Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Afenyo-Markin said the initial allegations against former Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister, Mavis Hawa Koomson, had been proven false following official investigations.

“The Ministry of Interior and the Police have so far been objective in their investigations and report. The allegation was that Hawa Koomson committed a crime, and it has turned out that is not true,” he stated.

While refraining from offering public advice to his party colleague, Afenyo-Markin said any concerns he had would be raised through the proper political channels.

“I won’t make my advice for her or what she must do public. I will raise my concerns about the matter to the party structures at the right forum,” he added.

The Effutu MP also emphasized the importance of fairness and candor in all investigations involving state officials or political figures. “Ideally, the Police or a Minister of State investigating a matter must be fair and candid, but it sometimes happens that we don’t do that,” he noted, calling for restraint and respect for due process.

Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka recently revealed that the sitting Awutu Senya East MP, Phillis Naa Koryoo, had denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 general elections, contradicting earlier reports that had fueled tensions in the constituency.

However, Naa Koryoo clarified that she did not deny the occurrence of attacks but rather called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation by the task force probing the incidents.

She recounted feeling threatened during the election period, highlighting the tense atmosphere and emotional strain on her and her campaign team.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Akosua Manu said the recent report by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mubarak, has vindicated Hawa Koomson, as investigations revealed that Naa Koryoo’s convoy was never attacked as previously claimed.

“I appreciated the fact that the interior minister is experienced and honest, but I can’t deny that it is the party’s promise to investigate election violence, which is why he took action. Hawa Koomson is one of those people whose public image does not reflect who she truly is. She is not what the public has painted her to be, and the incident where she pulled out a gun cast her in a negative light. It was an unfair representation of her. I was saddened when I read her statement on the issue because she was defamed based on a lie,” she said.

She praised the Interior Minister for his honesty in presenting the findings but stressed that truth and accountability must prevail, regardless of political affiliation.

“So, what happens now with Koryoo? She has not denied any of the allegations until the report came out. No one should be shielded from wrongdoing, even in Parliament or when their party is in power. When the incident occurred, no one was willing to listen to Hawa Koomson. There should be consequences for the lies that Koryoo told; she should not get away with it,” she added.

According to the Interior Minister, investigations found no evidence that Naa Koryoo’s convoy was attacked during the 2024 elections, contrary to her earlier claims that her team was shot at by persons linked to Hawa Koomson.

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The party executives claim that Naa Koryoo falsely accused Hawa Koomson of attacking her convoy and causing the deaths of two party members — allegations that have since been disproved.

Addressing a press conference, the NPP’s Deputy Central Regional Secretary, Charles Kojo Odoom, said the claims were deliberately intended to tarnish the reputation of the former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.

“Then Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak clarified that Naa Koryoo later retracted her allegations, admitting that her convoy had not been attacked and that she was not at the alleged scene,” Odoom said.

He urged the IGP to take action against Naa Koryoo for misleading the public and called on her to issue an unqualified apology to Hawa Koomson.

Supporting the call, Awutu Senya East NPP Constituency Secretary, Michael Addy, said Naa Koryoo’s conduct had embarrassed the people of Kasoa.

“She has disgraced the good people of Kasoa. She should do the honourable thing and apologise,” Addy stressed, accusing her of using populist tactics for attention rather than focusing on development issues.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Hawa Koomson said, “Everyone has seen that I was not the one who did what Naa Koryoo claimed. I am sad and very happy at the same time, because today, I have been vindicated.”

She further thanked God and the authorities involved, noting, “I thank God for what He has done. That wicked mind that Naa Koryoo had against me, just because of politics, is now exposed. I am happy today that her bad intentions are out in the open. I also thank the Minister for not hiding the truth because of politics, but coming out and revealing the facts to vindicate me, and the people who conducted the investigation.”

Her comments follow a briefing by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mubarak, who confirmed that investigations by the Election Security Task Force found no evidence that Philis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, the current MP for Awutu Senya East’s convoy was attacked.

The Minister clarified that Naa Koryoo was not present at the scene of the incident that led to the death of Yusif Larri Idriss, who was reportedly shot during a confrontation involving occupants of a Mahindra pickup truck.

Kasoa has long been regarded as a political hotspot, with both the 2020 and 2024 general elections witnessing clashes between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

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I never knew Naa Koryoo had a Mahindra in Kasoa –

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Hawa Koomson revealed that her mother called her in tears upon hearing that the allegations were false, reminding her of the values with which she was raised.

 “My mother cried when she called me. She told me she gave birth to me, knows me well, and nurtured me. I always pray to God to keep us out of trouble,” Hawa Koomson said.

She described the political tensions with Naa Koryoo as dangerous and deeply personal, alleging that her son was targeted.

“I always tell God that no one should meet a politician like Naa Koryoo. In 2020, because I was vigilant, things went well. But just because I decided not to speak, this woman came at me. She even stabbed my son and tried to kill him. I don’t even know what my son and I did to her,” she said.

Hawa Koomson added, “She was able to instigate her people, and they all hated me and my son. If not for God, my son, who is 33 years old, would have been dead. She is around the same age as my son and wanted to take his life. Will your mother be happy if someone tries to kill her child?”

She noted that the truth is finally coming to light, and those who supported Naa Koryoo are beginning to see her true nature.

“Even now, her own people are starting to fight her as they are realizing what kind of woman she is. But God has been so good — I have been vindicated,” Hawa Koomson said.

Her comments follow a briefing by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mubarak, who confirmed that investigations by the Election Security Task Force found no evidence that Naa Koryoo’s convoy was attacked.

She clarified that Naa Koryoo, now the MP for Awutu Senya East, was not present at the scene of the incident that led to the death of Yusif Larri Idriss, who was reportedly shot during a confrontation involving occupants of a Mahindra pickup truck.

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Naa Koryoo wanted to disgrace and kill me – Hawa Koomson…

Naa Koryoo yet to apologise over alleged convoy attack – Hawa…

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Madam Koomson expressed disappointment over what she described as a consistent campaign of falsehoods against her by Naa Koryoo, whom she considered like a younger sister.

“This woman, if she ventures into acting, it won’t be good at all because the way she acts and lies is unbelievable,” she said. “I was shocked when I saw a video of her lying about me during an interview. I wonder why someone can lie like that just to make people see me as a bad human being.”

According to her, the lies have affected how people perceive her, but she remains thankful that the truth is beginning to emerge.

“Everywhere I go, people think I’m a very bad person because of what has been said about me. Some people even have the courage to tell me that I’m such a nice person but that others keep destroying my name. Even Nana Yaa Jantuah once told me the same thing — that I’m a good person but people have painted me black,” she said.

She added that although she initially chose to ignore Naa Koryoo’s attacks out of respect, she later realized that the lies were damaging her image.

“I saw Naa Koryoo as a small sister or even a daughter, so I decided not to pay attention to her rants. But I didn’t know she was using that time to destroy me. I thank God that today I have been vindicated,” Hawa Koomson stated.

Her comments follow revelations by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka Mohammed, in Parliament that Naa Koryoo denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 elections — contradicting earlier reports that suggested otherwise.

Hawa Koomson, who lost the 2024 parliamentary contest to Naa Koryoo, said she believes the truth is now unfolding.

“The truth is gradually coming out, and everyone can now see what really happened,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry has confirmed that investigations into the Awutu Senya East election violence are ongoing, with the driver of the Mahindra vehicle already traced as part of efforts to establish the full facts of the case.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, the former Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture alleged that from the moment Naa Koryoo entered politics in Kasoa, she resorted to lies and propaganda as a strategy to win public sympathy and eventually the parliamentary seat.

