An intelligence-led operation underway by the Police to apprehend those responsible for the violence at Mamobi, a suburb of Accra, last Sunday, October 13, has led to the capture of an individual.
Mamobi was thrown into chaos after supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) clashed in a violent confrontation, leaving nine people injured.
The disturbances, which escalated tensions in the community, resulted in seven of the injured receiving treatment and being discharged. However, two victims remain hospitalized, with authorities closely monitoring their condition.
⚠️Viewers Discretion Advised⚠️
JUST NOW: A clash between members of NPP and NDC from Nima, Mamobi and Newtown💔 pic.twitter.com/3sHsK4ipnC
The cause of the clash remains unclear, but eyewitnesses reported that a heated altercation between rival party supporters quickly escalated into violence, leading to the injuries.
The Ghana Police Service has swiftly intervened to restore calm to the area, deploying officers to contain the situation and prevent further violence.
The Police continue its manhunt for the remaining perpetrators.
The streets of Tamale North were filled with thousands of enthusiastic supporters who gathered to witness the launch of Alhassan Suhuyini’s re-election campaign for the 2024 elections on October 12.
The incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) officially kicked off his bid for another term on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), with overwhelming support from his constituents and party loyalists.
The campaign launch saw the presence of key NDC parliamentarians, including former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu and North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who, along with other notable MPs, rallied behind Suhuyini. They praised his commitment to serving the people of Tamale North and urged the crowd to stay dedicated to ensuring his victory in the upcoming elections.
The participation of these senior MPs highlighted the unity within the party and the significance of maintaining strong NDC representation in the Northern Region. Several NDC executives also attended the event, further demonstrating the party’s high-level support for Suhuyini’s re-election bid.
Among the attendees was Sam George, MP for Ningo-Prampram, who encouraged the gathering to work together to secure a win for the party in 2024. He stressed the importance of teamwork and strategy as the NDC seeks to strengthen its parliamentary majority.
During the event, Haruna Iddrisu called on the NDC parliamentary caucus, the Speaker of Parliament, and all NDC members to take decisive action by Wednesday, October 16, to declare the NDC as the majority group in Parliament, in line with Article 97(g) of the Constitution. He emphasised that this declaration was key to asserting the party’s influence in legislative matters.
According to the NDC, the party aims to create 1.7 million jobs between 2025 and 2029.
This initiative will absorb the estimated 300,000 individuals entering the workforce annually and reduce unemployment by 120,000 each year.
The NDC’s Employment and Jobs Creation committee presented these plans at a briefing in Accra.
Despite the significant employment gap and economic challenges expected to be inherited from the NPP administration by January 7, 2025, the NDC intends to meet these goals through a strategy based on five key pillars.
We call this strategy MAN-UP-C:
a. M – Modernise and revamp employment institutions and legislation focused on job creation;
b. A – “Aspire 24” programme to reorient employer and employee mindsets’;
c. N – “National Employment Trust” to mobilise resources for a concerted jobs push;
d. UP – “Levelling Up” programme to ensure inclusiveness in employment; and
e. C – Coordination through a high-level “National Employment Coordination Committee”
The Truth About Unemployment
During a media interaction on August 25, 2024, the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, reiterated his claim that the party has generated 2.3 million jobs over a seven-year period and that unemployment is on the decline. However, he provided no evidence to substantiate these assertions, likely because they are inaccurate.
In reality, unemployment and its associated challenges—poverty, hopelessness, and despair—are on the rise across the country. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service’s Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey reveals that 2.1 million Ghanaians, or 14.7% of the workforce, are currently unemployed.
This represents an increase of over one million jobless individuals since 2017. The unemployment rate has jumped from 8.3% in 2017 to 14.7% by 2023, which is the actual situation.
Additionally, many in employment cannot make ends meet. Of the 11.2 million people employed in 2023, an overwhelming 8.2 million (almost 70%) are in vulnerable work with low-paying jobs, no social protection, and poor working conditions.
They are trapped in a perennial cycle of poverty.
This is the category that we call “working poor”. This is also the truth.
Agona West Member of Parliament, Cynthia Morrison, has alleged that the recent injunction against her re-election bid is part of a deliberate scheme by members of her own party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to block her candidacy.
According to Morrison, rumors surrounding the court’s decision are part of a larger effort to prevent her from contesting as an independent candidate in the 2024 parliamentary elections. She dismissed the claims as false, asserting that they are designed to frustrate her political aspirations.
The Agona Swedru District Magistrate Court issued an injunction barring Morrison from running as an independent candidate for Agona West in the Central Region. The court’s ruling stems from allegations that Morrison is not a resident of Agona West but rather Agona East, which her challengers argue makes her ineligible to contest the seat.
The plaintiffs in the case—Emmanuel Addison, Solomon Nyarko, and Harrison A. Aglago, all National Democratic Congress (NDC) branch executives in the Agona West Constituency—filed the suit against Morrison. The court’s injunction prevents her from presenting herself as a parliamentary candidate until the case is fully resolved.
With less than two months before the 2024 elections, Morrison fears that the legal battle could significantly cut into her campaign time, jeopardizing her chances of re-election. The injunction comes three months after she announced her intention to run as an independent candidate, following her defeat in the NPP’s internal primaries. In that contest, she garnered 152 votes, losing to Christopher Arthur, who received 240 votes.
Despite her loss in the primaries, Morrison has remained committed to her constituency, stating that her decision to run independently was motivated by her desire to continue developing Agona West. She claims that her party has schemed against her, undermining her chances within the NPP’s internal process.
Reacting to the court’s decision, investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni raised concerns about the fairness of the ruling. In a post on the X platform, he questioned whether such legal decisions could ultimately damage the democratic process, especially when election cases are unresolved before voting takes place.
Awuni argued that if the case results in Morrison’s disqualification, the damage to her campaign could be irreversible. He noted, “If the offense is so grave as to warrant her disqualification from the race, the court can declare her election null and void afterward, as has happened in many cases. If she’s stopped from contesting and later wins the case, can the court reverse the damage?”
He also highlighted that Morrison, a former minister of state and the current sitting MP for Agona West, has continuously claimed that elements within the NPP are working to block her candidacy. Awuni warned that this case could set a dangerous precedent, where candidates could face last-minute legal challenges aimed at manipulating electoral outcomes.
Cynthia Morrison remains resolute in her determination to contest the 2024 elections, despite the legal and political hurdles in her path. She continues to advocate for the development of Agona West, with the outcome of the court case set to play a pivotal role in her political future.
A district magistrate court in Agona Swedru has injuncted Cynthia Morrison's candidature as an independent parliamentary candidate for Agona West in the Central Region. Cynthia Morrison won the seat for the NPP in 2016 and 2020 but decided to run independently after saying her… pic.twitter.com/V7ZetGzrjA
The Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor, is urging women throughout Ghana to seize the opportunity to make history by rallying behind the party in the upcoming December 7 elections.
He emphasized the importance of electing Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the party’s Presidential Candidate John Dramani Mahama’s running mate, as the country’s first female Vice President.
According to Dr. Kevor, the election of Prof. Opoku-Agyemang would break the glass ceiling for women in Ghana, paving the way for greater representation in governance.
He highlighted her significant accomplishments, including being the first female Vice Chancellor of a public university in Ghana, which has inspired more women to pursue leadership roles in academia.
While Ghana has seen women serve as Chief Justice and Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Kevor noted that the nation has yet to have a female Vice President or President, underscoring the importance of this electoral milestone.
“This year, join the NDC to make history for women. We, the men, have decided to support the women to make history.
She was the first female Vice Chancellor of a public university; her appointment paved the way for others. Let’s vote for John Mahama and Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to pave the way for more women to rise,” said Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor to women.
Dr. Kevor emphasized the importance of empowering women for national development, noting that women constitute a significant portion of the population and face numerous challenges. He stated that when women are empowered, the entire nation benefits and encouraged them to join the NDC to secure a brighter future.
His remarks came during a two-day campaign tour in the Eastern Region, accompanied by the NDC running mate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang. During this tour, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reiterated the NDC’s commitment to addressing the issues that women face in Ghana, particularly if John Mahama is elected President.
She highlighted that Mahama prioritizes women’s issues and promised to collaborate closely with him to ensure that women’s welfare is a top priority on the national agenda.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang outlined various initiatives aimed at empowering women, including the establishment of a National Women’s Development Bank, the provision of free sanitary pads, and the construction of modern market centers with daycare facilities.
Additionally, she proposed free apprenticeship training programs for women and free admission to tertiary institutions to help women advance academically.
These initiatives are designed to facilitate women’s economic independence and enhance their living standards. Concluding her tour in Asuogyamang, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang urged voters to support John Dramani Mahama and the NDC’s parliamentary candidates, ensuring the next NDC government holds a majority in Parliament to implement these crucial policy interventions.
The presidential candidate for the Convention People’s Party (CPP), Nana Akosua Frimponmaa Sarpong Kumankumah, has sharply criticized the Akufo-Addo administration for its management of Ghana’s economy.
Speaking to the media, Nana Akosua emphasized the CPP’s distinct economic vision, advocating for urgent reforms to address the current challenges.
She positioned the party as a credible alternative for voters seeking change in the upcoming 2024 elections.
“All you have to do is look around you, look at your life and where you are. Everything, access to, I can’t even say it, it’s surprising. Have you been to the market of late? Have you tried buying even ordinary bananas on the streets? One finger of the local banana is GHC2. The point is that everything is wrong. The economy, economy that is all it is,” She said.
