TIG Post

Tag: Presidency

  • We’re grieving but Mahama’s loss is greater – Sister of late Squadron Leader

    We’re grieving but Mahama’s loss is greater – Sister of late Squadron Leader

    The late Squadron Leader Peter Afemi Anala’s family has expressed deep appreciation to the government for their support in the aftermath of the tragic military helicopter crash.

    Despite their loss, the sister of the deceased says, the family acknowledges the emotional weight on President John Mahama, who is mourning eight individuals, while they grieve the loss of one.

    During a condolence visit by a government delegation to the family’s home at Jisonayili in Sagnarigu, Squadron Leader Anala’s sister told the media,  “We understand the pressure on the president. Even as we are mourning an individual, he is mourning eight people,” Sophia Ayarik said, acknowledging the national scale of the tragedy.

    She added that they “… understand the stress he is going through. But if he has been thoughtful enough to send you to come and commiserate with us, we are grateful.”

    On August 6, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah confirmed the unfortunate demise of 8 individuals who have passed away following a tragic helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofrom in the Ashanti Region today.

    Engaging the general public, Julius Debrah revealed the identities of the deceased individuals after the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) earlier reported that its airforce helicopter Z9, which took off this morning at 0912 hrs from Accra and headed for Obuasi, was off the radar.

    They are Minister for Defence, Dr Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who is the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed—Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, former Parliamentary candidate; Squadron leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Mensah.

    The President and government have extended their condolences and sympathies to the family of the comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country.

    All flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice, the Chief of Staff directed.

    Profile of Defense Minister

    Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah is a prominent Ghanaian politician, medical doctor, and Health Policy Planning and Financing Analyst with a rich background in strategic negotiation, solution-oriented leadership, environmental security and ICT including cybersecurity.

    He possesses a strong educational foundation from esteemed institutions, including the University of Ghana Medical School, the London School of Economics and Political Science, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Harvard University.

    His diverse educational background empowers him to merge his medical expertise with a deep understanding of financial planning and strategic analysis when solving complex challenges.

    Dr. Omane Boamah has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in various key roles. As Minister for Communications and Spokesperson for the President of Ghana, he championed several vital cybersecurity initiatives including Child Online Protection and led the rollout of the Government of Ghana’s 4G LTE network (GOTA) which provides enhanced communication capabilities for security agencies.

    As a former Civilian Employee of the Ministry of Defence, he has an unwavering commitment to national and human security. His innovative thinking and excellent negotiation skills, positions him as a forward-thinking leader, ready to address the complexities of modern security challenges and an advocate for the institution’s dignity and well-being of service women and men.

    Profile of Environment Minister

    Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed was a distinguished Ghanaian politician, educator, and public servant who played a significant role in shaping national policy and advocating for sustainable development.

    Born on December 14, 1974, in the Northern Region of Ghana, he pursued his education at Tamale College of Education, the University of Ghana, and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, earning a Master of Arts in Development Studies along with additional qualifications in international relations and development planning.

    He began his political career as a Member of Parliament for the Nanton Constituency in 2013 and later represented the Tamale Central Constituency.

    Over the years, he served as Deputy Minister for Information and Media Relations and Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry. In February 2025, he was appointed Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, a role in which he championed environmental sustainability and technological advancement.

    Murtala Mohammed was known for his bold speeches, grassroots engagement, and commitment to public service. He was deeply religious, respected within both political and Islamic communities, and maintained a private family life as a married father of three.

    The samples of the remains of the deceased involved in the tragic Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on August 6 have been transported to South Africa for DNA analysis to aid in their identification.

    Per reports, the autopsy and identification procedures were to have been carried out by the 37 Military Hospital; however, the conditions of the bodies have called for advanced forensic processes.

    The deceased are Minister for Defence, Dr Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who is the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed—Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, former Parliamentary candidate; Squadron leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Mensah.

    Meanwhile, the burial of Muslim victims has been suspended until further notice, according to the Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways and Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, on Thursday, August 7.

    Burial for Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, was expected to be conducted on Thursday, August 7, as per Islamic tradition.

    However, speaking to the media, the Deputy Minister explained that the recent development was due to the condition of the victims’ remains, adding that the government and families of the deceased are awaiting autopsy results and investigative clearance. According to him, a new date will be fixed after a conclusion has been made.

    “The information earlier was that, because of Islamic tradition, the Muslims among them were to be buried today. I am sure those decisions were taken before the actual state of the remains was determined.

    “When that was done, it was clear to all that it was going to be practically impossible to carry out any burial today. So, those who had to be communicated to were quickly informed last night, and arrangements were suspended until further notice, or until some examinations are done before new dates are communicated,” Suhuyini added.

  • GAF, Presidency named least corrupt state institutions in Global InfoAnalytics report

    GAF, Presidency named least corrupt state institutions in Global InfoAnalytics report

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the Presidency have emerged as the least corrupt public institutions in Ghana, according to a recent survey by Global InfoAnalytics. The report, which assessed public perceptions of corruption across various institutions, placed both entities at the top with a score of 5.27.

    Religious leaders followed closely behind with a score of 5.25, reflecting a strong level of trust from the public. The findings suggest that, despite ongoing concerns about corruption in the country, these institutions continue to be viewed as credible and relatively free from corrupt practices.

    In an unexpected shift, ministers and government appointees were ranked among the least corrupt groups, receiving a score of 4.61. This challenges past narratives that have often linked political leadership with corruption scandals. The improved perception may indicate growing public confidence in governance reforms and accountability measures.

    The survey provides valuable insight into how Ghanaians perceive corruption within key institutions. While corruption remains a significant issue in other sectors, the rankings highlight a degree of confidence in the Presidency, the military, and religious bodies as institutions upholding integrity in national affairs.

    Successive governments have often touted their measures to combat corruption, yet much remains to be done.

    Ghana’s standing on the global Corruption Perception Index (CPI) has seen a slight decline, with the country dropping from a score of 43 to 42 in the 2024 rankings.

    This was revealed in a press release issued on February 11 by the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), the local chapter of Transparency International.

    Ghana ranked 80th out of 180 countries and territories assessed in this year’s report.

    The incumbent government, led by President John Mahama, has consistently underscored its commitment to tackling corruption and promoting transparency in governance.

    The government is set to launch the National Integrity Awards Scheme, aimed at naming and shaming corrupt public officials in an effort to promote ethical conduct, accountability, and good governance in Ghana.

    Conversely, those who have brought disgrace to their institutions or the country will be dishonored with the Vulture Awards.

    The initiative, announced by Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, will also recognize individuals who demonstrate integrity and professionalism while holding those who tarnish the nation’s reputation accountable.

    Speaking at the conclusion of the First Meeting and First Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic in Accra over the weekend, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the crucial role of integrity in governance.

    The new awards scheme, according to Bagbin, will serve as an essential tool to foster discipline and accountability within Ghana’s governance system.

    “A country with men and women of integrity will contribute immensely to its quality and socio-economic advancement,” Speaker Bagbin stated.

    He expressed hope that the initiative would restore trust in leadership and encourage public officials to adhere to the highest ethical standards.

    April 2025 National Tracking Poll-FINALDownload
  • There are fewer than 60 presidential staffers working at the Presidency – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

    There are fewer than 60 presidential staffers working at the Presidency – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

    Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has informed Parliament that the number of presidential staffers currently working at the Presidency is below 60, alongside fewer than 60 Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

    Addressing lawmakers, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing unnecessary expenditures and maintaining a lean administration.

    He assured that President Mahama remains dedicated to keeping the number of ministers below 60, a stark contrast to the 337 political appointees under the previous Akufo-Addo administration.

    “If you move from 123/125 ministers to 60 ministers, Mr Speaker, that means that you are going to buy 60 less Land Cruisers. You are going to buy 60 less salon cars. You will need to provide 60 less bungalows. You will need to provide 60 less sets of political aids and research assistants and what have you.”