“From day one, Naa Koryoo came to Kasoa and started fabricating lies because she was taught that if she went that route, she would win the Awutu Senya East seat — and she succeeded,” Hawa Koomson stated.

She added that her refusal to follow such tactics made her a target for malicious attacks and false accusations.

“I made up my mind not to tow her line. I don’t know how to lie because I was not brought up that way. But someone trained to fabricate lies to make them appear true — that’s exactly what she did in 2020,” she explained.

Hawa Koomson claimed the political rivalry escalated during the 2020 elections when she was falsely accused of bringing armed men into the constituency.

“I was accused of bringing armed men into the constituency. It took only God’s intervention; that’s why I was not arrested or prosecuted,” she said.

The former MP also alleged that during the Ablekuma North re-run, Naa Koryoo’s husband led a group that attacked her, leaving her narrowly escaping a stabbing incident.

“Naa Koryoo wanted to disgrace me and wanted me dead. Her husband led people to come and attack me and almost stabbed me during the Ablekuma North re-run. I would have been in prison by now, and I am grateful to God for His intervention,” she recounted.

Her comments follow Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka’s recent revelation in Parliament that Naa Koryoo had denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 general elections — contradicting earlier reports that had fueled tensions in the constituency.

Hawa Koomson maintained that the truth is now emerging, expressing gratitude for what she believes is divine vindication after years of public vilification.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the former MP explained that she only learned her successor, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, owned a Mahindra after reports suggested the vehicle was used to transport weapons during the incident that left one person dead.

“Until my son was stabbed and they packed weapons in a Mahindra to a polling station, I never knew Naa Koryoo had a Mahindra in Kasoa because we don’t use the same route,” she said.

Hawa Koomson stressed that on the day of the alleged shooting, she was nowhere near the location of the attack and did not drive the black car her opponents claimed was involved.

“The area she claims the incident happened, I was nowhere near there. They said a black car was used, but that day I didn’t drive a black car. My friend brought a white Range Rover, and that’s what I sat in with my bodyguard,” she explained.

The former Minister for Special Development Initiatives added that she never crossed into the other side of Kasoa where the violence reportedly occurred.

“On election day, I didn’t cross to the other side of Kasoa — Walantu and its environs — so I didn’t even see any Mahindra,” she noted.

Hawa Koomson emphasized her transparent relationship with the Kasoa Police Command, saying she always informs them of her movements.

“The Kasoa Police are my friends. I don’t go anywhere they are without announcing my presence. And that day, they didn’t see me where the incident happened,” she stated.

Her remarks follow the disclosure by Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka in Parliament that Naa Koryoo denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 elections — contradicting earlier claims made by the NDC parliamentary candidate.

Hawa Koomson, who lost the 2024 parliamentary contest to Naa Koryoo, said she believes the truth is gradually unfolding.

“God works in mysterious ways. When the Ablekuma North incident happened, I said God will fight my battles for me,” she added.

The Interior Ministry has confirmed that investigations into the Awutu Senya East election violence are ongoing, with the driver of the Mahindra already traced as part of efforts to establish the full facts of the case.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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The Interior Minister’s report, presented to Parliament, concluded that the violence during the 2024 elections in Kasoa resulted from institutional failures and security lapses, rather than the actions of any individual.

The report also confirmed that Philis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, the current MP for Awutu Senya East, denied that her convoy was attacked and stated she was not present at the scene.

Reacting to the report on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Hawa Koomson said: “For years, I endured harsh and unfair attacks. I was branded violent, reckless, and unfit for office through misleading headlines. The Interior Minister’s findings have vindicated me.”

Madam Koomson described the controversy as one of the most painful episodes of her political career, recalling how the false accusations damaged her reputation. She cited a separate incident in which she was assaulted while monitoring polling stations in Ablekuma North, noting it highlighted the dangers of misinformation.

The former minister expressed sympathy for families affected by electoral violence and called for the full implementation of the report’s recommendations. These include compensation for victims, improved police training, the use of non-lethal crowd control measures, and a halt to military involvement in election operations.

She also urged politicians, institutions, and the media to act responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation. “This moment calls not for blame but for introspection, justice, and unity. May this truth restore faith in our institutions and strengthen our democracy,” she added.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the former MP said she has never had any personal interaction with Naa Koryoo, apart from a brief encounter during a pre-election programme in the constituency.

“She hasn’t called me to apologise after the Interior Minister’s disclosure. Personally, I have never spoken to her until TV3 organised a programme in the constituency ahead of the election. I have not spoken with her since she came to Kasoa for so many years,” Hawa Koomson stated.

The former MP disclosed that some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have privately admitted that the earlier claims of an attack were false and politically motivated.

“Some NDC members have called me because they knew what she said were all lies,” she noted.

Hawa Koomson expressed confidence that the full truth about the 2024 election violence in Kasoa will continue to emerge.

“God has done what He will do, and I believe there is a lot more to come,” she said.

Her comments follow the briefing by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mubarak, who confirmed that investigations by the Election Security Task Force found no evidence that Naa Koryoo’s convoy was attacked.

The Minister clarified that Naa Koryoo was not at the scene of the incident that led to the death of Yusif Larri Idriss, who was reportedly shot during a confrontation involving occupants of a Mahindra pickup truck.

The Kasoa constituency has long been considered a political hotspot, with both the 2020 and 2024 general elections witnessing incidents of violence and clashes between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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The few fights they ever won were not with male counterparts. Such boys grew up to be incurable wife beaters and may have chosen Ablekuma to extend their negative skills. But housewives were smarter those days.

Whenever a heated argument started with the big man, they inched towards the kitchen, which doubled as their armory: saucepans, ladles, bread knives, and forks.

The deadliest ammunition was the pestle, whose extra duties beyond pounding remained confidential.

How many husbands ever admit having been chased away with pestles on returning home late? It was, however, admitted that a little brawl between wife and husband was often the tonic desired to bait a delayed lastborn.

Three decades into the 4th Republic, when democracies are blooming all over, Ghana’s polling stations have become battlegrounds, and a decision by the EC to re-run Ablekuma was also a signal to re-run for cover. No wonder our peaceful country has slipped from 2nd to the 4th position in the regional peace index.

The signs were clear long ago when any news of a legislator’s death triggered more panic than grief: the fear of a by-election where men of muscle from various corners converged in one constituency.

Chances for peace are greater where the widow herself decides to contest, to speed up her own recovery by wiping her tears with votes.

In situations of strange re-runs like July 11, where polling stations in question jumped overnight from three to 19, and there were no sobbing widows on the ballot, it was a declaration of war.

This is made worse if an incumbent government vows, by any possible means, to ‘beat the eight,’ ‘cheat the eight’ or ‘end the eight.’

No wonder the choice of a party flagbearer these days has become a search for tough, ‘macho’ contestants who can mobilize warriors at short notice to snatch ballot papers or chew and swallow pink sheets.

We started veering off long ago when a little violence became the norm in re-runs and by-elections. But our past sins put us to shame. Consider this sample of constituencies and the outcome of by-elections.

Chereponi 2009, badge of shame: one death, homes and properties burnt, civil strife; Akwatia 2009, badge of boo: military deployment, several injuries, one death; Atiwa 2010, citation of contempt: stones and bottles hurled, parliamentary candidate attacked, security intervention; 2019 Ayawaso West Wuogon, certificate of boo: national security operatives in masks, heavily armed, several injured, a member of parliament assaulted.

January 2025. Here comes JM, a mega statesman with a grand agenda to reset our battered democracy and put us on a new path: his legacy for future generations. The new era has no room for vengeance: ‘Two wrongs do not make a right.’

