The study published in the journal Heliyon found that 59.8% of health workers surveyed across 10 public and private hospitals in the region reported intentions to leave their current jobs, highlighting persistent workforce challenges in Ghana’s health sector.

The researchers led by Dr Phillip Apraku Tawiah from the School of Public Health, KNUST, surveyed 495 health workers, including doctors, nurses, midwives, laboratory personnel, physiotherapists and supporting staff, to identify factors driving turnover intentions.

The study revealed that health workers who worked overtime, worked more than five days a week, perceived their departments as understaffed, or had experienced physical assault at work, were significantly more likely to consider quitting. Supporting staff recorded the highest likelihood of intending to leave their jobs.

Health workers who perceived understaffing in their departments were 40% more likely to express intentions to leave, while those who worked overtime were 26% more likely to consider quitting. Exposure to physical assault increased the likelihood of turnover intention by 21%.

In contrast, the study found that health workers who slept at least eight hours daily were less likely to report intentions to leave their jobs, suggesting that adequate rest may play a protective role against workforce attrition.

The researchers noted that although the turnover intention rate was lower than some previous studies conducted in Ghana and other African countries, it remains high enough to threaten healthcare delivery if left unaddressed.

“Supporting staff category, worked for more than five days in a typical week, worked overtime, perceived understaff and exposure to physical assault were significantly associated with a higher prevalence of turnover intention,” the authors reported.

According to the researchers, excessive workload, staffing shortages and workplace violence contribute to stress, burnout and job dissatisfaction among health workers, increasing the likelihood that they will seek employment elsewhere.

The study recommends that health administrators and policymakers address overtime work, staffing gaps and workplace safety concerns to improve retention and strengthen Ghana’s healthcare workforce.

Measures such as improved staffing levels, better work schedules, enhanced security and staff wellness programmes could help reduce turnover intentions and maintain quality healthcare services.

Speaking at a thought leadership programme hosted by Adom TV, Adom FM and Asempa FM, Abena Aprakua noted that many abuse cases originate from a lack of proper parental care and supervision.

The programme, themed “Safe Homes, Strong Society: Ending Domestic Violence and Hidden Abuse Together,” brought together stakeholders to discuss solutions to domestic abuse and child protection challenges.

According to her, while economic hardship and other life challenges also contribute to abuse, the root cause in many instances is the failure of parents to fulfil their responsibilities.

“Most of these issues start from the home. If parents do not do their due diligence, that is where the problem begins,” she said.

Abena Aprakua explained that although Ghana has policies and systems in place to protect children, including a structured child protection framework, these mechanisms are often undermined when parents fail to play their role.

She added that the Ministry of Gender continues to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address such cases and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly children.

She further urged parents to be more vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their children, stressing that stronger parental involvement is essential in preventing abuse and building safer communities.

READ ALSO:

Livestream: Adom brands host dialogue on ending domestic violence

The victim, identified as Charles Apraku, was allegedly attacked by a 34-year-old man, Yaw Micheal, after he reportedly pushed the suspect’s motorbike to the ground during a misunderstanding.

Confirming the incident, the Unit Committee Chairman for Nzema Nkwanta, Boateng David, said he received a distress call indicating that the suspect inflicted deep cutlass wounds on the victim’s right hand, resulting in a fractured bone.

Residents in the community quickly intervened and rushed the injured man to the Bibiani Municipal Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Meanwhile, the suspect is said to have fled the scene and is currently on the run.

Mr Boateng added that the matter has been reported to the police, who have assured the community that efforts are underway to arrest the suspect as investigations continue.

Though he described the policy as one of the best social interventions, he decried that it may suffer a setback when the numbers of beneficiaries increase, considering the country’s economic status.

Justice Jones was speaking at the 72nd anniversary celebration of the Kpando Senior High School in the Volta Region.

“The introduction of the free SHS is undoubtedly one of the best social intervention programs we have had in the Fourth Republic.

“But looking at our numbers, with the population growth and our economic growth, I don’t think it is sustainable in the long run. So, the stakeholders should start thinking about remodelling it”, Justice Dotsie explained.

He opined that stakeholders should identify a well-furnished school in an enclave to operate a fee-paying boarding system, enrol students who can afford it, and convert the rest of the schools in the enclave to day schools under the free SHS.

He added that the government should provide an afternoon meal for the day student beneficiaries, to cut down expenditure on the implementation of the policy.

“You eat in the morning, you go to school, you will have a hot meal in the afternoon, you continue up to 2 or 3, you break. Then the dormitories can be converted into classrooms because there is no boarding. Then students from that locality will go there”, he added.

The Volta Regional Director of Education, Francis Agbemadi, entreated teachers to devise teaching methods that would promote independence and self-reliance, to enable students to become responsible citizens in the future.

He also called for collaborative efforts between parents and teachers in the training of the future generations to ensure well-formed children.

“Let us strengthen the partnership between home and school, as it is the foundation of lasting excellence. Parents, provide guidance; teachers, mentor with dedication; and students, learn with humility and diligence”, he said.

The Global President of Kpando Secondary School Old Student Association, Kwaku Bansah, said the anniversary and prize-giving ceremony were scheduled to motivate the students to commit to achieving academic excellence.

He stressed that the old students would continue to support the school in providing the needed logistics, among others, to propel academic activities.

The Headmaster of Kpando Senior High School, Charles Evans Apraku, eulogised the academic performance of the school, including achieving laurels in the West African Certificate Examination, recording an average of 95% in the last three years.

He, however, lamented the infrastructure deficit of the school and extended an appeal to the public and the government to help the school.

Source: Fred Quame Asare

His lawyer, Apraku Agyepong, confirmed the development in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, explaining that the review followed extensive deliberations with the OSP.

Mr. Adom-Otchere had been granted bail on Thursday after being questioned over a revenue assurance audit contract but remained in custody as he could not meet the initial requirements, which demanded two landed properties registered in his name as sureties.

With the revision, however, the broadcaster will now need only one landed property guaranteed by someone, instead of two.

Mr. Agyepong added that another condition, which required two sureties—one not below the level of a principal—has also been waived.

“He is also required to report at the OSP once a week and inform them before any trip outside the country. But regarding the submission of his travel documents, we are yet to have any discussions on that,” the lawyer explained.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

ALSO READ:

• Paul Adom-Otchere released but… – Lawyer [Audio]

• We may soon ask for Jesus Christ or Noah’s Ark as bail conditions –…

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, counsel Apraku Agyepong revealed that Mr. Adom-Otchere was unexpectedly called back shortly after his release.

“He was called back due to what has been described as administrative reasons. We left the office and were even on our way home when he was called back,” Mr. Agyepong explained, adding that they are still awaiting clarification on the exact reasons.

According to him, Mr. Adom-Otchere was moved from the custody of the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) around 11 a.m. on Friday and taken to the OSP office before the development occurred.

The former GACL Board Chairman had earlier been granted bail on Thursday following questioning over an ongoing probe into a revenue assurance audit contract.

However, he was unable to leave custody after failing to meet the OSP’s bail requirement of providing two landed properties registered in his name as surety.

The condition has sparked criticism, with some Ghanaians describing it as “excessive and unreasonable.”

Source: Gertrude Otchere

ALSO READ:

• Why treat Adom-Otchere like he is a petty criminal? – Ekow Assafuah questions OSP…

• Adom-Otchere’s bail conditions unreasonable – Lawyer slams OSP 

The jury of seven delivered a split decision of 4:3 not guilty, prompting the presiding judge, Justice Lydia Osei Marfo, to discharge the jury in accordance with Section 285(4) of the Criminal and Other Offenses (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). The court determined the verdict was inconclusive and insufficient for further action.

Despite the jury’s decision, Daniel Asiedu remains in custody as ordered by the judge.

The case dates back to 2016 when Asiedu was arrested in connection with the murder of the late MP. Prosecutors allege that Asiedu robbed and fatally stabbed JB Danquah at his residence.

After undergoing psychiatric evaluation and being declared fit for trial, Asiedu’s plea was taken in February 2021, and the trial began the same year.

The retrial is expected to address lingering questions surrounding the case and seek a conclusive resolution to the high-profile murder trial.

FACTS OF THE CASE

According to the facts of the case, the accused visited the house of the late MP, and accessed the room of the MP by using a ladder. At the time the incident occurred, the security officer on night duty was said to be asleep.

The accused is said to have struggled with the deceased, over powered the MP, stabbed him in the chest and neck and made away with three phones.

Police investigations uncovered that the accused had a knife wound on his palm and washed off the blood at a house adjacent to the house of the late MP.

Daniel Asiedu is said to have handed over the phones to a family friend of his girlfriend to charge them and unlock them who was the third prosecution’s witness.

Prosecution case

The state called eight witnesses to prove its case of Robbery and Murder against the accused person. The first witness was Samuel Berko Sarkodie, driver of the late MP. He testified to the activities of the MP on the day of the incident.

He explained under oath that he drove his boss to his office at Dzorwulu, later to Tema and Stanbic heights for meetings and dropped him off at home at about 11 pm on February 8.

He returned to his home only to be called at about 1 pm and informed of a robbery incident at the home of the MP.

The second witness, Stephen Apraku a security personnel stationed at the house of the deceased MP at night, testified that indeed the driver dropped off the MP and left the premises.

He however admitted to dozing off at a point during his night duty. He explained waking up to the repositioning of the ladder in the house.

Being suspicious of the ladder moving from its normal position and being placed at the window leading to the room of the late MP, he raised an alarm which led to the arrival of the Police.

He testified that together with the police, they found the police officer lying dead in a pool of blood.

The third and fourth witnesses who are brothers, testified to their relationship with the accused and his involvement in the crime. The two were family friends of the girlfriend of the accused.

The third witness, Ken Koranchie testified to the accused handing over two phones to him the dawn after the incident.

According to him, the accused asked him to charge the phones and later unlock the iPhones for him.

One of the iPhones however was unlocked unknowingly to the accused person according to the third prosecution witness.

Ken Koranchie further testified that he learned about the death of the MP, the morning after the phones were handed to him.

To his surprise, he saw pictures of the late MP on the unlocked phone. Alarmed by the situation, he sought to return the phone to the police.

The third prosecution witness testified that he established contact with Ursula Owusu after finding her number on the unlocked iPhone.

Ursula Owusu is said to have reported the incident and the third prosecution witness to the police which eventually resulted in the arrest of the accused person.

Another witness whose house was adjacent to that of the house of the MP testified to the accused person washing of the blood off his hands at her home.

The other three witnesses were the pathologist, DNA analyst and the investigator.

The pathologist identified the cause of death to be Exsanguination which was a result of stab wounds to the chest and neck.

The DNA analyst testified that traces of the accused DNA were found at the crime scene and on the home of the fifth accused where he washed off the blood from his hands.

The investigator in his testimony also revealed that the accused admitted to committing the offence.

The prosecution argued that it has by its evidence proved beyond reasonable doubt that the accused was guilty of robbery and murder.

Defence of Accused

Lawyers of the accused persons however described the prosecution case as a made-up story to unlawfully jail his client. According to his lawyers, the state failed to present material evidence that linked the crime to the accused.

Rev. Yaw Darkwa representing Daniel Asiedu explained that no forensic test was carried on the supposed murder weapon, a shirt alleged to belong to the accused with blood on it.

He also raised questions as to why the jury in the case was not allowed to access the phones to see if indeed it belonged to the deceased.

He also raised issues about the work of the pathologist whose report was written two years after the test was taken. Yaw Darkwa argued that the post-mortem report could not be relied on as the pathologist may have forgotten parts of the report due to the lapse in time.

This according to him is because the pathologist had explained that the laptop for which he took notes during the pathology test was stolen.

Rev Yaw Darkwa further raised concerns about the work of the DNA expert claiming the work was done by a third-party company for which he claimed credit.

For him, the DNA expert was not competent enough to speak on the DNA results since the report did not emanate from him.

The lawyer of the accused thus urged the jury to acquit his client as in his opinion, the accused was falsely prosecuted.

The jury after deliberations returned with a 4:3 not guilty verdict for both the robbery charge and murder charge.

ALSO READ:

• JB Danquah murder trial: Court warns ‘Sexy Dondon’

• JB Danquah case: Accused released from prison after 8 years on remand

• What really killed MP JB Danquah-Adu revealed

According to party executives, the move aims to ensure a true reflection of the election outcome in the constituency.

They specifically warned their polling station agents against succumbing to influence from other political parties to rig the election against the NDC.

One party member, Apraku Ansomana, emphasized that the NDC has put in significant effort and is confident in its chances of winning.

“We do not want anyone to rig the election in our favour or against us,” he stated.

The curse also extends to security personnel, Electoral Commission staff, and any individuals who might engage in electoral malpractices.

The party warned that anyone involved in rigging would face the wrath of the river gods invoked during the rites.

Julius Ganiu, another executive member, expressed optimism about the party’s chances.

“We have worked tirelessly over the years and believe that John Mahama will win the presidential election, and our parliamentary candidate will secure the seat for the NDC. That is why we performed these rites—to ensure that anyone who tries to tamper with the results will face divine punishment.”

Listen to the audio below:

Source: Dominic Donyina

READ ALSO: 

• What kind of gov’t policy is voluntary? – Akufo-Addo questions Mahama
• Parliamentary deadlock halts $300M World Bank disbursement for Ghana
• NDC Sowutuom Organiser jailed 4 years for threatening to kill citizens during elections

For his bail condition, Bismarck Nana Poku Piesie, the accused person was to provide four sureties, with two of them being justified with GH¢800,000 each.

Additionally, the court presided by Akua Adomah Addae, ordered for the seizure of his (accused person) passport, and asked him to report to the Police every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1200 hours, until the full trial of the case was over.

Failure to report to the Police, the presiding judge warned the court would revoke the bail condition, re-arrest and remand the accused person, while on trial.

His plea was, however, not taken, and it was adjourned till August 22, 2024, for a full trial to commence on the case.

The Ghana News Agency (GNA) learnt the accused person was denied bail and remanded in Police custody, when he was arraigned before the court on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, on the basis that he (the accused) might interfere with police investigations.

However, when the case was heard on Monday, a three-member legal team for the accused person, led by Foster Kwasi Asante prayed the court to grant their client bail.

Other members of the legal team include Barimah Agyekum and Lawrence Bright Adomah Apraku.

Prosecuting, Chief Superintendent Solomon Korli told the crowded court that the complainants were Police officers from Bono Regional Police Command, Sunyani.

On July 5, 2024, around 2000 hours a video of someone who took part in a live Radio Programme at Sompa FM in Sunyani was intercepted on social media in which the person is heard claiming to have had countless sexual intercourse with one Maame Yeboah aged 14 years.

According to the prosecution, the said Maame Yeboah was at Primary Six at Dormaa Ahenkro.

Chief Supt Korli told the court the police initiated investigations into the matter and identified, and arrested the accused person, while the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) assisted the Police in investigations.

In his investigations cautioned statement to Police, the accused person admitted having altered those words in the said video, however added it was just a scenario he used to educate the public on the “Law of Karma”.

Chief Supt Korli said Police investigations were still ongoing and prayed the court to remand the accused person again into police custody to assist in investigations.

In a letter dated May 28, 2024, sighted by myjoyonline.com, George Apraku Dentu asserts that ‘The Legend of Aku Sika’, a play to be staged at the National Theatre on 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th June, 2024 is the brainchild of his father L.D. Apraku.

“This is a dramatization of the novel Aku Sika written by the late L.D. Apraku,” the letter states.

He further indicates that the producers of the play ImageBureau and April Communication, did not seek permission from him.

“…there has not been any contact of the performing group with the copyright owners of the novel ‘Aku Sika’,” he writes.

Speaking to myjoyonline.com, Dentu said there was a possibility that ‘The Legend of Aku Sika’, written by Professor Martin Owusu, was inspired by his father’s book.

“I read online that the play which is about to be staged at the National Theatre is based on Nana Kwame Ampadu’s ‘Aku Sika’, and the song is based on the novel ‘Aku Sika’ written by my father,” he said.

Asked if he had read Professor Martin Owusu’s version to ascertain if it bears any similarities with his father’s, he said “no, I haven’t read it. That is why I said ‘possible infringement’.”

Meanwhile, the Team Lead for Image Bureau, George Quaye has explained that Professor Martin Owusu took the story from a folktale, which means that George Apraku Dentu’s father is not the original owner of the story.

‘The Legend of Aku Sika’ will be performed at the National Theatre on 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th June 2024 in honour of the author Professor Martin Owusu, a lecturer at the University of Ghana who has imparted generations of actors and theatre art professionals.

It stars actors such as Mawuli Semevor, Edinam Atatsi, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo, Roland Adom, Elvis Crystal, Adomaa, among others.

