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Tag: Johnson Asiedu Nketiah

  • “The Chronicle and Daily Guide”fabricated stories – Asiedu Nketia on feud with Mahama

    “The Chronicle and Daily Guide”fabricated stories – Asiedu Nketia on feud with Mahama

    National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has strongly denied rumors of a disagreement with President John Dramani Mahama regarding the appointment of ministers in the current administration.

    Asiedu Nketiah emphasized that he remains deeply engaged in party activities and has been busy with his official responsibilities.

    He labeled the rumors as baseless and urged the public to ignore such unfounded claims.

    Speaking in an interview on Otec FM, which was shared on a YouTube channel, he clarified, “I have been busy with party matters. My offices have been full, and I attend to people every day because of the appointments.

    “I saw a publication claiming that the General and President Mahama are fighting and that this is why I have not been seen in public. You know, The Chronicle and Daily Guide, I don’t even grant them interviews.

    “So, if they don’t see you in public for a while, they fabricate stories and put them out there.”

    According to The Chronicle, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is reportedly unhappy with President John Dramani Mahama for allegedly ignoring his recommended candidates for government positions.

    Sources within the party’s Functional Executive Committee (FEC) revealed that President Mahama declined a list of candidates proposed by Asiedu Nketiah, which has purportedly caused tensions within the party. Several constituency executives have visited Asiedu Nketiah’s office to express their dissatisfaction with the president’s appointments.

    A source within the FEC informed The Chronicle that General Mosquito, as Asiedu Nketiah is affectionately known, has formally lodged a complaint with the party’s elders regarding the matter. In response, the Council of Elders, which includes the Speaker of Parliament, has scheduled an emergency meeting to address his concerns.

    The report further noted that concerned party supporters are calling for swift action to resolve the emerging rift between the president and the chairman to prevent further divisions within the party.

    They argue that Asiedu Nketiah played a crucial role in the NDC’s 2024 election campaign, visiting nearly every community across the country to garner support and secure the party’s victory.

  • NPP issuing last-minute appointments to sabotage us – NDC

    NPP issuing last-minute appointments to sabotage us – NDC

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has accused the outgoing government of trying to undermine the incoming administration.

    He alleges that the NPP is conducting rushed recruitment processes across various government sectors in the final days of its tenure.

    Nketiah emphasized that any appointments made without proper authority will be annulled once the NDC takes power.

    Speaking at a victory rally in Sunyani on December 20, 2024, Nketiah revealed that the outgoing government had issued about 10,000 appointment letters, along with promotions, to public service personnel in several key institutions.

    These include the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA).

    “The outgoing government, having lost the elections, is sabotaging the incoming administration. They have mismanaged the energy sector, and if precautions are not taken, the dumsor will reoccur, so our MPs will come to address this. They informed us that the public sector was overburdened and that no recruitment could be conducted. However, over the last week, they have issued backdated appointment letters to approximately 10,000 people for immigration, GPHA, and other institutions.

    “Those who do not meet the qualifications for promotions are promoted. They are promoting NPP members to lead these institutions and sabotage us. However, I want to assure them that if we take over and discover that your appointment was done illegally, you will be asked to go home,” he added.

  • NDC’s leadership reshuffle in Parliament was a strategic move for December polls – Asiedu Nketiah

    NDC’s leadership reshuffle in Parliament was a strategic move for December polls – Asiedu Nketiah

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has stood by the party’s decision to restructure its parliamentary leadership, dismissing criticisms as unfounded.

    Earlier in the year, the NDC replaced Haruna Iddrisu (Tamale South MP), James Klutse Avedzi (Ketu North MP), and Muntaka Mubarak (Asawase MP) as Minority Leader, Deputy Minority Leader, and Minority Chief Whip, respectively.

    The reshuffle sparked mixed reactions, with some questioning its timing as the 2024 general election approaches.

    Speaking at a campaign rally in Ajumako Enyan Essiam, Central Region, on Thursday, November 21, Asiedu Nketiah explained that the changes were a strategic move to enhance the party’s effectiveness in Parliament.

    Although the decision faced initial backlash, Asiedu Nketiah stated that the new leadership team had proven its worth.

    He likened the leadership transition to a relay race, emphasizing that the previous leaders had done their part and it was time for a new team to take over.

    “When we made the changes in Parliament, did you see the criticisms that followed? Everyone was picking on me. But we stood firm because we saw something better in the new leaders. If you were to sack the new leaders we brought in, would you do that? I know you won’t because they have proven it.

    “We thank God for opening our eyes. The old leaders have done their part, but it was a relay race. When an athlete gets tired, he hands over the baton.

    “So, we handed over the baton to Ato Forson, and he did not disappoint us. We don’t regret it either. He has made the party more attractive,” he said.

  • Election 2024: Ensure your actions secure Ghana’s peace – Asiedu Nketiah to EC

    Election 2024: Ensure your actions secure Ghana’s peace – Asiedu Nketiah to EC

    Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has called on the Electoral Commission to ensure that its actions uphold the nation’s peace throughout the entire election process in December 2024.

    During the nomination filing for the NDC’s presidential candidate, John Mahama, at the EC’s headquarters on Monday, Nketiah emphasized the importance of the Commission maintaining neutrality.

    He said,“From our rounds, there are all indications that change is in the air, and so we just crave your indulgence to secure the peace of the country before, during, and after the elections. We wish to urge the Commission to also play its role as a neutral arbiter.”

    He also expressed the party’s concerns regarding the electoral process and highlighted ongoing discussions with the EC aimed at finding mutually agreeable solutions.

    Nketiah assured that the NDC will vigilantly protect its rights leading up to the election.

    “And so, we are hopeful that the Commission will listen carefully and discharge its responsibilities in a manner that is satisfactory to all participating parties.”

  • It’s either you sign the peace pact or you stop attending security meetings – NPP to NDC

    It’s either you sign the peace pact or you stop attending security meetings – NPP to NDC

    The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has suggested that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) should not attend security meetings if they are unwilling to sign the peace pact.

    Kodua pointed out that participating in these meetings is futile if the NDC is not committed to peace.

    He expressed his frustration during an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo morning show.

    He highlighted that while the NDC engages in meetings organized by the Peace Council, IPAC, and the Electoral Commission, they refuse to sign the peace pact, questioning the purpose of their involvement in such discussions.

    “In all the meetings that we attend, the most crucial aspect that will foster peace, you are refusing to sign. Then why do you attend those meetings? That is our concern as the New Patriotic Party,” Justin lamented.

    This statement comes in response to the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, who declared that the party would not sign the peace pact for the upcoming general elections.

    Kodua criticized the NDC’s refusal, recalling that in previous elections, the NDC signed peace pacts even when they disagreed with the outcomes, in the interest of national peace.

    He assured Ghanaians that the NPP is committed to a peaceful election and called on the Security Council to implement stringent security measures before and during the December 7 polls. Additionally, he urged that strict actions be taken against anyone, regardless of their political affiliation, who seeks to disrupt Ghana’s democratic process and peace.

  • Our campaign strategy for this year will be a different one – NDC

    Our campaign strategy for this year will be a different one – NDC

    National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has announced a new campaign approach for the upcoming December elections.

    Instead of the large rallies used in the past, the party plans to focus on more personal interactions with voters.

    The official campaign launch is scheduled for Saturday, July 27, in Tamale.

    In an interview with Citi News, Nketiah revealed that the NDC will emphasize door-to-door outreach and direct voter engagement as part of their strategy.

    “We want to reach out to the people, house-to-house campaign, retail campaign, that is where the emphasis is going to be. So, what we’re going to do in Tamale is to remind our people that this year, the campaign will be different. We must touch base with the people.

    “It is cheaper for party functionaries to reach out to the people in the villages than to bring their people to a collation point to address them,” the National Chairman of the NDC said.

  • I did not submit a petition for the removal of the Special Prosecutor – Martin Amidu

    I did not submit a petition for the removal of the Special Prosecutor – Martin Amidu

    Former Special Prosecutor Martin A. B. K. Amidu has accused the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of orchestrating a smear campaign against him.

    He specifically named high-profile figures such as Alhassan Suhuyini, Sammy Gyamfi, and NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah as being involved in this targeted attack.

    Amidu claims these attacks are based on unverified allegations regarding a petition he supposedly submitted for the removal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng.

    He expressed confusion over why NDC leader and flagbearer John Dramani Mahama would spearhead such a campaign against him.

    “What has really baffled me, and which is what I have been trying to understand, is the reason for which John Dramani Mahama, who is the leader and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has unleashed his NDC attack dogs such as Alhassan Suhuyini, Sammy Gyamfi, and to crown it all, the Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, on me since 17 May 2024,” Amidu stated in a release on May 26.

    The controversy revolves around a purported petition dated April 30, 2024, that allegedly called for the removal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng. Amidu has challenged the authenticity of this document, stating it lacks proper verification.

    “I cannot understand why the NDC will collaborate with Kissi Agyebeng’s preferred rented media house and his chief executioner, Sampson Lardy Anyenini, to make allegations against me without publishing the alleged petition on which the allegations are based to provide me the opportunity to confirm or deny my signature and rebut or admit the accusations,” he said.

    Amidu also questioned the role of the Chief Justice in this matter, expressing doubts about the legitimacy of a document attributed to her.

    He pointed out several inconsistencies and procedural errors, suggesting the document might be a forgery.

    “I have every reason to question the authenticity of the document attributed to the Chief Justice because I established with mathematical precision with the assistance of information and communication technologies (ICT) that a Joint Statement published at the instance of Kissi Agyebeng as a Joint Statement by the OSP and the Judicial Service of Ghana (JSG) was a forgery by the OSP,” Amidu asserted.

    Additionally, Amidu criticized the media’s handling of the allegations, specifically targeting Joy FM for what he perceives as biased reporting.

    “Joy FM and the NDC have refused or failed to publish the letter from the Presidency to the Chief Justice or the alleged petition for purposes of authentication to enable a reasoned response from me as the Joy FM’s accused in its trial in the court of public opinion,” he argued.

    Amidu concluded his statement by reaffirming his commitment to fighting corruption and defending the 1992 Constitution, despite the personal attacks and public scrutiny.

    “I will continue to defend the 1992 Constitution against all greedy bastards abusing the rights of citizens under the guise of law enforcement,” he declared.

  • Commissioning of Kumasi Airport is similar to serving fufu devoid of soup – Asiedu Nketiah tells govt

    Commissioning of Kumasi Airport is similar to serving fufu devoid of soup – Asiedu Nketiah tells govt

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has criticized President Akufo-Addo’s decision to commission the Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi while it is still under construction.

    He questioned the wisdom of inaugurating a project that is not yet finished, suggesting that waiting for its completion would have been more prudent than rushing for political gain.

    In a video shared by Nana Yaa Brefo on Instagram, Asiedu Nketiah expressed his disbelief, stating, “If it had been completed, aeroplanes would have landed there. It’s like making fufu without soup and asking us to eat. I’ve already mentioned that the president’s judgment should be examined.”There are bulldozers working everywhere, and you’re telling me it’s finished,” he stated.

    He emphasized the need to examine the president’s judgment, pointing out ongoing construction activities at the site.

    Regarding the commissioning of the airport, the splendid Agyemang Prempeh I International Airport in Kumasi was officially opened on May 10, 2024.

    TV3 and GTV Ghana showcased the airport’s interior through a video, highlighting the newly installed facilities available for public use.

    The interior design features strategically organized operational sections, with glass walls on staircases to enhance visual aesthetics. Visitors are greeted with the welcoming sign “Nante Yie,” meaning “safe journey,” at the entrance.