When asked about her strategy to revive the struggling economy, she stressed the importance of focusing on the micro economy.
Nana Akosua argued that while Ghana may appear to perform well on international metrics, these figures do not reflect the everyday challenges faced by its citizens.
To bridge this gap, she pledged to introduce policies that would directly improve the lives of Ghanaians, such as providing affordable housing and ensuring access to clean water.
“It’s simple, it’s not rocket science. It’s nothing that you really need. I will be talking about the micro because the macro is what they have been using to deceive us all this time. They come in there, take our GDP and manage it properly and they say oh it’s good governance. Then they tell you whatever is going up is good [inflation].
“Meanwhile, the micro economy which is the problem is what I’m going to fix. Unlike other parts of the world that say that Ghana is doing well based on indicators, we don’t eat indicators. We’re talking about our living standards, what we do today, access to accommodation, how much am I paying for electricity. How much is your transport in comparison with your salary?”
Kumankumah promised to stabilize the Ghanaian cedi if elected and urged citizens to reject the incumbent New Patriotic Party government, calling on them to vote for her in the upcoming December elections.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is scheduled to meet with the Electoral Commission (EC) today, Thursday, October 10, 2024, to address concerns surrounding the printing of ballot papers ahead of upcoming elections.
The EC announced plans to begin printing ballot papers and notices of poll starting Friday, October 11, prompting the NDC to seek clarity on the process.
The NDC has expressed concerns over the potential for irregularities, with specific worries about the statistics being used for printing. In past elections, the party has raised issues over alleged instances of additional ballot papers being printed, which has led to heightened scrutiny this time around.
In an interview with Citi News, Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, the NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, emphasized the party’s demand for detailed information before the printing process begins.
“The Electoral Commission indicated they were going to give us a revised provisional register. But as we speak now, they don’t have it. They haven’t given us. They have not also given us ballot statistics. Ballot statistics will emanate from the voters’ code book of the register but we don’t have that,” Dr. Rashid Computer stated.
He further questioned how the EC could proceed with printing without providing the necessary figures. “How come we are going ahead to print ballot papers? On which figures are they going to use to print the ballot papers? We have written back to them, indicating our position on that.”
The NDC intends to use the upcoming meeting to ensure they receive the voter code books and related statistics from the EC. Dr. Rashid Computer clarified that while the party does not object to the printing of notices of poll, it insists that the printing of ballot papers should not proceed without the requested data.
“We will send a letter to them that, look, you cannot proceed with the printing of the ballot papers if we don’t have the statistics and then the voter code books of each of the regions. We will not accept that kind of thing, but if they want to go ahead with the printing of the notices of polls, we have no difficulties with that,” he added.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised alarms regarding the underlying motivations for organised labour’s proposed protest against illegal mining (galamsey).
They argue that these actions seem to coincide with the political agenda of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the 2024 elections approach.
In a press release by Salam Mustapha, NPP’s National Youth Organiser, he cited a leaked confidential document titled “Winning 2024 and Beyond,” allegedly prepared by the NDC in 2021 and disclosed in December 2022.
Mr Mustapha claimed the document outlines the NDC’s 2024 electoral strategy, and there are growing indications that organised labour is following this politically driven plan.
He alleged that “this document outlines the NDC’s strategy for the 2024 elections, and it is becoming increasingly evident that organised labour is following this politically motivated plan.”
“Over the past weeks, we have seen organised labour embark on a number of actions including threatening a national strike and vocalising strong opinions on the issue of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey).
“Interestingly, this newfound activism comes on issues they have largely been silent on for years. It is highly questionable that they have only found their voice with two months to go before the election, especially on an issue as critical as galamsey,” the statement pointed out.
The NPP highlighted the government’s sustained efforts over the last seven years to tackle illegal mining, pointing to key legislative actions, prosecutions, and military interventions aimed at preserving the environment and natural resources.
The party questioned why organised labour, which had been silent during these efforts, has now become vocal critics.
The NPP also accused organised labour of ignoring substantial concessions made during a recent meeting with the President to address their concerns.
Despite the government’s efforts, the NPP alleged that organised labour’s current stance is politically motivated, aimed at destabilizing the government as part of the NDC’s strategy outlined in the leaked document.
The party called on Ghanaians and organised labour members to resist any efforts to politicize the fight against galamsey, stressing that the issue transcends political affiliations and requires a united national front.
“The future of our environment, livelihoods, and communities depends on us coming together to fight illegal mining as one united front. All hands must be on deck to combat this menace and ensure the sustainable use of our natural resources.
“Let us put the interests of Ghana first and stop using galamsey as a political tool.”
The Presidential candidate for the Movement for Change, Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, has called on voters to reject the two dominant political parties, the NPP and NDC, in the upcoming December 7 elections.
He argued that after over three decades in power, these parties have little to show for their tenure and emphasized the need for Ghanaians to demand better governance.
During his passionate speech in Memsonso Number 1, located in the Akrofuom Constituency of the Ashanti Region, Kyerematen expressed his discontent with the status quo.
“After 32 years of the NPP and NDC, look around you. What do we have to show for it? These parties will come to you, offering lies and false promises. I tell you, they are liars trying to deceive you,” he stated.
He urged the community, “Let me tell you, if the NPP and NDC come around, tell them that you don’t need them anymore,” Alan stated firmly. His fiery speech, delivered on October 7, 2024, as part of his 19-day campaign tour, sent a clear signal that his movement was gaining momentum. The former Trade and Industry Minister made it clear that neither of the two political parties had the people’s true interests at heart, and Ghanaians should not be fooled by their empty promises or token gifts.
This fervent message, delivered on October 7, 2024, during his 19-day campaign tour, clearly illustrated the growing momentum behind his movement.
As the former Trade and Industry Minister, Kyerematen reiterated that neither major party had genuine intentions for the people, warning voters against being swayed by superficial promises or token gestures.
Mr Kyerematen’s impact in the Ashanti Region is becoming increasingly evident, with his campaign gaining traction and communities rallying around his vision.
As his support continues to build, the Movement for Change is positioning itself as a significant player in Ghana’s political landscape. Kyerematen is drawing large crowds, resonating with voters through his promise of real development for neglected areas.
The traditionally NPP stronghold is witnessing a notable shift as Kyerematen’s bold campaign gains momentum.
The People’s National Convention (PNC) has expressed deep disappointment with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing the party of betrayal and neglect following the disqualification of their flagbearer, Bernard Mornah, from the December 7 presidential race.
Samson Awingobit, the National Chairman of the PNC, voiced frustration over the lack of support from the NDC, which they had perceived as an ally. He revealed that none of the NDC’s top leadership reached out to the PNC after their disqualification by the Electoral Commission.
“Can you imagine, since the time we conducted our election, filed our nomination, and were disqualified by the Electoral Commission, not a single person from the NDC – not even President Mahama, Asiedu Nketia, Fifi Kwetey, or Omane Boamah – reached out to Bernard Mornah to sympathize with us,” Awingobit said during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosisen with Philip Osei Bonsu.
Awingobit further mentioned that the PNC initially believed the New Patriotic Party (NPP) had influenced the Electoral Commission’s decision to disqualify Mornah. However, they were surprised when the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, called to offer his support.
“You know who called? I was shocked when Bernard Mornah told me. It was the New Patriotic Party’s presidential candidate, His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He picked up the phone and called,” Awingobit revealed.
He added, “Even I and my leader thought it was the NPP that had pushed Jean Mensa to disqualify us, but it turns out the one you think is your enemy is not your enemy. Dr. Bawumia could pick up his phone and say, ‘My younger brother, it is well with you.’”
The Electoral Commission (EC) has clarified reports regarding the release of the revised 2024 Provisional Voters Register (PVR), following claims by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the register would be available within a week.
In a statement dated October 8 and signed by Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chairperson in charge of Operations, the EC denied making any such commitment.
The EC wrote: “For the records, the Chairperson of the EC indicated during the televised IPAC meeting that the Commission would provide the Political Parties with the revised PVR and upload it online within two (2) weeks or earlier.”
The NDC, after the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Tuesday, October 1, issued a statement indicating that it had accepted the EC’s alleged promise to release the corrected or updated version of the 2024 Provisional Voters Register to political parties within one week.
The party is quoted to have stated: “The Functional Executive Committee of the NDC has deliberated and decided to accept the EC’s promise to release to political parties, the corrected/updated version of the 2024 Provisional Voters Register for scrutiny within one week.”
In its response, the commission clarified that its Chairperson, Jean Mensa, had actually informed political parties during the IPAC meeting that the Commission would provide the revised PVR and make it available online within two weeks or earlier.
“Nowhere in her statement did the Chairperson indicate that the revised PVR would be made available within a week,” the EC emphasized.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, has reported that significant progress has been made in addressing the issues identified in the voter register.
She noted that while the register is still a work in progress and contains some minor inaccuracies, this is to be expected in any large-scale registration exercise.
The NDC’s examination of the register identified five key anomalies:
Missing Names: The party discovered that the names of registered voters were missing from the list, potentially disenfranchising eligible voters.
Misplaced on Lists: Qualified voters were incorrectly placed on the Exception List or the Multiple List, which could prevent them from voting on election day.
Disqualified Individuals: Some individuals disqualified due to multiple registrations or successful challenges were still found on the Main Provisional Voters Register (PVR), raising questions about the accuracy of the register.
Unauthorized Transfers: Voters were transferred from one polling station to another without their knowledge. Additionally, old transfers that should have been resolved were still appearing on the register.
