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According to him, former officials of the Akufo-Addo administration, including former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, will not escape investigations.

The comment from General Mosquito, as he is popularly known, came in response to the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) declaration that Mr. Ofori-Atta is wanted and a fugitive.

In a video circulating on social media, Mr. Nketiah vowed that the NDC government will go to any length to bring former President Akufo-Addo’s cousin to face the law.

“Wherever Ken Ofori-Atta is hiding, we will find him by all means. He must avail himself for questioning on multiple cases. All former officials implicated in corruption will be compelled to face the law,” he asserted.

He emphasized that the government will enforce strict accountability measures, even within its own ranks, to ensure nobody escapes justice if found guilty of corruption.

“We will tighten the noose on accountability, and even elements within this government who engage in corrupt activities will not go scot-free,” he added.

Meanwhile, as a starting point for the Mahama-led administration, the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee has compiled complaints of 2,417 suspected corruption cases, which are currently being scrutinised by the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, for investigation and possible prosecution.

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In a Facebook video that has gone viral, the renowned preacher stated that God had shown him the numerous battles Asiedu Nketia had fought for the NDC, which, according to him, makes him the next presidential candidate spiritually.

“The sitting president should be careful and not live the life the other people lived. He should never forget those who stood for him, including leaders.

“When you look at the current government right now and look into the spiritual account, there is one who made Mahama become a flagbearer. It is one man who made sure power would be given to him. He decided to make him lead, and that is the Chairman of their party,” he stated.

Bishop Owusu further revealed that he had already foreseen this in a prophecy he made months ago.

“In November or October, I prophesied. I saw that when Mahama leaves, I saw in the realms that he will be the next flagbearer of their party. I saw the mantle with him. If John Dramani Mahama understands gratitude, honour, and loyalty, he must make sure the chairman, who has used all his life to sacrifice for the party, is given the mantle decided in heaven,” he stated.

He continued, “I prophesied. Last year, I saw that Asiedu Nketia will one day become president. The Lord told me to look at his hands and the battles he has fought. I said, wow! The video is there. If we are not careful, they will sabotage and forget him, and it might affect the party. The NDC party will start breaking just like the NPP.”

Nonetheless, Bishop Owusu’s prophecy has since generated widespread debate and Asiedu Nketia, a veteran politician and former General Secretary of the NDC, is yet to respond to the prophecy.

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Speaking at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving (Muslim Prayers) on Friday, January 10, Mr Nketia acknowledged the community’s commitment to ensuring that the December 7, 2024, general elections were centered on integrity, honesty, and competence rather than religious affiliations.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining Ghana’s secular state, as enshrined in the Constitution, where all citizens are treated equally, regardless of religion, language, or cultural background.

“There were attempts in the early part of the campaigning to make the election look like we were going to vote for people who are aligned with our religion. I think at some rallies I did indicate that that will be a very dangerous precedent for the country.

“The Constitution has established the state of Ghana to be a secular state, and so the responsibility of the leadership of the country is to create conditions where each and every citizen will be able to practice their faith, will be given equal treatment, will be given the opportunity to take advantage of anything that the state of Ghana can offer without looking at their religion, their language, or the dressing they put on,” he said.

Mr Nketia praised the Muslim community for embracing the message of unity and equality, highlighting how their support contributed to the election of a leader, President John Dramani Mahama, who is committed to fostering equity and fairness for all citizens.

“We are here today because we have elected a president whom we trust to create conditions of equity and fairness for every citizen to practice their religion, to create conditions of equity so that every citizen of this country can take advantage of all opportunities that the country can offer,” Mr Nketia said.

The NDC Chairman also acknowledged the prayers and support received from the Zongo communities during the campaign period, attributing the peaceful nature of the elections and the party’s success to divine intervention.

“We thank you for the prayers that were offered to us in all the Zongo communities we visited. We know that Allah heard your prayers and chose President John Dramani Mahama for us, and that is why we have come here to thank you,” he said.

Mr Nketia reiterated the importance of Ghana’s democracy and its ability to endure challenges, affirming that the nation is on a path toward greater unity and inclusivity.

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According to him, such a committee should be established in the future and should be backed by law, with the mandate to carefully identify and honour deserving citizens who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.

He said, “I want to suggest to the people of Ghana that it is high time we establish a proper committee, backed by law, that will determine who should receive a national award.”

Mr Nketia made these comments following the state awards ceremony held yesterday in Accra, under the auspices of the outgoing President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

He argued that many of the individuals honoured by the President did not deserve the recognition. He criticised Nana Akufo-Addo for awarding his cronies without considering their contributions to the nation’s development.

For him, one of the awardees, the outgoing Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Hawa Koomson, was undeserving of the honour.

He questioned, “Why would anyone with a properly functioning mind award someone like Hawa Koomson, who was involved in shooting and killing Ghanaians during the election?”

He also expressed dissatisfaction over the individuals honoured by the president, stating, “We have begun conferring state honours on looters and murderers. What are we doing? We are teaching the youth that, after all, there is nothing wrong with looting state coffers, that there is nothing wrong with shooting and killing your fellow Ghanaians,” he claimed.

Mr Nketia believes that with the establishment of a committee to oversee the awards, those who truly deserve recognition would be honoured, rather than following the current approach of the president.

He was speaking at this year’s 31st revolution anniversary of the NDC, held in Accra on Tuesday, December 31.

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The Chairman claimed that several of the nation’s troubles in recent years, including the post-election violence in 2020, which resulted in the loss of lives, corrupt practices by some government officials, and other misdeeds, were orchestrated by the outgoing president.

He argued that, the state honours awarded to many top officials in the president’s government demonstrated that the president supports the numerous wrongs that have occurred in the country.

“We have begun conferring state honours on looters and murderers. What are we doing? We are teaching the youth that, after all, there is nothing wrong with looting state coffers, that after all, there is nothing wrong with shooting and killing your fellow Ghanaians. If anyone had any doubt about the mastermind behind all the killings and looting over the past eight years, I believe the award ceremony that took place yesterday has cleared all doubts. All the wrongdoings committed by Nana Akufo-Addo’s appointees were actually endorsed by the big man himself,” he alleged.

Mr Nketia made these remarks at the NDC’s 43rd anniversary of the 31st December Revolution in Accra on Tuesday, December 31.

According to him, state awards should be given to individuals who have played significant roles in a nation’s building and development, not to individuals of questionable character such as the former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East and outgoing Fisheries Minister, Hawa Koomson.

The outgoing MP, Hawa Koomson, was allegedly involved in the shooting and killing of constituents in Kasoa during the 2020 general election. She has since faced public criticism for her actions throughout her political career. She was also accused of carrying out similar violent acts in the just-ended 2024 election.

“Why would anyone with a properly functioning mind award someone like Hawa Koomson, who was involved in shooting and killing Ghanaians during the elections?” Asiedu Nketia said.

He emphasized, “State awards are serious matters and should be reserved for people of distinction – people who have fought for a good cause. If we are awarding state honours to vigilante groups, then that is the message we are sending to the youth: that it is acceptable to pick up weapons and shoot at people, that it is acceptable to loot state coffers when given the opportunity to serve as a minister.”

