New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has pledged to establish a tomato processing factory in Akomadan, located in the Offinso North constituency of the Ashanti Region, should he assume the presidency.
This initiative, he noted, aligns with his administration’s broader industrialization agenda aimed at creating employment opportunities for the youth.
Dr. Bawumia made this commitment during a stakeholders’ gathering in Akomadan on Tuesday. Discussing plans for agricultural modernization, he revealed that his administration intends to establish District Agriculture Mechanization Centers in key agricultural areas.
These centers will be equipped with machinery like tractors, harvesters, and ploughing tools to help farmers expand their operations.
On sustainable mining, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that under his leadership, the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) would receive resources to conduct in-depth geological studies nationwide.
This would allow the GGSA to identify areas rich in gold deposits, helping to curb speculative mining practices that damage landscapes and pollute water sources.
Additionally, Dr. Bawumia outlined his intention to improve the country’s transportation infrastructure by developing the Western and Eastern railway lines to streamline the transport of minerals and other goods.
Specifically, he mentioned plans to extend the Tema rail line to Kumasi and the Northern Region, as well as expand railway lines from Awaso in the Western Region to Kumasi.
Dr. Bawumia urged voters to support his bid for the presidency and elect NPP parliamentary candidates nationwide to enable the NPP to continue its development-focused agenda for Ghana.
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, pledged to safeguard the public purse from mismanagement if he is elected in the December elections.
During a job fair on Sunday, November 3, 2024, he appealed to Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to place their trust in him.
Bawumia highlighted the crucial need to use public funds responsibly for the nation’s benefit and encouraged voters to provide him the opportunity to prove his capability in advancing the country’s development.
“I will tell you why we are all not the same and cannot be the same. I am not John Mahama; he is a former vice president and president. I am a vice president who has never been president before and am asking you for the opportunity to lead and show what I can do if offered the chance this December.
“You can trust me to protect the public purse and use it selflessly to serve you,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of voting for a candidate who not only makes promises but also has the qualities necessary for effective leadership.
He urged Ghanaians, especially the youth, to choose a leader who can bring about meaningful and positive changes in their lives.
“To the young voters of Ghana, I say to you: do not switch off. I ask you to get involved. December is about you; it’s about who can deliver for you and your future—whom you trust, who has the integrity, vision, energy, competence, and sense of where the world is today, your place in it, and who has the humility to serve you and the decency not to insult you,” Dr. Bawumia urged.
In light of recent events, the MP for Walewale has announced his decision to step down from the 2024 parliamentary race.
Following the chaos during the re-run of the primary election on September 9, where disruptions led to the destruction of ballot papers, the Electoral Commission (EC) could not declare a winner.
In a statement, the MP explained, “I have decided that in the interest of the greater good of the new patriotic party and peace and unity in the Walewale constituency, I will no longer be a candidate for MP in the 2024 elections. I am therefore formally withdrawing from the contest.
“I would like to thank the party for the honour done me in representing my constituency over the last four years and can assure the party of my continued support in the 2024 election campaign.”
He expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve and assured his continued support in the upcoming elections.
This withdrawal clears the path for Dr. Kabiru Tia Mahama, an advisor to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to be the NPP’s candidate for the Walewale seat in the December 2024 general elections.
The primary in December 2023, which had initially seen Dr. Kabiru narrowly defeating the incumbent MP Hajia Lariba Zuweratu, led to a court battle after Hajia Lariba contested the results, citing electoral misconduct. Though the party had sought to resolve the dispute internally, a court-ordered re-run was held, but the process was marred by violence.
Earlier this year, NPP supporters in the constituency had called for Dr. Bawumia to mediate the issue, warning that prolonged conflict could damage the party’s chances in the upcoming general elections.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has once again emphasized his party’s stronger track record compared to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) across various sectors.
Addressing community leaders and a large crowd of supporters in Tema during his ongoing campaign tour of the Greater Accra Region, Dr. Bawumia highlighted that undeniable data confirms the NPP’s superior performance in every sector of development compared to the NDC.
“If you look at performance, sector by sector, we have performed better. Whether it is agriculture, we have done better. Whether it is industry, we have done better,” Dr. Bawumia said.
He continued: “Whether it is jobs, we have created 2.1 million jobs. It is still not enough, but that is more than any government in the 4th Republic. Whether it is roads, we have done better. Whether it is railways, we have done better; hospitals, we have done better; interchanges, we have done better; classrooms and schools, we have done better; sports facilities, we have done better.”
The NPP flagbearer continued, adding that in the areas of sanitation facilities, court buildings, provision of facilities and equipment for the security services, fiber optic cable, and sports facilities, the NPP has clearly “done better.”
“There is not a single area that you can point to, that you will say this government has not performed better than the previous one. And I challenge them because I am a man of data. I speak only with data,” he said.
“When I say we have done better, I have the data to support it. And this is why the former President doesn’t want to debate me because he knows he doesn’t have the data.”
“He can make statements on political platforms where nobody will challenge him, but he cannot make them in front of me. He cannot.”
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, stated that the contentious Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) on mobile money transactions and other transfers will be included in his first budget submission to Parliament by March 2025.
He mentioned that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the E-Levy would be eliminated by the first quarter of next year under his leadership.
Parliament passed the Electronic Transfer Levy Bill into law on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, despite opposition from the Minority Caucus in Parliament.
The E-Levy was implemented starting May 1, 2022, which ignited widespread public debate and backlash due to the financial burden it imposed on Ghanaians.
Many Ghanaians argued that the introduction of the E-Levy by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration was counterproductive to the government’s digitalization efforts, which were led by Vice President Bawumia.
The E-Levy has since become a focal point in political campaigns, with both the NDC and the NPP promising to abolish it if they come to power in 2025.
In light of this, Dr. Bawumia, during a media engagement in Accra on Sunday, reaffirmed his commitment to abolishing the E-Levy if he becomes president.
Dr. Bawumia also assured that new tax reforms, such as the flat rate and tax amnesty, would be introduced immediately as part of his plan to stimulate the growth of Ghanaian businesses and create jobs.
He expressed confidence that these tax reforms would foster a business-friendly
The Vice President and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that his administration will address the housing deficit within a decade if elected.
He outlined that the forthcoming NPP government will introduce a National Housing Programme designed to encourage private sector involvement, aiming to provide Ghanaians with access to quality, affordable housing in well-planned communities.
Speaking at the launch of the NPP’s manifesto on August 18, 2024, he elaborated on this plan, saying: “Specifically, we will provide three broad options, including public and private sector housing, to meet various income levels”.
These, he noted, include, “Social Housing including homeless shelters (overnight stay for the vulnerable) and an expanded Rental Assistance Scheme for low-income workers; affordable Housing including District Housing projects through incentives to the private real estate industry, as well as expanded services of State Housing Company (SHC), TDC, and National Homeownership Fund (NHF); and improving Housing Finance: through an expansion of the mortgage market, as well as rent-to-own schemes”.
Bawumia further mentioned that his administration will employ multiple strategies to provide access to different types of housing options.
“For example, for Social Housing, we will provide public lands within our main cities to private developers and make it mandatory for them to “set aside” between 20% to 30% for low-income social housing units with subsidised rents,” he said.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumiahas offered a $10,000 donation to Hasaacas Ladies Football Club to aid their participation in the upcoming CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU Zone B qualifiers.
The contribution was handed over by Tamimu Issah, the Head of Communications at the Vice President’s Office.
Issah emphasized the significance of the donation, noting, “This support is crucial for Hasaacas Ladies as they prepare and gear up to secure a place in the 2024/25 CAF Women’s Champions League.”
Hasaacas Ladies are gearing up for a tough competition in Group B, where they will face formidable opponents including Nigeria’s Edo Queens, Burkina Faso’s Omnisports Etincelle, and Niger’s AS Garde National.
The team from Sekondi, who were runners-up in the first-everCAF Women’s Champions League in2021, are determined to stage a strong return this year.
The upcoming tournament, which will be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, is set to take place from August 10 to August 23, 2024, making this support timely as the team prepares for the challenge ahead.
A faction of supporters who had previously backed the flagbearer for the Movement for Change, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, have now pledged their support to the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
A leader of the Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen Youth Focus for Alan movement, accompanied by colleagues from various districts, announced their renewed commitment to the vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and the NPP.
“I was the leader of Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten youth focus for Alan movement with my colleagues from other districts here. This afternoon we have one purpose to call upon our people around the region both Alan supporters, Kennedy Agyapong supporters and party faithfuls who due to one or three reasons are peeved and are in the house not campaigning to support our flagbearer and his vice.
The group expressed strong confidence in Dr Bawumia’s victory in the upcoming December polls.
The group also urged discontented members to join forces and contribute to securing victory for the NPP.
“We are calling on each every person to come out and campaign massively to support Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and all our parliamentary candidates across the region. Per all indications, after the 7th December elections, NPP with our flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is going to be the president of Ghana in 2025. We are therefore calling on all supporters of the NPP to come on board for us to push our campaign forward to win the elections. We are with this medium, pleading to the national headquarters, regional, the constituency to make sure that all aggrieved members are brought on board,” he added.
