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Tag: K.T. Hammond

  • We will cite Speaker Bagbin for contempt over vacant seat case – K.T. Hammond

    We will cite Speaker Bagbin for contempt over vacant seat case – K.T. Hammond

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament and Trade Minister, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has declared that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, will be cited for contempt of court in the ongoing legal dispute over four vacant parliamentary seats.

    The controversy stems from Speaker Bagbin‘s decision to stand by the declaration of the seats of four MPs—Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central)—as vacant—a decision which suspended by the Supreme Court and proceed with parliamentary sitting with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament holding themselves as the Majority Caucus.

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin adjourned the House indefinitely following a half-side representation on Thursday, November 7. The Speaker explained that there was a quorum for sitting however, “we have no business before us to transact because the Business Committee.”

    “As you know, they prepare report and this report adopted by the House as business agreed by the House to transact during the course of the week. In the absence of that, there is no other authority that can put government before you which you have not adopted to transact. In view of the failure of the Business Committee to sit, as a result of the refusal of those who requested for the recall to show up, we are compelled to once again adjourn the sitting of the House,” the Speaker explained.

    He urged that “knowing the challenges we are facing, it is not advisable to be adjourning from day to day.”

    On the matter, the Leader of the National Democratic Congress Members of Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has accused the NPP MPs of causing financial loss to the state. “This recall cost the state, and they are abusing it. Ghanaians should vote them out for this conduct,” he said.

    NPP MP Kobina Tahir Hammond, on his part, registered his displeasure over the NDC MPs occupying the Majority side of Parliament despite the Supreme Court ruling that bars the Speaker from declaring some four seats occupied by held by Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central) vacant.

    “Is that were they are supposed to be sitting? We have a convention. Supreme Court has spoken. It is not for us Members of Parliament on the Majority side to be arguing any point,” the MP said. He then revealed that “we will cite him (the Speaker) for contempt.”

    Vacant seat case

    The Speaker’s vacant seat ruling, based on his interpretation of Article 97(1)(g) of the Constitution, was contested by the NPP, particularly by the leader of the NPP Members of Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Afenyo-Markin argued that Speaker Bagbin had overstepped his constitutional authority by declaring the seats vacant without judicial oversight, prompting him to seek the intervention of the Supreme Court.

    In response to the challenge, the Supreme Court issued an interim injunction halting the Speaker’s decision until further judicial review. Speaker Bagbin has filed an application with the Supreme Court to reinstate his declaration of the seats as vacant, arguing that parliamentary decisions fall outside the jurisdiction of the judiciary. However, the Supreme Court, under Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, dismissed Bagbin’s motion.

    Speaker Bagbin reacts to Judiciary intervention

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has voiced his frustration over what he sees as an increasing tendency among legislators to seek Supreme Court intervention on matters that should be handled within Parliament itself.

    At a press conference on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Bagbin expressed concern that this reliance on the judiciary is eroding the authority and respect of the legislative body.

    “The courts are replete with debates and proceedings of Parliament. Most worrying is, these proceedings are initiated by some Members of Parliament, even leaders of Parliament who are to know better. Parliamentarians who are supposed to be loyal to Parliament and not the Supreme Court run to the Supreme Court at the slightest opportunity to use the Supreme Court to undermine Parliament. This might be one of the reasons Parliament and Members of Parliament are not respected and treated with disdain,” he said.

  • Speaker Bagbin knows better than to disregard Supreme Court’s ruling – K.T. Hammond

    Speaker Bagbin knows better than to disregard Supreme Court’s ruling – K.T. Hammond

    Adansi Asokwa MP and Minister of Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond, has expressed his assurance that Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin will comply with the Supreme Court’s recent ruling.

    This assurance follows the Supreme Court’s decision to stay the execution of Bagbin’s earlier ruling that declared four parliamentary seats vacant.

    The Speaker’s original decision was prompted by a motion from former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, invoking constitutional provisions that require MPs who switch parties to relinquish their seats.

    The four MPs affected—Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kwadjo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Amoako Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central)—were determined to have breached these provisions by either changing their party affiliations or expressing intentions to run as independent candidates in the upcoming elections.

    This matter has ignited considerable legal discourse and raised concerns about the power dynamics within Parliament.

    In preparation for the Speaker’s ruling, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin filed an urgent motion with the Supreme Court on October 15, seeking clarification on the status of the four MPs.

    His actions reflect the Majority caucus’s urgency regarding the implications of the Speaker’s decision, which had shifted the House’s leadership towards the NDC just two months ahead of the elections.

    On October 18, Afenyo-Markin formally requested a stay of execution against the Speaker’s ruling. The Supreme Court granted this request, temporarily halting any actions related to the ruling, including the declaration of the four parliamentary seats as vacant.

