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Tag: John Dramani Mahama

  • I will implement Special Prosecutors report on Agyapa Mahama

    The Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Dramani Mahama, says the next NDC government will implement recommendations of the Special Prosecutor on the controversial Agyapa Royalties deal, when elected in the December 7, 2020, presidential election.

    He said the only thing that will save those who have been found culpable in the corruption risk assessment report by the Special Prosecutor is for them to return the money before the NDC is sworn into office on January 7, 2021.

    Mr Mahama made this known on Saturday when he addressed NDC supporters at Bosomkyekye in the Mampong constituency as part of his campaign tour of the Ashanti Region.

    He said despite promising not to run a government of family and friends, President Akufo Addo has packed his government with members of his family and friends, hence the unprecedented level of corruption in the Akufo-Addo government.

    “They are trying to offload Ghana’s mining royalties through a shady deal called Agyapa and when we complained, they decided to hold on. But now what we are being told is that the President has directed that the deal be taken back to parliament and I know they will not succeed. Because the NDC is going to win this election and immediately after the victory, those people who have looted money from Agyapa should quickly return our money. Otherwise, we will work with the recommendations of the special prosecutor”, he warned.

    Mr Mahama said the next NDC administration will institute concrete measures, including Operation Sting, to fight corruption.

    He, therefore, entreated electorates to vote for him and NDC parliamentary candidates in the December 7, 2020, general elections to enable him to work hard to provide jobs, implement Free Primary Healthcare and state-sponsored National Apprenticeship Programme to empower the youth with employable skills.

    For his part, the chief of Bosomkyekye, Nana Sarpong Ofori Gyimah II, commended Mr Mahama for his sterling performance during his tenure as president and urged his people to vote for Mr Mahama on December 7, 2020, to enable him to complete abandoned projects started by the Mahama government before leaving office in January 2017.

    Source: James Agyenim-Boateng, NDC Campaign Spokesperson

  • Rawlings death: Kufuor, Mahama, others to sign book of condolence on Monday State Protocol

    The State Protocol Department has scheduled former presidents John Agyekum Kufuor, John Dramani Mahama to sign the book of condolence opened in memory of the late President Jerry John Rawlings on Monday, November 16.

    The two former heads of state are expected at the Accra International Conference Centre where the book will be open between 10:15am and 10.45am.

    This will be after The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament Aaron Mike Oquaye; the Chief Justice His Lordship Anin Yeboah; members of the Judicial Committee; as well as Justices of the Supreme Court have signed between 9.00am and 10.10am.

    According to a release by Nana Enoch Osei-Mensah, the Head of Protocol at the Office of the Vice President and Moderator of the signing of the book of condolence, details of the signing of the book will be available at the foyer of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on November 16 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

    The schedule, according to the statement, is necessary “due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

    The statement comes after the controversy surrounding why John Mahama and the NDC leadership were prevented from signing the book.

    On Friday, November 13, prior to his signing of the book, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the NDC General Secretary claimed that the book of condolence was taken away to deliberately prevent the NDC flagbearer from signing it.

    “We were at the residence of the family to offer our condolences,” Johnson Asiedu Nketia told journalists, Asiedu Nketiah told reporters. “The maternal family from Anlo was represented, the nuclear family as well. We were led by our flagbearer. Upon arrival, we were informed that the book of condolence had been taken to the [Accra International] Conference Centre, so we should go there.

    He continued: “By the time we reached there, the state officials had locked up the [Accra] International Conference Centre, taking the book away. When we enquired, we were told that they had been directed to prevent Mr. Mahama from signing.”

    Read below the full statement from the State Protocol Department.




    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • John Mahama speaks on Rawlings’ demise

    Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Dramani Mahama says he has suspended his campaign after news of the demise of former president Jerry John Rawlings.

    John Mahama was on a tour of the Ashanti region campaigning ahead of the December polls when he received the unfortunate news.

    Rawlings died at age 73 after reportedly battling an undisclosed ailment for the last couple of days.

    While the news of his passing has been confirmed by highly placed sources, where he died seems to be a matter of contention.

    However, GhanaWeb can confirm that the former President died at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, specifically, the Cardiothoracic Unit.

    Hordes of people have since thronged Korle Bu to have first-hand information about his death.

    Reports also suggest that there is a heavy security presence at the hospital facility since the news of his demise broke.

    Watch John Mahama’s reaction HERE

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Nobody can reverse Free SHS Mahama

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama, has once again refuted suggestions that an NDC government under him will abandon the Free SHS policy.

    “I have never said anywhere that I will abolish Free SHS, never if you have any voice of me saying I will abandon free SHS, prove it to me. Nobody can reverse Free SHS, Free SHS is here to stay,” the former president said in an interview on Abusua 96.5 FM Wednesday on day two of his Ashanti regional campaign tour.

    Mr. Mahama stated that claims he will abolish the free SHS policy is deliberate misinformation being perpetuated by members of the New Patriotic Party.

    According to him, he began the free SHS policy in 2015 during his tenure adding that it is ridiculous for anybody to suggest that he will cancel a policy he implemented.

    He added that he will improve the policy and abolish the Double Track system in his first year by expanding secondary schools and constructing new ones to accommodate new students.

    Source: Starr FM

  • We’ll build universities in new regions – Mahama promises

    The Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Dramani Mahama, has promised to build public universities in each of the newly-created regions when elected as president in the December 7, 2020, general elections.

    Addressing supporters at Somanya on Friday as part of his four-day campaign tour of the Eastern Region, he said the NDC has a proven track record of establishing universities in Ghana, adding the next NDC government will build universities in the new regions to develop the human resource and create opportunities for all.

    “Through the instrumentality and the vision of the late President, John Evans Atta Mills, the University of Energy and Natural Resources was established in the Brong Ahafo Region and the University of Allied and Health Sciences was established in the Volta region. In the Eastern Region, there was no public university too, so as President, I cut the sod at Somanya for the construction of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development with a satellite campus at Afram Plains”, he explained.