    “Mr Speaker, President Mahama has not limited himself to just reducing the number of ministers. In any event that I speak to you, there are only 56 ministers. And in fact, they are 42 ministers running Ghana as we speak, because deputy ministers have not been approved,” he stated.

    However, during the parliamentary debate, former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, countered the assertion. While he acknowledged the reduction in ministerial appointments, he alleged that the government had significantly increased the number of staffers at the Jubilee House.

  • NDC’s Mustapha Gbande named Deputy Director of Operations at Presidency

    NDC’s Mustapha Gbande named Deputy Director of Operations at Presidency

    Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has been appointed as the Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency.

    A well-known political strategist, Gbande has played a crucial role in the NDC’s electoral planning and grassroots mobilization. His new position is expected to leverage his operational and administrative expertise within the highest office of government.

    The appointment is seen as part of John Mahama’s broader strategy to strengthen his governance structure ahead of his administration’s key policy implementations.

    With this move, Gbande transitions from party leadership into a pivotal government role, where his experience in political organization is expected to enhance operational efficiency at the Presidency.

  • Appointments to Presidency illegal due to absence of Council of State – Minority to Mahama

    Appointments to Presidency illegal due to absence of Council of State – Minority to Mahama

    The Minority in Parliament has raised concerns over President John Mahama’s recent appointments to his office, accusing him of violating Section 4(1) of the Presidential Office Act.

    According to the Minority, the President made these appointments on January 21, 2025, without first consulting the Council of State, which is required by law.

    The Minority asserts that the President’s actions bypassed the necessary constitutional steps, as the Council of State has yet to be constituted. Furthermore, they argue that the President did not indicate that the appointments were provisional, as legally required, pending the formation of the Council of State.

    Patrick Boamah, the Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central and spokesperson for the Minority, has called for the President to retract the appointment letters and comply with the legal framework set out in the Act. “Section 4(1) says that the president shall appoint such officers in consultation with the Council of State. We, as a Minority, believe that the President has acted in breach of this Act or the provisions of Act 463,” Boamah stated.

    “We are requesting the President to kindly withdraw this letter and act in consultation with the Council of State, which is not in place. At best, this letter could have been issued with a paragraph stating that these appointments are being made pending the composition of the Council of State and will be regularized in conformity with this Act,” he added.

    https://twitter.com/Citi973/status/1882033464926757235

    This controversy follows President Mahama’s announcement of a series of new appointments aimed at strengthening governance and streamlining administrative functions. Among the appointees are Mrs. Joyce Bawah Mogtari, appointed as Presidential Adviser and Special Assistant to the President, and Stanislav Xoese Dogbe, named Deputy Chief of Staff with a focus on operational oversight.

    Other notable appointments include former Finance Minister Seth Emmanuel Terkper as Presidential Adviser on Economic Affairs, and Professor Francis Dodoo, who will head the National Anti-Corruption Programme. Additionally, Nana Yaa Jantuah and Beatrice Annangfio have joined as Presidential Staffers, while Shamima Muslim takes on the role of Deputy Presidential Spokesperson.

    Larry Gbevlo-Lartey has been appointed Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahelian States and will also serve as a Presidential Staffer. Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo has been named Cabinet Secretary, while Julius Debrah has been reappointed as Chief of Staff.

    Dr. Callistus Mahama, who served as Secretary to the NDC Transition Team, will continue as Executive Secretary to the President. Other appointments include Marietta Agyeiwaa Brew as Legal Counsel to the President and Prosper Douglas Bani as head of the Interim Security Taskforce.

    Dr. Valerie Sawyerr will serve as Senior Presidential Advisor for Governmental Affairs, and Augustus Goosie Tanoh has been appointed Presidential Advisor for the 24-hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development.

    Presidential Office Act 1993Download
  • Stan Dogbe, Oye Bampoe listed in 10 new appointments to the Presidency

    Stan Dogbe, Oye Bampoe listed in 10 new appointments to the Presidency

    President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a series of high-profile appointments to the Office of the President, signaling a renewed focus on efficient governance and responsive leadership.

    The ten appointees are expected to bring their diverse expertise to bear in driving national progress.

    The President emphasized that these appointments reflect his administration’s commitment to ensuring effective leadership at all levels. “I have confidence that these individuals, with their wealth of experience and dedication, will excel in their respective roles,” President Mahama stated.

    The new appointees include:

    1. Mrs. Joyce Bawah Mogtari – Presidential Adviser and Special Aide to the President.
    2. Stanislav Xoese Dogbe – Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations).
    3. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo – Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration).
    4. Seth Emmanuel Terkper –Presidential Adviser on the Economy Programme.
    5. Professor Francis Dodoo – Presidential Adviser on National Anti-Corruption Programme.
    6. Larry Gbevlo-Lartey – Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahelian States.
    7. Nana Yaa Jantuah – Presidential Staffer.
    8. Beatrice Annangfio – Presidential Staffer.
    9. Shamima Muslim – Deputy Presidential Spokesperson.
    10. Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo – Cabinet Secretary.

    These appointments aim to bolster the operational efficiency of the Office of the President while addressing key national priorities such as economic stability, anti-corruption measures, and regional cooperation.

  • We haven’t released a third batch of ministerial nominees – Presidency clarifies

    We haven’t released a third batch of ministerial nominees – Presidency clarifies

    The Communications Team at the Presidency has dismissed rumors surrounding the release of a third batch of ministerial nominees, branding the reports as “false and misleading”.

    The false claims listed several prominent National Democratic Congress (NDC) figures, including current Members of Parliament, suggesting they had been nominated for key ministerial positions.

    Among those falsely named were Rashid Pelpuo, allegedly tapped for the Interior Ministry; Muntaka Mubarak, supposedly nominated for Transport Minister; and Sam George, Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, who was reportedly selected for the role of Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, among others.

    The President’s office clarified that these reports are entirely baseless, emphasizing that no formal announcement has been made regarding any new set of ministerial nominees. The statement urged the public to disregard such misinformation and reassured that all official updates will be made through recognized channels.

  • The Presidency has been turned to a business centre – Hassan Ayariga

    The Presidency has been turned to a business centre – Hassan Ayariga

    Hassan Ayariga, the Presidential Candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), has expressed grave concerns about the deteriorating state of politics in Ghana, asserting that the presidency has been reduced to a business centre.

    In an interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday, October 22, he criticized the increasing monetization of the electoral process, noting that voters now prioritize financial incentives over the integrity and competence of candidates, a trend he believes is eroding the country’s political system.

    Ayariga highlighted the alarming perception of the presidency as a business venture rather than a position of public service, stating, “Today, the presidency is no more valued as it used to be. The presidency has been reduced to the politics of money rather than the politics of ideas. So, people who now have money can go and win the presidency of this country.”

    He lamented that the current situation has led to a scenario where “we’re voting for people with more money than brains.”

    “Not to disgrace or undermine anybody. I have gone through this game for the past 12 years, I have not seen a leader who is running for the presidency who is more of a patriotic citizen who wants to change this country than who wants to do business. The office has now turned into a business centre, so people are now running to do business with the office, to become popular, I mean to reap this country off,” he added.

    Emphasizing the urgent need for patriotic leadership in Ghana, Ayariga argued that many politicians are using their influence to advance personal interests instead of serving the nation, undermining the core principles of leadership and weakening the foundations of Ghana’s democracy.

    He also raised concerns about Ghana’s sovereignty, warning that the country’s natural resources and land are increasingly controlled by foreign interests.

    “Everything has been taken over by the foreigners. The only thing left is the presidency and sooner than later, because we believe in the monetization of political affairs, the foreigners will get one of theirs to run for the president of Ghana and we will lose it,” he cautioned.

    Ayariga called for a return to genuine leadership rooted in patriotism and service to the people, urging Ghanaians to support leaders who are truly committed to national development.

