Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has stated that the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) educational change should motivate Ghanaians to vote for the party again in the 2024 general election.
According to him, the electorate must examine the NPP’s achievements in the education sector in order to retain the party in power for another eight years.
“So what I am saying to Ghanaians is that they should look at the educational sector and what we are doing. You might not be happy with other sectors of the government, but consider the progress in education,” he added.
Speaking to the media, the Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe in the Ashanti region stated that the implementation of initiatives like free senior high school education, free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as the transformation of junior high school education, deserves recognition from the people.
“If other sectors haven’t done well, forgive us and consider education. Help us to continue to change Ghana,” Dr. Adutwum stressed.
Yaw Boateng, the spokesperson for a prospective flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Francis Addai-Nimoh, has exuded confidence that his candidate will secure a place among the top five contenders in the party’s special delegates conference scheduled for Saturday, August 26, 2023.
In an interview with the media on Friday, Mr Boateng conveyed the team’s unwavering certainty in their success, not only in the upcoming primaries in November but also in the immediate conference.
He emphasized their thorough preparation and readiness for the impending competition.
“We as a team in Francis Addai-Nimoh’s camp are resolute in whatever that we are doing, and we know that at the end of the polls, our candidate will emerge as one of the five people to be selected by the party to go into the major election to elect the ultimate person to become the flagbearer of which we know it will be Francis Addai-Nimoh at the end of the day.”
“So we are very certain and prepared towards that and everything is working in our way,” Mr Boateng stated.
Simultaneously, the prominent candidates who have garnered considerable support and are likely to secure prominent positions are the vice president, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Kennedy Agyapong, the MP for Assin Central, former Minister of Trade Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, former Energy Minister Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko, and Kwabena Agyei Agyapong, the former general secretary of the NPP.
The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has taken measures to prepare for a potential run-off this Saturday, August 26, 2023.
Speaking to the media, the Director of Elections and Research, Evans Nimako, stated that in case the delegates are unable to choose the initial five candidates for the November 4th election, the party will hold a run-off on September 2nd.
“It has been agreed that in the event of the conference not being able to produce the first five, there will have to be a re-run and so September 2, 2023, has been slated for a possible run-off date.”
“The letter of our Constitution in Article 13 (1.9) indicates that there must be first five of the presidential candidates and so if it is the first three, then it means there will have to be another election for the two to be elected to add up to five,” he added.
On Saturday, August 26, 2023, NPP delegates will partake in a vote to trim the current pool of ten presidential aspirants down to a final selection of five.
This Special Electoral College event will serve as a precursor to the pivotal national conference set for November 4, 2023.
The party will then designate its flagbearer for the 2024 general elections.
This nationwide balloting process follows several months of intense campaigning by the aspirants, who traversed the entire country in an effort to secure the favor of the delegates, who hold the power to shape their fates.
A total of 956 delegates are expected to participate in the elections.
The super delegates conference, renowned for its significance in determining key decisions and selecting prominent leaders within the NPP, is poised to be an event of considerable influence.
Drawing together delegates from various regions and constituencies, the congress is a testament to the party’s commitment to participatory democracy and inclusivity.
In a statement, the NPP indicated that the delegates are expected to represent various constituencies from across the country.
“Nine hundred and fifty-six (956) delegates are expected to participate in this election. As per the NPP Constitution, the Special Electoral College comprises representatives from various Party entities, including: the National Council, the National Executive Committee, all Regional Executive Committees, all Members of the National Council of Elders, all the Party Members of Parliament, etc.” the statement said.
Preparations are underway for the much awaited New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Super Delegates Conference scheduled for August 26, 2023.
As part of these preparations, the party has canceled all programs in anticipation of the Conference.
On August 26, the party will head for the polls in efforts to shrink the number of its flagbearer aspirants from 10 to 5.
In order to facilitate a seamless procedure on Saturday, the party has urged its regional leaders to temporarily halt all scheduled activities such as retreats and workshops until the conclusion of the Super Delegates Conference.
This information was outlined in an official statement issued by William Yamoah, the secretary of the NPP’s Presidential Elections Committee, dated August 24, 2023.
“Moreover, all Regional Executive Committees are kindly requested to suspend any previously planned programmes, including but not limited to workshops, training, extended meetings, retreats, residential retreats, or any events involving delegates camping, for the duration of this week until the conclusion of the Electoral College Election,” the statement read.
The New Patriotic Party cleared all of its ten presidential aspirants to contest the flagbearer race in July.
The ten aspirants are Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Joe Ghartey; a former Minister of Trade, Alan Kyerematen; MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong; a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie; a former General Secretary of NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong; a former MP for Offinso North, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku; a former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko; businessman, Kojo Opoku, and a former MP for Mampong, Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The New Patriotic Party will hold its parliamentary and presidential primaries in November to determine the ultimate winner of the flagbearer race.
Former National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sammi Awuku, has called on flagbearer contender Dr Afriyie Akoto to provide the public with a list of contractors who, in his view, are not receiving payment from the government.
Sammi Awuku expressed his astonishment at the remarks made by the ex-Minister of Food and Agriculture, in which he alleged that the government was neglecting contractors who have openly shown their allegiance to him.
His statement follows Dr Afriyie Akoto’s comments in which he criticized the government for failing to compensate contractors who are recognized for backing his aspiration as the prospective flagbearer of the NPP.
Speaking in an interview with Oyerepa TV on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, the former National Organizer of the NPP challenged Dr Afriyie Akoto to release the list of contractors who have not been paid for declaring support for him.
“When it comes to campaign issues of this sort, it is beyond me. First of all, I don’t know the particular contractors. secondly, I don’t work at the Ministry of Finance. I don’t want to believe Dr. Afriyie Akoto said that [ gov’t not saying contractors supporting him]. I don’t have knowledge about what he said. I can’t verify that there are contractors who are not being paid because of him.
“In any case, do we have a list of Dr. Afriyie Akoto’s contractors? or a list of Kennedy Agyapong or Dr. Bawumia’s contractors? So I want to see the list and follow up to find out why there are contractors for Alan, Dr. Bawumia, or Dr. Afriyie Akoto who have not been paid. With this, I am unable to find out because I don’t know where to tackle it. So maybe when I meet my uncle, Dr. Afriyie Akoto, I will ask for the details of the contractors and follow up with him. Once again, I do not want to believe he ever said that,” Sammi Awuku said in Twi on Oyerepa TV.
Background
Former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has slammed the leadership of the party for failing to get a grip of happenings in the race to choose the party’s presidential candidate for 2024 elections.
Speaking in a JoyNews interview, Dr Afriyie Akoto, a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, accused the party’s leadership of being partial in dealing with persons flouting the roles of the party; adding that the happenings in the campaign for the primaries tells that there is no discipline in the NPP.
He said that while top officials of the party and the government are declaring their support for a certain contender without consequences, persons declaring their support for him and the other candidates are being punished.
He alleged the contractors who are declaring their support for some of the candidates in the race are being denied payment.
“There is some sort of force being used – intimidation… those contractors who do not seem to be for this candidate are not paid when they complete their jobs. And they have taken huge sums of money from the banks and the interest rates are 35%, 40%. They are not paid and are being punished for supporting someone else.”
“But if somebody has done a job or a contract with the government, and they are not paid, while those who declare for that particular candidate are paid,” he said.
A candidate aspiring to be the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, has emphasized his commitment to curbing misconduct among government appointees if he secures the presidency in Ghana.
Aiming to set a precedent, Agyapong stated that any minister of state failing to adhere to punctuality norms would not only be dismissed but also publicly shamed to deter similar behavior by other officials.
In an interview on August 22, 2023, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central stressed that he would not entertain apologies from politicians, royalty, or even his own family, underlining the importance of accountability.
Agyapong’s stance also extends to scrutinizing government contracts meticulously during his potential tenure as president.
He cited a need for fairness and transparency, vowing to challenge the current trend of exorbitant profits, asserting that profit margins of 300% would not be tolerated in his administration.
Highlighting his dual roles as a politician and businessman, Agyapong expressed his commitment to prioritizing the interests of Ghana over other considerations, promising a thorough review of contracts that have gained approval under both NDC and NPP leaderships.
In this way, Agyapong aims to usher in an era of disciplined governance and responsible contract management, should he assume the presidency.
“I have said on several occasions that during my tenure as president, if you flout a rule and you are punished, I won’t heed any apology from any politician, king, or even my family, I won’t listen. It is by doing this that people will be deterred, and do the right thing. If a minister reports to duty late, I will sack the person and embarrass him in public by announcing that the minister has been fired due to lateness and ask the deputy minister of that ministry to take over,” he said.
“In business, if you are able to make a profit after taxes between 15-30%, you will survive in business. But in Ghana, an individual can make a profit of 300%, under my leadership as president, it will not work. We are going to scrutinize [contracts]. Ghanaians are fortunate that Kennedy Agyapong is a politician and a businessman, so I will check contracts very well. Under the leadership of both NDC and NPP, I am surprised why lawyers and government officials approve certain contracts. So I am aware of the challenges [facing Ghanaians], when I come into power, I will prioritize Ghana over everything,” he added.
The Presidential Elections Committee (EC) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially verified that the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, is indeed eligible to cast her vote during the party’s upcoming special delegates congress scheduled for August 26.
Concerns regarding the qualification of the chief of staff under the National Executive Committee category on the delegates list were brought up by Alan Kyerematen’s campaign.
However, in a press conference, the Vice Chairman of the Presidential Elections Committee, Kwabena Abankwah Yeboah, clarified that the Chief of Staff’s eligibility to vote was affirmed.
This affirmation was based on her role as a patron of the party’s National Executive Committee.
“Our dedicated efforts have been focused on addressing a variety of inquiries that emerged throughout the process. We particularly prioritized resolving issues connected to the voters’ register. In our commitment to maintain the utmost transparency, we distributed the provisional voters’ register to all candidates and urged them to meticulously review it. We encouraged them to identify and report any inconsistencies or irregularities. Consequently, we received valuable input from the candidates regarding cases of omission, duplication, and related matters,” he explained.