The first major test, Ablekuma North. Check the certification: heightened violence, truckloads of militants, throat-slashing gestures, and woman beaters. You may call this a clear act of self-sabotage, that erodes JM’s humble gains and winds his clock to sub-zero levels.

Live TV cameras captured the evolving history. At one polling station characterized by scuffles with police, and general stampede, a human missile flew past onlookers and in a split second struck a target, jolting several others. Police looked on.

The target, a 60-year old woman and ex-minister of state Hawa Koomson, hit the ground wincing. A mother of three; had she survived? She received further kicks on the floor, to seal the deal. Survived but traumatized, clothes messed up, bare body exposed.

Womanhood violated. Stunned crowds looked on in horror as the battered victim  was helped to her feet to limp off the crime scene. A

round the country, dinners turned cold; heads shook in horror; democracy under siege; women at risk. The Black Star humbled. But hear the shocking response of state officials including women.

A past legislator, and women’s organizer for the ruling party, while condemning the violence, blatantly said she could not extend sympathies to the lady victim. She recounted her own victimization in the past claiming Hawa was the instigator.

Another lady Government official applauded the assault as a welcome move to protect the ‘integrity of the ballot.’ One top officer in charge of Youth was so contented he conferred on the ‘criminal,’ the glamorous title, ‘Flying Python,’ In the Legislature the Majority leader, often soft spoken played down the assault as only a ‘child’s play.’

No word yet from JDM who is President of Ghana, not President of a Party. His Vice, our beloved Jane, the next highest official was not angry enough; she extended general sympathies to victims; no reference to womanhood.

Then came the Interior Minister who promises prosecution of criminals involved, but also treated  us like toys. Despite several video clips in evidence, he hinted that the assailant may have fled the country.

To date, the police are still searching for culprits and presumably handcuffs, as more militants prepare across the country for the next war. All roads now lead to a heightened bloodbath: Akwatia by-elections.

One of these days our women, will rise to the occasion in the name of democracy: and embark on a marathon street protest, chasing executive woman beaters and their cheer leaders. Weapon recommended: PESTLES.

kyankah@ashesi.edu.gh

Source: Kwesi Yankah

Speaking in an exclusive interview on JoyNews, Dr Aidoo criticised the act of violence while acknowledging the former minister’s often controversial political conduct.

“I wouldn’t say Hawa Koomson should not have been there; she has the right to be there. But you see, the very personality and behaviour of Hawa Koomson are so provocative that she invites problems for herself. She acts like a one-woman warrior,” he remarked.

He continued, “A rabble-rouser wherever she goes, but nonetheless, I don’t think she deserves to be attacked. I believe the government must do something about it in terms of identifying the culprits and bringing them to book.”

Dr Aidoo also turned his attention to the broader political implications, calling on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to uphold its founding values.

“The NDC as a political party has a greater moral responsibility—not just because it is now in power, but by virtue of its historical process of becoming. It was built on the principles of probity, accountability, and social justice.”

He urged President John Mahama to ensure that such incidents do not echo past episodes of political violence.

“So the standard of judging the performance of the government, especially of the NDC government, must be higher. Therefore, it is up to President Mahama to ensure that history doesn’t repeat itself, like what happened at Ayawaso West.”

Dr Aidoo acknowledged that while the Ablekuma North incident differed from the infamous Ayawaso West Wuogon violence, the NDC still bore some responsibility.

“Ayawaso was state-sponsored thuggery; Ablekuma North was not. But nonetheless, the NDC still bears responsibility because the people involved are alleged to come from the NDC. There is no evidence, but it is up to the police to identify who the culprits are,” he stated.

Source: MyJoyOnline

According to her, she recognised two or three individuals involved in the attack, including the husband of a sitting MP, although she could not confirm his name.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mrs. Koomson said some of the attackers were from Kasoa and described the incident as a targeted attempt on her life.

“All I saw was that they were advancing towards me. Someone was holding a cutlass, declaring that they would finish me today. There was this other short guy with an orange sleeve wearing a jacket and camouflage shorts, and he usually walks with the MP’s husband,” she alleged.

She recalled that former Okaikoi South MP, Darkoa Newman, who was with her at the time, was visibly shaken and urged her to flee, but there was no escape route.

The altercation, which occurred at the St. Peter’s Methodist Church polling centre in Odorkor on Friday, July 11, 2025, temporarily disrupted voting and triggered an increased security presence.

The former Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture maintained that she had no prior knowledge of any planned violence and would have avoided the event had she received any warning.

“There were more than 30 guys coming towards me, and I couldn’t have faced them as a woman,” she said.

The violence reportedly began when a group of unidentified individuals overpowered police officers stationed at the polling centre.

Viral videos captured the moment Hawa Koomson used pepper spray on her attackers—an act she insists was in self-defense. One individual is seen stepping on her groin after she fell to the ground, moments before police rescued her.

Addressing criticism of her actions, she said:
“I couldn’t have watched on and done nothing for them to kill me because one of them had a gun, and I’m grateful to God it wasn’t fired. I could have died.”

She further revealed a history of political attacks against her.
“Exactly a year and a month ago, my son was stabbed at a registration centre unprovoked,” she said.

Mrs. Koomson has called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice, regardless of political affiliation.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service says investigations are ongoing, although no arrests have been made yet.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Madam Koomson said she only went to the polling centre to support the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie, and had no idea such violence would erupt.

“I didn’t pick up any intel about the attack, but if I did, I wouldn’t have gone to Ablekuma North. I would have told my sister that I can’t come. Also, it was just 19 polling stations, and I never imagined or dreamed that such a level of violence would occur,” she said.

The former Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture alleged that some individuals had a deliberate plan to harm her.

“They came with the intention to just kill me without any provocation because one of them had the gun, and it is just by divine intervention he did not fire,” she claimed.

On Friday, July 11, 2025, a group of yet-to-be-identified thugs reportedly overpowered police officers stationed at the St. Peter’s Methodist polling centre and attacked Madam Koomson.

Viral videos showed her using pepper spray on her attackers—an act she insists was in self-defense. She was seen falling to the ground after a member of the mob stepped in her groin area, before the Police intervened and rescued her.

The incident has sparked widespread public concern, with some critics accusing the former MP of escalating the situation. She, however, maintains that her actions were purely defensive, referencing previous political attacks she has endured.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Madam Koomson clarified that the gunshot incident during the 2020 elections in Kasoa was an act of self-defense.

“In 2020, there was no killing in Kasoa. They attempted, and it was out of self-defense that I fired a warning shot. I did no wrong,” she explained.

She expressed disappointment over claims linking her to political thuggery, particularly from fellow women.

“I contested in 2012 and 2016, and no one said I was violent. So how will my fellow woman say I am the cause of violence?” she asked.

Addressing new allegations relating to the 2024 elections, Hawa Koomson dismissed suggestions that she sponsored thugs as baseless.

“I am a mother and could never support violence against anyone. Everything we do in this world, we will account for,” she added.

Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline.com

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The former Fisheries Minister explained that her use of pepper spray at the polling station was not to incite violence but to protect herself after being attacked by a group of assailants.

During the July 11 polls, violent clashes broke out when a group of unidentified men stormed the polling centre, overpowering the security detail.

Shocking footage captured the moment Koomson was forced to the ground despite deploying pepper spray in an attempt to defend herself. She was reportedly stomped in the groin area before police officers intervened.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen on Wednesday, July 16, Madam Koomson said she had no intention of causing chaos at the polling station.

“I always carry pepper spray for protection,” she said. “This is because of a past experience where my son was stabbed during a previous election. That incident changed how I approach my personal safety.”

She clarified that her visit to the polling station was peaceful and that the confrontation was unprovoked.