    Mr Mahama, however, noted with concern the decision by President Akufo-Addo to divert the proposed satellite campus of the University from the Afram Plains to his home town, describing the decision as unfair.

    He said despite not having a record of putting up a public university, the president has specialised in renaming institutions and diverting one to his home town.

    “Also, he will not build a university but he is very good at changing their names. You don’t know how to build institutions but you know how to rename them. You must also build some of those institutions”, he said.

    On job creation, Mr Mahama said president Akufo-Addo, in spite of his promise to create jobs, has thrown many people out of jobs particularly with the collapse of banks and other financial institutions.

    He said the next NDC government will work hard to create jobs for the youth through a number of interventions, including the Free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Free T-VET) and the National Apprenticeship Programme.

    He said, when elected, the next NDC government will establish a fruit processing factory in the Krobo area for local consumption and export to generate revenue for development. He added it will also create decent and sustainable jobs.

    Mr Mahama, therefore, urged the electorates to vote for him and NDC parliamentary candidates in the upcoming general elections to help create opportunities for all Ghanaians, not a privileged few.

    Source: James Agyenim-Boateng, NDC Campaign Spokesperson

  • Do as you have promised Kpone Chief advises Mahama

    The Paramount Chief of the Kpone Traditional Council, Nii Tetteh Otu II, has charged former President John Dramani Mahama to fulfil all campaign promises he has made to the people of Ghana should he win the 7 December 2020 polls.

    Nii Tetteh Otu II further asked the presidential candidate of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to refrain from making extravagant promises, “and go by his promises”.

    The traditional leader offered the advice when Mr Mahama paid a courtesy call on the chiefs and people of Kpone Katamanso on Wednesday, 28 October 2020.

    The chief indicated that some political leaders talked the electorate into voting for them prior to the 2016 elections but after they were given the mandate, failed to live by those promises.

    Citing policies like the One District-One Factory (1D1F), Planting For Food and Jobs, One Million-One Constituency, among others, as examples, Nii Tetteh Otu II expressed displeasure at how they were being executed.

    Source: Class FM

  • Mahamas campaign hits Accra Tuesday

    The NDC flagbearer John Mahama will begin his campaign tour of the Greater Accra region on Tuesday, October 27.

    The five-day tour of the Region will see the flagbearer visiting Ada, Sege, Shai Osudoku, Ningo Prampram, Kpone Katamanso, Ashaiman, Tema East, Tema Central, and Tema West.

    He will later visit Krowor, Ledzokuku, La Dadekotopon, Korley Klottey, Madina, Adenta, Dome Kwabenya and Ayawaso West Wuogon.

    The former president while in Ada will meet with the Ada Traditional Council and Interact with fisher-folks at Ayakpor.

    He will also engage the community on Radio Ada and interact with traders at Kasseh.

    Source: Starr FM

  • Ill make you proud to be a Ghanaian Mahama pledges

    The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Dramani Mahama, says the next NDC government will be committed to building a nation that creates opportunities for all Ghanaians, not a privileged few.

    He says working hard to creating jobs, reducing hardship and achieving universal access to healthcare through the implementation of Free Primary Healthcare will all be on top of the agenda of the next NDC government.

    Speaking in a wrap-up interview of his five-day campaign tour of the Western Region on Woezor TV in Takoradi on Friday, Mr Mahama said “just like you, I believe everybody, all of us, should have access to healthcare. This is why the NDC will be rolling out a Free Primary Healthcare Plan for all. Just like you, I believe mothers are sacred, and they deserve quality time with their newborn babies.

    “This is why we are increasing the maternity leave for mothers to four months. Just like you, I believe women are equal to men, and their voice should always be heard. This is why I chose Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang as my running mate. Just like you, I believe young people are right to expect to live in a modern, vibrant Ghana.”

    Mr Mahama said he will work towards transforming Ghana into a knowledge-based economy will and drive development through digitised platforms that provide millions of opportunities for young people to harness their talent, skills and potentials.

    “This is why I am running for President. I will make you proud to be a Ghanaian. I will make you proud of who you are, make you hope for what we can become a truly developed nation. Be proud of what we can become as a country and join me in my quest to lead our country there, by voting for me, John Mahama, number 2 on the ballot paper on 7th December,” he added.

    Mr Mahama, therefore, urged the electorates to make it a collective duty to bring about the change that they all desire for their community and country.

    “In John Dramani Mahama, you have a President you can TRUST, a President with a track record of development, a President that knows and has the experience of managing difficult situations. I have a great vision for our country. Together, we can leave a legacy. The time is now. Vote John Mahama for jobs and prosperity for all,” he concluded.

    Source: angelonline.com.gh

  • John Mahama mourns with Rawlings at Dzelukope

    Former President and flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Dramani Mahama was among the dignitaries that thronged Dzelukope, on Saturday, October 25, 2020 for the funeral of Madam Victoria Agbotui, mother of Jerry John Rawlings.

    Mr. Mahama’s presence in the Volta region for the occasion explains why he was ‘missing’ at the burial service and funeral rites held at the forecourt of the State House, Accra, same day.

    The body of Victoria Agbotui was taken to Dzelukope, in Keta, Volta region, for the final funeral service after the non-denominational pre-burial service held in Accra.

    Clad in an all-white apparel, the NDC flagbearer, in the company of other party officials paid their last respect to Former President Rawlings’ mother amid drumming and dancing.

    Mahama was seen exchanging pleasantries with his predecessor, Jerry John Rawlings and his wife, Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings.

    He also received a rousing welcome from some members and sympathisers of the party who had gathered to mourn with the bereaved families.

    Victoria Agbotui who was born on September 9, 1919, died on September 24, 2020, a few days after celebrating her 101st.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • NDC to upgrade Asuansi Institute into technical University – Mahama

    The next government of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will upgrade the Asuansi Technical Institute (ASTECH) into a modern satellite campus of the Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU).

