During a courtesy visit by former President John Mahama to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abubakari Mahama II, offered advice to Mahama regarding his potential re-election in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Ya-Na encouraged Mahama to prioritize leaving a meaningful legacy over accumulating personal wealth and properties.
Ya-Na cautioned Mahama against repeating the mistakes of his previous tenure and emphasized the importance of leadership focused on building a lasting legacy for the nation’s benefit.
He urged Mahama to consider the broader impact of his actions and decisions on the country, rather than solely focusing on personal gain.
“I believe you’re not coming to make more money for your family, but to leave a legacy that not only your children will be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they may find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker.”
In addition, the Overlord of Dagbon also cautioned him about being wary of fake friends who could potentially undermine his government if he wins the 2024 elections.
“The most important thing for you at this stage of your political life is to be able to tell who your true friends are from the opportunistic ones. You were there once, and it shouldn’t be difficult for you to understand,” he advised.
Mr Mahama has ended his visit to the Northern Region as part of his. ‘Building Ghana Tour’. He visited Mion, Gushegu, and Yendi constituencies in the Northern Region.
Member of Parliament for Yapei-Kusawgu, John Jinapor, has staunchly defended the previous John Mahama administration, arguing that it outperformed the current Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government.
In his capacity as the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Mines and Energy Committee, Jinapor emphasized the unprecedented hardships faced by Ghanaians under the current regime, describing them as unparalleled in the nation’s history.
Pointing to rising taxes, increasing living expenses, and investor losses as clear indicators, Jinapor insisted that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) could not refute his assertions.
During an appearance on Metro TV on Tuesday, February 6, the former Deputy Power Minister urged Ghanaians to hold the NPP accountable in the upcoming December polls.
Jinapor dismissed efforts by the NPP and its supporters to absolve Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the government’s shortcomings, stating that such attempts were futile.
“Mahama administration is 10 times better than this administration and the facts are there to support it. Highest inflation, haircut on people’s investment, high cost of living and all the Ghanaian people are witnessing under this incompetent Akufo-Addo are facts,” he said.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, has assured Dagbon’s overlord, Ya-Naa Abukari II, that there will be improved conditions and support for the people of the Northern Region should he be declared president after the 2024 general elections.
The former president pledged that he would see to it that Ya-Na’s to see uninterrupted water supply, which was glossed over by the current NPP administration, would be fulfilled. The NDC flagbearer made emphasis on the abandoned Yendi Water project.
Mr Mahama made the announcement when he paid a courtesy call on Ya-Naa on Monday, February 5, 2024.
“With all the work we did, in terms of the Yendi water project, eight years after we left office, Yendi still has no water. I want to assure that if your son becomes president, you will not be thirsty anymore,” he said.
On his part, Yaa-Naa Abukari II, advised John Mahama, to regularly shuffle his appointees to ensure a selection of the best human resources for efficient governance if elected.
Ya-Naa emphasized that adopting this approach would be crucial for Mahama’s comeback bid in 2025 and urged him not to underestimate the importance of assembling a competent government.
“When you get the nod from Ghanaians, do not shy away from reshuffling your team to get the right ones on board by merits and competence and lay off even loyalists but misfits who will only churn out mediocrity for your government,” he said.
The Ya-Naa added, “This applies especially to your cabinet because they in reality rule you and the country. That will be a mistake no Ghanaian will forgive you if you happen to be the chosen one.”
Ya-Naa encouraged the former President to prioritize building a legacy over accumulating wealth for his family and friends.
“I believe you are not coming to make more money for your family but to leave a legacy that your children will not only be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker,” he added.
The moment the Dagbon overlord was candid with John Mahama on what and who he has to be as President. pic.twitter.com/UIN4AwXVPO
Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, is seeking answers from former President John Dramani Mahama over his plan to rename public universities if elected into office in 2025.
Mr Anyidoho criticized Mahama’s proposal, arguing that the focus should be on job creation and advancing the “Better Ghana” agenda rather than renaming institutions.
In a series of tweets, Anyidoho expressed his dissatisfaction with Mahama’s intention to rename universities, suggesting that it reflects a continuation of what he described as an “endless drab cycle” of political manoeuvring.
“24hr economy to be used for honeymoon & University name change – not for Creating Jobs, Investing in People, Expanding Infrastructure, Governing in an Open, Honest & Transparent manner. Obviously, Opana never believed in the Better Ghana Agenda of Prez Mills. God save Ghana,” Anyidoho tweeted.
He questioned the efficacy of renaming universities in addressing graduate unemployment and improving Ghana’s economic situation, labeling it as part of the “do me I do you” politics that perpetuates mediocrity.
“If you name UHAS, Atta-Mills University for Health and Allied Sciences, how does that affect its core mandate? Honestly, if I was President Akufo-Addo, after building Asomdwe Park, I would name UHAS after Atta-Mills and see if Opana would dare say he would change that one too,” Anyidoho remarked.
Meanwhile, John Mahama has reiterated his commitment to revert the names of public universities if the NDC regains power in 2025. Mahama accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of merely renaming universities constructed by the NDC, emphasizing the lack of establishment of new universities by the NPP during its tenure.
Mahama emphasized the importance of maintaining the original names of public universities to reflect their core mandates, suggesting that administration blocks, hostels, and libraries could bear the names of individuals instead.
“We will restore the original names, and the names that they have given them, will be given to a significant infrastructure in the Universities. We will add other people and name the infrastructure in the Universities after them. But if the University is University for Development Studies, that is its core mandate. It will be called the University for Development Studies,” Mahama stated.
The debate surrounding university renaming continues to provoke discussion among political circles, highlighting differing perspectives on the priorities and approaches to governance in Ghana.
The esteemed Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II, has offered counsel to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama.
During a recent meeting at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Yaa Naa emphasized the significance of a successful tenure, urging Mahama not to disappoint the public if sworn in as president.
He also cautioned Mahama against the accumulation of wealth and properties if he occupies when sworn in a president.
Yaa Naa emphasized the importance of prioritizing the creation of a significant legacy over accumulating personal wealth, a sentiment shared during Mahama’s courtesy call at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.
Representing Yaa Naa, Naa Jacob Mahama conveyed, “I believe you’re not coming to make more money for your family but to leave a legacy that not only your children will be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they may find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker.”
Dagbon’s Overlord further advised Mahama to remain vigilant against false friends who may undermine his government if he emerges victorious in the 2024 elections. Yaa Naa stressed the significance of discerning true allies, drawing on Mahama’s own experiences.
Initiating his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ on Monday, February 5, 2024, Mahama covered Mion, Gushegu, and Yendi constituencies in the Northern Region. Day two of the tour featured activities in the Tamale Township, encompassing Tamale Central, Tamale North, Tamale South, and Sagnarigu constituencies.
“I believe you’re not coming to make more money for your family, but to leave a legacy that not only your children will be proud of. But will pave the way for them wherever they may find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker.”
“The most important thing for you at this stage of your political life is to be able to tell who your true friends are from the opportunistic ones. You were there once, and it shouldn’t be difficult for you to understand,” he advised.
Yaa-Naa Abukari II, the paramount leader of Dagbon, has advised John Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, to consistently reshuffle his appointees in order to assemble the most capable individuals to govern effectively if elected.
Yaa-Naa emphasized that this strategic approach is crucial for achieving the goals of a political comeback in 2025.
In a speech delivered on February 5, he urged Mahama not to hesitate in rearranging his team based on merit and competence, even if it means replacing loyalists who may not contribute positively to the government.
“When you get the nod from Ghanaians, do not shy away from reshuffling your team to get the right ones on board by merits and competence and lay off even loyalists but misfits who will only churn out mediocrity for your government,” he said.
The Yaa-Naa added, “This applies especially to your cabinet because they in reality rule you and the country. That will be a mistake no Ghanaian will forgive you if you happen to be the chosen one.”
“I believe you are not coming to make more money for your family but to leave a legacy that your children will not only be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker,” he added.
The Dagbon overlord stressed the importance of a competent cabinet, stating that they play a significant role in governing the country effectively.
He warned Mahama that Ghanaians would not forgive him if he failed to present a competent government.
Yaa-Naa encouraged the former President to focus on building a lasting legacy rather than accumulating wealth for his family and friends.
He expressed the belief that Mahama’s purpose should be to leave a legacy that his children would be proud of and that would benefit them in the future.
In response, John Mahama praised Yaa-Naa for his efforts in restoring peace to Dagbon and acknowledged the importance of addressing security issues.
He pledged to address the delayed water treatment facility in the area and assured Yaa-Naa that, if elected, his administration would prioritize the completion of the Yendi Water Supply Project.
Mahama also conducted a town hall meeting at Yendi Senior High School as part of his engagement with the community.
The Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II, has cautioned the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, against amassing wealth if he secures re-election in the upcoming 2024 polls.
Yaa Naa emphasized the importance of prioritizing a meaningful legacy over personal wealth in the event of assuming power again.
These remarks were conveyed during a courtesy visit by John Mahama to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, where the Yaa Naa, represented by Naa Jacob Mahama, offered advice.
Naa Jacob Mahama stated, “I believe you’re not coming to make more money for your family but to leave a legacy that not only your children will be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they may find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker.”
The Overlord of Dagbon also urged the former president to be vigilant about discerning genuine friends from opportunistic ones, cautioning against potential undermining of his government if he wins the 2024 elections.
Yaa Naa highlighted the significance of identifying true allies, drawing from Mahama’s past experiences.
John Mahama commenced his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ on Monday, February 5, 2024, covering Mion, Gushegu, and Yendi constituencies in the Northern Region. The second day of the tour includes engagements in the four constituencies within the Tamale Township, namely Tamale Central, Tamale North, Tamale South, and Sagnarigu constituencies.
“The most important thing for you at this stage of your political life is to be able to tell who your true friends are from the opportunistic ones. You were there once, and it shouldn’t be difficult for you to understand,” he advised.
The National Democratic Congress’ 2024 flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has declared that the new Black Stars will prioritize home-grown players.
