TIG Post

Tag: Dome-Kwabenya

  • Bawumia did not contribute to Ghana’s economic woes, Ofori-Atta did – Adwoa Safo

    Bawumia did not contribute to Ghana’s economic woes, Ofori-Atta did – Adwoa Safo

    Former Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has emphasized that former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia cannot be held responsible for economic woes experienced during the Akufo-Addo-led administration.


    Speaking to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) delegates, Adwoa Safo argued that other key officials under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, played a role in the mismanagement of the economy.

    According to her, Dr. Bawumia had no authority to counter or reverse decisions taken by the top leadership of government. She further urged the NPP delegates to throw their support behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as they gear up for the party’s presidential election on January 31, 2026.


    “Was Dr. Bawumia the finance minister? Were we not in government when some MPs said that because of the way our economy was being mismanaged, we should change the finance minister? Didn’t he damage everything before he was changed? So how can we blame this on Bawumia? He was only the driver’s mate and could not overrule the driver, even if the driver was not performing well,” she said.


    Meanwhile, flagbearer aspirant for the New Patriotic Party, Kennedy Agyapong, has picked the first spot on the party’s just concluded ballot. Dr. Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, while Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia took the third position. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong picked the fourth and fifth positions, respectively.


    Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26. Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, on Wednesday, August 27.

    Former Food and Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has also filed his nomination forms.


    In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.


    Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.


    In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President, who decided to make him his running mate despite many individuals advising him to do otherwise.


    According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr. Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.


    “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party, and upon all the people who were praying for the running mate slot, he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.


    “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr. Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate, but he ignored them. There are some names that if I mentioned, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me, but still he chose me,” he remarked.


    He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”


    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.


    In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, including nineteen new categories of people.


    This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19.
    The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming presidential primary voter register.”


    The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These include all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.


    Other groups added are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution.


    Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.


    The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies, and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”


    To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to External Branch Executives for online registration. All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register.


    However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website. “The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website. For ease of reference, a sample copy is hereby attached,” excerpts of the statement read.


    The statement further warned that registration was strictly for the aforementioned categories of people, with a deadline set for Friday, September 19.


    “The deadline for registration is Friday, September 19, 2025. Please be advised that this registration exercise is exclusively open to officers and members who meet the aforementioned criteria. The Presidential Elections Committee shall undertake a comprehensive verification and validation of the party’s album to ensure that only an authentic and credible register is used for the conduct of the presidential election.


    “We count on your usual cooperation and adherence to this directive in furtherance of the party’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency,” the party cautioned.


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


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


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


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


    “This measure reflects the party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead. I write to inform you that the National Council, at its emergency meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a general amnesty to all party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.


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


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


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

  • My father’s transport business was unjustly targeted – Adwoa Safo

    My father’s transport business was unjustly targeted – Adwoa Safo

    Former Dome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has condemned the destruction of her father’s transport hub, lamenting that the land has remained unused since the demolition.

    In an interview with Okay FM on March 20 she accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of unfairly targeting her father’s business, describing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine her family.

    “The land on which the bus terminal stood belongs to the government. It had been rented to us and we were making payments. What pains me the most is that, up until now, the land has been walled off, and nothing has been done with it,” she said.

    According to Adwoa Safo, her efforts to get answers from Henry Quartey, the former Greater Accra Regional Minister, were met with resistance.

    “The bus terminal that was demolished was located in Agbogbloshie near the ICGC church. One morning, we woke up to see a bulldozer demolishing the bus terminal. What hurts me is that they didn’t even inform us prior to the incident. We didn’t even pick a single computer or a piece of paper from that office. When I called Henry Quartey, the former Greater Accra Regional Minister, on the matter, he told me point blank that it was an order from above,” she recounted.

    She expressed disappointment over how the NPP disregarded her father’s transport company, Imperial Express, despite its long-standing support for the party.

    “I tried frantically to reach Henry Quartey for an explanation on the demolition many times, but he didn’t pick my calls”.

    “My father, Apostle Dr Ing. Kwadwo Safo, had a transport company called Imperial Express, which operated buses traveling across the country and to neighboring countries, including Togo and Benin. Those were the same buses we used to transport voters to various parts of the country to vote for the party during elections,” she decried.

    Following her public statements, Adwoa Safo has been summoned by the NPP’s Disciplinary Committee. She believes she is being punished for exposing corruption in the School Feeding Programme under the Akufo-Addo administration.



  • NPP executives have no power over me – Adwoa Safo

    NPP executives have no power over me – Adwoa Safo

    Former Dome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has insisted that no member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has the power to expel her.

    She disclosed that her father, Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo, had personally placed her under the mentorship of former President John Agyekum Kufuor.

    Speaking in an interview on Okay FM, she claimed that certain individuals within the NPP administration were against her because she refused to be involved in dishonest dealings.

    She clarified that her decisions were never meant to go against the interests of Ghanaians but were rather based on what she believed was best for the nation.

    “I want the party to understand that I was not deliberately sabotaging it. Rather, I refused to partake in their corrupt practices because my father raised me to uphold integrity and avoid actions that would bring disgrace to him and the church. Since I chose not to conform to their corrupt ways, they sought to tarnish my reputation and remove me from the party. However, no one brought me into the NPP.

    “…It was my father who personally took me to President Kufuor’s office and said, this is my daughter. She has studied procurement law, so I have brought her to you. Therefore, no one has the authority to remove me from the party,” she stated.

    Reflecting on her tenure overseeing the school feeding program, she stated that former President Kufuor genuinely intended for the initiative to benefit the public. However, she alleged that some party members took advantage of it for their own financial interests.

    “President Kufuor initially had noble intentions for the school feeding program, but over time, it turned into an opportunity that many sought to exploit. Have you considered the plight of these pupils? Many lack proper school uniforms, and some don’t even have decent shoes.

    “The meals they receive at school are already inadequate, and now you expect me to take away the little they have, leaving them even more deprived and malnourished,” Adwoa Safo added.

  • Adwoa Safo says she will not contest the Dome Kwabenya seat again unless advised by her father

    Adwoa Safo says she will not contest the Dome Kwabenya seat again unless advised by her father

    Former Dome Kwabenya MP, Adwoa Safo, has made it clear that she has no plans to contest for the parliamentary seat again. She explained that the challenges she faced during her time in office have influenced her decision.

    Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews on Thursday, March 20, she stated that she would only reconsider if her father convinced her to run.

    Looking back on her tenure as MP, Adwoa Safo admitted that the difficulties she encountered had discouraged her from seeking re-election.

    “Considering what I have been through, considering how I have been treated in the constituency despite my devotions, despite my sacrifices, despite my hard work, how I have been treated, I don’t think so, I won’t. It will take my father to change my mind, I have done 12 years and I left a good legacy in the constituency, I will not contest Dome Kwabenya” she said.

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP), with Mike Oquaye Jr. as its candidate, lost the Dome Kwabenya parliamentary seat to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2024 elections—an area that had long been considered an NPP stronghold.

    Although the former Member of Parliament has made it clear that she will not be contesting for the seat again, she did not hold back on her political ambitions.

    She expressed her desire to take on an even greater leadership role in Ghana, stating that her ultimate goal is to either become the country’s first female president or serve as Speaker of Parliament in the future.

    “I am moving forward, I am looking at other bigger things,” she said.

    “Like the presidency”? The Host, Elton John Brobbey asked. She responded, “Yes one day, not now, I am looking at speakership, yes. I am looking at higher challenges and opportunities” she emphasised.

  • I will not contest Dome-Kwabenya seat again – Adwoa Safo declares

    I will not contest Dome-Kwabenya seat again – Adwoa Safo declares

    Former Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has firmly ruled out any plans to seek re-election for the parliamentary seat, citing her experiences in the constituency as a key factor in her decision.

    Speaking in a media interview on Thursday, March 20, Adwoa Safo reflected on her tenure, expressing disappointment over how she was treated despite her dedication to the development of Dome-Kwabenya.

    “What I’ll say is, considering what I’ve been through, considering how I’ve been treated in the constituency, despite my devotion, sacrifices, hard work, I don’t think so. I won’t. It will take my father to change my mind. I won’t. I have done 12 solid years and I’ve left a good legacy in the constituency. I will not contest Dome-Kwabenya,” she stated.

    Looking ahead, she emphasized her focus on new opportunities beyond parliamentary politics.

    “We move forward in life and not regress. I am moving forward. I am looking at other bigger things. I am looking at Speakership, higher challenging opportunities,” she added.

    Adwoa Safo first entered Parliament in 2013 and served three consecutive terms before losing her party’s parliamentary primary on January 27, 2024. The contest saw her face stiff competition from Dr. Mike Oquaye Jnr, CEO of the Free Zones Authority, and Sheela Oppong Sakyi. Oquaye Jnr emerged victorious with 1,194 votes, while Adwoa Safo secured 328 votes. Sheela Oppong Sakyi finished third with just over 100 votes.

    Her electoral defeat followed a period of controversy, during which she spent nearly a year outside Ghana attending to personal matters. Her prolonged absence, which affected her parliamentary and ministerial duties at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, sparked widespread criticism from constituents and party members.

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) suffered further setbacks in the 2024 general elections, losing the Dome-Kwabenya seat to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the first time.

    Faustina Elikplim Akurugu of the NDC narrowly defeated Mike Oquaye Jnr, securing 50,967 votes against his 50,669 votes. The Electoral Commission officially declared her the winner on December 31, 2024, marking a historic victory for the NDC in the constituency.

  • Let’s refrain from violence – Mike Oquaye Jnr. to supporters

    Let’s refrain from violence – Mike Oquaye Jnr. to supporters

    Tensions have escalated in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency amid allegations of irregularities in the election result tallying process.

    Mike Oquaye Jnr., the parliamentary candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called for restraint and emphasized the importance of following legal procedures.

    During a press conference on December 10, 2024, Mr Oquaye criticized what he termed undemocratic behavior by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing them of compiling the results without the participation of other political party representatives.

    “We respect Ghanaians and the rule of law because we want to follow due process, but no one should think that they can usurp democracy and go and count and collate without the presence of other party people. This is against the law,” he stated.

    He urged his supporters to maintain peace, stressing, “No one on my side should go and fight a fellow brother; let the rules work.”

    Despite his call for calm, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Faustina Elikplim Akurugu, won the highly competitive race.

    Akurugu secured 51,634 votes, narrowly surpassing Mike Oquaye Jnr., who earned 50,477 votes.

    This victory is particularly significant for Akurugu, marking a breakthrough after two prior unsuccessful attempts against the outgoing MP Sarah Adwoa Safo, who had held the seat since 2012.

  • Video: Adwoa Safo jams to King Paluta’s ‘Makoma’

    Video: Adwoa Safo jams to King Paluta’s ‘Makoma’

    Sarah Adwoa Safo, the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, recently captured attention in a viral video where she was seen energetically performing to King Paluta’s hit “Makoma.”