  • I put my presidency on the line to stop galamsey, NPP lost seats – Akufo-Addo

    I put my presidency on the line to stop galamsey, NPP lost seats – Akufo-Addo

    President Nana Akufo-Addo has reiterated his determination to combat illegal mining, also known as galamsey, even at the cost of his political standing.

    During his thank-you tour in the Northeast Region on Tuesday, October 15, the President emphasized his willingness to take significant political risks to address the pressing issue.

    Speaking to local chiefs, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the impact of galamsey on his party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly during the last election. He revealed that the NPP lost several seats in constituencies heavily affected by illegal mining, largely due to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) campaigning against his anti-galamsey policies.

    “This galamsey matter has become a major issue in Ghana today. In the last election, the NPP performed poorly in the country’s mining districts. The NDC presidential candidate and his party went around these areas, telling people that they would reverse the policy of stopping galamsey if they came to power and grant amnesty to those imprisoned for galamsey offences,” the President explained.

    Akufo-Addo reminded the audience of his earlier commitment to risk his presidency in the fight against galamsey, reaffirming that he was prepared to face political consequences to curb the illegal practice. “When I said I was putting my presidency on the line, I meant it. I was ready to take the political risk to deal with this galamsey phenomenon. As a result, the NPP lost many seats in the mining districts, especially in the Western Region, including almost losing Tarkwa,” he added.

    The President’s remarks highlight the complexity of balancing political interests with the need for sustainable solutions to the environmental and social challenges posed by galamsey. Despite the political fallout, Akufo-Addo underscored the importance of continuing the fight against illegal mining.

    He called on all stakeholders to approach the galamsey issue without partisan bias, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to tackle the problem. By working together, Akufo-Addo believes that Ghana can develop more effective strategies to mitigate the devastating impact of galamsey on the country’s environment and communities.

    “We must set aside political differences and focus on finding lasting solutions to this crisis,” he urged, stressing that the fight against galamsey is a national responsibility that requires unity and cooperation.

  • ‘Sick’ Nana Bediatuo in stable condition – Presidency reveals

    ‘Sick’ Nana Bediatuo in stable condition – Presidency reveals

    The Office of the President has informed the public about the health status of Nana Bediatuo Asante, Secretary to the President.

    According to a statement, Nana Bediatuo Asante, who recently participated as a key member of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s delegation at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, began feeling unwell after staying behind in the United States to conduct further government business.

    “He then began to feel unwell and was subsequently admitted to hospital,” the statement revealed.

    The Presidency reassured the public that Nana Bediatuo Asante is currently in stable condition and responding well to treatment.

    “He is currently in stable condition and responding well to treatment,” the statement noted, adding that his medical team is confident about his recovery.

    “Nana Bediatuo Asante’s recovery is on track, and we remain hopeful for his swift return to full strength.”

    The Office of the President also requested prayers and support for Nana Bediatuo Asante and his family during this challenging time.

    “We ask for continued prayers and support for him and his family during this difficult period. Further updates will be provided when necessary,” the statement added.

    Nana Bediatuo Asante, who has served as President Akufo-Addo’s Executive Secretary for several years, was appointed as an Ambassador-at-Large in June 2024. His appointment was announced during a formal ceremony at Jubilee House, where he, along with nine other diplomats, was tasked with representing Ghana on the global stage.

    The President, during the ceremony, emphasized the importance of the newly appointed diplomats in promoting Ghana’s interests. He urged them to strengthen bilateral ties, attract investment, and project Ghana as a beacon of stability and progress.

    Statement on Health of Bediatuo (1)Download
  • ECG risks brankruptcy – PURC tells Presidency

    ECG risks brankruptcy – PURC tells Presidency

    The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has issued a warning that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is at risk of bankruptcy due to severe financial difficulties.

    In a letter addressed to the Presidency, the Energy and Finance Ministers, and other key stakeholders, PURC’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Ismael Ackah, outlined the financial crisis, which is also impacting the operations of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), and the Bui Power Authority.

    According to Dr. Ackah, the ongoing challenges have caused delays in salary payments and difficulties in meeting administrative costs, emphasizing the need for immediate action to avoid further decline.

    Despite initiatives aimed at improving cash collection through digital and metering programmes, as well as significant tariff increases of over 75% since September 2022, ECG’s financial instability persists.

    Financial Crisis at ECG

    PURC’s letter reveals that ECG’s revenues for June and July 2024 stood at GHS 884.2 million and GHS 857 million, respectively—insufficient to cover the monthly $47 million Tier A plus WAPCo’s bill under the Cash Waterfall Mechanism. The situation worsened in August 2024, with revenues dropping below GHS 800 million, representing only about 42% of the expected revenue needed to pay sector players.

    A report from PURC on ECG’s compliance with the Cash Waterfall Mechanism also highlighted an approximately GHS 860 million shortfall in payments to independent power producers, further exacerbating the crisis. This shortfall has left Tier B companies—including Ghana Gas, VRA, GRIDCo, ECG, Bui, and regulators—struggling to meet staff salaries and administrative costs.

    Dr. Ackah stressed that the issues facing ECG require more than tariff adjustments, calling for deeper introspection and structural reforms.

    Comparative Solutions from the Sub-Region

    PURC’s letter also points to successful interventions from neighboring countries facing similar challenges:

    • Kenya Power and Lighting Company: Listed approximately 50% of its equity on the stock exchange, raising non-tariff funding for critical investments.
    • Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO): The Tanzanian government converted a government on-lend loan of 2.4 trillion Tanzanian shillings into equity. Since 2022, TANESCO has consistently declared profits, reducing both technical and non-technical losses to around 9% as of June 2024.
    • Uganda’s Umeme Concession: Involved the private sector in metering, billing, and collection services, achieving a collection rate of 98.7%.

    Recommendations for Structural Reforms

    PURC suggests that similar innovative measures could help stabilize ECG, but any intervention should include stringent performance indicators, such as:

    • Drastic reductions in technical and commercial losses;
    • Enhanced fiscal discipline, ensuring ECG avoids non-core activities;
    • A reassessment of power purchase agreements and exchange rate regimes to reduce the burden on consumers;
    • Independent economic and technical audits to evaluate ECG’s true financial and technical position.

    Fuel payments are also affecting ECG’s financial sustainability. PURC has recommended that the Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with ECG, the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Public Enterprises, and other key stakeholders, undertake a comprehensive review of the root causes of ECG’s financial difficulties. The objective of this exercise would be to transform ECG and protect the broader energy sector.

    PURC also calls for greater transparency from ECG on critical issues, including revenue collection versus Cash Waterfall Mechanism (CWM) declarations, major contracts, monthly commitments, commercial and technical losses, and non-core activities that are impeding the company’s financial sustainability.

    Finally, PURC emphasized that privatization should be considered as a viable option to ensure ECG’s long-term financial stability and safeguard the energy sector in Ghana.

  • Presidency survery projects 2024 presidential elections to end in a run-off – Report

    Presidency survery projects 2024 presidential elections to end in a run-off – Report

    A recent survey reported by the Office of the President suggests that a run-off in the upcoming general presidential elections could be inevitable.

    This implies that the two major political parties; neither the National Democratic Congress (NDC) being led by former President John Dramani Mahama nor the New Patriotic Party (NPP), with its flagbearer, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, are projected to secure an outright majority in the first round.

    A total of 25,911 respondents were interviewed across all the 276 constituencies in the country. Out of this number, 12,664 (49%) were males with 13,247 (51%) being females, the survey shows.

    When asked which political party they would vote for, 46.3% of the respondents mentioned the NDC and the NPP respectively while a considerable 3% are yet to decide their preference.

    “The smaller parties and independent candidates shared 4.4% of the votes. This means the smaller parties have the capacity to push the elections to a run-off. Neither the NDC nor NPP can win the entire undecided component of electorates,” the survey highlighted.

