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Tag: NPP

  • NPP govt spent GHS21m on Black Star Square renovation despite venue change – PAC

    NPP govt spent GHS21m on Black Star Square renovation despite venue change – PAC

    The then Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government spent GH¢21 million renovating Black Star Square ahead of the 67th Independence Day celebration, even though the venue was changed, the Office of Government Machinery has revealed.

    During an engagement with the Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday, March 31, the Chief Director of the Office of Government Machinery, Abubakar Wayo, disclosed that “…Although the initial plan was for the Independence Day celebration to be held there, the decision was later changed. I do not think we had the authority to halt the project simply because the contract specified the venue for the 67th Independence anniversary. We were directed by a higher authority to proceed”.

    This revelation has sparked debate on accountability and transparency in government spending. Ghana held its 67th Independence Day anniversary in Koforidua with a grand parade.

    The event, themed “Our Democracy, Our Pride,” is set to highlight democratic values and foster peace, especially in anticipation of the upcoming 2024 general elections.


    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of maintaining and cherishing democratic principles.

    The celebration was graced by distinguished guests, including Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour.


    The parade was a spectacle with 21 contingents from various security agencies, representatives from 11 schools, and diverse traditional groups, all joining forces to made the event a memorable one.


    Meanwhile, on Friday, March 6, Ghana turned sixty-nine (69) years since it gained independence from British colonial rule in 1957.


    To commemorate the day, the government declared it a statutory holiday. As part of the celebration, scores of Ghanaians gathered at the forecourt of Jubilee House, the seat of government in Accra.


    Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations feature national parades, ceremonial events, and reflections on the country’s democratic journey and socio-economic progress. This year’s theme is Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope.

    Ghana marked its 68th Independence Day on March 6, 2025, with a scaled-down national celebration in Accra, at the forecourt of the Presidency, instead of the usual Independence Square.


    This decision was part of the government’s efforts to reduce costs while still honouring the country’s historic milestone.
    The 2025 theme, “Reflect, Review, Reset,” underscored the need for national introspection as Ghana navigates its current socio-economic landscape. The Presidency also unveiled an official logo for the occasion, symbolising the country’s resilience and aspirations for the future.


    Unlike previous years, the government suspended the rotational hosting of the national event. This decision was announced by Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.


    Despite the scaled-down nature of the event, key elements of the Independence Day tradition were maintained. The President inspected a Military Guard of Honour, followed by cultural performances by two groups of basic school pupils and a poetry recital from a senior high school student.


    Ten schools; six basic schools and four senior high schools, including Accra Wesley Girls and St. Mary’s SHS Cadet, participated in the march past.


    Dignitaries at the ceremony included traditional rulers, religious leaders, students, political party representatives, and members of the business community.


    President John Dramani Mahama delivered a ceremonial speech highlighting the significance of the nation’s independence and its path forward.


    Similar celebrations took place across the country at the metropolitan, municipal, and district levels, following directives from the Presidency.


    The 68th Independence Day celebration, though more modest in scale, remained a moment for Ghanaians to reflect on their history, assess their progress, and renew their commitment to national development.


    As part of the celebration, the President honoured 52 awardees, including 32 students from public schools, 16 from private schools, and four students with hearing and visual impairments for their outstanding performance in the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

  • Respect Ghana’s LGBTQ stance, we can handle it – President Mahama to international partners

    Respect Ghana’s LGBTQ stance, we can handle it – President Mahama to international partners

    President John Dramani Mahama has stressed that Ghana’s policies are shaped by its legal framework, cultural values, and national consensus, therefore, international partners must respect Ghana’s sovereignty and democratic processes.

    According to President Mahama, the passage of the bill will be driven by the Ghanaian people, not imposed by his government.

    “What the eventual nature of the bill would be, nobody can second-guess Parliament, and I, as President, cannot anticipate Parliament in respect of that bill. But I believe that our democracy will work out. Memoranda are being accepted from people from all walks of life.

    “Civil Society Organisations are presenting their papers to Parliament and I believe that the representatives of the people will make the will of Ghanaians reflect in whatever eventually comes out.

    “That level of tolerance in the political atmosphere is what has given Ghana the advantage it has. We have a relatively independent judiciary that we have confidence will adjudicate matters fairly,” he added.

    President Mahama made the statement after receiving the ‘International Statesperson Award’ from the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia.

    His comment was a reaction to a recent decision taken by the Lincoln University in the United States (U.S.) against him.

    Management of Lincoln University in the United States (U.S.) on Tuesday, March 24, took a u-turn over its decision to confer an honorary doctorate (honoris causa) on President John Dramani Mahama.

    According to the University, revocation follows calls from one group alleging President Mahama’s view on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly known as the anti-gay Bill.

    However, Ghana’s Embassy in the United States expressed profound disappointment following the development.

    The embassy in n a statement released on Tuesday, March 24, noted “It is both surprising and regrettable that such concerns have surfaced at this late stage, particularly with the President already in the United States in anticipation of the visit”.

    President Mahama was expected to have paid a visit the Lincoln University on Wednesday, March 25. President Mahama on several occasions has pledged to sign into law the anti-gay Bill.

    Having expired with the conclusion of the previous 8th Parliament’s session, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has directed the Business Committee to schedule the reintroduced bill for parliamentary deliberation.

    The bill, which aims to outlaw LGBTQ+ activities and criminalise their promotion, advocacy, and funding, was previously passed by the 8th Parliament.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has confidently stated that he will sign anti-LGBTQ bill once it is successfully approved by parliament.

    During a courtesy visit by the Christian Council of Ghana on Tuesday, November 18, at Jubilee House, the president mentioned all the factors that must come to play for him to assent to the bill.

    “I believe that we have no questions or equivocations about what we believe. I believe that we are completely aligned with the Christian Council in terms of your belief. We agree with the Speaker to relay the bill and let Parliament debate it.”

    “And if there are any amendments or adjustments that need to be made, if the people’s representatives in Parliament endorse the bill, vote on it, and pass it, and it comes to me as president, I will sign it,” President Mahama said.

    Before his return to office, President Mahama had already expressed a cautious approach toward the bill, emphasizing the need for a constitutional review.

    Speaking with BBC Africa on December 4, he elaborated: “It is not an anti-LGBTQI Bill; it is a Family Values Bill. It was approved unanimously by our Parliament. [LGBTQI] is against our African culture, it is against our religious faith, but I think we must look at the Bill, and the president must indicate what he finds wrong with that bill and send it back to Parliament or alternatively he must send it to the Council of State and get the Council of State’s advice.”

    When asked if he would sign the bill into law if elected, Mahama responded cautiously, stating, “It depends on what is in the Bill.” He emphasized that any decision would be based on a thorough examination of the bill’s content and legal compliance. “That is what I would have done,” he affirmed.

    While proponents argue the bill is necessary to safeguard Ghanaian cultural and moral values from external influences, human rights advocates have raised concerns, stating it infringes on freedoms of expression, association, and equality under the law.

    The bill previously faced legal opposition from journalist Richard Dela Sky and academic Dr. Amanda Odoi, who contested its passage, citing a lack of parliamentary quorum.

    The Supreme Court, however, dismissed their challenge, with Justice Lovelace Johnson clarifying that a bill can only be subject to constitutional scrutiny after receiving presidential assent.




  • Ghana’s economic recovery and job creation stalled by IMF conditions – Financial analyst

    Ghana’s economic recovery and job creation stalled by IMF conditions – Financial analyst

    Former Finance Minister, Seth Terkper, has indicated that the government’s efforts to tackle the unemployment rate in Ghana are being affected by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

    Speaking to the media on Monday, March 24, the situation has forced the government to depend largely on short-term borrowing through treasury bills.

    “If you look at the NDC manifesto, there’s a plan to create jobs already. But when you come into an economy where, under the IMF programme we inherited, compared to what we handed over, all you can do is borrow T-Bills. You’ve been shut out of your own domestic bond market, which we set up. You’ve been shut out of the external bond market because you’ve defaulted,” Terkper noted.

    Ghana’s programme with the global lender is scheduled to end in May 2026, following a final review slated for April 2026. However, should the IMF’s recommendations be approved, the programme would be extended through August 2026.

    Part of the IMF report reads, “The extension through August 16, 2026, would help reach an understanding on the policies supporting completion of the 6th review, while allowing sufficient time to prepare and circulate Board documents.”

    So far, Ghana has secured about US$2.8 billion following the successful completion of the fifth programme review. The new development is expected to trigger the release of a sixth tranche of US$380 million. Reacting to the approval, the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, noted that the approval represents meaningful progress in the country’s broader economic recovery agenda.

    IMF’s Resident Representative in Ghana, Dr Adrian Alter, has declared Ghana’s programme “solid and on track”.

    His comments come nearly a month after the IMF Executive Board completed the fifth review of Ghana’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement on 18 December 2025.

    During an appearance on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, January 15, Dr Alter mentioned disbursements and affirmed confidence in Ghana’s economic recovery path.

    “Ghana’s program remains solid and on track, with the fifth review completed and the disbursement made at the end of December,” he said.

    According to him, following a board meeting at which Ghana’s performance was assessed, it was concluded that “the IMF Board has met and approved the programme on December 17 and categorised the overall performance of Ghana as generally satisfactory,” with all indicative and performance criteria targets met and most of the reform agenda implemented.

    He disclosed that total disbursements under the ECF programme had now reached about $2.8 billion.

    “All indicative and performance criteria targets have been met,” Dr Alter said. “Most of the reform agenda has been concluded and implemented.”

    His comments come amid public debate over whether Ghana’s performance under the programme reflects real economic progress or favourable treatment by the IMF.

    Responding to that concern, Dr Alter said the assessment was grounded in measurable outcomes and recent policy actions by the authorities.

    “The authorities implemented strong corrective actions in the aftermath of the 2024 fiscal slippages,” he said, adding that “the 2025 macroeconomic outcomes have been better than expected.”

    He pointed to improvements across key economic indicators.

    “Inflation came down faster than expected,” he said. “Growth exceeded expectations. Reserves have improved. The currency appreciated and stabilised.”

    Dr Alter said the gains were occurring alongside progress on debt restructuring.“There are many, many macroeconomic indicators that perform very well at the same time the debt restructuring progress has been advanced,” he said.

  • New judge takes charge of Adu-Boahene case in court

    New judge takes charge of Adu-Boahene case in court

    A new judge, Justice Francis Apangabuno Achibonga, has taken over the trial of former National Security Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene and two others at the Accra High Court.

    Justice Francis Apangabuno Achibonga took over from Justice John Eugene Nyante Nyadu as the presiding judge. At the first hearing on Wednesday, March 11, the new judge, the defense lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, questioned the prosecution’s finance witness, Head of Finance at the National Security, Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah, to test the evidence against Adu-Boahene.

    The defense lawyer asked the prosecution’s finance witness to explain how government money for national security is managed and tracked using Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS).

    Meanwhile, an application by the Deputy Attorney-General (A-G), Dr Justice Srem-Sai, seeking a review of a key aspect of its earlier ruling in the criminal trial involving the former National Signals Bureau Director-General, and his wife has been thrown out by the Supreme Court.


    The request by the Deputy Attorney-General seeks to ensure the Supreme Court reinstates a key aspect of the Practice Direction on Further Disclosures.


    The Practice Direction on Further Disclosures mandates the prosecution to disclose materials that are in its possession and “relevant” to the case.


    However, the Supreme Court revised this to require the prosecution to disclose materials that are in its possession and connected to the case.
    The adjustment by the Supreme Court followed an application by Adu Boahen and his wife, who had formally asked the Court to stop the High Court judge handling their criminal trial from continuing with the case.


    But counsel for Mr Adu Boahen, Samuel Atta Akyea, has argued that the Deputy Attorney-General’s reasons for the review lack merit and fail to meet the exceptional circumstances required for the Supreme Court to exercise its review jurisdiction.


    Last year, prosecution against the third accused person, Mildred Donkor, in the ongoing GHS49 million theft case involving former National Signals Bureau boss, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, and his wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng, was discontinued by the Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.


    Ms. Donkor was formally discharged under Section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offenses (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30) after she declared her willingness to testify for the state in the ongoing trial.


    Kwabena Adu-Boahene is the first accused, while his wife and their company, Advantage Solutions Limited, are the second and fourth accused, respectively.


    Adu Boahen was arrested in March this year at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) after allegedly attempting to elude authorities using multiple passports.


    Attorney-General Dominic Ayine formally charged Mr. Adu Boahene and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, with corruption offences to the tune of GHS49 million on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.


    According to the writ filed at the High Court on April 30, Mr. Adu-Boahene, who was responsible for overseeing critical national security infrastructure, including contracts with foreign companies, signed a deal with an Israeli company, ISC Holdings Limited, to purchase cyber defence software for $7 million.


    In total, Adu-Boahene is alleged to have transferred approximately GHS49 million (approximately $7 million) from the NSB’s funds into his personal accounts, falsely justifying these transactions as payments for the cyber defense systems, together with his accomplice.


    “Further investigations have revealed that no cybersecurity system of the description in the January 30, 2020, contract was ever received by the Bureau of National Communication or by its successor agency, the National Signals Bureau, or by the Government of Ghana,” court documents indicated.


    Adu-Boahene’s wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, is one of three directors of Advantage Solutions Limited, the sole shareholder of BNC Communications Bureau Limited. Mildred Donkor is a former bank relationship officer for Adu-Boahene, his wife, and BNC Communications Bureau Limited.


    The A-G, during a media address in March, detailed that on February 6, 2020, Adu Boahene authorized the transfer of GHC27.1 million from the National BNC’s account at Fidelity Bank to a private BNC account at UMB.


    The stated purpose of this transaction was to facilitate the acquisition of cyber defense system software from ISC Holdings in Israel for $7 million.


    Further scrutiny of the bank records showed that Mr. Adu Boahene instructed the private BNC to transfer GHC9,537,520, equivalent to $1,750,000 at the time, to ISC Holdings.


    However, the Attorney-General revealed that “Mr. Adu Boahene fraudulently attached a copy of the government of Ghana ISC contract as well as an invoice, which he held as an invoice issued by ISC Holdings.”


    In addition to the initial transaction, two further payments amounting to GHC21 million were transferred from the National BNC Director’s account at Fidelity Bank to the same private BNC account at UMB on March 18 and March 30, 2020. These payments were recorded as funding for the cyber defense system.


    However, upon closer examination, it was discovered that although a total of GHC49 million had been moved into the private BNC account—an amount equivalent to $7 million at the prevailing exchange rate—only a fraction of the money had been paid to ISC Holdings, raising concerns about the whereabouts of the remaining funds.


    According to court documents, it is alleged that Adu-Boahene, his wife, and Mildred “ran an elaborate criminal enterprise using A4 (Advantage Solutions Limited) as a holding company through which the stolen funds were funneled and laundered for their own benefit.”


    The documents added that as the holding company for several subsidiary companies, including the private BNC, A4 received a substantial portion of the stolen funds, which its shareholders and directors then invested in the business activities of the subsidiaries, including investments in treasury bills, real estate, the manufacturing of fertilizers, and the rental of luxury cars to VIP customers.


    In July, the former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Mr. Adu Boahene, along with three co-defendants, including his wife, made their formal court appearance on the 18th day after the High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice John Nyante Nyadu, set July 18 as the date for the trial following a pre-trial hearing on July 3.


    The pre-trial was held for the court to address a motion filed by the defendants’ legal team requesting access to national security accounts dating back to 1992.


    However, their request was dismissed due to inadequate justification by the presiding judge. During proceedings, the defence lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, raised concerns about missing evidence, specifically claiming that 83 pages of bank statements had not been disclosed to the defence.


    In response, Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem Sai objected to allegations that the Attorney-General’s office had lost evidence in the ongoing criminal case involving former NSB Director-General, Kwabena Adu-Boahene.


    These claims emerged after the defence team reiterated during a Case Management Conference on June 26 that the bank statements provided by the prosecution were incomplete and that essential pages were missing.


    They suggested that these omissions might contain exculpatory evidence and accused the Attorney-General’s office of “cherry-picking” documents to support its case while withholding material that could potentially clear the accused.


    The Attorney-General’s office, in a statement shared on its official X page on August 28, stated that it is still in possession of all the rightful evidence against the accused. Justice Srem Sai added that all necessary documents needed to prove the charges have been filed.


    The documents include contracts, bank records, property ownership documents, INTERPOL reports, and witness testimonies.


    “The Attorney-General’s office has not lost any evidence regarding the ongoing Republic v Adu-Boahene criminal trial. As of June 18, we had filed all the documents which we intend to rely on to prove the charges against the 4 Accused Persons in the case.


    “The documents include contracts of sale, bank wire transfer records, bank account statements, company registration documents, property ownership records and purchase receipts, INTERPOL stolen vehicle records, investigative caution statements and charge statements of each Accused Person, records of asset non-declaration, a flow chart of money movements through a complex web of bank accounts, and testimonies of our 3 witnesses,” he noted.


    According to him, Adu-Boahen’s legal team is wrong and misguided to believe that the government has lost evidence in the case against their client. He added that “there is no cherry picking as all accused persons have been duly served.”


    “Further, court-certified copies of each of these documents have been duly served on each of the Accused Persons. So, it is not even realistic that the documents could be lost to jeopardise the prosecution of the case.”


    On the current status of the case, the Deputy A-G revealed that before the court went on recess, three prosecution witnesses had already testified, proving that the case is still on track and not disrupted by any lack of evidence.


    “…Before the start of the legal vacation on July 31, the first of our 3 prosecution witnesses had completed testifying and had been cross-examined by the lawyers of 3 of the 4 Accused Persons,” he said, adding that, “The trial will resume in earnest in mid-October when the courts return from the legal vacation.”

  • FULL TEXT: A-G’s report on govt arrears and payables at end of 2024

    FULL TEXT: A-G’s report on govt arrears and payables at end of 2024

    The Auditor-General (A-G) has presented a report on government arrears and payables as at the end of 2024, highlighting outstanding debts and pending payments across ministries and agencies.

    Read the full text below:

    STATEMENT DELIVERED ON BEHALF OF MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR FINANCE, DR. CASSIEL ATO FORSON, ON THE REPORT OF THE AUDITOR-GENERAL ON ARREARS AND PAYABLES AS AT END 2024, PURSUANT TO ORDER 91(2) OF THE STANDING ORDERS OF PARLIAMENT

    1. Hon. Speaker, I am grateful for the opportunity to make this statement, on a matter that is very important to this Republic.
    1. This is a report on the systemic plunder and abuse of the public financial management system. By the time I am done with this presentation, it will become clear that something needed to be done to save our economy.
    1. Hon. Speaker, the Minister for Finance informed this august House during the mid-year review of the 2025 Budget of the ongoing audit of Government arrears and commitments as at end-2024 and promised to submit same to this House when the process is completed.
    1. The Ghana Audit Service, working in partnership with EY and PwC, undertook an exercise to verify and validate a total of GH¢68.7 billion submitted to the Ministry of Finance in unpaid Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs), invoices and Bank Transfer Advices (BTAs) owed to contractors and suppliers.
    1. Out of this, outstanding IPCs and Invoices amounted to GH¢5 billion, while outstanding Bank Transfer Advices (BTAs) amounted to GH¢18.3 billion.

    FINDINGS

    1. Hon. Speaker, permit me to present some of the troubling findings of the audit:
    2. out of the GH¢68.7 billion submitted for audit, a total of GH¢45.4 billion was deemed to be valid for payment;
    3. a total of GH¢8.1 billion was rejected for various reasons including unsupported documentation, duplication, overstatements, already-paid items, falsified stores receipts advice and no work done;
    • about GH¢1 billion of the outstanding BTAs which refers to invoices and IPCs processed by MDAs in 2024, approved by Ministry of Finance, submitted to Controller and Accountant Generals’ Department (CAGD) and pending payment, were rejected;

    Rt. Hon. Speaker, this GH¢1 billion that was rejected by the audit would have been paid if the Ministry of Finance had not made a bold decision to stop payments in January 2025;

    1. about GH¢7.1 billion of the outstanding IPCs and invoices which refers to requests by MDAs for payments to suppliers and contractors, and certified for payment by various public officers across the approval hierarchies, have also been rejected.

    They were rejected for various reasons, including absence of supporting documents, duplications, recycled invoices and IPCs, overstatements, and no work done;

    1. again, an amount of GH¢13.3 billion is yet to be validated for various reasons including lack of third-party confirmation, inadequate documentation and no supporting contracts.
    Table 1: SUMMARY OF AUDIT FINDINGS
    DetailsAmount submitted by MoF for auditAmount Validated
    for payment    		Amount RejectedAmount to be justified before payment
    IPCs & Invoices50,488,960,22929,176,149,1287,086,084,67012,212,540,410
    BTAs18,278,835,59116,227,987,008992,551,1841,055,697,399
    Grand Total68,767,795,82045,404,136,1368,078,635,85413,268,237,809
    NB: An amount of GH¢2,016,786,022 was reclassified from claims and BTAs to commitments
    1. Speaker, permit me to highlight some details of these significant findings.

    FINDINGS FROM BANK TRANSFER ADVICE (BTAS)

    1. Fictitious Debt of GH¢89.4 million – The then Ministry of Trade and Industry in 2024 submitted a request of GH¢89.4 million to the Ministry of Finance to be transferred to five commercial banks as government contribution to interest payments under the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative.
    1. The Ministry of Finance subsequently processed same to the Controller and Accountant General’s Department for payment.
    1. This particular request was part of BTAs sitting at the Controller and Accountant General’s Department awaiting cash for payment.
    1. When auditors contacted these five banks to confirm the liability, every single one of them denied being owed any amount by government under the said arrangement.
    1. According to the Auditors, the said GH¢4 million debt was fictitious. Without the audit intervention, a whopping GH¢89.4 million of hard-earned public money could have been disbursed to settle this non-existent liability.
    1. Speaker, only God knows how much of taxpayers money has been lost to similar fictitious claims.
    1. Hon. Speaker, payment of GH¢10.5 million was recorded as having been made into an account named the “Buffer Account” at a commercial bank.
    1. Upon verification, the bank confirmed that it had never received such payment. The account number cited did not exist within the bank’s records and did not even conform to its account numbering format.
    1. The evidence from the audit pointed to a completely fictitious account.
    1. Speaker, as a result of these fictitious accounts linked to One District, One Factory payments, the entire 1D1F scheme requires a forensic audit which will be carried out soon. Moreso when Government is said to have spent GH¢391 million as its contribution towards 1D1F interest subsidies as at the end of 2024.

    THE DRY SPELL EXPENDITURE

    1. Speaker, in 2024, the Government of Ghana paid for 34,000MT of rice to address the impact of the dry spell.
    1. However, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture received and distributed 24,000MT of rice. To date, 10,000MT remains unaccounted for even though the entire quantity has been fully paid for.
    1. The Audit revealed that the Government of Ghana also contracted a company to supply 100,000MT of maize. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture submitted stores receipt advice as evidence of delivery of the 100,000MT maize worth GH¢771.2 million to Ministry of Finance for payment, but only 11,900MT was supplied and distributed.
    1. It is worth noting that the stores receipt advice was supported by a checklist that was certified by the internal auditor of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

    OVER PAYMENTS FOR TRANSPORTATION OF GRAINS

    1. Under the Farmer Food Relief and Recovery Programme, a transportation company was contracted to transport 134,000 metric tonnes of maize and rice to farmers across the country at a contract sum of GH¢115.2 million.
    1. Even though the company transported only 35,000 metric tonnes which should have costed GH¢30.9 million, the company was paid GH¢50 million.
    1. In addition to this payment, the company was given 7,311 metric tonnes of rice equivalent to 14,622 bags of 50kg rice, which amounts to GH¢7 million in lieu of cash for no work done. This brings total payment to GH¢61.7 million.
    1. As a result, the Auditor-General accordingly rejected an amount of GH¢65.2 million that was requested by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture as additional payment to the said transport company.

    THE UNFOUNDED TEACHER TRAINEE ARREARS

    1. The Ministry of Education reported unpaid allowances totaling GH¢160 million to teacher trainees under the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
    2. When auditors engaged GTEC, the agency confirmed that as of December 2024, there were no outstanding arrears. Over GH¢159 million would have been lost, but for this audit.

    DUPLICATED ENTRIES UNDER THE EDUCATION MINISTRY –

    1. Speaker, an amount of GH¢6.1 million appeared on the Ministry of Education’s BTA schedule at the CAGD, even though the same funds had already been paid by a donor partner.
    1. Such entries opened a door for double payment and exposed a dangerous pattern of weak oversight, and porous coordination between donor and government financial records.

    BANK TRANSFER ADVICES WITHOUT SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

    1. Speaker, auditors identified BTAs totaling GH¢293 million for six MDAs with no documentation. There were no contracts, no IPCs, and no record of any executed work.
    1. Speaker, the breakdown of the unsupported BTAs are as follows:
    • Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) – GH¢ 241.2 million;
    • Ministry of Roads and Highways – GH¢26.3 million;
    • Judicial Service – GH¢18.2 million;
    • Ministry of Special Initiatives – GH¢3.7 million;
    • Ministry of Health – GH¢2.4 million; and
    • Office of the Attorney-General & Ministry of Justice (OAGMOJ) – GH¢ 782,262.00.

