Politics

Election 2024: We’ll resist LGBTQ+ at any cost – Bawumia

The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has once again reaffirmed his strong opposition to the introduction of LGBTQ+ practices into Ghanaian society, stating that it goes against the country’s religious beliefs and cultural values.

Speaking to clergy, traditional leaders, and stakeholders in Anyinam, during his Eastern Regional tour, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that both the Bible and the Quran, as well as the core tenets of Ghanaian traditions, do not support LGBTQ+ activities.

He was addressing the audience after the Member of Parliament for Atewa East, Abena Osei Asare, commissioned a newly constructed constituency office.

Dr. Bawumia declared that under his leadership, the NPP would resolutely oppose any attempts to introduce LGBTQ+ ideologies into Ghana, regardless of external pressures or costs involved.

Nananom, recently there have been some issues about the introduction of LGBTQ which advocates for same-sex marriages, that thing will never happen in this country, we won’t allow such to occur here in Ghana.

“It is not in the Bible and Quran too, it is not also in our tradition, culture or values so we will stand firm and resist its introduction no matter the cost, we won’t agree for it to destroy our country,” he stated.

On the issue of galamsey, Dr Bawumia responding to calls from the traditional leaders on streamlining the activities to mitigate the pollution of water bodies and destruction of forest reserves said a licensing regime for mining will be granted locally with chiefs being key partners in the issuance of the mining license.

“I want to bring a new regime into the small-scale mining sector. We need to formalise its licences and also introduce community mining schemes

2024 election: Cynthia Morrison to still contest as Independent candidate Source: Adomonline.com

It has emerged that New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Agona West, Cynthia Morrison will still contest the 2024 election as an independent candidate.

It comes on the back of rife reports about the former Gender Minister rescinding her decision after the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin declared her seat and three others vacant.

Photos of the MP together with Efuttu MP, Alexander Afenyo-Markins, Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong and other NPP MPs have gone viral after Speaker Bagbin indefinitely suspended sitting on Tuesday.

However, a statement issued by her office said the reports are false and do not reflect Madam Morrison’s current position or intentions.

The statement explained that, Madam Morrison remains committed to serving her people and has not made any decision to withdraw her candidature.

“Any claims suggesting otherwise are attempts to distort the facts and misinform the public.

“We urge the media and the general public to disregard these baseless claims and rely only on official statements and verified sources for accurate information,” the statement read in parts.

'EC can’t force me to marry’ – PNP’s Janet Nablah reacts to why she filled her form as a ‘single’ woman

Disqualified presidential aspirant for the People’s National Party (PNP), Janet Asana Nabla, has said the Electoral Commission (EC) cannot force her to get married because she wanted to contest for President.

According to her, the country’s constitution does not make it a requirement for one to be married before contesting the presidency or becoming a running mate.

She says it is the reason she filled the marital status on her nomination form as ‘single’.

In a video made by the former General Secretary of the People’s National Convention (PNC), she said she is not perturbed by the status she chose on her form since becoming a leader has no correlation with marriage.

She said she was hoping to become the first single person to rule the nation as President if she had not been taken out of the contest.

Miss Nablah explained further in the video that she has survived throughout her life as a single woman without a man and she did not need to get married before contesting for the highest office of the land.

Also, she disclosed that it is because she has got self-control as indicated in the Bible that she has been able to stay alone and use her body as a temple of the Holy Spirit to commune with God for ideas to rule Ghana.

However, if there are persons who do not have self-control and have chosen to get married, they should not use that as a yardstick for everyone.

“No where in our constitution is it stated that people should marry before they become flag bearers or Vice president or running mates. I’m not ashamed to tell the people of Ghana that I’m not married and I would have been the first unmarried President to rule this country.

“I’m not married because the Bible says those who don’t have self control should go ahead and marry. But those who do not have self control should go and marry. I have self control so I’ve decided not to marry and I’m going to use my body as the temple of the Holy Spirit to do the right thing.