    Per the survey, 49% of the respondents indicated that they are aligned with the NPP and NDC political parties. 87% of respondents indicated their decision to vote in the 2024 general elections.

    “Bono (13.7%), Oti (12.1%) and Greater Accra (10.4%) are the regions with the highest number of voters still waiting to make a decision on whether to participate in the 2024 general elections,” the survey recorded. Also, 77% of these respondents indicated that they are dissatisfied with politicians, hence their wavering decision to vote this year.

    Around 60% of voters indicated that their choices were based on party manifestos, with a specific focus on the policies that affect their lives. Meanwhile, scandals and poor decisions by government officials were highlighted as critical reasons that could hinder re-election chances for incumbents.

    Information privy to The Independent Ghana indicates that the study sought the views of registered Ghanaian voters regarding the following themes: Voting history over the past two election cycles, attachment to political parties, readiness to vote in future elections, readiness to vote if elections were held today and which party to vote for, appeal/attractiveness of the two main presidential candidates, voter choice between the two main presidential candidates and visibility of the two presidential candidates in constituencies.

    The study is said to have employed a multi-stage sampling technique covering all of Ghana’s 276 constituencies. Initially, five Electoral Areas (EA) were selected on the basis of probability sampling from each constituency. Thereafter, three polling stations were randomly selected from each EA. Seven respondents who are registered voters were selected for the interview in each of the selected polling stations. The respondents in each polling station were selected based on key demographic variables such as gender, age, and profession to ensure appropriate representation by all spheres of interest in the constituency.    

    The survey was led by the Director of Research at the Presidency and a former lecturer at the University of Ghana’s Political Science Department, Dr. Isaac Owusu, sources close to The Independent Ghana reveal.

    Run-off prediction

    There have been several projections of a run-off in the next polls, and among those with such surmise is German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull.

    In an interview with Accra-based JoyNews on Thursday, August 22, Ambassador Krull said he personally believes Ghana will “probably have a second round of elections.” This came as a surprise to him as Ghanaians do not seem to be preparing for such a scenario.

    “I personally believe we will probably have a second round of elections which I’m surprised Ghanaians are not preparing for. I think there are good arguments to expect that there might be a second round,” Krull stated.

    The third force

    With the approach of the 2024 general elections, calls for a robust third force to challenge the dominance of the NPP and NDC have grown louder. 

    A growing number of Ghanaians are increasingly disillusioned with the repetitive cycle of governance by these two parties, attributing their dissatisfaction to underwhelming economic progress, unfulfilled promises, rampant corruption, and the persistent mismanagement of state resources.

    Some Ghanaians believe that former Trade Minister and leader of the Movement for Change, John Alan Kyerematen, and Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar, leader of The New Force, who have filed their nomination forms to run as independent candidates could represent the third force that the country has been searching for.

    There will be a run-off if no candidate secures over 50% plus 1 of the total votes cast in the first round of the 2024 presidential election.

  • Clement Apaak promises to reallocate Funds for education if NDC wins 2024 election

    Clement Apaak promises to reallocate Funds for education if NDC wins 2024 election

    The Member of Parliament for Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Dr Clement Apaak, has stated that should the National Democratic Congress (NDC) win the 2024 election, it will reallocate and reduce government spending to enhance education.

    According to him, over the past three to four years, the Office of Government Machinery has consistently received no less than GH₵1 billion annually, with this year’s allocation exceeding GH₵2 billion.

    Dr Apaak emphasised that a future NDC government would redirect and reduce this budget to finance the education of first-year students.

    During the NDC’s manifesto presentation on August 12, the party’s flagbearer, John Mahama, announced that first-year tertiary students would be exempt from paying academic fees.

    Mr Mahama explained that this initiative is part of a broader effort by the NDC to alleviate the financial burden on parents supporting their children’s education.

    Speaking on JoyNews AM Show, Mr Apaak said, “We will cut expenditure because, if you look at the Office of Government Machinery – this is essentially the Presidency – indeed up to today, the Minority has never fully appreciated and we do not believe that the quantum of money that goes to the Office of the President is needed.”

    The Builsa South MP criticized the current NPP government for requesting inflated funds for the Office of Government Machinery, alleging that these resources are being used to support partisan activities.

    He contrasted this with the NDC’s approach, pointing out that during their time in office, the NDC never requested anywhere near GH₵1 billion for the same office.

    Dr. Apaak contended that these excessive allocations could be trimmed and redirected to cover the expenses of first-year students’ fees.

    “There is a lot of waste in the system. Obviously, we would not be spending some GH₵339,000,000 to finance the construction of a cathedral. We would not be paying a CEO and a staff for an inland port, a port in Keta, so to speak, for almost eight years with no work done. “

  • We can’t pay you until Presidency directs us to – Finance Ministry to NABCo trainees

    We can’t pay you until Presidency directs us to – Finance Ministry to NABCo trainees

    The Finance Ministry has responded to a petition from Nation Builders Corps (NABCo) trainees regarding their unpaid arrears for the past nine months.

    The Ministry clarified that grievances should be directed to the Office of the President since the programme falls under its jurisdiction.

    In a letter dated July 11, the Finance Ministry advised the trainees to submit any additional documentation that might support their claims for payment.

    The Ministry assured that once these documents are reviewed and validated, the outstanding payments will be processed, emphasizing the importance of following proper channels to address financial issues related to the NABCO programme.

    During a campaign tour in the Volta Region on June 2, 2024, Vice President and New Patriotic Party Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia promised to pay the nine-month arrears owed to vulnerable former NABCo trainees. This pledge highlighted the ongoing concerns regarding the programme, which was initially designed to run for three years and was later extended for an additional year.

    NABCo aimed to engage 100,000 young graduates, with the government investing approximately GH¢2.2 billion into the policy. Despite this investment, many corps members have complained about the non-payment of allowances. The programme was officially said to have ended in October 2021, but trainees were asked to continue working.

    During the presentation of the 2022 budget, the government indicated that the YouStart programme and a Digital Inclusion program would gradually absorb the remaining NABCo trainees, providing alternative pathways for their continued engagement and support.

  • Your petition against sale of SSNIT hotels will be acted on by Akufo-Addo – Presidency

    Your petition against sale of SSNIT hotels will be acted on by Akufo-Addo – Presidency

    The Office of the President has assured that President Akufo-Addo will review and respond to the petition submitted by the “Hands Off Our Hotels” protesters, who are opposing the sale of 60 percent shares in four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel, a company owned by the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    The protest, led by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, culminated in the submission of the petition at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, June 18. Deputy Chief of Staff Emmanuel Adumuah Bossman, who received the petition on behalf of the President, expressed the administration’s commitment to considering the protesters’ concerns.

    “We are delighted to receive the petition because it is part of the exercise of our democratic rights guaranteed under Chapter 5 of our constitution. We are also grateful that this procession and demonstration have taken place without any negative outcomes,” Bossman stated.

    “I will submit the petition to the President, and I can assure you that it will be looked into, and appropriate measures will be taken as and when deemed fit.”

    During the protest, Mr Ablakwa called on President Akufo-Addo to halt the sale of the SSNIT hotels, arguing that the transaction was not in the country’s best interest.

    He urged the President to ensure that profitable state assets are not sold and that workers’ properties are not disposed of without their consent.

    Mr Ablakwa also demanded that ministers and politically exposed persons be prevented from purchasing state assets, highlighting the need to stop the Blay family’s alleged illegal encroachment on Labadi Hotel’s beachfront.

    Mr Ablakwa passionately addressed the crowd, emphasizing the protesters’ determination to protect state assets from being sold to politicians.

    “It has become the whole of Ghana versus the few lootocrats who are determined to continue with their state capture, and I am clear in my mind that they will have no choice but to listen,” he declared.

    “Even if you don’t listen and you try to sell this hotel, how are they going to have access to the hotel? How? Because we will block that access. These are our assets, and we are saying you haven’t consulted us. Rest assured, we are confident these hotels will not be sold.”