    The airport is expected to elevate the Ashanti Region’s international profile and contribute to the local economy’s prosperity.

    The launch event was attended by various stakeholders and government agencies, marking the facility’s official commencement of public operations.

    During his address, President Akufo-Addo expressed his satisfaction with the project’s completion and addressed skeptics who doubted its realization.

  • “Return all state monies you have looted” – Asiedu Nketia fires Akufo-Addo, NPP

    “Return all state monies you have looted” – Asiedu Nketia fires Akufo-Addo, NPP

    During the NDC’s 2024 Strategy Session in Atlanta, USA, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his government to return purportedly looted state funds.

    Nketiah emphasised that this was an opportunity for Akufo-Addo and the NPP to rectify their actions before facing consequences.

    Nketiah likened Akufo-Addo’s situation to “riding a tiger,” warning that staying on could lead to dire consequences.

    He stressed the importance of accountability, stating that the NDC’s upcoming government would track and recover embezzled funds stashed in offshore accounts.

    “Nana Akufo-Addo and his government can be likened to a person who is riding a tiger. If you get down, you will be devoured, and if you stay on the back of the tiger, you will die of hunger. They are not worried about leaving power, but their real problem is what happens after leaving power.

    “… they still have time to return all the looted funds or hold onto them and face the consequences. So, those who can communicate with NPP people, let them know that it is our duty to save this country, and one of the ways to save this country is to take over power and hold each and every office bearer accountable for their stewardship,” he said.

    While polls favour the NDC in the upcoming elections, Nketiah cautioned against complacency, urging supporters to work diligently towards victory on December 7, 2024.

  • NDC strongly opposes Electoral Commission’s decision on no indelible ink for 2024 elections – Asiedu Nketiah

    NDC strongly opposes Electoral Commission’s decision on no indelible ink for 2024 elections – Asiedu Nketiah

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has unequivocally expressed its opposition to the Electoral Commission’s decision not to use indelible ink in the upcoming 2024 elections. 

    Speaking at a press brief on Monday January 8, 2024, at the party’s headquarters, National Chairman for the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, emphasized that discontinuing the use of indelible ink at this juncture poses a significant risk, potentially opening the floodgates for nefarious activities that could compromise the integrity of Ghana’s elections. 

    The party contends that the visibility and physical verification provided by indelible ink are essential safeguards against fraudulent practices.

    Addressing the media, Mr Asiedu Nketiah noted that, “Let me be abundantly clear one more time that the NDC is diametrically opposed to the Electoral Commission decision not to use indelible ink during the election 2024.” 

    The party insists that relying solely on Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs) introduces vulnerabilities, as these devices can fail, thus jeopardizing the electoral process.

    The NDC’s strong stance is rooted in its conviction that indelible ink offers an additional layer of verification that complements biometric verification. 

    The party argues that the visible and physical verification provided by indelible ink acts as a crucial fail-safe in the event of any BVD failure, ensuring the overall integrity of the electoral process.

    As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, Mr Asiedu Nketiah has called on national stakeholders and faith-based organisations to channel their energies towards advocating against the EC’s decision not to use indelible ink during the election.

  • We will not congratulate anybody who murders Ghanaians to secure power – Asiedu Nketiah replies Akufo-Addo  

    We will not congratulate anybody who murders Ghanaians to secure power – Asiedu Nketiah replies Akufo-Addo  

    National Chairman for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has declared that the party will not extend congratulations to President Akufo-Addo following his 2020 victory. 

    His remark is in response to the President’s claim during a speech delivered ahead of the Constitution Day celebration that former President John Dramani Mahama is yet to congratulate him after four years of winning the election. 

    Although the former President has come out to refute the claim, the Leadership of the NDC has defended the party’s stance on not congratulating the President. 

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah, at a press brief held on Monday, January 8, 2024, in commemoration of Constitution Day, noted that the NDC will not congratulate individuals who resort to murder as a means to secure political power in Ghana.

    “We will not congratulate anybody who murders Ghanaians to secure power,” Johnson Asiedu Nketiah said.

    Addressing the media, Nketiah expressed deep concern over the alleged use of violence in the pursuit of political objectives.

    He emphasized that the NDC, as a party committed to democratic principles, condemns any form of violence or harm inflicted on Ghanaians for political gain. 

    He further noted that the NDC will fish out and bring to book petrators of the December 7, 2020, elections which resulted in the loss of eight lives. 

  • Moment Asiedu Nketiah flapped his hands like a butterfly to welcome Alan Kyerematen 

    Moment Asiedu Nketiah flapped his hands like a butterfly to welcome Alan Kyerematen 

    In a moment of unexpected warmth and camaraderie, the atmosphere at the funeral of the later Enoch Teye Mensah, popularly known as E.T Mensah shifted when Asiedu Nketiah, General Secretary of the party, greeted Alan Kyerematen with a unique and lighthearted gesture.

     As the seasoned politician approached, Mr Nketiah, surprised the crowd by playfully flapping his hands like a butterfly.

    In a video that quickly gained traction on social media, Asiedu Nketiah, encountering Alan Kyerematen at the funeral service of the late legislator for Ningo-Prampram, Enoch Teye Mensah, was captured engaging in a lighthearted moment. The footage showed Nketiah playfully flapping his hands in a butterfly-like motion, directing attention to Alan Kyerematen amid shared laughter.

    The playful gesture from Asiedu Nketiah elicited laughter from fellow NDC dignitaries who witnessed the light-hearted exchange between Alan Kyerematen and Asiedu Nketiah.

    The Butterfly is the symbol for the political movement, Movement for Change.

    While addressing and educating Ghanaians on his political movement, Alan Kyeremanten explained that, the butterfly is the symbol of transformation, the symbol of renewal and growth.

    He believes his movement would cause a radical change in the Ghanaian political space and will carry the flag of Ghana high.

    Alan Kyerematen formed Movement of Change briefly after his failure to secure the flagbearer seat for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    While exiting the NPP to form his own political movement to contest as an independent candidate, he explained that he had to leave because the party has deviated from its founding principles and beliefs.

    Come December 7, 2024, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen would be competing against NDC’s John Dramani Mahama and the NPP’s Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and any other candidate that may turn up to contest for Ghana’s highest office.

  • Asiedu Nketiah recalls E.T Mensah’s advice that led him to assume NDC General Secretary role

    Asiedu Nketiah recalls E.T Mensah’s advice that led him to assume NDC General Secretary role

    Chairman for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has offered a heartfelt tribute to the late E.T. Mensah, an esteemed stalwart of the party. 

    Asiedu Nketiah characterized him as a senior and dynamic colleague who left a profound impact on young parliamentarians during his tenure in Parliament.

    He observed that the late Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram was held in high regard by nearly all the young MPs from both sides of the House until his passing.

    During an interview at the burial grounds of the late ET Mensah (the forecourt of the State House) on Friday, Asiedu Nketiah said the late Council of State member was among the MPs who approached and suggested that he contest to become the NDC’s general secretary after deciding to leave Parliament to pursue a PhD.

    He emphasized that he secured the position despite former President Rawlings and other stalwarts of the NDC supporting their respective candidates, attributing his success to the work and support provided by the group of MPs that endorsed him for the position.

    “Something he did, which I will never forget, is that he was part of the group of MPs who recommended me to become the NDC general secretary when I was leaving Parliament after twelve years to pursue my PhD. ET Mensah, Doe Adjaho, Alban Bagbin, John Dramani Mahama, and a few others came together and suggested that the party needed a firebrand, and I did not have a pesewa at the time.”

    “All the seniors in the party had their candidates, but with the backing of ET Mensah, Doe Adjaho, Collins Dauda, John Mahama, and others who pledged to work in their constituencies to ensure my election, I became the general secretary of the NDC,” Asiedu Nketiah added.

    Mr. Mensah died in South Africa at the age of 77 in October 2023 after battling ill health for some time. His body was later brought to Ghana in the same month.

    Enoch Teye Mensah (born May 17, 1946) was a Minister for Education and a Member of Parliament in Ghana from January 1997 till January 2017.

    He held several portfolios in government. Until his demise, he was a member of the Council of State.

    His funeral service was held at the forecourt of the State House in Accra on Friday, January 5, 2024.

  • Discuss important people on important programs like this – Asiedu Nketiah refutes Anyidoho’s anti-Mahama claims

    Discuss important people on important programs like this – Asiedu Nketiah refutes Anyidoho’s anti-Mahama claims

    National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, chose not to provide any comments on his relationship with his former deputy, Samuel Koku Anyidoho.

    When responding to questions from listeners on Starr Chat, hosted by Bola Ray on Thursday, October 19, 2023, the NDC chairman stated that the matter of his relationship with the former deputy general secretary was not relevant to the occasion.

    “Why should my relationship with a particular individual matter in such a program? Don’t allow people to drag an important program into something else. I won’t get into such questions,” Asiedu Nketiah retorted when the host queried further with the question.

    The question sought to find out Asiedu Nketiah’s relationship with Koku and the recent allegation by the former deputy secretary that the chairman haboured animosity towards the party’s flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama and had an agenda to see the failure of his bid in the 2024 elections.

    “I don’t think that this type of question qualifies to be answered on such an important program so let’s leave it,” he stated.

    In a recent series of tweets posted on a popular social media platform, Anyidoho made allegations against Asiedu Nketiah, who is widely known as General Mosquito.

    Anyidoho claimed that Asiedu Nketiah has made a commitment to obstruct former President John Dramani Mahama from reclaiming the presidency.

    He accused Asiedu Nketiah of harbouring a deep-seated animosity towards Mahama, which, according to him, poses a threat to the party’s unity and its electoral aspirations.

    Koku suggested that the origin of this controversy dates back to when John Dramani Mahama, during his presidency, allegedly attempted to remove Asiedu Nketiah from his position in 2014.

    As a result of this failed attempt, Nketiah has supposedly harboured intentions to prevent Mahama’s return to the presidency ever since.

    “Mosquito’s disguised, deep hatred for John Mahama has destroyed the NDC. JM tried to oust Mosquito in 2014, and Mosquito has vowed to make sure JM never becomes president again. I heard Mosquito myself vow to ensure JM never becomes president again, and I dare him to challenge me,” he added in another tweet.

    This isn’t the initial instance in which Koku Anyidoho has taken aim at Asiedu Nketiah.

    Anyidoho has previously accused him of acting in a deceitful manner.

    This accusation arose when Nketiah had assured Anyidoho that he would vacate the general secretary position but subsequently opted to run for the same position once more during the party’s internal elections in 2018.

    In 2018, Anyidoho contested against Asiedu Nketiah for the NDC’s general secretary position but was defeated by his former superior, who retained the role.

  • Asiedu Nketiah not shocked by departure of Duncan Williams, Anaba from National Cathedral board

    Asiedu Nketiah not shocked by departure of Duncan Williams, Anaba from National Cathedral board

    National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah expresses his lack of surprise at the resignations of Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Rev. Eastwood Anaba from the Board of Trustees responsible for overseeing the construction of Ghana’s National Cathedral.

    In a jointly signed statement by Archbishop Duncan-Williams and Reverend Anaba, they clarified that their decision to resign stemmed from the government’s failure to designate an impartial accounting firm to conduct an audit of all public funds directed towards the National Cathedral.

    “Despite our prayers, best hopes, and wishes, unfortunately, a needed audit to help restore public confidence and trust in this consequential project has not been enacted to the best of our knowledge. Since January 2023, we awaited news to no avail, regarding the finding of the audit.

    “We, therefore, regret that as a matter of conscience and faith, we hereby submit to you our resignation from the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral.”

