Tag: NDC

  • Mahama comes no where close to Bawumia – Joe Wise

    Mahama comes no where close to Bawumia – Joe Wise

    The Member of Parliament for the Bekwai constituency in the Ashanti Region under the New Patriotic Party, Joe Osei-Owusu, has asserted that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would consistently outshine the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 election, John Dramani Mahama, in any direct comparison.

    The NDC has consistently targeted the Vice President, criticizing him for the economic challenges in Ghana, alleging that he presented himself as an economic savior during his time in opposition and directed numerous jabs at the NDC and its leader.

    The NDC specifically highlighted the escalating public debt, struggles of the Ghanaian cedi against major international currencies, and high inflation as indicators of the Vice President’s perceived incompetence.

    They argued that his harsh criticism of similar issues during his opposition days has exposed his inadequacy.

    In his role as the head of the government’s economic management team, the Vice President has not been exempt from blame for the failures of the NPP government.

    However, speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Monday, November 13, the First Deputy Speaker expressed confidence that Dr. Bawumia stands a brighter chance against the former President.

    “Let’s not create the impression that the current government hasn’t done anything positive. I don’t subscribe to that. There have been shortcomings and difficulties on different fronts, it’s a fact, and that’s a reality that we face. And he [Bawumia] as a Vice President, would have to carry some of that.”

    Responding to the host’s query about Dr. Bawumia’s chances in the 2024 polls, he stated, “Very bright.”

    He emphasized that although some people may vote based on party and its symbol, an evaluation considering their independent roles in the past would favor Dr. Bawumia when placed against Mahama.

    The assessment would consider their past actions, ideas, implementation efforts, and their quality of person and integrity.

    In a recent interview on Joy, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyapong downplayed attempts to attribute the challenges of the incumbent NPP administration largely to the Vice President and now flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Mr Agyapong suggested that comparing Bawumia, who has not been a President, to John Mahama, who has served as both Vice President and President, would not be fair.

    He stressed that the Vice President does not bear ultimate responsibility, and there have been areas where the government can be proud and others that need improvement.

    Mr Agyapong emphasized that Dr. Bawumia’s ability to implement a transformative vision would be the key differentiator.

  • Ghanaians deserve an apology from Bawumia – Pablo

    Ghanaians deserve an apology from Bawumia – Pablo

    The National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Opare Addo also known as Pablo, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for not starting his address to the nation with an apology to Ghanaians for failing to deliver on numerous promises made prior to winning the elections in 2016.

    Speaking at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the challenges faced by Ghanaians across various sectors.

    He openly confessed to the hardships experienced by citizens, including soaring food prices, a sharp depreciation of the exchange rate, escalating fuel costs, and increased transportation fares.

    Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the adverse effects of the government’s debt restructuring program on bond holders, who suffered significant losses in their net worth.

    On the country’s exchange rate depreciation, the Vice President noted that the loss of the local currency has slowed down
    sharply since February 2023.

    In an interview on Citi TV, George Opare Addo noted that the acknowledgment by the Vice President is not enough to assuage the hearts of many Ghanaians who cast their ballots for the NPP and the entire public.

    “Our situation is worse and what I was expected Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to do was apologize to the good people of this country.

    We deserve an apology from Bawumia. The kind of things he said, the lies he told, the promises he made. You make all these promises, you don’t fulfill them and you have the nerves and effrontery to stand before us,” he said.

    The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government promised to address Ghana’s currency depreciation, inflation among others, but failed to do so.

    According to the National Youth Organizer of the NDC, there is no salvation, as President Akufo-Addo has already given up in his quest to save the economy.

    He remained skeptical of the role Vice President Bawumia could play to reverse Ghana’s economic challenges which have been exacerbated during his government.

    “When the President of the Republic has already thrown in the towel is it the driver’s mate that will get us back on to the road? Akufo-Addo himself has told us it is game over,” he said.

    While addressing the nation, Dr Bawumia drew an analogy between his current role as Vice-President and that of a driver’s mate, emphasizing that with the constitutional authority vested in the president, he envisions assuming the proverbial “driver’s seat” to steer the nation towards progress.

  • You are treading on a suicidal path for aiming to rename public universities – Kweku Baako to Mahama

    Editor-in-Chief of the New Crusading Guide Newspaper, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako, has raised concerns about the advisability of former President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge to revert the names of certain public universities renamed during the Akufo-Addo administration.

    During the February 7, 2024, edition of Kokrokoo on Peace FM, Baako expressed skepticism about the quality of advice influencing Mahama’s campaign promises, cautioning that such commitments might lead to negative consequences.

    “It might even be suicidal for you the person advocating such a thing in terms of the area, what they are perceived as. So, maybe there isn’t quality advice going into some of these campaign promises,” he stated.

    “It can impact on election outcomes. This is not an issue you put on the front burner and charge people’s emotions on. It could easily backfire,” he stated.

    He stressed that ill-considered promises could significantly impact the electoral prospects of the opposition leader, prompting his inquiry into the quality of advice and careful consideration given to such assurances.

    “And so we will restore the original names, and the names that they have given them, will be given to a significant infrastructure in the Universities.

    “We will add other people and name the infrastructure in the Universities after them. But if the University is University for Development Studies, that is its core mandate. It will be called the University for Development Studies,” he stated.

    Recently, John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), announced his party’s intention to restore the original names of public universities if the NDC assumes office in 2025. Mahama accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of simply renaming universities constructed by the NDC and emphasized the alleged absence of new universities established during the NPP’s tenure.

  • 15 times Bawumia referenced Mahama’s 24-hr economy at Feb 7 lecture

    15 times Bawumia referenced Mahama’s 24-hr economy at Feb 7 lecture

    Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent address to the nation, themed “Ghana’s Next Chapter: Selfless Leadership and Bold Policies,” has sparked widespread discussions, particularly regarding his stance on the 24-hour economy concept proposed by his political opponent, former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    During his address on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, Dr Bawumia touched on various initiatives and policies related to the advancement of Ghana’s digital infrastructure and services. 

    Of notable mention were his remarks concerning the implementation of round-the-clock operations across several sectors. 

    While these statements were not explicitly directed at his political rival, the timing and context suggest otherwise.

    Here’s a breakdown of the key points made by Vice President Bawumia regarding 24-hour services:

    1. Today, because of mobile money interoperability (MMI), you can transfer money from a customer of one mobile money service provider to a customer of a different mobile money service provider and also make payments from your mobile money account into any bank account and you can receive payments from any bank account into your mobile money account. This can be done 24 hours a day!

    2. You can also receive remittances from abroad directly onto your mobile phone without the need to go to a bank or Western Union Money Transfer. Because the mobile money account performs just like a bank account, as a result of MMI, over 90% of Ghanaian adults have mobile money accounts that function like bank accounts. We have basically solved the problem of financial exclusion in Ghana. The State of Inclusive Instant Payment Report has ranked Ghana as number one in Africa in terms of access to financial inclusion! Ghana has 100% access to financial inclusion! Today because of digitalization anyone can do banking and digital financial transactions 24 hours a day!

    3. The digital payments infrastructure is boosting e-commerce in Ghana. Businesses are booming over Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Many people who cannot afford to rent or build shops are able to do business on the internet at little cost with deliveries helped by digital address and payments using mobile money interoperability. This can be done 24 hours a day! Ghana is currently ranked number 6 in Africa in terms of e-commerce after Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia and Morocco according to UNCTAD.

    4. We digitalized the passport office with oversight from my office. With digitization, the average turnaround time for the acquisition of passports has been significantly reduced and today you can apply for your passport online from home 24 hours a day.

    5. With the digitalization of motor insurance in Ghana, Members of the public can also self-check the authenticity of their insurance policy by dialing a USSD code *920*57# and follow the instructions thereafter to know the insurance status of the vehicle 24 hours a day!

    6. Today you can also apply for insurance for your vehicle on your mobile phone and receive your insurance sticker electronically 24 hours a day!

    7. With the digitalization of the scholarship secretariat, candidates can now apply for scholarship from the comfort of their homes 24 hours a day, take an aptitude test and be interviewed in their own districts.

    8. For services onboarded and receiving payments, you should be able to apply for and obtain any government service online through the Ghana.Gov platform 24 hours a day!

    9. With oversight from my office, digitalization at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has allowed buying electricity credit on your mobile phone through the Mobile ECG App. This has provided relief to customers who no longer have to queue for long hours to buy electricity units. Also, for people whose credit runs out at odd hours they can purchase electricity credit on their mobile phones 24 hours a day!

    10. Now for people who need a new service or separate meter from ECG, they can also apply online 24 hours a day!

    11. Many people, including highly educated people, find the process of filing taxes complex. To make it easier and less cumbersome to file taxes, I challenged the GRA to come up with a simple to use mobile App to enable ordinary people file and pay taxes using their mobile phones and this has been done. Today, you can file your taxes 24 hours a day!

    12. Currently, if you are referred from a hospital like Tamale Teaching Hospital to Korle-bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, you do not need to carry a folder. All your records will be seen and monitored by the doctor in Korle Bu when you arrive. Patients will have only one digital folder wherever they go. Your health records can be accessed 24 hours a day from any of the 302 networked hospitals so far.

    13. With oversight from my office, we have digitized the enrollment for and renewal of National Health Insurance membership. Following digitalization, renewal of health insurance registration via mobile phone (*929#) can take place 24 hours a day and this has eliminated these bottlenecks and also increased access to health care by those who need the services most.

    14. There are six Zipline Distribution Centres (DC) in Omenako (Eastern Region), Mpanya (Ashanti Region), Vobsi (North East Region), Sefwi Wiawso (Western North Region), Kete Krachi (Oti Region) and Anum (Eastern Region). Zipline has made millions of deliveries of medicines, blood and vaccines to very remote parts of Ghana and has saved many lives. Zipline services are available 24 hours a day!

    15. Ghanaians will experience the E-Pharmacy Platform in full operation this year when every pharmacy is onboarded. E-pharmacy services will be available 24 hours a day!

  • Akufo-Addo’s critics have been vindicated by Bawumia’s  address – Gyampo

    Akufo-Addo’s critics have been vindicated by Bawumia’s address – Gyampo

    A Political Science Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has asserted that certain elements of the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer’s address have substantiated the concerns raised by his critics.

    In an analysis of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s speech on Wednesday, February 7, Gyampo stated, “Parts of the presentation were an indictment on the government of which he is part, in a manner that raises serious questions and vindicates those of us who have been critics of the government.”

    He specifically highlighted the contradiction in pledging not to have more than 50 ministers while being part of a government that currently comprises over 100 ministers. Additionally, Gyampo pointed out the flagbearer’s promise to abolish certain taxes, including the Emissions tax, Gaming Tax, E-Levy, and VAT on electricity consumption.

    According to Gyampo, these promises align with the criticisms he and others have raised regarding the need to streamline the size of the government and eliminate what he terms “nuisance taxes.”

    Reflecting on the past, Gyampo noted that supporters of the flagbearer had previously criticized and opposed similar critiques raised by him and others.

    He posed a rhetorical question, wondering whether these supporters would now direct their criticisms toward the flagbearer himself, considering his current stance that seemingly aligns with the earlier calls for downsizing the government and eliminating what he deems as burdensome taxes.

    Below is Professor Gyampo’s full speech

    Bawumia’s Address – A Preliminary Analysis

    1. This essentially was an articulation of achievements and vision, fundamentally in the broader area of Digitization and honestly, the various manifestations of this overarching policy, and what it can do to promote development, is indubitable and enormous. No doubt it formed the interwoven central theme of the presentation.

    2. Unfortunately, Ghanaians had to wait to be told more about what digitization has done for them by the man himself, in a manner that makes many of the achievements which should have been long known, sound new. Consequently, there may be the need to fact-check many of the claims in order to be sure.