    At a New Patriotic Party (NPP) campaign event, Safo lip-synced to the song with lively dance moves, much to the delight of the crowd.

    Her lively performance, a departure from her usual serious public demeanor, received varied reactions online, with some social media users playfully dubbing her the “entertainment prefect.”

    King Paluta’s “Makoma” has gained notable popularity and has become a recurring feature at NPP campaign events.

    Prominent NPP figures, including Chairman Wontumi and presidential running mate Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh were seen dancing to the song.

    It has become a popular anthem for the ongoing campaigns led by NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Watch below video:

  • Mike Oquaye Jnr. joins forces with Dome-Kwabenya residents for Homowo clean-up

    Mike Oquaye Jnr. joins forces with Dome-Kwabenya residents for Homowo clean-up

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary candidate for the Dome-Kwabenya constituency, Mike Oquaye Jnr., has commended the successful Homowo Community clean-up exercise held on July 2, 2024.

    The event, organized at Dome Crossing, was spearheaded by Mike Oquaye Jnr., following a directive from Ga Mantse, King Nii Tackie Tsuru II.

    The clean-up initiative drew a significant number of volunteers who generously contributed their time and energy to enhance the cleanliness of their surroundings.

    This collective endeavor was part of the preparations for the upcoming Homowo festival, a cherished traditional celebration among the Ga people.

    In a Facebook post following the exercise, Mike Oquaye Jnr. expressed heartfelt appreciation to all volunteers for their unwavering commitment to the cause.

    He underscored the vital importance of sustaining such communal efforts to foster enduring positive changes within the community.

    “We were joined by an amazing group of dedicated volunteers who came together to clean and beautify our streets and public spaces. It was truly inspiring to see everyone’s enthusiasm and hard work as we prepare for the upcoming festive celebrations.

    “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every person who rolled up their sleeves and joined us in this effort. Let’s keep up this great work and continue making a positive impact on our community!” he said.

  • I wish everyone well – Last post of police officer who allegedly committed suicide at Dome-Kwabenya

    I wish everyone well – Last post of police officer who allegedly committed suicide at Dome-Kwabenya

    The final social media post from the Police officer, Lance Corporal Francis Adusei, who tragically took his own life, has left many in profound sorrow.

    It seems his suicide may be linked to personal heartbreak, as indicated by his last communication with a friend and his social media activity, both hinting at his struggles in love.

    In a poignant text message to his friend, Adusei expressed wishes for everyone’s well-being in life’s journey.

    He stressed the fleeting nature of life and advised against suppressing emotions.

    This message was sent on May 5, merely two days before he tragically ended his life by shooting himself in his unit at Block 3, room No. 10B.

    He was swiftly rushed to the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission Hospital (GAEC) for urgent medical care, where he initially showed signs of stabilization.

    Later, he was transferred to the emergency ward at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where initial treatment seemed promising. Despite medical efforts, however, he eventually succumbed to his injuries.

  • VIDEO: NPP’s Mike Oquaye Jr. washes woman’s clothes during campaign at Dome-Kwabenya

    VIDEO: NPP’s Mike Oquaye Jr. washes woman’s clothes during campaign at Dome-Kwabenya

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Dome-Kwabenya, Mike Oquaye Jnr., has adopted a unique campaign strategy that has caught the attention of many.

    In a video that has been widely circulated, Oquaye Jnr. is seen washing clothes for some constituents, a gesture that has sparked discussions about the lengths politicians go to in order to garner votes.

    The incumbent MP for Dome-Kwabenya constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, lost her parliamentary seat in the NPP’s primaries to Mike Oquaye Jnr.

    She received 328 votes, representing 19.20%, while Oquaye Jnr. secured victory with 1,194 votes, representing 69.91%. This victory came after Oquaye Jnr. had attempted to win the seat on two previous occasions.

  • Ursula Owusu has refused to talk to me after helping her win Ablekuma-West seat – Rev Owusu-Bempah

    Ursula Owusu has refused to talk to me after helping her win Ablekuma-West seat – Rev Owusu-Bempah

    The founder and leader of Glorious Word Power Ministries, Rev. Owusu-Bempah, has disclosed that the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West, Ursula Owusu, has chosen not to engage with him following his alleged assistance in securing her victory in the constituency.

    “Madam Ursula Owusu is also another person; she is a very ungrateful woman. Some time ago, this woman used to come to me every time. When the election came, I went to her constituency to spend over two hours there. After their victory, I have never heard from her again,” he said.

    Reverend Bempah expressed disappointment in the NPP’s lack of gratitude, noting that he had considered withdrawing his spiritual support for the party if not for the intervention of senior members such as Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and former Member of Parliament for Tema West, Irene Naa Torshie Addo-Lartey.

    In an interview with Kwame Nkrumah Tikese of Okay FM, he cited NPP parliamentary candidate for Dome Kwabenya, Mike Oquaye Jnr, as an example of someone who sought his spiritual guidance but did not acknowledge it afterward.

    “Mike Oquaye Jnr came to me and said he was struggling to win the Dome-Kwabenya seat, so I gave him directions… he (Mike Oquaye Jnr) confirmed that he and his team chanced on a scene of some big men performing rituals at a particular place which I had mentioned to him.

    “I told him to perform the rituals at the same place and he won the elections. He called and said he had won the elections and that he was going to come and visit. As we speak, I haven’t heard from him. So we have some politicians who are ungrateful.”

    Reverend Owusu-Bempah, known for his claims of prophetic abilities in election predictions and support, expressed disappointment that some NPP members, including those he has assisted spiritually, have failed to show appreciation.

  • “If misplaced priorities was a person” – Netizens drag Adwoa Asafo over National Pledge is ‘gender insensitive’

    “If misplaced priorities was a person” – Netizens drag Adwoa Asafo over National Pledge is ‘gender insensitive’

    Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo stirred controversy by suggesting a revision to the national pledge, sparking criticism on social media.

    Adwoa Safo argued that the phrase ‘toil of our fathers’ in the national pledge was wrong, emphasizing the need for a language change to be more inclusive of women.

    She pointed out the contradiction between referring to Ghana as our ‘motherland’ while only acknowledging the toil of forefathers in the pledge, excluding mothers.

    However, social media users were quick to express their disapproval, with one netizen asserting, “If Misplaced priorities was a person, no one could do it better than this woman.”

    Another comment criticized the proposal as a “Misguided, waste of time, nonsense,” questioning the prioritization of a non-existent issue over other pressing matters before parliament.

    Watch video below and reactions:

  • Adwoa Safo pushes for inclusion of mothers in national pledge

    Adwoa Safo pushes for inclusion of mothers in national pledge

    Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has advocated for the inclusion of mothers in the National Pledge, criticizing the current wording as gender-insensitive.

    During a parliamentary session following the recitation of the National Pledge to commemorate the implementation of the new Standing Orders of Parliament, Adwoa Safo pointed out what she perceived as a glaring omission in the pledge. She highlighted the phrase “through the blood and toil of our fathers,” asserting that it overlooks the significant contributions of mothers to the nation’s progress, branding it a gender-insensitive oversight.

    “Mr. Speaker, the National Pledge, it talks about ‘through the blood and toil of our fathers.’ Mr. Speaker, it omits mothers,” she expressed. “Mr. Speaker, the mothers also toiled for this country. I think that it is gender-insensitive.”

    Adwoa Safo further stressed the importance of acknowledging the role of mothers in shaping the nation’s narrative, particularly in a country where the term “motherland” is commonly used to refer to Ghana. She urged for a more gender-sensitive approach to the National Pledge to reflect the diverse contributions of both genders to the country’s development.

    This statement marks Adwoa Safo’s first public speech since her defeat in the recent NPP primaries. Adwoa Safo, a prominent lawyer and former Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament, was surpassed by Mike Oquaye Jnr, who secured 1,194 votes to become the NPP parliamentary candidate for Dome-Kwabenya. Adwoa Safo garnered 328 votes in the election.

    Adwoa Safo’s advocacy for the inclusion of mothers in the National Pledge underscores ongoing discussions about gender representation and inclusivity in Ghanaian society. As the nation continues to progress, stakeholders advocate for measures promoting gender equality and recognizing the contributions of all individuals to national development.

  • I still stand with NPP; ignore the naysayers – Adwoa Safo on claims as running independent

    I still stand with NPP; ignore the naysayers – Adwoa Safo on claims as running independent

    Current Member of Parliament, Adwoa Safo, representing the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency has conveyed her gratitude to the members of the New Patriotic Party in the region.

    In the recent primary election held on January 27, the current Member of Parliament lost the NPP parliamentary slot to her longstanding contender, Mike Oquaye Junior.

    The incumbent MP has clarified that, contrary to speculation in certain circles, she has no intention of running as an independent candidate in the upcoming December 7 parliamentary election.

    “My attention has been drawn to several recent misinformations and speculations in the media regarding my political future in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency in particular and the New Patriotic Party as a whole.

    I wish to clarify that, despite the setback and outcome of last Saturday’s parliamentary primaries in Dome-Kwabenya, I remain steadfast in my commitment to the shared values of the New Patriotic Party and our corporate quest to break the 8 with H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia come December 7, 2024,” she said in a press release dated January 30.

    Madam Adwoa Safo assured that “As a three-term Member of Parliament and a true party person, I am cognizant of the fundamental principles that underpin the Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition for which internal competition and afterwards cooperation remain the guiding light.

    For the avoidance of doubt and without any shred of ambiguity, I reiterate that I have no intention whatsoever of running as an Independent Candidate in the upcoming December 7, 2024, presidential and parliamentary elections, or, for that matter, at any point in the foreseeable future.”

    “For the next few months, I remain dedicated to working collaboratively with the leadership of the party in the constituency in collectively pursuing goals to unite us for the task ahead in campaigning to maximise our votes for both Parliamentary and Presidential candidates and, in Parliament, to execute government business expeditiously,” she further assured.

    In a press release issued on January 30, Madam Adwoa Safo extended her thanks to the party’s rank and file for affording her the privilege of serving them for three consecutive terms.

    “I take the opportunity to express my eternal appreciation to the good people of Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, especially our hard-working Polling Station Executives for the opportunity to represent their interests and aspirations in the august house of Parliament in the last 12 years.

    It has been a real honour and privilege working for and with you on matters and issues that border on our common interests and for which I do not take lightly. From the depths of my heart, I say Thank You,“ she stated in a letter that refuted widespread speculation that she intends to run as an independent candidate in the December 7, 2024 elections.


  • I won’t leave NPP because I lost Dome-Kwabenya Primaries – Adwoa Safo

    I won’t leave NPP because I lost Dome-Kwabenya Primaries – Adwoa Safo

    Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya Constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has dismissed reports on plans to exit the New Patriotic Party following her defeat at the party’s just-ended Parliamentary Primaries.