    The Majority Leader welcomed this decision, expressing satisfaction with the Court’s intervention. In a follow-up interview, K.T. Hammond voiced skepticism about Speaker Bagbin, a trained legal professional, attempting to overturn the Supreme Court’s ruling.

    “I feel excited; I knew yesterday that it was a bogus ruling by the Speaker. It’s clear what the court has said; I don’t anticipate any difficulties. The court is the ultimate arbiter of constitutional matters, and it has said A, B, C, and D, and that is it, so I expect everyone to abide by it.”

    “I can’t imagine the Speaker, who is the number 3, 4 of the land, deciding to do anything otherwise. The constitution is in contempt of court, and he’s a lawyer who understands these things.

    So I expect that on Tuesday, when we go back to Parliament, on October 22, we the Majority will be comfortably seated on our part of the aisle and the Minority, who are perpetual opposition, will be seated at their rightful place.”

  • Vote for Bawumia to secure me a top govt job – K.T. Hammond ‘begs’ constituents

    Vote for Bawumia to secure me a top govt job – K.T. Hammond ‘begs’ constituents

    Adansi Asokwa Member of Parliament (MP) K.T. Hammond, has urged his constituents to support and vote for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, in the upcoming December 7 elections.

    The Trade and Industry Minister, who is campaigning for his 7th term in Parliament, expressed confidence that a victory for Bawumia would secure him a prominent role in government come 2025.

    While addressing his constituents, Hammond made a particular appeal to members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), asking them to shift their loyalty and vote for the NPP to ensure his continued success and the party’s triumph in the 2024 elections.

    “The NDC members here, stop looking at me as if I’m a wizard. Change your mind, vote for the NPP, and especially for Dr. Bawumia, so I can secure a top appointment. I want all of you to become members of the NPP by force,” he added, emphasizing his desire for a strong turnout.

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

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

  • Parliament passes new law regulating cement prices

    Parliament passes new law regulating cement prices

    The Legislative Instrument (L.I.) aimed at regulating cement prices has been passed into law, despite strong objections from cement manufacturers and segments of the public.

    Originally, the draft L.I. required manufacturers to seek government approval before setting prices, but this clause has been removed.

    The Opposition in Parliament, particularly through Minority Spokesperson on Legal and Constitutional Affairs Bernard Ahiafor, argued that the L.I. is inconsistent with the parent act that regulates standards for all goods and services.

    Ahiafor contended that the act’s purpose is to establish quality standards across all products, including cement.

    “The parent act by its objects deals with all goods and services, that is setting the standard for all goods and services including the cement, and the understanding of the standard is controlling the quality of all goods and services produced and imported in the country.”

    Despite these concerns, the L.I. has been approved after extensive debate in 21 parliamentary sessions.

    Trade and Industry Minister K.T. Hammond, who sponsored the L.I., argued that it will reduce cement prices nationwide.

    He asserted that the current pricing practices by cement companies are unfair and that the new regulation will restore balance and fairness in the market.

    “I have consistently been arguing that we are not being treated fairly by the cement producing companies. I have gone through a lot of literature, I am beyond argument. There is a certain amount of unfairness in the pricing of cement across the country and I am prepared to make sure that there is some sanity,” he said.

  • Bawumia won’t retain K.T. Hammond as minister if he wins December polls – Nkrumah Tikese

    Bawumia won’t retain K.T. Hammond as minister if he wins December polls – Nkrumah Tikese

    Broadcaster at Okay FM, Kwame Nkrumah Tikese, has criticized Trade and Industry Minister, Kwabena Tahir Hammond (KT Hammond) for dismissing representatives of the Cement Manufacturers Association from a scheduled meeting with the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GCCI) on July 20, 2024.

    Tikese questioned KT Hammond’s lack of diplomatic approach to resolving the conflict between his ministry and the cement manufacturers, criticizing his confrontational stance.

    During a discussion with the CEO of the Chamber of Construction and Industry, Tikese advised the cement manufacturers to remain patient, suggesting that KT Hammond may not continue as trade minister after the 2024 elections.

    He noted that if the NPP government remains in power, it is unlikely that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would retain KT Hammond in his current role.

    “He claims he couldn’t withstand the cement manufacturers. Has he established a company? Ever since he was born, has he set up a company?

    “Be patient and exercise some restraint. He will be gone in December. He will be gone because I don’t think even if Bawumia wins the election, he will retain him as the trade minister,” he said.

    KT Hammond recently made headlines after viral videos showed him ejecting members of the Cement Manufacturers Association from a meeting.

    One video from the event captured Minister Hammond firmly insisting that the cement manufacturers vacate the room before the meeting could begin.

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

    He explained that he had previously met with the cement manufacturers and that this meeting was specifically intended to engage with the Chamber of Construction.