Speaking during the 43rd-anniversary celebration of the 31st December Revolution, Asiedu Nketiah raised concerns about the credibility of the awards, claiming that some individuals did not merit the honors they received.

He also questioned the transparency of the selection criteria, arguing that it undermines the prestige and significance of the awards.

The NDC Chairman called for the introduction of legislation to regulate the organization and conferral of National and State Awards.

He emphasized the need for a transparent, fair, and merit-based system to uphold the integrity of such recognitions.

“State awards are serious matters. They must be reserved for individuals of distinction—people who have fought for a good cause. If we confer state honors on vigilante boys and girls, then we are teaching the youth that it is acceptable to pick up weapons and harm others. That it is acceptable to loot state coffers as a minister,” he stated.

Mr. Nketia proposed the establishment of a legally-backed committee to oversee the selection process for national awards.

“It is time we set up a proper committee, supported by law, to determine who truly deserves a national award,” he concluded.

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At a press conference today, Friday, December 13, the outgoing Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, called on the NDC leadership to immediately rein in their supporters suspected of causing chaos at collation centres, stating that their actions were detrimental to democracy.

Addressing the media, Mr. Asiedu Nketia criticized the Member of Parliament following reports of the invasion of state institutions and, in some instances, the looting of state assets allegedly carried out by young supporters of the incoming NDC administration.

“I heard my junior brother Afenyo-Markin, who, having rejected the position of Minority Leader, is now on his way to becoming a micro Minority Leader. He is bragging that he belongs to a party of the rule of law and all that,” he said.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia went on to say, “We in the National Democratic Congress don’t need lectures from Afenyo-Markin about democracy at all. Indeed, if there were any lectures on impunity, we would invite him as our lecturer.”

He added that, the Member of Parliament should focus on addressing the challenges within his party.

Additionally, Mr. Asiedu Nketia warned that all acts of violence would be thoroughly investigated and pledged to ensure that the electoral system is sanitized once the NDC takes office.

“And so, anybody who is thinking about abusing these three weeks, abusing power during these three weeks to create any problems, must know that there will be consequences for them after the takeover,” he cautioned.

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Speaking after John Dramani Mahama was officially declared President-elect, Asiedu Nketia stressed the need for focused planning and dedication to addressing Ghana’s challenges.

“Let me advise that we should be modest in our celebrations,” he said. “I can almost feel the weight of responsibility on our shoulders. Ghanaians have given us this mandate to accomplish the task of national reconciliation. Nobody should have to remind us of the enormity of this responsibility. We cannot afford to disappoint them.”

He emphasized that the NDC’s victory was not solely for the party but for the millions of Ghanaians who had placed their trust in its ability to steer the nation toward recovery and prosperity.

“This is a pivotal moment for our nation. The people have entrusted us with their hopes and aspirations, and it is our duty to honor that trust by working diligently to rescue Ghana,” Asiedu Nketia said.

He called on the NDC’s leadership and supporters to move from celebration to preparation for governance. “In the coming weeks, let us curtail our celebrations and begin planning seriously how to rescue our dear country. This is not a moment for complacency but for action,” he stressed.

The Chairman urged the party to unite around its shared mission of rebuilding the nation, emphasizing the importance of humility, diligence, and accountability in governance.

“The task ahead requires us to be focused and resolute. Ghanaians have suffered enough, and we owe it to them to restore their faith in leadership. We have a lot to do, but together, we can make Ghana great and strong,” he concluded.

Asiedu Nketia’s remarks come at a time of heightened expectations for the incoming NDC government to deliver on its promises and lead the country toward economic recovery and national reconciliation.

General Mosquito as he is popularly known said the NDC is poised to return to office with a solid majority in Parliament.

Mr Nketia was speaking at the NDC’s final rally held at Zurak Park in Madina of the Greater Accra Region.

“We are not going to fall for the tricks of ‘skirt and blouse’ voting. The NDC will return to office with a strong majority in Parliament,” he declared.

General Mosquito further assured party supporters that they would soon gather again for an even larger celebration of their victory.

“We will meet again at a bigger event than this to celebrate our victory,” he said.

The NDC National Chairman also highlighted the importance of the NDC’s ‘Resetting Agenda’ which aims to ensure the proper functioning of national institutions.

“The resetting agenda is very important and will make our institutions function effectively,” General Mosquito added.

Speaking at the NDC’s final rally held at Zurak Park in Madina, Asiedu Nketia called on party members to stay resolute and united as they cast their ballots.

He stressed the importance of voting decisively for both the NDC presidential and parliamentary candidates, dismissing any attempts to split the vote.

“I want to urge you: all of a sudden, the NPP has found a reason to campaign for John Mahama and our parliamentary candidate. Tell them we have seen through all their tricks. President Mahama is going back into office with a solid majority in Parliament. We are not going to fall for the tricks of the skirt and blouse people. We are voting for President Mahama and our parliamentary candidates. I have worked with the 276 parliamentary candidates of this party across the country, and I am convinced we are returning to office with a very strong majority in Parliament,” he stated.

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The Second Deputy Majority Whip, Alex Tetteh Djornobuah, made the claim, asserting that the NDC leadership has repeatedly interfered in parliamentary business.

“I disagree with the National Chairman of the NDC. If you recall, about two or three weeks ago, what happened in Parliament was not the fault of the Members of Parliament.

“It was due to the control of the [NDC] National Chairman because we have witnessed this on several occasions when we are trying to conduct business in Parliament,” he said in an interview on Accra-based Citi FM.

The Sefwi Akontombra MP made these comments in response to a directive from Asiedu Nketia, popularly known as General Mosquito, instructing NDC MPs not to return to Parliament if a recall is issued.

Asiedu Nketia had alleged that such sessions would only serve corrupt interests, casting doubt on the motives behind the recall of Parliament.

In reaction, Mr. Djornobuah described the NDC Chairman’s statement as harmful to the legislative process and urged that it should not be tolerated.

“If the NDC National Chairman, who claims they are the next alternative to govern the country, is putting out such statements, I don’t think Ghanaians should accept this.

“We have a responsibility to work for Ghanaians, and if the Speaker, in his wisdom, recalls Members of Parliament to transact business for the nation, we on the Majority side will show up,” he affirmed.

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This follows Asiedu Nketia’s directive to the party’s Members of Parliament(MPs) to boycott any emergency parliamentary recall.

Addressing supporters in the Western Region on Saturday, November 16, General Mosquito as he is popularly known claimed that with the 2024 general elections approaching, the majority caucus lacks legitimate reasons for reconvening Parliament and is pursuing questionable objectives.

“Let no NDC MP step foot in Parliament. If they like, they can go and burn the sea. There’s no work in Parliament that can be described as an emergency. This is just an avenue for them to continue the rampant corruption they’ve engaged in for the past eight years,” he said.

In response to this, Mr Awuku, who is also the Director General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem described the comment as very worrying coming from a party chairman.

“How did we get here? If God forbid, the NDC wins power and the NPP has the majority of MPs in Parliament, what will his reaction be?” If your party wins power and the NPP is in the majority, how do you expect them to treat you?” he asked.

In his view, such remarks could hinder the working relationship between parties.

He added that while they may disagree with the decision of the court, it’s important to respect and accept it.