    In a statement dated January 30, 2024, Adwoa Safo acknowledged awareness of media publications suggesting her potential departure from the NPP to run as an independent candidate in the 2024 general election.

    However, she categorically denied these speculations, affirming her commitment to the NPP and its principles, while announcing her decision to work collaboratively with the NPP leadership to promote unity.

    “My attention has been drawn to several recent misinformation and speculation in the media regarding my political future in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency in particular and the New Patriotic Party as a whole.

    “I wish to clarify, that despite the setback and outcome of last Saturday’s parliamentary primaries in Dome-Kwabenya, I remain steadfast in my commitment to the shared values of the New Patriotic Party and our corporate quest to break the 8 with H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia come December 7, 2024.

    “As a three-term Member of Parliament and a true party person, I am cognizant of the fundamental principles which underpin the Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition for which internal competition and afterwards cooperation, remains the guiding light,” she stated.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo added, “For the avoidance of doubt and without any shred of ambiguity, I reiterate that I have no intention whatsoever of running as an Independent Candidate in the upcoming December 7, 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections and for that matter, at any point in the forseeable future.”

    The results declared by the Electoral Commission reveal that Mike Oquaye Jnr secured a significant victory with 1,194 votes in the parliamentary primaries. Sarah Adwoa Safo obtained 328 votes, securing the second position, while the third contender, Sheela Oppong, finished last with 186 votes.

  • Our 12 years together have been built on trust and partnership – Adwoa Safo tells Dome-Kwabenya constituents

    Our 12 years together have been built on trust and partnership – Adwoa Safo tells Dome-Kwabenya constituents

    The current Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency has conveyed her gratitude to the New Patriotic Party’s members in the region.

    In a press release dated January 30, Madam Adwoa Safo expressed thanks for the opportunity to serve three consecutive terms.

    She acknowledged the hard work of the Polling Station Executives and the people of Dome-Kwabenya, emphasizing the honor and privilege of representing their interests in Parliament over the past 12 years.

    “I take the opportunity to express my eternal appreciation to the good people of Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, especially our hard-working Polling Station Executives for the opportunity to represent their interests and aspirations in the august house of Parliament in the last 12 years.

    Contrary to speculations about running independently in the December 7, 2024 elections, she clarified in the letter that she has no intention of doing so.

    Despite losing the NPP parliamentary slot to Mike Oquaye Junior in the recent primary, Adwoa Safo affirmed her commitment to the party’s values and the collective goal of securing victory in the upcoming elections.

    She reassured her dedication to collaborating with the party leadership in the constituency for united efforts in the upcoming campaign, both at the parliamentary and presidential levels, emphasizing the importance of internal competition followed by cooperation in the Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition.

  • Rebecca Akufo-Addo’s aide set to face it off with Adwoa Safo, Mike Oquaye Jnr, in Dome-Kwabenya race

    Rebecca Akufo-Addo’s aide set to face it off with Adwoa Safo, Mike Oquaye Jnr, in Dome-Kwabenya race

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Parliamentary primaries in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency will take an interesting turn this year as a new face has joined the race.

    Sheela Oppong Sakyi, currently holding the positions of Head of Strategic Planning and Implementation and Legal Advisor at the Office of the First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, has expressed her aspirations to become the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Dome Kwabenya Constituency.

    Her decision to enter the primaries is rooted in her commitment to fostering unity within the NPP in the region and contributing to the party’s success in securing a third consecutive term in the upcoming General Elections, aiming to “break the eight.”

    Emphasizing her dual role as the Head of the Rebecca Foundation, Ms. Oppong Sakyi underscored the imperative for the NPP in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency to reconcile internal differences and exert concerted efforts to secure victory in the 2024 General Elections.

    She would have to defeat the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) for the Constituency Sarah Adwoa Safo, and another contender Mike Ocquaye.

    Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen programme recently, Ms Oppong Sakyi said that her personal motivation for seeking to be MP is to bring her expertise in Law and Development to bear on the development challenges of the Constituency as well as help the NPP to not only retain the parliamentary seat but win the General Elections.

    “Apart from being a lawyer, I have done work as a Development professional for many years. So I think it’s time for me to bring all the skills I have acquired to help the development agenda of Dome-Kwabenya and my party, especially at this critical stage that our party is committed to breaking the eight which is unprecedented in the Fourth Republic.

    “It is important we put our best energies and resources together to break the eight,” she said in Twi.

    The NPP will conduct its parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024. NPP Delegates of the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency will choose among Sheela Oppong Sakyi, Sarah Adwoa Safo and Mike Ocquaye Jnr.

  • Dome-Kwabenya constituents have forgiven me; they will vote for me again – Adwoa Safo

    Dome-Kwabenya constituents have forgiven me; they will vote for me again – Adwoa Safo

    Incumbent Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has voiced confidence in securing the votes of New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates during the upcoming primaries as well as constituents of Dome Kwabenya in the December 7, 2024 general elections. 

    Her optimism centers on the belief that the delegates will choose her once again to represent the party in the parliamentary elections scheduled for 2024, despite her shortcomings in the previous years.

    In an interview, she noted that she apologised to the people of Dome-Kwabenya for her wrongs and believes the electorate have forgiven her.

    “It takes a woman of courage, it takes a courageous politician to accept that I have done something wrong, forgive me and that is what has touched the hearts of the people of Dome-Kwabenya and I know that they will still vote for me into power,” she said.

    Recall that Adwoa Safo and the leadership of the New Patriotic Party were not in alignment, following her long absence from Parliamentary and other official duties.  

    Also, some NPP executives of the Constituency had earlier said they were not going to support Sarah Adwoa Safo in her quest to contest the seat again on the ticket of the party.

    This is in reaction to the apology rendered by the MP to the party and residents of the Constituency Thursday, September 14, 2023.

    However, in a subsequent interview, the party’s General Secretary in the Dome-Kwabenya constituency, Theophilus Ansah Larbi, insisted that after engagements with  some of the constituents, they made it clear to him that they will not support Adwoa Safo if she offers herself to be MP again.

    “I am a leader of the party and a delegate, you represent a group of people, so you have to go to the people, ask the people what they want and you do what they want, not what you want. So as a leader of the party, I have gone to the ground and asked people what type of person and what kind of person they want us to bring this time round. So they all rally behind us, so we can keep our space and what they are telling us is; for what Hon. Adwoa has done within her three terms as an MP, I think there should be a cap point and that is what I am saying. So, if I mean well for the party, then there’s no point I will support her bid,” the General Secretary for the constituency emphasized.

    He holds the conviction that, for the party to retain the Dome-Kwabenya Parliamentary seat, they have to get a new representative and not Adwoa Safo.

    “The last election, all these things Hon. Adwoa Safo  has been doing started before the elections and [she] didn’t help in the campaign, didn’t do anything after the election and she went away after the election and coming back to apologise, yes, apologies well taken but I don’t think if we give the seat back to Adwoa Safo, the vote of the NDC will [not] increase again which [we] wouldn’t like going into 2024, because the last election, NDC has never gotten 50,000 votes in Dome-Kwabenya before, but for the first time they got it because of certain attitude our MP put before the Constituency,” Mr. Ansah Larbi stated.

  • Aaron Oquaye Jr. sails through vetting process in Dome-Kwabenya Constituency

    Aaron Oquaye Jr. sails through vetting process in Dome-Kwabenya Constituency

    In the lead-up to the parliamentary primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), significant attention is directed towards Amb.

    Michael Oquaye Jr., who has secured the highly sought-after ‘No.1’ position for the upcoming primaries in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency.

    Commencing on January 3 and concluding on January 5, 2024, the NPP has initiated a comprehensive vetting process, spanning across regional capitals nationwide.

    This crucial phase is marked by the formation of vetting committees for Greater Accra TEAM A: Madam Kate Gyamfua (chairperson), Isaac Jay Nii Amahtey Hyde (Member), and Kwesi Abeasi (Member).

    The constitution of this committee underscores the NPP’s commitment to a transparent, impartial, and thorough vetting process.

    As the political tension intensifies in Dome-Kwabenya, Amb. Mike Oquaye Jr.’s securing of the number one position firmly establishes him as a prominent contender in the parliamentary primaries of the constituency.

    The ongoing vetting process acts as a meticulous assessment, scrutinizing aspiring parliamentary candidates to ensure that the NPP is represented by the most qualified individuals in constituencies with incumbent Members of Parliament.

    Anticipation is elevated as the journey progresses towards the parliamentary primaries, culminating on January 27, 2023.

    Amb. Michael Oquaye Jnr. approached the vetting process with determination, setting the stage for a crucial election in Dome-Kwabenya that holds the promise of reshaping the political landscape.

    The residents of Dome-Kwabenya eagerly await a new leader and transformative change.

  • Adwoa Safo picks nomination forms to contest Dome-Kwabenya seat for the fourth time

    Adwoa Safo picks nomination forms to contest Dome-Kwabenya seat for the fourth time

    Incumbent Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has filed her nomination to contest the The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) constituency primary on January 27, 2024.

    This will be her fourth move towards Parliament since 2012. That was after the three-time legislator submitted her nomination form to the Dome-Kwabenya constituency executives at Haatso on Friday [December 22, 2023].

    The nomination form was received by the constituency Chairman of the Election Committee, Osei Fordjour, who is also the Chairman of the Council of Elders in the constituency; the Constituency Chairman, Robert Osei Bonsu, and a member of the Council of Elders, Monica Agyei.

    Amidst brass band, the incumbent MP was accompanied from the Zonal Council office at Dome New Station to Haatso by a large gathering of party faithful adorned in her campaign T-shirts and banners.

    Ms Safo, who became MP for Dome-Kwabenya in 2013, will contest for the seat with the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Freezones Authority, Dr Mike Oquaye Jr, and another contender whose name has not yet been made public.

    Ms Safo beat Dr Oquaye in the 2019 parliamentary election with just eight votes when she obtained 496 votes as against Oquaye’s 488.

    The constituency is the largest constituency in Ghana in terms of voter population, with 172,000 voters, and it is the stronghold of the NPP.

    Speaking to the press soon after submitting her nomination, Ms. Safo expressed her appreciation to the party supporters for leaving their busy schedules to still show love for her, promising not to let them down.

    She was optimistic that the constituents would cast their votes for her “for continuity and for experience”.

    “I have been your MP for 12 solid years and worked with humility, hard work, dedication. You cannot throw that experience away.

    “I know that everything that happened in the past one year or one-and-a-half-years, you have forgiven me because to err is human and to forgive is divine,” she prayed.

    She said following meetings she had with party supporters since her return, the people had expressed their willingness to surprise the whole of Ghana on January 27, 2024.