MORE: 

• Court slaps Nana Oye with GH₵5K cost, dismisses suit against ex-husband 
• Ambulance case: Samson Lardy sends important message [Listen]
• Truck carrying galamsey equipment crashes into Sehwi Juaboso Magistrate court [Photos]

He alleged that the former MP was killed by three police impersonators, who visited the home of the deceased.

The counsel claimed the impersonators after committing the heinous crime vanished into thin air.

He said that was confirmed by the evidence of one Apraku, the security guard who reported the matter to the police via phone calls.

The counsel argued that the late MP was tall and well built and that Asiedu could not overpower him.

“It was the three impersonating officers who overpowered the MP and killed him at his residence … Asiedu cannot overpower the MP physically.

“Your story suggesting that it was Daniel Asiedu who killed the MP was a fabrication and full of lies.”

However, ASP Augustine Nkrumah, the case investigator answering questions before the court, said it was Daniel Asiedu the first accused person, who killed the former MP.

According to the investigator, Asiedu was “a terrible person” and capable of killing the man.

The case investigator took the court through how some weapons used in committing the crime were retrieved from Asiedu.

He also told the court how a T-shirt and a handkerchief all soaked with blood and a knife were found at the scene and Asiedu admitted that those items were for him.

ASP Nkrumah said Asiedu’s girl friend one Janet Kyeraa also confirmed to the police that the T-shirt and handkerchief belonged to Aseidu.

The investigator said Janet Kyeraa also informed the Police that Asiedu after the incident gave her a knife stained with blood to clean.

The investigator told the court Asiedu’s slippers were also retrieved from the crime scene and Aseidu also identified a catapult and cutter found at the scene.

“During investigations the knife Asiedu used in stabbing the deceased to death was traced to Asiedu’s room at Agbogbloshie in Accra.

“When the knife was shown to the first accused person (Asiedu) he admitted to having used that knife on the deceased. Asiedu said he was held by the deceased and he left him helpless in his room,” ASP Nkrumah.

The case investigator said in the deceased room, Asiedu asked for forgiveness for the offence he had committed.

The investigator told the court that Asiedu demonstrated to the investigation team how he went to the crime scene and how he perpetrated the crime.

“My Lord, the exhibits found in the deceased room, Asiedu admitted sending them there.”

Daniel Asiedu is standing trial for his involvement in the murder of a former MP for Abuakwa North, J.B Danquah Adu at his residence in February 2016.

He has been charged with murder and robbery.

Asiedu is jointly being held for allegedly conspiring with Vincent Bossu to rob the MP.

They have denied the charges before a seven-member jury.

The court presided over by Mrs. Justice Lydia Osei Marfo has remanded the accused persons to reappear on February 28, 2024.

ALSO READ:

• Latest update on JB Danquah killer’s case

• JB Danquah murder trial: Driver denies conspiring to kill his boss with others

According to ASP Nkrumah, there was clear proof that Asiedu was present at the crime scene.

ASP Nkrumah stated this during his cross-examination by Mr Yaw Dankwa, defence counsel for Asiedu and Vincent Bossu (aka Junior Agogo) before an Accra High Court.

Daniel Asiedu is being held for allegedly murdering the former Abuakwa North MP at his residence in 2016 at Shaishie in Accra.

Asiedu has denied the charges of murder and robbery preferred against him.

Bossu and Asiedu have been charged with conspiracy to commit crime to wit robbery. Bossu has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

ASP Nkrumah denied that he had failed the accused persons and the people of Ghana by ascertaining who killed J.B Danquah Adu.

“I am in court to tell the truth. It was the first accused person (Daniel Asiedu) who killed J.B Danquah Adu. Per our investigations, the killer was found, and it was no other than the first accused person (Asiedu).”

The case investigator disputed the defence counsel’s claim that he was present during the former MP’s death but continued to blame Asiedu for the crime.

He also disputed the defence counsel’s assertion that the Ghana Police Service would have been in disarray if he and the service had not tied the MP’s death to Asiedu.

ASP Nkrumah told the Court that when the murder case was reported, Assistant Commissioner of Police Daniel Abandoe led a team of officers to the crime scene.

The witness explained that despite being the main investigator, he was also the recorder at the crime scene.

According to him, the team played various roles in the deceased house.

ASP Nkrumah he could not tell the “specific time that the deceased body was conveyed from his house to the mortuary.

The investigator informed the court that the deceased arrived home between 11:00 and 11:50 p.m. on the day of the event.

Defence Counsel then informed the investigator that one Apraku, a security officer, had given a statement claiming that the deceased arrived home at 1:00 a.m. on the day of the incident.

When the defence counsel questioned the case investigator about the deceased’s arrival time on the day of the incident, ASP Nkrumah stated that the differences did not undermine the witness’s credibility.

He told the court that when the team took the MP’s body to the mortuary, a relative of the late MP identified it to the police.

The court presided over by Mrs Justice Lydia Osei Marfo has adjourned the matter to Thursday. February 22, 2024.

ALSO READ:

2 charged for conspiracy to commit robbery and murder in J.B. Danquah case

Suspected killer of J.B. Danquah makes shocking revelation in court

I don’t personally know anything about the death of J.B. Danquah – Security man

There was a lot of drama in Parliament coupled with tension between various political parties particularly the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

As part of preparations for the 2024 election, both parties elected their flagbearers and parliamentary candidates.

To help Ghanaians relive some of the major events, your most comprehensive online portal, Adomonline.com has compiled some political stories that made headlines in the year.

Alan and Akoto resign as Trade and Agric Ministers

Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen on January 7, 2023, resigned as Trade Minister from President Nana Akufo-Addo’s government to nurse his political ambition as a flagbearer for the NPP.

Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto followed on January 10, 2023, over the same reason.

Despite the mixed reactions that greeted the action, President Akufo-Addo however accepted the resignation.

Minority leadership reshuffle

The NDC reshuffled its leadership in Parliament by appointing Ajumako-Enyam-Essiam legislator, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson as the new Minority Leader to succeed Haruna Iddrisu.

In the shake-up, MP for Ketu North, James Klutse Avedzi, and the MP for Asawase, Muntaka Mubarak, lost their positions as Deputy Minority leader and Minority Chief Whip respectively.

They were replaced by MP for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Kofi Buah and MP for Adaklu, Kwame Agbodza as Deputy Minority leader and Minority Chief Whip.

Meanwhile, Banda MP, Ahmed Ibrahim, and Ada MP, Comfort Duyoe Cudjoe Ghansah, will maintain their positions as first and Deputy Whips respectively.

Chairman for the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, explained that the change forms part of the reorganization process to help the party capture political power during the 2024 elections.

Despite the calls for the decision to be rescinded amidst expression of disappointments, General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey  said the changes were irreversible as consultations were done.

Death of Kumawu MP, Philip Basoah

The year did not start on a good note for the NPP as its Kumawu MP, Philip  Basoah, tragically passed on while the party was still recovering from the news of the resignation of Alan and Dr Akoto Afriyie.

Mr Basoah died on Monday, March 27 at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he has been on admission for a serious ailment.

He was 54 years.

The seat in parliament was subsequently declared vacant, causing the Electoral Commission (EC) to hold by-elections in the area on May 23.

Al-Jazeera Gold mafia documentary

On April 16, an investigation into Southern Africa’s biggest gold and money laundering operations sent shock down the spine of the world, particularly Ghana.

This was because President Akufo-Addo was implicated.

The four-part investigation by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit) revealed a series of gold smuggling gangs in Southern Africa that helped suspected criminals launder hundreds of millions of dollars, getting rich themselves while plundering their nations.

The Gold Mafia investigation showed why the precious metal is so valuable as a way to turn dirty cash into sparkling clean, seemingly legitimate money for those with large amounts of unaccounted wealth.

They do so by using a complex web of companies, counterfeit identities and fake documents.

From the 11th minute of the 1 hour:13 minutes investigative documentary, Alistair Mathias, a gold trader said to be a designer of money laundering schemes for African leaders is introduced in the documentary.

He boasted and alleged he had a relationship with many African leaders and mentioned the President of Ghana as well.

“Ghana’s president is a good friend of mine. In fact, he was my lawyer. Cyril Ramaphosa here; I know him. I know his kids,” Mathias bragged at the meeting with the undercover reporters posing as Chinese businessmen.

President Akufo-Addo ‘does not know this Mathias or Guldrest’ – Lawyer

Meanwhile, Kow Essuman, counsel for President Akufo-Addo, who debunked the allegations argued the latter has not been in private practice since 2000 for him to have acted as a lawyer for Alistair Mathias.

Appointment of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo

Also in April 2023, Akufo-Addo appointed her Ladyship Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo as the Chief Justice of Ghana.

She succeeded Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah who retired on May 24, 2023.

She was sworn into office as the 15th Chief Justice and the third woman to occupy the fourth highest position on 12 June 2023.

Her appointment was widely celebrated with goodwill messages.

Six months down the line, Justice Torkornoo, has continued to earn the admiration oof many with her leadership style.

NDC elects flagbearer and parliamentary candidates

On May 13, 2023, the NDC elected its parliamentary candidates and presidential candidate for the 2024 election.

The much-anticipated contest started with four aspirants including former President John Mahama, former Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor, Dr Kwabena Duffour former Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) Mayor, Kojo Bonsu and Businessman, Ernest Kwaku Kobeah.

However, Mr Kobeah withdrew from the race to throw his support behind Mr Mahama who was the ore runners.

A few hours before the election, Dr Duffour also withdrew his candidacy following an interlocutory injunction against the process on May 9.

Dr. Duffuor among other things cited that the party’s voter register was characterized by some discrepancies.

The election however went on as scheduled with Mr Mahama and Mr Bonsu in the race.

At the end of polls, the former president secured a landslide victory as he swept 297,603 (98.9%) of the total valid votes.

His contender Kojo Bonsu managed to poll 3,181 (1.1%) votes.

Several surprises also emerged in the parliamentary primaries as a lot of bigwigs lost their seats to few faces.

Former Minister for Power and Member of Parliament for Pru East, Kwabena Donkor had 371 votes and lost to Lord Kwaku Boam who polled 474.

Three-time MP for the Sagnerigu constituency, ABA Fuseini also lost to Attah Issah who polled 801 votes.

Others included Chiana-Paga MP; Thomas Dalu, Navrongo Central MP; Samson Tangombu Chiragia, Bongo MP; Edward Bawa, Alex Adomako’ Sekyere Afram Plains, Wisdom Gidisu; Krachie East, Abeiku Crentsil; Ekumfi and Albert Akuka Alalzuuga – Garu.

The rest are; Della Sowah – Kpando, Augustine Tawia; Bia West, Angela Oforiwa Alorwu-Tay; Afadjato South, Peter Yaw Kwakye Ackah; Amenfi Central. Christian Otuteye; Sege, Kobena Woyome; South Tongu. Sophia Ackuaku – Current MP for Domeabra-Obom but switched to Ayawaso Central and Kwadwo Nyanpon Aboagye; Biakoye.

Ghana receives first tranche of $3 Billion IMF Credit Facility 

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) after months of engagements on May 19 received the initial instalment of $600 million from the $3 billion International Monetary Fund Extended Credit Facility (ECF). 

The money, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta assured would be used for balance of payment and budget support, as well as to stabilize the foreign exchange rate and potentially reduce inflation.

Ghana anticipated the disbursement of the second tranche in June but th an IMF Mission is scheduled to visit Ghana to assess the country’s program considerations.

Another evaluation was expected towards the end of 2023, likely in December, prior to the final disbursement. 

Kumawu by-election

On May 23, the Electoral Commission (EC) held a by-election in Kumawu to fill thr vacant seat in parliament.

After weeks of intensive campaign, the NPP candidate; Ernest Yaw Anim emerged victorious in the polls.

Mr. Anim polled 15,264 votes to beat the NDC candidate, Kwasi Amankwaa, and two Independent Candidates, both of whom are called Kwaku Duah.

Mr Amankwaa garnered 3,723 votes while Kwaku Duah had 2,478 votes with the other Kwaku Duah managing a paltry 62 votes.

Despite rife allegations of vote buying, the election generally was smooth and peaceful.

Assin North by-election

June 27 also brought about another by-election in the Assin North constituency when the seat became vacant.

The Supreme Court ordered Parliament to expunge Gyakye Quayson’s name from its records in a ruling on May 17.

The Apex Court ruled that Mr. Quayson was not qualified to contest the 2020 parliamentary election in the Assin North Constituency at the time he filed his nomination forms on October 9, 2020.

It found that Mr. Quayson had not shown evidence of renouncing his Canadian citizenship and that the Electoral Commission had permitted him to contest the election without this evidence.

His election in 2020 where he secured 17,498 votes, was therefore declared unconstitutional.

The NDC fielded the former MP in the by-election in what the party said was to correct an injustice.

The by-election campaign attracted several bigwigs from both the NPP and NDC to Assin North.

President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as well as John Mahama and other stalwarts were in the constituency to actively campaign for their candidates.

Speaking at the NPP’s final rally ahead of the by-election Akufo-Addo urged voters to endorse his party’s candidate, Charles Opoku. 

The President insisted that Mr Quayson cannot deliver on the duties expected of him as a Member of Parliament (MP).

According to Akufo-Addo, Mr Quayson could end up in jail due to the criminal trial he is facing, leaving the Constituency without an MP. 

However, Mr. Quayson who was confident of winning emphasized that his good work for the people of Assin North will propel him ahead of his competitors.

The constituents indeed honoured him with their votes.

Mr. Quayson polled 17,245 votes representing 57.56 percent of the total votes cast to beat Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG).

Charles Opoku polled 12,630 votes representing 42.15 percent of the total votes cast in the hotly contested by-election while the LPG’s Bernice Enyonam Sefenu polled a paltry 87 votes (0.29%).

Speaker of Parliament swears in Gyakye Quayson as Assin North MP

On July 4, 2023, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin officially sworn in Mr Quayson as Assin North Member of Parliament(MPs) after he reclaimed his seat in the by-election.

In a show of support, former President, John Dramani Mahama, and the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) stormed Parliament.

The Minority MPs were dressed in white attire, symbolizing the significance of the event.

US$1m, €300,000, millions of cedis stolen from Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah’s house

On July 21, news broke about two house helps of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour before an Accra Circuit Court, for allegedly stealing monies and items running into millions of Ghana Cedis.

The said monies were allegedly stolen from the couple’s room in their house at Abelemkpe, a suburb of Accra, in the Greater Accra region.

An 18-year-old Patience Botwe and 30-year-old Sarah Agyei allegedly stole the monies and personal effects of the couple, between the months of July and October 2022.

Patience and Sarah, are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing US$1 million, €300,000 and millions of Ghana cedis.

Within the same period, Patience and Sarah allegedly stole personal effects of Madam Cecilia Abena Dapaah, which included assorted clothes, valued at GH¢95,000, handbags and perfumes.

The rest are jewellery valued at US$95,000 from Cecilia Abena Dapaah.

Some Ghanaians have expressed shock at how the government appointee had such huge sums of money in her house and the source of the money.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor was petitioned to investigate the case of suspected corrupted and corruption related activities against the former Minister.

A search conducted at her residence by officers of the OSP led to the retrieval of an additional $590,000 and GH¢2.73 million from the house at Abelemkpe in Accra.

The OSP subsequently sough the collaboration of the FBI in the United States in probing the matter which is still in court.

Former Fisheries Minister, Sherry Ayittey passes on

Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Sherry Ayittey, died on Saturday, July 22, 2023.

She was 75 years.

Prior to her death, Madam Ayittey was the First Vice Chairperson of the National Democratic Congress.

NDC demands resignation of BoG Governor

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on August 9 called for the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison, over alleged mismanagement of the central bank. 

They threatened to occupy the central bank if the governor and his team refused to vacate their positions after a 21-day ultimatum.

The call was on the back of the Annual Report and Financial Statement which revealed that the BoG had recorded a loss of GH¢60.8 billion, which is equivalent to $6 billion and recorded a negative equity of over GH¢55.1 billion.

NPP Super Delegates Conference

In the search for a presidential candidate and President Akufo-Addo’s successor who can help the NPP break the eight as they have envisioned over the past two years, 10 people declared their intention.

The Super Delegates conference on Saturday, August 26 therefore brought together 900 delegates to elect five people who will contest the presidential primary per the NPP’s constitution.

The aspirants included Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyepong, Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Konadu Apraku, Addai Nimoh and former Ministers Boakye Agyarko, Dr Akoto Owusu Afriyie and Joe Ghartey.

At the end of the polls, Dr Bawumia won with a total of 629 votes, representing 68.15% of the vote.

Mr Agyapong came in second with 132 votes (14.30%), while Mr Kyerematen placed third with 95 votes (10.29%).

Mr Agyarko and Mr Addai-Nimoh came fifth with total votes of nine each.

With a run-off in sight, Mr Boakye, however withdrew from the race, giving  room for the five aspirants to contest the presidential primary on November 4.

