Energy and Green Transition Minister John Jinapor, who also serves as the Alternate Minister for Finance, has chaired the inauguration of an eleven-member Board of Directors for the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
The new board will be chaired by Dr Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, who has vowed to restore the former glory of COCOBOD by resetting, retooling and reimagining.
He viewed his appointment as both an honour and a call to duty, pledging on behalf of the members to lead a transformational agenda for the cocoa sector, and thus urged the other members to lead by example.
The other members of the Board include Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson; Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama; Chief Executive Randy Abbey; Alhaji Alhassan Kobina Ghansah; Vincent Oppong Asamoah; Deputy Minister for Trade, Samson Ahi; Deputy Minister for Agriculture, John Dumelo; Alhaji Alhassan Bukari; Nana Charles Owusu and Eric Turkson.
Mr Jinapor, in his remarks, entreated the board to live beyond expectation and fix the many challenges facing COCOBOD.
He expressed confidence in the newly constituted board, asserting that they possess the expertise to restore COCOBOD’s lost glory.
Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson tasked the board to decisively address the issue of diseased cocoa farms, especially in the Western Region, which continues to hamper productivity.
He assured COCOBOD of the full support of the Finance Ministry in all its endeavours.
He outlined plans by government to introduce plantation farms by acquiring about 200,000 hectares of cocoa land, aiming to restore production levels to 1 million metric tonnes.
COCOBOD is grappling with a staggering debt of GH¢32.5 billion, with GH¢9.7 billion due by the end of September, President John Dramani Mahama has revealed.
Delivering the 2025 State of the Nation Address in Parliament, he painted a bleak picture of the cocoa sector’s finances, warning of massive revenue losses for both COCOBOD and Ghanaian farmers.
According to Mahama, COCOBOD’s financial woes deepened in the 2023/24 crop season when it failed to supply 333,767 metric tonnes of cocoa that had been pre-sold at $2,600 per tonne.
Instead, the contracts were carried over to the 2024/25 season, leading to significant revenue shortfalls.
“This debt has arisen mainly because of the decision in 2019 and 2020 to award road contracts worth over a billion dollars because of the election,” President Mahama noted.
Former Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has expressed that one of his biggest regrets is not securing a return to government for the NDC during his time as chairman.
In an interview on Starr Chat with Bola Ray, Dr. Ampofo noted that the election results might have been different had there not been issues like police brutality, killings, and a compromised electoral environment in certain constituencies.
He believes that without these challenges, the NDC could have won a parliamentary majority, which would have significantly shifted the election outcome in their favor.
“I am saying that in the absence of police brutalities and the killing of people, and ensuring that the environment for free, fair, and transparent elections did not happen in those constituencies, we would have won the parliamentary majority. And that would have turned the scale in our favor.
“The results that were achieved, both at the presidential and parliamentary levels. You know, in the history of this country, it’s the first time that a party within four years has been able to improve their total vote by over two million. Yes, under my leadership. We were able to improve our vote from 4.2 to about 6.3 million in four years,” he remarked.
Dr. Ampofo also expressed uncertainty about the final election results of 2020.
He highlighted that under his leadership, the NDC achieved a historic increase in total votes, rising from 4.2 million to about 6.3 million in just four years.
He emphasized that if the NDC had not meticulously compiled their own results, they would have lost several constituencies they eventually won.
Dr. Ampofo cited issues with result tabulation and dissatisfaction with the Electoral Commission’s final results as reasons for seeking legal redress in court.
“There was a lot of back-and-forth, with changes being made multiple times, and all we wanted was for the woman to finally stand trial, to come and explain the reasons to the Supreme Court,” the former National Chairman of the NDC stated.
The former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has maintained that John Dramani Mahama emerged as the rightful victor in the 2020 general elections.
Despite the official outcome and the Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Mr. Ampofo remains steadfast in his belief that Mahama won the election.
During an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on ChannelOne TV, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo reiterated his unwavering confidence in Mahama’s victory.
“I am still convinced that President Mahama did not lose the 2020 elections. Had everything proceeded as it should have, we would be the governing party,” he affirmed.
Although the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the election results on March 4, 2021, citing a lack of merit, Ofosu Ampofo contends that the NPP’s victory was marred by irregularities.
Mr. Ampofo highlighted irregularities during the electoral process, particularly incidents in Ablekuma Central, where he alleges that NDC supporters encountered intimidation and violence from state security forces.
He attributed the significant vote tally for the NDC to the vigilance of their supporters, who remained steadfast despite adversities.
“In Ablekuma Central, for example, amidst the turmoil during the vote declaration, our people in Accra held their ground. Despite some sustaining bullet wounds and one fatality, they remained resolute in doing the right thing. Our victory in Ablekuma Central is a testament to their vigilance. Without it, we wouldn’t have achieved such numbers,” he recounted.
“These are the kinds of situations that are out of your hands. When state security, which is meant to be neutral, starts taking sides and brutalizing citizens, it poses a serious challenge to the integrity of the electoral process,” he concluded.
The High Court in Accra has ordered the former National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, and a former Deputy Communications Officer, Anthony Kweku Boahen, to open their defence to charges.
The two were charged in 2019 with conspiracy to cause harm following a leaked audio tape in which they were alleged to have plotted to harm the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and the Chairman of the Peace Council.
Both are also separately facing a charge of assault on a public officer, but have pleaded not guilty and been granted bail.
In the course of the trial, the prosecution called three witnesses to give evidence towards the proof of their various charges. But, after the closure of the prosecution’s case, the accused persons through their lawyers, each filed a submission of no case to answer on November 24, last year.
They contend that the prosecution’s witnesses were unable to prove the charges against them, so the court should acquit and discharge them.
Ruling on the submission of no case on Thursday, January 26, Justice Samuel Asiedu, now a Justice of the Supreme Court sitting as an additional High Court judge, said a prima facie case has been established against them by the prosecution.
According to the judge, there is evidence on the record in respect of the charges brought up against them, and the court is satisfied that, given the evidence before it, it is fit and proper that the accused persons are called upon to open their defence.
By Court
“The court has examined the evidence which has been placed before it by the prosecution vis-à-vis the charges which the accused persons are facing and the court has come to a conclusion that there is evidence on record in respect of the charges brought up against the accused persons.
“This is not the stage for the court to review the evidence and make pronouncements as to the guilt or innocence of the accused persons. The court is satisfied that given the evidence before it, it is fit and proper that the accused persons be called to enter upon their defence.
“In this regard, the court adopts the statement of the law espoused in Asamoah and Another vs. The Republic (supra) to the effect that: ‘There is no rule of law or procedure which gives an accused person the automatic right to make a submission of no case to answer at the close of the prosecution’s case in a criminal trial.
“In a summary trial, it is at the discretion of the Judge to determine whether or not a prima facie case has been made out against the accused persons, having regard to the evidence adduced.
“Where there is cogent evidence against the accused a trial Judge did not have to waste time inviting counsel for the accused to make a submission of no case…An appellate court only has to ascertain whether, at the close of evidence in support of the charge, a case was made out against the accused sufficiently to require him to open his defence.
“Furthermore, the standard of proof the prosecution bears at the stage of the trial before the appellants open their defence is not proof beyond a reasonable doubt. See Tsatsu Tsikata v The Republic [2003-2004] SCGLR 1068.”
“For the above reasons, the court said, “the submission of no case to answer is hereby overruled. The accused persons shall open their defence accordingly.”
Charges
The accused persons have been charged with the offence of conspiracy to cause harm contrary to sections 23(1) and 69 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960, (Act 29), as amended. This charge appears in count one of the charge sheet.
The 1st accused has also been charged, in count two, with the offence of assault on a public officer contrary to section 205(a) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960, (Act 29). Likewise, the 2nd accused has also been charged.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, his predecessor, have appeared in public for the first time since the NDC Congress in Accra that just ended.
The two met at the wedding ceremony of Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, on Wednesday, December 21, 2022.
Ahead of the election that saw Asiedu Nketiah, the former General Secretary of the party emerge winner in the National Chairman-ship race, the two candidates were actively engaged in a lot of media banters.
The last time they were seen together was on the morning of Sunday, December 18, 2022, just moments before the official results for the polls were declared by the officials of the Electoral Commission of Ghana.
After the contest, Asiedu Nketiah won convincingly with a 5,569 to the 2,892 votes garnered by Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo.
Sammy Gyamfi’s wedding is a private one that was attended by dignitaries like the former president, John Dramani Mahama.
An ex-Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of the Ejisu-Juaben Municipal Assembly in the Ashanti Region has identified causes for the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) defeat Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo.
According to Afrifa Yamoah Ponko, the delegates voted against the outgone National Chairman because of his dealings with some elements in the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He stressed that delegates were just not enthused about the administration of the outgone chairman.
“And the delegates were resolved to show him (Ofosu Ampofo) the exit,” he stressed.
“We vehemently registered our protest against his administration by massively voting against him,” he said.
“Some of us knew he (Ofosu) was going to lose to the current Chairman,” he added.
He noted that delegates were not ready to forgive the outgone chairman for the harm he had caused the party in the 2020 general elections.
He explained that the delegates were angry with the former National Chairman’s mismanagement of the party.
He accused the previous NDC administration under the watch of the outgone National Chairman of hobnobbing with the NPP.