    “On that day, the whole radar will be on Dome-Kwabenya and they will be looking out for how you are going to be voting to exonerate and show love for your Member of Parliament; for the mother she has been and her service.

    “The saying goes that the older the wine gets, the better it is. So, I am your old wine,” she said.

    Highlighting her accomplishments since she became MP for the area over the past 12 years, Ms Safo touted various achievements in education, sanitation, health, and roads sectors in the constituency.

    She, therefore, urged the voters in the constituency to give her the needed support to enable her to continue the good work for the various communities to continue to witness impressive progress.

    On her long absence from the constituency, the MP said many considered her travel to the United States of America as a sign of her downfall.

    “As some Ghanaians think that I have fallen, you are my lovers to uplift me, to give victory another chance,” she said.

  • We want anyone apart from Adwoa Safo – Dome-Kwabenya market women

    We want anyone apart from Adwoa Safo – Dome-Kwabenya market women

    During a recent visit, some market women at the Dome-Kwabenya market voiced their displeasure with Sarah Adwoa Safo, the current member of parliament, by jeering and heckling her.

    The Member of Parliament encountered significant opposition from her constituents during her attempt to rebuild ties with them after neglecting her role in the constituency and in parliament for more than a year.

    Adwoa Safo is seen in a widely shared social media video attempting to approach market women by extending a kind handshake.

    But the sounds of others cheering, hooting, and expressing their disapproval overpower her attempts.

    Some of the market women can be heard shouting, “Adwoa Safo, we want change!” and “Adwoa Safo, we don’t want you again!”

    The former Minister for Women and Children’s Affairs engaged with other traders who had raised their hands to welcome her, ignoring the cries of disgust and going about her regular business.

    The prolonged absence of Adwoa Safo from parliament in 2022 caused a great deal of criticism. She departed the nation in November 2021, and despite being called to account for her absences, she did not show up before the Privileges Committee multiple times.

    The Speaker of Parliament decided that the committee’s findings was not final and that the House as a whole needed to make a judgment before her seat could be declared vacant.

    Disagreement arose among the members of parliament about this.

    In response to the controversy she created when she was away from her parliamentary responsibilities for an extended period of time, Adwoa Safo recently apologized to the President and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

  • ‘I will run again’ – Adwoa Safo on Dome-Kwabenya seat

    ‘I will run again’ – Adwoa Safo on Dome-Kwabenya seat

    The Member of Parliament representing Dome–Kwabenya for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sarah Adwoa Safo, has officially declared her candidacy for the upcoming 2024 election.

    Adwoa Safo, who initially entered Parliament in 2012, recently publicly apologized to the President, Vice President, and the NPP leadership for actions she believes had an adverse impact on the party.

    During her absence, which lasted nearly a year, a void was created both in Parliament and at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, where she had been serving as Minister. Following a tour of her constituency, Sarah Adwoa Safo confirmed that she had already communicated her intentions to run for office once again to the party.

    “Politics is a game of numbers, if it’s the will of God and the people want me, I will run again,” Adwoa Safo said.

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has expressed its endorsement of the public apology issued by the Member of Parliament. Haruna Mohammed, the Deputy General Secretary of the NPP, commended her apology as a positive step that enhances the party’s image. He stated, “She has taken a positive action, and the party welcomes her apology.”

    Nevertheless, some NPP executives within the Dome-Kwabenya constituency have received the apology from Member of Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo, with skepticism.

    Theophilus Larbi, the NPP constituency Secretary for Dome-Kwabenya, characterized her apology as a recurring pattern, adding that her potential re-election as the parliamentary candidate in the upcoming general elections could have a detrimental impact on the party’s prospects in the constituency.’

  • 2022 IN REVIEW: Unprecedented parliamentary incidents in 2022

    Even though the beginning of the eighth parliament had major happenings like a hung parliament and the election of the speaker from the opposition party, among others, the year 2022 had some unprecedented incidents that got the nation talking.

    GhanaWeb compiles a list of some of these happenings;

    Majority calls for Dome-Kwabenya’s seat to be declared vacant

    On April 5, 2022, Speaker Alban Bagbin directed Adwoa Safo, Kennedy Agyapong and Henry Quartey to the Privileges Committee.

    The Speaker’s directive was in line with Article 97 (1) (c) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 17 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, which states emphatically that “A Member shall not absent himself during a meeting for more than fifteen sittings without the permission in writing of the Speaker. Any member infringing this Order shall have his conduct referred to the Privileges Committee.”

    The Privileges Committee produced a report after meeting the two other MPs, Ken Agyapong and Henry Quartey, and presented it to parliament.

    The Privileges Committee said in their report that they could not reach Adwoa Safo; therefore, they could not come out with a decision, but the majority maintained that whether or not they heard from Adwoa Safo, the constitution stated clearly that the seat should be declared vacant as it was automatic for it to be so.

    However, when the report was brought to the house, the majority leader insisted that the committee had submitted the report to the house and the report had been laid for the information of the house and, therefore, a decision had already been determined concerning the three persons and the imperatives of Article 97 would automatically be triggered.

    The majority leader added that what was captured as a motion in the order paper had issues as the purpose of a motion is for the house to make a determination, one he considers already determined (by declaring the seat vacant).

    “Mr Speaker, the privileges committee have submitted the report, and indeed my own thinking and the incumbent of the situation is that once the committee has made a determination in respect of the three persons, then the imperative of Article 97 will automatically be triggered.

    “Mr Speaker, my thinking is that even what is captured here as a motion; the purpose of a motion is for the house to make a determination and thinking that rarely this is not for the house to make a determination.”

    The Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, argued that the house is governed by the 1992 constitution and the standing orders of the house.

    According to him, the house should not set a precedent that a seat can be declared vacant based on recommendations of a Privileges Committee report, a precedent that could likely affect the house subsequently.

    Haruna Iddrisu emphasized that if a report has been submitted to parliament, the house must take a decision.

    However, the Speaker dismissed this call by the majority, stating that the report from the committee was not final but to be brought before the house for the plenary to take a decision on the matter.

    The Speaker is yet to take a decision on this matter even though Adwoa Safo officially returned to the house on November 11, 2022.

    NPP MPs protesting against an appointee of their govt

    On October 25, a group of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament petitioned President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to sack the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, and the Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, Charles Adu Boahen, to restore public confidence in the economy.

    This was announced in a media briefing by their spokesperson, Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, Member of Parliament for Asante-Akim North.

    The group said it will not partake in government business nor support the 2023 budget if the president fails to heed their calls.

    According to them, the move follows previous concerns sent to the government that had not yielded any positive results.

    “We have had occasions to defend allegations of conflicts of interest, lack of confidence, and trust against the leadership of the Finance Ministry.

    “The recent development within the economy is of major concern to our caucus and our constituents. We have made our grave concern to our president through the parliamentary leadership and the leadership of the party without any positive response,” Andy Appiah Kubi said.

    The MPs believe the move would change the current economic situation in the country.

    This action has been described as unprecedented, as many have also called on the president to take action to avoid political instability.

    However, just at the time these calls were made, a video of Aremeyaw Anas’ latest exposé, dubbed ‘Galamsey Economy’ compelled President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to sack the Minister of State in Charge of Finance, Charles Adu Boahen, from office.

    Charles Adu Boahen alleged on video that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia needs just USD 200,000 as an ‘appearance fee’ and some positions from an investor for his siblings to get his backing and influence in establishing a business in Ghana.

    A few days before the budget reading, the leadership of the New Patriotic Party called on the aggrieved members not to boycott the budget reading.

    They obliged this plea and showed up in their numbers for the budget.

    Joe Wise overturns major decision by Alban Bagbin again

    On February 22, 2022, the First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei Owusu, threw out a motion by the minority for a bipartisan committee to look into the government’s COVID-19 expenditure.

    This is after the Speaker, Alban Bagbin, had admitted the motion before leaving his chair for the First Deputy Speaker to continue with proceedings in the chamber on the day.

    It is not the first time the First Deputy Speaker has overturned a decision by the Speaker of Parliament.

    Motion by Minority to probe COVID-19 expenditure

    On February 22, the Minority in Parliament presented a memo to the House seeking to probe the government’s expenditure on COVID-19 from 2020.

    The motion, championed by three members of the minority, proposed, “that this house constitutes a bi-partisan parliamentary committee chaired by a member of the minority caucus, to enquire into the expenditures made by the Ghana Government in relation to COVID-19 since the outbreak of the pandemic in 2020.”

    Haruna Iddrisu, Minority Leader; Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, Minority Chief Whip; and Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, were the proposed members.

    The motion was presented and read by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as he outlined the need for the house to probe the expenditure.

    Ato Forson stated that an amount of 1.2 billion Ghana cedis was approved by parliament to support the Coronavirus alleviation program, but the government is yet to account for their expenditure, even though they exceeded the approved amount to 8.2 billion Ghana cedis.

    Seconding the motion, the Member of Parliament for Asawase, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, added that the health ministry, per the 2021 budget review, was only able to account for an amount of 600 million Ghana cedis.

    However, before the debate could continue, Speaker Alban Bagbin requested that the Deputy First Speaker take the chair, leaving the actual debate in the hands of Joseph Osei Owusu.

    After the motion was seconded, the Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, raised a preliminary objection to the motion.

    He described the motion as baseless and urged the sit-in Speaker to reject the motion.

    Making reference to Article 187 of the Constitution, he indicated that the Auditor General is the best person to investigate the matter and not any other committee.

    Ruling on the motion, Joe Wise said the Speaker, Alban Bagbin, should not have admitted the motion.

    “My view is that the motion ought not to have been admitted and it is improperly before the house. I so rule,” he said.

    Parliament passes 1.5% E-levy amid Minority MPs walkout

    On March 29, the Minority Members of Parliament staged a walk-out before the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) Bill 2021 was passed.

    The walkout occurred after the House had concluded the debate on the bill and the Speaker was to put the question on the motion for the adoption of the Finance

    The Committee’s report in 2.4 million, approximately eight per cent of the population, were registered as personal income taxpayers.

    Prior to the walking out, the minority had complained that the  E-Levy bill consideration came as a surprise as it was not listed in Parliament’s business statement for the week.

    However the bill was passed after the 137 MPs of the Minority side of Parliament staged a walkout of the Chamber, on the grounds that they did not want to be associated with any further proceedings on or approval of the bill, which was being considered under a certificate of urgency.

  • Adwoa Safo’s return: We are unbothered – Constituents

    Residents of the Dome-Kwabenya constituency feel indifferent about their member of parliament, Adwoa Safo, following her return to parliament.

    According to some residents, after abandoning the constituency for about a year, Adwoa Safo’s return does not mean anything to them.

    They mentioned that they feel disrespected by the MP while others stated that they were unaware she is back in the country.