    FALSIFIED STORES RECEIPT ADVICES INTENDED FOR MISAPPROPRIATION OF PUBLIC FUNDS

    1. Speaker, auditors uncovered transactions worth GH¢9.4 million supported by forged Stores Receipt Advices (SRAs) that had been used to justify requests for payment for goods that were not delivered at the time:
    • Ministry of Defence – GH¢ 4.8 million

    A contract between the Ministry of Defence and a company for vehicles intended for border surveillance and monitoring of the 2024 general election revealed that despite the issuance of a Stores Receipt Advice (SRA) — an official document confirming that goods have been received — dated 12th October 2024, the vehicles were never delivered; and

    • Similarly, the Judicial Service appeared to be caught in a web of falsified Stores Receipt Advice (SRAs). While an SRA dated 25th October, 2024 claimed the receipt of 7 Toyota saloon cars, as soon as the audit was initiated, the supplier wrote to the Judicial Service on 10th April, 2025 indicating their inability to supply the said vehicles as scheduled.
    1. This shows that fraudulent documents were submitted to the Ministry of Finance for payments and steps have been taken to avoid a recurrence.
    1. Speaker, these cases illustrate a disturbing pattern of fraud designed to deprive the people of Ghana hundreds of millions of cedis of public funds at risk.

    FINDINGS ON CLAIMS

    Recycling of Already Paid IPCs/Invoices

    1. Speaker, claims amounting to GH¢4.4 billion which had already been paid between 2020 and 2024 were fraudulently resubmitted for payment.
    2. These recycled claims originated from the following MDAs:
    • Ministry of Roads and Highways- GH¢3.6 billion;
    • Ministry of Health – GH¢384.8 million;
    • Ministry of Energy – GH¢216.7 million;
    • Ministry of Food and Agriculture – GH¢57 million;
    • Ministry of Defence – GH¢40.9 million;
    • Independent Power Producers – GH¢36.4 million;
    • Ministry of Finance – GH¢26.4 million; and
    • Ministry of Interior – GH¢3.1 million.
    1. Speaker, but for our vigilance, the Ghanaian taxpayer would have lost a colossal GH¢4.4 billion in these recycled claims.
    1. Hon. Speaker, one eye-opening finding of this audit was that MDAs did not have sufficient records of what they had contracted, what they had paid, and what was outstanding.
    1. Shockingly, Government of Ghana was at the mercy of contractors and suppliers to determine how much is owed to
    1. This calls for an urgent review, redesign, and implementation of an appropriate PFM architecture to manage public funds.

    Duplicated and Overstated Claims

    1. Speaker, auditors identified duplicated and overstated claims by MDAs totaling GH¢1.4 billion.
    1. These MDAs include:
    • Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs duplicated claims were to the tune of GH¢408.31 million;
    • Ministry of Energy duplicated claims were GH¢386.71 million;
    • The National Service Scheme alone overstated allowance arrears by GH¢334.5 million;
    • Ministry of Roads and Highways duplicated claims of GH¢125.65 million;
    • Ministry of Health duplicated claims amounted to GH¢114.2 million; and
    • NCCE duplicated claims was GH¢8.8 million.

    EXPIRED CONTRACTS RECORDED AS FRESH LIABILITIES

    1. The Ministry of Defence reported GH¢77.1 million as outstanding claims, for which IPCs and invoices were issued although the contract had expired and deliveries were not made.

    OVERSTATED CLAIMS

    1. Mr. Speaker, according to the Auditors, confirmation responses received indicated an overstatement in claims by GH¢161.98 million.
    2. These emanated from:
    • Department of Urban Roads – GH¢57.01 million;
    • Ministry of Transport – GH¢39.92 million;
    • Department of Feeder Roads – GH¢ 22.46 million;
    • Ministry of Food and Agriculture – GH¢20.08 million;
    • Ghana Highways Authority – GH¢17.50 million; and
    • Ministry of Foreign Affairs – GH¢2.68 million.

    AGENDA 111 

    1. Speaker, the audit of Agenda 111 projects also revealed that a total amount of US$7.9 million was paid to 35 contractors as advance mobilization under the programme, but these contractors have either failed to mobilise to site or the work done is not commensurate with the amount paid.

    The advance mobilization guarantees secured by the 35 contractors who received the US$7.9 million have all expired. The Auditor General has subsequently issued notices of surcharge to the offending contractors.

    CONCLUSION

    1. Speaker, this audit has exposed a rotten system designed to fleece the people of Ghana.
    1. It reveals not just lapses in our public financial management architecture, but a pervasive and systemic plunder of the public purse. A culture marked by:
    2. the fabrication of fictitious claims;
    3. the resubmission of recycled invoices;
    • the forgery of stores receipt advice; and
    1. the treatment of public funds as personal entitlement rather than public trust.
    2. The Mahama administration refuses to accept this rotten system, in fact, we refuse to normalise waste. And we refuse to ask the Ghanaian people to pay for fraud.
    3. Speaker, the Minister for Finance has formally referred the report of the Auditor-General to the Attorney-General to bring to account those responsible for this rape of the public purse.
    1. Those who abused their offices, colluded with contractors, falsified records, or attempted to loot the public purse through the back door will be held to account.
    1. Speaker, the Ministry of Finance, will no longer serve as a rubber stamp for weak controls and falsified claims.
    1. GOING FORWARD, NO PAYMENT WILL BE MADE WITHOUT FULL VERIFICATION, NO COMMITMENT WILL BE ENTERED INTO WITHOUT BUDGETARY ALLOCATION, AND NO OFFICER, REGARDLESS OF RANK, WILL BE SHIELDED FROM ACCOUNTABILITY.
    1. This moment marks a decisive break from the past. A reset of public financial management. A declaration that discipline has returned to the centre of fiscal and economic governance.
    1. Speaker, the Ghanaian people demand accountability.
    1. And under the Government of H.E President Mahama, that demand will be met with action.
    1. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
  • Ayawaso East: This win is a fulfilment of my mother’s prophecy – Baba Jamal

    Ayawaso East: This win is a fulfilment of my mother’s prophecy – Baba Jamal

    Mimi, the mother of the newly elected Ayawaso East Member of Parliament, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, has taken the spotlight following her son’s victory in the just-ended by-elections. 

    The former High Commissioner to Nigeria won against five other contenders in the race for the Ayawaso East election yesterday, Monday, March 3, following the death of MP Naser Toure Mahama.

    Speaking during a post-election victory, the former Akwatia MP revealed that his 93-year-old mother had promised to ensure his return to Parliament, a promise that has now been fulfilled.

    “I want to thank the Almighty Allah for giving us this victory. Let me state that I dedicate this victory to my 93-year-old mother, Mimi, for promising to support me and ensuring that one day I would go back to Parliament,” he declared.

    He noted that for years, she carried the conviction that her son would return to the House. Tuesday’s result, he said, was more than a political comeback; it was the fulfilment of a promise.

    “Today, her vision and wish have come true. And I thank Allah for her life, and I dedicate this victory to her.”

    Although Madam Mimi stayed out of the spotlight during her son’s campaign ahead of the election, he insists that her resilience shaped his campaign. He then went on to remind his supporters that the win belonged to the constituency as much as to his family.

    “I want to state that this victory is not for me, Baba Jamal, alone; it’s for the good people of Ayawaso East. I want to thank all of them for having confidence in me and electing me as their parliamentary candidate-elect,” he added.

    More than 49,000 registered voters participated in the by-election conducted at 113 polling stations. Baba Jamal polled 10,884 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Yussif Baba Ali, who secured 4,009 votes.

    The three other contesters: the Liberal Party of Ghana’s (LPG) candidate, Ibrahim Iddrisu, polled 43 votes, Independent candidate Alhaji Mohammed Umaru Sanda secured 1,885 and another Independent candidate, David Kannor.

    Ahead of the by-election, a poll by Global InfoAnalytics predicted victory for Baba Jamal. The survey projected that the NDC candidate would secure about 75 per cent of the votes, ahead of his main contender, the NPP’s Baba Ali.

    The by-election was marked by low voter turnout. The NDC now has 189 seats in Parliament.

    “At the end of the voting exercise for the parliamentary by-election for the Ayawaso East constituency

    Five candidates contested in the polls, the first one is Baba Jamal Mohammed, and he polled 10,884 votes; the second candidate on the ballot, Ibrahim Iddrisu Mohammed, also polled 43 votes; Yusuf Ali Baba polled 4,009 votes.

    “The fourth candidate, Mohammed Umah Sunda, also polled 1,885 votes. The fifth candidate, Tanoh, also an independent candidate, polled 104 votes.

    “In all, we had 16,928 valid votes, 120 votes were rejected and in that case total votes cast amount to 17048. Looking at the just announced results, I, Samuel Anim Ofori, the retaining officer of the Ayawaso East constituency, hereby announce to you your new MP elect Baba Jamal Mohammed,” the retaining officer stated.

    For months, the constituency had been without representation following the death of its long-serving legislator, Alhaji Mahama Naser Toure. He was reported dead on January 4 after a short illness at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. In accordance with Islamic customs, he was buried within 24 hours of his passing.

    Naser Toure Mahama was widely regarded as a grassroots politician whose parliamentary work focused on urban renewal in Nima and youth empowerment within Zongo communities.

    Baba Ali was projected to trail with 21%, independent candidate Umaru Sanda Muhammed expected to poll 3% of the vote, with the other remaining candidates, Ibrahim Iddrisu and David, to garner less than 1%.


    Independent aspirant Umaru Sanda Muhammed, who recently severed ties with the NDC, was projected to secure about 3 per cent of the vote.

    The by-election attracted heightened attention in recent days amid internal developments within the NDC, including allegations of vote buying during its parliamentary primary.

    On February 7, Baba Jamal won the Ayawaso East Constituency primary following the party’s internal primary held.

    After the close of polls, provisional results showed that Baba Jamal polled 431 votes out of the total votes cast, followed by the widow of the late Ayawaso MP, Naser Toure Hajia Amina Adam who secured 399 votes.

    Mr Mohammed Ramne, the Ayawaso East NDC Constituency Chairman, placed third with 88 votes. Dr Yakubu Azindow obtained 45 votes, while Mr Najib Mohammed Sani recorded one vote.

    The closely contested primary attracted more than 1,100 accredited delegates from across the constituency, reflecting the high stakes involved in selecting a candidate for the by-election in a seat widely regarded as a stronghold of the governing NDC.

    Five aspirants contested the race: Hajia Amina Adam, Mr Baba Jamal, Dr Yakubu Azindow, who had previously contested the late MP in the 2023 primary, Mr. Mohammed Ramne, and Mr Mohammed Sani.
    Although the race was initially considered open, it later narrowed into a tight contest among Mr Jamal, Hajia Amina Adam and Dr Azindow.

    Even though the election was peaceful on Saturday, reports of vote buying emerged on the eve of the election and on election day, involving some candidates, including Baba Jamal, who at the time was Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria and allegedly offered television sets and other items to delegates.

    Videos circulating on social media showed some delegates leaving polling centres carrying television sets and other items. Reacting to the vote-buying allegations, the NDC, in a statement signed by its Secretary, Fiifi Kwetey, announced that it would investigate the allegations.

    It noted that a three-member committee had been set up to probe the matter.
    In a statement issued on the same day, the NDC said its national executives had taken note of what it described as widespread incidents of inducement and vote buying allegedly perpetrated by some aspirants.

    The party condemned the acts, describing them as an affront to its values and principles, and announced that it had launched investigations into the matter.

  • Democracy Hub seeks injunction to stop Ayawaso East Poll

    Democracy Hub seeks injunction to stop Ayawaso East Poll

    A suit was filed on Monday, February 16, by the pressure group, Democracy Hub, challenging the Ayawaso East by-election. The group alleges vote-buying during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries held on February 7, 2026.

    Democracy Hub has prayed the High Court to direct the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a fresh primary in accordance with democratic principles.

    In the suit, the NDC is cited as the first defendant, the Electoral Commission as the second, and the Attorney-General as the third.

    The suit further added, “An order of mandamus directed at the 2nd Defendant to refuse to accept or act upon the nomination of the said candidate unless and until a primary conducted in accordance with democratic principles is held.”

    “A declaration that the parliamentary primary conducted by the 1st Defendant for the Ayawaso East Constituency, having been found to have been characterised by widespread vote buying, inducement and monetisation, did not conform to the democratic principles required under Article 55(5) of the Constitution, and that the continued reliance on the outcome thereof and the presentation of a candidate founded on that process constitute actions contrary to and inconsistent with the Constitution in violation of section 9 of the Political Parties Act, 2000 (Act 574).”

    This development comes at a time when the EC has scheduled the Ayawaso East by-election for March 3, 2026. The by-election has attracted heightened attention in recent days amid internal developments within the NDC, including allegations of vote buying during its parliamentary primary.

    Mr Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed won the Ayawaso East Constituency primary and is set to represent the NDC as its parliamentary candidate in the March 3 by-election, following the party’s internal primary held on February 7, 2026.

    After the close of polls, provisional results showed that Baba Jamal polled 431 votes out of the total votes cast, followed by the widow of the late Ayawaso MP, Naser Toure Hajia Amina Adam who secured 399 votes. Mr Mohammed Ramne, the Ayawaso East NDC Constituency Chairman, placed third with 88 votes.

    Dr Yakubu Azindow obtained 45 votes, while Mr Najib Mohammed Sani recorded one vote. The closely contested primary attracted more than 1,100 accredited delegates from across the constituency, reflecting the high stakes involved in selecting a candidate for the by-election in a seat widely regarded as a stronghold of the governing NDC.

    Five aspirants contested the race: Hajia Amina Adam, Mr Baba Jamal, Dr Yakubu Azindow who had previously contested the late MP in the 2023 primary, Mr Mohammed Ramne, and Mr Mohammed Sani.

    Although the race was initially considered open, it later narrowed into a tight contest among Mr Jamal, Hajia Amina Adam and Dr Azindow.

    Even though the election was peaceful on Saturday, reports of vote buying emerged on the eve of the election and on election day, involving some candidates, including Baba Jamal, who at the time was Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria and allegedly offered television sets and other items to delegates.

    Videos circulating on social media showed some delegates leaving polling centres carrying television sets and other items.

    Reacting to the vote-buying allegations, the NDC, in a statement signed by its Secretary, Fiifi Kwetey, announced that it would investigate the allegations. It noted that a three-member committee had been set up to probe the matter.

    In a statement issued on the same day, the NDC said its national executives had taken note of what it described as widespread incidents of inducement and vote buying allegedly perpetrated by some aspirants.

    The party condemned the acts, describing them as an affront to its values and principles, and announced that it had launched investigations into the matter.

    “In line with the Party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and ethical political conduct, the Committee will investigate the allegations and make appropriate recommendations, including sanctions where necessary,” the statement said.

    The Presidency has announced the recall of Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, over voter inducement during the just-ended Ayawaso East primaries held on Saturday, February 7.

    In a statement titled “President recalls Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria,” shared by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and dated February 7, it noted that “President John Dramani Mahama has directed the immediate recall of Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed (Baba Jamal) from his position as Ghana’s High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The decision follows allegations of voter inducement during today’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries in the Ayawaso East Constituency, in which Mr Baba Jamal, a candidate, participated.”

    The President stressed that reports of vote buying were made against several candidates seeking to win the Ayawaso East seat, but Baba Jamal stood out because he was the only serving public officer at the time, making his case a peculiar one.

    “In his directive to the Minister for Foreign Affairs recalling Mr Baba Jamal as High Commissioner, the President noted that while allegations of vote-buying were made against multiple candidates who contested the primaries, Baba Jamal was the only serving public officer among them.”

    Consequently, to protect the integrity of public office and to avoid any public suspicion of misconduct or violation of the Government’s Code of Conduct for Political Appointees, the President stated:

    “Without prejudice to the ongoing internal party processes, and strictly in view of the standards of conduct expected of public officers, the President considers it necessary to act decisively to preserve the integrity of public office and to avoid any perception of impropriety or conflict with the Government’s Code of Conduct for Political Appointees.”

    The statement continued that “the recall takes effect immediately, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs has been directed to take the necessary administrative and diplomatic steps to give effect to this directive.”

  • NPP flagbearer race: Kennedy Agyapong lost because he failed to challenge the results – Hohoe MP

    NPP flagbearer race: Kennedy Agyapong lost because he failed to challenge the results – Hohoe MP

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Hohoe, Thomas Worlanyo Tsekpo, has noted that the former MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, lost in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary because he failed to challenge the outcome of the election.


    Speaking to the media on Sunday, February 1, Mr. Tsekpo indicated that Kennedy Agyapong is pretending to be happy with the outcome of the results but “bitter” inside. “We have seen in the body language that the man is bitter, Kennedy Agyapong is bitter.Instead of lobbying NEC to adopt a bottom-up approach, you agreed to the top-down approach. The very day he agreed, I told myself he would never win, and that is why he is bitter. He allowed the process to go through, and he is now facing the music,” he added.


    He emphasised that the outcome of the election had been compromised before the start of the process, adding “The NPP’s primary was rigged from day one. You don’t rig an election at the polling station; the rigging happens in the process that leads to the election itself”.

    But the New Patriotic Party is yet to respond to the MP’s allegations.

    On Saturday, January 31, more than 211,000 delegates took part in the polls which were conducted at 333 voting centres spanning all 275 constituencies nationwide.


    Out of the total valid votes cast, Dr. Bawumia secured 110,643 votes (56.48%), followed by Kennedy Agyapong with 46,554 votes (23.76%), Bryan Acheampong earned 36,303 votes (18.53%), Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Ing. Kwabena Agyepong trailed with 1,999 votes (1.02%) and 402 votes (0.21%) respectively.


    Throughout the process, heightened security arrangements were put in place, while party officials closely monitored proceedings to guarantee orderliness.


    However, before the official announcement, Kennedy Agyapong noted that conceded defeat. A week before the election, the Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah, predicted that the former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would win 14 out of the 16 regions.


    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.


    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.


    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.

    The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.


    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.


    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.


    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.


    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.


    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.


    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.


    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).


    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).


    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.


    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).


    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.


    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.


    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.


    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.


    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.


    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • Divided we fall, together we stand – Bawumia tells NPP

    Divided we fall, together we stand – Bawumia tells NPP


    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer- elect Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has called on party members to uphold peace and unite for victory in the 2028 general elections.

    Dr Bawumia urged party members to stand in harmony despite the outcome of the party’s internal election that occurred on Saturday, January 31.

    He made the call on Saturday, January 31, after he was officially declared the NPP flagbearer.

    On Saturday, more than 211,000 delegates took part in the polls which were conducted at 333 voting centres spanning all 275 constituencies nationwide.

    Out of the total valid votes cast, Dr. Bawumia secured 110,643 votes (56.48%), followed by Kennedy Agyapong with 46,554 votes (23.76%), Bryan Acheampong earned 36,303 (18.53%), Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Ing. Kwabena Agyepong trailed with 1,999 votes (1.02%) and 402 votes (0.21%) respectively.

    Throughout the process, heightened security arrangements were put in place, while party officials closely monitored proceedings to guarantee orderliness.

    Prior to the election, the Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah predicted the Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • Provisional results: Bawumia wins NPP flagbearer election

    Provisional results: Bawumia wins NPP flagbearer election

    Provisional results coming in show Dr Mahamudu Bawumia securing majority of votes cast by delegates in the just-ended New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential race.

    More than 211,000 delegates took part in the polls which were conducted at 333 voting centres spanning all 275 constituencies nationwide.

    Throughout the process, heightened security arrangements were put in place, while party officials closely monitored proceedings to guarantee orderliness.

    Across several constituencies, the sorting and compilation of votes are currently in progress, and preliminary results have started filtering in from parts of the country. Party leaders have assured stakeholders of openness and fairness as the process moves forward.

    Below are the results so far received

    NPP Headquarters

    Kennedy Agyapong – 160

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 3

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 308

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 7

    Assin Central

    Kennedy Agyapong – 495

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 4

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 28

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 1

    Kwabena Agyepong – 1

    Bimbilla

    Kennedy Agyapong – 61

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 118

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia –

    Dr Yaw Adutwum –

    Kwabena Agyepong –

    Adansi Asokwa

    Kennedy Agyapong – 114

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 70

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 306

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Yabaga/Kubori

    Kennedy Agyapong – 0

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 0

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 379

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Effiduase Asokore

    Kennedy Agyapong – 26

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 114

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 456

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Sekondi

    Kennedy Agyapong – 81

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 39

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 392

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Okere

    Kennedy Agyapong – 164

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 169

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 162

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Bole Bamboi

    Kennedy Agyapong – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 71

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 375

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 4

    Ho Central

    Kennedy Agyapong – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 233

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 227

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Akim Swedru

    Kennedy Agyapong – 45

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 66

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 177

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Klottey Korley

    Kennedy Agyapong – 125

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 60

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 366

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Nkawkaw

    Kennedy Agyapong – 129

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 312

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 368

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

  • 2026 flagbearer race: Ken Agyapong concedes defeat

    2026 flagbearer race: Ken Agyapong concedes defeat

    Former Member of Parliament (MP) for the Assin Central constituency, Kennedy Agyapong has conceded in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2026 presidential election.

    Speaking to delegates, Kennedy Agyapong noted “I know most of you are dejected. You have to keep your spirit up, because once we have life, we have everything. So don’t be dejected”.

    Kennedy Agyapong is amongst the candidates who contested in the NPP’s internal elections conducted today, Saturday, January 31.

    The election was conducted to select a candidate to represent the party in the 2028 general elections.

    More than 300 polling centres nationwide were set up for the presidential primaries with over 211,000 delegates participating in the expected to vote.

    Speaking to the media,  Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Dr Stephen Amoah has expressed shock over the development. According to Stephen Amoah, he expected Mr Agyapong to earn a comfortable victory, due to the investments made by his campaign team.

    “It’s very surprising because I thought Kennedy was going to win by 60%,” Dr Amoah said.

    The lawmaker said the strong presence and intensive campaign activities of the Ken Campaign in the area had created expectations of a different result, adding that the outcome fell short of what many people on the ground had predicted.

    Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah has predicted Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • 2026 NPP Flagbearer race: Dr Bawumia leads Ken Agyapong in Nyhiaeso constituency

    2026 NPP Flagbearer race: Dr Bawumia leads Ken Agyapong in Nyhiaeso constituency

    Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has led the former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, in the number of votes cast by delegates in Nhyiaeso during the just-ended New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary. 

    The NPP’s internal election conducted is to select a candidate to represent the party in the 2028 general elections . As such, party supporters and observers have been spotted at designated polling centers awaiting the outcome of the tightly contested primaries.

    More than 300 polling centres nationwide were set up for the presidential primaries with over 211,000 delegates participating in the expected to vote.

    Speaking to the media,  Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Dr Stephen Amoah has expressed shock over the development. According to Stephen Amoah, he expected Mr Agyapong to earn a comfortable victory, due to the investments made by his campaign team.

    “It’s very surprising because I thought Kennedy was going to win by 60%,” Dr Amoah said.

    The lawmaker said the strong presence and intensive campaign activities of the Ken Campaign in the area had created expectations of a different result, adding that the outcome fell short of what many people on the ground had predicted.

    Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah has predicted Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • NPP flagbearer race ends; sorting and counting begin

    NPP flagbearer race ends; sorting and counting begin

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) internal election conducted to select a candidate to represent the party in the 2028 general elections has ended with sorting and counting of ballots underway.

    As such, party supporters and observers have been spotted at designated polling centers awaiting the outcome of the tightly contested primaries.

    More than 300 polling centres nationwide were set up for the presidential primaries with over 211,000 delegates participating in the expected to vote.

    Former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former Minister for Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong, former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, and businessman Kennedy Ohene Agyapong were the contenders for the race.

    The primaries is attracting significant interest from both longstanding members and new contenders seeking to lead the NPP into the next electoral cycle.

    Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah has predicted Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • Go and look for your ID card before you come to vote – Isaac Baah Boamah tells delegates

    Go and look for your ID card before you come to vote – Isaac Baah Boamah tells delegates

    A leading member of the NPP Presidential Election Committee, Isaac Baah Boamah, has cautioned delegates to come to the polling stations with their ID cards, stressing that voting will not be permitted without proper identification.

    Speaking with Citi News ahead of the polls, Isaac Baah Boamah, emphasized that, no person will be allowed to vote based on “vouching” or verbal confirmation from party elders.

    Delegates must present one of four approved documents to gain entry.

    “We have approved four forms of identification; any one of them will be a permissible voter’s ID, party ID, national passport, or Ghana card. Any delegate without an ID cannot cast a ballot,” Boamah noted, adding a final warning: “I urge every delegate to go and look for their ID card before they come to vote,” he indicated.

    According to the guidelines provided for the presidential primaries, Mr Boamah said there will be zero tolerance for any form of vote-buying at the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary today.

    Thus the NPP has banned all mobile phones and foreign materials from the inner voting perimeters to safeguard the secrecy of the ballot.

    Also, he added that all polling venues nationwide will be clearly divided into three separate areas.

    The outer area will serve as the entry point, where officials will confirm the identity of delegates.

    The middle area will function as a holding and orientation space, allowing delegates to receive final instructions and line up.