“At the congress grounds, delegates were just waiting for the whistle to be blown by the Electoral Commission for them to vent their spleen on Ofosu-Ampofo’s administration,” Mr Ponko claimed.
He said the vote against Ofosu-Ampofo was a protest vote against the way and manner the chairman, handled the affairs of the party.
The former MCE and a stalwart of the party in the Ashanti Region assigned the above reasons to the National Chairman’s defeat while speaking in an interview with Odehyieba Kofi Essuman, host of Accra 100.5 FM’s Ghana Yensom Morning show on Monday, December 19, 2022.
He said at the grounds, delegates made it clear they needed a new direction for the party going into the 2024 general elections.
He said that many of the delegates held the view that the NDC won the last elections but victory was snatched from the party because of the ineptitude of some officers of the party.
“Some of these officers failed to live up to the expectations of delegates,” he argued.
Retained Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Barbara Serwaa Asamoah, doubts the incumbent NDC National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, was voted out of office due to underperformance.
She believes the party recognises the outgone chairman’s contribution adding that he “held the party very effectively.”
”Both have their strength in leading the party. One was very calm, the other one is fire-drunk so if party people believe that at this point where we find ourselves, it is a firebrand that we need to lead the party. I think it’s well accepted but I don’t think that the other person lost because he didn’t perform. Everybody knows that he’s played his role very well, he led the party very effectively,” she said.
According to the politician, both individuals are strong leaders with different leadership styles.
She also shared that the party will be channeling their support towards the new chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia with the 2024 general elections as the goal.
“We are all going to give him the necessary support; the support that we gave to the outgone national chairman for him to succeed, we are going to give the new chairman the same support,” she added.
NDC delegates converged at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, December 17, 2022, to elect new national executives.
The outcome of votes as suggested by some experts and party people renders the NDC formidable to match the stalwarts of the New Patriotic Party in the 2024 elections.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Johnson Asiedu has couched an identity for himself with the symbolic smocks he wears at virtually every major party event.
Among the numerous smocks he wears, there’s one particular smock he is noted for donning for some of these events.
The smock is a black one with party colours, which also contains emblems.
Speaking in an interview, he revealed that he often appears in this symbolic smock whenever there is a battle.
He explained at the National Delegates Congress, he chose to wear his symbolic smock to indicate his readiness for the battle – elections.
“I wear this type of costume occasionally, when the occasion demands. It is our traditional war battle dress, so when you are going into battle you wear it and you know I’m referred to as the General of NDC for a good reason because people think that whenever there is crisis, I am the one who is called upon to take the lead. Traditionally this is the regalia of a war general and so on occasion like this is the dress…,” he said.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has been elected National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress.
At the National Congress held on Saturday, December 17, 2022, Asiedu Nketiah secured 65.17% of the total vote cast to win the election.
His closest competitor, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo polled just 33.81% of the total vote cast.
According to the Electoral Commission, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah garnered 5,569 while the incumbent Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo managed 2,892 votes.
The former leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has aired his dissatisfaction with the Akufo-Addo-led administration.
Speaking to party members at the NDC national delegates election on December 17, 2022, at the Accra Sports Stadium, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo said that the Akufo-Addo administration’s level of mismanagement is so evident that even witches from his village have realized and are worried.
“Even the witches and villages from Kyebi say catastrophe, NPP’s Akufo-Addo-Bawumia catastrophic scent ‘agye bebiaa’ has spread everywhere, the NPP catastrophic performance in government has been so repugnant that their own party could not stand the stench of their own rotten government, they started what looks like a cleansing and deodorizing exercise by demanding the sack of Ken Ofori-Atta as finance minister,” he said.
Meanwhile, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, a former NDC general secretary, defeated Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo in the election for national chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that was held in the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, December 17, 2022.
At the close of polls, Johnson Aseidu Nketiah pulled a total vote cast of 5,569 representing 65.17% whilst Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo garnered 2,892 votes representing 33.81%.
The immediate-past National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has said that the victory of all the candidates in the just-ended national delegate congress is a foretaste of what to expect in the 2024 general elections.
He expressed confidence in the newly-elected team, adding that the 2024 elections is a battle that the new executives will be able to handle.
He made this known in his official statement to congratulate the new crop of NDC leadership, led by Asiedu Nketiah, the new National Chairman.
“Let us appreciate that this victory is simply a prelude to the battle ahead of us. I pray that we quickly recover from our individual pain and dented reputation to restore our public morality so we can join forces to soldier on,” he said.
Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo lost his re-election bid to Asiedu Nketiah, the former General Secretary of the party, in a 5,569 to 2,892 vote.
Congratulating the new executives, Ofosu-Ampofo stated that there had been unnecessary internal vilifications prior to the elections, which he hoped people would put behind them and forge ahead for victory in 2024.
“On behalf of Team Ofosu Ampofo, I wish to congratulate the newly elected National Chairman and other National Executives of our dear party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who emerged victorious at the just ended 10th National Delegates Congress held at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, December 17, 2022.
“While this elections needlessly witnessed the worse form of inner vilification, personal attacks and public injury to the hard-won reputation of our Party through various means of public spaces and on social media platforms, this insensitivity would inadvertently affect our restitution, unity and cohesion needed to engender the collective prosecution of our agenda for victory 2024,” he added.
The new executives were sworn into office by officials of the Electoral Commission of Ghana at the Accra Sports Stadium, minutes after the official results were declared on Sunday, December 18, 2022, morning.
Fifi Kwetey, a former Member of Parliament for Ketu South, was also elected as the new general secretary of the party.
The vice-chair of the Ada National Democratic Congress (NDC), Kenneth Kabu Kano, is under criticism from social media users because of a statement he made ahead of the NDC National polls.
The vice-chair brashly stated that he will step down from his position as vice-chair of the party should Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo lose the election.
“Ok I will put it on the line, I said he will win the chairmanship position (Ofosu-Ampofo), I said if he doesn’t win, I will resign as the vice chairman of the Ada constituency,” he said.
After the NDC national elections on Saturday, December 17, 2022, however, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, a.k.a. General mosquito, defeated Ofosu-Ampofo, by a wide margin to lead the party ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Following the results of the elections, some social media users are now demanding for Kabu Kano to step down, arguing that he must leave the position immediately in order to redeem his integrity.
Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, at the National Congress held on Saturday, December 17, 2022, secured 65.17% of the total vote cast to win the election.
His closest competitor, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo polled just 33.81% of the total vote cast.
According to the Electoral Commission, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah garnered 5,569 while the incumbent Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo managed 2,892 votes
The political atmosphere in the largest opposition party in Ghana, the National Democratic Congress, is charged as the party is set to hold its national executive elections.
The race for the party’s National Chairman position, which is being contested by the current National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, and outgoing General Secretary, Asiedu Nketiah, has become particularly tense, with leading members of the party declaring their support for their preferred candidates.
The 3rd National Vice Chairman of the party, Alhaji Said Sinare, is one of the people who has declared his support for Ofosu-Ampofo.
This is after Alhaji Sinare abandoned his chairmanship ambitions.
In a viral video sighted by GhanaWeb, Alhaji Sinare could be seen leading a group of NDC supporters to sing songs of praises of Ofosu Ampofo.
“Winner eh he hee winner, winner eh he hee winner, Ampofo ego win ooo, winner. Ampofo ego winner again oo, winner.
“The boys are zuzu, the girls are zaza, NDC is good for evermore more,” the group is heard chanting.
The party’s national elections are slated for Saturday, December 17, 2022.
Candidates will be contesting for various positions, including the National Chairman, National Vice-Chairmen, General Secretary, Deputy General Secretary, National Organiser, Deputy National Organiser, and the National Treasurer and Deputy National Treasurer.
Others are the National Communications Officer and Deputy, as well as the National Zongo Caucus Coordinator.
The current National Chairman of the party, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, is expected to face stiff competition from the outgoing General Secretary of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, for the chairmanship position.
Incumbent General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has denied reports that former President, John Dramani Mahama asked him not to contest for the chairmanship position of the party.
Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia said those claims are untrue and should be disregarded.
According to him, that is the campaign strategy of his opponent to create the impression that he has disrespected the former President.
The incumbent National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, says there have been attempts by party bigwigs to stop Asiedu Nketia from competing him, but to no avail.
However, Mr Asiedu Nketia said he has the full support of the entire party to contest.
“It’s a lie. Nobody asked me not to contest for the chairmanship position.
It’s not true. Everyone who says or is saying that is telling a lie,” he said in interview with UTV on Friday.
Currently, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo’s role as the NDC’s National Chairman is threatened by the decision of the party’s General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia to unseat him.
Political analysts have described it as the main contest in the party’s upcoming National Delegates Congress. Mr. Asiedu Nketia is frantically taking steps to take control of the party as National Chairman ahead of the 2024 general election.
Ghana’s first and current Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, has expressed displeasure with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for escalating the party’s chairmanship election into an interethnic struggle.
The NDC is going to congress on Saturday, 17 December 2022, to elect national officers ahead of the 2024 elections. The chairmanship position is being keenly contested between the incumbent Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo and the current General Secretary Johnson Aseidu Nketia.
Their campaigns, Mr Amidu believes, are turning tribal and, thus, feels disappointed with the turn of events.
