Speaking in an interview on Ekosii Sen on Asempa FM, Mr Hammond denied any wrongdoing and described the allegations as false.

He expressed concern over what he described as a lack of procedural fairness, arguing that he was not given the opportunity to respond to the claims before the report was made public.

“It’s untrue that I have embezzled such money. I should be allowed to understand what is going on and have my side heard before the report is brought out,” he said.

Mr Hammond further demanded a retraction and apology, insisting that the allegations—reportedly involving GH¢29 million—have damaged his reputation.

“They should be ready to meet me in court. You don’t make such claims lightly,” he warned.

The former minister also pointed to his 24 years in Parliament, stating that his record has never been associated with wrongdoing, and vowed to challenge the claims in court to clear his name.

Speaking after voting, Mr Hammond said he was outraged by the scale of security presence at what he described as an internal party exercise, stressing that such deployments were disproportionate and avoidable.

“I thought it was atrocious. This is an internal party election, yet the level of animosity and antagonism generated within the party made it look like a national security emergency,” he said.

According to him, about 50 police officers, including a commander, were deployed to his constituency, with information indicating that other constituencies had as many as 70 officers on duty.

Mr Hammond questioned the justification for such numbers, noting that even during general elections, where parties compete nationally, the level of police presence is often lower.

“When we were contesting national elections against opponents, did we have this kind of police presence?” he asked, adding that the situation reflected poor use of state resources.

He clarified, however, that the police administration should not be blamed for the deployment, explaining that heightened tensions created by some candidates and their supporters compelled security agencies to act to maintain peace.

Mr Hammond condemned what he described as campaigns rooted in ethnic, regional and religious sentiments, calling them divisive and irresponsible.

“The election was reduced to ethnocentricity and foolish bigotry. That is what led us here,” he said.

Despite his concerns, the former MP acknowledged that the heavy security presence ensured a peaceful process, noting that no major incidents were reported.

He concluded by warning that the manner in which the campaign was conducted could pose challenges for party unity going forward, urging party leadership to focus on reconciliation after the primary.

“The results will be known, winners and losers will emerge, but the real challenge now is unity in the party,” he added.

Mr Animli has said he doesn’t feel extraordinary because he anticipated the outcome of the just-ended election.

Godwin, the National Democratic Congress(NDC) candidate garnered 14,229 votes, defeating long-standing MP, Kobina Tahir (K.T) Hammond who secured 13,275 votes.

But in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he said though he appreciates constituents for the votes, he expected a wider margin.

“I knew within me I could unseat him and I expected more votes than what I secured so that KT Hammond who has decided to go to Parliament with a walking stick will know and understand that he is not fit for the position. But I’m grateful I defeated him even if it was just a vote,” he said.

Reflecting on what made his victory possible, Godwin said Adansi Asokwa can boost of no development although KT Hammond has been in parliament for 24 years.

He bemoaned the incumbent MP lacks respect for the people, including traditional authorities.

“After his victory in an election, he will abandon the people to come and stay in Accra. He will not engage them to know their problems or find solutions. He only returns when another election is near.

“Even before this election, Ken Agyapong came there and bemoaned why there was not even a factory in the area all these years which means KT Hammond was capable,” he lamented.

However, he has pledged a new inclusive leadership that will boost development in Adansi Asokwa with dedicated focus on youth empowerment.

“Due to the lack of jobs, many young people have migrated to Accra even when they don’t know anybody here.

“So I will roll out an initiative in line with President-elect Mahama’s apprenticeship programme and I will provide startup kits after training.

“There is a lot of money in real estate so we’ll dive into PoP, Plumbing, masonary, carpentry among others and ensure more youth get jobs,” he assured.

Despite the clear margin, KT Hammond has vowed not to concede defeat, insisting on a recount.

The MP has alleged discrepancy in the colours of the pink sheets issued by EC officials at the end of the polls and snatched ballot boxes.

ALSO READ:

Following the polls on Saturday, December 7, Joy News reported that KT Hammond, who has represented the constituency since 2001, received 13,229 votes.

His challenger, Animli Dorgbadzi Dorani of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), secured 14,229 votes, emerging as the new MP-elect for the constituency.

However, the outcome has not been well received by the veteran politician, who has since Saturday called for a recount of the ballot papers.

In an interview with Adom TV on Monday, December 9, KT Hammond firmly responded, “No, I will not concede,” when asked if he was prepared to accept the results.

The MP’s refusal to concede stems from what he claims are discrepancies on the pink sheets issued by the Electoral Commission (EC) officials at the end of the polls.

He also alleged that, some ballot boxes were snatched and others were also missing.

KT HAMMOND

Meanwhile, many senior members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who have lost their seats to the NDC include Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister of Communications and Digitization, from the Ablekuma West constituency, and Henry Quartey, the Interior Minister, from Ayawaso Central in the Greater Accra Region.

Additionally, Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Hawa Koomson, Tourism Minister and MP for Sekondi Andrew Egyapa Mercer, and Deputy Works and Housing Minister Prince Hamid Armah have all lost their seats to NDC candidates.

ALSO READ:

People were upset, some of us objected – Egyapa Mercer on…

Tension brews at EC’s Eastern Regional office [Video]

Don’t attack state institutions – Sammy Gyamfi tells NDC supporters

Incumbent KT Hammond lost the seat with 13,109 votes to NDC’s Godwin Animli Dorgbadzi’s 13,819 votes.

With a margin of just over 700 votes separating the two candidates, the outcome is a significant blow to KT Hammond.

The tension in the area escalated as the election results were being announced, leading to a public display of frustration from the residents of Asokwa.

KT Hammond was met with boos and hoots from the crowd as he left the polling station, signaling the intense emotions surrounding his apparent defeat.

The NDC has now flipped constituencies which were traditionally NPP-held stronghold.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislator has alleged that he was assaulted by his colleague from the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

KT Hammond has since obtained a police medical form for examination at the hospital.

In a video that went viral on X following the indefinite adjournment of proceedings on Thursday, November 7, 2024, some NDC MPs, including Dr. Avedzi, were seen in a quarrel with KT Hammond.

However, it is not clear why Dr. Avedzi has been singled out.

Speaking on the incident, the outspoken politician stated that he was talking to the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and not to the Ketu North MP.

He therefore did not understand why Dr. Avedzi interrupted and started pushing him, and he has vowed to pursue legal action.

“This man [Mr. Avedzi] came out of nowhere and started pushing me. I kept shouting that he couldn’t push me like that. He pushed me about five times. What did he think he was doing? I have filed a complaint,” he fumed.

This comes after the apex court, in a 5-2 majority decision, declared the Speaker of Parliament’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant as unconstitutional.

Speaking to the media after the proceedings, Mr. Hammond strongly criticized Mr. Bagbin’s actions in resisting prior rulings of the court.

“The Speaker of Parliament has acted with dictatorial tendencies. The Speaker is supposed to be the custodian of the Constitution, but he has decided that he will not respect the Constitution and he will not respect the apex court of the land,” he said on Tuesday, November 12.

Mr. Hammond further emphasized that while Speaker Bagbin claims to respect the supremacy of the Constitution, he has ignored the supremacy of the Supreme Court.

“He respects the supremacy of the Constitution but does not respect the supremacy of the Supreme Court. He doesn’t agree that someone of his caliber would not respect the ruling of the Supreme Court,” he said.

Mr. Hammond insisted that Bagbin now has no choice but to comply with the court’s ruling.

“Bagbin has absolutely no choice but to comply with the ruling of the Supreme Court,” he said.

Background

On Thursday, October 17, Speaker Bagbin declared four parliamentary seats—three held by the NPP and one by the NDC—vacant, shifting the balance of power in Parliament.

With the NDC claiming 136 seats and the NPP reduced to 135, the NDC quickly asserted itself as the new majority.

However, on Friday, October 18, the Supreme Court issued a stay of execution on Speaker Bagbin’s decision, ruling that the four MPs must be allowed to continue representing their constituencies until the court reaches a final decision.

Despite the court’s ruling, the NDC caucus has refused to relinquish its newly claimed majority status.

After sitting to hear all parties, the Supreme Court, earlier today, ruled that Speaker Bagbin’s declaration was unconstitutional.

ALSO READ:

• Supreme Court rules on vacant seats case
• We expect Bagbin, NDC MPs to comply with Supreme Court ruling – Afenyo-Markin

The Minister for Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond, has accused the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, of undermining the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Hammond argued that the Speaker’s recent actions contribute to a loss of respect for Parliament, asserting that “it is not the MPs but the Speaker who is responsible” for any diminishing regard for the legislative body.

On Thursday, Speaker Bagbin expressed frustration with MPs’ growing habit of seeking the Supreme Court’s intervention on parliamentary issues, which he argued weakens the authority and respect of Parliament. However, K.T. Hammond strongly disagrees with the Speaker’s stance.

“If the Speaker doesn’t respect, he can stay there, but for us, we respect him. He’s the one who doesn’t respect the Presidency and the Judiciary,” Hammond stated. “He should act adamant and see what will happen to him.”

The Trade Minister further claimed that Bagbin’s approach was damaging Parliament’s reputation by “continuing to demonize the Judiciary and making statements against the President.”

This statement follows Speaker Bagbin’s decision to adjourn the House on November 7, citing a lack of business due to the absence of New Patriotic Party (NPP) members.