    The inner area will be a tightly secured zone reserved exclusively for the casting of ballots.

    “The electoral officials, per the guidelines, have been told that it is a walk-in exercise. The areas will be demarcated into three sections: the outer section, the middle section, and the inner section. The outer section is where the electoral officials will identify you using your ID card for this exercise,” Mr Boamah explained.

    According to the NPP, any delegate caught violating these directives will face immediate arrest and criminal prosecution, alongside being stripped of their right to cast a ballot.

    This measure is reportedly aimed at stopping delegates from taking ballot selfies—photos of their marked ballots—which are often used as proof of vote in exchange for monetary inducements.

    “When you enter the inner circle, you are not supposed to go in with any foreign material, including mobile phones,” Mr Boamah stated firmly.

    Today’s poll will determine who leads the “Elephant Party” into the next general election. The ballot paper will feature five prominent figures:

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (Former Vice President)

    Kennedy Ohene Agyapong (Former MP for Assin Central)

    Dr. Bryan Acheampong (MP for Abetifi)

    Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (MP for Bosomtwe)

    Kwabena Agyepong (Former NPP General Secretary)

      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) officially announced today, 31st January 2026, as the date for its presidential primaries.

      The decision was taken at a crucial meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held on Tuesday, 17th June 2025, and later confirmed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua and also in an official statement.

      “And the National Council today also made the decision that the date for our presidential primaries is set for January 31, 2026. That will be the date that we shall hold our presidential primaries” parts of the statement said.

      This sets the stage for a decisive contest to elect the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

      The statement also revealed that “the Committee also spoke about the time for our presidential primaries. And again, the Committee agrees that that decision does not warrant amendment of our Constitution”.

      The primaries are anticipated to attract significant interest from both longstanding members and new contenders seeking to lead the NPP into the next electoral cycle.

      Party officials also noted that nomination guidelines, timelines for campaign activities, and the code of conduct for aspirants will be released in the coming weeks, with the NEC promising party members a transparent and credible process that upholds the democratic values of the NPP.

      Also speaking in an interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday, 17th June, Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, explained that the seemingly early date slated for the party’s primaries is intentional.

      He noted that it is meant to give the chosen flagbearer a head start in policy communication and to foster stronger connections with both the international community and the business sector.

      He believes this will reposition the party as a credible and prepared alternative ahead of the 2028 general elections.

      “It is going to market the candidate enough, particularly in terms of building contacts with the international community, the business community, and stakeholders across the globe,” he noted.

      “We will have sufficient time to communicate our policies effectively and hold the government accountable.”

      Also, given the NPP’s current minority status in Parliament, with only 88 seats, he believes an early start will help intensify external engagements.

      “We need someone who can rise above internal distractions and rally support nationally and beyond to keep the government in check,” he added.

    1. Bawumia to sweep 14 regions in NPP flagbearer race – Global InfoAnalytics

      Bawumia to sweep 14 regions in NPP flagbearer race – Global InfoAnalytics

      Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is expected to win 14 out of the 16 regions in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries scheduled for Saturday, January 31, according to the Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah.

      Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.


      He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.


      According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.


      The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.


      Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.


      According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.


      Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.


      The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.


      In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.


      According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.


      The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.


      Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).


      The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.


      It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).


      His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.


      Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).


      Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.


      The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.


      With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.


      However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.


      In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.


      The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

    2. Supreme Court throws out High Court ruling blocking Kpandai Poll

      Supreme Court throws out High Court ruling blocking Kpandai Poll

      The judgment of the Tamale High Court that annulled the parliamentary election results in the Kpandai Constituency has been quashed by the Supreme Court by a 4–1 majority decision on Wednesday, January 28.


      Defending its decision, the Supreme Court noted the High Court’s ruling was contrary to the law that guides how parliamentary election petitions should be handled.

      On Tuesday, December 16, the Supreme Court ordered that the parliamentary rerun election in the area, which was scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, be suspended until further notice.

      The Supreme Court’s verdict came after the Tamale High Court declared the Kpandai parliamentary election conducted in 2024 invalid on Monday, November 24. As a result, His Lordship Emmanuel Brew Plange directed the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a new poll in the constituency within 30 days.

      But addressing the media on Tuesday, December 9, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh noted, “Mr Speaker, there is a letter that was sent into the House to declare the Kpandai seat vacant. That letter is out of place, unfortunate, and goes against the rule of law. We strongly submit that the letter must be withdrawn by Parliament. We in the Minority will not agree to the writing of this letter”.

      However, the candidate at the centre of the Kpandai election challenge, Matthew Nyindam, has disclosed that the 2024 parliamentary election in the area was conducted in a free and fair manner.

      Despite the High Court directing a re-run of the election, Matthew Nyindam insisted that he and his team did not engage in any wrongdoing and are prepared to face the re-run.

      Speaking to the media on Tuesday, December 9, he noted, “I am so fine because I am not troubled. We’ve not cheated in this particular election. What I’ve realised is that there is a government that is so strong, and whatever they want to do, they will want to do it. They don’t care whether you are right or you are wrong.”


      The legal team of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate Matthew Nyindam was also directed by the Supreme Court to follow due process in serving the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal.


      Last year, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Kpandai constituency, Mathew Nyindam, filed an application challenging the recent High Court ruling on the 2024 parliamentary elections in the area.


      The former Member of Parliament and NDC parliamentary candidate for Kpandai, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, submitted a petition to the Tamale High Court challenging the results of the 2024 parliamentary election in the constituency.


      According to the petitioner, the Kpandai parliamentary election was marred by irregularities in the voting and collation processes. He argued that Pink Sheets from many polling stations were not accurate or consistent.


      He stated: “The parliamentary election held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 was not conducted in compliance with Regulations 39 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (CI 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 39, and that the said non-compliance affected the results of the elections.


      “The declaration and publication of the parliamentary election results held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 were not made in compliance with Regulations 43 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 43, and that the said non-compliance affected the entire results of the parliamentary elections in the Kpandai constituency.”


      However, Mathew Nyindam has argued that “The Parliamentary Election Petition filed by the 1st Interested Party on 25th January 2025, in respect of the Parliamentary Election held at the Kpandai Constituency on 7th December 2024, was invalid and could not have properly invoked the jurisdiction of the High Court, Commercial Division, Tamale.”


      According to a new poll conducted by Global InfoAnalytics last year, fifty percent (50%) of constituents declared their support for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Mathew Nyindam, ahead of the Kpandai rerun.

      The poll showed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, secured 46% of the vote against the embattled Member of Parliament (MP) for Kpandai.

      Regarding performance ratings, 32% of voters described Mathew Nyindam’s performance as very good or good, while 3% rated him as excellent.

      Additionally, 36% rated his performance as average, and 29% considered it poor or very poor. The poll further projected that independent candidate Donkor Eric Nipani would receive 1% of the vote, while 3% of respondents remain undecided, down from an initial 28%.

    3. Kwabena Agyepong fed up with Ken Agyapong 

      Kwabena Agyepong fed up with Ken Agyapong 

      Preidential hopeful for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) party, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong, has expressed dissatisfaction over actions by fellow aspirant Kennedy Agyapong.

      Addressing the media, he noted that the consistent criticism comments being passed by Kennedy Agyapong against the party and the then Akufo-Addo government must be checked to prevent further damage. 

      He noted that Kennedy Agyapong and family benefited most from the Akufo-Addo government as compared to other individuals associated with the NPP party. According to him, Kennedy Agyapong has taken power into his own hands, going so far as to disrespect other aspirants, yet the party’s appropriate executives have failed to take action against him. 

      “Telling delegates that certain individuals do not belong is disrespectful and shows a lack of regard for other aspirants. Such remarks coming from an aspirant are inappropriate, yet no sanctions have been imposed. Kennedy Agyapong’s constant criticism of the then Akufo-Addo government is unfair, especially considering that he and his family benefited from that same administration. Rather than showing appreciation to former President Nana Akufo-Addo, he appears to be working to turn the party’s base against the government,” he added.

      Kwabena Agyei Agyapong’s remarks come a few days to the New Patriotic Party’s internal primaries. A total of 211,849 delegates are expected to vote at 333 polling centres across 276 constituencies nationwide on Saturday, January 31, during the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) internal elections. The primaries will attract significant interest from both longstanding members and new contenders seeking to lead the NPP into the next electoral cycle.

      Speaking in an interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday, June 17, the Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, explained that the seemingly early date slated for the party’s primaries is intentional.

      He noted that it is meant to give the chosen flagbearer a head start in policy communication and to foster stronger connections with both the international community and the business sector.

      He believes this will reposition the party as a credible and prepared alternative ahead of the 2028 general elections. Also, given the NPP’s current minority status in Parliament, with only 88 seats, he believes an early start will help intensify external engagements.

      However, the latest National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics has disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

      According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

      Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

      The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

      In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

      According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

      The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

      Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

      The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

      It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

      His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

      Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

      Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

      The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

      With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

      However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

      In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

      The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

    4. Over 211k delegates to vote in NPP’s internal elections on Jan 31

      Over 211k delegates to vote in NPP’s internal elections on Jan 31

      A total of 211,849 delegates are expected to vote at 333 polling centres across 276 constituencies nationwide on Saturday, January 31, during the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) internal elections.


      The Chairperson of the NPP Presidential Elections Committee, Mr Joseph Osei-Owusu, disclosed this in an interview with the media.

      He said the party has completed all preparations for the polls, including the final voters’ register, security arrangements, designation of voting centres, and the election rules.


      “It is going to market the candidate enough, particularly in terms of building contacts with the international community, the business community, and stakeholders across the globe,” he noted.

      The primaries are anticipated to attract significant interest from both longstanding members and new contenders seeking to lead the NPP into the next electoral cycle.


      Party officials also noted that nomination guidelines, timelines for campaign activities, and the code of conduct for aspirants will be released in the coming weeks, with the National Executive Committee (NEC) promising party members a transparent and credible process that upholds the democratic values of the NPP.


      Also speaking in an interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday, June 17, the Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, explained that the seemingly early date slated for the party’s primaries is intentional.


      He noted that it is meant to give the chosen flagbearer a head start in policy communication and to foster stronger connections with both the international community and the business sector.


      He believes this will reposition the party as a credible and prepared alternative ahead of the 2028 general elections. Also, given the NPP’s current minority status in Parliament, with only 88 seats, he believes an early start will help intensify external engagements.


      However, the latest National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics has disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.


      According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.


      Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.


      The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.


      In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.


      According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.


      The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.


      Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).


      The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.


      It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).


      His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.


      Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).


      Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.


      The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.


      With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.


      However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.


      In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.


      The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

    5. Woman involved in Valentino Nortey’s stabbing case was his wife – Family confirms

      Woman involved in Valentino Nortey’s stabbing case was his wife – Family confirms

      New details has proven that the woman involved in the 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Klottey Korle Constituency, Valentino Nortey’s stabbing case was his wife, Gilda Nortey.

      David Gyapanin, uncle to Gilda Nortey, in an interview with Citi News, said that his niece was stabbed three times by her husband over a minor misunderstanding.

      “They had a little argument, and my niece said she may file for divorce if things continue that way. My niece said Valentino threatened to either kill himself or kill her. He stabbed her three times. She pleaded with him to take her to the hospital. He agreed on condition that she would not mention his name,” he said.

      He, however, contradicted claims that first responders transported the victim to the hospital, insisting that she drove herself there after the stabbing.

      “Fortunately, she had the car key and managed to drive to the hospital where she works. She is getting better. As a family, we want nothing less than justice,” he said.

      The police have also confirmed that Gilda Nortey was stabbed, and was taken to the hospital by first responders, noting that was receiving treatment and was in stable condition.

      The family of Gilda Nortey, has therefore called for justice as Valentino Nortey, according to American-based abc27.com, is being detained by American security authorities.

      American authorities have detained Valentino Nortey after he was charged with three criminal offences in the United States.

      According to Lower Paxton Township Police, the charges include attempted homicide, possession of an instrument of crime with intent to use, and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence.

      A report by US-based outlet abc27.com said Nortey was arraigned before a magistrate court presided over by Judge David Judu, where he was denied bail. Public records from the Dauphin County Prison confirm that he is currently in custody at the facility.

      Nortey is expected to appear in court again on January 26, 2026, when a preliminary hearing is scheduled to begin.

      Nortey is a former parliamentary candidate of Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP). He won the party’s primary ahead of Philip Kojo Addo Addison and Samuel Nii Adjei Tawiah to contest the 2024 parliamentary election.

      He, however, lost the election to the incumbent Member of Parliament, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Nortey polled 23,716 votes, representing 37.5 per cent of the total valid votes cast, while Dr Agyeman-Rawlings secured 39,997 votes, accounting for 62.78 per cent, to retain the seat.

      Back home in Ghana, To crack down on domestic violence, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service recently arrested a man captured in a viral Facebook video physically assaulting his wife, Harriet Amuzu, at their residence in Ofankor, Ga East Municipality. The suspect, identified as John Odartey Lamptey, was arrested on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the family residence.

      According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, on November 18, two of the suspect’s siblings attempted to attack a female tenant because they suspected she had recorded the incident that drew the attention of authorities.

      “Following his arrest, two of his siblings, Grace Kushie Lamptey and Louis Odartey Lamptey, who attempted to attack a female tenant they suspected of recording and circulating the video, were also arrested, and the tenant was rescued to ensure her safety.”

      Breaking her silence, Harriet Amuzu disclosed that the assault was triggered by her refusal to have sex with her husband, John Odartey Lamptey. According to her, she denied him intimacy because they had been separated for five months. She noted that she left her husband’s residence in Ofankor due to his consistent abuse.

      However, she found herself at his residence that day because her husband informed her that their child was unwell. Harriet Amuzu added that, unknowingly to her, it was a trap set by her husband.

      “I was at a funeral when he called to say our lastborn was not feeling well. I rushed home, only to find the children playing. When I asked, he said he lied because he wanted to have sex with me,” she recounted.

      She noted that her husband “He told me he had trapped me to kill me,” after she declared her intention to return to her residence.

      The victim further revealed, “He tore my dress and my undershorts, saying he bought them. He even tore the beads around my waist, leaving me naked. He beat me with the metal rod from a standing broom and stepped on me. At one point, he picked up a knife and threatened to cut off my hand.”

      Reacting to the incident, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has strongly condemned the violent assault, describing it as an act that infringes on the victim’s rights and is highly punishable by law. In a statement, the Ministry stressed that no individual has the right to subject another person to any form of abuse under any circumstances.

      “The Minister has also reached out to the Ghana Police Service to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted and justice is served. We also encourage eyewitnesses with vital information to assist law enforcement agencies immediately,” a part of the statement read.

      In a separate incident, a disturbing video that circulated last month also prompted the intervention of the military police. It was CCTV footage showing a muscular man assaulting a young male pharmacist and a young woman in a pharmacy. The incident, which took place at Burma Camp in Accra, came to light late on Wednesday, October 29. In the widely circulated video, the tall, dark-complexioned man was seen slapping the pharmacist.

      The abuser, whose name has been given as Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Mensah Williams of the Ghana Air Force, was further seen attacking the woman with several blows to her head after she attempted to record the incident. Despite attempts by bystanders to intervene, Mensah Williams continued the assault.

      In response to the incident, the military police arrested Mensah Williams. He is currently in the custody of the Cantonments Police for further investigation and possible prosecution. The video sparked intense debate on social media, with many Ghanaians calling for swift and firm disciplinary action against the soldier.

      According to reports, the assaulted woman is the daughter of the former Provost Marshal of the Military Police. The Provost is a senior military officer responsible for law enforcement, discipline, and security within the armed forces. He coordinates and oversees investigations into crimes involving military personnel.

    6. Family of woman allegedly stabbed by ex-NPP parliamentary candidate demands justice

      Family of woman allegedly stabbed by ex-NPP parliamentary candidate demands justice

      The family of Gilda Nortey, wife of former NPP parliamentary candidate for Korle Klottey, Valentino Nii Noi Nortey, is calling for justice after she was allegedly stabbed by her husband in the United States.

      Gilda is currently receiving medical care and slowly recovering from the attack, which reportedly happened after a disagreement over divorce.

      Speaking about the ordeal on Wednesday, January 21, Gilda’s uncle, David Gyapanin, shared, “They had a little argument, and my niece said she may file for divorce if things continue that way. My niece said Valentino threatened to either kill himself or kill her. He stabbed her three times. She pleaded with him to take her to the hospital. He agreed on condition that she would not mention his name”.

      According to him, “Fortunately, she had the car key and drove herself to the hospital where she works. She’s getting better. As a family, we want nothing less than justice, it happened in the States, and we want to believe that the laws there will be applied fully. You can’t marry someone’s daughter and, just because she wants to end the marriage, decide to end her life. If justice isn’t served in the U.S., we will pursue it in Ghana”. 

      Meanwhile, Lower Paxton Township Police confirmed that the 41-year-old Nortey now faces charges including attempted homicide. The stabbing happened on Saturday, January 17, around 10 a.m., during what police described as a domestic dispute. Authorities say Gilda’s quick thinking likely saved her life. Nortey is being held at Dauphin County Prison, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 26.

      Back home in Ghana, To crack down on domestic violence, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service recently arrested a man captured in a viral Facebook video physically assaulting his wife, Harriet Amuzu, at their residence in Ofankor, Ga East Municipality. The suspect, identified as John Odartey Lamptey, was arrested on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the family residence.

      According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, on November 18, two of the suspect’s siblings attempted to attack a female tenant because they suspected she had recorded the incident that drew the attention of authorities.

      “Following his arrest, two of his siblings, Grace Kushie Lamptey and Louis Odartey Lamptey, who attempted to attack a female tenant they suspected of recording and circulating the video, were also arrested, and the tenant was rescued to ensure her safety.”

      Breaking her silence, Harriet Amuzu disclosed that the assault was triggered by her refusal to have sex with her husband, John Odartey Lamptey. According to her, she denied him intimacy because they had been separated for five months. She noted that she left her husband’s residence in Ofankor due to his consistent abuse.

      However, she found herself at his residence that day because her husband informed her that their child was unwell. Harriet Amuzu added that, unknowingly to her, it was a trap set by her husband.

      “I was at a funeral when he called to say our lastborn was not feeling well. I rushed home, only to find the children playing. When I asked, he said he lied because he wanted to have sex with me,” she recounted.

      She noted that her husband “He told me he had trapped me to kill me,” after she declared her intention to return to her residence.

      The victim further revealed, “He tore my dress and my undershorts, saying he bought them. He even tore the beads around my waist, leaving me naked. He beat me with the metal rod from a standing broom and stepped on me. At one point, he picked up a knife and threatened to cut off my hand.”

      Reacting to the incident, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has strongly condemned the violent assault, describing it as an act that infringes on the victim’s rights and is highly punishable by law. In a statement, the Ministry stressed that no individual has the right to subject another person to any form of abuse under any circumstances.

      “The Minister has also reached out to the Ghana Police Service to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted and justice is served. We also encourage eyewitnesses with vital information to assist law enforcement agencies immediately,” a part of the statement read.

      In a separate incident, a disturbing video that circulated last month also prompted the intervention of the military police. It was CCTV footage showing a muscular man assaulting a young male pharmacist and a young woman in a pharmacy. The incident, which took place at Burma Camp in Accra, came to light late on Wednesday, October 29. In the widely circulated video, the tall, dark-complexioned man was seen slapping the pharmacist.

      The abuser, whose name has been given as Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Mensah Williams of the Ghana Air Force, was further seen attacking the woman with several blows to her head after she attempted to record the incident. Despite attempts by bystanders to intervene, Mensah Williams continued the assault.

      In response to the incident, the military police arrested Mensah Williams. He is currently in the custody of the Cantonments Police for further investigation and possible prosecution. The video sparked intense debate on social media, with many Ghanaians calling for swift and firm disciplinary action against the soldier.

      According to reports, the assaulted woman is the daughter of the former Provost Marshal of the Military Police. The Provost is a senior military officer responsible for law enforcement, discipline, and security within the armed forces. He coordinates and oversees investigations into crimes involving military personnel.

    7. Stop attacking Prof Frimpong-Boateng and focus on resolving the party’s issues – Auther Kennedy to NPP

      Stop attacking Prof Frimpong-Boateng and focus on resolving the party’s issues – Auther Kennedy to NPP

      Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer aspirant Dr. Arthur Kennedy has advised the executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to divert efforts being made to expel Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng from the party to resolving the party’s issues.

      According to him, the party’s decision against the former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation raises serious concerns about the party’s internal dynamics and fairness.

      Addressing the media he noted, “The process seems dubious. The announcement came late at night, and by the next morning, a statement had been issued. When exactly did the national executives meet to decide whether the Professor should be referred to the disciplinary committee?” 

      “If the Professor used strong words, it was to underline that the party is on the wrong path. The focus should be on the issues, not attacking his person”.

      His comment is a reaction to the party’s decision to expel Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng over what the party claims “baseless and unsubstantiated allegations” made by him.

      On Tuesday, January 13, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng labeled NPP as a “fake party”, distancing himself from its membership during an interview on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV yesterday, Monday, 12th January.

      According to him, the NPP he joined is not the one he currently sees. On his part, the party’s current state no longer reflects the values of the NPP he once knew.

      “The present NPP is not NPP. It is fake. From what I see now, this is not the NPP I used to know. Not the fake one. The real one is there. It is a virtual thing. The members are in the background,” he stated.

      He continued that NPP is headed for doom if it re-elects the former vice president and flagbearer aspirant, Dr Bawumia, as the next to lead the party, alleging that the last primaries were rigged in favour of the former vice President.

      In reaction to this, NPP, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, denied and described the Professor’s remarks as “baseless and unsubstantiated allegations”, noting that the results duly reflect the will of both the party and its delegates.

      The statement said, “The Party unequivocally rejects Professor Frimpong Boateng’s unfortunate characterisation of the NPP and firmly denies his baseless and unsubstantiated allegations regarding the conduct of the 2023 Presidential Primary.”

      It further described Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s comments and conduct as highly reprehensible and damaging to the unity, values, and integrity of the party.

      Consequently, the statement said the party has invoked the relevant provisions of its constitution to commence the necessary processes to expel him, stressing that all steps will be carried out strictly in accordance with due process.

      “The said primary has been widely acknowledged by all candidates who participated, as well as by well-meaning members of the Party, as having been conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner, faithfully reflecting the will of Party Delegates,” parts of the statement read.

      It went on to further condemn the views and conduct of Professor Frimpong, saying, “the New Patriotic Party views the conduct and utterances of Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng as highly reprehensible and inimical to the values, unity, and integrity of the Party.”

      respond to Prof. Frimpong’s fake party remarks on Channel One news

      In light of this, the former Minister is set for expulsion from the party, the General Secretary noted.

      “Consequently, the Party has invoked the relevant provisions of its Constitution to commence the necessary processes to expel him from the Party, strictly in accordance with due process”, the statement said.

      Meanwhile, Professor Frimpong isn’t the only party member who has been suspended in the last decade.

      In 2015, the then National Chairman, Paul Afoko was suspended for allegedly undermining Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership, showing arrogance, and defying party elders.

      Sammy Crabbe, who was then the vice to Paul Afoko, was suspended for openly defying party decisions, refusing to appear before the disciplinary committee, and supporting Afoko against NEC directives.

      In the same year, NPP also suspended Kwabena Agyapong, the then General Secretary, for gross misconduct, disrespect, and conspiring with Afoko to act against party orders.

      NPP Amnesty for suspended members

      Last year, members of the NPP who were suspended were reinstated, and all charges against those who were facing the disciplinary committee were dropped, the party announced.

      The decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25.

      In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, the party informed members that, as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all those who were banned from the party had been given the right to return.

      “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead.”

      “I write to inform you that the National Council, at its emergency meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.

      In light of this, it urged all concerned bodies, i.e., the Regional Executive Committee and the Constituency Executive Committee, to duly reinstate all suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles to that effect.

      “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” it continued.

      However, the party explained that this recall does not cover members who wilfully forfeited their membership. In any case where such members desire to return, they are expected to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat.

      Following their acceptance, a two-year ban shall be placed on them from contesting in any internal elections.

      Meanwhile, Professor Frimpong isn’t the only party member who has been suspended in the last decade.

      In 2015, the then National Chairman, Paul Afoko was suspended for allegedly undermining Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership, showing arrogance, and defying party elders.

      Sammy Crabbe, who was then the vice to Paul Afoko, was suspended for openly defying party decisions, refusing to appear before the disciplinary committee, and supporting Afoko against NEC directives.

      In the same year, NPP also suspended Kwabena Agyapong, the then General Secretary, for gross misconduct, disrespect, and conspiring with Afoko to act against party orders.

    8. Expulsion threats won’t force me out; I’m not leaving – Prof Frimpong to NPP

      Expulsion threats won’t force me out; I’m not leaving – Prof Frimpong to NPP

      Ghana’s former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and stalwart New Patriotic Party (NPP), Professor Kwabena Frimpong, has hit back at the party following its announcement of an impending expulsion of the cardiothoracic surgeon for alleging the 2023 primaries were rigged in favour of Dr Bawumia, calling the party fake during an interview on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV yesterday, Monday, 12th January.