In an article, the former Attorney General said the founder of the NDC, the late President Jerry John Rawlings, and the late Justice D. F. Annan who co-chaired the meeting at the Bluegate to agree to form the NDC, were not ethnocentric or tribalistic.
He noted that the introduction of the ethnic and tribal element in the Chairmanship election of the NDC is a dangerous development that does great damage to the image of the late President Jerry John Rawlings and the late Justice D. F. Annan a few days before the celebration of the ideals of the 31st December Revolution.
He said such actions by the NDC can only aid President Nana Akufo-Addo’s long game for the 2024 election to install his preferred candidate as President of Ghana on 7 January 2025.
“We founded the NDC in 1992 for the grassroots citizen. Do not betray the people and the 31st December Revolutionary cause,” he urged the leadership of the party.
Below are details of the article:
NDC CHAIRMANSHIP ELECTION – MERIT OR TRIBALISM: BY MARTIN A. B. K. AMIDU
The resemblance between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) appears to have become indistinguishable to the extent that the leading members of the NDC appear to have turned the contest for the Chairmanship of the NDC into an ethnic conflict for supremacy. As a foundation member of the NDC who was in the room when Mr Justice D. F. Annan advocated for an umbrella party to bring together all those diverse group of people from other political traditions and the revolutionary ranks who could not join an Nkrumaist formation political party which was in the works by another member of the PNDC, I was shocked to hear the incumbent Chairman of the NDC pleading his ethnicity as a qualification to be maintained as the Chairman of the NDC.
It is a shame that the National Democratic Congress which we founded and nursed to represent the 31st December Revolutionary tradition has now been reduced to the politics of ethnic arithmetic.
“I’m an Akyem, and I become the national organiser of the party. Do you know what I have suffered as an Akyem person to become NDC chairman or organiser? …Today, go to Kyebi and see; my hometown is Asikam, the next town from Kyebi. Roads are constructed in Kyebi, and the construction stops just at the border of my hometown. Not even one asphalt road has been constructed in my hometown…. (Samuel) Atta Akyea (Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South) distributed streetlights and when it got to my mother’s downtown, Akyem Adukrom, they did not even get a light because they vote for the NDC.”
The incumbent NDC Chairman is reported to have said that his citrus plantation was burnt after the 2000 elections and he was nearly assassinated when he was running to become the Member of Parliament for the Fanteakwa Constituency in 2004.
Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo should be appreciated for his commitment and dedication to the NDC over the years but that should not be based on his ethnic origins.
Other committed members of the NDC have died since 1992 for belonging to the National Democratic Congress, the latest being about eight dead in the 2020 elections.
They did not die because they were Akyems or of any particular ethnic or tribal stock.
There were so many Akyems who pitched their camp with the NDC or an NDC affiliate party in the Progressive Alliance since its inception such as Dr Adjei Marfo, the late Mr Fred Ohene-Kena of Kukurantumi, the late Mr Danny Ofori-Atta and Mr Owuraku Amofah of Ofori Panin Fie of Kyebi itself, and others, out of volition.
My disappointment in the banal level to which the NDC Chairmanship election campaign had sunk was aggravated when it was reported that the former Eastern Regional Minister and native of Kukurantumi, Mr Victor Smith, had said that he and other leading members of the party, including ex-President Mahama, advised Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketiah not to challenge Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo for the chairmanship position since it might create unnecessary tension, but he refused to listen to them. As if this was not enough side-taking by a senior member of the NDC, he added that:
“When the General Secretary called me one evening and indicated that he wanted to contest for the party’s chairmanship position, I told him that he was going to cause trouble in the party. But the general secretary told me that he had already made up his mind…. I told him that his move would lead to people spilling out some secrets, but he did not listen. John Dramani Mahama and the party leaders advised him not to contest, but he said he had already decided and it was a democracy.”
The message which Mr. Victor Smith sought to convey by his interview apart from carrying the ethnic undertones of the messenger’s own place of ethnic origin also implicitly sought to inform the public that John Dramani Mahama does not support Mr Aseidu-Nketiah’s bid to become Chairman of the NDC in the upcoming elections.
Mr Smith is simply urging Mr Mahama’s supporters to vote against Mr Aseidu Nketiah.
Mr John Dramani Mahama has insinuated that he does not have any preference amongst the candidates contesting for executive positions but one of his ardent supporters just openly contradicted him in favour of the retention of the incumbent Chairman at the upcoming elections.
Then comes a National Vice-Chairman of the NDC openly taking sides in the upcoming Chairmanship elections in a manner which leaves one in doubt whether he understood what he was saying when in the teeth of Mr Ofosu-Ampofo’s plea of his ethnicity as an Akyem as one of his qualifications, Mr Said Sinare said:
“The national chairman that our party, the NDC, needs for the battle in 2024 must be a man who has been de-tribalised, a man whose humanity, humility, philanthropy, and respect for everyone, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, define him. a man who truly embodies national harmony and puts his party’s interests first…. Voting against Ampofo will be the biggest political blunder or treason our party will ever commit.”
Having worked as the General Secretary of the NDC for seventeen years, Mr Aseidu Nketiah is entitled to contest for the ultimate position of Chairman of the NDC.
Mr Aseidu Nketiah was also entitled and deserved as of right to have wished to be nominated to be the Vice-Presidential candidate of the NDC in the 2020 elections and committed no sin for that wish.
In any case, why single out Mr Aseidu Nketiah, out of the three contestants seeking to replace the incumbent Chairman of the NDC?
How does the publication of leaked audio recordings attributed to Mr Aseidu Nketiah help the NDC as part of spilling secrets after the Chairmanship elections?
Mr Ofosu-Ampofo, Mr Aseidu Nketiah, Nii Armah Ashitey, and Mr Samuel Yaw Adusei who are contesting for the NDC Chairmanship position need a level playing field to enable each of them to convince the delegates to the NDC conference of his merit and what he brings to the table so that the delegates may choose who they think can best serve the interest of the NDC.
The plea of Akyem ethnicity by Mr Ofosu-Ampofo is negative electioneering and sins against the 31st December Revolution tradition.
The interventions by leading members of the NDC who should not openly be taking sides in the electioneering with ethnic undertones as the qualification for election as the Chairman of the NDC is also doing and will do more damage to the Congress we founded in 1992, going forward.
The founder of the NDC, the late President Jerry John Rawlings, and the late Mr Justice D. F. Annan who co-chaired the meeting at the Bluegate to agree to form the NDC were not ethnocentric or tribalistic.
The introduction of the ethnic and tribal element in the Chairmanship election of the NDC is a dangerous development that does great damage to the image of the late President Jerry John Rawlings and the late Mr Justice D. F. Annan a few days to the celebration of the ideals of the 31st December Revolution.
It can only aid Nana Akufo-Addo’s long game for election 2024 to install his preferred candidate as President of Ghana on 7 January 2025.
We founded the NDC in 1992 for the grassroots citizen. Do not betray the people and the 31st December Revolutionary cause.
NDC delegates who will be going to the polls on Saturday, December 17, 2022, may have a difficult time choosing between the two contenders of the NationalChairmanship position (i.e incumbent General Secretary Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and incumbent chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo.)
This is because, according to Political Scientist, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, both candidates are ‘worthy materials’ for the post and have proven themselves over the years.
“They’ve all excelled throughout their years in the party as partyfaithful, and they’ve worked very hard to bring the party to where it is,” he said.
According to him, their immense contribution towards the growth and development of the party cannot be shoved under the carpet, and thus described them as stalwarts of the party.
He, however, expressed concern that the recent bickering between the two in the run up to the NDC’s National Delegates Conference may dent the image they have built for themselves through their works.
He explained that while it is normal for there to be disagreements within party executives, he was not expecting the said disagreement to spill out into the open instead of being addressed internally.
“I expected that whatever differences there are between them, they must do well to ameliorate the situation by talking to their supporters and making sure that the only way that they can win power is through the message that they churn out that will resonate with those who are going to elect them.
“And that they will have strategy that will be in tune with the legal processes that the party has put in place and of course they will be able to come out with manifestoes that will address the lingering challenges within this country in general and then the specific interest of the party, and of course, their followers and all that.
“Once they get these things right in place, their home will stay dry. So the bickering, the rancor, the attacks on each other to the best of my knowledge, it doesn’t bode well for them at all, and that I expect them to talk to their supporters and then go to the elections and then let us have genuine contest,” he said.
Meanwhile the Political Scientist has bemoaned the violence that characterized the first part of the National Delegates’ Conference in Cape Coast.
Dr. Asah-Asante stressed that it does not augur well for the image of the party as a democratic institution.
He called for the party’s leadership to address any challenges within the party to prevent a repeat of Saturday’s incident at the final National Delegates’ Conference.
“So I will urge the NDC leadership to sit down, plan properly and make sure that the big task ahead which is the Saturday one will be incident free. This also goes to the party faithful that you can’t claim to be supporting a party and at the same time taking certain decisions or actions that undermine the entire process that your party is putting in place.
“I think the party’s interest is bigger than any other interest, so if there are difficulties, there are challenges, I will urge people to use the internal structures within to be able to address their concerns and then forge ahead to make sure that their party wins power,” he said.
Ahead of the second phase of the NDC’s National Delegates Congress, the Chairman of the party, National Democratic Congress, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has indicated that he is unfazed about the falsehood his naysayers are peddling against him in order to dent his reputation.
