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Tag: NPP

  • 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.

  • 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%.

  • 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.

  • 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.”

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • NPP primaries will be a tough battle; I have grassroots support – Kwabena Agyepong

    NPP primaries will be a tough battle; I have grassroots support – Kwabena Agyepong

    Former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, has admitted that contesting the opposition party’s presidential primaries will be a difficult race.


    While engaging the press on Tuesday, July 29, he justified his remarks by citing former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as an individual who has gained recognition for more than 16 years, with massive support from party members.


    “It’s going to be tough. I’m not making any bones about it. One of my competitors has been a vice president; he’s been at the top for 16 years, and he enjoys significant visibility and name recognition. I’ve been out of the picture for 10 years, but the kind of support I’m getting from the party’s grassroots is strong,” he stated.


    However, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong believes that grassroots support and his 10 years of experience will win the confidence of delegates, adding, “They remember I was one of the young men who helped build this party from scratch. Mind you, I’m the only one among the aspirants who has been elected as General Secretary.”

    Several prominent party figures have already publicly signaled their intent to contest, including former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum; Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong; and former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong.


    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, National Democratic Congress (NDC), 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 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 behind 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.


    “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,” the MMDCEs said in their statement after the engagement.


    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.

  • Kwabena Agyepong declares third bid in NPP flagbearer race

    Kwabena Agyepong declares third bid in NPP flagbearer race

    Former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, is set to join other aspirants for the party’s Presidential primary race.


    This will mark his third shot at the NPP’s race. He made his intentions known while speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, July 29.


    “A pair of clean hands, a clear mind, and a compassionate heart, let us not weigh down this party any further with a choice that will require continuous reconciliation and healing. With me, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, we chart a path to unity and genuine renewal,” he said.

    Several prominent party figures have already publicly signaled their intent to contest, including former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Member of Parliament for Abetifi, Bryan Acheampong and former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong.

    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.

  • Kennedy Agyapong announces intention to contest NPP Presidential race

    Kennedy Agyapong announces intention to contest NPP Presidential race

    Former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has declared his intention to compete the New Patriotic Party (NPP’s) presidential primaries ahead of the 2028 general election.


    He made this known in a press release on Monday, July 29, where he emphasised, “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, 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 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), 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, 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.

  • NPP delegates endorse proposal to replace party executives in public office

    NPP delegates endorse proposal to replace party executives in public office

    Delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have endorsed a motion that seeks to require party executives who have accepted public appointments to step down from party roles.

    Motion ten states “amend articles 7(10) & 9(7) of the Constitution to prevent Party Officers who get appointed into government from continuing to hold their offices”.

    The motion includes fifty-four out of fifty-six motions approved on Saturday, July 19, during the National Delegates Conference held at the University of Ghana Stadium.

    The Motions presented by the National Council of Elders focus on several proposed amendments to the party’s constitution aimed at addressing the root causes of its 2024 electoral defeat.

    Motions 17 and 54 were rejected; 17 proposed taking election supervision rights from constituency officers to regional leaders, thus allowing them to appoint neutral supervisors instead.

    While Motion 54 recommended a youth role be given to individuals aged 35 years or younger, rather than 40 years.

    The NPP’s defeat in the December 2024 polls saw its flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, lose to former president John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The NDC secured 56.55% of the popular vote and a commanding 184 out of 276 parliamentary seats, marking the NPP’s most significant loss in the Fourth Republic and ending their two terms in office.

    This heavy defeat has prompted widespread calls for introspection and fundamental reforms within the party, as it looks towards the 2028 elections.

    The submission by the National Council of the Elders forms part of a 59-point proposal to revise the party’s constitution.

    Typically, the Council of Elders plays an advisory and mediating role within the party, often stepping in during times of crisis to guide the party back to its core principles.

    The Council’s proposals focus on enhancing internal party democracy, fostering unity, and strengthening grassroots structures – themes that emerged strongly in post-election analyses of the NPP’s performance.

  • NPP delegates endorse proposal to replace party executives in public office, reject lowering youth age limit to 35

    NPP delegates endorse proposal to replace party executives in public office, reject lowering youth age limit to 35

    Delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have endorsed a motion that seeks to require party executives who accept public appointments to step down from party roles.

    This motion, the tenth among 56 others, seeks to amend articles 7(10) & 9(7) of the constitution of the party.

    During the National Delegates Conference held at the University of Ghana Stadium on July 19, the  motion to limit the age range for a youth in the party to 35 instead of 40 was rejected. Also, the motion to take election supervision rights from constituency officers to regional leaders, thus allowing them to appoint neutral supervisors instead, got declined.

    The proposals presented by the National Council of Elders focus on several proposed amendments to the party’s constitution aimed at addressing the root causes of its 2024 electoral defeat.

    The NPP’s defeat in the December 2024 polls saw its flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, lose to former president John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). The NDC secured 56.55% of the popular vote and a commanding 184 out of 276 parliamentary seats, marking the NPP’s most significant loss in the Fourth Republic and ending their two terms in office.

    This heavy defeat has prompted widespread calls for introspection and fundamental reforms within the party as it looks towards the 2028 elections.

    Below is the full list of motions:

    • MOTION ONE

    Article 1

    Amend article 1 of the Constitution to include the Party’s Motto, Symbol and Colours.

    [The absence of the Party’s Motto, Symbol and Colours in the Constitution is an obvious omission and ought to be rectified. The Party’s Motto, Symbol and Colours must find expression in the Party’s Constitution.]

    • MOTION TWO

    Article 3(7)

    Amend article 3(7)of the Constitution to give the power to recommend suspension of a Member or an office holder pending disciplinary action against him to the appropriate Disciplinary Committee rather than the Executive Committee.

    [The amendment is necessary to ensure justified suspension of party executives (elected and appointed) by Executive Committees, only upon recommendation by the Disciplinary Committee,  pending disciplinary proceedings against such Officers. It is the Disciplinary Committee that shall recommend suspension, having regard to its preliminary findings.]

    • MOTION THREE

    Article 4(3)(7)

    Amend article 4(3)(7) of the Constitution to allow for a complaint against any Constituency or Regional Officer, whether elected or appointed, to be filed at;  (i) in the case of the Constituency Officer, the Regional Executive Committee and (ii) in the case of the Regional Officer, the National Executive Committee.

    [The amendment seeks to achieve fair and equal treatment or handling of disciplinary matters involving ‘elected officers’ and ‘appointed officers’ who are at the same level of the Party by providing that they should be dealt with by the same Disciplinary Committee.]

    • MOTION FOUR

    Article 5(6)

    Amend article 5(6) of the Constitution to adopt the Electoral Commission of Ghana’s demarcation/cluster of Electoral Areas.

    [The EC’s Electoral Area systems are pre-determined, bereft of controversies and involve more polling stations than the party’s demarcations of Electoral Area. The current provision in the Party’s constitution is that where polling stations under an Electoral Area exceed ten(10), an additional Electoral Area may be created. This lack of certainty and exactitude has triggered misunderstandings in the creation of some Electoral Areas. The adoption of the EC’s Electoral Area system cures any such misunderstanding or perceived mischief.] 

    • MOTION FIVE

    Article 6 –  new provision

    Amend article 6 of the Constitution to provide for an Electoral Area Executive Committee structure made up of five (5) members who shall all be elected, comprising the Electoral Area Chairperson, Secretary, Organiser, Communications Officer and Electoral Affairs Officer.

    [The current system requires limited expansion to allow for increased participation and support in the management of the electoral areas. A 5-member Committee enhances operational capacity and ensures a more inclusive and structured approach to supervising polling station activities.]  

    • MOTION SIX

    Article 6(1)

    Amend article 6(1) of the Constitution to increase the Polling Station Executives from five (5) to seven (7), who are all to be elected, comprising the Chairperson, Secretary, Organiser, Women’s Organiser, Youth Organiser, Communications Officer and Electoral Affairs Officer.

    [The Committee recommends a one-man one-vote (OMOV) system as a long-term electoral framework for the Party. In the absence of the foundational structures for the OMOV electoral system, the proposed limited expansion (representing 40% rise) at the polling station level is more realistic and manageable. It has the effect of increasing the electoral college considerably while the Party works on the recommended OMOV system.]

    • MOTION SEVEN

    Articles 6(1); 7(2); 9(1); 10(7)(3)

    Amend article 6(1), 7(2), 9(1) & 10(7)(3) of the Constitution to split/decouple the position of Research and Electoral Affairs Officer at the Constituency, Regional and National levels of the Party.

    [The amendment brings the needed focus and attention to each of the two responsibilities. Also, it is not every researcher who understands electoral matters and vice versa. Therefore, separating the positions and appointing people with the requisite expertise to occupy the respective positions will inure to the Party’s benefit.] 