Mr Awuku stressed that disrupting the business of Parliament could have long-term negative consequences for the country and the political environment.

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In a widely circulated video clip, the NDC Chairman is allegedly heard saying that, if the party returns to power, they would cancel the Free SHS policy.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia, however, claims that the video has been altered to distort the party’s message.

The statement is said to have been made at the Ahafo Ano North Constituency in the Ashanti Region.

The original video, captured by media touring with the NDC, reportedly shows the Chairman actually praising the policy.

However, Mr. Asiedu Nketia clarified that the next NDC government would abolish the double-track system and improve the feeding program for beneficiaries.

In response to the doctored video at a rally in Agogo, the NDC Chairman alleged that the NPP is attempting to tarnish his campaign in the Ashanti Region.

The NDC Chairman insists that the party’s campaign team remains unshaken by these tactics from their opponents.

He asserts that the NDC’s prospects in the region continue to grow.

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He dismissed the idea of abstaining from the elections due to unfulfilled promises, particularly by the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Addressing residents of Akwasease in the Ahafo Ano North Constituency, Ashanti Region, on Tuesday, November 5, Asiedu Nketia underscored that refraining from voting weakens democracy and reduces opportunities for real change.

He urged the community to stay optimistic and highlighted the importance of holding leaders accountable through active engagement in the December elections.

“I’m baffled when I hear people say they won’t vote because a government failed to fulfill its promises. While it’s true some promises weren’t met, that shouldn’t deter you from voting.

“If you want accountability, abstaining isn’t the solution. Leaders know they hold power because of your votes, and they recognize you can withdraw that support. Choosing not to vote only strengthens their position.

“Now is the time to come together as one people and vote them out. Their governance has been poor,” he said.

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“Those of you who keep saying you were born into the NPP so you cannot vote against them must have a re-think because the party has proven over the years that they don’t value your loyalty,” Mr. Nketia said at Afrancho near Akomadan in the Offinso North District.

The National Chairman who was addressing the people of Afrancho as part of his three-day retail campaign in the region, said the essence of elections was to vote for parties to bring development to citizens.

“It is time to depart from voting for a tradition that has left you impoverished and your communities underdeveloped in the last eight years when you have a choice that is people-centered and development-oriented in the NDC,” he noted.

He said it defied logic to see most development projects in communities in the Ashanti Region executed by the NDC, yet the people still kept faith with the NPP.

“Since they know you will remain loyal to them even if they don’t develop your communities, they will continue to take you for granted,” the NDC National Chairman maintained.

Unlike the NDC which is known for even distribution of national resources irrespective of which region votes for them, the NPP believes the Ashanti Region is secured no matter how poor they perform, he told the gathering.

He urged the people to demand projects that would impact the lives of the entire population and resist the money-sharing strategy that they always adopt to woo voters during elections.

“Those monies they share during the election are just a fraction of what they have squandered at the expense of developing your communities,” Mr. Nketia alleged.

According to him, despite the NDC playing second fiddle to the NPP in the region, they could boast of monumental projects transforming lives across the region, stressing that voters in Ashanti had a perfect chance to restore the party responsible for those projects in December.

He said the region must vote out the NPP for the party to take them seriously after years of neglect and abuse of their loyalty to the party.

The first day of Mr. Nketia’s campaign tour took him to eight communities in four constituencies, including Offinso North, Offinso South, Afigya Kwabre North and Afigya Kwabre South.

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“Any person involved in the killing of Wulochamey will not walk freely under the NDC administration unless he flees from the country. We will investigate, arrest and make sure the person is prosecuted for his soul to rest well,” he said.

Mr Nketiah was speaking at mini rallies at Banda Boase and Bui in the Banda Constituency in the Bono Region, as part of his seven-day campaign tour of the region.

“Wulochamey cannot die just like a dog. We will bring the perpetrator to book,” he said.

This has been necessitated by a scheduled emergency meeting with the NDC parliamentary caucus in Accra in the wake of the brouhaha surrounding the declaration of four seats vacant.

Before the suspension, Mr Asiedu Nketia and his team were making strides in the Bono region with a seven-day community campaign tour.

The tour aimed to secure more votes for the NDC in the upcoming presidential and parliamentary polls.

The key stops included Dormaa West and Dormaa Central constituencies, he visited chiefs and residents in hard-to-reach areas, listening to their concerns and promoting NDC’s vision.

He proceeded to Wenchi Municipal and Banda district and so far over 15 communities benefited from his visit, with plans to reach six communities in each of the 12 districts in the Bono region.

This move demonstrates Asiedu Nketia’s commitment to strategic planning and collaboration within the party.

He has expressed optimism about the NDC’s prospects in the Bono Region, predicting more parliamentary seats in the 2024 elections.

The campaign tour will resume upon the conclusion of the meeting, focusing on NDC’s key manifesto promises and local concerns.

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Asiedu Nketia’s campaign tour kicked off in Dormaa West and Dormaa Central, where he visited chiefs and residents in hard-to-reach areas.

This grassroots approach allows the NDC to understand the unique challenges faced by each community, ensuring targeted solutions when they come into power.

Asiedu Nketia emphasised the importance of connecting with voters directly, saying, they need to go deep down into the communities to know the people’s actual challenges.

He said this strategy demonstrates NDC’s commitment to community-centric governance, he said the campaign tour is crucial for NDC’s bid to win the December polls.

Some of the six communities visited in the two constituencies Dormaa West and Dormaa Central include Krakrom, Kojokumikrom, Kojomokrom, Kakrakrom, Atesikrom, Nsesreso, and Asunsu number one.

He attributed the nation’s current challenges to government mismanagement of the economy.

He urged the people to vote for NDC to tackle pressing issues like cocoa pricing and bad roads that hinder market access.

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He called on supporters and members of the party, and the electorate to come out in their numbers on December 7, and vote for the NDC to win the elections overwhelmingly.

Mr Nketia said every single vote is valuable for the NDC in securing victory in the Presidential and Parliamentary elections, and asked the party to remain vigilant at the polling stations too.

The NDC National Chairman made the call when he addressed separate political rallies at Kwadwomokrom, Kojokumikrom and Krakrom in the Dormaa West constituency, as part of his campaign tour to the Bono Region.

Describing the economic hardship in the country now as unbearable, Mr Nketia advised the electorate “to make their voices heard through the power of the ballot box”.

The incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) for Dormaa West Constituency and the NDC’s Parliamentary Candidate, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, said the NDC governments always prioritised the development of rural communities.

He said Dormaa West was among the districts in the country that benefited much from NDC administrations and called on the electorate to vote for the party when they go to polls.

On his part, the Abakomahene (sub-chief) of Kojokumikrom, Nana Kwadwo Yeboah, said the NDC had been at the forefront of the development of the area.

He expressed hope that the party would regain political power to facilitate the progressive development of the area.

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He alleged that, the governing party is sponsoring independent candidates to achieve this feat to make governance difficult for John Mahama should he win the election.

He said this while addressing a rally at Sovie in the Kpando Constituency of the Volta Region.

Mr Nketia advised the electorates not to condone the plot of any parliamentary candidate who would want to ride on the name of John Mahama to achieve their political goals by preaching ‘skirt and blouse’ voting.