    In January 2023, the two well-respected clerics demanded that the National Cathedral’s construction be put on hold indefinitely in order to conduct a project audit.

    The pair also said in a letter to the Board of Trustees that the project cannot be completed on schedule due to Ghana’s current economic situation, which is why they are calling for its suspension until the nation’s economic situation improves.

    “The current economic climate in Ghana presents obstacles to the timely construction and completion of the National Cathedral… We, therefore, resolve: That in the spirit and cause of transparency and accountability to the Ghanaian people, the current Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral shall appoint an independent, nationally recognized accounting firm to audit all public funds contributed to and spent by the National Cathedral,” the two clergymen said in a memo.

    In an interview on Kasapa 102.5FM/Agoo TV on Wednesday, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah discussed the two clergymen’s resignations and stated that, given the rot found in the cathedral’s construction, it was only a matter of time for them to leave the Board of Trustees.

    “Their resignation from the Board of Trustees is not surprising, we knew it would happen and it was just a matter of time. Well, I congratulate them, it is better late than not at all. Their resignation is not too late, but I would have wished that they would not have accepted the appointment from the beginning. But sometimes, when somebody is deceiving you, it is not everyone who’s able to see through the deception.”

    Since its first proposal as a national place of worship and a symbol of Ghanaians’ pride and unity, the National Cathedral has been the subject of debate and controversy.

  • Book of manifestos to be launched by NDC

    Book of manifestos to be launched by NDC

    The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is preparing to release a book that will contain all of the party’s manifestos since its inception.

    The “Manifesto Scroll of the National Democratic Congress 1992 – 2020” will serve as a documented declaration of the NDC’s policies, purposes, and objectives, issued in advance of each Parliamentary and Presidential election in which the party has participated.

    The goal of combining the party’s manifestos into a single booklet is to improve its information and knowledge sharing agenda by providing easy access to the party’s social contracts and pledges to the people of Ghana.

    According to the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the book being launched holds significance for the party. It is part of a series of books aimed at compiling the party’s records and reorganizing for success in the upcoming general election and future elections.

    The book will serve as a comprehensive resource, providing readers with insights into the party’s perspectives and stance on important sectors such as agriculture, energy, health, rural development, and more.

    Its purpose is to enhance understanding and clarity regarding the party’s views on various aspects of the country.

    “The important thing about having them in a compilation like this is that, you’re able to identify common trends that will tell you the thinking of the NDC.

    Mr Nketiah, emphasized that while there may be variations in the details across different electoral cycles, readers of the book will recognize common themes that permeate throughout.

    As the party’s former General Secretary, Mr. Nketiah acknowledged that the documents included in the book were already accessible to the public.

    However, he commended the author for providing individuals with a valuable opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the NDC’s origins and future trajectory.

  • VIDEO: A hearty exchange between General Mosquito and Kennedy Agyapong

    VIDEO: A hearty exchange between General Mosquito and Kennedy Agyapong

    Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and the Flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kennedy Agyapong, have set an example of graceful and respectful politics through a recent display of camaraderie. 

    These two influential and controversial figures, known for their opposing views, set aside their differences and demonstrated the power of unity.

    They were captured in a video circulating on social media, eagerly approaching each other to exchange in an enthusiastic handshake and embrace, while onlookers cheered them on, clearly amazed by the rare occurrence.

    Both individuals are currently in the Central Region to observe and support their respective parties during the Assin North by-election. 

    The Assin North by-election holds significant political importance, driven by the legal complexities surrounding the constituency’s 2020 general election and the subsequent nullification of James Gyakye Quayson‘s parliamentary seat. The Supreme Court ruling cited Mr. Quayson’s dual citizenship of Ghana and Canada at the time of his election as a violation of the Constitution. As a result, this by-election serves as a crucial chapter in the ongoing political narrative.

    The main contenders for the seat in this consequential by-election are Mr. James Gyakye Quayson, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and Charles Opoku, representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The outcome of this election will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of Assin North’s political representation.

    The embrace between General Mosquito and Kennedy Agyapong transcends party lines and serves as a reminder that even in the face of political differences, harmony, and respect can prevail. It is a moment that highlights the potential for collaboration and dialogue, fostering a more inclusive and unified political landscape in Ghana.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Anyidoho blames Asiedu Nketiah for Gyakye Quayson’s ‘bad fate’

    Anyidoho blames Asiedu Nketiah for Gyakye Quayson’s ‘bad fate’

    Former Deputy General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress, Samuel Koku Anyidoho has alleged that the party’s former General Secretary, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah vetoed the approval of Gyakye Quayson as a parliamentary candidate after the party had initially disqualified him.

    According to Anyidoho, Gyakye Quayson prior to the 2020 election had been disqualified from contesting in the Assin North NDC primaries in 2012 and 2016. He was subsequently disqualified in 2020 but was approved unilaterally by Asiedu Nketiah due to the personal relationship between the two and in Anyidoho’s view, the parochial interest of the former scribe turned National Chairman.

    “In 2020 Gyakye Quayson was disqualified again and Asiedu Nketiah using his own will approved him. You know why? Because Gyakye Quayson lived in Canada for about 41 years, Aseidu Nketiah’s family also lived or lives in Canada. I live the rest of the equation for you to answer.

    “…Because of greed and individual selfish interest, he wants to collapse the NDC for his personal relationship with Gyakye Quayson. It is about his own benefit. Everything is about what he can get whenever he travels to Canada,” Koku alleged in an interview on Hello FM.

    He was compelled by the host to retract his allegations but went ahead to say that “after he [Gyakye Quayson] was disqualified in the Central Region, Asiedu Nketiah still used the backdoor and allowed Gyakye Quayson to contest. When that happened, the people in the Constituency wrote to the headquarters raising concerns about his eligibility. He dismissed the petition and the long and short of it is where we are now.”

    The Supreme Court of Ghana recently issued a ruling that declared Gyakye Quayson’s election as a Member of Parliament in 2020 as unconstitutional, null, and void.

    According to the Supreme Court, Gyakye Quayson held Canadian citizenship at the time of filing his nomination as the NDC’s parliamentary candidate in 2020.

    The court’s ruling led the Clerk of Parliament to declare the Assin North seat vacant.

    Subsequently, the Electoral Commission has scheduled a by-election in Assin North for June 27, 2023, following the declaration by the Clerk.

    Meanwhile, the NDC has stated its intention to re-present Gyakye Quayson as its candidate for the upcoming election, despite a criminal process brought against him in relation to his 2020 election contest.

  • NDC is poised to win 2024 elections – Asiedu Nketiah

    NDC is poised to win 2024 elections – Asiedu Nketiah

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) claims that the results of its Presidential and Parliamentary primaries on Saturday demonstrate that the party is capable of winning the 2024 election.

    National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah says the calibre of individuals elected shows the NDC is hungry for victory.

    The NDC has once again elected John Mahama as its presidential candidate and parliamentary candidates to represent it in the various constituencies in the 2024 polls.

    The party organised its primaries over the weekend nationwide.

    Speaking at the declaration of the presidential results, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah said the NDC is ready for battle.

    “We are happy that so far the quality of candidates that have been produced in this election gives us confidence that we will go into 2024 and win the presidential and win a considerable majority in Parliament and also deliver on the charge of rescuing this country. We are not going to say we have the men. We want the men to prove themselves for you to say that yes, the NDC has the men”.

    17 incumbent Members of Parliament lost their bid to contest in the 2024 polls.

    Mahama won the flagbearership race with 98.9 percent.

    “I am humbled by the overwhelming confidence reposed in me by the party. I want to thank God for bringing the NDC this victory. Traversing the country for all these days, weeks, and months without fatalities can only be by God’s special favour”.

    “My profound gratitude goes to the delegates of our party for their warm welcome, active engagement, and participation during my tour. In your usual astute manner, you turned up in your numbers across the country to vote in our party’s presidential and parliamentary primaries,” Mr. Mahama said after the election.

  • NDC can rely on the Police’s professionalism in 2024 elections – Asiedu Nketiah over order during primaries

    NDC can rely on the Police’s professionalism in 2024 elections – Asiedu Nketiah over order during primaries

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has expressed satisfaction over the Ghana police’s contributions towards the party’s just ended elections.

    In a remark after the party’s primaries on Saturday dawn, the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah said: “We can rely on your professionalism when we approach the next elections”

    He thanked the Ghana Police Service for displaying the highest level of integrity, professionalism, and sense of duty in the weekend polls held by the largest opposition party.

    He indicated that the orderly electoral process recorded no security breach insisting the police were effective in the discharge of their duties in the primaries.

    Meanwhile, Police have arrested eight (8) suspects throughout the country for various election-related offences and disturbing the peace during the Presidential and Parliamentary Primaries of the NDC held on Saturday, 13th April 2023.

    The suspects, Yaro Burdove, Harrison Martey, Imoro Ibrahim, Arkoli Mensah, Nyarko Richard, Prince Lomotey, Hamidu Dramani, and Bejando Emmanuel, were arrested at their various voting centres across four constituencies in the country.

  • Asiedu Nketiah disappointed in EC for charging to supervise NDC primaries

    Asiedu Nketiah disappointed in EC for charging to supervise NDC primaries

    The Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has expressed his disappointment in the Electoral Commission for charging to supervise internal political party elections.

    According to him, the EC is a state institution, while the internal elections of the various political parties are of public interest. For this reason, the NDC stalwart believes that the supervision must be free.

    “We have taken a position before that if the internal party primaries are public elections then, the Electoral Commission is under obligation to conduct those elections for the party free of charge without any charge to the political party.”

    “Because if it’s a state institution that has a constitutionally imposed duty to perform as far as our party is concerned, then why should they be charging us?” he quizzed

    Mr. Asiedu Nketia also mentioned that the EC has made it clear that internal elections are not part of their constitutional obligations, hence any help sought from them must be paid for.

    “So we have been paying for all those services including the current one,” he said.

    According to him, internal elections will continue to remain the responsibility of the NDC.

    However, he added that they involve the EC to promote neutrality and credibility, and therefore if at any point the EC feels hindered to supervise the elections, the NDC will still be in good standing to proceed.

    “At any point in time when we get to the point where the neutral party we have engaged to help us select our candidates becomes challenging or unavailable, we reserve the right to resort to our own means of selecting our candidates,” he said.

    The NDC is set to conduct its presidential and parliamentary primaries on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Voting is set to begin at 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

    Ahead of the elections, the party has had to resolve some internal issues.

    One of them was the lawsuit by flagbearer aspirant, Dr Kwabena Duffour to stop the process.

    But on Friday, May 12, an Accra High Court struck out Dr Duffour’s injunction application after his lawyers withdrew the case. 

    The party chairman has commended Dr Dufuor for choosing to resort to the party’s internal structures instead.

  • NDC commends ‘statesman’ Duffour for withdrawing injunction on primaries

    NDC commends ‘statesman’ Duffour for withdrawing injunction on primaries

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC), has commended Dr Kwabena Duffour for withdrawing the injunction suit filed against the party’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary primaries.

    According to chairman of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the decision by the aspiring flagbearer proves his commitment to the progress of the party.

    “ I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Dr Duffour for good showmanship of statesmanship and the love for the party by withdrawing this case and resorting to the internal processes of the party, to seek resolutions to problems that have emanated in this process,” he said.

    Speaking at a press conference ahead of Saturday’s polls, he encouraged all party members to take a cue from Dr Duffour by resorting to internal party structures should they have any concerns.

    “I would like to recommend that path to all party members who may feel aggrieved by anything in the party, that the best thing to do is to resort to internal party processes to find solutions. When that solution is not found then you may go outside the party structures. So we commend the Duffour’s team for resorting to internal party processes to find solutions,” he said on Friday.