“Because trying to contest as President is not something that is easy. You need to be closer to God to get policies for the people. So, I’m not married and Electoral Commission cannot force me to marry and I’m so proud of myself as a single person who went into the elections without a husband,” she said in the video

EC Disqualifies NDC’s Amenfi Central Constituency Parliamentary Candidate

The Electoral Commission of Ghana has written to the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s Amenfi Central Constituency Parliamentary Candidate, Joana Gyan Cudjoe informing her of her disqualification from contesting in the upcoming polls.

In a letter dated, October 10, 2024, the Vice Chairperson in charge of Operations, Samuel Tettey cited a court injunction dated May 31, 2024.

The said injunction from Sekondi High Court restrains the Commission from allowing Joana to contest in the polls. It also restrains the respondent from holding herself out as the Parliamentary candidate until the determination of the case by the court.

“The said order has neither been stayed nor vacated hence the Commission is bound by same. In this regard, we write to inform you that you have been disqualified from standing as a candidate for election to parliament in your constituency.”

In reaction to this, Joana has filed for an interlocutory injunction against the Electoral Commission to restrain it from printing Amenfi Central ballot papers and notice of polls as the process starts today.

Posters of NAPO’s brother pops up as his replacement for Manhyia South MP

The race to succeed Dr. Opoku Prempeh Member of Parliament for Manhyia South has begun, following his confirmation as the running mate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

The National Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), on Thursday, July 4, officially endorsed Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as ‘NAPO’ as the running mate.

Just a day after NAPO’s confirmation, posters of Nana Owusu Afriyie Prempeh, the Manhyia South Constituency Treasurer and biological brother of Dr. Opoku Prempeh, have emerged, indicating his interest in contesting the seat.

After the acceptance of NAPO by the National Executives Council (NEC), President Akufo-Addo, expressed his excitement about the ticket, describing Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Opoku Prempeh as an “excellent pairing”.

Speaking to journalists after the confirmation, President Akufo-Addo said, “National Council has endorsed the nomination of Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh to be the running mate of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

“The NPP has an excellent ticket and we’re going to win with this ticket on 7th December 2024, that’s the news. The feeling is good, they make a very good pair, and they are going to win.”

On Thursday, July 4, the National Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) officially endorsed Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, affectionately known as Napo, as the running mate of Dr. Bawumia

Following the confirmation, President Akufo-Addo expressed his enthusiasm for the ticket, praising the duo as an “excellent pairing”. He expressed his conviction that they will lead the NPP to a resounding victory in the 2024 general elections.

Frimpong also pointed out that the Manhyia South Member of Parliament possesses the qualities needed to enhance the party’s ticket and increase their chances of victory in the upcoming election.

He stated that Dr. Opoku Prempeh is recognised for his incorruptibility and his bold stances on issues that benefit the nation.

Mahama promises to create 300,000 digital jobs for the youth

John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has pledged to create 300,000 skilled employment opportunities through a digital jobs initiative.

This promise is part of a broader commitment to leveraging digital innovation to address the country’s economic challenges and foster inclusive growth.

Addressing the media to outline his vision for Ghana on Sunday, July 7, 2024, he said that based on the vision of a new, vibrant, digital Ghana, the next NDC government will partner with local tech start-ups and businesses to launch a ‘Digital Jobs Initiative’ to create at least 300,000 skilled employment opportunities for the youth.

He also pledged that his government will train one million coding professionals for the growing Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing ecosystems, ensuring no Ghanaian is left behind in the digital revolution.

Mahama highlighted the transformative potential of the digital technology sector, emphasising the importance of equipping young Ghanaians with the necessary digital skills to thrive in this evolving landscape.

He announced the establishment of a $50 million transformative growth fund aimed at supporting Ghanaian fintech companies, fostering innovation, attracting investment, and creating jobs.

This initiative is part of his vision to build a 24-hour economy, which would involve businesses operating round the clock, boosting productivity and providing well-paying jobs.

Nana Kwame Bediako ends 4-day roadshow

The leader and founder of The New Force Movement, Nana Kwame Bediako has reiterated the need for the electorates to consider a new leader other than one from the two major political parties who have run the country into an abyss.