Akufo-Addo has packed the courts with NPP-inclined judge – Mahama

Former President John Dramani Mahama accused President Akufo-Addo and his government of piling the Judiciary with judges sympathetic to the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Mr Mahama insisted Akufo-Addo has deliberately and consciously appointed their cronies to the second arm of government.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 3rd Annual Lawyers Conference of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Saturday, September 2, he said the party has done this to help them avoid accountability when they are out of office.

He cited there are about 80 of such judges in the system, and expressed worry the number may cross 100.

The 2024 NDC flagbearer thus advised the party members to take up careers on the bench to balance the numbers.

He said that is the only way this anomaly can be corrected. 

This however attracted a lot of backlash, particularly from the NPP, who described the comment as dangerous to democracy.

Alan withdraws from NPP Presidential race

On the back of the fallout from the Super Delegates Conference, former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen on September 5 withdrew from the NPP presidential race.

Mr. Kyerematen who placed third said he opted out of the race following the intimidation of agents.

He also said the race seems to be deliberately skewed to favour one of the candidates.

This left four persons in the race, which was set for November 4.

They were; Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, former Agric Minister Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto and former MP for Mampong, Francis Addai-Nimoh.

Concept of NPP and NDC Supreme Court judges is dangerous – Akufo-Addo hits back at Mahama

President Akufo-Addo on Monday, September 11 took on former President John Mahama over his comments that he has packed the Judiciary with NPP-aligned judges.

The President said the comment by Mr Mahama is very dangerous to the progress of the country and thus should not be made by someone of his stature.

Addressing the Ghana Bar Conference GBA) at the University of Cape Coast Akufo-Addo said this is the most brazen attack the Judiciary has faced in Ghana’s history.

He thus urged the public to vote out the former president in 2024 for such “reckless” comments that he says sought to jeopardise the Judiciary.

The GBA subsequently condemned Akufo-Addo for using its conference platform to campaign against Mr Mahama.

Alan resigned from NPP to contest presidency as an Independent Candidate 

After he bowed out of the NPP primaries, the former trade minister resigned from the party and also decided to contest the 2024 election as in independent candidate.

Mr Kyerematen’s decision sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as he has been a steadfast member of the NPP for many years.

As a seasoned politician, he is widely recognized for his contributions to the NPP and his roles in various government positions.

However, at a press conference held in Accra on Monday, September 25, Mr Kyerematen noted that “it is abundantly clear to me, that my services and contributions to the Party are not appreciated, and that my continuous stay in the Party will create further tension and division, which is an exact replay of circumstances that led to my decision to resign from the Party in 2008.

His candidacy under his political entity, Movement for Change to many presents a unique challenge to the established political order in Ghana, with the potential to reshape the political landscape.

His action was widely criticized as it was the second time Mr. Kyerematen had quit the NPP.

Feeling bitter about the loss in the 2007 presidential primary and what he described subsequently as being sidelined, Alan, in 2008 resigned from the NPP in a similar move but was politically coerced and later rejoined the party.

#OccupyJulorBiHouse Protest

 From Thursday 21st to Saturday 23rd September 2023, there was a picketing within the vicinity of the Jubilee House.

This was after weeks of legal battle and an injunction by the police to stop the march led by pressure group, Democracy Hub.

The protest coincided with Nkrumah Memorial Day and aimed to call on “the President and members of the Economic Management Team to #FixTheCountry in light of the level of economic mismanagement and theft that has engulfed our government from the highest levels.”

Several Ghanaian celebrities, including Efia Odo, Kelvyn Boy, and comedian Warris, joined the protestors at 37 Lorry Park to march to the Jubilee House.

The first day of the protest was disrupted after the police arrested 49 of the organisers at 37 Lorry Park for unlawful assembly.

The protesters were released late Thursday evening after extensive negotiations with the Police by their lawyers.

Ghanaians take #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration to UK, Germany

After a three-day protest organised by the #OccupyJulorbiHouse movement in Ghana, the demonstration was extended to London and Berlin.

In London, a group of protesters gathered outside the Ghana High Commission, making their voices heard in solidarity with the ongoing movement back home.

The act was also replicated in Berlin to mount pressure on the government to address the hardships faced by Ghanaians.

Kan-Dapaah sues Barker-Vormawor over attempted bribery allegation 

The Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah on September 26 sued Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, one of the leaders of the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest over an attempted bribery allegation. 

The #FixTheCountry convener in a media interaction on the sidelines of the protest alleged the Minister offered him $1 million in an attempt to get him to stop his activism in a meeting.

Though the Ministry debunked the allegation, Mr Barker-Vormawor in interview with Joy News said he was ready to release an audio he recorded from the meeting.

Former First Lady Theresa Kufuor passes on

The nation was thrown into mourning on Sunday October 1, following the death of former First Lady, Theresa Kufuor.

She was 87 years old.

Mrs Kufuor held the position of Ghana’s First Lady from January 7, 2001, to January 6, 2009.

The news of her passing deeply touched the hearts of many Ghanaians, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance on social media.

Countless individuals also visited his widow, former President John Kufuor and the family to pay their respects and commiserate with them, reflecting on her contributions to the nation and offering solace to her grieving family.

E.T. Mensah passes away

Veteran politician and former Ningo Prampram member of parliament, Enoch Teye Mensah (ET) has died on October 1 at the age of 77.

He died in South Africa where he was receiving health care.

The late NDC member served in various capacities such as Minister for Education, Minister of Youth and Sports, Mayor of Accra and representative of the Council of State for the Greater Accra Region.

He was elected as a member of Parliament of the second parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana during the 1996 General Election.

He retained his seat as Ningo Prampram MP until 2016 when he lost the NDC’s parliamentary primary to Samuel Nartey George.

Appointment of judges must be based on merit, not on cronyism, ethnicity – Atuguba

Retired Justice of the Supreme Court, William Atuguba in October reacted to Mr Mahama’s displeasure on the appointment of judges.

Justice Atuguba emphasized the need for appointments to the judiciary and other governance institutions to be based on merit rather than factors such as protocol, cronyism, ethnicity, or improper considerations.

Speaking at a public lecture themed “Protecting our democracy: the role of the Judiciary”, Justice Atuguba highlighted the importance of these institutions, particularly the Judiciary, being shielded from political pressures.

He further stressed the necessity of conducting a realistic audit and restructuring of not only the Judiciary but all governmental institutions.

Prominent lawyer, Akoto Ampaw passes on

Prominent lawyer, Akoto Ampaw who represented President Akufo-Addo in the 2020 election petition passed on to eternity. 

He died in the early hours of Friday, October 20, at the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC).

The late Lawyer Akoto Ampaw is one of the people who criticised the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill. 

He insisted at the time that, the bill seeks to needlessly criminalise sympathy and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana. 

Mr Akoto Ampaw further alluded to the fact that the bill also places an unhealthy gag on citizens who may want to engage in discussions on LGBTQ; a situation which he believes undermines the spirit of the 1992 Constitution.

Popularly known as ‘Che Che’ right from his student days at the University of Ghana, Ampaw was part of the New Patriotic Party’s legal team in the Electoral Petition of 2013.

His remarkable legal career was further underscored by his involvement in the New Patriotic Party’s legal team during the Electoral Petition of 2020.

#OccupBoG demo

Scores of Ghanaians on October 3 gathered at Obra Spot at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle for #OccupyBoGdemo organized by the leadership of the NDC and the Minority caucus of Parliament.

Some civil society groups like Arise Ghana joined to seek the removal of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison and his two deputies.

Notable MPs like Madina Member of Parliament (MP), Francis-Xavier Sosu, former Minority leader, Haruna Iddrisu, North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Wa Central MP, Rashid Pelpuo and former MP for Lawra Nandom constituency, Bede Ziedeng were spotted among the protesters.

Participants were predominantly dressed in black and red attire, with many sporting red caps on their heads.

Throughout the demonstration, they were heard chanting patriotic songs, expressing their collective voice for change and accountability.

As part of the demo, the Minority had demanded that Dr Addison receives a petition from them himself.

The NDC MPs said they want the embattled Governor to feel their disappointment and anger for his incompetence and mismanagement of the central bank.

On the back of this, they refused to present their petition to the Director of Security at the Bank of Ghana.

Wing Commander Kwame Asare Boateng was delegated to receive the petition on behalf of Dr Addison who was absent but he was turned away.

The Minority Leader described the decision as disrespectful and vowed to return later when the governor is available to receive the petition in person.

Bawumia wins NPP flag bearer race 

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia on November 4 won the NPP presidential primary, setting him up for a showdown with former president and NDC flagbearer John Mahama in the 2024 general election.

He defeated three other candidates, including Kennedy Agyapong, the outspoken Assin Central MP, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, a former Minister for Agriculture and former Mampong MP, Francis Addai-Nimoh.

Dr Bawumia polled 118210 votes representing 61.47% while his closest contender Mr Agyapong polled 71,996 votes representing 37.41%.

Dr. Afriyie Akoto who placed a distant third polled 1,459 votes representing 0.76% while Addai-Nimoh garnered 731 representing 0.41%.

A total of 192 446 delegates voted in Saturday’s presidential primary. The total valid votes were 193, 346 with 900 votes rejected. Turn out was 94.63%.

Bawumia was predicted from the start to win the presidential primary but he, however, failed to meet the target of 80% set by members of his campaign team.

Several MPs and Ministers threw their support behind Dr Bawumia who is a popular figure within the NPP.

Dr Bawumia makes history by becoming the first non-Akan to lead the NPP into a general election after being the running mate to President Akufo-Addo since 2008.

The outcome of the 2024 election will likely depend on several factors, including the state of the economy, the candidates’ campaigns, and the turnout of voters.

NPP sacks Yaw Buaben, Hopeson Adorye and 2 others

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) on November 20 expelled four members for declaring support for independent presidential aspirant, Alan Kyerematen.

The four were former Member of Parliament for Adentan and Madina; Yaw Buaben Asamoa and Boniface Abuabakr Saddique, former General Secretary Nana Ohene Ntow and outspken NPP member, Hopeson Adorye.

Late Courage Quashigah’s wife passes on

Wife of late Major Courage E. K Quashigah (Rtd), a former Minister in the erstwhile Kufuor administration has passed on.

Gertrude Quashigah died on Sunday November 12, 2023.

Until her demise, Mrs Quashigah was the National Coordinator of the School Feeding Programme.

John Mahama’s 24-hour economy proposal

 The NDC flagbearer’s 24-hour economy proposal was also a topical issue in 2023.

Mahama argued that this initiative holds the key to addressing the critical issue of Ghanaian youth undertaking perilous journeys across the Sahara and the Mediterranean in search of better opportunities in Europe.

He emphasized the urgency of tackling the lack of employment opportunities for the dynamic youth in Ghana.

Highlighting the growing frustration among the youth due to the scarcity of jobs, Mahama underscored that they are losing confidence in the country’s future.

In a speech at the ninth Ghana CEO Network Business Cocktail, he outlined the vision for the policy, stressing the need for a comprehensive plan to address Ghana’s economic challenges.

But NPP flagbearer, Dr Bawumia shot down the policy, calling it ill-conceived and lacking innovation.

Dr Bawumia asserted that Mahama’s economic strategies have consistently fallen short and that true economic transformation requires more creative thinking.

However, the criticisms have sustained the discussion around the 24-hour economy which many political scientists and economist have described as timely and an idea voters will buy into.

Others have acknowledged that some services are operating 24-hours but it is not a deliberate policy.

2024 budget approval: Minority shouts ‘away away’ as Majority walks out

The Majority side on November 29 staged a walk out from Parliament during deliberations to approve the 2024 budget.

After the debate ended, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, announced that the policy document was to be approved or rejected through a voice vote.

The Speaker subsequently declared that, the 2024 budget had been approved by a majority voice vote.

But the Minority MPs challenged the ruling and called for a head count.

The Majority MPs, who were not pleased with the Minority’s resistance decided to leave the Chamber upon a declaration from the Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markins.

Some Majority MPs were however hesitant and engaged in conversations in the Chamber while others were seated, causing the Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu to move around to rally them out.

There were chants of ‘away’ and loud screams from the Minority MPs.

After criticisms and disagreements on the budget statement presented by Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta on November 15, it was approved on December 7.

NPP parliamentary primaries in orphan constituencies

The NPP on Saturday December 2 went to the polls to elect parliamentary candidates for the 2024 general election in constituencies where the party has no members of parliament (MP), also referred to as orphan constituencies. 

The elections took place in 111 constituencies across the 16 regions with a total of 321 aspirants vying for the single slot in the constituencies where the elections were held.

The delegates for the elections were polling station and constituency executives, electoral area coordinators, the Council of Elders, Council of Patrons, among others.

There were a lot of surprises as people deemed underdogs in the race beat government appointees in their respective constituencies.

Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, the CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority and former Ledzokuku MP, reclaimed his seat with 902 votes, triumphing over competitors Clifford Martey, Ibrahim Adjei (a presidential staffer), and Collins Nii Ashitey Ollenu, the NPP parliamentary candidate for the 2020 general elections.

Ablekuma Central: Jefferson Sackey, Deputy Director of Communication at the Office of the President, emerged victorious in the Ablekuma Central Constituency with 539 votes, surpassing Collins Amoah (businessman), Ebenezer Nii Narh Nartey (former MP), and Samuel Brako-Amoafo (businessman).

Jaman South Seat Constituency: Colonel Kwadwo Damoah, former Commissioner of the Customs Division at the Ghana Revenue Authority, secured victory as the parliamentary candidate for the Jaman South Constituency with 289 votes, defeating former MP Yaw Afful and other contestants.

Okaikwei North: Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, emerged victorious in the Okaikwei North with 341 votes after she switched from her traditional constituency, Akuapem North, overcoming competitors Alberta Afia Akoto and former MP Fuseini Issa.

Bawumia asks for more time to choose running mate

The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia on December 6, requested an extension of time for the selection of his running mate for the 2024 election.

This was at a crunch meeting held at Alisa Hotel in Accra.

Per the NPP’s constitution, a running mate is to be selected 12 months before a major election if the President is not the candidate.

Twelve months hence was December 6, a day to Ghana’s next general elections unless the National Council suspended the party constitutional provision and directs otherwise.

Dr Bawumia’s call for extension was to make way for further consultations on the choice of running mate which the National Executive Council (NEC), agreed to.

Meanwhile, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Energy Minister), Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum (Education Minister), and Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu (Majority Leader), have been rumoured as frontrunners.

Others like John Ampontuah Kumah, Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Ejisu in Ashanti, and Deputy Minister of Education, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, are making the rounds as well.

There has been even the mention of Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare.

CPP’s NEC passes vote of no confidence in national leadership

The Convention People’s Party’s (CPP) National Executive Council (NEC), on December 6 unanimously expressed a vote of no confidence in all its national executives during a convened meeting in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi.

The party, representing members from across the nation, overwhelmingly voiced dissatisfaction with the performance of the current leadership, resulting in a directive for the resignation or removal of all national executives from their respective positions.

Tensions were high during the meeting, with some party members specifically petitioning for the removal of the national chairperson due to perceived disagreements within the leadership.

Confirming the decision, the immediate past General Secretary, Nana Yaa Jantuah, announced her resignation and expressed her intention to reveal her future political path in due course.

Meanwhile, the NEC has established a 13-member interim body composed of regional chairpersons, a council of elders member, regional secretaries, regional organisers, and representatives of women and youth.

This interim body is tasked with overseeing the party’s affairs until a new leadership structure is established.

Akufo-Addo’s position on Witchcraft, Armed Forces bills tragically wrong – Bagbin

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin was up in arms with President Akufo-Addo over his decision not to assent to the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill and Ghana Armed Forces Amendment Bill.

In a fiery address to Parliament, Mr Bagbin accused the President of being “tragically wrong” and “ill-informed” in his rationale for rejecting the bills.

President Akufo-Addo, in a letter, cited financial implications on the state’s consolidated fund and potential breaches of Article 108 of the Constitution as reasons for his refusal.

He specifically identified the Ghana Armed Forces Amendment Bill, sponsored by MP Francis Xavier Sosu, as having financial burdens associated with replacing the death penalty with life imprisonment.

He indicated that in consultations with the Attorney General, he was advised that the Ghana Armed Forces Amendment Bill 2023 which was a private member’s bill sponsored by the Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis Xavier Sosu seeking to replace the death penalty with a life sentence had financial implications on the consolidated fund of the state due to the associated cost of incarceration.

However, Mr. Bagbin vehemently dismissed these concerns. He asserted that the President was misguided in his assessment of the bills’ financial implications.

NPP’s Amma Busia passes on

A stalwart of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Amma Busia succumbed to a brief illness and passed on December 12.

The NPP Council of Elders member was 87.

Madam Amma Busia was also sister of late Ghana’s Prime Minister in the Second Republic, Kofi Abrefa Busia.