    “It’s either I leave or they leave,” the minister firmly stated, despite efforts from representatives of both associations to justify the manufacturers’ presence.

  • Cement manufacturers snub KT Hammond over price regulation meeting

    Cement manufacturers snub KT Hammond over price regulation meeting

    Five cement manufacturers declined to attend a meeting scheduled with Ghana’s Minister of Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond, on July 1. The meeting was intended to discuss a proposed Legislative Instrument (LI) aimed at regulating cement prices. Dangote, Supacem, Ghacem, Diamond Cement, and CIMAF cited the necessity for closed-door discussions.

    Despite the manufacturers’ absence, Minister K.T. Hammond reiterated his intention to proceed with laying the LI before parliament on July 2. He clarified that recent speculation about opposition from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) was unfounded, emphasizing ongoing consultations with stakeholders in the industry. The Minister emphasized the importance of transparency in pricing and noted previous efforts to engage manufacturers on this issue.

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

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

    “The story out there is that the NDC prevented us; that is not true. But an instance of the statement I am making is that since that kind of attempt, I am still struggling with the words to use. I just gave a copy to my leader, the majority leader, concerning what I had in mind. But since that time, there have been so many complaints that I hadn’t consulted with the stakeholders before trying to lay the LI as they claim. I have refuted that on the various platforms because we didn’t consult.

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

  • It’s pretty insulting to write to parliament against me – K.T. Hammond to Cement Manufacturers CEO

    It’s pretty insulting to write to parliament against me – K.T. Hammond to Cement Manufacturers CEO

    Trade Minister K.T. Hammond has criticized CEO of the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana, Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, for submitting a petition to Parliament urging the rejection of a proposed legislative instrument aimed at regulating cement pricing.

    The Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana, voiced serious apprehension about the proposed L.I, contending that it undermines fairness, transparency, and inclusive decision-making while neglecting the intricate factors behind rising cement prices.

    Speaking to journalists, K.T. Hammond affirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding Ghanaian consumers from unfair practices in the cement market.

    “I think there’s something fundamentally wrong with the pricing of our cement in the country. It was about the same issue that we tackled when we were at the Ministry of Energy. I believe that there has to be some sanity in the system… And so today, I have received a copy of a petition written by the Association of Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, whatever.

    “Pretty insulting, Dr. George Dawson-Ahmoah, he’s been a person I have known for many years when he was at GHACEM. We have been very good friends.

    “When we started all this cement manufacturing, whatever, he was part of it. He has been in consultation with us. He has been on board with respect to all that we have undertaken. Now he arrives in parliament and tells parliament to order me to take back my documents and to consult with him because what I have done is not right or respectful or something because I hadn’t told him. You know, sometimes you have to be careful when some of these things come about.

    “But he has a PhD, he’s a doctor, so reading and comprehension shouldn’t be a problem for him. He should go and read the constitution and he will see that by Article 11 thereof, Parliament doesn’t tell me to go and consult with him. I mean, the procedures that he’s talking about, if he understands, I don’t know,” the minister told the media.

  • Bill to check prices of cement will be passed before Parliament adjourns – K.T. Hammond

    Bill to check prices of cement will be passed before Parliament adjourns – K.T. Hammond

    Trade and Industry Minister K.T. Hammond has declared his intention to disregard a petition from the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, which sought to delay the implementation of a legislative instrument (L.I.) aimed at regulating cement prices in Ghana.

    K.T. Hammond emphasized that the law is crucial to prevent exploitation by a cartel of manufacturers.

    According to the proposed L.I., cement manufacturers could face up to three years in prison for violations. Despite opposition from the Minority in Parliament and various interest groups, K.T. Hammond remains resolute in his decision.

    In an interview with Evans Mensah on JoyNews’ PM Express, K.T. Hammond explained that he has made multiple attempts to engage the manufacturers in good faith. However, these efforts were unsuccessful, leading to his decision to enforce the law to ensure fair pricing for consumers.

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

    Hammond noted that although the manufacturers were not consulted during the drafting of the L.I., he has consistently communicated with them about the need for transparency in pricing.

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

    He mentioned that the manufacturers had dismissed his warnings, leading to his decision to move forward with the legislative process.

    “On a simple matter of price publication and self-regularisation, I have been going on and on… it gets to a point when something has to be done, and what has to be done for me within the law is to go to Parliament,” the Trade Minister stated.

    K.T. Hammond expressed hope that the bill to regulate cement prices will be passed soon. He aims to lay the legislative instrument in Parliament and secure its passage before the current session expires.

    “I have given the bill to my leader, the Majority Leader, to get it laid, and I expect that within 21 days it should become law. By Thursday or Friday, it should be laid. I have a funny feeling that on this occasion they won’t battle me because if you battle me on this, you are battling the good people of Ghana,” he concluded.