“NPP is financing those who are doing that, they want to create a lame duck Presidency for President John Dramani Mahama, so that when he becomes President [again], and parliament is captured by another party, then he cannot work”, he stressed.

Mr Nketia entreated the electorates to request parliamentary candidates who are advocating for ‘skirt and blouse’ voting to fully commit to the NDC before they would listen and assimilate their messages.

“Tell those who are using President Mahama’s name and NDC’s name that if they want people to vote for President Mahama, we have enough T-shirts available, they should come and pick some and wear them for their house to house before they campaign for President Mahama.

“You cannot be in an elephant T-shirt and then claim that you are campaigning for Mahama. Mahama does not like elephants”, Mr Nketia clarified.

He explained that, the NDC would not work with parliamentarians who do not belong to the umbrella fraternity when it wins power.

Mr Nketia on the second day of his campaign tour of the Volta region visited the Afadzato South, Kpando, North, and South Dayi districts.

The Volta Regional NDC Chairman, Mawutor Agbavitor implored the electorates to vote for John Mahama to end the suffering of Ghanaians.

He said the implementation of Free Primary Health Care and 24-hour economy policies among others are engineered to make life easier for the citizenry.

“I remember my mother used her textiles as collateral to secure a loan to finance my education. John Mahama says that won’t happen under his administration. So, he aims to provide funding to secure admission for every qualified tertiary student. In the second year, you will be given loans to continue and complete your tertiary education. After completion, you will work under the 24-hour economy to pay back the loan”, he stressed.

The Kpando Constituency NDC Parliamentary candidate, Sebastian Deh called for unity towards securing victory in the upcoming general elections.

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The tour, themed “Resetting Ghana: Jobs, Accountability, Prosperity,” is part of the NDC’s intensified nationwide retail campaign aimed at securing victory for the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and the parliamentary candidates in the upcoming December elections.

Beginning in the Hohoe Constituency, Asiedu Nketia’s campaign will focus on energizing the NDC’s grassroots supporters, attracting undecided voters, and rallying broad support for the party’s transformational agenda.

Throughout the tour, Mr. Asiedu Nketia will engage with various groups, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, fishermen, traders, market women, okada riders, and the youth, to strengthen the NDC’s base in the region.

On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, he will visit Afadzato South, Kpando, North Dayi, and South Dayi Constituencies.

The tour will continue to Ketu North, Ketu South, Anlo, and South Tongu Constituencies on Friday, October 11.

The campaign tour will conclude on Saturday, October 12, with visits to Ho Central, Agotime-Ziope, Akatsi South, and Central Tongu Constituencies, where Asiedu Nketia will wrap up his four-day effort to consolidate support in the Volta Region.

According to him, efforts must be made to combat elements that could escalate into war.

Addressing protestors in Accra at the party’s “Enough is Enough” demonstrations at the Electoral Commission, Mr Aseidu Nketia argued that inaction could lead to a worsening situation, and urged all Ghanaians to take a stand to prevent it.

The protests, held on September 17, 2024, involved thousands of NDC members and supporters across all 16 regions of Ghana.

Their main demand is for the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a forensic audit of the voters register ahead of the 2024 elections, which the EC has rejected as unnecessary.

Many others have called the protests as premature because the EC is engaged in cleaning the register after the mandatory public exhibition.

Mr Aseidu Nketia however, warned that if their demands are not met, more protests will follow, targeting district and constituency offices of the EC.

“Today is just the beginning. If you think that after the demonstration, everybody will go to sleep, you are joking,” he added.

He also criticised those who claim to support peace but ignore perceived wrongdoing, stating that such actions contribute to the brewing of conflict.

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In a video that has surfaced on social media, Mr Asiedu Nketiah is seen addressing a crowd at an NDC event in the Central Region, where he criticised the locals for not translating their support into votes for the party.

Mr Asiedu Nketia pointed out that, despite the NDC frequently selecting its flagbearer or running mate from the Central Region, the region has not delivered strong electoral support to the party.

He underscored that the people of the Central Region hold a special place in the NDC, yet their voting patterns have not consistently reflected this affiliation.

He reminded the audience that the NDC has always included candidates from the Central Region on its presidential tickets, highlighting the party’s commitment to representing and valuing the region.

“In our first election, we chose someone (K.N. Arkaah) from the Central Region as our running mate. In our second election, we selected Prof. Mills as our running mate, and in our third election, Prof. Mills became our flagbearer. In our fourth and fifth elections, Prof. Mills was our flagbearer. He won and became President.”

“When he died, John Mahama took over and selected someone (P.K. Amissah-Arthur) from the Central Region to be Vice President. After Amissah-Arthur, today, we have Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang from the Central Region as our running mate and soon-to-be Vice President,” said the former Deputy Minister for Agriculture during the Rawlings regime.”

“So, you have a lot of valuable assets, but you are discarding them. Why are you throwing out your intestines and replacing them with rubbish? There are regions in Ghana where the flagbearer of a party comes from, and ever since, the people of those regions have consistently voted for that party. But you, the people of the Central Region, who helped form the NDC, in all eight elections held in this Fourth Republic, there has not been one in which a person from the Central Region wasn’t a flagbearer or running mate. Yet, during elections, you vote against the NDC. Think about this carefully. If you don’t make it to Heaven, don’t blame Jesus.”

Source: Ernest K. Arhinful

He claimed that, the real culprits behind illegal mining activities are being protected while only the laborers are being arrested.

“Those they arrest are not the real galamseyers. The leaders or ministers who hold concessions are not being arrested, and that is a disservice to the laborers” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Friday.

He accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of failing Ghanaians on galamsey.

“The NPP government has failed Ghanaians on galamsey as they are all part of it. Their record is not good.”

In his view, the problem should not be confused with legitimate mining, which, if done responsibly, can benefit citizens sustainably.

“Natural resources are meant to support citizens responsibly and sustainably. Even South Africa started mining years ago but has not had any problems because they are using legitimate means to mine” he said.

He the NDC chairman therefore slammed the government’s approach, arguing that banning mining entirely is not the solution.

“The government’s role in managing the system is poor. Banning it completely is not the way to go but ensuring that natural resources are exploited in a responsible manner” he said.

Mr. Nketia added that if the NDC comes to power, former President John Mahama has promised that no appointee will be given a license for galamsey, or else the fight will be in vain.

His comments follow a national security meeting aimed at assessing the impact of galamsey on river bodies and the environment. Organised Labour has warned the government of a nationwide strike by the end of September if decisive action is not taken.

Other groups, including religious leaders, have expressed similar concerns.

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In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Nketia said such a comment should not come from a Minister.

“I am shocked that the Interior Ministry would politicize any crime. It should not come from the mouth of the Interior Minister. If the Interior Minister claims the suspect is NDC, why not focus on the crime instead of concentrating on party colors? he questioned.

Mr. Nketia’s comments come in response to Ibrahim Mohammed, who threatened to shoot and harm public officials in a viral video.

The police launched a manhunt for Mohammed after the video, where he, identifying himself as “Commander Kanawu Revolution Leader,” threatened key figures, including the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, and the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey. Mohammed accused the IGP and the Interior Minister of orchestrating false recruitment into the police force in the Ashanti Region to manipulate the upcoming elections.