Addressing the party faithfuls in Kumasi on Friday during Dr. Bawumia’s “Thank You” tour in the Ashanti Region, Kwabena Agyepong said the internal contest was only a democratic exercise to select a leader for the party and that what’s significant now is to fully and actively support Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. 

“Our tradition is a very big tradition and we believe in democracy and intraparty contests. 

“The election was a process to choose the flagbearer of our party and fortunately, God has blessed us with a flagbearer, so let us all come together and push him to win for the party”, he stated.

“We are done with the elections and Dr. Bawumia is now the property and project of the party and all of us must come together and rally behind him for victory in 2024,” he urged.

Historic win

Kwabena Agyepong, who demonstrated his knowledge in the NPP’s history, said the Dr. Bawumia’s election as flagbearer is historic stating no one in the history of the party has won by the margin of votes Dr. Bawumia attained in the party’s presidential primary.

“Nobody in our tradition from Professor Adu Boahene in 1992 to J.A. Kufuor to Nana Akufo-Addo has won by 61% in their first attempt to lead the party. His victory is significant because it is big and the voice of the people is where the Lord’s blessing is”, Mr. Agyepong noted.

The former General Secretary also called on the party executives to exhibit the “spirit of sacrifice”, stressing “the party can only be stronger when you are stronger. And our flagbearer Dr. Bawumia can only be stronger if we all work hard and rally behind him”. 

He added; “You are the frontline soldiers of our party; you are the main people to ensure victory. Your main job is that you are executives first right from the polling station level, so I want you all to come together.”

Dr. Bawumia was accompanied by the National Chairman of the NPP, Stephen Ntim and General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua.

Also present were former NPP presidential aspirants; Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, Thomas Addai Nimo and Kojo Poku.

According to him, Nigerian artistes have adequate funding that helps them grow their industry.

“Camidoh is a magnificent talent compared to Fireboy. Fireboy dose not sing like Camidoh. Nigerians are so visible because of funding” he said on Daybreak Hitz with Andy Dosty.

Mr Logic believes that, Nigerian visibility on international platforms got their artistes Grammy nominations this year.

“Nigerians were all over the world and that is why Grammy noticed them. Nigerians have money and they are buying into the American market,” he said.

This comments come after no Ghanaian musician was nominated for the 2024 Grammy Awards.

Mr. Logic urged for investment into the Ghanaian music industry.

“Let’s get more investors, our business men should invest in the craft.” he added.

ALSO READ:

• First video of Mr Ibu in hospital after amputation breaks hearts

• ‘Apraku my daughter’s’ false doctrines influenced me not to dress well…

• We need more female investors in the music industry – Efya…

According to her, she began her Christian journey on the wrong foot due to some false doctrines by the late ‘Apraku My Daughter’ and other preachers.

Diana Asamoah revealed that, some doctrines she heard in her early stages as a Christian made her develop the wrong perception of how a Christian woman should dress.

She disclosed this in an interview on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning show on Wednesday.

“When I gave my life to Christ, there were a lot of false doctrines. Apraku My Daughter was the famous pastor by then. So, my church invited him, and when he came, he said that a dwarf took him to a forest where it was revealed to him that ladies’ hair cream is made of blood, the powder is from the ashes of human bones, including make-up products and others, and he made us understand that anyone involved in such things wouldn’t make it to heaven,” she narrated to Roselyn Felli.

Hearing that as a new convert, fear gripped Diana Asamoah, and she could not help but believe because she was not well acquainted with the Bible and going to heaven was her focus at that moment, hence she would not permit such a lifestyle to block her chance of going to heaven.

Asked if Apraku My Daughter was the reason why she did not wear makeup and dressed fashionably; she said, “Yes, because he said they were produced by ‘Maame Water’ [Marine spirits] and so when you do it, you will go into the river and not heaven.”

She later got an understanding of the word of God with the help of a pastor called Ato Haggan, which changed her ideology about dressing stylishly, including marriage.

The evangelist supports the belief that marriage is ordained by God, and He unites both partners when the time is right. Therefore, she is single because she has not asked for a husband. But she also believes strongly that when she puts her request before God, it will surely be answered.

Recently, Diana Asamoah set social media ablaze with her new look and appearance in the gospel music fraternity. She received a lot of criticism from fans and some industry players.

Despite that, the “Madanse Die” singer is not willing to give up anytime soon as she intensifies her dressing in her newly released video of the remixed version of her track, “Mabo Wo Din.”

•  GES introduces national prospectus for SHS freshers
• Late Courage Quashigah’s wife passes on
• Alan Kyerematen trades blows with Bukom Banku [Watch]

Your Excellency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic, Your Excellency Former President J.A. Kufuor (who I am sure is watching from home), Our National Chairman, Stephen Ntim, General Secretary, Lawyer Justin Kodua, Chairman of the Council of Elders, Hon. Hackman Owusu Agyemang, National Council Members, Members of the National Executive Committee, Chairman and Members of the Elections Committee, Ministers of State, Hon. Members of Parliament, Constituency Chairmen and Executives, Members of our great party, Our friends from the media fraternity, Ladies and Gentlemen.

Moments ago, the Electoral Commission of Ghana declared the outcome of the 2023 NPP Presidential Primary. From the certified results, I was pronounced the clear winner with 61% of the valid votes cast and I won in 14 out of 16 regions.

I therefore stand here with profound gratitude and humility, having received the greatest honor of my life. The victory is not mine but ours, from Bogoso to Bolga, from Axim to Zarantinga, as the party has united and chosen a path to walk in unison. As a wise man once said, ”a leader without any followers is just a man out for a walk”, and I can proudly say that I feel the support from each and every one of our members today as the poll results show that these are the highest percentage numbers for any first time presidential candidate in the history of our party. We said it was possible.

I thank the Almighty God for making this emphatic victory possible and for His unending blessings on me, the NPP, and Ghana. It is a victory for the rank and file of our great party; particularly to you, our hardworking grassroot members at the constituency, electoral area and polling station levels. You enthusiastically came out in your numbers when I visited you throughout the country, and you rallied support for me, amongst yourselves, at your respective electoral areas. I am immensely grateful to all of you.

The significance of this victory is not lost on me. I am humbled and overwhelmed. I attended Sakasaka Primary School in Tamale, Tamale Secondary School, Buckingham University in the UK, Oxford University and Simon Fraser University in Canada. However, It has not been an easy journey. My work experience includes a stint as a farm-by-day worker (with my good friend Dr. Abass Awolu (who is now in the civil service) during holidays in my secondary school years, to driving a minicab (taxi) in London and
cleaning dormitories in Canada with friends like Richard Oppong of Vancouver (as I studied for my PhD) to make ends meet. God has brought me this far.

I have always worked very hard; as a student, a lecturer, a deputy Governor, a running mate and a Vice President. And on this historic day, I have been elected as Presidential Candidate and Leader of the Great New Patriotic Party! That is just surreal. I thank God for how far he has brought me. I have always believed that with hard work, honesty, discipline and faith in God, one can fulfill one’s potential. It is possible!

I congratulate the Electoral Commission of Ghana and the Presidential Election Committee of the NPP, chaired by the venerable Prof. Mike Ocquaye, for an excellent job done. I also thank and congratulate the security services for an excellent job done.

I also congratulate my fellow aspirants for participating in the process and deepening the democratic credentials of the NPP. Their energies, time, engagements, and resources have contributed to energizing the base of the party and prepared us all for the crucial battle of 2024.

Now let us join together. I am determined to work with all of them and all our supporters to achieve the Party’s ambition of “Breaking the 8”. That ambition requires the participation of all the aspirants including Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Akoto Afriyie, Boakye Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Hon. Joe Ghartey, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, Addai Nimo and Kojo Poku.

There are those who would say we are divided as a party, but I am here to tell them that it couldn’t be less true. The NPP is a thriving democracy, where leaders are elected, not anointed, and I salute my fellow competitors in this race for partaking in this crucial process. While our plans may differ at times, our visions are aligned – we share a passion for Ghana and a firm conviction that the NPP is the only party
that can transform her. The New Patriotic Party will enter 2024 united and energised. We are ready to make a strong and convincing case for another term in office with a fresh mandate and a new leader.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the journey towards today has been exciting and at the same time fraught with challenges. I remember the auspicious day on the 14th of August, 2008, when, through the visionary leadership of candidate Nana Akufo-Addo, as he then was, and the NPP, I was outdoored unto the uncertain political terrain of our nation.

I owe endless gratitude to President Akufo-Addo for his decision in 2008 and his undying confidence in me in the periods of 2012, 2016, and 2020. That singular, consistent decision birthed this historic moment we are witnessing tonight. I thank you, Mr. President, for believing in me.

When I left Takoradi in 2008 that fateful day, after my outdooring as running mate to commence my journey in politics, I had the difficult task of convincing a large part of our country to accept the inclusive and truly national character of the New Patriotic Party. I faced challenges in communities that accepted the decades of propaganda that the NPP was unwelcoming to them.

I persevered. I kept going back to those communities election after election and with the same message that the NPP is inclusive and ready to work with every Ghanaian, irrespective of tribe and religion.
By the election of 2020, we made significant inroads into the North. We also saw increased support throughout the Zongos in the country. In the Volta Region, we continued to grow in numbers.

It has been a remarkable but difficult journey of preaching the inclusive nature of the New Patriotic Party to those who have always viewed our great party with suspicion.

The doubts regarding the inclusive character of the NPP dominated the discussion when I took the bold decision on 16th June this year, to file my nomination papers at the NPP headquarters, to contest to be elected as the Presidential Candidate of the party. Some analysts were skeptical about my chances and others confidently dismissed the possibility of the NPP electing a candidate from the Northern part of the country. They clearly misconstrued the party’s conservatism to mean tribalism or regionalism. I was certain that they misunderstood this great party and its values because I knew our values of rewarding hard work and dedication would triumph. I knew it was possible.

Today’s emphatic decision by the over 200,000 delegates of the NPP, the grassroots of the party, reaffirms my knowledge and belief that the NPP is truly an inclusive national party. For a boy, born in the heartland of Tamale, with a hometown in Walewale, to be elected as a Presidential Candidate of Ghana’s largest political party, speaks to the character of the party. The NPP is a party that is all-embracing, a party that rewards hard work, loyalty, and commitment to its values!

The delegates, by today’s decision, have resoundingly dismissed any doubts that the NPP is inclusive and rewards hard work. From virtually every constituency in the country, the message has been the same: In the NPP we do not care about where you hail from. We are tolerant of Ghana’s religious diversity. We elect those deserving of leadership, those who are capable of governing, and those with proven traits of integrity, incorruptibility, and hard work.

With this resounding victory, the NPP is sending an invitation to the men and women in Ga Mashie to join me in this journey of possibilities. The NPP has a place for you.

To our men and women in the Zongos scattered across the 16 regions of Ghana, I say to you that in the NPP, it is possible to rise to the top. I invite you to join me in this journey of possibilities. The NPP has a place for you.

To the people of the Volta and Oti Regions, who may have long doubted if you will have a place in the NPP. You have been answered today. I invite you to join me in this journey of possibilities. The NPP has a place for you. To the people of the North, we have often been told that the NPP is not our political home. Today, the delegates have demonstrated absolute confidence in us. I invite you to join me in this journey of possibilities. The NPP has a place for you.

In the Ashanti Region, the citadel of NPP politics, I have been shown unbelievable love and support. In the Eastern Region, a fortress of our party, the support has been remarkable. In Greater Accra, Western, Western North, Central, as well as the three Bono and Ahafo Regions, I have received tremendous support and love from the rank and file of the NPP. In the Volta Region, where our party’s fortunes continue to grow considerably, we expect to make more progress in 2024. And the five northern regions (Northern, Savannah, Northeast, Upper East and Upper West), as they have always done in past elections, joined the rest of the country, to emphatically vote for the winning candidate.

I have won convincingly in each of these regions, and this clearly demonstrates an energised party, with absolute confidence in me. I thank each and every one of you for this massive support, which is also a reflection of the diversely harmonious nature of the NPP. I do not take this support for granted. I will work diligently every day to justify your decision.

While on the campaign, I became aware of a 3-day demonstration staged by the young people of our country. They had a simple message for the political class: they needed more opportunities for work, they needed improved living conditions, and they wanted improved public services.

These are legitimate demands and we cannot ignore them. We will continue to work hard for the people of Ghana. I have spent the last seven years assisting the President to deliver on many of these demands to: create more opportunities for the youth, improve the well-being of our people, create inclusive access to secondary education and healthcare, develop and expand the road infrastructure of our country, create great convenience in accessing public services wherever one finds himself or herself, and to leverage technology to fast-track development.

Notwithstanding these achievements, the unforeseen global economic downturn of the past three years, which derailed the significant economic gains and impact we made between 2017 and 2021, has had a devastating effect on our economy in the past two years, just as it has, on many other economies in the world. This has affected many, including government itself, the private sector and our households.

The cost of living has increased dramatically and Ghanaians are feeling the pinch. I have seen the sacrifices Ghanaians are making and the hardships many Ghanaians are going through and I am as concerned as my fellow countrymen and women.

By the grace of the Almighty God, together with the remarkable sacrifices, patience and optimism of Ghanaians, the work of economic recovery is underway: GDP growth has picked up, consumer price inflation is on the decline, exchange rate depreciation has dramatically slowed down and the budget deficit as a % of GDP is on the decline). I will continue to support the President to sustain these gains.

As a party, we must loudly and consistently tell the public about our achievements, as well as our ongoing efforts. We are ALL communicators, each one of us an NPP ambassador, and we should be telling the NPP story in our daily lives as well as on the public stage, every opportunity we get.

I am convinced that the NPP is the best option for the progress and prosperity of the Ghanaian people. My own core values – integrity, honesty, discipline, hard work and inclusivity. My can-do attitude, my rejection of the tag of impossibility, my passion to unleash the creative energies of the youth, my compassion for the poor and vulnerable – all of these align perfectly with the values with which our forbears created this political tradition. So to the NPP rank and file, I wish to say to you, today you have place your trust in me. I shall not disappoint you.

Ghana has given me everything, every opportunity and grace. I have dedicated my life to give back, and to serve this wonderful country to the best of my ability, with every breath in my body.

I have my own vision and my own priorities. Given the opportunity by you the people of Ghana to lead, I shall govern as my own man with guidance from God Almighty.

My vision is to build an inclusive, food self-sufficient, data-driven and systems-based nation that will fully participate in the global digital revolution to solve our problems and also usher in a golden age of benefits from our natural resources.

I want to lead a nation that improves and unleashes the talents of our youth and offers good jobs with good pay, and sustainable growth with macroeconomic discipline.

As the Presidential candidate of the NPP, it would be my commitment to the youth of Ghana. The talent of our youth in various sectors such as information technology, robotics, entrepreneurship, creative arts, sports, etc. is just amazing.

When we bring the talents of the youth together, we will surely build a mighty nation. Together, we can transform this nation and do even more, in many areas. I therefore invite the youth, particularly the ‘GenZs to join me in this journey of great possibilities. I have a place for you.

As a technocrat, it was doubted if I would gain space in a politics long dominated by career politicians. This victory is an invitation to technocrats and professionals to join me in this journey of possibilities. The NPP has a place for you. I have a place for you. With open arms I invite everyone watching or listening to me tonight to join us on this journey of possibilities. Together we can build this nation.

I am encouraged by the ingenuity and the can-do spirit of the Ghanaian youth, the tireless efforts of our farmers, the bravery of our fishermen and women, the business acumen of our mothers and sisters in the markets, the passion of our drivers, the dedication to service by our security personnel, the sacrifices of our teachers, as well as the commitment of our doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers.

I am encouraged by the literate Ghanaian society we are creating, through our free access to secondary education and expanded support for tertiary education. Our country’s future is really bright with a highly educated and skilled youthful population, leveraging technology for our economic transformation.

My brothers and sisters, I am encouraged by the beautiful diversity of our country, our peaceful co-existence which respects each other’s faith, which unites us and brings all of us together for a common goal of seeing a transformed Ghana.

We stand here today in celebration, but the real work starts now, and I have no intention of slowing down. I will get right back to work, sit down with Ghanaians from all walks of life, from civil society and student organizations to young professionals, stakeholders in the business community and religious leadership. The positon I seek needs to be earned, and I intend to show every single voter, from the farmer to the financial head, that I am the right man for the job. I will listen to your concerns and answer your questions, because we are partners in this process and any worthwhile gain comes from a communal investment.

We speak about breaking the 8, but it’s important to remember that that’s more than just a slogan. By breaking the 8 we break with a culture if complacency, we reject the tacit agreement that power is handed over every 8 years, thereby relinquishing responsibility for the growth if this nation. This 8-year cycle stands in the way of a long-term vision for Ghana, therefore breaking it is not about NPP bragging rights, it is about being able to successfully implement long-term visions and policies under a consistent
leadership. Breaking the 8 is not about partisanship but about patriotism, and knowing that Ghana deserves consistency, focus and follow-through, not political bickering and division. We will break the 8 in unity, and we will govern in unity, because regardless of the margin of our victory, we govern for and in the interest of 100% of Ghanaians.