  • Minority kicks against gov’t’s call to halt cement price hikes

    Minority kicks against gov’t’s call to halt cement price hikes

    The Minority in Parliament has dismissed the government’s directive to halt the increase in cement prices, calling it unrealistic and unlawful.

    This follows Trade and Industry Minister K.T. Hammond‘s instruction to cement manufacturers to halt price increases and publish retail prices to prevent arbitrary hikes.

    The Minority argues that this approach is misguided and will not yield the desired results.

    During a media engagement, Yusif Sulemana, Ranking Member of the Trade and Industry Committee, argued that the directive is infeasible without addressing root causes.

    Mr. Sulemana highlighted that cement manufacturers are already burdened with levies, including a fumigation levy, despite not receiving the corresponding service.

    He emphasized the need for government engagement with manufacturers to identify areas where taxes can be reduced and stimulus packages offered to support their business.

    “As we speak to you, cement manufacturers pay a levy on fumigation, fumigation levy but when their goods arrive, nobody fumigates it’s they pay for a service they do not benefit. And then you come to tell me to reduce the prices of my commodity,

    “I’ve never seen it anywhere. This is a competitive market, engage them and see where there’s a need that you the government can reduce some taxes. Where there’s a need for you to do certain things that will stimulate their business.”

    “You don’t sit in your office and issue a directive saying that they should reduce their prices. I can tell you on authority that this is not going anywhere. What law is he referring to? Is there any law that says a minister can sit in his office and issue a letter that reduces the prices of commodities?

    “It is only under this government we are seeing this. What we need to do is to sit with them and identify the root cause.”

  • NDC will forever stay in opposition – K.T. Hammond

    NDC will forever stay in opposition – K.T. Hammond

    Minister of Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has stated his belief that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will continue to remain in opposition for the foreseeable future.

    He attributed this prediction to what he perceives as a lack of innovative ideas within the NDC, suggesting that the party is primarily focused on obstructing positive initiatives put forth by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) out of envy and ignorance.

    Mr. Hammond assessed that the NDC’s agenda does not resonate with the current aspirations of Ghanaians, leading to its continued status in opposition.

    Following President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address on Tuesday, February 27, Mr. Hammond spoke to the media, expressing confidence in the nation’s path to recovery despite prevailing economic challenges.

    He emphasized his trust in President Akufo-Addo’s leadership and expressed optimism that Ghana will regain stability under the guidance of the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    “Considering the crisis we have all spoken about and considering all that we’ve come to know, the NPP government has done pretty well and from what the government is saying, I think the country will massively back Vice-President Alhaji Bawumia.

    “Don’t fall for the propaganda of those guys in the NDC, don’t fall for their propaganda at all. Why did they start shouting and why did former President John Mahama decide to attend for the first time the State of the Nation Address?”

    “Mind you, I’m not sure if he’s ever attended in the eight years of President Akufo-Addo’s government. Former President John Mahama decided never to attend.

    “Today, he came in there, I’m not sure what is it that he was signaling, but I tell you the good people of Ghana are going to make sure that the NDC sits in opposition till thy kingdom come.”

  • 95GHC price of cement bag shocks K.T. Hammond


    The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), have entered into an agreement to conduct periodic consultative meetings with industry stakeholders.

    These meetings will focus on addressing key developments in cement manufacturing, bagging, and distribution.

    The primary objective is to tackle crucial issues within the sector, particularly before any announcements of ex-factory price changes by individual companies.

    Initiated by Minister K.T. Hammond, the meeting aimed to address concerns about the rising cost of cement at the retail level and its adverse economic impact.

    Expressing worry over the sale of a bag of cement at ¢95.00 in certain regions, including the Accra/Tema Municipalities, the Minister urged the industry to recognize the widespread effects of price escalation.

    He emphasized the need to closely monitor and control the recommended ex-factory price margins of distributors and retailers across the country.

    To stabilize prices, key measures were agreed upon, including individual companies publishing recommended distribution and retail prices for various grades of products in their respective distribution zones.

    Additionally, companies are mandated to enforce quality standards and weights of cement products to counter the production and distribution of substandard items.

    Stakeholders will collaborate on exploring the possibility of introducing a uniform cement pricing formula, ensuring consistency in retail pricing nationwide, and considering key cost variables.

    The MoTI assured the public that these measures, among others deemed necessary, will be implemented in collaboration with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana, to ensure justifiable and reasonable adjustments in prices.

  • GHC 95 for a bag of cement, how? – K.T. Hammond fumes at manufacturers during meeting

    GHC 95 for a bag of cement, how? – K.T. Hammond fumes at manufacturers during meeting

    Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) have agreed to hold regular consultative meetings with industry stakeholders, focusing on developments in cement manufacturing, bagging, and distribution.