      Speaking during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen on Tuesday, January 13, the former Minister reiterated his remarks in a defiant response that he will not leave.

      This was after he was asked if he would save himself the embarrassment of being forced out by preemptively resigning.

      However, he said, “No! I’m not leaving the party; they should leave the party [because] they are the fake ones,” he declared. “They should go away, and the true party will stand.”

      He then went on to call his imminent invitation by the party’s NEC in an attempt for him to defend himself against the penalties of his actions as one that will be a waste of his time, hence he will decline.

      “I will not honour any invitation from the NEC to waste my time,” he added.

      He argued that the party is currently in a state of terminal decline that can only be reversed by a complete purge of the “fake” elements at the top.

      “We must accept that the NPP is destroyed; this was not how the party was in years past,” he lamented. “They should exit so that the young men and women with love for the party will rebuild.”

      Meanwhile, not only did the Professor make accusations against the party, but also suggested that the selection of the former vice President, Dr Bawumia, as flagbearer for the party will be a shipwreck.

      NPP’s response to the Prof’s claims

      In reaction to this, NPP, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, denied and described the Professor’s remarks as “baseless and unsubstantiated allegations”, noting that the results duly reflect the will of both the party and its delegates.

      The statement said, “The Party unequivocally rejects Professor Frimpong Boateng’s unfortunate characterisation of the NPP and firmly denies his baseless and unsubstantiated allegations regarding the conduct of the 2023 Presidential Primary.”

      It further described Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s comments and conduct as highly reprehensible and damaging to the unity, values, and integrity of the party.

      Consequently, the statement said the party has invoked the relevant provisions of its constitution to commence the necessary processes to expel him, stressing that all steps will be carried out strictly in accordance with due process.

      “The said primary has been widely acknowledged by all candidates who participated, as well as by well-meaning members of the Party, as having been conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner, faithfully reflecting the will of Party Delegates,” parts of the statement read.

      It went on to further condemn the views and conduct of Professor Frimpong, saying, “the New Patriotic Party views the conduct and utterances of Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng as highly reprehensible and inimical to the values, unity, and integrity of the Party.”

      Meanwhile, Professor Frimpong isn’t the only party member who has been suspended in the last decade.

      In 2015, the then National Chairman, Paul Afoko was suspended for allegedly undermining Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership, showing arrogance, and defying party elders.

      Sammy Crabbe, who was then the vice to Paul Afoko, was suspended for openly defying party decisions, refusing to appear before the disciplinary committee, and supporting Afoko against NEC directives.

      In the same year, NPP also suspended Kwabena Agyapong, the then General Secretary, for gross misconduct, disrespect, and conspiring with Afoko to act against party orders.

      NPP Amnesty for suspended members

      Last year, members of the NPP who were suspended were reinstated, and all charges against those who were facing the disciplinary committee were dropped, the party announced.

      The decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25.

      In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, the party informed members that, as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all those who were banned from the party had been given the right to return.

      “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead.”

      “I write to inform you that the National Council, at its emergency meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.

      In light of this, it urged all concerned bodies, i.e., the Regional Executive Committee and the Constituency Executive Committee, to duly reinstate all suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles to that effect.

      “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” it continued.

      However, the party explained that this recall does not cover members who wilfully forfeited their membership. In any case where such members desire to return, they are expected to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat.

      Following their acceptance, a two-year ban shall be placed on them from contesting in any internal elections.

    9. Prof. Frimpong Boateng to be expelled from Party over ‘fake party’ remarks – NPP

      Prof. Frimpong Boateng to be expelled from Party over ‘fake party’ remarks – NPP

      Ghana’s former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, has incurred the wrath of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), a party he now claims he is no longer a member of.

      This comes after he labels NPP as a “fake party”, distancing himself from its membership during an interview on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV yesterday, Monday, 12th January.

      According to him, the NPP he joined is not the one he currently sees. On his part, the party’s current state no longer reflects the values of the NPP he once knew.

      “The present NPP is not NPP. It is fake. From what I see now, this is not the NPP I used to know. Not the fake one. The real one is there. It is a virtual thing. The members are in the background,” he stated.

       He continued that NPP is headed for doom if it re-elects the former vice president and flagbearer aspirant, Dr Bawumia, as the next to lead the party, alleging that the last primaries were rigged in favour of the former vice President.

      In reaction to this, NPP, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, denied and described the Professor’s remarks as “baseless and unsubstantiated allegations”, noting that the results duly reflect the will of both the party and its delegates.

      The statement said, “The Party unequivocally rejects Professor Frimpong Boateng’s unfortunate characterisation of the NPP and firmly denies his baseless and unsubstantiated allegations regarding the conduct of the 2023 Presidential Primary.”

      It further described Prof. Frimpong-Boateng’s comments and conduct as highly reprehensible and damaging to the unity, values, and integrity of the party.

      Consequently, the statement said the party has invoked the relevant provisions of its constitution to commence the necessary processes to expel him, stressing that all steps will be carried out strictly in accordance with due process.

      “The said primary has been widely acknowledged by all candidates who participated, as well as by well-meaning members of the Party, as having been conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner, faithfully reflecting the will of Party Delegates,” parts of the statement read.

      It went on to further condemn the views and conduct of Professor Frimpong, saying, “the New Patriotic Party views the conduct and utterances of Professor Kwabena Frimpong Boateng as highly reprehensible and inimical to the values, unity, and integrity of the Party.”

      NPP respond to Prof. Frimpong’s fake party remarks on Channel One news

      In light of this, the former Minister is set for expulsion from the party, the General Secretary noted.

      “Consequently, the Party has invoked the relevant provisions of its Constitution to commence the necessary processes to expel him from the Party, strictly in accordance with due process”, the statement said.

      Meanwhile, Professor Frimpong isn’t the only party member who has been suspended in the last decade.

      In 2015, the then National Chairman, Paul Afoko was suspended for allegedly undermining Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership, showing arrogance, and defying party elders.

      Sammy Crabbe, who was then the vice to Paul Afoko, was suspended for openly defying party decisions, refusing to appear before the disciplinary committee, and supporting Afoko against NEC directives.

      In the same year, NPP also suspended Kwabena Agyapong, the then General Secretary, for gross misconduct, disrespect, and conspiring with Afoko to act against party orders.

      NPP Amnesty for suspended members

      Last year, members of the NPP who were suspended were reinstated, and all charges against those who were facing the disciplinary committee were dropped, the party announced.

      The decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25.

      In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, the party informed members that, as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all those who were banned from the party had been given the right to return.

      “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead.”

      “I write to inform you that the National Council, at its emergency meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.

      In light of this, it urged all concerned bodies, i.e., the Regional Executive Committee and the Constituency Executive Committee, to duly reinstate all suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles to that effect.

      “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” it continued.

      However, the party explained that this recall does not cover members who wilfully forfeited their membership. In any case where such members desire to return, they are expected to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat.

      Following their acceptance, a two-year ban shall be placed on them from contesting in any internal elections.

      Meanwhile, Professor Frimpong isn’t the only party member who has been suspended in the last decade.

      In 2015, the then National Chairman, Paul Afoko was suspended for allegedly undermining Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership, showing arrogance, and defying party elders.

      Sammy Crabbe, who was then the vice to Paul Afoko, was suspended for openly defying party decisions, refusing to appear before the disciplinary committee, and supporting Afoko against NEC directives.

      In the same year, NPP also suspended Kwabena Agyapong, the then General Secretary, for gross misconduct, disrespect, and conspiring with Afoko to act against party orders.

    10. Livestream: President Mahama holds thanksgiving service to mark a year in office

      Livestream: President Mahama holds thanksgiving service to mark a year in office

      Today, Wednesday, January 7, marks exactly a year since President Mahama was sworn in as the 6th President of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.

      In light of this, a non-denominational Thanksgiving Service to commemorate the first anniversary of his administration is currently underway.

      The event, which is being held at the Forecourt of the Jubilee House in Accra, is dubbed “Resetting, Rebuilding, and Renewing.”

      Religious leaders, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and other invited guests are present to express gratitude to God for national stability over the past year, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to renewal and inclusive governance.

      President Mahama marked his second term as president on January 7, 2025 folowing his triumph in the 2024 elections against former Vice President Dr Bawumia of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

      In the past year, he has achieved some remarkable feats in his administration.In his New Year Message to the nation he listed about six significant achievements by his government.

      He stated, “We have accomplished a lot together in the past twelve months. Through prudent management and difficult but necessary reforms, we have reduced inflation from distressing levels of 23% and above by the end of 2024, and we are hopeful of ending 2025 with inflation in the single digits, just above 5%. We have achieved relative currency stability and are on track to be ranked among the world’s best-performing currencies in 2025. We are accelerating economic growth and creating more opportunities for our young people.

      We have restored business confidence and have seen a significant increase in both domestic and foreign direct investment. We have restored Ghana’s credibility with international partners, completed the renegotiation of our debt obligations on terms that protect our
      sovereignty while ensuring sustainability. We are beginning the process of exiting the IMF programme with dignity, not as supplicants, but as partners.”

    11. Bawumia congratulates President Mahama but urges delivery of jobs under 24-hour economy in New Year message

      Bawumia congratulates President Mahama but urges delivery of jobs under 24-hour economy in New Year message

      Flagbearer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has congratulated incumbent President John Dramani Mahama for his first year in office since his takeover following the December 2024 elections.

      The former vice president sent the congratulatory message in a New Year message shared on January 1, 2026, through his official social media platforms (Facebook and X/Twitter). He highlighted several other national issues, including the need to uphold the country’s democracy and called on President Mahama to deliver on his promise to the Ghanaian youth as far as employment and his flagship programme, the 24-hour economy, are concerned.

      According to him, the mandate the president has earned was given to him by the good people of Ghana to promote livelihoods and ensure safety and growth, hence the need for President Mahama to guard it jealously and deliver to the utmost satisfaction of the people.

      He said, “A lot has happened since 7th December 2024, and I know many of us continue to reflect on it every day. I congratulate President John Dramani Mahama on his first year in office, and I sincerely wish him well in the discharge of his mandate. The Ghanaian people have bestowed a sacred trust on him, and he cannot afford to fail them. I therefore urge him to continue to guard the peace, stability, and unity of our nation jealously. Ghana has always stood out as a beacon in a region that has seen too much turmoil and instability.”

      He went on to address the plight of some citizens over the last year, labelling it as a challenging one for some, particularly for youth and parents. Consequently, he urged President Mahama to fulfill his promise of providing jobs to the youth populace through the 24-hour economy.

      The NDC government’s proposed “24‑Hour Economy” is designed to expand economic activity beyond the traditional 8 a.m.–5 p.m. workday, to create millions of jobs and improve wages. It’s aimed at transforming Ghana’s labour market by creating 1.7 million employment opportunities and improving wages.

      The former vice president noted, “A new year gives us a pause, a moment to reflect on where we are coming from, the choices we have made, and the future we still hope to build together with quiet thought and renewed resolve. I know that for many Ghanaians, the past year has not been easy. Parents have worried about providing for their families, and unemployed young people have wondered when the 24-hour economy will provide the promised jobs.”

      According to him, the president is expected to deliver on his promise and promote stability and growth as he inherited a strong economy from the erstwhile government, of which he was a major part.

      “The foundation President Mahama inherited was solid in many ways. It is imperative that we build on it and not let it slip. I say this because this matters more now than ever,” he added.

      A major highlight in the presidential aspirant’s message was his concern about the country’s rank in terms of peace.

      Referring to the way the dismissal of the former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo was handled, Dr Bawumia stated that Ghana, which has maintained a reputation as a beacon of democracy and peace, has now fallen six places in the 2025 Global Peace Index, a drop he labels as “gaping cracks.”

      “You may have heard about the results of the 2025 Global Peace Index. Ghana has dropped six places to 61st in the world, and from fourth to seventh in sub-Saharan Africa. These results point to growing security worries and pockets of unrest in the country. One of Ghana’s greatest strengths since the inception of the Fourth Republic has been the independence and credibility of our democratic institutions. The world looks at us and says, ‘This is how democracy should work.’ But in the course of the year, we have seen gaping cracks appearing.

      “For example, the manner in which Ghana’s third female Chief Justice was hounded out of office in fulfilment of a campaign pledge hurt many of us who believe in the independence of the judiciary. Let me stress unequivocally that when institutions are weakened, democracy is weakened. When institutions are politicised, trust is lost. Ghana’s democracy must never be sacrificed on the altar of short-term political advantage. There can be no turning back for our nation,” Dr Bawumia continued.

      He continued, “Many Ghanaians have expressed concern about the direction of our national cohesion and the strength of our democratic institutions. These concerns should not be dismissed. When citizens begin to worry about fairness, independence, and consistency, confidence is affected. And when confidence is shaken, progress becomes harder.”

      In light of these setbacks, Dr Bawumia stated that, “I therefore respectfully advise President Mahama to focus on strengthening, not undermining, the institutions that underpin our democratic order.”

      Meanwhile, the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) in August 2025 revealed a downturn in Ghana’s unemployment rate, which currently stands at 13.1% as of the end of 2024.

      Government Statistician, Dr Alhassan Iddrisu, in a video shared on the Service’s Facebook page, said, “The national unemployment rate declined from 13.3% in quarter three of 2024 to 13.1% in quarter four.”

      The figures are captured in the latest Quarterly Labour Statistics Report of the Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey (AHIES), which was released on Thursday, August 28, 2025.

      According to the report, 409,000 new jobs were created in the last quarter of 2024. Despite this growth, the Ghana Statistical Service has expressed concern about the expansion of the informal sector compared to the formal sector.

      “Employment is growing, but too many jobs remain informal and insecure. The disparities, especially among young people, are still stark,” Dr Iddrisu stressed.

      The report also acknowledged that youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, with 32% of those aged 15–24 jobless in 2024, 22.5% in the 15–35 bracket, and young people making up seven out of ten unemployed Ghanaians.

      To tackle the challenge, Dr Iddrisu proposed strengthening apprenticeship and placement schemes, tailoring TVET reforms to labour market demands, and widening access to affordable credit for small enterprises. He further appealed to the private sector to create structured internships and entry-level jobs and encouraged development partners to channel investments into rural employment and scalable youth-focused initiatives.

      “Addressing youth and long-term unemployment, bridging regional disparities, and formalising informal work must remain urgent national priorities,” he added.

      Unemployment and youth unemployment are among the major issues the incumbent government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, seeks to address to aid the recovery of the Ghanaian economy.

      In light of this, the government has introduced several initiatives, including the Adwumawura Programme, to fight youth unemployment and boost entrepreneurship. President John Dramani Mahama, on Monday, April 28, launched the programme at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.

      The Adwumawura Programme, according to its design, will “create, mentor, and support at least 10,000 businesses annually,” focusing specifically on young people aged 18 to 35. Participants will benefit from skills training, mentorship, start-up capital, and equipment to help them build sustainable businesses.

    12. Bawumia leads NPP flagbearer contest with 72% delegate support ahead of Jan 31 – InfoAnalytics

      Bawumia leads NPP flagbearer contest with 72% delegate support ahead of Jan 31 – InfoAnalytics

      The latest National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics has disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) wants former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

      According to the poll, 28 per cent voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum and 4 percent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

      19 per cent of NPP delegates want Kennedy Agyapong while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

      The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21, this year across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include, a combination of web-based, telephone and face-to-face interviews.

      In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation, Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

      According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

      The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, which represents a 1.7 % point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

      Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB), trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

      The results of the survey carried out between July and October 2025 came from a sample of 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

      It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as a leading candidate in ten regions out of Ghana’s 16, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

      His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the Northern sector, thus with an advantage in the rest of the six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

      Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

      Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

      The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid.

      Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

      With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

      Meanwhile, Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general election against his closest contender, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      The other contenders, i.e., former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, secured 6%, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, polled 5%, while former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong, registered 3%.

      In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

      The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

    13. President Mahama officially scraps COVID-19 levy

      President Mahama officially scraps COVID-19 levy

      President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday, December 10, officially assented to the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy Repeal Act, 2025.

      Last month, Parliament approved the government’s decision to scrap the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, which was introduced during the pandemic era.

      Introduced on 31 March 2021 under Act 1068 during the tenure of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the levy applied a 1% charge on the supply of goods and services in Ghana, excluding certain items, and on imports of goods and services.

      According to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the levy was intended to help the government raise funds to fight the pandemic and support recovery efforts.

      However, presenting the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Thursday, November 11, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed that the government has abolished the levy with immediate effect.

      According to him, the move will save individuals and businesses GH₵3.7 billion in taxes—money that can instead be invested back into their businesses or personal ventures.

      The Finance Minister further added that after months of detailed analysis and broad consultations with stakeholders, the Ministry has completed the design of a modernised Ghana Value Added Tax (VAT) system fit for the country’s economic transformation agenda.

      He mentioned that if approved by Parliament, the VAT reforms will make Ghana’s tax system more equitable, transparent, and business-friendly.

      “As the new VAT reforms will do the following, we will abolish the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, Mr Speaker; we will abolish the decoupling of GetFund and National Insurance Levies from the VAT tax base. The current VAT rate will be reduced from 21.9% to 20%.

      “In the 2025 budget, in the mid-year fiscal policy review, government made a firm promise to reform Ghana’s Value Added Tax (VAT) system to make it fairer, simpler, and more efficient. We pledged to remove distortions, address the cascading effects inherited in the VAT system, strengthen compliance, and create a tax regime that supports both businesses and fiscal stability. These distortions have negatively impacted overall welfare, increasing the deadweight loss in the economy and reducing VAT compliance.

      “Today, Mr Speaker, I am proud to report to this House that we have finally delivered on that promise. After months of detailed analysis and broad consultations with stakeholders, we have completed the design of a modernised VAT system fit for Ghana’s economic transformation agenda. Government is therefore submitting to this House today, for approval, a bold package of VAT reforms that will make our tax system more equitable, transparent, and business-friendly.

      “The new VAT reforms will do the following: we will abolish the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy. We will abolish the decoupling of GetFund and National Insurance Levies from the VAT tax base. We will abolish VAT on the recognition of minerals. We will reduce the effective VAT rate from 21.9% to 20%. We will raise the VAT registration threshold from GH₵200,000 to GH₵750,000.

      “We will extend VAT zero rating on the supply of local manufacturing textiles to 2028. Mr Speaker, for emphasis, we promised to abolish the COVID Levy, and with the support of this House, I am proud to say that today, the COVID Levy is accordingly abolished. By abolishing the COVID-19 Levy, the government is putting GH₵3.7 billion in the pockets of individuals and businesses in 2026 alone,” he added.

      While delivering the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Statement to Parliament on Thursday, July 24, the Finance Minister assured Ghanaians that the VAT Act was undergoing a series of reforms to eliminate successive charges that increased the cost of goods and services.

      As such, the COVID-19 Levy, Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), and National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) levies assented to by former President Akufo-Addo during the NPP-led government will be scrapped next year.

      He noted that his ministry would conclude the review process by the end of September, adding that the new bill would then be submitted to Parliament in October to be included in the 2026 Budget Statement.

      The new development is aimed at reducing financial burdens on Ghanaians, thus improving economic conditions. The current VAT flat-rate scheme, the minister asserts, should be replaced with a unified VAT rate for all businesses.

      Additionally, the VAT registration threshold will also be raised, a measure expected to exempt small and micro enterprises from registering for and paying VAT, as well as to encourage growth in the informal sector.

      To ensure compliance and transparency, the government plans to roll out fiscal electronic devices such as e-invoicing systems and electronic cash registers. Furthermore, public education campaigns and awareness programs will be implemented.

      “Rt. Hon. Speaker, the Ministry of Finance hopes to complete this process by September 2025, prepare a new VAT bill by October 2025, and submit it to Parliament as part of the 2026 Budget Statement. Mr Speaker, I would like to reassure Ghanaians that under the reforms, at a minimum, the COVID-19 levy will be abolished, the effective VAT rate will be reduced, and the punitive cascading effect of the GETFund and NHIS levies will be removed.

      “VAT flat rates will be removed, and a unified VAT rate will be implemented; the VAT registration threshold will be increased to exempt small and micro businesses; and compliance will be improved through public education, awareness creation, and the introduction of fiscal electronic devices,” he said.

      Earlier this year, President John Dramani Mahama’s administration repealed the betting tax, emissions tax, and other levies. The Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy), introduced in 2022, imposed a 1.5% tax on electronic transactions.

      Although it was later reduced to 1%, the levy remained unpopular, drawing criticism from businesses, consumers, and political stakeholders who argued that it stifled digital transactions and disproportionately affected low-income earners. Many contended that it placed an unnecessary burden on citizens.

      The removal of this tax was a core pledge in the NDC’s manifesto, aimed at reducing the cost of living and encouraging business expansion. With the repeal bill now signed into law, many Ghanaians can breathe a sigh of relief.

      Supporters of the repeal argue that eliminating these levies will promote digital transactions, stimulate economic activity, and improve disposable income for households and businesses.

    14. NPP makes Constitutional changes in response to 2024 electoral defeat

      NPP makes Constitutional changes in response to 2024 electoral defeat

      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) today, Wednesday, December 3, amended its internal rules in an effort to address the factors that led to the party’s defeat in the 2024 General Elections.

      Speaking at the launch of the amendment, General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong urged party members to adhere to the changes, noting that they form part of the party’s strategy to strengthen internal structures and prepare for the upcoming 2028 elections.


      He added, “Many of the issues that culminated in our loss in the 2024 election have been addressed in this amendment.”


      As part of the changes, the NPP has granted former executives at both district and national levels voting rights, allowing them to participate in the party’s elections.


      “We all know that one of the reasons why we did not get the needed vote to win the election was voter apathy, and it also stemmed from the fact that there were several former party executives who felt that they were neglected. But in our current constitution, we have expanded our electoral college to make room for our former executives at the district level and the national level to have a voting right. All of these are to address the issue of apathy in our party,” the General Secretary added.


      He mentioned the party’s inability to communicate effectively as one of the reasons the NPP lost the 2024 elections.

      “Another reason why we lost is that many people criticised our party’s communication. We had done so much, but we were not communicating them, and there was no coordination among the various communication directors,” he added.


      Since the beginning of this year, the party has undertaken several reforms to position itself strongly against its main opponent, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and to recapture power.
      Among these reforms is the abolition of the electoral college in favour of a broader base of delegates.

      The party has also added 19 new delegate categories and granted amnesty to suspended members. The NPP has announced that suspended members have been reinstated, and all charges against those facing the disciplinary committee have been dropped.

      This decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25. In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, members were informed that, as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all banned members had been given the right to return.

      “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead. I write to inform you that the National Council, at its Emergency Meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.


      The party further urged all relevant bodies, including Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, to reinstate suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles. “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” the statement added.


      However, the party clarified that this recall does not apply to members who willfully forfeited their membership. In cases where such individuals wish to return, they are required to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat. Upon acceptance, a two-year ban will be imposed, preventing them from contesting in any internal elections.


      Flagbearer aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, has picked the first spot on the party’s just-concluded ballot. The exercise, conducted today, Friday, October 10, was to determine who takes which number on the ballot paper ahead of the presidential election on January 31, 2026.


      So far, Kwabena Agyepong, former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Bryan Acheampong have been cleared to campaign.


      Dr. Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia took the third position. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong took the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26. Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27.

      Former Food and Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong has also filed his nomination forms. In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.


      Former Energy Minister and running mate of the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.


      In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President, who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise.


      According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr. Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.

      “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and upon all the people who were praying for the running mate slot, he ignored all of them and made me his running mate. I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr. Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate but he ignored them. There are some names that if I mentioned, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me but still he chose me,” he remarked.


      He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”

    15. NPP official dies in motorbike crash at Assin Breku

      NPP official dies in motorbike crash at Assin Breku

      A fatal motorbike crash at Assin Breku in the Central Region has claimed the life of the polling station chairman for Ninkyiso, who is affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), on Friday, November 14.

      The accident occurred when the deceased, Yahya, was riding a motorbike en route to a campaign event for the party’s flagbearer hopeful, Bryan Acheampong. According to eyewitnesses, a speeding motorbike reportedly collided with the one carrying the constituency’s Nasara Coordinator, Vilinke Mohammed.

      Yahya gave up the ghost on Sunday, November 16, after he was admitted to the St. Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Fosu, alongside Vilinke Mohammed. Meanwhile, Vilinke Mohammed, who remains in the hospital, is said to have sustained a life-threatening head injury.

      The incident also left one Kwaku Mensah injured. He was reportedly travelling from Manso to Assin Adiembra for a funeral. He is currently receiving medical attention at the St. Francis Xavier Hospital.

      Ghana has reported a surge in the number of fatalities recorded due to road crashes. In the first half of 2025, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported one thousand, five hundred and four (1,504) deaths, compared to one thousand, two hundred and thirty-seven (1,237) fatalities reported in the corresponding period in 2024, representing a 21.58 percent increase.

      According to provisional data released by the National Road Safety Authority in collaboration with the Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), a total of 7,289 road crashes were recorded between January and June this year.

      Per the data, a total of twelve thousand, three hundred and fifty-four (12,354) vehicles were involved in the road crashes. Owing to the road accidents, a total of eight thousand three hundred (8,300) individuals sustained injuries.