“We are pleased to confirm that all such concerns have been meticulously addressed. An inquiry was raised concerning the status of Honorable Akosua Frema Osei Opare. According to the party’s official records, she holds membership in the National Executive Committee. Moreover, due to her position as the representative of the patrons at the NEC, she possesses the right to exercise her vote,” he declared.
The Deputy Communications Director of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Malik Basintale, has urged the government to eliminate all forms of betting and gaming in the country if it does not endorse the involvement of young individuals in such activities.
He recommended that the government clarify its stance on betting, as the rationale behind implementing the 10% tax is not well-received by the youth.
The introduction of a 10% betting tax, part of the government’s strategy to generate revenue, has been met with criticism and apprehension.
Malik Basintale expressed reservations about the implementation of the 10% betting tax and criticized the government for its engagement in gambling.
In an interview with the media, Malik Basintale argued that, “the Gaming Commission Act said gambling is a game of chance, and a game to have fun. The government that brought this Act can repeal it at any point in time. Government is the biggest gambler in the country. The government through the lotteries authority manages gambling in this country. The president appoints a CEO to gamble with the people of this country. The government doesn’t see the need to repeal that Act. The government doesn’t see the need to close down the entire lottery system. But they think that by imposing punitive taxes on this service, they will move a lot of people out of it.”
“How does this tax frighten any youth out of this betting? The 21 new taxes you introduced, was that your intention to frighten businesses? If you think you don’t support the position of young people in this country betting, then abolish it. So that we will know that you don’t like it, it should be clear, the moral definition or the moral explanation to this doesn’t fly for me because there’s a law backing it”.
He criticized the government’s “irresponsible” assumption that their tax would drive young individuals away from the betting industry without offering alternatives.
“Your 10% tax means that go and bet, and when you win, give me 10%. And that is your idea of chicken people out of the betting industry. How irresponsible that thought can be, taxing betting is not a responsible measure of pushing people out of it. There are other alternatives you could choose from,” Malik Basintale pointed out.
The NDC Deputy Communications Officer also criticized the government for subjecting bettors to double taxation, arguing that they are already taxed through the e-levy.
He called upon the government to permit young people to make their own choices regarding participation in betting, emphasizing that there is a legal foundation supporting it.
“That factor of immorality should be left up to the individual’s reasoning.”
Super delegates of the National Patriotic Party (NPP) would not be permitted to vote at the upcoming conference if they fail to pay their dues.
This is according to the National Treasurer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Charles Dwamena who backs his statement with Article (34)b of the party’s constitution.
In an engagement with the media, Dr. Charles, indicated that there are preparations underway to ensure the upcoming Super Delegates Conference set to take place on Saturday, August 26, 2023 is peacefully.
However, he sends a reminder to members who have not redeemed payment of their monthly pledge to clear all their arears, so they can be allowed to exercise their franchise.
“There are some super delegates who have not yet paid their dues. If you have not paid your dues, I am reminding you through this platform because it is a requirement by law. I am sure they have forgotten, hence, this comes as a reminder,” he expressed.
The NPP treasurer clarified that all delegates own the right to vote according to the party’s constitution, but the same constitution according to article 34b qualifies a member in good standing to vote when they pay their dues.
“If you don’t pay your dues, there are are several roles you cannot play in the party including exercising your franchise,” Mr. Dwamena added.
He also appealed to all those preparing to vote in the upcoming primaries in November to pay attention and adhere to same directive.
NPP will on August 26, 2023, hold a special delegates conference to select five candidates out of the Ten (10) to contest the November 4, 2023 presidential primary.
The elections would be held in all 16 regions across the country after the National Council of the Party (NPP) unanimously dismissed a petition by nine aspirants asking for the party’s Special Delegates Conference to be at a centralized venue.
Member of Parliament for Asawase Constituency, Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, has asserted that the Majority Leader of Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, along with his colleagues, employed their numerical advantage to intimidate the Minority during the 7th Parliament.
Muntaka, who held the role of the Minority Chief Whip in the 7th Parliament, disclosed that the ruling government’s absolute Majority status during that period granted them unprecedented authority, which they (the Majority) employed to mistreat the Minority legislators on a daily basis.
The outspoken Member of Parliament made these remarks during a private discussion with Prince Ade (D. O. K Cash) on OTEC 102.9 FM’s afternoon political program “Dwabrem” on Friday, August 19, 2023.
According to him, the governing New Patriotic Party NPP amassing 169 members in the 7th Parliament gave them excessive power, which allowed them to do anything they want including approving some unpopular loan agreements and bills.
“That 169 members they had in the 7th Parliament was a serious problem to Ghana’s development, they enjoyed excessive comfort doing everything they wanted without effective checks from us the Minority because we couldn’t face them with our 106 members”.
“Because they needed only 139 members to form a quorum, the Majority Leader and his colleague call for a sitting on odd hours including Sundays to take any decision they want”.
“Our numbers then were so useless to the point that they wouldn’t even care whether or not minority members will show up or not, that was when I realized the NPP government was going to fail”, he narrated to the host.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Deputy Director of Communications for the Bono Region, Eric Adjei, has accused the New Patriotic Party of bribery over the construction of the new Bank of Ghana (BoG) headquarters.
In an interview on the Kokroko show on Peace FM, Mr Adjei claimed that communicators of the ruling party received cash from the Central Bank to argue for the construction of its headquarters.
According to him, NPP Communicators were paid GHS1000 to convince Ghanaians of the need for the construction of a new headquarters.
“The NPP is doing something, the way they are doing things, it may lead to the elimination of the moral aspect.
“When this Bank of Ghana issue surfaced, one Opata, I don’t know whether he is a PRO or not. He came to meet NPP communicators. Be honest to yourself, don’t lie.
“They gave the communicators GHS1000 so they lie about the details, you are being dishonest to yourselves. You are a Bank of the nation and not a political party,” he said.
The Central Bank of Ghana has provided justification as to why the institution is investing $250 million in a new headquarters amidst an economic crisis.
In a press statement, the Bank of Ghana explained that the need to construct a new headquarters stems from the threat of seismic activity.
According to the Central Bank, its current structure, built in the 1960s, lacks structural integrity, and is therefore incapable of withstanding an earth tremor.
This comes after the Minority in Parliament questioned the investment being made by the Bank of Ghana under the supervision of Governor Dr Ernest Addison.
Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson at a National Democratic Congress (NDC) press conference on Tuesday, August 8, labelled the Bank of Ghana as insensitive over its decision.
The ongoing project is a 21-storey structure situated in Ridge, adjacent to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge.
The project, said to be approximately 50% finished, has been awarded to De Simone Limited.
Over 80 taxi drivers in the Atiwa West Constituency of the Eastern Region are making waves with their resolute support for Samuel Awuah Dankwa.
These drivers have boldly displayed posters of him on their vehicles, endorsing him as the preferred successor to the outgoing Member of Parliament, Honorable Kwasi Amoako Attah.
After a decade of service, Honorable Kwasi Amoako Attah, who also serves as the Minister for Roads and Highways, has announced his decision not to seek re-election.
The taxi drivers are convinced that Samuel Awuah Dankwa, though not directly involved in government, has left an indelible mark on the community.
His contributions include significant investments in supporting talented but underprivileged students in the region.
Hailing from Akyem Bomaa and residing within the constituency, Samuel Awuah Dankwa is seen as an accessible candidate. The taxi drivers laud his local roots and his attentive approach to hearing and addressing people’s concerns.
In the eyes of these drivers, Samuel Awuah Dankwa’s potential as the next Member of Parliament for Atiwa West Constituency is promising. They emphasize his ability to provide substantial support to the area’s residents.
While they anticipate fierce competition in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP primary, the taxi drivers urge delegates to choose a candidate who is consistently present, approachable, respectful, and compassionate. They argue that this accessibility is crucial for comprehending community challenges and effectively resolving them.
One driver stated, “He stands out as the only candidate we are familiar with. He’s not only a resident of the constituency but also the most accessible candidate.”
Highlighting his contributions to education through the Awuah Dankwa Education Foundation (ADEF) and his support for the NPP Party, the drivers underline his dedication to the constituency’s growth.
Their hope is that Samuel Awuah Dankwa will secure 80% of the votes from delegates, endorsing him for the role. While acknowledging potential monetary influences in politics, the drivers urge delegates to prioritize the constituents’ welfare and vote judiciously.
Their message to delegates is clear: “If the NPP wants to break the eight, then the delegates must elect him as the NPP Parliamentary Candidate. He is the only one who can drive up the votes of the NPP in the 2024 general elections.”
Member of Parliament for Kwadaso, Kingsley Nyarko, for the umpteenth time justifying why Dr Bawumia is the best candidate to be elected as flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In an interview on Peace FM, he stated the Vice President has both the country and the NPP at hand.
“I’m for Baumia because of the future of this party, because of the stability of this country, and I also believe that the man is competent and can win the race for us, going to face Mahama,” he said.
He asserted that the race is between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) whom he said is being represented by Goliath – John Dramani Mahama, and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who is being represented by the David – Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and shared the strong conviction that Dr Bawumia will emerge winner of the presidential primaries and well as the 2024 general elections.
“I believe David, Bawumia, will defeat Goliath, Mahama,” he added.
Member of Parliament for Kwadaso, Kingsley Nyarko, has provided justification for why Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is the most suitable candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party to success in the forthcoming 2024 general elections.
Speaking in an interview on Peace FM, he said Dr Bawumia has dutifully served both the party and the nation. As a result, he should be rewarded with a substantial voter turnout from all regions following the NPP special delegates congress and the presidential primaries.
“Bawumia is competent. He has introduced various initiatives and innovations so I am confident that come August 26, he will receive massive endorsement across the regions,” he said.
He unequivocally expressed the hope that Dr Bawumia will be elected flagbearer of the NPP.
“It’ll only take the miracle of Lazarus to stop Bawumia’s Victory,” he said.
Bono Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe Abronye, has alleged that some organizers within the party’s potential presidential candidates are engaging in undisciplined behavior and unproductive rumors.
He holds the view that it is inappropriate for a representative of a presidential contender, who strongly criticized him during their regional campaign, to actively create problems within the party.
“There has been indiscipline and unnecessary gossiping by coordinators or some presidential aspirants.
“These coordinators have made it a point to destroy some delegates or party officers in order to make money from them,” Mr Abronye disclosed in a letter dated August 20, 2023.