    • MOTION EIGHT

    Article 7(2)

    Amend article 7(2) of the Constitution to include the Constituency Research Officer, Electoral Affairs Officer and PWD Coordinator on the Constituency Executive Committee.  

    [This represents a limited expansion of the Constituency Executive Committee and seeks to promote inclusivity and broader participation in Party activities at the Constituency level.]

    • MOTION NINE

    Articles 7(5); 9(2); 10(7)(3)

    Amend articles 7(5), 9(2) & 10(7)(3) of the Constitution to make Communication Officers at all levels of the Party elected from the Polling Station, Electoral Area, Constituency, Regional and at the National level. At the National level, the Communication Officer shall be the Director of Communications. 

    [The appointment of Communication Officers has, in many instances, been fraught with a lot of challenges occasioned by perceptions of favouritism and lack of candour. Making the positions elective will afford the Party delegates to select persons they think can best communicate for the Party. For the avoidance of doubt, the Deputy Directors of Communications shall remain appointed.]

    • MOTION TEN

    Articles 7(10); 9(7)

    Amend articles 7(10) & 9(7) of the Constitution to prevent Party Officers who get appointed into government from continuing to hold their offices.

    [Party officers who are appointed into government should not be allowed to hold dual positions. So long as they have accepted the appointment to serve in government, they should focus on their mandate in government and give opportunity for other competent Party members to occupy their positions in the Party. It is also in line with the provisions in clause 10 of article 7 & clause 7 of article 9, which are intended to ensure that government appointees do not hold Constituency, Regional and National Executive offices.]

    • MOTION ELEVEN

    Articles  7(26); 9(24)

    Amend articles 7(26) & 9(24) of the Constitution to provide that any vacancy that may occur for whatever reason in the case of the Constituency Secretary and Regional Secretary shall automatically be filled by the Deputy Constituency and Deputy Regional Secretary, respectively.

    [The Deputy Constituency and Deputy Regional Secretaries, just like the substantive Constituency and Regional Secretaries, are also elected by the same delegates at the same Conference. The Deputy Secretaries should be able to occupy the positions of the substantive Secretaries in the absence of the latter.]

    • MOTION TWELVE

    Article 7(27)

    Amend article 7(27) of the Constitution to give voting rights to National and Regional Officers at the Constituency Delegates Conference at the Constituency they hail from.

    [This amendment strengthens the connections between these Officers and the respective Constituencies they hail from, where they may also serve as Patrons and source of logistical support.  This amendment is also geared towards the proposed limited expansion of the electoral college pending the OMOV system.]

    • MOTION THIRTEEN

    Articles 7(27); 9(25); 10(2)

    Amend articles 7(27), 9(25) & 10(2) of the Constitution to provide that the Party shall hold Constituency/Regional/ National Delegates Conferences every two years (i.e. biennially) instead of annually.

    [This amendment looks at holding timely but necessary Conferences across all levels of the Party. There shall also be sufficient time to hold other equally important Conferences within the period before the biennial conference. Where it becomes necessary, an Extraordinary Delegates Conference may be called.]

    • MOTION FOURTEEN

    Article 7(27)(b)

    Amend article 7(27)(b) of the Constitution to give voting rights to the Electoral Area Executives at the Constituency Biennial Delegates Conference. 

    [Currently, Electoral Area Coordinators and all Polling Station Executives have voting rights at the Constituency Delegates Conference. The proposed Electoral Area Executives (made up of the Electoral Area Coordinator to be now called Electoral Area Chairperson and four (4) other executives) should have voting rights at the Constituency Delegates Conference.]

    • MOTION FIFTEEN

    Articles 7(29); 9(27)

    Amend articles 7(29) & 9(27) of the Constitution to allow Constituency and Regional Secretaries to present reports on the state of the Party at the Constituency and Regional Delegates Conference, with the prior approval of the Constituency and Regional  Executive Committee as the case may be.

    [Constituency and Regional Secretaries are the administrative heads of the Constituency and Regional Secretariats of the Party and it is appropriate that they present a report on the state of the party to the Constituency and Regional Party, respectively to the Delegates  Conference with prior approval of the Constituency and Regional Executive Committee, as the case may be.]

    • MOTION SIXTEEN

    Articles 7(29); 9(27)

    Amend articles 7(29) & 9(27) of the Constitution to require the statement of account to be presented by the Constituency and Regional Treasurers at the Constituency and Regional Delegates Conference to have received prior approval of the Constituency and Regional Executive Committee as the case may be.

    [This allows the Constituency and Regional Executive Committee to scrutinise and give a stamp of approval to the statements before they are presented at the Delegates Conference.]

    • MOTION SEVENTEEN

    Article 7(30)

    Amend article 7(30) of the Constitution to provide that the Regional Executive Committee shall appoint persons, other than Polling Station, Electoral Area and Constituency Officers,  to supervise Polling Station and Electoral Area elections.  

    [Constituencies are directly involved in the compilation of the album for organising Polling Station and Constituency elections. It is therefore prudent that supervision of these elections should be taken to the Regional level to absolve it from any conflict of interest.]

    • MOTION EIGHTEEN

    Article 8; Article 8(5)

    Amend article 8 of the Constitution to specifically provide that the External Branches shall have three (3) representatives on the National Executive Committee and five(5) representatives on the National Council.

    [The Party Constitution under article 8(5) grants the External Branches representation at the National Executive Committee and the National Council, but does not indicate the number of representatives they should appoint to serve on these bodies. This amendment brings clarity to the number of representatives the External Branches shall have on the National Executive Committee and National Council.] 

    • MOTION NINETEEN

    Articles 8; 13(11)

    Amend articles 8 & 13(11) of the Constitution to specifically provide that all former and current executives of the External Branches shall have voting rights at the Presidential Primaries.

    [The amendment seeks to expand the electoral college for the Presidential Primaries to promote inclusivity and broader participation. This is in line with the proposed limited expansion.]

    • MOTION TWENTY

    Articles 8; 10(2)(f)

    Amend articles 8 & 10(2)(f) of the Constitution to specifically provide that ALL current executives of the External Branches shall have voting rights at the National Delegates Conference.

    [Previously, only twelve (12) Executives of the External Branches were allowed to vote at the National Delegates Conference. This amendment, allowing all of them to vote,  promotes inclusivity and broader participation. The amendment is also in line with the proposed limited expansion.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-ONE

    Article 9

    Amend article 9 of the Constitution to include Regional Electoral Affairs Officer, Regional Research Officer (note: the decoupling of the two), Regional Legal Officer, Regional PWD Coordinator, and a Special Duties Officer as part of the Regional Executive Committee.

    [This represents a limited expansion of the Regional Executive Committee.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-TWO

    Article 9(1)

    Amend article 9(1) of the Constitution to expand the composition of the Regional Executive Committee members to include Constituency Secretaries.

    [Constituency Secretaries are responsible for all administrative matters at the Constituency level and it is only proper that they are part of the Regional Executive Committees.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-THREE

    Article 9(1) new provision

    Amend the Constitution by inserting a new provision to create a Regional Steering Committee composed of the Regional Officers, the Chairman of the Regional Council of Elders and the Regional Parliamentary Caucus Chair.

    [The proposed amendment aligns with what pertains at the national level, where we have a National Steering Committee, which is the body in charge of the day-to-day administration of the Party at the National level. The Regional Steering Committee shall also be responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Party in the Regions. The Regional Steering Committee system shall facilitate decision-making at the Regional level.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-FOUR

    Articles 9; 10(2); 13

    Amend articles 9, 10(2) & 13 of the Constitution to grant voting rights to the Regional & National TESCON Coordinators and the TESCON President from each recognised tertiary institution in the country at the Regional and National Delegates Conference, respectively.

    [The Regional TESCON Coordinators are in charge of coordinating all the activities of TESCON in the various tertiary institutions within the Region. It is only proper to grant them voting rights at Conferences, just like the Executives whose activities they coordinate. The same principle applies to the National TESCON Coordinators. The specificity on the TESCON President and not just any representative of TESCON avoids the usual challenge with validation of the representative from TESCON.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-FIVE

    Articles 9(25); 10(2); article 13(11)

    Amend article 10(2) & 13(11) of the Constitution to grant voting rights to the TESCON President (and NOT a representative from TESCON) from each recognised tertiary institution in the country at the Regional and National Delegates Conference.

    [The specificity on the TESCON President and not just any representative of TESCON avoids the usual challenge with validation of the representative from TESCON.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-SIX

    Article 10;  new provision

    Amend article 10 of the Constitution by inserting a new provision to include the consideration of Position Papers from Sector Committees of the Party on key developments since the last National Delegates Conference at National Delegates Conference.

    [The proposed amendment allows the National Delegates Conference to not only focus on speeches and election of national officers (where necessary), but to also consider and debate the Reports submitted by the Party’s Sector Committees on key national issues and to pass appropriate resolutions on same.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-SEVEN

    Article 10; new provision

    Amend article 10 of the Constitution by inserting a new provision to modify the composition of the Sector Committees under the National Executive Committee to include both Members of Parliament and non-Members of Parliament as well as their functions.