National Communications Officer of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has condemned the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for awarding profitable contracts to Vice President and flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s brother through sole-sourcing.
Mr. Gyamfi pointed out that despite the NPP’s pledge to curb sole-sourcing contracts, they have allegedly awarded contracts to Dr. Bawumia’s brother’s company, Resource Access Limited, using this very method.
He claimed that these contracts were not only granted without competitive bidding but were also heavily overpriced.
Mr. Gyamfi alleged that many contracts awarded to Resource Access Limited, owned by Abraham Bawumia, were priced three times higher than the market rate.
Specifically, he highlighted the renovation of the phase two Sunyani airport project, stating that the contract awarded to Dr. Bawumia’s brother was valued at GH₵52.2 million.
In comparison, the actual renovation of the Sunyani airport under former President John Dramani Mahama’s administration cost GH₵100,000.
Despite this significant expenditure, Mr. Gyamfi observed that the frontage of the Sunyani airport remains in poor condition to this day.
These revelations were made during the NDC’s communications directorate’s “Moment of Truth” series held in Accra and addressed by Mr. Gyamfi.
Mr. Gyamfi underscored the hypocrisy of the NPP, stating, “This is a man in opposition who preached against sole-sourcing only to come to power and become an enabler of sole-sourcing, leading to his brother and wife benefiting heavily.
He concluded that Dr. Bawumia’s brother has secured GHS 218 million from five excessively priced contracts granted through sole-sourcing.
Flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has made a list of eighteen (18) ambitious commitments during his political campaign ahead of 2024 elections.
These promises typically outline his planned policies if elected, reflecting his key priorities and goals for addressing various issues.
He is firmly convinced that with a mindset of possibilities, Ghana can achieve so much.
Read the caption below for further details:
Dr. Bawumia has been clear from day one about his vision for the next chapter of Ghana. He outlined his bold solutions to inform Ghanaians about what the future of Ghana should be. He is firmly convinced that with a mindset of possibilities, Ghana can achieve so much.… pic.twitter.com/h0RWAtmhSz
— The New TESCON Informant (@tesconinformant) July 15, 2024
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has proposed a national debate with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama, focusing on general issues and policies.
Dr. Bawumia argues that such a debate would enable Ghanaians to evaluate the proposed policies of both presidential candidates.
Addressing supporters at a rally in Bunkpurugu during the second phase of his nationwide campaign tour, Dr. Bawumia expressed disappointment that the former President has declined to engage in a debate with him.
He criticized the opposition, describing their “24-hour economy” policy as hollow and indefensible.
“I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on the government. But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. But he doesn’t want to debate because he knows I’ll expose the emptiness of his policies,” he said.
“He says he has a 24-hour economy that he cannot explain. It is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain, none of his people can explain. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants. But when we meet, we can debate, and Ghanaians will see where our policies lie. And that is the way we should go.”
Gospel musician Yaw Sarpong has addressed recent allegations made by his ex-wife, Adwoa Pinamang.
He clarified that their marriage ended 20 years ago when Pinamang left him and their children.
In a radio interview, Pinamang accused Sarpong’s family of preventing her from caring for him during his illness and claimed that Tiwaa, a female vocalist, had taken Sarpong from her with the family’s help.
Despite their long separation, Pinamang insists they are still married, arguing that they have never officially divorced and she should be considered his legitimate wife.
However, Yaw Sarpong stated that their marriage was never legally formalized and thus did not require a legal divorce. He explained that the union only involved traditional rites, including the presentation of a Bible, soft drinks, and a ring.
Sarpong recounted that Pinamang abandoned him and their children and moved to Kumasi during a time when he was seriously ill.
He noted that they have not communicated in the past two decades, making her recent attempts to reconnect unexpected.
He suspects her renewed interest may be linked to the GH¢100,000 gift he recently received from Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.
Despite these issues, Sarpong emphasized that he has moved on with his life but intends to resolve any outstanding matters with his ex-wife amicably.
At the May 18, 2024 funeral of late Ejisu lawmaker John Kumah, political figures from across the spectrum gathered to honor his memory.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia led the government delegation, praising Kumah as a friend and a significant loss.
Prominent attendees included Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, and other key NPP figures such as National Chairman Stephen Ntim and General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, who delivered the party’s tribute.
A notable moment captured on video showed former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen avoiding a handshake with Wontumi.
The footage depicted Wontumi extending his hand towards Kyerematen, who turned away to speak with someone else, resulting in an awkward encounter.
The tension between Alan and Wontumi traces back to the NPP presidential flagbearership contest, with Wontumi supporting Bawumia and publicly clashing with Alan.
Alan, who has since left the NPP and is running as an independent presidential candidate, had previously warned Wontumi to be respectful, leading to a strained relationship.
Watch the video below:
Leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, snubbed and refused to shake hands with the Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Wontumi, at the funeral of the late John Kumah today. pic.twitter.com/2pJhAIgDf0
Thousands of artisans at Suame Magazine Zone 13 in the Ashanti Region are on the brink of eviction due to claims by a private developer, ‘The Gosie Group’, asserting ownership of parts of the industrial hub.
The artisans, with decades-long operations in the area, are urgently appealing to Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia for intervention to halt their potential displacement.
Their occupation of the land is safeguarded by Executive Instrument (E.I. 36), necessitating a parliamentary amendment for any eviction, yet a recent court ruling in favor of the Gosie Group has escalated tensions in the enclave.
Having established their businesses since 1989, the artisans fear the jeopardy of their entire livelihoods if forced to vacate.
“I plead with Nana Addo and Bawumia to honour their promises. They pledged to support us, but they have forgotten about the promises they made to us. For us, the illiterate, they don’t regard us anymore. They should provide us with employment opportunities and put a stop to the digitalisation conversation because it does not include us. If Bawumia wants to win the 2024 elections, he must help us, or we vote against him,” said one artisan.
Chairman of Suame Magazine Zone 13, Eric Arhin emphasized the need for authorities, including the Asantehene and VP Bawumia, to prevent what could spiral into a humanitarian and economic crisis.
“We are urging the authorities to intervene so we can continue our work.”
New Patriotic Party (NPP) member, Kwabena Nsenkyire and spare parts dealer, has visited to assuage tensions, pledging governmental efforts toward resolution but stressing the necessity of VP Bawumia’s direct engagement with the affected artisans.
The Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that pending nursing trainee allowances for 2024 will soon be disbursed to nursing and teacher trainees nationwide.
These allowances, initially revoked by the previous Mahama administration but reinstated by the Akufo-Addo government, have faced delays for several months.
Addressing a sizable gathering of youth, including nursing and teacher trainees, in Nalerigu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia shared the news to resounding applause.
“On the nursing training allowance, we have been able to agree on what to do come this Thursday,”Dr. Bawumia said, as the crowd cheered.
“The Minister of Finance has sent me a message which says that on Thursday, the Controller and Accountant General is going to transfer 177 million Ghana Cedis to the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Health will transfer it to the Nursing trainees,”he said.
“So I believe that, in shaa Allah, by next week, all of you should be receiving the nursing trainee allowances, and they will be in your accounts.’
Dr. Bawumia’s revelation electrified the audience, particularly the nursing trainees, who openly expressed their jubilation, echoing his name in appreciation.
Following this announcement, Dr. Bawumia underscored the NPP’s commitment to supporting nursing and teacher trainees, contrasting it with the cancellation of these allowances by the NDC under Mahama’s leadership.
“The NPP has demonstrated clearly that it is the party which cares for the youth and have you at heart, through many of our policies, which support you,” he said.
“My opponent in December and his party, the NDC, cancelled the nursing and teacher trainee allowances. But we came in and restored it. We are committed to it and I am very committed to it that is why I have been following up on it,” he added.
New Patriotic Party’s Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has pledged significant reforms in the mining sector to enhance its benefits for Ghanaians if he emerges victorious in the upcoming December 7, 2024, general elections.
Dr. Bawumia outlined that during his leadership, a majority of mining concessions in Ghana would be allocated to local small-scale miners.
He emphasized that his government’s primary objective for the mining industry would be to empower Ghanaian small-scale miners, aiming to elevate their economic status, as reported by myjoyonline.com.
“We will allocate the mining concessions to the small-scale miners. My primary focus is to make many small-scale miners millionaires and multi-millionaires. I want to support our small-scale miners,” he is quoted as having said while addressing small-scale miners and youth groups at Tarkwa on the last day of his campaign tour of the Western Region.
The NPP flagbearer expressed that instead of pursuing small-scale miners and confiscating their equipment, his administration would implement measures to formalize their operations and provide essential assistance.
“We will formalize the small-scale mining regime and give them a license. Everybody will register with the Small-Scale Miners Association with their Ghana card, and we will deepen the representation of the Minerals Commission and the EPA, and make sure that the districts that don’t have representatives, we will give them some,” he said.
He emphasized that chiefs would have a crucial role in granting mining licenses to miners within their communities. Additionally, he proposed amending the mining laws to decentralize key mining agencies such as the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under his presidency.
In the aftermath of the tragic killing of a military officer in Kasoa, Central Region, reportedly over a land dispute, Vice President and New Patriotic Party flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has emphasized the urgent necessity for land digitization in Ghana.