He continued: “It is unnecessary and undisciplined for a regional officer to be coordinator for more than 5 presidential aspirants, promising them the number of votes they will receive from him.”
He has also indicated that after extensive consultation, he has decided not to be part of the party’s upcoming special delegates congress.
The Bono regional chairman cataloged a number of reasons he wants to abstained from the congress including alleged extortion.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has asserted that he has significantly contributed to Ghana’s progress during his tenure within the Akufo-Addo administration.
He emphasized his dedication to facilitating the transformation of Ghana, underscoring his commitment to the nation’s advancement.
This declaration was delivered during his address to stakeholders of the ruling New Patriotic Party in Donkorkrom, specifically within the Afram Plains North constituency, last Saturday.
Dr. Bawumia said: “I am always driven by public service, not the desire for personal gains”.
“It is the reason I am offering myself, first to be elected flagbearer of our party, and then I can offer myself to the people of Ghana so that I can continue to contribute towards the transformation of our country,” Dr Bawumia noted.
As Vice President, Dr Bawumia said he has done so much for Ghana.
“I have not been president, but as vice president, I have worked so hard and contributed significantly to the development of our country through landmark policies I have initiated and spearheaded,” Dr. Bawumia said.
Among the policies that Dr. Bawumia has championed are the establishment of One Constituency-One Ambulance, the inception of the Agenda 111 hospital initiative, and the introduction of the Digital Addressing System.
Additionally, he has overseen the digitization of key sectors such as the ports, Passport offices, and DVLA, while also spearheading the creation of the ghana.gov payment platform. His contributions further encompass the implementation of the money interoperability system and the development of the e-Pharmacy platform.
In his bid for the flagbearer position, Dr. Bawumia faces competition from nine other contenders.
A significant step in this selection process will be the superdelegates conference scheduled for August 26, 2023.
During this event, the number of aspirants will be narrowed down to five in preparation for the main primaries set to take place on November 4, 2023.
A contender for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidacy, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has emphasized that the party must adopt a transformative leadership strategy in preparation for the 2024 national elections if it aims to secure victory for a third consecutive term, commonly referred to as “Breaking the 8.”
He expressed concern that the unfavorable condition of the party’s financial situation poses a significant challenge as the 2024 elections approach.
Dr Afriyie Akoto emphasized that unless the party takes proactive steps to address the financial difficulties currently faced by its leadership, the consequences could be dire for the NPP as it approaches the upcoming elections in the coming year.
In an interview with the Ghanaian Times newspaper on August 14, 2023, ahead of the special delegates conference, Dr. Afriyie Akoto disclosed that some of the party’s executives are disappointed due to the financial constraints.
“The party has a long tradition stretching for over 70 years in the state that cannot be relied upon to deliver the elections next year if nothing is done about it. It needs a radical shake, leadership is weak, financially the party is down and it is affecting the front-line executives as the expectations of their welfare have been disappointed with this low morale, I don’t think one can go into next year,” the Ghanaian Times Newspaper quoted him as having said.
The former minister of Food and Agriculture indicated that the country’s over-dependence on cocoa as a major source of revenue is worrying, hence he will focus on other crops that will help to raise income if elected as president of Ghana.
“We have the potential, we have been relying on cocoa for the past 130 years as our major experience revenue, there are more crops to bring, more but we have been ignored. This is my vision for the party and the country.
“In 2021, agriculture sector growth went up by 8.4 percent and that has never happened like that before, we have expanded the sector to about 1.7 million farmers who have benefitted from this,” he said according to the Ghanaian Times newspaper.
Backround
10 people would be contesting in the NPP presidential primaries which are slated for August and November 2023.
A super delegate conference would be held in August 2023 to reduce the number of contenders to five while the main primaries would be held in November 2023 to choose the party’s presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.
The ten candidates include Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; a former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen; Kwadwo Poku, an energy expert; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Joe Ghartey; a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto; a former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong; MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong; a former MP for Offinso North, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku; and a former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko.
A flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has distinguished himself as the sole candidate among the ten vying for the party’s flagbearer position with comprehensive plans to enhance the quality of life in Ghana.
Asserting that his approach stands out, he underscored his vision of propelling agriculture to underpin the growth of various economic sectors and his ambitious initiative to create enterprises for the NPP.
These concepts, he believes, are highly feasible, and when implemented, they will deliver the long-awaited positive transformation that Ghanaians have yearned for.
Based on his extensive travels across the nation, Dr. Afriyie Akoto acknowledged the diminished optimism among people due to their enduring economic struggles.
Fueled by this observation, he is galvanized to challenge conventional business principles and enhance the lives of the populace.
During an interview at his campaign office in Accra on August 15, 2023, he expounded that his vision of establishing NPP-owned enterprises isn’t groundbreaking, as similar endeavors have prospered globally.
These ventures, he noted, have generated substantial income and job opportunities for party activists.
“The morale of the people are down. The revival of their morale is based on what I intend to do. I have big plans for Ghana – plans that can generate income for the development of our great NPP to pay our activists handsomely to encourage them to work hard for this party; and plans to use agriculture to develop the other sectors of the economy. These are ambitious plans that I have prioritized to implement when given the nod to lead the NPP and Ghana,” he noted.
Elaborating on his aspirations for the NPP, Dr. Akoto, a former two-term Member of Parliament for Kwadaso, shared his vision to establish a network of party-owned businesses on national, regional, and constituency levels, all managed by a central holding company.
These enterprises, he explained, would provide a revenue stream for party operations and create employment opportunities for members.
Drawing inspiration from examples such as Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT), South Africa’s ANC, and Rwanda’s RPF, who have developed substantial business interests, Dr. Akoto envisioned a parallel scenario for the NPP.
He emphasized that this approach is pragmatic and sustainable, allowing the party to flourish while positively impacting society.
“In essence, my vision for the party is based on proven models from other parts of the world. For instance, the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa owns various businesses, including mining and insurance companies. This strategy enables them to pay reasonable wages to their members and activists, fostering job creation and development. I intend to bring this vision to the New Patriotic Party, elevating our capabilities and transforming lives,” he affirmed.
Concerning his vision for the country, Dr. Akoto underlined the untapped wealth in Ghana’s agricultural sector.
He proposed agriculture as the catalyst to break the cycle of poverty and debt dependency. Drawing from his experience as the Minister of Food and Agriculture, he advocated for comprehensive support to farmers and the establishment of enabling institutions.
His leadership in founding the Tree Development Authority (TDA), aimed at nurturing six key tree crops, showcased his commitment to transforming Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
Dr. Akoto aspires for these efforts to mirror cocoa’s success, potentially yielding annual revenues ranging from US$6 billion to US$12 billion for the nation.
“This is my vision – a vision of utilizing agriculture to address poverty at its core. We must move away from perpetual borrowing and reliance on external institutions. Ghana’s farmers, with the right support, have the capacity to drive this change. My priority is to empower them and facilitate the creation of necessary institutions,” he asserted.
National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress, Sammy Gyamfi, has denied claims that he indicated before the 2020 general elections that a future NDC government would impose taxes on profits from sports betting.
He explained that his statement had been misinterpreted by members of the ruling New Patriotic Party to support the imposition of the controversial 10% tax on betting and lottery winnings introduced by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration.
In a statement sighted by GhanaWeb, the NDC communications officer explained that he only suggested that the NDC would consider implementing a tax system on sports betting similar to that of the United Kingdom (UK).
“In response to a question on how the NDC intends to fund the Sports Development Fund we promised in our 2020 manifesto, I indicated in the said interview, that that the NDC will consider imposing a tax on sports betting ‘as it’s done in the UK’.
“The question every objective mind ought to ask, therefore, is what pertains in the UK relative to taxation on sports betting? The answer is simple! In the UK, bet winnings are not taxed. Rather, bet companies are heavily taxed. See https://www.newbettingsites.co/articles/how-much-tax-do-betting-companies-pay/,” parts of the statement reads.
He added that the tax on sports betting in the UK is way different from the 10% tax the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government has placed on bet winnings.
“This is the example I cited and indicated that a future NDC government will consider post 2020. The new 10% tax on bet winnings that the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government has introduced is the direct opposite of what pertains in the UK and the position I canvassed in 2020. Don’t be misled!” he said.
The NDC communications officer reiterated that his party is totally opposed to the 10% tax on bet earnings introduced by the current government.
Read the full statement below:
My attention has been drawn to desperate attempts by some NPP social media activists to put a spin on a comment I made about sports betting in the run up to the 2020 elections.
In response to a question on how the NDC intends to fund the Sports Development Fund we promised in our 2020 manifesto, I indicated in the said interview, that that the NDC will consider imposing a tax on sports betting “as it’s done in the UK”.
The question every objective mind ought to ask therefore, is what pertains in the UK relative to taxation on sports betting?
The answer is simple! In the UK, bet winnings are not taxed. Rather, bet companies are heavily taxed. See https://www.newbettingsites.co/articles/how-much-tax-do-betting-companies-pay/
This is the example I cited and indicated that a future NDC government will consider post 2020. The new 10% tax on bet winnings that the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government has introduced is the direct opposite of what pertains in the UK and the position I canvassed in 2020. Don’t be misled!
For the sake of clarity and emphasis, the NDC is vehemently opposed to the 10% tax that has been imposed by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government on bet winnings;
1. Sports betting although undesirable, has become a necessary evil given the state of hopelessness, joblessness and excruciating hardships that Ghanaian youths have been plunged into by the insensitive and reckless Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government.
2. Taxing bet winnings under the current excruciating economic conditions Ghanaians are facing, particularly, the high rate of inflation of 43.1% and the highest unemployment rate among others, is insensitive and totally unacceptable.
3. Government should be innovative in its bid to increase tax revenue and stop this lazy approach to taxation. If government is minded to raise tax revenue from betting, its focus should be on taxing multinational/foreign bet companies as it pertains in the UK and other jurisdictions and not poor Ghanaian youths who have been compelled by the harsh economic conditions in the country to seek refuge in sports betting for their very survival.
4. More importantly, the new 10% tax on bet winnings introduced by the NPP contravenes the government’s social contract with Ghanaians. That social contract is to the effect that; “taxation is a lazy approach to governance” and that an NPP government will “reduce the tax burden on Ghanaians” and move the country from “taxation to production”.