      Also, one thousand, three hundred and one (1,301) pedestrians were knocked down across the country. According to the recent data provided by the National Road Safety Authority, on average, eight (8) lives are lost every day due to road crashes.

      Each day, forty (40) road crashes are recorded, and forty-six (46) individuals sustain injuries. Daily, sixty-nine (69) vehicles and motorcycles are involved in road crashes. To aid in combating road crashes, the National Road Safety Authority has called for stern enforcement of traffic regulations and public education.

      The NRSA has called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and increased public education to help curb the rising number of road accidents across the country. The Road Traffic Act 2004, an Act to consolidate and revise the Road Traffic Ordinance, 1952 (No. 55), provides for a more comprehensive regulation of road traffic and road use, to ensure safety on the roads and to provide for related matters.

      A person who drives a motor vehicle dangerously on a road commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction, (a) where (i) a bodily injury does not occur, or (ii) a minor bodily injury does occur, to a person, other than the driver, to a fine not less than one hundred penalty units and not exceeding two hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding nine months or to both the fine and imprisonment.

      (b) Where bodily injury of an aggravated nature occurs to a person, other than the driver, to a minimum fine of two hundred penalty units and not exceeding five hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than twelve months and not exceeding two years or to both the fine and the imprisonment; or (c) where death occurs, to a term of imprisonment for a term of not less than three years.

      (d) Where there is damage to state property, to a fine of not less than one hundred penalty units and payment for the damage caused in an amount determined by the Court.

      The Court may, on the conviction of a person under subsection (1), (a) order the payment of appropriate compensation to an injured person or to the estate of that person, or (b) order the withdrawal of the license for a period of not less than three years and not more than five years.

      A person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, commits an offense and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding five years or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

      A person commits an offense if without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, that person, (a) causes anything to be on or over a road, (b) interferes with a motor vehicle, trailer or cycle, or (c) interferes, directly or indirectly, with traffic equipment, where that it would be obvious to a reasonable person that to do so would be dangerous.

      A person who commits an offense under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding twelve months or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

    16. We are facing challenges as a party but God will help us – Minority leader tells members 

      We are facing challenges as a party but God will help us – Minority leader tells members 

      Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has come to terms with the fact the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing internal currently.

      However, he is optimistic that things will change for the better.

      “We are facing some challenges as a party, and admittedly, these are not easy times. However, I strongly believe that God will help us overcome these challenges,” he told party members on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem programme,

      He pointed out that the NPP is not unique in this, as every political party encounters similar challenges.

      “I want to remind all our party foot soldiers and leaders that we are not the only party going through these difficulties. I urge all party faithful to exercise patience as we work through these challenges together,” he appealed.

      Speaking on the matter of differing interests within the party, Afenyo-Markin admitted that members might have regional, religious, or tribal affiliations but emphasized that the NPP’s unity and common goal should take precedence.

      “I know people have various interests—whether regional, religious, or tribal—but as long as you are an NPP member, your interest should be in the NPP and the NPP alone,” he asserted.

      Ahead of the party’s presidential primaries on January 31, Afenyo-Markin urged members to unite after the elections and support the candidate who wins.

      “After the 31st of January, we must support whoever emerges as the winner of the primaries. Whether it is Dr Bawumia, Honourable Kennedy Agyapong, Honourable Adutwum, Honourable Bryan Acheampong, or Kwabena Agyapong, we must come together as one party,” he urged.

      He also cautioned members to be mindful of their words and actions during this period, warning that internal rivalries should not undermine party unity.

      “I know some people still harbour bitterness, but I urge all NPP members to remember that unity is key,” Afenyo-Markin concluded.

      Meanwhile, former Attorney-General and Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joe Ghartey, has called on members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to stop the internal fights and come together to rebuild the party.

      His call came at a time when the NPP is facing internal confusion after losing the recent general elections. Tensions have been rising between some key members, especially the ongoing public exchanges between Bono Regional Chairman Abronye DC and Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong.

      Joe Ghartey said this is not the time for members to be blaming each other. “There is no point in pointing fingers against each other,” he said, adding that “when you point a finger at one person, the other four point at you,” referring to a popular Ghanaian proverb.

      He stressed that no one person—no matter how popular—can lead the NPP to victory in the next election without the full support of a united party. He called for calm, reflection, and smart planning, rather than arguments and blame.

      While many have blamed the party’s leadership, Joe Ghartey believes the problems run deeper. He said the challenges facing the NPP are not just at the top but also include poor coordination and communication across various levels of the party.

      Sharing his own experience, he said that during his time as a Cabinet Minister, he sometimes struggled to reach heads of some government institutions. He chose not to mention names, saying that would not help the party now.

      On the feud between Abronye DC and Kennedy Agyapong, Ghartey urged both men and their followers to put aside their differences. He said the NPP needs peace and cooperation if it wants to regain the trust of Ghanaians.

      “This is not the time for personal battles. This is the time for rebuilding,” he said.

      The head of Public Sector Reforms, Thomas Kusi Boafo, has urged former President John Agyekum Kufuor to actively engage in mediating for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as it works to strengthen its support base before the 2024 elections.

      Boafo emphasized the importance of Kufuor’s involvement to help re-engage members who have become distant or hesitant to back the party’s efforts to maintain power.

      He described Kufuor as a pivotal figure in the Fourth Republic of Ghana.

      “Now we are left with few people to come and join the campaign team because Bawumia is involving everybody. For today, I will say this: Kufuor has to put his feet on the ground. It has been ringing in my head for a long time.

      “He has to start calling certain people. That is how I see it, for him to talk to them in secrecy because no matter what we do in this Fourth Republic, Kufuor was the shine for everybody.

      “He gave Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo the position to become Attorney General and Minister of Justice, and the experience he had is the one that is helping him in his presidency,” he said in an interview on Wontumi TV.

      He encouraged Kufuor to hold private discussions with key individuals.

      “Look at the lawhouse that he has built; I am not sure we can see a similar one in any of the African countries. And from the Attorney General, he made him Foreign Minister. So, Nana Akufo-Addo is also a Kufuor breed. He also promoted Bawumia until he became the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana for Akufo-Addo to see him and make him his running mate.

      “So, look, the Fourth Republic, everything surrounds Kufuor. So, based on what is going on, he has to wake up because the few people left, want to come,” he added.

    17. I’m here to serve and not to amass personal wealth – Dr Bawumia

      I’m here to serve and not to amass personal wealth – Dr Bawumia

      Former Vice President and flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has reaffirmed that his commitment to serving the country is the motive behind his pursuit of the flagbearership, and not a desire to amass wealth for himself.

      The Party is set to host its presidential primaries in January 2026; hence, ahead of that, the former Vice President, as part of his campaign, embarked on a four-day campaign tour in the Western Region, visiting the Amenfi East, Amenfi West, and Amenfi Central Constituencies.

      In an address to some party faithfuls in the constituency, Dr Bawumia emphasised that his record in public service demonstrates his commitment to integrity, efficiency, and the prudent use of national resources.

      Taunting his competence in managing finances and cutting waste, the former vice president referred to the time when the Mobile Money Interoperability project was first initiated, the NDC had proposed a contract worth 1.2 billion dollars, highlighting how his outfit delivered excellently on the same project at just less than half of the proposed budget presented by the then National Democratic Congress (NDC).

      Dr Mahamudu Bawumia stated, “Let me remind you that when we initiated the Mobile Money Interoperability project, the NDC had proposed a contract worth 1.2 billion dollars. We cancelled that deal and instead completed the entire project for just 4.5 million dollars.”

      This initiative, he taunted ,has greatly benefited Ghanaians and created thousands of jobs. Dr Bawumia said his satisfaction comes from seeing how the initiatives have positively impacted lives across the country. The former Vice President urged delegates in Amenfi West and across Ghana to support his bid to lead the NPP in 2028.

      Meanwhile, Dr Bawumia picked the third spot on the party’s ballot as part of the aspirants for the flagbearership position of the party.

      The exercise conducted on Friday, October 10, was to determine who takes which number on the ballot paper ahead of the presidential election on January 31, 2026.

      So far, Kwabena Agyepong, former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, have been cleared to campaign.

      Former MP for Assin Central picked the first spot, and Dr Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia took the third position. Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26.

      Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27. Former Food and Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong has also filed his nomination forms.

      In the meantime, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.

      Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.

      In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President, who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise.

      According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.“I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and all the people who were praying for the running mate slot; he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.”

      “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate, but he ignored them. There are some names that, if I mentioned them, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me, but still he chose me,” he remarked.

      He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”

      Late last week, Asante Akim South Member of Parliament, Hon. Kwaku Asante Boateng, speaking during an interview with Adom TV in late October, described the NPP presidential aspirant and former Vice President Dr Bawumia as an “alien” and “a stranger” within the NPP during a live interview on Adom TV in late October 2025.

      He noted that the former Vice President’s candidacy is causing rifts in the party. In response to this, the party has issued a statement dated November 1 and signed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua, dissociating itself from the MP’s remarks, highlighting its commitment to “inclusivity, equality, and national cohesion”.

      The statement read, “The National Secretariat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted with concern certain comments attributed to the Honourable Member of Parliament for Asante Akim South, Hon. Kwaku Asante Boateng, and considers such a statement unfortunate and disassociates itself from those remarks. The NPP reiterates its longstanding commitment to inclusivity, equality, and national cohesion”.

      It continued that the party was open to welcome any Ghanaian who believes in its principles, ideologies and is committed to upholding the democracy of the country and ensuring national development, citing that NPP’s most valued assets in members are not defined by their personal attributes but by their loyalty, commitment and service to the party and the country as a whole.

      “As a political tradition founded on the principles of freedom, justice, democracy, and equal opportunity, the Party remains dedicated to fostering a society where every Ghanaian, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or social background, can participate meaningfully in the governance and development of our nation. The Party emphasises that political membership and recognition within the NPP are not defined by personal attributes or identity, but by one’s loyalty, commitment, and service to the Party’s ideals and the national interest”, the statement continued.

      It added that, in light of this, the NPP, therefore, welcomes all citizens who subscribe to its core values and principles and are willing to contribute to the advancement of Ghana’s democratic and developmental agenda.

      “As a Party of unity and progress, the NPP assures the Ghanaian people that it will continue to uphold the dignity of every citizen and to promote a political culture anchored in tolerance, respect, and inclusiveness”, it concluded.

    18. NPP dissociates itself from Asante Akim South MP’s remarks on Dr Bawumia’s status in the party

      NPP dissociates itself from Asante Akim South MP’s remarks on Dr Bawumia’s status in the party

      The New Patriotic Party(NPP) has distanced itself from the remarks made by the Asante Akim South Member of Parliament (MP) on Dr Bawumia’s presidential bid.

      Hon. Kwaku Asante Boateng, speaking during an interview with Adom TV in late October, described the NPP presidential aspirant and former Vice President Dr Bawumia as an “alien” and “a stranger” within the NPP during a live interview on Adom TV in late October 2025.

      He noted that the former Vice President’s candidacy is causing rifts in the party. In response to this, the party has issued a statement dated November 1 and signed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua, dissociating itself from the MP’s remarks, highlighting its commitment to “inclusivity, equality, and national cohesion”.

      The statement read, “The National Secretariat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has noted with concern certain comments attributed to the Honourable Member of Parliament for Asante Akim South, Hon. Kwaku Asante Boateng, and considers such a statement unfortunate and disassociates itself from those remarks. The NPP reiterates its longstanding commitment to inclusivity, equality, and national cohesion”.

      It continued that the party was open to welcome any Ghanaian who believes in its principles, ideologies and is committed to upholding the democracy of the country and ensuring national development, citing that NPP’s most valued assets in members are not defined by their personal attributes but by their loyalty, commitment and service to the party and the country as a whole.

      “As a political tradition founded on the principles of freedom, justice, democracy, and equal opportunity, the Party remains dedicated to fostering a society where every Ghanaian, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or social background, can participate meaningfully in the governance and development of our nation. The Party emphasises that political membership and recognition within the NPP are not defined by personal attributes or identity, but by one’s loyalty, commitment, and service to the Party’s ideals and the national interest”, the statement continued.

      It added that, in light of this, the NPP, therefore, welcomes all citizens who subscribe to its core values and principles and are willing to contribute to the advancement of Ghana’s democratic and developmental agenda.

      “As a Party of unity and progress, the NPP assures the Ghanaian people that it will continue to uphold the dignity of every citizen and to promote a political culture anchored in tolerance, respect, and inclusiveness”, it concluded.

      Meanwhile, Dr Bawumia picked the third spot on the party’s ballot as part of the aspirants for the flagbearership position of the party.

      The exercise conducted on Friday, October 10, was to determine who takes which number on the ballot paper ahead of the presidential election on January 31, 2026.

      So far, Kwabena Agyepong, former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, have been cleared to campaign.

      Former MP for Assin Central picked the first spot, and Dr Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia took the third position. Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26.

      Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27. Former Food and Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong has also filed his nomination forms.

      In the meantime, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.

      Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.

      In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise.

      According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.“I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and upon all the people who were praying for the running mate slot, he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.”

      “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate but he ignored them. There are some names that if I mentioned, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me but still he chose me,” he remarked.

      He thus said; “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”

      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates who are eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.

      In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, which include nineteen new categories of people.

      This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19.The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of Party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming Presidential Primary voter register.”

      The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These are all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.

      Other groups added to the list are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution.

      Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.

      The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”

      To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to External Branch Executives for online registration. All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register.

      However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website.“The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website. For ease of reference, a sample copy is hereby attached,” excerpts of the statement read.

    19. Sanitise the NPP presidential electoral processes to boost and restore credibility of results

      Sanitise the NPP presidential electoral processes to boost and restore credibility of results

      Democracy becomes a sham when the views of people, especially the ordinary people,e are not counted. When the grassroots and ordinary people who form part of the superstructure lose their voice and say, as a result of manipulation by the privileged few. This tendency defeats in all uncertain terms the very essence of democracy and the fair representation it seeks to propagate.

      We in the NPP, after about ten months in opposition, are crying foul at skewed democracy and oppression of the NDC government. We have called them out on several issues that seek to suggest that Democracy has been thrown into the bottomless chasm.

      We cannot be seen to be preaching virtue and practising vice; in that, the recent North Eastern Regional Tour of Hon. Ohene Agyapong Kennedy, many disturbing allegations which go to the core fabric of our party have been realised. In three separate virally circulated audio-visual recordings, some delegates are seen confessing to voting for Ohene Agyapong Kennedy in the November 2023 poll in their various polling stations, and yet at the close of the poll, the candidate recorded zero votes.

      In Bunkprugu Constituency, while candidate Ohene Agyapong Kennedy held a meeting with the NPP delegates in the constituency on the 22nd October 2025. A delegate presented an audio-visual proof to the candidate showing he voted for the candidate during the November 2023 election; however, the candidate recorded zero. From the video evidence, the vote was not a spoiled ballot but was allegedly not counted.

      Yagaba Kubori constituency was no exception in that there was prima facie evidence leading to the perception that many voted for the candidate, yet at the close of polls, the candidate recorded zero. As if that was not enough, in Walewale constituency, the home of one of the aspirants in the then and now elections, it has been widely alleged that votes accruing to Hon. Ohene Agyapong Kennedy were disregarded and not counted, leading to the candidate again scoring zero votes.

      Let me hasten to ask rhetorically, are the various zero recorded votes in the several polling stations interestingly across only the North Eastern region to mean that candidate Ohene Agyapong Kennedy did not even have an agent at those polling stations?

      The American civil rights leader and clergyman Dr Martin Luther King, once said, “In the end we will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of our friends”. The seemingly deafening silence of the party and the electoral body in charge of the then and now elections, especially in the face of these allegations amidst its oppressive tendencies, is so defeating of the democratic and freedom type of party the NPP seeks to arrogate unto itself.

      In our humble opinion, the national executive committee and for that matter the electoral committee must investigate and ventilate those allegations especially amidst the recent controversial public pronouncements of Mr. Kwame Baffoe Abronyeh and Mr. Benard Antwi Boasiako Bono East and Ashanti Regional chairman of the Npp respectively; where they have been alleged to have meant that they will subvert the will of the people by their own power during the 31st January elections next year.

      The Npp is not only at the crossroads on 31st January 2026 but also tipping to a very fragmented party if care is not taken. Matters that concern free, fair, and transparent elections must not be seen to have been done but must actually be done right. A flagbearer ship election of this kind produced Mr Alan Kyerematen’s splinter of very fine NPP stalwarts who have become an albatross on the neck of our party’s fortunes. Any act or omission before and during the upcoming presidential primaries that smacks of unfairness, repression, unnecessary abuse, intimidation, voter manipulation and undue competitive advantage, etc, will further dwindle the party’s already bleak chances in the run-up to the 2028 elections and beyond.

      We are confident that in fidelity to the forebears and ideals of the spirit and development in freedom, those who again enjoy the people’s mandate (at least for now) to ensure a credible, free, fair and trusted electoral processes will not let us down on 31st January 2026 and will as well ventilate the relevant allegations that are gradually creeping to undermine the neutrality of the referees of elections in the Npp.

      OAK

      OPPOSITION AGAINST KLEPTOCRACY………………….

      Stephen Luke Dapaah

      DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana

    20. We have not negotiated any plea deal with A-G – Wontumi’s lawyer

      We have not negotiated any plea deal with A-G – Wontumi’s lawyer

      The lawyer for the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has emphasized that the Office of the Attorney-General has not received any plea bargain proposal from their camp.

      Andy Appiah-Kubi’s clarification comes in response to a recent claim made by the Attorney-General during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, October 22. According to the A-G, his office has taken delivery of several plea bargain proposals from Wontumi.

      But Andy Appiah-Kubi has stated that there is no iota of truth in the Attorney-General’s claim, explaining that the case is still at a premature stage and therefore does not require any plea bargain discussions. Meanwhile, Chairman Wontumi’s counsel has noted that there is no evidence to support the galamsey charges levelled against their client.

      Speaking to the media on Friday, October 10, Enoch Afoakwa noted that Chairman Wontumi is unshaken in his insistence on innocence in the face of all galamsey charges. He added, “So certainly his position has not changed. He still maintains his innocence. Once he has pleaded not guilty to the various counts that he has been charged with, his presumption of innocence under Article 19(2c) triggers — and that means he is presumed innocent until proven.”

      “When he was arraigned, he pleaded not guilty to all the several counts of allegations that have been levelled against him. So certainly his position has not changed. He still maintains his innocence. Once he has pleaded not guilty to the various counts that he has been charged with, his presumption of innocence under Article 19(2c) triggers — and that means he is presumed innocent until proven.”

      Chairman Wontumi appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on Monday, October 6, over the alleged involvement of Akonta Mining in illegal mining (galamsey) activities.

      A week ago, Chairman Wontumi, who is said to be the owner of Akonta Mining, appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.

      Speaking to the media, Wontumi’s legal counsel, Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, revealed that his client had been charged with mining-related offences. “The charges are related to mining. Wontumi has been charged with mining without a license and other related offenses,” he disclosed.

      Chairman Wontumi was released from police custody after spending three nights in detention on Friday, October 10. His release followed the fulfillment of bail requirements totaling GHS25 million, imposed in connection with two separate illegal mining cases currently before the court.

      On October 7, he was unable to meet the bail conditions set by the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra. In one of the cases, the court granted him GHS15 million bail with two sureties, while in the other, an additional GHS10 million bail was set, also with two sureties — one of whom must justify with landed property.

      The court further directed Wontumi to report to investigators once every week for the first month and prohibited him from traveling outside the country without explicit approval.

      The NPP regional chairman is facing several mining-related charges, including engaging in illegal mining activities and aiding environmental degradation within the Tano Nimire Forest Reserve.

      A bail of GHS1 million with two sureties has been granted to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

      On Friday, October 3, Dr. Ayine had threatened to arrest him if he failed to surrender to the CID. According to the Attorney-General, little progress had been made in investigating the allegations, as key documents were withheld by some officials of the previous administration.

      In April, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revoked Akonta Mining’s license for illegally mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region. The Minister noted that the company had extended its illegal activities to both the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves, despite possessing a valid license to operate outside forest reserves.

      In response, the company refuted the claims, stating in a press release: “We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.”

      The company added that the accusations were “a deliberate attempt by the Minister to tarnish the reputation of the company. The decision by the Minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair; it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act.”

      Chairman Wontumi’s expected reappearance comes amid mounting pressure on the Mahama-led administration to end illegal mining activities in the country. The menace continues to threaten Ghana’s water bodies, food crops, forest reserves, and energy infrastructure.

      In a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Friday, October 3, President John Dramani Mahama noted that he can only declare a state of emergency over the issue when his government’s advisors approve it.

      According to him, the advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

      President Mahama added that the country could eradicate the long-term problem if it deployed more troops and invested more resources in the fight. “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes, let’s fight illegal mining, but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

      “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Council. As of now, this moment, the National Security Council believes that we can win the fight against galamsey. Declaring a state of emergency… I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he said.

      Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy has issued a stern warning about the potential future repercussions of galamsey if the country fails to find a lasting solution. During a visit to the Anwomaso Thermal Power Station in Kumasi on Wednesday, October 1, Deputy Ranking Member Collins Adomako-Mensah revealed how Ghana’s power installations are being tampered with by illegal miners.

      According to him, electricity generation authorities—including the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), the Bui Power Authority (BPA), WAPCO Gas Pipeline, and the Volta River Authority—risk shutting down due to attacks on their infrastructure.

      “When we were engaging the other participants, two things came up—one has to do with galamsey, and it is having a heavy, heavy toll on the energy sector, not just about water. GRIDCo complained about galamsey.

      “Their pylons, people are digging where they have a lot of their pylons. Yesterday we were at Bui, and the Bui water situation is deteriorating because of the galamsey situation surrounding their water bodies,” he said.

      In September, GRIDCo expressed grave concern over the encroachment on its transmission tower sites by galamsey operators, who are digging dangerously close to the foundations. Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Engineering and Operations, Frank Otchere, stated that maintenance teams now face attacks when attempting to access certain areas.

      “Unfortunately, there are some areas that even when our maintenance teams go there, they get shot at. And some of them have had to run away,” he disclosed, adding that the situation has made it impossible for GRIDCo to operate in certain locations without security support.

      He added that galamseyers are weakening the towers, which are carefully engineered to withstand immense weight and pressure, and appealed for urgent assistance from national security agencies to protect transmission corridors and avert potential collapses.

      “This engagement aims to provide a platform for frank and constructive dialogue between the Government and civil society on the menace of illegal mining, with a view to harnessing collective expertise, perspectives, and solutions to address this national challenge,” the letter stated.

      Ongoing research by a forensic histopathologist and former Head of Pathology at KNUST and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Prof. Dr. Paul Poku Sampene Ossei, has revealed alarming trends in rising cases of spontaneous abortions among pregnant women in Ghana.

      Approximately 500 cases have been recorded, linked to severe contamination of placentas and the presence of heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, resulting from galamsey activities. A spontaneous abortion is the unintentional expulsion of an embryo or fetus from the uterus before it is viable.

      Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, September 27, Prof. Sampene warned that galamsey is poisoning unborn babies and endangering mothers. “I have about 500 cases where women go to the hospital and abort their babies because of the concentration of these heavy metals in their placenta,” he disclosed.

      According to him, his research involved over 4,000 placentas examined from different regions across Ghana. The results showed dangerous levels of heavy metal contamination on both the maternal and fetal sides. “The placentas are all contaminated, polluted with heavy metals,” he said.

      The dangers extend beyond pregnancy losses. Another effect of galamsey is the excessive use of alum to address the increasing turbidity of water. Ghana Water Company Limited, the nation’s largest water supplier, has resorted to using higher concentrations of alum. Prof. Sampene cautioned that high levels of aluminium hydroxide pose serious health risks.

      “One of the consequences of excessive alum use is kidney disease, which is already on the rise. Of course, people are talking about turbidity, and then the Water Company is saying that they are using more alum.

      “Alum is aluminium hydroxide. When taken at higher concentrations over a long period, it can cause kidney problems, irritate the respiratory tract, and lead to neurological defects. All these things have been proven, and we have to be very careful about them now. This goes apart from the effects we are seeing around,” he explained.

      Among recent measures to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The Secretariat includes the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission, and the National Security Secretariat.

      Addressing the security forces, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, directed the team to ruthlessly counter galamsey operators as they are enemies of the state.

      “Any recalcitrant entering into these zones is not merely a trespasser. They are an enemy of the state. You are to be firm. You are to be resolute. You are to be ruthless. And please, take it from me, you will take no obstructionist instruction from any big man. Remember, the biggest man in Ghana is the President of the Republic, and he’s the one who has sent you,” Mr. Kofi-Buah noted.

    21. Charles Bissue appointed to lead Ken Agyapong’s Campaign Team

      Charles Bissue appointed to lead Ken Agyapong’s Campaign Team

      Charles Cromwell Nanabanyin Onuawonto Bissue has been named head of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential hopeful, Ken Ohene Agyapong’s, campaign team.

      This information was made known in a memorandum issued by Kennedy Agyapong to all campaign team members on Tuesday, October 14. Charles Bissue has been tasked with ensuring effective communication among the various directorates and operational teams.