    Speaking to www.ghanaweb.com, the residents seemed to have regretted voting for the MP while accusing her of being irresponsible.

    One resident said “both Adwoa Safo and other government officials are not acting responsibly; because if this country was their sole property, will they leave the country and return as they please? As if nothing happened? If I talk more, I may say something offensive. She’s doing as she pleases.”

    Another resident said “we woke up at dawn and left everything including our businesses to vote for her. A first fool they say is not a fool but the second fool is. If we go and vote for her again it means we are the fools. We voted for her based on her promises but they were all lies.”

    The former Minister for Gender, Women, and Children’s Affairs who was living in the USA for almost a year before she finally resumed her parliamentary duties on November 11, 2022.

    The MP came under scruntiny from the public for ‘neglecting’ her duties for that long.

    In subsequent interviews, she indicated that she was in the US to attend to urgent family issues including taking care of her son.

    On July 29, 2022, a day after Parliament adjourned its first decision to determine the fate of the Dome Kwabenya MP, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo sacked her as the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Adwoa Safo’s return: We are unbothered – Constituents

    Residents of the Dome-Kwabenya constituency feel indifferent about their member of parliament, Adwoa Safo, following her return to parliament.

    According to some residents, after abandoning the constituency for about a year, Adwoa Safo‘s return does not mean anything to them.

    They mentioned that they feel disrespected by the MP while others stated that they were unaware she is back in the country.

    Speaking to www.ghanaweb.com, the residents seemed to have regretted voting for the MP while accusing her of being irresponsible.

    One resident said “both Adwoa Safo and other government officials are not acting responsibly; because if this country was their sole property, will they leave the country and return as they please? As if nothing happened? If I talk more, I may say something offensive. She’s doing as she pleases.”

    Another resident said “we woke up at dawn and left everything including our businesses to vote for her. A first fool they say is not a fool but the second fool is. If we go and vote for her again it means we are the fools. We voted for her based on her promises but they were all lies.”

    The former Minister for Gender, Women, and Children’s Affairs who was living in the USA for almost a year before she finally resumed her parliamentary duties on November 11, 2022.

    The MP came under scruntiny from the public for ‘neglecting’ her duties for that long.

    In subsequent interviews, she indicated that she was in the US to attend to urgent family issues including taking care of her son.

    On July 29, 2022, a day after Parliament adjourned its first decision to determine the fate of the Dome Kwabenya MP, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo sacked her as the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection.

  • It feels good to be back – Watch Adwoa Safo’s first interview on her return to parliament

    The Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, expressed her delight at returning home and to parliament after being away from the jurisdiction for a long time.

    She explained that on her return, she received a good reception from her colleague MPs in parliament.

    Speaking to journalists after the close of Friday’s, November 11, 2022, proceedings in parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo said that she was happy to be back.

    “I greet all my constituents. As their Member of Parliament, by the grace of God, I have finally returned to the Chamber… the reception has been good… I’m now back to continue my duties and today is the first day and I’m hoping that the subsequent weeks are going to be good.

    “It feels good to be back,” she said.

    The absence of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs from parliamentary work for nearly a year has been a source of contention and several controversies, with her colleagues on the same side of the House pushing for her seat to be declared vacant at one point.

    The MP had also earlier been summoned to appear before the Privileges Committee of Parliament for absenting herself from work for more than the period stated in the constitution, but she failed to show up.

    Also, in her absence, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo terminated her appointment as the Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection.

  • Adwoa Safo discussing her position with leadership before she resumes duties – Aide

    An aide to the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, Nana Dubin Kwapong, has said that the MP is currently having discussions with the leadership of the majority caucus before she will resume her parliamentary duties.

    Speaking in a Neat FM monitored by GhanaWeb, Dubin Kwapong intimated that the MP is discussing issues surrounding the majority caucus’ push for her to be removed from the House.

    He added that as soon as Adwoa Safo knows her stance, she will start attending to her parliamentary duties.

    “Adwoa Safo has not gone to Parliament since her return. As we all know, there are some issues that have to be resolved regarding whether she will continue as a Member of Parliament or she will be removed.

    “So, in the meantime, she is engaging with the leadership of Parliament so that she will know her stance before she resumes her duties,” he said in Twi.

    Dubin Kwapong further stated that Adwoa Safo has no issues with her colleague MPs who want her removed.

    “If you know honourable, she is not someone who takes things too personal; she has taken everything that happened in good strides. She is now discussing what exactly happened with the leadership, and I am hopeful that something useful will come out of this,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the MP for Tamale Central, Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini, has said that it was curious that Adwoa Safo’s much-awaited return is coinciding with a vote of censure motion the minority caucus was due to move against Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    According to him, the latest development is akin to the last time she was in Parliament, that is, to help with the passage of the 2022 Budget statement of the government.

    “You know there is an important vote coming up?” Suhuyini asked New Day host Berla Mundi before adding: “The finance minister’s vote of censure, she has showed up. When did she last show up last minute? On the budget.

    “They knew where she was; they could bring her, they just didn’t want to,” he submitted.

  • Adwoa Safo is back to help save Ofori-Atta from censure vote – Suhuyini claims

    Tamale Central Member of Parliament, Alhassan Suhuyini, has advanced a reason why embattled Dome-Kwabenya lawmaker, Sarah Adwoa Safo, is returning to Parliament after a long absence.

    Suhuyini in an interview on TV3, November 8, 2022, said it was curious that the lawmaker’s much-awaited return was coinciding with a vote of censure motion the Minority Caucus was due to move against Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.

    According to him, the latest development is akin to the last time that she was in Parliament, that is to help with the passage of the 2022 Budget statement of the government.

    “You know there is an important vote coming up?” Suhuyini asked New Day host Berla Mundi before adding: “The finance minister’s vote of censure, she has showed up. When did she last show up last minute? On the budget.

    “They knew where she was, they could bring her, they just didn’t want to,” he submitted.

    “When it is important to this government…remember Adwoa Safo told us the president is aware of her absence and the president understands her and the president has never denied it.

    “For me, it is curious that an important vote is coming up….and the president has found a way and remember the president wants to save the Finance Minister at all costs, Adwoa is back,” he stressed.

    Adwoa Safo makes no-show in Parliament

    On Tuesday, November 8, when proceedings in Parliament started at about 11.38 am, her seat was empty indicating that she was not in the Chamber.

    Journalists and even her colleague MPs were expecting to see her join the debate which was going on at the plenary but that did not happen.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo’s seat remained empty till the end of the day’s proceedings at 2.00 pm.

    It is, however, unclear why the MP, after her return to the country failed to show up in the House.

    The MP was relieved of her ministerial post despite having been given extended leave from last year and her seat in Parliament is the subject of a heated debate between the Speaker and Leader of the Majority Group.

    After referring her absence from Parliament to the Privileges Committee of Parliament, the Speaker of Parliament said he investigated their work and was not satisfied with it and has since referred it to the floor of Parliament for a decision to be taken.

  • I’m glued to my seat in Parliament – Adwoa Safo tells constituents

    The Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has assured her constituents of her continuous service to them as their representative in the legislature.

    The assurance comes few days after she returned from the United States, when tensions surrounding her political career seem to have abated.

    Madam Sarah Adwoa Safo had been away since early months of 2021 on the back of an excuse to deal some personal issues.

    By October 6, 2021, the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, had indicated an indefinite extension of her leave which was supposed to have ended on August 31, 2021.

    Her continuous absence from the country and consequently parliament over the period thus breached parliament’s 15-sitting-day threshold for absenteeism.

    This led to the Speaker’s decision to refer her together with two other MPs to Parliament’s Privileges Committee to inquire into her absence and make recommendations to the House.

    Although efforts to get the embattled MP to speak about her absence have proved futile, the House will in the coming days debate whether or not her seat should be declared vacant.

    That notwithstanding, her actions over the period had also fomented discussions in the public space, creating divisions even among her own constituents and party members, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), some of whom believed that she determined to hold the party and government to ransom.

    But like a Phoenix rising out the ashes, the MP who has been stripped of her responsibilities as Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, has indicated that she will remain the lawmaker for the people of Dome-Kwabenya.

    “Thanks to the whole constituency, especially Taifa, for all the prayers and all the support. I know I will be back and I will continue to be your Member of Parliament”, said the former Minister during her thanksgiving at some churches in her constituency on November 6, 2022.

  • NPP MPs threaten to drag Speaker to court over Adwoa Safo ruling

    The majority in parliament claims it is considering taking Alban Bagbin, speaker of the house, to the Supreme Court for his decision about Sarah Adwoa Safo, a member of parliament from Dome-Kwabenya.

    The majority leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, called the decision “unfortunate” and suggested that the Speaker might have erred in his interpretation of the legislation.

    “If we lend ourselves by what I consider to be a very capricious ruling, then the Supreme Court would be the final arbiter,” he added.

    The issue whether the Dome Kwabenya MP should lose her seat for missing more than 15 sittings must be discussed by the entire House, according to Alban Bagbin’s ruling.

    Her continuous absence from Parliament divided the House with the Majority interestingly taking the view that the Privileges Committee report should be final.

    Majority MPs to drag Bagbin to Supreme Court over Adwoa Safo rulingMajority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    “As I have noted in this ruling, the decision as to whether or not to admit a motion is the exclusive preserve of the Speaker. In view of the foregoing, the House is well within its rights to receive and consider the report of the Committee and make a determination arising out of the recommendation,” Mr Bagbin ruled.

    But the Suame MP says the Speaker was wrong and they are determined to fight it before the debate.

    “When they [Privileges Committee] have made that determination, it doesn’t come back to Parliament for Parliament to vote on it. So for the Speaker to come in with what I consider very unfortunate interpretation of the Constitution… this is a matter of the interpretation of the Constitution and it can go to the Supreme Court,” he added.

    A day after the Speaker’s ruling, an NPP legislator commenced the process of filing a suit at the Supreme Court to have her seat declared vacant.

    In documents cited by Myjoyonline.com, the MP is praying the Court that by failing to appear before the Privileges Committee to explain her absence from Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo ceases to be a Member of Parliament.

    The Ahafo Ano North MP, Sulemana Adamu Sanid, is contesting the Speaker’s ruling.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of Article 97(1)(c) of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, a member of Parliament who absents himself/herself, without permission in writing of the Speaker and he/she is unable to offer a reasonable explanation to the Parliamentary Committee on privileges, from fifteen sittings of a meeting of Parliament during any period that Parliament has been summoned to meet and continues to meet, automatically forfeits his/her membership of the Parliament of Ghana,” portions of the reliefs read.

    Background

    Before going on recess in July, Mr. Bagbin deferred his ruling on whether the Dome-Kwabenya seat should be declared vacant or not following Madam Safo’s failure to honour an invite by the Privileges Committee on her continuous absence from Parliament.