But the NDC National Chairman said his party does not have any association with the individual nor does it know anyone like that in the party.

“I don’t know anyone like that in the party. We don’t have any association like that in the party. The fact that someone is NDC doesn’t give them the right to misbehave or to neglect proper conduct. I am so embarrassed that the Interior Minister would say that the person is an NDC member and is disgracing the NDC. Is that the work you are called to do?” he said.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he questioned the EC’s credibility and their approach to resolving the issue.

“How can you expect Mahama to advise us on this matter when he is leading the demonstration? Do you think Mahama washes his face from down to up? Have you ever heard a thief admit to being a thief? Do you expect them to accept our plea unless external factors come in? he questioned.

He accused the EC of failing to resolve the issue.

“Their actions simply mean they lack integrity. They are courting unnecessary mistrust from the public. There is no sitting down to resolve this issue; we only need an independent consultant” he noted.

Mr. Nketia’s reaction follows the EC’s reply to the NDC’s concerns about the credibility of the 2024 voters’ register.

The EC emphasized that, street demonstrations are not a solution and has repeatedly asked the NDC to provide data on the alleged discrepancies, which the party has yet to supply.

The Commission stressed that dialogue, rather than protests, is crucial for establishing a credible and robust voters’ register and has called on John Mahama to encourage his party to engage in discussions with the EC.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Friday, he slammed the involvement of individuals with past affiliations to the NPP in the EC.

“We only need a neutral person. Asare Bossman was NPP before he joined the Commission, and there are others too” he claimed.

Mr. Nketia expressed frustration over what he perceives as a lack of transparency adding that the issue is not just about the data but also about understanding how there leakages.

“If there is a leakage in a bottle and you haven’t asked a third person to check it, what happens? We all need to see for ourselves. We need a consultant to check the integrity of the register. The current consultants are all NPP people and, therefore, cannot operate EC machines effectively.

The NDC has also called for an independent audit of the voter register, citing alleged irregularities. However, the EC has rejected this demand.

But the former general scribe, expressed concern that the system might be compromised and stressed the need for clarity.

“The EC is ignoring the fact that the system is robust. What we are saying is based on the robustness of the system. It’s not about who conducts the investigation but understanding the source of the leakage.”

In response to ongoing issues, the NDC has announced a nationwide demonstration, dubbed the ‘mother of all demonstrations,’ scheduled for September 17, 2024.

This protest will span all 16 regional capitals across Ghana. Speaking after filing the nomination of the NDC’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, at the EC headquarters on September 9, 2024.

On the 17th of this month, the NDC will embark on a massive nationwide demonstration.

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Johnson Asiedu Nketia remarked while addressing NDC supporters during a campaign tour with the parliamentary candidate, Phyllis Naa Koryoo Okunor at the Kasoa market.

General Mosquito said that Parliament is for people who have the interests of their constituents at heart and can push for their wellbeing, not for people quick to fire gunshots.

According to him, this is the trait of Naa Koryoo and urged constituents to massively vote for her and NDC flagbearer John Mahama on December 7.

Mr Nketia vowed that, the NDC in this election is poised to snatch the seat from the NPP, encourage Naa Koryoo not to lose hope in the face of adversities.

Drawing inspiration from late South African President Nelson Mandela’s jail term, the NDC Chairman said just as he[Mandela] became great after his arrest, so will Naa Koryoo be.

“Mandela was imprisoned and his detractors thought that was his end but it made him better and stronger so is the story of Naa Koryoo.

“If Hawa Koomson need the blessing would be Naa Koryoo’s blessing, she wouldn’t have done that. For the person firing the shots, she will be sent for peacekeeping in Afghanistan but Naa Koryoo will go to parliament to serve the interest of Kasoa,” he said amidst loud cheers from the crowd.

Meanwhile, Naa Koryoo cautioned Ghanaians not to make a mistake and vote for NPP again as it will lead to the collapse of the economy.

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The party’s concerns arose during the recent voter exhibition exercise, where they discovered several irregularities in the register.

Following a meeting with the EC to address these issues, the NDC requested a forensic audit of the register, which was denied.

After submitting presidential nomination forms for John Mahama, NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia told the media about the planned nationwide protest.

On September 17, protesters will march to regional EC offices in all 16 regional capitals, while national executives will present a formal petition at the EC’s headquarters in Accra.

Asiedu Nketia stated, “On September 17, the NDC will hold a massive nationwide demonstration in all 16 regional capitals, where we will target electoral commission officers. In Accra, we will deliver a formal petition to the headquarters, urging the EC to conduct itself in a manner that ensures a peaceful, free, and fair election.”

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The submission took place on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Electoral Commission’s office.

During the filing, Mr. Nketia remarked, “We have brought with us a duly completed nomination form, and I commend you for making the forms available online so we didn’t have to come here physically to pick them up.”

The nomination forms, completed in quadruplicate as required by law, were submitted along with all necessary documents, including a tax clearance certificate and a declaration from the audit service in compliance with Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution.

He also presented a banker’s draft covering the filing fees, along with the required photographs of the correct size, as stipulated in the forms.

Mr. Nketia also provided details of Mr. Mahama’s running mate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, stating, “We are hopeful that she is going to be the first female vice president of the Republic of Ghana.”

Additionally, he submitted banker’s drafts covering the filing fees for all 276 NDC parliamentary candidates nationwide.

“We trust that your district offices will be notified so they don’t request additional payments from our candidates. At this point, we are pleased to submit these documents for your review and look forward to a declaration that our candidate has fully complied with the requirements,” he added.

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Addressing voters in Akyem Adukrom in Abuakwa South on Monday, September 2, as part of his “retail campaign” tour of the Eastern Region, Asiedu Nketia highlighted the various forms of attacks and intimidation the NDC has endured during and after elections in the area in previous polls, describing these actions as undemocratic and contrary to the legacy of J.B. Danquah, a key figure in Ghana’s multi-party democracy.

He cited specific incidents, including the burning of the NDC constituency office in Kyebi in 1996 and the assault on party agents during elections.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia questioned the commitment to democratic principles in J.B. Danquah’s hometown, suggesting that the multi-party democracy Danquah championed is not being upheld.

He vowed that the NDC would no longer accept intimidation in the constituency and warned that the party would take all necessary measures to protect its interests.

The NDC Chairman also disputed the notion that Abuakwa South is a stronghold of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), pointing out that both the NDC and the Convention People’s Party (CPP) have won the seat before.

Earlier, at Begoro Zongo in the Fanteakwa North constituency, Mr. Asiedu Nketia criticized the Ministry for Inner Cities and Zongo Development, along with the Zongo Development Fund, labeling them as deceptive initiatives aimed at misleading Zongo communities.

Source: Kofi Siaw

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According to him, many Ghanaians, including disillusioned NPP stalwarts, now regret their decision to support the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration, citing the government’s mismanagement of the country’s resources, which has resulted in widespread economic hardship.

Speaking at the Kukurantumi Chiefs’ Palace in the Abuakwa North Constituency, Asiedu Nketia highlighted a division within the NPP, with many members seemingly prepared to vote against their own flagbearer.

He also emphasized that while the NPP’s actions have caused significant damage to the country, not all its members are to blame.