We have two tasks ahead of us:

(1) to lead the New Patriotic Party to Victory in 2024;

(2) to steward this nation from recovery to prosperity. Given the chance, I am determined to serve as a leader for a united Ghana, for all Ghanaians, regardless of background, circumstance, or socio-economic
status. Ghana is a haven for peace and co-existence, and one of the many strengths of our nation is that we, while we may differ and debate, come together in unity for the good of Mother Ghana. I have felt that hope and unity as I have traveled through our country over these past months and I feel it here today, as we prepare to build back better for us all. So we celebrate today, but tomorrow, we get back to
work. For you, for Ghana and for us all.

I cannot end my speech without my deepest appreciation to certain personalities in our party and country.As a believer in, and practitioner of, the liberal democratic values and principles of the Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition ( like all of you here), I have been inspired, throughout my life, by the thinking, deeds, sacrifices and accomplishments of such great political icons of our country and Party such as Dr. J.B. Danquah, S.D. Dombo, Prof. K.A. Busia, Edward Akufo-Addo, Obetsebi Lamptey, Alhaji Yakubu Tali, Tolon Naa, Jato Kaleo, Naa Abayifa Karbo, C.K. Tedam, S.G. Antor, Albert Adu-Boahen, R.R. Amponsah,
J.B. Da Rocha, J.H. Mensah, and J.A. Kufuor.

I express my profound gratitude to the founders of our tradition, without whose sacrifices I would not be here today. I am also indebted to so many men and women who have sacrificed and continue to sacrifice for our party and country on a daily basis without outward recognition.

I extend my sincere thanks to President Akufo-Addo and his beautiful Rebecca (by any measure, a first-class first lady) for their support and confidence in me over the years. I amtruly grateful. I thank former President Kufour, who first allowed me to serve as a Deputy Central Bank Governor from where I was
noticed and subsequently poached into politics. I truly appreciate his wise counsel and guidance over the years.

May the beautiful soul of his departed wife, Mama Theresa rest in peace.

I also thank former Vice President, Alhaji Aliu Mahama, and his wife, Hajia Ramatu Aliu Mahama for their inspiration. May the Almighty God continue to bless their souls. To my beautiful wife Samira and our children, I thank you for your sacrifices and love in the journey so far.

I thank the polling station executives, the electoral area coordinators, constituency executives, regional executives, the council of elders, patrons, founding members, past officers, external branches, and the national executives for their massive support of my bid to lead the NPP. I will not disappoint you and I promise to work hard with all, for victory in 2024, by the grace of God.

I thank our distinguished Members of Parliament for their unflinching support for my candidature. They have been immeasurable in their support. I thank the thousands of volunteers and groups, who worked day and night to secure this historic victory for me and the party. I am indebted to all of you.

To the energetic youth of the NPP and Ghana, I shall lead the NPP to deliver on your aspirations. I thank you for your support so far and I pray for your continuous support. I thank my campaign team for their dedication and commitment to executing the mandate assigned to them. They delivered a victory that the nation will never forget. I also thank my office staff for their hard work and commitment throughout the years.

To my father, Alhaji Mumuni Bawumia and my mum, Hajia Mariama Bawumia I wish you were here to witness the dreams you had for me. I thank you for raising me to be the person I am today. May God continue to bless your beautiful souls.

To my late press aide, Kwabena Boadu, I know you are excited about this victory wherever you are. We made it!

Thank you and God bless you. I thank our friends in the media for their massive coverage of the entire process. The NPP and I are grateful for your partnership. I am also immensely grateful to traditional rulers, the Clergy and the Ulamas, for their prayers, encouragement and wise counsel over the years. I thank all of you, who have gathered here and those who are listening and watching from afar.

It is indeed possible!
God bless you!
God bless the NPP!
God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong

The residents say they are fed up with government’s empty promises of fixing the road.

The irate residents were, however, denied access to parts of Ashaiman which have these bad roads.

In response to this, the protesters have blocked the Ashaiman traffic intersection which connects Ashaiman to parts of Tema, Adjei Kojo, Oyibi-Somanya road and Ashaiman roundabout connecting Ashaiman to the Tema-Akosombo highway.

Some residents have been calling on the Municipal Chief Executive for the area, Albert Boakye Okyere, to as a matter of urgency begin works on the road.

Millicent Apraku, a resident of Ashaiman said the neglect of the area by the ruling government is untenable.

“The MCE says here [Ashaiman] is the stronghold of the NDC. But I can tell you on the fact that during the 2020 election, the NPP had 36,000 votes in Ashaiman here. So how can you tell us that here is the stronghold of the NDC so you can’t fix our roads. Ashaiman deserves better…” she said.

Another protester says the MP for the area, Ernest Henry Norgbey, must do more to advocate for the repair of the roads in the area.

“We know the MP doesn’t fix roads, right? So he being our mouthpiece, he must go to the assembly and make that thing happen but we always hear, ‘My government is not in power so I can’t do nothing’. But that’s not it…” he said.

According to the onetime NPP General Secretary, those who participated in the exercise are of significant importance to the party.

In an interview with JoyNews, Mr Agyepong said the projections made before the elections had reasonable backings, hence his acceptance of the verdict.

“As a political party, I am proud of my party that we were able to host such a thing and send a strong signal to the rest of the country.

“Once people have expressed their choice, and have been able to cast their vote on their own and enjoyed the free will to choose, I always respect the verdict of our party.

“So, the special delegates have spoken, of course the special delegates are not very much but it is a significant body; let’s be honest with ourselves.

“(It is made up of) the 275 chairmen who are the executive heads of the 275 constituencies, the regional executives who lead the party in the regions and we have our 136 MPs. So this is an important body,” he stressed.

Background

The New Patriotic Party on August 26, gathered some 958 delegates nationwide to select five out of the 10 presidential aspirants.

Four presidential candidates successfully sailed through to the shortlist.

Although the Super Delegates Conference was expected to help select five candidates, two aspirants have tied, requiring another process to decide the fifth person to make the final five.

The Vice President led with 68.15% of the total votes cast, followed by Kennedy Agyapong who polled 15.03% of the total votes cast.

Alan Kyerematen came in third with 10.29%, and Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto came fourth with 3.90%.

The candidates who tied for fifth place are Francis Addai Nimo and Boakye Kyeremateng Ayarko.

Kwabena Agyapong came next with 6 votes, whiles Joe Ghartey and Kwadwo Poku had 4 and 3 votes, respectively.

The final aspirant, Mr Kofi Konadu Apraku had no vote.

The 10 presidential aspirants, in the order in which they appear on the ballot paper are: Mr Kennedy Agyapong, Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Mr Joe Ghartey, Mr Kwadwo Poku, and Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

The rest are: Mr Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Francis Addai Nimoh, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Mr Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko, and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.

Here is a compilation of the votes from the various regions:

In the Upper West, 32 delegates voted in the election. Here is a breakdown of the votes:

Ken Agyapong – 2
Alan Kyerematen – 4
Owusu Afiyie Akoto – 3
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 23
The other candidates did not get any of the votes cast.

In the Bono Region, 37 delegates voted as opposed to the 38 expected. Below is the breakdown of the votes:

1. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong – 5
2. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen – 2
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku – 0
5. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 2
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko – 0
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 28

For the Oti Region, 30 votes were cast. Here is a breakdown of the votes:

1. Kenedy Agyapong – 5
2. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen – 6
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Kwadwo Poku – 1
5. Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 2
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyapong – 0
7. Francis Addae Nimo – 0
8. Kofi Konadu Apreko – 0
9. Boakye Agyako –
10. Dr Bawumia – 16

In the Upper East Region, 36 delegates cast their votes. Below is a breakdown of the votes:

1. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong – 3
2. Alan John Kyerematen – 1
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku – 0
5. Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 1
6. Kwabena Agyapong – 0
7. Frantcis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Boakye Agyarko – 0
10. Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 31

Here is the breakdown of the votes in the Ahafo Region:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 10
2. Alan Kyerematen – 3
3. Joe Gartey – 0
4. Kwadwo Nsafoa- 0
5. Dr Akoto Afriyie – 2
6. Kwabena Agyapong – 1
7. Francis Addai-Nimoh -0
8. Konadu Apraku-
9. Boagye Agyarko- 1
10. Mahamudu Bawumia- 13

At the NPP headquarters in Greater Accra, 176 people were present to cast their vote. Here is the breakdown of results at the party’s headquarters:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 32
2. Alan Kyerematen – 22
3. Joe Ghartey – 1
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 0
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Hon. Addai Nimo – 5
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Kyerematen Agyarko – 0
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 107

In the North East Region, the Vice President swept all the votes:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 0
2. Alan Kyerematen – 0
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 0
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Hon. Addai Nimo – 0
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Kyerematen Agyarko – 0
10. H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 28

In the Western North Region, 33 people cast their votes. Here is a breakdown of the votes:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 5
2. Alan Kyerematen – 4
3. Joe Ghartey – 1
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 1
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 3
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Boakye Agyarko – 1
10. H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 18

In the Volta Region, 41 delegates were able to cast their votes. Below is a breakdown of the votes:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 4
2. Alan Kyerematen – 4
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 3
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 1
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Boakye Agyarko – 0
10. H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 29

In the Bono East Region, 35 delegates voted massively for the Vice President. Here is a breakdown of the votes cast;

1. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong – 6
2. Alan John Kyerematen – 3
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku – 0
5. Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 3
6. Kwabena Agyapong – 0
7. Frantcis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Boakye Agyarko – 0
10. Mahamudu Bawumia – 22

In the Savannah Region, 30 people cast their votes. Below is a breakdown of how they voted:

1. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong – 7
2. Alan John Kyerematen – 1
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku – 0
5. Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 0
6. Kwabena Agyapong – 0
7. Frantcis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Boakye Agyarko – 1
10. Dr Mahamudu Bawumia -19

The Vice President also took the win in the Ashanti Region. Below is the breakdown of the votes cast:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 6
2. Alan Kyerematen – 10
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 5
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku -0
9. Mr. Kyerematen Agyarko— 0
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 97

Meanwhile, Emmanuel Anhwire, the MP for Atwima Nwabiagya South wasn’t allowed to vote. He came in nine minutes after polls were closed.

In the Central Region, 54 delegates came to vote. Here is a breakdown of the votes cast:

1. Kennedy Agyapong – 19
2. Alan Kyeremanteng – 4
3. Joe Ghartey – 1
4. Kwadwo Poku- 1
5. Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 3
6. Kwabena Adjei Adjapong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimoh – 0
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Boakye Aguarku – 1
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 25

In the Greater Accra Region, 71 delegates voted in the election. Vice President Dr Bawumia won the contest. Below is a breakdown of the votes:

1. Keneddy Agyapong – 15
2. Alan Kyerematen – 14
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0 
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 3
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 1
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 1
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Kyerematen Agyarko – 1
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 36

In the Eastern Region, 80 delegates voted in the election. Here is a breakdown of the votes cast:

1. Keneddy Agyapong – 8
2. Alan Kyerematen – 7
3. Joe Ghartey – 0
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0 
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 1
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 1
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Kyerematen Agyarko – 4
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 59

In the Western Region, 45 delegates cast their votes. Below is a breakdown of their votes:

1. Keneddy Agyapong – 3
2. Alan Kyerematen – 7
3. Joe Ghartey – 1
4. Mr Kwadwo Poku – 0 
5. Dr. Afriyie Akoto – 3
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong – 0
7. Francis Addai Nimo – 0
8. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0
9. Mr. Kyerematen Agyarko – 0
10. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – 31

The preliminary results showcased a diverse field of candidates, with some notable candidates scoring zero in this stage of the process.

Notably, Joe Gartey, Kwadwo Poku, Francis Addai-Nimoh, Konadu Apraku, and Kwadwo Poku all scored zero.

Kennedy Agyapong secured 10 votes while Alan Kyeremateng and Dr Akoto Afriyie also received support with 3 and 2 votes respectively

Kwabena Agyapong and Boakye Agyarko each received one vote, signifying their presence in the contest and their aspirations for the party’s nomination.

ALSO READ

• NPP elections: Volta Region swerves Alan Kyerematen

• NPP Super Delegates: Dr Apraku scores zero as results trickle in

• Baba Tauffic vows to deliver inclusive development in Adentan constituency

Those among the five to be shortlisted are Mahamudu Bawumia, Ken Agyapong, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen and Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

Boakye Agyarko and Francis Addai Nimoh will have to wait for the official declaration of the results to know their fate.

Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has qualified for the next phase of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential race in November by securing more endorsements as the second force in the race.

It is the first time in the NPP presidential race for Ken Agyapong, same as Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President.

Alan Kyerematen has been in the race since 2007 as the second force, coming second to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on all occasions.

But first timers, Ken Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central and the Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia have overtaken him by getting more endorsements.

The three are to be joined by two others for the November showdown, which will witness a larger delegation from the NPP from all polling stations meeting to elect a flagbearer to face off with the opposition National Democratic Congress’s John Dramani Mahama in the December 7, 2024 general election.

• Election 2024: Lilwin eyes Afigya Kwabere South seat
• Boakye Agyarko ‘exposes’ Ghana’s top enemy [watch]
• Mahama makes key appointments in NDC; check out list

The run-off became necessary following a tie between the two, who polled nine votes each to occupy the fifth position in the Party’s Super Delegate Congress today.

Professor Mike Oquaye, the Chairman of the NPP’s Presidential Primary Election Vetting Committee, announced the date for the runoff at a press conference in Accra, after Dr Serebour Quaicoe, Director of Electoral Services of the Electoral Commission declared the results.

Below are results of the Special Delegates Congress.

1.Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 629

2. Kennedy Agyapong – 132
3. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen – 95
4. Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto – 40
5. Francis Addai-Nimo – 9
6. Joe Ghartey – 3
7. Kwadwo Nsafoa Poku – 3
8. Kwabena Agyapong – 6
9. Boakye Agyarko – 9
10. Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0

TOP FIVE

1. Dr Bawumia
2. Kennedy Agyapong
3. Alan Kyerematen
4. Dr Akoto Afriyie

*5. Tie between Addai-Nimo and Agyarko (9) each.

Speaking in an interview on The Big Issue on Citi TV on Saturday, he said having more people on board was important for democratic processes and enhanced the party’s cohesion.

“The party did not address the concerns of 2008 properly. There was a public outcry that almost 17 aspirants who were ministers at the time had filed in a very substantial amount of money, and people felt that they had used state resources. However, this is a democracy, and we encourage democracy and participation. So, if we have 17 aspirants participating, and they are genuine in their participation, and people don’t think that they actually had the funds from state coffers, then why should we have a problem with that? I personally believe that the more participation we have from people in the race, the more beneficial it is to our democratic process.”

“There was no need for this administrative decision by a few selected people to reduce the number of candidates if the process was genuine and people felt that the candidates actually relied on their own resources. I think that because campaigning is a period of intensity, the more genuine candidates there are to contest, the better it is for the party because they will use their various strengths to energize the party.”

Voting has ended in all the 17 voting centres nationwide.

The party is expected to reduce from ten to five the number of persons seeking to lead the party into the 2024 elections. The party will later in November 2023 organise another delegates conference to elect one out of the five.

The 10 aspirants are Alan Kyerematen, former Trade Minister; Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Former Agriculture Minister; Kennedy Agyapong, MP for Assin Central; Joe Ghartey, former Railways Minister; Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former party General Secretary; Kwadwo Poku, an energy expert; Boakye Agyarko, former Energy Minister; Kofi Konadu Apraku, former Trade Minister; Francis Addai Nimoh, former Member of Parliament for Mampong and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President.

• Election 2024: Lilwin eyes Afigya Kwabere South seat
• Boakye Agyarko ‘exposes’ Ghana’s top enemy [watch]
• Mahama makes key appointments in NDC; check out list

This is because he has failed to get even a vote in the provisional results of the election by Super Delegates of the party.

His performance is not surprising as delegates were complaining about his visibility during the campaign to garner votes.

But Dr. Apraku’s campaign team claimed they were embarking on a submarine campaign – which obviously did not pay off.

The Super Delegates Congress is being held to elect five presidential aspirants to contest the party’s primaries in November this year.

The five aspirants who secure the highest number of votes will go on to contest the primaries, where they will compete to become the NPP’s flagbearer for the 2024 general election.

Already, Vice President Dr, Mahamudu Bawumia is in a comfortable lead followed by Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong and former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen.

Dr. Apraku who is an economist and Policy Expert has been nurturing his dream to lead the NPP since 1992.

He contested with many stalwarts of the NPP including former President John Agyekum Kufuor and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

Given this performance, it is obvious the veteran politician will hang his boots and support anyone elected as flagbearer.