Climaxing his four-day road show in the Ashaiman and Tema East constituencies in the Greater Accra Region, Nana Kwame Bediako offered himself as the person to revolutionize the country’s development when given the nod in the December 7 poll.

The leader and founder of the New Force Movement was welcomed and ushered into the Ashaiman Constituency by a mammoth crowd.

The Ashaiman and Tema East constituencies played host to the climax of the movement’s four-day road show in Accra.

The roadshow was intended to rally more support base for the New Force Movement.

The already crowded town of Ashaiman became choked with grid lock vehicular traffic as there was mad rush for Nana Kwame Bediako’s branded t-shirts and other paraphernalia by constituents.

Market women and people within the voting age bracket were engaged by the founder to give him a chance to assume the reins of government to redeem the country from its current state, occasioned by the duopoly of the National Democratic Congress and New Patriotic Party.

He spoke about his revolutionary ideologies.

He said, ”I am bringing the sixteen regional revolutions. It seeks to empower the youth and rally them for positive change.”

“We don’t want to export our raw materials again, but we will refine them here and create jobs for ourselves,” Nana Bediako said.

Nana Kwame Bediako indicated that a youth-centered comprehensive manifesto is in the offing.

The entourage later proceeded to the Tema East Constituency where constituents advocated for the choice of a young leader for the country.

The New Force has scheduled to extend the roadshow to other cities

I challenge NPP to prosecute me for corruption if they have evidence - Mahama

The flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has thrown down the gauntlet to the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Challenging them to prosecute him for corruption if they have any evidence against him.

Speaking at a media event held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, Mahama addressed the persistent allegations of corruption leveled against him by his political opponents.

He boldly asserted that if the current Akufo-Addo-led government had any substantial evidence of corruption against him, they would have already initiated prosecution during their nearly eight-year tenure.

Mahama emphasized that he is not afraid of being held accountable for his actions while in office. Furthermore, he vowed to hold the members of the current government accountable for their alleged corrupt dealings and other malfeasance.

At the same event, Mahama dismissed claims by his political adversaries that he opposes the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy and would cancel it if re-elected as president.

He argued that it is illogical to suggest that he is against free SHS, highlighting that he initiated the programme in 2015, a move which was praised by the now-President Akufo-Addo and UNESCO.

Mahama clarified that both the NDC and the NPP support the free SHS policy, with the primary point of divergence being the mode of implementation.

He explained that while the NPP opted for a swift rollout, the NDC favoured a gradual introduction to ensure adequate preparation, including sufficient infrastructure. Reiterating his commitment to the free SHS policy, Mahama stated that it can only be improved, not reversed.

Mahama’s remarks come amidst a heated political climate as he seeks to return to power. The former President’s challenge to the NPP and his reaffirmation of support for the free SHS policy are likely to be significant talking points in the run-up to the forthcoming elections.

Minority boycotts vetting of Deputy Trade Minister-designate

Members of the Minority Caucus on the Appointments Committee of Parliament have boycotted the vetting of the Deputy Minister-designate for Trade and Industry.

Kofi Ahenkorah-Marfo, the Deputy Trade and Industry Minister-designate, is set to be vetted today, July 2 but a press release signed by the Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said he and his members will stay away from the process.

The Minority members say the current economic difficulties make it impossible for them to partake in the vetting process.

The caucus also cited the relocation of international companies from Ghana and indicated such instances demand a cut in government size and not addition

“We are again unable to support this nomination by President Akufo-Addo at this time because our country has gone through (and continues to go through) very difficult periods, including the crippling economic crisis, food insecurity, debt default as a result of excessive borrowing, corruption in government and wasteful and reckless expenditures.

“With ordinary Ghanaians going through excruciating hardships and businesses relocating from Ghana as a result of the high tax regime created by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, one would have expected the President to downsize his already large government. This would have sent a signal to the people that the President was mindful of the economic realities and was willing to do things differently to restore the needed confidence in the economy.”

The Minority members further stressed that “We will not, and cannot, take part in a decision to further burden the already suffering Ghanaian, especially when the president is unmindful of the financial consequences of his bloated government.”