Asiedu Nketiah stated, “They are all blaming the NPP for the current woes in the country. They also know that not everybody in the NPP is causing the woes.

“It is just a few of them who have made themselves mafias and they have plunged the country into these woes and have overturned everything in our democracy.

“So, the NPP supporters are yearning for change more than us. I believe going into this election, if we are not careful, the NPP supporters who will vote for John Mahama will be more than those of us in the NDC. The NPP has effectively split into three factions.”

According to the party’s Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, this initiative is aimed at ensuring that consumers receive accurate quantities of goods, and farmers /sellers receive fair compensation.

Speaking in Ayensuano, Eastern Region, he explained that such a system is already in place in neighbouring countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso, where it has helped prevent cheating between farmers and traders.

Under this plan, if former President Mahama takes office in 2025, weighing scales will be provided to markets across the country to ensure accurate measurements and corresponding market prices.

He said this move is not intended as a price control mechanism but rather to promote fairness in trade.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia has been campaigning for the NDC in the Eastern region since Monday.

Source: Edwin Kofi Siaw

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According to him, the next NDC government will not spare such individuals whose aim is to help the NPP to subvert the will of the electorates, who he claims have decided to vote them out.

His outburst, he said follows the killing of some eight persons who protested the bad conduct of the Electoral Commission in the 2020 election.

Mr Asiedu Nketia issued the warning at Amanase in the Ayensuano constituency as part of his campaign tour of the Eastern region.

“On the day of reckoning, the government that encouraged to open fire on the people would have left power and left you alone to face the consequences. Police and military commanders who give orders to open fire on the people, you will not go scot-free, because crime has no expiry date,” he warned.

He threatened the next NDC government has all the facts and records about the security officers who participated in the killing of the eight people in 2020 and vowed to deal with them.

“Today, some of them have benefited from that act and have been promoted as ministers and still threatening to repeat what they did in the last elections. Tell them they are joking, everything you do, know that first fool is not a fool,” he stated.

Source: Edwin Kofi Siaw  

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According to him, those claiming the alternative is scary are persons who have looted from the public purse and wish to escape accountability.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the lead-up to the December, 7 elections has cautioned voters against the consequences of electing a previously failed government.

Mostly on social media, anytime the NDC was mentioned as a replacement for the ruling party, its members would comment “The alternative is scary”.

However, addressing teeming NDC supporters at Somanya in the Eastern region, Asiedu Nketia subtly admitted to offering a scary alternative for persons who perpetuate crime against the state.

“When you hear the NPP always shouting the alternative is scary, tell them that indeed the alternative is scary for persons who have stolen the taxpayers’ money, tell them it is scary for those who dug the biggest hole in the whole world, tell them it is scary for all the people who have set up the Agyapadie empire and stealing for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren,” he said.

The National Chairman has been campaigning in parts of the Eastern region for the party and its flagbearer, John Mahama ahead of the December, 7 elections.

As part of the tour, General Mosquito as he is affectionately called boasted about the performance of the NDC in government against that of the NPP.

He believes the NDC has the plight of the people at heart than the NPP.

Source: Edwin Kofi Siaw

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National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia was speaking at a campaign rally at Agormanya in the Lower Manya Krobo Constituency of the Eastern Region.

He expressed the party’s frustration over the lack of implementation of recommendations from the committee that investigated the 2020 electoral violence which left eight people dead.

Asiedu Nketia stressed that justice must be served for the victims of the past election violence before any discussions of peace can take place.

“We cannot in good conscience sign a peace pact when those responsible for the deaths and injuries during the last election have not been held accountable,” he stated. He emphasized that signing a peace pact without addressing past wrongs would undermine the value of human life and set a dangerous precedent.

“Peace cannot be built on impunity,” Asiedu Nketia continued. “We owe it to the victims and their families to ensure justice is served. Until then, the NDC will not be part of any peace pact that overlooks the need for accountability.”

The NDC’s position comes in response to appeals from the Peace Council, urging political parties to commit to a peaceful electoral process.

However, the NDC insists that without concrete actions to address past violence, signing peace pacts remains an empty gesture.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

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He has therefore urged voters to accept the money, which he claims has been hidden in their homes, but prioritize long-term development over immediate monetary gains by voting against these officials.

Speaking at Adambrombe in the Akuapem South constituency of the Eastern Region during the launch of a nationwide campaign for the NDC and its flagbearer, John Mahama, Mr Asiedu Nketia urged voters to accept money from political parties when offered.

However, he stressed that voters should ultimately make their decisions based on what is best for the country’s development.

“If they give you 5 cedis, 10 cedis, to vote for them, take the money because it is stolen money they’ve kept in their rooms. If they deposit it in the bank or send it abroad, they would be exposed, so they keep it at home to influence voters. Spend the money because it’s rightfully yours. If they use the money to buy things for you, accept the gifts.”

Mr Nketia compared it to a thief stealing your money, and then giving you back a portion and asking you to do his bidding, threatening that if you do not comply, the gods will punish you.

He encouraged the people that taking the money and not voting for them would not harm them in any way.

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According to him, the policy as espoused by the NDC and its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama seeks to increase job opportunities and extend working hours for businesses, industries, and institutions to operate around the clock.

The NPP has, however, criticized the policy, challenging the NDC on its implementation strategy.

But speaking at Pokrom in the Akuapem South constituency of the Eastern region as part of his nationwide campaign to garner votes for the NDC, Mr. Asiedu Nketia said members of the NPP have deliberately refused to understand the 24-hour economy policy.

He stated that, if NPP members want to understand the 24-hour economy policy, they should consult the Education Minister to explain to them how he was able to implement the shift system for the SHS students.

“Let’s ask the NPP about this thing called shift system that they introduced for our kids in SHS. If you could run a shift system with our kids, why do you have a problem if we want to run a shift with adults through the 24-hour economy implementation?

“What is your problem if we want to implement a program where some workers will go on morning, afternoon and evening duties?” he quizzed.

Speaking to the teeming NDC crowd, the party chairman explained that, the 24-hour economy policy will drastically reduce the unemployment rate in the country.

“The policy is such that three people can now run shift intervals of eight hours each within a 24-hour period for the same job. What is the difficulty in understanding this. Even a class one pupil wouldn’t struggle to understand it,” he stated.

Source: Edwin Kofi Siaw  

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According to him, the NDC left a strong and sound economy but it has been destroyed and collapsed for the past seven years.

General Mosquito as he is popularly known recollected that pensioners for the first time had to picket at the Ministry of Finance against the government.

Amidst the hardship, Mr Asiedu stated that, the government has rather taken interest in burdening Ghanaians with more taxes.

He added corruption, nepotism and impunity has weakened independent state institutions’.

Source: Adomonline.com

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Asiedu Nketia had earlier declared the NDC would not sign any peace agreement, expressing scepticism about its effectiveness.

But Rev Opuni-Frimpong, who is the Executive Director, of Alliance for Christian Advocacy Africa, has appealed to Mr Nketia to commit to the declaration, emphasising it is part of democratic process.

“We plead with the chairman of the NDC, our big father Asiedu Nketia that we need democrats to practice democracy. We as a country we are saying as part of our democratic culture we commit to acceptance of election results, and we commit to using legal and acceptable processes in making correction.