This announcement was made during his “Building The Ghana We Want Tour” in the Northern Region as part of his presidential campaign.
Mahama aims to replace the outgoing Ghanaian President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
In recent years, the Black Stars’ performance has been disappointing, culminating in a first-round exit from the 2023 AFCON in Cote D’Ivoire.
Ghana’s inability to secure a win in three matches led to their elimination at the group stage for the second consecutive edition of the AFCON.
Speaking to a gathered audience, the NDC presidential candidate outlined his commitment to shaping the Black Stars under his leadership by focusing on home-grown talents who have excelled within the revitalized Ghanaian football structure.
“We will build the new Black Stars based on homegrown players. Domestic players who have trained together for a long time and work as a team, and then we will bring in the foreign ones to blend with them.”
“The core of the Black Stars must be made up of domestic players who have played together for a long time… We are going to overhaul Ghana football in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association.”
The King of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abubakari Mahama II, has counseled former President John Dramani Mahama to regard Vice President Dr. Bawumia not as an adversary but as a brother.
Ya-Na stressed the importance of this perspective to ensure a respectful and non-inflammatory campaign leading up to the 2024 general elections.
“You have no other brother out there besides him (Bawumia). Being on the opposite side of the political divide does not make you enemies”
During a courtesy visit by former President Mahama as part of his ‘Building Ghana Tour,’ Ya-Na, through a representative, emphasized that both the NPP flagbearer and the NDC flagbearer are like sons to him and should conduct themselves with decorum.
This guidance follows comments made by the former President, referring to President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Bawumia as “Jack Toronto and his younger brother.”
Ya-Na urged the NDC flagbearer to acknowledge that Vice President Bawumia is his only brother on the political stage, underscoring that political differences should not make them enemies.
He further called on both former President Mahama and Dr. Bawumia to ensure a peaceful election in the upcoming year, recognizing that only Allah knows the ultimate winner.
Former President Mahama visited Yendi to inform the Ya-Na of his presence in the region and to seek permission to tour selected constituencies.
Dagbon’s overlord, Yaa-Naa Abukari II, has advised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, to regularly shuffle his appointees to ensure a selection of the best human resources for efficient governance if elected.
Yaa-Naa emphasized that adopting this approach would be crucial for Mahama’s comeback bid in 2025 and urged him not to underestimate the importance of assembling a competent government.
The speech conveying this message was delivered on behalf of Yaa-Naa on February 5.
“When you get the nod from Ghanaians, do not shy away from reshuffling your team to get the right ones on board by merits and competence and lay off even loyalists but misfits who will only churn out mediocrity for your government,” he said.
The Yaa-Naa added, “This applies especially to your cabinet because they in reality rule you and the country. That will be a mistake no Ghanaian will forgive you if you happen to be the chosen one.”
Yaa-Naa encouraged the former President to prioritize building a legacy over accumulating wealth for his family and friends.
“I believe you are not coming to make more money for your family but to leave a legacy that your children will not only be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker,” he added.
In his remarks, the NDC flagbearer praised Ya-Naa for his role in restoring peace in Dagbon and emphasized the importance of addressing security challenges.
Mr Mahama commended the Yaa-Naa for collaborating with local authorities to address issues of armed robbery in the area and pledged to expedite the completion of the delayed water treatment facility.
During his ‘Building the Ghana We Want Tour’ in the Northern Region on Monday, February 5, 2024, John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), paid a courtesy call on Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II, the Overlord of Dagbon, at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.
Mahama assured Yaa Naa that, if elected, his government would prioritize resolving water scarcity in Dagbon.
He expressed disappointment over the stalled Yendi Water Supply Project initiated during his tenure, criticizing the current government for its lack of progress on the project.
Mahama also promised to address the prevailing insecurity in Dagbon, particularly the rise in armed robberies, if the NDC regains power in 2025.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring safety for the people of Dagbon, allowing them to live and work without fear of harm.
Furthermore, Mahama pledged to revive the Eastern Corridor Roads project, which has experienced delays under the current government. He committed to completing the project to facilitate travel for the people of Yendi, eliminating the need to pass through Tamale when journeying to the southern part of Ghana.
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama, has indicated plans to build a new Black Stars team around homegrown footballers if elected President in the 2024 elections.
The decision comes in response to Ghana’s disappointing performance at the recent African Cup of Nations, where the team exited the competition at the group stage for the second consecutive time.
Former President Mahama attributed the Black Stars‘ poor performance to the absence of colts football, which plays a crucial role in developing footballers at the early stages.
“We just came from the Africa Cup of Nations, and we performed abysmally. We performed abysmally because we are not growing our football,” observed Mahama.
“Before we used to have the colts and every district used to organize its colts’ league and they picked the prominent players from there. We used to have the academicals where the schools played against each other and we picked the promising players from there before we come to U-17 and then all the other age groups. Unfortunately, all that has collapsed and so we are going to work with the Football Association to start catching them young so that we can train them and give them to local teams to get experience.”
During a community engagement at Bongo as part of the NDC’s “Building Ghana Tour,” John Dramani Mahama addressed the community’s request for the construction of an astro turf for football development.
The NDC flagbearer pledged that if elected, together with the Ghana Football Association, they will build the Black Stars with homegrown players. Mahama emphasized the importance of nurturing talent at the grassroots level and did not discount the possibility of blending them with some foreign-based Ghanaian players.
“We will build a new Black Stars based on homegrown players, domestic players who have trained together for a long term and work as a team and then we bring the foreign ones to come and blend with them. If you bring only foreign-based players who don’t play together, they play in their individual teams and then when there’s time for competition you bring them and tell them to play it won’t work,” he added.
“We will build a new Black Stars based on homegrown players, domestic players who have trained together for a long term and work as a team and then we bring the foreign ones to come and blend with them. If you bring only foreign-based players who don’t play together, they play in their individual teams and then when there’s time for competition you bring them and tell them to play it won’t work,” he added.
Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, questions the assertion made by former President John Dramani Mahama that the NDC constructed all public universities.
Former President Mahama contends that the NDC initiated and built each public university, accusing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of merely renaming them.
In contrast to the NPP, Mahama emphasizes the NDC’s reputation for nation-building, particularly through the provision of infrastructure.
“We are known as nation builders because of the number of schools we have built. Every public university was initiated and built by us. All the NPP knows how to do is name universities that people have built.
Following the construction of a university by the NDC, they subsequently name it after one of their revered figures. We plan to rename these universities, recognizing not only the heroes from the NPP tradition but also those from various facets of Ghanaian history.
“We can name an administration block, hostel, and library after somebody. But the university must reflect its core mandate. And so we will restore the original names, and the names that they have given them will be given to significant infrastructure in the universities.
“And we will add other people and name the infrastructure in the universities after them. But if the university is the University for Development Studies, that is its core mandate. It will be called the University for Development Studies,” the flagbearer of the NDC said while addressing party supporters, chiefs, and students at Zuarungu in the Upper East Region.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is remembered for renaming the Wa campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS) after Simon Diedong (SD) Dombo, a politician affiliated with the United Party tradition.
In a statement on his X platform, Mr. Anyidoho, a former presidential spokesperson during the Mills’ administration, mentioned:
“Did NDC really build all Public Universities? Prez Rawlings established UDS, President Mills established, UHAS, Volta, UNER, B/A, USD Eastern. Which one did [Mahama] establish? Rather he created a green book and sought to appropriate all projects of Prez Mills.”
He added “24hr economy to be used for honeymoon and University name change – not for, Creating Jobs, Investing in People, Expanding Infrastructure, Governing in an Open, Honest & Transparent manner. Obviously, [John Mahama] never believed in the Better Ghana Agenda of Prez Mills. God save Ghana.”
“How does the changing of names of universities solve the graduate unemployment and change the economic situation of Ghana? Isn’t it a continuation of the endless drab cycle of ‘do me I do you’ politics which sinks the nation deeper into the throes of gross mediocrity?
“If you name UHAS, Atta-Mills University for Health and Allied Sciences, how does that affect its core mandate? Honestly, if I was President Akufo-Addo, after building Asomdwe Park, I would name UHAS after Atta-Mills and see if [Mahama] would dare say he would change that one too.”
The Bawku Naba, Zugraana Naba Asigri Abugurago Azoka II, has expressed his concern over the absence of peace in Bawku.
He lamented that the once peaceful and vibrant town has been devoid of peace for over two years, resulting in evident consequences.
These remarks were made during an interaction with former President John Dramani Mahama, who visited him on Saturday, February 3.
“Your Excellency, as we welcome you warmly to Kusaug, we have no doubt that you are aware of the unfortunate and needless conflict in Bawku that led to the loss of several of lives and property. For over two years now, peace has eluded our once peaceful and vibrant town with obvious consequences.
“We continue to look up to God, our ancestors, the government, and other important stakeholders to play their roles to restore peace to Bawku. We know that the truth will prevail,” he said.
Mr. Mahama assured the people that if he were to win the elections, peace would be restored in Bawku.
During his interaction, he recalled that Bawku was peaceful when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) was in power, attributing this to the implementation of effective security measures during that period.
The former president pledged a commitment to addressing the current challenges and restoring peace to the once tranquil town if given the opportunity to lead again.
He said “It is unfortunate that this has reared its ugly head again. The time we were in office we had virtually calmed things, Bawku was a thriving community again, and people were going about their business without fear of being harmed. Unfortunately, now you cannot roam freely in Bawku. Just recently I was reading that they had put a ban on motorcycles again in the evening and generally, it is a period of insecurity for the people living in that area. In the night buses are fired upon and people are killed.
“These are things that we are going to make a priority when we come into office, we have done it before, we will do it again, and we will work hard to resolve the Bawku crisis and bring peace back to Bawku and surrounding areas.”
He added “The second aspect of the insecurity is the armed robbery. Armed robbery has become a major problem here and it is affecting the economy of the Upper East region. You go to market, and you are coming back and armed robbers set on you, they rob the people. We are going to mount a very strong fight against armed robbery, because you cannot have economic progress in an environment of insecurity and so it is imperative that we make sure our region is safe and secure so people will go about their business without fear of being harmed or killed.”