    The protest saw tensions escalate when police used pepper spray and tear gas to disperse the demonstrators, resulting in several injuries.

    Mr Ablakwa confirmed to the media that some injured protesters had been transported to health facilities for treatment. He noted that some individuals collapsed after being pepper-sprayed without provocation and assured that he would visit the victims at the hospitals they had been admitted to.

    As the nation awaits President Akufo-Addo’s response, the “Hands Off Our Hotels” movement remains steadfast in its commitment to preventing the sale of SSNIT assets, asserting that the public must be consulted before any such transactions occur.

  • We need to reduce the power of the presidency – Bawumia

    We need to reduce the power of the presidency – Bawumia

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed his commitment to amending the constitution to reduce presidential powers if elected.

    He believes in returning power to the people. In an interview with JoyNews, Dr. Bawumia stated, “Our Constitution has served us very well over the last 30 years or so.”

    “It has served us very well. And it was built to provide us political stability after the turbulent years that we went through, the focus of the framers, if you see how it was put together, is more to provide Ghana with political stability.

    “But I think that we have attained political stability. We need a constitution that will provide us with economic development and so I want to see a review of the Constitution with that view, with a focus on economic development, and also, we need to reduce the power of the presidency, even though I’m running to be a president, I don’t think we need to have that as much power. We need to give some of that back to the people.”

    Meanwhile, Dr. Isaac Bampoe, Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG), has expressed support for Dr. Bawumia’s stance.

    He said, “And he wants to believe that he’s got good intentions. We’ll see what happens. I’m a civil servant, we support any government in power. So whoever comes will support him, but these are great ideas that will move the country forward,” Dr Bampoe stated.

    Dr. Bawumia also addressed issues in public service, including political interference and inefficiencies at district assemblies. He emphasized the need for reforms to ensure that public services are more effective and less influenced by political agendas, aiming for a more transparent and accountable system.

    Dr. Bampoe added, “CLOGSAG association we’ve spoken about a presidential Act which we say it contradicts the constitution, well if that’s what is going to do then I think is going to move the country forward, because was too much power, too much power in one person.

    He concluded, “When he comes into power, we will hold him to his promises. He told us he would perform, so we expect him to do so.”

  • SML received GHC1.5bn and not GHC1bn as Akufo-Addo stated – Bright Simons cites KPMG report

    Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has responded to the recently released KPMG audit report on the controversial contracts and transactions between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    The over 300-page report was made public on May 22, 2024, after weeks of the presidency withholding its release, citing provisions of the Right to Information (RTI) law.

    Mr Simons, who has been vocal about the need for the full report to be disclosed, highlighted major findings that revealed the deal to be even worse than initially reported based on the documentary that first brought the matter to light.

    In a series of posts on X, Simons noted that the earlier summary by the Presidency had major gaps while outlining bombshell findings from his initial analysis of the report.

    a. SML received close to 1.5 Billion cedis in payments not 1 Billion per the presidency.

    b. KPMG saw the impact of taxes on increasing revenue. Clearly, that wasn’t SML’s work.

    c. SML’s magical flowmeters never worked as specified throughout anyway.

    d. SML refused to pay taxes on its fees from GRA.

    e. Ministry of Finance deliberately refused to do Value for Money evaluation

    On April 24, 2024, President Akufo-Addo received a request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) under section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) (RTI Act), for a copy of the KPMG report.

    The President had commissioned KPMG on December 29, 2023, to conduct an inquiry to gain a clear understanding of the matters in controversy and to be properly advised in making necessary decisions.

    Initially, the presidency refused to release the report, citing that the KPMG report contained opinions, advice, deliberations, and recommendations integral to the President’s deliberative process, and thus qualified as exempt information under section 5 (1) (a) and (b) (i) of the RTI Act.

    However, a detailed press statement outlining KPMG’s findings and recommendations, as well as the President’s directives to the Ministry of Finance and GRA, was published at the time.

    After initially deciding not to release the full audit report by KPMG, the presidency announced in a statement dated May 22 that the report had been released despite earlier exemptions raised under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

    “The President, in the interest of full transparency in governance, openness, and honesty with the public, has decided to waive the privilege under section 5 of the RTI Act and has directed the publication of the KPMG report in full,” the statement signed by Communications Director, Eugene Arhin read in part.

  • Deputy AG defends Presidency’s decision to withhold KPMG report from the public

    Deputy AG defends Presidency’s decision to withhold KPMG report from the public

    Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah has defended the presidency’s decision to withhold the full KPMG report on the revenue assurance contract between GRA-SML.

    In response to a request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) for the complete report, the presidency cited specific sections, including deliberations and recommendations, as exempt from disclosure under provisions of the RTI Act.

    Citing concerns over confidentiality and the sensitivity of the data, the presidency declined to release the report in its entirety, as outlined in a letter to the MFWA signed by the Chief Director to the Chief of Staff, H. M. Wood.

    Speaking at the 14th Commonwealth Regional Conference for Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa, Tuah-Yeboah urged the public to respect the presidency’s decision.

    He emphasized the validity of the reasons given by the presidency for withholding the report, stating that its release would serve no constructive purpose. According to Tuah-Yeboah, releasing the report would not yield any tangible benefits, supporting the presidency’s stance on withholding it.

    Tuah-Yeboah reiterated the importance of respecting the presidency’s decision, highlighting the need for transparency and adherence to legal protocols regarding the disclosure of sensitive information.

    “I think the reason for the decline of the request has been outlined by the government, and for now we must stick to that. But if something new comes up, and there’s a need to revisit it that should be the case. As we have it now, the reason has been made known to the public and it’s also within the law. So, let’s see what happens.”

    “The president has the report, he has gone through it, and based on the advice, he has come out with what he thinks should to be done. Moving forward, if we think there’s a need for the report to be out and if there’s no other reason but if upon further assessment there’s a need to review it, why not? As I said, there’s a reason for it, that reason is valid, let’s stick to it and move on,” he insisted.

  • When should I send anti-LGBTQ+ Bill to Akufo-Addo? – Clerk of Parliament asks Presidency

    When should I send anti-LGBTQ+ Bill to Akufo-Addo? – Clerk of Parliament asks Presidency

    The Clerk to Parliament, Cyril Nsiah, has contacted the Executive Secretary to the President, Nana Bediatuo Asante, seeking clarification on when to transmit the Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-LGBTQI+ Bill.

    This request follows a controversial letter from Mr. Bediatuo that advised Parliament not to transmit the Bill to President Akufo-Addo for his assent.

    In his letter to Mr. Bediatuo dated Wednesday, April 10, Mr. Nsiah stated his intention to transmit the Bill in accordance with Article 106(7) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.

    “I am writing to acknowledge receipt of your Letter No. OPS 140/1/24/235 dated 18th March, 2024 on the above subject matter and received in my Office on 19th March, 2024.”

    “I have taken note of the contents of the letter, particularly the text in the last paragraph, which states that “In the circumstances, you are kindly requested to cease and desist from transmitting the Bill to the President until matters before the Supreme Court are resolved.”

    “Accordingly, I await an indication in writing from your Office on when to present the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024 to His Excellency the President for his consideration, pursuant to article 106(7) of the Constitution, 1992.”

    After the controversial letter dated March 18, 2024, in which the presidency requested parliament not to send the anti-gay bill to President Akufo-Addo for his assent due to pending applications for an order of interlocutory injunction against the bill, there was widespread condemnation of the presidency’s stance. In response, parliament suspended the vetting process for President Akufo-Addo’s newly nominated ministers.

    The letter emphasized that it would be improper for Parliament to proceed with transmitting the Bill to President Akufo-Addo for any action until the legal matters before the court are resolved. It was also revealed that the Attorney-General had advised the President against taking any action regarding the Bill until the legal issues raised in the lawsuits are addressed by the Supreme Court.