“They came with the intention to kill me. I had done nothing to provoke them,” she alleged.

The incident has triggered mixed reactions, with some critics accusing her of inflaming tensions. But Hawa Koomson maintains that her actions were driven solely by fear and prior trauma related to political violence.

Source: Adomonline

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I have become a threat to the NDC – Hawa Koomson [Audio]

I’m not a violent person – Hawa Koomson speaks after Ablekuma North rerun chaos [Listen]

]]> I fired the gun in 2020 in self-defense – Hawa Koomson nonadult https://www.adomonline.com/mahama-and-vice-president-havent-called-me-since-the-assault-hawa-koomson-watch/ Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:47:55 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2556137 Former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson, has expressed disappointment that neither President John Dramani Mahama nor Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has reached out to her following the assault she suffered during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Madam Koomson said she was shocked by the silence, particularly from the Vice President, who is also a woman.

“As we speak, not even one of them has called me. I am very surprised that Vice President Naana Jane, as a woman, has not even called to check on me. I expected better ”she stated.

She noted that apart from members of her own political party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), no top official from the government had contacted her.

“Not even the President or his Vice has shown concern. But today, we say we have a sitting female Vice President,” she lamented.

However, Madam Koomson acknowledged that the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, had reached out to her.

“He called and told me that they are taking the matter seriously. He said he has instructed the regional police commander to investigate thoroughly and bring those behind the attack to book,” she revealed.

She called on the Interior Minister, whom she described as her “brother”, to ensure swift action is taken to punish the perpetrators to serve as a deterrent.

“I expect Muntaka, my own brother, to ensure the right thing is done. The men who assaulted me must face justice,” she urged.

During last week’s parliamentary rerun, assailants stormed a polling station at St. Peter’s Methodist Church in Odorkor, overpowered the police, and physically assaulted Madam Koomson.

Disturbing video footage from the scene showed her being pushed to the ground while she attempted to defend herself with pepper spray.

The attack has since sparked widespread condemnation, with calls for heightened security around electoral processes.

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy  

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, the former Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister recounted how she was allegedly attacked by a group of unidentified men, including one armed with a knife.

“They were too many. I couldn’t handle them, so I decided to defend myself. I had pepper spray and used it because the guy was holding a knife. It was only self-defence,” she explained.

Madam Koomson expressed shock at the incident, hinting that the attack might have been politically motivated.

HAWA ON NDC THREAT

“I have become a threat to the NDC, and I don’t even know why. I have always preached peace. Even when my son was shot, I did nothing because I wanted peace. But it seems they want to exchange my life for power,” she lamented.

The incident occurred at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling station in Odorkor, where voting was temporarily disrupted after unidentified men stormed the venue in a pickup truck and on motorbikes.

Despite efforts to protect herself, Madam Koomson was reportedly overpowered and assaulted.

She has since called for greater political tolerance and urged all parties to prioritise peace over violence in future elections.

Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline.com

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, the former Fisheries Minister said she is not a violent person and would never endanger lives.

“I have children and brothers. Why would I want to harm someone’s child? I won’t allow anyone to kill, and I certainly won’t do it myself,” she said.

Her comments come in the wake of last Friday’s violent incident at St. Peter’s Methodist Church polling station, where the rerun took place across 19 polling stations following disputed results from the December 2024 elections.

According to reports, the violence broke out when unknown individuals overpowered police officers at the polling centre.

Viral videos from the scene captured the moment Hawa Koomson used pepper spray to defend herself as a crowd advanced toward her.

Responding to the incident, she said she was shocked by the attack and had no intention of causing confusion.

“I was surprised. I went there peacefully, but they attacked me. I had to defend myself,” she explained.

Touching on past incidents, Hawa Koomson also addressed claims from the 2020 general elections, where she was accused of firing gunshots in Kasoa.

“In 2020, nobody was killed in my constituency. It was the NDC that attacked me, and I fired a warning shot in self-defence,” she stated.

She also denied any confrontation with the NDC parliamentary candidate during the recent 2024 campaign.

“I never met with the NDC contender during the entire campaign period. I didn’t go near her or her events. So I was surprised to hear that I was being blamed for causing confusion,” she added.

The July 11 rerun was marred by tension and controversy, but Hawa Koomson insists she was targeted unfairly and that her actions were only in response to threats.

“I didn’t go there to fight. I was attacked, and I only tried to protect myself,” she concluded.

Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy

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The election day descended into disorder at the St Peter’s Methodist Church polling station, following reports of unidentified men overpowering police officers and assaulting voters and officials — including Koomson.

Viral footage captured her reaching for a canister and deploying pepper spray as a group of men advanced toward her.

In her first interview since the incident, aired on Accra-based UTV on Tuesday, 15 July, Koomson explained that she had arrived at the centre with her security detail but was compelled by police to enter alone. “I did not go there to cause trouble,” she insisted.

Koomson alleged she was targeted by individuals she recognised from Kasoa, whom she linked to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). “One of them shouted, ‘Where is Hawa Koomson?’ and they just pounced on me,” she recounted, dismissing claims that her actions were premeditated. “The suggestions that I went there with ill intentions and carried pepper spray for that purpose are unfounded.”

Describing the incident as terrifying, she added: “My son was stabbed during the voter registration exercise, so I know I’m a target for the NDC. When I saw the thugs walking toward me holding knives, I acted in self-defence.”

While figures from both the NPP and NDC have exchanged accusations over the day’s violence, Koomson remains firm that her only intent was to protect herself in what she described as a volatile environment.

Source: Myjoyonline

Speaking at the maiden edition of the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, July 13, Mr. Muntaka disclosed that he had personally called Madam Koomson after the incident.

“I called the Honourable Hawa Koomson to empathise with her. I asked what happened, and she explained. I told her I have instructed the IGP to investigate the matter thoroughly. My plea to her is that when they invite you, go and make all your facts available so it will help them to ascertain what truly happened,” he said.

The Minister condemned the violence that disrupted voting in the constituency and vowed that all perpetrators would be brought to justice. He also encouraged Hawa Koomson to fully cooperate with the ongoing police investigations.

“I have spoken to the IGP firmly on all the happenings at Ablekuma North. The videos have been forwarded to him, and we’ve instructed him to act swiftly and bring the perpetrators to book.

“We are not going to condone wrongdoing, whether it involves people from within our party or from outside,” he added.

Mr. Muntaka further praised the current leadership for taking a decisive and public stance against electoral violence.

“The violence is unacceptable and a scar on all our consciences. As a people who have practised democracy for over three decades, it’s disheartening that we still cannot have violence-free elections.

“Almost all of us at the top have condemned it. In the past, you would not get that. The Vice President has spoken out. The President is out of the country, but the Vice President is leading us, and she has condemned it,” he stated.

Source: Adomonline.com

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Titus-Glover, who said he witnessed the incident, claimed the attack was carried out by thugs deliberately brought into the constituency.

“There is no reason why elections should be marred by violence. Hawa Koomson’s assault was clearly orchestrated. It was planned. You could see those thugs were brought specifically for an action. The boys who attacked her should be found. This is not where we want to see this country,” he stated.

He called for a collective national effort to rid Ghana’s electoral processes of violence.

“We can argue, but violence is not an option,” he added.

The incident occurred at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling station in Odorkor, where eyewitnesses reported that unidentified men arrived in a pickup truck and on motorbikes, disrupting the voting process. Madam Koomson, who attempted to defend herself with pepper spray, was reportedly overpowered and assaulted.

Source: Farida Seidu| Adomonline

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She maintains that the former Minister was unjustly targeted and did not intend to provoke any confrontation.