Contrary to this promise, the current NPP government has introduced over 25 tax handles since they took office in 2017- a clear betrayal of the trust of Ghanaians. These taxes have conspired to make life unbearable for the vast majority of Ghanaians, particularly the youths who can’t find jobs.
The NDC will not and cannot lend its support to the double-standards the NPP continuous to display relative to taxation, particularly at this time of unprecedented hardships.
5. Undoubtedly, Sports Betting has become a refuge for the millions of Ghanaian unemployed youths who have been compelled by the economic mismanagement of the NPP to depend on betting for survival. Imposing a 10% tax on bet winnings is therefore cruel. Given the difficult times we find ourselves in, the NDC fully supports calls for the immediate scrapping of the newly introduced 10% tax on bet winnings.
This is the official position of the great NDC on the newly-introduced 10% tax on bet winnings.
Sammy Gyamfi Esq. National Communications Officer National Democratic Congress
A member of the communications team of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Lawrence Kwesi Botchway Jnr, has lauded the remarkable leadership and lasting impact of the former Minister of Education and current Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, on national development.
He particularly highlighted Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s pivotal role in preventing an electricity crisis in the country.
In an interview, Botchway described Dr. Opoku Prempeh as the “architect of Ghana’s energy success,” commending his accomplishments in propelling the nation towards a more sustainable economy through effective management of the energy sector.
He further lauded the minister’s dedication and effectiveness in maintaining continuous power supply, even during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We must laud the Minister’s dedication and effectiveness in keeping the lights on and the nation running. NAPO’s timely and effective response showcased his mastery of the energy landscape, ensuring uninterrupted power supply till now and even during the challenging COVID-19 epoch. Unlike the past era of ‘dumsor’, Ghana experienced stability and reliability in its power infrastructure, a testament to Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s strategic leadership in the energy sector,” he stated.
Botchway also emphasized the transformative impact of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which was championed by Dr. Opoku Prempeh and President Akufo-Addo.
He cited significant statistics, showcasing the substantial increase in student enrollment from 6,000 in 2016 to 1.2 million today.
Botchway attributed this growth to visionary leadership and not just political maneuvering, highlighting President Akufo-Addo’s role in making education accessible to all students, regardless of their background.
Botchway concluded by praising President Akufo-Addo’s legacy, which he sees as a gift to Ghana’s future generations.
He emphasized that the Free SHS policy has dismantled financial barriers, allowing both privileged and disadvantaged students to access quality education.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team has launched an innovative set of digital campaign donation platforms.
The campaign team is inviting citizens to actively participate and contribute to the Vice President’s campaign in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) primaries and 2024 general elections.
This comprises a website (www.bawumia.com), USSD *202#, and a mobile App (Bawumia Connect) to engage with supporters and also for them to contribute to his campaign ahead of the NPP Presidential Primaries slated for August 26 and November 4, 2023.
The newly launched digital campaign donation platforms offer a range of user-friendly options, making it easier than ever for citizens to engage with the campaign.
The newly launched digital campaign donation platforms offer a range of user-friendly options, making it easier than ever for citizens to engage with the campaign.
Supporters can now conveniently make contributions to the campaign, through secure online payment gateways, providing a seamless experience that matches the fast-paced nature of modern life also follow his campaign activities and interact with him digitally.
The Vice President emphasized the importance of these digital platforms in promoting inclusivity and encouraging widespread participation.
“Our campaign is fueled by the passion and enthusiasm of our supporters.
By embracing technology, we are ensuring that every citizen who believes in our vision can contribute, regardless of their location,” he stated during the launch of the event.
The campaign team’s dedication to transparency is evident in the real-time tracking feature integrated into the platforms.
Donors can readily monitor how their contributions are being utilized, enhancing accountability and building trust between the campaign and its supporters.
The ECOWAS Community Court of Justice (CCJ) has explained that there is no evidence of any corrupt scheme to misuse Ghana’s gold to the detriment of its people using the Gold Royalties Monetisation Transaction arrangement, commonly referred to as the Agyapa Deal.
According to the CCJ, the applicants of the suit who challenged the propriety of the Agyapa Deal failed to prove that the government was seeking to misappropriate Ghana’s commonwealth through the deal.
The court reasoned that the applicants’ pieces of evidence, Transparency International, Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), and Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), which included a corruption risk assessment on the Agyapa Deal by a former Special Prosecutor, Martin Alamisi Amidu, would not be sufficient in legal terms because they could not demonstrate any attempt to syphon Ghana’s wealth.
On July 10, this year, the court dismissed the lawsuit, but yesterday it released its full judgement and justification.
The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has praised the CCJ’s ruling, calling it a vindication of the administration.
“As a party and government, we are happy, particularly that it was an ECOWAS Community Court of Justice that adjudicated the issue and arrived at the conclusion that there was no wrongdoing with the spirited move by the government to leverage our mineral incomes to accelerate development,” the Director of Communications of the NPP, Richard Ahiagbah, said in a statement.
According to the ruling, the sub-regional court’s three-member panel determined that the evidence they considered demonstrated that the Agyapa Deal had successfully completed all necessary steps, including receiving the approval of the Ghanaian Parliament.
“What this court has before it is in fact evidence of processes that flow from democratic institutions and have gained approval from the people’s representatives, that is Parliament.
“There is no evidence before this court pointing to the actual misappropriation of the commonwealth of the people of Ghana that has deprived the people from benefiting from it,” the court held.
The court, therefore, dismissed reliefs of the plaintiffs, including the cardinal one which was that the Agyapa deal was a violation of Article 21(1) of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, which stipulates that natural resources of African countries would be utilised in the interest of citizens of such countries.
The three-member panel of the court which sat on the case in Abuja included Justice Dupe Atoki from Nigeria, Justice Sengu Mohammed Koroma from Sierra Leone and Justice Ricardo Claudio Monteiro Goncalves from Cape Verde.
Vindication
The NPP Director of Communications said at the heart of the matter was the establishment of Agyapa Royalties Limited, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) owned solely by the government through the Minerals Income Investment Fund.
He explained that the entity aimed to publicly list up to 49 per cent of its shares on the London Stock Exchange, sparking extensive debates and accusations in the lead-up to the 2020 general election.
Mr Ahiagba praised the ECOWAS Court’s ruling, emphasising that it solidified the government’s steadfast commitment to transparent and legitimate practices.
He also commended the GII and the GACC for utilising their right to seek legal recourse and stated that the court’s verdict had comprehensively addressed their concerns.
“The ruling serves as a testament to the rule of law and the importance of civil society’s role in ensuring accountability,” Mr Ahiagba stated.
The NPP Communications Director also referenced President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s call for active citizenship, citing the civil society groups’ actions as a manifestation of that principle.
Mr Ahiagba said CSOs played an integral role in holding the government accountable, acknowledging that constructive criticism and concerns were vital in the democratic process.
He encouraged a continued dialogue between the government and those organisations for the betterment of the nation.
The NPP’s Director of Communications said the ruling was expected to bring closure to a contentious chapter and reaffirm the rule of law as a cornerstone of democratic governance in the country.
Background
Parliament passed the Minerals Income Investment Fund Act, 2018 (MIIF Act 978) with the key objective of maximising the county’s mineral wealth for the benefit of Ghanaians, while ensuring that receiving royalties from gold mining companies was sustainable.
The law was amended to enable it to incorporate subsidiaries and to use it as a special purpose vehicle to do business across the world.
The main subsidiary of the MIIF and holding company, Agyapa Royalties Investment Ltd, will be listed on the LSE, while its subsidiary, ARG Royalties Ltd, will be quoted on the Ghana Stock Exchange, both through initial public offerings.
The company will be responsible for managing 75.6 per cent of the country’s royalty inflow from the 12 gold mining companies that currently operate in Ghana, with four more expected to come on stream.
The Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George, has cautioned President Akufo-Addo against hastily engaging in a military intervention in Niger in the wake of the recent coup.
He has urged the President to avoid putting Ghanaian soldiers’ lives at risk.
Using Twitter as his platform, the MP emphasized that Ghana’s military currently stands as a testament to the commitment and professionalism of the nation’s officers.
However, he expressed concern that the government has not adequately invested in the necessary tools and equipment to support them.
He wrote, “Dear President @NAkufoAddo, you know better than us all the pitiful state of our armed forces for foreign military intervention in another sovereign state. You know that despite the professional attitude and disposition of our gallant officers, you have failed to retool and equip our forces. Do not send them to untimely useless death!”
Invoking international law, the lawmaker cited Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter, which prohibits any state from taking illegal actions that undermine the sovereignty of another nation.
He also challenged the notion of military intervention being considered by President Akufo-Addo and other West African leaders within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Article 2(4) of the UN Charter prohibits the illegal action you and your cronies in ECOWAS are considering. Even if you wanted to hide under Article 42, do you have a UNSC resolution authorising an intervention? There is no clear evidence of the 3-basis required to trigger R2P so respect the sovereignty of Niger,” he stated.
He advocated for a more pragmatic approach involving non-kinetic measures to engage, rather than an aggressive stance aimed at appeasing external powers. He insisted that any decision to involve the Ghana Armed Forces in a senseless war should require the approval of Parliament, emphasizing the demand for the same.
Sam George further recommended focusing the nation’s limited resources on improving the living conditions of Ghanaians and refraining from interfering in other countries’ affairs. He concluded by using the phrase “‘Dzi wo fie asem’ Mr President,” which translates to “Mind your business, Mr. President.”
Ahead of the impending NPP Presidential Primaries, rigorous steps have been implemented to guarantee an equitable and open electoral procedure.
An all-encompassing serialization mechanism has been introduced to uphold the credibility of the internal elections and mitigate the risk of possible discrimination.
The anticipated internal elections have been organized with the intention of concealing the identities of delegates and inhibiting candidates from discerning the voting patterns in favor of or against them.
Sources within both the Electoral Commission and the party’s leadership have confirmed that a robust serialization concept has been adopted to guarantee the anonymity of delegates.
The potent serialization strategy is complemented by the utilization of the walk-in approach in place of individual delegate identification. Additionally, the prohibition of smart devices and cameras will be enforced at the voting venues.