    Meanwhile, an Accra High Court has granted an application for the abridgment of time for the hearing of the case seeking to compel President Akufo-Addo to receive the Anti-LGBTQ bill from parliament. This case, filed by NDC MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, seeks several declarations over the President’s refusal to receive the bill from Parliament.

  • Daughter of farmer and petty trader refused scholarship due to protocol from Presidency, Parliament and Ministers – Report

    Daughter of farmer and petty trader refused scholarship due to protocol from Presidency, Parliament and Ministers – Report

    An exposé by The Fourth Estate has detailed how brilliant but needy Ghanaians are denied scholarships due to a list of favoured individuals coming from government officials.

    In a recent report dubbed “Scholarships bonanza: The powerful grab as double scholarships flow”, Franklina Mensah (not her real name) who obtained an undergraduate degree with First-Class honours, is said to be a victim of the “protocol” system.

    Franklina is said to have submitted her application to the government-run Scholarship Secretariat, seeking funding for a master’s degree programme in the United Kingdom (UK).

    “If the scholarship was going to be awarded on merit, she felt she stood a very good chance. Her sense of optimism soared higher when she received plaudits from the interview panel, who were full of praise for her excellent proposal and academic credentials,” The Fourth Estate reported.

    Sources say she heard no update from the Scholarship Secretariat weeks after her interview, prompting an “anxious” Franklina to reach out.

    At the offices of the Scholarship Secretariat, Franklina is said to have met an official whose name she couldn’t recall.

    “I mentioned my name, and he said, ‘Your name was on the list but there is so much protocol they had to take people out.’”

    The official claimed requests come from highly influential offices including that of the President, Parliament and ministers “for this same scholarship.”

    “You should understand that people will have to go off the list,” official is said to have told Frankina.

    In other words, she had been shortlisted for the scholarship but a protocol list from some higher office or authority had forced her name to be taken off the shortlist.

    “I was dumbfounded,” Franklina told The Fourth Estate.

    Testament to her perseverance and the quality of her graduate proposal, Franklina obtained a different scholarship which enabled her to pursue her studies that same year – and in the UK as planned.

  • Ghana in search of the true leader/president

    Ghana in search of the true leader/president

    Dear Honorable Ghanaians, as a citizen, I want to take this opportunity to share my views with you. I should be very excited over your critiques and criticisms. And I would also be pleased to accept your opinions as well.

    On 7th January 2025, Ghana shall be inaugurating a new president as the leader of our nation. And as a concerned Ghanaian, I would like to share my vision of the type of leader our motherland should hire to lead our great nation.

    Ghana is now 66 years old. Unfortunately, we have very little to show for this old age even though our Almighty Father and Allah has blessed us with almost every type of mineral resources and great intellect.

    Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, our first president, made tremendous strides. These included the establishment of the Akosombo dam, the Tema harbor, free education for the northern part of the country, mass education, free health care, and above all, a great step towards “The Ghana Young Pioneers, and the African Personality”.

    The Young Pioneers and African Personality movements were basically aimed at making us know ourselves and to use this spirit to be able to galvanize ourselves as a people and as a nation. And with this identification of ourselves, we would have translated our knowledge, strength and resources into wealth. 

    Through Nkrumah’s vision, we realized that he was the true leader because he provided direction and guidance by inspiring people to stand for a cause. He was compassionate, competent, transformational and courageous.

    Dr. Nkrumah was an exceptional leader because he served the best interests of the people and he possessed goals greater than achieving his personal glory.

    I do believe that Ghana has had certain leaders that have alsodemonstrated various leadership qualities, such as selflessness, honesty, vision, integrity, compassion, and incorruptibility. These persons include Dr. James E. K. Aggrey, Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia, Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah, Mr. Simon Diedong Dombo, TettehQuarshie, Yaa Asantewaa (the Queenmother of Ejisu) and many others. These individuals were selfless and, more significantly, NOT CORRUPT!

    Dr. Aggrey is recognized for educating and inspiring the black population and Africans through his words “ Nothing but the best is good enough for Africa”.

    Dr. Kwame Nkrumah is recognized for his belief of a new Africa, independent and absolutely free from imperialism that was founded upon the conception of one and united Africa, drawing its strength from modern science and technology and from the traditional African values of egalitarianism.

    Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia is recognized for educating the people of Ghana on the paradigm of democracy, and on Civic Responsibility.

    Dr. Joseph Boakye Danquah on the other hand, was a scholar, lawyer, statesman and a politician who is also credited with giving Ghana its current name.

    Mr. S. D. Dombo was a chief, Douri-Na, and a teacher. He was reputed to be the first educated chieftain in the Upper West Region of Ghana. He formed and led the Northern People’s Party (NPP) in the Gold Coast which was aimed at protecting the interest of those in the Northern region of Ghana.

    Tetteh Quarshie was a pre-independent Ghanaian agriculturist and the person directly responsible for the introduction of cocoa crops to Ghana, which today constitute the major export crops of the Ghanaian economy.

    Yaa Asantewaa was the Queenmother of Ejisu and a mother. She was an intellectual, a politician, a human rights activist, a queen and a war leader. She became famous for commanding the Ashanti Kings in the War of the Golden Stool, against British colonial rule, to defend and protect the sovereign independence of the Golden Stool.

    All these mentioned individuals in our history, depict leaders thatwere willing to accept responsibility and the ability to inspire their people. They exhibited honesty, love for their heritage, intellect, and above all, they were all transformational leaders.

    It took a competent, visionary, mature, selfless, and incorruptible man, in the person of Deng Xiaoping, to transform China into a far-reaching market-economic reformed nation. And if one wants to achieve excellence, then it is advisable to emulate the examples of those who have already done so. 

    I have cited these personalities to demonstrate true Leadership because they never tried to control their people.

    Instead, they inspired their people, encouraged them to understand matters at home, and used education to guide them towards  success. 

    These personalities were true leaders because they were not afraid to make demands of the people they led. These leaders  were true ones because they established flagship programs  towards developments in the infrastructure, education, health,  security, and the general economy of our great nation.

    My most beloved Ghanaians, I propose that we look closely at those candidates vying for the presidency of Ghana to determine  their integrity and how they can hold themselves  accountable. Let us look out for the candidate who demonstrates  honesty, has a vision, competency and among many other. 

    Let us refrain from looking for the candidate because of his tribe,  religious affiliation and corruptive antics. Let us look for The President of Ghana that we can All be proud of.

    Dear Ghanaians, kindly bear with me that the factors for The True Leader in Ghana from 7th January 2025 should be based on honesty, vision, incorruptibility, inspirational, and transformational. 

    This is my first epistle to you. I shall come back to you with my 

    second episode.

    God bless our Homeland Ghana and make us great and strong!

    Prof. Dr.-Ing. Eur Ing. Thompson Sarkodie-Gyan, D.Sc., VDI, FInstMC

    Retired Tenured Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering

    College of Engineering 

    University of Texas, USA​

    Email: tsarkodi@utep.edu

  • Is Mahama implying Jubilee House will become Flagstaff House under his leadership?

    Is Mahama implying Jubilee House will become Flagstaff House under his leadership?

    Last week, former president John Dramani Mahama had cause to speak extensively about the presidency at a speech to party supporters in Nsawam.

    Among others, Mahama, who is running for the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) presidential nomination, boasted of being familiar with the area because he was the building’s first president.

    In his address, he referred to the place currently known as Jubilee House by its old name Flagstaff House.

    “7th January 2017, I showed Akufo-Addo around the Flagstaff House, where he will sit, his vice president, cabinet office, his meeting and conference rooms, I am the one who showed him around.

    “So, I was asking a question, on 7th January 2025, who will show John Mahama around the Flagstaff House?” he asked party faithful at the St. Martins Secondary School in Nsawam.