He said his main focus will be his campaign and not on these critics since responding to them will only derail his campaign.
Mr Ofosu-Ampofo is for the second time contesting as the National Chairman for the party. According to him, he would rather concentrate on his campaign activities by reminding delegates of his achievements and sharing his aspirations for the party with them.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, he noted that his achievements in office can speak for themselves, hence there is no need going on a rebuttal spree.
“I don’t want to react to anybody. I want to concentrate on the campaign that I’m doing. I have been the national chairman for the past four years. When I took over the party, the NDChad lost elections in 2016 by nearly one million margin and we’ve lost about 53 seats in Parliament. The 4 years that was given to me and my team to lead the party, we managed in the 2020 elections to appreciate our votes from about 4.4million to almost 6.3million.
“We managed to increase our parliamentary seats from 106 to 137, and for the first time in the history of our fourth republican dispensation, the NDC as an opposition party has been able to produce a Speaker of Parliament; this is unprecedented.
“And if this is an indication of the fact that I haven’t done anything, then I will say to the contrary that myself and the team that were elected into office have provided the strategic leadership that has repositioned the NDC party, rebranded the NDC party, made the party more attractive and almost made the party a party of choice as we go into the 2024 elections.
“And for me, I think it is something that all of us must be proud of. This is a record that we have made for ourselves,” he told host, Aisha Ibrahim.
He admits that while his chief objective as Chairman of the Party i.e. to win the 2020 elections, were not realized, he is hopeful that when given the mandate, he will build on his previous gains to secure a “convincing victory” in 2024.
“My objective when I took over the party as its chairman and subsequently as the leader of the party was to lead the party to form government. And so what I’ve not been able to achieve under the four years was the fact that we could not form a government even though we believe that we never lost the 2020 elections.
“So going forward, my objective is to put the pieces together, is to sharpen the rough edges and ensure that going into 2024 elections, our aim will be nothing short of a victory, a convincing victory that will enable us to form the next government and manage to put our policies and programmes in place in order to reverse the deteriorating situation that we find ourselves in as a nation,” he said.
Contents of a leaked audio believed to have captured the voice of of the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu-Nketiah, has revealed that during the party went without defensible figures when they petitioned the Supreme Court over the 2020 elections.
Speaking in the 14-minutes-plus leaked audio clip that has been shared multiple times on microblogging app; WhatsApp, the voice is heard explaining that even before the NDC went to court to challenge the declaration of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the 2020 elected candidate in the elections, they had been experiencing some technical challenges.
“Only after collating five regions, we were told that the system that would help with that job had crashed and that is why, in truth, we did not have results to challenge the Electoral Commission. We came to the conclusion that looking at the region-by-region results, we had won, and even if we had not, Akufo-Addo had not won the first round and in the worst-case scenario, we needed to go for a second round, but where were the documents for us to use?” he said.
Asiedu-Nketiah further said that after devising new ways of putting together their own results, he got to court and was surprised when there were no ready figures for him to use in defense.
The voice of the person believed to be the NDC General Secretary added that being someone known to be very knowledgeable in electoral processes, not even his expertise would have helped him avoid the embarrassment that situation presented him with.
“We then decided to resort to manual collation and then Chairman elected himself as the head of that team and then he brought in some university students to help with the work. So, when the time came for me to stand in the docket to give evidence and I asked for the evidence, what I was presented with, should anyone use it anywhere in evidence, they will be embarrassed but here in Ghana, I am respected by many as someone who is very knowledgeable in electoral processes yet when I was in the docket, I was presented with indefensible documents,” he added.
Asiedu-Nketiah, popularly known as General Mosquito, is contesting the incumbent Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo for the position of NDC National Chairman.
The list of all qualified aspirants for national executive positions in the upcoming National Democratic Congress (NDC), scheduled for December 17, 2022 congress has been released.
In all, there are 81 aspirants with a total of 14 positions being contested.
Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo will come up against three others including the incumbent General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, but watchers have described it as a two-horse race.
With respect to the General Secretary contest, it is among three known faces in the NDC, the incumbent Deputy General Secretary, Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Elections of the NDC, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah and Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, a former MP.
The only aspirant whose position seems secured is Sammy Gyamfi who is unopposed for the National Communications Officer position which he currently holds.
Some other tough battles will be the Youth Organiser slot where incumbent George Opare Addo will come up against Brogya Genfi while Hanna Bissiw will face a challenger in Margaret Ansei for the Women’s Organiser portfolio.
The complete list of aspirants is produced below:
CHAIRMAN
SAMUEL YAW ADUSEI – 1
JOHNSON ASEIDU NKETIA – 2
SAMUEL OFOSU-AMPOFO – 3
NII ARMAH ASHIETEY – 4
There have been rumours that Koku Anyidoho, Dela Coffie, Yaw Boateng Gyan, and other disgruntled party members are supporting the current National Chairman, Asiedu Nketia, who is challenging him for the position.
For collaborating with those who do not represent the National Democratic Congress’s interests, the Chairman has been branded a traitor.
To him, the propaganda will not wash and there is a need for his opponents to rethink their ways.
“It is a figment of their own imagination. Under no circumstance will I take people who have been ousted from the party to be part of my campaign team. I ended my campaign in the Greater Accra Region Yesterday and about 10 to 15 constituency Chairmen were following me as members of my campaign team. I don’t lack people who will campaign for me who are bonafide members of the NDC…Those contesting me should not hide behind people and say that Koku Anyidoho, Yaw Boateng Gyan, Dela Coffie, and Allotey Jacobs are regular panel members on Ahotor FM which is a radio station which belongs to me. None of them have been a panelist on my radio station,” he said.
It has been predicted that the race between Mr. Asiedu Nketia and Ofosu Ampofo for the position of National Chairman of the NDC at Congress will be close.
Ofosu Ampofo, however, contends that if anyone, including his general secretary, lacks a message, they should give up and let him run unopposed as he has a lot to offer the political party.
To him, claims that he is working with people suspended by the party is a figment of his opponent’s imagination and not a fact.
“It is a figment of their own imagination. Under no circumstance will I take people who have been ousted from the party to be part of my campaign team. I ended my campaign in the Greater Accra Region Yesterday and about 10 to 15 constituency Chairmen were following me as members of my campaign team. I don’t lack people who will campaign for me who are bonafide members of the NDC,” he said.
“Those who are contesting me should come and tell the people what they will do when they are voted for to become National Chairman and others. Those contesting me should not hide behind people and say that Koku Anyidoho, Yaw Boateng Gyan, Dela Coffie, and Allotey Jacobs are regular panel members on Ahotor FM which is a radio station which belongs to me. None of them has been a panelist on my radio station.”
“I want to use this medium to dismiss the propaganda and to also let them know that if they don’t have a message, they should throw in the towel and withdraw from the race,” he said.
National Chairman of Ghana’s largest opposition party-National Democratic Congress, NDC, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo says withdrawal from the grisly by-election at Ayawaso West Wuogon was the best decision which he has not regretted because it saved lives.
On January 31, 2019, hooded masked National Security Operatives armed to the teeth and deployed in Police armored vehicles invaded the Bawaleshie Presbyterian polling station, attacked and shot some supporters of the NDC during the by-election that saw the New Patriotic Party’s Member of Parliament, Lydia Alhassan, elected after the death of her husband, Mr. Kyeremanteng Agyarko, who was the incumbent MP at the time.
Six supporters of the NDC sustained serious gunshot wounds whilst dozens suffered minor injuries.
NDC immediately withdrew from the election
Samuel Ofosu Ampofo has since been accused by his critics in the party of being a coward hence does not deserve to lead the party into a crucial election such as the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
However, speaking to the media in Koforidua on Thursday, November 24, 2022, after meeting 16 constituencies as part of his campaign tour in the region, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo stated that, the withdrawal from the by-election was tactical decision taken in consultation with security experts in the party to protect lives of unarmed NDC supporters in the face of rampaging riffle wielding national security operatives.
“I have led so many by-elections in this country. Ayawaso West Wuogon was a different election. It was the only time state security agencies armed with assault riffle hunted down on Innocent people who were only going to vote. I will put the lives of my party people always first beyond any other consideration so that decision was not a unilateral decision.It was a decision I took in consultation with the party’s national security system -Naval Captain Asaase Gyiamah was the chairman of our national security committee, Totobi Quachie was immediate past minister of National Security in our government and so these are people who were even with me when I was announcing our withdrawal, and other Senior people”.
He said, as a result of that decision Emil Short Commission was set up to investigate the violence which also led to passage of legislation disbanding vigilantism in Ghana’s politics.
“Government was put under pressure to pass a law against vigilantism and other offences and in 2020 vigilantism and vigilante activities were not seen in polling stations that is as a result of the tactical withdrawal from the by-election to save lives and properties”.
Samuel Ofosu Ampofo believes election is not a war to deploy thugs to cause mayhem but building resilient party structures at the grassroot to regional level will rather repel anything detrimental to the party.