In an interview with Channel One TV, Akosua Manu recounted the events as described by Madam Koomson. She stated that the former Minister was at the polling station in a peaceful manner when she was suddenly attacked. According to Koomson, she only used pepper spray in self-defence after perceiving a threat from one of the assailants, who appeared to be wielding a weapon.

“Her narration gave me goosebumps,” Manu said. “She mentioned that at one polling station, as she was entering, she was told she could only go in with one person. At the time, police personnel were next to her.

“She and her team were making the rounds. While she observed proceedings, her personal security team stayed back a bit. Suddenly, she heard people saying ‘where is she, where is she,’ and then she looked up and saw a group of young men approaching her.

“One of them she recognised. They literally charged at her. She said she saw something that looked like a weapon, and that’s when she quickly reached for her pepper spray. She said if it weren’t for the spray slowing them down, the outcome would have been worse than anticipated. Mind you, she didn’t go there to cause confusion,” Manu explained.

Mrs. Manu condemned the assault as an act of political aggression and called on all political actors and stakeholders to denounce violence—especially during democratic processes that are meant to promote peace and representation.

Source: Adomonline.com

The visit comes amid reports that Hawa Koomson was physically assaulted in what the opposition has described as a coordinated attack, allegedly involving individuals affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Hawa Koomson, a former Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, was among several New Patriotic Party (NPP) officials reportedly targeted during the disruption of the rerun election.

According to the Minority in Parliament, the attack on her was part of a broader pattern of electoral violence aimed at intimidating NPP figures and disrupting the democratic process.

Dr. Bawumia’s visit was widely seen as an expression of solidarity and concern for her well-being.

He expressed deep disappointment over the incident and called for a thorough investigation.

“Such violence has no place in Ghana’s democracy, and we must ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Dr. Bawumia said.

The Ablekuma North rerun, which witnessed several violent confrontations, has attracted widespread condemnation from civil society, the media, and political stakeholders.

Source: Myjoyonline

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In a statement, Madam Koomson confirmed that she was physically assaulted by individuals she described as “NDC machomen” while peacefully observing proceedings at one of the polling centres.

She further disclosed that her personal mobile phone was forcibly taken from her during the incident.

As a result, she warned the public to treat any calls, messages, social media posts, or broadcasts originating from her number after the incident as unauthorized.

Hawa Koomson urged the public to disregard any communication purportedly coming from her until she regains full control of her digital platforms.

The assault occurred at the St. Peter’s Society Methodist Church polling station in Odorkor, where tensions erupted following the arrival of unidentified men, reportedly in a pickup truck and on motorbikes.

Their presence caused panic and chaos among voters and electoral officials.

Eyewitnesses claimed that Madam Koomson attempted to use pepper spray to ward off the attackers but was overwhelmed and subsequently assaulted.

A video captured at the scene showed the former MP on the ground, surrounded by a crowd of agitated individuals.

Despite the presence of additional security personnel deployed to manage tensions at polling stations, their intervention failed to prevent the altercation.

The motive behind the attack remains under investigation.

In an interview with Accra-based Citi News, Dr. Bissiw condemned the violence that disrupted the election at 19 polling stations but made it clear she cannot empathize with the former Fisheries Minister.

“I condemn violence, but please don’t ask me to feel sorry for her because I’ll be lying before you and before God. I don’t feel sorry one bit,” she stated.

Dr. Bissiw alleged that she was once a victim of an attack allegedly orchestrated by Madam Koomson and questioned whether she deserved such treatment.

“Ask her if I deserved the men she brought to come and attack me. Ask her about the people shot and killed at Kasoa and the organiser that died. Did those people deserve it?”

The outspoken NDC executive recalled previous instances of electoral violence and questioned whether Hawa Koomson had shown remorse for her alleged role in them.

“Ask her if the people she attacked deserved it. When I, a parliamentary candidate, was assaulted, did I deserve that? Ask her about the slaps I received when I was pulled out of my moving vehicle and beaten. Honourable Amartey, the former DCE for Teshie, and his wife were beaten in Ayawaso just for trying to rescue me.”

She concluded that if Hawa Koomson believed she deserved those past attacks, “then she deserves better.”

The Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun, held across 19 polling stations, was marred by chaos, arrests, and allegations of impersonation and vote-buying.

Eyewitnesses say a group of men arrived in a pickup and on several motorbikes, storming the St. Peter’s Methodist Church polling station and triggering panic among voters and officials.

Despite increased security, violence broke out. Hawa Koomson was seen on video being assaulted, and reports suggest she attempted to use pepper spray on the crowd but was overpowered.

The former Fisheries Minister fell down and took the intervention of police officers present to get her back on her feet.

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Source: Adomonline.com

Speaking to Adom News, Hawa Koomson refuted claims that military officers were stationed at a hotel in Galilea to thumbprint ballot papers in favor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

“I have never rigged an election before, and I always win genuinely,” she stated.

A total of 173,989 registered voters are expected to cast their ballots across 314 polling stations in the constituency, including at Roman JHS, where Hawa Koomson is set to vote.

While pledging to ensure a peaceful election process in Kasoa, the MP warned that she would respond decisively if provoked by any misbehavior from the opposition.

Source: Kofi Adjei

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Speaking to Adom News, Madam Koomson stated, “This is completely false. I have not given out any money or sewing machines to anyone, including security officers. These claims are propaganda from my opponents and should be disregarded.”

The alleged message, purportedly sent by her, reads:

“I hope you remember the GHC 1,800 in total and the sewing machine together with other items that I gave you. As a token of appreciation, I expect you to vote massively for me. VOTE NUMBER 1. OBAATANPA ALL THE WAY!!!”

Her campaign team, through a statement signed by Michael Addy, Constituency Secretary, also dismissed the claims, labeling them as fabricated.

The statement read:

“The attention of Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson’s campaign team has been drawn to a scam message purporting to come from her. We categorically deny that Hon. Koomson has given out GHC 1,800 or sewing machines to security personnel. This is fake propaganda from the NDC designed to create tension within the security agencies. Ghanaians should disregard such frivolous messages.”

Currently, both Hon. Koomson and the NDC Parliamentary candidate, Philis Naa Koryoo, are acting as polling agents in the elections.

Hon. Koomson further assured the public of her commitment to ensuring a peaceful election in Kasoa.

“I am committed to a peaceful process and encourage everyone to uphold peace,” she emphasized.

This development highlights the need for vigilance against misinformation during the election period.

Meanwhile, in the Awutu Senya East Constituency of the Central Region, 1,298 people are casting their votes.

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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 pledge comes in the wake of the violence that marred the 2020 elections at the Steps to Christ Centre, where gunfire erupted, injuring several people and nearly halting the voting process.

During a walk through the principal streets of Kasoa, Hawa Koomson reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining peace in the 2024 elections.

The MP, who has consistently spoken out against electoral violence since the 2020 incident, emphasized her dedication to ensuring a peaceful atmosphere in the constituency.

Leading a large crowd during the walk, Hawa Koomson used the opportunity to preach peace to the residents, urging them to avoid any actions that could lead to violence during the polls.

She reiterated her determination to oversee a smooth and secure electoral process, free from the disruptions that occurred in the past.

“2024 is an election year and so as NPP faithful, we are gearing up for the big event. On Monday, the flagbearer of the NPP, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia will be visiting the constituency to commission some projects. These are all some of the good things about the NPP. I will be filing my nomination so I needed to gather the NPP supporters ahead of that day. But I must also say that as MP I am committed to ensuring peaceful elections in December.”

“Even if my opponent comes with violence, I will resist to ensure a peaceful process. We are ready for election 2024 and it must come without any violence or confrontation. This is because I am the incumbent and my opponents are the ones who want to unseat me, but I remain steadfast to ensure that I win the elections hands down,” she said.