    3. It appears DMB is the only one who has a firm grasp over the policy, as the party itself has either been ignorant about the claims about Digitization or has been incompetent in communicating its achievements to fester in the psyche of Ghanaians. Unless the party begins to undertake remedial tutorials about Digitization and its achievements for the purposes of political communication, the work will be difficult for DMB.

    4. Despite what it can do, Digitization is not the sine qua non to development. Other key interventions such as good governance and deliberate efforts to seal the leakages and slippages, fight corruption, exemplary leadership that first tightens its belt, rather than living bourgeoisie, etc should have been emphasized more than being treated nearly as appendages.

    5. Parts of the presentation was an indictment on the government of which he is part, in a manner that raises serious questions and vindicates those of us who have been critics of the government. Promising to have not more than 50 Ministers when you are part of a government of over 100 Ministers; and promising to abolish some taxes like the Emissions tax, Gaming Tax, E-Levy, VAT on electricity consumption etc makes some of us feel vindicated for criticizing and calling for downsizing of government and the abolition of such nuisance taxes. DMB’s supporters came after us for such criticisms and I am wondering whether they will go after him, now that he’s taken a position that responds favorably to our criticisms on the size of government and nuisance taxes.

    6. But the more important question is, why do these great interventions tomorrow, instead of today that they are greatly needed? Does the answer still lie in the claim that he’s not the one in charge? Well, in that case, then karma is not good at all. There was then absolutely no basis for the 170 questions posed to Veep Amissah-Arthur because, he was also a mate and wasn’t in charge.

    7. DMB still blames our challenges on COVID and Russian-Ukraine war and there is no doubt at all that these have had negative effects on many countries including Ghana. But a more convincing explanation could have also focused on an admission of what was done wrong domestically, and a promise to refrain from our own contributions to the challenges. It cannot be entirely accurate for us to blame all other than ourselves for our challenges.

    8. Finally, there were great ideas that were espoused including the need for a national development plan, a move that was initiated by the predecessor government but was jettisoned. All the other contenders in the 2024 elections also have great plans. But it appears great plans wouldn’t really matter. Available empirical survey reports show that many Ghanaians now, do not believe in political promises, as many of them are merely vote garnering gimmicks. What would therefore be the decider in the 2024 elections, would be a side by side comparison of the trustworthiness, credibility and achievements of the various contenders.

    In my next post, I will now offer a sharper focus and properly interrogate some of the policy vision outlined. Where they deserve commendations, we would commend and where they must be fact-checked and critiqued, we will do so.

    Yaw Gyampo
    A31, Prabiw
    PAV Ansah Street
    Saltpond
    &
    Suro Nipa House
    Behind Old Post Office
    Larteh-Akuapim

  • Mahama defends his reputation; refutes claims of economic mess

    Mahama defends his reputation; refutes claims of economic mess

    Former President John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has emphatically rejected assertions by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that his previous administration left behind an economic mess. 

    Addressing a town hall meeting in Tamale on Tuesday as part of his Building Ghana Tour in the Northern Region, Mahama asserted that the NPP inherited a stabilized economy upon assuming office.

    Mahama refuted claims of economic mismanagement by providing comparative data on key economic indicators. 

    He highlighted that when he left office, the debt-to-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio stood at 57%, which was below the recommended threshold for middle-income countries by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). 

    However, under the current administration, this ratio has soared to over 100%.

    Moreover, Mahama cited inflation rates, noting that during his tenure, inflation stood at 15.5%, while it surged to 54% under the NPP-led government before dropping to 30%. He also criticized the decline in cocoa production, indicating a drastic reduction from 960,000 metric tonnes under the NDC administration to under 500,000 metric tonnes under the current government.

    “When I left office, the debt to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 57 per cent and the optimum GDP for middle income countries as recommended by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is 60 per cent,” he stated.

    “My administration was under the recommended debt to GDP but today, the debt to GDP is more than 100 percent,” he said.

    Highlighting achievements of his administration, Mahama emphasized the establishment of key financial instruments such as the Stabilisation Fund, crucial for navigating economic challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Ghana Infrastructural Investment Fund, which supported infrastructure development projects such as the Agenda 111 hospital initiative.

    Mahama underscored the strategic acquisition of two new oil fields during his tenure, aimed at tripling oil revenue for the nation. He contrasted this with the NDC’s accomplishments, achieved with only one oil field, the Jubilee field.

    “With all these, how did I leave a mess? The constant talk of Mahama left us a mess is a myth and not true. They created the mess themselves,” Mahama asserted, challenging the narrative propagated by the NPP regarding his administration’s economic legacy.

    The former President’s remarks at the town hall meeting aimed to provide clarity on his administration’s economic record and counter criticisms leveled against him by political opponents.

    As Ghana gears up for the 2024 elections, Mahama’s defense of his economic stewardship sets the stage for a spirited debate on competing visions for the nation’s future.

  • NPP govt has created more jobs than any other – Bawumia

    NPP govt has created more jobs than any other – Bawumia

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has asserted that the Akufo-Addo administration has outperformed all others in job creation, generating a remarkable 2.1 million jobs amid the global economic crisis from 2017 to 2022.

    Speaking at the UPSA auditorium in Accra, Vice President Bawumia highlighted the government’s achievements, noting the recruitment of 100,000 additional health workers, a similar number of teachers, and a doubling of fire service personnel recruitment.

    He underscored the government’s success in creating jobs, with 1.2 million hires in the public sector and 975,000 in the private sector, according to SSNIT data.

    “What is probably the most remarkable development in terms of the economy is that our government has created 2.1 million jobs between 2017 and 2022 notwithstanding the global economic crisis. The public sector recruited 1.2 million people while the private sector created 975,000 jobs (per SSNIT data) . We recruited 100,000 more health workers, 100,000 more teachers, more than doubled the fire service personnel, etc. Our government has quite clearly created more jobs in a seven year period than any government. This is truly remarkable under the circumstances even though we still have to create more jobs,” he remarked.

    Despite the economic challenges, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the government’s adept navigation, steering the nation away from catastrophe.

    He pointed to the resilient performance of the economy in various aspects, including GDP growth, agricultural and industrial expansion, trade balance, gross international reserves, and notable job creation.

    Acknowledging the need for continued job creation, Vice President Bawumia expressed the government’s commitment to enhancing its achievements.

    “Clearly notwithstanding the economic crisis, this government has been able to steer the ship of the nation away from catastrophe. In the face of the crisis, the overall performance of the economy in areas such as GDP Growth, agricultural growth, industrial growth, trade balance, gross international reserves and job creation demonstrated resilience. Available data also shows that notwithstanding the challenging economy we inherited, and the global economic crisis that ensued, government has chalked a large number of achievements across the country. Due to time constraints.”

    He teased the forthcoming release of the “Performance Tracker,” detailing accomplishments across sectors and districts in Ghana. The tracker aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the government’s contributions to the nation’s development.

  • Bawumia can’t swerve responsibility for economic mess – NDC

    Bawumia can’t swerve responsibility for economic mess – NDC

    Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the Special Aide to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, is not mincing words in response to attempts by the governing New Patriotic Party’s 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and his team, to distance the second gentleman of the land from the current economic challenges facing the country.

    Mogtari contends that Dr. Bawumia, as a significant figure in the Akufo-Addo administration, is accountable for the economic mismanagement issues.

    In a social media post, she underscored that Ghanaians are well aware of the unfavorable conditions under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia-led administration, making it impossible for the Vice President to absolve himself from blame.

    With Dr. Bawumia leading the NPP as its flagbearer in the upcoming elections, Mogtari emphasized that he has been portrayed as an economic messiah and the head of the Akufo-Addo government’s economic management team since assuming the role of Vice President in 2017.

    Mogtari urged Ghanaians to perceive the vice president in conjunction with his president, asserting that he offers nothing different to the citizens.

    This statement from Mogtari signals a robust response to the attempts to dissociate Dr. Bawumia from the economic challenges, emphasizing the importance of holding him accountable for the state of the country’s economy.

    “We should all pay close attention to the Nana Addo/Bawumia union and how it operates. This union may be willing to sacrifice the ‘marriage’ for political gain and may try to deceive us by presenting a separation of the union just as a matter of convenience,” she wrote on X.

    “Just like the attempt to discredit the #24HourEconomy, any effort to decouple the union will fail because we know that this union, built on lies, will do anything for power, even if it means a complete dissolution of the union.”

  • Bawumia is a disgrace to the North, don’t vote for him – Fiifi Kwetey tells Northerners

    Bawumia is a disgrace to the North, don’t vote for him – Fiifi Kwetey tells Northerners

    General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fiifi Kwetey, has issued a stern warning to the people of the Northern Region against supporting Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential ambitions.

    In a stirring address, Fiifi Kwetey branded him as a disgrace to the North. 

    Kwetey’s impassioned plea comes amidst a charged political atmosphere as Ghana gears up for the upcoming presidential elections.

    Addressing a gathering at Tamale, Kwetey minced no words in denouncing Bawumia, asserting that his candidacy would bring shame upon the entire Northern Region. 

    https://twitter.com/castinbillz/status/1755123432520331683?s=46

    “…Northern Region, you owe it to Ghana to make sure that son, that represents not your best image, that son that represents a disgrace to the North should never rise to the leadership of this country because that would be a disgrace to the whole of the Northern Region,” he said. 

    “Northern Region, you need to do everything possible to ensure that that son of yours (Dr Mahamudu Bawumia), who is an absolute disgrace and a humiliation to all of you, never rises to become the President of this country. You have been blessed to have a son who can be trusted (in the person of John Dramani Mahama),” he added. 

    Highlighting the need for regional pride and integrity, Kwetey emphasized that the Northern Region deserves a leader who embodies its values and virtues. He urged the people to reject Bawumia’s candidacy and instead throw their support behind John Dramani Mahama who truly represents their interests.

  • Ghana’s parliament is becoming a laughing stock in the world – Majority Leader

    Ghana’s parliament is becoming a laughing stock in the world – Majority Leader

    The Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has expressed concern over the significant departure of experienced lawmakers from parliament, whether voluntarily or through electoral defeat in their respective primaries.

    He notes that Ghana is currently recognized as one of the three countries globally with a high attrition rate in its parliament, a characterization that invites global ridicule.

    Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who is voluntarily exiting Parliament, voiced his worries on the Sunrise show on 3FM, emphasizing the negative impact on Ghana’s international reputation.

    “I am very much worried. Let us face it, we are becoming a laughing stock in the world because as I said, Ghana is one of three countries in the world with the highest attrition rate in our parliament, it is not a good description at all,” the Suame lawmaker who is also exiting Parliament voluntarily told Johnnie Hughes on the Sunrise show on 3FM Wednesday February 7.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, also shared apprehensions about the exit of seasoned Members of Parliament from the House.

    Notable departures include First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei Owusu, Cletus Avoka, ABA Fuseini, and Edward Bawa.

    Speaking in Parliament, Speaker Bagbin highlights the loss of 28 MPs through the NPP primaries and an additional 17 MPs through the NDC primaries.

    He emphasized the negative implications of voluntary discontinuance and deselection, stating that such occurrences are not favorable for the legislature and Ghana’s democratic development.

    Bagbin called for serious consideration by political parties, stressing the importance of experience in the House and the substantial investment made in each MP by the nation.

    “Honourable members, the primaries are part of the process for the electorates to determine who represents them in parliament. But the case of voluntary discontinuance of five and 19, followed by deselection of 17 and 28, is not a good signal for the legislature and for Ghana’s democratic development. Experience, as we all know, counts in this House, but the endorsement of your party is equally important.”