    Earlier today, an Accra High Court struck out Dr Duffour’s injunction application against the NDC presidential and parliamentary primaries after his lawyers withdrew the case. 

    On May 9, Dr Kwabena Duffour filed a suit against the party following what he says are some discrepancies his team has identified in the party’s voters’ register to be used for the exercise.

    In a writ filed at an Accra High Court, Dr Duffour indicated that the party failed to provide the required photo album register five weeks ahead of the elections as stated in the party’s rules.

    He stated that a partial photo album register was given to his team on May 4, a few days ahead of the elections rather than in March when they had submitted a request for one.

    Another member of the NDC who was also seeking a High Court order to prevent the party from proceeding with its primaries has also withdrawn the case.

    Edgar Asamoah Boateng earlier today applied for the suspension of the May 13 presidential and parliamentary primaries due to similar concerns with the voters’ register.

    In his statement of claim, the plaintiff alleged that the lack of an adequate photo album of qualified voters has caused significant animosity and hostility within the party.

    Meanwhile, the General Secretary of the NDC, Fiifi Kwetey, says all is set for the conduct of the polls.

  • NDC Primaries: Asiedu Nketiah brushes off Duffuor’s ‘faulty voter register’ claim

    NDC Primaries: Asiedu Nketiah brushes off Duffuor’s ‘faulty voter register’ claim

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has said that its presidential and parliamentary primaries will go ahead as planned on Saturday, May 13, 2023, despite a legal challenge by one of the flagbearer hopefuls, Dr Kwabena Duffuor.

    According to Aseidu Nketiah, the party has followed proper procedures and adhered to the constitution throughout the electoral process.

    Speaking in an interview with Okay FM, on May 9, 2023, Asiedu Nketiah stated, “Whatever we do, there are measures that we follow, and also the elections are also in accordance with the constitution unless the party decides otherwise for its internal elections. And so far, in all the procedures and measures that we have implemented, we haven’t faulted in any way or gone against any law.”

    Responding to complaints about access to the delegate list as earlier reported by one of the flagbearer hopefuls, Dr Kwabena Duffour, he stated that after the vetting process, every candidate was provided with a delegate list, dismissing any claims suggesting that individuals were denied access.

    “I heard of people complaining about not getting access to the delegate list, but after the vetting, we gave everyone a delegate list, so all of them have a delegate list… so if anybody claims not to have a delegate list, that is not true,” he said.

    He further dismissed any suggestions of postponing the elections due to grievances related to the photo album of the delegates, stating, “For this NDC presidential and parliamentary primaries, people have raised issues about it, and I needed to respond to them. But first of all, I want to assure all Ghanaians and NDC members that the elections will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023. As I speak there is nothing that restricts the elections so all candidates should prepare for the elections.

    “…Nobody can tell us that the photo album that we are doing, which is not even part of the guidelines, he hasn’t received them so because of it we should postpone the elections. You can say such things, but because there is no basis to it, we will also just listen,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Dr. Kwabena Duffour, has filed an interlocutory injunction against the primaries slated for Saturday, May 13, 2023.

    The lawsuit specifically named as respondents the General Secretary of the NDC, the Director of the Elections Directorate, along with fellow flagbearer hopefuls John Dramani Mahama and another contender, Kojo Bonsu.

    According to the writ, the defendants have been commanded to enter their appearance within eight days of being served with the legal documents.

    The writ added that failure to comply with the order may result in a judgment being passed in their absence without further notice.

    Dr. Duffour alleged certain irregularities in the party’s voter register and concerns regarding the integrity of the upcoming primaries, prompting him to seek legal intervention.

  • Mahama launches fundraising platform today

    Mahama launches fundraising platform today

    Former President John Dramani Mahama will launch a fundraising platform today, March 22, 2023, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). 

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential hopeful will also hold a public lecture on political party financing in Ghana. 

    The event is expected to be attended by party stalwarts and bigwigs such as Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and General Secretary Fifi Kwetey.

    It is believed that the funds raised through the platform will be used to support Mahama’s campaign as well as aid other party activities, just as he did in previous years. In January 2020, the former president launched a similar fundraising platform to support his candidacy for the general elections.

    As part of his preparations for the NDC primaries scheduled for May, Mahama’s campaign team, led by a leading member of the NDC, Prof Joshua Alabi, filed his nominations for the flagbearership position at the party’s headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. The team submitted the required documents and fees to contest the position.

    Speaking after the submission of the nomination forms, Prof Alabi gave a strong indication to the Electoral Commission that they would not tolerate any compromise that could be disadvantageous to their candidate ahead of the 2024 general election.

    Mr Mahama will face competition from former Mayor of Kumasi, Kojo Bonsu, businessman Ernest Kwaku Krobea, and former Finance Minister Dr. Kwabena Duffour in his quest to run on the NDC ticket in 2024.

  • You have been defeated by corruption – Asiedu Nketiah mocks Akufo-Addo

    You have been defeated by corruption – Asiedu Nketiah mocks Akufo-Addo

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has stated that the Akufo-Addo-led administration has failed woefully in the fight against corruption.

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah insists that the lackadaisical attitude of President Akufo-Addo towards the canker has empowered his appointees to arrogate state resources to themselves. 

    Delivering an address titled, “The True State of the Nation Address” on Monday, March 20, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Mr Asiedu Nketiah also criticised President Akufo-Addo’s silence on the matter during the 2023 State of the Nation Address. 

    He described the President’s silence on the menace as loud and one that means defeat to the battle.   

    “President Akufo-Addo’s silence on corruption in his infamous address was loud. It was as loud as his guilt. Evidently, corruption has defeated his family and friends’ government. 

    “Instead of confronting this canker head-on, President Akufo-Addo has constituted himself into a “Corruption Clearing Agent”, ever-willing to whitewash himself and any of his appointees who dabble in corruption, even before investigative processes commence.

    “The President’s actions and complicity have emboldened many of his officials, not least the Vice President, Alhaji Bawumia whose name has come up in multiple corruption scandals such as the PDS scandal, the shady Gold-for-Oil deal, the Stolen Rice scandal and the appearance fee scandal”.

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah also condemned the recently held National Awards. 

    According to him, the President desecrated the country’s national honours by conferring the honours on corrupt individuals in his government.

    He said the awards scheme which was established by Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah is to honour distinguished Ghanaian nationals and institutions for their contributions to the development of the country.

    For him, it was therefore untenable for the President to confer such honours on corrupt individuals whose cases are before Parliament for investigations.

    He explained that awarding appointees whose corrupt acts are under investigation with national honours is tantamount to rewarding criminality, saying “Kwame Nkrumah did not establish the awards to reward criminality.”

  • Govt spent only 1.6% of GH¢820 bn borrowed for road construction – Aseidu Nketiah

    Govt spent only 1.6% of GH¢820 bn borrowed for road construction – Aseidu Nketiah

    National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, says the claims by the government that it used the monies borrowed for road infrastructure is false.

    Mr. Nketiah, who delivered what the NDC termed as the ‘true state of the nation address’, said only 1.6 percent of the country’s over GH¢820 billion has been used for road construction.

    “It is a tragedy that the President will classify routine minor road management repairs such as re-sealing, refilling, reshaping, pothole filling, re-graveling and even desilting of gutters as new road construction. The claim that this government has constructed over 11,000 kilometres of new roads is false and should be completely disregarded. The President should hang his head in shame.”

    His remarks follow the president’s claim that his administration’s achievement in road construction was unprecedented in the fourth republic.

    “The President knows that he deliberately misled Ghanaians with this claim because he is aware that only a minute of the overall resources that have accrued to this government since 2017 has been used for the construction and rehabilitation of roads in this country.”

    “The truth is that official government of Ghana records show that a whopping 93 percent of the GHS 820 billion has been used on consumption including Akufo-Addo’s luxurious private travels across the world hired over several months at the expense of the taxpayer,” he added.

  • Akufo-Addo lied about knowing how to revive the economy – Asiedu Nketiah

    Akufo-Addo lied about knowing how to revive the economy – Asiedu Nketiah

    National Chairman for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused President Akufo-Addo of deceiving Ghanaians with the claim that he knows how to “revive the economy.”

    Speaking at a press conference dubbed the “True State of the Nation’s Address,” held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), he noted the government has failed in reviving the country’s economy, as it promised. 

    On the contrary, he said the current administration has plunged the country into a severe economic crisis. 

    “Despite being the luckiest and most resourced government in Ghana’s history, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government has the least to show in terms of socio-economic development. This is because the NPP has used all your money mainly for consumption. This is contrary to the President’s claim that his government has used “a large amount of the money we borrowed on road construction,” he said on Monday, March 20, 2023.

    He further refuted the government’s claim of constructing 11,000 kilometres of new roads, describing it as false “and should be completely disregarded.”

    “It is a tragedy that the President will classify routine minor road management repairs such as re-sealing, refilling, reshaping, pothole filling, re-gravelling and even desilting of gutters as new road construction,” he said. 

    Baffled by the address presented by the President, Mr Asiedu Nketiah noted that the President is being evasive about the reality on the ground with regards to what the true State of the nation is.  

    “It is obvious that President Akufo-Addo who continues to revel in the largesse of high office does not appreciate the present reality of the Ghanaian people. The President continues to live in his own world, far removed from yours and mine, that he fails or neglects to appreciate the true State of the Nation.

    “The true State of the Nation is when a ball of kenkey which used to sell between 50 pesewas and GHS1.00 in December 2016, is now being sold between GhS4.00 and GHS5.00. The true State of Ghana today is that, a sack of maize which used to sell for GHS170.00 in 2016 is now being sold for GHS900.00 as at February, 2023.

    “The true State of the Nation is when a bag of Gino Rice (5kg) which used to go for GHS25.00 in December 2016, is now being sold for GHS185.00. Similarly, a tuber of yam which used to sell for GHS5.00 is now being sold for GHS25.00, while a bag of Sachet Water which used to sell for GHS1.50 in 2016, is now being sold for GHS10.00 as at February 2023. Also, a bag of cement which sold for GHS27.00 in December 2016 is today selling at a staggering GHS90.00 and last, but not least, sanitary pad which used to sell for averagely GHS2.50 in December 2016 is today selling for GHS20.00.

    “When everything is said and done, this is the true State of the Nation. This is what we feel when we go to the market. This is what we feel in our pockets. This is our everyday reality. A reality in which babies do not have vaccines leading to a measles outbreak; the youth do not have jobs; the middle class faces imminent extinction; and the elderly are being deprived of their life-savings by the very government that swore to protect them.

    He concluded that: “This is not the Ghana we deserve; this is not the Ghana our forebears toiled and sacrificed for. The NDC shall not be complicit in this mess.”

    “It is absolutely important to awaken President Akufo-Addo and the ruling NPP to the uncomfortable, but frank True State of Ghana today – a nation of many living in fear of where to find their next meal, leaving many parents to endure sleepless nights. 

    “The true State of our dear Nation no longer lies in flowery speeches laced with political chicanery that never accepts responsibility for anything. Neither does it lie in abstract theories that blame personal failings on events that have no significant impact on our lives,” he added.

  • SoNA 2023: NDC sets the records straight with ‘True State of the Nation’s Address’

    Ghana’s biggest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has delivered what it describes as the “True State of the Nation’s Address.”

    NDC’s address, delivered by National Chairman of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah follows President Akufo-Addo’s March 8, State of the Nation’s Address which has been described by the party as a sham. 

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah on March 20, 2023, said President Akufo-Addo failed to capture the reality on the grounds regarding the state of the nation during the 2023 SoNA. 