These models were introduced to safeguard the identity of the delegates and make it practically impossible to identify who voted for or against a particular candidate.
The absence of mobile phones and cameras is also to prevent members from snapping who they voted for or against as a way of sanitizing the voting space.
The walk-in concept will also prevent candidates from identifying who voted for who based on any agreed order or pattern.
The Super Delegates conference is slated for August 26, 2023, while the national presidential primary has been slated for November 4.
Member of Parliament for Assin Central Constituency and Chairman of the Defence and Interior Committee, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has expressed his support for the deployment of Ghanaian troops to Niger if the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) decides on a military intervention.
ECOWAS has urged member states to establish a standby force as a potential solution to the crisis in Niger.
The regional body aims to secure the release of President Mohamed Bazoum from house arrest and reinstate him as the constitutionally-elected head of state.
Scheduled for August 17, ECOWAS’ Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff will meet in Accra to determine the best course of action for restoring constitutional order in Niger.
In an interview with the media, Agyapong, a former member of the ECOWAS Parliament, asserted that a combined West African military effort would act as a deterrent to other states in the sub-region.
“We have an obligation as Ecowas countries and you cannot run away from it,” he said.
He highlighted that ECOWAS member countries have a responsibility to address such situations and prevent coup attempts. Agyapong emphasized that the situation in Niger should be used as an example to discourage future coup d’état attempts, considering the increasing frequency of such incidents in the region.
“should serve as a deterrent because coups d’etat is becoming rampant in Ecowas so we should use Niger to serve as a deterrent and say anybody who tries again, Ecowas will come after them and this is not the first time”.
Recognizing Ghana’s vital contribution to the force, he labeled Ghana as the second most significant country in West Africa and stressed the nation’s importance within ECOWAS.
“In fact, the second most important country in West Africa is Ghana. I’ve been an Ecowas member [of Parliament] before so it is an obligation.”
Agyapong asserted that allowing coups to occur within the sub-region could have serious consequences for political stability, leading to arrests, dissolution of parliaments, and curbs on press freedom.
“If we make a mistake and we allow coups d’etat all over West Africa, tomorrow it will be me and you and the first thing is that the two of us will go to jail first before anybody.
“They will dissolve Parliament, they will arrest journalists, check all the coups. So, the security of this county is very very important and no matter the amount of money prevention is better than cure. Prevention will not cost you as much as you are curing it,” he added.
He emphasized the significance of prioritizing security and prevention measures to avoid costly remedies.
Assin Central MP and NPP presidential aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong, has revealed that he makes $800,000 a month from just rent.
The vociferous MP who was speaking on TV3’ NewDay, stated that he is engaged in numerous business ventures and does not depend on government procurement or contracts to generate income.
“I have a lot of businesses in the country. Even with rent alone, I make over $800,000 a month after withholding taxes. So now that I’m not doing any contract, am I not Kennedy Agyapong?” he said.
Among other things, the Assin Central MP absolved himself from blame in the killing of investigative journalist, Ahmed Hussein-Suale.
He reiterated that he had no hand in the killing of Mr Suale.
“His own deeds caused his death, not me,” he told the host of the show on Thursday, August 16, 2023.
He described him as a bad guy and said Anas used him.
Assin Central MP and NPP presidential aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong, has absolved himself from blame in the killing of investigative journalist, Ahmed Hussein-Suale.
Speaking in an interview on TV3, he reiterated that he had no hand in the killing of Mr Suale.
“His own deeds caused his death, not me,” he told the host of the show on Thursday, August 16, 2023.
He described him as a bad guy and said Anas used him.
“If you don’t have the evidence, Anas used him. All those people that Anas destroyed with his videos and everything, Anas never showed his face except this guy and this guy was bold to set everyone up,” he said to back his earlier assertion.
His own deeds caused his death, not me – Flagbearer hopeful of the NPP, Kennedy Agyapong clears the air on the late Ahmed Suale.#TV3NewDaypic.twitter.com/3O7V8iuBFG
On January 16, 2019, Ahmed Hussein-Suale was shot dead near his family home in Accra.
His family holds the assertion that Ahmed was assassinated because of his work. Mr Agyapong was deemed a suspect by the public after he disclosed the identity of the journalist.
It has been four years, and the Police are yet to find the culprits of the unlawful act.
Head Pastor and Founder of Alabaster International Ministries, Prophet Kofi Oduro, has criticized specific types of churches that government should take immediate action to shutdown.
While not naming these churches, he highlighted their unchristian activities and behaviors, suggesting they deviate from true religious practices.
In a viral video, the outspoken preacher emphasized that certain churches engage in practices like creating concoctions from items such as pomades and fragrances, which they sell to people under the pretense of possessing special properties.
He pointed out that these actions reflect a lack of seriousness and a departure from genuine spirituality.
Prophet Kofi Oduro expressed concern over leaders of such churches who participate in absurd activities, such as lying on the floor and dancing to secular songs during worship.
He criticized the impact such behaviors have on people’s perceptions of church teachings and the implications for non-believers.
He further highlighted the display of items like Schnapps and fly whisks (bodua) within church premises as examples of these unorthodox practices.
He directed some blame towards the government for allowing such activities to persist and contrasted this with Rwanda’s stringent regulations on church establishment, which require formal education as a prerequisite.
In Rwanda, he noted, individuals must hold a first-degree qualification to start a church, as education is seen as enhancing critical thinking and reducing the likelihood of unscrupulous practices within religious institutions.
A contender for the flagbearer position in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong has expressed his commitment to include individuals in the informal sector within the tax payment framework.
He has outlined this initiative as part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at broadening the scope of the country’s tax collection efforts.
During an appearance on Citi TV’s “Face to Face” program, Kennedy Agyapong elaborated that individuals operating in the informal sector, such as artisans, often earn higher monthly incomes than their counterparts in office jobs.
To substantiate his point, he provided an example from his own experience. He mentioned that a mason working at his construction site in Tema earns GH¢150 per day, resulting in a monthly income of around GH¢4,000. Comparatively, a university graduate employed at Oman FM and Kencity Media receives a monthly salary of about GH¢2,700.
Kennedy Agyapong highlighted the disparity where employees of organizations like Oman FM and Kencity Media are subject to taxation, while those involved in artisanal professions such as masonry are not.
To address this discrepancy, Kennedy Agyapong proposed a solution whereby every artisan and worker in Ghana would be required to register, obtaining a license and a unique pin number. This approach would enable their inclusion in the tax system, ultimately contributing to the nation’s revenue generation efforts.
He said, “My policy on taxes is that taxes will be reduced and expanded and what I mean by reduce is that taxes in this country are so high but only a few people are paying taxes.”
“I am a pragmatic person and I have the experience. I am a business person and I am fortunate to have employed educated people, uneducated people, and artisans and I can tell you that artisans make more money than some educated people and this is clear in my construction site in Tema where a mason makes about GH¢150 a day which translates to close to GH¢4000 a month and graduate at Oman and Kencity makes between GH¢2,700 and is taxed in addition but the mason is not taxed,” he added.
The businessman further said, “When I am given the opportunity to become president, every artisan, everybody working in this country will have to register to have a license and a pin number so that we can tax them and when the tax base is expanded, we then reduce taxes.”
A presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has raised alarm over the unfair categorization of individuals who speak the truth as arrogant.
During an interview with the media, the prominent business mogul expressed his distress about the unjust classification of truth tellers, asserting that this unjust label is deterring many from openly addressing crucial matters.
The Member of Parliament for Assin Central, added that this apprehension arises from the fear of being unfairly branded as arrogant.
“A lot of people in Ghana are afraid to speak the truth because they are afraid they will be called arrogant. When you speak the truth, they say you are arrogant, they say you are insulting,” noted the Assin Central lawmaker in a conversation with host Umaru Sanda Amadu.
Regarding his often perceived sharp commentary and responses on public media platforms, Agyapong emphasized, “I always reciprocate actions and before I come out, you would have done it for several times that I did not even say anything and one day, when I come out, because it is me, then the public begin to have problems with my response and I think that is unfair.”
He stressed the importance of confidence, boldness, honesty, sincerity, and discipline in the country’s development, pointing out the need for a change in this regard. He criticized the situation where those who respond to allegations and insults are reprimanded while the initial provocations are overlooked, deeming it unjust.
Agyapong concluded by defending himself, stating that he serves as a positive role model due to his significant accomplishments outweighing any perceived negative aspects.
Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana was set ablaze on Monday, August 15, as a leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Frances Essiam, took aim at Beatrice Annan, a member of the opposing National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Mrs Essiam’s response was in reaction to a claim made against the NPP as well as some astute members of the party by Beatrice which the former deemed very inappropriate.
Beatrice, while making her submission on the show, described the NPP as a ‘criminal’ party, and further attempted to claim that the Bank of Ghana working in concert with the Economic Management Team of Government were lawless resulting in the GHC 60.8 billion loss the Bank of Ghana (BoG) made in the 2022 financial year.
She had explained that the Finance Minister and the Governor knowingly breached the public financial management act by spending beyond legal limits and working to write off the debts of the Government without parliamentary approval.
However, the comments struck Mrs Esiam who could not hold back her furry over the claims.
This provoked a seething Essiam even further: “…What do you do for Ghana for you to open your mouth and spew garbage? What do you mean?… You come and sit here with your full checks, bright face and begin to insult people?
“She (Beatrice Annan) is a criminal…When you impugn a criminal to a whole political party?… It’s so offensive to call a group of people lawless. Are you their classmates?
“Are you their pedigree? To be calling Ken Ofori-Atta lawless? She’s spewing baseless propaganda. You don’t have even one basis point,” she interjected.
The interventions of the host, Annie Ampofo failed to restore order and while a shocked Beatrice Annan remained quiet, she continued:
“But for you a small girl to be sitting down and calling people lawless? As a lawyer what proof do you have? Strict proof?” She shouted.
In reaction, a rather well-composed Beatrice stated that she had taken note of her insults but had no reply except to say that she was not going to allow her to use her to revive her political career.
“She can’t use me to revive her dead political career. That I won’t allow,” Beatrice Annan stressed.
This reply angered Frances Essiam even further so retorted that she had no dead career and was not interested in any elective position in the NPP.