      He is also expected to liaise with Kennedy Agyapong on official documentation and other campaign-related tasks.

      “All external campaign correspondence must now be routed through the Campaign Administrator’s office. Similarly, all internal communications, reports, or documents intended for my attention must first be submitted to him,” the memo stated.

      In a related development, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also vying for the NPP’s flagbearer seat, has begun a nationwide campaign. His campaign, which targets all 276 constituencies, was launched on Wednesday, October 15.

      Kennedy Agyapong picked the first spot on the party’s just-concluded ballot. The exercise, conducted on Friday, October 10, was to determine the order of candidates on the ballot paper ahead of the presidential election scheduled for January 31, 2026.

      So far, Kwabena Agyepong, former Vice President and 2024 Presidential Candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Bryan Acheampong have all been cleared to campaign.

      Dr. Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, while Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia took the third. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong took the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26.

      Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27. Former Food and Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong has also filed his nomination forms.

      In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.

      Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has also decided to throw his weight behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.

      In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President, who decided to make him his running mate despite advice from several individuals who urged him to do otherwise.

      According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr. Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else as his running mate. “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and upon all the people who were praying for the running mate slot, he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.”

      “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr. Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate, but he ignored them. There are some names that if I mentioned, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me, but still, he chose me,” he remarked.

      He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”

      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates who are eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.

      In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, which includes nineteen new categories of people.

      This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19. The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of Party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming Presidential Primary voter register.”

      The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These are all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.

      Other groups added to the list are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution.

      Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.

      The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”

      To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to external branch executives for online registration. All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register.

      However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website. “The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website. For ease of reference, a sample copy is hereby attached,” excerpts of the statement read.

      The statement further warned that the registration was strictly for the aforementioned categories of people, with a deadline set for Friday, September 19.

      “The deadline for registration is Friday, September 19, 2025. Please be advised that this registration exercise is exclusively open to officers and members who meet the aforementioned criteria. The Presidential Elections Committee shall undertake a comprehensive verification and validation of the Party’s album to ensure that only an authentic and credible register is used for the conduct of the presidential election,” the party cautioned, while expressing confidence in members’ cooperation.

      “We count on your usual cooperation and adherence to this directive in furtherance of the Party’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency.”

      The NPP is on a journey of reset, reinforcement, and healing following its historic defeat in the 2024 elections. Dr. Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

      Since the beginning of this year, the party has undertaken several reforms to position itself strongly against its main opponent, the NDC, and to recapture power.

      Among these reforms is the abolition of the electoral college in favour of a broader base of delegates. The party has also added 19 new delegate categories and granted amnesty to suspended members. The party’s suspended members have been reinstated, and all charges against those facing the disciplinary committee have been dropped.

      The National Council decided this during an emergency meeting held on July 25. In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, members were informed that, as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all banned members had been given the right to return.

      “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead. I write to inform you that the National Council, at its Emergency Meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.

      The party further urged all relevant bodies, including Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, to reinstate suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles.

      “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” the statement added.

      However, the party clarified that this recall does not apply to members who willfully forfeited their membership. In cases where such individuals wish to return, they are required to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat. Upon acceptance, a two-year ban will be imposed, preventing them from contesting in any internal elections.

    22. Wontumi released; meets GHS25m bail conditions, spends 3 night in police custody

      Wontumi released; meets GHS25m bail conditions, spends 3 night in police custody

      Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has been released from police custody after spending three nights in detention.

      His release followed the fulfillment of bail requirements totaling GHS25 million, imposed in connection with two separate illegal mining cases currently before the court.

      On October 7, he was unable to meet the bail conditions set by the Criminal Division of the High Court in Accra.

      In one of the cases, the court granted him GHS15 million bail with two sureties, while in the other, an additional GHS10 million bail was set, also with two sureties—one of whom must justify with landed property.

      The court further directed Wontumi to report to investigators once every week for the first month and prohibited him from traveling outside the country without explicit approval.

      The NPP regional chairman is facing several mining-related charges, including engaging in illegal mining activities and aiding environmental degradation within the Tano Nimire Forest Reserve.

      A bail of GHS1 million with two sureties has been granted to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

      This development comes after Chairman Wontumi appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service on Monday, October 6, over alleged involvement of Akonta Mining in illegal mining (galamsey) activities.

      A week ago, Chairman Wontumi, who is said to be the owner of Akonta Mining, appeared at the CID with his lawyer, Andy Appiah-Kubi, following an order from the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.

      Speaking to the media, Wontumi’s legal counsel, Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, revealed that his client had been charged with mining-related offences.

      “The charges are related to mining. Wontumi has been charged with mining without a license and other related offenses,” he disclosed.

      On Friday, October 3, Dr. Ayine had threatened to arrest him if he failed to surrender to the CID. According to the Attorney General, little progress had been made in investigating the allegations as key documents were withheld by some officials of the previous administration.

      In April, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revoked Akonta Mining’s license for illegally mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.

      The Minister noted that the company had extended its illegal activities to both the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves, despite possessing a valid license to operate outside forest reserves.

      In response, the company refuted the claims, stating in a press release: “We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.”

      The company added that the accusations were “a deliberate attempt by the Minister to tarnish the reputation of the company. The decision by the Minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair, it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act.”

      Chairman Wontumi’s expected reappearance comes amid mounting pressure on the Mahama-led administration to end illegal mining activities in the country. The menace continues to threaten Ghana’s water bodies, food crops, forest reserves, and energy infrastructure.

      In a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Friday, October 3, President John Dramani Mahama noted that he can only declare a state of emergency over the issue when his government’s advisors approve it.

      According to him, the advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.

      President Mahama added that the country could eradicate the long-term problem if it deployed more troops and invested more resources in the fight. “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes, let’s fight illegal mining, but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.

      “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Council. As of now, this moment, the National Security Council believes that we can win the fight against galamsey. Declaring a state of emergency… I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he said.

      Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy has issued a stern warning about the potential future repercussions of galamsey if the country fails to find a lasting solution. During a visit to the Anwomaso Thermal Power Station in Kumasi on Wednesday, October 1, Deputy Ranking Member Collins Adomako-Mensah revealed how Ghana’s power installations are being tampered with by illegal miners.

      According to him, electricity generation authorities—including the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), the Bui Power Authority (BPA), WAPCO Gas Pipeline, and the Volta River Authority—risk shutting down due to attacks on their infrastructure.

      “When we were engaging the other participants, two things came up—one has to do with galamsey, and it is having a heavy, heavy toll on the energy sector, not just about water. GRIDCo complained about galamsey.

      “Their pylons, people are digging where they have a lot of their pylons. Yesterday we were at Bui, and the Bui water situation is deteriorating because of the galamsey situation surrounding their water bodies,” he said.

      In September, GRIDCo expressed grave concern over the encroachment on its transmission tower sites by galamsey operators, who are digging dangerously close to the foundations.

      Acting Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Engineering and Operations Frank Otchere stated that maintenance teams now face attacks when attempting to access certain areas.

      “Unfortunately, there are some areas that even when our maintenance teams go there, they get shot at. And some of them have had to run away,” he disclosed, adding that the situation has made it impossible for GRIDCo to operate in certain locations without security support.

      He added that galamseyers are weakening the towers, which are carefully engineered to withstand immense weight and pressure, and appealed for urgent assistance from national security agencies to protect transmission corridors and avert potential collapses.

      “This engagement aims to provide a platform for frank and constructive dialogue between the Government and civil society on the menace of illegal mining, with a view to harnessing collective expertise, perspectives, and solutions to address this national challenge,” the letter stated.

      Ongoing research by a forensic histopathologist and former Head of Pathology at KNUST and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Prof. Dr. Paul Poku Sampene Ossei, has revealed alarming trends in rising cases of spontaneous abortions among pregnant women in Ghana.

      Approximately 500 cases have been recorded, linked to severe contamination of placentas and the presence of heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, resulting from galamsey activities.A spontaneous abortion is the unintentional expulsion of an embryo or fetus from the uterus before it is viable.

      Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, September 27, Prof. Sampene warned that galamsey is poisoning unborn babies and endangering mothers. “I have about 500 cases where women go to the hospital and abort their babies because of the concentration of these heavy metals in their placenta,” he disclosed.

      According to him, his research involved over 4,000 placentas examined from different regions across Ghana. The results showed dangerous levels of heavy metal contamination on both the maternal and fetal sides. “The placentas are all contaminated, polluted with heavy metals,” he said.

      The dangers extend beyond pregnancy losses. Another effect of galamsey is the excessive use of alum to address the increasing turbidity of water. Ghana Water Company Limited, the nation’s largest water supplier, has resorted to using higher concentrations of alum. Prof. Sampene cautioned that high levels of aluminium hydroxide pose serious health risks.

      “One of the consequences of excessive alum use is kidney disease, which is already on the rise. Of course, people are talking about turbidity, and then the Water Company is saying that they are using more alum.

      “Alum is aluminium hydroxide. When taken at higher concentrations over a long period, it can cause kidney problems, irritate the respiratory tract, and lead to neurological defects. All these things have been proven, and we have to be very careful about them now. This goes apart from the effects we are seeing around,” he explained.

      Among recent measures to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).

      The Secretariat includes the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission, and the National Security Secretariat.

      Addressing the security forces, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, directed the team to ruthlessly counter galamsey operators as they are enemies of the state.

      “Any recalcitrant entering into these zones is not merely a trespasser. They are an enemy of the state. You are to be firm. You are to be resolute. You are to be ruthless. And please, take it from me, you will take no obstructionist instruction from any big man. Remember, the biggest man in Ghana is the President of the Republic, and he’s the one who has sent you,” Mr. Kofi-Buah ch

    23. Teachers, nurses are paying the price for NPP’s poor governance – Pelpuo

      Teachers, nurses are paying the price for NPP’s poor governance – Pelpuo

      The Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, has stated that the salary delays affecting thousands of nurses, teachers, and junior doctors are due to lapses under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

      Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 8, Dr. Pelpuo blamed the NPP’s poor recruitment practices and fiscal indiscipline for the current plight of nurses and doctors.


      “The situation is currently unfair, but it is a culmination of events that took place in the last regime before the current regime took over. People were engaged to work without due process. For you to work and be paid, you need clearance to show that there is money in the account and that your employment has been approved. That didn’t happen in this respect,” he said.


      Ghana, in recent times, has witnessed several protests from government employees, specifically, teachers, nurses, and doctors. According to him, the former government handed over a poorly planned budget that didn’t make room to pay nurses, teachers, and doctors.

      As such, he called the protesting groups to call for calm as the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration will work to rectify the situation.


      “We are taking it up very seriously, and I can assure the nurses, teachers, and junior doctors who are caught up in the process that we are going to respond to them before the end of the year,” he stated.


      On Tuesday, September 30, Newly Posted Teachers group, comprising of graduates from Colleges of Education and universities submitted their petition to the Finance Ministry, which calls on the government to clear debts owed them.


      The group initially declared their intention to hit the streets over salaries owed them on Tuesday, September 23. However, speaking to Citi News, the group’s Lead Convener, Simon Kofi Nartey, noted that the Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities are yet to respond to their earlier petitions, thus rescheduling the protest to September 30.


      Simon Kofi Nartey called on the government to settle their 12 months and 8 months, respectively, within the given ultimatum. According to him, the group will have no option but to hit the streets if the government does not treat their demands with urgency.


      “It is rather unfortunate that, as we speak, nothing has been done about the concerns we raised at our press conference. We have no option but to take to the streets to let Ghanaians know what is happening. We have already met with the Greater Accra Regional Police Command and agreed on September 30 for the demonstration,” he said.

      Also on October 3, the Junior Doctors’ Association of Ghana (JDA-GH) declared its intention to withdrawn nationwide over unpaid salaries and alleged untreatment from the government.


      However, the group made U-turn over its nationwide strike, which was expected to commence on Tuesday, October 6. The decision to suspend the withdrawal of services follows constructive discussions with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and other key stakeholders.


      This was contained in a press statement issued by the Association’s leadership on Monday, October 6.
      According to the statement, “After careful consideration and following assurances from the Ministry of Health and relevant stakeholders, the Association has decided to suspend its planned industrial action to allow for the full implementation of the agreed resolutions”.


      The group lamented that over 200 junior doctors have been left unpaid for 10 to 14 months. According to the Association, some medical officers have been suspended without explanation, even though they were previously on the government payroll.

      It also emphasized that more than 800 medical officers are yet to be assigned to hospitals despite numerous engagements with authorities on the matter.


      “Despite goodwill shown towards the government, no solutions have been offered. The continued exploitation of junior doctors will no longer be tolerated,” the statement read.


      On Thursday, October 2, the Coalition of Unpaid Nurses and Midwives staged a protest to register similar sentiments. Over 7,000 nurses and midwives who gathered at the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Health lamented over working without salaries for nine to ten months.


      Convenor of the coalition, Stephen Kwadwo Takyiah, described the situation as unfair and unsustainable. Adding, “We are not comfortable hitting the streets, but it has become necessary. We are citizens, trained as professional nurses and midwives from nursing training colleges and universities.


      “We graduated in 2020, completed our rotations, and waited at home for three years. In July 2024, the Ministry of Health announced it had secured financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance for our employment.


      “The portals were opened, we registered, and by October 2024, we received postings and reported to work in December. Out of the 15,000 announced, about 13,000 took up postings.


      “But in April 2025, only some of our colleagues started receiving salaries. As we speak, just over 6,500 have been paid, while nearly 7,000 of us have worked for close to 10 months without pay”.

      In response, the Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, urged the group to exercise patience, as the government has taken steps to address their displeasure.


      Addressing the aggrieved group on Thursday, October 2, the Minister disclosed that the government will include funds to settle their unpaid salaries in next year’s budget.


      On June 2, members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) withdrew from their posts over delays in their 2024 Collective Agreement.

      In response, the National Labour Commission (NLC) filed an ex parte application on Thursday, June 5. A 10-day injunction was placed on the nationwide strike after the Industrial and Labour Division of the High Court in Accra described the protest as illegal.


      The GRNMA disclosed that it had yet to formally receive a court order restraining its ongoing strike. Public Relations Officer of the GRNMA, Joseph Krampah, insisted that the group was proceeding with the strike until an official injunction notice was served.


      Health Minister Mintah Akandoh, on the matter, revealed that the government was unable to meet the conditions of service for the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), currently on strike, this year.


      Engaging the press, the sector minister announced that the conditions of service being requested to be implemented were not captured in the 2025 budget statement; hence, it will “completely throw the economy off gear if implemented in the manner it currently exists.”


      “We are mindful of the serious economic consequences of unbudgeted expenditure and want to avoid the economic slippages that have led to the hardship in the recent past,” the Health Minister revealed.


      The Minority in Parliament entreated the government to put in the necessary measures to ensure the strike action was called off.Dr Afriyie Ayew told the government to work towards providing the conditions of service worked on by the previous government.


      “It is our belief that governance is a continuous process regardless of which party is in government public servants are paid, collective bargaining rights which are agreed on remain their rights regardless of which government takes over after elections.”The nationwide strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) took a heavy toll on the delivery of healthcare services, with many lives being lost due to patients being stranded.


      The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) bemoaned the evident rise in mortality cases amid the ongoing strike by nurses and midwives in the country.


      General Secretary of MOWAG, Richard Kofi Jordan, noted that the death rate has increased by approximately 100% to 150% due to nurses not being at post.


      “Looking at the [number] of deaths compared to the past and now, the death toll has increased significantly, and it is not surprising because of the impact of the nurse’s absence. On average, where we are to record about 10 a day, we are recording about 20 to 25. This tells you that the absence of our nurses is becoming so severe,” he said.


      Making reference to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, he mentioned that “we know the average in Korle Bu, you can have about 50 this time. It has risen above that. Other facilities (like) KATH and all that, we are hearing it.”


      According to him, the nurses who are no longer at their posts were mitigating the daily death rate across medical facilities in Accra.

    24. NPP’s petition against me has no basis – Abronye DC

      NPP’s petition against me has no basis – Abronye DC

      Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, has reacted to petitions against him by some members of the party.
      Speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 30, Abronye stated, “I will say that the petition itself is frivolous. The petition has no basis.”

      On Tuesday, September 30, Abronye DC, was referred to the party’s National Disciplinary Committee over alleged misconduct. This was contained in a petition submitted by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong.


      According to the letter, Abronye DC is damaging the party’s image and unity, hence the recent development.“Unbecoming of a member” and “gravely detrimental to the image, unity, and integrity of the organisation.

      “Mr Baffoe is reported to have publicly insulted Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong, a distinguished member of the Party, with derogatory statements, including a claim that ‘even the elephant has more wisdom than Hon. Agyapong.’ Such remarks are unprintable, defamatory, and damaging to the reputation of Hon. Agyapong and the Party at large.


      “Mr Baffoe further alleged that the General Secretary deliberately concealed a report that purportedly implicated Hon. Agyapong as the destroyer of the Party and recommended his expulsion. These allegations are false, malicious, and injurious to the integrity of the Office of the General Secretary,” part of the letter read.


      The charges against Abronye DC include making derogatory remarks against the party’s flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, where he is said to have stated that ‘even the elephant has more wisdom than Hon. Agyapong.


      Additionally, Abronye DC has been accused of disclosing while manipulating the contents of a disciplinary committee report which investigated the factors behind the NPP’s lost in the 2024 elections. Although the report by the committee has been withheld from the general public.


      In a related development, the New Patriotic Party has directed petitions against Deputy Director of Communications, Ernest Owusu Bempah, to the National Council for consideration.
      This was announced in a statement released on Tuesday, September 24, after the party said it received several petitions from members demanding his removal from office over his conduct of “grave concern.”


      “The Party reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding discipline, safeguarding its values, and ensuring that all matters are handled with fairness and transparency,” the statement signed by the general secretary Justin Kodua indicated.

      The National Council is the highest decision-making body between congresses. Reacting to the petitions, Mr. Owusu-Bempah noted, “All the statements I have made have been about leadership. I said Kennedy Agyapong will deal with galamsey even if it involves his mother or sister. I did not insult anyone”.


      Meanwhile, a recent Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll has named former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general election against his closest contender, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      The other contenders, i.e., former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, secured 6%, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, polled 5%, while former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong, registered 3%.


      In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.


      The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.


      Among NPP delegates, Dr Bawumia remains firmly ahead with 47%, while Kennedy Agyapong trails with 17%. Dr Acheampong and Dr Adutwum received 3% and 1% respectively, with Kwabena Agyapong also at 1%. However, 27% of delegates remain undecided, and 4% declined to disclose their preference.


      In a runoff scenario within the delegates’ poll, Dr Bawumia commands 49%, compared to Kennedy Agyapong’s 19%, with 27% undecided and 5% declining to disclose.


      The vetting committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, September 23, assessed the former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and four other persons contesting to lead the party into the 2028 elections.


      The four others who have expressed interest in contesting, include Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe), Bryan Acheampong (Member of Parliament for Abetifi), former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong, and former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


      On Tuesday, July 29, the NPP opened nominations for its 2028 flagbearer position. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s 2024 flagbearer and former Vice President, Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyepong, and Dr. Osei Adutwum have all picked up nomination forms.


      Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26. Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27.


      Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum filed his nomination forms for the NPP flagbearer race on Thursday, August 28, 2025. In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.


      Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.


      In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise.


      According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.


      “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and all the people who were praying for the running mate slot; he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.


      “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate, but he ignored them. There are some names that, if I mentioned them, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me, but still he chose me.


      He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia”.


      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates who are eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.


      In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, which include nineteen new categories of people.


      This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19.
      The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of Party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming Presidential Primary voter register.”


      The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These are: all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.


      Other groups added to the list are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution.

      Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.


      The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to External Branch Executives for online registration.

      All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register. However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website. “The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website.

    25. Abronye DC cited for misconduct, referred to NPP Disciplinary Committee

      Abronye DC cited for misconduct, referred to NPP Disciplinary Committee

      The Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, has been referred to the party’s National Disciplinary Committee over alleged misconduct. This was contained in a petition submitted by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong. 

      According to the letter,  Abronye DC is damaging the party’s image and unity, hence the recent development.“Unbecoming of a member” and “gravely detrimental to the image, unity, and integrity of the organisation,” part of the letter read. 

      The charges against Abronye DC include making derogatory remarks against the party’s flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, where he is said to have stated that ‘even the elephant has more wisdom than Hon. Agyapong.

      Additionally, Abronye DC has been accused of disclosing while manipulating the contents of a disciplinary committee report which investigated the factors behind the NPP’s lost in the 2024 elections. Although the report by the committee has been withheld from the general public.

      In a related development, the New Patriotic Party has directed petitions against Deputy Director of Communications, Ernest Owusu Bempah, to the National Council for consideration. 

      This was announced in a statement released by on Tuesday September 24 after the party said it received several petitions from members demanding his removal from office over a conduct of “grave concern”

      “The Party reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding discipline, safeguarding its values, and ensuring that all matters are handled with fairness and transparency” the statement signed by the general secretary Justin Kodua indicated. The National Council is the highest decision-making body between congresses.

      Reacting to the petitions, Mr. Owusu-Bempah noted “All the statements I have made have been about leadership. I said Kennedy Agyapong will deal with galamsey even if it involves his mother or sister. I did not insult anyone”.

      Meanwhile, a recent Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll has named former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general election against his closest contender, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      The other contenders, i.e., former Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, secured 6%, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong, polled 5%, while former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong, registered 3%.

      In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also leads decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

      The survey further indicates that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

      Among NPP delegates, Dr Bawumia remains firmly ahead with 47%, while Kennedy Agyapong trails with 17%. Dr Acheampong and Dr Adutwum received 3% and 1% respectively, with Kwabena Agyapong also at 1%. However, 27% of delegates remain undecided, and 4% declined to disclose their preference.

      In a runoff scenario within the delegates’ poll, Dr Bawumia commands 49%, compared to Kennedy Agyapong’s 19%, with 27% undecided and 5% declining to disclose.

      The vetting committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, September 23, assessed the former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and four other persons contesting to lead the party into the 2028 elections.

      The four others who have expressed interest in contesting, include Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe), Bryan Acheampong (Member of Parliament for Abetifi), former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong, and former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

      On Tuesday, July 29, the NPP opened nominations for its 2028 flagbearer position. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s 2024 flagbearer and former Vice President, Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyepong, and Dr. Osei Adutwum have all picked up nomination forms.

      Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26. Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27.

      Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum filed his nomination forms for the NPP flagbearer race on Thursday, August 28, 2025.

      In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.

      Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.

      In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise.

      According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.

      “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and all the people who were praying for the running mate slot; he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.

      “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate, but he ignored them. There are some names that, if I mentioned them, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me, but still he chose me,” he remarked.

      He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia”.

      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates who are eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.

      In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, which include nineteen new categories of people.

      This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19.

      The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of Party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming Presidential Primary voter register.”

      The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These are: all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.

      Other groups added to the list are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution. Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.

      The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to External Branch Executives for online registration. All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register.

      However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website. “The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website. For ease of reference, a sample copy is hereby attached,” excerpts of the statement read. The statement further warned that the registration was strictly for the aforementioned categories of people, with a deadline set for Friday, September 19.

    26. NPP terribly failed its fight against galamsey – UTAG-KNUST President

      NPP terribly failed its fight against galamsey – UTAG-KNUST President

      The President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor Eric Avabare, has described the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as hypocritical over its recent interest in fighting illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.


      Taking to Facebook on Monday, September 22, Prof. Avabare criticised the NPP for failing to address the menace during its tenure, only to now pretend to show concern. However, he was quick to jab the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) for slacking in its efforts to implement sustainable measures against illegal mining. He added that both political parties had failed the nation.


      “I am surprised the NPP suddenly appears concerned about the galamsey menace, but they were terribly worse than the devil himself. They passed the mining law LI 2462, oversaw the building of chanfangs, and issued more mining licenses than all previous administrations combined since independence.


      “These two destructive parties have destroyed Ghana in a literal sense because they are clueless about what they are doing. I blame Ghanaians squarely for knowing what they know about these two parties and still queuing to vote for them, while drinking poisoned water,” he added.


      He concluded that President John Dramani Mahama is confronting the menace with excuses rather than showing work. “President JDM looked into the eyes of Ghanaians and told them they had short memories, and yet when he returned promising to solve galamsey, they voted for him again. Instead, he gave weak excuses for why he could not stop the destruction of water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands,” he wrote.


      The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Ghana chapter, earlier called for decisive action to end the devastating impact of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.


      Speaking to the media on Monday, September 15, Dr. Jerry Joe Harrison, General Secretary of UTAG-UG, warned that the growing menace could end the lives of citizens if the remain unchecked.


      “If we don’t do what we are supposed to do now, we will all die. The water situation is causing havoc in people’s homes. Many areas, including Kwanyako, don’t have access to clean water. People can’t even afford to buy water for their households,” he added.


      According to him, some citizens continue to consume water, which will eventually cause long-term health issues, such as cancers and neurological diseases.


      Democratic“People have had to consume these waters, and they are going to have cancers and neuro diseases by all means. Is that not an emergency enough for you?. So, what do you prefer — that we sit down for 5%, 10% of the population to begin to have visible neurological symptoms before we take action? No,” he added.


      Illegal mining activities continue to regress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.