    [This allows the Party to marshal its available best brains to serve on the various Sector Committees whether or not they are Members of Parliament.]

    • MOTION TWENTY-EIGHT

    Articles 10(2)(3)(e); 13(11); 16

    Amend articles 10(2)(3)(e) & 13 of the Constitution to make all Members of the National Council of Elders delegates at the National Delegates Conference and the Presidential Primaries.

    [Considering the indispensable roles played by the National Council of Elders, they deserve more representation at the party’s highest decision-making body. In any case, per Article 16, the membership of the National Council of Elders shall not exceed 30, out of which, 15 are already members/delegates to the National Annual Delegates Conference.] 

    • MOTION TWENTY-NINE

    Article 10(3)

    Amend article 10(3) of the Constitution to increase the representation of the National Council of Elders on the National Council from one(1) to five (5) members, including the Chairman of the National Council of Elders.

    [The National Council of Elders is the foremost advisory body of the Party and therefore ought to be adequately represented at the second-highest decision-making body of the Party.]

    • MOTION THIRTY

    Article 10(3)

    Amend article 10(3) of the Constitution to provide for four (4) additional Standing Committees and enable the National Council to create new Standing Committees as and when the Council deem fit. The new four (4) Standing Committees shall be the Electoral Affairs Committee, Communications Committee, Political Strategy & Policy Committee and Security & Intelligence Committee.

    [The proposed additional Standing Committees to be created are indispensable and crucial in supporting the National Council and by extension the Party to function more effectively.  The amendment also grants the National Council the mandate to create additional Standing Committees as and when necessary.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-ONE

    Article 10(3)A

    Amend article 10(3)(A) of the Constitution to expand the composition of the Finance Committee from six (6) to ten (10) Members in addition to the National Treasurer.

    [This amendment expands the composition of the Finance Committee in order to enhance  the effectiveness of the Committee.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-TWO

    Article 10(3)(2)(d)

    Amend article 10(3)(2)(d) of the Constitution to expressly provide that Chairpersons of Standing Committees and Directors at the Party Headquarters shall have voting rights at the National Council and consequently vote in the Presidential Primaries.

    [This amendment admits Chairmen of Standing Committees and Directors at the Party Headquarters into membership at the National Council with voting rights.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-THREE

    Article 10(3)(4)

    Amend article 10(3)(4) of the Constitution to include former Majority and former Minority Leaders to the composition of the National Executive Committee and National Council.

    [The National Executive Committee stands to benefit immensely from the experiences ofpersons who have once led the Party’s Parliamentary Group as Majority or Minority Leaders.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-FOUR

    Article 10(4) new provision

    Amend article 10 of the Constitution by inserting a new provision to provide that the National Executive Committee shall, in consultation with the Presidential Candidate, develop the campaign structure and establish a Campaign Advisory Committee to oversee the Campaign Team.

    [The Presidential Campaign should be a collaboration between the Party and the Presidential Candidate.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-FIVE

    Article 10; new provision

    Amend article 10 of the Constitution by inserting a new provision to specifically provide that the National Chairperson shall be the Leader of the Party.

    [The proposed amendment affirms the position of the National Chairperson as the Leader of the Party.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-SIX

    Article 10(5)

    Amend article 10(5) of the Constitution to specifically provide that the National Chairperson shall chair the Party’s Campaign Advisory Committee.

    [The National Chairperson, as the Leader of the Party, should chair the Party’s Campaign Advisory Committee to enhance collaborative work between the Party and the Campaign.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-SEVEN

    Article 10(4)(2)

    Amend article 10(4)(2) of the Constitution to increase the representation of the Parliamentary Group on the National Executive Committee from one (1) to three(3), comprising the Leader and two (2) others, one of whom shall be a woman.

    [The Parliamentary Group is a critical organ of the party. It is the Group that champions the Party’s policies and agenda in the Legislative arm. The amendment seeks to increase the representation of the Parliamentary Group on the National Executive Committee.]  

    • MOTION THIRTY-EIGHT

    Article 10(7)(3); 10(8)

    Amend articles 10(7)(3) & 10(8) of the Constitution to provide that the National Treasurer shall report to the General Secretary.

    [The General Secretary is the Party’s chief administrator, and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Party and all Officers except the National Chairperson and Vice Chairpersons report to him. The amendment aligns with the administrative structure of the Party.]

    • MOTION THIRTY-NINE

    Article 10(10)

    Amend article 10(10) of the Constitution to remove the President from the composition of the National Steering Committee of the National Executive Committee.

    [The Steering Committee is in charge of the day-to-day administration of the Party and should comprise only the ten(10) Elected Officers, the Presidential candidate, Parliamentary Leader and Chairman of the National Council of Elders.] 

    • MOTION FORTY

    Article 11

    Amend article 11 of the Constitution to specifically include a provision that allows the Constituency Executive Committee to remove a Polling Station or Electoral Area Officer from office with the prior approval of the Regional Executive Committee, upon receipt of a Petition from a Member.  

    [The Constitution has no provision on how Polling Station and Electoral Area Officers may be removed from office.]

    • MOTION FORTY-ONE

    Article 11

    Amend article 11 of the Constitution to include a provision requiring the need for the body to be constituted by the Executive Committee, to recommend removal before the summoning of an Extraordinary Delegates Conference for the purpose of removing an Elected Officer from office, and for specified timelines for the removal process of such Elected Officer.

    [The amendment brings clarity in the removal of Officers and avoids the convening of an Extraordinary Delegates Conference without recommendation from the body constituted by the Executive Committee.]

    • MOTION FORTY-TWO

    Article 11(7)

    Amend article 11(7) of the Constitution to explicitly provide guidelines/procedure for the removal from office of an appointed Officer/Executive to be done by the relevant Executive Committee with prior approval of the immediately higher Executive Committee.   

    [The amendment clarifies the process for the removal of appointed Officers.]

    • MOTION FORTY-THREE

    Article 12; new provision

    Amend the Constitution by inserting a new provision to provide that National Officers, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, CEOs and other government appointees who file to contest to become a Parliamentary Candidate of the Party in a Constituency with a sitting Member of Parliament, shall resign their positions at least twelve (12) months to the National General Elections.

    [This is to ensure fair competition and level playing field to all prospective aspirants for the position of Parliamentary Candidate.]

    • MOTION FORTY-FOUR

    New provision; articles 12 &13

    Amend articles 12 &13 of the Constitution and insert a new provision to grant voting rights to former Members of Parliament, former Parliamentary Candidates, former Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), former Ministers, former Deputy Ministers who are card-bearing members of the Party at the Parliamentary and Presidential Primaries.

    [The amendment seeks to expand the electoral college for the Presidential Primaries to promote inclusivity and broader participation. This is in line with the proposed limited expansion.]

    • MOTION FORTY-FIVE

     New provision; articles 12 &13

    Amend articles 12 & 13 of the Constitution and insert a new provision to grant voting rights to former Constituency Executives, former Regional Executives at the Parliamentary and Presidential Primaries.

    [The amendment seeks to expand the electoral college for the Presidential Primaries to promote inclusivity and broader participation. This is in line with the proposed limited expansion.]

    • MOTION FORTY-SIX

    Article 13 (1)(6)

    Amend article 13(1)(6) of the Constitution to provide that National Officers, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, CEOs and other government appointees who file to become the Presidential Candidate of the Party, shall resign their positions at least twenty-four(24) months to the National General Elections.

    [This is to ensure fair competition and level playing field to all prospective aspirants for the flagbearership.]

    • MOTION FORTY-SEVEN

    Article 13(1)(9)

    Amend article 13(1)(9) of the Constitution to completely abolish the Special Electoral College/Super Delegates System.

    [The Special Electoral College system which was introduced in the 2009 constitutional amendments to shortlist aspiring Presidential Candidates, has outlived its usefulness.]

    • MOTION FORTY-EIGHT

    Article 13(4)

    Amend article 13(4) of the Constitution to provide for the election of a Presidential Candidate when the Party is in government to a date not later than eighteen (18) months instead of eleven (11) months before the National General Elections.

    [This amendment gives the party’s presidential candidate an extra seven(7) months to campaign before the general elections.]

    • MOTION FORTY-NINE

    Article 13(11)

    Amend article 13(11) to grant voting rights to five(5) members of the Constituency Council of Elders and ten(10) members of the Regional Council of Elders at the Presidential Primaries.

    [These Constituency and Regional Elders are members of the Constituency and Regional Delegates Conference, respectively. Polling Station and Electoral Area Executives, who form part of the delegates to the Constituency Conference, have been given voting rights at the Presidential Primaries. The exclusion of the Elders is an omission which should be rectified.]