During his campaign tour, Dr. Bawumia reiterated this plea while interacting with religious leaders in the Western Region.
Addressing the religious leaders, Dr. Bawumia stressed the critical issue of land guard problems in the nation and underscored the significance of digitizing land records to adequately tackle these issues.
“The recent tragic incident in Kasoa underscores the urgent need for land digitisation in Ghana. We cannot continue to lose lives and properties due to land disputes.
“Digitising land records will not only help prevent such conflicts but also ensure transparency and efficiency in land administration,”Dr Bawumia stated.
His push for land digitization is particularly timely given Ghana’s escalating cases of land disputes, frequently culminating in violence and loss of lives.
Dr. Bawumia’s proposition is in line with the government’s pledge to modernize land administration systems and enhance access to land-related services for all citizens.
Throughout his campaign tour nationwide, Dr. Bawumia consistently emphasizes the significance of land digitization, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions to tackle Ghana’s longstanding problem of land disputes.
General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Kwetey, has lauded the integrity of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
Kwetey, a former MP for Ketu South, emphasized Prof Naana Jane’s honesty as a trait that could bring back respect to the Vice President’s Office, which he claimed had been marred by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
During the official introduction of Prof Opoku-Agyemang on Wednesday, April 24, at the Kofi Ohene Konadu Auditorium at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA), Kwetey expressed his confidence in her, asserting that Ghanaians have faith in her.
He urged her to stay true to herself and be transparent with the Ghanaian people should the NDC emerge victorious in the 2024 general elections.
“The country is in a state of collapse, not in the physical form, the real collapse of our country is a moral collapse we have seen nearly eight years. The state of this beautiful country is at an all-time low. The suffering Ghanaians are looking to breathe again.
“The people of Ghana cannot breathe. The level of pain, the suffering, the hardship, the lies, the dishonesty, corruption is choking Ghana to the maximum level.
“We believe she’s in a position to support our flagbearer to bring relief and hope to Ghanaians. In the last eight years, we have seen the office of she is going to assume brought to its lowest level.
“The office has become an office that is simply an epitome of deception, lack of credibility, lack of trustworthiness, corruption, taking this country to a level where governance has become a joke.
“In you, Naana Jane, we see an individual who is not just an integrity but an individual who will restore that office to a place it used to be. The office today has been degraded, we believe you will restore that office.”
National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has urged Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to promptly fulfill his pledges.
Mahama emphasized that Dr. Bawumia, also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, should demonstrate dedication by initiating the removal of certain taxes without delay.
Addressing members of GUTA, Mahama highlighted the urgency of the matter, urging Dr. Bawumia to take action now rather than postpone until assuming the presidency.
“Tell Bawumia to eliminate the E-Levy and other taxes now, not later,” Mahama emphasized during the meeting.
In a recent statement regarding his presidential ambitions, Dr. Bawumia detailed his intentions to eliminate several taxes, such as the E-Levy, emissions tax, VAT on electricity, and the betting tax.
Additionally, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the significant savings achieved through digitization, highlighting its role in preventing corruption and safeguarding Ghana’s finances.
During the unveiling of LEADing Justice, a strategic framework document outlining the Chief Justice’s vision for Ghana’s Judiciary and Judicial Service, John Mahama lauded the advancements brought about by digitization. He emphasized its role in eradicating phantom pensioners and workers, leading to savings of GHC480 million and GHC356 million respectively.
The Vice President expressed satisfaction with the Chief Justice‘s commitment to digitization, commending Ghana’s rapid progress in this realm. He underscored the pivotal role of digitization in enhancing the judicial system, asserting its significance for the judiciary’s evolution.
Mahama also highlighted the transformative impact of digitization on taxation, citing a substantial increase in the number of individuals possessing Tax Identification Numbers, soaring from four percent to 85 percent following the introduction of the Ghana Card.
Moreover, he noted the effective elimination of fictitious workers within the Controller and Accountant General’s Office through the implementation of the Ghana Card.
Former National Organiser for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joshua Hamidu Akamba has announced plans for rigorous monitoring of the 2024 general elections, including the use of secret cameras installed on trees to ensure accountability for any election-related chaos.
Akamba stated that despite the proposed deployment of drones for monitoring, the party will supplement these efforts with its monitoring measures, particularly with hidden cameras on trees.
In an interview with Kasapa FM, Akamba emphasized the importance of these cameras in capturing instances of security personnel mistreating citizens during elections and ensuring their subsequent accountability.
He referenced the violence during the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-elections as justification for these measures, questioning the conclusiveness of the investigation into the incident.
With the NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama set to compete against Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and others, the 2024 general election, scheduled for December 7, 2024, promises to be closely monitored.
“The military and other security personnel should advise themselves about the 2024 elections. We have heard about drones, but we will install secret cameras on trees to monitor the elections. So that if a security personnel shoots someone, he/she will be captured and arrested afterwards.”
“With what happened at the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency elections, where they set up a commission, do you think that is a conclusive matter? The guys who were shot are still there.”
Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has refuted Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s allegations of harassing businesses to achieve its ambitious revenue goals.
During a recent dialogue with the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) to gather input for drafting a campaign manifesto for the upcoming 2024 elections, the NPP’s flagbearer expressed worries about GRA officials pressuring businesses to meet the tax collector’s demanding revenue targets.
“They are harassing businesses. That harassment is coming from the sort of target that is created at their office.
“They are setting unrealistic targets, and this is because the tax base is so narrow. You say to them, this is your target for this month, and they are trying to figure out, ‘Where do I go?
“Then, for them, it is very easy. You go back to where you had it the last time. You go to taxpayers, the people who are already paying taxes, and then you have to come up with a new reason why they should pay more, and, so, you come up with all sorts of stuff,” Dr Bawumia said.
Dr. Bawumia pledged to address the issue if elected president.
“Because of the harassment and the need to make money, we are going to start with a clean slate in 2025. And that is why, in 2025, we are going to grant a tax amnesty to all businesses and individuals and start afresh
“So, we are going to start the new system. It’s a flat tax system, so we are going to wipe the slate clean for every individual and business,” he added.
Responding to the accusation, the Assistant Commissioner of theGhana Revenue Authority (GRA), Emelia Assam, who spoke at the Oxfam Tax Dialogue on Thursday, March 21, 2024, said, “There is no harassment with tax collection. GRA staff, don’t go out to harass.”
“No tax officer who has been authorised to go out is expected to harass any client, in the sense that we have some compliance issues that we deal with every day. Every taxpayer must register; if you fail to register, we can send you a notification to appear. We can lock up your place if you fail to respond to these notifications. We have duties to issue invoices for people who are registered to pay VAT,” she added.
Spokesperson for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Gideon Boako, has encouraged Ghanaians to utilize the recently launched Ghana Card number at birth system.
During an appearance on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsɛm Monday, Dr. Boako highlighted the various advantages of the initiative and emphasized the importance of taking immediate action.
He pointed out that Ghanaians often delay, but it is vital to establish children’s identities early to prevent future complications.
“This is very important and very beneficial. You know Ghanaians like last-minute things. They always want to wait for the last minute to get things done. This time, we have been provided with the opportunity, so let’s ensure that we give our children the best so we don’t have to struggle at the end,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia views the system as a revolutionary advancement in integrating and strengthening Ghana’s identity infrastructure.
Addressing the launch at the Ga North Municipal Hospital, the Vice President explained that the integrated Ghana Card at birth system operates during antenatal care, linking the mother’s record with the Ghana Card.
Dr. Boako echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence that the Ghana Card at Birth system will furnish documentary proof of legal identity, thereby ensuring social protection.
He further emphasized its role in facilitating the efficient planning of crucial services like healthcare, education, and social welfare, all of which contribute to economic development and poverty alleviation.
In a recent parliamentary session, Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated that the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, does not measure up to the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
During the session, Afenyo-Markin compared the records of John Mahama as Vice President and President to that of Dr. Bawumia, emphasizing the significant disparities between the two.
He expressed his opinion that Mahama cannot rival Dr. Bawumia’s achievements.
In his address to the speaker and fellow parliamentarians, Afenyo-Markin criticized the opposition, stating, “These are the same people who could not lead this country to the promised land, who could not lay the foundation for economic growth.”
He highlighted his skepticism about the opposition’s ability to bring about positive change, asserting that they lack the capability to make a substantial impact.
“But today the liberties of opposition is making them believe that they can do something. You can do nothing. You cannot do it. You have been given the opportunity for 8 years,” he added.
Afenyo-Markin further addressed the return of John Mahama and cited the appointment of Naana Opoku-Agyemang, particularly noting her record in the Education Ministry.
“You’re bringing back the same old John Mahama, you’re bringing back the old Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s record in the Education ministry. Can she confirm her records to the records of Dr Bawumia,” he added.
He questioned her ability to compare her accomplishments to those of Dr. Bawumia and challenged the opposition to present evidence of their achievements.
In his concluding remarks, Afenyo-Markin confidently asserted, “Mr. Speaker, can your Naana Opoku Agyemang compare her records to Dr. Bawumia? Can your own John Mahama compare his records as president and vice-president to the records of Dr. Bawumia? No, he cannot.”