“Obama said we don’t need strong personalities but we need strong institutions. What I am doing is to build resilient institutions at the branch level, ward level, constituency level, and at the regional level after all you don’t need one strong person to be in all 275 constituencies on election day. You can’t get one strong person to be in 40,000 polling stations on election day. You need strong structures, strong people that we will train”
He added “Will train the party agents one year before the election. We will build their capacity and give them the knowledge. Elections are won at the polling stations. You don’t need a machoman to win an election. You need a strategic person, a person who understands electoral system to do things right “.
Mr. Ampofo said he has led the party to establish security and intelligence desk, and attached legal experts to all Constituencies as part of preparation towards 2024 elections since the party and John Dramani Mahama have taken a position not to go to the Supreme court again.
Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo (born March 10, 1962) is an experienced politician who has passed through the ranks serving as an assembly member, and District Chief Executive for Fanteakwa North before becoming a Member of Parliament for the area.
He is also a former Eastern Regional Minister and served as Minister for Local Government and rural Development. He is also a former National Organizer and currently National Chairman of the NDC seeking reelection for a second term but facing fierce contest from another experienced politician currently the General Secretary of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia aspiring to annex the position.
However, Mr.Ofosu Ampofo says he is confident of winning the election having led the party to improve its performance from 4.8 million votes to about 6.3million votes in 2020 presidential election, increased parliamentary seats from 106 to 137, and annexed the speaker of Parliament position for the party.
He added that under his leadership, retreats have been organized for constituency and regional executives, party reorganization conducted ensuring that branches and wards of the party are activated towards 2024 polls.
The Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, says elements within his own party are behind his leaked audio tape, based on which he is currently standing trial.
Speaking in a yet-to-air exclusive interview on Adom TV, the embattled Chairman told host, Daakyehene Nana Yaw Asante, that the leaked audio is an evidence of how cruel the NDC can be when they want to destroy one of their own.
Substantiating his claims, he said the in-house traitors secretly recorded his comments in a closed door meeting and leaked the recording to the New Patriotic Party for him to be prosecuted.
According to him, he has been to court on seventy separate occasions as a result of the internally orchestrated treachery.
“When NDC wants to disgrace you, they first tag you as anti-Mahama. My own party folks recorded me at a meeting that I held with the party, with the people and went to sell the recording to the NPP, for which reason I’m standing trial. I’ve been to court 70 times”, he stated in a trailer to the yet to air interview.
In addition to tagging an individual as anti-Mahama, he said some elements within the party can travel all length to cause disaffection for someone they do not like.
The interview will be aired on Saturday, November 19 at 10:00pm on Adom TV’s weekend current affairs programme, Sɛdea Ɛteɛ Nie.
Meanwhile, ahead of the airing of the interview, some supporters of the NDC have expressed disgust over the comments of the party’s National Chairman.
According to his critics, his sentiments are unnecessary, as they will wreak more havoc for himself and the party at large.
Others have however sympathized with him, and expressed solidarity with the alleged treachery he was subjected to.
In their view, the revelations by the NDC Chairman is understandably from a place of pain, and therefore he should not be chastised.
Currently, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo’s role as the NDC’s National Chairman is also being threatened by the decision of the party’s General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketia to unseat him.
In what has been described as the mainstay of the party’s upcoming national delegates election, Mr. Asiedu Nketia is frantically taking steps to take control of the party as National Chairman ahead of the 2024 general election.
Touching on this development, Mr. Ofosu-Ampofo stated in the yet-to-air interview that, the move by Asiedu Nketia to unseat him is politically inexpedient.
According to him, notable personalities within the party, including the party’s Council of Elders and the NDC’s 2020 flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, all made efforts to prevent the contest, but to no avail.
The upcoming national delegates conference will however take place on 10th December, 2022, in the Ashanti Regional capital of Kumasi.
Eligible party delegates will elect a new crop of executives to man the affairs of the party at the national level for the next four years.
The Political analyst and a senior lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Johnathan Asante has lauded the National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress(NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo who’s seeking re-election to establish a security and intelligence desk for the party ahead 2024 elections.
According to him, the New Patriotic Party was involved in lots of security breaches like brutalities during the 2020 election hence an intelligence desk will pick signals in order to counter their opponents.
“It is very important because we are dealing with the NPP as a party and you could see their record from the 2020 election. You can talk of Techiman South. The brutalities even within their own party. So, if you have a chairman proposing a security and intelligence desk, I think it is well in order.
“Because you may not necessarily have trust in the state security, most often than not the state security may be certainly aligning themselves to the party in government because their loyalty is to the state first. They seem to confuse that there is a thin line between the government and the state. By being loyal to the party in government, that turns it to be like a partisan kind of thing,” he told Starr Today with Naa Dedei Tetteh Wednesday.
“If you have a security and intelligence desk you will be able to comprehend issues of security and nib them in the bud.
“You will also have to liaise with the state institutions like the police, the military, and so on. To ensure that things that may work against the party do not in terms of security. So I think that it is a good call”, he added.
The First Vice Chairperson of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Said Sinare, has thrown his support behind the current National Chairman of the party, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo.
The National Chairman is seeking a re-election bid in the party’s pending national delegates congress, scheduled for December 2022.
He is expected to face stiff competition from the outgoing General Secretary of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and Samuel Yaw Adusei, a former Ashanti Regional Minister.
But in a statement made available to GhanaWeb, Alhaji Said Sinare, who has also indicated his non-intention to run again for his current position, said the National Chairman has his unalloyed support.
“I am endorsing Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo for a number of reasons, including his widespread acceptance throughout the nation, his loyalty to the party, as well as the competence, brilliance, and tenacity demonstrated over the past four years while serving as a National Chairman.
“In addition, I admire the chairman for being honest, unifying, and open in both his professional and personal lives. You can be sure that I didn’t make this choice on the spur of the moment. After giving each of the other candidates an equal evaluation, I have determined that Hon. Samuel Ampofo is, in a lot of ways, far superior to the others,” portions of his statement said.
The NDC will hold its national delegates congress on December 17, 2022.
See the full details of Alhaji Said Sinare’s statement below:
As far as our internal elections are concerned, our goal must be the success of our party, and the candidates we choose must inspire confidence and a sense of victory among Ghanaians and among the good members of our party even before the crucial general elections of 2024.
I am endorsing Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo for a number of reasons, including his widespread acceptance throughout the nation, his loyalty to the party, as well as the competence, brilliance, and tenacity demonstrated over the past four years while serving as a National Chairman.
In addition, I admire the chairman for being honest, unifying, and open in both his professional and personal lives. You can be sure that I didn’t make this choice on the spur of the moment. After giving each of the other candidates an equal evaluation, I have determined that Hon. Samuel Ampofo is, in a lot of ways, far superior to the others.
He is a politician who has been de-tribalized, a man whose humanity, philanthropy, and respect for everyone, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, define him. He truly embodies national harmony and puts his party’s interests first.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has warned its members not to exhibit signs of complacency ahead of the 2024 elections.
The party contends that all and sundry must contribute as the NDC aims at winning the next polls.
Speaking to Citi News after launching his campaign to contest the General Secretary position, Director of Elections for the NDC, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah urged his supporters to stay focused.
“The governing party will be very desperate in trying to deploy other means so for me, if genuine elections are held today, the NPP will struggle to get 40 percent, but we know they won’t do genuine elections. That is why the NDC must not be complacent and say that we have won already. I don’t want to hear that. We must fight to the finish. We want to win an overwhelming victory that nobody can do anything about it.”
The Chairman of the NDC, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo wants delegates to retain him as the chairman of the party.
He argues the party requires a formidable team to rescue the country from the current government.
“I respectfully urge and entreat all delegates to vote for me come December 17. Be assured that, a vote for me is a vote for unity, a stronger party, inclusiveness, hard work and ultimately, it is a vote for victory in 2024. I am the people’s chairman and I have an unfinished agenda. Vote for me for victory for the NDC in 2024 and form the next government.”
In a statement addressed to members of the NDC, which was sighted by GhanaWeb, the NDC chairman indicated that he is suspending his campaign to be with his family as they mourn his mother, the late Madam Mary Gyawubea Badu.
“Dear Comrades, it is with a heavy heart that I write to announce the passing of the matriarch and rock of my family, my dear mother, Madam Mary Gyawubea Badu. In one of the darkest moments in my life and that of my family, I am not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our hearts. In view of this, I am temporarily suspending all campaign activities as together with the rest of the family, we reflect and mourn the passing of the woman who shaped our very beings,” parts of the statement read.
“On behalf of my family and I, I thank all those who have reached out to us with encouragement and those who have spared thoughts and prayers in these very difficult times,” the NDC national chairman added.
Ofosu-Ampofo, in a Facebook post on Monday, October 31, 2022, announced that his mother passed on in the early hours of the day at the Koforidua Regional
Hospital.
He indicated that Auntie Mary was 84 years old.
“It is with extreme sadness that I announce the death of my beloved mother Mary Gyawubea Badu (Popularly known as Auntie Mary) in the early morning of today Monday the 31st of October 2022 at Koforidua Regional Hospital.
“She was 84 Years. May Her Soul Find Eternal Rest,” parts of Ofosu-Ampofo’s post read.
Meanwhile, the NDC national executive elections are slated for December 17, 2022.
Ofosu-Ampofo is expected to face stiff competition from the outgoing General Secretary of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, for the chairmanship position.
The long-serving General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah (General Mosquito), has been predicted by Okay FM journalist Kwame Nkrumah Tikese to win the contest for the opposition party’s chairmanship.