    “…Ghanaians are experiencing excruciating hardships because the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government has offered utterly useless and reckless governance in the last seven years.

    “We in the NDC, the only viable alternative to this bungling government, deem it necessary to straighten the records and expose the untruths presented to the nation through parliament by President Akufo-Addo and to highlight that our dire state is self-inflicted and deliberately so by this government,” he said.

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah highlighted a number of issues he said the government failed to touch on during the 2023 SoNA, particularly the current economic crisis, and maintained that the President has lost touch with reality on the grounds.

    “Today, the public debt stock which stood at 120 billion cedis in 2016 has increased to a whopping 600 billion, while the debt to GDP ratio that was 56% in 2016 now stands at 103%. 

    “Apart from the unsustainable debt of the country, the budget deficit which stood at 6.1% in 2016 now stands at a whopping 12% on the watch of the Bawumia-led Economic Management Team. This is after it rose to an unprecedented high of 15.7% in 2020 owing to the reckless election driven spending of the government.

    He further noted that: “Per government’s own figures, the rate of inflation which stood at 15.4% as at December 2016, now stands at a hyper rate of over 52%. The lending rate that stood at about 25% on average in the year 2016, now stands between 38%- 45%; whilst exchange rate depreciation that stood at 9.6% for the year 2016 now stands at about 23% for the first two months of this year alone. This is after the Cedi depreciated by over 54% in the first eleven (11) months of last year, 2022, making it the worst performing currency in the world.”

    Additionally, he lamented the downgrading of Ghana’s economy by key International Rating Agencies. 

    “From a stable credit rating of B- in 2016 under the NDC/Mahama administration, Ghana’s economy has been downgraded by all credit rating agencies to below junk status owing largely to the country’s default on its debt obligations on the watch of Bawumia,” he said.

    “Despite being the luckiest and most resourced government in Ghana’s history, the Akufo Addo/Bawumia NPP government has the least to show in terms of socio-economic development,” the former Chief Scribe of the NDC added.

    He further accused the government of draining the national coffers. 

    “The NPP has used all your money mainly for consumption. This is contrary to the President’s claim that his government has used “a large amount of the money we borrowed on road construction.”

    He lamented that despite these challenges, the current administration has failed to accept responsibility and has delighted in falsifying the causes of the disaster currently being experienced. 

    “Even worse was the continuation of the discredited attempt to evade responsibility for the economic atrocities that have led us to this depressing point. Whilst they engage in vain glory, Ghanaians have to deal with the daily consequences of a collapsed economy,” he said. 

    Additionally, he said President Akufo-Addo in the address, failed to convince the Ghanaian people that there is any end in sight to “the suffering and pain that his government’s reckless and misguided policies have brought on us.”

  • Dr Kwabena Duffuor to submit nomination form March 23

    Dr Kwabena Duffuor to submit nomination form March 23

    On Wednesday, March 23, 2023, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, a prospective presidential contender for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), will submit his nomination form.

    Contained in a statement signed by the Spokesperson for the former Minister of Finance, Antonio Edem Asinyo, it said that Dr. Duffuor will file the forms at the NDC’s headquarters in Accra.

    “Aspiring Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Kwabena Duffuor will be submitting his nomination to contest the flagbearer election at the Party HQ on Thursday, 23rd day of March 2023 at 11:00am,” the statement said.

    Also, the statement said that the initial date of Wednesday, March 22, was changed due to a request from the national executives of the party.

    This, he explained, is due to the fact that on that initial date, the NDC’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, is set to present what the party has termed the True State of the Nation Address.

    “The change in date from Wednesday to Thursday is in response to a request from the National Executive of the party to reschedule, due to the party’s True State of the Nation Address to be delivered by the Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia today, Monday at the UPSA auditorium at 2pm,” he added.

    The Duffuor camp has since urged members of the party to be present at the event, adding that their candidate will also be present.

  • NDC to address the Nation today

    NDC to address the Nation today

    Today, Monday, March 20 the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will address the country on the theme ‘The True State of the Nation’.

    Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the Chairperson of the NDC, will deliver the speech during the event, which will be held at the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA).

    The ‘True State of the Nation Address’ is expected to counter ‘The State of The Nation Address’ delivered by President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, March 8.

    The NDC address, under the auspices of the party’s National Communications Bureau, is expected to focus heavily on the economy and factors that have pushed the country for an IMF bailout.

    Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament says Ghana will not be able to secure the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) board approval at the end of March 2023 contrary to claims by the government.

    The opposition group explained that the government has not been able to satisfy the financing assurances regarding the bailout which includes the board documents.

    “Mr Speaker, our President said on authority that Ghana would get an IMF Board approval by the end of this month, I don’t know who is briefing our President, but Ghana will not be able to get an IMF Board approval by the end of this month because even the board documents are prepared.

    “We need to get China to give Ghana financing assurance and that they are ready to take a haircut and China has not agreed,” Minority Leader, Cassiel Ato Forson said.

  • Meet Charles Asiedu, Asiedu Nketiah’s son eyeing Tano South parliamentary seat

    Meet Charles Asiedu, Asiedu Nketiah’s son eyeing Tano South parliamentary seat

    A number of young people on both sides of the political divide, that is in the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) are eyeing seats in the legislature come 2024.

    The hurdle at this stage is to scale the party primaries before they go into real battle come December 2024 to secure a seat in Parliament.

    One such aspiring lawmaker is Charles Asiedu.

    On a good day, he will pass off as another young activist in the NDC who is seeking to replace the retiring MPs and or one seeking to wrestle a seat from the NPP for his party.

    Charles it so happens is the son of the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah.

    Who is Charles Asiedu?

    a. Charles only recently declared his intention to contest in the party’s Tano South parliamentary primaries.

    b. He is a former organizer of the party in the Ahafo Region

    c. He is seeking to replace Hannah Bissue (current Women’s Organizer) who has been NDC’s candidate in the constituency since 2012, winning it once.

    d. Charles will come up against four other contenders according to information available to GhanaWeb.

    e. Prior to his regional organizer position, Charles served as two-term branch organizer before becoming a deputy Brong Ahafo Regional Organizer.

    f. He has a close relationship with Dr Hanna Bissiw’s serving as her campaign manager for the successful National Women’s Organizer bids in 2018 and 2022.

    Charles (arrowed) joined by Hanna Bissiw and other NDC activists during a protest in Techiman

    g. Charles holds a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Leadership and Governance from the University of Ghana Business school. He is also a product of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ).

    h. He has a certificate in Political Leadership and Party Organisation from the NDC’s Ghana Institute of Social Democracy (GISD).

    i. Charles Asiedu’s areas of expertise are communication, political marketing and branding, research, governance, strategic planning and human resource development.

    In an interview with Accra-based myxyzonline.com, the youth activist said “I am always here with the people and they know me to be a vibrant party person who has served them in different capacities.”

    Whether he scales the party primaries and makes it past the December 7, 2024 post, like they say, time will tell.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Asiedu Nketiah champions Education in Zongos

    Asiedu Nketiah champions Education in Zongos

    The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, is advocating that governments focus on offering better policies and initiatives in Zongo communities than just food.

    “We in the NDC seek to bring something that can lift the Zongo communities; so just as our Imam said, we have gone beyond sharing of rice and sardines. If you want to do something to help Zongo communities, educate their children,” Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah said this in a speech at Kobreso, a community in the Offinso North District of the Ashanti Region,

    He was at a fundraising ceremony organized by the Ghana Muslim Mission in the area to build a technical school and a clinic.

    At the event, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah also emphasized that the NDC has a great love for Zongo communities across the country which is why the party established the Islamic Education Unit at the Ghana Education Service in 1987 to introduce the secular subjects pursued under the national curriculum into the Islamic schools and also started major educational projects under the elsewhere NDC administration.

    He however revealed that the narrative has changed under the current NPP government as it has abandoned all educational projects in Zongo communities that were started by the NDC.

    “We promised to build Islamic schools, but whiles you do that, you also need to find where to train Islamic teachers, that is why we built Islamic Training College at Wenchi in my District. For that reason, in the last campaign, we promised to continue that project but since we left office, all plans and documentation have been abandoned to date”. National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah chided.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Rice and sardines are not what you deserve – Asiedu Nketiah to Zongo communities

    Rice and sardines are not what you deserve – Asiedu Nketiah to Zongo communities

    The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has argued that government should put more of an emphasis on providing better policies and initiatives in Zongo communities than just food.

    “We in the NDC seek to bring something that can lift the Zongo communities; so just as our Imam said, we have gone beyond sharing of rice and sardines. If you want to do something to help Zongo communities, educate their children,” Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah said this in a speech at Kobreso, a community in the Offinso North District of the Ashanti Region,

    He was at a fundraising ceremony organized by the Ghana Muslim Mission in the area to build a technical school and a clinic.

    At the event, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah also emphasized that the NDC has a great love for Zongo communities across the country which is why the party established the Islamic Education Unit at the Ghana Education Service in 1987 to introduce the secular subjects pursued under the national curriculum into the Islamic schools and also started major educational projects under the elsewhere NDC administration.

    He however revealed that the narrative has changed under the current NPP government as it has abandoned all educational projects in Zongo communities that were started by the NDC.

    “We promised to build Islamic schools, but whiles you do that, you also need to find where to train Islamic teachers, that is why we built Islamic Training College at Wenchi in my District. For that reason, in the last campaign, we promised to continue that project but since we left office, all plans and documentation have been abandoned to date”. National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah chided.

  • NDC settles the dispute over the leadership shuffle in the Minority

    NDC settles the dispute over the leadership shuffle in the Minority

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has stated that issues relating to the reorganization of the Minority leadership in Parliament have been settled.

    This comes after a meeting between the National Executives, the Council of Elders of the NDC, and the Minority Caucus in Parliament on Monday, February 6, 2023.

    The meeting which took place at the DF Annan Auditorium in Parliament had stalwarts of the party including the Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah and his General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, Communications Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gyamfi, among others present.

    Others at the meeting included former Deputy Minority Leader, James Klutse Avedzi, and former Speaker of Parliament, Edward Doe Adzaho.

    Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah said the concerns raised have offered the party the opportunity to establish a framework for the running of the Minority caucus in Parliament.

    “You can see from the enthusiasm that the challenges that arose from the announcement of the new leadership of our Caucus have all been resolved.”

    The Chairman also disclosed that the party has learned some key lessons from the row that accompanied the announcement of the reshuffle and has led to the formulation of a framework to determine the leadership of the Caucus in the future.

    “The challenges that we have been through in the few days have produced very beneficial results and it has led to the formulation of a framework for leading our Caucus in Parliament

    “One of the takeaways from this meeting is for us to go and quickly expedite action for the formulation of a framework of leading our Caucus in Parliament in the future.”

    Meanwhile, one of the petitioners who called for a suspension of the reshuffle for further engagements, Dr. Dominic Ayine said the group will support the new leaders in the discharge of their duties.

    Cassiel Ato Forson replaced Haruna Iddrisu as the Minority Leader on January 24.

    Muntaka accepts Minority leadership reshuffle

    In a related development, the former Minority Chief whip, Muntaka Mubarak, has finally accepted the decision by the National Democratic Congress to reshuffle the Minority leaders in Parliament.

    His decision comes after former President John Dramani Mahama intervened and held discussions with the Member of Parliament for Asawase.

    In a Facebook post, the former Chief Whip wrote “to all our supporters within and without. I had a lengthy meeting with my big brother, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, on Saturday evening over the parliamentary reshuffle. I want to, first of all, thank him for his words of advice and encouragement to me as a younger brother”.