    The objective is to tackle crucial issues in the sector, particularly before any announcements of changes in ex-factory prices by individual companies.

    Minister K.T. Hammond initiated the meeting to express concerns about the rising cost of cement at the retail level and its adverse economic impact. He raised questions about the sale of a bag of cement at ¢95.00 in certain regions, including the Accra and Tema Municipalities.

    “The Minister entreated the industry to take cognizance of the widespread effects of price escalation and the need to closely monitor and exercise control over the recommended ex-factory price margins of distributors and retailers of their respective grades of products across the country,” stated the MoTI.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKA_9rBcf04

    Crucial measures have been unanimously agreed upon for immediate implementation to stabilise prices in the cement industry. These measures include the obligation for individual companies to publish recommended distribution and retail prices for various product grades within their respective distribution zones.

    Furthermore, companies are now mandated to rigorously enforce quality standards and specified weights for cement products, aiming to counter the production and distribution of substandard items.

    Stakeholders are also anticipated to collaborate on exploring the feasibility of introducing a standardised cement pricing formula. This initiative aims to ensure consistency in retail pricing across the country, taking into account essential cost variables.

    The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) has assured the public that these measures, deemed necessary among others, will be implemented in partnership with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana. The ultimate goal is to facilitate justifiable and reasonable adjustments in prices.

  • K.T. Hammond engages cement manufacturers to address surging prices

    The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) and the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) have reached an agreement to conduct periodic consultative meetings with industry players.

    These meetings aim to address developments in cement manufacturing, bagging, and distribution, particularly before the announcement of ex-factory price changes by individual companies.

    According to a statement from the MoTI, the Minister, K.T. Hammond, convened the meeting to express concern about the increasing cost of cement at the retail end and its potential adverse economic impact.

    The minister questioned the reasons behind the high retail prices, citing instances where a bag of cement was selling for ¢95.00 in certain parts of the country, including the Accra/Tema Municipalities.

    “The Minister entreated the industry to take cognisance of the widespread effects of price escalation and the need to closely monitor and exercise control over the recommended ex-factory price margins of distributors and retailers of their respective grades of products across the country”. 

    According to the statement, the stakeholders have agreed on several measures for urgent implementation to stabilize cement prices in Ghana. These measures include:

    Publication of Recommended Prices: Individual companies are required to publish the recommended distribution and retail prices for various grades of products sold in each of their respective distribution zones.

    Enforcement of Quality Standards: Companies are urged to vigorously enforce quality standards and weights of cement products in the market to curb the production and distribution of substandard cement products.

    Exploring Uniform Pricing Formula: Stakeholders are expected to collaborate on exploring the possibility of introducing a uniform cement pricing formula. This formula aims to ensure uniformity and consistency in retail pricing across the country, taking into account key cost variables.

    “The Ministry would like to assure the consuming public that these and any other measures necessary will be implemented in collaboration with the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana, to ensure price adjustments are justifiable and within reasonable limits”, the statement ended.

  • Notable NPP MPs exiting parliament in 2025

    Notable NPP MPs exiting parliament in 2025

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) concluded nominations on Monday, December 25 for parliamentary aspirants in constituencies where it currently has sitting Members of Parliament (MPs).

    The election is scheduled for January 27, 2024, marking the next stage of the party’s initiative to secure parliamentarians in all 275 constituencies.

    The preceding primaries successfully took place in what the party terms “orphan constituencies” on December 2.

    However, as nominations closed on Christmas day, several seasoned members of the party chose not to submit forms, voluntarily deciding to conclude their parliamentary careers.

    The following is a list of prominent MPs from the 8th Parliament who will not be seeking reelection in 2025:

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025
      Majority Leader in Parliament

      Joseph Osei-Owusu (Bekwai Constituency- Ashanti Region). Has been in Parliament since 2009

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Samuel Atta Akyea (Abuakwa South Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2009.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025
      Atta Akyea

      Joe Ghartey (Essikado Ketan Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2005.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Kennedy Agyapong (Assin Central Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2001.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025
      Kennedy Agyapong

      Daniel Botwe (Okere Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2009.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025
      Dan Botwe

      Kwasi Amoako-Atta (Atiwa West Constituency). He has been in Parliemnt since 2009.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Dr. Kwaku Afriyie (Sefwi Wiaso Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2017.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Emmanuel Marfo (Oforikrom Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2017.

      Dr.-Emmanuel-Marfo-MP-Oforikrom-Constituency | Citinewsroom ...

      Benito Owusu-Bio (Atwima Nwabiagya Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2005.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Carlos Ahenkora (Tema West Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2017.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Nana Kwasi Adjei Boateng (New Juabeng North Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2013.