Polling Station Changes: Some voters were moved from one polling station to another without their consent, causing confusion and potential voter suppression.
The EC has admitted to errors in the transfer of votes.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known asChairman Wontumi,has sharply rebuked Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah for predicting a victory for former President John Dramani Mahama in the December 7, 2024, presidential election.
In an interview on Wontumi FM, Chairman Wontumi rejected the pastor’s prophecy, asserting that Rev. Owusu Bempah has no influence over the outcome of the upcoming election.
Moreover, he claimed to have the “power and authority” to influence the arrangement of political parties on the final ballot, which was recently confirmed by the Electoral Commission.
Chairman Wontumi went further, challenging Rev. Owusu Bempah to witness what real power and strength look like.
“If he has one, I have ten,” Wontumi declared.
“If he challenges me,I will move the NDC from the 8th position to the 6th. I’m telling you this to show you my strength and power. While we are embarking on a serious campaign, you’re playing games. Pharisees! I’m daring you… You’re not a man. I could say more, but I’ve forgiven you,” he said.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Chairman Wontumi, has threatened to move the NDC from the 8th position on the ballot paper to the 6th or 7th position to demonstrate his power. pic.twitter.com/jGtsfu1NyO
A political analyst, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, has urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to refrain from criticizing the Electoral Commission (EC) for its perceived shortcomings.
Speaking on Peace FM’s ‘Kokrokoo’ show, Dr. Otchere-Ankrah emphasized the importance of offering constructive solutions rather than simply highlighting the EC’s flaws.
His comments come in response to recent allegations by the NDC, which expressed concerns over the potential risks posed by vulnerabilities in the EC’s IT systems.
“You should offer suggestions to strengthen the EC’s IT system instead of only pointing out its weaknesses without proposing solutions. You must appear right and be seen to be right,” he added.
The party warned that these issues, if unresolved, could jeopardize the credibility of the December 7 elections.
The NDC has called for a multi-stakeholder review of the EC’s IT system, citing concerns about the manipulation of voter data without proper authentication or the risk of system infiltration.
The party also demanded a forensic audit of the provincial voters’ register, highlighting 243,540 suspected illegal transfers and 15,000 unverified records.
The Electoral Commission, while acknowledging some of these discrepancies during an IPAC meeting, assured the public that the issues had since been resolved.
Meanwhile, Director of Elections for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Evans Nimako, has urged the EC to enhance its electoral systems to guard against potential hacking threats.
During the IPAC meeting on October 1, 2024, he emphasized the need for the EC’s IT team to strengthen security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
Ghana is in mourning following the death of the former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ejisu-Juaben, Afrifa Yamoah Ponko.
Mr Ponko, a respected leader known for his dedication and contributions to the community, passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024.
The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed, leaving many shocked and saddened by the unexpected news.
Tributes have began pouring in from various sectors of society, particularly from members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), where Ponko was a prominent figure.
His commitment to public service and the welfare of his constituents earned him admiration and respect, making his passing a significant loss to the Ejisu-Juaben municipality.
The National Communications Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi, took to social media to express his condolences to Mr Ponko’s family.
In his post, Mr Gyamfi highlighted Mr Ponko’s exemplary leadership and his unwavering dedication to the party and the community.
Woodworkers at Sokoban Wood Villagein the Ashanti Region are feeling devastated and powerless following a recent fire that has severely impacted their livelihoods.
The affected traders have expressed their concerns over the destruction of their primary source of income, leaving them burdened with significant bank loans to repay.
On October 3, 2024, a fire broke out in parts of Sokoban Wood Village, destroying around 18 sheds along with their contents.
Victims of the disaster have reported feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility of repaying the loans they had taken out for their businesses.
DO3 Peter Addai, the Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer for the Ghana National Fire Service, stated that investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the fire.
“We quickly had to call in other fire tenders for assistance. So together we had about four fire tenders assisting to salvage the situation.
The fire affected 18 shops that deal mainly in plywood and other wood products, and there were no casualties. We were able to salvage 32 shops,” he stated.
Some of the affected victims spoke with Channel One News, highlighting the challenges they are going through because of the incident, and vowed to vote for any political party that will come to their aid.
“I have a lot of dependents. I have children going to school, my wife, my mother. My mother is a widow. I am taking care of a lot of people, so this thing is going to affect me a lot. I can’t tell; I don’t know what is going to happen. I don’t know what to do,” a worker stated.
“This is going to affect the schooling of my children; one is at Legon, one is at KNUST. How will we take care of them? The government should intervene, whether NPP, NDC, or Cheddar. Whichever party wants us to vote for them should come to our aid,” another worker stressed.
Presidential Candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama,has underscored that the economic difficulties currently facing Ghana affect every ethnic group and are not confined to any particular community.
During his two-day campaign visit to the Northeast Region, he urged residents of Kulgona, particularly those in Nalerigu, to be cautious of the New Patriotic Party’s appealing yet unrealistic promises as the December 7 elections draw near.
In his speech, the former president recognized the pervasive nature of the economic crisis, emphasising that no ethnic community is spared from its effects.
He pointed out that the hardships experienced by Mamprusis are akin to those felt by the Ashantis and other groups across the nation, reinforcing the idea that struggle is a collective challenge.
Mr. Mahama condemned the NPP for what he called attempts to mislead voters with empty promises.
He called on constituents to stay alert and avoid being swayed by political slogans that do not tackle the pressing challenges in their communities.
By highlighting the shared nature of these economic struggles, Mr. Mahama seeks topromote solidarity among Ghanaians, urging them to focus on real solutions instead of mere campaign platitudes.
“Our brothers came with sweet promises, one district, one factory, one village, one dam, one million dollars per constituency per year, and so Ghanaians naturally decided that they would give them an opportunity, which they did.
Unfortunately, that opportunity, I think has been squandered because today Ghanaians are suffering, and the suffering does not know any ethnic groups. Mamprusis are suffering as much as Ashantis.”
“Ashantis are suffering as much as Ewes. Ewes are suffering as much as Fantis. Fantis are suffering as much as Dagaatis,” he stated.
National Communications Director for the Zongo Caucus of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Mohammed Naziru Seidu, confidently declared that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will fail to secure any votes from Zongo communities in the upcoming elections.
He emphasised that NDC’s candidate, former President John Dramani Mahama, is poised to dominate in all Zongo areas.
Speaking on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Nyankonton Mu Nsem, Seidu made a bold statement, offering to have his head cut off if Dr. Bawumia wins even a single Zongo community.
Despite being told that such rhetoric was extreme, he stood by his claim, insisting that his head be taken if the Vice President prevails in any Zongo locality.
“But I am telling you before God and man that if Bawumia is able to secure victory in one single Zongo community in Ghana, cut off my head. I repeat, if Bawumia is able to secure victory in one Zongo community in Ghana, cut off my head,” he declared.
He posited that it was obvious that Mahama had been ordained by God to be elected as the next president of Ghana, and his victory would be massive.
He noted that prophets who had earlier prophesied against Mahama’s election win have now come up with a new prophecy, predicting his election as the next president.
Alhaji Mohammed Naziru Seidu lamented that the ruling government, under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo with support from his vice president, has destroyed not only the country’s economy but all state institutions, religion, and our environment with galamsey.
“The President Akufo-Addo and Bawumia administrations have not only destroyed our economy.
“They have also destroyed our country with galamsey,and they have destroyed this country through religion. They want to divide this country through religion by making divisive religious comments.
He added, “I know the work we have done and what we are still doing. We know the promises and focus of the Zongo communities.
“We know the challenges they are going through. We know what they have told us, and we know we will convince them to vote for former President John Dramani Mahama. That is why I have said that if Bawumia secures victory in one Zongo community, cut off my head.”
The National Democratic Congress’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, received an enthusiastic response during his meeting with Christian community leaders on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
This gathering, aimed at fostering a time of prayer, worship, and fellowship with pastors and church leaders, exceeded expectations for the former president.
While addressing the attendees, Mahama spoke candidly about same-sex relationships, affirming his Christian beliefs and asserting that LGBTQ+ practices have no place in the church.
He pointed out that the current president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has not significantly contributed to addressing the issue, particularly by not signing the anti-gay bill into law.
Reassuring the clergymen, Mahama emphasized that, should he regain the presidency, there would be no tolerance for such practices in any form.
Read exactly what he said that got the entire room of religious leaders on their feet below:
“My fathers and mothers in Christ, the current legal impasse created by the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration on the Promotion of Proper Human Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Act, which was passed by Parliament, has set a dangerous precedence for our governance. The constitutional directive for action by the president are quite clear and need not have resulted in this stalemate.
“As I’ve publicly stated, I’m a proud member of the Assemblies of God Church and my faith does not support same-sex marriages or relationships (loud applause for over 20 seconds) nor does it support human-animal relationships, or does it allow people to change their gender as they wish. This is a fundamental belief that I hold and is grounded in my faith. I, therefore, assure you that the promotion of LGBTQ+++++ and all the pluses will have no place in our schools and communities under my administration,” he said, followed by the entire room of pastors standing to their feet in great and loud applause.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced that it will not disclose certain discrepancies identified in the electoral process to the Electoral Commission (EC).
This resolution was reached during the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on October 1, 2024. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, explained that this decision is part of a strategic approach to address electoral concerns more effectively.
As reported by myjoyonline.com, Dr. Boamah mentioned that the EC had acknowledged three out of the five pieces of evidence submitted by the NDC.