Below are the results from the NPP Headquarters – Asylum Down – Provisional Results out of 176 valid votes:

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 107

Kennedy Agyapong – 32

Alan Kyerematen – 25

Joe Ghartey – 1

Kwadwo Poku – 0

Akoto – 2

Kwabena Agyei Agyapong – 3

Francis Addai – 5

Kofi Konadu Apraku – 0

Boakye Agyarko – 0

NPP’s search for 5: Who is your bet on to sail…

NPP Super Delegates Conference: Bawumia casts his vote [Photos]

NPP’s super delegates conference not intended to select a winner –…

Out of the 36 votes cast, Bawumia gathered an impressive 31 and left three for his topmost contender Kennedy Agyapong and one each for Alan Kyerematen and Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

The rest of the six contendors including Mr Joe Ghartey, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong, Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, Francis Addai Nimo, Kofi Konadu Apraku and Boakye Agyarko had no votes in their favour.

All 28 delegates from the home region of Dr. Mahama voted massively for him to be part of the five to battle for the flagbearer slot of the NPP.

The nine other candidates polled zero in the North East region who have affirmed that, the Vice President is the best person to lead the NPP in 2024.

The congress is being held nationwide with over 900 delegates from various constituencies voting to elect five out of the 10 candidates for the party’s flagbearership election on November 4.

The 10 aspirants are: former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen, former Agriculture Minister, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, former Railways Minister, Joe Ghartey, former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, an energy expert, Kwadwo Poku, and former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko.

The others are Kofi Konadu Apraku, former Trade Minister, Francis Addai Nimoh, former Member of Parliament for Mampong and Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

The voting process began at 9:00 am at various polling centres with some delegates and party stalwarts voting for their preferred candidates.

Six of the candidates in the 10-man race failed to garner any ballots at all – according to Joy News’ Rafiq Salam.

Joe Ghartey, Kwadwo Poku, Kwabena Agyepong, Addai Nimoh, Konadu Apraku and Boakye Agyarko all scored zero.

Of the remaining 9 votes, Alan Kyerematen polled 4, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto polled 3 and Kennedy Agyapong 2.

• Election 2024: Lilwin eyes Afigya Kwabere South seat
• Boakye Agyarko ‘exposes’ Ghana’s top enemy [watch]
• Mahama makes key appointments in NDC; check out list

The five successful candidates will go for the final round of the presidential primary to elect a flag bearer for the 2024 general election. 

A total of 956 delegates, all senior members of the party, are expected to vote in today’s election to shortlist the five.

The delegates comprise the National Council, National Executive Committee (NEC), regional executive committees, members of the National Council of Elders, Members of Parliament, three representatives of each of the special organs of the party, past national officers, three representatives each from every external branch (27 branches in all), and founder members at the registration of the party at the Electoral Commission (EC).

The election will take place in all the 16 regional capitals across the country, and at the NPP headquarters at Asylum Down in Accra, with the final collation slated to take place at the EC headquarters in Accra. 

But who are the candidates.. Myjoyonline.com brings you a brief profile of all 10 aspirants in the order they appear on the ballot paper.

Kennedy Ohene Agyapong

Born on June 16, 1960, Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong hails from Assin Dompim in the Central region.

He attended Adisadel College in the year 1976 but could not proceed to the sixth form. He therefore completed his sixth form education at Winneba Secondary School.

He obtained a GCE A level in the year 1983 before proceeding to the United States of America to pursue his education at Fordham University but dropped out.

He started working at the Assin Farms where he became the Managing Director. He also worked at the Super Care Group of Companies and the Hollywood Shopping Center

Currently, he is the Member of Parliament for Assin Central; a position he has held since 2000.

He owns a number of companies including Oman FM, Ash FM, Net 2 TV, Super Care Company Limited (Dealers in Air Conditioners), Mina D’oro Ventures, M/S Imperial World Business Limited, and Gold Coin Communication.

He is married with 22 children.

Alan John Kwadwo Kyeremanten

Mr. Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen was born on October 3, 1955.

He attended Adisadel College in Cape Coast at a record age of nine years, and thereafter attended the prestigious Achimota School for his sixth form education.

He proceeded to the University of Ghana, Legon for a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

Mr. Kyerematen also holds a Law degree, LLB from the Ghana Law School at the same university where he qualified as a Barrister-at-Law.

He was called to the bar and is a practicing attorney-at-law in Ghana.

Mr. Kyerematen was appointed Ghana’s Ambassador to the U.S when the NPP came into office in 2001.

In 2003, Alan Kyerematen was appointed as the Cabinet Minister with responsibility for Trade, Industry, and the President’s Special Initiatives (PSI) by former President John Agyekum Kufuor.

Mr. Kyeremanten made an attempt at the leadership of the NPP in 2007, capturing 32.3% of votes cast. He was the first runner up to Nana Akufo-Addo who gained 47.96% of the votes.

In 2010 and 2014, he made other attempts for the flagbearership position of the party but placed second to Akufo-Addo who won the primaries.

He was subsequently appointed Minister for Trade and Industry in 2017 when Akufo-Addo won the general elections in 2016, till he resigned from his post in January 2023.

He is married to Patricia Christabel Kyerematen. They are blessed with two children.

Joe Ghartey

Joe Ghartey was born on June 15, 1961 in Accra.

He is an old student of Mfantsipim School, where he was appointed House Prefect.

Mr. Ghartey later enrolled to study law and obtained his LLB degree from the University of Ghana in 1986.

He obtained a BL from the Ghana School of Law in 1988 and was called to the Ghana Bar that same year.

He was an associate at Akufo-Addo, Prempeh and Co. for seven years before setting up Ghartey & Ghartey with his wife, Efua Ghartey in 1994.

Mr. Ghartey was Ghana’s Deputy Attorney General from March 2005 to June 2006.

He was subsequently appointed substantive Attorney General and Minister for Justice from June 2006 to January 2009 by the erstwhile John Agyekum Kufuor administration.

In January 2013, Mr. Joe Ghartey was named Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament.

He was a 5 term Member of Parliament for Essikado Ketan.

In 2017, he was appointed Minister for Railways Development by President Akufo-Addo till 2021.

He is married with 5 children.

Kwadwo Poku

Born in the year 1974, the 49 year-old energy sector veteran has over 24 years of practical business experience under his belt.

He studied Civil Engineering (B.Eng) at City University, London.

Mr Kwadwo Poku is a businessman and energy expert who has worked on various projects for years at different levels in the energy sector.

He also serves as a Board Director of Multinational companies such as Pan African Capital Ghana Limited and FIFC Management and Development Limited.

He was the Country Director for GASOP OIL (GHANA) LIMITED from June 2002  to September 2012.

He designed the Ministry of Tourism first Website in 2001, which had a database of all tourist sites in Ghana.

He was also the liaison between the Ministry and donor agencies that supported the Ministry to develop their TMIS.

He is currently the CEO and Founder of FKP & RALD INVESTMENT LTD.

Afriyie Akoto

Owusu Afriyie Akoto was born on 19 October 1949 to Baffour Osei Akoto, a prominent member of the pre-independence National Liberation Movement and also a chief linguist at the Manhyia Palace.

He attended Opoku Ware School in Kumasi. He had his tertiary education at the University of Ghana, Legon, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture.

Dr Akoto holds a doctorate in Agricultural Economics from the University of Cambridge and had been Minister of Food and Agriculture since 2017 until his resignation in January this year to focus on his presidential ambition.

He is credited with the implementation of the Planting for Food and Jobs programme.

He was for two terms the MP for Kwadaso in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, from 2009.

He is married with seven children.

Kwabena Agyapong

Mr. Agyapong was born on 6 March 1962, in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.

He was the son of Justice Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong, one of three prominent Ghanaian judges who was abducted and murdered during the early years of Ghana’s Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) rule.

He had his secondary education at Mfantsipim School.

Mr. Agyapong is a civil engineer who also served as the Press Secretary to former President Kufuor from 2001 to 2006.

He was one of the 17 aspirants who contested the party’s presidential primary in 2007, ahead of the 2008 general election.

In 2014, Mr Agyapong contested the position of General Secretary of the NPP and won. However, he was suspended from his position as General Secretary after some party members filed a petition against him.

Kwabena Agyapong is married to Lawrencia and the couple have three lovely children.

Addai-Nimoh

Mr. Francis Addai-Nimoh was born on March 23, 1956.

He hails from Mampong-Nyinampong, a town in the Ashanti Region.

Mr. Addai-Nimoh went to Navrongo Secondary School

He later proceeded to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1993.

He also attended the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and obtained an executive master’s degree in Public Administration.

Mr. Addai-Nimoh is a development planner and civil engineer.

He is a former MP for Mampong in the Ashanti Region and contested the NPP’s presidential primary in 2014 ahead of the 2016 elections and placed third.

He is married with three children.

Konadu Apraku

Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku was born on September 7, 1954 at Akumadan in the Ashanti region.

He attended Tweneboa Kodua Secondary School between 1967 and 1972 and furthered his education in South Albany High School in Oregon in the United States, after winning an AFS International essay competition.

There he studied for an economics degrees at the Oregon State University, where he also pursued a doctorate in the subject.

After the 2000 elections, Dr. Apraku was appointed by President Kufuor as the Minister of Trade and Industry. He was the Minister of Regional Cooperation and NEPAD between 2003-2005.

Dr Apraku was also a member of the Second, Third and Fourth Parliaments of the Fourth Republic.

He was among the 17 aspirants who contested the flagbearer slot of the NPP in 2007 ahead of the 2008 elections.

Boakye Agyarko

Mr. Boakye Kyeremanteng Agyarko was born in 1956 at Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.

He attended Mfantsipim School in Cape Coast for his secondary education.

He later proceeded to the University of Ghana where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Political Science.

He is said to have immigrated to the United States of America as a political refugee.

Whilst there he obtained an Advanced Professional Certificate in Banking from the American Institute of Banking and  Master of Business Administration in Financial Economics from Pace University in New York.

Mr Agyarko is a banker, economist, and former Minister of Energy.

He was appointed National Campaign Manager of the NPP in the 2012 presidential election and Policy Adviser to the presidential candidate of the NPP during the 2016 elections.

He was however relieved of his duty as Minister in August 2018.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia

Born on October 7, 1963, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is the current Vice President of the Republic of Ghana.

He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics from Buckingham University, UK, a Master of Science Degree in Development Economics from Oxford University, UK and a Ph.D. in Economics from Simon Fraser University, Canada.

He was a Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana until his selection as the running mate of the NPP’s presidential candidate, Nana Akufo-Addo, in the 2008 elections. He was maintained as the running mate for three consecutive times.

He was the lead witness for the petitioners in the 2012 Presidential Election Petition, which challenged the declaration of John Mahama as the winner of Ghana’s 2012 presidential election.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is married to Samira Bawumia. He is blessed with four children.

• Election 2024: Lilwin eyes Afigya Kwabere South seat
• Boakye Agyarko ‘exposes’ Ghana’s top enemy [watch]
• Mahama makes key appointments in NDC; check out list

Some 958 delegates nationwide are expected to decide the fate of the ten NPP presidential aspirants by selecting five for the Party’s presidential primary slated for November 4, 2023.

Voting at the YMCA Centre commenced at 0900 hours and expected to close at 1300 hours.

Some 72 delegates (including 1 proxy) will cast their ballot in the Greater Accra Regional polls.

They comprise Constituency Chairmen, 32; Regional Representatives on National Council, three; Founding Members, four; Regional Executive 17, and Members of Parliament (including Regional Minister), 14.

As of 0700 hours, the Electoral Commission had already set up the voting booth in readiness for the announced time for voting to commence.

The agents of the various presidential aspirants were also present at the Centre to follow the process.

There is heavy police presence at the voting Centre, with police officers positioned at vantage points to maintain law and order.

Persons without accreditation are not allowed to enter the voting centre.

The ten presidential aspirants, in the order in which they will appear on the ballot paper are: Mr Kennedy Agyapong, Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Mr Joe Ghartey, Mr Kwadwo Poku, and Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

The rest are: Mr Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Francis Addai Nimoh, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Mr Boakye Kyeremanteng Agyarko, and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.

• Election 2024: Lilwin eyes Afigya Kwabere South seat
• Boakye Agyarko ‘exposes’ Ghana’s top enemy [watch]
• Mahama makes key appointments in NDC; check out list

Dr Baah argued that Dr Bawumia’s rise to the position of vice president violated the constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), as he did not meet the party’s requirement of being a long-standing member before assuming the role.

According to him, the NPP’s internal regulations mandate that a member must actively serve the party for a minimum of five years before being eligible to contest any leadership position. He asserts that Dr Bawumia did not adhere to these guidelines.

In an interview, Dr Baah emphasized that he finds it unacceptable for Dr Bawumia to have reached the second-highest position within the party without complying with the five-year waiting period specified by the NPP’s constitution.

He questioned why someone who had not dedicated the required time to the party was being favoured for such a significant role, especially when there were other party members who had committed years to the party’s cause.

As the NPP’s November presidential primary approaches, ten candidates, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, are actively seeking the support of party delegates. The upcoming super delegates congress on August 26 will see Dr. Bawumia competing against former trade minister Alan Kyerematen and eight other candidates.

The additional contenders in the race include Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Justice and Attorney General Joe Ghartey, businessman and energy expert Kwadwo Poku, former Minister of Energy Boakye Agyarko, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former MP for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh, former Minister of State Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, and former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto.

• Former MP almost in tears after visiting relative at the hospital
• This is what a father told his 13-yr-old girl after sleeping with her [Watch]
• Agradaa stirs controversy with her gym video which has gone viral

They are to elect five Presidential candidates to contest in the November primaries of the party.

The figure comprised of all the Chairpersons of the 15 constituencies, 17 Regional Executives, two council of patrons, one Regional Minister and one Member of Parliament.

Mr Daniel Ziba, the Upper East Regional Elections Officer of the Party revealed this to the Ghana News Agency in Bolgatanga.

He said the election was an internal contest towards the main primaries on November 4, 2023, to elect a Presidential Candidate to lead the party to break the eight- year jinx in the 2024 general elections.

“This is an in-house contest, and we expect that after the election we will all come together and work towards victory in 2024,” he said.

Mr Ziba explained that although the party had been doing well in the region during general election, the party was strategising to ensure that it improved on both the Presidential and Parliamentary performance.

“It is too early for me to tell you the number of seats we are going to secure in the next election, but we are definitely going to improve, and we are working seriously towards it,” he added.

On Saturday, August 26, 2023, the ruling NPP would be holding its super delegates conference to elect five candidates out of 10 Presidential hopefuls to contest in the November 4, 2023, primaries of the party.

The candidates are Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, former Minister of Trade and Industry, Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Joe Ghartey, a former Minister of Railway and Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, an Economist.

The rest are Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Boakye Agyarko, former Minister of Energy, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former General Secretary of NPP, Kwadwo Poku, an Energy Expert and Edward Addai-Nimo, a former MP for Asante Mampong.

• Akumaa Mama Zimbi opens up on hair loss because of her headgear
• Legon student charged over boyfriend’s murder
• I’m alive and well – Rev Owusu Bempah dispels death rumours

Anticipating a turnout of 961 delegates on Saturday, August 26, 2023, these delegates will cast their votes to whittle down the pool of 10 presidential aspirants from the NPP to a final selection of 5.

These successful candidates will then proceed to the ultimate flagbearer race scheduled for November 4.

The leading contenders, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Minister of Trade and Industry Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, and Member of Parliament for Assin Central Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, have been identified as frontrunners among the 10 aspirants.

They are joined by former Minister of Justice and Attorney General Joe Ghartey, energy expert Kwadwo Opoku, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, former Minister of Energy Boakye Agyarko, former Mampong Member of Parliament Francis Addai-Nimoh, and former Minister of Trade and Industry Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku. These candidates are vying for a spot in the coveted top 5.

However, Ben Ephson, speaking Starr FM, has streamlined the contenders to a more manageable number.

He confidently identified 3 candidates who he believes are assured of securing a place in the top 5 – Kennedy Agyapong, Alan Kyerematen, and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The remaining two spots, he posits, will be fiercely contested among Joe Ghartey, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Boakye Agyarko.

Mr. Ephson downplayed the notion that the outcome of the impending NPP super delegates conference will perfectly mirror the main election scheduled for November 4.

He cautioned that the verdict of a relatively small group of around 1000 delegates cannot be taken as indicative of the sentiment of a larger group of 200,000 people.

Mr. Ephson further cautioned that Kennedy Agyapong’s influence could potentially push the final race into a runoff scenario.

Ephson projected his expectations for the future, stating, “If Alan places 2nd tomorrow, I won’t be surprised. But if Alan places 2nd on November 4, I will be surprised. By November, I believe Alan will be relegated to a distant third position, with a substantial gap between the top two contenders, Bawumia and Ken.”