    Former President John Dramani Mahama and the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) made the promise at a mammoth durbar of Chiefs and people of Abakrampa in the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese (AAK) District of the Central Region.

    The intention is geared towards giving true meaning to technical education as the panacea for rapid socio-economic development.

    Giving credence to the Party’s achievements, he said in 2013, the NDC government under his reign thought it prudent to convert polytechnics into technical universities with needed legislation to support the polytechnic-university migration.

    This was given presidential assent by Mr Mahama in 2016 and the various polytechnics that met the necessary criteria were converted into technical universities.

    Mr Mahama said he was optimistic of a resounding victory in the December 2020 polls to effectively rebrand and reposition TVET through strategic resourcing and capacity building to solve the huge unemployment situation in the country.

    “We intend to re-align all TVET institutions and place them under the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (COTVET) and build additional and operationalize, new public universities that will have campuses in each of the newly created six reasons.”

    The new universities will focus on technical, vocational, and engineering programmes tailored to address two main challenges fix the imbalance and the gap that existed between the top and bottom level manpower requirements.

    It will also build a level of technical knowledge needed for many sectors of the Ghanaian economy to address the level of unemployment by providing young people with the requisite skills that will enable them to chart a path of self-employment.

    Mr Mahama promised free TVET at all levels, which he believed would aid in the training of more skilled human resources for national development and noted that “NDC will not pay lip service to TVET because the training will move this country to the next level.”

    He said his vision was to implement inclusive and sustainable-development that cuts across all sectors and reiterated his determination to complete all abandoned projects.

    In that light, he said his policies such as the Big Push”, the $10 billion accelerated development plan, would fix many of the infrastructure deficits in many sectors of the country to stimulate growth, jobs creation, and development on a massive scale.

    His policies, he said, would develop a workable, sustainable and progressive economy that would benefit all and not just a few individuals by protecting and promoting indigenous businesses and not kill them.

    Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the NDC Parliamentary Candidate for AAK said development was the backbone of every progressive nation and urged the people to vote for him and Mr Mahama to implement what he described as “the massive development programme”.

    For his part, Nana Okum Gyata VI, Ankobeahen of Abakrampa thanked Mr Mahama for ensuring that every corner of the country benefitted from some form of development during his tenure as President.

    However, he appealed for more infrastructure and jobs to better the lives of the people.

    Source: GNA

  • Mahama visits family of slain NPP MP

    The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, (NDC), Mr John Dramani Mahama, on Thursday visited the family of the deceased Member of Parliament for Mfantseman to console them.

    Mr. Mahama, who condemned the killing of the MP, expressed the hope that the killers would be apprehended and be made to face the full rigours of the law.

    The MP for Mfantseman, Mr Ekow Quansah Hayford, was shot dead by unknown gunmen on the Abeadze DominaseAbeadze DuadziMankessim road last Friday night.

    He was returning from a campaign trip with some constituency executives of the ruling party when armed men reportedly stopped the vehicle on which they were travelling at a roadblock the robbers had mounted and shot him, killing him on the spot.

    Paying tribute to the deceased MP, Mr. Mahama said even though they belong to different political parties, they share common humanity and are all working in the interest of Ghana.

    “We, therefore, want to express our condolences to the bereaved family and it is an occasion for sadness. It is also a call to us as leaders to make sure that our people are safer”, he said.

    Mr. Mahama backed the calls for MPs to be provided with armed guards for protection, while the government work towards making the country safer for all Ghanaians.

    For his part, the head of family of the late MP, Nana Kojo Nkrumah, expressed the hope that ongoing investigations into the death of their relative will uncover those behind the crime.

    He also urged government to help fight the rising incidence of crime in the country.

    Source: Kasapa FM

  • Mahama gave out nose masks on campaign tour not cash – Agyenim Boateng

    The 2020 Campaign Spokesperson for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), James Agyenim Boateng, has described as false, reports in sections of the media about John Mahama sharing money as part of his campaign tour in the Bono Region.

    In a trending video circulating on various social media platforms, the NDC flagbearer is seen handing throwing what some say looked like money into a crowd that gathered around his vehicle on the resumption of his campaign tour on Monday, September 28.

    But speaking on on the An?pa B?fo? morning show on Angel 102.9 FM on Tuesday, Mr. Agyenim Boateng urged the public to disregard the said publications.

    “Yes, Mr. Mahama was sharing something but not money as it was claimed. He was rather sharing his campaign nose masks with an inscription of his name- John Mahama 2020. He even shared some of his campaign T-shirts,” the former Deputy Information Minister told host, Nana Yaa Brefo.

    He added: “At other places, he even shared his campaign t-shirts and aprons. So if you saw him giving something out to a particular person in the video, then it was his campaign nose mask.”

    Mr. Agyenim Boateng added that though the former President, John Dramani Mahama is a generous man, he does his generous works behind scenes and not in the open.

    He used the opportunity to highlight some policies to be implemented by the Mahama-led NDC, should they be voted back in power on December 7, 2020.

    He Boateng mentioned that, “Mahama will make access to health facilities universal with or without the use of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). That is to say, there will be Free Primary Healthcare and he has also promised to complete all abandoned projects.”

    Meanwhile, John Dramani Mahama is expected to continue with his campaign tour today, September 29, 2020, to the Jaaman Constituency and five other Constituencies in the Bono Region.

    Source: angelonline.com.gh

  • NDC consoles former President Rawlings

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, and the leadership of the NDC, on Friday morning called on former President Jerry John Rawlings to commiserate with him following the passing of his mother, Madam Victoria Agbotui.

    President Mahama, in a brief remark, described the loss of Madam Agbotui as a shared one because she was always on hand to give wise counsel whenever she interacted with him and other party members.

    He consoled President Rawlings and encouraged him to take heart as Mama had lived a full life and had seen it all.

    The NDC flagbearer said “Mama was the kind of person one would assume would live forever…”

    He also assured the NDC Founder that the NDC will participate fully in the funeral activities of the late Madam Agbotui.