However, he noted that the EC’s explanations for the discrepancies it rejected prompted the NDC to withhold the”full gamut” of their findings.
“That is one of the reasons – it is not strategic to provide the Electoral Commission with the full gamut of what we have,” he said.
Dr. Boamah also highlighted a particular case involving a voter named Ernest Ofori, who had transferred his vote but was not addressed by the EC.
He underscored the necessity of conducting a forensic audit of both the voter register and the EC’s IT systems to guarantee transparency and fairness in the upcoming elections.
“So the PVR that we were given, if you analyse them, would you have arrived at the same conclusion? The answer is yes. As you try to rationalize after having the information, what you forget is that you are assembling what you did not provide political parties with to rationalize,” he remarked.
He argued that the significant bias coefficient underscores the need for a forensic audit, as it would offer a more precise and impartial evaluation of the electoral process.
The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has shared insights on how his previous electoral defeats have influenced his aspirations for a better Ghana.
During a meeting with the clergy on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, he discussed how these setbacks prompted him to think critically about ways to drive positive change in the country if given another chance.
Mahama conveyed his optimism that a second term in office would empower him to effectively manage Ghana’s resources and enhance the socio-economic well-being of its citizens.
“I have had the opportunity to govern this country before; I have had the opportunity to lose an election and watch from outside. This reflection has given me the insight that I believe can help bring this country back on track.
“Not everybody gets the opportunity that God will give me in this election. The opportunity to do it before, sit back and come back to do it better,” he stated.
The meeting convened a diverse assembly of church leaders from different denominations, such as Catholic, Pentecostal, Charismatic, and spiritual churches.
The Founder and Leader of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), Maame Akua Donkor, has criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its persistent attacks on Electoral Commission chairperson Jean Mensa.
She emphasized that Jean Mensa has been diligently working to ensure a credible voter registration process for the upcoming 2024 general elections. Despite this, the NDC continues to level unfounded accusations against her.
In a strong warning, Akua Donkor urged NDC members and leaders to refrain from targeting Jean Mensa and instead concentrate on the electoral process, labeling their claims as baseless.
Her remarks came during the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
“I’m grateful to God that since she [Jean Mensa] became the EC, the NDC has worried her a lot, including taking her to court over the voter register, but they were disgraced. The EC also conducted the exhibition voter registration and presented a credible register, yet they are still pestering her. Don’t you know God brought the EC? So no matter what you do, it won’t succeed.
“I pray she stands the pressure and goes through successfully. The worrying and lying about the EC should cease and allow her to work. You have raised guns and knives to engage in violent acts, yet the NPP did not even take much action against you,” she fumed.
In response to the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) strong criticisms, the Electoral Commission (EC) has denied allegations that it has not addressed discrepancies in the voter register or responded to the party’s concerns.
The NDC has been vocal in its accusations against the EC, claiming negligence in rectifying issues with the voter register. However, the EC argues that these claims are merely a political tactic aimed at diverting attention from other matters.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Director of Elections and IT, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has strongly rejected the Electoral Commission’s (EC) assertions that the discrepancies in the 2024 Provisional Voters Register have been adequately addressed.
At the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting held in Accra on Tuesday, October 1, he voiced his concerns that the EC’s failure to take decisive measures could allow those manipulating voter data to operate without oversight, jeopardizing the integrity of the upcoming elections.
With the election date rapidly approaching, Dr. Omane Boamah warned that the EC’s delays in fully resolving these discrepancies could prevent timely corrections to the voter register. “Time is of the essence,” he emphasized, highlighting the urgent need to tackle these issues.
He also reiterated the NDC’s call for a thorough audit of both the 2024 voter register and the EC’s IT system to ensure complete transparency and accuracy.
According to Dr. Omane Boamah, such an audit would bolster confidence in the electoral process and protect against potential tampering of voter data.
Using a vivid analogy during his address at the IPAC meeting, he said, “When your roof is leaking, you can choose to mop continuously, or you can decide to fix the leak and then mop. What we see here is the EC mopping and mopping [referring to the EC’s PowerPoint presentation], without addressing the core issue.”
“Fixing the leakage is missing, and this is at the heart of our altruistic demand for a forensic audit. This forensic audit is not just about the register, when you have fixed the register, I will demonstrate to you, how as a result of our revelations, some aftermath of the fixing is providing a semblance of we’re fixing it. When you fix it we all look at the hard copies, and we’re all given the PVR soft copies.
“In November, if the very criminals that got us here, are still there engaged in illegal transfers, we will come back to square one. At that time, it will be too close to the December 7 elections. This is why we’re saying, we need to adopt a dichotomous approach, look at the register, fix the issues in there and also audit the very IT system, that allows these anomalies to occur.”
In response, the Electoral Commission (EC) has argued that the NDC’s call for an audit is premature, emphasizing that they have robust procedures in place for finalizing the voter register.
The EC detailed a multi-step process designed to address discrepancies and maintain the integrity of the register, which includes stages such as registration, exhibition, and review.
They assured stakeholders that most discrepancies have been rectified and that any outstanding issues will be resolved through the established procedures.
A recent poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics indicates thatJohn Dramani Mahama,the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, holds a significant lead over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According to the poll, Mahama commands the support of 51.1% of committed voters, while Bawumia lags behind with 37.3%.
Independent candidates Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten and Nana Kwame Bediako are polling at 4.1% and 6.2%, respectively, with other contenders collectively receiving 1.3%. In a separate unweighted likely voters’ model, Mahama still leads with 49.3%, compared to Bawumia’s 35.9%.
A noteworthy trend in the poll is the growing voter apathy within the NPP. Sixteen percent of potential non-voters identify as NPP supporters, in contrast to just 3% from the NDC.
Additionally, undecided voters and those who declined to reveal their party affiliations make up a combined 77% of non-voters, posing a serious challenge for the ruling party.
Among undecided voters, Mahama has a commanding 54% to Bawumia’s 23%, giving him a 31-point advantage. He also leads by 18 points among voters who chose not to disclose their party affiliation.
First-time voters also favour Mahama, giving him a 46% to 38% lead over Bawumia. This marks a shift from the July 2024 poll, where the two candidates were evenly matched.
Bawumia, on the other hand, has lost some ground with Muslim voters, a crucial demographic for his campaign, dropping 4% in support since July.
Additionally, the poll reveals that while 70% of those who supported President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2020 remain loyal to Bawumia, 19% have now switched their allegiance to Mahama.
In key battleground regions such as Greater Accra and Central, Mahama has gained the backing of 20% and 37% of former NPP voters, respectively. Regionally, Mahama now leads in 12 regions, including Bono, while Bawumia remains ahead in the Ashanti, Eastern, Ahafo, and North East regions.
The presence of independent candidates, Nana Kwame Bediako and Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten, has also complicated Bawumia’s standing, particularly in the Ashanti and Eastern regions.
In Ashanti, where the NPP aims for 85% of the vote, Bawumia currently holds 66%, while Mahama has 22%, and Bediako and Kyeremanten secure 7% and 4%, respectively. This division in support could be problematic for the NPP as election day nears.
The poll also highlights key issues driving voter sentiment.
The economy, jobs, and education were identified as the top concerns, with 70% of respondents listing the economy as their primary issue, followed by jobs (62%) and education (48%).
Furthermore,62% of respondents believe the country is on the wrong path, with dissatisfaction most pronounced among NDC supporters (88%), floating voters (74%), and backers of other parties (76%). In contrast, 64% of NPP supporters feel the country is moving in the right direction.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has once again called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to allow a live broadcast of the upcoming Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on Tuesday, October 1.
This, the NDC argues, is necessary to ensure transparency in the electoral process as the nation prepares for the 2024 general elections.
The NDC’s demand for a live broadcast comes after the EC rejected a previous request to televise discussions concerning discrepancies in the Provisional Voters Register (PVR).
In a press release issued on Monday, September 30, the EC urged all stakeholders attending the IPAC meeting to present data and evidence to support claims of discrepancies with the PVR. The Commission maintained that this collaborative approach would help address lingering concerns about the voters’ register.
Despite the EC’s calls, the NDC has yet to submit the data supporting its claims, instead insisting on a forensic audit of the register.
Speaking to Citi News, NDC’s Deputy Director of Elections and IT, Dr. Tanko Rashid Computer, emphasized that a credible voters’ register is central to the success of the 2024 elections, and stressed the need for full transparency through a live broadcast of the meeting.
“We believe it’s crucial to have this live broadcast because of the gravity of the issues at hand. The 2024 general elections hinge on the voters’ register, and a credible register is essential for the entire election process,” Dr. Computer said.
He further questioned the EC’s reluctance to allow media coverage of the meeting, adding that transparency is key to restoring public trust.
“The EC’s response suggests they’ll show us how they’ve addressed the issues we’ve raised. It’s important that the media is present to witness this. Transparency is what everyone seeks, and that’s why we’re inviting the EC to allow the media in. If there’s nothing to hide, why block the media?” he concluded.
The Member of Parliament for Manhyia North, Collins Owusu Amankwah, has dismissed concerns about the National Democratic Congress (NDC) impact on the NPP’s chances in the upcoming 2024 elections.
He suggested that even if the NDC chose to boycott the elections, it would not hinder the process, downplaying their significance as a threat to the NPP.
During an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo on September 29, 2024, Owusu Amankwah further argued that the NDC’s absence would likely enhance the NPP’s chances of victory by reducing the number of presidential candidates.