    • MOTION FIFTY

    Article 13(11)

    Amend article 13(11) of the Constitution to include thirty (30) National Patrons and all Members of the National Council of Elders to be part of the Presidential Primaries.

    [The National Council of Elders is the foremost advisory body of the Party and therefore ought to be adequately represented at the second-highest decision-making body of the Party. National Patrons also occupy an important position in the Party structure. The expansion of their numbers in the Presidential Primaries is appropriate.]

    • MOTION FIFTY-ONE

    Article 13(11)

    Amend article 13(11) to grant voting rights to five(5) Constituency Patrons and ten(10) Regional Patrons at the Presidential Primaries.

    [These Constituency and Regional Patrons are members of the Constituency and Regional Delegates Conference, respectively. Polling Station and Electoral Area executives, who form part of the delegates to the Constituency Conference, have been given voting rights at the Presidential Primaries. The exclusion of the Patrons is an omission which should be rectified.]

    • MOTION FIFTY-TWO

    Amend article 13(11) to grant voting rights to one (1) TESCON Patron from every recognised tertiary institution at the Presidential Primaries.

    [This amendment allows for inclusivity and broader participation. This is in line with proposed limited expansion.]

    • MOTION FIFTY-THREE

    Article 15(3)

    Amend article 15(3) of the Constitution to make all female delegates at the National Delegates Conference eligible to vote for the position of National Women’s Organiser.

    [The current regulations on the election of the National Women Organiser is not inclusive. This amendment allows all female delegates to participate in the election of the National Women’s Organiser.]

    • MOTION FIFTY-FOUR

    Article 15(4)

    Amend article 15(4) of the Constitution by defining ‘Youth’ in the Constitution to refer to a Member of the Party who is not above the age of 35 years.

    [The age limit for ‘Youth’ per all the International Conventions and National Laws shows that the highest age limit is 35 years. The UN puts the age bracket between 15 -24 years; WHO: 15-29; UNICEF: 15-24; ILO: 15-24; African Youth Charter: 15-35. In Ghana, the National Youth Authority Act, 2016 (Act 939) defines a ‘Youth’ as a person between 15 -35 years.]

    • MOTION FIFTY-FIVE

    Article 15(4)

    Amend article 15(4) of the Constitution to make all youth delegates at the National Delegates Conference eligible to vote for the position of National Youth Organiser.

    [The current regulations on the election of the National Youth Organiser is not inclusive. This amendment allows all youth delegates to participate in the election of the National Youth Organiser.]

    • MOTION FIFTY-SIX

    Article 15(5)(d) (e) and related provisions that refer to the Nasara Coordinator at all relevant levels

    Amend article 15(5)(d)(e) and related provisions of the Constitution to refer to Nasara Coordinators as Nasara Organisers.

    [By the nature of their functions, Nasara Coordinators should be referred to as Nasara Organisers, just as is done with Women and Youth Organisers.]

  • NPP’s National Delegates Conference is today

    NPP’s National Delegates Conference is today

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) will conduct its highly anticipated National Delegates Conference today, Saturday, July 19.

    Over 5,500 delegates are expected to participate in this crucial gathering at the University of Ghana Stadium.

    The conference theme, “Rebuilding Together with our Values,” will focus on reviewing and possibly approving 59 changes to its internal rules following its defeat in the 2024 general elections.

    Meanwhile, the National Council of Elders has presented several proposed amendments to the party’s constitution aimed at addressing the root causes of its 2024 electoral defeat.

    The changes, aimed at deepening internal democracy and revitalizing the party’s structures, are expected to take centre stage at the National Delegates Conference, which opens today, July 19 at the University of Ghana

    The NPP’s defeat in the December 2024 polls saw its flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, lose to former president John Dramani Mahama of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The NDC secured 56.55% of the popular vote and a commanding 184 out of 276 parliamentary seats, marking the NPP’s most significant loss in the Fourth Republic and ending their two terms in office.

    This heavy defeat has prompted widespread calls for introspection and fundamental reforms within the party, as it looks towards the 2028 elections.

    The submission by the National Council of the Elders forms part of a 59-point proposal to revise the party’s constitution.

    Typically, the Council of Elders plays an advisory and mediating role within the party, often stepping in during times of crisis to guide the party back to its core principles.

    The Council’s proposals focus on enhancing internal party democracy, fostering unity, and strengthening grassroots structures – themes that emerged strongly in post-election analyses of the NPP’s performance.

    Below are the suggestions of the National Council of the Elders:

    AMENDMENT PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY THE NPP NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ELDERS

    All members of the NCOE shall vote in ALL National Elections.

    In addition to the Regional Representatives on the NCOE, the Council is allowed to nominate five (5) members for appointment to the Council based on distinguished service, support, and exemplary commitment to the advancement of the Party. This will be done from time to time.

    All past Presidents, past Vice Presidents, and past National Chairmen will be inducted to NCOE at the end of their service to ensure the harnessing of their experiences to the Council.

    The NCOE must not support or be seen to favour any candidate.

    When in power, there shall be a mandatory quarterly meeting with the President where issues of concern will be discussed. This meeting will offer the President or the Presidential Candidate to give account of his/her stewardship for appropriate political counsel.

    The NCOE shall be represented by five (5) of its members (Chairman, Vice Chairman, plus three others) on the National Council of the Party.

    The NCOE shall be given an operational budget to carry out its functions.

    The NCOE shall institute an annual nationwide conference to review the Party’s activities at all levels to secure the foundation upon which the party’s stability and strategic direction can be anchored.

    The NCOE shall establish a Judicial Committee consisting of both lawyers and non-lawyers which shall act as the final appeal body within the party. The Committee shall apply wisdom to the law, ADR and no bias to resolve controversies and disputes.

    The NCOE shall also be advisory to the National Council of the Party at all levels including the Flagbearer.40Circulated by the General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong

    Upon election, the Flagbearer shall appear before the NCOE for advice and input into the campaign strategy and direction. Principles regarding the selection of Running Mate (gender, regional balance, religion, etc.)

    The Flagbearer, upon selection/ election, shall be introduced to the NCOE by the National Chairman before the official outdooring.

    The NCOE must be kept informed of the contents of the Flagbearer’s maiden speech.

    The elected President must select ministers, chief executives, MMDCEs in consultation with the NCOE.

  • Claims of Mavis Kumi contesting Akwatia seat are false – NPP

    Claims of Mavis Kumi contesting Akwatia seat are false – NPP

    Reports suggesting that Mrs. Mavis Kumi, widow of the late Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, will contest the vacant parliamentary seat have been debunked by the Eastern Regional Executive Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    According to a press release by Eastern Regional NPP Chairman Jeff Konadu Addo on Tuesday, July 15, he emphasized that campaign flyers purporting such claims are false and must be ignored.

    “We wish to categorically state that this information is false, misleading, and should be treated with the utmost contempt it deserves,” parts of the statement said.

    It added that Mrs. Mavis Kumi is not interested in the said position, but is focused on mourning the passing of her husband.

    “She has unequivocally communicated that she has no interest in contesting the seat or participating in active politics at this time. Her current focus… is to mourn her husband with dignity and in peace,” the release added.

    A by-election is expected to be conducted in the coming days for the Akwatia constituency, following the death of its Member of Parliament (MP), Ernest Yaw Kumi.

    The Akwatia MP was reported dead on Monday, July 7. Last month, the apex court overturned a ruling by the Koforidua High Court that convicted Mr Kumi of contempt of court.

    The court, on Wednesday, June 11, by a 4–1 majority, granted the legislator’s application to overturn the High Court’s ruling.

    On January 3, the Koforidua High Court issued an interim injunction restraining Ernest Yaw Kumi from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Akwatia.

    The injunction stemmed from a legal challenge by Henry Boakye-Yiadom, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate and former MP, who contested the election results.

    Boakye-Yiadom had filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission (EC), Kumi, and the Clerk to Parliament, disputing the outcome of the polls. Official results had declared Kumi victorious with 19,269 votes, while Boakye-Yiadom secured 17,206 votes.

    Despite the court’s order, Kumi went ahead with his swearing-in on January 7, 2025. His legal team, led by Lawyer Gary Nimako, later sought to overturn the injunction, but the court dismissed their application.

    On February 19, 2025, the Koforidua High Court issued a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest, citing his absence from contempt proceedings and his failure to comply with the earlier injunction.

    Reacting to the development, the Minority in Parliament has condemned the court’s decision, arguing that it was excessive. Speaking to the media, Second Deputy Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib expressed strong disagreement with the ruling.

    In Parliament, Mr Kumi who was a first-time member in the 9th Parliament, served on both the Lands and Natural Resources Committee and the House Committee.