Recently, unidentified gunmen opened fire on a group of people at the community center in Bawku on Wednesday, January 17, resulting in the tragic death of two individuals and injuring four others.
Mahama Ayariga, the lawmaker for the area, condemned the incident, describing it as both dastardly and unacceptable. He urged law enforcement agencies to take immediate action in apprehending and dealing with the perpetrators.
In response to the escalating situation, the Minister for the Interior, through Executive Instrument, extended the curfew hours imposed on Bawku Municipality and its environs in the Upper East Region from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am, effective Friday, January 12, 2024.
The government called on Chiefs, Elders, Opinion Leaders, Youth, and residents of the area to exercise restraint and employ non-violent means to address the challenges and work towards ensuring peace. Additionally, there is a complete ban on carrying arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapon in the specified communities, with a warning that individuals found in possession will be arrested and prosecuted.
During his “Building the Ghana we want together” tour at Zuarungu in the Upper East Region, former President John Dramani Mahama asked a question that got all gathered for a community engagement laughing their hearts out.
He posed the question after an individual interrupted his speech that was towards criticising the incumbent government for its failures.
“The president on several occasions has said things……” and he immediately asked “Who said Jack Toronto?”.
“Don’t put words in my mouth,” the NDC flagbearer jokingly said as he joined the crowd laughing in the hilarious moment.
The term “Jack Toronto” was once used by Mahama in reference to President Akufo-Addo in 2018 ahead of the 2020 general elections.
Six years ago, former President Mahama named President Akufo-Addo Jack Toronto due to the ambitious plans he had.
According to Mahama, those dreams could not be realised in just 3 years in office.
He mocked: “Jack Toronto just came to power and decided to make it 3 years. Excuse me to say, jack is a movie, I’m not trying to ridicule him, but I’m talking about someone who thinks he has strength and wants to execute this in 3 years. But I know that Ghanaians are looking back to the NDC for hope for a turn-around.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has placed five electoral officers, responsible for overseeing the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries in Yendi, on interdiction.
As per information from a source affiliated with the regional directorate of the Commission, the interdiction encompasses five officers who were designated to support the election process, excluding municipal officers.
The Yendi constituency’s parliamentary election on Saturday, January 27, was marred by allegations against an Electoral Commission official accused of manipulating the ballots for one of the candidates.
A Commission officer faced accusations of secreting Abibata’s ballot papers into his jacket, leading to a dispute resulting in torn ballot papers.
Security intervention was necessary to restore order, and the election materials, including ballot papers, were transferred to the Yendi municipal police station.
Despite this, EC officials declined to tally and announce the results.
Alhaji Masawudu Osman, the party’s third Vice Chairman, declared Farouk Aliu Mahama as the winner of the elections.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has declared his intention to reverse the names assigned by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to certain public universities in Ghana if he is re-elected in the 2024 polls.
President Akufo-Addo, upon assuming office, renamed several public universities.
Notably, the University for Development Studies (UDS), Wa campus was renamed after SD Dombo [Simon Diedong Dombo], a United Party tradition politician, and is now known as Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in the Upper West Region, and the C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS) in the Upper East Region.
In 2018, the President also renamed the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) to the George Grant University of Mines and Technology.
Addressing supporters in the Upper East Region, John Dramani Mahama criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for renaming universities established by the NDC government after their heroes. He questioned the logic behind renaming existing universities when the NPP government has not initiated the construction of any new universities.
Mahama emphasized the importance of naming libraries, hostels, and administration blocks after individuals, asserting that the names of public universities should align with their core mandates.
“We are known as nation builders because of the number of schools we have built. Every public university was initiated and built by us. All the NPP knows how to do is name universities that people have built. After NDC builds a university, then they will give it the name of one of their heroes or people. We are going to rename the universities. Ghana has many heroes, and not only the heroes of the NPP tradition.
He emphasized, “We can name an administration block, hostel, and library after somebody. But the university must reflect its core mandate. And so we will restore the original names, and the names that they have given them will be given to significant infrastructure in the universities. And we will add other people and name the infrastructure in the universities after them. But if the university is the University for Development Studies, that is its core mandate. It will be called the University for Development Studies.”
Renaming public universities: I will reverse the names of public universities by Akufo-Addo-led government – John Mahama. #JoyNewspic.twitter.com/4P5LmbEc86
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has made a commitment to prioritize efforts aimed at resolving the longstanding Bawku conflict if he is granted another term in office.
The Bawku conflict, marked by ethno-political tensions between the Kusasis and Mamprusis, has endured for decades, resulting in loss of lives and impeding socio-economic development in the region.
During his address to members of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, former President John Mahama underscored the urgent need for proactive measures to facilitate dialogue, enhance mutual understanding, and establish sustainable peace initiatives in the region.
“Just recently, I was reading they have put a ban on riding motorcycles again in the evening. Generally, it is a period of insecurity for people living in that area. In the night, buses are fired upon, and people are killed. These are things that we are going to make a priority when we come. We have done it before [and] we will do it again. We will work hard to resolve the Bawku crisis and bring peace back to Bawku and its surrounding areas.”
Highlighting the period of relative peace experienced by the people of Bawku during his presidency, Mr. Mahama expressed confidence in his capacity to garner support from various stakeholders and lead efforts to achieve a lasting resolution to the Bawku conflict.
The former President emphasized his commitment to leveraging his experience and engaging with diverse parties to foster understanding and cooperation, ultimately working towards sustainable peace in the region.
“At the time we were in office, we had virtually calmed things. Bawku was a striving community, and people were going about their business without the fear of being harmed. Unfortunately, now, you cannot roam freely in Bawku.
As part of his “Building Ghana” tour, the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is currently in the Upper East Region for a two-day visit. Responding to concerns raised by members of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, particularly regarding security issues in the region, especially in Bawku, the NDC flagbearer expressed his apprehension about the escalating armed robberies affecting the economic progress of the area.
The President of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Chiana Traditional Area, Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III, lamented the spread of the Bawku conflict across the country. He welcomed any suggestions and support from the NDC flagbearer and his team to contribute to bringing lasting peace to the troubled area.
“Ghanaians need peace to go about their normal duties. The Kuasaug Traditional Council needs peace in Bawku to restore the area back to its former status, and it is important that a lot of work needs to be done while in opposition. The regional capital and its suburbs have recently witnessed target killings. We need peace and a permanent solution to prevent this mess from spreading to the entire region. We know the burden rests on the sincerity and honesty of the politicians on both sides of the divide. We, the Upper East region, are prepared to extend a warm hand of cooperation to whoever is interested in bringing peace in Bawku and the Kusaug Traditional Area as a whole.”
Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has stated that the motorcycle transportation industry (Okada) has become an established and unassailable sector.
He said this sector has become impervious to any government’s efforts to eliminate it.
Speaking at the Agormanya Saint Martin’s Parish Hall during his Building Ghana tour in the Eastern Region, Mahama emphasized that the Okada business has entrenched itself and cannot be collapsed.
He also criticized the current government for its failure to address economic challenges and provide sufficient employment opportunities for the youth.
Mr Mahama reiterated his unchanged stance on Okada riders, asserting that, if given another term, he would implement a comprehensive system involving the registration, licensing, and regulation of the riders. This strategy aims to provide clear guidelines for the smooth operation of the Okada business without hindrances.
Furthermore, Mahama highlighted the significant impact his upcoming administration would have on local farmers in the Krobo enclaves.
He proposed the establishment of a farmer’s cooperative to address the challenges faced by farmers when purchasing agricultural supplies such as fertilizer and seeds.
Three retired police officers renowned for their outstanding service in anti-crime efforts have officially joined the campaign team of former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, who is the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming 2024 elections.
The former police commissioners include:
COP Kofi Boakye (Commander One):
Known as Commander One, COP Kofi Boakye has maintained a close relationship with John Mahama, leading to speculation about his potential candidacy as the running mate for the NDC’s presidential candidate.
Boakye, the former head of the Ghana Police Service’s Legal and Prosecution Division, earned a strong reputation as one of the country’s most popular and respected senior police officers.
Notably, Commander One spearheaded high-profile crime-fighting efforts, including the successful apprehension of the notorious armed robber Ataa Ayi in 2005.
Former IGP Mohammed Alhassan:
Former Inspector General of Police Mohammed Alhassan, honored with national accolades in 2013, has pledged his support to Mahama’s presidential bid.
Alhassan was among the dignitaries recognized by President Mahama in 2013 for their distinguished service to the nation.
COP Bright Oduro (Rtd):
Retired COP Bright Oduro, the former Director General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), has openly supported Mahama’s campaign.
Oduro, who controversially left his position in 2017, had previously acknowledged political influence in police officer promotions, stating that the process involves political considerations, with final approval by the president and recommendations from the Police Council.
Oduro faced accusations, including engaging with land guards for illicit activities, as raised by Assin Central Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong.
These three retired police officers have been actively participating in various campaign events across the country, showcasing their support for John Mahama’s presidential aspirations.
Their presence has been notable during events such as the 24-hour economy walk in Kumasi and the ongoing ‘Building Ghana Tour’ in the Eastern region.
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama,has stated that the economic downturn is a significant factor contributing to the constant calls for improved remuneration.
During the ‘Building Ghana Tour,’ where he engaged with organized labor, various unions have advocated for increased market premiums in the event of the NDC’s success in the 2024 election.
Some unions have even resorted to strikes to underscore their demands.
The former president anticipates that these demands will persist until there is an improvement in the overall economic conditions.
“They can giver you whatever market premium, they can give you whatever money but if the economic deterioration does not stop, you will continue to demand more allowances and more money. Not because you are not being paid more but your money is being eroded by inflation,” he said.
According to Mr Mahama, the “NDC has the men and the women to sort out this economic mess.”
Mr Mahama emphasized that if elected as President, the NDC would proactively engage with labor unions and stakeholders to chart a path towards economic recovery.