Source: Myjoyonline

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The MP was spotted carrying a pan of watermelon on her head, hawking in the streets as part of her campaign activities in the constituency.

The video, which has since gone viral, shows the minister interacting with residents, demonstrating her connection to the community and her hands-on approach to campaigning.

This unusual move has garnered attention, as it reflects her effort to resonate with the grassroots and connect with her constituents on a personal level.

Many of such antics are expected to dominate the airwaves as the country prepares for the general elections on December 7.

Watch video below:

Mustapha Gbande also revealed that, they will hold Madam Koomson accountable for the procurement of ambulances.

He claimed that she involved companies, including those connected to the President’s children, in transactions that led to a loss of GH¢109 million.

In an interview with Adom News, Mustapha Gbande stated that Hawa Koomson will be arrested on December 10, 2024, immediately after the NDC wins the election because she failed to construct a single dam under the “One Village, One Dam” policy.

“We will not allow her to escape accountability. The people deserve answers for the failed promises under the ‘One Village, One Dam’ policy. Hawa Koomson will have to answer for the financial losses incurred under the guise of the ‘One Village, One Dam’ initiative. We will ensure that justice is served” he stated.

Speaking at an engagement with religious leaders in Kasoa, Mustapha Gbande accused the NPP government of collapsing Ghana’s economy through corruption and mismanagement.

“The NPP government has failed Ghanaians through rampant corruption and mismanagement. The economic hardships we are facing today are a direct result of their negligence.”

He also called on NPP flagbearer Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia to clarify whether he is a Muslim or a Christian and stop deceiving religious leaders.

Mustapha Gbande said he would resign from his position the day Dr. Bawumia recites the Qur’an and promised that the NDC would continue to expose the lies and corruption under the NPP government.

“Dr. Bawumia should come out and be honest about his faith. Enough of the deception. If he can recite the Qur’an, I will resign from my position” he said.

Meanwhile, the NDC Parliamentary candidate for the Awutu Senya East Constituency, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, claimed that only 10 percent of Kasoa’s youth are employed, out of the 68 percent youth population in Kasoa.

She promised that, the next NDC government will build more factories in the Awutu Senya East Constituency to create jobs and reduce unemployment and crime rates in Kasoa.

Source: Kofi Adjei

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Madam Koomson’s firstborn, Ato Koomson, was stabbed in the chest by an NDC ward Organizer during a voter transfer exercise.

The suspect was arrested and is assisting with investigations. However, the NDC has mounted a spirited defense for the suspect, claiming he was protecting himself from being lynched by Mr. Koomson thugs.

But Hawa Koomson who is also the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture made the allegation during a Peace Talk event to settle dispute between NDC and NPP in the constituency at Kasoa Odikro Palace.

The Awutu Senya East MP claimed she had received information about the NDC’s plot to kill her son.

She noted that, she gave the information to the Police but was shocked that they failed to arrest the suspect before the act was committed.

Hawa Koomson said she pointed out the suspect to the Police the day before the incident, and it was the same person who nearly killed her son.

Watch video below:

Meanwhile, Awutu Senya East NDC Constituency Chairman, Stephen Ofosu Agyari, pledged to talk to his party members to work towards a peaceful election.

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Mrs Koomson, who was answering questions from fish processors at the Tema Canoe Basin on the inadequate and inequitable distribution of premix fuel to artisanal fishers at Tema, indicated that the inability of the leadership of the Tema Canoe Landing Basin to secure land for the installation of the premix vending machine was responsible for the shortage of premix fuel in the area.

Ultimatum

The Minister gave the ultimatum last Thursday when she presented fishing closed-season relief items to artisanal fishers and fish processors at the Tema Canoe Landing Beach.

She warned that failure to provide space for the installation of the vending machine as soon as possible could result in the curtailment of premix fuel supply to the basin.

The items, which included bags of rice, cartons of cooking oil and canned fish, as well as basins and wire meshes were to cushion the beneficiaries to cope with the fishing closed season.

She said in communities, such as Nungua, Akplabanya, Chorkor and Elmina, where the automated machines had been installed, the issue of corruption and protocol distribution of premix fuel had been curtailed and fishers were experiencing increased accessibility of the product.

The Automated Premix Fuel Distribution System is a fuel management and tank gauging system designed to enhance the effective and efficient management of premix fuel.

To access the premix fuel, a fisherman presents the card reader on which the quantity of fuel allocated is loaded. Once authorisation is granted, the card is debited and the pump starts dispensing.

Science and data

Mrs Koomson said the closed season was based on scientific advice and its implementation was in consultation with the various fisheries associations.

She commended the fishermen for observing the close season voluntarily and for adhering to the directives of the Ministry.

“I have told the fishers not to listen to those who say they want to cancel the closed season. If they can cancel, they would have cancelled that of the trawlers because it is the trawlers that are giving us problems,” she said.

Mrs Koomson said when she assumed office, she met 76 trawlers. However, currently, there are only 41 trawlers that are functional due to measures put in place by the Ministry, adding that she was committed to working towards curbing overfishing, reducing fishing pressure, restoring overexploited fish stocks and replenishing dwindling fish populations.

Sustainable livelihoods

Mrs Koomson said as part of efforts to promote sustainable livelihoods for fishers, the Ministry and its partners, including the Ghana Fisheries Recovery Activity, had launched alternative livelihood training programmes.

She said last year, about 5,000 fishers in four regions were trained in various skills such as masonry, carpentry, dressmaking, hairdressing, electronics and auto engineering.

She said this year, the training had been expanded to cover 8,000 fishers. However, the Ministry had decided to complement the ongoing support to help trainees establish their own businesses and generate income from their trades, as a result of which the Ministry ordered a number of sewing machines and hair dryers to support livelihood training programmes.

She said by the end of August this year, the Ministry would take delivery of several outboard motors for the fishermen at subsidised prices, all aimed at supporting the sector.

The National Coordinator of the Fisheries Enforcement Unit, Commodore Francis A. Nyarko, said most fishermen use monofilament net lights, dynamite, explosives and small nets to overfish and, therefore, cautioned fishermen to desist from using such gears.

She warned that the FEU would arrest culprits who flouted the fishing regulations through the use of unauthorised fishing methods.

A chief fisherman at Tema, Nii Adjierteh Mator III, said the leadership of the Landing Beach Committee would intensify efforts in securing space to facilitate the installation of automated premix fuel vending machines to address the persistent issues of artificial shortages and hoarding of premix fuel.

Nii Adjierteh Mator III also called for a ban on the sale and importation of monofilament nets on the market.

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During a ceremony in Dixcove, Western Region on Monday, July 1, to mark the commencement of the closed season, Hawa Koomson cautioned that anyone caught violating the ban would face severe penalties.

The closed season, aimed at replenishing Ghana’s marine fisheries resources, has become an established annual practice in the fishing industry.

Set to last for a month, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the ban to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries resources.

“It has come to my notice that some fisherfolks are planning to land their fish at the Togo border during the Closed season, therefore, kindly be warned that they will be apprehended and charged if they go on with their intention. More so, there shall be no more use of monofilament nets and any unauthorized fishing gear after the opening of the season.”

However, some fishermen in Dixcove expressed concerns about the government’s failure to provide adequate support and premix fuel before the closed season, leaving them without sufficient income to support their families during the ban.

“They should have brought us adequate premix before the ban on fishing so we work to make some savings before the closed season so that nobody cries of hunger, but that didn’t happen. The closed fishing season going to make our feeding very difficult, and the government should put in place something to make life bearable for us before because,” one of them said.