$360m third tranche of IMF cash hits BOG’s account

Government has received US$360 million as the third tranche of Ghana’s bailout package with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The cash meant for budget support and stabilization of the local currency, was officially credited to the Central Bank’s account today, Tuesday July 2, 2024.

It follows the Executive Board’s approval of the second review last Friday, June 28, 2024.

This means, Ghana has received a total of US$ 1.56 billion out of the $3 billion approved under the three-year extended credit facility.

The fourth tranche of another US$360 million is expected in quarter four of 2024 after the IMF Executive Board approves the third review.

The World Bank funds of US$300 million is expected in quarter three of 2024; and disbursements from bilateral institutions/financial institutions including the World Bank GARID Project of US$ 150 million and EBID facility of US$ 200 million for SME support, and anticipated proceeds from 2024/2025 COCOBOD syndication of up to US$1.5 billion are expected in quarter four of 2024.

Sammy Gyamfi sues Asaase Radio, ABC News for defamation; demands GH¢10m in damages

The National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has initiated legal action against Asaase Radio and ABC News for defamation following a story on his purported trip to Miami.

The lawsuit stems from a viral video alleging that Mr. Gyamfi and his wife took a lavish trip to Miami, purportedly funded by the party. Mr. Gyamfi vehemently denies these claims, dismissing them as “baseless and senseless.”He has thus filed for damages amounting to GH¢10 million.

In his statement, Mr. Gyamfi emphasized that the accusations are entirely false and malicious, lacking any factual basis. He asserts that the defendants acted recklessly, disregarding the truth, with the apparent intention of damaging his reputation and character.

According to Mr. Gyamfi, he is determined to seek redress and clear his name from what he perceives as deliberate efforts to defame him.

He maintains that the allegations have caused significant harm to his personal and professional standing.

“Plaintiff avers that he has never been to the said Betsy Hotel in Miami, Florida in the United States of America and has never paid or misappropriated US$3000 a day on hotel accommodation or US$42,000 on hotel accommodation over a two-week period from monies allocated to him by his party, as falsely claimed by the Defendants.”

He is also petitioning the court to compel ABC News and Asaase Radio to issue an unreserved apology through their respective platforms.

Additionally, he seeks a public apology to be published prominently on the front page of the Daily Graphic newspaper for three consecutive days.

He is also demanding, “A retraction and an unqualified apology by each of the Defendants to Plaintiff using the same medium they used in publishing the defamatory statements complained of.”

Fighting Corruption: Special Prosecutor will be replaced with corruption overlord – Alan

Leader of the Movement for Change Alan Kyerematen insists that a future government led by him will intensify the fight against corruption by replacing the Office of the Special Prosecutor with an anti-corruption overlord.

He maintains that all existing fragmented anti-corruption laws will be assembled in a single document to be superintend over by the proposed anti-corruption overlord.

The Movement for Change last week presented to the electorates its developmental agenda in a single document dubbed the Great Transformational Plan (GTP).

The manifesto highlights some key prospective areas a future government formed by the movement will champion to improve the socio-economic wellbeing of Ghanaians.

Detailing his vision for the country earlier on Monday July 1, 2024, the leader of the movement, Alan Kyerematen indicated that the manifesto has been carefully crafted to feature prominently the needs of the vulnerable in society.

He said, “It is very important that we review the existing programmes. Governments will say we have programmes for persons living with disabilities but how far has this programmes helped them?” He asked

He was also not happy about the inability of District Assemblies to release a percentage of their Common Fund to Persons Living With Disability.

The former Trades and Industry Minister is confident of fighting corruption through the replacement of the Office of the Special Prosecutor with a new body he termed Anti-corruption Overlord.

He explained that the Anti-corruption Overlord portfolio will not derive its powers from the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice but will remain a powerful independent body that will be resourced to carry out its functions.

“Currently, the Special Prosecutor derives its powers from the Attorney-General which is not helping to support the powers of the Special Prosecutor, so we are proposing that authorities assigned to the Overlord is not linked to the Attorney-General and so we are creating a whole new institution for dealing with corruption which is different from what we have now,” Alan Kyerematen added.