    President Mahama was accompanied by the Vice Chairman of the NDC Council of Elders Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, National Chairman Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, General Secretary Johnson Asiedu Nketia and other national executives of the party.

    Madam Victoria Agbotui died in the early hours of Thursday, September 24 at the age of 101.

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • We welcome all political parties – GUTA President on alleged secret meeting with Mahama

    President of the Ghana Union of Traders Association of Ghana (GUTA), Dr Joseph Obeng, has said political parties who have outdoored their manifestos have only made known their intentions to the public but could be taken seriously only if their policies are implemented.

    According to him, the Association cannot be brainwashed by any political party who holds stakeholder meetings with GUTA for interactions.

    His comments come after it was reported earlier that flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, held a secret meeting with some executives of the Association on Wednesday, September 16.

    In an interview with GhanaWeb, Dr Obeng stated that “GUTA welcomes every political party and its manifesto if it is presented to us for us to be educated on but one thing I also want to say is that manifesto does not influence our thinking and that we see manifestos as a mere declaration of intentions…it is only when things in the manifesto have been implemented and real solutions have been found in them by the trading community, that is when manifestos become relevant to us and we want to make this point clear to all political parties so that they will take their own manifestoes serious and work on them”.

    He noted that “What will inform our mind is to compare previous manifestos that have been presented and have been actually delivered upon”.

    “All of them are welcome to GUTA to present their manifestos and this is not anything that anyone can deem as a secret meeting. Politicians of all shades are welcome to GUTA to present their manifestoes.”

    On Wednesday, September 16, 2020, it was reported that some GUTA executives allegedly sneaked out of the office to meet the flagbearer of the opposition NDC, John Dramani Mahama, at his office in Accra.

    Though the aim of the meeting was to explain the content of the NDC’s manifesto to the Association, the act, a source said, was against GUTA’s protocol.

    The source added that the meeting they had with John Dramani Mahama does not reflect the interest of the entire Association, therefore, whatever was discussed at that meeting with John Dramani Mahama was done in their own parochial interest.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Cashew farmers will be prosperous under my government – Mahama

    The Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has announced that cashew farmers are going to receive special attention and support when the National Democratic Congress wins the December elections.

    He explained that the NDC’s focus on cashew farmers and cashew production forms part of the Party’s planned programme of ensuring value addition to agriculture produce in order to earn more income and improve the lot of farmers.

    Addressing a gathering of chiefs and cashew farmers of Brohani in the Tain District of the Bono Region, Mr Mahama said cashew, a crop widely cultivated in the region, will thrive under his administration.

    “This is the time for cashew farmers. If you’re not into cashew, get land and begin cultivating because it will be a prosperous venture under me,” he assured.

    The former President also announced that the NDC will introduce a number of interventions to make cashew farmers more productive and also profit from the trade.

    According to him, a Cashew Board will be established, similar to the structure of Cocobod, so that the interest of cashew farmers can be pursued while ensuring improved cashew production.

    He also mentioned that a cashew processing factory will be established to ensure value addition through the processing of the cashew for export, which would put more money into the pockets of farmers.

    Highlighting the importance of agri-business, the NDC leader said the Ministry of Food and Agriculture will be realigned into a Ministry of Agriculture and Agribusiness to coordinate the business aspect of agriculture for the benefit of farmers and also the nation.

    Mr Mahama also announced that the district will have a mechanisation centre to offer technical support and provide equipment like planters, harrows, ploughs and shellers to farmers to aid their work.

    He also promised the Islamic farming community that the NDC will introduce a Cashew Farmer’s Pension Scheme, as well as government support for Muslim farmers to observe the Hajj Pilgrimage.

    On the poor state of their roads, the NDC Presidential Candidate told the community “leave your roads to me, I will make sure they are worked on and tarred” adding that “we will also open a police post, so you can be safe from armed robbers and other vices”.

    The former President introduced the NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Tain, Sulemana Ramzy Adama. He reminded the people of Brohani to check their names at the registration centres to ensure that they are not disenfranchised.

    Source: Class FM

  • We praise Mahama because of the development he brought to us Busunya chief

    The Chief of Busunya in the Nkoranza North District, Nana Okofo Nyarko Gyabaah II, on Sunday showered praises on the NDC Presidential Candidate John Dramani Mahama, explaining that this is because of his good works and the impact on his community.

    According to Nana Gyabaah II, the commendation and praises he and other chiefs in the Bono East Region continue to heap on the former President since he began his tour, is because they have come to appreciate him more after having the chance to compare his work with that of the current government.

    He made these remarks when he welcomed President Mahama to a mini durbar of chiefs, community leaders and the people of Busunya.

    “For us when you do good, we will say it and when you do bad, we will say it too. It is because of the good things he did that we are praising him today”, he explained.

    On their roads, which were being constructed by the NDC but abandoned by the NPP, President Mahama assured the Busunya community that the NDC will surely complete the project when it returns to office.

    He added that his government will build additional school blocks for their secondary school, establish a cashew processing factory as well as an agricultural mechanisation centre in the district to support the work of farmers.

    The NDC Presidential Candidate was later honoured by the Busunya community, installing him with the title Nana Kwame Dadieko Ababio I.

    Source: Class FM

  • Return Mahama and NDC to power Chief rallies his people as he crowns him Nkosuohene

    Chief of Jema in Bono East Region, Nana Amponsah Gyan II, has urged his people to return the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and John Mahama to power, explaining that the NDC government embarked on massive developmental projects in the area.

    Speaking yesterday at a ceremony to crown John Dramani Mahama as the Nkosuohene of the Apesika Traditional area, Nana Amponsah Gyan II stressed that John Mahama deserved the honour for the remarkable development projects he executed in the area when he was President, adding that he deserved another term to finish up some projects that have been abandoned by the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.

    John Dramani Mahama was enstooled Nkosuohene(Development Chief) under the stool name, Nana Beyeman Kwame Ababio I,

    He undertook all the customary rites with the guidance of Nana Amponsah Gyan II, the Chief of Jema, who is the Kyidomhene of the Nkoranza Traditional Council.