  • Ablekuma North re-run: I have apologized to leadership for defying orders – Akua Afriyie

    Ablekuma North re-run: I have apologized to leadership for defying orders – Akua Afriyie

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 parliamentary candidate for Ablekuma North, Nana Akua Afriyie, has disclosed that she has apologized to the party leadership for flouting their directive.

    The party, ahead of the parliamentary rerun for the Ablekuma North constituency, announced its decision not to participate in the election.

    Deputy General Secretary of the party, Haruna Mohammed, explained that contesting in the election will set a dangerous precedent and compromise future elections.

    According to him, the decision not to participate in the election is not because the party fears defeat.

    “Elections are elections; you can predict to win; you will never predict to lose. Opinions are opinions; everybody is entitled to his or her opinion. I cannot attack their opinion, but I can only prove my point to disagree with their opinion, and I disagree that we would lose – that is why we are not going.

    “It will serve as a bad precedent and open a Pandora’s box. People who believe in hooliganism, who believe in taking the law into their own hands, will perpetuate injustice in the future, anticipating that the Electoral Commission will kowtow to their will,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Ewurabena Aubynn of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been declared MP-elect for Ablekuma North.

    She polled 34,090 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) held a rerun election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents with a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections on Friday, July 11.

    After the 2024 polls, Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    The NDC now has 184 seats in Parliament with Aubynn’s victory, where has the NPP has 87 seats.

    In the Fourth Republic, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has won the Ablekuma North parliamentary election seven times, whereas the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has claimed the seat twice.

    Violence mars Ablekuma North rerun election

    Deputy Minister for Government Communications, Shamima Muslim, has condemned the recent attacks against civilians and journalists during the Ablekuma North election rerun today.

    Engaging the media over the matter, she said, “It is completely unwarranted.”

    “Government itself takes a very serious stance especially on security agencies metting out unwarranted attacks to civilians under any circumstances,” she added.

    President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) Albert  Kwabena  Dwumfuor has alsp condemned the attack on journalists during the Ablekuma North rerun election.

    At the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station in the Ablekuma North constituency, some individuals engaged in a fisticuff with the police personnel. Also, a JoyNews journalist was slapped by an unknown individual.

    A journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, was also slapped by a police officer.

    The Ghana Police Service has interdicted one of its officers who was caught on camera slapping a journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, during the rerun election at Ablekuma North.

    In line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.

    The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.

    The Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated.

    It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped.

    The Police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.

    In reaction to this incident, Shamima Muslim commended the police for its swift action to reprimand its officer for such unlawful acts.

    “What we are happy about is the swift action that the Ghana Police itself has taken in interdicting the officer in question,” she said.

    Engaging the media after the assault, Banahene Agyekum expressed distress and pain.

    “Yes, (I won’t be able to continue work today) because my right eye is shaking and I don’t know what happened to my forehead. I have to go for a medical checkup,” he stated.

    Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency, Hawa Koomson, was also assaulted by a group of men at the Ablekuma North rerun election.

    Per reports, the former legislator is receiving treatment at a health facility.

    Due to the chaos that has erupted, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has visited some polling stations in the constituency.

  • Come at me directly; don’t accuse me wrongly – Mustapha Gbande to Minority

    Come at me directly; don’t accuse me wrongly – Mustapha Gbande to Minority

    Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, Mustapha Gbande, has lashed out against critics within the New Patriotic Party, urging them to confront him directly rather than hiding behind unfounded allegations.

    Mr Gbande was on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show to debunk claims by the Minority Caucus in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, that he and NDC Deputy National Communications Officer Malik Basintale incited chaos during the July 11 polls at Ablekuma.

    He said, “I am not a coward. Even if my name appears on their list, I am not afraid of anyone in the NPP. If you want to come after me, do so directly. But don’t accuse me of something I haven’t done.”

    The NDC Deputy General Secretary further chided the NPP for the hasty release of a statement that was not backed by fact.

    “Administratively, you don’t rush to release statements without proper information. I showed the Minority Leader evidence that he was misled, but he still insisted on his claims,” Gbande stated.

    He has also addressed a move by the NPP, circulating posters of NDC members with inscriptions reading “wanted, alive or dead.”

    He warned the minority that they would be held responsible if anything happens to the boys whose posters are in circulation.

    “If anything happens to any of our boys, we will hold the NPP responsible. Their party headquarters is not a police station,” he warned.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) held an election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents with a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.

    However, voting in two polling stations, the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station and St. Peters polling station in the constituency, was suspended and later continued following chaos.

    At the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station in the Ablekuma North constituency, some individuals engaged in a fisticuff with the police personnel. Also, a JoyNews journalist was slapped by an unknown individual.

    Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency, Hawa Koomson, was also assaulted by a group of men during the election.

    In a video gone viral, a man lunged at Hawa Koomson, pushing her to the ground. Another person was seen kicking her.

    The Police officers present intervened and prevented further attack against Hawa Koomson.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has interdicted one of its officers who was caught on camera slapping a journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, during the rerun election at Ablekuma North.

    In line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.

    The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.

    The Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated.

    It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped.

    The Police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.

    Engaging the media after the assault, Banahene Agyekum expressed distress and pain.

    “Yes, (I won’t be able to continue work today) because my right eye is shaking and I don’t know what happened to my forehead. I have to go for a medical checkup,” he stated.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) is holding an election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.

    After the 2024 polls, Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    Ahead of today’s election, the EC called on the Ghana Police Service to provide the needed security to ensure a safe environment for the conduct of the election.

  • Ablekuma North rerun: I can assure you NPP will lose – MCE

    Ablekuma North rerun: I can assure you NPP will lose – MCE

    The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly, Kalamu Adamu Musah, has predicted defeat for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the ongoing Parliamentary election at the constituency.

    Speaking to the media on Friday, July 11, he argued that the NPP has failed to address the concerns of constituents while in power.

    “They are just giving excuses. They are seeing the signs. They are very clear – they are losing all the 19 polling stations. I can assure you on that,” he added.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) is holding an election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.

    After the 2024 polls, Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    Ahead of today’s election, the EC called on the Ghana Police Service to provide the needed security to ensure a safe environment for the conduct of the election.

    Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC) in Charge of Corporate Services, Dr Bossman Asare, has affirmed that the Ghana Police Service and the National Election Security Taskforce have pledged to ensure security before, during, and after the upcoming Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.

  • I will contest in Ablekuma North rerun, party’s boycott won’t stop me – Akua Afriyie

    I will contest in Ablekuma North rerun, party’s boycott won’t stop me – Akua Afriyie

    The Ablekuma North New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, has indicated that she will fully participate in the Parliamentary election in Ablekuma North Constituency scheduled for Friday, July 11.

    Her declaration comes shortly after the party announced it would boycott the election.

    “I appeal to all the constituents to come out and vote massively for me so the glory of God will manifest. I have put my trust in God, and I know He will not disappoint me. I won the election by 440 votes, and I believe God will let the truth prevail tomorrow,” she stated.

    Speaking to the media on Thursday, July 10, the parliamentary candidate called on her constituents to rally behind her to claim victory in the election.

    Meanwhile, the NPP has explained that its decision not to participate in the rerun is not because the party fears defeat.

    However, taking part will set a dangerous precedent and compromise future elections.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Deputy General Secretary of the party, Haruna Mohammed, noted “Elections are elections; you can predict to win; you will never predict to lose. Opinions are opinions; everybody is entitled to his or her opinion. I cannot attack their opinion, but I can only prove my point to disagree with their opinion, and I disagree that we would lose – that is why we are not going.

    “It will serve as a bad precedent and open a Pandora’s box. People who believe in hooliganism, who believe in taking the law into their own hands, will perpetuate injustice in the future, anticipating that the Electoral Commission will kowtow to their will.”

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    The meeting, which was a follow-up to an earlier meeting held on Thursday, 12th June, provided both parties the opportunity to brief the commission on any new developments regarding the said constituency.

    The parties informed the Commission that their positions put forward at the last meeting remained unchanged.

    The NDC held the view that the election should be rerun in thirty-seven (37) polling stations because scanned pink sheets from 37 polling stations, which were used to collate the results, were provided by the NPP.

    The NPP was of the view that the results from three (3) outstanding polling stations be collated and a winner declared, since the NDC agents had verified and confirmed the scanned polling station results they presented.

    In response, the NPP filed an interlocutory injunction application on July 6to restrain the Electoral Commission (EC) from proceeding with the rerun election.

    General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has noted that the party won the 2024 Ablekuma North parliamentary election and, as such, will not participate in the rerun election slated for Friday, July 11.

    At a press briefing today, July 8, Frimpong Kodua noted the Electoral Commission to complete collation of results and declare the party’s candidate, Akua Afriyie, as winner.

    “We have our undeniable evidence to clearly show that we won the Ablekuma North parliamentary election. And yesterday, when the National Executive Committee met, we said that under no circumstances will we be intimidated. Under no circumstance will we be coerced to go for a rerun.”