• Former MP almost in tears after visiting relative at the hospital
• This is what a father told his 13-yr-old girl after sleeping with her [Watch]
• Agradaa stirs controversy with her gym video which has gone viral

Which five candidates among the 10 in the race do you tip to sail through? Remember voting officially closes at 4pm, but with only 961 delegates voting, the process could well be over long ahead of time.

List your choice of 5 in the comments session below let’s see if you’ll get it right.

Follow our coverage here, on Radio, TV, Podcasts and Videos.

The candidates in the order they appear on the ballot.

1. Kennedy Agyapong
2. Alan Kyerematen
3. Joe Ghartey
4. Kwadwo Poku
5. Afriyie Akoto
6. Kwabena Agyepong
7. Addai Nimoh
8. Konadu Apraku
9. Boakye Agyarko
10. Mahamudu Bawumia

• Election 2024: Lilwin eyes Afigya Kwabere South seat
• Boakye Agyarko ‘exposes’ Ghana’s top enemy [watch]
• Akumaa Mama Zimbi opens up on hair loss because of her headgear

According to him, the election committee of the party has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt it will remain neutral throughout the process.

The Super Delegates Conference is to elect five candidates out of 10 presidential hopefuls to contest in the November 4, 2023, primaries of the party.

The candidates vying for the five slots include Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Alan Kwadwo Kyeremanten, former Minister of Trade and Industry, Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Joe Ghartey, a former Minister of Railway and Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, an Economist.

The rest are Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Boakye Agyarko, former Minister of Energy, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former General Secretary of NPP, Kwadwo Poku, an Energy expert and Edward Addai-Nimo, a former MP for Asante Mampong.

The General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Friday said all these stalwarts are more than qualified to lead the party in the 2024 general elections.

However, he said the power is now in the hands of delegates to elect five and subsequently choose one to lead NPP break the eight.

Based on this backdrop, Mr. Kodua said there is no justification for any candidate to think delegates are being remote controlled to vote in a certain way.

“Even me as a General Secretary, I am not involved in the election process so it will be unfair to accuse us of manipulating the elections. If you [aspirant] think you have done a good job, it will reflect in the votes you get,” he stated.

He added that, all logistics have been deployed across the regions to ensure a smooth elections.

The NPP chief scribe indicated that, all 10 aspirants have been given the album and officials of the Electoral Commission (EC) who will supervise the election have expressed their readiness to help them execute a free and fair elections.

He also urged delegates to put their personal interest aside and vote for a candidate who will help NPP break the eight.

Mr. Kodua is certain given the preparation done by the elections committee, the elections will end smoothly and NPP will be the winner.

“The journey to breaking the eight starts tomorrow so lets to circumspect in our utterances for unity of the party” he added.

In his message to the super delegates ahead of Saturday, August 26, 2023, polls, Dr Akoto said now is the time for the kingmakers of the party to show him some love after having done so much to the progress of the party.

He reminded them of his vision for the party and the country and noted that he has the wherewithal to revive the UP tradition and ensure its growth, where the sufferings of its activists will be no more.

According to the former two-term Member of Parliament (MP) for Kwadaso, his vision of establishing commercial businesses to generate revenue to finance activities of the party at all levels while creating job opportunities for the unemployed stands tall among the 10 candidates vying for the flagbearer position of the party since it is sustainable and attainable.

“I am appealing to you, the super delegates, to vote for me. When you vote for me, I have envisioned two things to do; one for the party and the other for the country. All of us are aware of what happened in the 2016 general election. In the Presidential, our then candidate, Nana Akufo-Addo beat the then incumbent President John Mahama with over 900,000 votes. But when we went to the 2020 general election when everyone was expecting a wider margin between these two presidential candidates, the over 900,000 votes was cut down to a little over 500,000. We nearly lost the parliamentary majority seats. We are now pegged at 137 with the Independent Parliamentary candidate, Amoako Asiamah, declaring to do business with the NPP for us to become the Majority Group”, he noted.

He added “these happenings tell us that all was not well largely because our grassroots were abandoned. When you talk to them, almost everyone is complaining. This makes breaking the eight-year governance cycle very difficult, hence, my decision to contest for the flagbearer position to turn things around. So, I am appealing to you once again to show me some love and vote massively for me. I will ensure to work hard to reform the party for all to enjoy”, he underscored.

He said both women and the youth will play leading roles in his government when elected to lead the NPP and subsequently as President of the Republic of Ghana.

A total of 10 aspirants are contesting for the flagbearer race of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

They are a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, former Minister of Energy, Mr. Boakye Agyarko; former NPP General Secretary and presidential spokesperson, Mr. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong; former Member of Parliament (MP) for Mampong, Mr. Francis Addai-Ni­moh; former Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku.

The rest are Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; former Minis­ter of Trade and Industry, Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen; former Min­ister of Justice and Attorney Gen­eral, Mr Joe Ghartey; energy expert, Mr Kwadwo Opoku and Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Mr Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

A Special Delegates Congress will he held on August 26, 2023, to select five of the presidential aspirants.

The top five aspirants will then contest for the flagbearer slot on November 4, 2023, to elect one to lead the party in the 2024 general election.

• Pentecost Church members involved in accident; one dead, others injured
• Former MP almost in tears after visiting relative at the hospital
• Popular journalist passes on

He was confident of being part of the top five to contest the presidential slot in the primary scheduled for November 4.

“I’m 99% confident of being part of the top five, the one percent is for the ‘fear delegates’ factor. I am more than confident because of what I’ve been told and the work I have done. I’ve done the work and it will show on Saturday,” he said on Accra-based Neat FM.

He indicated that whoever comes at the top of the five on Saturday’s polls has not cemented his victory in the actual presidential primary.

The energy expert explained that the party bigwigs, regional, constitutional, and past national executives who make up the Super Delegates see politics in a different way from how delegates see it.

“I’ve said that there’s no winner on Saturday. Some are saying some will have a landslide victory, it doesn’t matter, so long as you are part of the top five you are a winner.”

“Maybe it’s a confidence booster for some people but to me, if that’s what you’re relying on to say that you’ll win the November 4 elections then I’m sorry. It’s a different conversation, over 230,000 delegates voting on November 4 is the real deal,” he added.

He asserted that polls that do not include his name as part of the top five to be elected as the party’s presidential candidate are not credible.

To him, the predictions are nowhere near a reflection of what’s on the ground, adding that the polls are a figment of people’s imagination.

Over 900 delegates will partake in Saturday’s congress to cut down the number of presidential aspirants from ten to five.

Alan Kyerematen, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and Kennedy Agyapong have been tipped as the front runners among the five candidates likely to easily cross the first hurdle of the race on August 26.

The other aspirants are Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Boakye Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Joe Ghartey and Francis Addai-Nimoh.

ALSO READ:

• NPP flagbearer race: Why this MP thinks five aspirants should step down

• NPP flagbearer race: I’m for anyone delegates elect – Ga West MCE

• NPP flagbearer race: NEC dismisses petition to centralise election

This follows claims made by Boakye Agyarko, also a flagbearer aspirant in the upcoming NPP Presidential Primaries, that nine out of the 10 aspirants have been meeting to discuss their policies and explore possible alliances ahead of the presidential primaries.

However, the Vice President has been absent in all these meetings.

According to Kwadwo Poku, while he does not fault Dr Bawumia for failing to show up to any of these meetings, he believes the Vice President may be sticking to his own campaign strategy and may reach out to other aspirants following the Super Delegates’ Conference slated for Saturday, August 26.

“You see, as Mr Boakye Agyarko said on your show (PM Express), there isn’t a cabal or Mafioso or whatever. Look, I have Mr Addai Nimo’s number, I have Dr Apraku’s number, and I have honourable Alex’s number. We’ve all talked among ourselves.

“In the meetings that were held or even the letter you remember we wrote a petition to the party for the centralized voting – when the letter was done, it was sent to Dr Bawumia, but he just refused to sign it. So everything that we have done, we’ve made attempts, and he’s aware of everything that we’ve done,” he said.

Meanwhile, he has denied claims that these meetings have been geared at alienating Dr Bawumia in the event of a run-off.

According to him, no one has been plotting against the Vice President, hence, those claims are unfounded.

“As you go into such a race where there are 10 people, you need to be sure of, in case you don’t make it, who do you back. Or in case you make it who do you now get to align with you? So that discussion has been ongoing.

“What everybody has to realise is that eventually there’s going to be a winner. Now if five comes off on Saturday and five goes into November 4^th, and nobody even gets 50 plus one, there is going to be a run-off between the top two.

“So everybody at any point in time needs to be conversant with the other person’s message. So the conversation I am part of is the conversation to get to know the other aspirants. There isn’t a conversation that is saying that we’re going to basically go against any establishment or candidate.

“I don’t think nobody has said ‘let us go after somebody’, that is not what the conversation is. There has been no conversation where somebody has been called an establishment candidate,” he said.

ALSO READ:

• NPP flagbearer race: Why this MP thinks five aspirants should step down

• Dan Botwe endorses Bawumia as NPP flagbearer for 2024 elections

The NPP says it has put in place adequate measures to ensure that the election is successful.

Professor Michael Oquaye, the chairman of the NPP Presidential Elections Committee, says the outcome of the election will be acceptable to all due to the measures put in place to ensure the transparency of the polls.

“Whatever queries the aspirants had, I can assure you that they had all been dealt with, and it was in exercise toward a democratic end. If you have any difficulty, please contact the secretary of the committee or headquarters as a whole, and you will have those queries duly answered.”

Ten people, including Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, are in the race to lead the NPP in the 2024 presidential elections.

A balloting on July 26 for the ten aspirants as announced by the spokesperson for the NPP’s Elections Committee, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, “has the candidates appearing on the ballot papers as; Ken Ohene Agyapong (one), Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen (two), Joe Ghartey (three), Kwadwo Poku (four), Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto (five), Kwabena Agyei Agyepong (six), Francis Addai Nimoh (seven), Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku (eight), Boakye Kyeremanteng Agyarko (nine) and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (10).”

The August 26 super delegates conference will reduce the number of aspirants down to five to make way for the presidential primaries to select a flagbearer on November 4.

Phones and cameras have also been banned by the party as part of stringent measures put in place ahead of the conference to avoid vote buying.

According to him, their withdrawal will help the NPP do away with the Special Delegates Conference set for August 26, 2023.

He made the call on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, stating the conference was unnecessary.
“Everyone knows this contest is a three-horse race. So if someone wants popularity, it should be done positively and not through this race,” he said.

Although he did not mention any names, the lawmaker stated these five will not get more than 50 votes, so they should think about backing out.

“One of the most strategists, Kwabena Agyapong, I think owes it to the NPP because of his experience to advise some of the others to focus on November 4 because my assessment of the preliminary battle is not necessary,” he stated.

Ten aspirants filed to contest the presidential primary, and all went through vetting successfully.

The special electoral college will therefore bring together 900 delegates who will cast their votes to select five candidates in accordance with the NPP’s constitution.

Kennedy Agyapong, Alan Kyerematen and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia have been tipped as the front runners among the five candidates likely to easily cross the first hurdle of the race on August 26.

The other aspirants are Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Boakye Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Joe Ghartey, Francis Addai-Nimoh, and Ernest Kwadwo Poku.

ALSO READ:

• Check out polling stations for NPP’s special delegates conference

• NPP issues guidelines for Super Delegates Conference

According to him, he has always admired the Vice President from afar.

“I have had so much love for Dr Bawumia since 2012 because of his humility, experience, and knowledge and it has never been because he is contesting for the Presidency today,” he said.

But due to the strong bond that exists between them, Mr Pyne says Dr Bawumia calls him every year to wish him a happy birthday.

“Since 2012, when I became close with him, every March 13 he calls or texts to wish me a happy birthday, and this is a single attribute that he respects and acknowledges that there is someone called Sam Pyne who works for the NPP,” he added.

Mr Pyne disclosed this on Adom FM”s Dwaso Nsem as he spoke about Dr Bawumia as his preferred candidate among the 10 vying for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer race.

On August 26, 2023, the NPP will convene a special delegates conference made up of 900 delegates to select five candidates to contest the November 4, 2023, presidential primary.

Kennedy Agyapong, Alan Kyerematen and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia have been tipped as the front runners among the five candidates likely to easily cross the first hurdle of the race on August 26.

The other aspirants are Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Boakye Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Joe Ghartey, Francis Addai-Nimoh, and Ernest Kwadwo Poku.

ALSO READ:

• NPP flagbearership: Minister explains why he ditched Bawumia for Alan

• Dan Botwe endorses Bawumia as NPP flagbearer for 2024 elections

After the end of the balloting held on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen picked the second slot.

Agents of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia picked the 10th position for their boss.

Check the full list below: 

1. Ken Ohene Agyapong
2. Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen
3. Joe Ghartey
4. Kwadwo Poku
5. Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto
6. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong
7. Francis Addai Nimoh
8. Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku
9. Boakye Kyeremanteng Agyarko
10. Dr Mahamadu Bawumia

ALSO READ:

• Sanitation Minister’s background proves she cannot earn the kind of money stolen from her – Sam George
• Prepare for the worse – Inusah Fuseini to Quayson over govt’s ‘persecution’
• My death was announced on Facebook while asleep at home – Sefa Kayi

They are also to sign an undertaking with the party to commit themselves to support whoever is eventually elected as the party’s presidential candidate after the election or selection process.

This was contained in rules and regulations issued by the National Council of NPP yesterday to guide aspirants during, before and after its upcoming presidential and parliamentary primaries in Accra.

Per this arrangement, the party reserves the right to restrain any candidate should he decide otherwise.

Aspirants

The 10 aspirants who have been approved by the National Council of the party for the special delegates conference (Special Electoral College) are Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Kwadwo Poku, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong.

The rest are Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Dr Owusu Akoto Afriyie, Joe Ghartey, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.

The Special Electoral College scheduled for August 26, 2023, which would be held at each of the 16 Regional capitals, is to shortlist five out of the 10 aspirants for the November 4, 2023 National Congress to elect a presidential candidate to contest on the ticket of the party for the 2024 general election.

A statement, signed and issued by the General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, said the decision was taken at the council’s meeting held last Thursday.

In addition, the National Council of the party directed regional and constituency party executives who wished to contest in the party’s parliamentary primary in constituencies with sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) to resign from their respective positions not later than September 20, 2023.

It said Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in constituencies where the party has sitting MPs were also not eligible to contest in the parliamentary primary for those constituencies.

Unity

The National Council of the NPP is concerned about the utterances of some of the party’s presidential hopefuls and their supporters, which it said did not augur well for the unity and cohesion of the party.

“The council, by this statement, reinforces compliance with the Code of Conduct for Presidential and parliamentary Elections of the party.”

It cautioned against such development, stressing that “Any aspiring Presidential candidate, or his supporters, and party executives at all levels who act in contravention of the code of conduct, moving forward, shall be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines thereof and the party constitution,” it stated.

It urged all the presidential aspirants to engage in issues-based campaigns and desist from levelling unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks and vilifications of their opponents

It also cautioned against any activity that would polarise the party along tribal, religious and other factional lines.”

“All aspiring Presidential candidates shall impress upon their supporters not to engage in any of the activities stated above,” he added.

Album/Register

According to the council, the photo album and register used to elect the constituency executives between April 22, 2022, and May 2, 2023, would be the same album that would be made available to the Electoral Commission for the conduct of the presidential primary.

“Also a delegate who wants to appoint a proxy has been given three weeks to apply to the National Secretariat before the conduct of the presidential primary,” it said. 

ALSO READ:

• NPP flagbearer race: We won’t exchange Dr Bawumia for anyone else – Takoradi MP

• Dos and don’ts in upcoming NPP presidential, parliamentary primaries

In a press statement dated July 24, 2023, issued by the General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party explained that all aspiring Presidential candidates “shall sign an undertaking with the party, committing himself to supporting whoever is eventually elected/selected as the party’s Presidential Candidate after the election/selection process in the event that he is not elected/selected.”

It reiterated that the Special Electoral College scheduled for August 26, 2023, shall be held at each of the 16 Regional Capitals and that each delegate shall be entitled to one vote, and shall cast his/her vote by secret ballot for only one Candidate.

“All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall be given the validated Album for the Special Electoral College at least one month to the date of the Congress (i.e. not later than July 26, 2023),” it added.

Unhealthy comments

The National Council said it took a serious view of some unhealthy comments and utterances from some aspiring presidential candidates and their supporters, which do not auger well for the unity and cohesion of the Party. 

“Accordingly, the Council, by this statement, reinforces compliance with the Code of Conduct for Presidential and Parliamentary Elections of the Party.” 

“Any Aspiring Presidential Candidate, or his supporters, and party executives at all levels who act in contravention of the Code of Conduct, moving forward, shall be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines thereof and the Party Constitution.