      William Owuraku Aidoo (Afigya Kwabre South Constituency). He has been in Parliament since 2013.

      Here are the experienced NPP MPs who will not be in Parliament in 2025

      Johnson Adu (Ahafo Ano South West)

      • Francis Manu-Adabor (Ahafo Ano South-East)
      • Suleman Sanid (Ahafo Ano North)
      • Kojo Kum (Ahanta West)
      • Francisca Oteng (Kwabre East).
    1. Why K.T. Hammond almost slapped Annoh-Dompreh in Parliament

      Why K.T. Hammond almost slapped Annoh-Dompreh in Parliament

      The Minister for Trade and Industry, Kobina Tahir Hammond, made an attempt to slap the Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, in the Chamber of Parliament on Friday, December 22.

      The incident occurred when Annoh-Dompreh urged Hammond to conclude his debate on the approval of three Justices of the Supreme Court.

      In a video circulating on social media, K.T. Hammond is seen making swinging motions with his arms, attempting to slap Annoh-Dompreh. However, Annoh-Dompreh managed to evade the minister’s actions.

      Following his actions, K.T. Hammond said, “Mr Speaker, I was actually going to add, I will keep talking, I will not sit down. I will talk to tomorrow. Okay, last sentence.”

      Some MPs could be heard laughing in reaction to what transpired in the House. Others such as Ursula Owusu-EKuful expressed shock at the initial stage.

      On Wednesday, December 20, three judges nominated by President Akufo-Addo for the Supreme Court appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament. These nominees have been put forward to fill vacant positions on the Supreme Court bench.

      The first nominee to face the committee is Justice Henry Anthony Kwofie, followed by the other two nominees, Yaw Darko Asare and Richard Adjei-Frimpong. Both Yaw Darko Asare and Richard Adjei-Frimpong currently serve on the Court of Appeal.

    2. AGI supports K.T. Hammond’s move to restrict imports

      AGI supports K.T. Hammond’s move to restrict imports

      The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has expressed its support for the government’s intention to restrict the importation of 22 products.

      Trade Minister Kobina Tahir Hammond is set to present a Legislative Instrument on Export and Import Regulations, 2023, in Parliament on November 30, 2023.

      If approved, the restriction will apply to various items, including rice, offals, poultry, oils, margarine, fruit juices, soft drinks, mineral water, noodles, pasta, ceramic tiles, corrugated paper, mosquito coil, soaps, motor cars, iron and steel, cement, plastics, fish, sugar, clothing, biscuits, and canned tomatoes.

      Despite resistance from six business associations, AGI’s National President, Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, expressed support for the initiative.

       “A recent legislative instrument that has been tabled by the Minister of Trade is facing significant opposition, but the Association of Ghana Industries believes that is the way to bring competitiveness to our country and therefore we have pledged our support to the Minister of Trade and the L.I that has been tabled as much as the principle is correct.”

      “We believe issues regarding implementation can still be deliberated on where the committee and the chair of the committee and the reporting procedures regarding tabling of applications, the processes, and the role of the Minster of Trade and Industry to accept or deny applications for restricted products can be further discussed and brought to bear on our economy”, he said.

      A Business Consultative Forum, including Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG), Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Chamber of Automobile Dealership Ghana (CADEG), and Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), contends that the action is harmful to their activities.

      They said it would have “negative impact on the prices of goods” and also “disrupt the free flow of goods”, and potentially “harm to businesses”.

    3. K.T. Hammond accuses Dormaahene of dining with the NDC

      K.T. Hammond accuses Dormaahene of dining with the NDC

      Adansi-Asokwa Member of Parliament, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has claimed that the Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, is a member of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

      The Trade Minister mentioned that while the constitution discourages chiefs from participating in partisan politics, the Dormaahene is actively involved in political activities.

      In an interview with Oyerepa TV in Kumasi, he advised the Dormaahene to exercise caution in his behavior and remarks, as they could have consequences. He made the comments following a request by the Dormaahene with regards to the criminal trial against the Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson.

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

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

      The Dormaahene who doubles as President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs urged the Attorney-General to discontinue the criminal case against Mr Gyakye Quayson.

      “As a matter of urgency, I am appealing to the president of the republic that if he has any role to play in that trial should be aborted. The Attorney General should as a matter of urgency file a nolle prosequi to end that particular decision…You I love you (Akufo-Addo), discontinue the case” he stated.

      He argued that it would be unfair to the people of Assin North should they experience no development for several months over the criminal charges against their MP.

      Oseadeoyo Agyeman Badu II noted that despite the residents being aware of the possibility of Mr Quayson being found guilty, they still voted for him.