    “His Excellency’s intervention has brought an end to all the brouhaha associated with the reshuffle.”

    “We are in the interest of our party NDC. We need to move on as a party and channel all our energies towards the 2024 elections.

    “I thank all our chiefs, Queen Mothers Imams, and supporters for your prayers and solidarity. I pray for Allah’s guidance in all our affairs. Long live NDC long live Ghana,” he concluded.

  • NDC is not fragmented at all; we are a very united party – Asiedu Nketiah

    NDC is not fragmented at all; we are a very united party – Asiedu Nketiah

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has refuted assertions that the party is divided following the change in its parliamentary leadership.

    According to him, the reactions being seen as a result of the reshuffle are normal and should be expected after any change, citinewsroom.com reports.

    He added that the majority of NDC faithful have accepted the change in the party’s parliamentary leadership.

    “The NDC is not fragmented at all; it’s still a very united party. The truth about every decision is that every change comes along with new gainers, so you will definitely have some reactions.

    “But the change has been welcomed by the majority of NDC members across the country, I guess even here [UK]. The reshuffle has brought some new excitement on the front of NDC,” Asiedu Nketiah is quoted to have said while addressing NDC supporters in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

    The national chairman also explained that the party’s change in parliamentary leadership was long overdue.

    “This leadership ought to have been reshuffled around March 2021. I explained to Ghanaians that, because of our court case, we didn’t feel like proceeding with that work. And I indicated clearly that it was a work in progress and that somewhere along the line, we will come out to indicate to Ghanaians who our next leadership will be.

    “And so I’m surprised that people were surprised about the move. In fact, we were running late for the changes,” he added

    The change in the leadership of the minority caucus of Parliament has led to some confusion in the NDC, with some members of the party, including some Members of Parliament, saying that the party’s parliamentarians should have been consulted before the move.

    The NDC leadership has appointed the former Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as the minority leader in the 8th Parliament of Ghana’s Fourth Republic. He replaced the MP for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu.

    According to the NDC, Kofi Armah Buah, MP for Ellembele, will take over as the Deputy Minority Leader.

    While Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, will replace Asawase MP Muntaka Mohammed as the Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First Deputy Minority Whip, while Comfort Doyo Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is the Second Deputy Minority Whip.

    Some MPs of the party have petitioned its National Executive Committee (NEC) to suspend the appointment of the new leadership of the party in Parliament.

    The NDC MPs, including Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka (MP for Asawase), Dominic Ayine (MP for Bolgatanga East), and Cletus Avoka (MP for Zebilla), who are calling for the suspension, argue that the appointment was not made by any of the party’s decision-making structures but was imposed by just a few people.

  • Asiedu Nketia defies NDC elders; insists consultations were done before reshuffle

    Asiedu Nketia defies NDC elders; insists consultations were done before reshuffle

    The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has defied an advice by the Council of Elders of the NDC for all stakeholders to desist from making public pronouncements following the disagreements over a reshuffle in the Minority leadership in Parliament.

    In defying the Council of Elders’ advice, Mr Asiedu Nketiah addressed a press conference in London and insisted that extensive consultations were done before the leadership of the NDC decided to reshuffle the Minority leadership.

    Why did we struggle to get an NDC Speaker?

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah said his priorities as national chairman of the NDC was to see the NDC parliamentary caucus working together and also cooperating with the Speaker of Parliament.

    “Why did we struggle to get an NDC person elected as a Speaker of Parliament. There are certainly some advantages and those advantages can be tapped into when your leadership is cooperating with the Speaker. So we cannot have a situation where NPP leadership is cooperating with the Speaker, and our NDC leadership have challenges cooperating with the Speaker.”

    “And if you are given a party whose leadership in Parliament is not working together, what will you do, you make the changes or you resign, and I’m not about to resign,” Mr Asiedu Nketiah said in his justification for the reshuffle.

    Related: Be circumspect – NDC’s Council of Elders to party members on leadership changes

    The Council of Elders of the NDC had urged all party faithful, including Members of Parliament (MPs) to be circumspect on their utterances concerning the recent changes to the Minority leadership.

    Last week it came out that the NDC per a letter addressed to the Speaker of Parliament had changed its leadership in Parliament with Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah and Governs Kwame Agbodza replacing Haruna Iddrisu, James Klutse Avedzi and Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka as Minority Leader, Deputy Minority Leader and Chief Whip respectively.

    The revelation was received with divergent views by different stakeholders of the party, with some NDC MPs signing a petition against the move.

    • Read also: 
    • Changes in NDC parliamentary leadership: MPs, party faithful express varied opinions
    • 73 NDC MPs sign petition against reshuffle

    Out of the 137 minority MPs, 73 of them signed a petition asking the National Executive Committee of the NDC to reverse the decision to reshuffle the Minority leadership.

    They petitioned the Council of Elders to intervene arguing that the decision was not made by any of the constitutional bodies of the NDC, that is neither Congress, National Executive Committee (NEC), Functional Executive Committee (FEC), the Council of Elders or the members in Parliament themselves, who said the decision came as a surprise to them.

    Responding to the petition, the Council of Elders in a press statement dated January 28, 2023, acknowledged it had received it and would work on it expeditiously together with other related matters.

    “While this process is underway, the Council urges our Honourable Members of Parliament, Party leadership at all levels and all concerned persons to refrain from further public pronouncements on the matter in the larger interest of our great NDC. This is a time to be circumspect in order not to play into the hands of our detractors.

    “The Council assures the rank and file of the Party of an early and principled resolution of the issues and ultimately, the NDC will emerge stronger and more united.

    “We urge all members of the NDC to re-dedicate themselves to working for victory in the Presidential and Parliamentary elections in 2024, to alleviate the suffering of the Ghanaian people.

    Asiedu Nketiah’s press conference

    But at a press conference in the UK, Mr Asiedu Nketiah said, “those who are claiming that nobody had been consulted, I want to tell them that this is one of the most, the decisions over which there have been the most consultative process, everybody who needed to be consulted was consulted.”

    “But the decision is our decision, the decision cannot be the decision of people who were consulted, I hope that is clear.”

    “If you have the responsibility of taking a decision, you take your decision after the consultation, so don’t go blaming those people you have consulted, because each of them will give you their views and then you sit down to synthesize the views and then your decision may reflect some of the wishes of some of the people who gave the advice, but eventually it becomes to your decision.

    “The suggestions are mere raw materials for the decision but the final product is your work.”

    “And so as a leader, I take full responsibility for the decision, and I don’t want anybody to blame anybody at all for that decision, I take full responsibility for the decision,” Mr Asiedu Nketiah said.

    Why did we struggle to get an NDC Speaker? –

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah said his priorities as national chairman of the NDC was to see the NDC parliamentary caucus working together and also cooperating with the Speaker of Parliament.

    “Why did we struggle to get an NDC person elected as a Speaker of Parliament. There are certainly some advantages and those advantages can be tapped into when your leadership is cooperating with the Speaker. So we cannot have a situation where NPP leadership is cooperating with the Speaker, and our NDC leadership have challenges cooperating with the Speaker.”

    “And if you are given a party whose leadership in Parliament is not working together, what will you do, you make the changes or you resign, and I’m not about to resign.

    Source: Graphic.com.gh

  • Asawase Muslims hold special prayers against Muntaka’s political detractors

    Asawase Muslims hold special prayers against Muntaka’s political detractors

    A section of the Muslim community in the Asawase Constituency in the Ashanti Region over the weekend held special intercessory prayers for Member of Parliament for area, Mohammed Mubarak-Muntaka.

    The prayers were led by an Imam who gave a brief sermon for the purpose of the gathering. It is not known whether the MP asked for the prayers but he was not in attendance per our monitoring.

    In a Facebook LIVE video shared by Asawase Lens portal, the Imam is heard speaking extensively about the importance of such prayers.

    The post was captioned: “AL QUNUT PRAYER AGAINST EVIL MACHINATIONS DIRECTED AT HON. MOHAMMED MUBARAK MUNTAKA – MP FOR ASAWASE.”

    Speaking in Hausa, he prayed elaborately for the Member of Parliament and against all his perceived enemies, be they human beings or other creatures.

    “Allah in your own ways, by virtue of your all Knowing, all Seeing, all Hearing attributes; we submit before you all detractors of the Hon. MP, deal with them as you deem fit.”

    The session, known as Qunut, involved a two-unit prayer after the sermon. It typically involves lengthy prayers said for a specific purpose or intervention.

    Muntaka has been in the news recently after it emerged that he had been removed from the Minority Chief Whip position he has occupied for the past years.

    He is among a bloc of MPs who are protesting the leadership changes citing the lack of engagement and consultation in arriving at the decision.

    NDC rings changes in parliamentary leadership

    The NDC, through its General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, wrote to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to announce the replacement of three members: the Minority Leader, the deputy Minority Leader, and the Minority Chief Whip.

    The NDC picked Ato Forson to replace Haruna Iddrisu as leader of the Minority Caucus.

    Other changes included Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP for Ellembele, who is the new deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    While Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, will replace Asawase MP Muntaka Mohammed as the Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is also retained as second deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Produce NEC, FEC minutes that approved your appointment – Asiedu Nketiah to Muntaka

    Produce NEC, FEC minutes that approved your appointment – Asiedu Nketiah to Muntaka

    National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has challenged critics over the modus operandi the national leadership used in changing head of the Minority Caucus in Parliament.

    A number of the critics and opponents of the manner in which the change was effected, said even though the party has the right to ring changes, there was a problem with the lack of consultation and engagements.

    One of opponents is Mohammed Muntaka-Mubarak, Member of Parliament for Asawase and immediate-past Minority Chief Whip, said the decision was taken by a few personalities instead of going through the National Executive (NEC) and Functional Executive Committees (FEC).

    “I have heard also some people are questioning the method, and I ask them, let them tell me the method which we have flouted. Such decisions have never been taken at National Executive Committee meetings or Functional Executive Committee meetings.

    “There are consultative processes that get the list and the list is announced. So, if anybody is asking for the minutes or NEC or FEC that approved that decision, let them produce the minutes of NEC or FEC that approved their own appointment, so we can them produce the minutes of the NEC or FEC that endorsed their removal.

    “So, the decisions have been taken and these are the decisions of the NDC,” he stressed.

    NDC rings changes in parliamentary leadership

    The NDC, through its General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, wrote to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to announce the replacement of three members: the Minority Leader, the deputy Minority Leader, and the Minority Chief Whip.

    The NDC picked Ato Forson to replace Haruna Iddrisu as leader of the Minority Caucus.

    Other changes included Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP for Ellembele, who is the new deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    While Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, will replace Asawase MP Muntaka Mohammed as the Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is also retained as second deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Disclose the NEC and FEC minutes that endorsed – Asiedu Nketiah to Muntaka

    Disclose the NEC and FEC minutes that endorsed – Asiedu Nketiah to Muntaka

    A national chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has pressed opponents to explain the strategy utilized by the national leadership when replacing the leader of the Minority Caucus in Parliament.

    A number of the critics and opponents of the manner in which the change was effected, said even though the party has the right to ring changes, there was a problem with the lack of consultation and engagements.

    One of opponents is Mohammed Muntaka-Mubarak, Member of Parliament for Asawase and immediate-past Minority Chief Whip, said the decision was taken by a few personalities instead of going through the National Executive (NEC) and Functional Executive Committees (FEC).

    “I have heard also some people are questioning the method, and I ask them, let them tell me the method which we have flouted. Such decisions have never been taken at National Executive Committee meetings or Functional Executive Committee meetings.