“The one bag of rice they are bringing would not be enough for a family of four or more without money. How are we going to cope with this? So the government should rather put in place proper financial support for each fisherman because the fishing industry is the major source of livelihood in their Ahanta Area,” he added.

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Her plea came during the commissioning of the newly constructed Kasoa Odikro Palace, where she urged Muslim youth to avoid any form of violence amidst the ongoing Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.

Speaking at the event, Hawa Koomson said she is commitment to ensuring a peaceful environment in Kasoa, particularly during the election period.

She expressed her determination to maintain peace, referencing a recent incident involving her son, Ato Koomson, who was stabbed during the limited voter registration exercise.

The suspect in that case has since been remanded.

Hawa Koomson remarked that the image of Kasoa is at stake, urging all residents to preach peace and tolerance especially in the election year.

The Odikro of Kasoa, Naa Saani Seidu, commended Hawa Koomson for her efforts in building the new palace, recognizing it as a significant contribution to the community.

The initiative is seen as a step towards fostering unity and stability in the area as elections approach.

The was during a scuffle at the office of the Electoral Commission at Ofaakor near Kasoa in the Central region.

The Police arrested Haruna during the disturbance around 5:am on Sunday, June 2, 2024, before the start of the day’s activities at the EC office.

The clash, according to an eyewitness, stemmed from a disagreement over the queuing of voters seeking to transfer their votes to the constituency.

Amid the violence, Ato Koomson was stabbed in the chest and subsequently rushed to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra.

Additionally, three members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were injured and admitted to the Kasoa Polyclinic.

The suspect is scheduled to reappear in court on June 19, 2024.

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Naa Koryoo has stated she needed a gun to protect herself from her opponent and incumbent MP, Mavis Hawa Koomson.

In an interview on Accra-based Citi FM, she claimed the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture during the 2020 elections threatened her on four separate occasions.

However, the Police took no action.

“There is the need for me to do that because I can best protect myself and not any other person against Hawa Koomson.”

“When we go back into the 2019-2020 elections, Hawa Koomson pulled a gun on me on four different occasions. No arrest was done, no interrogations, no investigations, nothing. The case just died. And since the police haven’t provided any form of protection for me,” she stated.

This comes after Naa Koryoo together with two others; Mustapha Mohammed and Abdul Aziz Musah were arrested on Sunday over the alleged possession of firearm without lawful authority.

The trio were onboard a Honda CRV car with registration number GX-2044-19 and arrested around the EC Office at Ofaakor.

One pump-action gun with four rounds of ammunition according to the Police was retrieved from the vehicle.

But Madam Okunor has denied the reports of her arrest.

In the heat of the confusion, Ato Koomson, the son of Hawa Koomson, was stabbed in his chest.

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The incident, which took place in front of the Kasoa Electoral Commission office, left Ato Koomson in critical condition.

The suspect, identified as Asmah, was reportedly captured by NPP members, who handed him over to the Police for prosecution.

Before his arrest, Asmah received severe beatings, sustaining head injuries and bleeding profusely.

Despite the altercation, Police swiftly took him into custody, ensuring he receives medical attention for his injuries.

The initial confrontation began over seating arrangements at the voter registration center, with tensions flaring between NPP and NDC members.

Hawa Koomson’s son stabbed at registration center [Photos+Video]

The conflict escalated around 4:00 am and culminated in the stabbing of Ato Koomson at approximately 5:00 am.

King Adawu, an NPP member who also sustained injuries while trying to intervene, confirmed the incident to Adom News.

In response to the violent outbreak, heavy security has been deployed to the area to restore calm.

According to available information, Mr. Koomson was in critical condition when he was rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for treatment.

Sources say another person was also injured during the altercation.

Giving more details, an eye witness said the confusion started when supporters of the governing NPP and opposition NDC disagreed on the position of some residents in the queue in the ongoing voter ID cards transfer and replacement exercise.

The source explained that both parties usually join the queue for members by booking a spot with a chair, however, a disagreement on who should sit on a particular chair started around 4:00am.

Mr. Koomson is said to have arrived at the registration centre about 45 minutes after the altercation started.

He is then alleged to have approached the NDC organizer at the registration centre to help resolve the issue.

However, another alleged member of the NDC started to verbally abuse him.

According to King Adawu, a member of the NPP who also sustained a minor cut, the alleged NDC member pulled out a knife during the exchange between the two gentlemen, stabbing the Minister’s son in the chest.

King Adawu told Adom News, he had tried to block the knife, which resulted in his injury.

Subsequently, the two were rushed to the hospital where he was treated and discharged while Ato Koomson has been admitted.

Meanwhile, the Police have arrested the main suspect amidst ongoing investigation into the matter.

This was done in consultation with the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association and other partners.

This decision was reached during a meeting held on Thursday, May 9, 2024, where the GJA and its media partners reviewed the blacklist on the MPs.

During the meeting, the Yendi MP, alongside Minister designate for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar rendered unqualified apology to all journalists in the country.

The media blackout on the Yendi MP was initially imposed on February 6, 2024, following an attack on Mohammed Alabira, a reporter for Accra-based Citi FM, during the NPP parliamentary primaries.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra, President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, urged all journalists and media outlets to adhere to the decision accordingly.

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This is to address the persistent issues of artificial shortages and hoarding of premix fuel nationwide.

Minister of Fisheries and Aqua Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, informed Parliament that these automation efforts have been highly effective in mitigating challenges such as shortages and the involvement of middlemen who purchase at subsidized prices and resell at inflated rates.

Currently, 50 automated projects at landing beaches are operational, facilitating access to the product for genuine fisherfolk.

The Minister also disclosed that 150 more projects are in various stages of completion and are expected to be fully operational by September 2024.

Minister Koomson made these remarks when she appeared before the Government Assurances Committee of Parliament to address inquiries in the sector.

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The MPA covers some 700km2 of biodiversity-rich coastal waters. The communities will manage and implement the protected area, slated for formal establishment in 2026.

Ministers from Ghana, Guinea-Bissau and several other African countries gathered at Our Ocean Conference in Athens to Pledge Support for Community-led Marine Conservation and Sustainable Fisheries Management.

Speaking at the conference, Mavis Hawa Koomson stated, “Between our ongoing commitment to fisheries transparency and this new commitment towards marine conservation, Ghana is demonstrating a strong commitment to the conservation and sustainability of its rich marine resources for the good of the country and its people.”

Several African nations, at the Our Ocean conference in Athens,   have reaffirmed their commitment to combating industrial overfishing and addressing the pressing challenges of climate breakdown in African waters during an event co-hosted by Blue Ventures and Le Partenariat Régional pour la Conservation de la zone côtière et Marine (PRCM), in collaboration with Bloomberg Ocean Initiative and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).

The leaders have been disclosing a series of major commitments, including establishing one of Africa’s largest community-led marine protected areas (MPAs) in Ghana and an ambition to exceed international targets to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030 in Guinea-Bissau.

Viriato Luís Soares Cassamá, Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Environment, Biodiversity, and Climate Action, shed light on recent conservation and fisheries achievements in the country.

He expressed Guinea-Bissau’s aspirations to surpass the globally acknowledged 30×30 target for conservation efforts. Cassamá outlined various initiatives, such as proposing the Bijagós Archipelago for inclusion on the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site list and establishing the second Biosphere Reserve in the Cacheu Complex and the coastal islands of Geta-Pixice.

“Currently, Guinea-Bissau has achieved a significant milestone, with 26.3% of its territory designated as protected areas, of which 12.6% are marine protected areas,” he said.

“We are confident that if we continue on this path, we will not only achieve but significantly exceed the 30×30 target.”