    “We will not go for any rerun. We have won the elections. What we are asking the Electoral Commission is to follow the court directive, finish the collation, and declare our candidate, Akua Afriyie, as the MP-elect for Ablekuma North,” he said.

    But the NPP’s application has been dismissed by the High Court.

    Ablekuma North remains the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, months after the 2024 general elections, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    By January 6, only seven polling station results remained uncollated. Yet the process came to a standstill as the EC began engaging both major political parties in an attempt to break the deadlock.

    Both the NPP and the NDC have declared victory in the December parliamentary elections.

    The NPP maintains that its candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie, emerged the winner based on Electoral Commission figures, while the NDC insists that Ewurabena Aubyn was rightfully elected by the people.

    Appearing before Parliament on Thursday, June 19, the Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Affairs, Dr. Bossman noted the Commission will only resort to a re-run after all measures have been exhausted.

    “So, for Ablekuma North, we have not reached the point where we will say we don’t have the results. When we try and we cannot get the results, that is when we will resort to the rerun. The rerun will be a last option,” he said.

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, warned that the continued delay poses a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic reputation and the integrity of its electoral system.

    He cautioned that how the dispute is handled will shape public trust in Ghana’s electoral processes well beyond the current cycle.

    “This is a pivotal moment. The way we handle the collation in Ablekuma North will resonate across the country. It will set the tone, not only for this election, but also for public confidence in the years to come,” Dr. Yohuno stated.

  • Let’s protect our democracy by collaborating with EC – Omane Boamah to NPP

    Let’s protect our democracy by collaborating with EC – Omane Boamah to NPP

    Defence Minister and outgoing NDC Director of Elections and IT, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to save Ghana’s democracy by collaborating with the Electoral Commission (EC).

    “Let’s work together to fix the broken Electoral Commission and save Ghana’s democracy!” he appealed.

    His appeal follows the EC’s recent announcement, noting that it will hold a rerun of the Parliamentary election for the Ablekuma North constituency.

    Explaining its decision, the EC stated that 19 scanned polling station results used for collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    “It is instructive to note that, the Commission was able to secure the Presiding Officers’ verification and confirmation for 18 scanned polling station results—agents of both parties also approved same. A rerun will therefore not be held in those polling stations,” the Commission noted in a statement.

    The EC arrived at this decision after it met with the representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    The meeting, which was a follow-up to an earlier meeting held on Thursday, 12th June, provided both parties the opportunity to brief the commission on any new developments regarding the said constituency.

    The parties informed the Commission that their positions put forward at the last meeting remained unchanged.

    The NDC held the view that the election should be rerun in thirty-seven (37) polling stations because scanned pink sheets from 37 polling stations, which were used to collate the results, were provided by the NPP.

    The NPP was of the view that the results from three (3) outstanding polling stations be collated and a winner declared, since the NDC agents had verified and confirmed the scanned polling station results they presented.

    In response, the NPP filed an interlocutory injunction application on July 6to restrain the Electoral Commission (EC) from proceeding with the rerun election.

    General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has noted that the party won the 2024 Ablekuma North parliamentary election and, as such, will not participate in the rerun election slated for Friday, July 11.

    At a press briefing today, July 8, Frimpong Kodua noted the Electoral Commission to complete collation of results and declare the party’s candidate, Akua Afriyie, as winner.

    “We have our undeniable evidence to clearly show that we won the Ablekuma North parliamentary election. And yesterday, when the National Executive Committee met, we said that under no circumstances will we be intimidated. Under no circumstance will we be coerced to go for a rerun.”

    “We will not go for any rerun. We have won the elections. What we are asking the Electoral Commission is to follow the court directive, finish the collation, and declare our candidate, Akua Afriyie, as the MP-elect for Ablekuma North,” he said.

    But the NPP’s application has been dismissed by the High Court.

    Ablekuma North remains the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, months after the 2024 general elections, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    By January 6, only seven polling station results remained uncollated. Yet the process came to a standstill as the EC began engaging both major political parties in an attempt to break the deadlock.

    Both the NPP and the NDC have declared victory in the December parliamentary elections.

    The NPP maintains that its candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie, emerged the winner based on Electoral Commission figures, while the NDC insists that Ewurabena Aubyn was rightfully elected by the people.

    Appearing before Parliament on Thursday, June 19, the Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Affairs, Dr. Bossman noted the Commission will only resort to a re-run after all measures have been exhausted.

    “So, for Ablekuma North, we have not reached the point where we will say we don’t have the results. When we try and we cannot get the results, that is when we will resort to the rerun. The rerun will be a last option,” he said.

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, warned that the continued delay poses a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic reputation and the integrity of its electoral system.

    He cautioned that how the dispute is handled will shape public trust in Ghana’s electoral processes well beyond the current cycle.

    “This is a pivotal moment. The way we handle the collation in Ablekuma North will resonate across the country. It will set the tone, not only for this election, but also for public confidence in the years to come,” Dr. Yohuno stated.

  • Campaign with integrity – Kwabena Frimpong to NPP flagbearer hopefuls

    Campaign with integrity – Kwabena Frimpong to NPP flagbearer hopefuls

    Deputy Director of Protocol for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Frimpong, has urged flagbearer hopefuls to conduct their campaigns with respect and decorum.

    He warned that internal divisions fueled by personal attacks could jeopardise the party’s strength and electoral success in 2028.

    “The unity of the party after these internal contests will be critical to our success in 2028. If campaigns are based on insults and personal vendettas, it will be difficult for those who lose to join hands with those who win, and that puts our collective goal at risk,” he added.

    The NPP will hold its presidential primaries on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

    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, June 17, 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.

  • Video: EOCO flooded with security officers over Wontumi’s detention

    Video: EOCO flooded with security officers over Wontumi’s detention

    There’s a heavy security presence at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO)in Accra today, Friday, May 30.

    The deployment of police is in response to the large numbers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters who have thronged EOCO’s headquarters protesting the continued detention of Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi.

    Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is expected to join the protestors.

    Chairman Wontumi spent Wednesday night in the custody of EOCO’s headquarters.

    EOCO arrested Chairman Wontumi on Tuesday after he appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service at 3pm.

    He was sent to the hospital over illness and was sent to EOCO’s custody after getting better.

    He failed to make a ¢50 million bail with two sureties, both of which must be justified. According to the Minority, the bail is exorbitant and must be varied.

    On Tuesday, supporters of the opposition party massed up at the EOCO office, demanding the release of Wontumi.

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman voluntarily made an appearance at the CID headquarters on Monday alongside his legal team, including former Attorney General Godfred Dame, after an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.

    He was cautioned on the following allegations: undertaking mining operations without a license, entering a forest reserve without authorisation and pollution of water bodies.

    However, according to sources, Chairman Wontumi denied these claims during his interrogation, presenting documents to authenticate his claims.

    He insists he was not involved in any illegal mining activities or operating in any forest reserve.

    Following the interrogations, the CID granted him bail with two sureties, though the exact amount has not yet been disclosed.

    This follows a failed attempt by a joint team of national security operatives and police officers to arrest him at his residence on May 23.

    After the failed search attempt, Mr Boasiako expressed his displeasure over a search that was orchestrated by national security operatives at his residence.

    The search comes after Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Buah, ordered the immediate revocation of Akonta Mining’s licenses, citing allegations of illegal mining and other violations.

    During the press briefing, he accused the company of being involved in galamsey operations and breaching mining regulations.

    Buah also claimed that Akonta Mining was illegally selling mining concessions within the Aboi Forest to unauthorized miners, charging up to GH₵300,000 per concession, with some payments reportedly made in gold royalties.

    Akonta Mining Company Limited, owned by Chairman Wontumi, has taken legal action against the Minerals Commission and the Minister of Lands, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, claiming GH₵20 million in damages.

    The company alleges that during a press conference on April 22, Minister Buah made defamatory remarks, accusing Akonta Mining of illegal mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The company has strongly denied these accusations, asserting that its mining leases, which were granted in 2021, cover areas outside of the protected reserve.

    The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, argues that the minister’s statements were false and damaging to its reputation.

    Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament has pledged to pursue every possible avenue until Wontumi is released from custody.

  • EOCO’s bail terms for Wontumi too harsh, arbitrary – Lawyer claims

    EOCO’s bail terms for Wontumi too harsh, arbitrary – Lawyer claims

    Enoch Afoakwa, a member of the legal team for the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, has expressed opposition against bail conditions imposed on his client.

    Speaking to the media on Thursday, May 29, Afoakwa noted that “it is arbitrary. It is harsh, and it is excessive.”

    Wontumi has been handed a GHS50 million bail with two sureties, both of which must be justified by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). However, Wontumi has yet to meet the conditions of the bail.

    According to the Minority in Parliament, the bail is exorbitant and must be varied.

    Chairman Wontumi spent Wednesday night in the custody of EOCO’s headquarters.