    He added “Honourable members, the haemorrhage and cost to the nation, however, are matters of great concern worth considering by all stakeholders, and I want to appeal to the political parties to take this up seriously, because the investment that is made in an individual MP is so huge for the nation just to go to waste after every four years.”

  • Leave NAM1 alone, you are also corrupt – Blakk Rasta jabs Mahama

    Leave NAM1 alone, you are also corrupt – Blakk Rasta jabs Mahama


    Renowned radio personality and musician, Blakk Rasta, has voiced strong criticism against former President John Dramani Mahama.

    He has demanded that the ex-president addresses alleged corruption that occurred within his administration.


    In a recent broadcast, Blakk Rasta voiced dissatisfaction with Mahama’s commitment to recover funds that NAM1, the embattled businessman, unlawfully took from individuals.

    NAM1 and his companies, Menzgold Ghana Limited and Brew Marketing Consult Ghana Limited, face charges of defrauding by false pretences, inducing public investment, and money laundering.


    Blakk Rasta emphasized the need for Mahama to address concerns about the misallocation of funds during his tenure, stating, “Chase all the corrupt people you spent corrupt money on. You should be investigated.”

    “Chase all the corrupt people you spent corrupt money on. You should be investigated. You are investigating a young man who is trying to put his life together. NAM1 started in your regime, was in your regime and made things happen.


    Rasta accused the former president of initiating an investigation into a young man, NAM1, who is endeavoring to rebuild his life.

    The radio personality pointed out that NAM1’s business endeavors commenced during Mahama’s regime, suggesting a lack of scrutiny at the time.


    Blakk Rasta alleged that it was only when subsequent administrations took charge that NAM1 encountered significant challenges, leading to the confiscation of his assets by the State.

    “You didn’t see anything wrong with it until the old men came into power and messed up the man’s business. Now you have the mouth to say that if I come into power I will chase NAM1 and get all the money. Who is NAM1 to be walking free? Don’t do that, you are not being smart when you say that.

    Furthermore, Blakk Rasta called on Mahama to address other unresolved issues, such as the infamous ‘Guinea fowls’ that supposedly migrated to Burkina Faso during Mahama’s presidency.

    “Mahama please chase the Guinea fowls that flew to Burkina Faso, Mr ex-president chase RL&G that you gave so much money to and issue came out of that. Mr ex-president chases all the slay queens who are mentioning your names all over the place,” he added.


    Additionally, he urged the ex-president to investigate the financial dealings with RL&G, a matter that stirred controversy during Mahama’s term.


    Blakk Rasta didn’t shy away from addressing Mahama’s association with individuals he referred to as “slay queens” who have been vocal about their ties with the former president.

    He encouraged Mahama to address these allegations and take appropriate action. Blakk Rasta also cautioned Mahama against making promises to pursue legal action against NAM1, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and unbiased investigation into allegations of corruption during Mahama’s tenure.

  • I didn’t leave a mess behind, blame your ‘clueless’ Ofori-Atta – Mahama to Akufo-Addo

    I didn’t leave a mess behind, blame your ‘clueless’ Ofori-Atta – Mahama to Akufo-Addo

    Former President , John Dramani Mahama refuted claims of leaving an economic mess during his tenure and directed blame towards President Nana Akufo-Addo’s finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, labeling the economic management team as “clueless.”

    Encouraging Ghanaians to vote against the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December general elections, Mahama highlighted the achievements of his administration before the NPP took office in 2016.

    Expressing disappointment that the Akufo-Addo-led administration continued to blame his previous government for their failures, Mahama defended his term, stating that the state of the economy during his leadership was far better than the current situation under the Nana Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration.

    Mahama stated, “You didn’t inherit a mess; it is your clueless economic management team and finance minister that created the mess we are experiencing today.”Emphasizing his economic successes, Mahama positioned himself as the most qualified candidate for leading the nation after the December general elections.

    He urged Ghanaians to reject what he considers the NPP’s rhetoric, emphasizing that the country has not made substantial progress as recently portrayed.

  • We will forever oppose your decision to scrap the usage of indelible ink during voting – NDC to EC

    We will forever oppose your decision to scrap the usage of indelible ink during voting – NDC to EC

    The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has declared that the Minority in Parliament will vehemently oppose any efforts by the Electoral Commission (EC) to eliminate the use of indelible ink in the 2024 polls.

    The EC recently disclosed plans to discard the traditional practice of applying indelible ink to voters’ fingers, a method aimed at preventing multiple voting, in favor of more “modern” verification methods.

    EC Chairperson Jean Mensa clarified that indelible ink would not be necessary in district-level elections and subsequent polls as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the electoral process.

    Expressing strong dissent against this decision, Dr. Ato Forson emphatically stated during a parliamentary session on February 6, 2014, “Mr. Speaker, we will not countenance the elimination of indelible ink from the electoral process. We will not! Read my lips, we will not! Touch wood, we will not.”

    The Minority Leader argued that the use of indelible ink in elections has stood the test of time in identifying voters, emphasizing that it would be a mistake for the EC to abandon this established practice.

    He asserted that indelible ink contributes to the integrity of elections by ensuring visible, transparent, and physical verification alongside biometric verification.

    Dr. Ato Forson underscored the importance of indelible ink, stating,

    “The truth of the matter is that the use of indelible ink in our electoral process does no harm to the conduct of free and fair elections in Ghana. In fact, indelible ink adds another layer to the integrity of elections by ensuring that voters are visibly, transparently, and physically verified in addition to biometric verification.

    Indelible ink has not only become a feature of our elections in the Fourth Republic, but it is also a time-tested method of easily identifying persons who have already cast their ballot and therefore helps to prevent multiple voting.”

    He emphasized that indelible ink has become a consistent feature of elections in the Fourth Republic and serves as a proven method to easily identify individuals who have cast their ballots, thereby preventing multiple voting.

  • Haruna Iddrisu slams EC over decision to change election date

    Haruna Iddrisu slams EC over decision to change election date

    Former Minority Leader and Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu, has joined voices in the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) kicking against the implementation of a new date for the country’s general elections. 

    Speaking at a Town Hall meeting held as part of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s “Building Ghana Tour” in Gushegu, Haruna Iddrisu asserted that such a move undermines the rights of the electorate and defies common sense.

    The legislator, in his address stressed on the fundamental nature of the right to vote, enshrined under Article 42 of the constitution. 

    He fervently argued that any alteration to the voting time would inevitably impede the electorate’s capacity to fully exercise this sacred right, regardless of the length of the queue.

    “It is a common sense matter,” stated Haruna Iddrisu. “Some people can finish voting at 10 am because their numbers are inadequate. It makes common sense that whenever you have a queue of Ghanaians, even up to 11 pm, legitimacy and constitutionalism require that you respect the right to vote.”

    Expressing apprehension regarding the potential consequences of the Electoral Commission’s proposed amendment, Haruna Iddrisu underscored the significant constitutional challenge it presents. 

    He emphasized that changing the voting time would require amending two articles of the constitution, suggesting that achieving consensus in Parliament could pose considerable difficulty.

    “We do not think that parliament may be able to build a consensus on that matter because it will require a constitutional amendment of two articles,” emphasized Haruna Iddrisu.

    Moreover, he stressed the importance of maintaining the use of indelible ink for the election, underlining its crucial role in preserving the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.

    The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has declared its intention and is making plans to change the election date from December 7 to November 7. The decision follows a proposal from the Seventh-Day Adventist Church for the amendment of the December 7, 2024, election date to a different day. 

    The SDA church wants the date moved since it is a Saturday and a day of worship for the church. The EC subsequently welcomed the idea and suggested that the voting date be moved to November 7.

    An Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting to deliberate on the change of the date for the 2024 general election was held in Accra on Monday, January 29, 2024.

    The meeting was attended by representatives of the various political parties that make up IPAC.

    The meeting, which started at 10:30 a.m. with the two Deputy Commissioners of the Electoral Commission (EC) -Corporate Services, Dr Eric Bossman Asare; and Operations, Samuel Tettey, at the helm of affairs was afford IPAC members an opportunity to discuss the EC’s proposal to move the election date from the traditional December 7 to November 7 and also make it a holiday.

    While the EC maintained that it could go through the needed processes to effect the change of date, some of the political parties said activating such a move in an election year was too short a period.

    However, the parties have agreed in principle that the processes for the change in election date could begin after the 2024 elections and be applied in the 2028 elections.

  • Lilwin declares intention to contest Afigya Kwabre North parliamentary seat

    Lilwin declares intention to contest Afigya Kwabre North parliamentary seat


    The celebrated comic actor, Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known as Lilwin, has formally declared his intention to run for the parliamentary election in the Afigya Kwabre North constituency of the Ashanti region.

    Lilwin made the announcement during a vibrant rally that attracted a massive crowd of supporters and well-wishers, setting the stage for an event marked by enthusiastic cheers and applause as the actor addressed the gathering.

    In his address, Lilwin emphasized his dedication to serving the people and the nation, highlighting his vision, competence, humility, and commitment.

    He assured the constituents that their needs would be his top priority, pledging relentless efforts to bring about positive change and development in the Afigya Kwabre North Constituency.

    Notably, the popular Kumawood actor is set to vie for the parliamentary seat as an independent candidate, adding an intriguing element to the upcoming political landscape.

    Lilwin’s foray into politics has quickly become a trending topic on social media, with his fans and supporters expressing excitement about his decision to enter the political arena. Many see his popularity and charisma as valuable assets that could potentially make a significant impact on the constituency. The anticipation is palpable as the elections approach on December 7.

  • Mahama has been truthful in the past, allow him transform ‘poor’ Ghana – NDC to electorates

    Mahama has been truthful in the past, allow him transform ‘poor’ Ghana – NDC to electorates

    General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has called upon the people of northern Ghana to place their trust in John Mahama during the upcoming 2024 elections.

    He emphasized that individuals with small businesses cannot rely on the Nana Addo-Bawumia government, as they are likely to impose burdensome taxes that could harm their enterprises.

    Mr. Kwetey urged voters to make informed decisions during the December polls, prioritizing candidates who genuinely prioritize their welfare, regardless of their geographical location.

    “Northern region, you have produced a person that we can be proud of, a genuine son of the region, a genuine son of Ghana. He tells the truth. When he speaks, don’t you trust him? Yes, you can trust him. He told Ghana that even though dumsor was not caused by me, I will fix dumsor. And what did he do? He fixed it. So you can commit your business into his hands because he is a man that can be trusted. You can commit your farms into his hands; he is a man that can be trusted. You can commit Ghana and the resources of Ghana and the destiny of 30 million plus Ghanaians into his hands because he can be trusted.”

    “The same cannot be said of the other son that came from your region. That other son that comes from the Northeastern part of this region of yours cannot be trusted. So you have produced two sons, one can be trusted, the other one you cannot even give your small business into his hands. Comrades, you owe it to Ghana to ensure that the son who can be trusted rises again to the leadership of this country.”

    He made these remarks in Tamale, during the second day of the NDC flag-bearer’s ‘Building Ghana Tour’ of the Northern Region, encouraging party members to take pride in their association with the NDC.

  • Yendi will not be thirsty again if I become president – Mahama promises chief

    Yendi will not be thirsty again if I become president – Mahama promises chief

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to prioritize infrastructure development in Yendi if elected president, promising the community will see significant improvements under his leadership.

    During a meeting with the Chief of Yendi, Mahama assured the community that it would not “be thirty again” under his presidency, referencing the lack of progress and development faced by the town since he left office. 

    “…with all the work that we did in terms of the Yendi water supply project, eight years after we left office, Yendi still has no water. I want to assure you, if your son becomes President, you will not be thirsty anymore,” he told the Chief. 

    He further noted that; “The Yendi Water Project would be a priority for the new NDC government”.