      For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards.

      The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.


      The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.


      A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to confiscate unregistered mining equipment after the deadline.


      “The Government, as part of efforts to reform the mining sector in the country, requires that all machinery used in mining activities must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August 2025. Equipment that remains unregistered after this deadline will be confiscated by the State,” the Ministry stated on its website.


      Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of the new rule from August 2. “The Ghana Police Service and DVLA have been directed to enforce this directive from 2nd August 2025 onward rigorously. The general public, especially those who use mining machinery, is advised to take note and comply with the directive,” he wrote.


      The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.


      The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, issued the directive in Accra, warning that effective June 1, any excavator not registered with the DVLA will be confiscated.


      Speaking at a press briefing, Mr Kotey announced that the Ghana Police Service and the DVLA’s operational team commenced a nationwide enforcement after the deadline, arresting and impounding excavators being used at mining sites or for commercial purposes without proper documentation.


      “This exercise will help identify every excavator that enters the country and trace how it is being used. The goal is to ensure we can monitor and hold people accountable,” Mr Kotey said.


      The directive fell in line with Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers, including farm and heavy-duty equipment.


      Despite the law, the DVLA found many unregistered excavators operating in mining areas, some of which have been used in illegal activities. Mr Kotey emphasised that the DVLA, with its 34 offices nationwide, could register all excavators and farm machinery within two weeks and was ready to strictly enforce the directive.


      “Excavators in the hands of illegal miners have worsened the destruction of our environment. This is why we must act,” Mr Kotey said.

      To further control the situation, the DVLA, in collaboration with key agencies like the Minerals Commission, National Security, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), commenced tagging all newly imported excavators.


      In addition to tagging new imports, the Minerals Commission was tasked with leading a team to tag all excavators already in the country. Legal small-scale mining sites have also been geo-fenced, with their site coordinates integrated into the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking software for better oversight.


      The move is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining. Three months ago, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced the rollout of a system to monitor excavator imports and usage, involving port tagging and digital tracking in partnership with several state agencies.


      According to the sector minister. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion. In April, a total of 47 individuals were arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forests in the Western Region.

      This followed a special four-day intelligence-led operation that commenced on April 17, within the Samreboi enclave. According to the Ghana Police Service, the suspects include 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals.

      The Police indicated that a significant amount of equipment and materials believed to have been used for the mining operations were retrieved.

      These include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.


      Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.


      The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025. Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 suspects and the seizure of several pieces of mining equipment.


      The operations were executed by the Ghana Police Service through its Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force. The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.


      The task force extended its operation to Adeade, where three suspects—Prosper Quansah, Chrispin Nartey, and Owusu Gambra—were arrested with an excavator on a lowbed trailer.


      One SANY excavator, four unregistered Haojin motorbikes, and one lowbed vehicle with registration number GN 2136-24 were seized from the scene. All exhibits were secured in police custody.


      Some 12 accused persons standing trial for engaging in illegal mining activities at Tumetu near Princess Town in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region have been remanded into prison custody. While 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.


      This was due to a coordinated police intelligence-led operation within the Ahanta West Municipality. The accused persons are Lord Yankey, Caleb Adu Kwaw, Stephen Agyei, Ebenezer Barnes, Mathew Somagevi, Paa Grant, Bashiru Kaviru, Joseph Borney, Aminu Issah, Kofi Sogah, Albert Normah, and Robert Mensah.


      Four water pumping machines, one tricycle with registration number M-20-WR 1045, and two motorbikes were retrieved from the sites, according to the police.


      All twelve accused persons admitted to the offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.


      Also, fifteen individuals are in police custody for engaging in illegal mining activities at Manso Adubia. They were arrested following a special intelligence-led operation at Watreso and Preacher Krom.


      The suspects include Tahiru Ibrahim (24), Shaibu Idrissu (23), Boateng Emmanuel (27), Jamon Kwaku Samuel (21), Yaro Patrick (29), Kofi Boakye (21), Gubong Mathew (45), Fatawu Zackari Seidu (26), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).


      The others are Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), and Kwame Adutwum (24).


      Two excavator control boards, two automatic pump-action guns, two Musler 12 firearms, 59 BB cartridges, three AA cartridges, one water pumping machine, two power generators, one vulcanizing machine, and one Apsonic motorbike were seized from the site.

    27. Kufuor’s achievements and mine will win NPP victory in 2028 election – Akufo-Addo

      Kufuor’s achievements and mine will win NPP victory in 2028 election – Akufo-Addo

      Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed optimism about the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) comeback in 2028.

      Speaking at the commissioning of a newly constructed Bantama Constituency office of the NPP on Friday, September 19, he noted that achievements during his tenure and that of former President John Agyekum Kufuor will usher the party to victory in the 2028 general elections.


      He explained that the track record of development and governance under both his administration and Kufuor’s era is strong enough to convince Ghanaians to return the NPP to power in 2028.

      “The work the NPP did during my time and during former President Kufuor’s time is enormous, and it is that legacy we will build on to win back power in 2028. We have all seen what is happening you’ve all seen it. Things are not going well. But when we unite and do things right, I know that, with God’s help, we will reclaim power in 2028,” he added.

      Following the 2024 polls, the opposition party has gone into retrospection. A 12-member committee led by former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Mike Oquaye, investigated the factors behind the party’s failure.

      Although the report by the committee has been withheld from the general public, the General Secretary of the NPP, Justine Kodua, noted that the party’s downfall centered around its inability to focus on key projects in its strongholds, economic instability.

      Particularly, the worsening value of the cedi against major trading currencies, including the dollar arrogance displayed by previous government officials, internal conflict, among other issues. Meanwhile, the leadership of the NPP has directed its members to desist from discussing internal party matters on media platforms, citing Article 10(7)(5) of the NPP Constitution.

      But then Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, under the Akufo-Addo government, believes the way forward for the party is to correct its errors and seize opportunities to reclaim power from the National Democratic Congres (NDC) government. “I believe that, by the grace of God, if we are given another opportunity, we will get many things right because we have learnt the lessons of where we are going.”

       During an engagement in London on Monday, May 19, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ook responsibility for the government’s shortcomings and issued an apology to Ghanaians on behalf of his former ministers.

      Reacting to this, the former Education Minister and the party’s flagbearer aspirant insisted he has no reason to apologise to Ghanaians, arguing that he delivered on the mandate entrusted to him under the Akufo-Addo government.

      He believes the former Vice President failed Ghanaians in his leadership of the economy and therefore should be the one to render an apology, rather than involving individuals who delivered in their respective sectors.

      “I am not a part of the apology. I came to the education sector, and many have said that if every other minister had worked like me… If you are working, you will certainly not please everyone. However, as the vice president who led the economic management team, if he wants to apologize, he should focus on the failed economy under him.

      “In education, we did not fail the people of Ghana. Mo Ibrahim ranked us second. The people of Ghana are in awe of what I did in the sector. People see me and hail me for the work that I did for the sector, and so I owe no apology,” Yaw Adutwum stated.

      He added that the former Vice President must own up and apologize for his failures in the sector that he led, and not just issue apologies en bloc.

      In April, the 2024 running mate of the Movement for Change, Kwame Danso, criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the party’s “Thank You Tour” agenda. Kwame Danso urged the party to launch an apology tour in response to growing public frustration.

      In an interview with Nana Jantuah on Nhyira FM’s Kuro Yi Mu Nsem, Mr. Danso described the NPP’s nationwide tour as “tone-deaf” and “misplaced,” particularly at a time when, in his view, economic hardships and poor policy decisions had contributed to the party’s electoral defeat.

      “Instead of a ‘Thank You Tour,’ the NPP should embark on an apology tour to Ghanaians,” he declared.

      He pointed to controversial initiatives such as the Electronic Levy (E-levy), the betting tax, and the National Cathedral project as examples of missteps that have alienated the public and damaged the party’s credibility.

      “To regain appeal, the NPP should apologize for the introduction of the E-levy, betting tax, and the National Cathedral, in which they invested so much, just to dig a manhole for Ghanaians. Your ‘Thank You Tour’ lacks purpose without reconciliation with the people of Ghana,” he stressed.

      Mr. Danso also called on the party to reposition itself as a responsible opposition in the current political climate, advising it to contribute constructively to national discourse rather than remain defensive.

      “They should focus on offering constructive ideas rather than obstructing efforts aimed at national progress,” he said.

      The NPP sought to “break the eight” and extend its governance for another four years under the leadership of Dr. Bawumia, who received the support of then-President Nana Akufo-Addo.

      Dr. Bawumia contested against the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, and lost. At the end of the polls, the Electoral Commission (EC) declared that the NDC flagbearer polled 6,328,397 total valid votes, representing 56.55%, whereas Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia garnered 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

      Before the EC officially declared its results, the former vice president conceded defeat. The parliamentary election also saw the NPP fall drastically in terms of seats won. The NDC obtained an absolute majority in Parliament by securing 183 seats, while the NPP lost its majority, securing only 88 seats.

    28. Bono NPP Chairman Abronye reportedly detained by police

      Bono NPP Chairman Abronye reportedly detained by police

      The police has reportedly arrested the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye. Circumstances surrounding his arrest is yet to be made known.

      However, reports indicate that, on Sunday, September 8, armed police officers stormed the residence of former NPP Youth Organiser, Moses Abor, in search of Abronye.

      Last week, Abronye made headlines after he formally wrote to eight different countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, the United States, France, Italy, Canada, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Germany seeking for protection over his safety in Ghana.

      Defending his reason for seeking asylum, he added that “consistent, escalating political persecution, threats to my life, and systemic abuse of state security powers by the current Government of Ghana”.

      Abronye’s arrest comes days after the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) held into custody the presidential candidate and leader of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Akpaloo for  alleged financial misappropriation and other related misconduct.

      On Wednesday, September 3, Kofi Akpaloo was picked up at his residence in Kumasi by EOCO officials for interrogation. Mr Akpaloo vied for presidency in the 2024 general elections. Prior to the election, Akpaloo expressed strong confidence in his chances for a decisive win, predicting victory over major contenders. 

      However, he obtained 5,219 being 0.09%. Recently, EOCO has given much attention to investigating high-profile political figures and business leaders.

      The Economic and Organised Crime Office was established by the Economic and Organised Crime Office Act , 2010 (Act 804) as a specialized agency to monitor and investigate economic and organised crime and on the authority of the Attorney-General prosecute these offenses to recover the proceeds of crime and provide for related matters.

      The EOCO has similar mandates to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Recently, the OSP released a fifty-page report covering investigations and prosecutions carried out between January 1 and July 31 this year.

      The OSP’s Seventh Half-yearly Report is pursuant to Section 3(3) of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959). The document also outlines key developments in the Office’s operations.

      According to the OSP, despite resistance from powerful interests, it stayed focused on executing its mandate during this period. As such, the Office successfully progressed significant corruption-related investigations to the stage of court proceedings, while also initiating new inquiries into suspected acts of corruption.

      “Then again, the Office, as one of three implementing partners of the new National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Strategy and Implementing Plan, is fashioning and moulding anti-corruption structures that would stand the test of time. The task ahead remains formidable. Much more so is our resolve to perform.

      “This reporting period was characterised by intensification of the Office’s prosecutorial mandate. We advanced high-profile investigations to court and initiated bold inquiries into suspected corruption, often in the face of deep-seated resistance from entrenched interests.

      “Notwithstanding these expected challenges, the Office remains resolute and guided by the rule of law, fairness, firmness, evidence-based action, and the interest of the public. We recognise that the fight against corruption cannot be waged and won only through punitive action and incarceration,” parts of the report read.

      The legislative framework of the Office of the Special Prosecutor mandates the Authority to crack down on corruption, recover assets, and confiscate illicit property.

      “Indeed, the legislative set-up of the Office leans heavily on corruption-prevention and asset recovery and disgorgement of tainted property. Consequently, we proceed on sustainable anti-corruption outcomes by pairing enforcement with robust prevention and asset recovery, especially founded on our unique plea bargaining regime.

      In this spirit, the Office scaled up its preventive mandate through active engagement with public institutions, private sector actors, civil society- and secured convictions and asset recovery through impactful plea bargaining. We also reckon that the nation’s anti-corruption legal framework requires re-imagination, modernisation and retooling to address the immense scale and complexity of modern corruption in the context of our social, economic and political constructs.

      “On this score, the Office has proposed the inclusion of a new chapter in the Constitution dedicated to the fight against corruption through definitive constitutional expression by the institution of proposed concrete measures to effectively and comprehensively suppress and repress corruption in public life as well as in the private sector chief among which include lifestyle audit non-conviction-based asset recovery, enhanced asset declaration and verification regime, and reverse onus presumption of corruption as the foundation of both anti-corruption criminal proceedings and civil asset recovery proceedings,” parts of the report added.

      The Office is also leading the charge in respect of the passage of a comprehensive Corrupt Practices Act and Conduct of Public Officers Act.

      Currently, sixty-seven(67) cases are being handled by the Office, all of which are undergoing comprehensive review.

      The corruption cases being investigated by OSP include: Minerals Income Investment Fund, Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Education Service, National Commission on Culture, Ghana Revenue Authority/Tata Consulting Services, National Service Authority, Ministry of Health/Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, National Cathedral.

      The others are: Tema oil refinery and Tema Energy and Processing Limited and the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited, State lands, Stool lands, and other Vested lands, Illegal Mining, National Sports Authority, Customs Division of Ghana Revenue Authority, Bank of Ghana and Estate of Kwadwo Owusu-Afriyie, alias Sir John.

      It further hinted that “There were seven (7) convictions and one (1) acquittal in respect of the cases pending before the criminal courts during the period under review. The Office has filed an appeal in respect of the case in which the accused was acquitted.

      Additionally, one hundred and fifty-two (152) cases are at the preliminary investigation stage, with the OSP assuring that details will be made public once they progress to the next stage.

      The Office is also seized with one hundred and fifty-two (152) other cases at the preliminary investigation stage. These may be publicised if the Special Prosecutor determines that they are within the mandate of the Office and that they should be moved past the preliminary investigation stage.

      This is a policy intended to protect the privacy of individuals and the business operations of institutions and companies, and to avoid unnecessary stigmatization.

    29. First batch of Ghana’s envoys sworn in by President Mahama

      First batch of Ghana’s envoys sworn in by President Mahama

      The first batch of Ghana’s newly appointed envoys has been sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama. The induction ceremony was held at the Jubilee House on Thursday, September 4.

      The fifteen (15) of appointees sworn in today include; Benjamin A. Quashie will oversee the operations of Ghana’s diplomatic mission in the Republic of South Africa, while Kojo Bonsu takes charge of the People’s Republic of China. Kulsoume Sinare Baffoe will head affairs in the Kingdom of Spain.

       Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali will  the United Arab Emirates, Hon. Captain George Kofi Nfojoh in the Togolese Republic, and Grace El Mahmoud Marabe in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Prof. Ohene Adjei will head the mission in the Federal Republic of Germany, Abdul Nasiru-Deen in the Republic of Turkey.

      Theresah Adjei-Mensah in the Czech Republic, and Prof. Kwasi Obiri-Danso in India. Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, Ph.D., will serve in Canada, Dr. Margaret Miewien Chebere in Denmark, Labik Joseph Yaani in Equatorial Guinea, Nii Amasah Namoale in the Federative Republic of Brazil, and Dr. Felix Kumah Godwin Anebo in the Republic of Senegal.

      The remaining eight appointees are Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah, the Ambassador to the Republic of Namibia; Kojo Choi, Ambassador to the Republic of South Korea; Dr. Kwame Ampofo, who will represent Ghana in Hungary; Mona Helen Kabuki Quartey, who will serve as Ambassador to the Italian Republic; Magnus Kofi Amoatey, who has been appointed as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Kenneth Akibate, who is Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Said Sinare, who is Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Paul Evans Aidoo, who will head Ghana’s mission in the Republic of Kenya.

      The twenty-three individuals are expected to promote Ghana’s foreign policy and protect the welfare of Ghanaians overseas. Speaking at the induction ceremony for the 15 distinguished individuals, President Mahama noted that their “appointment is a mark of the confidence reposed in you and a recognition of your years of dedicated service, sterling achievement, and exemplary contributions both in the public and private sectors”.

      He urged the envoys to uphold transparency in carrying out their duties. Additionally, the President disclosed that taxpayers would no longer bear the cost of expensive properties rented by diplomatic missions abroad.

      According to him, the country cannot bear the cost of more than $15 million every year on renting properties for diplomatic missions.

      He called the practice wasteful and one that can no longer be tolerated under the ruling National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Reset Agenda.

      The President added that the Cabinet has given the nod to the government’s new initiative, Strategic Transition from Rental to Developing (STRIDE).

      The STRIDE policy is to reduce unnecessary losses the country absorbs on renting properties abroad for its diplomatic missions, hence, ensuring Ghana’s foreign missions are accommodated in state-owned properties. 

      “From my latest briefing, a transaction advisor has been appointed, standard developments are being prepared, and funding mechanisms are already being negotiated.This shift will ensure that our missions abroad are housed in proper homes owned by the republic, reducing wasteful expenditure while safeguarding Ghana’s dignity on the international stage.

      “Ghana cannot continue spending more than $15 million every year on renting properties abroad for our diplomatic use. This is not a judicious use of taxpayers’ resources, and the Reset Agenda is an immediate reversal of this trend,” he stated.

       On Monday, September 1, Ghana’s historic five hundred (500) Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for heads of missions was launched by President John Dramani Mahama. 

      The initiative is to provide heads of mission with a clear framework for assessing their work and supporting the President’s Reset Vision for the country.

      Delivering his keynote address, President Mahama stated that Ghana’s mission had advanced into paths of economic engagement, facilitating trade, attracting investment, and promoting innovation.

      Thus, he charged the heads of missions to promote investments in Ghana’s priority sectors, industrialization, renewable energy, digital services, agro-processing, infrastructure and tourism.

      “I charge you to expand our export markets, especially for value-added goods such as processed food, shea butter, textiles, crafts, and digital services. I charge you to move the life of our diaspora not only as remittance of money, but also as investors, innovators, and partners in Ghana’s development,” he said.

      The 500 KPIs cover areas such as securing scholarships and promoting exchange programmes with foreign institutions to build human capacity as well as increasing tourist arrivals by a least 10 per cent each year to create jobs and strengthen foreign reserves.

      They also require strict compliance with financial and procurement rules, enhancing national security through stronger intelligence sharing and partnerships with foreign agencies, navigating Permanent Joint Commissions for Cooperation (PJCC) with major partners, and shifting from renting office spaces to building permanent infrastructure to cut down rent costs.

      He stressed that the performance of the heads of missions will be judged not by ceremonial protocols, but by the level of investment, trade, and opportunities they can attract for the country.

      President Mahama explained that the Government’s Reset Agenda also focuses on governance, particularly restoring public trust through transparency and accountability.

      He added that as Ghana’s envoys abroad, the heads of mission are expected to reflect these principles, managing the nation’s missions with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism.

      “Our citizens abroad must experience fairness and respect, for our diplomacy’s credibility is inseparable from the credibility of our governments,” he added.

    30. Contractor working on Ofankor-Nsawam road project receives full payment from govt – Roads Minister

      Contractor working on Ofankor-Nsawam road project receives full payment from govt – Roads Minister

      The contractor tasked with the Ofankor-Nsawam road project has received all payments owed him, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, has disclosed.

      The Minister revealed this during an inspection tour of the project with President John Mahama on Wednesday, September 3. According to the Roads and Highways Minister, the government has fully met its financial obligations to the contractor, including all outstanding debts owed by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.


      “Your Excellency, when you assumed office, the majority of the road contractors were off-site because they raised certificates to the tune of over GHS30,000m were not paid, so they were not on site. Including the contractor working on this project.


      “You directed that we do whatever we can to make sure they return to the site. Genuinely, people who ply this corridor were going through a lot of difficulties, and you expressed clearly that it wasn’t what we wanted, and you directed that all resources should be mobilized to ensure the contractor is paid to continue the work.


      “Indeed, Mr President, at the time you took office, the contractor raised a certificate of almost $78m before NPP left power, and they did not pay him. So it was surprising that just after you took office, people were expecting that what they couldn’t do over that period, you would do it. Guess what, Mr President, you did it, as of today, every certificate owed to the contractor on this project has been paid entirely. So we don’t owe the contractor any amount on this project,” he added.


      Project Manager for the Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, Ing. Awuku Asare, while engaging the President, confirmed receiving a recent payment from the government.

      He assured that construction works on the project will be completed in June 2026, as 75% of the work has already been done.


      “With your support and that of the Minister, the contractor has received some funding, and for the past two weeks, we have been working tirelessly. The areas where we had some challenges, where we saw on social media, we are currently almost at the level of asphalt, and then after we will continue all the way to the end,” he noted.


      In response, President John Mahama has directed the contractor to meet the project deadline, stressing that no excuses will be accepted thereafter.


      The project contractor had earlier expressed pessimism about his outfit being able to complete the road project within nine (9) months. According to him, his team is confronted with several challenges that may necessitate a request for an extension of the completion deadline.


      Among the difficulties he highlighted, Ing. Awuku Asare explained that completing the interchange alone would likely take about seven months out of the proposed nine-month duration.

      According to him, by the seventh month, they might not have even “completed the top” of the interchange.

      “Within 2 or 23 weeks, you must be done with the basic maintenance. Yeah, we have up to May 2026 to complete it, and if there are any snags, they will definitely ask for an extension. And I’m telling you one snag—it’s going to take us about 7 months to complete the interchange.

      ‘But now, if the compensation is done and we are going to count another 3 months up to November, it means we are going to start from November. Then November to May is about 7 months; we wouldn’t have completed the top. Then we… so there will be a basis to ask for any extension if it comes like that…,” he noted.


      Another setback that may delay the completion of the project is the legal tussle with affected persons, some of whom have taken the government to court over their eviction, citing delays in compensation.


      “Talking about this compensation, we have to—there are some individuals who have sent us to court. In fact, they wanted to even put an injunction on the construction works. But we just had a letter from the engineer, who is the Highway Authority, that the court didn’t grant. So we can go ahead and do the demolitions and complete them,” he added.


      He further mentioned that the ongoing relocation of electricity cables, which were found in the right-of-way, remains another challenge that must be resolved before full-scale work can continue.


      “…So that challenge is there. There are also some electricity lines and water lines in the right-of-way. They have all encroached on the right-of-way, and it shouldn’t have happened like that,” he continued.


      In July this year, Parliament unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to divert all royalties from oil revenues and mineral resources to support the implementation of the Big Push Programme.

      This decision followed a request by the government for parliamentary approval to commit funds for the construction of specific road projects.


      According to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance, “The Committee has carefully considered the Referral, and it thinks that the request is in the right direction. The Committee also noted that Parliament had already approved the policy and the allocation to the ‘Big Push’ Programme in the 2025 Budget Statement. Granting the request would enable the Government to enter into multi-year contracts to execute the road infrastructure projects under the Programme.”


      “The Committee accordingly recommends to the House to approve the Request for the multi-year commitments for the selected road projects under the ‘Big Push’ Programme contained in the Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government of Ghana, under Section 33 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016, (Act 921).”


      The initiative, aimed at improving road infrastructure nationwide, is estimated at GH¢13.8 billion. It is expected to be completed by 2028 with support from the country’s financial resources.

      According to the 2025 budget, the Road Fund owes GH¢5.75 billion, with GH¢2.81 billion allocated for road maintenance. This represents a 155.5% increase from the 2024 allocation of GH¢1.1 billion, underscoring the government’s emphasis on sustaining Ghana’s road network.


      With Ghana’s economy valued at GH¢1.2 trillion, stakeholders are closely monitoring how the government balances infrastructure expansion with financial obligations. Earlier this year, Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza revealed that the government would settle GH¢4 billion of the debt owed to road contractors.


      Currently, the government owes road contractors GH¢21 billion, according to the Minister. President John Dramani Mahama has also announced plans to begin paying part of this debt within the month.


      “The Ministry of Finance has made dedicated financial allocations to address a substantial portion of the outstanding debts. We expect this to bring much-needed relief to the contractors and help accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure,” the President stated.


      Construction works on the stalled Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project resumed in August this year after several months of halt. Work resumed after the government released GH¢809 million on August 4, 2025, enabling the contractor to return to the site and fully mobilize.

    31. Akwatia by-election: NPP executive slapped by NDC vice chairman’s aide amid heated scuffle

      Akwatia by-election: NPP executive slapped by NDC vice chairman’s aide amid heated scuffle

      The third National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alhaji Osman Masawudu, has been slapped following an intense confrontation with the aide of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka.

      The incident occurred today, Tuesday, September 2, during the ongoing by-election at Akwatia, Eastern Region.

      Alhaji Osman Masawudu has reported that the scuffle began while he was monitoring the ongoing election, specifically at the Akwatia Zongo area.

      According to him, before the incident, the National Democratic Congress’s Vice Chairman’s aide had threatened to cane him.

      “I have been assigned to supervise and monitor the election at Akwatia Zongo. In fact, I was granting an interview when a national vice chairman of the NDC, Azorka — because of ignorance — came straight to where I was granting an interview to attack me.

      “This incident happened in the presence of the police. He said it clearly that today he will make sure that I will be caned here, myself and Afenyo-Markin,” Masawudu recounted.