On the economy, he proposed a road map to reduce the country’s existing debt stock to five percent from the current 62.7 percent to GDP. He believes that his involvement in the presidential race signals hope, transformation and development for the country.

Election 2024: I’ll ban mining in forest reserves if elected president – Mahama

The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has warned that Ghana’s forest reserves will be a no-go area for individuals seeking to carry out mining activities under the next NDC government.

He emphasised that the exploration of mineral resources must not come at the expense of preserving the country’s vegetative cover.

He pledged to promote responsible mining and ensure that water bodies polluted by illegal mining activities are restored to their previous state.

Making the remarks during a public lecture at the Christian Service University in Kumasi, the former president said the country’s forest reserves are more precious than any minerals that lie underneath them and will not tolerate any actions that will deplete them.

“I will ban all mining in forest reserves because I believe that many of the trees in the reserves, which are more than 700 years old, are more precious assets than any mineral that lies beneath them.”

Election 2024: I doubt Cheddar can garner 100K votes come Dec 7 – Miralces Aboagye

Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) 2024 Campaign, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has cast doubt on the ability of Nana Kwame Bediako (Cheddar), leader and founder of the New Force Movement, to have any significant impact in the forthcoming December 7 general election.

According to him, none of the “third force” political parties can secure 100,000 votes in the election, stating that Ghana is not just Accra.

The leader of the New Force Movement has gained popularity with the masses since he declared his intention to contest the 2024 presidential election as an independent candidate.

Cheddar, who is also a businessman, has said he has intentions of creating a million millionaires in Ghana if he becomes president. He has also promised to embark on rigorous industrialisation if elected.

FDA Alcohol Ad ban: I’m sure there were no consultations – George Quaye

President of the Arts and Tourism Writers Association of Ghana, George Quaye has bemoaned the manner in which the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) issued its directive against alcoholic beverage endorsement by celebrities.

The actor and media personality said the FDA did not consult stakeholders in the creative space before issuing such directive.

For this reason, George Quaye believes this is a prejudice against celebrities. “It’s clear there has been a prejudice against ‘who popular people are’ at the very beginning. I am definitely sure there were no consultations and clearly there are people that work on this that do not even know our space,” he said on 3FM Sunrise on Thursday June 20. He noted that that stakeholders are open and willing to further engage the FDA on this directive.

“I’m happy that he himself has said there are still opportunities to engage. We will look forward to that engagement. “I am happy that he has agreed that there can be conversations around this because I still insist that none was done at the beginning. If indeed some where done then those that represented our sector gave us in otherwise, we wouldn’t be here because there are more smarter ways to go about this,” Mr. Quaye added.

The FDA in its guidelines for the Advertisement of Foods published on February 1, 2016 stipulates that “No well-known personality or professional shall be used in alcoholic beverage advertising..”

The authority explained that the guideline was necessary to prevent minors from being addicted to alcohol due to the influence of celebrities.

The FDA further noted that the ban was in adherence with a policy by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and also part of efforts to protect children and young ones from being lured into alcoholism.

However, a citizen Mark Darlington filed a suit against the FDA’s directive praying the Apex court to hold as unconstitutional the directive as it violated the right against discrimination as guaranteed by Article 17 of the 1992 Constitution.

But the Supreme court in a 5-2 majority decision on Wednesday, June 19 dismissed the case and upheld the FDA’s directive.

The court held that the directive by FDA was not unreasonable and excessive, adding that it didn’t contravene the provision of the constitution

Bawumia’s running mate must be ‘politically correct’ – Miracles Aboagye

Director of Communications and Spokesperson for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign, Denis Miracle Aboagye, has emphasised the necessity of selecting a “politically correct” running mate for the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer.

Speaking on PM Express on JoyNews, he noted that the running mate of Dr Bawumia must bring substantial votes to the table and effectively complement Bawumia’s governance efforts once in power.

“These are the two key or critical ingredients and these two things are what is driving him (Bawumia). Like I said, this person must be politically correct.

“This simply means that we are going out there to go and look for votes, we need to win before we govern. So this person must be one that will bring in the votes to support all the votes that Dr Bawumia himself will be bringing.”