    The NDC flagbearer also promised to resolve the current insecurity in Dagbon, which has led to the area seeing a lot of armed robberies, when the NDC comes to power in 2025.

    “We would make sure that we would get rid of the armed robbers who are persecuting you. So that our people can live in peace and travel to do their work without fears that they will be harmed or killed,” he said.

    Mahama also promised that the next NDC government would ensure that the Eastern Corridor Roads project, which has stalled under the current government, would be completed so the people of Yendi would no longer have to pass through Tamale when traveling to the southern part of Ghana.

  • NDC will receive massive support from swing voters in Accra in 2024 elections – Theo Acheampong

    NDC will receive massive support from swing voters in Accra in 2024 elections – Theo Acheampong

    Political Risk Analyst, Dr. Theo Acheampong, has suggested that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) being led by former President John Dramani Mahama will garner significant backing from swing voters during the 2024 elections.

    In a post on X, Monday, February 5, Dr Acheamong noted that this assertion is not derived from a scientific approach but rather a hunch.

    He explained that the NDC will beat the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Accra due to the high cost of living in the country’s capital, as well as corruption.

    He wrote, “Swing voters in Greater Accra favouring Former President Mahama and the NDC; my hunch [unscientific opinion] is that the NDC will most likely win the Greater Accra region on account of recent economic issues [inflation & cost of living; DDEP, corruption perceptions, etc.].”

    “There have been some economic improvements in recent months, and this is likely to be sustained in 2024 and beyond. However, I do wonder if this will be enough to change the minds of swing voters,” he added.

    Since 2021, the prices of goods and services have been record-high. From over 50 percent inflation rate, Ghana is currently working a little over 20 percent.

    With regards to corruption, reports indicate that the government has for the past four years, not done much to address the menace.

    In the 2020 presidential elections, John Mahama, secured majority of the votes; 1,326,596, representing 51.04% while President Akufo-Addo polled 1,250,174 votes, representing 48.10%.

  • You don’t have to disappoint us when you’re sworn in as president – Yaa Naa tells Mahama

    You don’t have to disappoint us when you’re sworn in as president – Yaa Naa tells Mahama

    The esteemed Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II, has offered counsel to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama.

    During a recent meeting at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, Yaa Naa emphasized the significance of a successful tenure, urging Mahama not to disappoint the public if sworn in as president.

    He also cautioned Mahama against the accumulation of wealth and properties if he occupies when sworn in a president.

    Yaa Naa emphasized the importance of prioritizing the creation of a significant legacy over accumulating personal wealth, a sentiment shared during Mahama’s courtesy call at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.

    Representing Yaa Naa, Naa Jacob Mahama conveyed, “I believe you’re not coming to make more money for your family but to leave a legacy that not only your children will be proud of but will pave the way for them wherever they may find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker.”

    Dagbon’s Overlord further advised Mahama to remain vigilant against false friends who may undermine his government if he emerges victorious in the 2024 elections. Yaa Naa stressed the significance of discerning true allies, drawing on Mahama’s own experiences.

    Initiating his ‘Building Ghana Tour’ on Monday, February 5, 2024, Mahama covered Mion, Gushegu, and Yendi constituencies in the Northern Region. Day two of the tour featured activities in the Tamale Township, encompassing Tamale Central, Tamale North, Tamale South, and Sagnarigu constituencies.

    “I believe you’re not coming to make more money for your family, but to leave a legacy that not only your children will be proud of. But will pave the way for them wherever they may find themselves in the future when you are long gone to your maker.”

    “The most important thing for you at this stage of your political life is to be able to tell who your true friends are from the opportunistic ones. You were there once, and it shouldn’t be difficult for you to understand,” he advised.

  • Ghana is slacking due to corruption – Edudzi Tameklo

    Ghana is slacking due to corruption – Edudzi Tameklo

    The Director of the Legal Directorate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Edudzi Tameklo, has emphasized that Ghana’s financial challenges stem not from revenue shortfalls but from the mismanagement and wastage of accrued state revenues.

    In an interview on The Big Issues with Roland Walker on TV3 on February 5, Mr. Tameklo commented on the government’s reported withdrawal of the proposal to impose a 15% VAT on residential electricity consumers.

    The Trades Union Congress (TUC) and affiliated labor unions had announced plans for a nationwide demonstration on February 13 if the government did not reverse the directive by the Ministry of Finance to the Electricity Company of Ghana.

    “Consistent with the dishonest character of this Bawumia/Akufo-Addo administration immediately organized labour said they were going to protest, government’s assigns and hype men decided to go on this trajectory by saying that they were going to drop it.

    “Organized Labour, I want to put before you today that this government is so dishonest that the only reason why they want to drop this 15 percent ECG VAT is simply because of the election ahead and that should you make the mistake of voting for them to remain in power they will go back for this 15 % VAT. This is a government that said in the midst of Covid 19 that they were giving us free water, free electricity, immediately they got elected in 2020 they imposed Covid levy on us,” he said.

    Government sources later revealed that the proposal would not be implemented. According to Mr. Tameklo, “No government has collected more taxes than the Akufo-Addo government. They have obtained substantial revenue from Ghanaians. Our problem is not a lack of revenue; it is pervasive corruption, waste, and the government’s extreme recklessness.”

    He argued that the withdrawal of the VAT is a political maneuver ahead of the 2024 elections. Mr. Tameklo accused the government of being dishonest, stating, “This government is so dishonest that the only reason they want to drop this 15 percent ECG VAT is simply because of the upcoming election. Should you make the mistake of voting for them to remain in power, they will reintroduce this 15% VAT.” He also highlighted past instances of promises made during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as free water and electricity, being followed by the imposition of a COVID levy after the 2020 election.

  • I will make sure Yendi doesn’t run short of water when I win 2024 elections – Mahama to Yaa Naa

    I will make sure Yendi doesn’t run short of water when I win 2024 elections – Mahama to Yaa Naa

    During his ‘Building the Ghana We Want Tour’ in the Northern Region on Monday, February 5, 2024, John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), paid a courtesy call on Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II, the Overlord of Dagbon, at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.

    Mahama assured Yaa Naa that, if elected, his government would prioritize resolving water scarcity in Dagbon.

    He expressed disappointment over the stalled Yendi Water Supply Project initiated during his tenure, criticizing the current government for its lack of progress on the project.

    Mahama also promised to address the prevailing insecurity in Dagbon, particularly the rise in armed robberies, if the NDC regains power in 2025.

    He emphasized the importance of ensuring safety for the people of Dagbon, allowing them to live and work without fear of harm.

    Furthermore, Mahama pledged to revive the Eastern Corridor Roads project, which has experienced delays under the current government. He committed to completing the project to facilitate travel for the people of Yendi, eliminating the need to pass through Tamale when journeying to the southern part of Ghana.

  • Koku Anyidoho questions Mahama on whether NDC truly constructed all public universities

    Koku Anyidoho questions Mahama on whether NDC truly constructed all public universities

    Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Koku Anyidoho, questions the assertion made by former President John Dramani Mahama that the NDC constructed all public universities.

    Former President Mahama contends that the NDC initiated and built each public university, accusing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of merely renaming them.

    In contrast to the NPP, Mahama emphasizes the NDC’s reputation for nation-building, particularly through the provision of infrastructure.

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

    Following the construction of a university by the NDC, they subsequently name it after one of their revered figures. We plan to rename these universities, recognizing not only the heroes from the NPP tradition but also those from various facets of Ghanaian history.

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

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

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

    In a statement on his X platform, Mr. Anyidoho, a former presidential spokesperson during the Mills’ administration, mentioned:

    “Did NDC really build all Public Universities? Prez Rawlings established UDS, President Mills established, UHAS, Volta, UNER, B/A, USD Eastern. Which one did [Mahama] establish? Rather he created a green book and sought to appropriate all projects of Prez Mills.”

    He added “24hr economy to be used for honeymoon and University name change – not for, Creating Jobs, Investing in People, Expanding Infrastructure, Governing in an Open, Honest & Transparent manner. Obviously, [John Mahama] never believed in the Better Ghana Agenda of Prez Mills. God save Ghana.”

    “How does the changing of names of universities solve the graduate unemployment and change the economic situation of Ghana? Isn’t it a continuation of the endless drab cycle of ‘do me I do you’ politics which sinks the nation deeper into the throes of gross mediocrity?

    “If you name UHAS, Atta-Mills University for Health and Allied Sciences, how does that affect its core mandate? Honestly, if I was President Akufo-Addo, after building Asomdwe Park, I would name UHAS after Atta-Mills and see if [Mahama] would dare say he would change that one too.”

  • Builsa South MP anticipates Mahama restores original name of Jubilee House

    Builsa South MP anticipates Mahama restores original name of Jubilee House

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has received calls to change the name of the seat of government from the current “Jubilee House” back to its original “Flagstaff House.”

    This request follows his announcement to restore the original names of public universities previously renamed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    In welcoming Mr Mahama’s decision to restore the original names, Builsa South Member of Parliament, Dr Clement Apaak, said: “Seated behind him [JM] during his interaction with stakeholders in the Zuarungu Constituency, I leapt with joy when he announced that he would restore the original names of the universities renamed by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.”

    “I have no doubt that Operation Restoration will include the seat of government. Flagstaff House it was, and so would it be again. Our history will definitely be restored,” he wrote on his X platform.

    Mahama emphasized that the current names would be assigned to significant infrastructure within the universities.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer asserted that every public university was initiated and built by the NDC, highlighting the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) practice of renaming these institutions.

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

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

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

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

    Mr. Mahama, in expressing his intention to revert the names of public universities, mentioned that the current names would be allocated to notable infrastructure within the institutions.

    The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) emphasized that the NDC had initiated and constructed every public university.

    It is noteworthy that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo renamed the Wa campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS) after Simon Diedong (SD) Dombo, a politician affiliated with the United Party tradition.

  • Apostle to offer himself up for lynching if prophesy about Mahama winning elections fails 

    Apostle to offer himself up for lynching if prophesy about Mahama winning elections fails 

    Founder of Hezekiah Apostolic Prayer Ministry, Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei has offered himself up for lynching if a prophesy about former President John Dramani Mahama wining the 2024 elections. 

    Apostle Owusu Adjei in his declaration indicated that the former President will win the elections hands down if he chooses one Leslie Tamakloe as his running mate.

    Speaking at a press conference, he said: “My name is Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei and I am advertising my God, the God of Bethel; Genesis 31:13, it says, ‘I am the God of Bethel.’

    “I am saying these are the words of the God of Bethel. His excellency John Dramani Mahama, correct your mistakes from 2020, go to the Volta Region, choose Leslie Mensah Tamakloe as your running mate, you will win hands down. NDC, you have the opportunity and the possibility to rule for 30 good years,” he stated.

    It was during these remarks that Apostle Mensah said he would offer himself to be lynched if the NDC wins the election without naming Leslie Tamakloe as running mate.

    “If his Excellency John Dramani Mahama refuses and goes for any other candidate apart from Leslie Mensah Tamakloe born on the 18th of April, 1957 and wins this election, I Apostle Kwabena Owusu Adjei I am offering my body to be lynched by the NDC foot soldiers and grassroot supporters.

    “We will meet at former Obra Spot, Kwame Nkrumah Interchange-Dubai. Bring all your cameras, call me guilty, whatever they want to do to me; they can stone me, lash me, whatever. I said I offer myself because I am so confident in my God that there is no turning back,” he stated.

    The Apostle went on to state that he will still put himself up to be lynched if the NDC fails to win the election after heeding to the directive of his prophecy.

    Former President Mahama’s second attempt at winning Ghana’s presidency after losing the 2016 election will come off in the December polls in a contest that is set to have him and Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, New Patriotic Party flagbearer as frontrunners.

    Both leading candidates have yet to name their running mates with months left to the election.