Meanwhile, he urged the electorate not to be swayed by gifts aimed at influencing them in the upcoming elections, advising them to vote against such politicians. The former President encouraged voters to consider the prevailing economic challenges in the country and use that as a guide to vote out the current government.
Former President John Dramani Mahama is of the assertion that President Akufo-Addo will not approve the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill also known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Mr Mahama criticized the government for not promptly facilitating the approval and enactment of the bill three years after it was introduced.
He disagreed with the President’s argument that passing the bill would result in additional costs for the government and impose pressure on the state’s Consolidated Fund.
“The bill in parliament has not been passed yet, but the government has shown that if the law is passed, the president will not assent to it. The Attorney General says the private member’s motion can be passed, but it should not come at a cost to the government. The president, based on that technicality, will not sign the bill into law. Between Parliament and the Executive, they will have to check and see if they can take off any cost from the government so that the President will sign,” he said.
Flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has made his position known on the identification and activities of the LGBTQ community in the country.
According to the former president, Ghana cannot accept or condone the activities of the LGBTQ community. He argues that such a practice or lifestyle goes against the Christian faith.
He rubbished the claim that a man can decide to alter his sex and be addressed as a trans man or woman.
“My faith is against LGBTQ. I am an Assembly’s of God Member. The faith I have does not agree with a man marrying a man and a women getting betrothed to another woman.
“Personally, I don’t agree with that. A man is a man and a woman is a woman. I do not agree with the assertion that people say I feel like I am a girl when I am a boy, so I am going to have surgery.
“God created us as man and woman and he knew what he was doing. So if you ask me, my personal faith is against LGBTQ,” he said.
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill also known as the LGBTQ Bill has been debated on for close to three years after being sent to Parliament by some eight MPs including Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam Nartey George in 2021.
Speaker Alban Bagbin reassured the public that the bill would be passed before Parliament adjourns for the Christmas and New Year break but that has not been the case.
Clause 4 of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill creates an offense related to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values.
He argues that the clause is ambiguous and highly subjective in nature, a decision made following engagements with the Attorney-General, hence the need to delete it.
Quoting recommendations from the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, Mr. Anyimadu Antwi said, “Though this clause creates an offence relating to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values what constitutes ‘undermine’ is not defined and therefore the basis of the offence cannot be determined.
“Mr. Speaker this is the advice the learned Attorney General gave to the committee and the entire committee agreed on this advice. And that’s why we agreed as has been said by ranking that it was too much of subjectivity and ambiguities and that is why we propose that in deleting and creating an offence we shouldn’t be having ambiguities and subjectivities. That is why the proposal is to delete the entire clause.”
Meanwhile, the sponsors of the bill are not enthused about the recommendation made. South Dayi MP, Rockson-Nelson Defeamekpor said that clause was integral to the entire bill and thus deleting it would be erroneous.
“Mr. Speaker the essence of four is so cardinal to this legislation. So, so cardinal, so, so fundamental to it. I’ve been struggling to appreciate the point made by the ranking member that this offence in article 39, he’s not been able to point it out.
“The subjectivity element that he points to that, too I am struggling to appreciate.
“Because you see when we enacted the provision this way, subject to the enhancement contained in the amendments listed thereafter, there will be investigations if somebody makes a complaint that clause four which subsequently will become section four has been breached, that is not the end of it. Investigations will be conducted. It is the investigation that will establish a prima facie that indeed clause four subsequently section four of the law has been breached or not,” he explained.
Dear @JDMahama, this is bold. This is decisive. This is leadership. Standing for what one believes in. I have never doubted your position on the matter, especially when you were attacked as President in Scotland in 2016 over your position on homosexuality. Posterity would… pic.twitter.com/TQjHRMuVqJ
Former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed the view that Ghanaians have become desensitized to corruption.
He noted that in the past, when people heard of scandals, they were shocked, but currently, citizens seem to expect public officers to engage in corruption in one way or another.
“Today when there is a scandal people are like we are tired because they are all tired, everybody is tired. And so even in the twilight to exit office you still coming up with schemes to steal money.
“This is at a time when we have the office of the special prosecutor suddenly say the special prosecutor should return all Cecilia Dapaah’s money to her. The explanation they give is that the Special Prosecutor cannot handle money laundering cases. So why did they establish the office of the special prosecutor?” he quizzed.
He made the comment in response to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International, ranking Ghana 70th out of 180 countries in terms of corruption.
Ghana scored 43 out of 100, the same since 2020. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana scored better than 39 countries, including Burkina Faso (41), South Africa (41), Côte d’Ivoire (40), Tanzania (40), and Lesotho (39).
However, it ranked lower than seven countries in the region, including Mauritius (51), Namibia (49), and Sao Tome and Principe (45). The average score for African countries remains low, at 33 out of 100, with 90% of Sub-Saharan African nations scoring below 50.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has condemned the identification and activities of the LGBTQ community in Ghana.
According to the former President, Ghana cannot accept or condone the activities of the LGBTQ community, as he believes such practices go against the Christian faith.
John Mahama rejected the claim that a person can decide to alter their sex and be addressed as a trans man or woman.
“My faith is against LGBTQ. I am an Assembly’s of God Member. The faith I have does not agree with a man marrying a man and a women getting betrothed to another woman.
“Personally, I don’t agree with that. A man is a man and a woman is a woman. I do not agree with the assertion that people say I feel like I am a girl when I am a boy, so I am going to have surgery.
“God created us as man and woman and he knew what he was doing. So if you ask me, my personal faith is against LGBTQ,” he said.
Addressing party folks as part of his 2-day tour of the Eastern Region, Mr Mahama chided the government led by President Akufo-Addo over their failure to see to the swift approval of the bill and its passing into law.
He disagreed with the President’s assertion that the passage of the bill will have the government incurring additional cost.
“The bill in Parliament has not yet been passed into law but the government has made it known that the president will not append his signature because his Attorney General says anything that is a Private Member motion and cannot bring any cost to the government.
“Based on that, Akufo-Addo has said when the Bill comes to him, he will not sign it.”
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill also known as the LGBTQ Bill has been debated on for close to three years after being sent to Parliament by some eight MPs including Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam Nartey George in 2021.
Speaker Bagbin reassured the public that the bill would be passed before Parliament adjourns for the Christmas and New Year break but that has not been the case.
Clause 4 of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill creates an offense related to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values.
He argues that the clause is ambiguous and highly subjective in nature, a decision made following engagements with the Attorney-General, hence the need to delete it.
Quoting recommendations from the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, Mr. Anyimadu Antwi said, “Though this clause creates an offence relating to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values what constitutes ‘undermine’ is not defined and therefore the basis of the offence cannot be determined.
“Mr. Speaker this is the advice the learned Attorney General gave to the committee and the entire committee agreed on this advice. And that’s why we agreed as has been said by ranking that it was too much of subjectivity and ambiguities and that is why we propose that in deleting and creating an offence we shouldn’t be having ambiguities and subjectivities. That is why the proposal is to delete the entire clause.”
Meanwhile, the sponsors of the bill are not enthused about the recommendation made. South Dayi MP, Rockson-Nelson Defeamekpor said that clause was integral to the entire bill and thus deleting it would be erroneous.
“Mr. Speaker the essence of four is so cardinal to this legislation. So, so cardinal, so, so fundamental to it. I’ve been struggling to appreciate the point made by the ranking member that this offence in article 39, he’s not been able to point it out.
“The subjectivity element that he points to that, too I am struggling to appreciate.
“Because you see when we enacted the provision this way, subject to the enhancement contained in the amendments listed thereafter, there will be investigations if somebody makes a complaint that clause four which subsequently will become section four has been breached, that is not the end of it. Investigations will be conducted. It is the investigation that will establish a prima facie that indeed clause four subsequently section four of the law has been breached or not,” he explained.
Dear @JDMahama, this is bold. This is decisive. This is leadership. Standing for what one believes in. I have never doubted your position on the matter, especially when you were attacked as President in Scotland in 2016 over your position on homosexuality. Posterity would… pic.twitter.com/TQjHRMuVqJ
Flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has made his position known on the identification and activities of the LGBTQ community in the country.
According to the former president, Ghana cannot accept or condone the activities of the LGBTQ community. He argues that such a practice or lifestyle goes against the Christian faith.
He rubbished the claim that a man can decide to alter his sex and be addressed as a trans man or woman.
“My faith is against LGBTQ. I am an Assembly’s of God Member. The faith I have does not agree with a man marrying a man and a women getting betrothed to another woman.
“Personally, I don’t agree with that. A man is a man and a woman is a woman. I do not agree with the assertion that people say I feel like I am a girl when I am a boy, so I am going to have surgery.
“God created us as man and woman and he knew what he was doing. So if you ask me, my personal faith is against LGBTQ,” he said.
Addressing party folks as part of his 2-day tour of the Eastern Region, Mr Mahama chided the government led by President Akufo-Addo over their failure to see to the swift approval of the bill and its passing into law.
He disagreed with the President’s assertion that the passage of the bill would have the government incur additional costs.
“The bill in Parliament has not yet been passed into law but the government has made it known that the president will not append his signature because his Attorney General says anything that is a Private Member motion and cannot bring any cost to the government.
“Based on that, Akufo-Addo has said when the Bill comes to him, he will not sign it.”
The Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values bill also known as the LGBTQ Bill has been debated on for close to three years after being sent to Parliament by some eight MPs including Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam Nartey George in 2021.
Speaker Bagbin reassured the public that the bill would be passed before Parliament adjourns for the Christmas and New Year break but that has not been the case.
Clause 4 of the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill creates an offense related to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values.
He argues that the clause is ambiguous and highly subjective in nature, a decision made following engagements with the Attorney-General, hence the need to delete it.
Quoting recommendations from the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, Mr. Anyimadu Antwi said, “Though this clause creates an offence relating to undermining proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values what constitutes ‘undermine’ is not defined and therefore the basis of the offence cannot be determined.