Can John Mahama compare his record as Vice President and President to Dr. Bawumia? Majority leader, Afenyo-Markin interrogates. #KateMiddleton Lydia Alhassan Saweetie Kai Cenat First Lady Nicki Ciara Lyrical Joe pic.twitter.com/fLvLSC5q6C
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has responded to the passing of the Deputy Minister for Finance and Member of Parliament for Ejisu Constituency, John Kumah.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, March 7, 2024, the Vice President expressed condolences, acknowledging Kumah’s unwavering dedication to the success of the Akufo-Addo-led government.
“A truly committed member of our administration and party, who devoted himself wholeheartedly to our endeavors. Rest well, John,” Vice President Bawumia wrote.
John Kumah, a multifaceted individual involved in politics, entrepreneurship, preaching, and law, served as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) until his election as Ejisu MP in 2020.
The Government is set to establish a FinTech Innovation Fund to bolster start-ups and propel Ghana’s digital revolution, as announced by Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia during the press launch of the inaugural 3i Africa Summit in Accra.
Scheduled for May 13-15, 2024, the three-day summit, themed “Unleashing Africa’s FinTech and Digital Economic Potential,” is organized by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Development Bank Ghana (DBG) in collaboration with Elevandi, a subsidiary of the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
The summit aims to bring together key stakeholders, including governments, businesses, policy-makers, academia, investors, and thought leaders, to discuss and collaborate on unlocking Africa’s FinTech and digital economy potential.
Vice President Bawumia, a champion of the government’s national digitalization agenda, emphasized the significance of supporting FinTech financially to drive Ghana’s digital revolution.
He encouraged collaboration among FinTech and digital industry stakeholders to enhance the legislative and regulatory environment for improved payments ecosystems and sustained financial inclusion.
Highlighting the transformative power of technology, Dr. Bawumia underscored the government’s seven-year focus on digital transformation, emphasizing the objective of ensuring digital empowerment for a prosperous future.
In line with this commitment, the government plans to establish a FinTech and Innovation Fund to provide essential investment for startups and local FinTech companies, fostering the growth of Ghana’s digital revolution.
Finance Minister Dr. Amin Adam, present at the occasion, reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting startups and local businesses, recognizing their key role in the Ghanaian economy. He emphasized the importance of generating growth from within, with a particular focus on the growth of small businesses.
The 3i Africa Summit, a FinTech festival designed to drive Innovation, Investment, and Impact for Africa’s FinTech and Financial Services sectors, aims to spearhead transformative discussions, address growth and investment opportunities, and pioneer dialogues and actions to propel Africa’s FinTech growth.
Technical advisor at the Office of the Vice-President, Akbar Yussif Rohullah Khomeini, has clarified that the NPP presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, promise to abolish E-Levy was never for crowd-pleasing purposes.
Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has firmly stated his intention to eliminate the electronic financial transactions tax, known as the E-Levy, if he assumes the presidency of Ghana.
Introduced in 2022, the E-Levy has stirred controversy. Prior to its implementation, Vice-President Bawumia had voiced his opposition to taxes on electronic financial transactions during an interview.
In his inaugural national address after securing the NPP presidential candidacy, Vice-President Bawumia left no room for ambiguity, affirming his stance against levies on electronic financial transactions and pledging to abolish the E-Levy if elected president.
During an appearance on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Thursday, February 8th, Rohullah Khomeini reiterated that Bawumia has consistently argued that the E-Levy serves as a deterrent to financial inclusion.
“It is not for crowd-pleasing, these are ideas well thought through by the flagbearer of the NPP. There is that recognition that we have to confront the cost of living issue which every Ghanaian is concerned about…”
“And so, he believes that if we are determined to formalise our economy and transition from an informal way of doing things into the digital space, we must not have a tax system which will discourage people from wanting to participate in the digital space,” he said.
A remembrance service to honor Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah (JB), a founding father of Ghana’s independence, took place in Kyebi, Eastern Region, on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 59 years after his passing.
The event, held at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church of Ghana, was part of activities commemorating Dr. Danquah’s legacy and organizing a fitting burial for the statesman.
Dr. Danquah, arrested in 1964 for alleged involvement in an attempted assassination of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, passed away on February 4, 1965, aged 70.
The remembrance service, attended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and other dignitaries, paid tribute to Dr. Danquah’s contributions to national development.
The Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, presided over the event, emphasizing Dr. Danquah’s unique place in Ghana’s history. Tributes were read by various dignitaries, acknowledging his role in the independence struggle, defense of democracy, and cultural heritage.
In 2017, the government designated August 4 as a national holiday to honor the “Big Six,” including Dr. Danquah.
The Okyenhene called for forgiveness, acknowledging the inhumane treatment Dr. Danquah endured during his arrest and detention.
Rev. Dr. Kwakye, in a sermon, urged forgiveness for those involved in the events leading to Dr. Danquah’s death 59 years ago.
Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has revealed the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG)’s plans to combat power theft by implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Remote Sensors across its systems.
Speaking at the launch of the ‘ECG Power’ mobile application, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the challenges ECG faces in collecting payments and preventing power theft.
He stated that the use of AI would be a significant game-changer, and the pilot system is underway, with promising results.
“The issue of solving the collection problem at ECG is a major part of solving the energy issue in Ghana. I think this app also enhances collection, but I am aware- because I have been talking to the Board Chairman and the MD– that they are thinking about applying technology, artificial intelligence and remote sensors in the collection process.
“I know that they are piloting the system now, and by the grace of God if all goes well, we will have implemented a new system, starting this year, whereby nobody will be able to steal electricity in Ghana again. “It is a major thing that the ECG is likely to implement this year, using artificial intelligence and remote sensing. They are piloting it right now, and the results look quite good. Once we solve that problem, the issue of losses from people doing ‘kuluulu’ connections of electricity will be a thing of the past,”Dr Bawumia said.
The ‘ECG Power’ app, designed in-house, aims to facilitate payments and services for ECG’s customer base, expected to increase as smart meters replace old ones.
Users can download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, while non-smartphone users can access the service by dialing *226#. Vice President Bawumia commended ECG for employing technology to address critical functions and enhance revenue mobilization.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to using digital technology for a comprehensive transformation of Ghana’s economy.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has unveiled initiatives aimed at enabling Ghanaians to access credit and acquire cars through the utilisation of the Ghana Card and the ongoing digital transformation of the economy.
Addressing the audience at the 57th Congregation of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) on November 24, Dr. Bawumia disclosed that discussions are underway with local automobile companies, such as Solar Taxi, to facilitate the implementation of this groundbreaking initiative.
“The Ghana Card will also become the anchor for a credit system in Ghana, and it will take a couple of car manufacturers in Ghana, notably Solar Taxi, to give cars on credit to people,” asaaseradio.com quoted Bawumia as having said.
He emphasised that the Ghana Card would serve as the exclusive prerequisite for transactions, allowing individuals to obtain cars and make payments over an extended period.
The vice president also revealed his intentions to implement a credit scoring system for individuals in 2024.
This system, according to him, is designed to furnish individuals with a reliable credit history, improve the financial sector, tackle trust-related concerns, lower the cost of conducting business, and encourage financial discipline.
“Ghana next year willbe introducing a credit scoring system for individuals. Every individual will have a credit score. Right now, our credit scoring system does not exist, so we are seen as risky,” he added.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has strongly criticized John Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy, asserting that Mahama lacks a clear understanding of what he is proposing.
Mr. Mahama had indicated that the 24-hour economy was meant to create jobs for all Ghanaians.
But Dr Bawumia is arguing that there are already existing systems and organizations operating 24 hours in the economy, making Mahama’s policy redundant and baseless.
“Today John Mahama says he is bringing a 24 hour economy. He doesn’t even understand that policy because our hospitals are already working 24 hours, our electricity Company, water company, fuel companies work 24 hours. He is trying to come back so he is doing everything possible to convince Ghanaians but before he told us he was a dead goat. The dead goat cannot be revived.
“John Mahama is going round the whole country and promising everything to everybody. It is as if he has never been president of this country before. It is as if he has just landed from mass.
“When he was president, did he create jobs, Did he tackle corruption, Did he issue the Ghana card, Did he bring mobile money interoperability, did he bring the Ghana property address system, did he bring the zongo development fund, did he bring the teacher training allowance, did he bring free WiFi to schools, did he bring paperless ports, did he bring gold for oil, did he bring free shs? All of there problems he couldn’t solve. It was the NPP government under Nana Akufo-Addo who solved all those problems,” Dr Bawumia said on Monday November 20 while addressing a crowd in Nalerigu as part of his ‘Thank you’ tour since being elected flagbearer of the NPP on November 4
Mr. Mahama had asserted that the 24-hour economy initiative aimed to generate employment opportunities for all Ghanaians. This proposal was introduced during his engagement with officials of the country’s primary workers union on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, as part of his efforts to reconnect with key stakeholders in a bid to reclaim political power.
But according to Dr Bawumia, he has brought greater ideas as a Vice President than former President Mahama as president.
“Even me as Vice President, I have solved many problems. What idea did Mahama bring as a Vice President? Dr. Bawumia has brought idea, after idea, after idea.