The show continued and Ms Essiam continued to heckle and invectives as and when she desired.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has claimed that the rent for the Deputy Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) caused Ghanaians a whopping GHS900,000.
According to him, the deputy commissioner’s official residence was one of the properties razed in November 2018 to make way for the development of the National Cathedral.
In a Twitter post, the MP revealed the purported measures performed on the orders of President Akufo-Addo.
I have only recently discovered that on the instruction of Prez Akufo-Addo, the official residence of a Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ was also demolished to create more space for the construction of Akufo-Addo’s Cathedral.
“I have only recently discovered that on the instruction of Prez Akufo-Addo, the official residence of a Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ was also demolished to create more space for the construction of Akufo-Addo’s Cathedral.
“Thus far, taxpayers have spent over GH¢900,000.00 on rent for this Deputy Commissioner. (That is GH¢180,000.00 annually). CHRAJ is therefore one of the many institutions waiting to be compensated,” he wrote on Twitter.
Ablakwa’s allegations also included a list of other notable properties that were reportedly demolished for the project’s construction.
“Updated list of demolished properties: Judges’ Bungalows, Judicial Training Institute, Passport Head Office, Scholarship Secretariat, Malian Ambassador’s Residence, Comsys Ghana Limited, Waterstone Realty Apartment Complex and CHRAJ Deputy Commissioner’s Residence.
“Never again in our history should such presidential recklessness be tolerated. I really can’t wait for the Parliamentary probe to begin. Ghana First,” the tweet concluded.
Prominent legal expert, Martin Kpebu, has pointed the blame at Ghanaian politicians for hindering the country’s advancement in its development journey.
He expressed that among Ghana’s politicians, the sole example of a “righteous” figure was the late ex-President, John Evans Atta Mills, who consistently prioritized the nation’s welfare over his own.
During an interview on Asempa FM, Kpebu conveyed these statements and characterized the other politicians in Ghana as individuals with criminal intentions, solely focused on personal financial gains.
“Politicians are usually crooks… bad boys and girls. NDC, NPP, all of them are crooks. Apart from Atta Mills who did not steal from us, the rest are crooks… Atta Mills was an honest man, the rest have been dribbled with corruption.
“We must have a special session on politicians and profile them, otherwise they would keep deceiving Ghanaians, these are crooks.
“… you would be there and your classmate who is not even doing well like you are, gets a position and all of a sudden, he builds a mansion. These guys are causing us headaches,” he said in Twi.
He added that politicians would lead Ghana to its end if Ghanaians remain silent on how they have been stealing from the country.
He said that the amounts of money reported to have been found at the home and in bank accounts of the former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah, show the kind of mayhem politicians are causing the country.
The lawyer added that if the homes and bank accounts of Ghanaian politicians are searched, the monies that would be recovered would be enough to transform the country.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communication Member, Awal Mohammed, has slammed the Minority Members of Parliament for lashing out at the Central Bank over some payments made in the 2022 fiscal year.
In its 2022 Annual Report & Financial Statements, the Bank of Ghana noted that it spent GHS1.6 billion as personnel cost for 2,215 staff.
President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has also alleged that each independent director serving on the Bank of Ghana’s board receives a monthly payment of US$8,000, equivalent to GH¢89,852.36.
This revelation, among other concerns, has garnered dissatisfaction with the Bank of Ghana. In view of this, the Minority has called for the dismissal of the Central Bank governor, Dr Ernest Addison.
“There is an urgent need for BoG’s internal operations to be reviewed to ensure that no losses would be posted or repeated this year.
“The Governor, his deputies and entire Board have failed the nation and must resign without delay to begin the process of saving the BoG,” the Minority noted.
But in response, Awal Mohammed has described the Minority’s demands as baseless.
In an interview on Peace FM, the NPP Communication Member argued that 2022 was a difficult year as such government stepped in to alleviate the plight of public office workers.
According to him, government raised the income of public sector workers by 30 percent.
He therefore noted that as the Bank of Ghana is a State Owned Enterprise, it was prudent for its director to benefit from such adjustment.
“In 2022, the President had not budgeted to pay public sector workers more money.
But at a point in time, we realized that there was hardship so we gave Cost of Living Allowance for public sector workers. For six months, we were paying. Again for the first time, in the history of the 4th Republic, there was 30 percent increment in salaries of public sector workers.”
He added: “So the Director at the Bank of Ghana does not deserve to have his salary increased? They should have their salaries without any increment?
That’s why I am saying they are a bunch of inept leaders. Because you don’t mention the nominal figures. You come and say they increase their salary by 8.7 million. What is the percent to that?”
A total of twelve aspirants from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have completed the nomination process, positioning themselves to vie for victory in the party’s upcoming parliamentary primaries.
These aspirants are seeking representation in the party’s orphan constituencies within the Western North Region.
Within this region, there are six orphan constituencies, which do not currently have an incumbent NPP Member of Parliament.
Notably, three constituencies—Bibiani-Anwhiaso Bekwai, Wiawso, and Akontombra—currently have sitting MPs.
In the Bodi constituency, a trio of aspirants—namely, Mr. Samuel Opoku Nyame, Mr. Francis Atta Owusu, and Mr. Nicholas Andoh—have officially filed their nominations to compete.
For the Juaboso constituency, Mr. Alex Ampaabeng and Mrs. Martha Kwayie Manu, who serves as the Deputy Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, have presented their candidacies.
Additionally, Mr. Bernard Gyebi Blay, the District Chief Executive of Bia West, and Mr. Franklin Cudjoe, the constituency chairman of Bia West, have similarly entered the race in the Bia West constituency.
The Bia East constituency has seen Mr. Nicholas Kupog Yayin, the District Chief Executive, and Mr. Evans Amoah file for candidacy.
In the Aowin constituency, the contest features Mr. Abanga Yakubu Fusani and Mr. Isaac Brew, the Aowin constituency secretary.
The Suaman constituency, however, witnessed the submission of nomination solely by Mr. Frederick Addy, who held the role of the NPP’s parliamentary candidate in the 2020 elections. His submission marked the only nomination by the closing date on August 10.
Notably, Mr. Solomon Kelly Parku, an aspirant initially set to participate in the Juaboso constituency race, announced his withdrawal from contention through a press statement.
Citing unwavering political loyalty as a guiding principle, Parku conveyed his commitment to upholding this value, ultimately leading to his decision to step away from the competition.
In anticipation of the forthcoming parliamentary primaries, Mr. Felix Foster Ackah, the Regional Secretary of the party, emphasized that the aspirants would undergo a vetting process.
He also urged them to uphold a high standard of conduct, with the aim of fostering unity within the party after the primaries conclude.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has stated that if the NDC emerges victorious in the 2024 presidential election, his government will implement measures aimed at addressing youth unemployment.
In a statement to mark International Youth Day, the ex-president emphasized that the significant increase in unemployment statistics was a major cause for concern.
He also noted that the cost of living has left many young people feeling hopeless with no opportunities in sight.
“NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future,” he said in a Facebook post.
According to him, a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers will be introduced under a new NDC government.
The move he explained will increase recruitment numbers which will eventually financially empower young people.
“We will work to ease the burden of taxes imposed by this NPP administration on Ghanaian businesses and investors, which has robbed Ghana of its envious position as one of Africa’s leading destinations for investment.
We will maximise the potential of agriculture and agribusiness and provide critical social and IT infrastructure to stimulate economic growth.
Our policy priorities will imbue our young people with the “knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society” — the critical Green Skills our youth need to advance a sustainable world.”
Below is Mahama’s Facebook post.
On International Youth Day, I celebrate the creativity, enterprise, and passion of Ghana’s youth. I want to use this occasion to highlight the importance of our young people as the driving force of positive change and innovation.
Our youth have been key agents of change and development throughout our nation’s history. To ensure a brighter future, we must empower a generation of skilled youth, create decent jobs, and support the youth to transform our country, Africa, and the world.
Rising unemployment, increasing cost of living, and lack of opportunities have left many young people feeling hopeless and are testing their sense of patriotism to the limit.
For me, John Dramani Mahama, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), we are committed to urgently turning this situation around by paving the way for nurturing a generation of skilled youth.
A new NDC administration will work urgently to equip our youth with the entrepreneurial knowledge and skills needed for a sustainable future. We will introduce a 24-hour economy with incentives and tax breaks for manufacturers who will run extra shifts to create more room for employment.
We will work to ease the burden of taxes imposed by this NPP administration on Ghanaian businesses and investors, which has robbed Ghana of its envious position as one of Africa’s leading destinations for investment.
We will maximise the potential of agriculture and agribusiness and provide critical social and IT infrastructure to stimulate economic growth.
Our policy priorities will imbue our young people with the “knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society” — the critical Green Skills our youth need to advance a sustainable world.
People matter, and by working together, we will build the Ghana we want and put the smiles back on the faces of our young people.
Volta Regional Organizer for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Korsi Bodja, is facing a defamation lawsuit of GHC1 million. This legal action has been initiated by Emmanuel Quarshie and Pope Yao Yevoo.
The defamation lawsuit against Korsi Bodja is a result of claims made after the recent Assin North by-election.
According to a writ obtained by Asaase News, the lawsuit provides information about the plaintiffs’ assertion that they were NPP campaigners tasked with engaging Ewe communities within the Assin North constituency ahead of the by-election held on 27 June.
Yevoo and Quarshie assert that they fulfilled their campaign duties diligently and without any misconduct that could tarnish their own reputations or that of the NPP.
However, their shock arose from WhatsApp conversations purportedly involving Korsi Bodja, the defendant. In these messages, Bodja accused the plaintiffs of diverting campaign materials intended for distribution to Ewe constituents in the Assin North constituency.
According to the lawsuit, various media outlets further propagated these allegations based on a petition submitted by Bodja himself. The petition had been addressed to the party’s national secretary and called for the suspension of Yevoo and Quarshie, alleging the diversion of party items like “hair dryers, cutlasses, Wellington boots, head pans, fertilizers, and sewing machines.”
The plaintiffs argue that Bodja’s claims are “false and malicious,” designed to portray them as dishonest and thieving individuals who cannot be trusted. They contend that these statements have caused significant damage to their reputation, causing distress and embarrassment.