NPP MPs have since voiced dissatisfaction, with Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accusing the Speaker of “supervising chaos” and allowing the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs to act lawlessly.

ALSO READ:

• Speaker adjourns parliament indefinitely again
• Parliament: Afenyo-Markin slams Speaker for indefinite adjournment, accuses him of “supervising chaos”

Speaking to the press at Parliament House on Thursday, November 7, 2024, following the adjournment, the Adansi Asokwa MP voiced his frustration, stating, “The ruling made on that day has been stayed, so we are acting in accordance with the verdict.

“Why should the NDC members rush to sit on the Majority side? The Supreme Court has spoken, and that settles the matter.”

During the interview, an NDC MP attempted to interject, but K.T. Hammond was undeterred, responding, “You keep making that foolish statement—it doesn’t take you anywhere.”

Watch the video below:

READ ALSO:

• Ghanaians must punish NPP MPs for causing financial loss – Ato Forson
• Speaker adjourns parliament indefinitely again
• 2024 Election: Joana Cudjoe’s fate hangs as Court makes decision today

ALSO READ:

• Speaker adjourns parliament indefinitely again

• Ghanaians must punish NPP MPs for causing financial loss – Ato Forson

The Minister of Trade and Industry who is seeking re-election for his 7th term is optimistic Dr Bawumia’s victory will guarantee his top appointment come 2025.

KT Hammond made this statement while addressing constituents at a campaign.

He urged constituents, particularly National Democratic Congress (NDC) members to change their voting pattern to secure his victory and that of Bawumia.

“The NDC members here looking at my face like I am a wizard, change your mind and vote for the NPP. Change my mind and vote for Dr Bawumia, so that the NPP will win the 2024 elections, and I will get a big appointment. Those looking at me, I want you all to become members of the NPP by force.

“Change your mind and vote for the NPP so that we win the elections. When he becomes president, he will continue the digitisation agenda, he will bring it your doorstep,” he stated.

K.T. Hammond has been the Adansi Asokwa MP for six consecutive terms, spanning the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th parliaments.

Listen to K.T Hammond in the video above:

His statement follows the implementation of the controversial Legislative Instrument (LI) on cement pricing, which took effect after the mandatory 21-day maturity period.

The Trade Minister explained that, the new regulations are designed to promote fair pricing of cement across Ghana.

“I am clear beyond argument that there is a certain amount of unfairness in the pricing of cement in the country and I am prepared to make sure that there is some sort of sanity. The document [LI] as we speak is in force.

“I have got a legislative instrument and it is essentially this, the last argument was that we were going to cap the price [of cement] at which they were going to sell. We indicated that that wasn’t it.

“We are going to put in place by virtue of the L.I which has come into force, a committee and the committee is going to ask all the manufacturing companies to put before them the basis for their pricing” Mr. Hammond added.

ALSO READ:

Miner, 30, drowns in galamsey pit at Manso Adubia

Taxi driver and passenger killed in gory Techiman-Kintampo highway accident [Photos]

Election 2024: NPP Ablekuma Central PC kneels for votes [Video]

Ranking member of the Trade and Industry Committee, Yusif Sulemana, stated that the government failed to disclose the full terms of the WAATCO contract and failed to bring the agreement to Parliament, noting that the factory was originally intended to reduce sugar imports.

Speaking at a press conference in parliament, Mr Sulemana alleged that the agreement includes a $50,000 monthly service fee for WAATCO, plus a share of the factory’s profits.

He insisted that the agreement was not presented to Parliament because WAATCO is a foreign company.

But speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story, K.T. Hammond insisted that these claims are false.

He expressed disappointment in Mr Sulemana for calling the press instead of approaching him to ask for clarification on the issues.

“He had this discussion with the radio and television when he had absolutely no information. I am listening to all the information and I am appalled with what it is that he is talking about.

“There is absolutely nothing he had said which is true and I don’t know where to start from.”

The sector minister also said he was unaware of the $50,000 given to WAATCO and does not know where Mr Sulemana got the information came from.

K.T. Hammond explained that after spending significant amounts of money to revive the Komenda sugar factory, the government thought it wise to hand the factory over to WAATCO to manage the facility and prevent further damage.

He said that although WAATCO should be paid for their services, the government has been unable to make any payments.

Subsequently, he said the management company introduced an Indian company interested in leasing the factory to produce sugar.

He empahsied that “how they do it [produce sugar], is their own discretion.”

The Trade and Industry Minister insists that he has yet to append his signature to any contract to lease the factory to the company.

Meanwhile, he said that WAATCO is currently bringing semi-processed sugar to the Komenda factory to test the machines’ ability to process sugar.

A video from the event captured Minister Hammond insisting that the cement manufacturers leave the room before the meeting commenced.

“I was invited by the Chamber of Construction. I wasn’t invited by the Association of Cement Manufacturers. I wasn’t invited by them. Can they leave?” the Minister asked.

Minister Hammond explained that he had already engaged in discussions with the cement manufacturers and saw no need for further dialogue at this meeting. He emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was to interact specifically with the Chamber of Construction.

Faced with the presence of the cement manufacturers, Hammond stated firmly, “Two options, that I leave or they leave,” rejecting attempts by Chamber representatives to justify the manufacturers’ attendance.

He added, “Actually if you want it on record, they will not meet with me.”

In response to the Minister’s insistence, Emmanuel Tettey Martey, Chairman of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industries, requested the cement manufacturers to exit.

“Respectfully, our manufacturers, our minister has stated clearly that he has already met you and you have articulated your issues to him so he thought that he was meeting only the chamber. So that is where we stand. We don’t want a situation where the minister will leave, then we wouldn’t have achieved the purpose for which the meeting was called,” Martey appealed.

Despite further intervention from Nana Opare Kwafo, Vice Chairman of the Ghana Chamber of Construction and Kyidomhene of Aburi, the Adansi Asokwa MP Hammond stood his ground, insisting on the manufacturers’ exit.

A source present at the meeting confirmed to CitiNewsroom that the cement manufacturers eventually walked out, allowing the meeting to proceed.

This incident follows a previous altercation on July 1, 2024, when the Cement Manufacturers opted out of a meeting with Minister Hammond due to his insistence on having the media present during the discussions.

The Trade Minister’s firm stance and the ensuing ejection of the manufacturers have sparked discussions about the dynamics between the Ministry, the Cement Manufacturers Association, and the Chamber of Construction, highlighting the need for clear communication and coordination in addressing industry concerns.

The disagreements have largely stemmed from the Minister’s attempt to introduce a Legislative Instrument to regulate cement pricing much to the disagreement of the manufacturers.

This is what arrogance of power looks like. Ghana paa nie 🤣 pic.twitter.com/s3cw2HsFRT

— Abdul Hameed (@sayhameed) July 19, 2024

It is expected to become law in the next 21 days unless a two-thirds majority of Parliament annuls it.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 2, Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza said that they only allowed the L.I. to be laid because it will no longer seek to regulate the prices of cement but require that cement manufacturers report the pricing decisions to government regularly.

According to him, the concerns raised by the Minority initially for blocking the L.I. have been addressed, adding that “the L.I. is no longer harmless.”

“So, we (Minority) are okay to support it. At least what I have been told is that it is not about price control. The price control element has been taken out. It is about price reporting to the committee and if that is the case, Mr Speaker, my advice is that it is no longer a controversial instrument so it can go,” he said.

This comes a day when the cement manufacturers are considering seeking intervention from the Economic Management Team (EMT).

Dr Dawson Amoah, President of the Cement Manufacturers Association, revealed that this option would be explored during the 21 days while the Legislative Instrument (L.I) on cement regulation is laid before Parliament.

“We’re going beyond the Ministry of Trade and Industry and up to the Economic Management Team because this issue is a major concern for both producers and consumers,” he stated.

ALSO READ:

• Cement prices to go up amid L.I debate

• Proposed L.I to regulate cement prices may not be the solution – GREDA 

He blamed him for the controversy generated by the lack of consultation with relevant stakeholders who would be affected by the legislative instrument before Parliament.

Mr. Adams speaking on Adom FM’s Burning Issues expressed his disappointment in the Minister’s handling of the situation.

He revealed that, KT Hammond did not consult the Trade and Industry Committee in Parliament.

“The Minister’s approach is completely different from the problem. Look, I am apprehensive about the price of cement now because as a Member of Parliament, I have some projects I am doing that require cement.

“As for the Trade Committee, the Minister never consulted it but there is another committee that deals with the LI, known as the Subsidiary Legislation Committee, they were being consulted. But I won’t blame the Minister. I blame the government because there is no way a Minister could bring an LI to the Parliament without the consent of the Cabinet,” Kofi Adams said.

The Buem MP said the poor handling of the cement price issue is indicative of the Akufo-Addo-led government’s neglect towards Ghanaian citizens.

Kofi Adams said the current Ministers who are being paid by taxpayers have become a “liability”

“If you are appointed as President, the state takes care of all your affairs and as well as the Ministers to aid you to lead and handle everything for us. But it seems our Ministers have currently become what is termed as a liability. We are paying everything for them to work effectively but their approach to issues is inappropriate” he fumed.

READ ALSO:

• Trade Minister to lay cement price L.I after manufacturers boycotted meeting
• Proposed L.I to regulate cement prices may not be the solution – GREDA 
• Five cement manufacturers boycott meeting with KT Hammond

The meeting was to discuss a proposed Legislative Instrument (LI) to regulate cement prices which has been met with fierce opposition.