Industrial overfishing, pollution, and climate breakdown are unprecedentedly changing African waters, jeopardizing marine ecosystems and threatening the food security of millions of livelihoods across the continent.

Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing continues to decimate fish stocks, resulting in an annual loss of over US$11 billion in Africa. 

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, organizations such as the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) are gaining momentum, urging governments to enhance transparency and ensure meaningful participation of stakeholders, including small-scale fishers, in decision-making.

Countries like Madagascar and Cabo Verde have also made significant strides in enhancing fisheries governance, progressing to candidate status under the FiTI standard.

The Union of Comoros, for example, is accelerating efforts to join these ranks, with a dedicated roadmap for full membership by the year’s end.

In recent years, global agreements like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted in 2022, have emphasized the importance of marine protected areas (MPAs).

These agreements commit the world to safeguarding 30% of both land and water by 2030, a goal known as 30×30.

When effectively managed and adequately funded, with communities taking the lead, MPAs offer a win-win solution for both people and nature.

 They help replenish fisheries, support local livelihoods, and play a vital role in addressing climate change, coastal poverty, and the negative impacts of industrial fishing.

The historic High Seas Treaty provides a clear roadmap for establishing MPAs in international waters, which is crucial for reaching the 30×30 target and preserving biodiversity in the oceans.

Yet, only 17% of African waters are designated protected areas, highlighting the need for accelerated action.

The commitments made by Ghana and Guinea-Bissau at the Our Ocean conference signify a crucial step forward in addressing this pressing issue and safeguarding the future of Africa’s marine ecosystems.

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According to him, she expressed her willingness to collaborate with the police in apprehending those responsible for assaulting Cape FM journalist, David Kobbina, during her vetting in Cape Coast.

Previously, the MP challenged the GJA to provide evidence of her involvement in the assault.

Hawa Koomson also threatened legal action against Mr. Dwumfour and the Association, urging them to retract the blackout statement or substantiate their claims of her involvement in the journalist’s assault.

However, Mr. Dwumfour in interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Wednesday said the Awutu Senya East MP has reached out, pledging to cooperate with GIJ to resolve the matter.

“Hawa Koomson has now expressed her desire for reconciliation. She is ready to support the GJA, the police, and other relevant institutions in bringing the culprits to justice” he stated.

Mr. Dwumfour added that, the MP had promised to meet with the Association soon for discussions on the next steps to address the issue.

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Hawa Koomson led convincingly with 1,318 votes against two other competitors.

Bernard Dankwa followed with 97 and Eric Boateng with only 8 votes.

The total vote count was 1,427.

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The President of the GJA, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour on Thursday, January 25 directed all media houses to cease all forms of media coverage on the MP after an attack on a journalist during the vetting of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirants in Cape Coast.

But in a statement issued by her Press Secretary, Kabore Awudu Moro, the Awutu Senya East MP expressed deep concern about the ongoing issue as she “vehemently denies all accusations leveled against her and her associates”.

“Acknowledging the vital role of the media in our democracy, the Minister said she is committed to fostering an environment that safeguards journalists in their duty,” the statement added.

The Minister also mentioned that she believes the Ghana Police Service to conduct further investigations into the matter to apprehend the alleged attackers.

The statement also mentioned the Minister’s intention to initiate a dialogue with the GJA leadership in the coming days to address any misunderstandings and foster a constructive relationship between her and the media.

READ FULL STATEMENT BELOW:

Press Release – Urgent Announcement

The Office of the Honourable Minister for Fisheries & Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for the Awutu Senya East Constituency expresses deep concern regarding the recent decision by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to blacklist any activities involving the Honourable Minister due to an alleged attack on a journalist during the NPP’s parliamentary aspirants’ vetting in Cape Coast.

While unequivocally condemning the reported incident, the Honorable Minister vehemently denies all accusations levelled against her and her associates.

Acknowledging the vital role of the media in our democracy, the Minister is committed to fostering an environment that safeguards journalists in their duty.

The Honourable Minister urges the GJA leadership to reconsider the blacklisting decision, emphasizing the absence of evidence implicating her in the incident.

The Minister calls for trust in the Ghana Police Service’s ongoing investigation to apprehend the alleged attacker.

In the spirit of collaboration, the Office of the Honourable Minister will initiate a dialogue with the GJA leadership in the coming days to address any misunderstandings and chart a way forward, fostering a constructive relationship between the Minister and the media.

End!

Kabore, Awudu Moro

Press Secretary to Hon. MAVIS HAWA KOOMSON

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This was after he supporters allegedly assaulted David Kobbena, a morning show host of Cape FM during the vetting of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirants in Cape Coast.

According to reports, the thugs mistook him for another person they alleged had insulted the MP, also the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.  

Based on that mistaken identity, a man believed to be a police officer invited the unsuspecting David to a distance and sought to confirm that mistaken identity.  

Mr Kobbena denied it and produced an ID Card of his media house as evidence to support his denial, however, in the process of doing so, someone slapped him from behind and other thugs joined in the assault, beating him mercilessly. 

Mrs. Hawa Koomson has not taken any action about the issue.

Based on this backdrop, Mr. Dwumfour called on the media to blacklist the Minister of Fisheries.

“Colleagues, our call for a total media blackout on Mavis Hawa Koomson is effective immediately and until further notice. We may reconsider it when we see evidence of action by the NPP and the Ghana Police Service to identify, arrest, and prosecute the perpetrators” he charged.

The GJA President also called on the Police Service to as matter of urgency probe the matter.

“The Ghana Police Service must expedite the investigation into the assault case and apprehend the perpetrators. The Ghana Police Service must identify and discipline the purported police officer who invited David, while the innocent morning host was beaten mercilessly by these thugs.

We are closely monitoring this case and will periodically update and engage the general public on the matter. We urge all media houses to support our call and ensure its impact is felt. This action is in our collective interest.” he said.

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The attack occurred while Mr. Kobbina, along with other journalists, was covering the vetting of NPP parliamentary aspirants on Thursday at the Central Regional Coordinating Council.

The victim narrating his ordeal said they were in the company of Hawa Koomson who doubles as the Ministry for Fisheries and Aquaculture.

He revealed that approximately 15 of the attackers were wearing t-shirts branded with the MP’s name.

Some of them confronted him, accusing him of insulting the MP during a live television political discussion on Accra-based UTV.

He was slapped and kicked repeatedly in the abdomen, ribs, chest, and belly.

But a statement issued by Nana Kofi Ntiamoah, the spokesperson for the MP’s campaign team has described the allegations as baseless.

To them, it is intentionally fabricated by her opponents to tarnish her reputation and gain political advantage.

“We categorically reject the claim that individuals associated with our team were responsible for this regrettable act. Mavis Hawa Koomson has consistently advocated for a peaceful and constructive political environment, and our team does not endorse or engage in any form of violence.

“We call on the Ghana Journalists Network and all stakeholders to allow the investigative process to unfold and refrain from premature judgments. Our thoughts remain with Mr. Kwabena, and we hope for his way to recovery,” the statement read in parts.

The team has urged all stakeholders to refrain from making premature judgments and to allow thorough investigations into the allegations.

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Mrs Koomson who is optimistic about her victory in the 2024 election says a win in the primaries is all that matters.

Another term according to her will enable her continue and finish developmental projects in Kasoa and its environs.

The MP who doubles as the Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister made the appeal on Friday when she filed her nomination forms at the constituency office in Opeikuma.

She charged party supporters to remain united so they can break the 8.

Meanwhile, the constituency Secretary, Michael Addy revealed that, two people including the incumbent MP have so far pick and submitted their forms for the election scheduled for January 27, 2024.

He charged party members to embark on clean campaign.

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