extensively discussed the impact of global economic difficulties on Ghana and the Ghanaian people”, a statement from Mr Nkrumah noted.

    It added that President Nana Akufo-Addo approved “far-reaching” measures aimed at “mitigating the depreciation of the cedi, ensuring expenditure discipline and providing relief in the face of global fuel price hikes and inflation; as well as ensuring that priority programmes meant to grow the economy are protected”.

    The statement said the “government appreciates the efforts of all who contributed to a successful retreat and looks forward to the support of all Ghanaians in implementing the agreed measures.”

    Source: classfmonline.com

  • ‘Donate your PPE to frontliners; dead people dont vote’ Apaak to EC

    The Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr Clement Apaak, has asked the Electoral Commission (EC) to donate the PPE given to it to health workers to carry out their frontline duties in the fight against COVID-19.

    He said the health professionals need the PPE more than the EC.

    Dr Apaak noted in a statement that PPE have been donated to the EC to enable the elections management body prepare for its voter registration exercise ahead of the 2020 polls.

    “Folks, it’s my candid view that the Electoral Commission of Ghana should donate its PPE to frontline health workers.

    “Despite government claims, healthcare professionals are crying for PPE. So far, we have a record of 13 medical doctors testing positive for the coronavirus. Only God knows how many more could be infected in their line of duty, as they relentlessly lead as Generals in the war against COVID-19 without adequate PPE?

    “Logically, as the number of cases goes up and across several regions of Ghana, more healthcare professionals would be exposed without PPE. So, at a time when our nation has recorded over 1,600 cases, should the EC, like many other institutions/organisations and persons, public and private, not be supporting the fight against COVID-19 with the PPE it has procured?

    “I wish no harm befalls anyone, but should an officer of the EC become infected, who will attend to him/her, a needless newly-compiled voter register or frontline medical personnel?

    “EC, donate your PPE to a medical facility, it’s the moral and right thing to do in this COVID-19 war. Remember that dead people don’t vote, and dead people can’t compile a new voter register. Let’s win the COVID-19 war first,” his statement said.

     

    Source: Class FM

  • Govt must publish rosewood report – Apaak

    MP for Builsa South Constituency in the Upper East Region Dr. Clement Apaak is asking the government to publish the report of investigations carried out on officials and institutions involved in the alleged illegal smuggling of rosewood.

    He said it is worrisome that the public is yet to know the content of the report in the alleged illegal smuggling of rosewood.

    A committee chaired by the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural resources Benito Owusu was set up in August 2019 to investigate the alleged illegal felling of rosewood.

    The report of the committee was presented to the Ministry in December.

    Dr. Clement Apaak argues that the government must publish the report to allow Ghanaians to compare the work of the committee to that of other independent bodies.

    According to him, knowing that the alleged illegality is still ongoing there is a need for the government to publish the report.

    ” So to think that the report has been ready and yet the good people of Ghana have not had the opportunity to see the content at the time we also know that the illegality is still been perpetuated is most worrisome, it means that government has the responsibility to make sure that the report is published regardless of their reservations about the content of the report may be. The public seeing the content of that report and comparing the outcome of the committees work to the report of the EIA which triggered the government to form the committee………”

    Committee can’t be trusted

    Dr. Clement Apaak in August last year said the committee set up by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to investigate the allegations made in the EIA report on rosewood trade cannot be trusted.

    Dr. Clement Apaak in a Facebook post said, “The committee is put together and will report to the Minister, it’s chaired by one of his deputies and has members drawn from the Forestry Commission, the Ministry, Customs among others.

    “How can the very same entities alleged to be deeply complicit in the ongoing illegal rosewood trade investigate a matter they are alleged to be involved in or superintending over?” he asked.

    He added that “I truly cannot expect any meaningful outcome from the seven-member committee. The true motive for setting up this committee is yet to be known, but I suspect it’s to cover up and or deflect attention from my petition to the Special Prosecutor.”

    Source: primenewsghana.com