The manufacturers reportedly included Dangote, Supacem, Ghacem, Diamond Cement, and CIMAF.

Addressing the press following the boycott, Mr Hammond expressed his determination to lay the L.I in parliament today, July 2.

“This was not supposed to be a press conference. It was supposed to be a meeting with the cement manufacturers. You will recall that in the last few days, I didn’t quite lay a document, but I have given an indication of my intention to lay an LI, which will relate to the pricing of cement in the country.

“I am not sure, but I suspect that in my absence, the majority leader may have sent it out. I haven’t been able to ascertain what exactly happened, but somehow it has gone all over the country that we are trying to lay an LI…I am going to do it; we didn’t do it on this occasion,” he stated.

The Adansi-Asokwa MO insisted that there have been extensive consultations on the proposed L.I, stating no stakeholder was left out.

“The story out there is that the NDC prevented us; that is not true…I just gave a copy to my leader, the majority leader, concerning what I had in mind. But since that time, there have been so many complaints that I hadn’t consulted with the stakeholders before trying to lay the LI as they claim. I have refuted that on the various platforms.

“Consultation with these players has continuously been taking place. On a specific occasion, when I inaugurated a committee that was going to be responsible for this price regulation, I charged the manufacturers and their respective associations to be mindful of pricing cement in the country. We’ve asked them to publish the expatriate prices for us to have an idea into how much they are going to sell a bag of cement,” he explained.

ALSO READ:

• Trade Minister rushed without addressing real issues – Cement Manufacturers

• Cement manufacturers accused of withholding information to address soaring prices

In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Monday, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Dawson Amoah said there were real issues the Minister should have addressed instead of making a hasty decision.

According to him, all stakeholders would have understood issues better if there had been an extensive engagement which the Minister failed to do.

“One-third of the production cost is coming from the government. Talk of cedi depreciation, electricity, GPHA tariffs which are dollarised, taxes, import duties, fumigation levies and several killer levies.

“We have an MoU with the Ministry through which we could have seen how best to stabilise the cement prices but the Minister just rushed to parliament with the L.I without addressing underlying issues,” he stated.

Dr Dawson added that, cement manufacturers do not take delight in increasing their prices and are always reluctant to do so.

“We have a very good relationship with the Trade Ministry because the concern of cement product has been a priority of all his predecessors.

“Cement prices escalation has always not been an issue because it was favourable so if now it has become an issue, why don’t we find the antidote? I would suggest that there should be a dialogue to see how we can stabilize cement prices,” he said.

Cement manufacturers in the past days have been up in arms with KT Hammond over the proposed L.I. to push for transparency with their production costs and other needed information to help create a price ceiling beneficial to them and the consumers.

ALSO READ:

• Trade Minister justifies L.I. regulating cement prices

• Cement manufacturers called my bluff over pricing concerns – Trade Minister

KT Hammond insists that the law is essential to prevent a cartel of manufacturers from exploiting the public.

Under the proposed LI, cement manufacturers could face up to three years in jail for violations.

Despite opposition from the Minority in Parliament and various interest groups, the Minister remains resolute.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, the minister explained that he has made multiple attempts to engage the manufacturers in good faith, but to no avail, hence the decision to enforce the law to ensure fair pricing.

“I intend to ignore the petition. I am working in the interest of the good people of Ghana and not in the interest of cement manufacturing companies,” he added.

Mr. Kobina Tahir Hammond stressed that although the manufacturers were not consulted during the drafting of the L.I., he had consistently had conversations with them on the need to be transparent about pricing.

“I didn’t have to consult them in drafting the L.I., I warned them consistently that they couldn’t do what they’re doing [raising prices]. I consulted with them several times in my office, I told them what I wanted. I wanted them to be transparent, for there to be a reduction.

“I was told they said I couldn’t do it. On a simple matter of price publication and self-regularisation, I have been going on and on…it gets to a point when something has to be done, and what has to be done for me within the law is to go to Parliament,” the Trade Minister said.

According to him, he is hopeful that the bill to regulate cement prices will be passed soon. He aims to lay the legislative instrument in Parliament and secure its passage before the current session expires.

“I have given the bill to my leader, the Majority Leader to get it laid and I expect that within 21 days it should become law.

By Thursday or Friday, it should be laid. I have a funny feeling that on this occasion they won’t battle me because if you battle me on this, you are battling the good people of Ghana,” he added.

READ ALSO:

• NDC appoints Haruna Iddrisu, Muntaka members of Zongo Caucus Wing; check out full list
• Rev. Kusi Boateng suffers 3rd defeat against Ablakwa as Court of Appeal throws him out
• Man’s testicles swollen after sex in bush at Gomoa Dawurampong [Audio]

This stiff penalty is contained in the proposed draft document the Trades Minister intends to present to the House sighted by JoyNews.

This comes as the Trade Minster, K.T Hammond justifies his move to present the instrument in Parliament emphasising that stakeholders were consulted.

This is after Executive Secretary of the Cement Manufacturers Association of Ghana (CMAG) Rev. Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah insisted that this approach by the Minister to reduce prices is akin to putting the cart before the horse.

According to him, the manufacturers were not even consulted before this proposal and therefore have no idea about what the draft document entails.

“We don’t know anything about it. And with my common knowledge in legislative instruments, don’t you involve stakeholders before it gets to Parliament? Don’t you involve stakeholders in the process?” he quizzed on Tuesday.

But speaking to journalists today, K.T. Hammond noted that cement prices have been consistently escalating, and something must be done about it.

He insisted that the L.I. is necessary to prevent a cartel of cement manufacturers from exploiting the public.

“At a point in time, we are not producing so much cement in the country. Now we have an installed capacity of over 11 million tons in the country. Our demand is nothing like 11 million, so it must be a very profitable enterprise.

“But I think it behoves those in responsible positions in authority to ensure that the good people of Ghana are not fleeced. I am not comfortable, I don’t believe that we’re getting good prizes for all that it’s worth,” he said.

The Trade Minister claimed that there is something fundamentally wrong with cement pricing in the country, emphasising that every sector of the economy requires cement.

“Now I take the view that it’s about time that the country was better served by those who are selling this product to us.

“You have a kind of arbitrariness in the pricing of cement. It’s been so haphazard, I strongly believe that there must be some sanity in the system,” K.T. Hammond said.

ALSO READ:

• Minority blocks laying of L.I. to regulating cement pricing
• Trade Minister justifies L.I. regulating cement prices

According to him, the L.I will bring uniformity and address the growing concerns over fluctuating prices.

Contrary to claims of manufacturers that there was no consultation, the Adansi-Asokwa Member of Parliament has said otherwise.

“I asked them to ensure that something was done about it. In my absence, I was told that the minister wasn’t going to be able to do anything. They would not listen, they wouldn’t do it, and they would go the way they want.

Encouraging them to do it is a moral persuasion. If moral persuasion fails, there is a system in the country, there’s a Constitution, and we are preyed by a rule of law” he added.

The Minority in Parliament on Tuesday blocked the Minister’s attempts to lay the document, stating it must first be discussed.

Speaking to journalists in Parliament on Wednesday, Mr Hammond said the L.I. is necessary to prevent a cartel of cement manufacturers from exploiting the public.

“At a point in time, we are not producing so much cement in the country. Now we have an installed capacity of over 11 million tons in the country. Our demand is nothing like 11 million, so it must be a very profitable enterprise.

“But I think it behoves those in responsible positions in authority to ensure that the good people of Ghana are not fleeced. I am not comfortable, I don’t believe that we’re getting good prizes for all that it’s worth,” he said.

The Trade Minister emphasising that every sector of the economy requires cement, he bemoaned there is something fundamentally wrong with pricing.

“Now I take the view that it’s about time that the country was better served by those who are selling this product to us. You have a kind of arbitrariness in the pricing of cement. It’s been so haphazard, I strongly believe that there must be some sanity in the system,” he noted.

The Minister added that, if the Constitution mandates him to bring an L.I. to regulate cement pricing, he will do so to ensure compliance.

“If we don’t accept the moral principle, at least some sort of economic principle, the good people of Ghana must benefit. I don’t think it is fair for the way they are pricing and the way, haphazardly each one of them decides and dictates how much a bag of cement should be sold for.

“This is quite apart from the quality that they are producing. Some of the companies are producing substandard products. We have had to deal with this matter,” he explained.

ALSO READ:

• We don’t need L.I. to regulate price – Cement manufacturers tell K.T. Hammond
• Cement Prices: Manufacturers present petition to Parliament rejecting proposed L.I

This legislative instrument mandates importers of 22 restricted items to obtain licenses from a committee established by the Minister of Trade and Industry.

Speaking at the launch of the 3rd edition of the Made in Ghana Bazaar at the Accra International Conference Centre, KT Hammond claimed that NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama had publicly endorsed the policy, even though the Minority had rejected it.

“In keeping with their preferred political philosophy of triangulation, which is the opportunistic adoption of political positions for situational advantage, the opposition party took up arms. They wouldn’t permit me to lay my paper, even though Article 11 of our Constitution granted me absolute authority, but horror of horrors.

“Just a little while after his party members in opposition had threatened to cause the heavens to fall if my legislative instrument was not withdrawn, the opposition party’s flagbearer and former president, John Dramani Mahama, made a public declaration, a pronouncement that in the very remotest possibility that his party ever won elections again in Ghana, he would introduce the same import restrictions in Parliament.