  • EC is not ready to conduct 2024 elections – NDC

    EC is not ready to conduct 2024 elections – NDC

    Deputy National Director of Elections of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Tanko Rashid Computer, has raised concerns about the readiness of the Electoral Commission (EC) for the 2024 general elections.

    He noted that the Commission has not submitted its program of activities, raising questions about its preparedness for the upcoming elections.

    Speaking on JoyNews Newsfile on Saturday, February 3, Dr. Rashid pointed to issues during the recent District Assembly elections, such as a shortage of ballot papers and problems with the electoral register that hindered some people from voting.

    “This year they are going to do another registration. At the time we were at the IPAC meeting, the Electoral Commission did not have the roadmap for the 2024 election. They have not given us the road map and their programme of activities.

    “We asked for it, and they told us at the next IPAC meeting, they were going to make it available. The next IPAC meeting we attended, up till now, they didn’t have it,” Dr Rashid stated.

    Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer further elaborated that the Electoral Commission (EC) is currently advertising for individuals to apply to become returning officers for the upcoming elections.

    He emphasized that the Commission has not yet submitted its program of activities to the political parties, as required.

    “That is why I say, their posture tells us that they are not even ready, for me, even for the December 2024 elections,” he added.

  • About 100 NPP members in Wa defect to NDC

    About 100 NPP members in Wa defect to NDC

    Approximately 100 members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Wa, Northern Region, have formally pledged allegiance to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    During the induction ceremony organized to welcome the new members, Hanna Louisa Bissiw, a member of the National Women’s Organizer of the NDC, expressed that these individuals have made a significant choice for themselves and future generations.

    Dr Bissiw asserted that the NPP prioritizes personal gains over the country’s growth, unlike the opposition party.

    “Mahama started the Free education system, don’t let anyone deceive you that the NPP did. The NPP came to destroy what the NPP started. Work to bring more NPP members to the NPP. The NPP is in for personal gains and not the growth of the country. Induction of I00 unfaithful members of the NPP,” she stated.

    Highlighting the NDC’s commitment to inclusivity, she emphasized that whenever the NDC assumes power, it creates opportunities for various segments of society, including those who attended school, those who did not, market women, and the youth.

    “The NDC is a party of opportunities where the needs of the society are catered for. There’s an opportunity for every woman in the NDC, we are family, we love, we support each other. When the NDC comes to power we create opportunities for everyone, for those who went to school, those who did not, for the market women, the girl and boy child and for everyone,” she added.

    Bissiw debunked claims suggesting that the NPP initiated the Free Education system, crediting former President Mahama for its inception.

    She urged the newly inducted members to encourage their peers to join the NDC, emphasizing the party’s dedication to providing opportunities for all.

  • Former NPP Executives sacked for ‘betraying’ party

    Former NPP Executives sacked for ‘betraying’ party

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Sagnarigu constituency of the Northern Region has dismissed two former party executives, Abdallah Murjana Wurishie (Electoral Area Women’s Organizer) and Mohammed Osman (Electoral Area Chairman for Wurishie), due to alleged anti-party conduct.

    A statement signed by Alhaji A.R Ridwan, the NPP Sagnarigu constituency Secretary, revealed that the dismissed individuals were observed accompanying the NDC parliamentary candidate during campaigning activities against the NPP.

    “Despite the fact that you are still on suspension, you continue to flagrantly breach the party’s constitution, particularly Articles (4) and (7) (a), (e), (f), and (g).

    In line with Article 3(9) (1) of the NPP Constitution, it provides as follows:

    “A member of the party who stands as an independent candidate against the officially elected member of the party, or who joins or declares his or her support for another political party, or for an independent candidate, when the party has sponsored a candidate in a general or by-election, automatically forfeits his or her membership in the party.”

    “In regards to these constitutional provisions, it is the view that Mohammed Osman and Abdallah Murjana have automatically forfeited their membership in the party. Therefore, they are no longer members of the party.”

    A viral video circulating on social media captured Murijana speaking at an event organized by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Sagnarigu constituency. In the video, she actively campaigned for the Sagnarigu NDC parliamentary candidate, Attah Issah, and encouraged attendees to vote overwhelmingly for the candidate in the 2024 elections.

    Additionally, both Abdallah Murjana Wurishie and Mohammed Osman were spotted wearing T-shirts featuring the slogan “24 Hours Economy,” a policy associated with the NDC.

    It’s worth noting that Murijana had previously been a prominent communicator for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Sagnarigu constituency before her defection to the NDC. She hinted that an official event would be organized later to formally announce her defection, along with her followers in the Sagnarigu constituency.

  • Don’t think of voting for NDC, they ignore you when in power – Asenso-Boakye to Ashanti Region electorates

    Don’t think of voting for NDC, they ignore you when in power – Asenso-Boakye to Ashanti Region electorates

    Member of Parliament for the Bantama Constituency in the Ashanti Region, Francis Asenso-Boakye, has strongly criticized political figures in the Ashanti region, particularly in the Bantama constituency, who align themselves with the largest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    He expressed his disapproval, stating that supporters who choose to vote for the NDC are making misguided decisions, emphasizing that the NDC has not brought any tangible benefits to the Ashanti region, specifically in Bantama.

    During his address to the constituency’s residents, the Minister for Works and Housing conveyed his confusion about the continued support for the NDC and questioned the rationale behind people persistently voting for the party.

    “Truly, people of Bantama and Kumasi in general don’t see any development when the NDC is in power so if someone is here and the person votes for the NDC, I don’t understand them. They know that when NDC is in power they don’t recognize the Ashanti region. During former president John Dramani Mahama’s 4 years in power we didn’t see anything here,” Asenso Boakye stated.

    Additionally, the Minister urged the residents of Bantama and the entire Ashanti Region to actively participate in the electoral process by casting their votes overwhelmingly in favor of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the upcoming general elections.

    He emphasized that, in his view, the NDC is not a viable option for fostering development in the region, reinforcing the importance of supporting the NPP for continued progress.

    “If you want development in the Ashanti region and Bantama to be precise don’t look down on NPP because NDC is not an option. So I will urge you to settle all your differences and come out in your numbers to vote in this year’s general elections,” he entreated.

    In the recent New Patriotic Party (NPP) primaries leading up to the December 7 polls, Francis Asenso Boakye successfully retained his position as the party’s candidate for the Bantama Constituency.

    Mr. Asenso Boakye secured a significant victory, receiving 650 votes, which accounted for 78.22% of the total votes cast. His primary opponent, Lawyer Raphael Agyapong, the brother of outspoken politician Kennedy Agyapong, garnered 181 votes, constituting 21.78% of the overall vote count.

    Expressing his gratitude, the re-elected Member of Parliament thanked party executives for their unwavering support and trust. He urged party members to come together, emphasizing the importance of unity and hard work in ensuring success in the upcoming general elections.

  • Peter Amewu influences NDC Hohoe executives switch to NPP

    Peter Amewu influences NDC Hohoe executives switch to NPP

    It is reported that several branch executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Hohoe constituency in the Volta Region have defected to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Sources say notable members out of the six executives are Joseph Yawovi Adzewoda, the Youth Organiser for the Hohoe Midwifery branch, Mr. Bansakal, the Secretary of the Municipal Hospital branch, and Sulemana Mustapha, the Organiser for Janenana electoral Area.

    In an interview with Adom News, Mr. Adzewoda cited the massive developmental projects undertaken by the Member of Parliament, John Peter Amewu, and the government in the constituency as the reason for their defection.

    They expressed their commitment to supporting and campaigning vigorously for the NPP in the 2024 elections.

    The Hohoe NPP Constituency Communication Officer, Samuel Azasu, is reported to have welcomed the defectors to the NPP and encouraged them to promote the party’s accomplishments.

    It is anticipated that the two major political parties, NPP and NDC will keenly contest and give each other a run for their money in the 2024 general elections.

  • Even Satan doesn’t come close to you – Arko Gunn tells Jean Mensa

    Even Satan doesn’t come close to you – Arko Gunn tells Jean Mensa

    The Deputy National Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Arko Gunn, has likened the Electoral Commission (EC) to an entity more threatening than “Satan” himself.

    In an interview with Peace FM, he expressed strong disapproval of the Electoral Commission’s (EC) proposed change in the election date.

     Mr Gunn articulated the NDC’s stance on the proposed shift from December 7 to November for elections, asserting that while the party does not inherently oppose the date change, the timing of the proposal raises concerns.

    He emphasized that the party’s calendar has long been prepared, and as such, they are unwilling to support the EC’s proposition.

    EC is more dangerous than the devil. You want to move elections from December 7 to November we don’t have a problem but this should have done long time. Because the party’s calender is ready as such we won’t support the EC’s proposal. We gave them examples as to why we don’t want to accept their decision.

    The EC has proposed that the general election date be changed from December 7 to November 7.

    The Chairperson of the Commission, Jean Mensa, proposed this adjustment during a meeting with the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) on Monday, January 22, 2024 .

    In addition to the date change, the EC suggested that the election day be made a national holiday.

    The EC explained that this will help boost civic engagement and contribute to the development of a more robust democratic culture.

    This proposal follows a petition by the Seventh Adventist Church, indicating that Saturday, December 7, is a Sabbath day.

    The church has called in the Attorney-General’office to support amending the election day to either November 1 or 2.

    The Church leadership petitioned the Attorney-General’s office to support a bill amending the election day to either the 1st or 2nd Tuesday of November.

    The objective is to ensure an inclusive democratic exercise without intentionally hindering anyone from exercising their voting rights.

    The deputy chairperson of the EC, Dr. Bossman Asare, has indicated that the Commission contemplated changing the election date for the 2024 general election as early as 2020.

    He mentioned that the intention to change the 2024 election date was considered in 2020 after certain political parties proposed a change in date.

  • You have lost the corruption battle – Sammy Gyamfi tells Akufo-Addo

    You have lost the corruption battle – Sammy Gyamfi tells Akufo-Addo

    Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has declared that the fight against corruption in Ghana has been lost under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. 

    Gyamfi highlighted Ghana’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) performance over the past seven years, pointing out that the best CPI performance was achieved in 2014 under former President John Dramani Mahama

    He contrasted this with the worst CPI performance in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia administration, emphasizing a clear decline in Ghana’s fight against corruption. 

    Gyamfi accused the current government of institutionalizing corruption and allowing it to thrive unchecked, listing various scandals to support his claims.

    “Did you know that Ghana’s best Corruption Perception Index performance was achieved in the year 2014, under the leadership of H.E John Dramani Mahama, when the country attained its highest CPI score: a score of 48?” Gyamfi questioned.

    He went on to contrast this with the worst CPI performance in the last decade, which he attributed to the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia administration in 2017, recording a score of 40.

    He also pointed out that even in John Mahama’s worst CPI performance, a score of 43 in 2016, it still surpassed Akufo-Addo and Bawumia’s best score under the CPI of Transparency International.

    According to Gyamfi, these figures demonstrate a clear decline in Ghana’s fight against corruption under the current government.

    “Did you know that John Mahama’s worst Corruption Perception Index performance, was a score of 43, recorded in the year 2016. And that, this score remains Akufo-Addo and Bawumia’s best score under the CPI of Transparency International?

    “It is glaringly clear, from Ghana’s performance under the CPI in the last seven (7) years, that the fight against corruption has been lost by the corrupt and wasteful Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government, who have institutionalized corruption and made it a thriving free for all venture. Never in the history of Ghana has any government enabled, facilitated, promoted and defended corruption like this government has done,” he added.

    He continued to accuse the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government of institutionalizing corruption and allowing it to thrive unchecked.