As part of his tour, Dr. Bawumia is anticipated to stop in Yendi, Saboba, and Bimbilla on November 21.
Former PNC General Secretary, Atik Mohammed, has lauded Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his decision to chart an independent path in his campaign for the presidency of Ghana, without relying solely on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s track record.
The newly-elected flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, made this declaration during his victory address to supporters and the nation at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, November 4, emphasizing his commitment to leading the country in 2025 with an independent mindset.
In his speech, Dr. Bawumia ushered in a new era, highlighting his distinct vision and priorities for Ghana.
“I have my own vision and my own priorities. Given the opportunity by you, the people of Ghana to lead, I shall govern as my own man with guidance from God Almighty”, Dr. Bawumia said.
“My vision is to build an inclusive, food self-sufficient, data-driven and systems based nation that will fully participate in the global digital revolution to solve our problems and also usher in a golden age of benefits from our natural resources,” the Vice President expounded, adding “I want to lead a nation that improves and unleashes the talents of our youth and offers good jobs with good pay, and sustainable growth with macroeconomic discipline”.
He further stated; “I want to lead a nation that improves and unleashes the talents of our youth and offers good jobs with good pay, and sustainable growth with macroeconomic discipline.”
Mr Mohammed expressed his enthusiasm over Dr. Bawumia’s decision to carve his own path in the political landscape.
He elaborated that by clearly conveying his distinct vision, Dr. Bawumia can avoid being evaluated solely on what he considers a “disappointing” performance by President Nana Addo. In Atik Mohammed’s view, distancing himself from the current administration’s performance is essential to safeguard Dr. Bawumia’s presidential aspirations.
“…His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia needs to show that, look, I am coming with a different vision because and of course, that is the only thing that will let people know that we are not voting for an extension of Nana. They are voting for a new entity, a new arrangement. So, I was happy to have heard him say that he is coming with a new vision which means he’s coming with an entirely fresh vision”, he said during Peace FM’s morning show “Kokrokoo”.
He also deflated arguments that Dr. Bawumia is responsible for the economic mess created under the President Nana Addo’s government, arguing “the role of the Vice President is just supportive…It is not always the case that what you think is what will be put into work”.
Formidable candidate, Kennedy Agyapong, who enjoyed substantial support during the primaries, has prompted discussions about a possible alliance with Vice President Bawumia for the 2024 elections.
This comes after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) officially endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the party’s flagbearer for the upcoming 2024 general elections on November 4, 2023,
He emerged as the top contender, receiving 118,210 votes, equivalent to 61.43%. He outperformed other candidates, including Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Owusu Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh, who received 71,191 votes (37.41%), 1,459 votes (0.76%), and 781 votes (0.41%) respectively.
However individuals interviewed by GhanaWeb expressed diverse opinions on the prospect of a Kennedy-Bawumia ticket.
Some argued that, for the sake of party unity, peace, and to maximize the NPP’s electoral prospects, nominating Kennedy Agyapong as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate would be an ideal choice. They believed that his business acumen could complement Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, creating a strong and balanced team for the election.
“I was supporting Kennedy to be the flagbearer and that didn’t happen. So for the sake of unity and peace in the party, they should go in for Kennedy to be running mate for Bawumia. We haven’t had a businessman take the presidency thus far. Therefore, I believe it will be ideal for the party to get him to bring his ideas to support Bawumia.
“Bawumia is not a strong candidate for the NDC, they will win the election easily. Even if the NDC picks me to contest Bawumia, I will beat him,” one of the individuals told GhanaWeb.
Another also said “Now that Bawumia is coming, we are praying he chooses Kennedy as a running mate. If he doesn’t, we can’t tell what will become of the NPP and the NDC will win the election very simply. The NDC themselves have said that once it is Bawumia who is leading the party, they’ve won the elections in advance.
“The NPP’s chances of winning is Kennedy Agyapong. If you look at the support he got from the youth, if he had won as flagbearer, it would have been a tough election in 2024. So we are pleading with the fathers of the party to listen to what we the youth of the party are saying and make Kennedy the running mate for Bawumia.”
On the flip side, an alternative perspective raised apprehensions regarding the possibility of Kennedy Agyapong becoming a running mate, as it might jeopardize his future presidential aspirations.
The argument centered on the notion that if Kennedy were to assume the role of vice president, he could potentially face age-related eligibility constraints for the presidency, especially after serving the maximum two-term tenure.
“If Kennedy becomes Bawumia’s vice, how then can he become the president? He is 62 years now, after the eight year period, he will be too old to become a president. It is better for the party to go into opposition, then he can work underground with the grassroot, so that after the four years of Mahama, he would get a chance.
“Not all the delegates voted for Bawumia. This means that Kennedy also has some followers. So if Kennedy agrees to become Bawumia’s vice president, he will never get the chance to be president of the country. It is better he follows the party into opposition,” he said.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed his concern about the frequency with which some of his opponents in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential flagbearership race are spreading falsehoods about him in the lead-up to the November 4 primaries.
Speaking to delegates in the Tatale-Sanguli constituency in the Northern Region on October 24, 2023, Bawumia revealed that he is confronted with a new falsehood regarding his character or his stance on various matters almost daily.
“I am hearing a different lie everyday as I am sitting down and watching what they are saying,” he stated alleging that the unnamed opponents were bent on creating disunity within the rank and file of the NPP.
He addressed three lies that he said had surfaced recently. First, he addressed Kennedy Agyapong’s allegation that the vice presidential candidate’s campaign purchased the votes of some super delegates with pickup trucks and 100,000 cedis.
“They say I have given all constituency chairmen, 275 constituency chairmen a hundred thousand cedis (GHc100,000.00), and a pick-up. Have you seen any pick-up here for your chairman? This is just a ridiculous lie” Vice-President Bawumia added.
Bawumia also addressed the claim that he was against the electoral college being expanded, saying that this could not be far from the truth.
“How can this happen? It is not possible for me to stop polling station executives and electoral area coordinators from voting. This was a national conference decision and I was very supportive of expanding the electoral college to allow polling station executives and electoral area coordinators to vote and by the grace of God, they will continue to vote,” he stated.
The final topic he brought up concerned the alleged stance that current members of Parliament support, namely that they should be permitted to run unopposed in the 2024 elections.
He said: “How can I say that? The party’s constitution cannot even allow that. This party is stronger when we have democracy working and so, I will never say any sitting MP must go unopposed. There must be consensus in all constituencies and so that lie should be left alone” Dr Bawumia remarked.
“But as I have said, their tactic is that “if you miss the ball, don’t miss the man,” but as for this one, they will miss the man because we will not allow their lies to take root.”
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has paid tribute to the distinguished legal practitioner, Akoto Ampaw, lauding his exceptional frankness and humility.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to Mr. Ampaw’s family for their painful loss and offered prayers for God’s protection and support for them during this challenging time.
In a Facebook post, Dr Bawumia said, “I am greatly saddened to hear about the passing of my friend, lawyer Anthony Akoto-Ampaw (Sheyshey). Sheyshey’s loyalty, commitment, frankness, and humility were outstanding.”
“I offer my empathy to the Akoto-Ampaw family for this painful loss and pray for God’s protection for them during this difficult period. May the soul of my departed friend find a peaceful rest.”
The human rights activist, anti-corruption campaigner and legal luminary passed on at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), on October 20, 2023.
Mr. Apaw was the lead lawyer for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during the 2020 election petition.
Known as ‘Shey Shey’ right from his student days at the University of Ghana, Mr. Ampaw was also part of the New Patriotic Party’s legal team in the Electoral Petition of 2013.
He was a partner of Akufo-Addo’s law firm, Akufo-Addo, Prempeh & Co.
Lawyer Ampaw had an impeccable legacy in the legal fraternity especially championing human rights campaigns and fair justice.
He was a graduate of the University of Ghana, LL.B., 1973 and the Ghana School of Law, B.L., 1993.
He specialised in commercial law, company law, industrial law, litigation, constitutional and human rights law, media law, labour law, investment law among others.
As a human rights activist, Akoto Ampaw recently joined hands with other individuals and civil society organisations to oppose the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill currently being considered by Parliament.
He opposed the bill sponsored by a Private Member’s motion led by Ningo Prampram MP, Sam George.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia had initially scheduled his visit to the region for October 21st and 22nd, but a revision was made to accommodate Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong’s campaign tour of the North East Region, which is rescheduled for October 22nd and 23rd, 2023.
The tentative dates for the Vice President’s visit to the region are now set for October 29th and 30th, 2023. A detailed itinerary of his tour will be published once the dates are confirmed.
In the meantime, Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong will commence his North East Region campaign tour on October 22, 2023, covering three constituencies on the first day: Chereponi, Yunyoo, and Bunkpurugu. He will then continue to Yagaba, Nalerigu, and Walewale on October 23, 2023.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the imperative need for the country to devise lasting solutions to address the aftermath of the Akosombo dam spillage.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) initiated the controlled release of water from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams on September 15, 2023, in response to a consistent increase in the inflow pattern and water levels of the Akosombo reservoir.