    Mr. Bagbin, on May 4, referred Madam Safo, Mr. Henry Quartey, MP of Ayawaso Central, and Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, MP, Assin Central, to the Privileges Committee for absenting themselves from 15 sittings of the House without his permission.

    That was during the First Session of the Eighth Parliament.

    The Committee failed to achieve a consensus in its recommendations on whether absenting herself for more than the mandatory 15 days without permission warranted her seat being declared vacant.

    Majority MPs to drag Bagbin to Supreme Court over Adwoa Safo rulingDome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo

    The Majority, however, wants the seat declared vacant without delay in line with stated constitutional provisions.

    It observed that Madam Safo failed to take advantage of the numerous opportunities to explain her absence without leave.

    Meanwhile, the Majority of MPs on the Committee cited Article 97 (1) (c) of the 1992 Constitution and the Court of Appeal decision in the case of Prof Stephen Kwaku Asare v the Attorney-General & 3 Ors, in this regard.

    The Minority MPs on the Committee, argued that according to the principle of natural justice, the seat should not be declared vacant because Madam Safo did not provide her side of the story to the Committee.

    The Committee, however, determined that the explanation offered by her two colleagues, Mr. Agyepong and Mr. Quartey for absenting themselves, were reasonable.

    A copy of the report made available to the Ghana News Agency before recess, showed that the Committee members gave a split decision on the fate of Madam Safo.

  • Are you happy that an MP is going around dancing on TikTok? – Kamal-Deen to NDC MPs

    A New Patriotic Party (NPP) Deputy National Communications Director, Kamal-Deen Abdullai, has berated Members of Parliament (MP) of the minority caucus for blocking the impeachment of their colleague MP for Dome-Kwabenya Sarah Adwoa Safo.

    Kamal-Deen said that the MPs by their actions were doing a lot of disservice to Ghanaians because they are protecting an MP who is being paid for no work.

    He added that the excuse by National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs that Adwoa Safo should be given a chance to explain her absence does not hold water.

    He explained that the MP had refused to appear before the Privileges Committee of the House to give reasons for her absence.

    “Ghana seeks to develop, the constituents of Adwoa Safo are supposed to be served better. Are we happy with what you are seeing? Let us put the law aside and ask ourselves objectively, the people are supposed to have representation in Parliament, through no fault of theirs, their Member of Parliament is somewhere and running on social media … singing and dancing.

    “… we sit here and say use the law. We are going to use the law alright but I am asking, are we not short-changing the people of Dome-Kwabenya? Aren’t we?” he said in a Good Morning Ghana interview monitored by GhanaWeb.

    The NPP communicator further stated that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, ruling that Adwoa Safo fate is to be decided by the plenary after Privileges Committee indicated that she should be removed was wrong.

    He added that the NPP will be exploring all the legal options available to get the NPP removed.

    Alban Bagbin, on October 26, 2022, gave a ruling that the report of the committee set up to look into the case of the MP and two others who absented themselves for a number of sittings should be presented before the whole house to be debated.

    He, therefore, dismissed the objection of the Majority Leader to the admissibility of the committee report for the consideration of the house.

    “As I have noted in this ruling, the decision (sic) on not to admit a motion is the exclusive preserve of the Speaker. In view of the foregoing, the House is well within its right to receive and consider reports of the committee and make a determination arising out of the consideration.

    “In the circumstances, it is my ruling that the motion was rightfully admitted and the report of the committee is subject to the consideration of the house. It goes without saying that the (sic) objection of the Majority Leader today (sic) is hereby dismissed…” he concluded his verdict.

  • I welcome disagreements – Bagbin on reactions to his ruling on Adwoa Safo

    Speaker Alban Bagbin has said he welcomes dissenting views being expressed on his rulings in the House.

    This comes after he was heavily criticized by the Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu on his ruling to refer Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo to the plenary for debate.

    Addressing a press conference in Accra, Speaker Bagbin said “The Supreme Court sometimes disagrees, sometimes the decision can be unanimous but after a few months they themselves realize they erred. I always welcome disagreement. It is a language that sometimes I feel uncomfortable about but as for the disagreement, it is welcomed.”

    Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu had told him that his understanding of law on how to handle a lawmaker who has been absent without permission, was wrong.

    Addressing the press after the Speaker’s ruling Adwoa Safo, on Wednesday October 26, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu who is lawmaker for Suame said “The Speaker is totally wrong in his understanding of the law, that is why I repeated that he has sent us on a very obsequious path, it doesn’t help Parliament.”

    Mr Bagbin ruled that Parliament will debate on the removal or otherwise of Adwo Safo.

    Delivering his ruling in Parliament on Wednesday October 26, Speaker Bagbin said “The house is well within its right to receive and consider the report from the committee and make a determination.

    “It is my ruling that motion be was rightfully admitted.”

    Sarah Adwoa Safo absented herself for more than the stipulated 15 days.

    The Majority caucus wanted her seat to be declared vacant but this was opposed by the Minority, who felt she should be heard first.

    The Speaker also questioned the authority of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs to declare her seat vacant.

    In March, Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu disclosed that Sarah Adwoa Safo had requested a month-long leave from the House.

    Subsequently, the Speaker referred her case and that of two other MPs, namely Henry Quartey, MP for Ayawaso Central and Kennedy Agyapong, MP for Assin Central, to the Privileges Committee for hearing.

    Speaker Bagbin, who deferred ruling on the matter before parliament went on recess, promised to do so when sitting resumes.

    In a formal communication to the House on Tuesday, the Speaker noted that because there were few things to transact just after the assumption, he deferred the ruling to Wednesday.

     

  • NPP MP seeks interpretation of Bagbin’s ruling on Adwoa Safo, others at Supreme Court

    The Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano North on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sulemana Adamu Sanid, has dragged the ruling of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to the Supreme Court.

    The MP is seeking the apex court’s interpretation of the ruling of the Speaker on the matter of absenteeism by his three colleagues.

    The three MPs are Sarah Adwoa Safo, Kennedy Agyapong, and Henry Quartey of the Dome Kwabenya, Assin Central, and Ayawaso Central constituencies, respectively.

    According to a report by graphic.com.gh, the Ahafo Ano North MP, Sulemana Adamu Sanid, is seeking the Supreme Court’s interpretation on the matter because he disagrees with the verdict of the Speaker of Parliament.

    The report added that the NPP MP said he wants “the Supreme Court to clarify the operationalisation of Article 97 (1) (c) to be sure if the ruling by the Speaker of Parliament was in consonance with the 1992 Constitution.”

    Andy Kwame Appiah-Appiah, who is counsel for the MP, said his client believes that a determination has already been made by the Court of Appeal, being the precedence as was in the case of Kwaku Asare [Kwaku Azar] vs. Attorney General.

    He is said to have said that in such an instance, as has been determined to have been the case of the three absentee MPs, an “automatic vacation of the seat” should apply and that the only job for the Committee of Privileges in Parliament is for the affected MP(s) to explain why they were absent.

    He added that the only work, in this matter, that the Privileges Committee – which looked into the absenteeism of the MPs -, had to play was to look at the “reasonableness or otherwise of the explanation without more,” as mandated by the 1992 constitution.

    In his ruling on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, Alban Bagbin concluded his 18-page report by stating that parliament should receive the report of the committee and have its contents debated upon.

    This was however not pleasant news to the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who immediately got up to challenge the Speaker of Parliament, describing his ruling as “unfortunate.”

  • MPs share views on Speaker’s ruling on absentee legislators’ report

    Some Members of Parliament (MPs) have expressed varied opinions to the Speaker of Parliament’s ruling on the fate of some three Members of the house over absenteeism.

    The Speaker, Alban Bagbin’s on Wednesday referred the report of the Privileges Committee asking for the declaration of the seat of the MP for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo and two others as vacant to the plenary for a determination on the matter.

    In his ruling, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin said, “the preliminary objection for the admissibility of the report is hereby dismissed in limine.”

    Members are divided over the ruling. Whilst the Majority which is pushing for the seats to be declared thinks the Speaker erred in his ruling, the Minority side believes the Speaker’s decision is apt.

    “The Speaker was presiding, and the Privileges Committee is a Committee of the house so once it is charged to go and do something, the recommendation of the committee shall be in the form of a report to be presented to the house which they have done so clearly, so what the speaker is saying is that, the right thing must be done”, one of the MPs said.

    The three MPs are Kennedy Agyapong, MP for Assin Central; Henry Quartey, MP for Ayawaso West, and Adwoa Safo; MP for Dome Kwabenya.

    They had been referred to the Privileges Committee for absenting themselves from Parliament beyond the permissible period without any reason.

    The Majority in Parliament has been pushing to have Adwoa Safo vacate her seat because she has been out of the country for most parts of the year.

    Kennedy Agyapong and Henry Quartey appeared before the committee and attributed their absence to ill health, but Adwoa Safo failed to honour the summons and the option of a virtual appearance.

    “The Committee cannot take a decision, they have come to the plenary for a debate on its report then a decision is taken, so I think that, the Speaker is on the right path”, another legislator suggested.

    The Majority was left upset with the Speaker of Parliament’s ruling and said it would challenge it with a substantive motion.

    The Majority Leader, on the floor of Parliament, further accused the Speaker, Alban Bagbin, of pandering to the Minority in Parliament, which has been opposed to making the Dome Kwabenya seat vacant.

    One other opined, “as a member of the committee, it is the Speaker that has to make that decision and not the house debating it.”

     

     

  • Adwoa Safo’s seat intact for now; Bagbin calls for debate on report

    The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Bagbin, will not declare the seat of the three absentee Members of Parliament (MPs) vacant yet.

    On Wednesday, October 26, 2022, Mr Bagbin indicated he would not declare the seats vacant without a formal debate on the report submitted by the Privileges Committee.

    Delivering his ruling, the Speaker noted: “The preliminary objection for the admissibility of the report is hereby dismissed in limine.”

    A former Member of Parliament for the Kumbumgu Constituency, Mr Ras Mubarak, petitioned the Speaker to enforce Article 97(1)c of the 1992 Constitution by referring some four MPs, including Ms Safo, to the Privileges Committee for absenting themselves for more than 15 days without permission.

    According to the ex-lawmaker, the Standing Orders of Parliament are not clear as to who can or should raise the matter of absenteeism on the floor of the House for a debate and, or referral by Mr Speaker to the Committee on Privileges but it is incidences like this, if unattended to, that threatens Ghana’s democracy.

    Quoting Afrobarometer data, Mr Mubarak said trust in Parliament has fallen by 12 per cent between 2002 and 2019.

    The report, he said, ranked Parliament as the third corrupt institution in the country – just behind the police and judges.

    “I humbly submit that democracy can only work if Parliament puts the common good ahead of the party and personal interest. At a time of seeming collapse of trust in politics and Parliament as an institution, it is my fervent prayer that the House would rise to the occasion and be united on this matter so as to uphold our constitution and also win back waned public confidence,” the petition stated.