    He listed some scandals under this government, including BOSTGATE, PDS, PPA Contracts for Sale, “Galamsey” fraud, Ameri Novation, missing excavators, missing fertilizers, missing oil, missing tricycles, Sputnik V Vaccine, COVID-19 funds “chop chop,” Number 12, Appearance Fee, Gold Mafia, stolen rice, and the latest stinky SML scandal.

    “From the BOSTGATE scandal to the PDS scandal, to the PPA Contracts for Sale scandal, to the ‘Galamsey’ fraud scandal, to the Ameri Novation scandal, to the missing excavators scandal, to the missing fertilizers scandal, to the missing oil scandal, to the missing tricycles scandal, to the Sputnik V Vaccine scandal, to the COVID-19 funds ‘chop chop’ scandal, to the Number 12 scandal, to the Appearance Fee scandal, to the Gold Mafia scandal, to the stolen rice scandal, to the latest stinky SML scandal; Jack Toronto and his younger brother and Mentee, have facilitated, perpetrated and promoted corruption, leading to unprecedented financial losses to the state.

    “Jack Toronto and his younger brother and mentee have facilitated, perpetrated, and promoted corruption, leading to unprecedented financial losses to the state,” Gyamfi alleged.

    He further accused the government of failing to protect the public purse, as promised during their opposition campaign, and instead, wasting state resources on what he described as “useless ventures.”

    The communication officer further claimed that the government has not only failed to fight corruption, but has actively targeted corruption fighters.

    He mentioned the murder of anti-corruption investigative journalist Ahmed Suale, the ousting of the former Auditor General, Yao Domelevo; the resignation of the former Special Prosecutor, Martin A.B.K Amidu; and the oppression of several journalists and critical voices, as examples.

    Gyamfi concluded with a political call to action, warning the public that a vote for Vice President Bawumia is essentially a third term vote for a corrupt Akufo-Addo and his alleged “greedy cabal of family and friends.”

    He wrote, “Remember, that a vote for Bawumia is a third term vote for corrupt Akufo-Addo and his greedy cabal of family and friends.

    “Don’t let your vote, aid them to escape from accountability. Rather let your vote, aid the state to hold them accountable.

    “A vote for H.E John Dramani Mahama (The Nation Builder) is the only way, we can hold these crooks accountable for the several crimes they have committed against our beloved nation.”

  • Inexperienced, wealth-seeking youngsters should not exploit Parliament as money-making avenue – Fiifi Kwetey 

    Inexperienced, wealth-seeking youngsters should not exploit Parliament as money-making avenue – Fiifi Kwetey 

    General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has expressed the need for a shift towards considering experience when selecting individuals to represent the public in Parliament. 

    He argues that Parliament should not serve as an avenue for inexperienced individuals to quickly access financial resources.

    In his statement to the media, Kwetey emphasized the importance of encouraging individuals with significant experience to enter Parliament. He urged a departure from the trend where young people with limited or no work experience enter Parliament, potentially driven by a desire for quick access to financial resources.

    “Parliament should stop being an avenue where young people who have never worked can get quick access to money and therefore had no experience and rushing into it. It is not bad,” remarked Kwetey.

    He further asserted that public service should ideally be entered into from a position of experience, enabling individuals to contribute meaningfully by bringing their accumulated knowledge and skills to the table.

    As Ghana looks toward the future of its parliamentary representation, Kwetey’s perspective raises considerations on the qualifications and experiences that should be prioritized in selecting representatives. The debate on the criteria for parliamentary eligibility continues, with a growing emphasis on the value of experience in contributing to effective governance.

  • Former NDC Comms Officer cleared of incest, defilement charges over lack of evidence

    Former NDC Comms Officer cleared of incest, defilement charges over lack of evidence

    Former Central Region Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Emmanuel Kwasi Dawood Mensah, has been acquitted and discharged by a Cape Coast Circuit Court, alongside his friend and co-accused, Attah Mensah. The court’s decision, delivered on January 22, 2024, was based on insufficient evidence presented by the prosecution.

    The charges, which included incest, defilement, abortion, and abetment of abortion, were brought under Sections 101(2), 105, 84, 58, and 20 of The Criminal and Offences Act, 1960 Act 29. Judge Dorinda Smith Arthur, presiding at the Cape Coast Circuit Court, expressed dissatisfaction with the investigation, leading to the acquittal and discharge of the accused.

    During the trial, the judge highlighted the survivor’s disclosure, an eighteen-year-old identified as PW1, who revealed to her school counsellor that her biological father (A2), engaged in sexual intercourse with her since 2019. The survivor faced challenges in seeking justice, including being injected and given medications against her will.

    Despite the gravity of the accusations, the court emphasized the prosecution’s failure to substantiate the charges, prompting the acquittal of Emmanuel Kwasi Dawood Mensah and Attah Mensah. The outcome of the trial underscores the critical importance of thorough investigations and compelling evidence in cases of such.

  • CODEO, parties demand release of Election 2024 timetable from EC

    CODEO, parties demand release of Election 2024 timetable from EC

    The Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to promptly unveil the timetable for the upcoming December 2024 general elections. 

    This appeal aligns with concerns raised by political parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party, emphasizing the importance of a released roadmap for effective planning by all stakeholders.

    Albert Arhin, the National Coordinator of CODEO, emphasized that the timely release of the election timetable would not only demonstrate the Electoral Commission’s readiness for the polls but also foster confidence among political parties and other stakeholders.

    During an appearance on JoyFM’s TopStory on January 31, Arhin stressed, “The timetable for the 2024 election has not come out, and I believe that is the reason why a lot of the smaller parties and the bigger opposition party are dragging their feet.” He urged the Electoral Commission to take this step to dispel any concerns and ensure that preparations are on track.

    Arhin highlighted the significance of the Electoral Commission assuring all parties of its preparedness, especially given the proposed change in the election date to November 7. He asserted that clarity on the electoral plans, backed by a released timetable, is crucial for gaining the support and agreement of all political parties.

    In response to concerns about the EC’s ability to meet the proposed November 7 date, Arhin suggested that the release of the timetable would address these doubts. “I will appeal to them that they should come out now and immediately with the timetable and convince everybody that they will be able to deliver,” he stated.

    Arhin also referenced the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting, where the consensus was in favor of initiating the electoral process. He noted that despite potential challenges, starting the process would contribute to building a foundation for future elections.

    The call for transparency and timely communication from the Electoral Commission reflects the collective desire for a well-planned and smoothly executed electoral process in December 2024.

  • NDC is Ghana’s public enemy – Kwamena Duncan 

    NDC is Ghana’s public enemy – Kwamena Duncan 

    Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has openly criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC), labeling the opposition party as “the only public enemy of democracy.”

    The critique comes at a time when the political landscape is still charged with political analyses and discussions given the upcoming 2024 elections. 

    Mr Duncan in an interview on PeaceFM, pointed to what he perceives as unfulfilled promises by the NDC, accusing the party of neglecting the welfare of Ghanaians. He emphasized that the NDC’s actions are indicative of a power-hungry agenda rather than a genuine commitment to serving the people.

    “If there’s any public enemy of our democracy, no Ghanaian should be left in doubt who they are… NDC does not care about Ghanaians, they are just power sick,” he said. 

  • Breaking the 2: New Independent candidate wants NPP, NDC gone

    Breaking the 2: New Independent candidate wants NPP, NDC gone

    Aspiring independent presidential candidate, George Twum-Barima-Adu has launched his 2024 presidential election campaign, with the goal of challenging the dominance of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC)

    He introduced his campaign under the slogan “breaking the 2” and the motto “yee gye aye no yie,” meaning “we are taking over governance to make it work for all.”

    He also outlined his plans to eradicate the menace of galamsey in the country.

    According to him intends to establish alternative livelihoods, including carbon credit harvesting and the creation of a hemp industry, specifically for the youth engaged in galamsey and others interested in these sectors.

    Additionally, he proposed the enforcement of existing laws and the introduction of new legislation where necessary to address any existing loopholes.

    “We need to break the foothold the NDC and the NPP have had in Ghana. It is now clear than ever that until we break ourselves from the two non-performing conjoined twins, we shall continue to have presidents that serve their parties and supporters and not the totality of Ghanaians,” he said.

    Highlighting the failure of the two major political parties over the past 32 years to fulfill promises made to improve the lives of Ghanaians, Twum-Barima-Adu emphasized the need for Ghanaians to break away from the dominance of the NPP and the NDC.

    He criticized the heads of state under the fourth Republic for prioritizing their own interests and those of their supporters while neglecting the broader needs of the country.

    According to Twum-Barima-Adu, breaking the stronghold of the NDC and NPP is essential to elect leaders who serve the entirety of the Ghanaian population.

    Describing the NPP and NDC as two sides of the same coin, Twum-Barima-Adu accused them of exploiting the country for personal gain.

    To address this, he outlined his policies, including the sale of non-profitable state enterprises, a thorough review of public procurement and contracts to ensure value for money, and the downsizing of the government.

    Twum-Barima-Adu emphasized that his administration would require government entities, including State Owned Enterprises, to seek approval through government review before entering into contracts.

    He also pledged to reduce public expenditure by adhering to the constitutionally approved number of 19 cabinet ministers, with a total ministerial count limited to 63.

  • Remove NPP’s Isaac Darko as EC officer for Nandom – NDC

    Remove NPP’s Isaac Darko as EC officer for Nandom – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is calling for the removal of Isaac Darko, the Municipal Electoral Officer for Nandom, following his public declaration of allegiance to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the NPP Parliamentary primary in the Nandom Constituency.

    Isaac Darko admitted to his party affiliation over the weekend while overseeing the NPP primary in the Nandom Constituency, raising concerns about his impartiality in the electoral process.

    Deputy National Youth Organizer of the NDC, Osman Ayariga, expressed the party’s dissatisfaction and announced their intention to address the perceived bias within the electoral commission.

    “For the electoral director to say, he is a member of the NPP and we all know that they are expected to be independent and neutral. We state our position clearly that Mr. Isaac Akoto Darko must go and he must not continue to be in that office as the Municipal Electoral Director Officer for Nandom.”

    Ayariga emphasized the party’s commitment to pursuing official channels to rectify the situation, stating, “We shall petition through the electoral commission to take out especially Mr. Isaac Akoto Darko as the Municipal Director of the electoral commission, and not only would we rest at Mr. Akoto Darko but we will make sure we fish out all other NPP apparatchik and sycophants within the electoral commission organogram.”

  • You can’t wait for an election year to introduce major Electoral Reforms – NDC to EC

    You can’t wait for an election year to introduce major Electoral Reforms – NDC to EC

    The National Democratic Congress’ Director of Elections, Dr. Omane Boamah, has asserted that the Electoral Commission (EC) cannot conduct the upcoming year’s election in November due to a delayed proposal.

    Dr. Boamah emphasizes that major electoral reforms should not be introduced in an election year, especially after a problematic District Level (Assembly) Elections marked by numerous postponements, ballot paper shortages, and complicity among election officers.

    On Monday, January 29, the NDC supported changing the national election day but proposed initiating the reform in 2028. This decision followed an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting discussing the EC’s proposal.

    Dr. Boamah, in a Facebook post, criticized the EC for waiting seven years after 2016 to revisit the election date issue, only to bring it up when there are just ten clear months until the December 07 presidential and parliamentary elections in Ghana.

    “You don’t wait for an election year to introduce major Electoral Reforms: a year in which the EC has so much to do after an abysmal District Level (Assembly) Elections characterised by postponements after postponements, shortage of ballot papers, some Election officers complicity among others,” he added.

    He questioned why the EC did not address these matters in the years following 2016 or after the 2020 elections, emphasizing the impracticality of introducing major electoral reforms in an election year when the EC is already burdened.

    “Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission’s calendar of programmes and activities for the upcoming elections is not yet ready; hence, could not be released to political parties,” he added.