“What can I say for logic? Opportunism scruples in this opposition party which is bound to remain in opposition.”

ALSO READ:

People have made more daring, incriminating statements – Yaw Sarpong on…

Fuel tanker drivers call off strike

This directive follows his earlier instruction to the CMDC during its inauguration on March 8, 2024.

Mr Hammond emphasised the need for cement manufacturers in Ghana to reverse the recent price hikes promptly.

Additionally, he urged the CMDC to ensure transparency by mandating the publication of retail prices by all cement companies.

According to the Minister, the measure aims to curb arbitrary increases in cement prices, which have burdened consumers.

Furthermore, the Trade Minister reiterated his call for the adoption of a unified cement pricing mechanism across the nation.

He proposed a model akin to the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF), which regulates fuel retail prices in Ghana. Such a system would promote price consistency and fairness in the cement market.

The CMDC, established under the Ghana Standards Authority (Manufacture of Cement) Regulations, 2023 (L| 2480), plays a pivotal role in regulating the cement industry.

Chaired by Prof. Alex Dodoo, Director-General of the Ghana Standards Authority, the committee comprises representatives from various stakeholders, including cement manufacturers, the Association of Ghana Industries, and governmental bodies.

Its mandate extends to promoting the manufacture, wholesale, and retail of cement and its components.

With a diverse membership encompassing industry experts and regulatory agencies, the CMDC is well-positioned to address challenges and ensure compliance within the sector.

ALSO READ:

• Trade Minister orders uniform cement prices across country

• Cement manufacturers urged to publish recommended retail prices

He cited the One District One Factory (1D1F) initiative as one of the potential areas of partnership that US businesses could consider, saying the programme had very attractive incentive packages.

The Minister, who is on an official visit to the country capital, Washington, D.C., made the call when he visited the offices of the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) and the US Chamber of Commerce.

In separate discussions with the two entities, KT Hammond said the purpose of the visits was to familiarise himself with the workings and priorities of the two bodies in order to explore opportunities for collaboration and support.

He added that the government was also encouraging garment manufacturers to set up in Ghana, citing Dignity DTRT as an example of a garment manufacturer which had established a state-of-the-art garment factory and had a linkage with an American company that was importing its garments.

The Minister, however, expressed concern about the expiry of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and urged the Chamber to help push for its renewal.

He said Ghanaian textile and garment dealers were very concerned about the impact the possible expiry of AGOA could have on their businesses.

Since its enactment in 2000, AGOA has been at the core of US economic policy and commercial engagement with Africa, according to the official website of US Trade Representative.

AGOA provides eligible sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free access to the US market for over 1,800 products, in addition to the more than 5,000 products that are eligible for duty-free access under the Generalised System of Preferences programme.

To meet AGOA’s rigorous eligibility requirements, countries must establish or make continual progress toward establishing a market-based economy, the rule of law, political pluralism, and the right to due process.

Additionally, countries must eliminate barriers to US trade and investment, enact policies to reduce poverty, combat corruption, and protect human rights.

“By providing new market opportunities, AGOA has helped bolster economic growth, promoted economic and political reform, and improved US economic relations in the region,” the website notes.

In that situation, the most senior member is elected by the Members of Parliament to preside over the meetings.

This is the second time a member has acted as Speaker under the 4th Republic.

The first happened a couple of weeks ago when Akwasi Ameyaw Cheremeh acted in the same capacity.

The nomination of KT Hammond has thrown the House into laughter.

Per the Standing Orders of Parliament, the business in the chamber must go on even when the Speaker and his duties are unavoidably absent.

When that occurs, Members of Parliament will elect one of them to play the role of Speaker.

This occurred today when Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin announced to the House that he had to attend to another assignment, Joseph Osei Owusu is chairing the Appointments Committee, and the other was also not available, leaving the seat empty.

It was Sam George, MP for Ningo Prampram, who nominated KT Hammond to act since he (KT) was the most senior at that particular moment.

Watch attached video below for more

ALSO READ:

Alan Kyerematen performs butterfly dance [Video]

BoG suspends GT Bank and FBN Bank Forex Trading Licenses

Actor Oteele shares heartwarming video of wife and kids

Ghana’s historical democracy cannot exempt him.

The tough-spoken politician as a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) stands a chance of also being in the ninth Parliament which will be inaugurated on January 7, 2025.

From afar, KT Hammond appears uninteresting, but colleagues from both sides of Parliament have a great rapport with him, especially because of his sense of humour.

Though born on Thursday, 16th June, 1960 which is to be Yaw for Akan or Kow/Ekow/Kwame for Fante, he is rather called Kobina, Fante for a Tuesday born.

A staunch Muslim, married to an intelligent judge, Nabeela Naeema Wahab Sahiba, Mr Hammond is seen as a strong legislator with the ruling NPP majority in Parliament.

Called to the English Bar, Mr Hammond has written his name in the history of Parliament having served for 24 years.

KT Hammond has been represented badly in the media but his life and solid interpersonal relationships are very envious.

He is seen calming tempers sometimes and being his jovial self, he uses that to channel his arguments and points without the opposing side realising it.

In the heat of debates on policies that may have generated hot arguments, he does it so calmly with little impact of the suffering side.

Very honest, person who is described by his colleagues as “a man without secret “ KT tells it as it is and tells it to the face of who is connected to what without mincing words.

KT does not care where, he only sees his friends and colleagues. Whether at committee meetings, or floor of the House, he expresses himself in a free manner.

It was evident when he faced the Appointments Committee of Parliament following his nomination as Trade Minister to succeed Alan Kyerematen.

KT Hammond has a better rapport and friendship with the media like many other legislators in Parliament.

He has earned the name ‘Wofa’ to wit, uncle and one hears media personnel and his colleague parliamentarians refer to him as such.

On the floor of Parliament, he is one of the few MPs who cannot escape the eye of the Speaker and he reserves a special place in the Speaker’s daily dealings in the House, no wonder Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin refers to him as the class prefect.

Now Trade Minister, he tried to push through an Act to embargoed 26 selected items importation to revitalize the local industries but was greeted with stiff opposition from the opposition.

Even that, which could have been more disastrous, the Minister meandered his way and made the uproar a bit lighter due to his style.

He has been very instrumental especially on policies especially energy, law, policies, taxation and others.

Recently, he made a fantastic delivery on taxation and its associated benefits to every economy, including Ghana which was warmly received by his colleagues on the floor.

Another Statement was made on the qualification of the Black Stars to the World Cup on
Thursday, 31st March, 2022 and the dichotomy of perspective of his arguments was watertight.

Copious reports from Committees particularly from Finance Committee, Mines and Energy Committee, Local Government and Rural Development are evidence of his work in Parliament.

PUBLIC PERCEPTION
Recent incidents in Parliament, especially when he covered Pru East MP, Dr Kwabena Donkor’s face during a live interview left the public in shock and questioned his seriousness.

But get it right that what exists between the two energy gurus, goes beyond that Dr Kwabena Donkor did the same to him.

They call themselves brothers thus ‘menua’ in the Twi parlance and ‘menua Kwankor’ is how KT refers to Kwabena Donkor.

Again, if there’s one single person who makes life better with all the stress associated with being an MP or Minister and worst of the politician is KT.

Serious than you know

Make no wrong, KT Hammond is one of the most serious MP’s in Parliament, he doesn’t joke with his time and his work.

He takes his work seriously and I can tell you KT is strict and meticulous in his work.

Forget about your height and stature, if you are late or not being serious with work, he tells you straight.

KT Hammond perhaps has more friends in the opposing side than any other, it also shows in the voting on Minister-designates to become ministers.

Take it, it’s difficult to know when Hon KT Hammond is angry, he is a man of high emotional intelligence and can stop in the middle of a tense situation or confrontation and smile or laugh.

Next time you see KT Hammond call him ‘Wofa‘, he prefers that to honourable and say AyeKoo to him.

He is the romantic “god” in Ghana politics.

The author is Adom News’ Parliamentary correspondent.

Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament (MP) Kobina Tahir (K.T.) Hammond has threatened to give his main contender in the New Patriotic Party primaries, Sammy Binfoh Darkwah a showdown.

The Trade and Industry Minister has vowed to beat the Deputy CEO of the Ghana Library Authority mercilessly for allegedly using macho men to attack his supporters.

He said the attack occurred on Friday night, claiming some of the suspects came to his house to apologise after the act.

“We have had elections in this constituency for 24 years and there has not been any act of violence or chaos but Sammy Binfoh comes in anytime to cause trouble. I am very disappointed one of my people had an AK47 but decided to use a pistol to defend himself,” he stated.

A visibly angry KT Hammond warned Mr Binfoh to leave the constituency immediately for his own safety.

“I will give him two showdowns. I will humiliate him at the polls and get him beaten physically. This is not violence but a notice so wherever he is, he should leave town quickly.

How can he attack my people and think he will get away with it. I will organise for him to be beaten physically,” he threatened amidst attempt by some policemen to calm him down.

Ahead of the primaries, Mr Hammond petitioned the National Executive Committee (NEC), seeking the disqualification of Mr Binfoh and two other contenders.

He alleged that his opponents; Mr Binfoh, Dr. Enoch Acheampong, and Kwabena Nkansah Asamoah are not card-bearing members of the party and have not done any work in the constituency to merit representing the constituents.