It said all aspiring presidential candidates shall campaign on issues and refrain from levelling unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks and vilifications against their opponents and that no aspiring presidential candidate shall undertake any activity that will polarize the Party along tribal, religious, and other factional lines.

It added that all aspiring presidential candidates should impress upon their supporters not to engage in any of the activities stated above.

An aspiring presidential candidate shall sign an undertaking with the party, committing himself to supporting whoever is eventually elected/selected as the party’s Presidential Candidate after the election/selection process in the event that he is not elected/selected. 

Below is a copy of the press statement:

For Immediate Release

July 24, 2023

DECISIONS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF THE NEW PATRIOTIC PARTY ON PARLIAMENTARY AND PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES

The National Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), at its meeting held on Thursday, July 20, 2023, considered the guidelines for the conduct of the Party’s presidential, and parliamentary primaries in constituencies where the Party has sitting Members of Parliament. 

After extensive deliberations, the Council arrived at the following decisions and resolutions:

1)   Regional and Constituency Party executives who wish to contest in the primaries in Constituencies with sitting Members of Parliament shall resign from their respective positions not later than September 20, 2023. All such executives shall tender in their resignation letters to their respective Regional Party Secretariats not later than September 20, 2023. 

2)   Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Constituencies where the Party has sitting Members of Parliament are not eligible to contest in the parliamentary primaries for those Constituencies. 

3)   The Recommendations of the Vetting Committee clearing all the ten Aspiring Presidential Candidates to contest in the primaries were approved by the National Council. The approved candidates are:

a)     Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen

b)     Mr. Kwadwo Poku

c)     Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia

d)     Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko

e)     Kwabena Agyei Agyepong

f)      Kennedy Ohene Agyapong

g)     Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku

h)     Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto 

i)      Joe Ghartey 

j)      Francis Addai-Nimoh

4)     The Special Electoral College scheduled for August 26, 2023, shall be held at each of the 16 Regional Capitals.

5)     Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote, and shall cast his/her vote by secret ballot for only one Candidate.

6)     All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall be given the validated Album for the Special Electoral College at least one month to the date of the Congress (i.e. not later than July 26, 2023).

7)  The Electoral Commission of Ghana shall conduct the Special Electoral College elections.

8)   An Elections Committee has been constituted to supervise the conduct of the Special Electoral College and the National Congress respectively. The Committee is composed as follows:

NAMES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS    
1.     Rt. Rev. Rt. Hon. Prof. Mike Aaron Ocquaye     -Chairman
2.     Mr. Abankwa Yeboah    -Vice Chairman

3.     Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin    -Member

4.     Prof. Emmanuel Flolu    -Member

5.     Mad. Rita Talata Asobayire    -Member

6.     Mr. William Yamoah    -Member/ Secretary

7.     Evans Nimako    -Member

8.     Philip Kwasi Nkrumah (Esq)    -Member
9.     Mad. Afua Gyekyewaa    -Member

9)     The National Council took a serious view of some unhealthy comments and utterances from some aspiring Presidential Candidates and their supporters, which do not auger well for the unity and cohesion of the Party. 

Accordingly, the Council, by this statement, reinforces compliance with the Code of Conduct for Presidential and Parliamentary Elections of the Party. 

Any Aspiring Presidential Candidate, or his supporters, and party executives at all levels who act in contravention of the Code of Conduct, moving forward, shall be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines thereof and the Party Constitution.

10)   For the avoidance of doubt, the relevant portions of the guidelines dealing with the expected standards of conduct include the following:

a) All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall campaign on issues and refrain from levelling unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks and vilifications against their opponents. 

b) No Aspiring Presidential Candidate shall undertake any activity that will polarize the Party along tribal, religious, and other factional lines.

c) All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall impress upon their supporters not to engage in any of the activities stated above.

11)  An Aspiring Presidential Candidate shall sign an undertaking with the party, committing himself to supporting whoever is eventually elected/selected as the party’s Presidential Candidate after the election/selection process in the event that he is not elected/selected. 

He shall also undertake not to contest as an Independent Presidential Candidate or as a Candidate on the ticket of any other political party, and that, the NPP reserves the right to restrain him should he decide otherwise.

12) The photo Album/Register that was used to elect the Constituency Executives between April 22, 2022, and May 2, 2023, shall be the same album that will be made available to the Electoral Commission of Ghana for the conduct of the presidential primaries.

13) Any delegate who appoints a proxy shall apply to the National Secretariat three weeks before the conduct of the presidential primaries. However, persons appointed as proxies must be delegates to the conference.

The Party wishes to reiterate that any Aspiring Presidential Candidate who flouts any of the above guidelines and modalities, or conducts himself in a manner that brings the Party’s name into disrepute shall be deemed to be in breach of the Party Constitution and will, accordingly, be sanctioned including being disqualified from contesting in the Primaries.

Finally, while the Party wishes all its Aspiring Presidential Candidates the best of luck in the primaries, it anticipates that these rules and regulations shall be strictly complied with by all stakeholders, particularly the candidates and their supporters in the supreme interest of the party.
Thanks.

JUSTIN KODUA FRMIPONG
GENERAL SECRETARY

ALSO READ:

• Most MPs supporting Bawumia suffering in constituencies – Former NPP MP
• Sky train project is a scam – Kofi Adams
• Prepare for the worse – Inusah Fuseini to Quayson over govt’s ‘persecution’

According to a statement by the party, the executives are required to resign from their positions by September 20, 2023, to be eligible to contest.

The directive also extends to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in constituencies where the party has sitting MPs. Those MMDCEs, according to the NPP, are not eligible to participate in the parliamentary primaries for those constituencies.

The directive, the NPP explained was borne out of a National Council meeting held on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

“Regional and Constituency Party executives who wish to contest in the primaries in Constituencies with sitting Members of Parliament shall resign from their respective positions not later than September 20, 2023. All such executives shall tender in their resignation letters to their respective Regional Party Secretariats not later than September 20, 2023.

“Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Constituencies where the Party has sitting Members of Parliament are not eligible to contest in the parliamentary primaries for those Constituencies,” the NPP’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, said in a statement issued on July 24.

However, the party warned to deal with presidential aspirants who engage in unhealthy campaigns that will dent the image of the party.

“Any Aspiring Presidential Candidate, or his supporters, and party executives at all levels who act in contravention of the Code of Conduct, moving forward, shall be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines thereof and the Party Constitution. For the avoidance of doubt, the relevant portions of the guidelines dealing with the expected standards of conduct include the following: All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall campaign on issues and refrain from levelling unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks and vilifications against their opponents.”

Read below the full statement issued by NPP:

Our Ref. NPP/HQ/2023/07/24/NC/PR

For Immediate Release

July 24, 2023

DECISIONS OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF THE NEW PATRIOTIC PARTY ON PARLIAMENTARY AND PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES

The National Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), at its meeting held on Thursday, July 20, 2023, considered the guidelines for the conduct of the Party’s presidential, and parliamentary primaries in constituencies where the Party has sitting Members of Parliament.

After extensive deliberations, the Council arrived at the following decisions and resolutions:

1) Regional and Constituency Party executives who wish to contest in the primaries in Constituencies with sitting Members of Parliament shall resign from their respective positions not later than September 20, 2023. All such executives shall tender in their resignation letters to their respective Regional Party Secretariats not later than September 20, 2023.

2) Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Constituencies where the Party has sitting Members of Parliament are not eligible to contest in the parliamentary primaries for those Constituencies.

3) The Recommendations of the Vetting Committee clearing all the ten Aspiring Presidential Candidates to contest in the primaries were approved by the National Council. The approved candidates are:

a) Hon. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen

b) Mr. Kwadwo Poku

c) His Excellency Alhaji Dr.
Mahamudu Bawumia

d) Hon. Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko

e) Mr. Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong

f) Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong

g) Hon. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku

h) Hon. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto

i) Hon. Joe Ghartey (Esq)

j) Hon. Ing. Francis Addai-Nimoh

4) The Special Electoral College scheduled for August 26, 2023, shall be held at each of the 16 Regional Capitals.

5) Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote, and shall cast his/her vote by secret ballot for only one Candidate.

6) All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall be given the validated Album for the Special Electoral College at least one month to the date of the Congress (i.e. not later than July 26, 2023).

7) The Electoral Commission of Ghana shall conduct the Special Electoral College elections.

8) An Elections Committee has been constituted to supervise the conduct of the Special Electoral College and the National Congress respectively. The Committee is composed as follows:

NAMES OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS
1. Rt. Rev. Rt. Hon. Prof. Mike Aaron Ocquaye -Chairman
2. Mr. Abankwa Yeboah -Vice Chairman

3. Hon. Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin -Member

4. Prof. Emmanuel Flolu -Member

5. Mad. Rita Talata Asobayire -Member

6. Mr. William Yamoah -Member/ Secretary

7. Evans Nimako -Member

8. Philip Kwasi Nkrumah (Esq) -Member
9. Mad. Afua Gyekyewaa -Member

9) The National Council took a serious view of some unhealthy comments and utterances from some aspiring Presidential Candidates and their supporters, which do not auger well for the unity and cohesion of the Party.

Accordingly, the Council, by this statement, reinforces compliance with the Code of Conduct for Presidential and Parliamentary Elections of the Party.

Any Aspiring Presidential Candidate, or his supporters, and party executives at all levels who act in contravention of the Code of Conduct, moving forward, shall be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines thereof and the Party Constitution.

10) For the avoidance of doubt, the relevant portions of the guidelines dealing with the expected standards of conduct include the following:

a) All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall campaign on issues and refrain from levelling unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks and vilifications against their opponents.

b) No Aspiring Presidential Candidate shall undertake any activity that will polarize the Party along tribal, religious, and other factional lines.

c) All Aspiring Presidential Candidates shall impress upon their supporters not to engage in any of the activities stated above.

11) An Aspiring Presidential Candidate shall sign an undertaking with the party, committing himself to supporting whoever is eventually elected/selected as the party’s Presidential Candidate after the election/selection process in the event that he is not elected/selected.

He shall also undertake not to contest as an Independent Presidential Candidate or as a Candidate on the ticket of any other political party, and that, the NPP reserves the right to restrain him should he decide otherwise.

12) The photo Album/Register that was used to elect the Constituency Executives between April 22, 2022, and May 2, 2023, shall be the same album that will be made available to the Electoral Commission of Ghana for the conduct of the presidential primaries.

13) Any delegate who appoints a proxy shall apply to the National Secretariat three weeks before the conduct of the presidential primaries. However, persons appointed as proxies must be delegates to the conference.

The Party wishes to reiterate that any Aspiring Presidential Candidate who flouts any of the above guidelines and modalities, or conducts himself in a manner that brings the Party’s name into disrepute shall be deemed to be in breach of the Party Constitution and will, accordingly, be sanctioned including being disqualified from contesting in the Primaries.

Finally, while the Party wishes all its Aspiring Presidential Candidates the best of luck in the primaries, it anticipates that these rules and regulations shall be strictly complied with by all stakeholders, particularly the candidates and their supporters in the supreme interest of the party.
Thanks.

JUSTIN KODUA FRMIPONG
GENERAL SECRETARY
Cc:
National Chairman
DISTRIBUTION LIST
1. Hon. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen
2. Mr. Kwadwo Poku
3. His Excellency Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
4. Hon. Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko
5. Mr. Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong
6. Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong
7. Hon. Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku
8. Hon. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto
9. Hon. Joe Ghartey (Esq)
10. Hon. Ing. Francis Addai-Nimoh
11. Elections Committee
12. All Media Houses

The balloting is to help determine how each aspirant will be positioned on the ballot paper for the party’s super delegates congress slated for August 26, 2023.

In all, 10 people have expressed interest in leading the ruling party in the 2024 general election.

They include Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyepong, former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong and former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Owusu Afriyie Akoto

The rest are: Economist, Kofi Konadu Apraku, former Attorney General and Minister for Railways Development, Joe Ghartey, former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko, Energy expert, Kojo Poku and former MP for Mampong, Francis Addai-Nimoh.

NPP Director of Elections, Evans Nimako, revealed this in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Friday.

He indicated that, the Electoral Commission (EC) will supervise the balloting process to ensure it’s free and fair.

Mr Nimako added that, all the aspirants will be given the album for the special delegates congress to help them in their campaign.

“All the aspirants will be given the album on Monday because we want to ensure the process is free, fair and transparent,” he assured.

According to him, the nomination forms fees are meant for the organisation of the congress.

“Parties like NPP and NDC should not meet one venue to vote. The world is advancing that’s why there are sub-divisions like constituencies. On two occasions we have voted for flagbearers on the constituency level.

“How can some people say that delegates from far and near should convene at a particular place to vote for a flagbearer? When picking and submitting the forms you pay a fee, it is the responsibility of the party to use that money for the congress. So you can’t tell the aspirant to use his own money,” he said on Accra-based Neat FM.

His comments come after nine out of 10 of NPP’s presidential aspirants, except for Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, have said holding the Special Delegates Congress at the national level will save the party cost.

However, the former Deputy General Secretary indicated the move will not help the party.

The National Executive Committee of the governing NPP is expected to finalise the delegates list by this weekend, July 21 ahead of the congress in August.

The primary role of the delegates is to trim the number of presidential aspirants to five ahead of the November Congress to elect a presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.

According to the NPP, the names of the qualified aspirants will be published by July 21 followed by balloting on July 24, 2023.

The first notice of the poll will be July 25. If the qualified candidates exceed five, a special electoral college will be held on August 26, 2023, to reduce the number to five.

The first balloting of the final five qualified candidates will take place on August 28 with the final notice of poll on August 31, and the national congress will elect a flagbearer on November 4. In the event of a run-off, it will be held on November 11, 2023.

ALSO READ:

• Apraku calls for strict probe into records of NPP’s aspirants

• NPP finalising list for Special Delegates Congress

• NPP MP blasts colleagues over aspiring flagbearers

According to him, this will help the party elect a candidate who has the track record to turn things around.

“If you are a messiah, and you can’t heal your home, what kind of messiah are you? I think this is completely acceptable. This is politics. We are competing. Politics is a competition of ideas. Your ideas against my ideas, your vision against my vision. And in that interrogation, everything should be open. But when we are looking at our records, obviously, if you want to govern this country and you have been involved in anything that comes close to governing the country, we have the right to assess how well you have handled it,” he said on Accra-based Citi TV.

The former Offinso Member of Parliament (MP) urged party delegates to select someone who possesses the magic wand to rebuild Ghana.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the governing party is finalising the list of individuals to participate in the Special Delegates Conference on August 26, 2023.

The primary role of the delegates is to trim the number of presidential aspirants to five ahead of the November Congress to elect a presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.

According to the NPP, the names of the qualified aspirants will be published by July 21 followed by balloting on July 24, 2023.

The first notice of the poll will be July 25. If the qualified candidates exceed five, a special electoral college will be held on August 26, 2023, to reduce the number to five.

The first balloting of the final five qualified candidates will take place on August 28 with the final notice of poll on August 31, and the national congress will elect a flagbearer on November 4. In the event of a run-off, it will be held on November 11, 2023.

ALSO READ:

• NPP finalising list for Special Delegates Congress

• NPP MP blasts colleagues over aspiring flagbearers

• Majority Chief Whip defends absence of NPP colleagues, chastises NDC MPs for boycotting sitting

According to him, Dr Bawumia happens to be an establishment candidate in the race because he has a lot of NPP bigwigs and government appointees’ endorsements.

“That is not what I said. I never said that we’ve ganged up against anyone, it’s unnecessary. I was asked if there was an establishment candidate, meaning a candidate the Jubilee House and everyone supports, and I replied in the affirmative, that indeed that candidate was Vice President Bawumia.

“I was further asked in case there was a runoff will other candidates including myself come together to back the candidate contesting the establishment candidate. Remember when we talk about a run-off, only two aspirants contest, the establishment candidate and the non-establishment candidate? I explained that we have no such conversations,” he said on Kumasi-based Hello FM.

The former Energy Minister stated all the aspirants have good relationships despite being competitors.

“All the aspirants have known each other for years and we are striving for the betterment of the party. I said there was a possibility that all the eight aspirants will support the non-establishment candidate,” he added.

Former Trade Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen and Dr Bawumia are the top two favourites in NPP’s presidential race.

Boakye Kyerematen Agyarko, Kwabena Agyei Agyapon, Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Dr Owusu Akoto Afriyie, Joe Ghartey, Kwadwo Poku, and Francis Addai-Nimoh are the rest.

All 10 aspirants of the governing party have been vetted and cleared to contest in its presidential primary.

However, a Special Delegates Congress will be held on August 26, 2023, to prune the number to five before the National Congress on November 4, 2023.

ALSO READ:

• NPP flagbearer race: Bawumia is super competent – Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

• NPP flagbearer race: Super delegates will decide who wins -Allotey Jacobs

• NPP must brace up for post flagbearer race conflicts – Prof. Kobby Mensah