    The Speaker of Parliament referred the matter to the committee.

    MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, Ayawaso West MP, Henry Quartey and MP for Dome Kwabenya Sarah Adwoa Safo.

    Despite several invitations, Ms Safo has yet to appear before the committee.

     

  • Adwoa Safo saved again by Alban Bagbin

    Many Ghanaians, including Members of Parliament on the Majority side, have been left disappointed after the highly-expected ruling by the Speaker of Parliament on the fate of their colleague ended in the balance.

    The Majority MPs, led by the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, had called for the seat of Sarah Adwoa Safo, MP for Dome Kwabenya, to be declared vacant after she failed to appear in parliament for sittings.

    Although the Speaker of Parliament was initially expected to deliver his verdict on the matter in the last meeting of parliament in July 2022, he adjourned it, announcing later that he would give his ruling on Wednesday, October 26, 2022.

    However, when Alban Bagbin did, he gave a ruling that the report of the committee set up to look into the case of the MP and two others who absented themselves for a number of sittings should be presented before the whole house to be debated.

    He, therefore, dismissed the objection of the Majority Leader to the admissibility of the committee report for the consideration of the house.

    “As I have noted in this ruling, the decision (sic) on not to admit a motion is the exclusive preserve of the Speaker. In view of the foregoing, the House is well within its right to receive and consider reports of the committee and make a determine arising out of the consideration.

    “In the circumstances, it is my ruling that the motion was rightfully admitted and the report of the committee is subject to the consideration of the house. It goes without saying that the (sic) objection of the Majority Leader today (sic) is hereby dismissed…” he concluded his verdict.

    It will be recalled that on July 29, 2022, a day after parliament adjourned its first decision to determine the fate of the Dome Kwabenya MP, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo sacked her as the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection.

    In a statement, the president said the revocation of the MP’s appointment as minister was to take immediate effect.

    “In accordance with article 81(a) of the Constitution, the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has revoked the appointment of Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo, Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, as Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, with immediate effect.

    “The Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, will continue to act as caretaker Minister for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, until such a time that President Akufo-Addo appoints a substantive Minister,” the statement from the Presidency concluded.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo has been in the United States of America since 2021.

  • Adwoa Safo to know her fate as parliament resumes

    The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Bagbin, before the recess, had deferred ruling on the future of the Dome-Kwabenya MP in the House.

    The Third Meeting of the Second Session of the Eighth Parliament of the Fourth Republic will resume sitting today, Tuesday, 25 October 2022, after it went on recess in July.

    The House is also expected to determine the fate of the Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, during today’s sitting.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Bagbin, before the recess, had deferred ruling on the future of the Dome-Kwabenya MP in the House following her inability to appear before the Privileges Committee over her absence from Parliament.

    It is also expected that the Appointments Committee will present its report on the nominees of the Supreme Court who were vetted while the House was on recess.

    Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta will also be expected to present before the house, the government’s 2023 budget statement during this session.

    Some eleven bills including the Anti-LGBTQ+Bill will also be considered during this session of the House.

  • Three Akufo-Addo appointees who have been fired recently

    In recent times, government appointees have not been spared for either their poor performance or involvement in corrupt acts.

    Even though there have been several dismissals by Akufo-Addo since he assumed office, Ghanaweb compiles a list of some government appointees who have been sacked in the last quarter of 2022.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo

    In July, 2022, Akufo-Addo relieved Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo, of her position as Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection.

    Director of Communications at the Office of the President, Eugene Arhin, in a July 28, 2022 statement, indicated that the termination of her appointment was in accordance with Article 81 (a) of the Constitution.

    “In accordance with Article 81 (a) of the Constitution, the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has revoked the appointment of Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo, Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabena, as Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, with immediate effect.

    “The Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, will continue to act as caretaker Minster for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, until such a time that President Akufo-Addo appoints a substantive Minister,” the statement read.

    Her dismissal came at a time when Parliament was debating her continuous stay in the house after absenting herself for more than 15 sitting days without approval from the Speaker of Parliament.

    Aside from the above, she was absent in her role as the Gender Minister as she was out of the office for a very long time after she requested an extended leave of duty.

    Customs boss, Col. Damoah

    On August, 2022, president Akufo-Addo asked the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Colonel Kwadwo Damoah (rtd), to hand over his duties to the acting deputy commissioner.

    In a letter signed by the Secretary to the president, Nana Bediatuo Asante, the notice of handing over was due to the expiration of his contract on October 13, 2021.

    The dismissal of Colonel Kwadwo Damoah (rtd) came at the time he was being investigated by the Office of the Special Prosecutor, for his role in corruption-related acts involving Labianca Company Limited.

    A finding from the Office of the Special Prosecutor dated August 3, 2022, and titled: “Report of Investigation into Alleged Commission of Corruption and Corruption Related Offences involving Labianca Group of Companies and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority indicated among other things that the frozen foods company owner used her position to evade taxes.

    Initially, while reacting to the report, the customs boss said any attempts by the Special Prosecutor to bring him down will not work.

    “Three days ago a report purported to be coming from the Office of the Special Prosecutor trying to indict the Deputy Commissioner of Operations and myself [but] anybody who has read that report very well will know the basis of that,” he said while addressing some Senior Customs officers at a retreat in Kumasi.

    “And luckily for Me, God is always on my side, before that report came that person had made a comment to some people who had come to tell me [that] he [Special Prosecutor] was going to publish that will discredit me…and I sent people to go and tell him that he is a small boy and I am older than him, I have lived a meaningful life and if he attempts to destroy me it won’t be easy for him. People have tried and I have survived and this one too I will survive it,” Col Damoah added.

    Prof Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa

    Prof Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa, The Director General of Ghana Education Service is the latest victim of the sacked appointees.

    Prof Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa was sacked by the President on October 17, 2022.

    In a letter dated October 17, 2022, and signed by the Secretary to the President, Nana Bediatuo Asante, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo terminated the appointment of the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Prof. Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa.

    This brought the appointment of the GES boss, who was appointed in 2017, to an end.

    According to ges.gov.gh, Prof. Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa was appointed as Acting Director-General by President Akufo-Addo in April 2017, and he assumed office on May 15, 2017.

    He was subsequently confirmed as Director-General in October 2017.

  • ‘Stride into 59 years of greatness’ – Adwoa Safo celebrates Bawumia

    Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, joined the list of politicians who wished Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia a happy 59th birthday.

    The Vice President on Friday, October 7 marked his birthday with a celebration at his residence with some cured lepers from the Weija Leprosarium and prominent personalities, particularly politicians.

    In a Facebook post, Adwoa Safo shared a picture of the Vice President with the caption: “Stride into 59 Years of Allah’s Fulfilment and Greatness, Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia”.

    About Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia

    Dr. Bawumia was born on October 7, 1963, in Tamale to the late Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia, former Chairman of the Council of State (1992–2000), and Hajia Mariama Bawumia.

    Born into a large family, Mahamudu Bawumia was the twelfth of his father’s 18 children and the second of his mother’s five. Mahamudu Bawumia attended the Sakasaka Primary school in Tamale and gained admission to Tamale Secondary School in 1975. He was President of the Ghana United Nations Students’ Association (GUNSA) in 1981.

    After graduating from Tamale Secondary School, he went to the United Kingdom where he studied banking and obtained the Chartered Institute of Bankers Diploma (ACIB). He took a First Class Honours Degree in Economics at Buckingham University in 1987.

    He then obtained a master’s degree in Economics at Lincoln College, Oxford, and obtained a Ph.D. in Economics at Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada in 1995.

    His areas of specialization include Macroeconomics, International Economics, Development Economics, and Monetary Policy. He has numerous publications.

    He became an economist and banker by training and went on to serve as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Ghana between 2006 and 2009.

    Dr. Bawumia was running mate to Nana Akufo-Addo in the 2008 and 2012 elections which they lost. He became Vice President on his third attempt with Nana Akufo-Addo after winning the 2016 and 2020 elections.

  • Adwoa Safo has returned to the United States – Aide

    Nana Dubin Kwapong, an aide to Sarah Adwoa Safo, has said that the troubled MP for Dome Kwabenya has left Ghana once more, contrary to rumors that she had returned after a long absence.

    According to him, the embattled MP will be back when Parliament reconvenes to serve the people of Dome Kwabenya.

    “As we speak, the Honourable Member of Parliament [for Dome Kwabenya] is not in the country, she has gone back to the States and will be back in the country when Parliament reconvenes,” Nana Dubin said in a Joy FM interview on Tuesday, August 16.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo was reported to have returned to the country before Parliament went on recess on July 28, 2022.

    A recent Facebook post by the dismissed Gender Minister left many wondering whether she is returning to the country or not.

    Sharing photos of herself in what appeared to be a private jet while looking excited with a cheerful smile, the MP quoted Psalm 23:5 in her caption, “You prepare a table before me, in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.”

    Political witch hunt

    The legislator earlier opened up about the ordeal she is facing in the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    According to her, she has become a victim of a sustained political witch hunt by certain elements in the NPP and in Parliament for their own parochial goals.

    She expressed shock about how she is being treated differently by people, including members of her party for staying away from official duty in order to attend to personal issues involving her child.

    She said she had sacrificed a lot including her family for NPP but she is now being described as a traitor, “and there are schemes to oust me from my position as MP and Minister.”

    Dismissal from Office as a minister of state

    President Akufo-Addo relieved the MP of her ministerial position after staying outside the country for nearly a year amid calls from critics to get her axed.

    A letter signed by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Presidency said, the decision by the President to act on these calls on July 28, was “in accordance with Article 81(a) of the Constitution, the President of the Republic,  Akufo-Addo, has revoked the appointment of Hon Sarah Adwoa Safo, Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, as Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, with immediate effect.”

    Constitutional provision

    Article 81 of the 1992 Constitution stipulates that the office of a Minister of State or a Deputy Minister shall become vacant if

    (a) his appointment is revoked by the President; or

    (b) he is elected as Speaker or Deputy Speaker; or

    (c) he resigns from office; or

    (d) he dies

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Adwoa Safo assures NPP and Akufo-Addo of her commitment

    The Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has reiterated her commitment to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration in the face of what she describes as a “political witchhunt” from within the party.

    Adwoa Safo, also Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection has come under increasing scrutiny in recent months over her absence from her official duties in Parliament.

    She and two other MPS have been investigated for absenting themselves from Parliament without permission for more than the stipulated 15 sitting days during the first meeting of the second session of the 8th Parliament.

    In a Facebook post congratulating newly-elected executives of the party, the Gender Minister said she had “become the victim of a sustained political witchhunt by certain elements in the NPP and in Parliament to achieve their own parochial goals”.