As a result of the spillage, numerous residents in areas such as South Tongu, North Tongu, Central Tongu, Asuogyaman, and various other regions have seen their homes submerged.
Dr. Bawumia, who conducted a visit to the affected communities in the North, Central, and South Tongu districts on Wednesday, emphasized that a permanent solution is imperative to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
“But we need to look for long-term solutions to this flooding,” he said. “Because it will happen this year, we can deal with it now. But what of next year? Because climate change appears to be taking hold.
“A few years ago, we were all worried about the water levels of the Volta Dam because it was too low. Now, we are all worried that it is too high. We need to look for engineering solutions to the spillage of water out of the Volta dam.”
Following his tour of the flood-affected regions, Dr. Bawumia reassured the public that the government is fully committed to taking all necessary measures to support the affected areas and individuals.
He affirmed that the government would persist in delivering relief aid and working towards the restoration of the livelihoods of those impacted by the disaster.
As part of the celebrations marking his 60th birthday, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife, Samira, made a generous donation to the Kumasi Children’s Home. The Vice President presented a range of essential items including 100 bags of rice, 20 bags of sugar, 50 packs of diapers, 20 boxes of toothbrushes, and 20 packs of toilet rolls.
Additionally, the donation included 100 packs of detergents, 20 boxes of cooking oil, 10 boxes of tinned tomatoes, 150 cartons of water, 200 cartons of assorted drinks, and a variety of biscuits. To support the daily activities of the home, Vice President Bawumia contributed GHC60,000 and pledged to provide a Coaster bus to facilitate their transportation needs.
Furthermore, he expressed his commitment to serve as the Patron of the Kumasi Children’s Home, underscoring his dedication to supporting its mission.
“Everyone needs some form of help, but in my opinion those with the most needs are these children in orphanages, who are here through no fault of theirs. That’s why I chose to spend my birthday with the children in this Home, as I am here in Kumasi on my birthday,” Dr Bawumia said.
“Every year I spend my birthday with the vulnerable in society, so you can be sure that if God gives me life, this is not the last time you will see me or hear from me on my birthday.”
The manager of the home, Madam Mabel Amponsah, thanked the vice president for his thoughtful act on behalf of the roughly 90 kids, some of whom had disabilities.
She said Dr Bawumia’s decision to spend his birthday with the vulnerable and abandoned children was a clear indication of his love for humanity.
“As you have shown us love and care on your special day, we pray that your dreams and desires will be met. We ask the Almighty to grant you your heart’s desires. We will continue to pray for you,” she said.
Dr. Bawumia sent bags of rice and other supplies to the Weija Leprosarium in place of his customary birthday lunch with healed lepers at his home in Accra to make sure the lepers shared in his special day.
Dr. Bawumia received prayers and blessings earlier in the day from Muslim and Christian clerics who wished him a long life and success in his endeavours to lead the New Patriotic Party and ultimately Ghana.
Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia has affirmed the government’s determination to enhance healthcare access for all Ghanaians by providing necessary infrastructure and logistics.
He made this assurance while commissioning an ultra-modern District Hospital in Akontombra, Western North Region.
The hospital, boasting 42 beds, is one of six medical facilities that have been under construction for the past three years.
The other facilities include 42-bed hospitals in Elubo and Bogoso, 30-bed district hospitals in Nsuaem and Wassa Dunkwa, and a 30-bed Polyclinic in Mpohor, with a total cost of 29 million Euros.
The completion and inauguration of all these facilities are expected by the end of August 2023.
Vice President Bawumia emphasized that these ongoing healthcare projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage.
Over the past seven years, various healthcare initiatives have been implemented, such as the Surveillance, Outbreak Response Management, and Analysis System (SORMAS) eHealth System, which have significantly improved disease control and outbreak management systems.
The government also aims to deepen the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for telemedicine and teleconsultation services within the healthcare network, extending this integration to Regional Hospitals to enhance healthcare service quality and accessibility at all levels.
The Vice President reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to providing quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
He emphasized that the completion of these healthcare projects in different regions would contribute to improving infrastructural facilities and bridging equity gaps in geographical access to health services.
“Our government’s commitment to providing quality, accessible and affordable healthcare in line with the Sustainable Development Goals remains steadfast.
“The completion of these projects in Elubo, Nsuaem, Bogoso, Wassa Dunkwa, Mpohor and Akontombra which is being inaugurated today will improve the stock of infrastructural facilities and bridge equity gaps in geographical access to health services,” the Vice President said.
Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia has laid the groundwork for the construction of a 100-bed Ejura Sekyeredumase District Hospital in the Ashanti Region.
The hospital, which is being built as part of the government’s flagship Agenda 111 Project, will have cutting-edge technology such as X-Rays, Medical Gases, a Haematology Analyzer, a Chemistry Analyzer, a CT Scanner, an MRI, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy, Mammography, and a Microbiology Analyzer.
It will also contain employee housing and is planned to be completed in 18 months at a cost of US$16 million.
At the sod-cutting event in Ejura on Tuesday, Vice President Bawumia reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of all Ghanaians, which led to the decision to build 111 district hospitals with a variety of uses.
Vice President Bawumia described the Agenda 111 Project as the largest investment in the country’s health infrastructure history since independence.
“We want to ensure that every district in Ghana has a hospital. We have six new regions, so we are also building six new regional hospitals, as well as upgrading the Efia Nkwanta Hospital in the Western Region,” the Vice- President said.
In addition to the construction of the 100-bed Ejura Hospital, there are plans to build two new Psychiatric Hospitals in Kumasi and Tamale.
Furthermore, the Government, as highlighted by Dr. Bawumia, has implemented various initiatives to enhance healthcare accessibility and delivery. These initiatives include the nationwide provision of ambulance services through the One-Constituency, One-Ambulance program, the networking of hospitals to facilitate access to medical case histories, the introduction of the drone medical delivery system, and the implementation of the E-Pharmacy regime.
“We will continually explore ways to improve our healthcare delivery approaches and systems,” Dr Bawumia pledged adding, “a healthy nation is a wealthy nation”.
Chief of Ejura, Barima Osei Hwedie II, appreciates the Government’s numerous projects in the area over the past six and a half years. He calls on citizens to rally behind national development endeavors.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is running for the NPP flagbearer position, has received a number of public endorsements through the efforts of Chairman Wontumi, the NPP’s Chairman for the Ashanti Region.
In a video obtained by GhanaWeb, Wontumi is shown addressing senior party figures and pleading with them to publicly back Bawumia.
According to GhanaWeb checks, the Vice President’s latest campaign tour in the Ashanti Region is where the video was shot.
During the gathering, Chairman Wontumi approached various individuals and asked them directly, “Who do you want us to vote for?” Each person he approached openly endorsed Dr. Bawumia.
The conversation between Chairman Wontumi and the officials unfolded as follows:
Wontumi: Honorable MP, who do you want us to vote for?
MP: Dr. Bawumia
Wontumi: Constituency chairman, who do you want us to vote for?
Constituency chairman: His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
Wontumi: I am going to the Council of Elders, Council of Elders, and Patron. Whom do you want us to vote for?
Response: Dr. Bawumia
Wontumi: Former MP, people’s mother, whom do you want us to vote for?
Former MP: Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia
Wontumi: MCE, who do you want us to vote for?
MCE: Dr. Alhaji Bawumia
Wontumi: Patron, who do you want us to vote for?
Response: Dr. Bawumia
Agyimifuo party see this nonsense where on earth do you see such madness? You people expect wise people like us to follow such foolishness 😂😂😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/eg6V3HVCMh
The Vice-President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced that the government is currently in the process of formulating a policy aimed at providing incentives to Faith-Based Organizations (FBO) that fulfill specific criteria regarding the provision of social services, with the objective of empowering them.
He acknowledged the enormous roles FBOs continue to play in the area of education, health and care for persons with disability, among others, to improve the standard of people in society.
Dr Bawumia announced this last Saturday during a sod-cutting ceremony for work to begin on a 2,000-acre, 9,000-home Integrated Community and Empowerment Centre for Persons With Disability (PWDs) at Agortor-Kope in the Osudoku Traditional Area of the Greater Accra Region.
Intervention
Known as the Charismatic Evangelistic Ministry (CEM) Ability Village, the enclave is designed to support and empower PWDs skills training and specialist health care to promote their full participation in all facets of society.
The first phase of the project covers an area of 200 acres and is expected to cost $85.3 million.
The project will be funded through donations, corporate and international donor contributions as well as by individual philanthropists.
Project
The CEM Ability Village will have an Empowerment Centre to provide Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and other skills training to address the employment challenges of PWDs, an ultra-modern hospital to cater for the specific needs of PWDs, as well as a technology centre to focus on software development and hardware assembly, and repair.
It will also have an advocacy, counselling, guidance and information service; assisted living and affordable housing support and support for PWDs to venture into agriculture.
Commendation
Dr Bawumia commended the leadership of the church for conceiving and undertaking such a major project.
“I am clear in my mind that faith-based organisations who provide so much in the areas of education, healthcare and looking at the needs of PWDs must be provided special attention and incentives by the government to empower them to continue to provide these services to our dear country,” he said.