      However, police personnel present at the scene managed to restore calm.

      Earlier today, a video circulating showed an individual being carried into a police van after he was arrested by the police for reportedly destroying a poster of a contestant in the Akwatia by-election.

      More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.

      Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.

      The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

      However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

      He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.

      Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

      Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.

      He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.

      “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.

      Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.

      Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.

      Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.

      This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

      NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

      Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

      In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

      The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today.

      The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

      The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

      He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved.

      A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

      “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.

      Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.

      According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”

      In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.

      On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.

      A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.

      Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.

      Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they would intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.

      The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.

      Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia.

      We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

      The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.

      “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

    32. Akwatia by-election: Police arrest one for causing chaos 

      Akwatia by-election: Police arrest one for causing chaos 

      One person has been arrested by the police for reportedly destroying a poster of a contestant in the Akwatia by-election, currently underway in the Eastern Region.

      The police’s swift intervention has ensured that the incident does not cause any disruption.

      More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.


      Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.


      The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.


      However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.


      He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.


      Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.


      Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.


      He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.


      “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.


      Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.


      Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.


      Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.


      This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.


      NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.


      Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.


      In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.


      The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today.

      The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

      The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

      He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved.

      A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

      “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.


      Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.


      According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”


      In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.


      On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.


      A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.


      Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.


      Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they would intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.


      The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.


      Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia.

      We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.


      The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.


      “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

    33. Peace agreement stalls as NDC, NPP allegedly hold back ahead of Akwatia by-election

      Peace agreement stalls as NDC, NPP allegedly hold back ahead of Akwatia by-election

      The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.

      This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

      NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

      Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

      The Akwatia by-election is slated for Tuesday, September 2. The election has become a necessity following the tragic passing of the Member of Parliament for the area, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who had only served for six months.

      Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the upcoming by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.

      Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.

      Following the disturbance and violence that erupted during the Ablekuma North by-elections, police have beefed up efforts to prevent a similar occurrence at Akwatia.

      “I want to appeal to the people of Akwatia that the presence of the security and the Electoral Commission is to ensure that the election is incident-free and peaceful because of the history of past incidents in Akwatia. No one should be afraid to come out and vote. Do not be intimidated at all,” he emphasised.

      In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons, confiscating nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

      The firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun.

      This was announced in a statement shared on their official Facebook page earlier today. They revealed that “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process”.

      The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle being driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia.

      Following a search, of the vehicle, they found a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks.

      Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license. He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification.

      Also, the statement continued that another operation led to the discovery of 15 live cartridges from another suspect, Joshua Amenuku. A latter search at his residence led to the discovery of a gun and more live catridges.

      “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one ADLER TULPA pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges” the police added.

      They also revealed that “later that evening, Police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pick-up at the Boadua Livingstone snap check point and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu, and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after four live BB cartridges were retrieved from the vehicle.

      “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations,” the statement said.

      The police continued that “Four live BB cartridges were retrieved from the vehicle. Preliminary checks linked the ammunition to their employer, identified as Mohammed, owner of the vehicle. Police are pursuing him for questioning while the two suspects remain in custody.

      In another operation on Friday, August 23, “Police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap check point again arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph, after retrieving one (1) ADLER TULPAR pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm”.

      On the same day, the police “officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua, intercepted a Toyota Tundra pick-up with registration no WR 5535-13 from the Asamankese direction towards Boadua. A search conducted in the Tundra pick up revealed the three pump-action guns, including (1) Pardus pump-action gun, one (1) Hulglu Atroe pump-action and one (1) other pump-action gun. Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the pump-action guns and stated that the third pump-action gun belongs to his chief. Meanwhile, suspect Stephen Nkansah has been arrested and detained for investigation”.

      Following such successful operations, the Police assured the public and all other stakeholders that, it will intensify operations to ensure the sanity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the elections.

      Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has noted that his outfit will stay alert and avert any form of misconduct and electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election slated for Tuesday, September 2.

      Engaging the media, the IGP noted that his officers are up to the task.

      “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police is ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia. We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation and then our eyes are red for Akwatia and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

      IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno cautioned the political parties participating in the by-election against marching men to the polling stations to distrupt the electoral process.

      “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he explained.

      has noted that individuals who attempt to cause any form of violence during the Akwatia by-election will be quickly whisked away by police personnel to face the full rigor of the law.

      According to the police, a mobile prison will be set up to detain suspects. The IGP made this information known to the media during the final day of a five-day intensive training at the High Risk Operations Training Centre (HROT-C) at Akyeremanteng in the Eastern Region.

      “There is no fear for Akwatia, this will be one of the best and peaceful elections because we are fully prepared. If you come quietly to vote, we will receive you quietly, if you have any intention of causing trouble, we will not allow you to go free, we will change your location. We will house you in different forms, before your trouble goes far.”

      “Under no circumstances will someone come to the polling station to create a problem, and we will allow the person to go free,” the IGP said.

      The training included tactical drills such as rappelling, precision shooting, handcuffing, vehicle stop and search, crowd control, and human rights considerations. Over 5,000 police personnel are expected to be deployed to Akwatia for the by-election.

      On 12th August 2025, the IGP and his team held a meeting with the Electoral Commission (EC) to discuss the broader roadmap for the polls. The discussions centered on coordination between the Police and the EC to ensure smooth operations before, during, and after the election. The EC also outlined its operational roadmap for the conduct of the by-election.

      Similarly, on 13th August 2025, the Police engaged the Institute of Democratic Governance (IDEG) at the National Police Headquarters. At the meeting, IDEG highlighted concerns related to electoral security, transparency, and the role of stakeholders in sustaining public confidence in the process.

    34. Kennedy Agyapong to submit nomination forms for NPP primaries on Wednesday

      Kennedy Agyapong to submit nomination forms for NPP primaries on Wednesday

      Executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are expected to receive the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, for the party’s 2026 presidential primaries on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.

      This was disclosed by the Nhyiaeso MP and a key member of Kennedy Agyapong’s campaign team, Stephen Amoah, on Monday, August 25.


      According to him, Kennedy Agyapong will lead the team to meet the executives at the party’s headquarters in Accra.

      Several prominent party figures have already publicly signalled their intent to contest, including Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe), Bryan Acheampong (Member of Parliament for Abetifi), and former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong.

      The NPP on Tuesday, July 29, opened nominations for its 2028 flagbearer position. Aspirants will pay a whopping amount of GHC100,000 for nomination forms and GHC500,000 as filing fee.

      “Any member of the party wishing to apply for nomination as the party’s presidential candidate will obtain the nomination forms after paying a non-refundable Nomination Fee of One Hundred Thousand Cedis (GHc100,000) in Banker’s Draft in favour of the NEW PATRIOTIC PARTY HEADQUARTERS, ACCRA.

      “The filing fee for the presidential nomination is five hundred thousand Ghana Cedis (GHc500,000) to be paid in banker’s draft in favour of the NEW PATRIOTIC PARTY NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, ACCRA,” a part of the party’s statement signed by General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, read.

      Nomination forms may be obtained from the Office of the General Secretary at the Party Headquarters, Asylum Down, from now to August 28. An aspiring presidential candidate shall be required to pay a development fee as determined by the National Council.

      This comes after the opposition party officially released its presidential primaries timetable on Friday, July 25, following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra. The statement informed interested candidates to pick up their forms by Tuesday. It also noted that by August 28, all forms should have been submitted, as the party is expected to move into the vetting mode by September, approximately a month after they close the flagbearer nomination.

      “Nominations will be opened on July 29, 2025, for all persons interested in contesting for the flagbearer to pick their forms. Vetting will be conducted from September 15 to 22, and the election to choose our flagbearer will be held on January 31, 2026.”

      The National Executive Committee has urged both candidates and supporters to uphold the tenets of the party to uphold peace and harmony. “All aspirants and their supporters are reminded to uphold the values of the party and refrain from divisive conduct during the campaign period.”

      Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former vice president and the NPP’s flagbearer in the 2024 election, is widely considered the frontrunner, followed by the former Assin North Member of Parliament and Kennedy Agyapong, a former contender for the flagbearer primaries.

      The former vice president has already declared his intention to run again. His popularity among the party’s grassroots is strong, and recent endorsements have added momentum to his campaign.

      The earlier-than-usual opening of nominations for the flagbearer position, according to the party, forms part of their restructuring and strategic measures taken to ensure transparency and discipline in the selection process, as well as give ample time to the flagbearer to engage members, stakeholders, and other members of the international community to set the required tone for the 2028 elections.

      The nominations’ opening comes about six months ahead of the party’s presidential primaries, scheduled for January 31, 2026. Ahead of the 2016 general elections, the NPP opened nominations in March 2014 and held flagbearer elections on October 18, 2024, marking 25 months ahead of the elections.

      However, in 2025, they have declared nomination openings in July and a primary set for January 2026, which is about 35 months ahead of the presidential elections. According to the party’s constitution, it is required that at least six months’ notice be given ahead of the primaries.

      The NPP’s presidential race is expected to be an intense one this time around. Kennedy Agyapong’s position as the strongest contender for Dr. Bawumia has been complemented by a recent survey conducted by Sanity Africa, a Pan-African civil society organisation, between April and June 2025, which showed Kennedy Agyapong leading with 51.4% delegate support, ahead of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who had 42.2%.

      Ahead of the flagbearership race, Ken Agyapong has received prophecies about his victory. Ahead of last two years’ presidential primaries, the four candidates—Dr. Bawumia, Kennedy Agyapong, former Food and Agricutlure Minister Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie, and former Member of Parliament for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh, who vied for the flagbearer position, signed an agreement stating that following the primaries, “candidates will accept election primary results, promote peace and cohesion.”

      In the NPP’s previous presidential primaries in November 2023, Dr. Bawumia secured 61.47% of the total votes from nearly 200,000 NPP delegates, emerging as the victor, while Ken Agyapong secured about 37.41%. Dr Bawumia held a meeting with his closest contender at his residence in Accra.

      After being announced as the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate, Kennedy Agyapong threw his support for Dr Bawumia. “So, party members we should put everything behind us, and let’s unite this party…, I believe we can break the eight, and that’s what I’ve been preaching,” Kennedy Agyapong said.

      Dr Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election. John Dramani Mahama, who ran on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), bagged 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia secured 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

      Meanwhile, ahead of the pending flagbearership race, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has received backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who visited him in June to pledge their support.

      “Following extensive consultations with all aspirants, and after a thorough assessment of their vision, competence, and commitment to the NPP’s progress, we are convinced beyond any doubt that Dr. Bawumia is the best candidate to lead the NPP to victory in 2028,” the MMDCEs said in their statement after the engagement.

      “Our endorsement is not merely symbolic; it is a strategic and operational commitment. With 95% of us having previously served as constituency and regional executives—some for over 16 years—we possess an intimate understanding of the NPP’s structures, dynamics, and electoral needs. We will deploy this experience to ensure Dr. Bawumia’s message resonates in every corner of Ghana,” they added.

      Also, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia on June 19 received 60 Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who announced their endorsement of his bid for the party’s flagbearership position. The delegation ended up having an in-camera meeting with the 2024 flagbearer.

      The delegation included former Finance Minister Mohammed Amin Adam; Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah; Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Sammi Awuku; Techiman South legislator Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah; Habib Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament for Tolon; Member of Parliament for Assin South, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, and Nana Adjei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South.

    35. 3 Wontumi-owned radio stations suspended by NCA over regulation breach

      3 Wontumi-owned radio stations suspended by NCA over regulation breach

      Three radio stations owned by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, and six others have been directed by the National Communications Authority (NCA) to halt operations.

      Their suspension was enforced under Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), which prevents the operation without a valid Certificate of Compliance.

      In a press release by the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Authority explained that the affected radio stations, 95.9 FM in Accra, 101.3 FM in Kumasi, and 101.3 FM in Takoradi under the Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited, breached broadcasting regulations.

      According to the Authority, it served a 30-day grace period to the affected radio stations following an order by President John Dramani Mahama; however, the stations failed to adhere to the directive.

      “The National Communications Authority (NCA) has suspended the operations of nine (9) radio stations for various infractions. This action follows the expiration of the 30-day grace period granted by the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for defaulting stations to remedy the violation of the laws and regulations governing FM radio broadcasting in Ghana

      “Six (6) stations failed, refused, and neglected to comply with the regulatory amnesty by taking no action. Consequently, the operations of the following stations have been suspended; Donplus Multimedia Limited; Dreams Ghana Media Limited, Jam Multimedia Limited, Jewel Group Limited, Unique Gateway Communication Limited and Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited.

      “Whereas many of the violating stations took steps to remedy breaches during the amnesty period, three (3) stations failed to remedy some of the breaches including unauthorised use of Studio-to-Transmitter Link (STL) frequencies and unapproved transmitter locations. Consequently, the operations of the following stations have been suspended for operating without a Certificate of Compliance in violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011, L.I. 1991,” parts of the release read.

      Meanwhile, six other radio stations have been shut down in the same regard. The Authority has assured the general public that it remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector. 

      The NCA warned that failure to comply with its recent directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM broadcasting with grave consequences for their authorizations.

      On the other hand, in a letter dated August 12, Wontumi Multimedia insisted that it has met all regulatory requirements.  According to Wontumi Multimedia, “We settled the outstanding regulatory and spectrum fees amounting to Twenty- Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Thirty Ghana Cedis (GHC 22,330.00).

      “We invited the NCA for another inspection, which we facilitated as per the stipulated timeline. Given that all the issues highlighted in your previous letters have been addressed, we are currently working with our legal representatives to ensure that all matters related to our operations are handled appropriately.

      Earlier this month, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George revealed that a majority of the radio stations that were provided amnesty to meet regulatory requirements after being shut down have begun regularizing their paperwork.

      Providing an update to the public as part of the Government Accountability Series on August 1, the minister revealed that 58 out of the 64 radio stations are correcting their wrongs.

      “About five weeks ago, the ministry issued a directive to the NCA to shut down 64 radio stations. The President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama intervened and requested amnesty, which we granted—a 30-day amnesty.

      Of the 64 radio stations, 58 of them have written to the NCA and started the process of regularising their paperwork,” he said. He, however, noted that the 64 stations were just the first batch of the radio stations that were not complying with the laws.

      “However, you’d recall that I indicated that the total number of radio stations in default was 210. The 64 was just not one phase. We expect that the public sensitization with the first batch of 64 would have compelled the others to have taken steps to rectify their anomaly.”

      As such, the sector minister noted that “for all those who have failed to take any step, there will be no further public announcement on it. There will be simply enforcement in order to protect the public resource.”

      President John Dramani Mahama in June directed the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation to liaise with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately restore the broadcast of sixty-four (64) radio stations affected by the regulator’s action.

      The National Communications Authority (NCA) ordered a total of 62 FM broadcasting stations to immediately suspend operations on their respective frequencies due to persistent violations of regulatory requirements.

      The non-compliant stations violated Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991) and the Conditions of their FM Broadcasting Authorisations. In a statement by the Presidency on June 12, it was revealed that President Mahama is of the opinion that regulatory compliance must take into account the need to uphold and enhance media freedom.

      Per the statement, “requiring radio stations to shut down while awaiting the regularisation of their authorisation could limit the space for expressing such freedoms.”

      The President thus requested the sector minister to work with the NCA on a reasonable timeframe within which the affected stations should regularise their authorisation. The Ministry for Communications complied with the directive.

      Founder of Asaase Radio, Mr Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko confirmed the suspended operations of his radio station. In a post on X, Mr Otchere-Darko revealed that his uniform was supposed to renew its licence in October last year but only did so in December. Asaase Radio was set to commemorate its 5th anniversary on Saturday, June 14.

      “Yes, it’s true. Asaase Radio 99.5, which celebrates its 5th anniversary Saturday, has been shut down. The General Manager informs me it’s because the station delayed in renewing its licence last year. It was to be renewed by October but only done in December 2024,” Gabby Otchere-Darko wrote on X.

      In response, the Communications Minister Sam Nartey George entreated Mr Otchere-Darko to take advantage of the 30-days clemency the President has given and act according to what the law states. “The action by the NCA is in conformance with law. It is imperative we all respect the laws and act accordingly. Those affected are advised to take advantage of the 30-days clemency the President has given. For God and Country.”

      Per a statement issued by NCA, its action followed a directive issued by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, mandating the authority to enforce applicable sanctions on stations found to be in violation of the regulations in the recent audit conducted to ensure full compliance with licensing and operational requirements in the broadcasting sector.

      The NCA thus commenced enforcement of regulatory sanctions against the defaulting entities identified in the Frequency Audit Report in phases. The categorisation of infractions under the first phase includes 28 stations operating with expired authorizations.

      Some of these stations were ordered by the NCA in 2024 to cease broadcasting but have persisted in the illegality. This represents a violation of Section 2 (4) of the Electronic Communications Act. 2008 (Act 775).

      Also, 14 FM stations that were issued Notices of Revocation for failure to set up within two (2) years from the date of their Authorizations subsequently requested inspection, but the process has not been completed due to various lapses they have to rectify but are still on air. These stations are in violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011. LI. 1991.

      Thirteen (13) FM stations that applied for authorization to continue operating and have been issued provisional authorization but have not settled the provisional authorization fees in full and hence do not have the valid authorization to continue operating.

      This represents a violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). The NCA noted that it acknowledges the vital role radio stations play in national development; however, it is imperative that all authorization holders strictly adhere to the regulatory requirements and conditions of their authorizations.

      The Authority assured the general public that it remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector.

      In February this year, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, ordered the closure of seven radio stations across the country for failing to comply with broadcasting regulations and national security requirements.

      Fire Group of Companies, I-Zar Consult Limited, Abochannel Media Group, Okyeame Radio Limited, Mumen Bono Foundation, and Osikani Community FM—were operating without valid frequency authorizations, while one, Gumah FM in Bawku, was closed on security grounds.

      Announcing the decision in a Facebook post on Tuesday, February 18, the minister emphasized the need for strict enforcement of media regulations to ensure responsible broadcasting.

      The move sparked discussions on media freedom and regulation, with some welcoming the enforcement of broadcasting standards, while others questioned the potential impact on press freedom.

      The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) highlighted the unconstitutionality of shutting down the radio stations without consulting major stakeholders such as the independent National Media Commission (NMC). The Minority in Parliament then demanded that the Minister must appear before the House to provide clarity over the matter, but the Majority objected.

    36. Ken Agyapong picks nomination form for NPP flagbearer race

      Ken Agyapong picks nomination form for NPP flagbearer race


      Former Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has begun the process to contest in the 2026 New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearership race. On Tuesday, August 5, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong officially picked up nomination forms to contest the party’s primary elections.

      This information was made known by a spokesperson for his campaign team, Kwasi Kwarteng, in a Facebook post. “Hon. Ken Ohene Agyapong has officially picked nomination forms to contest in the 2026 NPP Flagbearership race,” he wrote.

      In June, the former Member of Parliament for Assin Central declared his intention to compete in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries ahead of the 2028 general election.

      He made this known in a press release on Monday, July 29, where he emphasized, “Now that nominations have been opened, I will be contesting for the New Patriotic Party’s 2028 Presidential Primaries.”

      He extended appreciation for the love and endorsement over the years, particularly to those who have offered to assist him in succeeding in his political ambition.

      “This afternoon, I called into my television and radio stations: Net2 TV and Oman FM to officially announce that, now that nominations have been opened, I will be contesting for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Presidential Primaries.

      “What brings me the greatest joy is the overwhelming love and support pouring in from every corner of the country. It’s not just from within our party, but across age groups and sectors, young people, professionals and even Members of Parliament. Many have reached out, offering to personally cover the cost of my nomination forms.

      “This is not just my journey; it is our collective mission. Together, we will rise above partisanship, unite across regions, and build a Ghana where every citizen, young or old, rich or poor, has a fair shot success. I am ready to listen to you and lead with integrity and purpose. Let us move forward together,” parts of the release read.

      The NPP on Tuesday, July 29, opened nominations for its 2028 flagbearer position. Aspirants will pay a whopping amount of GHC100,000 for nomination forms and GHC500,000 as filing fee.

      “Any member of the party wishing to apply for nomination as the party’s presidential candidate will obtain the nomination forms after paying a non-refundable Nomination Fee of One Hundred Thousand Cedis (GHc100,000) in Banker’s Draft in favour of the NEW PATRIOTIC PARTY HEADQUARTERS, ACCRA.

      “The filing fee for the presidential nomination is five hundred thousand Ghana Cedis (GHc500,000) to be paid in banker’s draft in favour of the NEW PATRIOTIC PARTY NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, ACCRA,” a part of the party’s statement signed by General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, read.

      Nomination forms may be obtained from the Office of the General Secretary at the Party Headquarters, Asylum Down, from now to August 28. An aspiring presidential candidate shall be required to pay a development fee as determined by the National Council.

      This comes after the opposition party officially released its presidential primaries timetable on Friday, July 25, following a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra.

      The statement informed interested candidates to pick up their forms by Tuesday. It also noted that by August 28, all forms should have been submitted, as the party is expected to move into the vetting mode by September, approximately a month after they close the flagbearer nomination.

      “Nominations will be opened on July 29, 2025, for all persons interested in contesting for the flagbearer to pick their forms. Vetting will be conducted from September 15 to 22, and the election to choose our flagbearer will be held on January 31, 2026.”

      The National Executive Committee has urged both candidates and supporters to uphold the tenets of the party to uphold peace and harmony. “All aspirants and their supporters are reminded to uphold the values of the party and refrain from divisive conduct during the campaign period.”

      Meanwhile, several prominent party figures have already publicly signaled their intent to contest, including Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe), Bryan Acheampong (Member of Parliament for Abetifi), Kennedy Agyapong (former Member of Parliament for Assin Central), and former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong.

      Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former vice president and the NPP’s flagbearer in the 2024 election, is widely considered the frontrunner, followed by the former Assin North Member of Parliament and Kennedy Agyapong, a former contender for the flagbearer primaries.

      The former vice president has already declared his intention to run again. His popularity among the party’s grassroots is strong, and recent endorsements have added momentum to his campaign.

      The earlier-than-usual opening of nominations for the flagbearer position, according to the party, forms part of their restructuring and strategic measures taken to ensure transparency and discipline in the selection process, as well as give ample time to the flagbearer to engage members, stakeholders, and other members of the international community to set the required tone for the 2028 elections.

      The nominations’ opening comes about six months ahead of the party’s presidential primaries, scheduled for January 31, 2026. Ahead of the 2016 general elections, the NPP opened nominations in March 2014 and held flagbearer elections on October 18, 2014, marking 25 months ahead of the elections.

      However, in 2025, they declared nomination openings in July and a primary set for January 2026, which is about 35 months ahead of the presidential elections. According to the party’s constitution, it is required that at least six months’ notice be given ahead of the primaries.

      The NPP’s presidential race is expected to be an intense one this time around. Kennedy Agyapong’s position as the strongest contender for Dr. Bawumia has been complemented by a recent survey conducted by Sanity Africa, a Pan-African civil society organisation, between April and June 2025, which showed Kennedy Agyapong leading with 51.4% delegate support, ahead of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who had 42.2%.

      Ahead of the flagbearership race, Ken Agyapong has received prophecies about his victory. Ahead of the last two years’ presidential primaries, the four candidates—Dr. Bawumia, Kennedy Agyapong, former Food and Agriculture Minister Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie, and former Member of Parliament for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh, who vied for the flagbearer position—signed an agreement stating that following the primaries, “candidates will accept election primary results, promote peace and cohesion.”

      In the NPP’s previous presidential primaries in November 2023, Dr. Bawumia secured 61.47% of the total votes from nearly 200,000 NPP delegates, emerging as the victor, while Ken Agyapong secured about 37.41%. Dr. Bawumia held a meeting with his closest contender at his residence in Accra.

      After being announced as the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate, Kennedy Agyapong threw his support for Dr. Bawumia. “So, party members we should put everything behind us, and let’s unite this party…, I believe we can break the eight, and that’s what I’ve been preaching,” Kennedy Agyapong said.

      Dr. Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election. John Dramani Mahama, who ran on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), bagged 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia secured 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

      Meanwhile, ahead of the pending flagbearership race, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who visited him in June to pledge their support.

      “Following extensive consultations with all aspirants, and after a thorough assessment of their vision, competence, and commitment to the NPP’s progress, we are convinced beyond any doubt that Dr. Bawumia is the best candidate to lead the NPP to victory in 2028,” the MMDCEs said in their statement after the engagement.

      “Our endorsement is not merely symbolic; it is a strategic and operational commitment. With 95% of us having previously served as constituency and regional executives—some for over 16 years—we possess an intimate understanding of the NPP’s structures, dynamics, and electoral needs. We will deploy this experience to ensure Dr. Bawumia’s message resonates in every corner of Ghana,” they added.

      Also, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on June 19 received 60 Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who announced their endorsement of his bid for the party’s flagbearership position. The delegation ended up having an in-camera meeting with the 2024 flagbearer.

      The delegation included former Finance Minister Mohammed Amin Adam; Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah; Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Sammi Awuku; Techiman South legislator Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah; Habib Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament for Tolon; Member of Parliament for Assin South, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, and Nana Adjei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South.