    “This has left me asking myself if this is happening because I am a woman who for just this one time needed some time off to deal with a few personal issues which were too dear to share with the larger publics. In the face of all these, I have questioned why I have had to be treated differently by not enjoying the famous support of our party leadership both in Parliament and at the party level in my most difficult moments these past few months,” she posted.

    “As a member of the party, I have served with utmost diligence (both in opposition and in government) and have at all times put the fortunes of my family at the disposal of the party. At no point in time have myself nor my family withheld anything of ours from our great Party, yet today, I am conveniently being called a traitor and all manner of names with several schemes being put to play and employed to oust me from my position as MP and Minister.

    “I conclude by reiterating that, in the face of clear political hounding and vendetta by certain elements within the party and parliament against me, I have never wavered in my commitment to the ideals and creed of the New Patriotic Party and the Government of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, to whom, I am eternally grateful”.

     

    Source: Graphic Online

     

  • ‘Missing’ Adwoa Safos conduct disrespectful Privileges Committee

    Sarah Adwoa Safo, Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament, has been declared a ‘missing person’ by the Privileges Committee of Parliament after she failed to appear before them.

    Kweku George Ricketts-Hagan, Ranking Member on the Committee, had stated in a 3news.com reportage that, the committee feels disrespected by the MP, who doubles as a Cabinet Minister’s decision to ignore their invitation.

    “We have tried everything. When you sign up to be a member here, we have every information on you and including how to find you, your email address, your phone number[s].

    “When you are travelling you also give additional information because your travelling address will not be on your data in Parliament so you provide where you are.

    “So this is the information that is available to us and that is what we have exhausted,” Ricketts-Hagan explained.

    Adwoa Safo, together with two other NPP MPs, Kennedy Agyapong, and Henry Quartey, were hauled before parliament’s privileges committee for failing to attend to the business of the house for over 15 consecutive sittings without proper permission. The two others have since appeared and explained that medical reasons kept them away from the House.

    Source:ghanaweb.com

     

  • Kwabenya under curfew from May 5 to May 8 over funeral rites of chiefs

    The Dome-Kwabenya Traditional Council in the Greater Accra Region, has slated a royal burial and funeral rite for its chiefs for Thursday May 5, through to Sunday May 8, 2022.

    This follows information that has reached Angelonline.com.gh indicating that two chiefs of the community have died for which reason the traditional authorities have organized activities to mark the occasion.

    In line with the burial and funeral rites, the authorities have placed curfew on the community, such that the townspeople and visitors are banned from the streets from 7pm until morning beginning from Thursday through to Sunday.

    Friday and Saturday which are market days, have been cancelled for trading activities in observation of the rites for the late chiefs.

    They have also directed that lights around the homes of the residents be turned off from the evenings to mornings until the scheduled days elapse.

    The people including visitors to the community are therefore advised to perform their duties and attend to their needs before due time or they face the repercussions of their actions which amount to disobedience.

    Source: angelonline.com.gh

  • Dome Kwabenya, Odododiodio and other identified hotspots in NPP constituency elections

    The New Patriotic Party’s annual delegate conference at the various constituencies commences today, Thursday, April 28, 2022.

    The five-day event scheduled to end on Monday, May 2, 2022, will conclude with the election of the party’s executives across the various constituencies.

    Preceding the constituency delegates conference was the election of the polling station and electoral area officials of the party, who will, in turn, elect the constituency officials.

    From the onset of the election of polling station officials, several accusations were levelled at some party officials of deliberately denying application forms to some candidates in a bid to favour other candidates.

    The alleged acts of sabotage which led to disagreements caused elevated levels of violence in several constituencies across the country.

    Events from the election of the polling station and electoral area officials, have left the NPP at a tipping point of a likely outbreak of misunderstanding in its constituency elections.

    Dome Kwabenya

    The Dome Kwabenya Constituency has been identified by the NPP as one of four flashpoints in the Greater Accra Region ahead of the annual delegates conference.

    This, according to the NPP’s Greater Accra Regional Chairman, Divine Agorhom, has caused the party to liaise with the security agencies to put in place measures to forestall any unforeseen development.

    “We’ve engaged him [the IGP]. He will be detailing his men to provide security. They have just a few flashpoints for which they would have to beef up on the numbers. Ordinarily, I would have said that the Police Command in the districts should be enough for this except for areas whereas I said earlier we consider flashpoints,” he told Joy News.

    “So far, they [the flashpoint constituencies] are just about four; you know we have quite a volatile situation at Odododiodio, also Dome Kwabenya, you know the situation there. I think these two we can put on air; the rest we don’t want they themselves to even know we consider their constituencies as flashpoints,” he added.

    According to some NPP members in the Dome Kwabenya Constituency, there have been deliberate attempts to expunge names of aspirants aligned to the current MP, Sarah Adwoa Sarfo, from the constituency’s register ahead of the election.

    Some disgruntled party members have sent the matter before the Kwabenya Circuit Court. The applicants have asked the court to grant an injunction stopping the election from taking place until the matter is resolved.

    Akuapem North Constituency

    There has been growing tension in the Akuapem North NPP between members aligned to the incumbent MP, Ama Dokua and the current Director-General of the National Lotteries Authority, Sammy Awuku.

    During the election of polling station officials, members from both sides accused each other of resorting to intimidation, abuse and sabotage against their preferred candidates.

    The Constituency Women’s Organizer of Akuapem North, Awo Boatemaa, speaking of the situation during the election of polling station executives, said, “I wish you were here to witness what is going on; it is unsavoury. When the election started, armed men invaded the town, and we’ve not enjoyed any peace ever since.”

    She added that “I hear Sammy Awuku wants to contest for the MP in Akuapem North. So, when you go to vote for the polling station executives, they tell you to vote for the supporter of Sammy Awuku or Dokua. The election is not an NPP election. It is a Sammy Awuku and Ama Dokua election.”

    The polling station election in Akuapem North is said to have witnessed men clad in police and military uniforms carrying whips, guns and knives intimidating electorates to vote for polling station executives who owe allegiance to a candidate.

    Yendi Constituency

    In the Yendi Constituency, a fierce competition between the incumbent MP, Farouk Mahama and the Chief Executive Officer for the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Hajia Abibata Shani Mahama Zakaria, has led to unease in the constituency.

    The same allegations of intimidation, sabotage and abuse were common between the two factions and their supporters during the election of polling station executives.

    At an event held to wrap up campaigning ahead of the constituency executive elections, accusations were traded between the 1st vice-chairman, Baba Gambari and an aspiring constituency chairman, Alhaji Baba Gazale, over the confusion in the constituency.

    While the 1st vice-chairman made allegations of hatred against the incumbent MP by some officials, Alhaji Baba also levelled a counteraccusation of efforts to bring instability into the party.
    There have been several allegations of album manipulation in the Yendi constituency.

    At a press conference held on Sunday, April 24, 2022, Yendi constituency chairman Saddick Nam said, “We are appealing to the party leadership to suspend the elections or change the electoral album. If nothing is done about the situation before the election day, we will take matters into our hands.”

    Subin Constituency

    In the Subin Constituency, the same allegations of album manipulation led some members and disgruntled candidates to stage a protest during the election of polling station executives.

    The protesters went on to lock up the party’s constituency office while threatening to thwart the operations of the party if their names, which allegedly had been deleted from the party album, were not restored.

    Fomena Constituency

    In the Fomena Constituency, some members of the party have been up in arms against what they say are attempts to impose the independent Member of Parliament for the area, Andrew Amoako Asiamah, on the party as a parliamentary candidate.

    The situation led to a protest by the party members, who ended up painting the constituency office of the NPP in the colours of the opposition NDC amidst threats to defect from the party.

    Other constituencies with pending issues

    With the same problems and allegations of deliberate attempts to manipulate albums in favour of some candidates, several constituencies have also experienced agitations and confrontations between party members.

    Some of these constituencies include Bantama, Obuasi, Kade, Juaben North and South, Manhyia, Abirem, Tano North, Hemang, Ahafo and Kwadaso.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • NDC calls for recount of votes of polling station in Dome-Kwabenya

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has called for a recount of votes at Dome-Kwabenya Constituency collation centre in the Greater Accra Region on suspicions of over voting

    The alleged over voting is believed to have taken place at the polling station 2 in Shepherd Scholars Preparatory School.

    The NDC polling agents called for a recount after all was set for the declaration of the results at the collation centre.

    Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party(NPP) has described those allegations as false, adding that calls for a recount needless.

    The Dome-Kwabenya constituency is keenly contested by the Deputy Majority leader Sarah Adwoa Sarfo and the National Democratic Congress candidate Elikplim Akurugu.

    The Dome-Kwabenya constituency is keenly contested by the Deputy Majority leader Sarah Adwoa Sarfo and the National Democratic Congress candidate Elikplim Akurugu.

    Ghana’s voting ended on Monday in 38,622 polling stations within the 16 regions across Ghana.

    They cast their ballots in the general election to elect a president and 275 members of the parliament.

    The voting process was generally peacefully except for two persons sustaining gunshot wounds after a shooting incident in one of the polling stations in Kasoa.

    The tampering of presidential ballot papers in some polling stations in two constituencies was also witnessed, but the EC reacted swiftly.

    The EC has assured the public it will declare the results within 24 hours after the end of voting.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Speaker Mike Oquaye votes, impressed with the voting process so far

    The Speaker of Parliament, Prof Aaron Mike Oquaye has cast his vote at the Calvary Presby polling station at Haatso in the Dome-Kwabenya constituency of the Greater Accra Region.

    Speaking after voting, Prof Mike Oquaye urged Ghanaians to stop worrying about naysayers and look at the good side adding that he is impressed with the process so far.

    “This is how civilised people do their things. It tells you the level of development here in Ghana. I would like us to all stop worrying about pessimist things and look at the good sides. We are making progress. When we go like this, very soon America, the West and others would come and become election observers here because we are doing it right. I am very happy,” he told the Daily Graphic.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo is the incumbent Member of Parliament for the Dome-Kwabenya constituency after winning against Mike Oquaye Junior who happens to be the son of speaker of parliament and Ghana’s High Commissioner to India.

    Sarah Adwoa Safo is seeking a third term in parliament. She is contesting against National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate Elikplim Akurugu.

    About 2,794 registered voters are expected to cast their votes at the Calvary Presby polling station. As at 11 am, 821 registered voters had cast their votes.

    In total, 173,619 registered voters are expected to vote in the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Hot video: Confusion at Kwabenya Musuku over late start of voting

    Voting has delayed at the Kwabenya Mususku Pentecost Church due to the technical hitches on the side of the Electoral Commission officials.

    The delay has thus caused the voters to register their anger as most of them visited the centre as early as 1.a.m.

    As at 7:50 am, voting has still not started and voters were left in a long queue frustrated.

    Below is a video:

    Source: hotfmghana.com