Dr Bawumia noted that PWDs faced a variety of social, attitudinal, physical, educational, transportation and communication barriers in their everyday lives which affected their full inclusion in society.
Those barriers, the Vice-President said, resulted in negative consequences such as social exclusion, physical and mental health challenges, discrimination, stigmatisation, low self-esteem and financial difficulties.
Marginalisation
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of CEM Ability Village, Rev. Dr Steve Mensah, said PWDs in Ghana had been marginalised and their situation prompted the church to support them every year with the provision of basic needs and free medical services.
He said the idea of an empowerment centre was to institutionalise the support of CEM offered PWDs to enable them to fulfil their dreams and aspirations in order to contribute meaningfully to society.
The Paramount Chief of the Osudoku Traditional Area, Nene Aadegbor Ngmongmowuyaa Kwesi Animle VI, in a speech read on his behalf, commended the CEM for extending the project to the area which would contribute to the opening up of the area for development.
The Executive Director of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisation, Rita Kusi Kyeremaa, said PWDs constituted about 8 per cent of Ghana’s current constitution who unfortunately continued to have limited access to services in terms of health, education, employment and other services.
Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has revealed that a Ghanaian business plans to develop an electric car assembly factory in the nation.
Though he didn’t mention the name of the company, he noted that the company would commence operations in 2024.
Speaking at the NPP International Women’s Conference on Saturday, June 10, 2023, Dr Bawumia said the electric vehicle assembling plant will add to the vehicle manufacturing companies producing in Ghana.
Now, Volkswagen, Kantanka, Toyota, Peugeot, Nissan, KIA, Hyundai, and Sinotruk are manufacturing vehicles locally.
“We had no domestic automotive sector for vehicle assembly or manufacturing but what did we do about that, the new automotive sector development policy has resulted in VW, Sino Truck, Kantanka, Toyota, Peugeot, Nissan, KIA, Hyundai, they are all producing in Ghana today,” Bawumia said.
“Interesting piece of news is that a Ghanaian company is also in the pipeline to build an assembling plant for electric vehicles next year. That will be the first in West Africa,” he stated.
It would be recalled that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo said government would soon roll out an asset-based vehicle financing scheme to stimulate demand for domestically assembled vehicles.
The financing scheme will afford Ghanaians the opportunity to purchase vehicles under the Ghana Automotive Development programme.
He gave an assurance that government would provide all assistance for the achievement of the target of assembling 1.5 million vehicles per year by the end of 2023 as projected by the Association of African Automobile Manufacturers.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to implementing specific measures to address Ghana’s economic challenges, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach to economic recovery may not be suitable.
He said in that pursuit, the Government would ensure that the deployment of resilient and dynamic measures offered benefits to investors and the citizenry.
“The world has realised that no one size fits all customised answer exists for the route to economic recovery thereby prompting countries to implement incipient systems and policies to resolve imminent difficulties,” the Vice President said at the third edition of the Ghana Investment and Opportunities Summit in the United Kingdom (UK).
The theme for the event is: “Post COVID Economic Recovery: Opportunities for the Investor”.
The Summit is aimed at exploring new areas of cooperation between Ghana AND the United Kingdom.
Dr Bawumia noted that the introduction of monetary and fiscal interventions such as the “Gold for Oil” programme-a novelty for Ghana – were designed to address the balance of payment crisis.
“This intervention has been one of the most important macro-economic policies to deal with the rising price of fuel and its implication,” he said.
Dr Bawumia observed that for the first time in recent decades, countries were witnessing the emergence of high inflation and financial stress at almost the same time, noting that: “The world continues to face difficult moments caused by several factors, including climate change, disruption of the supply chain in manufacturing goods as a result of the pandemic among others.”
Mr Yofi Grant, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), observed that despite the existing trade agreements and partnerships, the relationship between Ghana and the UK was yet to be optimised in a sustainable way.
He commended the Ghanaian community in the UK for being great ambassadors for the country and urged them to lead the way in forging mutually beneficial relationships in the diaspora.
He said the country had undertaken some structural reforms to remain competitive with efforts “to reset Ghana back to its resilience and robustness”.
Mr Grant noted that the introduction of reforms in Public Financial Management, State Owned Enterprises, taxes and revenue were some measures towards enhancing revenue mobilisation, promotion of judicious use of public funds and creation of a conducive environment for businesses.
Michael Oquaye Jnr., CEO of Ghana Freezones Authority, said the country was well positioned to host data processing centres and call centres due to its geographical advantage and high number of tertiary graduates with high proficiency in English as an international language.
Papa Owusu-Ankomah, Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK and the Republic of Ireland, urged the participants to consider Ghana as a good place for investment.
He urged potential investors to deploy the requisite technology and modern digital approaches with the help of Ghanaian partners for a win-win outcome.
“To our compatriot in the diaspora, I urge you to use your varied networks to garner and horn the appropriate skill set for our national development,” he said.
Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumiahas expressed confidence in becoming Ghana’s president.
Addressing a crowd of enthusiastic supporters alongside Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Letsa, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged and appreciated their unwavering support.
Proclaiming to resounding cheers and applause, he stated, “I want you to know that I appreciate your support, we are going to break the eight. First of all, we are going to have to go and file for the flagbearership, which I am going to do.”
This announcement carries immense significance, signaling a notable development in the internal politics of the NPP as preparations for the upcoming 2024 presidential elections intensify.
On May 30, 2023, Dr. Bawumia’s campaign team, comprising Sammi Awuku, Fred Oware, and Ayisi Boateng, collected his nomination forms from the party’s headquarters, underscoring the significance of his candidacy. Widely regarded as one of the frontrunners in the race, his aspirations have gained considerable momentum.
In recent weeks, Dr. Bawumia has embarked on an extensive nationwide campaign, engaging with party executives, grassroots supporters, and influential figures in various communities.
The Vice President’s campaign has centered around showcasing his impressive track record in implementing key government programs, including the successful One-District-One-Factory initiative and the transformative Planting for Food and Jobs program.
Dr. Bawumia’s determination to secure victory in the flagbearership race is underpinned by his vision to transcend the traditional eight-year limit, symbolizing a renewed era of leadership and progress. With aspirations to assume the highest office in the land, he emphasized the importance of unwavering support from his followers.
The NPP’s upcoming flagbearership race promises to be an intriguing contest that will shape the party’s future trajectory. As Dr. Bawumia’s campaign gains momentum, his economic expertise, advocacy for digitalization, and ability to effectively communicate government policies position him as a formidable contender.
With the nation eagerly observing the dynamics of the race, the NPP’s internal politics take on heightened significance, setting the stage for a transformative and consequential journey towards the 2024 general elections.
The period of Akans holding the flagbearership post in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is over, according to Member of Parliament for New Juaben South Constituency in the Eastern region and Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi.
According to him, it is now time for other tribes to also take over to lead the party as presidential candidates and to ascend the presidential seat.
Mr. Okyere Baafi explained that the NPP is made up of members from different ethnic groups and religions, therefore, appropriate for anyone qualified to lead the party regardless of his or her background.
“What I want to say is that, with the direction of the country, it is not only one community which makes Ghana. We have Ashantis, we have Ewes, we have Gas, we have Krobos and Bonos in Ghana. Some of all these tribes are Members of NPP which means the era where only Akans lead the party is over. Now we need people from all these tribes listed to also lead the party to become president” Okyere Baafi said.
Hon. Michael Okyere Baafi made this comment when speaking at the official launch of “Women Delegates For Bawumia” in Koforidua, the Eastern regional capital.
Okyere Baafi described as deceitful and untenable claims that Ghana is a Christian-dominated country therefore a Muslim cannot become president.
“They say Ghana is a Christian country so some say a Muslim cannot lead the country. This is where I want to speak briefly on. For all those contesting the election, the only one who can be president is called Mr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Among the aspirants the only one who can lead the party into victory, his name is Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia”.
He continued, “Some Christians who want to deceive you that they are the majority so won’t vote for Muslim must cast their minds to Nigeria. In Nigeria, Muslims are majority but the President is a Christian. In Senegal, Muslims are majority but the President is a Christian. Listen very well! A country with diverse tribes means everyone could become president in future”.
He said Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has demystified the myth that Muslims cannot fellowship with Christians in church, and has set a standard that will become a yardstick for every Muslim who wants to be President.
“Christians must listen. For the first time, we are going to have a Muslim as President to serve as standard to every Muslim who dreams to be President. Dr.Bawumia will be the first Muslim to bring that standard because most Muslims don’t enter Churches to fellowship but we have a Muslim (Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia) who attends all-night services, a Muslim who goes to conventions, a Muslim who attends retreats, a Muslim who worships with Christians such a Muslim will become standard”.
He added “So henceforth, every Muslim who wants to be president will follow the standard. He must be a Muslim who can enter into churches, he should be a Muslim who can attend retreats, that is the paradigm shift brought to Ghana by Dr. Bawumia. He is setting a standard for everybody who is a Muslim who wants to become a president, for the first time he has set the standard for all of us. So don’t let anyone deceive you. Dr. Bawumia is well experienced, he has the will-power, he has the expertise, he has knowledge and wisdom to move Ghana forward.”