The plaintiffs’ prayers to the court include a declaration that Bodja’s statements are defamatory, seeking damages of one million Ghana cedis (GHC1,000,000) for defamation.
They also request an order for Bodja to retract the defamatory statements and publish the retraction with equal prominence, as well as an injunction restraining Bodja from making further defamatory statements about them.
As of now, the defendant, Korsi Bodja, has yet to respond to the lawsuit.
A circulating photo of a billboard aiming to confirm the potential parliamentary candidacy of renowned Ghanaian footballer Asamoah Gyan within the New Patriotic Party for the Bortianor Ngleshie-Amanfro constituency has been swiftly refuted by Samuel Anim Addo, a recognized representative of the footballer and entrepreneur.
In an interview, Anim Addo labeled the reports as false, confirming Asamoah Gyan’s earlier position that he is currently not pursuing any political position.
When GhanaWeb reached out regarding the widely circulated photo on different social media platforms, Sammy Anim replied with a succinct “It’s false.”
Despite repeated denials by Asamoah Gyan, his name continues to be linked with the Bortianor Ngleshie-Amanfro seat owing to his stardom status, benevolent works, and alleged affiliations with the governing New Patriotic Party.
The incumbent Member of Parliament of the area, Sylvester Tetteh appeared to have given some substance to the rumors when he was quoted as saying that the camp of Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is seeking to replace him with Asamoah Gyan due to his affiliations with NPP flagbearer hopeful, Alan Kyeremanten.
A quote attributed to Sylvester Tetteh which went viral on various social media platforms mentions him to be hitting out at the Bawumia team for attempting to use legendary Ghanaian footballer, Asamoah Gyan to unseat him.
‘Gideon Boako and his likes are in my constituency, supporting Asamoah Gyan to contest me in our upcoming primaries just because I support Alan Kyerematen. But they should know that I’m a son of the land and I’m ready for their diabolic plans,” he is claimed to have said.
This comment infuriated a leading member of the Bawumia camp, Dr Gideon Boako who fired back.
Dr. Boakoa denied the accusations, stating that he has not met Asamoah Gyan in person and that he is hurt by the allegations.
“So this is how the likes of Sylvester Tetteh and supporters of Alan Kyeremanten want to run their campaign. I have never spoken to or met Baby Jet in person before. I have no idea he even wants to contest for parliamentary elections, let alone go and support him. SMH,” he said in reply to Sylvester Tetteh’s accusations.
Leading contender in theNPP flagbearer race, Alan Kyerematen, has reconfirmed his candidature, asserting that his extensive experience, visionary insights, and contributions to the party since 1992 surpass those of the other nine contenders.
During an address to delegates from the Ahafo Ano South, South West, and South East constituencies on August 9, 2023, Kyerematen emphasised his leadership credentials within the party.
The former Minister of Trade and Industry highlighted his inclusion among 100 global leaders recognised by Time magazine in 1994, alongside figures like American President J.F. Kennedy and billionaire Bill Gates.
He underscored his vision to generate more employment opportunities and enhance the lives of Ghanaians, given the opportunity.
Referred to as ‘Alan Cash,’ Kyerematen cited the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative as a testament to his track record, pointing out the ongoing construction of around 300 factories at various stages of completion.
He also spotlighted the Presidential Special Initiatives (PSI) program, which facilitated integrated agricultural and industrial projects during both the administrations of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
Kyerematen’s unifying attributes were underscored, particularly his willingness to step down during the 2007 primaries to prevent a potentially divisive runoff, exemplifying his commitment to party cohesion.
Asserting that securing victory depends on votes, Kyerematen pledged to secure two million votes from the Ashanti Region if entrusted with the party’s leadership in the upcoming presidential primaries in November.
Urging the delegates to place their trust in his experience, vision, and contributions, Kyerematen appealed for their support in leading the party to triumph and securing a break from the two-term cycle, or “break the 8.”
During the same event, Saddique Boniface, Coordinator of the ‘Alan for President’ campaign and former Minister for Zongos and Inner-City Development, as well as a former MP for Madina, positioned Alan Kyerematen as the prospective third NPP president of the 4th Republic.
Boniface believed that Muslims from the northern regions and Zongo constituencies would greatly support Alan and encouraged attendees to follow suit.
Speaking at the same forum, Saddique Boniface, Coordinator of the ‘Alan for President’ campaign and a former Minister for Zongos and Inner-City Development, as well as a former MP for Madina, described Alan Kyerematen as the third NPP president of the 4th Republic.
Boniface believed Muslims from the northern regions, and theZongo constituencies, would vote massively for Alan, and urged the gathering to do the same.
Deputy Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Osman Ayariga, has criticized the Akufo-Addo administration for its multiple corruption scandals.
He asserted that the current government is replete with individuals who exploit their positions to enrich themselves, disregarding the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians.
Ayariga likened the widespread corruption within the present government to the tale of ‘Alibaba and the 40 Thieves.’
In an interview with the media on August 11, 2023, he drew parallels between the government’s behavior and the infamous story, humorously suggesting that the title might need an upgrade to ‘Alibaba and the 1000 Thieves’ given the numerous ministers and appointees involved.
The deputy youth organiser proceeded to highlight instances where government officials were discovered possessing unexplained wealth.
Notably, he referred to the case of Adjenim Boateng Adjei, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), who was found with substantial funds in his bank account. Ayariga also mentioned the incident involving a presidential staffer who lost around $117,000.
“I remember a book, I used to read, growing up, ‘Alibaba and the 40 Thieves’ … and this government honestly reminds me of that book. This government is a classic example of Alibaba and the 40 thieves, just that in this case, we have more than 40 ministers and appointees… so maybe ‘Alibaba and the 1000 Thieves.
“This is a clear example of a very bad case for the government and this is not the first. Remember the recent one of the PPA boss, where so much money was found in his bank account?
“… you also remember the recent reportage of a presidential staffer who also lost about $117,000. And you do the mathematics and the numbers are mind-boggling, … the numbers are so unbelievable,” he added.
Ayariga’s comments stem from recent reports regarding the discovery of significant sums of money in the homes of former Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) found large amounts of cash, both local and foreign currencies, at various properties linked to the embattled ex-minister.
At the Abelemkpe residence, where substantial assets, including jewelry and currencies, were previously reported stolen, the OSP uncovered an additional $590,000 and GH¢2,730,000. These revelations have further fueled allegations of corruption within the government.
Osman Ayariga’s critical remarks reflect the ongoing discourse surrounding corruption issues within the Akufo-Addo administration, adding to the broader conversation about ethical governance and accountability in Ghanaian politics.
Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has described the press conference held by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to demand the resignation of Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Ernest Addison, was entirely unnecessary.
Richard Ahiagba conveyed that the administration has recognized Ghana’s economic challenges and is implementing strategies to navigate and emerge from the crisis.
He holds the opinion that rather than issuing a 21-day ultimatum for the Bank of Ghana governor’s resignation, the NDC should have proposed solutions to address the issues at hand.
Speaking on Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV on August 10, 2023, Richard Ahiagba described NDC’s press conference as a waste of time and urged them to stop bastardizing the government for everything it does.
“To call a press conference only to say that he [Dr. Addison] should resign 21 days or occupy, I don’t see the value of that. And I think that they wasted everybody’s time.
“So to call a press conference when there are essential matters to be debated, I am interested in hearing what their position is on how we dig ourselves out of the economy.
“Because really, the media reports that came, they were happy. Now we are not moving forward. This whole enterprise, they start up at their headquarters or wherever they are grouping, to just say that they are going to obstruct everything and bastardize everything government does is not the way to behave as a political party, a responsible opposition party,” he said.
The communications director of the NPP also stated that the government has conceded the challenges of the economy and is working assiduously to recover.
“So this [NDC’s] press conference was completely needless. The subject of this discussion is known to Ghanaians that we are in a difficult place. The government has acknowledged the difficulties we’re going through and is working spirally to try and bring us out of it,” Richard Ahiagba added.
Background
The Minority in Parliament gave the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison, a 21-day ultimatum to resign.
According to them, the governor and his deputies must resign.
During a press briefing on August 8, 2022, the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, said the governor had been found culpable of various breaches in the Bank of Ghana Act.
“In this regard, we call for the resignation of the Governor of the Central Bank and his deputies within 21 days from today. We are resolved to embark on popular action to occupy the Central Bank and drive out the team of inept, callous, and criminal mis-managers of the finances of this country and Save the Bank of Ghana,” he said.
Dr Ato Forson noted however that, “the March to Ensure Accountability will begin in 21 days if the Governor of the Bank of Ghana does not do the needful and pack bag and baggage out of that sacred institution that he has so desecrated.”
A hopeful candidate for the flagbearer position in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has reportedly unveiled an ambitious plan to overhaul the party by the year 2030.
According to reports, the plan, titled “Transformation and Modernization of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) – Agenda 2030,” comprises ten key pillars.
The plan, introduced on Friday, August 11, 2023, aims to invigorate the NPP, making it a more dynamic, efficient, and all-encompassing political entity.
Central to the plan is an emphasis on expanding the NPP’s membership and bolstering the party’s financial stability through the establishment of party-run businesses.
Furthermore, the plan seeks to provide comprehensive support for grassroots party executives, including the provision of salaries and insurance coverage for their roles.
Another critical focus of the plan is the enhancement of the party’s administrative infrastructure, ensuring its strength and efficacy.
Alan Kyerematen’s strategic vision for the NPP outlines a comprehensive roadmap for transformation and modernization, potentially paving the way for a revitalized and influential political organization.
Below are the 10 pillars of Alan’s plan to transform the NPP below:
1. Aggressively expanding the membership base of the Party, focusing particularly on the Youth and Women, and introducing a Membership Reward Scheme to incentivize Party members.
2. Enhancing the financial strength of the Party by establishing commercially viable medium and large-scale Party-owned business enterprises, and other investment activities.
3. Promoting the welfare of Party Executives and other officials of the Party at all levels of the Party structure, including but not limited to the payment of salaries/allowances, and the establishment of a Pension Scheme for Party officials.
4. Strengthening the management, organizational and operational efficiency of the Party’s Field Executives and Administrative staff.