He remarked that he wasn’t sure if anyone would challenge General Mosquito, adding that they would be better off using their campaign funds to stock their wives’ businesses with food and supplies.
“Starting with the constituency election, the NDC will elect executives.
If you attend the national executive election, my uncle Johnson Asiedu Nketiah will be running for chairman of the NDC rather than remaining in his position as general secretary.
“This contest, uncle has won it. I’m not sure anyone is contesting him. Is someone contesting him? I don’t remember. If someone is contesting him, he should use his small campaign money to buy provisions for his wife’s store. That is what will help you,” Tikese said on Ade Akye Abia on October 24.
In a joint interview on Accra100.5FM and CTV morning shows, the NDC scribe told joint hosts Emmanuel Quarshie (The Hitman) and Nana Otu Darko that: “Yes, I have the intention of picking up a form to contest the chairmanship position when nominations are opened”.
His declaration meant that he would come up against the incumbent chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, who has also declared his reelection bid.
Questioned on whether his stance of contesting the chairman position will not bring rivalry between him and the incumbent, Asiedu Nketiah said democracy is meant to bring competition, and so he sees nothing wrong with competing with the incumbent.
“Is there democracy without rivalry, or are we taking a decision to abandon democracy? That thinking is anti-democratic,” he stated, adding “democracy must bring competition so that the best will emerge….”
The NDC is expected to hold elections for national executives on December 17,
The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, says the National Chairman of the party, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo’s courage as a leader was tested during the violent Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election.
According to him, Mr Ofosu Ampofo’s announcement of the NDC’s withdrawal from that crucial by-election was an outright wrong move.
The Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election held in 2019 was marred by violence after National Security Operatives brutalized voters resulting in some having their legs broken and being admitted to the hospital.
Mr Ofosu Ampofo has said he arrived at the decision for the NDC to pull out based on the advice given by the party’s security experts, adding that both ex-President John Mahama and Asiedu Nketia were consulted before the decision was made public.
But Asiedu Nketiah in an interview on Kasapa 102.5FM/Agoo TV denied consenting to that decision.
“I was attending a conference in the Dominican Republic as the Vice President of Socialist International when Chairman Ofosu Ampofo called me saying that some vigilantes had fired gunshots all over the place and so he thinks the NDC should withdraw from the election. I told him don’t, it is a bad decision, and that he’ll set a bad precedent in the NDC. I told him with violence or not, the NDC will win so the party shouldn’t withdraw.”
He added: “Right after I was done with him, I received a call from ex-President Mahama telling me he’s picked up information that Ofosu Ampofo intends to announce the party’s withdrawal, it’s a bad move, tell him he shouldn’t do it. I told him I’d spoken to him (Ofosu Ampofo) not to do so. Shortly after, I saw news flashing of Ofosu Ampofo flanked by the party’s security capos announcing the NDC’s withdrawal from the election. One of the reasons he cited was that the NDC Parliamentary candidate is unable to step out of his room. So if the candidate is not able to come out, should the party withdraw from an election,” Asiedu Nketia asked.
Asked by the host, Bonohene Baffuor Awuah whether he sees Ofosu Ampofo as a weak leader, Asiedu Nketia responded: “his (Ofosu Ampofo) courage was tested at the battlefield and we all saw the results.”
“During the election in Jaman North and Banda, I was there at the forefront confronting security officers. The good thing about this is that when you are a leader and there’s any frightening situation where soldiers or police officers are intimidating people and the leader steps up and confronts the situation, your followers become empowered and also stand their ground. It is easy for foot soldiers to be attacked when the leadership abandons them,” Asiedu Nketia added.
Former Parliamentary Candidate for NDC in Anyaa Sowutuom, Emmanuel Adortey Allotey has faulted the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the worsening economic situation in the country.
He says the Akufo-Addo administration has failed to turn around the economy as promised in the build-up to the 2016 election because it lied its way into power.
The fundamental struggles of Ghana’s economy have remained since the NPP took office under the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government, and the indicators appear to be unfavourable.
He mentioned that the NPP’s constant attribution of the economic mismanagement to the NDC during its campaign was indicative that it was taking the citizenry for granted.
Speaking with Kwaku Owusu Adjei on Adwenekasa on Accra-based Original FM 91.9, Mr. Allotey said that, “I think right from the onset, the foundations were established on deception. And when you build something on deception, within a matter of time, it is going to collapse. So basically, they came into office riding on lies. They came into office pretending that somehow they were going to reduce taxation and at the same time increase expenditure. So right from the word go, they were deceiving the people.
“Right from the beginning, they absolutely lied to the country, especially when they made it look as if the whole of the problem was simply about the question of mismanagement when they knew it was not.”
Emmanuel Adortey Allotey explained that the financial resources at the disposal of the NPP should reflect in the output of its various flagship programs but, unfortunately, that has not been the case.
Pollster, Ben Ephson says the opposition National Democratic Congress’ Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo and current General Secretary Asiedu Nketia are both lacing their boots to lead the NDC as flagbearer in the 2028 election.
According to him, he has picked intelligence that the NDC will want an Akan to lead the party in 2028 hence Aseidu Nketia’s move to contest Ofosu-Ampofo for the chairmanship.
“If you are chairman at least you will put in place structures towards 2028 because post-2024, you will be in charge having conducted primaries for potential delegates. And as chairman who have worked within the party at the highest levels, National Executive positions, they will know the way about people they have nurtured along the line to control triggers, which will ensure that people who will support them are in positions to be able to help them,” he explained on Morning Starr with Francis Abban Friday.
He continued: “If it has not happened doesn’t mean that it cannot happen. When I heard the Intel I kept it in my pocket and for Asiedu to step up means a lot. Because normally you will see Asiedu will want to stay where he is and help the candidate most likely John Mahama or if Duffuor wins.”
Meanwhile, the General Secretary for the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia has officially declared his candidature for the chairmanship position of the NDC.
“Yes I have the intention of picking up a form to contest the chairmanship position when nominations are opened,” the NDC scribe told Accra Fm Thursday, 13th October 2022.
According to him, he best fits the position as he’s gained vast experience as a politician to occupy the chairmanship position of the largest opposition NDC.
“I participated in the struggle against the military dictatorship in this country, after which I came to Parliament. I was there for 12 years and chaired several committees.”
“I tasted executive positions by being the Deputy Minister in charge of Agriculture. I have served as Board Chairman, among others.”
“I am confident that with my experience I will be a good leader and example to my party,” he added
The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has charged delegates of the party to vote against the incumbent National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, in the upcoming national delegates conference.
Asiedu Nketia, who has officially announced his bid to contest Ofosu-Ampofo for the chairmanship slop, argued that the current executive lacks the courage and the skills to face the governing New Patriotic Party in the 2024 elections.
This, he believes if not changed, could threaten the party’s chances in the upcoming general elections.
The General Secretary cited the 2019 Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election as an example where Chairman Ofosu-Ampofo, without any proper consultation, announced the party’s decision to pull out from the election after the shooting incident.
He added that Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo also asked the party’s polling agents and observers to also leave the various polling stations, a situation that portrayed an act of cowardice.
“Ofosu-Ampofo called me and I warned him against that decision but he didn’t listen. I was out of the country at the time but the information and facts I had received on the ground showed that we were winning the election, so I was against the decision. He also called John Mahama and the president also asked him not to do that but he also didn’t listen.
“So, you see, as a leader you need to fight in times of crisis and he (Ofosu-Ampofo) doesn’t have the courage to do so. As for me, everyone knows that when you threaten me, I will threaten you back so I have no fear and I am not timid and that is the kind of leadership you need to face the NPP in the upcoming 2024 elections,” he said.
Speaking with the host of Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV, Kwesi Parker-Wilson, on Friday, October 14, 2022, and monitored by GhanaWeb, Asiedu Nketiah further stated that the decision did not only cost them the seat, but it also became the basis for the NPP to abuse members of the party during the 2020 elections.
“You remember the security guys said it’s a dress rehearsal so in 2020 they abused our men and even killed about 8 persons during the general elections. But if we had persisted and stayed through the end of the by-election, NPP wouldn’t have had the courage to do what they did in 2020, including manipulating the outcome of the elections,” he added.
Asiedu Nketiah however said that none of these things have soiled the cordial working relationship he has with his National Chairman.
“I still have a very cordial relationship with Ofosu-Ampofo in spite of my decision to contest him. We still go about with our normal duties and my decision to contest the chairmanship position won’t bring about division,” he said.
The NDC goes to the polls in November 2022 to elect new national executives.
The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has charged delegates of the party to vote against the incumbent National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, in the upcoming national delegates conference.
Asiedu Nketia, who has officially announced his bid to contest Ofosu-Ampofo for the chairmanship slop, argued that the current executive lacks the courage and the skills to face the governing New Patriotic Party in the 2024 elections.
This, he believes if not changed, could threaten the party’s chances in the upcoming general elections.
The General Secretary cited the 2019 Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election as an example where Chairman Ofosu-Ampofo, without any proper consultation, announced the party’s decision to pull out from the election after the shooting incident.
He added that Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo also asked the party’s polling agents and observers to also leave the various polling stations, a situation that portrayed an act of cowardice.