“… If the NDC decides to boycott the elections it will even help because they are one of the 9 political parties participating. So, if they think they do not have any message for the good people of this country and if they access their achievements during their tenure and realise Ghanaians are hesitant to vote for them, they can decide to boycott the 2024 elections and it will still come on,” he said.
Touching on the NDC’s concerns about the voters’ register, Owusu Amankwah stressed that the elections would not be affected. He noted that the Electoral Commission has committed to correcting the register and will re-exhibit it online.
“The Electoral Commission said they will re-exhibit the voters register online after making the corrections so now the election will surely come on. Balloting has already been done as well as the exhibition even though the second one will be done following corrections made,” he added.
Dr. Ayew Afriyie, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Effiduase Asokore, has accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of orchestrating the importation of foreign nationals to engage in illegal mining, known as galamsey.
According to the MP, this illegal activity has significantly contributed to the pollution of Ghana’s water bodies and is a politically motivated scheme designed to undermine the NPP’s popularity ahead of the 2024 elections.
Speaking at the launch of the Bawumia Volunteers 2024 (B24) campaign in Kumasi, Dr. Afriyie alleged that the NDC’s deliberate introduction of foreign miners into Ghana’s forests and rivers was aimed at creating environmental destruction, ultimately forcing the government to halt galamsey, a move he suggested could hurt the NPP’s standing in mining constituencies.
“The NDC saw that we [NPP] were winning the seats in the mining areas, so they decided to go and import foreigners to engage in illegal mining on our water bodies,” Dr. Afriyie claimed. “The whole water bodies have not been a problem until now, it just started one month ago. It is someone behind that to force the NPP government to stop galamsey so that we will lose the seats.”
The MP further criticized calls for an immediate ban on galamsey, asserting that the NPP government has no plans to do so in the near future. He argued that banning illegal mining at this point could jeopardize the party’s hold on parliamentary seats in mining areas.
“We won’t stop them [galamseyers] today or tomorrow,” Dr. Afriyie emphasized, maintaining that the country’s water bodies were clean until foreign miners allegedly brought in by the NDC began to degrade these essential resources.
He also expressed frustration with the media’s coverage of galamsey, suggesting that the NDC was using journalists to pressure the government into banning the practice.
“Then they take their journalists to talk about it. Is galamsey done in Accra? They should come to Kumasi to demonstrate against galamsey; like they will see,” he said.
"We won't stop the Galamsey operators today or tomorrow. This is sabotage to make us lose our seats in Galamsey constituencies."
The MP for Effiduase Asokore and Middle Belt Campaign Coordinator for @MBawumia, Dr. Ayew Afriyie, has said they are not ready to stop those involved… pic.twitter.com/M2WGKJ9Tfa
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has vowed to tirelessly work to improve the lives of Ghanaians if elected as President in the 2024 general elections.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, September 28, after his visits to Ablekuma North, Central, West, and South constituencies the previous day, Mahama also promised to prioritize transparency and honesty with the people of Ghana.
“I made two solemn pledges to the people: First, as President, I will work 24/7 for you. This is not just a promise but a commitment I take to heart. Your aspirations, needs, and concerns you shared during my interactions will guide my actions, and I will be there for you, always.
“Secondly, I will always tell you the truth. Transparency will be my guiding principle in good times and challenging times. When things go well, I will celebrate with you. And when we face difficulties, I will be honest about the situation.”
Mahama also reaffirmed his commitment to implementing a 24-hour economy policy, aimed at creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and addressing the rising costs of essential goods such as food and fuel.
The National Youth Organizer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has stated that any attempts by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to prompt the Electoral Commission regarding the voter register will be futile unless they pursue legal action.
Last week, the NDC organized nationwide protests to address alleged irregularities in the voter roll, calling for an independent forensic audit to correct errors and ensure fair elections.
The opposition party asserts that the register contains significant irregularities that could impact approximately 300,000 votes, thereby undermining the credibility of the upcoming elections.
Specific irregularities highlighted by the NDC include 243,540 previous transfers improperly added to the 2024 transfers, over 15,000 unidentifiable transfer paths, the removal of 3,957 names from the roll, 2,094 voters transferred to different polling stations, and corrupt files.
During a meeting in Accra on Monday, September 23, 2024, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the NDC’s Director of Elections and IT, mentioned that the party is uncovering additional irregularities and emphasized that an audit of the voter roll and the Electoral Commission’s IT system would help ensure a smooth election on December 7.
In response, Salam Mustapha, in an interview on Asempa FM, accused the NDC of misleading Ghanaians and encouraged them to present their evidence directly to the Electoral Commission instead of seeking public support through protests.
“It’s not that we have no problems with the register, any person who attends IPAC meeting will tell you that we have disagreement with the Electoral Commission. But some of the issues we don’t make them public. This particular one is one of a fishing expedition that the NDC wants to take everybody. It is a roller coaster wild goose chase. When we pinned the Electoral Commission down in 2015 we provided them with evidence. So if you claim you have uncovered one or two irregularities and the EC says come over, they should go and sit with them and challenge them, but you say you’ll not give them any evidence.
“Secondly, the only body that has power to give directive for the EC to comply is the court and not the street. So what the NDC just did [demonstration] was mere exercise and it is good. Burning fat is good. If they don’t know their way to the court, it’s their own business.”
Electoral Commission (EC)has announced an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting scheduled for Monday, September 30, 2024, at its conference room.
The meeting, which will focus on the electoral register, comes in response to ongoing concerns about the integrity of the voter roll ahead of the 2024 general elections.
This meeting follows the demand for a forensic audit of the Provisional Voter’s Register (PVR) by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), citing discrepancies in the current voter roll.
The NDC’s call for an audit was part of a petition submitted after a demonstration on September 17, 2024.
However, the EC, led by Jean Mensa, has dismissed the need for such an audit, maintaining that the current legal and administrative mechanisms in place to address any issues with the register have not yet been fully utilised.
In a letter to NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the EC emphasised its confidence in the robustness of the current electoral roll, stating: “As a Commission, we are of the view that the existing legal and administrative processes for cleaning the PVR have not been fully exhausted to justify the call for a forensic audit.”
The EC reassured both the NDC and the general public that it is actively addressing the discrepancies identified in the PVR, as it did during the 2020 general elections, and that the same processes will be applied for the upcoming 2024 polls.
In an effort to foster transparency, the EC has invited the NDC to participate in discussions and observe the steps being taken to resolve any issues in the voter register.
Additionally, the EC responded to concerns about the illegal transfer of votes, revealing that its District Officer in Pusiga, Upper East Region, had been dismissed for facilitating 38 illegal vote transfers, which have since been corrected.
Regarding theNDC’s request for a re-exhibition of the voter register, the EC cited time constraints but assured voters that an online version of the register would remain accessible until election day.
The EC concluded by urging trust in the established processes and reaffirming its commitment to delivering a transparent and credible election in 2024.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has confidently proclaimed himself as the bearer of the number 8, urging those who intend to “break the 8” to substantiate their assertions.
During his campaign tour, Mahama addressed artisans at the Konkonpe Spare Parts Line in the Ablekuma North Constituency of Greater Accra.
He highlighted his newfound connection to the number 8, which has become a significant symbol in the current political discourse.
“They are now shying away from breaking the 8 because I hold the eight,” he said
Mahama’s statements serve as a direct challenge to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), which is seeking to “break the 8” by securing a third consecutive term in the upcoming 2024 elections.
“If they say they want to break the 8, let them try and do so for me to see, because I am now the holder of the number 8,” Mahama asserted.
Alongside his symbolic message, Mahama assured the artisans that the next NDC government would implement a fixed-rate system at Ghana’s ports.
He emphasized that this measure would create a transparent and efficient process for importing goods, ultimately benefiting both local businesses and importers.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Director for the Ashaiman Constituency, Mr. Joe Awuku, known as Joe Ashaiman, has raised serious concerns regarding the credibility of the Electoral Commission (EC) ahead of the 2024 general elections.
During an interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ghana Yensom morning show with host Otafrigya Kwesi Apea-Apreku on Thursday, September 26, 2024, Mr. Awuku emphasized the NDC’s deep mistrust of the EC, currently under the leadership of Madam Jean Mensa.
He firmly stated that even with divine intervention, the party would still remain skeptical of the commission’s operations.
“Even if Jesus himself tells us she’s clean, we will doubt Jesus,” he remarked.
The NDC’s Communications Director for Ashaiman, Mr. Joe Awuku, accused the Electoral Commission (EC) of consistently engaging in actions that jeopardize the credibility of elections in Ghana.
He asserted that the EC, under Jean Mensa’s leadership, has repeatedly demonstrated bias towards a particular political party, fueling mistrust as the December 7 elections near.
Responding to President Akufo-Addo’s recent assurance at the United Nations General Assembly that the 2024 elections will be free and fair, Awuku insisted the NDC would not sit back while the EC allegedly tilts the process in favor of specific candidates.
Mr. Joe Awuku didn’t mince words, going so far as to claim that if someone were looking for the devil and came across Jean Mensa, “she’s the one.”
The NDC official further demanded a forensic audit of the voters’ register, stressing that if the Electoral Commission (EC) engages in any questionable practices, the party would not hesitate to take decisive action.
He emphasized that given the current posture of the EC, the NDC is ready to reassess its strategy and take necessary steps to ensure electoral fairness.
Spokesperson for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Gideon Boako, has alleged that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is using recent protests, such as the Democracy Hub demonstration, to undermine the current government.