      According to him, government must listen to the needs of the people and provide them what they want.

      “Honestly, I don’t see the benefits this prosecution will bring Ghanaians. If he is in court, he can’t fulfil his mandate so the president and the Attorney General should do something urgently to end this matter, so we move on as Ghanaians,” he added in the local parlance.

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

    4. K.T. Hammond’s nephew dies after he was forced to drink acid and oil

      K.T. Hammond’s nephew dies after he was forced to drink acid and oil

      28-year-old nephew of K.T. Hammond has been allegedly involved in the kidnapping of two children and was killed at Adiembra in the Adansi Asokwa District of the Ashanti Region.

      The deceased, also known as Blade, is reportedly the nephew of Kobina Tahir (K.T.) Hammond, a member of the Adansi Asokwa party.

      Isaac K. Normanyo of Adom News has learned that the event took place on Saturday.

      A distraught relative, Eric Addo (aka Nana One), said the family finds it hard to believe why anyone will consider the deceased as a kidnapper.

      Mr Addo said the deceased, who was a welder, was a calm person and liked to play with children a lot and was on such activity when the unfortunate incident happened.

      He narrated that the culprits mixed dirty oil with acid and forced the deceased to drink, adding he had cutlass wounds on parts of his body.

      The Odikro of Adiembra, Nana Oduro Frikyi, revealed that anytime a thief is apprehended or any resident misconducts him or herself, the person is always brought before him.

      He, therefore, doesn’t understand why some people decided to take the law into their own hands this time around.

      A group of irate youth who said the deceased is their close friend and defended he is not a criminal have threatened reprisal attacks amidst demand for justice.

      Meanwhile, the Police have arrested nine persons including two females over the heinous act.

    5. K.T. Hammond laments over delay in approval of ministerial nominees

      K.T. Hammond laments over delay in approval of ministerial nominees

      The Member of Parliament (MP) for Adansi Asokwa, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has lamented the enmity between MPs from the Majority Caucus and the Minority Caucus.

      Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, March 2, 2023, K.T. Hammond said that deliberations in Parliament now always end in fights, with both sides of the House failing to compromise their stands in the nation’s interest.

      He used himself as an example, saying that two weeks after his vetting to become the Minister for Trade and Industry, members of the Minority Caucus were still insisting they would not approve him.

      “…This House, Mr Speaker, is disintegrating! It is. Mr. Speaker, there is so much shouting; there is so much animosity, no room for tolerance in this House. We have not been used to this.

      “People get upset because these tantrums are thrown all over the place, and Mr. Speaker, the whole place breaks down into insanity; it isn’t right, Mr. Speaker.

      “…Let us try and introduce some sanity in the House; Sometimes I sit here, and I get completely distressed… and now, Mr. Speaker, I have been vetted; almost two weeks, I am sitting here. They say they won’t approve me, so I am sitting here. Look at all of this; can you imagine?” he said.

      The Trade and Industry Minister-designate made these remarks while reacting to a clash between the Deputy Majority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin and the Deputy Minority Leader of the House, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, over the former’s description of the Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta.

      He urged the Deputy Minority Leader to withdraw his comment about Afenyo-Markin rising to fame by twisting peoples’ words.

    6. K.T. Hammond is named as the next trade minister by Akufo-Addo

      K.T. Hammond is named as the next trade minister by Akufo-Addo

      The Ministry of Trade and Industry will now be headed by Kobina Tahiru Hammond, while the Ministry of Food and Agriculture will now be under Bryan Acheampong’s leadership.

      Soon, more

    7. Speaker setting up committee to probe motion of censure against Ofori-Atta apt – Former MP

      A former Chairman of the Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee in Parliament, Ben Abdella Banda says the decision by speaker of parliament, Alban Bagbin to set up an eight-member ad hoc committee to probe allegations against the finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta by the minority MPs is apt.

      According to him, Speaker acted within the law.

      The former Member of Parliament for Offiso South in an exclusive interview on the Kumasi-based OTEC 102.9 FM’s breakfast show, Nyansapo, on Friday, November 11, 2022 said the speaker did the right thing.

      The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin on Thursday, November 10, 2022 referred the censure motion moved by the Minority to have Finance Minister; Ken Ofori-Atta removed from office to an 8-member ad hoc committee for consideration.

      He added that at the committee level, evidence at the Minority’s disposal would be presented for discussion.

      According to Mr. Bagbin, the Finance Minister will be given ample opportunity to defend himself.

      He stated that the Minister in question is also entitled to appear before the committee with a counsel.

      The Speaker noted that after the process, a report will be submitted before the House for a decision to be taken.

      ‘What I can do at this time is to allow the motion to be seconded and I will give opportunity for it to be responded to by our standing orders which I can interpret. The matter will be referred to an ad hoc committee to be investigated,” he said.