“Mr. Speaker this is the advice the learned Attorney General gave to the committee and the entire committee agreed on this advice. And that’s why we agreed as has been said by ranking that it was too much of subjectivity and ambiguities and that is why we propose that in deleting and creating an offence we shouldn’t be having ambiguities and subjectivities. That is why the proposal is to delete the entire clause.”
Meanwhile, the sponsors of the bill are not enthused about the recommendation made. South Dayi MP, Rockson-Nelson Defeamekpor said that clause was integral to the entire bill and thus deleting it would be erroneous.
“Mr. Speaker the essence of four is so cardinal to this legislation. So, so cardinal, so, so fundamental to it. I’ve been struggling to appreciate the point made by the ranking member that this offence in article 39, he’s not been able to point it out.
“The subjectivity element that he points to that, too I am struggling to appreciate.
“Because you see when we enacted the provision this way, subject to the enhancement contained in the amendments listed thereafter, there will be investigations if somebody makes a complaint that clause four which subsequently will become section four has been breached, that is not the end of it. Investigations will be conducted. It is the investigation that will establish a prima facie that indeed clause four subsequently section four of the law has been breached or not,” he explained.
Dear @JDMahama, this is bold. This is decisive. This is leadership. Standing for what one believes in. I have never doubted your position on the matter, especially when you were attacked as President in Scotland in 2016 over your position on homosexuality. Posterity would… pic.twitter.com/TQjHRMuVqJ
Former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flag bearer, John Dramani Mahama, has signaled his disapproval of LGBTQ.
This statement represents Mahama’s most explicit stance on the issue since it emerged as a topic of national discourse.
Despite being recognized for his moderate political positions during his tenure as Ghana’s president from 2012 to 2017, Mahama’s stance on LGBTQ rights has remained ambiguous until now.
“By faith as a member of the Assemblies of God church, I am against LGBTQ,” Mahama declared, emphasizing the importance of aligning his political views with his religious beliefs.
Mahama’s statement emerges amid escalating tensions surrounding LGBTQ rights in Ghanaian society. The subject has ignited fervent discussions across political, religious, and social spheres, pitting advocates and adversaries against each other on matters pertaining to human rights, morality, and tradition.
Dear @JDMahama, this is bold. This is decisive. This is leadership. Standing for what one believes in. I have never doubted your position on the matter, especially when you were attacked as President in Scotland in 2016 over your position on homosexuality. Posterity would… pic.twitter.com/TQjHRMuVqJ
National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, has made a pledge to cancel the controversial contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
He characterized such agreements as corrupt and stated that they would not be allowed to persist under his administration, as they go against the nation’s best interests.
Mr. Mahama emphasized his commitment to strengthening anti-corruption measures and expressed his readiness to terminate the SML contract if elected.
“One would have thought that the corruption cases were enough but it has numb Ghanaians. Corruption does not shock Ghanaians the way it used to shock us”, he said.
“An NDC government under me will not recognise or accept this SML agreement. The President has hurriedly got KPMG to audit it, whatever audit they will do I say we won’t accept or respect any agreement with SML.”
During a meeting with organized labor as part of the “Building Ghana Tour” of the Eastern Region, John Mahama expressed his commitment to addressing corruption in the country. He pledged to cancel the controversial contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), considering such agreements as corrupt and against the nation’s best interests.
In a December 2023 investigative report, The Fourth Estate implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance in a contentious contract.
The report alleged that GRA had granted SML a purported 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, raising concerns about possible irregularities. SML refuted this claim, asserting that it had a five-year contract instead.
The GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed. On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance.
President Akufo-Addo has appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct an immediate audit. SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations.
About a week ago, the president approved an extension to audit firm KPMG, allowing more time to complete its assessment of the controversial contract.
John Mahama says the next NDC administration will not recognize government's revenue assurance contract with SML.#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/CRZqEGdAbM
A former National Vice Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Ambassador Said Sinare, has urged Ghanaians to repose faith in the party’s leader, John Mahama, and vote for him in the upcoming December polls.
Mr Sinare asserted that unlike President Akufo-Addo, who, in his view, has led many Ghanaians into poverty, former President John Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer, will perform better and enhance the lives of the citizens.
During an interview on Dwaboase on TV XYZ with Kwame Minkah, Alhaji Sinare expressed confidence that John Mahama, if elected, will exceed his previous performance and bring positive change to the country.
Sinare emphasized that Mahama, despite having only one term to serve if elected, is well-prepared to address the country’s challenges.
He assured, “John will not fail the good people of this great country. When John comes back to power, he will double what he did when he came to power in 2012.”
Regarding how a future NDC government would revitalize the economy, Sinare mentioned that Mahama and the party have outlined policies to tackle wastage, corruption, and rebuild the economy.
He underscored the importance of discipline and economic structure, criticizing what he perceives as “wastage” in the governance of the NPP. Sinare highlighted the NDC’s commitment to transforming the health sector and improving healthcare accessibility.
Mr Sinare questioned the concentration of the country’s only dialysis center in Accra and pledged that the NDC government would establish dialysis centers in government hospitals nationwide.
Discussing plans for Zongos (predominantly Muslim communities), Alhaji Sinare stressed that the NDC, despite having already delivered projects in Zongo communities, is committed to continuing these initiatives if they win the 2024 elections.
He criticized the current government for allegedly failing to fulfill promises to Zongo communities, except for astro turfs. Sinare pledged that under Mahama’s leadership, the NDC would focus on improving lives, boosting employment, and addressing infrastructure needs in Zongo communities.
“I m a Zongo boy. All the promises the government has made to the Zongo communities, they have failed to fulfil them. Apart from the astro turfs, what have they done?” Alhaji Sinare quizzed. “They have totally failed; they have not done anything for Zongos.”
He added, “We are going to improve their lives, we are going to make sure we put money in peoples’ pockets, we will tackle unemployment in the Zongo communities….And the health facilities for instance, their roads facilities, their schools. These are the basic things the Zongo needs. I know John Mahama will not disappoint.”
The Krontihene of the Anum traditional area, Osahene Owusu Ntow IV, has issued an apology to the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, for actively campaigning against him during the 2016 general election.
Osahene Owusu Ntow IV revealed that he was among the outspoken traditional leaders who publicly opposed and rejected former President Mahama and his government. This opposition stemmed from a declaration of unwavering support for the NDC leader by an Akwamu chief.
“A certain Chief in Akwamu endorsed president Mahama, claiming that all the chiefs in Anum support him. I went on radio to debunk the claim that we all support him. I am that chief who did that but your Excellency, forgive me my sins,” he begged.
During the “Building Ghana Tour” in the Eastern Region, Osahene Owusu Ntow, the Krontihene of the Anum traditional area, welcomed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer.
In a surprising revelation, Osahene Owusu Ntow expressed that he had initially supported the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to come to power.
He attributed this support to Vice President Bawumia’s persuasive communication skills, describing them as “sweet talks.”
“I didn’t know His Excellency Alhaji Dr. Mahamoud Bawumia was more of a Conman than me. He deceived us into voting for him. He consequently graded our road but the road is in its worst condition. We don’t need anything, we don’t need toilet, water all what we are asking is our roads,” he lamented.
In his address, the Chief highlighted several areas, including Gyakiti, Agyena, Akwamufie, Anum-Boso, among others, as having deplorable road networks.
The Chief used this observation to advise his subjects, urging them to reject governments that, in his view, neglect their development needs. Instead, he encouraged them to vote for competent leadership that prioritizes and actively works towards the improvement of essential infrastructure such as roads.
“We are now wild awake. If we could say in the past that we were born into NPP but now things have changed. We can only assure president Mahama of our votes if he’s able to convince us because those we followed couldn’t help us. This time we are not doing politics again. Mr Mahama and Hon. Ampem Nyarko (referring to the MP for Asuogyaman), the ball is in your possession, we will only shout goal when you play it into the net,” he stated.
Former President John Dramani Mahama will today commence his two-day ‘Building Ghana’ tour of the Eastern Region scheduled to end on January 31, 2024.
The tour, organized by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, is designed to facilitate connections with the people of the region.
The itinerary includes a meeting with the party’s Regional Executive Committee and stakeholders at Peduase Valley Resort.
Other scheduled events involve a courtesy call on the Anum Manhene, a durbar of farmers and fishmongers at Frankadua Market Square, a durbar of transport unions and traders at the Roman Catholic Parish Hall in Agormenya, and a town hall meeting at GNAT Hall in Koforidua, the Eastern Regional capital.
The first day’s events will conclude with Campus Connect at SDA Training College. The second day of the tour will include a breakfast meeting with the clergy in Koforidua, a courtesy call on the Koforidua Zongo Chief, and various other engagements to round off the tour of the region.
United Kingdom-based research and data firm, Fitch Solution, is predicting electoral victory for National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Mahama in the December 7 presidential election.
According to Fitch’s latest publication on election and risk-related issues in Africa, the current state of the economy will play a significant role in voters’ choices in December.
During a webinar to announce the outcome of its research, Senior Sub-Saharan Africa Country Risk Analyst Mike Kruiniger stated that their findings placed the largest opposition party candidate, John Mahama, ahead of Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Kruiniger emphasized their anticipation of policy continuity prevailing in the region, with most incumbents expected to secure victories and retain their majorities. The research forecasted significant changes in key markets, specifically highlighting South Africa and Ghana.
“In Ghana likewise, we believe anger over living standards is giving opposition candidate John Mahama a lead in the polls. This marks a shift away from the incumbents preferred successor, that being current Vice President Bawumia.
“So again, although we do expect policy continuity to prevail, some important changes will occur and we’ll be monitoring these closely,” he said.
In response to the challenges faced by the NPP, Mike Kruiniger stated that despite the government’s confirmation of its commitment to implementing fiscal reforms in the 2024 budget, they anticipate significant public expenditure overruns ahead of the December election, particularly given that the NPP trails behind in the polls.
“So since the start of the century, public expenditure as a share of GDP increased by an average of three percentage points during election years. And I think that really reflects the government’s tendency – for example, subsidise utilities or implement social welfare programs, really to garner public support in the run-up to general elections.