    “There are consultative processes that get the list and the list is announced. So, if anybody is asking for the minutes or NEC or FEC that approved that decision, let them produce the minutes of NEC or FEC that approved their own appointment, so we can them produce the minutes of the NEC or FEC that endorsed their removal.

    “So, the decisions have been taken and these are the decisions of the NDC,” he stressed.

    NDC rings changes in parliamentary leadership

    The NDC, through its General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, wrote to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to announce the replacement of three members: the Minority Leader, the deputy Minority Leader, and the Minority Chief Whip.

    The NDC picked Ato Forson to replace Haruna Iddrisu as leader of the Minority Caucus.

    Other changes included Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP for Ellembele, who is the new deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    While Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, will replace Asawase MP Muntaka Mohammed as the Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is also retained as second deputy Minority Chief Whip.

  • Asiedu Nketiah names Bagbin as part of reasons for Minority reshuffle

    Asiedu Nketiah names Bagbin as part of reasons for Minority reshuffle

    The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, provided a second explanation for the party’s decision to change the composition of its parliamentary leadership.

    Having earlier defended the decision to ring the changes amid the backlash from some Members of Parliament, the former party General Secretary revealed at a party gathering in London that a key reason was lack of cooperation between the outgone leadership and Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament.

    He explained that there was no need to fight to elect a Speaker from the party yet turn round and be giving the Speaker problems at a time even the Majority Caucus maintained a cordial relationship with him.

    What Asiedu Nketiah said:

    “My priorities in Parliament, is to see our parliamentary caucus working together and also cooperating with the Speaker of Parliament.

    “Why did we struggle to get an NDC person elected as the Speaker of Parliament? There are certainly some advantages and those advantages can be tapped into when your leadership is cooperating with the Speaker,” the National Chairman stated.

    He continued: “So we cannot have a situation where the NPP leadership is cooperating with the Speaker while our leadership the NDC have challenges in cooperating with the Speaker.

    “If you are given a party whose leadership in Parliament is not working together what will you do? You make the changes or you resign and I am not ready to resign.”

    Asiedu Nketiah was addressing the NDC UK/Ireland Chapter during a visit to London where he accompanied former president John Dramani Mahama for a public lecture engagement at Chatham House.

    General Mosquito as he is referred to, also stated that the party held consultations contrary to the view out there, but that it was the national executives who eventually took the decision because they are clothed with the capacity so to do.

    Bagbin appoints Asiedu Nketiah to PSB

    Asiedu Nketiah is a member of the Parliamentary Service Board (PSB), a position that he assumed when Bagbin became speaker.

    Speaker Bagbin has routinely gotten into heated exchanges especially with Member of Parliament for Asawase Mohammed Mubarak-Muntaka, who incidentally was very influential in the processes that led to the election of Bagbin into office on the morning of January 7, 2021.

    Bagbin had cause to ‘threaten’ Muntaka in November 2022 when they clashed over the procedure Bagbin wanted to adopt in a Censorship Motion brought by the Minority against Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta.

    Muntaka during proceedings on November 11 vehemently disagreed with Bagbin’s decision to refer the censorship motion to a committee, interrupting him a number of times much to Bagbin’s chagrin

    “Mr. Speaker, I come to second the motion with the clear indication that any attempt to move this matter to a committee will be a travesty of justice done to the chamber of this House.

    Then the Speaker retorted again: “Hon. Members, I direct that all that the Minority Chief Whip has said after I have told him to withdraw and apologize, be expunged from the records. I so direct. Hansard expunge everything from the record.

    “Minority Chief Whip, you’ll have a difficulty in catching my eye again,” reference to getting to speak again during the session.

  • Asiedu Nketiah leads NDC delegation to UK for Mahama lecture

    Asiedu Nketiah leads NDC delegation to UK for Mahama lecture

    The National Chairman and leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah is leading a delegation to the United Kingdom to attend a lecture to be addressed by former President John Dramani Mahama.

    The event is billed to take place at the Chatham House, United Kingdom, on Friday, 27th January 2023.

    Other members of the delegation include the Director of International Affairs of the NDC, Comrade Alex Segbefia, Deputy National Women Organizer, Comrade Abigail Elorm Akwambea, and the Deputy Treasurer of the party, Comrade Vida Addae.

    A statement issued by the party said, “The lecture, which will be under the theme: ‘Africa’s strategic priorities and global role’, will among other things discuss the prospects for economic recovery and growth on the African continent in light of recent debt crisis that has compelled African countries including Ghana to seek debt treatment under the G20 Common Framework”.

    Mr. Mahama, the statement said, will share with his audience his ideas and insights on the key economic and governance reforms required for economic stability and prosperity across Africa.

    “The Former President and distinguished statesman shall be sharing with his audience his ideas and insights on the key economic and governance reforms required for economic stability and prosperity across Africa. He will also discuss priorities for regional integration and Africa’s role and responsibilities in global economic governance,” the NDC added in the statement.

    The party noted that as part of the visit, the team together with the former President will hold a meeting with the UK/Ireland Chapter of the NDC.

    “The team together with the Former President shall hold a meeting with the UK/Ireland Chapter of the NDC as part of this visit,” the NDC added in the statement.

  • Haruna Iddrisu’s removal is a punishment – Former NABCO boss

    Haruna Iddrisu’s removal is a punishment – Former NABCO boss

    Jones Sarfo Anyamesema, a former NABCO coordinator has stated that Haruna Iddrisu’s removal from a leadership role in Parliament on the side of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is a punishment.

    The former NABCO coordinator claims that his refusal to throw his support behind Johnson Asiedu Nketiah’s candidature in the party’s National election is what has landed him in trouble.

    He was speaking on Kumasi-based Ultimate Fm monitored by MyNewsGh.com

    “You see, I don’t belong to NDC but any politician will like Haruna in their party. He knows his trade and has acquitted himself with his team. He has created history in Ghana by together with his group creating a hung parliament”

    “How do you remove such a person and replace him with losers who we don’t know track record in the house? Haruna is just being punished for not openly supporting Asiedu Nketia period”, he claimed.

    The NDC has changed its leadership in Parliament replacing Haruna Iddrisu with Dr Cassiel Ato Forson as the Minority leader.

    The changes have been met with some opposition from grassroots members whereas some leading members believe it was unnecessary.

  • Even SHS headmasters don’t sit in their offices and appoint head boys – Sam George fumes

    Even SHS headmasters don’t sit in their offices and appoint head boys – Sam George fumes

    Samuel Nartey George, a member of parliament for Ningo Prampram, has expressed dissatisfaction with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over what he claims were insufficient consultations prior to the decision to change the leadership of its caucus in parliament.

    According to Sam George, the leadership of his party failed to conduct far-reaching consultations which would have ensured adequate deliberations to save the party from the confusion that has risen from the decision.

    “The problem I see MPs having, Randy, is not about the change. The problem of the caucus is not about the change; the problem of the caucus is not about the capacity of the people who are being changed; the problem of the caucus is the lack of engagement. The fact that as members of parliament we heard about a change in leadership on the radio and many of us had eggs in our faces because we said it is fake until Adabraka came out to say that yes we wrote that letter,” he stated on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana on Thursday, January 26, 2023.

    Sam George noted that whereas the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and the General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, have argued that wide consultations were done prior to the announcement, it cannot be said to have been sufficient in this case.

    “I believe that their consultations may have been done at their level but I believe that it was not far-reaching enough. I believe that a little more consultation, in this case, engagements could have happened. They consulted based on what they said publicly with members of the council of elders and stakeholders in the party. After those consultations, they proceeded to write a letter to the speaker and that is where I think the crux of the matter is,” he stated.

    A former Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has been appointed as the Minority Leader, as replacement for Haruna Iddrisu.

    Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has also been named as the new Deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    Kwame Agbodza takes over as Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First Deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyo Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is the Second Deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    This was contained in a letter to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, from the National Democratic Congress dated January 23, 2023.

  • I weep for my beloved party – Koku Anyidoho

    I weep for my beloved party – Koku Anyidoho

    Former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, Koku Anyidoho, has said that he weeps for his ‘beloved party’.

    The erstwhile NDC appointee expressed this concern in reaction to the uproar in some quarters of the party, following the change in its parliamentary leadership.

    Touching on the change which was announced on Tuesday, the former NDC deputy scribe alleged that it was influenced by a hideous agenda of the party’s newly elected Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah.

    In a series of tweets after the change was made public, he expressed his misgivings and lamented the future of the party under Asiedu Nketiah.

    “Extreme anger brewed in Asiedu-Nketiah’s NDC pot. Lots of fire under the umbrella. I weep for my beloved NDC”, he noted in one of his tweets.

    “Oyiwa. The deadly seeds that have been sowed over the years that I continue to talk about, are germinating under the Leadership of Mosquito – the master brain behind lots of the bad seeds.

    As for me; my vindication lies in the womb of time. ‘A ye pinsoooooooo’ “, another related tweet said.

    The comments by Koku Anyidoho add to the pockets of reservations by other notable party sympathizers since the change was announced on Tuesday.

    One of such prominent critics has been the Member of Parliament for the Tamale Central Constituency, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.

    According to the aggrieved legislator, the timing of the decision by the party’s hierarchy is ‘wrong’.

    Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen on Tuesday, the audibly displeased lawmaker explained that as far as he and other colleague NDC MPs are concerned, the current crop of parliamentary leadership have been diligent in their duties.

    He, therefore, questioned the rationale for the change and criticised the party’s leadership for failing to consult the entire Minority Caucus before effecting the change.

    “The timing is completely wrong. What is the basis of changing our parliamentary leadership?”, Murtala Mohammed decried.

    “They are only taking away the most experienced leaders and bringing the less experienced ones. Nobody told them we are dissatisfied with the leadership.

    “Who told them we are unhappy with their performance?”, the disgruntled lawmaker quizzed.

    Meanwhile, the Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has defended the party’s decision to change its parliamentary leadership.

    On Tuesday morning, the NDC issued a statement announcing key changes to its parliamentary leadership.

    According to the party, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has taken over from Haruna Iddrisu as the new Minority Leader.

    Ellembelle MP, Kofi Armah Boah will replace James Klutse Avedzi as Deputy Minority Leader.

    In a statement signed by NDC General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, Kwame Agbodza becomes the Chief Whip for the opposition side and will be deputised by Banda MP, Ahmed Ibrahim and Ada legislator, Comfort Doyo Ghansah respectively.

    Speaking in an exclusive interview with JoyNews’ Blessed Sogah after the change, Asiedu Nketiah however explained that the move is part of the party’s ‘reorganisation’ for the 2024 general election.

    According to him, there have been a series of changes across all levels of the party towards the 2024 polls.

    From branch elections, constituency elections, regional elections and national elections, Asiedu Nketiah said, it is now time to introduce new faces to the party’s frontline in Parliament, hence the change.

    In his view, the timing is right.

    “We started at the branch level. We’ve since done elections in about 40,000 branches and then from there, we proceeded to the constituency level.

    “We’re done largely with all the constituencies and then we’ve done regional elections and we just completed the national elections.

    “So the next in line is to take a look at our leadership in Parliament and that is what we’ve just done so in terms of timing, it is line with the way we are prosecuting the national reorganisation”, he clarified.

    In his defense, he added that going into the 2024 polls, issues about the economy will become very topical and therefore the need for someone who has mastery in that regard.

    This is he said is the basis for selecting Dr Cassiel Ato Forson to be the party’s new minority leader.

    He added that issues surrounding energy will become critical ahead of the next elections, and therefore the party’s decision to choose Dr Kofi Armah Buah as the Deputy Minority Leader.

    Touching on the Deputy Minority Leader role, he further clarified that the changing of James Klutse Avedzi’s was due to the MP’s decision to exit Parliament.