      After this declaration, the motion was debated further by both sides of the House. It was subsequently upheld.

      The 8-member ad hoc committee will be chaired by the Adansi Asokwa MP, K.T. Hammond and Bolgatanga East MP, Dominic Ayine.

      The Minority Leader, who said the motion was in accordance with Article 82 of the 1992 Constitution, cited seven grounds for it.

      The seven grounds include a despicable conflict of interest that he (Mr Ofori-Atta) directly benefited from Ghana’s economic woes as his companies’ received commissions and other unethical contractual advantages, particularly from Ghana’s debt overhang.

      He alleged the unconstitutional withdrawal from the Consolidated Fund in contravention of Article 178 of the 1992 Constitution for the construction of the National Cathedral among other things.

      But following the setting up of the committee by the Speaker of Parliament, the former Member of Parliament for Offinso South has praised the speaker’s move.

      He called on the members of Parliament to follow due procedures in this particular move by the minority to pass vote of no confidence in the Finance Minister to avoid any constitutional blunder.

      Source: Ghanaweb 

    8. Galamsey: ‘We all know those involved but it has become difficult to talk about it because of fear’ – MP

      Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa, Kobina Tahir (K.T.) Hammond, has said that persons financing illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) are well known but have not been exposed yet because of fear.

      He intimated that they are not talking about ‘galamsey’ because they know the power of the people involved in the menace, adomonline.com reports.

      “How do these visitors get to know these galamsey towns? Our own people hold their hands and take them to the places to do the illegal mining. We all know those involved but it has become difficult to talk about it because of fear,” the MP is quoted to have said on Asempa FM.

      K.T. Hammond, however, urged the government to start putting in place serious mechanisms to stop the menace because it is becoming very scary.

      “The issue of galamsey is a serious issue and should be looked at. Let’s be up and doing as a government and do the right thing.

      “The government should do more to end the galamsey menace. It is not acceptable any longer. Government should tighten the measures adopted in the galamsey fight,” he said.

      Meanwhile, the United States (US) Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has urged the government of Ghana to put in more effort in the fight against the menace of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) in the country.

      According to her, Ghana was not making any significant strides in the fight against the menace because only the illegal miners (‘galamseyers’) are arrested while the powerful forces behind them are not touched.

      Virginia Palmer, who made these remarks when she paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, added that if the government fails to take urgent steps to stop ‘galamsey’, the country will be in some serious crisis soon.

      “The galamseyers themselves are people who need to make a living. I think the galamseyers are not active in doing it but the powers behind them are the ones truly responsible for the evils. Indeed, they are wreaking real environmental havoc on your rivers which is having an impact on your cocoa crops. All of these things are going to have really negative consequences on the economy of Ghana,” she said.

      Source: Ghanaweb

    9. Just In: K.T Hammond finally begs for forgiveness

      Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, Mr. Kobina Tahir Hammond is begging Ghanaians in the Volta Region for forgiveness after sections of the general populace took him on for some utterances, he made which many believed was an insult to Ghanaian nationals living in the Volta Region.

      Mr. Kobina Tahir Hammond indicates, he cannot tag the people of the Volta Region as foreigners and that, the video of him which has since gone viral has been misconstrued. Mr. K T Hammond further indicated that, most Ghanaians have taken his utterances out of context and are trolling him.

      Mr. K. T Hammond, few days ago is reported to have said, people living in the Volta region are not Ghanaians and the ruling New Patriotic Party which he is part, cannot allow them to participate in the registration exercise.

      His comment which has since gone viral was after some armed military personnel were deployed to the Volta and some other regions along the border lines of Ghana.

      According to him, some foreigners from Togo are able to walk into the country at anytime they want and that is what the military are there to prevent. The Member of Parliament has since been roasted for his comments.

      Speaking in an interview with citynews, Mr. Kobina Tahir Hammond indicated that, his comments cannot be categorized as ethnocentric as most Ghanaians have taken him on. according to him, he has been misinterpreted.

      “I cannot brand the Volta Population as foreigners; I did not say that. I have friends in parliament who are from the Volta Region. Okudzeto Ablakwa, Doe Adjaho, Fiifi Kwetey are all my friends and they are even part of my fan club. So how can I brand them as non-Ghanaians? I cannot categories a particular section of Ghana as foreigners because of politics. I did not say that. I have been misconstrued”. He Noted

      In the meantime, the National Democratic Congress is unhappy about the development in the Volta region.

      In a statement by its flagbearer, Mr. John Dramani Mahama, he expressed disappointment in government for deploying military personnel to places perceived to be strongholds of the NDC with the aim of intimidating residents in the area from participating in the registration exercise.

      Source: opera.com