    “I opened Flagstaff House and I am the first president to have worked from there, it is true it was built by president Kufuor but I was the first president to stay at Flagstaff House.

    “So, after my inauguration, I will drive straight to Flagstaff House and start work,” he said to cheers from the supporters.

    About the Jubilee House

    Jubilee House, is the presidential palace in Accra that serves as a residence and office to the President of Ghana.

    Jubilee House is built on the site of a building that was constructed and used for administrative purposes by the British Gold Coast Government. The previous seat of government of Ghana is Osu Castle.

    It was renamed Golden Jubilee House by President Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo on 29th March 2018. It has previously been known as The Flagstaff House.

  • Integrate some ministries and dissolve others – Kwabena Agyepong to gov’t

    Integrate some ministries and dissolve others – Kwabena Agyepong to gov’t

    A flagbearer candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, has said that it would be better for Ghana if some ministries were consolidated.

    The former General Secretary of the NPP, in an interview with Bernard Avle on the Citi Breakfast Show, said not only will this be economical but will go a long way to send a strong moral message to Ghanaians that leadership is indeed tightening its belt and is serious about working towards attaining economic recovery.

    “Ghana’s government is too big, and I have said this a long time ago, I think it has become a bit more fashionable for other people to say. As far back as 2015 when I was General Secretary of the NPP, I said that the framers of the constitution did not put in the 19 limits for cabinet ministers for nothing, they were giving us an idea of the size of government.”

    “When I become President, I will not exceed this limit. A lot of the ministries have to be consolidated to reduce the numbers. There are others I think should not exist in the first place, Parliamentary Affairs, and even Chieftaincy used to be a secretariat at the Presidency.

    “I think the natural home of Youth and Sport is Education, Transport should have Aviation and Railways. We can isolate Roads and Highways because of their central role in the development of the country. Fisheries should be a department under Agriculture.”

    He also said Ministries do not need more than one deputy.

    “The President even has just a vice. So, 38 ministers, if we add the 16 regional ministers, we have 54 ministers. This is something any President should be able to work with.”

  • Age restrictions for the presidency in Côte D’Ivoire to be altered

    Age restrictions for the presidency in Côte D’Ivoire to be altered

    Former Ivorian Trade Minister Jean-Louis Billon has demanded that the 75-year-old age restriction for presidential candidates be amended.

    His comment is said to be targeted at President Alassane Ouattara, former Presidents Laurent Gbagbo and Henri Konan Bédié, although none of the three men has officially applied for the election so far.

    Two of the three Ivorian politicians are in their 80s while one is in his 70s, something the former Trade Minister is now campaigning against.

    Recently, the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire, PDCI’s political bureau, decided to designate Konan Bédié, the 88-year-old former president as the sole candidate to lead the party. Mr. Billion has announced his intention to be a candidate in Ivory Coast’s presidential election in 2025.

    Source: gbcghanaonline.com

  • Presidency confirms SaharaReporters’ story as Buhari departs for UK Monday to see doctors

    The Presidency has confirmed the SaharaReporters’ exclusive report that President Muhammadu Buhari who recently travelled to Seoul, South Korea on a five-day official visit will also be going to London, UK where he will be seeing his doctors.

    SaharaReporters earlier reported that Buhari would visit Royal Brompton Hospital situated at Sydney St, London SW3 6NP between November 1 and 2, 2022 to see his doctors.

    A source had told SaharaReporters, “President Muhammadu Buhari is scheduled to depart Abuja for Seoul, South Korea on a 5-day official visit to the Asian country.

    “The President who wanted to visit Doha, Qatar last month but was snubbed by the Qatari leader is poised to go on a merry-go-round around the world between now and his eagerly awaited exit from power in about 7 months.

    “From Seoul, Buhari will proceed to London where he is scheduled to undergo a medical procedure at the Royal Brompton Hospital situated at Sydney St, London SW3 6NP, between November 1 and 2, 2022.”

    Confirming the report on Monday, the Special Assistant to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, on his Twitter account said the President would be back in Nigeria in the second week of November.

    Adesina said, “President Buhari leaves for London October 31, 2022, for routine medical checkup. He returns to the country 2nd week of November, 2022.”

    This is despite the rising tension and fear in the country, especially in Abuja over the terror alert by the US, UK and Canadian commissions.

     

    Source: Sahara Reports

  • Akufo-Addo sacks GES Director-General

    The Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Professor Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa has been relieved of his duties.

    His dismissal was announced in a letter from the Presidency signed by the Secretary to the President, Nana Bediatuo Asante, on Monday, October 17.

    According to the letter, the circumstances that required his skills at the GES no longer exist.
    “The Ministry of Education has informed this Office that the exigencies that required your skills and expertise as Director-General of the Ghana Education Service do not exist any longer.

    “The President thanks you for your service to the nation and wishes you the very best in your future endeavours”, the letter added.
    Prof. Opoku-Amankwa was appointed on secondment from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in January 2021. His contract was extended again in June 2021.

    However, according to his dismissal letter, the extension was in “contravention of the Human Resource Policy Framework and manual of the Public Services Commission as it purports to extend your secondment beyond the 3-year maximum limit.”

    Before his appointment, Prof Opoku-Amankwa was the Dean of the International Programmes Office (IPO) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) before he was replaced by Mr Jacob Kor who was Director-General of the GES from January 2015 – April 2017.

    Prof Opoku-Amankwa has a PHD in Language and Education from the University of Reading in the United Kingdom. He studied Social Sciences at the KNUST.

    He was also was an Associate Professor in the Department of Publishing Studies at the KNUST and has knowledge about the social, political, economic, and cultural life in Ghana, having studied, worked, and researched in a number of communities across the country for over three decades.

     

    Akufo-Addo sacks GES Director-General
    The letter from the Presidency

     

  • 5 young individuals who could become President of Ghana

    Ghana had its independence on 6th March 1957. Ghana went ahead to become a Rebuplic on 1st June 1960.

    Some young men who have shown signs of leadership and could be ready for the Presidential mantle in the future.

    Major political leaders have all been in the same instances as they pass through series of leadership roles before landing the great one. Sitting President Nana Akufo-Addo and former president John Dramani Mahama are perfect examples.

    1. Sammi Awuku

    Sammi Awuku is the current Organiser of the New Patriotic Party and a young political figure in the NPP. He has held several political positions ranging from Communications Directorate as the Deputy Communications Director to National Youth Organiser and currently the National Organiser of the current party in power. Mr. Awuku was won the admiration of many political actors including some respected functionaries of the largest opposition party NDC by his show of leadership in mobilising the youth to secure re-sounding victory for the NPP in 2016. Perhaps this massive admiration was shown at the last delegates conference of the NPP where he secured a convincing 4,914 votes as against 466.

    Sammi holds a Diploma in Law from the University of London and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in International Relations at the Free University of Berlin in Germany.

    From his political progression, he is not far from becoming the President of Ghana in the near future.

     

    2.    John Dumelo

    John Dumelo is a well known actor turned politician who is representing the National Democratic Congress in the parliamrntary seat of the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency in the Greater Accra Region. Dumelo was a very active campaigner for the former President, John Dramani Mahama ahead of the general elections in 2016. The renowned actor has expressed his dream of becoming a Member of Parliament and a president of Ghana. He has behind his side, his hometown constituency in Hohoe who where paving way for him to become a Member of Parliament.

    3.    Kojo Vincent Oppong Nkrumah

    Kojo Vincent Oppong Nkrumah of the current information minister of Ghana. He is the Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi Constituency in the Eastern Region. He is a lawyer by profession. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has served as a Treasury Analyst at British American Tobacco in 2006, and then as a Broadcast Journalist and Management Consultant at the Multimedia group of Companies. He is a proud member of the New Patriotic Party and he is known for his style of politics and engaging electorates. He has been a key figure in the dissemination of the information in this times of Coronavirus.