    John Mahama, while expressing profuse gratitude to the Chiefs and people of the area, pledged to continue and fully execute the abandoned projects in the area.

    Source: My News GH

  • Mahama did not borrow from BoG to finance 2016 budget – Terkper

    Former Minister of Finance, Seth Terkper has denied claims that the erstwhile Mahama administration borrowed from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to finance the 2016 budget.

    “As the Minister for Finance at the time, I wish to clarify that the Mahama Administration did not borrow directly from BoG to finance the 2016 Budget.

    “I signed the Non-Lending Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Governor of BoG, as an IMF Conditionality under the IMF Enhanced Credit Facility (ECF) Agreement, even as we went through the Crude Oil Price Shock (2014 to 2016) and Nigeria Gas Supply (Dumsor) crisis…” Mr Terkper said in a statement copied to ClassFMonline.com.

    He explained further below:

    BoG performs various roles on the Financial Markets for Government, including borrowing on behalf of Government (MOF).

    A) Borrowing for (on behalf of) Government from Banks and individuals.

    These short-term and medium-to-long term loan instruments are called T-Bills, Notes, Bonds etc .

    Upon borrowing, they become GoG instruments and GoG loans.

    In the Budgets and Debt Reports, while BoG is shown as the “source” of securing these loans, it does not mean that the Central Bank did the lending directly to Government.

    Hence, it is a big mistake for the FACT-CHECK to classify these as BoG lending directly to the Mahama Government.

    Note that BoG itself is in the Financial Markets to lend and borrow to manage the sector.

    B) BOG Lending TO Govt (directly, on its own).

    These are simply called Short-term Advances to Government in Budgets and Debt reports.

    They did NOT show in Appendix 1 of the 2016 Report because

    (I) there was no new BoG Advance in 2016 and earlier; and

    (Ii) GoG and BoG agreed in 2014 or 2015 to turn the outstanding balance or stock of past Advances into a long-term Bond.

    C) BoG 5% Limit in Act

    While the BoG Act allows it to make an Advance of up to 5 percent to Government, as explained earlier, the IMF ECF Agreement did not allow the Mahama Administration to borrow from BoG.

    D) Conclusion

    The only substantive amount that GoG received from BoG at the time was “Dividend”, as sole Shareholder of the Bank. This routinely shown as Non-Tax Revenue in Budget.

    Source: Class FM

  • We will investigate the assassination of Ahmed Suale, J.B Danquah – Mahama promises

    John Dramani Mahama, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress, has vowed to find the murderers of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale and J.B Danquah Adu, the former MP for Abuakwa North.

    He said, “We will commence investigation into the death of Ahmed Suale and other unsolved issues including the murder of J.B Danquah.”

    Ahmed Hussein-Suale who was an undercover investigative journalist and an associate of renowned investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas was murdered on Wednesday, January 16, 2019.

    Assailants reportedly rode on a motorbike and shot him thrice: twice in the chest and once in his neck while the journalist was in a moving car in Madina, apparently heading home.

    Despite efforts by the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service to find the murderers and bring them to book, it appears their investigations have hit a snag.

    Ahmed played a key role in Tiger Eye Private Investigations which unravelled corruption in the Ghana Football Association in the documentary named “Number 12”.

    In the case of J.B Danquah Adu who was murdered in 2016 in his home, the accused has been remanded in prison custody for four years now without the trial showing signs of progress.

    Meanwhile, the accused has made videos from his prison cell and mentioned names but the police have yet to give the public any progress report.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • We’ll track down missing excavators and hand them over to rightful owners – Mahama

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has promised to ‘track down’ all the missing excavators which were reported missing under the ruling government.

    The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been criticizing the ruling government for their inability to locate the missing excavators and to prosecute the individuals who were allegedly involved in the scandal.

    The flagbearer of the NDC speaking at the manifesto launch of the party said when he assumes office as President, his government will “will track down and take the excavators that are missing; we will return them to the rightful owners”

    “We will improve the mining sector” he added.

    A next NDC administration will also:

    a. partner with mining equipment owners to support small-scale miners due to equipment challenges of the small-scale mining sector

    b. establish mini-processing plants in strategic mining locations to support and improve metallurgical recovery of mined ore, leading to increased revenue generation

    c. take stock of existing large-scale mining concessions to make abandoned lands available for small and medium scale mining operations

    d. promote legal and properly regulated and operated medium and small-scale mining to become attractive and well-paid business ventures, creating jobs for the youth

    e. re-issue confiscated legitimate mining licenses to miners

    f. return seized legitimate concessions to their owners”

    Background

    It may be recalled that in February 2020, excavators that were seized by the government from illegal small scale miners were reported missing.

    Subsequently, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng wrote to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to investigate the disappearance of the excavators.

    The central Regional Vice-Chairman of the NPP, Horace Ekow Ewusi and some five other persons were also invited by the CID over their alleged role in the matter to assist in investigations.

    Source: Peace FM

  • Here are the promises Mahama made to the people of Wa

    John Mahama, flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged Ghanaians not to fall for the promises of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) because they can’t fulfill them.

    According to him, those promises by the NPP are only meant to win votes.

    Speaking during a courtesy call on the Wa Naa, Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo, at his palace on Wednesday, September 2, 2020, during his campaign tour at Wa in the Upper West Region, he outlined policies and programmes the NDC will implement if voted to power come December 7 in the general elections.

    He promised to add a free primary health care plan to the current National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) which will contribute to the faster attainment of universal health care for all Ghanaians.

    He also outlined some programes the NDC will implement in the Region stating that he would ensure the continuation of the numerous abandoned projects in the region, refurbish the Wa Municipal Hospital, develop the Wa Airport, provide seed money for the operations of the Upper West Regional Hospital, construct more health facilities across the region and in Wa and improve educational and other infrastructure in the region.