“We will not mobilise people to the streets that is the essence of the peace pact, and we must all commit to it,” he stated in an interview on Accra-based Citi FM.

This appeal comes in the wake of intensified calls for the NDC to reconsider its stance and assurance by the National Peace Council to address their concerns.

Amidst the calls, General Mosquito as he is popularly known has set out six conditions under which the NDC will sign the peace pact.

At a meeting with the Peace Council on Tuesday, he requested that the President, the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief Justice, the National Security Coordinator, and the Attorney General must all sign the pact.

Additionally, he demanded that the recommendations from the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence investigation are fully implemented.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia also called for the prosecution of those responsible for violence during the 2020 elections and other associated irregularities.

Source: Adomonline.com

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Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia, while speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Thursday, August 15, expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of such agreements, citing past experiences.

He suggested that the NDC will not commit to the signing of the pact this year.

“Signing a peace declaration doesn’t mean anything to the party, as previous pacts have not yielded any real results,” Asiedu Nketia stated.

The National Peace Council has since taken note of the NDC’s concerns and has pledged to engage the party to address them, while the governing party has condemned the party.

Speaking at a media encounter in the Volta Regional capital, Ho, on Friday, August 16, Mr Mahama clarified that the party has not officially taken a decision not to sign the pact.

“I read the statement made by our Chairman [Asiedu Nketia] this morning and even though it is not a decision that we have sat and taken, I can understand the position that he’s coming from.”

“He’s [Asiedu Nketia] talking about justice and saying that we should not glorify just signing a peace pact without acting to make sure that peace exists. Because when we sign a peace pact and people gun down eight of our compatriots and nobody cares, no investigation, and no compensation is paid, then what was the use of signing the peace pact? So, I can understand where he’s coming from, but of course, we haven’t sat and taken a definite decision on that.

The former President noted that it was high time the relevant stakeholders focused more on the right building blocks required for peace to be achieved, rather than merely signing a peace pact.

“I do think that those who normally clamour about signing peace pacts, getting us to go to Movenpick Hotel, serve small chops and drinks and then we think that just by signing that paper everything is going to be okay, he’s just telling them that everything will not be okay unless we go farther than just the signature on the peace pact. So I think that’s the message he’s sending” he noted.

Source: Myjoyonline

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According to him, in conflict resolution processes, not everything is addressed in the public space.

He argued that certain things are best handled behind closed doors.

“We don’t think that it is only and always has to be what somebody might wish. If we feel that a public addressing of the issue is the most useful at the time, we will. If we feel that other means might be more effective we can employ that as well.

“But it doesn’t mean that because something hasn’t been heard publicly, the bishops are silent. We don’t have any interest in anything apart from the peace and the justice that must prevail in our country.

• “We don’t have any interest in being quiet over it. We engage and engage it as actively as we can,” he made this assurance on Joy FM’s Newsnight on August 15.

Rev Quaicoe’s comments follow Mr Asiedu Nketia’s declaration that the party will not be signing any peace declaration as the country approaches the upcoming election.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on August 15, he expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of such agreements, citing experiences.

“Signing a peace declaration doesn’t mean anything to the party, as previous pacts have not yielded any real results,” Asiedu Nketia stated.

But Rev Quaicoe assured that the conference was working behind closed doors, adding that there was no need for doubt.

Also, the National Peace Council pledged to continue direct engagement with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to address the party’s concerns ahead of the upcoming elections.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, August 15, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Johnson Asiedu Nketia alleged that Mr Quartey made the offer to silence NDC legislators who were opposing the recruitment of about 10,000 party foot soldiers into the police force.

Asiedu Nketia, popularly known as General Mosquito, expressed grave concerns about the implications of such actions for peace in the upcoming election, stating that it does not bode well for peace for the Interior Minister to be clandestinely engaging in such activities.

But Mr Quartey has denied these allegations.

He admits that he had informed his other colleagues that the various portals for recruitment into security services were open, so they should inform their constituents to procure the forms before the general announcements.

The Interior Minister said that by this action, he had no intention of bribing opposition MPs.

He insists that, it was a way of extending a goodwill gesture and that he had not asked them to submit lists of constituents as alleged by General Mosquito.

“Of course, MPs have got constituents who may have also bought forms. Is it wrong to say that if there are forms, they should go through the same process?

“I am not saying that bring me files so I can put you there. So this statement, first of all, let me say categorically that I did not bribe any Member of Parliament,” he said on JoyNew’s The Pulse with Kojo Brace on Thursday.

Additionally, Mr Quartey said he mentioned it at a closed-door meeting with legislators, and the intent was not to bribe any of them for whatever reason.

“I have not bribed any Member of Parliament by offering them two –two and all that.”

The Interior Minister stated that the security service was a neutral institution, and so he cannot risk the peace and security that the country enjoys by filling these institutions with party foot soldiers.

“We don’t have political police, political soldiers, and political fire. Why do I say so? I have always made this statement and asked them [security agencies] to come and speak to it, which they have not done,” he added.

He therefore asked that Mr Nketia’s statement be disregarded.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Asiedu Nketia explained that the NDC’s stance is based on the principle of not debating someone who lacks credibility.

“If you have watched me throughout my political life, there are two people I don’t debate. My guiding principles are two: Don’t debate an idiot and don’t debate a liar. So, any of these two who tempt me for any debate, I ignore them,” he stated.

He further clarified his position by saying, “I am not saying the two must fit one person, but when you look at the two categorisations, you see that he [Dr. Bawumia] is a liar. That is something nobody can contest. I’m not too sure whether he’s an idiot, but at least I’m sure he’s a liar.”

Asiedu Nketia, affectionately known as General Mosquito, revealed that despite Mahama’s interest in debates, the party’s leadership has advised against engaging with Bawumia due to his perceived lack of credibility.

“In my capacity as the national chairman, I have made it very clear to our flagbearer that we are not going to engage in a debate with a liar,” he disclosed.

Dr. Bawumia, the NPP flagbearer, recently challenged Mahama to a live presidential debate, asserting that Mahama is “running away” from the opportunity.

“I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country, on governance,” Bawumia said.

However, Asiedu Nketia dismissed this challenge, citing Bawumia’s previous unfulfilled promises.

“It has been said by ancient sages that you should never debate a liar because they believe in their lies, so you can’t win a debate against a liar. So don’t waste your time going into it,” he responded.

He criticised Bawumia’s recent promises, including a proposal to provide mobile phones to every Ghanaian youth, calling it unrealistic.

“He’s assuming that all of us are fools. Calculate how long it will take to pay for one mobile phone. When you are born today and you buy a mobile phone, you will grow up and die when you haven’t finished payment. Is that the type of person you are going to engage with in a debate?” he questioned.

Asiedu Nketia also highlighted that, in his view, debating Bawumia would be futile because “80% of what he said in previous campaigns has not happened despite winning political power.”

He added, “It tells you that he either assumes that Ghanaians are not intelligent, so you can just tell us anything and you can get away with it. We are not going to be part of that… he should go and debate his own records and what he has said in the past.”

The NDC Chairman concluded by stating that while he rates Nana Akufo-Addo higher than Bawumia in terms of credibility, he believes that Bawumia has “messed up his credibility totally.”