He claims that while the protest was presented as an effort to combat illegal mining (galamsey), its underlying goal is to generate public discontent and tarnish the administration’s reputation ahead of the upcoming elections.
In an interview with Peace FM on Friday, September 27, Dr. Boako argued that the NDC’s involvement in the protest indicates a political motive rather than a genuine concern for environmental conservation. According to him, the demonstration, which took place just months before the general elections, serves as an attempt to sway public sentiment against the government.
“Don’t be deceived by the NDC’s latent attempt to hide behind those protesters to cause public disaffection to the government. They are politically motivated to do anything to get a bad name for the government to achieve their political agenda,” Dr. Boako stated.
While acknowledging that illegal mining remains a significant challenge, he emphasized that the government has made strides in addressing the issue and called for more constructive dialogue with stakeholders to collaboratively tackle the crisis.
Dr. Boako also urged Ghanaians to be cautious of political actors who, in his view, disguise their intentions behind social or environmental causes. He warned that such strategies serve only to divide the nation and derail progress.
“Perish the thought should NDC come to power. All these guys leading the demonstration will have appointments in government,” Dr. Boako remarked, suggesting that the protests are part of a larger strategy to secure political appointments in the event of an NDC victory.
He concluded by encouraging Ghanaians to see through what he described as politically motivated protests aimed at destabilizing the government’s efforts in combating illegal mining and other national issues.
The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Kwetey, has stated that the party does not plan to pursue legal action if the Electoral Commission (EC) does not fulfill their requests.
Mr Kwetey emphasized that the NDC will take appropriate measures if their demands are not addressed by the EC before the deadline they have set.
“So, please don’t just ask what the NDC is suppose to do. That is why a gentleman mentioned that NPP did something tremendous. So, I was like it is good, tell us what they did. He said they went to court, really? Really went to court? We are not leaving this election to any court,” he said.
He made this statement during the party’s meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSO’s) recently.
Fifi Kwetey added that he prays the EC agrees to the independent forensic audit demand to avoid the next action from the NDC.
“We are hoping that it does not come to some of the things that we got to do if we ought to do it for the sake of our own country. That is why your voices are critical. That is where the voices of all who love the country become critical,” he added.
Background
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on September 17, 2024, issued a one-week ultimatum to the Electoral Commission (EC) to take an action on their petition concerning a call for a forensic audit of the voters register.
An independent presidential candidate, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar, has voiced his disapproval of the protest organized by Democracy Hub, aimed at ending illegal mining (galamsey).
In a video posted on his social media on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, the leader of the New Force Movement suggested that the #ReoccupyJulorbiHouse protest, along with others like #FixTheCountry, are orchestrated efforts by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“Well, let me tell you something, all of these protests and demonstrations that have been organized in this country in the past year or two, they are organized by one of the duopolies. It is the same politician, and I said it. I am not going to mention names, but you know that Julorbi and FixTheCountry were fixed by one of the existing parties. We cannot do this to ourselves and destroy this country because of a politician, personal interest, or a party interest.
“Please, Ghana, do your research. The people in front of all these demonstrations, some of them have treason charges. Ask, find out who is sponsoring them for the mobilization and all the things that happened. This is not about galamsey; this is about political interest,” he stated.
Cheddar’s recent statement follows an earlier one in which he condemned the #ReoccupyJulorbiHouse protesters, labeling the demonstration as unlawful and asserting that it is not the appropriate approach.
“Power is taken and not given, and if you want to take power, you should take it with wisdom and knowledge. After all, power comes out of knowledge. I want us to use our knowledge, for violence is not the right way for us to send a message,” he said.
He appealed to the youth to exercise patience as the country is known for its peace-loving nature. “I am appealing to you as youths of the country to be patient as we approach the election season. Let’s find an amicable way to deal with it.”
He emphasized his belief that violence cannot contribute to building a nation.
“Instead of trying to mess it up, let’s build it together. That’s what I am here for. Violence, I don’t believe in it. Whatever you guys are doing, protesting and all of this, I can’t support you because that is not the right way.”
Nana Kwame Bediako has passionately called on opinion leaders to prioritize peace, urging, “Let’s not allow this to escalate into violence and misunderstanding. We must find an amicable solution. On December 7th, we will have peaceful elections where the people can make their choice.”
The protest, aimed at pressuring the government to end illegal mining activities, was overshadowed by police arrests, with the Ghana Police Service citing unlawful actions by the demonstrators.
More than 40 protesters were arrested between Sunday and Monday and have since been brought before the court.
Despite his call for peace, Bediako’s opposition to the protest and his labeling of the organizers as puppets of the NDC have drawn significant backlash on social media.
Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, who previously served as the Minister for Zongo and Inner-Cities Development, has provided an advice to former President John Dramani Mahama regarding his intention to run for re-election.
While speaking to Imams, Zongo Chiefs, and settler communities in Donkro Nkwanta, located in the Nkoranza South Constituency of the Bono East Region, Dr. Abdul-Hamid shared his perspective that if he were in Mahama’s position, he would have opted for retirement by now, given the many blessings he has received from God.
He highlighted that among the 32 million Ghanaians, Mahama is unique in having held a variety of high-level public roles, including Assemblyman, Member of Parliament, Deputy Minister, Minister, Vice President, and President.
“If the former President were a good Christian, he would have retired by now because the good Lord has been very good to him,” he added.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid remarked, suggesting that Mahama should be thankful for his extensive service rather than pursue another presidential term.
Dr. Abdul-Hamid also pointed out the remarkable opportunity the 2024 Presidential election presents, as it could lead to a president from Northern Ghana.
He expressed his support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate, arguing that Bawumia is a preferable choice, as he has the potential to serve two full terms, unlike Mahama, who is constitutionally limited to just one more term.
Furthermore, he stressed the significance of accountability in leadership, suggesting that Dr. Bawumia would be more effective as he would be incentivized to seek re-election, whereas Mr. Mahama, lacking that option, might not be as motivated to govern effectively.
The Kumasi Magistrate Court in the Ashanti Region has annulled over 1,000 illegitimate voter transfers to the Manhyia South Constituency.
Presiding over the case, Her Worship Deborah Gyaawa Donkor delivered the verdict on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, instructing the Electoral Commission (EC) to return the affected voters to their original constituencies.
The fraudulent transfers, allegedly orchestrated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), were contested by Lawyer Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Manhyia South.
Mr. Awuah, who had recently secured the NPP parliamentary nomination, discovered the suspicious transfers and swiftly organized polling station executives and local community members to formally object.
The objections were submitted using Objection Forms under Regulation 23 of CI 91, emphasizing that the transferred voters did not reside within the constituency.
This court ruling is seen as a significant setback to the NDC’s purported attempts to enhance their electoral prospects in Manhyia South ahead of the 2024 elections.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has cautioned voters in the Ashanti Region against supporting the National Democratic Congress (NDC), arguing that the party has no sincere interest in advancing the region’s development.
He emphasized that casting votes for the NDC would ultimately be a wasted effort.
“We vote in elections for development,” Dr. Prempeh explained. “If you cast your vote for a political party that does not prioritize your progress, then you have wasted that vote.”
Nicknamed ‘Napo,’ the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Vice Presidential Candidate stressed that the NPP is the only party genuinely committed to the Ashanti Region’s progress.
He urged voters to back the NPP, highlighting that the party has the region’s best interests at heart.
“The NDC is not committed to the proper development of the Ashanti Region,” Dr. Prempeh declared during a rally in Tweapeasi, within the Odotobiri Constituency, on Tuesday.
He further noted that, despite benefiting from substantial electoral support in the Ashanti Region during past elections, the NDC repeatedly overlooks the region’s needs when in power.
Napo expressed his shock and disappointment at the NDC’s discriminatory approach toward the people of the Ashanti Region.
“The number of votes that the NDC obtains from the Ashanti Region during elections is very huge, yet the NDC still consider Ashanti as a region that doesn’t support them.
“The progress of the country, notably the Ashanti Region, always comes to a standstill whenever the NDC occupies the seat of government and I think it’s deliberate”, he fumed.
He stated that he could provide numerous examples illustrating how the NDC intentionally implemented harmful policies aimed at punishing the people of the Ashanti Region during their time in power.
As a significant example, Napo pointed out that the NPP government under former President John Kufuor launched the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to enhance healthcare access for the populace.
“But immediately the NDC assumed the mantle of leadership, they fiendishly introduced capitation for NHIS only in the Ashanti Region just to create hardship for the innocent people”.
“This is deliberate because clearly you can see that the NDC and their leaders have something against the people of the Ashanti Region. We should, therefore, reject the NDC on December 7”, he advised.
A member of the Economic Sub-Committee for the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) 2024 campaign team, Isaac Adongo, has revealed that a key priority for the next NDC administration will be to realign and revamp Ghana’s financial system.
He emphasized that the goal is to strengthen Ghana’s capital market, enabling both the government and local businesses to access international borrowing opportunities.
While the NDC plans to drive a 24-hour economy as part of its efforts to revive the struggling economy, Adongo stressed that restoring Ghana’s credibility on both the domestic and global capital markets is also a top priority for the party.
Addressing students at Tamale Technical University on Saturday, September 21, 2024, the Bolgatanga Central MP explained that “even though we are doing all of this using 24-hour economy to make sure that we are able to expand production, some of the measures that we are introducing would be to refocus and reset the financial system. We want to bring back the capital market both domestically and internationally.”