“So while these expected expenditure overruns will lead to a widening of the budget deficit in 2024, it will also support households financially, so driving up domestic demand that way and also supporting headline economic growth,” he said.
Commenting on the likely winner of the December general elections, Mike Kruiniger emphasized that their core view maintains the opposition NDC is best positioned to secure a victory.
He explained that a closer examination of polling data suggests that the economy and economic management will be central issues for voters during the election. This, he said, is expected to provide the NDC with an advantage, considering that the recent economic downturn occurred under NPP leadership.
“In addition to that, recent polls around voting intentions give John Mahama, the leader of the NDC, a favourable lead. So for further supporting our view that the NDC victory is most likely in December,” he said.
But despite the prediction of electoral victory for the NDC, Fitch is warning of potential instability in the sub-region due to activities of insurgence operating in Burkina Faso and Mali.
“So as a little bit of context, over the past ten years, these Sahelian countries have become really the global flashpoint for Islamic insurgencies and this presents clear risks for neighboring countries like Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin.
“Now, we believe these risks will be compounded by the removal of UN peacekeeping forces from Mali in 2024, which is likely to create a power vacuum in the region, which we believe militant groups are likely to compete for and fill, creating clear spillover effects and negatively impacting some of the region’s fastest-growing countries, like, for example, Cote d’Ivoire or Ghana.
“So overall, we believe that West Africa will be an important monitoring point for security risks in 2024,” the Senior Sub-Saharan Africa Country Risk Analyst for Fitch Solutions, Mike Kruiniger said.
The streets of Kumasi, traditionally considered a stronghold of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), witnessed a massive turnout of people, predominantly NDC supporters, during the former President, John Dramani Mahama’s ‘24-hour Economy Sensitisation Walk.
The event, held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, aimed to promote the NDC’s primary policy proposal for the 2024 elections: the establishment of a 24-hour economy in Ghana.
Noteworthy personalities, not typically associated with active party politics, were also spotted at the event, including the retired Commissioner of Police, Kofi Boakye.
Among the incidents that took centre was the carrying of a bust sculptured in Mahama’s frame. This bust was carried by one Appiah Stadium, who died so while bare-chested.
In his delivery, former President John Dramani Mahama outlined the 24-hour economy proposal, emphasizing that the next NDC government intends to implement measures to encourage businesses in Ghana to operate around the clock.
The policy initiative involves providing incentives for businesses to function day and night, potentially in three shifts, ultimately generating more employment opportunities for the youth.
Appiah Stadium doing the unbelievable to support Mahama In Kumasi
The Ashanti Regional branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has responded strongly to former President John Dramani Mahama’s claim that the region, despite historically contributing significant electoral votes, has been neglected by the current government.
During his campaign for the proposed 24-hour economy policy in Kumasi, Mahama criticized the government, pointing to unfinished projects like the Kumasi Central Market.
In rebuttal, Adom Appiah, the NPP’s regional secretary, vehemently contested Mahama’s assertions and pointed to completed infrastructure projects as proof of the government’s dedication to the Ashanti Region.
Mr Appiah specifically highlighted the successful revitalization of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital’s 44-year-old mother and child block.
He emphasized that the structure, which was considered structurally unsound, was demolished and reconstructed under President Addo Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s administration.
Asserting his position, Appiah stated, “99% of Ashanti residents will agree with me when I say that President Akufo-Addo and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s administration has not neglected the region,” Mr Appiah declared.
He added “If you have been to Kumasi, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, for instance, there was a 44-year-old mother and child block for 44 good years, this block stood unattended to. President Akufo-Addo pulled it down and rebuilt it, recognizing its importance to the 27% of Ghanaians who depend on it.”
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has unequivocally rejected the Electoral Commission’s proposal to change the election date from December 7 to November 7.
The proposition, discussed during the recent Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on January 22, 2024, also included the recommendation to designate election days as national holidays.
Dr. Omane Boamah, the Director of Elections for the NDC, conveyed the party’s strong opposition to altering the established election timeline in a Facebook post.
He underscored the NDC’s commitment to the current election date and urged the Electoral Commission to conduct a comprehensive review of the entire electoral process.
Dr. Boamah stated, “On IPAC matters, for the avoidance of doubt:
1. We (NDC) do not support the November date for elections.
2. Instead of cherry-picking, we (NDC) call for a comprehensive review of the electoral process through inclusive and proper dialogue; we already submitted our proposals to the EC.
3. On voting on prayer/worship days, we (NDC) are open to discussions.”
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has stated that as long as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) remains in power, Ghanaians will endure ongoing hardships.
Criticizing the Akufo-Addo-led NPP government, Mahama accused it of lacking ideas and plans to improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens.
“Under normal circumstances, the release of $600 million by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to the government of Ghana should provide relief to the already overburdened and suffering Ghanaian. It is, however, evident that Ghanaians will continue to suffer as long as the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia and NPP remain in office,” he added.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, January 24, the former President urged Ghanaians to avoid repeating mistakes from previous elections.
“Implementing VAT on electricity consumption will increase tariffs by almost 21% and exacerbate the hardship on Ghanaians. This will affect the prices of goods, services, and transport fares.”
“I agree with organised labour that the government must reverse its decision to start collecting VAT on electricity consumption.”
“The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is eager and ready to address Ghana’s economic challenges and provide substantial relief to Ghanaians upon assumption of office in January 2025,” he posted.
Mahama emphasized the readiness of the NDC to address the country’s economic challenges for the benefit of its citizens.
Voicing concerns about the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption, he stated that it would increase tariffs by almost 21% and exacerbate hardships on Ghanaians, affecting the prices of goods, services, and transport fares.
Mahama supported organized labor’s call for the government to reverse the decision.
Additionally, Mahama urged the government to exercise prudence in using the recently approved $600 million IMF bailout to address economic challenges. Despite the release of the first tranche last year, he contended that Ghanaians continue to endure difficulties.
The disbursement, approved on January 19, 2024, follows Ghana’s successful completion of the 2023 Article IV consultation and the first review of the Extended Credit Facility arrangement.
Expressing concern about persistent hardships, Mahama emphasized that the Akufo-Addo-led administration must ensure the judicious use of funds to bring relief to suffering citizens. He concluded that as long as the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia and NPP remain in office, Ghanaians will continue to face challenges despite the IMF’s financial assistance.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, has stated that as long as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) remains in power, Ghanaians will endure ongoing hardships.
Criticizing the Akufo-Addo-led NPP government, Mahama accused it of lacking ideas and plans to improve the living conditions of ordinary citizens.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, January 24, the former President urged Ghanaians to avoid repeating mistakes from previous elections.
Mahama emphasized the readiness of the NDC to address the country’s economic challenges for the benefit of its citizens.
Voicing concerns about the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption, he stated that it would increase tariffs by almost 21% and exacerbate hardships on Ghanaians, affecting the prices of goods, services, and transport fares.
Mahama supported organized labor’s call for the government to reverse the decision.
Additionally, Mahama urged the government to exercise prudence in using the recently approved $600 million IMF bailout to address economic challenges. Despite the release of the first tranche last year, he contended that Ghanaians continue to endure difficulties.
The disbursement, approved on January 19, 2024, follows Ghana’s successful completion of the 2023 Article IV consultation and the first review of the Extended Credit Facility arrangement.
Expressing concern about persistent hardships, Mahama emphasized that the Akufo-Addo-led administration must ensure the judicious use of funds to bring relief to suffering citizens. He concluded that as long as the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia and NPP remain in office, Ghanaians will continue to face challenges despite the IMF’s financial assistance.
Financial Analyst Mr. Joe Jackson acknowledges the achievability of John Dramani Mahama’s proposed 24-hour economy but deems its implementation challenging. Speaking on the Pae Muka show on Onua FM, Jackson expressed a realistic view on the feasibility of the concept.
Mahama introduced the “24hr Economy” project during a meeting with the country’s mother workers union on November 7, 2023, as part of his engagement with key stakeholders in his bid to return to power.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) clarified that the proposal targets 13 industries, including agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, construction, extractive industry, sanitation, waste management, leisure, hospitality, digital start-ups, business process outsourcing, financial services, retail centers, and transportation services.
A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document outlined the initiative’s focus on creating a supportive environment for businesses to operate 24/7. The 24-hour economy aims to boost productivity, competitiveness, and job creation in a three-shift system.
The NDC emphasized its alignment with national development initiatives, such as education, health services, agriculture, affordable housing, public transport, and efficient justice delivery.
Ghana’s economic strategy under Mahama’s vision includes modernizing agriculture, incentivizing the private sector, promoting agro-processing and manufacturing, and transforming into an import substitution and export-led economy.
The NDC believes this approach will stabilize the national currency, improve reserves, lower inflation and interest rates, generate employment, and enhance livelihoods. The party sees the 24-hour economy as a vital component of its ambitious plan to elevate Ghana in the global economic landscape.
Former Trade Minister during the National Democratic Congress administration, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, has expressed his willingness and readiness to be the running mate for the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Dr. Spio-Garbrah believes that his extensive experience and competence would contribute significantly to the NDC’s electoral success. Speaking on TV3 in Accra, he stated that he is prepared to serve if called upon by Mr. Mahama.
“I am also capable; I am also ready. So it is a matter of his choice. If he chooses me, we all hear about it. I have made myself known and available to lead our party and to lead Ghana, and I’m still here in Ghana,” he affirmed.
Mr. Mahama, seeking re-election in 2023, has announced that he will announce his running mate in February 2024. In the 2020 elections, Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang was selected as the running mate to the former president.
Former Tamale Central MP, Inusah Fuseini, has rejected claims that there is tension between former President John Dramani Mahama and Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu.
There have been reports that there is a strained relationship between the two bigwigs in the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Such rumors have been sparked by @Gen_Buhari, an NPP activist, on social media.
Nothing substantial has been raised as the cause of the alleged strained relationship.