Watch KT Hammond’s outburst in the video attached above:

ALSO READ:

• NPP primaries: It was morning devotion – Asenso Boakye on camping delegates

• NPP primaries: Asenso-Boakye and Ralph Agyapong clash at voting center

The Trade Minister’s disqualification is on the grounds that the opponents are not NPP members and have contributed less to the constituency’s progress.

This follows an earlier petition by the MP and 14 constituency executives on January 2 to the Ashanti Regional Vetting Committee, seeking the disqualification of his main opponent, Sammy Binfoh Darkwa.

After thorough deliberations on the petition, the Committee cleared Mr Darkwa of all allegations put forth against him and declared him fit to contest the January 27 election.

However, Mr Hammond insists that, the contenders lack knowledge about the constituency, which he deemed a violation of Article 12(4) and (7).

The two other contenders are Kwabena Asamoah and Enock Boakye Acheampong.

Read the full petition below:

ALSO READ:

• KT Hammond’s challenger proves he is NPP member

• K.T. Hammond’s contender cleared by Vetting Committee

During the initial day of vetting, the Committee received a petition from 14 constituency executives and MP K.T Hammond, urging the disqualification of the Deputy Managing Director of the Ghana Publishing Company.

After thorough discussions on the petition, the Committee absolved Binfoh Darkwa of all the allegations put forth against him.

In an interview with JoyNews, Sammy Binfoh Darkwa expressed his readiness to defend himself against the allegations, stating, “I faced the Committee and came out successful. The Committee analyzed the allegations, and I was vindicated. I will always defend myself against any form of allegation.”

Responding to the petition, Mr. K.T Hammond emphasized that the accused individual lacks knowledge about the constituency, which he deemed a violation of Article 12(4) and (7).

He challenged, “Go and ask them if they know anything about the constituency. Go and ask them. What do they know about the constituency?” At the conclusion of the first day of vetting, all four aspirants vying for the Adansi Asokwa constituency seat under the NPP banner have been granted approval to contest.

ALSO READ:

• I didn’t slap Annoh-Dompreh; I only made gesticulations towards him – KT Hammond

• NPP primaries: Gomoa Central NPP Chairman warns against attacks on aspirants

The petition alleges that Mr Darkwa, who is the Deputy Managing Director at the Ghana Publishing Company is not an NPP member and has contributed less to the constituency’s progress.

He is also accused of taking away pick-ups donated to the constituency after losing the 2018 parliamentary primaries to Mr Hammond.

The petition states that Mr. Binfoh does not qualify to contest the election as enshrined in Article 12(4) and (7) of the Party’s Constitution.

However, the aspirant, who is poised to unseat the incumbent, believes he is on the best path to victory.

Speaking to JoyNews, he expressed confidence in his chances for victory.

“I am looking forward to unseating the incumbent MP who was fortunate during the last primaries. I am not worried or perturbed about the situation. We are looking forward to victory,” he said.

The contest in the Adansi Asokwa constituency is expected to be fierce as three other aspirants position themselves to unseat Mr Hammond.

According to him, government is doing nothing wrong by bringing to Parliament tax waiver requests for approval.

This follows Ranking Member on the Trade and Industry Committee, Yussif Sulemana’s claim that the Minority has identified a GH₵7 billion tax exemption the government intends to introduce under the guise of One District One Factory (1D1F), while in actuality it is seeking to benefit government cronies.

Whilst refusing to confirm the numbers put out by the Ranking Member, K.T Hammond justified giving out exemptions to companies under One District One Factory.

He also insisted there is nothing wrong with giving out tax waivers and seeking to raise new taxes at the same time.

He argued that the tax waivers are expected to bolster government’s One District One Factory programme.

“Embedded in the IDIF initiative is the fact that those companies which have managed to raise monies from whatever capital that they have, they have decided that they have the confidence in the Ghanaian economy and decided to invest in the economy, are to be incentivised and one of the ways we incentivise them is to grant them tax exemptions. It is done everywhere,” he explained.

Minority in Parliament claimed the Finance Ministry is seeking more than GH₵ 7 billion in fresh tax exemption requests despite another GH₵5.5 billion in exemption requests pending.

This GH₵12 billion in tax exemption requests are all before the Finance Committee of Parliament with the Minority blocking the approval of the initial GH₵5.5 billion.

Speaking to journalists in Parliament, Ranking Member of the Trade and Industry Committee, Yusif Sulemana, lamented these tax waivers.

The Bole Bamboi MP argued that it is unconscionable that government will be seeking to raise a little over GH₵11 billion in new taxes as part of the 2024 budget while giving out GH₵12 billion for free at the same time in tax exemptions.

“The unfortunate thing is that whilst we are taxing the poor Ghanaian to raise this revenue, we are also at the same time granting tax waivers to friends and if you like, family members. For instance, we have about GH₵5.5 billion tax exemptions waiting at the Finance Committee for exemptions.

“We have also been reliably informed, and we are speaking because we have seen documents that suggest that they are bringing another GH₵7 billion tax waiver request to Parliament. Now, if you put the two together, you are talking about GH₵12.5 billion, in tax exemptions. Here you are, wanting to grant GH₵12.5 billion to your friends and your family members in the name of tax exemptions under the name of 1D1F at the same name imposing taxes to the tune of GH₵11 billion,” he said.

According to Mr Sulemana, the Minority will not allow these exemptions to go through without a fight since the introduction of taxes on businesses has led to the collapse of several businesses in the country.

“We will not sit down and allow them to impose taxes on our people,” he insisted.

ALSO READ:

• 1D1F needs thorough investigation – Prof Gatsi

• Minority accuses govt of attempts to grant GH₵7bn in tax waivers to cronies

Known as the Export and Import Regulations 2023, the bill seeks to restrict the importation of 22 selected strategic products such as sugar, rice, poultry, and tripe into the country.

This follows a green light by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin on Tuesday after the Minority opposed plans to lay it.

This was the third time the policy document had suffered a setback in Parliament.

The side argued that the L.I. is inimical to the general interest of Ghanaians and business people and will also said it will breed corruption.

The Speaker was clear however, that per the constitution, if the L.I. meets the constitutional test, then no one can block its laying.

The Speaker further asked Mr Hammond to meet with the Subsidiary Legislation Committee again to cross their T’s and dot their I’s for the instrument to be laid on Thursday.

ALSO READ:

• Speaker clears way for laying of import restriction L.I. on Thursday

• Import Restriction Bill: GUTA sends strong message to Trade Minister

According to the Minister, the project cost of over $30 million was inflated.

The factory which was partially commissioned in 2016 has been lying idle since with the minister describing it as an albatross.

Taking his turn to debate the 2024 budget, KT Hammond disclosed checks by his outfit in India have revealed the project even if it was to be executed today should cost about $18 million dollars.

Ranking member for the Committee on Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs, Eric Opoku on his part accused the government of collapsing the poultry sector.

According to Mr. Opoku, the 20% consumption the local poultry industry used to provide in 2016 has now declined to 15%. The Asutifi South MP accused the Nana Addo administration of diverting resources meant for the poultry sector.

Eric Opoku questioned the high food inflation in the country despite the so-called initiatives such as planting for food and jobs.

Deputy Finance Minister, Abena Osei Asare however explained the high food inflation is due to products not produced in the country.

North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto among other things focused on the plight of the victims of the Akosombo Dam Spillage and lack of any resettlement plan.

According to him, months after the disaster the displaced are living like refugees in their own country.

Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Ahmed Ibrahim demanded answers from Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta about the National Cathedral Project.

The Banda MP asked whether the project would still be funded from the contingency vault as happened in the past and why the minister failed to speak to it in the budget.

The Ministry hopes the regulation will help the cedi appreciate as well as help grow local industries.

Per the proposed regulation, any person seeking to import the selected products will require permission from the Trade Minister.

But the Minority in P arliament has described the regulation as a bad policy that must be withdrawn immediately.

It says the World Trade Organisation (WTO) frowns on such a policy because it violates its practices. It also says restricting importation will fuel inflation and worsen hardship as there are no ready substitutes. It also expressed worry that traders might not get the license to import products if they do not have ties with the New Patriotic Party when that power is granted the Minister.

But the Trade Minister says he sees no link between granting permission to individuals to import certain products and corruption.

In an interview on JoyNews, he said, “that mentality that it is going to lay in the pocket of whoever, how is it going to line itself up? You are afraid that I won’t give you because you are Evan Mensah? On the flip side, you are afraid that what? Why do I get corrupted by giving you the license or by not giving you the license?.”

He explained that, anyone who feels they mistreated has room to seek redress from the courts.

Mr Hammond also explained a clause in the L.I which mandates that the particulars of the principal officers, directors, and partners of the company requiring a license to import must be known.

He explained that this clause was important because the government was trying to make sure that Ghanaians were on the hierarchy of top importers.

Mr Hammond, who doubles as the Adansi Asokwa legislator justified his claim with the assertion “We don’t want to deal with faceless people, we want to deal with real human beings.”

The legislator added that the strategic product L.I was birthed from various consultations with several stakeholders.

“Stakeholders invited to various consultations included the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ghana Immigration Service, our own representative, Food and Drugs Authority, Standards Authority, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ghana Union of Traders, Association of Ghana Industries, Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Rice Farmers and Producers, Poultry Farmers and Association, Institute of Statistical Social and Economic Research and then Private Sector Stakeholders,” he told Evans Mensah on Monday.