He explained that the initiative would be imperative in resuscitating the ailing economy “because it becomes a benchmark for Ghanaian businesses that want to borrow abroad.”
“So, we need to build instruments that will bring back the confidence in the capital market. Now we cannot build the confidence in the capital market if we don’t address the challenges within the global financial system,” he added.
Ghana has over the past two years been prevented from going onto the international market to raise dollars from investors, due to rising debt levels, slow economic growth and low balance of payment account.
Government was shut out of that market after; it announced that it is working to restructure debts owed commercial creditors.
The Eurobond holders also disclosed that, government was undertaking some measures which will protect investors’ funds. It was expected that the conclusion of the debt restructuring was going to restore some market confidence.
Other financial observers, however, warned that it will not be prudent for government to immediately rush to the capital market to raise funds in dollars considering the country’s debt levels.
This, they argued, could have a negative impact on the economy since Ghana was forced to go to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for bailout due to over borrowing.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed contentment with securing the 8th position on the ballot for the 2024 presidential elections.
The party views the number as a turning point, representing the end of what they call eight years of mismanagement and corruption by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking to the media on Friday, September 20, after the ballot draw, NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey remarked that the position symbolises a critical moment for the NDC to step in and resolve the economic and governance challenges created during the NPP’s time in office.
“We came here asking for God’s perfect will to be done, and we accept the number eight.
After eight critical years of decay, after eight years of total lack of order, corruption, and darkness that have engulfed this country, I think the eight is quite significant to tell the country that this is the moment to stop the decay after the eight years,” he said.
The NDC General Secretary also expressed satisfaction that the public witnessed the NPP’s disregard for the initial balloting agreement and did what they liked.
“The country clearly will not allow those who are doing everything possible to do what is wrong and those who are doing what is right for the sake of Ghana,” Mr Kwetey said.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has secured the top spot on the ballot paper, while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will hold the 8th position.
This arrangement was determined during the balloting processat the Electoral Commission’s office in Accra.
#FixTheCountry movement has announced the arrest and detention of its activist Ralph St Williams, known widely as Fellow Ghanaians who admitted to breaking the gate of the facility hosting the national cathedral project to allow demonstrators of the ‘Enough is Enough‘ protest to have access.
He was arrested at the Kotoka International Airport while en route to Kumasi for mobilization activities in preparation for Saturday’s #SayNoToGalamsey protest, organized by Democracy Hub.
In a statement on its X platform, the movement reported that “It appears that Ralph’s arrest stems from his peaceful participation in Tuesday’s ‘Enough is Enough’ demonstration, where he highlighted government mismanagement by opening the National Cathedral pit, a site that has already cost Ghana 58 million cedis, for symbolic swimming.”
Press Statement: Arrest of #FixTheCountry Convenor – Ralph St Williams (Fellow Ghanaians) 19th September 2024
We have been informed that our colleague Ralph St Williams, known widely as Fellow Ghanaians, has been unjustly arrested at Kotoka International Airport while en route…
The movement further asserted that the arrest had been strategically timed to suppress his participation in the upcoming #SayNoToGalamsey protest and to intimidate activists fighting for transparency and environmental justice.
“We strongly condemn this act and demand Ralph’s immediate release. Furthermore, we insist on an official apology from the authorities for this blatant attempt to silence critical voices,” it added.
🚨BREAKING🇬🇭✊🏾🚔: Popular #Fixthecountry activist Ralph St. Williams was arrested on September 19, 2024, at Kotoka International Airport, according to a press release by @Ghfixthecountry.
According to the movement, it will petition the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, to address this situation.
A viral video revealing the current state of the stalled National Cathedral project which began in 2020 surfaced on social media on Tuesday, September 17.
In the video shared by a Pro-NDC platform, there is the formation of a structure containing relatively small water. There were several individuals on the plot of land working. It is unknown what exactly they were engaged in.
Also, some protestors of the NDC ‘Enough is Enough’ demonstration decided to swim in what appears to be a pool.
Some X users have berated the government in response to the recent claims.
A recent survey conducted by SBM Intelligence forecasts that the National Democratic Congress (NDC)is likely to secure victories in 11 regions during the 2024 elections.
The survey indicates that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) may see a reduction in support within its traditional stronghold, the Ashanti Region, where their projected vote share is expected to drop.
The report, titled ‘Ghana’s 2024 Elections: A Preview,’ is accurate as of Thursday, September 12, 2024.
The NPP is anticipated to receive approximately 70.5% of the votes in Ashanti, a decrease from the 72.8% it achieved in the 2020 presidential election.
Additionally, the survey suggests that the NPP will encounter significant competition from the NDC in the Northern, Western North, and Oti regions.
“In the elections, the NDC is projected to secure victory in 11 regions, including all three swing regions, leaving only five regions for the NPP,” the September 2024 report showed.
More so, the NDC is expected to easily maintain three out of the five regions,, namely the the Upper East, Upper West, and and Savannah, and battle the NPP for the Northern region.”
“In the North East, Bawumia’s candidature is expected to help the NPP maintain its win and improve its vote share from 51.40% to 55.8%.”
The report comes with barely 80 days left for the December 7 election as political parties intensify campaigns to solicit for votes.
Meanwhile, over 20 presidential aspirants have successfully submitted their nomination forms to theElectoral Commission (EC) to contest the election.
SBM Intelligence is an Africa-focused geopolitical research and strategic communications consulting firm that addresses the critical need for political, social, economic, and market data and big data analytics.
Minister of Trade and Industry and Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa, Kobena Tahir Hammond, has called on NDC supporters in his constituency to shift their support to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming elections.
During a recent campaign, K.T. Hammond encouraged them to back the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, emphasising that their votes would not only ensure his continued appointment but also support the NPP’s ongoing digitisation initiatives.
“The NDC members here looking at my face like I am a wizard, change your mind and vote for the NPP. Change my mind and vote for Dr Bawumia,, so that the NPP will win the 2024 elections, and I will get an appointment.
Those looking at me, I want you all to become members of the NPP by force. Change your mind and vote for the NPP so that we win the elections.
When hebecomes president, he will continue the digitisation agenda; he will bring it to your doorstep,” he stated in a video shared by Joy News on their X page on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.
The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has embarked on a two-day campaign tour of the Ahafo region.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Wednesday by Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the Campaign Spokesperson.
During the tour, Mahama is expected to outline his vision for advancing the region’s agriculture, mining, and forestry sectors.
“Enhance agricultural productivity through better access to modern farming techniques and financial support through the Farmer Services Centres, ensuring our farmers thrive and contribute significantly to our economy.
“Investment in local industries, especially in mining and agro-processing, to create sustainable employment opportunities under the 24-hour economy initiative for the youth in Ahafo, reducing unemployment and fostering economic growth.”
“Implement a 24-hour economy initiative to boost the local Ahafo economy through business development, growth, and job creation. Work to upgrade roads, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. A strong infrastructure network is critical for accessibility and will pave the way for better services and opportunities.”
According to Mogtari, Mahama plans to enhance agricultural productivity by improving access to modern farming techniques and providing financial support through Farmer Services Centres.
This initiative aims to empower local farmers to thrive and contribute significantly to the economy.
Additionally, Mahama intends to boost local industries, particularly in mining and agro-processing, to create sustainable jobs under his proposed 24-hour economy initiative. This initiative is aimed at tackling youth unemployment and stimulating economic growth in the region.
Mogtari also highlighted plans to upgrade infrastructure, including roads, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, to improve accessibility and foster better services and opportunities.
Mahama and the NDC have pledged to promote environmentally sustainable practices across sectors, ensuring responsible use of natural resources for the benefit of future generations.
The statement further noted that Mahama aims to implement a free primary healthcare programme and establish the Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund (MahamaCares) to support treatment costs for individuals with chronic diseases.
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of distinguished tech entrepreneur Herman Kojo Chinery-Hesse, who died on Monday, September 16, 2024, due to a cardiac arrest.
Known as “the Bill Gates of Africa,” Chinery-Hesse was a pioneering force in the tech industry and made a lasting impact on Ghana’s technological advancement.
Born in 1963 in Dublin, Ireland, he founded theSOFTtribe in 1991, which became Ghana’s oldest and largest software company.
Chinery-Hesse’s leadership at theSOFTtribe brought about revolutionary innovations that significantly advanced various sectors in Ghana, profoundly influencing the country’s digital transformation.
In a tribute posted on social media [X], Mahama paid homage to Chinery-Hesse, acknowledging his immense contributions to the tech industry.
Mahama stated, “We’ve lost a good man. I’ve lost a friend. This is a great blow to Ghana and our IT fraternity. We must be inspired to produce a million more Herman’s. Rest in peace, Herman.”
We've lost a good man. I've lost a friend.
This is a great blow to Ghana and our IT fraternity. We must be inspired to produce a million more Herman's.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has given the Electoral Commission (EC) a one-week ultimatum to act on their petition, which calls for a forensic audit of the ongoing voter registration process.
Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, announced this ultimatum during an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on September 17.
He warned that if the EC fails to respond within the stipulated time, the party will escalate its demands with a series of nationwide protests aimed at pressuring the EC to ensure transparency in the electoral process.
“We have decided to wait for just a week to see how they would respond. It is our expectation that they would do the needful because clearly, the intransigence they are displaying is not in the interest of Ghanaians,” Gyamfi stated.
He emphasized that the NDC remains a law-abiding political party and will use peaceful and constitutional methods to express their dissatisfaction.