    Dr Boamah queried why the EC waited for January to end without stakeholders having the electoral calendar for the 2024 elections.

    “Why did the EC not introduce these discussions, adjustments, and amendments in 2017, 2018, 2019, or better still, why not after the 2020 elections? As in, introducing the subject matter in 2021, 2022, and 2023?”

    “This amendment of a non-entrenched clause requires two-thirds of MPs to pass, meanwhile the MPs themselves must be in their constituencies for some parts of this year campaigning, facilitating the registration of voters when the EC finally decides. Not to think of the duration of the process and other germane issues the EC must
    bring to the front burner,” he added.

    Moreover, Dr. Boamah points out that the EC has not released the calendar of programs and activities for the upcoming elections, making it challenging for political parties to prepare.

    He urged the EC to amend Article 112 (4) of the 1992 constitution, highlighting the logistical challenges involved in the process, especially with MPs needing to be in their constituencies for campaigning and voter registration.

    In summary, Dr. Omane Boamah criticizes the EC’s timing and approach to electoral reforms, advocating for a more strategic and timely implementation to ensure a smooth electoral process.

  • It will cost NPP to come back to power should it lose 2024 elections – Kusi Boafo

    It will cost NPP to come back to power should it lose 2024 elections – Kusi Boafo


    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Public Sector Reforms, Thomas Kusi Boafo, has highlighted the formidable task the New Patriotic Party (NPP) would encounter in making a comeback if they were to lose power to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    During an interview on the Wontumi TV/Radio Morning Show with Oheneba Nana Asiedu, Mr. Kusi Boafo highlighted the NDC’s history of causing destruction and undermining successful projects.

    He specifically mentioned infrastructural endeavors like the Suame interchange and the Boankra inland port, as well as policies such as the Free SHS, asserting that the NDC lacks a track record of implementing transformative policies.

    “The policies and programs implemented by this government, if not safeguarded by winning the 2024 elections, the financial implications to repair damages caused by the NDC and secure victory in the next elections would surpass the costs of winning the election itself,” he stated.

    Mr. Kusi Boafo pointed out the NDC’s tendency for visionless governance and leaving damages in their wake after their term in office. He criticized their practice of showcasing NPP’s infrastructure projects in numerous volumes of the ‘Green Book’ during their tenure.

    Additionally, he praised Chairman Wontumi for his individual qualities and significant contributions to the party as a Regional Chairman.

    Mr. Kusi Boafo expressed confidence that Chairman Wontumi’s name would be forever etched in the party’s history due to his consummate leadership, passion, and lifelong dedication to his chairmanship role. He advised caution, urging Chairman Wontumi to be wary of those around him, as they could potentially contribute to his downfall.

  • Your activities for 2024 elections must be made public – NDC tells EC

    Your activities for 2024 elections must be made public – NDC tells EC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to promptly unveil the calendar of activities for the upcoming election year.

    Additionally, the NDC is emphasizing the need for the EC to prioritize vital tasks aimed at bolstering the integrity of the December 7, 2024, elections.

    In a recent Facebook post, the Director of Elections for the NDC, Dr. Omane Boamah, emphasized that moving forward, the EC should take decisive actions, including penalizing officials who engage in election rigging and addressing instances of open political affiliations by EC officers.

    “EC must be seen to be punishing erring EC officers who rig elections for contestants and the EC must also be punishing the EC officer in Nandom who openly declared his NPP affiliation during last weekend’s NPP primaries,” He added.

    Dr. Boamah also stressed that the party anticipates the EC to implement important reforms, such as conducting elections in November, without waiting for the next election year.

    He concluded by advocating for the electoral process reform to be completed by 2027, allowing political actors ample time in 2028 to focus on crucial matters during an election year.

    “The process must end the latest by 2027 to allow political actors enough time in 2028 to concentrate on core concerns in an election year,” he added.

  • I never sent anyone to Akufo-Addo for Prof. Atta Mills’ autopsy report – Ekumfi chief

    I never sent anyone to Akufo-Addo for Prof. Atta Mills’ autopsy report – Ekumfi chief

    The Paramount Chief of Ekumfi Traditional Area, Odeefo Akyin VIII, has rejected claims that he authorized representatives to approach President Akufo-Addo seeking the autopsy report of the late President John Evans Atta Mills.

    On January 13, 204, the family of the late former President, Professor John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, appealed to President Akufo-Addo for the autopsy report, expressing concerns about the undisclosed cause of his death and emphasizing the need for closure and historical documentation.

    Addressing the issue in a press conference on Monday, Odeefo Akyin VIII clarified, stating, “To set the records straight, the Paramount Chief Odeefo Akyin VIII has not appointed nor delegated anyone or any group of individuals to His Excellency (H.E.) the President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo or any other institution to request an autopsy on the late Professor Mills on our behalf or on behalf of the family.”

    He denounced attempts by certain groups and individuals to connect the Ekumfi Chiefs to the issue as malicious. Odeefo Akyin VIII firmly stated, “We want to emphasize that any attempt to link the Chiefs of Ekumfi to such actions is malicious, untrue, and mischievous, and must be treated with the contempt it deserves. Ekumfi Nananom, led by the Paramount Chief Odeefo Akyin VIII, also want to send a strong message to anyone or group of persons claiming to be from Ekumfi or elsewhere, and who allow themselves to be used for such disgraceful and malicious acts, that they may have to prepare to face the wrath of Nananom. The late Professor Atta Mills must be allowed to rest in peace.”

    Additionally, the Paramount Chief characterized the ongoing media exchanges between the family of Prof Mills and other individuals as “appalling and disgraceful.”

    He urged the involved parties to seek resolution through private discussions instead of engaging in public disputes. Odeefo Akyin VIII expressed dismay, stating, “The Nananom of Ekumfi believe that if the extended or any member of the family has issues with the report, they could engage in private discussions with the immediate family to settle their disagreements once and for all, instead of the recurring media banter. Nananom wish to state that the ongoing back-and-forth wrangling is not only appalling but also disgraceful and disgusting, projecting the family as a disintegrated one.”

  • Change in election date should take effect in 2028 – NDC

    Change in election date should take effect in 2028 – NDC

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed support for changing the date of national elections but suggests implementing the reform from 2028.

    This stance comes after an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting where the Electoral Commission (EC) proposed moving the election date from December 7 to November 7.

    The NDC had initially opposed the proposal but, following the meeting, the party’s Director of Elections, Dr. Omane Boamah, stated that they now agree to the reform, proposing a delayed implementation starting in 2028. He mentioned that this decision was reached by consensus.

    “The NPP agreed that the date of effectiveness should not be 2024. They agreed,” adding that “The EC only convenes the meeting and listens to the consensus.”

    Contrary to the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) suggestion of implementing the election date change from 2028, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) asserts that they prefer the reform to be applied for the 2024 election.

    Evans Nimako, Director of elections for the NPP noted “Others who said the EC should consider changing it said it could be considered in 2028. So what is this position that the NPP supported the position that should be done in the next elections? Do they speak for us?

    “They had said that if elections were to be conducted today, they are going to be the victorious party. And even if EC says that they are bringing it earlier so you win, you are still running away from it.”

  • Old video of NDC MP spraying cash resurfaces

    Old video of NDC MP spraying cash resurfaces

    A video from the past depicting a Member of Parliament (MP) affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) engaging in the act of spraying cash has recently resurfaced.

    The video features Queenstar Pokua Sawyerr, Member of Parliament (MP) for Agona East Constituency in the Central Region and a prominent figure within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who was captured displaying wads of cash intended for distribution among her constituents at a party function.

    Queenstar Pokua Sawyerr, who previously served as the Central Regional Minister under the Mahama-led NDC administration, is observed raising bundles of Ghana Cedis in public while addressing a crowd. 

    The footage has led to accusations of attempting to sway the voting choices of her constituents through what some interpret as inducements.

    In the video, Sawyerr is heard stating, “This one is 100 million, another 100 million and another 100 million which brings the total to 300 million. This is 50 million, another 50, and the rest is 100 million, and the grand total is 500 million.” She goes on to emphasize the importance of party leaders personally handling the distribution of the funds to avoid any impropriety.

  • EC, political parties to deliberate on date for 2024 elections

    EC, political parties to deliberate on date for 2024 elections

    On Monday, January 29, the Electoral Commission (EC) is scheduled to convene with various political parties at the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting to continue discussions on its proposal to change the date for the general elections.

    The proposed amendment suggests shifting the date for both Presidential and Parliamentary elections from December 7 to November 7.

    The Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed opposition, citing concerns that the proposed timeline may not provide the EC with sufficient time to organize a seamless election.

    In contrast, sources within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) suggest that the party’s leadership is still deliberating on the matter before arriving at a decision.

    In a noteworthy development, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reversed its earlier decision to boycott IPAC meetings. The party communicated this reversal in a statement dated Sunday, January 28, 2024, signed by its General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey.

    IPAC meetings play a crucial role in facilitating a platform for political parties to review election-related activities and policies, express grievances officially, and contribute constructive inputs.

    Additionally, IPAC serves as an advisory body to the Electoral Commission.

    The NDC’s leadership had boycotted IPAC meetings in 2021, citing perceived bias and lack of transparency during the 2020 general elections. However, in their recent statement, the NDC stated that the decision to rescind the boycott was made through “enhanced consensus-building.”

  • Stop the cheap tribal politics – Adomako Baafi fires Fiifi Kwetey

    Stop the cheap tribal politics – Adomako Baafi fires Fiifi Kwetey

    Former Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party, Yaw Adomako Baafi has accused the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fiifi Kwetey of inciting tribes in the country against each other.

    Speaking in an interview on Angel FM, Mr Adomako Baafi said the NDC scribe is still a ‘neophyte’ in the political game hence his tendency to always play the tribal card.

    “Some of us used to be like him but we have now mature so he should also learn to grow in the game and stop always inciting one tribe, especially the Ewes against the other, particularly the Akans because of cheap politics…,” he said.

    The former Ketu South Member of Parliament (MP) has since his election as General Secretary of the NDC been inciting his tribesmen (Ewe) against the Asantes and Akyems insisting that the NPP belongs to the later tribes and hence there is no need for the Ewes to support such a party.

    Fiifi Kwetey in a viral video had claimed that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would be ‘dreaming if he thinks the NPP is going to make him, a Northerner, their flagbearer since he is neither Akyem nor an Asante’.

    He again called on the people of the Volta Region to do everything within their power to stop their children and the youth of the Volta Region from making independent political choices and to compel them to accept the NDC in spite of all the challenges that are confronting the party that may make it unattractive to the new generation in the region.

    “It looks as if it is wrong for us, Volta people, to take NDC as a religion. There is nothing wrong with that. Some of our young people from Volta, think it is something of pride to say as for us we are not like our fathers and uncles, we believe we should not [just accept something they believe in, and that it is something of pride to choose to be independent minded].

    “This party [NDC] may not be the perfect party. It may not be a party that has always delivered on all its promises, but it is our responsibility to ensure that our children remain loyal to this commission to be able to make it better, Fiifi Kwetey is heard saying in a voice recording.

    “If you watch what happens in Ashanti and the Eastern Region, they understand that their party must be their party, and nothing changes. Somehow, they appreciate that they must not forsake their party because this must become a religion. Your religion may not be the best, but that is your religion, and it is your responsibility to make sure you fix it,” the NDC chief scribe added.

    “I think we must let our people [Voltarians] appreciate that this is who we are. If you go to America today if you go to New York State, the democratic party is like a religion, through rain or shine, that is your political party. If you go to California, it is the same. If you go to places where the Republicans are, it is the same. There is nothing wrong with it, Mr Kwetey further stated in an audio recording.

    The sentiments of Fiifi Kwetey, Yaw Adomako Baafi told host, Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah were shared by some Ewe politicians who were once leading members of the NDC party.