Responding to the claim in an interview on Neat FM, Mr Inusah Fuseini, considered to be in close relation to Mr Mahama, noted that he is unaware of such a conflict.
“I don’t exactly know what is happening between Mahama and Haruna Iddrisu. The devil himself is incapable of knowing, honestly. So I can’t pretend to know. I simply do not understand what is the problem between Haruna and Mahama,” he said.
The former legislator noted that the claims could not be true as the NDC flagbearer, Mr Mahama and Haruna Iddrisu, recently toured Wale together.
“Recently, Mahama went to Bole. While returning, he specifically invited Haruna to join him in Wale. He went with Haruna. I don’t see anything between Haruna Iddrisu and Mahama. I can say with authority, the home Haruna Issrisu lived in at Bobuase was Mahama’s father’s house,” he said.
The NDC northern caucus is deeply divided, the supporters of Haruna Iddrisu have vowed to punish John Mahama in the 2024 elections, its this same issue that led to the attack on Chairman Azoka and the Northern Regional Treasurer, Haruna Iddrissu’s demotion at Parliament is the… pic.twitter.com/Ft7sT9GIZz
Siedu Mba, a once notorious hooligan and member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed a desire to confess his wrongdoings against the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), former President John Dramani Mahama.
Appearing on Abusua 96.5 FM’s afternoon political talk show, hosted by Ebenezer Yaw Jona, popularly known as Osempakani, Siedu Mba, now claiming repentance after being discharged by the court of any involvement in the Canadian girls’ kidnapping, revealed his intention to apologize directly to former President Mahama.
He stated, “I have sinned against the NDC and the former President John Mahama. I was used by the NPP to commit a lot of political sins against his party and government.”
Mr Mba who was previously arrested for his alleged involvement in the kidnapping of two Canadian females in Kumasi, emphasized that he would not disclose the details of his actions against Mahama on the radio but pledged to kneel down and personally apologize when given the opportunity.
He shared his disappointment with the NPP, stating that they disowned him when he faced legal troubles.
The self-proclaimed former NPP loyalist accused prominent figures such as Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, President Nana Akufo Addo, Lawyer Andy Appiah Kubi, Hon. Opare Ansah, and others of abandoning him when he faced legal challenges.
Warning the youth about the ruling party, Siedu Mba cautioned that the NPP is quick to “use and dump people,” urging caution when dealing with them.
In an accusatory tone, Siedu Mba claimed that the National Security team, responsible for his arrest, stole his belongings, including a Range Rover vehicle, undisclosed amounts of money in foreign and local currencies, watches, and jewelry. He demanded the return of his allegedly stolen items.
Regarding Ashanti Regional Chairman Wontumi, Siedu Mba expressed anger over alleged disparaging comments against Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Ashanti King.
He threatened physical action against Wontumi, accusing him of disrespecting Otumfuo and creating chaos during solemn events. Siedu Mba asserted his intent to teach Wontumi a lesson and put him in his place for challenging Otumfuo in his kingdom.
He explained “ Every person in Kumasi, particularly within the Zongo Communities knows my commitment to the NPP. Unfortunately when I was arrested over the kidnapping of the Canadian girls the party disowned me. Sammy Gyemfi the national Communication director of the NDC when he said at a news conference that I’m an NPP member and a bodyguard to the Manhyia South MP NAPO, he sued Sammy Gyemfi he thought I will not come out again from custody. Here I’m speaking to you today’’ he said.
He added” Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, President Nana Akufo Addo, Lawyer Andy Appiah Kubi, Hon. Opare Ansah and others knew my roles in the NPP in the Ashanti region but when my issue came they all left me alone but God didn’t disappoint me. I was not into politics that much NAPO brought me into politics. Called me and told me that since I’m a die hard supporter of Kumasi Asante Kotoko he told me not to join the NDC so I listen to him and work closely with him. So NAPO was like my God father but you all heard what he said about me later’’ he stated.
“they national security operatives took away my Range Rover vehicle, undisclosed amount of money including foreign, local currency, watches and jewelries. “I’m therefore demanding the return of all his stolen items by the national security guys responsible for the country’s security’’ he demanded for
Former President John Mahama has waded into the conversation regarding the tension between the residents of Bawku and officers of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
The Ghana Armed Forces has been accused of shooting and killing three innocent men in Bawku without any justification.
But the Ghana Armed Forces has rejected the claims made by the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, asserting that the information was false.
In a press release issued on January 20, the GAF provided an account of the incident, stating that at approximately 8:30 pm on Thursday, their officers, engaged in night foot patrols near Hasania School at Sabongari, were targeted by gunfire from four assailants.
According to the GAF statement, the officers responded by returning fire, resulting in the death of three of the gunmen, while the fourth individual managed to escape the scene.
“Troops retrieved one AK-47 rifle loaded with 16 rounds of 7.62 x 39 mm ammunition. Ghana Police team arrived at the location subsequently to convey the deceased assailants to the morgue.
“The AK-47 rifle with serial number 81-1/13024074 inspected by Bawku Divisional Police personnel is currently in their own custody,” parts of the statement read.
The GAF clarified that the incident occurred in the context of heightened tensions in Bawku, where four individuals had lost their lives the previous week.
This situation led to an escalation in security measures, including increased patrols. According to the GAF’s statement, on the day of the incident, their officers conducting patrols were fired upon by unidentified gunmen.
Following the clarification by the GAF, former President Mahama, nonetheless, in a Facebook post, urged “the military personnel to remember their duty to protect the people and uphold the peace.”
He acknowledged that the security services face the difficult task of securing peace in the Bawku area, however, stressed that “the military must work hand in hand with the police to provide safety and security in the Bawku municipality and across the nation.”
According to Mr Mahama, he is deeply saddened and disturbed by recent developments in the Bawku municipality and the killing of three men.
He has therefore commiserated with the bereaved families and entreated all parties to play their part in ensuring that peace is restored in the locality.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this difficult time, even as I call upon the people of Bawku to endeavour to promote and consolidate peace to enable the positive development of the municipality of Bawku. Let us all work together to ensure justice is served and peace is restored in Bawku,” he added.
Retired Commissioner of Police (COP) George Alex Mensah has expressed the view that the nation is not ready for a grace period before addressing its economic challenges.
He commented on former President John Mahama’s request for a grace period to settle in if he were to assume the presidency after winning the December 7 general elections, suggesting that it implies a lack of concrete policies to tackle the country’s economic issues.
Speaking in an interview with JoyNews’ Nana Boakye Yiadom, the retired COP, who is running for the Bekwai constituency parliamentary seat on the NPP ticket, criticized the concept of a “honeymoon” period, stating that it reflects a lack of commitment to advancing the country’s development.
He questioned the intentions behind Mr. Mahama’s request for a grace period, emphasizing that if granted, Mahama would have only two years to govern the country, with the subsequent year being an election year.
“We are not ready for a honeymoon, we are not ready. The country is not ready for a honeymoon. We are moving on,” he said.
The retired officer emphasized that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 general elections, John Mahama, is not adequately prepared to restore the country to its previous state.
According to him, Mr. Mahama’s request for a ‘honeymoon’ period suggests a lack of substantive policies and readiness to address the nation’s challenges.
“Honeymoon means he’s not ready. He doesn’t have any policy. How can we give you a honeymoon when we know that people are suffering? People are suffering, and you want to get a honeymoon. He doesn’t have anything good for this country; he’s not ready,” he stressed.
COP George Alex Mensah urged Ghanaians to provide the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) with the opportunity to continue the country’s development. He cautioned that reverting to the previous administration could result in a significant setback.
Former President John Mahama has called on Ghanaians, particularly trade and labor groups, to consider granting the next National Democratic Congress (NDC) government a grace period if he were to return to power.
Mr Mahama made this request in response to increased demands for improved conditions of service from these groups. Speaking at a ‘Campus Connect’ event in Hohoe, he emphasized the importance of allowing time to revive the economy before addressing specific demands.
Former President John Mahama has stated that President Akufo-Addo is fond of making statements that are more aligned with the interests of a specific political group than being impartial or neutral.
Mr Mahama made this claim while expressing dissatisfaction with President Akufo-Addo’s recent statement suggesting intentional neglect of development in the Ekumfi constituency.
President Akufo-Addo conveyed his dissatisfaction with the voting pattern in Ekumfi during an interaction with traditional leaders from the constituency at the Jubilee House.
He mentioned that despite appointing Ato Cudjoe as Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture to facilitate development in the area, the constituents voted him out, which displeased him.
In response, Mr. Mahama criticized President Akufo-Addo’s remarks, deeming them “unfortunate” and pointing out what he perceives as a tendency for the president to make partisan statements.
He also recalled the Mepe controversy, where President Akufo-Addo told Akosombo dam spillage flood victims that if it were based on those who voted for him during the elections, he would not be present.
Through a post on social media (referred to as X in the text), Mr. Mahama reminded President Akufo-Addo of his constitutional responsibilities outlined in Article 36, clause 2(d) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
“President Akufo-Addo has a penchant for making such partisan statements, as we witnessed recently during his visit to flood victims in Mepe. His actions contradict the oath he swore as President to do justice to all manner of persons.”
“Let me also remind him of Chapter Six of our constitution, specifically Article 36, clause 2(d),” he posted on X.
The President's comment that he ignored the development of Ekumfi because they voted out his parliamentarian is most unfortunate. President Akufo-Addo has a penchant for making such partisan statements, as we witnessed recently during his visit to flood victims in Mepe. His…
President Akufo-Addo’s comments regarding intentional neglect of development in the Ekumfi constituency have faced criticism, with many expressing the view that they are unnecessary and unbecoming of a presidential figure.
The remarks, perceived by some as divisive and partisan, have sparked disapproval from individuals who believe that a president should refrain from making statements that may be interpreted as casting blame on specific constituencies or communities based on their voting patterns.
Former President and presidential candidate for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has expressed dissatisfaction with President Akufo-Addo’s recent statement suggesting intentional neglect of development in the Ekumfi constituency.