“What you saw today is just the tip of the iceberg… we are not going to pick guns or fight anybody. We are a law-abiding political party, so we will do what the constitution of Ghana allows us to do—protest,” Gyamfi reiterated.
Additionally, he questioned the EC’s refusal to permit a forensic audit of the voter registration process, suggesting that their resistance raises suspicions.
“If the EC had nothing to hide, they should embrace the call for an audit as an opportunity to prove their transparency and be vindicated,” he argued.
The NDC has signalled its intent to protest at EC district offices nationwide should the Commission fail to address their concerns within the one-week deadline.
"The EC says they have corrected the errors but we are still finding more."
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of attempting to incite violence and create instability in Ghana as the December 7 elections approach.
According to the NPP, recent remarks by former President John Mahama and NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah are part of a calculated effort to mislead the public and stir unrest among their supporters.
Jeff Konadu Addo, the NPP’s Eastern Regional Chairman, highlighted specific comments from Mahama, including his recent disparaging remarks about clergy, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations.
Addo also pointed to Asiedu Nketiah’s recent criticism of the Electoral Commission, accusing it of electoral fraud, as evidence of the NDC’s alleged agenda.
“We condemn the recent inflammatory statements made by John Dramani Mahama, flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress,” he stated.
“Labeling respected leaders like pastors, chiefs, imams, and CSOs as ‘hypocrites’ and referring to the ruling NPP as a ‘foolish government’ is unacceptable. Such divisive rhetoric undermines national unity and promotes violence. We urge Mahama to adopt issue-based campaigning that promotes peace and tolerance instead. As Ghanaians, our diverse political views should unite us, not divide us. We must prioritize constructive dialogue and respect for one another.”
The NPP has urged John Mahama to refrain from using derogatory language and instead focus on promoting unity to ensure a peaceful electoral climate in Ghana.
“We’re reminding former President JDM to accept our invitation to engage in a constructive debate, focusing on substantive issues, innovative ideas, and verifiable data. We urge him to move beyond personal attacks and join us in a respectful exchange of perspectives.”
Mr. Konadu voiced his surprise at the NDC and its Chairman, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah, for calling for a forensic audit of the electoral register due to alleged anomalies a stance he had previously criticized.
He labeled these claims as unfounded, suggesting they reflect a misunderstanding of the electoral process and its safeguards.
Jeff Konadu highlighted that the NPP has spearheaded electoral reforms, emphasizing their commitment to transparency, accountability, and fairness.
He pointed to the introduction of transparent ballot boxes, biometric voter verification machines, and a color photo ID system as key components of the NPP’s efforts to uphold a free and transparent election process.
“We urge the NDC to refrain from baseless attacks on the Electoral Commission. As a party that believes in democracy, we recognize the importance of allowing the Commission to perform its duties without interference. The Electoral Commission’s independence is crucial to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. We will continue to cooperate with the Electoral Commission, availing ourselves to its procedures and processes to ensure credible and transparent elections,” Mr Konadu stated.
Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah, who chairs the NPP’s Manifesto Sub-Committee on the Economy, has dismissed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) call for a voter register audit as untimely.
Speaking on TV3’s Business Focus with Paa Kwesi Asare, Assibey-Yeboah pointed out that with the general election just 81 days away, the request for an audit could risk delaying the entire electoral process.
“My understanding is that they are calling for an audit of the voters’ register. I think it’s too late in the game. December 7th is 81 days away. Are they prepared to delay the election date?” he questioned.
Dr. Assibey-Yeboah elaborated that the Electoral Commission has already provided the public with opportunities to review the register and report discrepancies, such as deceased individuals listed.
He stressed that the Commission follows established procedures and timelines for managing the voter register.
“There are laid-down processes. We do the registration, we do the mop-up, then there is a display of the register for you to check your name and report names of the deceased. So, we’ve passed that stage,” he underscored.
Dr. Assibey-Yeboah asserted that John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer, is voicing his frustrations due to personal challenges. He suggested that Mahama’s recent criticisms of pastors, chiefs, and other figures stem from this frustration. Dr. Assibey-Yeboah is confident that the NDC’s call for an audit will not alter the outcome of the 2024 general election.
On Tuesday, September 17, NDC supporters across all 16 regional capitals participated in the party’s “Enough is Enough” protest, highlighting alleged discrepancies in the 2024 voter register.
The NDC raised concerns about the provisional register, alleging that issues such as bloating at some polling stations were attempts by the Electoral Commission to skew the December 7 elections in favor of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
A senior aide to Dr. Bawumia’s campaign, Anthony Karbo, has characterized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) “Enough is Enough” protest over the voter register as merely a “keep fit” exercise.
Karbo remarked that the NDC is aware that the Electoral Commission (EC) has internal systems in place to address any discrepancies in the voter register.
During a campaign stop in Kpone Katamanso on Tuesday, he emphasized that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is focused on delivering its campaign message to the public, rather than being sidetracked by the NDC’s demonstrations.
“We’ve been through that path before it didn’t work for us so why do we go back to it? A forensic audit will always do something monumental. There are no two ways about a forensic audit. We are sitting here the American voters register for elections in November is not a perfect register.
“That which was used in London is not a perfect register. Any forensic audit conducted anywhere in the world will reveal some discrepancies but whether those are significant to change the outcome of an election is left to be known. We don’t need any forensic audit.”
“…Many years back when we were asking, they gave us these responses. Many years on, they are now asking what we were asking in the past and they are getting the same responses. Why should we support that?
“… Well, I think it’s an exercise. It’s an exercise. You know, sometimes in this, our politics, there’s a lot of keep fit exercises. People must get out and show force. I mean, those are all the antics leading to an election and I don’t think that is a very serious enough demonstration,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Civic Forum Initiative (CFI), which includes prominent Civil Society Organisations such as the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), has urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to commit to an independent audit of the final voters’ register once it is completed.
This appeal comes in response to the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s concerns about discrepancies in the voter register.
In a statement released on Monday, the CFI emphasized that resolving the dispute between the NDC and the EC requires not confrontation, but rather honest and constructive dialogue among all parties involved.
“We propose that the Electoral Commission commit to an independent audit of the final voters’ register once it is completed and in good time. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize the national interest and to work towards peaceful and credible elections in the forthcoming presidential and parliamentary elections.”
The CFI underscored its dedication to ensuring peaceful and credible elections, highlighting its commitment to supporting processes and outcomes that uphold democratic integrity.
The CFI emphasised its commitment to supporting peaceful and credible election processes and outcomes.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, had hoped for a peaceful protest, but chaos erupted in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region.
Protesters clashed with police ahead of the party’s presentation of their petition to the Electoral Commission (EC) during the ‘Enough is Enough’ demonstration.
The demonstration aimed to highlight alleged irregularities in the provisional voters’ register ahead of the upcoming general elections.
The NDC is demanding an independent forensic audit of the voters’ register, citing concerns such as missing names, duplicate voter identification numbers, and unauthorised transfers of voters into different constituencies.
To express their dissatisfaction, the opposition party organised nationwide demonstrations across all sixteen regions, with the goal of delivering a petition to the Commission.
In the Ashanti Region, a large number of protesters marched from Amakom through Asafo, then to Adum, Dakwadwom, and the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), before finally reaching the Regional EC office.
The march remained peaceful until one protester attempted to break through a police barrier, claiming it was their constitutional right to see the EC accept their petition.
As the police tried to prevent him, others forced their way into the EC premises, which were originally only supposed to be accessed by the protest leaders.
During this confrontation, some protesters sustained injuries, and the main gate to the EC’s premises, along with another gate, was damaged.
The EC has stated that it will file an official complaint over the disturbances. Reports indicated that the protester who instigated the chaos was arrested, along with two others, though they were later released. The injured were taken to the hospital for treatment.
There were also claims of police shooting, which the police denied in a statement issued shortly after the media reports surfaced.
Meanwhile, the NDC has formally presented its petition to Parliament in Accra.
The party’s General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, summarisedthe NDC’s key demands following the ‘Enough Is Enough’ protest held on Tuesday.
Tensions flared in Kumasi during the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) ongoing ‘Enough is Enough’ nationwide demonstration, leading to the arrest of a protestor following a violent clash between demonstrators and the police.
The incident occurred after protestors reportedly broke into the Electoral Commission’s office in Kumasi, damaging several doors in the process.
According to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NDC, he was physically assaulted by a police officer amid the chaos. This confrontation is part of wider unrest across parts of the country as the NDC protests intensify.
The Ghana Police Service had earlier issued specific guidelines for the protest, cautioning demonstrators to adhere to the designated routes and timelines provided. In response to the escalating tension, the police have taken strategic positions in key locations nationwide to prevent further disruption, with a particular focus on Accra’s Kwame Nkrumah Circle, where a human barricade has been set up to maintain order.
The Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, Mustapha Gbande, reiterated the party’s call for peaceful protests, warning participants that any disruptive behaviour would not be tolerated. His statement was intended to prevent the violence that has erupted in some areas.
The nationwide demonstration, organized by the NDC, aims to pressure the Electoral Commission to conduct a forensic audit of the 2024 voters’ register, a demand the opposition party believes is critical for ensuring a free and fair election.
The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, addressing the demonstrators in Accra, emphasized the importance of the audit, stating that it is necessary to address irregularities in the voters’ register to uphold the credibility of the upcoming elections. He also revealed that the NDC is considering recalling Parliament to push for this demand.
As the protests continue, the situation in Kumasi remains tense, with security forces on high alert to prevent further escalations.