    EOCO arrested Chairman Wontumi on Tuesday after he appeared before the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service at 3pm.

    He was sent to the hospital over illness and was sent to EOCO’s custody after getting better.

    On Tuesday, supporters of the opposition party massed up at the EOCO office, demanding the release of Wontumi.

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman voluntarily made an appearance at the CID headquarters on Monday alongside his legal team, including former Attorney General Godfred Dame, after an invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.

    He was cautioned on the following allegations: undertaking mining operations without a license, entering a forest reserve without authorisation and pollution of water bodies.

    However, according to sources, Chairman Wontumi denied these claims during his interrogation, presenting documents to authenticate his claims.

    He insists he was not involved in any illegal mining activities or operating in any forest reserve.

    Following the interrogations, the CID granted him bail with two sureties, though the exact amount has not yet been disclosed.

    This follows a failed attempt by a joint team of national security operatives and police officers to arrest him at his residence on May 23.

    After the failed search attempt, Mr Boasiako expressed his displeasure over a search that was orchestrated by national security operatives at his residence.

    The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako better known as Chairman Wontumi has arrived at the CID headquarters, following an invitation by the police.

    The search comes after Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Buah, ordered the immediate revocation of Akonta Mining’s licenses, citing allegations of illegal mining and other violations.

    During the press briefing, he accused the company of being involved in galamsey operations and breaching mining regulations.

    Buah also claimed that Akonta Mining was illegally selling mining concessions within the Aboi Forest to unauthorized miners, charging up to GH₵300,000 per concession, with some payments reportedly made in gold royalties.

    Akonta Mining Company Limited, owned by Chairman Wontumi, has taken legal action against the Minerals Commission and the Minister of Lands, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, claiming GH₵20 million in damages.

    The company alleges that during a press conference on April 22, Minister Buah made defamatory remarks, accusing Akonta Mining of illegal mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

    The company has strongly denied these accusations, asserting that its mining leases, which were granted in 2021, cover areas outside of the protected reserve.

    The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, argues that the minister’s statements were false and damaging to its reputation.

    Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament has pledged to pursue every possible avenue until Wontumi is released from custody.

  • Don’t let election defeat discourage you – Ya-Na to Bawumia

    Don’t let election defeat discourage you – Ya-Na to Bawumia

    The Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, has reassured former Vice President and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, that his electoral defeat should not be seen as the end of his political aspirations, urging him to continue with his journey towards leadership.

    Ya-Na Abukari II’s comments came during the NPP’s Thank You Tour of the Northern Region, which took place at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.

    The Dagbon King reassured Dr. Bawumia that a loss in the first presidential bid does not mark the end of his ambition to lead the nation.

    “Your electoral loss is a battle lost but not the war to lead the development of our dear nation,” the Ya-Na said, drawing a parallel to the political trajectory of former President John Dramani Mahama, who made a successful return after defeats in 2016 and 2020, eventually winning the 2024 elections.

    “This is only your first attempt, and there are several chances ahead. All that we need is to pray for a longer life and good health. May Allah continue to guide and guard you in all your endeavours,” the Ya-Na added, encouraging Dr. Bawumia to remain hopeful for future opportunities.

    The Ya-Na also praised Dr. Bawumia’s contributions to national development, particularly during his tenure as Vice President, highlighting his efforts in areas like digital innovation and economic transformation. He specifically commended Dr. Bawumia’s leadership in projects such as the digital addressing system and mobile money interoperability, initiatives that he said have had a lasting impact on the country.

    “We recognise your contributions to Ghana’s development, particularly in digitalisation and economic modernisation initiatives during your tenure as Vice President,” said Ya-Na Abukari II. “With determined efforts, you spearheaded several transformative projects, including Ghana’s digital addressing system and mobile money interoperability. All these have not gone unnoticed, and Ghanaians are grateful for your efforts.”

    The Dagbon King then urged Dr. Bawumia to stay committed to serving the nation, despite the electoral setback, advising him not to lose hope too soon.

    “So I entreat you to still have the interest of this country at heart and not despair prematurely,” Ya-Na Abukari II stressed.

    In response, Dr. Bawumia expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Ya-Na for his continued support, wisdom, and blessings throughout his political journey.

    The NPP’s Thank You Tour aims to express gratitude to supporters and traditional leaders across the country for their contributions following the party’s performance in the 2024 general elections.

  • Your fight for the CJ is not a about justice, you fighting for your survival – Justice Atuguba to NPP

    Your fight for the CJ is not a about justice, you fighting for your survival – Justice Atuguba to NPP

    Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has launched a scathing critique of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing them of using the judiciary as a political shield rather than standing up for justice in the case involving suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

    Speaking exclusively to JoyNews’ Elton Brobbey on The Pulse, Justice Atuguba dismissed the party’s recent objections to the judicial process for the possible removal of the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkonoo, as nothing more than strategic self-preservation.

    “You have been overthrown through the ballot. Now your final defence is the Chief Justice? You say, ‘If she falls, we all fall.’ That’s what they are fighting for. It’s not about justice—it’s about survival,” Atuguba declared.

    His remarks come on the heels of a protest organised by the NPP on Monday, where the party publicly opposed efforts to remove Chief Justice Torkornoo. Former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame had also argued it was procedurally wrong for an acting Chief Justice to empanel and preside over a case involving the sitting CJ.

    But Atuguba was unimpressed. “When they [the NPP] were in office, how did they perform? Transparently? Neutrally? In the interest of the people? This is the kind of thing I just hate—pure hypocrisy,” he said.

    The retired judge didn’t stop there. He pointed to former National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah’s admission that judicial decisions are sometimes shaped to avoid national instability. “Yes, that’s an honest man,” Atuguba said. “But if the courts were truly implementing the law, what would make him apprehensive? Public perception? The trend? Repeated unanimous decisions in favour of a particular party?”

    Citing a recent 3–2 decision that broke a pattern of unanimous rulings favouring the NPP, Atuguba raised deeper concerns about the judiciary’s independence under the current regime. “Before that, it was unanimous after unanimous—always in their favour. Is that justice? That’s the democracy they want to entrench?” he asked pointedly.

    Atuguba’s comments cut to the heart of a growing national debate—not just about the fate of a Chief Justice, but about the integrity of the justice system itself.

  • NPP needs to get its running mate selection right for success in 2028 – Fmr parliamentary aspirant

    NPP needs to get its running mate selection right for success in 2028 – Fmr parliamentary aspirant

    A former parliamentary aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Asutifi South constituency of the Ahafo Region, Prince Kofi Nyantakyi, is advocating for significant reforms within the party, particularly in how vice-presidential candidates are chosen.

    He has proposed that all flagbearer aspirants should present their vice-presidential candidates for approval by the party before they are permitted to contest in the internal primaries.

    Nyantakyi believes this approach would help align the party’s members with the choice of vice-presidential candidates and prevent internal divisions that could undermine the party’s performance in future elections.

    Speaking to JoyNews in Hwediem, Nyantakyi argued that the current system of flagbearers selecting running mates after winning the primary often leads to internal dissatisfaction when the choice does not reflect the preferences of the party members.

    “Candidates often select running mates after winning the flagbearership who may not necessarily be the people’s choice,” he explained. To avoid this, he suggested that any flagbearer aspirant should declare their vice-presidential candidate alongside their intention to run. If the candidate is one that resonates with the people, then the aspirant should be allowed to proceed to contest the primary.

    Reflecting on the NPP’s loss in the 2024 elections, Nyantakyi noted that the selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo) as Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate was met with internal opposition.

    He claimed that more than 36% of party members were not in favor of Napo, which he believes contributed to the tension within the party during the campaign period.

    “More than 36% of members of the NPP never liked the choice of Matthew Opoku Prempeh as a partner to Dr. Bawumia, which caused internal misunderstanding in the run-up to the 2024 polls,” he said.

    Nyantakyi also pointed out the negative public reactions to some of Napo’s statements during the campaign.

    He feels these comments damaged the party’s image and played a role in its defeat.

    “Some political commentators and a section of Ghanaians complained severally on the negative utterances of ‘Napo’ during the 2024 electioneering campaign, which they think caused the party’s humiliating defeat,” he added.

    As he campaigns for the position of Ahafo Regional Organiser, Nyantakyi emphasized the importance of unity within the party.

    He called on the supporters of prominent figures like Kennedy Agyapong and Kwame Baffoe Abronye to reconcile their differences in order to strengthen the party ahead of the next election. “We can’t mend our torn nets with disunity,” he cautioned.

    Nyantakyi also discussed his vision for the NPP’s future, promising to focus on building a stronger party structure starting from the grassroots level.

    He believes his understanding of the challenges faced by party members will enable him to effectively mobilize and empower them. “As a leader, I understand the aspirations and challenges of my peers, positioning me to mobilize effectively and empower them,” he said.