“Ofosu-Ampofo called me and I warned him against that decision but he didn’t listen. I was out of the country at the time but the information and facts I had received on the ground showed that we were winning the election, so I was against the decision. He also called John Mahama and the president also asked him not to do that but he also didn’t listen.
“So, you see, as a leader you need to fight in times of crisis and he (Ofosu-Ampofo) doesn’t have the courage to do so. As for me, everyone knows that when you threaten me, I will threaten you back so I have no fear and I am not timid and that is the kind of leadership you need to face the NPP in the upcoming 2024 elections,” he said.
Speaking with the host of Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV, Kwesi Parker-Wilson, on Friday, October 14, 2022, and monitored by GhanaWeb, Asiedu Nketiah further stated that the decision did not only cost them the seat, but it also became the basis for the NPP to abuse members of the party during the 2020 elections.
“You remember the security guys said it’s a dress rehearsal so in 2020 they abused our men and even killed about 8 persons during the general elections. But if we had persisted and stayed through the end of the by-election, NPP wouldn’t have had the courage to do what they did in 2020, including manipulating the outcome of the elections,” he added.
Asiedu Nketiah however said that none of these things have soiled the cordial working relationship he has with his National Chairman.
“I still have a very cordial relationship with Ofosu-Ampofo in spite of my decision to contest him. We still go about with our normal duties and my decision to contest the chairmanship position won’t bring about division,” he said.
The NDC goes to the polls in November 2022 to elect new national executives.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has set the record straight on the NDCs decision to withdraw from the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency by-election in 2019.
The decision by the NDC to withdraw from the by-election came after people believed to be National Security operatives allegedly caused harm to scores of voters who were at polling stations to exercise their franchise.
In an interview with Citizen Kofi Owusu, the host of the Adekyee Mu Nsem Morning Show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, Mr. Ampofo said, “for the first time state security agencies with police cars, wearing police uniforms, with assault rifles were attacking ordinary civilians who are coming to vote.”
While attempting to paint a picture of the gory scenes of the day, the NDC Chairman said, “people were injured and admitted to the hospital, people with broken legs. In the candidate’s house, it looked like a war zone with blood on the ground.”
Narrating the series of engagements and incidents that followed the brutality that was meted on the voters, the National Chairman said both the General Secretary of the NDC, Mr Asiedu Nketia, and former President John Dramani Mahama were widely consulted.
“When we assessed the situation, we were like we should give ourselves time to see how things will go. There was a man who didn’t get the reason why he should leave his home to go and vote,” Mr Ampofo said.
He said security experts were marshalled to assess the situation and advice on the way forward for the party.
“I never just got up to say that we were pulling out completely,” he continued adding that the candidates also decided against going to their polling station to cast their ballot based on the security situation at the time.
“President Mahama was busy, so I called him and explained everything to him. I consulted him, and he said that if that was going to save lives, we should take a decision,” Mr Ampofo said.
“There was a major consultation before that decision was taken,” he added, further explaining that though the General Secretary of the party was out of the country at the time, Mr Asiedu Nketia was still consulted to advise on the necessary steps that ought to be taken.
“I have never regretted my decision,” he stated categorically, arguing that “if people are saying I’m weak, then so be it, but it was not a weak decision because as a result of that decision, the whole world’s attention was brought to Ghana.
Mr Ampofo claimed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was forced by the international community to take action. “They were forced to set up a commission of inquiry, and he didn’t use the report for anything. He quickly passed a law to outlaw vigilantism and other related offences, and it attracted world attention,” he said.
Based on what the NDC has experienced in the past, the National Chairman said the party was “doing those things that are necessary to ensure that this does not occur in 2024.”
“There are a number of urgent actions we are taking to ensure that the use of military and police brutalities on election day will be outlawed through our parliament and through laws, and through advocacy with other key international and national civil society organizations and diplomats,” maintained.
Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has clarified the NDC’s decision to boycott the 2019 by-election for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency.
After individuals thought to be National Security operatives allegedly injured numerous voters who were at polling places to exercise their right to vote, the NDC made the decision to withdraw from the by-election.
According to Mr. Ampofo, “for the first time state security agencies with police cars, wearing police uniforms, and assault rifles were attacking regular civilians who are coming to vote” in an interview with Citizen Kofi Owusu, the host of the Adekyee Mu Nsem Morning Show on Ahotor 92.3 FM.
While attempting to paint a picture of the gory scenes of the day, the NDC Chairman said, “people were injured and admitted to the hospital, people with broken legs. In the candidate’s house, it looked like a war zone with blood on the ground.”
Narrating the series of engagements and incidents that followed the brutality that was meted on the voters, the National Chairman said both the General Secretary of the NDC, Mr Asiedu Nketia, and former President John Dramani Mahama were widely consulted.
“When we assessed the situation, we were like we should give ourselves time to see how things will go. There was a man who didn’t get the reason why he should leave his home to go and vote,” Mr Ampofo said.
He said security experts were marshalled to assess the situation and advice on the way forward for the party.
“I never just got up to say that we were pulling out completely,” he continued adding that the candidates also decided against going to their polling station to cast their ballot based on the security situation at the time.
“President Mahama was busy, so I called him and explained everything to him. I consulted him, and he said that if that was going to save lives, we should take a decision,” Mr Ampofo said.
“There was a major consultation before that decision was taken,” he added, further explaining that though the General Secretary of the party was out of the country at the time, Mr Asiedu Nketia was still consulted to advise on the necessary steps that ought to be taken.
“I have never regretted my decision,” he stated categorically, arguing that “if people are saying I’m weak, then so be it, but it was not a weak decision because as a result of that decision, the whole world’s attention was brought to Ghana.
Mr Ampofo claimed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was forced by the international community to take action. “They were forced to set up a commission of inquiry, and he didn’t use the report for anything. He quickly passed a law to outlaw vigilantism and other related offences, and it attracted world attention,” he said.
Based on what the NDC has experienced in the past, the National Chairman said the party was “doing those things that are necessary to ensure that this does not occur in 2024.”
“There are a number of urgent actions we are taking to ensure that the use of military and police brutalities on election day will be outlawed through our parliament and through laws, and through advocacy with other key international and national civil society organizations and diplomats,” maintained.
Samuel Yaw Adusei, a National Democratic Congress (NDC) chairman hopeful, has stated that it is incumbent on the opposition party to win the 2024 general elections to liberate Ghanaians from their sufferings.
He believes that victory for the party in 2024 cannot be achieved under the incumbent Chairman, Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo and General Secretary Asiedu Nketiah, who are aiming for the Chairmanship position.
Addressing a press conference on October 6, the former Ashanti Regional Minister under the John Mahama-led administration explained that there was distrust between Ofosu-Ampofo, and Asiedu Nketiah, hence their decision to contest for the same post.
Adusei said he was the new face the NDC needed in the Chairmanship seat adding that both Ofosu-Ampofo and Asiedu Nketiah played a key role in the defeat of the party in 2016 by a historic margin and the 2020 election as well.
“There is extreme hardship in the country that was created by this government and the NDC should win power in 2024 to save Ghanaians but we can’t do that with either Aseidu Nketiah or Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo as our National Chairman
”Aseidu Nketiah has been the General Secretary for the past 17 years and he worked side by side with Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo in the 2016 elections but does not believe that the current chairman should continue …and that’s why he is contesting and the same with Ofosu Ampofo because he doesn’t believe that Aseidu Nketiah whom he has known for years can fill his shoes,” Samuel Yaw Adusei said.
“What these very experienced politicians are doing is to tell the NDC members that they cannot do the job and there is a need for a new face because they have no confidence in each other. They are calling for a change and I am that change because they played vital roles in the 2016 and 2020 elections and we lost.
“The NDC cannot afford to lose the 2024 elections and that is why they need to vote for me as the National Chairman because they cannot win the elections with either Aseidu Nketiah or Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo,” he added.
NDC is looking to stage a comeback into government after two terms in opposition. Ahead of that, it has slated December 17 for its internal elections which will see to the election of national executive officers.
The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has turned down his chances of becoming the party’s running-mate for the next flagbearer in the upcoming 2024 general election.
According to the incumbent national chairman, it is not within his ambition to either become a running mate or a flagbearer for the NDC.
He made the declaration on Angel FM’s Anopa Bofo morning show, Thursday, September 29, 2022, in response to a question on whether or not he would like to be the next running of the party.
Although he played an active role in the camp of Mr. John Dramani Mahama who was running mate to Prof John Atta Mills in the lead up to the 2008 elections, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo said he harbours no intention to be Mahama’s running mate should he win the NDC’s upcoming flagbearership contest.
“No, I won’t accept flagbearer, I won’t accept running mate position. What I want to do now is party work. Whoever the party elects and appoints as flagbearer and running mate, I will use my energy and wisdom gathered in the game to support them to win the [2024] election,” Ofosu Ampofo told host of the programme, Nana Yaa Brefo.
He maintained that his main priority is centered on helping the party come back to power for him to be addressed as ‘Chairman of a ruling party’ [NDC] in January 2025 and not as opposition chairman as he holds currently.
The former Eastern Regional Minister further explained that his undesired running mate position has to do with his political ambitions and has nothing to do with claims that he was at loggerheads with Mr. Mahama which he said are “false”.