“Eventually, when we win the elections based on the votes that we have collectively brought into the polls, we need to govern.

“In governance, Dr. Bawumia has articulated several policies and action points for various sectors and he would need a person who would complement his efforts and give him the right support to be able to implement and execute this vision,” Mr Aboagye said.

Taking into consideration these key factors, the Bawumia campaign spokesperson said that the NPP flagbearer was certain of who to select as running mate before he decided to run as flagbearer.

Mr Aboagye stated that he is only following the NPP’s rules which has been that the running mate should be nominated in consultation with the National Council who would ratify approval otherwise.

“But he (Dr Bawumia), as a person, has been clear in his mind who he is nominating, long before he was elected on November 4th during the presidential primaries. What is left now is for the time to be due,” Mr Aboagye said.

His comments come after a National Investigative Bureau survey revealed that Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is widely preferred among party members to be the running mate to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia.

The survey engaged 5,116 NPP delegates nationwide, including national, regional, constituency, and polling station executives. According to the study, Dr Opoku Prempeh secured 76.2% of the responses from executives polled.

24-hour economy initiative: Extraordinary times require extraordinary interventions – Mahama

The 24-hour economy initiative is the answer to Ghana’s economic challenges for now and the future, flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) John Dramani Mahama has said. Mr Mahama says extraordinary times require extraordinary interventions hence the 24-hour economy proposal.

Earlier while addressing Ghanaians on Sunday, June 9, he said “It will create an enabling environment with deliberate policies for businesses, companies, and government institutions to operate 24/7 in a three-eight-hour shift system.”

In addition to the traditional 8-hour shift system, Mr Mahama said “the two additional work shifts that my administration will introduce will double and sometimes triple the number of jobs that participate in public and private entities that we currently have.

“This is the 24-hour economy optimization strategy: giving more to society, providing efficient service delivery, and generating decent and well-paying jobs.

“The benefits of this system will include but not limited to; 24-hour port and harbour services, 24-hour customs services, 24-hour DVLA services, 24-hour agro-processing factories, 24-hour manufacturing industries, 24-hour construction companies and many more.”

Election 2024: Any politician who breaches the law will be punished – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Akufo-Addo has pledged to ensure that any political party or presidential candidate who breaches the law ahead of the December elections face the appropriate consequences.

Speaking at the commissioning of The Law House in Accra on Monday, June 10, President Akufo-Addo assured that his administration will not tolerate any legal violations by political parties or presidential candidates.

He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining order in Ghana, especially as the country approaches the December polls.

Akufo-Addo emphasised that the law will be applied consistently to ensure that the peace, security, and stability of the nation are not compromised by the ambitions of any political party or presidential candidate.
“I want to use the opportunity on this platform to reassure the Ghanaian people that a law enforcement agency of the state, including the office of the Attorney General, will do all within their power to ensure that law and order prevail in the country at all time, especially at this critical election year.”

“We will not allow the peace, security and stability of the nation that makes Ghana a beacon on the African continent, to be compromised on the alter of the ambitions of any political party or presidential candidate. It will not happen.”

The Law House, a ten-storey edifice adjacent to the High Court complex, was officially commissioned by the President and will serve as the new office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice.

The project, which began in 2001, was revived in January 2023 and boasts modern facilities, including conference rooms, office spaces, parking lots, and an eating area.

Election 2024: I’ll pay chiefs, queen mothers living allowances – Bawumia

The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has promised to pay living allowances to paramount and divisional chiefs as well as queen mothers if he is elected president.

He said this will help empower them to support the government’s business.

The Vice President insisted that his administration would give traditional authorities the needed financial support to make their activities effective for national development.

Dr Bawumia made the remarks when he met members of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs as part of his campaign tour on Monday.
“I want to amend section 63 (D) of the Chieftaincy Act to empower the chiefs to help the government to govern this country. It will help all of us. We need to empower the chiefs to help the government and empowering the chiefs is not only to change the law.