5. Building the Policy research and analytical capacity of the Party. 6. Integrating more fully the Party’s External Branches into the activities of the Party, as well as identifying talents to fill executive positions in government.
7. Strengthening Government-Party relations and interactions by institutionalizing regular consultations on matters related to government and party administration.
8. Reviewing the Party’s Constitution and other legal instruments to respond to and reflect current political dynamics.
9. Establishing strategic partnerships between the Party and relevant local and international institutions and organisations, including political affiliations.
10. Modernizing Party infrastructure and other facilities of the Party across the country.
National Youth Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has justified his call on Ghanaians to refrain from voting in favor of Former President John Dramani Mahama.
He asserts that Mr Mahama is now “a spent force” in the political landscape, and lacks the capability to fulfill the responsibilities of a president.
Speaking on the track record of he New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), during the Kokrokoo Morning show, he noted that despite a few hitches, the NPP government led by President Akufo-Addo has performed way better than the Mahama administration.
“I have trust and believe that the NPP represents a better alternative any day though we are humans and we may have faulted in one way or the other. We have made errors but on the balance of any scale, our performance outweighs that of the NDC,” he noted.
He further noted that Mr Mahama has declined in significance and no longer holds the same level of influence or capability as it did in the past.
“We have experienced governance under NDC and I’ve said time without number that John Mahama is a spent force in this country. We have seen the best he can give and he has nothing more to offer,” he added.
A scene of significant political unity and camaraderie was on full display during the grand celebration of Kwesi Pratt Jnr., the Managing Editor of Insight Newspaper, on his lavish 70th birthday.
The event took place on August 9, 2023, at the prestigious Sky Bar in Accra. The celebration was meticulously arranged by the family of the veteran journalist.
Visual materials, including photos and videos accessible through GhanaWeb, showcased a diverse assemblage of politicians hailing from different spectrums of Ghana’s political landscape.
Notably, individuals from both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the primary opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) came together in a rare display of unity.
Additionally, attendees encompassed members of Kwesi Pratt’s own Convention People’s Party (CPP) as well as representatives from other smaller political parties.
Prominent figures from the government camp included Akosua Frema Opare, the Chief of Staff, who held the highest-ranking position at the gathering.
On the opposition side, Johnson Asiedu-Nketiah, the National Chairman of the NDC, was among those spotted.
The event also welcomed distinguished guests such as Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the NDC’s 2020 vice presidential candidate, and other notable personalities including Tsatsu Tsikata, investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, and renowned TV show host Kweku Sintim Misa.
Further adding to the occasion’s significance were the presences of Nyaho Nyaho Tamaklo, a founding figure of the NPP, as well as Kobina Ivor Greenstreet, the CPP Chairperson, and Osei-Kwame Despite, former CPP flagbearer and the CEO of Despite Media.
Others present were: Paul Adom-Otchere, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Joyce Bawah-Mogtari, Kweku Sakyi-Addo, Collins Admoako-Mensah, NPP MP for Afigya Kwabre North, Omane Boamah, Sammy Gyamfi, Eugene Boakye-Antwi, NPP MP for Subin, John Jinapor, Randy Abbey and Armah Kofi Buah.
The revelation of a $250 million building project by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has ignited a fiery response from the general public.
Citizens are expressing a mix of astonishment, concern, and demands for transparency regarding the significant financial commitment.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, has also added his voice to the discourse, questioning the rationale behind the colossal expenditure of the project.
“US$250 million for one building, in a country like Ghana, in this critical time? Why, are you building a new Heaven?” he asked on UTV’s Mpu ne Mpu show.
$250 million for one building, a country like Ghana, in this critical time!!! Are they building heaven? – Sammy Gyamfi#UTVGhanapic.twitter.com/TuSbIVLJEg
The staggering cost associated with the Bank of Ghana’s new building venture has raised eyebrows and sparked a nationwide debate over fiscal prudence and resource allocation. Sammy Gyamfi, known for his vocal stance on political and economic matters, seized the opportunity to express his incredulity over the project’s price tag.
“In these difficult times, when we are supposed to take measures to mitigate the impact of the harsh economic conditions, they are making the construction of a building their priority. Even after recording huge losses the previous year?” a baffled Sammy Gyamfi contended.
“This is the same building the governor under previous administrations since 1957, including Mahama’s administration have,” he added.
A grand exhibition of political unity and camaraderie was observed during the lavish 70th birthday celebration of Kwesi Pratt Jnr., the Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper.
The event, which took place on August 9, 2023, at Accra’s Sky Bar, was orchestrated by the family of the esteemed journalist as a celebration.
Images and video footage accessible on GhanaWeb depicted a diverse gathering of politicians from both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the primary opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Others from his own Convention People’s Party (CPP) and other smaller parties were also present.
On the part of the government, the highest-ranking official at the party was the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Opare while on the part of the NDC, its national chairman, Johnson Asiedu- Nketiah was spotted.
The NDC’s 2020 vice presidential candidate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang was also in attendance along with other prominent people like Tsatsu Tsikata, investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas and TV show host, Kweku Sintim Misa.
Here are five photos that demonstrate the political harmony that Ghanaian politicians exhibit when they agree on issues
Other notable faces present are listed below in no particular order:
a. Paul Adom-Otchere
b. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
c. Joyce Bawah-Mogtari
d. Kweku Sakyi-Addo
e. Collins Admoako-Mensah, NPP MP for Afigya Kwabre North
New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential aspirant, Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, has launched a captivating campaign song in which he encapsulates his vision for the future of the NPP and resonates with the hopes and aspirations of delegates.
In the song, he was adorned with a multitude of titles, being hailed as a unifying figure, a person of devout faith, and more.
“Ɔsɛ akonnwa no nti yɛnfa mma no,” the chorus of the song says, to wit: “Let’s give him the mandate because he deserves it.” The song was placed on Peace FM’s morning show, Kokrokoo, which was hosted by Nana Yaw Kesseh.
Aspiring New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Joe Ghnartey, has conveyed his confident outlook on securing a spot among the five potential presidential candidates.
Joe Ghartey, who previously served as Ghana’s Attorney-General from 2006 to 2009, held the position of Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament from 2013 to 2017, and later served as the Railways and Development Minister from 2017 to 2021, believes he will be selected among the top five candidates after the special delegates congress.
His optimism stems from his anticipation of being chosen from the pool of ten contenders who have received approval to participate in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) special delegates congress.
This was stated by the lawyer, who is currently the Member of Parliament (MP) for the ESSlKADO-KETAN Constituency, during an interaction with the Bono East Regional Executive Committee on Monday, August 7, 2023.
He said that at the current time, the NPP requires an experienced personality to represent it in the 2024 presidential race.
He feels that his considerable expertise and track record make him a better contender than the others for NPP candidate and, eventually, president.
He stated that as someone who has worked extensively in public service, comes from a struggling family, and whose father died when he was six, and how education helped him achieve his goals, he is willing to provide better leadership and serve as an inspiration to others who come from homes like his.
He aspires to implement inclusive policies and development methods that will improve the lives of Ghanaians.
He emphasised that Ghana’s development will be a collaborative effort that will demand everyone’s participation.
According to him, he is prepared to run for and win the presidency because it has been something he has been thinking about for a long time.
He said that everything his hands touched had been blessed, and that being elected as the candidate would be a benefit for the NPP.
Lawyer Ghartey went on to say that he will speak to the party’s delegates and ask them to view him as the only choice for victory in 2024.
“The message to the delegates is that their candidate is Joe Ghartey and I will be coming to them. I have gone to some of them and I will be coming to each of them and I want to sure them that by the time they finish listening to me, they will come to the conclusion that there is only one candidate and that is Joe Ghartey.”
Founding member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has charged politicians with embezzling money from the nation.
He attributed the problems Ghana is currently facing to this circumstance.
Speaking during the 3Business Ghana’s Economic Forum Agenda held on Wednesday, August 9, he said “The cause of the problems we have is money being siphoned out by politicians.”
Additionally, he charged a lack of honesty on the part of the nation’s current leaders.
Kwame Pianim, a prominent member of the NPP, also stated at the same gathering that Ghana is in a grave economic crisis.
“Where we are now is difficult, we have never been there before, we need to sit up now and, we are not on the road yet we haven’t turned the corner,” he said.
It is noted that Ken Ofori-Atta, the finance minister, assured Parliament that the administration had overcome its economic difficulties.
On Monday, July 31, he stated during the presentation of the 2023 mid-year budget review that the government had worked hard to prevent empty store shelves for medicines and other necessities and that there had been no food shortages in the nation;
“We have been spared the frustrating spectre of long queues for fuel at our filling stations; and, we have managed, in spite of all the challenges, to keep the lights on,” he said.
“Indeed, as the Psalmist said (in Psalm 118:23) this is the LORD’s doing; and it is marvellous in our eyes.
“This ‘turning the corner’ is underpinned by the investments and sacrifices we have collectively made during this difficult period since March 2020,” he added.
A prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho Tamekloe, has attributed the persistent occurrence of coup d’états in Africa to a dearth of mature leadership across the continent.
He asserted that unless African leaders adopt a more mature mindset, the cycle of coup d’états will likely persist.
In an interview with the media, the seasoned politician highlighted the recent coup that unfolded in Niger on July 26, 2023, as a vivid example.
Dr. Tamekloe pointed out that many African leaders focus on manipulating systems to their advantage and diverting resources for personal gain.
Drawing parallels across the African context, he emphasized that the issue transcends national borders, encompassing the entire continent.
Dr. Tamekloe criticized leaders who cling to power, manipulate elections, and prioritize personal interests, which he identifies as root causes of the recurring coup dynamics.
He stressed that a shift towards more mature and responsible leadership is crucial to breaking this cycle.
Dr. Tamekloe warned that the self-serving greed of current politicians and their successors could lead to the downfall of their countries. Such practices, he argued, hinder the true progress and prosperity of a nation, undermining its potential for sustainable development.
The recent series of coup d’états in the Western and Northern regions of Africa has raised serious concerns, both within the Sub-region and internationally.
Driven by the military junta, these upheavals have posed challenges for efforts to restore democracy and stability.
Despite the intervention of bodies like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), led by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a formidable alliance has formed among the military leadership in Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea, Sudan, and now Niger, complicating regional stability.