  • Economy will be the major battleground ahead of 2024 polls – Asiedu Nketiah

    Economy will be the major battleground ahead of 2024 polls – Asiedu Nketiah

    National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has explained why the party has replaced key members of its leadership in Parliament.

    The NDC through its General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey wrote to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to announce replacement of three members, the Minority Leader, the deputy Minority Leader and the Minority Chief Whip.

    According to Asiedu Nketiah, the changes feed into the larger party reorganization plan that has seen the election of local level to national officers over the last year.

    He said, it had reached the turn of Parliament where the party was reorganizing with the focus on winning the 2024 election.

    Economics and election 2024

    Asiedu Nketiah said in an interview with Joy News (January 24) that the fact that the economy will be a major battleground ahead of the 2024 elections, meant that the NDC needed to field their best in economics and finance as leader.

    Currently, two major issues the government is facing is the Domestic Debt Exchange programme, which the Haruna Iddrisu-led Minority had asked to be suspended pending broader consultations.

    Why Ato Forson in place of Haruna

    On the specific reason why the NDC picked Cassiel Ato Forson (Ajumako Enyan Essiam MP) to replace Haruna Iddrisu (Tamale South MP) as leader of the Minority Caucus, he responded:

    “We know for instance that going into election 2024, the economy is going to be the major battleground and so many of the debates and other discussions will focus on the economy.

    “So, you better put your best man in the economy forward and that is what we’ve done,” he stressed stating that it was not for the party to consult before ringing the changes.

    Other changes and retentions

    Other changes included, Kofi Armah Buah, MP for Ellembele, who is the new deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    While Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, will replace Asawase MP Muntaka Mohammed as the Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is also retained as second deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Economy is going to be the major battleground ahead of 2024 polls – Asiedu Nketiah

    Economy is going to be the major battleground ahead of 2024 polls – Asiedu Nketiah

    National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has explained why the party has replaced key members of its leadership in Parliament.

    The NDC through its General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey wrote to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to announce replacement of three members, the Minority Leader, the deputy Minority Leader and the Minority Chief Whip.

    According to Asiedu Nketiah, the changes feed into the larger party reorganization plan that has seen the election of local level to national officers over the last year.

    He said, it had reached the turn of Parliament where the party was reorganizing with the focus on winning the 2024 election.

    Economics and election 2024

    Asiedu Nketiah said in an interview with Joy News (January 24) that the fact that the economy will be a major battleground ahead of the 2024 elections, meant that the NDC needed to field their best in economics and finance as leader.

    Currently, two major issues the government is facing is the Domestic Debt Exchange programme, which the Haruna Iddrisu-led Minority had asked to be suspended pending broader consultations.

    Why Ato Forson in place of Haruna

    On the specific reason why the NDC picked Cassiel Ato Forson (Ajumako Enyan Essiam MP) to replace Haruna Iddrisu (Tamale South MP) as leader of the Minority Caucus, he responded:

    “We know for instance that going into election 2024, the economy is going to be the major battleground and so many of the debates and other discussions will focus on the economy.

    “So, you better put your best man in the economy forward and that is what we’ve done,” he stressed stating that it was not for the party to consult before ringing the changes.

    Other changes and retentions

    Other changes included, Kofi Armah Buah, MP for Ellembele, who is the new deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    While Kwame Governs Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, will replace Asawase MP Muntaka Mohammed as the Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is also retained as second deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Why couldn’t you speak directly to Minority leadership? – Koku Anyidoho tackles Asiedu Nketiah over reshuffle

    Why couldn’t you speak directly to Minority leadership? – Koku Anyidoho tackles Asiedu Nketiah over reshuffle

    The former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho, has berated Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, National Chairman of the NDC for masterminding recent changes in the leadership of the minority in parliament

    According to him, the party chairman is having a hidden agenda for facilitating the changes of the leadership of the minority.

    In a series of tweets on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, Koku Anyidohu asserted that Johnson Aseidu Nketiah did not consult the leadership of the minority caucus before carrying out the reshuffling process.

    “Mosquito, you are the NDC’s chairman and leader, so if you have no hidden perfidious agenda, why were you not bold enough to speak directly to the leadership of the minority and the whole caucus? which elders did you send? tweaa! You can run but cannot hide,” part of his tweet read.

    The NDC in a statement signed by the General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey announced that it has made changes to the leadership of the minority in parliament.

    The former Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has been appointed as the Minority Leader in the 8th Parliament of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.

    Kofi Armah Buah is also the Deputy Minority Chief Whip. Kwame Agbodza takes over as Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, has been maintained as the First Deputy Minority Chief Whip, while Comfort Doyo Cudjoe-Ghansah, MP for Ada, is the Second Deputy Minority Chief Whip.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • 2024 polls will be on economy – Asiedu Nketiah justifies Minority reshuffle

    2024 polls will be on economy – Asiedu Nketiah justifies Minority reshuffle

    The National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has said that the party’s 2024 election campaign message would focus heavily on the economy, which is why it has decided to reorganize its parliamentary leadership.

    According to him, the know-how of the new leadership will best to propagate the message of the party.

    The NDC in a letter to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin dated, Monday, January 23, 2023, stated that it had decided to replace Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu with Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    Other changes include Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP for Ellembelle who has been brought in to replace Ketu North MP, James Klutse Avedzi as the Deputy Minority Leader while Kwame Governs Agbodza has also replaced Asawase MP, Muntaka Mubarak as the Minority Chief Whip.

    Ahmed Ibrahim and Comfort Doyoe-Ghansah were, however, maintained in their positions as First and Second deputy Whips respectively.

    Speaking to Citi News, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah said the party has put its best foot forward in a bid to win the 2024 election.

    “The 2024 election is going to be fought around the economy, so the debate is basically going to be about the economy. So if you are a serious party fighting to win an election. You must put your best foot forward to win the debate”.

    “You can’t just tell people that the economy is in shambles when you have not been able to put your experts there to be able to communicate to Ghanaians how you will do things better. So this is the point where we need our finance and economic people around, and that is why we put them there,” Mr. Asiedu Nketiah explained.

    Some supporters of the party in the Tamale South constituency on Tuesday after hearing the news besieged the party’s constituency office in protest of the changes in the party’s leadership in Parliament.

    Former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Inusah Fuseini, has also described as surprising the leadership changes by the National Democratic Congress in Parliament.

    Mr Fuseini believes the unexpected changes are part of a grand strategy by the party ahead of the 2024 general elections.

  • Silence on ‘bad governance’ resulting in bitter lessons – Asiedu Nketiah tells Ghanaians

    Silence on ‘bad governance’ resulting in bitter lessons – Asiedu Nketiah tells Ghanaians

    The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has called on Ghanaians not to sit aloof on the bad governance by this current administration.

    His comment comes on the back of damning revelations from the 2022 Auditor General’s Report on COVID-19.

    According to the A-G, a total of ¢21,844,189,185.24 was mobilised for the fight against the pandemic.

    However, out of this amount, only ¢11,750,683,059.11 was spent on curbing the spread of the virus.

    Commenting on the development, the National Chairman of the NDC indicated that Ghanaians will learn a more bitter lesson if they do not voice out on Akufo-Addo’s bad regime.

    “The hardships and corruption emanating from the disastrous economic, social, political and developmental policy choices of the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia NPP administration provides useful lessons and insights that must improve our governance systems and practices for the benefit of the future generation.

    “Particularly these bitter lessons make a solid case for active citizen awareness and participation in the choice and/or implementation of policies,” Mr. Nketiah stated in a Facebook post on January 23, 2023.

    He continued: “If citizens opt to sit on the sidelines, or pursue narrow political agendas, they ultimately bear the consequences of bad governance, as is currently with the dubious debt exchange programme and as revealed by the audit report on the COVID-19 expenditures of the government.

    “Citizens must be interested, vocal, and insistent on how they prefer to be governed. It’s their country and their future that is more at stake with every government action.”

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Everything you need to know about the upcoming NDC elections

    Everything you need to know about the upcoming NDC elections

    The main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is actively gearing up for a busy 2023 ahead of crucial 2024 General Elections as they look to wrestle power from the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    It will be the first major test for the newly-elected batch of executives led by National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, who until December 2022 had served for 17 years as the party’s General Secretary.

    Asiedu Nketiah, along with his successor Fifi Fiavi Kwetey and members of the National Executive body are gunning for early victory by way of leading the NDC into the Jubilee House after eight years in opposition.

    The party on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 released detailed guidelines on how its presidential and parliamentary primaries will be conducted later this year.

    GhanaWeb looks at the major highlights contained in both processes.

    Major modalities for the presidential primary

    Date and venues:

    The election of the Presidential Candidate shall be held on Saturday, 13th May, 2023 at Voting Centers in all 276 Constituencies of the NDC which includes the SALL/Guan catchment area.

    The National Headquarters of the NDC shall constitute an additional voting center for all delegates from external branches of the party.

    Nomination process and completing forms:

    Nominations shall be opened between 22nd and 24th March, 2023

    A candidate must be proposed by a party member in good standing and endorsed by five others in each constituency in each region across the country.

    Candidates shall be subjected to a vetting process which is expected to take place at the party Headquarters on a specified date.

    Cost of forms and submission:

    Nomination forms shall be made available in the office of the General Secretary for purchase at a non-refundable fee of Thirty thousand Ghana Cedis (Gh¢30,000.00) paid by bankers’ draft.

    The completed forms (Nomination and endorsement forms) are to be returned to the General Secretary of the Party with evidence of the payment of a non-refundable filing fee of Five hundred thousand Ghana Cedis (Gh¢500,000.00) via bankers’ draft.

    Female candidates and Persons with Disabilities shall pay fifty percent (50%) of the filing fees

    Election Day:

    The presidential primary will take place concurrently with the parliamentary primary with the party’s national headquarters serving as the collation center.

    A candidate will require 50% plus one to win a first-round victory.

    Major modalities for the parliamentary primary

    Date and place:

    It shall be held on same day as the presidential primary (May 13, 2023). The election shall be held at a venue within the Constituency as determined by the Constituency Executive Committee in consultation with the Regional Executive Committee (REC) of the respective region.

    Nomination forms

    Forms shall be made available online for download on www.ghanandc.com and a non-refundable fee of Five thousand Ghana Cedis (Gh¢5,000.00) paid online via the stipulated momo or bank card.

    The completed forms (nomination and endorsement) shall be completed and submiited to the Elections Directorate of the constituency after the payment of a non-refundable filing fee of Forty thousand Ghana cedis (Gh¢40,000.00) via Bank Card on www.ghanandc.com.

    Completing forms:

    Each contestant must be proposed by one person and seconded by three (3) persons all of whom must be members of good standing of the party in different branches of the constituency.

    Each prospective candidate shall be endorsed by at least one branch executive member of the party from 50 percent of the total branches in the constituency.

    Day of voting:

    All rules as applies in national elections shall be applicable along with any other rules as communicated by the National Executive Committee (NEC).

    Candidates can appoint agents to monitor the process. Ballots shall be counted and collated immediately after the process and winner shall be declared on the basis of first past the post – aspirant with highest number of votes.

    Key timelines for the process:

    OPENING OF NOMINATIONS MONDAY 22ND – 24TH FEBRUARY, 2023

    SUBMISSION OF FORMS/ FILING OF NOMINATION MONDAY 20TH – 22ND MARCH 2023

    VETTING MONDAY 27th – 29th MARCH, 2023

    APPEAL 30TH MARCH – 6TH APRIL, 2023

    ELECTIONS SATURDAY, 13TH MAY, 202

    Source: Ghanaweb