“But to financially resource the chiefs. If we don’t financially resource the palaces of the chiefs, they can’t do the work we want them to do.

“So my manifesto team has looked at all of it. We are saying that we have to pay living allowances to the paramount chiefs and not stop there but to the divisional chiefs and the queen mothers so that we can have a complete chieftaincy institution that is empowered to help government,” he stated.

Stop indoctrinating students with your political ideologies – Afenyo-Markin to teachers

Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin believes the #dumsormuststopvigil organised by actress Yvonne Nelson will serve as a wake-up call to the Energy Minister, Matthew Opoku Prempeh to address the erratic power supply.

Actress Yvonne Nelson on Saturday, June 8 led the #DumsorMustStop protest. The protesters commenced the vigil at the main gate of the University of Ghana.

They proceeded from the University of Ghana to the Tetteh Quarshie roundabout, where the organisers delivered a statement.

About thirty police personnel were deployed to take charge of the protest despite earlier attempts to thwart it over disagreements on the location.
Speaking to teachers during the distribution of laptops within the Effutu municipality as part of his one- teacher- one- laptop initiative, he assured them that the power outages would be solved.

“Ghana, we have made it, as a member of ECOWAS Parliament, if I look at the developments in the sub-region, even power, Nigeria, I’m just coming from Abuja, almost every household has a Gen set. You go to Benin, Togo, La Cote D’Ivoire, Guinea, Conakry, Equitorial Guinea, Cape Verde. They don’t have reliable power, we do, but even so, it’s not enough.

“So, we should continue to drum home on the issue, our sister Yvonne Nelson, did some demonstration. Even though we’re solving the problem in the energy sector, that alone will be a wake-up call to pinch the minister of energy, that hey, let me solve it and get it done completely. After all, that’s why the people voted for us,” he said.

Company awarded 5G contract was formed a week before Akufo-Addo’s approval – Manasseh alleges

Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has raised concerns about a contract awarded to a company by name Next Gen Infraco Ltd. by the Communications Ministry to rollout Ghana’s 5G infrastructure.

”Dear Ghanaian journalists, The Minister for Communications, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, will address the media today. Kindly demand answers on this deal.

President Akufo-Akufo-Addo “granted Executive Approval on 22nd August 2023 for the introduction of 5G through the establishment of a neutral, wireless open access network to promote a vibrant telecom market in Ghana.”

Mr Awuni pointed out that the contract, which experts estimate to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars, was awarded through sole sourcing, without giving other companies the opportunity to bid for the project.

He maintained that the lack of competitive bidding raises suspicions about the transparency and fairness of the procurement process.

The journalist questioned the track record of Next Gen Infraco Ltd. and expressed doubts about its capacity to effectively execute such a significant contract. Given the company’s recent incorporation and limited history, he raised concerns regarding its ability to deliver on the project’s requirements efficiently and reliably.

Alleged audio recording: A-G will not resign – NPP

The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has jumped to the defence of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Dame Yeboah, stating that Mr Dame will not resign based on the alleged audio recording released by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to the NPP, the alleged recording of a telephone conversation between Mr Dame and the third accused person, Richard Jakpa, in the ambulance purchase trial is the latest ploy to get the A-G to discontinue the prosecution of the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

During court proceedings on Thursday, May 23, 2024, Mr Jakpa alleged that the Attorney-General has been engaging him severally to help him implicate Dr Ato Forson in his testimony.

“The A-G has on several occasions engaged me at odd hours to help him make a case against A1 [Ato Forson] and I have evidence for that.. If he pushes me, I will open the Pandora’s box. I don’t understand why the A-G will accuse me of defending A1 [Ato Forson] when I’m here to defend myself,” Jakpa fumed in open court.

The latest allegation by Richard Jakpa, the 3rd accused and an associate of Cassiel Ato Forson in this botched Ambulance procurement transaction, is therefore only a further ploy, contrived to curtail the prosecution of Ato Forson and smear the Attorney-General’s integrity and reputation.

“But this would also not see the light of day as we believe firmly that public officials, regardless of social standing must be equally accountable for their use of public resources. Needless to say that the law is no respecter of persons.”