The Minister continued that after the engagement stakeholders recommended that the L.I be expanded to cover more items including diapers, pipes, steel, electrical cables, and conductors.

Already, the minority in parliament has taken a firm decision to oppose the L.I., and has vowed to resist it.

Six business associations have also submitted a petition to parliament urging the house to reject the import restrictions bill. The Joint Business Consultative Forum, comprising associations such as the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), argue that the bill if enacted, would have detrimental effects on their businesses.

The petition, dated Sunday, November 26, outlined concerns that the legislation could negatively impact the prices of goods, disrupt the free flow of goods, and potentially harm businesses.

ALSO READ:

• Right quantities of products will be imported to prevent shortage and inflation – K.T…

• Restricting imports the right way to go but the approach is problematic – Ricketts-Hagan

In an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr Hammond explained that, the intention is not to completely ban the importation of products but rather implement some restrictions with a keen eye on maintaining equilibrium in the local food supply chain.

“We are not banning; we’re restricting, but it will be restricted to the extent that we don’t create famine in the country,” he said on Monday, November 27.

To ensure a comprehensive approach, a committee comprising representatives from the Food and Agriculture Ministry, the Finance Ministry, the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Food and Drugs Authority will be responsible for overseeing the monitoring process.

Mr Hammond stressed the importance of collaboration between the ministries, particularly highlighting the close liaison between the Trade and Industry Ministry and the Food and Agriculture Ministry in the formulation of the LI.

According to him, should Parliament pass the proposed legislation, the Food and Agriculture Ministry will have the responsibility to provide updates on domestic food production and collaborate with the Trade Ministry to identify essential commodities that may need to be imported.

“The committee through the Agriculture Ministry will tell us that the deficit between production and consumption in the country is this much, so this product is important and must be brought in. We would allow the importation to supplement our local food production so that there is no shortage of food locally,” he explained.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to preventing starvation and ensuring that the right quantity of essential products is allowed into the country.

He further explained that the goal is to strike a balance between supporting local production and maintaining an adequate supply of food.

“We would monitor as much as we can and make sure we balance the system because even though the government aims to preserve its foreign reserves, this vision will not be at the expense of people not being able to feed themselves,” he assured.

On Monday, Mr Hammond, laid before Parliament an improved version of the LI after it was blocked last week over the lack of quorum and consultation.

The LI will compel importers of 22 restricted items, including poultry, rice, sugar, diapers and animal intestines (Yemuadie) to seek licenses from a committee to be set up by the minister.

The Minority in Parliament has, on three occasions, resisted the laying of the LI on the ground that it was not only dangerous but violated international trade practices and could give too much power to the minister, a situation that has the propensity to breed corruption.

ALSO READ:

• Tempers flare in Parliament over proposed import restrictions bill

• Law to ban import of ‘yemuadie’, rice, others: Trade Minister sets records straight

During an interview with JoyNews’ Evans Mensah on Monday, November 27, Mr. Hammond revealed that a consensus had been reached with the Minority for the laying of the L.I., which sought to impose restrictions on the importation of 22 products.

Mr. Hammond stated that in a meeting chaired by Dominic Ayine, concerns were raised by the Minority regarding specific items on the L.I. However, after addressing those concerns, he claims they were content with the proposed changes.

Reading from the Committee’s report, Mr. Hammond indicated that the Committee concluded that the draft regulations were within the constitutional parameters.

He expressed frustration at the Minority Leader’s subsequent opposition, describing it as ‘duplicity’ and feeling betrayed.

When asked if he felt stabbed in the back, Mr. Hammond affirmed that he did.

He acknowledged that according to parliamentary procedures, he was not required to pre-lay the L.I., as it had already been through the parliamentary process.

Despite this, he chose to proceed but expressed his disagreement with the process.

Mr. Hammond also mentioned that he had sought redress in the High Court, emphasizing that Parliament doesn’t sit in an adjudicative capacity.

In a related development, six business associations, collectively known as the Joint Business Consultative Forum, including the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA) and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), have submitted a petition urging Parliament to reject the import restrictions bill proposed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

The associations argue that the bill, if enacted, could have adverse effects on their businesses, impacting prices and disrupting the free flow of goods.

The Minority has opposed the regulation three times, citing concerns about the excessive power it grants to the Minister for Trade.

ALSO READ:

• GUTA, 5 other groups petition parliament over import restriction bill

• Government must withdraw L.I. seeking to restrict import of strategic products -Minority

The sector minister, Kobina Tahir (K.T) Hammond has said the items, numbering about 22, include rice, cement, offal (popularly called “yemuadie” in Ghana), and diapers.

KT Hammond who doubles as the Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament (MP) disclosed this while addressing the media on Monday.

“Stomach of animals, bladder and the chunk of intestines (yemuadie), the country puts in an amount of about $164 million towards the importation of these items. We are taking steps to ensure that in terms of rice, there’s no poverty of rice in the country,” he said.

He explained that the initiative is to help streamline importation and boost local production.

“By these restrictions, we are not going to ensure that there’s no food in the country at all; that is not the point at all.

“There have to be some efforts by the government to ensure that we go back to Acheampong’s operation feed yourself. There are about 22 items on the list, one of them, I think, is diapers,” he added.

He further announced the introduction of the Ghana Standards Authority Regulations (GSA) 2023, which also seeks to streamline the manufacturing of cement to ensure competitive pricing.

ALSO READ:

• Ghana loses $165m on ‘wele’, intestines import

• 1D1F: 126 factories now operational, over 160k jobs created- KT Hammond

This is in memory of two community members who died during a communal labour to renovate a dilapidated teachers’ quarters.

Following the collapse of the building, the Adansi Asokwa MP mobilised necessary resources to construct the new and safe dwelling for teachers in Asirifikrom.

Speaking at the the commissioning of the newly built quarters, K.T Hammond reflected on that tragic incident, stating that it is disheartening people have to lose their lives for the betterment of others.

Also present at the commissioning was the Odikro of Asirifikrom, Nana Japheth Scorbah, who expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the two individuals who lost their lives during the communal labour.

He emphasized the significance of their sacrifice in pursuing a safe and habitable dwelling for the community’s educators.

Nana Japheth Scorbah commended the swift response of MP, K.T. Hammond, acknowledging the considerable effort and resources devoted to providing the community with this new infrastructure.

He praised the government for constructing their roads providing communication network, new JHS block, portable water and other developmental works.

With an installed capacity of 250,000 tonnes and 60,000 tonnes a year for its rolling mill and prefabricated manufacturing plant respectively, the company also exports a large portion of its products to neighbouring West African countries, saving the country approximately $100 million in foreign exchange which is so critical for economic stability and growth.  

B5 Plus currently produces 4,000 different lines of products for the West African market.

Working visit

This came to light when the Minister of Trade and Industry, K. T. Hammond, paid a working visit to the new plant site at Larpleku in the Kpone-Katamanso District in the Greater Accra Region.

Impressed by the modern production technology and methods at the factory, the Trade and Industry Minister said the performance of B5 Plus underlined the success story of the government’s flagship 1D1F initiative, which was worthy of emulation by other countries aspiring to decentralise industrial development.

Citing the case of B5 Plus Limited, Mr Hammond stated that the company had taken advantage of the government’s initiative to invest in a new manufacturing line to grow it into one of the largest iron and steel companies in Africa and beyond.

The Trade and Industry Minister said the local production of iron and steel was critical for the success of the country’s industrial transformation agenda which, he said, focused on value addition using local raw materials, and creating mass employment and export diversification, especially through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Sectors such as real estate, construction and metal fabrication have benefited from the products of the company, thus opening gates of sustainable development in the country.

The minister embarked on the visit to familiarise himself with the operations of the factory and how it is supporting the local economy.

Overwhelmed

Addressing the media after the tour, the minister described the project as a classic example of the success of the President’s industrialisation agenda through the 1D1F Initiative.

“I am overwhelmed by this huge structure.

 I have been taken through various processes, from the raw materials to the finished stage, and I must say that I am impressed profoundly with the work done so far,” Mr Hammond said.

“I want to assure the company of the government’s continuous support to address other challenges the company is facing in terms of water supply and power generation to mitigate the negative impact on production and cost overruns,” the minister added.

Unhappy with the huge expenditure on iron and steel imports, Mr Hammond expressed optimism that the project had come at an opportune time to help address the challenge.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of B5 Plus Ltd, Mukesh V. Thakwani, said the decision to invest to expand and modernise the factory which was set up in 2002 as a small operation was to address the very concerns the minister had raised in a bid to accelerate socio-economic development and increase job opportunities for the country’s teeming youthful population.

He said after the investment, the company had become the largest iron and steel manufacturer and exporter in West Africa.

Mr Thakwani emphasised that the emergence of AfCFTA would help address some of the challenges from trading across borders in Africa.

B5 Plus Ltd, an existing company, took advantage of the 1D1F initiative and invested to expand capacity, technology and production lines with the construction of an additional plant.

Described as one of the largest in Africa, the steel manufacturing plant is certified with the ISO 9001:2015 quality management system.

The fully automated steel manufacturing plant is estimated to cost $100 million and has the potential to help bridge the gap between the production and demand for steel locally.

The first phase of the plant sits on a 100-acre land and comprises of a steel melting shop (SMS), a rolling mill and a prefabricated manufacturing plant. 