“Women Delegates for Bawumia” is a new political group within the ruling NPP made up of female delegates who have declared support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to become flagbearer of the party in 2024.”
The theme for the Women Delegates for Bawumia is “The Strength of a Woman, the force behind Bawumia.”
The launch was attended by female delegates of the NPP from all 33 Constituencies in the Eastern region.
The National Coordinator of “Women Delegates for Bawumia” Maame Esi Davenport said the aim of the group is to secure 80% female delegates’ votes for Dr. Bawumia.
This she said will be done through a vigorous campaign strategy trumpeting the achievements of the Akufo Addo/Bawumia-led government.
She touted the competence of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in leading the country describing him as an able and exceptional Vice President whose involvement in politics has changed the face of Ghanaian politics.
She stated that Dr. Bawumia’s experience in both the private and public sectors adds to his credentials as the best presidential material.
She averred that Dr. Bawumia has been instrumental in the Akufo Addo-led government’s policy interventions impacting positively the country
Maame Esi Davenport debunked propaganda by opponents that Dr. Bawumia is new in NPP stating that “he has been with the NPP for decades, worked so hard for the NPP to win power through his economic lectures that exposed the incompetence of John Mahama led government” therefore deserves to lead the party.
On women empowerment, she said Dr.Bawumia has demonstrated in many ways his commitment to empowering women to take leadership roles to change society, using his Wife the second lady Samira Bawumia as an example.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia Thursday launched three initiatives of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), including the Electronic Tax Compliance Certificate (E-TCC), to promote tax payment and increase domestic revenue mobilisation.
The other initiatives are the Tax Compliance Short Code *880#, and Online Tax Returns Filing.
These are also aimed at making tax compliance and payments easy and convenient in the comfort of the home or office.
For instance, the E-TCC is documentary evidence issued by the Commissioner-General of GRA to confirm that the taxpayer is up to date with payments and has met all applicable tax obligations at the date of issue.
These electronic systems would enable taxpayers to seamlessly and conveniently use the GRA’s taxpayers’ portal (www.taxpayersportal.com) to file their tax returns, apply for tax compliance certificates, and make payments using their personal computers, mobile phones or tablets.
At the launch of the initiatives in Accra, Vice President Bawumia said it would provide a shift in attitude towards tax payments and enhance compliance in both the formal and informal sectors of the economy.
These will help promote transparency and accountability as well as minimise corruption in the country.
Dr Bawumia said taxes were the lifeblood of any country, which helped to build nations and, thus, lauded the GRA for buying into government’s digitalisation agenda to promote national development and economic growth.
The Vice President expressed confidence that the initiatives would assist in increasing Ghana’s tax to GDP ratio of 13 per cent to 18-20 per cent within the shortest possible time.
“When we faithfully declare our taxes, we’ll be in a position to hold government accountable on what our tax money is being used for.
Let us join hands together to develop our country,” he said.
Dr Bawumia declared April as ‘Tax and Good Governance Month’ and urged the GRA to pay attention to individuals and businesses who did not file their tax returns to widen the country’s tax net.
He highlighted some of the Government’s digitalisation programmes that had made a tremendous impact on revenue collection efforts.
The Ghana.gov portal, digital property addressing system, Ghana-Card, paperless port system, and the mobile money interoperability payment system, which had placed Ghana on top of the financially inclusive nations in Africa, are examples.
Reverend Dr Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, the Commissioner-General, GRA, in his welcome remarks, said the Authority, in 2019, embarked on a transformational agenda, focusing on three key pillars – people, technology and service.
The Authority, for instance, began leveraging on technology to identify and simplify procedures and processes for tax payments.
He, therefore, entreated taxpayers and businesses to embrace the GRA’s digital portals to file tax returns, initiate payments and access other tax-related services.
Mr Theophilus Kwesi Ehun, a Senior Revenue Officer, Domestic Tax Revenue Division, educated the public on the uses and benefits of the three new initiatives.
Vice-President,Mahamudu Bawumiahas said that he had restless nights when the country’s bulk oil distribution businesses priced petrol at GHC19 to a dollar .
According to Bawumia, the nightmare sparked the idea for the gold for oil initiative.
The policy is designed to allow the government to pay for imported petroleum products with gold in direct barter arrangements, using gold purchased by the Bank of Ghana.
The policy aims to help stabilise prices of fuel products, as well as reduce pressure on Ghana’s foreign exchange, because direct gold barters will be the modus for paying for imported oil, which will help guard against depleting the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
“One moment which gave me a lot of sleepless nights personally was when at one point, the forward exchange rate of GHC19 to the dollar was used to price fuel at the pump,” Bawumia said at the commissioning of the head office of the Bulk Oil Storage Transportation Companyin Accra on Wednesday (15 March).
“And therefore, we were faced with how much higher it could go. We were faced with a very critical situation because we didn’t have enough foreign exchange reserves to meet this persistent demand.
“Today, you are seeing that in Kenya, they are facing significant shortage of foreign exchange reserves resulting in petroleum queues.
“So, we had to think outside the box to prevent Ghana from going through that situation… and this is where the thinking for gold for oil came in,” Bawumia said.
After carefully listening to Hon. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen‘s interview on Radio Tamale on February 22, as part of his northern region tour, we have realized that, though he is a gentle and cool person, he has nothing to offer NPP supporters and Ghanaians at large should he be given the nod lead NPP as our flagbearer
First of all, one can be supported and voted for to lead the party base on his consistent financial, intellectual or devoted time contribution toward the growth of the party especially from 2007 till date which he has no track record of.
One can also be supported to lead the party considering his ability to empower or mentor people especially, taking into account the number of years he has been contesting. But according to his own response to a question he was asked by the host, Abdul Shakur Omae, to tell whether or not he has helped grown people, especially in the northern region, he was unable to mention a single person and therefore has no footprint on that as well
Finally and ultimately, one can be supported to lead our party based on the message and clear vision he has for Ghanaians which can convince the floating voters to endorse the party to break the 8 come 2024 general elections. But as obvious, he already admitted that he has no campaign message for Ghanaians to break the 8 when he was addressing the Sefwi Wiaso Traditional Council as part of his campaign tour in the Western North Region by saying “The current economic crisis is making it difficult for NPP to craft campaign message” despite all the life-changing and flagship programs implemented by our current government
The overview of that interview points out the fact that he has no message different from the usual mischief of his supporters that ‘it is a queue and it is his term’; ‘it is a tradition’ and or ‘he has suffered for the party’.
But to analyze them logically, to those who say it is a ‘tradition’ and for that Hon. Alan Kyerematen is supposed to lead. I will like to remind them if they care to know, that NPP is based on 3 traditions (i.e Dankwah, Bussia and Dombo) of which we have H.E John Kufuor from Bussia tradition; H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo from Dankwah tradition and we are yet to have one from Dombo tradition to lead who is no one than H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Therefore, from the angle of tradition, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the best/next to lead.
Again, to those who argue that ‘it is a queue’ and for that matter it is Hon. Alan Kyerematen’s turn, let me kindly bring to their understanding that he joined the so-called queue in the same year Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was appointed the running mate to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo but the difference is that whilst he was spending his time only on contesting, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was in the queue campaigning for the party to win elections. Hence, from the perspective of being in the queue for a long time, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia stands tall and is next/best to lead.
Lastly on the argument that ‘he has suffered’ for the party more than all those bidding to lead NPP, let’s reflect back to the days when H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was delivering economic lectures from one place to another which had made H.E John Dramani and NDC unpopular that masterminded John Dramani Mahama running as one term president which is unprecedented in the history of Ghana.
Or have they forgotten the Almighty 2012 election petition during which Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was the only one to withstand the then pressure and defend the party in the supreme court?
To recap, it is apparent that from all perspectives, H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia remains the next and the best to lead and for that matter, we are edging all the sympathisers of NPP, precisely the delegates to remain firm in making sure that he (i.e Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia) leads the party as our next flagbearer to break the 8.
He noted that beginning March 31, 2023, inbound passengers will “no longer be required to fill out landing cards. This is because the same information can be obtained electronically.”
The decision, according to Bawumia, was made following meetings with several stakeholders on enhancing the competitiveness of Ghana’s primary airport, the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).
“Furthermore, the Ministry of Interior and the Ghana Immigration Service have been directed to ensure that E-Gates will be operational at KIA this year for use by passengers using their Passports or Ghanacards,” his post added.
Read Bawumia’s full post below:
Dear friends,
I held a productive meeting on improving the competitiveness of Kotoka International Airport (KIA) with key stakeholders, including the Minister for Public Enterprises, Minister for Transport and his deputy, the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), Ghana Immigration Service, National Security and Ministry of Interior.
It was decided, inter alia, that airline passengers traveling to Ghana will, from 31st March 2023, no longer be required to fill out landing cards. This is because the same information can be obtained electronically.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Interior and the Ghana Immigration Service have been directed to ensure that E-Gates will be operational at KIA this year for use by passengers using their Passports or Ghanacards.
In addition, the processes that passengers go through at KIA are also going to be streamlined to drastically reduce the time spent by passengers and avoid duplication. The new process flow is expected to be operational by 31st March, 2023.