The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, has said that he is confident that the party’s successes since he took over its leadership will lead to him being re-elected in the upcoming national executive elections.
Speaking in a Power FM interview monitored by GhanaWeb, on Friday, Ofosu-Ampofo said that under his watch, the NDC which is in opposition,, for the first time in the history of Ghana has the Speaker of Parliament from its side and also has the same number of parliamentarians as the party in government.
He, however, indicated that his focus is currently on ensuring that the party’s reorganization at the regional and district level is done smoothly.
“From the period I assumed the leadership of the party all the indicators have been very positive. We have the Speaker of Parliament from our side even though we are in opposition. We also for the first time in the history of Ghana, as the opposition party, have the same number of parliamentarians as the government in power.
“I will withhold my ambitions for now as we work on the process to reorganize the party at the polling stations, constituencies, districts, the regional and national levels. But I will definitely be defending my title because I believe that my performance has been very good. My indicators are very good, my benchmarks are very high. When the time comes, I will go to the delegates and give them an account of the leadership they entrusted to me.
“I will enumerate all the successes the party has chalked under my leadership including the unity I have brought to the party,” he said in Twi.
Meanwhile, the outgoing General Secretary of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has stated his intention of contesting in the party’s chairmanship race.
In an interview on Radio Gold on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, Asiedu Nketia unequivocally declared that he will not seek re-election for his position which he has held since 2005.
According to Asiedu Nketia, his options are now limited to two, which are to either retire from serving as a party official or elevate to the position of national chairman.
“I will not contest the general secretary position for the NDC. I have two other options at hand; either I go for the chairmanship or retire from politics,” he said.
The General Secretary has also stated that contesting for the party’s chairmanship position will not bring any division in the party, as has been asserted in some quarters.
According to them, the poor state of the market discourages potential customers whenever they visit the place.
The goat sellers added that the area, which is a low land area, should primarily be filled with gravels to minimize the effects of any rain.
The chief of the Bolgatanga goat market, Mr Akolbire Adongo, disclosed this in an interview with GhanaWeb’s Upper East Regional Correspondent, Sarah Dubure.
He lamented that since he started selling goats with his late father about 50 years ago, they have never had a permanent place as a goat market.
“I started following my father to the market to buy goats about fifty years ago. We have never had a permanent place that we call a goat market. When we move to a place, they sack us and we move to another,” he said.
Mr. Akolbire David complained that anytime it rained, the place became waterlogged, making it inconvenient for business.
“Anytime people come to buy our animals and they see the way the place is, they go back. They go to other places to buy because they can’t step in here. We are losing a lot.
“When it rains, this place looks like a river; all our clothes get soaked and we have to go for refuge under these few sheds,” he lamented.
He indicated that they met with the leadership of the District Assembly for a discussion on that, but they are yet to get any response to that effect.
According to him, even though they pay a monthly rent of GHC500, they are forced to pay tolls every market day, yet, the place was not comfortable.
“They have not provided us with a goat market. We are renting this place and still pay tolls on market day. We feel cheated because we pay tolls and yet, the place is not nice. They don’t sweep the place. We pay tolls and still have to hire children and pay them to sweep. We are suffering we don’t have the power to say that we will not pay,” he indicated.
He told GhanaWeb that an appeal has been made to the District Assembly to get them a permanent place to settle for their business.
A Lecturer at the Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL) Mr. Isaac Osei has told the Commercial Division of the Accra that he just transcribed an audiotape brought to him without knowing the identity of the persons in the audiotape.
The Spanish and English lecturer of the GIL who was in court to give evidence as the second prosecution witness case in which Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo and Kweku Boahen are standing trial for assault has said he does not know the identity of the persons on the audiotape he transcribed.
Under-cross examination from Counsel for Ofosu-Ampofo, Tony Lithur, he told the court that he could not also say anything about the authenticity of the content of the audio he transcribed.
This was after the tendering of his witness statement which he prayed the court to adopt as his evidence in chief was spiritedly challenged.
Objections
Defence lawyers took turns to object to the admissibility of the witness statement which the witness asked the court to adopt.
It was the case of the defence lawyers that, the main audio recordings which was the subject matter of the trial is not in evidence and therefore it will be prejudicial for someone to talk about it as if it was in evidence.
They argued that looking at the witness statement, it does not state that he was tendering an audio except to say that he transcribed it.
The Director of Public Prosecution Mrs. Yvonne Atakorah Obuobisah opposed to the objections raised and prayed the court to adopt the witness statement.
After back and forth between the parties and the court, the objection was overruled and the witness statement tendered in evidence.
The court presided over by Justice Samuel Asiedu, a Court of Appeal judge sitting with additional responsibility as High Court judge said if at the end of the day, prosecution fail to tender the main audio, the witness statement could have no weight.
The witness has since been discharged after cross-examination by defence lawyers.
Even though the NDC chairman Ofosu-Ampofo was in court, Kweku Boahen was absent and according to his lawyers is stranded in Kumasi.
The state is expected to call its third witness on October 16, 2020.
Background
National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo and Kweku Boahen are standing trial for conspiracy to cause harm.
They have both denied the offences and been granted a GH¢100,000.00 bail with a surety each.
According to the Prosecution, the accused had been captured in an audio recording of the proceedings of a meeting on February 3, 2019, planning a road-map of criminal activities targeted at the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Chairman of the National Peace Council, among others.
The meeting followed January 31, 2019, AyawasoWest-Wuogon by-election, which turned violent following a clash between some National Security operatives and supporters of the National Democratic Congress suspected to be vigilantes.
The tape was played on some radio stations and according to the Prosecution, the Criminal Investigation Department of the Police Service intercepted it.
The Prosecution said, Mr Boahen had confirmed being at the said meeting and also confessed on a radio station that the information on the tape was true.
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo implored members of the party that, the creation of groups on social media does not claim victory in an election.
According to him, there is the need for his party members to rather move to the field to work in order to vote the NDC back into power.
The National Chairman was speaking at the 27th Anniversary Lecture of the NDC centered on “Revitalizing the NDC for Victory 2020: Targeting Effective Branch Organization.â€
“We must leave the WhatsApp platforms and go to the field and campaign on the ground. That is where the election will be won,†he stressed.
The National Chairman was speaking at the 27th Anniversary Lecture of the NDC centered on “Revitalizing the NDC for Victory 2020: Targeting Effective Branch Organization.â€
Ofosu-Ampofo indicated that ordinary Ghanaians like Kayayees (Porters) are the natural allies, therefore, the party must do all it can to reconnect with them.
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo has maintained that winning election 2020 would not be done on WhatsApp.
He has therefore admonished party members to refrain from creating a conclave on a message sharing platform, WhatsApp, and rather move to the field to work in order to disseminate information and convince the masses to vote the NDC back into power.
“We must leave the Whatsapp platforms and go to the field and campaign on the ground. That is where the election will be won,†he said.
The National Chairman was speaking at the 27th Anniversary Lecture of the NDC centered on “Revitalizing the NDC for Victory 2020: Targeting Effective Branch Organization.â€
In his view, the party must target the people and make them understand the policies and what separates the NDC from the other parties.
To him, the NDC “stands for the people and development.â€
“We have also been advised that the NDC is a people-centered party. NDC says always for the people, always for development. So in all that we do, the people must take the center stage.â€
National Chairman of the largest opposition party, National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo has assured Members of Coalition of Aggrieved Customers of some Fifty-three (53) collapsed Fund Management Companies (CACFM) that their locked-up funds will be refunded when Mahama is voted back into power.
According to him, the former Head of State when voted into office will deal with their situation with dispatch.
Speaking on an Accra-based radio station on Saturday, he said “the people are suffering and nobody is listening to them. I want to assure them that if Akufo-Addo does not pay them, John Mahama, who is a people scented politician will deal with their situation with dispatch. Their case is not like DKM which is situated in only one region rather into the bank spread across the country”
Mr. Ampofo revealed that since it is no fault of the workers, pensioners, market women, he urged the government to take a second look at the stimulus package it has for Ghanaians.
“These people are suffering as a result of Government collapsing these banks. Some of the customers, a nurse says she said with the bank since she thought she could rely on it in the future after retirement. Now the banks have collapsed and the people are being denied payment of their locked down funds” he stressed.
Mr. Ampofo recalled that the Finance Minister claimed the money was ready of which the Government was set to pay them.
“I listened to the General Secretary of the collapsed Fund Management, I was said. He says they are dying every day. This time is about survival. Look at the released prisoners, they are not happy because of their release rather they are hungry” he stated.
The National Chairman says he is appealing to President Akufo-Addo to look at people adding if those who work are suffering, what then is the fate of millions whose funds are locked up and now can not step out due to Covid-19.
Background
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in November last year revoked the licences of some 53 Fund Management Companies over some regulatory breaches. Some customers of the affected companies were taken through a validation process for onwards payment but almost five months down the line, they say they have not been paid.
Spokesperson for the Coalition, Charles Nyame said “Government needs to as a matter of urgency need to start disbursement of funds or risk losing the upcoming General Elections. We were made to go through the validation processes from 18th November, 2019 till 15th January, 2020â€.
He added it has been over three months of which members expected payment but they have not heard anything from SEC. The Spokesperson also revealed they were told by SEC, the claims filed is in an excess of GHc4 Billion of the data it had.