     

    4. Zenator Rawlings

    Doctor Zenator Rawlings is a well knowned politician whose parents are founding fathers of the National Democratic Congress. Her father is a former president of the Republic of Ghana, John Jerry Rawlings. Zenator is the current Member of Parliament for Klottey Korley Constituency in the Greater Accra Region. She has been mentioned as one of the potential presidential running mate of John Dramani Mahama. Zenator Rawlings will be a potential presidential aspirant for the National Democratic Congress in the future and the influence of her father will be a great impact in her political life.

    5. Sarah Adwoa Safo

    Sarah Adwoa Safo is a two time serving Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya Constituency in the Greater Accra Region. She is known by many for her academic life for not ever sitting in a classroom in her basic and secondary education. She is a daughter of the renowned founder as the Apostle Safo Ministries. Her father, Safo Kantanka has been knowned to be an engineer who manufactured cars and sells them. He is also into agriculture and teaches how to use natutal remains to better our plant life.

    Sara Adwoa Safo is the Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament and also the Minister of State in Charge of Public Procurement and she is one of the youngest lawyers in Ghana.

    The list are in no special order as all are equally eligible to make their dreams become a reality.

    Major political leaders have all been in the same instances as they pass through series of leadership roles before landing the great one. Sitting President Nana Akufo-Addo and former president John Dramani Mahama are perfect examples.

    Source: operanewsapp.com

  • Bawumia’s attacks on Mahama shows there’s confusion at the Presidency – Chief Biney

    The Deputy National Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Chief Biney, has said Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia‘s recent comments comparing ‘dumsor’ to Coronavirus pandemic means there is a total confusion at the Presidency.

    According to him, whiles President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is calling for Ghanaians to desist from politicizing Coronavirus, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is not adhering to the directive from his immediate boss which suggest that there is a total confusion at the Presidency.

    “Recent statements by Dr. Bawumia means there is a total confusion at the Presidency, because what the President is saying different from what the Vice-president and the Information Minister said, I don’t understand why Dr. Bawumia will ignore a directive from his boss to resort in politics in this COVID-19 era,” he said on Accra-based Kingdom FM.

    “President Akufo-Addo has failed Ghanaians woefully in the fight against coronavirus in Ghana, why must the lockdown be lifted looking at the high increase of coronavirus cases in Ghana, instead of you to find solutions to control the coronavirus epidemic you are doing a comparison of ‘dumsor’ to Coronavirus,” he added.

    Dr. Bawumia has advised Mahama to speak based on the data available with regards to how the economy is performing and stop running the risk of embarrassing himself.

    “We have been able to perform much better on the situation we inherited. In fact, the data makes it very clear.

    “My humble advice to former President Mahama is to take a look at the data. This is not green book data, this is the real data, look at it again before you speak, otherwise, you will end up embarrassing yourself,” he stated

    Source: pulse.com.gh

  • G20 calls for more donations

    The presidency of the G20, currently held by Saudi Arabia, has called for more donations to fund an emergency response to the pandemic.

    The G20 secretariat said that so far $1.9bn (£1.5bn) had been donated, but that the target set was $8bn. Donations are coming from countries and the private sector.

    G20 Labour and employment ministers pledged on Thursday to prop up the labour market as the coronavirus pandemic hits jobs and output around the world.

    The International Labour Organization (ILO) earlier this week warned that the economic consequences of the virus crisis were having a “devastating effect” on workers and employers.

    “The world of work is facing the worst global crisis since World War Two,” Alette van Leur, ILO policies director, warned.

    Source: bbc.com

  • Minister meets clergy on national security signal of non-compliance with presidents directive

    The Minister of the Savannah Region Hon Adam Braimah Salifu has met with the leadership of the various religious bodies in Damongo at the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council on Tuesday 24th March, 2020.

    The emergency meeting saw in attendance Imams, Reverend Fathers of the Catholic Church and Pastors of the various churches in the Savannah Regional capital of Damongo.

    Addressing the religious leaders at the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council, the Savannah Regional Minister said he conveyed the meeting as a result of a signal he received from the national security in Accra that they have enough information about the various religious bodies especially the Muslim Ummah in the entire Savannah Region especially Damongo the regional capital not complying with the directives of the President of Ghana Nana Addo Akufo Addo with regards to the temporal suspension of their mode of prayers and other social activities.

    He said it is not just the prayers but also funerals, naming and wedding ceremonies still takes place with people involved forgetting the temporal ban put in place by the President of Ghana on gatherings of any sought.

    Hon. Salifu Braimah said he, therefore, found it necessary to meet them and to inform them that the eye of the National Security is on the region and has advised the religious leaders to comply since that will be in their own interest and safety from contracting the disease.

    He said the use of force by the security agencies to ensure compliance will not speak well for the infant region and therefore pleaded with the men of God not to give that opportunity to the men in uniform.

    The Municipal chief Executive for the West Gonja Municipality Mr Saeed Jebreel Muhazu also in a speech said the disease is fast spreading and has to be checked.

    He further reminded especially the aged that they are more vulnerable to the disease since their system is not strong enough to fight the deadly virus and they are those who mostly occupy especially the mosques to make sure they pray in their rooms for the sake of prevention.

    He took them through the number of cases recorded in Ghana and how fast the disease is spreading in the country and again reminded them that even in the Holy land of Mecca people are staying away from the mosques and observing prayers in their homes.

    Head Pastor for the Evangelical Church of Ghana Damongo branch, Pastor Samuel Awuni said his Church and for that matter almost all churches have been directed from their headquarterses to hault church services as a result of the Corvid 19 menace.

    He said the churches are there because of the people who must be free from all forms of diseases before they can come for worship.

    He, therefore, appealed to all to consider the safety, health and welfare of their people first before taking any decision to violate the directives of the President which is in a way will save lives of their membership.

    Chief Imam of the Damongo Central Mosque, Alhaji Amadu Moshie assured the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council and Minister that he will issue a statement and personally meet all other Imams to make sure the Muslim Ummah complys with the directives since it is a must for not just Muslims but everybody in the region.

    He said it is because God loves the world that is why the disease is not hidden from mankind.

    He said we are also very lucky experts have knowledge about how to prevent the disease and that he will make sure he carrys the message across and will also ensure all complys to the directives.

    Sheik Eliasu Mohammed Kamil, head of the Center Islamic Teaching and Affairs Damongo, an Islamic Institute based in Damongo added his voice to the Chief Imam of Damongo and also appealed to the Muslim Ummah to strictly comply since even in Saudi Arabia, it is only Imams and known persons who are allowed to enter into mosques to observe prayers.

    He said strangers are not allowed to pray in this mosques because of the Coronavirus outbreak and therefore appealed to Muslims all over Ghana to pray for Ghana.

    Meanwhile, the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council is putting in place a sensitisation, awareness and education program on the various radio stations for the Christian and Muslim leaders to educate their membership about the dangers and prevention of the deadly Coronavirus.

    Source: nkilgifmonline.com

  • REJOINDER: “Presidency begged me after ‘wrongful’ suspension on footsoldiers insult.”

    My attention has been drawn to an online publication attributed to me. The said publication sought to suggest that I, Louise Carol Serwaa Donkor  had said the “presidency begged me after a wrongful suspension”.

     

    I wish to state that I have not made such statement, so it should be disregarded.

     

    The said publication is obviously the work of a group of people who do not believe in fair contest but crude and evil tactics. It is the work of people who believe their only means of surviving this contest is to court more disaffection for me using a past incident which should have been long forgotten.

     

    I wish to assure party faithfuls and my supporters that I will not do anything to further aggravate the already bruised relationship we have, especially when I have learnt lessons from an unfortunate past incident.

     

    Please remember that, some people will stop at nothing to bring others down in a political contest. So they are likely going to do more of these to try to harm my campaign, but I assure everyone that I won’t deliberately disrespect our party and its people.

     

    Signed

     

    Dr Louise Carol Serwaa Donkor