    He further added, “My leadership promises to revitalize the various wings of the party in the region as a driver for future success. Joining our hands in service for the party will ensure our victory in 2028.”

    Lastly, Nyantakyi called on the NPP’s Council of Elders and the National Executive Council (NEC) to intervene and help resolve the party’s internal tensions.

    He urged them to work towards fostering unity in the party as it prepares for the 2028 general elections.

  • Mahama isn’t making promises; he’s delivering results – Suhuyini

    Mahama isn’t making promises; he’s delivering results – Suhuyini

    Member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communication team, Hamza Suhuyini, has described President John Dramani Mahama as a leader committed to building a legacy rooted in purpose, integrity, and widespread respect even from his political rivals.

    Speaking during an interview on Breakfast Daily on Channel One TV, Suhuyini emphasized that President Mahama is driven by a clear vision to serve the Ghanaian people with humility and dedication.

    According to him, Mahama’s character and leadership style are widely admired, including by leading figures within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    “Thankfully, we have a president in the name of President John Dramani Mahama, whom even leading members of the NPP respect for his intelligence, emotional composure, and trustworthy nature,” Suhuyini stated.

    His remarks came ahead of a national address to be delivered by President Mahama on Wednesday, May 7. The address is expected to provide updates on the government’s achievements under the 120-day social contract.

    While acknowledging that no administration can completely resolve every national issue within 120 days, Suhuyini stressed that President Mahama remains committed to fulfilling his promises and improving the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.

    “I can assure you, the people of Ghana, that unlike them, we are not saying that we will resolve all the problems and matters in 120 days, but we can assure them that we are dealing with a leader who is committed to leaving a legacy. So he will do everything in his power to meet the aspirations of the Ghanaian people,” he noted.

    Suhuyini also took a jab at the opposition NPP, accusing the party of gross incompetence and internal confusion. He claimed that even in opposition, the NPP’s lack of effective leadership is clear.

    “Even in opposition, they are legendary incompetent, and that is staring all of us in the face. Even the internal management of their party activities, which we haven’t seen in the past few days? That tells you the kind of incompetence that presided over the Republic of Ghana, the kind of arrogance and vigilantism that was injected into our body politic,” he argued.

    He further pointed to recent policy changes by the Mahama administration, including the removal of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), the Betting Tax, and the Emissions Levy, as part of a broader plan to ease the financial pressures on Ghanaians and create a more compassionate and responsive government.

  • NPP bigwigs storm Ntim Fordjour’s house to prevent his purported arrest

    NPP bigwigs storm Ntim Fordjour’s house to prevent his purported arrest

    Members of Parliament (MPs) and some stalwarts of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) gathered at the Spintex residence of Assin South MP, Rev. Ntim Fordjour, to stop officials from the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) from arresting him.

    Those present included Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua, National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye, Director of Communications Richard Ahiagbah, as well as other Members of Parliament and party supporters.

    They stated that they had gathered at the house after learning that officials from the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) had “invaded” the MP’s residence to arrest him in connection with his claims about the two aircraft that landed in the country.

    He clarified that Rev. Fordjour only raised the issue of the AirMed aircraft on behalf of the Defence Committee of Parliament, where he is a member. “So nobody should make an attempt to single him out and try to come here to intimidate him.”

    The standoff at the residence prevented the NIB from carrying out the arrest, as claimed by the NPP, who said they had come to detain the MP.

    The situation began after Rev. Ntim Fordjour stated that the aircraft had arrived in the country to engage in illegal activities such as drug trafficking and money laundering.

    Since then, he has faced criticism for bringing up the issue publicly without proper verification.

    The government has accused him of making the claim to damage the reputation of the NDC administration.

  • Mahama’s aide threatens legal action against Abronye, seeks GHS10m compensation over GHS95k salary claims

    Mahama’s aide threatens legal action against Abronye, seeks GHS10m compensation over GHS95k salary claims

    Special Aide and Presidential Advisor to President John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, has threatened to take legal action against Kwame Baffoe, also known as Abronye DC, the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), over what her lawyers have described as “false, reckless, and malicious” comments.

    In a legal notice issued on April 3, 2025, by R.O. Solomon Consulting, Mogtari’s legal team is demanding a full retraction of the statements, a public apology, and compensation of GH₵10 million for defamation.

    The dispute arose from comments Abronye made during a March 26, 2025 interview on Net 2 TV, where he claimed that Mogtari had turned down a ministerial role in favor of a presidential staffer position, which he alleged comes with a salary of GH₵95,000 per month.

    He further claimed that this supposed financial comfort had made her “disrespectful to everyone in Ghana.”

    According to the legal notice, these remarks have since been widely circulated across various platforms, including GhanaWeb and social media, leading to “serious embarrassment and damage” to Mogtari’s reputation.

    The letter accuses Abronye of spreading misinformation with no factual basis, asserting that the details of Mogtari’s appointment are a matter of public record and could have easily been verified.

    “Our client’s reputation, both personally and professionally, has come under attack due to your statements,” the letter reads.

    “She has received numerous phone calls and messages from friends, family, and colleagues questioning the claims.”

    Mogtari, through her lawyers, is demanding that Abronye publicly retract his statements and issue a full, sincere apology. This apology should be shared on all the platforms where the remarks were originally made, including Net 2 TV, GhanaWeb, MyJoyOnline, Channel One TV, and Citi FM.

    If Abronye does not meet these demands, her legal team has warned that they will take legal action to address what they believe is an intentional attack on her reputation.

  • NPP to meet today over drug trafficking allegations

    NPP to meet today over drug trafficking allegations

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) will convene at its headquarters on Monday, April 7, to focus on the growing unease over alleged drug trafficking incidents in Ghana.

    While speculation had circulated that the meeting would center on former Dome-Kwabenya MP Sarah Adwoa Safo and possible disciplinary actions against her, the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, has set the record straight.

    In an interview on Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, April 6, Frimpong addressed the issue directly: “[Monday] there will be a meeting at the NPP headquarters, but I am going to disappoint you—it is not going to be a discussion on whether or not Honourable Adwoa Safo is going to appear before a disciplinary committee or not.

    “However, what the party is going to discuss is the running issue with respect to the alleged drug trafficking in our country, which the rank and file of our party have expressed its disappointment and the worrying behaviour of this government.”

    Frimpong didn’t hold back in his criticism of the government’s handling of the controversy. He called out what he described as efforts to downplay or obscure key facts.

    “The several mind-boggling questions that we are expecting the government to explain to the people of Ghana and also the inconsistencies in its attempt to sweep under the carpet several issues that concern or surround the alleged drug trafficking in our airport,” he said.

    According to the NPP, the aim of the meeting is to develop a coordinated response to the issue and urge the government to be more forthcoming in addressing public concerns.

  • Adwoa Safo to face NPP Disciplinary Committee today

    Adwoa Safo to face NPP Disciplinary Committee today

    Former Dome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, is set to appear before the Disciplinary Committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) today, April 7, 2025.

    The meeting will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the NPP Headquarters Conference Room in Asylum Down, Accra.

    Adwoa Safo has been asked to bring along any documents or witnesses that support her side of the case.

    This follows a statement from the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, dated March 20, which said she had been referred to the committee for allegedly going against party instructions.

    According to the NPP, Adwoa Safo gave several media interviews in which she spoke about internal party issues, despite a clear warning not to. Party leaders say her comments have hurt the NPP’s unity and slowed down efforts to bring members together after their loss in the 2024 elections.

    Today’s hearing could have serious consequences for Adwoa Safo’s role in the party and may set the tone for how the NPP handles similar cases in the future.

  • NPP’s Ahiagbah says planned ousting of CJ part of plans to sack Jean Mensah

    NPP’s Ahiagbah says planned ousting of CJ part of plans to sack Jean Mensah

    NPP’s Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagbah, has alleged that the petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo are part of a broader strategy to replace her with a nominee sympathetic to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    His statement comes in the wake of petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama, accusing the Chief Justice of misconduct and calling for her removal.

    In response, President Mahama referred the petitions to the Council of State for advice and granted Justice Torkornoo a 10-day window to submit her response.

    Reacting to the development on social media platform X, Ahiagbah characterized the move as a calculated attempt to weaken judicial independence and facilitate the removal of key electoral officials, including Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa.

    He warned that such actions pose a serious threat to democratic governance and institutional integrity, urging Ghanaians to resist any attempts to undermine the country’s democratic structures.

    “A grand scheme is underway to remove the Chief Justice and replace her with a preferred NDC-Mahama Chief Justice, who will implement the agenda of ousting the electoral commissioners (Jean Mensa and others).

    “This is a premeditated attack on institutional independence and, ultimately, on our democracy.

    “We must find the courage as citizens, regardless of where we belong, to speak out unequivocally against the politics of the John Mahama Administration.

    “Silence would be a disservice to our posterity….”