Raw materials

Mr Thakwani told the minister and his entourage that the company sourced some of its raw materials as scrap metals from the local market as well as ingots from foreign markets.

He said B5 Plus had been able to build one of the largest network of wholesalers, dealers and distributors in Ghana, Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Benin, Freetown, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Senegal and Mali.

Some of the lines of products are wire rods and rebars from scrap metal, sections, angles, channels, U beams, round bars and square bars.

The CEO added that by expanding its production capabilities to include grinding media balls, B5 Plus would be able to increase its production and offer more goods locally.

ALSO READ:

• B5 Plus Limited gets top awards for its investment and CSR initiatives

• IDIF: Akufo-Addo commissions phase one of B5 Plus Steel Plant

An Accra High Court on Thursday said it does not find KT Hammond guilty of contempt following some comments made regarding the outcome of Mr Quayson’s trial.

Speaking in an interview after the ruling, the Adansi Asokwa MP said freedom of speech won in the contempt case.

“The judge was very articulate to the point, very legal in her analysis, very clear and in the end, freedom of speech has been vindicated. I want the lawyers of Gyakye Quayson to understand that you don’t take KT Hammond to court as a victim, as stated by his lawyer, Abraham Amaliba.

“He [Mr Amaliba] stood here, at the forecourt of this very building and told the whole world that they decided to institute this application against me as a victim, and I am no one’s victim at all. They should go back and read the rudiments of the law,” he told Accra-based TV3.

Mr Quayson’s lawyers had asked the High Court to punish Mr Hammond for saying James Quayson may as well leave Parliament since he would end up in jail.

Their application followed an interview the Minister granted to Oyerepa TV during which he compared the Quayson case to that of late former legislator, Adamu Sakande.

But the presiding judge, Justice Mary Yanzuh said the lawyers for Mr Quayson did not produce the full interview to enable the court convict the accused.

ALSO READ:

• My comments on Gyakye Quayson’s trial were not prejudicial – KT Hammond

• Gyakye Quayson’s contempt case against K.T Hammond dismissed

The presiding judge, Justice Mary Yanzuh said the lawyers for Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson did not produce the full interview to enable the court to convict the accused.

“It was incumbent on the applicant to exhibit the full interview. Without the full complement of the interview, the court is deprived of the opportunity to know exactly what was said.

“The court cannot rely on the manifestly incomplete publication to rule on a man who denies the content of the publication. There is no room for conjecture. Evidence was required,” Justice Yanzuh said.

Mr Quayson’s lawyers had asked the High Court to punish Mr Hammond for saying James Quayson may as well leave Parliament since he would end up in jail.

Their application followed an interview the Minister granted to Oyerepa TV during which he compared the Quayson case to that of former legislator Adamu Sakande.

“There is something we call precedence at the court. This is the same thing that happened with Adamu Sakande. He came to this House…the same NDC (National Democratic Congress) members were the ones who sacked him from Parliament and took him to court. He was imprisoned and he eventually died and was buried. It is the same matter,” he said.

“They are making all kinds of noise about his swearing-in. I prompted the former Deputy Attorney General, Dominic Ayine to tell the gentleman that we have seen this before in this House. He should leave this House before he would be jailed,” he added.

About the Adamu Dramani Sakande case

In July 2012, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Adamu Dramani Sakande was convicted by an Accra High Court after he was found guilty of perjury and forgery.

This was after he failed to denounce his UK Citizenship before contesting for the Bawku seat.

He was found guilty of perjury and forgery and was jailed for two years concurrently on all counts.

RELATED:

• You will go to prison – KT Hammond tells Gyakye Quayson

• My comments on Gyakye Quayson’s trial were not prejudicial – KT Hammond

Mr Quayson’s lawyers filed a contempt application following comments made by the Trade and Industry Minister during a media interview, deemed contemptuous.

Mr Hammond is alleged to have equated the Gyakye Quayson case to that of Adamu Sakande, a late former MP for Bawku Central and indicated that the Assin North MP will suffer the same fate.

But speaking in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM in Accra on Friday, Mr Hammond emphasised “I am clear in my mind that I haven’t committed any contemptuous sin. I made a remark, the remark was in the context of precedence of decisions that have been made by the Supreme Court… And I don’t understand why anyone would want to take me to court except for the fact I am KT Hammond.”

For that reason, the Trade Minister said that he would have gladly acceded to the allegations and rendered an apology if he really made such commentary.

Meanwhile, the High Court in Accra has set October 19, to deliver a ruling on the contempt case brought against Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament, KT Hammond.

The complainant in the case, Mr Quayson was hoping to move the case on Friday, but it was rather adjourned.

The court has directed the parties in the matter to file their written addresses by August 31.

The parties will then return on October 19 for the ruling.

• Here’s why the AG’s office is not probing source of Dapaah’s wealth
• You couldn’t manage 100K graduates how much more a nation? – NABCO trainees rubbish Bawumia’s presidential ambition

Gyakye Quayson’s lawyers filed the contempt application following comments made by the Trade and Industry Minister during a media interview, deemed contemptuous.

He is alleged to have equated the Gyakye Quayson case to that of Adamu Sakande and indicated that the Assin North MP will suffer the same fate.

The complainant in the case, Gyakye Quayson, was hoping to move the case on Friday, but it was rather adjourned.

The court has directed the parties in the matter to file their written addresses by August 31.

The parties will then return on October 19 for the ruling.

Meanwhile, the respondent, KT Hammond who was late for the hearing was represented by his lawyer Kwaku Paintsil.

Head of NDC’s legal affairs, Abraham Amaliba, who represented Gyakye Quayson, addressed the press after the proceedings.

“You are aware there has been a contempt application filed against KT Hammond. Today was the day stated for the matter to be heard. Don’t forget that we had already come to court on this matter, and the court ordered that if we have to file any process, we need to do that before July 25.

“We filed our supplementary affidavit on July 25, today we are back in court and the court has stated that we should file written addresses, it doesn’t want oral submissions, we filed our written addresses on August 31, but return to court in October for the ruling. He made some comments that we think affect the trial of Gyakye Quayson, that’s why we brought him to court. We choose our victim, everybody chooses his/her victim, and we decided to bring KT Hammond, today we have chosen him,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament who came to the court premises after the case says the contempt was filed because he is a target for the complainants.

He clarified the reason for his absence when the case was called.

“It’s not for them to decide. The arbiter in this matter is the presiding judge, but I was misinformed, I was told that it was 11:30 am, but my lawyers were there. My understanding is that it’s been adjourned to October 19. KT Hammond will always be a target, you do know that,” he said.

ALSO READ:

• I’ll meet you in court – KT Hammond tells Gyakye Quayson

• Your comments were reckless – Sammy Gyamfi blasts KT Hammond over Dormaahene

Mr Hammond has said he is ready to meet his colleague MP in court.

In the writ filed on Monday, July 10, Mr Quayson’s lawyers said the Trade Minister has made “irresponsible prejudicial comments” concerning the criminal case ongoing against him.

Addressing the media on Tuesday, Mr Hammond stated he referenced that there was a precedent to Mr Quayson’s case.

“I am not sure if those lawyers understand what precedent is, but I think I predicated my statement on the fact that there is what in legal terms called the precedence, so we are meeting in court. They played a game on me to serve me with the document, but I have accepted it.

“I made a statement here in parliament so if they want to take me up in court yes of course at the end of the day that is where these matters end up. So what is the big deal about this?”

Gyakye Quayeson trial: I'm unfazed by the contempt case filed against me. – KT Hammond #JoyNews pic.twitter.com/S4pLdtyyaj

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) July 11, 2023

The Assin North MP is being tried for forgery and perjury after he was charged by the Attorney-General’s Office.

He is also accused of deceiving a public officer and knowingly making a false declaration when he filed nominations to contest in the 2020 election when he had not renounced his Canadian citizenship.

Mr Hammond, commenting on the case, stated that his colleague lawmaker will be found guilty and jailed. 

ALSO READ:

• You will go to prison – KT Hammond tells Gyakye Quayson

• Gyakye Quayson cites K.T. Hammond for contempt

According to Mr Gyamfi, the comments were reckless and irresponsible, especially coming from an MP and Minister of State.

“The statements of KT Hammond were very reckless and irresponsible. With the body language, I will be charitable to even describe it as comical. He virtually insulted the man and it is unbecoming of him. He shouldn’t have made those condescending comments against the chief,” he condemned on Accra-based Metro TV.

The chief who doubles as President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs has for the past days been in the news after appealing to President Akufo-Addo and the Attorney-General to discontinue the criminal trial against Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson.

The chief, who is also a High Court judge, said he disagrees with the initial ruling made by the Supreme Court, which declared Mr Quayson’s parliamentary position invalid due to his dual citizenship status.

Sharing his thoughts on the proposal, the Trade Minister claimed the chief is a member of NDC.

The outspoken lawmaker said though the Constitution frowns on chiefs engaging in partisan politics, the Dormaahene does engage in active politics. 

Mr Hammond advised the Dormaahene to be cautious of his conduct and comments as they may have repercussions and went on to declare Mr Quayson will go to jail as he weighed in on his fate in the criminal case pending in the Supreme Court.

He stated that Mr Quayson’s future would be similar to that of the former MP for Bawku Central, Adamu Dramani Sakande, who was imprisoned for concealing his dual citizenship status involving Burkinabe and British citizenships.