President Akufo-Addo conveyed his dissatisfaction with the voting pattern in Ekumfi during an interaction with traditional leaders from the constituency at the Jubilee House.
He mentioned that despite appointing Ato Cudjoe as Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture to facilitate development in the area, the constituents voted him out, which displeased him.
In response, Mr. Mahama criticized President Akufo-Addo’s remarks, deeming them “unfortunate” and pointing out what he perceives as a tendency for the President to make partisan statements.
Through a post on social media (referred to as X in the text), Mr. Mahama reminded President Akufo-Addo of his constitutional responsibilities outlined in Article 36, clause 2(d) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
“President Akufo-Addo has a penchant for making such partisan statements, as we witnessed recently during his visit to flood victims in Mepe. His actions contradict the oath he swore as President to do justice to all manner of persons.”
“Let me also remind him of Chapter Six of our constitution, specifically Article 36, clause 2(d),” he posted on X.
The President's comment that he ignored the development of Ekumfi because they voted out his parliamentarian is most unfortunate. President Akufo-Addo has a penchant for making such partisan statements, as we witnessed recently during his visit to flood victims in Mepe. His…
President Akufo-Addo’s comments regarding intentional neglect of development in the Ekumfi constituency have faced criticism, with many expressing the view that they are unnecessary and unbecoming of a presidential figure.
The remarks, perceived by some as divisive and partisan, have sparked disapproval from individuals who believe that a president should refrain from making statements that may be interpreted as casting blame on specific constituencies or communities based on their voting patterns.
The 24-hour Economy Walk, originally slated for December 2023 but postponed due to the District Level Elections, is now set to be led by former President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.
Organized by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ashanti Region, the walk aims to raise awareness about the party’s policy among the region’s residents.
The NDC leadership, including National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia and Regional Chairman Augustus Andrews Nana Akwasi, confirmed that the procession will traverse the principal streets of Kumasi, concluding at the Kumasi Jubilee Park.
“The planned route for the walk is as follows: Aboabo Post Office, through Pelele to On-the-ran to Manhyia Hospital, proceeding to Alabar Street, Kejetia Roundabout, Hello FM, A-life, Asafo Overpass, Labour Roundabout, and concluding at Jubilee Park,” the statement added
Speakers, including John Mahama, will address the gathering. Concurrently, the NDC flagbearer will continue the “Building the Ghana We Want Tour,” engaging with traders, organized labor, artisans, students, and various community sectors.
The NDC anticipates these events will foster a stronger connection between the party and the people of the Ashanti Region.
In an unexpected twist of events, Patapaa’s viral hit “One Corner” and former President Mahama’s unconventional political anthem “John 3:16” have somehow found their way to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
This was thanks to the disc jockey DJ at Stade Laurent Pokou. For some, One Corner is not out of context for a sports tournament, but a political track such as John 3:16, raises eyebrows.
Afro-pop artiste, Patapaa’s One Corner released in 2017 and John 3:16 was Mahama’s official anthem for his re-election in 2016.
The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations enters a pivotal new phase on Thursday with two mouthwatering clashes kicking off the second round of group games with some of the contient’s biggest stars expected to play in the two matches.
Immediately after this first match scheduled to start at 1700 GMT at the Olympique Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Ebimpe, all eyes will be on the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, where Egypt and Ghana face off in a decisive match in Group B, starting at 2000 GMT.
You won't believe what the DJ at Stade Laurent Pokou was playing after 🇿🇲📷.
Former Central Region Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Bernard Allotey Jacobs, has expressed reservations about the prospect of having a female running mate, contending that Ghana is not currently prepared for such a development.
While acknowledging the pivotal role a suitable running mate plays in the success of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), he argued that the prevailing attitudes towards women in Ghanaian politics have not evolved since Kwame Nkrumah’s era.
Speaking on Peace FM Mr Allotey Jacobs highlighted the challenges faced by women in the rough terrain of politics and cited the limited representation of women in Parliament as indicative of societal perceptions.
“I don’t think Ghana is ripe for a woman as a Running Mate. Ghana is not ripe for it. We haven’t changed our attitude from Kwame Nkrumah’s time till date. We are still the same. Ghana is not ripe for a woman as a running mate. We haven’t changed at all; it’s the same attitude”.
He explained that “when a woman enters politics, they (Ghanaians) look at the woman from a different angle altogether,” exclaiming, “our politician’s terrain is very, very rough!”
“How many women MPs do you get in Parliament?” he questioned when challenged by a panel member, Kwamena Duncan, that there are some women leaders in the House of Parliament and in other areas of political influence.
Despite expressing optimism for a future where Ghana embraces women in prominent political roles, Allotey Jacobs remained skeptical about their acceptance as running mates in the present political climate.
The ongoing debate surrounding the selection of a Running Mate for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming December 7 presidential elections has garnered increased attention.
Certain members and supporters within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have initiated lobbying efforts, with Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (‘NAPO’), the Minister of Energy, emerging as a notable candidate.
NAPO is touted for possessing unique leadership qualities that some believe would enhance the NPP’s electoral prospects in the upcoming elections.
Influential party member Kennedy Agyapong, the Assin Central lawmaker, is among those who vocally endorse NAPO as the right candidate for the position.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has asserted that they will not compromise their constitutional rights for the sake of a struggling economy.
The union emphasized its commitment to holding accountable any elected president to fulfill their legitimate demands.
This declaration comes in response to a statement by John Dramani Mahama, the flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress, who suggested that Ghanaians, including labor unions, should give him a “honeymoon” to address the economic challenges before making specific demands if he is re-elected.
In response to Mahama’s comments, Joshua Ansah, the Deputy General Secretary of the TUC, stated in an interview with TV3’s Daniel Opoku on January 16, 2024, that regardless of the election outcome, the incoming president must be prepared to engage with workers and ensure that their demands are met without hesitation.
“Workers in this country, for 66 years after independence, have suffered and sacrificed a lot and we think that anybody who wants to become the president must be ready to ensure that labour rights are not dealt with with a child’s gloves, we are going to demand what is our right or what is good for us.”
Meanwhile, Prof. Ransford Gyampo of the University of Ghana has also laid a condition under which Mahama’s plea would be granted.
During a ‘Campus Connect’ event in Hohoe as part of his ‘Building the Ghana we want Together Tour,’ John Dramani Mahama acknowledged that he is carefully considering and measuring his promises. He appealed to Ghanaians to give his government some leeway in terms of demands if he is re-elected, given the challenging state of the economy under the current ruling government.
Mahama explained that the economic conditions have compelled him to exercise prudence in making promises, as the means may not be readily available to fulfill grand commitments.
Chief Executive Officer of the InterCity State Transport Corporation, Nana Akomea, has questioned former President John Mahama about the role he will play should he be re-elected into office after the abysmal performance he showed during his tenure.
Mr Akomea noted that he is concerned as the former president, while in office, compared himself to a dead goat in response to some strike actions.
“Was it not the same Mahama who when was hit by strike by teachers and organized labor, said he was a dead goat. And he will no longer listen to their pleas. Is that not what he said when he was president?” he quizzed during an interview on Peace FM.
Nana Akomea noted that Mahama cannot be given the nod after his concerning administration and his inability to be candid about the factors that have contributed to the worsening of the Ghanaian economy under the Akufo-Bawumia government.
“One of the things that hurts me about the NDC and Mahama is that, when we gave him the opportunity to be president from 2012 to 2016, didn’t you see things were difficult? During that period, he noted that one of the major reasons for the economic crisis was because Chinese economy had challenges.
“This time around, there are challenges, and you say we should blame Akufo-Addo and Bawumia when we have been hit with two major incidents: COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war.
“When he goes to the international body, he makes mention of COVID, but when he comes to Ghana, he only blames Bawumia. So which of the two should we believe?” he said.
In 2015, the former president said he had become impervious to threats of strikes and demonstrations in Ghana and would not yield to any of such threats in the then-upcoming election year.
Adopting what he calls a “dead-goat syndrome”, the former president said he would not be hoodwinked by such strategies by workers.
“I have seen more demonstrations and strikes in my first two years. I don’t think it can get worse. It is said that when you kill a goat and you frighten it with a knife, it doesn’t fear the knife because it is dead already.
“I have a dead goat syndrome,” he told a Ghanaian population in Botswana where he was on a three-day official state visit.
Seven years down the line, Mahama has explained why he said he had dead goat syndrome. According to him, he used the idiomatic expression due to the frustration associated with the deregulation of petroleum prices.
This, he stated, is because he knew that if the fuel prices went up, the leadership of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and other unions will not leave him in peace.
Mr. Mahama said he could not bear the mass labour unrest that was prevailing at the time.
“I am the only government in the Fourth Republic where all organised labour came together and went on strike and shut down the country.
“I was one of the most harassed Presidents by Organised Labour. That is what led to the dead goat syndrome… because when you kill a goat, you cannot frighten it with the knife again, really!… I don’t know why I said that, but of course our opponents took it out of context. They said I have said that I won’t listen to anybody,” he explained during a lecture at Academic City University College.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his determination to ensure that officials of the current administration engaged in corrupt practices are held responsible for their actions, should he be re-elected as president.
He emphasized that even within his prospective administration, individuals involved in corruption would not be exempt from accountability.
Addressing the audience at the Volta Regional House of Chiefs on January 17, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer expressed concern about the need for a fair approach to combating corruption, highlighting the potential threat it poses to the nation if not addressed appropriately.
Mahama noted that lip service often replaces genuine efforts in addressing corruption issues, and he criticized the constraints placed on anti-corruption institutions, hindering them from fulfilling their mandates independently.
“If we do not establish fairness in our system in fighting corruption, it will overwhelm this country, A lot of times, lip service is paid to it.
“The anti-corruption institutions are fettered and are not able to dispense their mandate independently and unhindered,” John Mahama said.
He added “We will hold people in this government who have misconducted themselves accountable, but same time as we hold them accountable, people who misconduct themselves in our administration will face the full rigours of the law, the anti-corruption institutions will come after them, and I am not going to interfere in the work of these institutions if they are investigating you.”