    Citing the books authored by the late Captain Adabuga and late Prof Kofi Awoonor to buttress his point, Yaw Adomako Baafi said the time is ripe for Ghanaians to nip tribal politics in the bud.

    “The comments of the likes of Fiifi Kwetey must not be entertained…he is too immature but like I said, the time is up for him to grow in politics because the leaders of the various political parties are friends and have eschewed all forms of tribal differences…,” he opined.

  • NDC withdraws decision not to attend IPAC meetings

    NDC withdraws decision not to attend IPAC meetings

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has withdrawn its decision to stay out of IPAC meetings.

    The decision was announced in a statement signed by the General Secretary of the party, Fiifi Kwetey.

    IPAC meetings are aimed at giving the various political parties the opportunity to review election-related activities and policies, officially air their grievances and make constructive inputs.

    It also serves as an advisory body to the Electoral Commission.

    The leadership of the NDC boycotted IPAC meetings in 2021, citing “lack of candour, odious duplicity, and open bias that was displayed by the Jean Mensah-led Electoral Commission in favour of the New Patriotic Party in the conduct of the 2020 general elections.”

    In its recent statement, the NDC said it has rescinded the decision after “enhanced consensus-building.”

    Below is the full statement:

    NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS (NDC) RETURNS TO IPAC FOR ENHANCED CONSENSUS-BUILDING

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) announces its re-entry into the Inter-Party AdvisoryCommittee (IPAC).

    The NDC is optimistic about the revitalization of the IPAC, drawing inspiration from the robust Consensus Building Platform established during the tenures of Dr. Afari Djan and Charlotte Osei as Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.

    The party anticipates collaborative endeavours that will strengthen Ghana’s electoral system, benefiting not only individual political parties but also upholding the democratic values of the nation.

    Signed,

    Fifi Fiavi Kwetey

    General Secretary.

  • Mahama charges GBA to be ‘fair’ and not ‘bias’ to any govt

    Mahama charges GBA to be ‘fair’ and not ‘bias’ to any govt

    Former President John Mahama has urged the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) to overcome perceived partisan affiliations and consistently advocate for the national interest, irrespective of the political party in power.

    While addressing organised labour representatives in Kumasi, Mahama expressed concerns about the GBA’s apparent reticence on certain crucial issues under the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

    He highlighted instances where the GBA’s silence appeared noteworthy, including alleged human rights violations and questionable government decisions.

    Mahama emphasised that such silence undermines the Bar Association’s credibility and raises doubts about its commitment to ensuring justice and accountability for all Ghanaians.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwenCVBKIQ4

    “GBA spoke about perception. Well, what’s the reality? Does the GBA go to sleep when the NPP is in power and wake up when the NDC is in power? We will see. In 2025, we will see whether you will wake up. But it’s true. You know yourselves that it is true that when the NPP is in power, they do the most outrageous things and you are quiet.

    “And yet, when NDC is in power, the least mistake and GBA has issued a press release. And you know it’s true. So the point is that the truth is one and the truth is the same under Rawlings; it is the same under Kufuor; it is the same under Mills; it is the same under John Mahama; it is the same under Akufo-Addo. The truth does not change.

    “And so if you are concerned with people’s rights, you are concerned with protecting human rights and freedoms; you must be consistent under any administration, not only concerned under some administrations and not under other administrations,” Mahama stated.

  • Amaliba slams Chairman Wontumi; blames him for negative image of Ghana’s politics

    Amaliba slams Chairman Wontumi; blames him for negative image of Ghana’s politics

    Director of Conflicts Resolution of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abraham Amaliba, has asserted that negative perceptions of politics in Ghana are fueled by figures like the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. 

    Amaliba contends that Wontumi’s controversial utterances and actions have contributed to tarnishing the reputation of politics and politicians in the country.

    Amidst the backdrop of the Asanteman Traditional Council summoning Chairman Wontumi to the Manhyia Palace to address certain comments he made against the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Amaliba emphasized the role of influential political figures in shaping public perception. 

    In an interview on Accra-based Tv3, Amaliba highlighted, “Politics in Ghana has been described variously in negative terms, particularly as a dirty game, and in some, they say it is being practised by thieves. I am saying that some of those attributions are as a result of people like Wontumi.”

    According to Amaliba, figures like Wontumi are products of a political culture of violence and impunity within the NPP, and their actions have repercussions. He likened Wontumi’s impact to a “monster” created by the NPP to attack opponents, emphasizing that when such a creature turns on its creators, it highlights the consequences of fostering a culture of aggression within the party.

  • NDC’s Edudzi Tamakloe bags Masters Degree in Law from UG

    NDC’s Edudzi Tamakloe bags Masters Degree in Law from UG

    Lawyer Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe, a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Legal team, has recently achieved a significant milestone.

    He has graduated from the University of Ghana Law School, where he focused on Natural Resources.

    Known for his legal acumen and diligent work ethic, Tamakloe has gained recognition for his extensive knowledge, particularly in the political landscape associated with the NDC.

    Today, January 26, 2024, actor turned politican, John Dumelo, also graduated with a Masters Degree in Law (Natural Resources) from the University of Ghana Law School. This is his third Masters Degree.

    This course was studied in a year where the two-semester programme comprises lectures, seminars and dissertations.

    MASTER OF LAWS (LL.M.) IN NATURAL RESOURCES LAW & MASTER OF ARTS (M.A.) IN NATURAL RESOURCES LAW

    NATURAL RESOURCES LAW (M.A. & LL.M.)

    The Natural Resources sector is crucial for Ghana and Africa’s developmental trajectory. The policy, legal and regulatory frameworks, and the right practitioner approaches of the sector are, however, essential to enable an economy reap the touted benefits. It is in recognition of this that UGSoL has gone great lengths to mount this Natural Resources Law programme.

    The overall objectives of the M.A./LL.M Natural Resources Law programme are to:
    1.    Provide students with an in-depth insight into relevant legal, political and economic issues related to natural resources law at the regional, national, and international levels.
    2.    Provide an understanding of the dynamics of past and current natural resources laws, policies and governance mechanisms, as well as likely future developments in the area.
    3.    Offer students an in-depth understanding of the legal aspects governing the key challenges of natural resources protection.
    4.    Train students for practice in the areas of natural resources investment and trade, project finance and infrastructure development, with a focus on the specific natural resources and sustainability challenges of Africa.
    5.    Offer students an exclusive opportunity to learn from recognized academics very well-versed in the industry along with reputable, knowledgeable and experienced industry practitioners so as to know the subjects in a thorough and comprehensive manner.


    COURSE DURATION
    One (1) Academic Year

    Venue: University of Ghana – Accra City Campus, Adabraka.

    Format: Hybrid (in-person and online lectures)

    Time:

    • Mondays – Thursdays: 5:00pm – 8:00pm
    • Fridays:                     3:00pm – 8:00pm

    Fees:

    • GHS 22,355.00 (Ghanaians)
    • USD 9,178.00 (Non-Ghanaians)
    • GHS 2,445.00 (Admission Processing Fees)

    ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

    • First degree from a recognized University.
    • Shortlisting / Interview
    • M.A.     – proven interest, exposure or experience in Natural Resources Law.
    • LL.M.      – Bachelor of laws degree or its equivalent.

    PROGRAMME STRUCTURE:
    This two-semester programme comprises lectures, seminars and dissertations. Continuous assessment shall be the main mode of examination.

    Students are therefore expected to actively participate in topical seminars and contribute to discussions on pertinent issues in Natural Resources Law. Research works leading to dissertations and papers are expected to be selected according to student interests. Industry practitioners shall facilitate seminars to increase student exposure to the job market and industry needs.

    PROGRAMME CONTENT

    The M.A. programme has the following courses:

    •    Legal Research Methods
    •    The Political Economy of Natural Resource Regulation
    •    Environmental Protection in Natural Resources Extraction: Law, Policy and Trends
    •    Renewable Energy Law and Policy
    •    Basic Geology of Oil and Gas
    •    Environmental Aspects of Oil and Gas Law
    •    Corporate Social Responsibility in Natural Resources
    •    M.A. Seminar
    •    On-Shore Mining Law
    •    Regulation of Trees and Forest Resources in Ghana
    •    Regulation of Inland, Ground, Coastal Water and Seabed Resources
    •    Marine Ecology & Environmental Protection
    •    International Maritime Conflict Management
    •    Law of the Marine Environment
    •    M.A. Dissertation

    The LL.M. programme has the following courses:

    •    Legal Research Methods
    •    The Political Economy of Natural Resource Regulation
    •    Environmental Protection in Natural Resources Extraction: Law, Policy and Trends
    •    Renewable Energy Law and Policy
    •    Basic Geology of Oil and Gas
    •    Environmental Aspects of Oil and Gas Law
    •    Corporate Social Responsibility in Natural Resources
    •    LL.M Seminar
    •    On-Shore Mining Law
    •    Regulation of Trees and Forest Resources in Ghana
    •    Regulation of Inland, Ground, Coastal Water and Seabed Resources
    •    Marine Ecology & Environmental Protection
    •    International Maritime Conflict Management
    •    Law of the Marine Environment
    •    LL.M Paper

  • NPP Govt has failed to fix our roads, I pray NDC is different – Ashaiman MP

    NPP Govt has failed to fix our roads, I pray NDC is different – Ashaiman MP

    Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, Ernest Norgbey, has criticised the incumbent government for failing to fix the bad roads in his constituency despite residents embarking on protests and having their concerns hammered in Parliament.

    In response to the high levels of air pollution, discomfort experienced by the motoring public, and prolonged gridlocks faced by Ashaiman residents, MP Ernest Norgbey has taken the initiative to reshape four kilometers of the most deteriorated portions of the municipality’s extensive 160-kilometer road network.

    During the road reshaping, MP Norgbey said, “I have received numerous complaints about the deplorable state of the roads. I feel their pain, having used these roads myself. Despite demonstrations and raising the issues in Parliament, the assembly and government remain unresponsive.”

    Mr Ernest Norgbey expressed the belief that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) should be an exception.

    “I cannot sit idly while my people suffer, so I have decided on a temporary reshaping of four or five kilometers of the road. I hope and pray that when the NDC government assumes power, the 166 km of roads in the municipality will be tarred,” assured Ernest Norgbey.

    Mr Norgbey encouraged residents to lend their ears to him and John Dramani Mahama, assuring them of decisive action if the road conditions in Ashaiman continue to be neglected.

    Now, upset residents of Ashaiman, near Tema in the Greater Accra region, are issuing a caution to politicians against campaigning for votes in the municipality.

    The residents attribute their stance to what they perceive as eight years of neglected road infrastructure. Despite their pleas and multiple demonstrations drawing attention to the poor state of the roads, no improvements have been made.

    The warning from the frustrated residents was explicitly conveyed during a road rehabilitation initiative led by the Member of Parliament for the area, Ernest Norgbey, on January 25, 2024.

    The residents emphasized that politicians should abstain from political campaigns until the roads receive full rehabilitation, underscoring the urgency and priority they place on the improvement of the local road infrastructure.

    Francis Azorliade, a resident, asserted that “If they neglect Ashaiman’s roads, no political party should dare to campaign here. We are prepared to sacrifice for our people.”

    He added, “Our message goes out to the NPP, NDC, PPP, and all political parties: Address the roads in Ashaiman, or refrain from campaigning here, period!”

    A 38-year-old mother of three and a petty trader along the VALCO Flats to Lebanon road highlighted daily struggles with dust due to the deplorable state of the road. She lamented, “They only pay attention during elections; hence, we’ve decided not to vote.”

    The residents, in turn, have pledged to disrupt any electoral process if significant improvements are not made to the state of roads before the general elections later this year.