    Source: Pulse Ghana

  • NDC is committed to peaceful elections – Mahama

    Former President John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has reiterated the Party’s position to ensure a peaceful election in December.

    He pledged the NDC would not use any vigilante group to cause mayhem on December 7 and urged supporters in the various communities to protect the ballot boxes to guarantee the integrity of the ballot.

    “We commit the ballot boxes into your hands so that you ensure that nobody comes to destroy them at your polling stations because your vote must count,” he added.

    Mr Mahama urged Ghanaians to turn out in their numbers on the Election Day “to vote for respect for all ethnic groups, inclusion, unity, jobs and tolerance by voting for the NDC,” a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said on Tuesday.

    Mr Mahama made the remark in an address to the chiefs and people of Mepe in the North Tongu Constituency as part his four-day tour of the Volta Region, the statement, signed by Mr James Agyenim-Boateng, Spokesperson of the NDC Campaign Team, said.

    He, however, expressed concern about the posturing of government in some instances, which raised questions about its commitment to a violent-free election in December.

    “In December we will go for an election and we want our election to be non-violent…,” he said.

    Source: GNA

  • Lets unite and save Ghana Mahama to Christians

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has called on the Christian Community to unite and take action against what he says is the politicisation of state institutions by the Nana Addo Akufo-Addo government.

    “Almost everything that we had as a people, as a country, held dear and sacred has been intentionally corrupted in furtherance of selfish political ends. But, my brothers and sisters, no matter where we have belonged on the political divide, this is the time for us to unite and act to save our country; we cannot sit silently and look on as our nation slips towards decadence.

    “It is not about John Mahama; it is about Ghana. Indeed, I have received complaints from men of God to call the government to order in its unfair treatment and sometimes targeted attacks on them for speaking out against injustice,” Mr Mahama said while introducing his running mate Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to the Christian community at a ceremony in Accra Wednesday.

    The NDC flagbearer also told the clergy he and his running mate will avoid campaign of insults.

    “My running mate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, whom I am presenting to you today, has been encouraged by the Osu Mantse to be strong and courageous in the face of, what he feared would be, a barrage of insults and attacks on her person, just because she has decided to serve her country at the highest level, help shape its destiny and ensure shared prosperity for all. Indeed, these unprovoked attacks and insults have already started.

    “But I can assure you and all Ghanaians that Naana Jane and myself will never engage in insults and name-calling of opponents. Children are watching, listening and copying and it is important we serve as good role models. The book of Philippians assures me that the God who began this mission will bring it to a fruitful conclusion.

    Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang is God-fearing, a woman of unquestionable integrity, hardworking, and a results-oriented person. She has carved a niche for herself as a distinguished scholar in Ghana, on the African continent and across the world,” Mr said.

    Source: starrfmonline.com

  • John Mahama registers for voter ID card

    The flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, today acquired his voter Identification card at a registration centre at Bole in the Savannah Region, to enable him partake in the upcoming elections on December 7.

    John Dramani Mahama who was received by a large crowd, called on Ghanaians to endeavour to acquire their voter’s identification cards to enable them vote come December 7.

    Addressing the media on the sidelines, former president, John Dramani Mahama said, the recent incidents of violence reported in the ongoing registration is a deliberate attempt by the Akufo-Addo government to remain in power, he therefore urged Ghanaians to come out in their numbers to register so they will kick out the NPP.

    The former President is expected to spend four more days in the region as he will be visiting some registration centres and communities in the Savanna, Northern, Oti and Volta Regions.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • NDC will unlock funds in collapsed financial institutions in a year – Mahama

    Former President John Dramani Mahama says the National Democratic Congress (NDC) upon assumption of office, would pay all locked up funds in collapsed financial institution within a year.

    “We shall pay within one year all who have funds locked up with the collapsed financial institutions,” the NDC flagbearer, said.

    He told the top brass of the NDC and dignitaries that the party shall not put up any long-term payment plans that would further worsen the living conditions of the victims.

    Mr Mahama was speaking at the outdooring ceremony of his running mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, in Accra.

    He said, as introduced in other economies, the next NDC Administration would establish a Financial Services Authority that would be responsible for ensuring that consumer financial markets worked for consumers, providers and the economy as a whole.

    He said the Authority would oversee all financial products and services offered to consumers and would effectively and efficiently prevent and stop the challenges that had confronted customers of Menzgold and DKM among others.

    “We will restore Ghanaian indigenous investment in the banking and financial sector through a tiered banking structure in order to restore viable credit sources for Ghanaian SMEs,” he added.

    The Presidential Candidate said the party would make amends for those whose businesses had collapsed due to political victimization.

    “We will make immediate arrangements to pay contractors whose hard-earned monies have been deliberately withheld by the Nana Addo administration due to politics,” he said.

    He said the NDC’s economic plans included an aggressive job and entrepreneurial programme in the public and private sector that would deliver “a minimum 250,000 jobs every year, a total of 1,000,000 jobs across the country by the end of my term in office in 2024.”

    “We will put Ghanaians to work to earn a decent living,” Mr Mahama said.

    Source: GNA

  • Mahamas running mate: The glass ceiling has been shattered Joyce Mogtari

    Special Aide to former President John Mahama, Mrs Joyce Bawa Mogtari, has lauded Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang on her nomination as the running mate to John Mahama for the December elections.

    Taking to her social media page, Mrs Mogtari said the the selection of Prof Opoku-Agyemang means the glass ceiling has been shattered.

    She posted: The Glass Ceiling has been shattered!! Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang!!

    The Glass Ceiling has been shattered!! Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang!! pic.twitter.com/rk9TzNEAF4

    — Joyce Bawah Mogtari (@joyce_bawah) July 6, 2020
    Former President Mahama settled on former Education Minister, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang as his running mate for the 2020 elections.