I will stabilize the Cedi with gold.

The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamadu Bawumia, has promised to stabilise the local currency if he is elected president in the December 7 polls.

According to Dr Bawumia, his ultimate goal is to back the Cedi with the country’s gold to ensure the currency’s stability.

Speaking at a meeting with Organised Labour, Dr. Bawumia said there is no anchor to hold the cedi except to back it with gold.

“Ultimately, my goal is that we are going to back our currency with gold and that is where I want us to go, increasingly backing our currency with gold. Because it is very easy for us to do so if you keep having the gold reserves.

“And that will keep a lot of stability in the exchange market. Because right now we don’t have an anchor to hold the currency, but if we back it with gold, it will be very stable, because its value ultimately will be reflected by the value of gold, which is very stable.”

Accra is congested, i will move part of government services to a new city

Former president John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has promised to commence a feasibility study for the construction of a new city outside Accra to alleviate the growing congestion in the capital.

This initiative aims to create a new growth pole and generate thousands of jobs both during the construction phase and after completion.

While Accra will remain the capital, the former President believes it is time to decongest the city by relocating some government ministries, departments, agencies, and financial institutions to the new city.

According to Mahama, the future city could span three regions—Greater Accra, Eastern, and Volta—and be situated near the Volta Lake. The new city would be a green, digital metropolis featuring tourist and amusement attractions, industrial parks, and financial services. He envisions it as a 24-hour city that never sleeps.

Meeting the European Union Ambassador and the EU Chamber of Commerce, on May 28, 2024, John Mahama said his next administration will start the plan, design and feasibility work for a possible 20-year project.

“We will commence a feasibility study with a plan to construct a new city. Accra is grid- locked, and the time has arrived for us to relocate certain parts of the government services from Accra.”

“Accra will remain the capital, but we will transfer a portion of it elsewhere. There is already available land on the Accra Plains and opposite the bank of the Volta Lake. Moreover, we are establishing a port terminal in Mpakadan to transport cargo to the northern part of the country.”“There is abundant land in that area, allowing us to relocate some ministries, agencies, and departments out of the city and alleviate congestion,” he said.

Bawumia announces plans to equip ‘Kayayei’ with driving skills

The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced plans to equip head potters popularly known as “kayayei” with driving skills.

Dr. Bawumia made this announcement at the launch of the “Kayayei” Empowerment Programme which took place at Madina on Tuesday, May 21.

Speaking at the launch, Dr Bawumia stressed his commitment to providing opportunities for marginalised groups in society. He said, “In addition to the strides already made, I am thrilled to announce that discussions are ongoing with Metro mass and Ayalolo to teach them (kayayei) driving.”

The programme, an initiative of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), comes with a three-story facility fitted with ancillary facilities for the head potters, which will serve as a place of abode and training centre for the Kayayei.

The Kayayei Empowerment Programme seeks to train 5,000 young women between May and November 2024, with 600 Kayayei per cohort each month. The programme will provide practical skills and knowledge to participants, preparing them for specific trades and occupations.

The training will take place over a period of three weeks, with participants receiving startup kits, and stipends, and enjoying free accommodation facilities during the period of the training.

Nursing trainee allowances: We’ve had enough of the delays – GNMTA

The Ghana Nurses and Midwives Trainees Association (GNMTA) says its members have not yet received their allowances, despite assurances by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia that about 13 months’ arrears would be paid.

At a meeting with nurses and midwives on May 14, the Vice President promised that the Finance Ministry would transfer over GH¢177 million to pay allowances to nursing trainees by Thursday, May 16, 2024.

Speaking to Citi News, the president of the association, Pascal Adombillah, said the group and its members have had enough of the delays.

“For now, we have not had any updates regarding the allowance. The thing is that there is usually a clear-cut communication about the payment, that is the date the allowance will be paid to our members. When you look at it, I would say we have had enough of this. Even the Vice President in his statement indicated that the allowance was supposed to be paid on Thursday. We have not had any information or updates regarding the payment. We have not had any update on whether the money was released to Control and Accountant General’s Department for the students to be paid.”