He used a vivid metaphor to describe the situation: “If you have a pig in mud, don’t go and be fighting that pig. It will draw you into the mud, and the two of you will mess yourselves up.

“And when somebody is coming out, he won’t know who is the pig and who is the human being. So don’t go in; allow him to swim in his own mud.”

Source: Myjoyonline

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, the former MP, popularly known as General Mosquito, said the NDC is employing a range of strategies to secure a clear win without the need for a runoff.

“I strongly believe that the NDC is going to win hands down,” Asiedu Nketia stated, dismissing the notion that a change in candidates after a sitting president’s two-term tenure necessarily leads to a runoff.

He noted that the likelihood of a runoff is heavily influenced by the performance of the sitting president, rather than being an automatic consequence of a party change.

“We are looking at a one-touch victory, and it has a lot to do with the performance of the sitting president as well. It’s not just a straightforward thing that when there is a change of party, there is a runoff. It depends more on the performance of the sitting president, how well he has performed, or otherwise,” he explained.

While Asiedu Nketia acknowledged that the perceived underperformance of the Akufo-Addo government would play a significant role in the NDC’s campaign, he noted that it would not be the sole factor.

“The strength of our message of giving hope to a hopeless situation will also impact the campaign. And I think that all put together, we are likely to have a one-touch election victory,” he stated.

He further stated that merely relying on the government’s perceived failures is not enough as the NDC’s message and how it resonates with voters will be crucial.

Asiedu Nketia pointed out that the economic and social conditions in Ghana have deteriorated since President Akufo-Addo took office, and that Ghanaians themselves can see the difference compared to 2016.

“Nobody will answer that question for you. I don’t think it lies in the mouth of NDC alone to tell any Ghanaian that we are far worse off as a country now compared to what used to be the situation,” he said, adding that the situation speaks for itself.

Despite his confidence, Asiedu Nketia urged NDC supporters to remain vigilant and not become complacent.

“All the indications are that this government has failed, but the failure of that government alone cannot put us into power. Let us now bring a better, stronger message and sell it properly to the electorate. Make sure that when they deliver their intentions through voting, we are able to protect the votes until we are declared winners,” he advised.

Reflecting on his earlier warning against complacency, General Mosquito expressed satisfaction with the party’s current efforts.

He noted the increased vibrancy of the youth wing and the active involvement of former appointees and other party members in the campaign.

“Our youth wing has risen up, and they are very vibrant on the campaign scene. All our former appointees and others have come on board the campaign, and each of them is doing what it takes for us to win the elections,” he concluded.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

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Speaking on JoyNews, Asiedu Nketia stated that throughout his political career, he has adhered to a simple rule: “Don’t debate an idiot or a liar.”

He explained that engaging in debates with such individuals is a “worthless exercise” and not worth his time or energy.

In his remarks, Asiedu Nketia specifically mentioned that he would not debate Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia or Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as Napo.

Additionally, he pointed out that these individuals, in his view, do not meet the standards necessary for a productive debate.

“It’s a worthless exercise, and we will not waste our time debating Bawumia or Napo. If you have watched me throughout my political career, there are two people I don’t debate… They can insult me and I won’t mind them. My guiding principles, are two; don’t debate an idiot and don’t debate a liar, so any of these two who tempt me for any debate I ignore them.”

“I am not saying the two must fit one person, but when you look at the two categorizations, you will see that he is a liar, that one is something no one can contest. I am not too sure he is an idiot, but at least I am sure he is a liar,” Asiedu Nketia stated, referring to Dr. Bawumia on Joy News.

Watch the video below: 

Presidential debate: Dr. @MBawumia is a liar, and @JDMahama won’t debate him. – Asiedu Nketiah#ElectionHQ pic.twitter.com/zSwZiPedG5

— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) August 14, 2024

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of such agreements, citing experiences.

“Signing a peace declaration doesn’t mean anything to the party, as previous pacts have not yielded any real results,” Asiedu Nketia stated.

He stated that preventing violence requires proactive measures rather than symbolic gestures.

“If you allow violence to brew, it will happen whether you sign a declaration or not. That’s why, more than a year ago, I started talking about the need to remove the building blocks for a violent election,” he explained.

He further criticised the focus on signing peace agreements after tensions have already escalated, urging authorities to address the root causes of potential violence before it spirals out of control.

“At any stage when something is happening, I call on those who, in the future, will call us to sign a declaration to speak up and stop it from happening.

“Otherwise, if you let these issues build up and then say, ‘Let’s play a peace football match, sign a declaration, and hope for a peaceful election,’ it won’t work. We did all this and more in 2020,” he said.

Mr Asiedu Nketia, affectionately known as General Mosquito, pointed out that despite the involvement of bodies like the Council of State and the Peace Council in previous peace declarations, the 2020 election was still marred by violence.

“Signing or not signing is not the issue. What we need to address are the building blocks that lead to violence,” he insisted.

He also highlighted concerns about the illegal recruitment of about 10,000 individuals into the security services, warning that this could be a brewing source of unrest.

“It’s brewing now,” he added.

In the 2020 election, the NDC protested the results, describing them as “flawed” and alleging that state security forces were used to intimidate voters in their strongholds.

The National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF) reported that five lives were lost during the 2020 general elections, with 61 recorded cases of electoral and post-electoral violence across the country, including six incidents involving gunshots.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he alleged that Henry Quartey made the offer to silence NDC legislators who were opposing the recruitment of about 10,000 party foot soldiers into the police force.

Asiedu Nketia aka General Mosquito expressed grave concerns about the implications of such actions for peace in the upcoming election, stating that it does not bode well for peace to note that the Interior Minister is clandestinely engaging in such activities.

He called on bodies like the National Peace Council and the Catholic Bishops Conference to address this issue publicly, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.

General Mosquito further explained that the Interior Minister had attempted to recruit these individuals into the security services but faced resistance.

“At some point, the Interior Minister himself went to Parliament to try to, like, bribe our MPs and say, ‘Look, bring two persons each from your constituency, and let’s add them so that you allow me to do it.’ Our MPs rejected it flatly,” he alleged on Wednesday.

Mr Asiedu Nketia revealed that he had followed up on the matter, advising NDC MPs not to accept the offer.

“I said, don’t give them even one person because if you add one person, they recruit 10,000,” he stated.

He further claimed that the Interior Minister made the offer privately to the Minority leadership, but the NDC firmly opposed it.

“We made it clear that any NDC member who falls for that will face challenges in their constituency because what is wrong is wrong. If there is an opportunity for recruitment into the security services, it must follow the proper procedure, ensuring equal opportunity for all qualified Ghanaians,” he asserted.

Mr Asiedu Nketia also mentioned that the NDC has petitioned the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) regarding this matter.

Despite this, he alleged that government is proceeding with the recruitment process under the guise of following the law.

When pressed for evidence, Mr Asiedu Nketia stated that there are letters addressed to party candidates, noting that even candidates who lost their primaries were excluded from the recruitment process.

He added that the NDC has published these letters as part of their petition to CHRAJ.

“There is no denial of these facts, and we are insisting that if they believe in the rule of law, they should withdraw those advertisements and wait for CHRAJ to make a determination,” he concluded.