    The Council of Elders and Founder of the National Democratic Congress have approved the choice of the candidate

    Source: operanewsapp.com

  • Akufo-Addo jabs Mahama -Your so-called infrastructure projects exist only in your ‘green book’

    On Friday 5th June, 2020, President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo commissioned the first phase of the Tema Interchange project. Comprising a two-tier intersection, a tunnel in the East-West direction, four (4) kilometers of improved roads, four (4) pedestrian bridges, one at each approach of the intersection and the presence of several drainage structures.

    The Greater Accra regional Executives of the National Democratic Congress held a press conference on 4th June, 2020 and asked the President to acknowledge the efforts made by former President John Mahama for iniatiating the Tema Interchange project.

    They further said that, H.E John Dramani Mahama in his last State of the Nation’s Address on 5th January, 2017 at the Parliament House Accra, to end the 6th Parliament in the fourth republic, the former President listed some projects his Government had secured funding for ahead of his exit from office on 7th January, 2017.

    The NDC Greater Accra executives said, the Tema Interchange project was part of the listed projects H.E John Mahama stated in his last address and therefore, he needs to be invited to the occasion and credited with the project.

    But, H.E Nana Akuffo Addo in his address during the commissioning of the Phase one of the Tema Interchange project jabbed the NDC and H.E John Mahama instead of Crediting them. He was quoted as saying;

    ” We made a pledge to the Ghanaian People to expand and improve the road network, while closing the missing links in the network. We had to make this pledge because we knew that the so-called “unprecedented infrastructure development” of the Mahama administration was a fantasy, existing only in the ‘Green Book’, but not on the ground”.

    H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Addo said, the funds for the project was secured in March 2017 as Grant aid from the Japanese Government. The negotiation was made and signed in March 2017. Construction commenced in February 2018 and completed in June 2020 with an amount of $56million.

    The President further said that, the provision of quality roads improves socio- economic development and thus the Government will ensure the spread of these projects to other areas of the county.

    Source: Joynews

  • Mahama interacts with New Powmu community

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Mahama on Sunday visited New Powmu/Tusker, a fishing community in the Asuogyaman Constituency for a community engagement programme.

    Mr. Mahama interacted with households in the community, seizing the opportunity to educate them on how to stay safe and protect their families from the Coronavirus.

    He also presented some relief items including hand sanitizers, face masks and food packages to the people. The NDC leader also spent hours with fishermen in the community, discussing their challenges and expectations.

    The fishermen and fishmongers mentioned securing outboard motors, the partisan supply of premix fuel, the need for a landing beach, and the lack of support for aquaculture in the area as some of their challenges.

    Source: Starr FM

  • Kwesi Botchwey will be Mahama’s Running Mate – Sammy Awuku predicts

    The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is yet to announce its vice-presidential candidate.

    Reports that five persons have been already selected emerged a few days ago but the NDC debunked it saying “the general public is therefore advised to ignore any such frivolous and fictitious letter, which is clearly a creation of some unscrupulous persons, who want to divert attention from serious burning national issues,”

    Speaking in a panel discussion on Peace FM morning show ‘Kokrokoo’ Sammy Awuku, the National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) said “it’s going to be Professor Kwesi Botchwey“.

    Professor Kwesi Botchwey, Ghana’s longest-serving Finance Minister is tipped by many to become the running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama for Election 2020

    Listen to him in the video below

    Source: Peace FM

  • Mahama supports Muslim community ahead of Eid

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has presented a quantity of food items to the Muslim community, ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration this weekend.

    In what has been a routine, even before he became a Member of Parliament in 1996, Mr. Mahama asked the National Zongo Caucus Coordinator of the NDC, Alhaji Mohammed Coolie Younger, to distribute the items to the various Muslim groupings.

    The beneficiaries include the office of the National Chief Imam, Al-Sunna, Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission, the Shia, Council of Muslims Organisations and other underprivileged Muslims. The items presented were made up of 600 bags of rice, 600 food boxes and 100 boxes of cooking oil.

    Source: Starr Fm

  • Election 2020: Mahama beats Akufo-Addo with 54.7% of votes to emerge winner in online poll

    A new poll shows that 54.7% of Ghanaians are ready to vote for former president John Dramani Mahama in the 2020 elections.

    The sitting president, Nana Akufo-Addo, only pulled 45.3% of the votes.

    The poll was organised by singer Becca on her Twitter handle.

    According to her, many people had been sending personal requests to her direct message asking for such a poll to be carried out.

    Many people have reacted to the results with the majority rooting for Mahama and telling why they will vote for him.

    Musa, Prince, Stone, Nana, for instance, says he will vote for Mahama:

    Tettey told why he will never vote for Akufo-Addo:

    Somnet and Walid have their own explanation for choosing John Mahama:

    Source: Yen.com

  • Ghanas economy not strong; we need to do more Mahama

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has observed that the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic has exposed the Ghanaian economy.

    He said the local economy, just as in other countries, is still fragile and more needed to be done to deal with the weaknesses.

    Mr Mahama in a statement said : “It is predicted that this pandemic and the disruption of global trade and economic activity will adversely affect the economies of developing countries. Ghana is no exception. The fast track approval by the IMF of the highly concessional Rapid Credit Facility is therefore timely and very welcome. This will help cushion the economy from the dangers of recession.

    “Our economy has revealed from this Covid stress test that it is still fragile and we need to be prudent in how we manage going forward. We must also be diligent in how we apply the $1 billion facility as the various tranches are released.

    “We face significant pressure on our local currency, declining domestic revenues, a slowdown in GDP growth, increase in deficit to GDP of between 8% to 9%, ballooning debt which is projected to hit almost 70% by end year.

    “This scenario requires that we exercise strict prioritization in our borrowing and expenditures and this might be the right time for the President to consider trimming down the bloated size of his government.”

    He added : “At this crucial time, the most critical need of our health workers is the supply of PPEs. When I donated PPEs to health facilities in the various regions, I advocated the need for government to urgently supply adequate PPEs to protect our health workers. I further requested that our national strategic medical stock ensures items such as PPEs and other vital logistics are in place well in advance of outbreaks.

    “ The initiative to have local manufacturing companies produce PPEs is welcome and must be speeded up. This can be done, and we must kickstart the efforts.”

    Source: laudbusiness.com

  • Mahamas absence from Special Prosecutors invitation list proves hes innocent Edudzi Tamakloe

    Edudzi Tamakloe, an aide to former President John Dramani Mahama has stated that failure of the Special Prosecutor to invite John Mahama for questioning on the matter vindicates their stance that the former President is innocent.

    According to him, the Special Prosecutor knows former President Mahama is not in the position to answer to allegations of bribery and corruption in the purchase of the aircraft from Airbus since the officials involved in the purchase are still alive and can respond to the allegations.

    His comments come after the Special Prosecutor, in a Newspaper publication invited Samuel Adam Mahama, brother of the former President and flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress, John Mahama, and three other British nationals to assist the office in investigations.

    Speaking on Accra based Okay FM, Edudzi Tamakloe argued that the fact that the former President was not invited by the Special Prosecutor solidifies their stance that John Dramani Mahama did not receive bribe of any penny from Airbus in the said scandal.

    “Was the former President invited? What is most important for me is as far as the investigation is concerned, John Mahama was not part of the invited persons. If I compare this to the statement made by Godfred Yeboah Dame that some government officials were not cooperating, at least from the preliminary investigation and the publication by Ghanaian Times, the people invited by 4 and incidentally, they are all British Nationals including Samuel Mahama even though He has Ghanaian parentage

    Source: www.abcnewsgh.com

  • Mahama chides government for not addressing coronavirus’s economic impact

    Flagbearer of the NDC, John Dramani Mahama has rebuked the government for failing to address COVID-19’S economic impact on the country.

    According to Mr. Mahama, government did not address the wide-reaching economic impact of the pandemic. Adding governments around the world make bold moves to protect their economies and that Ghanaians are expecting the government of Ghana to respond rapidly to this challenge.

    Mr. Mahama called on government to government to publish its plans to protect the economy following the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.

    The further President also stated that government must publish a comprehensive plan on how it intends to deal with this emergency with these recorded cases in the country which claiming lots of lives around the world.

    Mr Mahama added that it is also necessary for the government to publish a statement to Parliament on the expected impact on the economy on the distraction of COVID-19 on the global supply chain and international travels.

    John Mahama in a Facebook live address today March 16 2020 called on government to publish its plans to protect the economy following the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.

    ” This is a national issue and my party and I are ready to support the efforts of government in the fight of this disease. I call on the government to publish a comprehensive plan on how it intends to deal with measures of this across the country. If possible a statement must be published to parliament on the expected impact of the distraction of pandemic on the global supply chain and international travel. A comprehensive budget review to parliament may be necessary subsequently”.

    Again, Mr Mahama said government to ensure the provision of isolation centres in all regions across the country to contain the spread of Coronavirus across the country.

    Mr Mahama also outlined measures Ghanaians must adhere to minimize any risk of transmission during this period.

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • You are my world, ex-president John Dramani Mahama says as he celebrates wifes birthday (+Photo)

    The Ex-President of Ghana, Mr John Dramani Mahama has on countless occasions proven that he can be very romantic when it comes to his better half former First Lady ,Lordina Mahama.

    As Ghana celebrates her 63rd year of Independence from the colonial masters, it also marks the birth Lordina Manama.

    Taking to his Social media page, Mr Mahama posted a picture of her and captioned it “My World” indicating that she is the air he breathes.

    Source: www.ghbase.com

  • The economy is not doing well – Mahama

    The flag-bearer of the National Democratic Congress has empathised with traders on their poor sales, attributing the situation to unfavourable economic climate created by the government.

    Addressing market women in Sogakpe in the Volta Region, John Mahama said the economic hardship Ghanaians are enduring is a fact nobody can deny.

    “According to him even, “the Finance Minister tells us that everyone knows that Ghana is broke.”

    Mahama grabs mower, clears weeds in front of new military cemetery

    He added that “You are selling oysters, shrimps and so many other things. Nobody needs to come and tell you that the economy is not doing well.

    “Everybody selling something today can see that they making fewer sales than they used to do in the past and that is because times are hard,” he argued.

    President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo recently described the John Dramani Mahama as one with no record to defend.

    He pointed out that the former president has no prescriptions for the future of Ghana.

    The President was responding to a comment made by the former President to the effect that“God brought NPP so Ghanaians can appreciate NDC”.
    Ibrahim Mahama was more than a vice president Vim Lady fires NDC

    However, Mr Mahama has urged the NPP government to make good its numerous 2016 campaign promises to the people of Ghana.

    “People came and told us that the money is there, that we were sitting on money but yet hungry. So why is the Finance Minister saying Ghana is broke?” he asked.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • Mahama promises new market, road for Sogakofe

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has assured the people of South Tongu in the Volta Region that his administration will build a new market with modern facilities at Sogakope for them if given the mandate as president.

    Addressing residents of Sogakope over the weekend, Mr. Mahama also announced that the road along the Volta River passing in front of Hotel Cisneros and Holy Trinity Spa will be constructed to help boost the development of tourism and hospitality in the district.

    4 dead after vehicles crash on Adidome-Sogakofe road

    Residents of Sogakofe have for sometime now, been agitating for good roads, particularly the Lower Volta Bridge, which they say has become a death trap due to the rusty expansion and contraction joints.

    Returning from Dabala where he had gone to join thousands of followers of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church to mark their centenary celebrations, Mr. Mahama made a brief stop at Sogakofe to interact with a crowd of traders who had gathered there waiting to catch a glimpse of him.

    The former President in his address committed himself to ensure the youth of Sogakope benefit from the tourism potential of the area if he is elected President again.

    “We will build a new market for Sogakofe. Sogakofe is a the centre of tourism and so we will build Cisneros road along the water so that we can have tourist resorts so that the young people in Sogakofe can find work to do in the tourist resorts,” he said to a rapturous response from the gathering most of whom are traders.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com