But to Mr Gyamfi, those comments were equally reckless, adding KT Hammond shouldn’t have spoken about his colleague Gyakye Quayson in that manner.

ALSO READ:

• You will go to prison – KT Hammond tells Gyakye Quayson

• Dormaahene is an NDC member, he dines with them – K.T. Hammond

Kobina Tahir Hammond argued that, the Minority’s decision to boycott Parliament to support Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson in court during his criminal prosecution is “hypocritical”.

Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, while welcoming Gyakye Quayson to Parliament said in solidarity, they will accompany him to court daily.

This, he explained, is to protest what the Minority perceives as ongoing persecution against their colleague.

But KT Hammond in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Wednesday said this decision by Minority is borne out of hypocrisy and double standards.

He could not fathom why the National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs are not boycotting Parliament to support their leader, Dr Forson, Collin Dauda and other party bigwigs who are standing trial in court.

The Adansi Asokwa MP indicated that, their action will in no way affect government’s resolve to pursue justice in Mr Quayson’s case.

Mr Hammond, who is also Minister for Trade and Industry, maintained that, “the law is what is it and not what it ought to be there if someone has erred, he must be dealt with.”

He is hoping that the criminal trial against Mr Quayson for allegedly failing to renounce his dual citizenship status before filing to contest the 2022 parliamentary elections will move quickly for justice to be served.

ALSO READ:

• Halt Gyakye Quayson’s trial – Dormaahene to Akufo-Addo
• James Gyakye Quayson officially sworn-in as Assin North MP
• Minority MPs to accompany Gyakye Quayson every day he goes to court

The outspoken lawmaker said though the Constitution frowns on chiefs engaging in partisan politics, the Dormaahene does engage in active politics. 

Speaking to Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV on Thursday, he advised the Dormaahene to be cautious of his conduct and comments as they may have repercussions. 

According to him, the chief who doubles as High Court judge has breached the entire constitution. 

“Just listen to all that he has been saying. Just one person. Listen to what he has been saying about the Supreme Court. So it’s not like someone wants him to be punished. Why? Doesn’t he know what is doing could bring him trouble?”

“Apparently, he is an NDC member. So he has breached the entire constitution. He is an NDC person. He eats and dines with them. Tell him K. T. Hammond says you are an NDC person.”

The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, has recently been in the news for asking President Akufo-Addo and the Attorney-General to discontinue the criminal trial against the Assin North MP. 

The chief who doubles as President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs says he disagrees with the initial ruling made by the Supreme Court, which declared Gyakye Quayson’s parliamentary position invalid due to his dual citizenship status.

“He [Gyakye Quayson] said he was not willing to stay in Canada, he dropped his citizenship and returned to Ghana to help. When he got here, he had a bit of a challenge and the Supreme Court ruled that his mandate as an MP should be nullified,” he stressed.

He made these comments during the Professor John Evans Atta Mills Commemorative Lecture in Sunyani on Saturday, July 1.

Addressing the gathering, the Dormaahene made it clear that he would have taken a divergent stance if he had been part of the panel deciding on the matter.

“Some of us were not happy with that. If I were on the Supreme Court, I would have gone left and not the right,” he said.

However, following his comments, many Ghanaians have expressed varied views on same. 

For instance, the Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has advised the chief to desist from making controversial statements. 

The Suame MP says the chief’s remarks on James Gyakye Quayson’s case might prevent his promotion to the Supreme Court. 

The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, who disagrees with the Dormaahene’s call for the state to discontinue the criminal trial of the Assin North MP-elect, said such utterance cannot be made by a sitting judge.

Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu quizzed the chief if he would have advocated for a discontinuation had the case been a murder trial. 

Speaking in an interview with Pure FM, on Monday, July 3, he advised him to tread carefully when it comes to such matters. 

“The Dormaahene is a respected chief and a distinguished judge, as such his comments are not ordinary but I must say that I disagree with him on the call to drop Quayson’s case.

“We are talking about constitutional matters here. Is it the case of the chief that he would call for the same to be discontinued if it was a murder charge or any other?

“Is the respected chief saying that if someone flouts the law, we should let it go? I disagree. I think he should come out to explain further.”

Meanwhile, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Committee has disagreed with claims that comments by the Dormaahene, calling for the discontinuation of the criminal trial of Mr James Gyakye Quayson are offensive and unethical.

Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor says the Dormaahene did not breach any magistrates and judges’ code of conduct, and for anyone to suggest that he be hauled before the judicial council to face disciplinary measures cannot be in order.

He challenged accusers of the Dormaahene to point him to any code of conduct he breached.

“I disagree totally with the immoral suggestion they made, that this matter be looked into by the judicial council, especially the disciplinary committee of the judicial council,” he said in an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday.

ALSO READ:

• Former MP takes on Sam Okudzeto over Dormaahene

• Dormaahene may have a ‘soft spot’ for NDC – Obiri Boahen

He mentioned that GHS 14,407,808.00 have been disbursed to 60 companies across the country through the Exim Bank.

Some of the beneficiary companies include Royal Jute Company, Dannex, Darko Farms, Asamoa and Yamoa Farms, Weedi Africa Limited, Bloomfields Limited, KAD Manufacturing, GH Global among others.

Addressing the House on Tuesday, the Minister said this was geared towards strengthening local companies to enable them to function and supply the local markets.

“Mr Speaker, the import bill for food preparations for infants use was approximately $ 25 million in 2021 but reduced to $ 20 million in 2022. In this regard, government will continue to assist the growth of the food sector through the targeted interventions, especially companies specializing in the manufacturing of food preparation for infant use,” he said.

Mr Hammond was answering questions on the floor of Parliament as to how much each of those companies benefited from the facility.

The country, he said was bent on creating a manufacturing state rather than service and consumption.

Soon, Mr Hammond revealed the House will be presented with a bill which will seek to restrict and cut down on general importation into the country.

“There is a conscious plan to help cut down on importation to the country, I don’t know whether bottling water will be affected, soon we shall bring it, and we will see,” he remarked.

ALSO READ:

• Asante Akyem North constituents expose MP over 1D1F factory

• 1D1F: 17 completed, 16 under construction in Eastern Region – Akufo-Addo

Check out the full list below:

The Minister-designate of Trade and Industry appeared before the appointments committee on Monday, February 20, 2023.

Mr Titus-Glover has explained the vetting process is essential as it helps “get the best out of you” hence the need to be objective and composed.

“The work of an appointments committee is to ask questions, so if you’re before the committee and you’re asked a question, someone can provoke you. Your job is to be calm and answer accordingly.

“I was not pleased with K.T. Hammond’s response in a way. The question may not, excuse my language, be sensible to you and you may not be happy about it but he is doing his job. He’s asked a question so just give whatever response you have,” he said on Accra-based UTV.

Mr Titus-Glover advised the nominees to be of good conduct and answer questions as best as they can during the vetting process.

The Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza, criticised Mr Hammond’s posture and responses to questions.

ALSO READ:

Vetting of ministers – Titus-Glover sends SOS message to NDC MPs

We’re not joking here; answer my questions – Agbodza slams KT Hammond

This was in reference to a statement he made about his colleague, Kofi Armah Buah.

Mr Hammond’s attempt to lighten up the mood was not taken lightly by members of the Minority on the Committee.

Minister-Designate for Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir (KT) Hammond, is of the view he deserves a national award for the role he played in the drillship deal as a Deputy Energy Minister.

The Adansi-Asokwa MP touted through his resilience, an amount of 49 million which was rewarded to be paid by government was slashed to 19.5 million dollars as a settlement agreement with Societe General.

“They were asking for $47 million but following my arrangement, going around and compromise with the special commissioner states, instead of the $47 million that we had accumulated, they decided to charge $19.5 million. I think I need a national award for that. $47 million and we managed to get it to $19.5 million,” the Minister-Designate said.

As a Deputy Minister under the erstwhile John Kufuor administration who was at the centre of the controversial deal, he disclosed this when he appeared before the Appointments Committee for his vetting on Monday.

Mr Hammond narrated the sequence of events leading to the decision to sell the ship to a Finnish company.

To KT Hammond, there was nothing corrupt about the deal and therefore does not deserve the name-calling and insults that were hurled at him.

He explained the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) at the time was heavily indebted after defaulting payment on the loan it secured with the Drill Ship as collateral.

As a result, he revealed the ship was impounded by the creditors.

“There was no way of pleading the case but to settle. This is where I entered the fray. I was informed that since I was a practising barrister at the bar of England and Wales and this matter was pending at the Court of England, in London and since I was related to the Ministry of Energy, it was suggested that I should go and find out what we could do,” he recounted.

The sale of the Oil Drill ship belonging to the GNPC had been an object of controversy and a subject of inquiry by the Sole Commissioner appointed by President John Mahama to investigate all judgement debt cases in the country.

ALSO READ:

Industrialisation is the only way to grow economy – KT Hammond

We’re not joking here; answer my questions – Agbodza slams KT Hammond

The John Agyekum Kufuor government, which superintended over the sale had been accused of legal and procedural breaches by not consulting the Board of the GNPC which had the legal mandate to sell.

Some also accused Mr Hammond and his boss Albert Kan Dapaah of misappropriating an amount of 3.5 million dollars which was left from the 24 million dollars realised from the sale of the ship.

An amount of 19.5 million dollars had been used to pay settlement agreement with Societe Generale.

Play audio above: