Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, has once again explained why he as developed some pain towards some of his allies in the aftermath of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries in November 2023, in which he participated.
Agyapong clarified that his dissatisfaction stems not from the primary election results but from the actions of individuals he considered friends.
He lamented that these individuals not only betrayed him but also spread malicious remarks about him.
During an interview on the KSM show on Friday, February 23, 2024, the Assin Central legislator expressed his hurt, particularly by some NPP MPs, and stated that he would never forgive them for their actions.
“It is not every MP who didn’t vote for me that I’m angry at. No! But the very people who were my friends that I have helped to bring to parliament. It is not about the betrayal but the bad things that they said about me. That is where I have a problem.
“So, who says I am not bitter, I’m bitter. I am bitter not because the vice president won, I’m bitter because of the people that I have helped… If you are not going to vote for me, no problem; but the insults, I can’t forgive them,” he said.
In the NPP flagbearer election held on November 4, 2023, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged as the winner with 118,210 votes, representing 61.47% of the total votes cast.
Kennedy Ohene Agyapong came in second with 71,996 votes, accounting for 35.52% of the valid votes. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto garnered 1,459 votes, while Francis Addai-Nimoh received 781 votes.
Ken Agyapong on why he’s uninterested in being Bawumia’s running mate
In that same interview, Ken Agyapong stated that, due to his [Agyapong] nature, he would decline Dr. Bawumia’s offer to be his running mate in the 2024 presidential contest.
Asked by Kwaku Sintim-Misa, the host of the KSM show, whether he would accept an offer by Dr Bawumia to become his running mate for the 2024 polls, Ken Agyapong retorted, “No, I wouldn’t do it”.
“To tell you the truth, why I cannot be a vice president is that I would speak my mind,” he explained.
He then referenced Bawumia’s ‘driver-mate’ analogy, stating firmly, “I am not going to be the mate,” as he shook his head.
Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, has again expressed discontent with events leading up to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries in November 2023, during an interview on the KSM show on Friday, February 23, 2024.
Agyapong clarified that his dissatisfaction wasn’t with the primary election results but with the actions of individuals he considered friends.
He expressed feeling betrayed by these acquaintances, including some NPP MPs, who not only turned against him but also spread derogatory remarks. Agyapong asserted his unwillingness to forgive them for hurting him deeply.
“It is not every MP who didn’t vote for me that I’m angry at. No! But the very people who were my friends that I have helped to bring to parliament. It is not about the betrayal but the bad things that they said about me. That is where I have a problem.
“So, who says I am not bitter, I’m bitter. I am bitter not because the vice president won, I’m bitter because of the people that I have helped… If you are not going to vote for me, no problem; but the insults, I can’t forgive them,” he said.
In the NPP flagbearer election held on November 4, 2023, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious, securing 118,210 votes, which accounted for 61.47% of the total votes cast.
Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, his closest competitor, secured the second position with 71,996 votes, representing 35.52% of the total valid votes.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto and Francis Addai-Nimoh garnered 1,459 and 781 votes, respectively.
Ken Agyapong on why he’s uninterested in being Bawumia’s running mate
In that same interview, Ken Agyapong stated that, due to his [Agyapong] nature, he would decline Dr. Bawumia’s offer to be his running mate in the 2024 presidential contest.
When Kwaku Sintim-Misa, the host of the KSM show, asked him if he would accept Dr. Bawumia’s offer to run alongside him in 2024, In response, Ken Agyapong said, “No, I wouldn’t do it.”
“To tell you the truth, why I cannot be a vice president is that I would speak my mind,” he explained.
He then referenced Bawumia’s ‘driver-mate’ analogy, stating firmly, “I am not going to be the mate,” as he shook his head.
A former contender for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearership, Kennedy Agyapong, has disclosed that he was about to make a harsh speech after losing the party’s presidential primary last year.
He said his wife intervened and stopped him from making provocative comments at the event where the winner of the race was announced at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The former NPP flagbearer hopeful confessed that he had intended to vent his anger on stage when he saw some people who had wronged him.
He appreciated his wife for playing a vital role in making him behave and accept defeat in a civil manner.
“When the results were coming and I saw that the vice president had won, I told my team I am going home.
“…anybody who wants to drink champagne should come, we were drinking champagne and I happily decided to go and congratulate the vice president but I would be honest with you, when I got there on stage, and saw the people who had insulted me, I got so annoyed,” he said in an interview on KSM Show on February 23, 2024.
Explaining the incident, Agyapong said, “That day was the first time I took my wife to a public gathering like that. She saved me.
“I would have misbehaved; I will tell you the truth. When I took the mic, the things I was going to say… but I just controlled myself. It is not them alone I was speaking to; it was the party and the nation, so I had to control myself,” he added.
Kennedy Agyapong lost the November 4 NPP primaries to Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.
Bawumia won with 118,210 votes, representing 61.47% of the total votes cast.
Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, secured the second position with 71,996 votes, representing 35.52% of the total valid votes.
Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto got 1,459 votes, while the fourth candidate, Francis Addai-Nimoh got 781 votes.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate-elect for Weija Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, attributes his victory over Tina Mensah to the free legal services he provided to constituents.
During the NPP’s parliamentary primary over the weekend, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, the CEO of the Coastal Development Authority (CoDA), secured 786 votes, representing 68.53%, while the incumbent MP, Tina Mensah, garnered only 361 votes, representing 31.47%.
“I devised an action plan. I stayed put and asked God for direction, and I had a solid team. We did excellent work, and I was not doing interviews but attending to the people in the constituency, making them understand the dynamics. I also showed the people respect, which worked to my advantage,” he said.
Tina Mensah
Ahmed Shaib, speaking on The Point of View on Citi TV, mentioned that he wasn’t initially considering contesting the seat in 2021 until traditional leaders in the area urged him to.
“I only started considering contesting in the primaries when some chiefs started coming to me somewhere in 2021. You know I am a lawyer and I run pro bono for people.”
“As of 2021, I did not know that I was going to contest until I had a clarion call from the traditional leaders in the area. So I am going to bring all the traditional leaders, the pastors, and the opinion leaders together. I am certain that working with all the people that matter, we are going to win the seat.”
He expressed his commitment to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the NPP retains the seat in the upcoming general elections.
The investigation into the alleged assault on Mohammed Aminu M. Alabira, the Northern Regional correspondent for Citi FM/Citi TV, reportedly by the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, has been taken over by the Northern Regional Police Command.
The incident transpired amid the disorder that unfolded during the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primary in the Yendi constituency.
Following the episode, Alabira officially reported the assault to the Yendi Divisional Police Command.
While covering the tumultuous events, Alabira claimed to have offered MP Farouk Aliu Mahama an opportunity to provide his perspective on the violence.
However, according to Alabira, instead of a response, he was allegedly slapped by the MP. Subsequent violence involving the MP’s team reportedly led to the confiscation of Alabira’s phone.
In an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show, Alabira revealed that despite not sustaining any physical injuries, the incident had taken a toll on his well-being, causing him sleepless nights. He expressed, “Physically, there are no visible injuries; however, for the past two days, I don’t know, maybe if I’m overthinking or something, I couldn’t sleep.”
The NPP’s general secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, said in an interview on Citi FM that the party had not yet received a formal report on the assault in response to inquiries concerning the party’s actions.
The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, has revealed that the party is yet to receive a formal report regarding the alleged assault on Citi FM/Citi TV’s Northern Regional correspondent, Mohammed Alabira, during the recent Parliamentary primary in Yendi, Northern region.
The incident, reportedly involving the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, took place as Alabira covered disruptions at the NPP’s parliamentary primary in Yendi. The violence erupted during the vote counting at Yendi Senior High School, the designated election venue.
Accusations surfaced from NPP delegates claiming that an Electoral Commission official had manipulated the ballots of Farouk Aliu Mahama’s opponents, specifically Hajia Abibata Shanni Mahama Zakariah.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Monday, January 29, Mr Kodua Frimpong highlighted that, at present, no formal report had reached him. He stressed that the party would take appropriate action once a report is received.
“Well, as of now, I’ve not received any report of that nature, and if indeed it happened, then it would have been an unfortunate incident, and the party would look at it. NPP is a party that would never support any act that seeks to undermine and attack the integrity of journalists in this country.
“Let’s assume it’s an allegation, but once it comes before us and [we’re] able to ascertain that indeed this is what happened, the party will take extra harsh time on it.”
Responding to inquiries about his awareness of the incident, Frimpong stated, “Well, I have not. You might not expect that I’ll know everything that is happening. From Saturday, as General Secretary, I’ve been overburdened with several issues, and just today I was at Manhyia, so it is possible that I might not have heard it, and I’ve told you that I’ve not, and I’ve even made a position that if it happened, it would have been an unfortunate incident.”
A thanksgiving service at the Asante Akyem Asankare Church of Pentecost in the Ashanti region turned chaotic when the Asante Akyem South constituency Youth Organizer, Simon Agyemang, physically assaulted the chairman, Noah Kyei, in the church auditorium.
The incident occurred on Sunday and involved prominent members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The thanksgiving service was organized to celebrate the victory of MP Kwaku Asante-Boateng in the recent parliamentary primaries. However, the celebratory atmosphere took a dark turn when the Youth Organizer, visibly enraged, confronted Chairman Kyei, grabbing him by the neck and physically mishandling him.
The attack drew the attention of other worshippers, who promptly rushed to the aid of the assaulted chairman. The exact trigger for the assault remains unclear, but there are allegations that the Youth Organizer was dissatisfied with the chairman’s handling of the primary elections held the previous Saturday.
During those primaries, Mr. Asante-Boateng emerged victorious with 522 votes, representing 61.27% of the total votes cast. His main contender, Bice Osei-Kuffuor, the Managing Director of Ghana Post, secured only 280 votes, accounting for 32.86% of the votes cast.
The incident has raised concerns about the internal tensions within the NPP, and party members are awaiting an official response or statement regarding the altercation during what was supposed to be a joyous occasion.
The New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries held on January 27, 2024, took a surprising turn as some key Members of Parliament lost their seats.
Others were also able to secure enough votes to retain their tickets to return to the House.
As widely expected, the primaries threw up some surprises which meant a good number of appointees of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo lost their bids to continue in Parliament.
Below is a list of ministers who lost their bids
Below is the full list of incumbent MPs who lost:
Freda Prempeh (Tano North) – Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources
Bright Wireko-Brobbey (Twifo Hemang Denkyira) – Deputy Minister for Employment and Labour Relations.
Joseph Cudjoe (Effia) – Minister of Public Enterprises
Ama Pomaa Boateng (Juaben) – Deputy Minister for Communications and Digitalisation
Seth Kwame Acheampong (New Juaben North) – Eastern Regional Minister
Collins Augustine Ntim (Offinso North) – Deputy Minister for Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development
Bright Wereko Brobbey (Heman Lower Denkyira) – Deputy Minister for Employment and Labour Relations
Tina Mensah (Weija-Gbawe) – The Deputy Minister of Health
Gifty Twum Ampofo (Abuakwa North) – Deputy Minister of Education in charge of Technical, Vocational, Education and Training (TVET)
Moses Anim (Trobu) – Deputy Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFAD)
Hajia Lariba Zuweira (Walewale) – Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection
Mahama Seini (Daboya Mankarigu) – Deputy Minister for Health
Two former police officers who contested in the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary elections did not make it at the end of the race.
Both of them secured a defeat in the respective constituencies they contested in.
COP (retired) George Alex Mensah, contesting in the Bekwai Constituency, and COP (retired) George Tuffuor, in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Constituency, were initially approved by the party’s vetting committee to participate in the polls scheduled for January 27, 2024. George Alex Mensah, a former Director General of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, found himself on the ballot alongside three other aspirants in the Bekwai Constituency. However, his bid fell short as he garnered 245 votes, while Lawyer Ralph Opoku Adusei secured 662 votes, emerging as the leading candidate. In the Atwima Nwabiagya South Constituency, retired Commissioner George Tuffuor faced stiff competition, including the incumbent Emmanuel Agyei Anwhire and two others. The final tally revealed that Tuffuor secured 324 votes, surpassing the incumbent who received 209 votes. The ultimate victor in the constituency was Madam Shirley Kyei, who secured 395 votes, while Dr Dennis Addo received 6 votes. With these results, a first-time female candidate, Madam Shirley Kyei, has been officially declared the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for the 2024 polls in Atwima Nwabiagya South.
Ursula Owusu-Ekuful emerged victorious in the Ablekuma West seat during the ongoing NPP parliamentary primaries.
The polls in the constituency concluded on Saturday, January 27, 2024.
According to results reported by GhanaWeb’s Ishmael Batoma and announced by the Electoral Commission official at the constituency, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, secured 812 out of the 1108 total votes cast.
Roni Kwesi Nicol, who contested against the incumbent MP, was unsuccessful in his bid.
Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, made a surprise appearance at a polling station in the Bantama Constituency, seemingly in robust health, after recent reports of his illness had circulated widely.
The sudden turnaround has left many scratching their heads and speculating about the nature of the earlier reports.
Speculations about Chairman Wontumi‘s health began circulating earlier this week when it was reported that he was unwell , following a summon by the Kumasi Traditional Council.
Chairman Wontumi is being sought over some remarks he recently made. He was asked to present himself before the Kumasi Traditional Council after the remarks but failed to. It was later reported that he wasn’t in good shape, hence, his failure to appear before the council. However, he miraculously showed up at the voting centre in the Ashanti Region.
In a remarkable and unprecedented scene at the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) ongoing primaries in the Berekum East constituency, a ‘seriously’ ill delegate, believed to be in his 30s, went to great lengths to cast his vote.
The delegate, whose identity and specific condition remain undisclosed, was transported to the voting centre in a taxi. Despite being visibly unwell, he displayed determination as he wore an oxygen mask, and an oxygen tank was present in the vehicle.
Accompanied by two male nurses and two individuals assumed to be his relatives, the sick delegate defied the odds to participate in the democratic process. The motive behind his decision to exercise his franchise in such a precarious health condition remains unclear.
The extraordinary act has left many questioning the circumstances that led to the delegate’s determination to cast his vote amid health struggles.
As the NPP primaries unfold across various constituencies, this incident in Berekum East serves as a testament to the commitment and importance individuals place on their civic duty, even in challenging circumstances.
Video footage capturing this unusual event has circulated on social media, sparking discussions about the lengths some citizens are willing to go to exercise their democratic rights.
A huge billboard of the Managing Director of Ghana Post, Bice Osei Kuffour, popularly known as Obour, has caused a stir at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary primaries in Asante Akyem South constituency in the Ashanti Region.
A video posted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on Twitter shows a chaotic scene of people arguing about the billboard, which was set up a few metres from the voting centre.
Some people in the video are heard saying “is this how we do things?” while others say “it looks very nice”.
Obour, who is also a former president of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), is an aspiring parliamentary candidate of the NPP for the constituency.
He is contesting against the incumbent MP, Kwaku Asante-Boateng, a seasoned lawyer and Deputy Minister of Railway Development, and Eric Amofa.
The billboard, which bears Obour’s image and the slogan “The Time for Change”, has been criticised by some observers as a breach of the electoral rules and an attempt to influence the delegates.
The NPP parliamentary primaries are currently ongoing at 277 voting centres across the 16 regions.
As the New Patriotic Party‘s (NPP) parliamentary primaries unfold across various regions, tensions have escalated in the Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti region, with the incumbent Member of Parliament, K.T Hammond, issuing alarming threats to his contender, Mr Sammy Binfo Darkwa.
In a video capturing the intense moment, K.T Hammond can be heard delivering a vehement warning to Binfo, expressing his intent to subject him to physical harm and public humiliation.
“Binfo, I am going to make sure he is mercilessly beaten, to pulp. I will humiliate him at the polls and get him beaten,” declared Hammond, as uniformed police officers attempted to intervene and calm the situation.
Hammond’s frustration seemed to stem from alleged violent incidents involving macho men associated with Binfo. He accused Binfo of allowing these individuals to assault his supporters, highlighting an incident where macho boys reportedly beat his supporters with metals.
“I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly. Chief, we have been voting in this town for about 24 years in this constituency. Nobody provokes the other,” Hammond asserted, emphasizing the long-standing history of peaceful elections in the area.
“Some of them came to my house to plead with me, the macho boys. Are you mad!? Where are you from? An animal like you. You are coming to beat my boys,” Hammond exclaimed, expressing disdain for those involved in the reported violent acts.
Hammond concluded his fiery address by declaring his intent to give Binfo a “showdown” in two forms – physical beating and public humiliation.
“I say to you commander today I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here, and then organise for him to be beaten physically,” he noted with finality.
The incident has raised concerns about the potential for violence within the party during the primaries, prompting calls for intervention and investigation into the matter.
I will beat Sammy Binfo mercilessly – K.T Hammond threatens contender
Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti region, K.T Hammond, has issued severe threats to one of his contenders, Mr Sammy Binfo Darkwaas the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries are ongoing in various regions.
The incident unfolded as K.T Hammond, flanked by uniformed police officers and onlookers, passionately declared his intentions to subject Sammy Binfo to physical violence and public humiliation.
The reasons behind this outburst remain unclear, though Hammond vehemently accused Binfo of allowing macho men to assault his supporters.
The video captured K.T Hammond making explicit threats, promising to “mercilessly beat [Binfo], to pulp” and vowing to humiliate him at the polls while organizing for him to be physically beaten.
“I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly,” Hammond declared, expressing frustration over alleged violent incidents involving macho men associated with Binfo. He went on to recount an incident of these individuals beating his supporters and accused Binfo of condoning such actions.
The video also portrays a visibly agitated K.T Hammond emphasizing the longstanding history of peaceful elections in the constituency.
Hammond’s threat escalated as he proclaimed, “Today I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here, and then organize for him to be beaten physically.”
The ongoing NPP parliamentary primaries across the country are intended to determine candidates for the party in the upcoming general elections.
However, this incident has raised concerns about the potential for violence within the party, prompting calls for swift intervention and investigation into the matter.
I will beat Sammy Binfo mercilessly – K.T Hammond threatens contender
A startling video has surfaced online amid the ongoing NPP Parliamentary primaries across the country, revealing the incumbent Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa constituency in the Ashanti region, KT Hammond, issuing severe threats to one of his contenders, Mr Sammy Binfo Darkwa.
In the video, KT Hammond can be heard making ominous promises, including a pledge to brutally beat Sammy Binfo Darkwa and orchestrate further physical harm with the assistance of others.
The reason behind this outburst remains unknown, but in the video, KT Hammond is seen standing in front of uniformed police officers, surrounded by onlookers, vehemently shouting threats at Sammy Binfo and accusing him of allowing muscle men to assault his boys.
Here is a transcript of KT Hammond’s remarks:
“Binfo, I am going to make sure he is mercilessly beaten, to a pulp. I will humiliate him at the polls and get him beaten.”
Despite attempts by the police to calm him down, KT Hammondcontinued his tirade:
“I am just putting you on notice. Get him. Wherever he is, he should leave town quickly. Chief, we have been voting in this town for about 24 years in this constituency. Nobody provokes the other. Yesterday in the evening, come and see this place. Macho boys beating my boys, hitting them with metals. But he too [pointing at an unknown person who the camera does not capture], I do not even know what is wrong with him, you have an AK47 with many bullets, leave it and come around with this small pistol and come and stand watching as they beat these boys.”
KT Hammond further described an incident where individuals purportedly came to his house to plead with him, referring to them as “macho boys” and expressing his anger at their actions.
“Some of them came to my house to plead with me, the macho boys, Are you mad!? You were are you from? An animal like you. You are coming to beat my boys,” he added.
He vowed to confront the situation head-on, declaring, “Today, I am going to give him a showdown. Two forms of showdown, I will beat him here, I will humiliate him here and then organize for him to be beaten physically.”
The video has sparked outrage and condemnation from many social media users, who have called for Mr Hammond to be disciplined and prosecuted for his violent and abusive language.
Mr Hammond, who has been the MP for Adansi Asokwa since 2001, is facing a stiff challenge from three other aspirants, including Mr Darkwa, in the NPP parliamentary primaries.
According to sources, Mr Hammond had earlier lodged a petition with the NPP vetting committee, seeking the disqualification of Mr Darkwa and the other two aspirants, citing violations of the party’s constitution.
I will beat Sammy Binfo mercilessly – K.T Hammond threatens contender
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has entreated members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), especially candidates in the ongoing Parliamentary Primaries, to ensure a more united party after the January 27 primaries.
The Vice President in a Facebook post entreated the candidates to rise above all personal interests and differences and ensure the party emerges victorious at the end of the elections.
“We must rise above personal interests and petty differences and focus on the greater goal of advancing the principles and ideals of our great party, the New Patriotic Party,” he said.
He further noted that “the election of December 2024 is crucial for our party and nation. The NPP needs to come out of this process strengthened, united, and ready to deliver victory in 2024.”
All is set for the New Patriotic Party’s much anticipated Parliamentary primaries scheduled for today, January 27, 2024.
The elections is being held in over 104 constituencies where the party currently has incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs).
Some six (6) constituencies, however, will not partake in the elections. The excluded areas are Mampong and Fomena in the Ashanti Region; Binduri in Upper East Region; Agona West in the Central Region; Akwapim South in the Eastern Region; and Sunyani East in the Bono Region.
So far 321 candidates have been cleared to contest out of the total number of 373 aspirants who filed to contest the primaries.
All is set for the New Patriotic Party’s much anticipated Parliamentary primaries scheduled for today, January 27, 2024.
The elections is being held in over 104 constituencies where the party currently has incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs).
Some six (6) constituencies, however, will not partake in the elections. The excluded areas are Mampong and Fomena in the Ashanti Region; Binduri in Upper East Region; Agona West in the Central Region; Akwapim South in the Eastern Region; and Sunyani East in the Bono Region.
This decision arises from various challenges, such as court injunctions and internal issues that have been brought to the attention of the party’s national leadership.
In Fomena, for example, efforts are underway to address a visible rift as an independent candidate emerges from the party’s ranks, despite having a sitting MP.
Sunyani East is grappling with a High Court rejection of the constituency album, causing a halt in the election of constituency executives.
Meanwhile, in Akwapim South, regional executives are engaging in ‘broader consultation’ following the withdrawal of the sitting MP, OB Amoah, from the race.
Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM on Thursday, January 25, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the General Secretary of the NPP, identified the affected constituencies.
He mentioned that he has not received official notification about a potential seventh constituency, the Upper Denkyira East, yet.
Despite these challenges, Kodua assured that the party is fully prepared for the primaries.
So far 321 candidates have been cleared to contest out of the total number of 373 aspirants who filed to contest the primaries.
29 of the cleared candidates are going unopposed, 11 were disqualified, two were referred to the National Executive Committee (NEC), two stepped down, one incomplete form and two did not show up for vetting leaving the qualified aspirants for the primaries at 321.
Ahead of the exercise, the party has announced that the Ghana Police Service will assume full responsibility for security arrangements during the polls.
Tension has risen in the Asene Manso Akroso Constituency of the Eastern Region as a result of the arrest of the Adontenhemaa of Akyem Akroso, Nana Afia Henewaa, and Solomon Obeng Asante, the campaign manager of parliamentary aspirant Alex Owusu Adjei for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) upcoming primaries.
The arrests occurred after the two expressed dissatisfaction over the change of venue for the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries.
The main challenger, Alex Owusu Adjei, has accused the police commander and the incumbent MP, George Kwame Aboagye, of being behind the change of venue.
The arrests have fueled tension among residents and delegates, leading to threats of supporting Adjei as an independent candidate in the general elections if he loses the primaries.
Supporters of the NPP in the constituency are also considering allowing Adjei to contest independently if the party leadership does not reconsider the change in venue.
They argue that the new venue, Akim Batabi, is a ploy to favor the incumbent MP and that the previous location at Akroso Presby school has been used peacefully in past elections.
The supporters have taken to the streets to register their displeasure over the venue change, emphasizing their willingness to support Adjei as an independent candidate if the decision is not reversed.
“We have seen on the platform that the venue has changed to Batabi. Our problem is that the venue is close to the MP’s house. We believe that the MP has an interest, which is why the venue has changed. We don’t want intimidation; it is becoming too much. The executives have been campaigning for the incumbent. We cannot go there to cast our votes; we will let Alex Owusu Agyei contest as an independent candidate,” they warned.
The impending parliamentary primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on January 27, 2024, are marred by heightened tension in the Asene Manso Akroso Constituency of the Eastern Region.
The arrest of Nana Afia Henewaa, the Adontenhemaa of Akyem Akroso, and Solomon Obeng Asante, campaign manager of Alex Owusu Adjei, has heightened the atmosphere.
Alex Owusu Adjei, a contender against the incumbent MP, George Kwame Aboagye, is at the center of the controversy.
The arrests followed a press conference expressing dissatisfaction with the change of voting venue, an alteration allegedly orchestrated by the police commander and the MP, as claimed by the queen mother.
Mr. Adjei, attempting to secure bail for the queen mother, found himself arrested as well. Both were later hospitalized due to increased blood pressure while in custody, alleging mistreatment and handcuffing to hospital beds.
Although the charges remain unclear, sources indicate their release with instructions to report back to the police station.
Residents and delegates, unhappy about the venue change, suspect the arrests were meant to intimidate them and are considering supporting Adjei as an independent candidate if he loses the primaries.
NPP supporters in the constituency are also threatening to back Adjei as an independent candidate in the general elections if the party leadership does not reconsider the venue change.
They argue that the historical venue at Akroso Presby school was shifted to Akim Batabi, seemingly favoring the incumbent MP who resides nearby.
The supporters, clad in red and black, expressed dissatisfaction on the streets, warning of potential consequences if the decision is not reversed.
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries in Asante Mampong have come to a standstill, with 35 dissatisfied party members securing an injunction against the ongoing exercise.
Legal disputes within the Mampong NPP branch date back to February 2022, initiated by discontented members questioning the legitimacy of polling station elections.
The extended legal battle concluded with a High Court dismissal in Mampong, allowing the party to proceed with elections for electoral area coordinators and constituency executives.
Following the unfavorable High Court ruling, the dissatisfied plaintiffs sought a separate injunction to prevent polling station executives from participating in the NPP’s 2023 presidential primaries.
Despite their efforts, the polling station executives took part in the presidential primaries as the plaintiffs failed to serve the party on time.
Undeterred, led by Kofi Sarpong, the plaintiffs have now secured a fresh injunction from the Court of Appeal against the scheduled January 27 parliamentary primaries in Mampong.
This move follows the filing of an appeal on the previously dismissed case by the High Court.
Alhaji Malik Agyei, the Asante Mampong Constituency Secretary of the NPP, confirmed the suspension of the elections after the party received the injunction. He stated, “We await for the court to sit on the injunction to pave the way for the primaries.”
Moses Abor, a prominent contender in the Ayawaso Central race, has accused the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Henry Quartey, of attempting to manipulate the upcoming January 27 elections.
Abor has formally lodged a complaint with the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, outlining several concerns.
Among the allegations, Abor points to the Regional Minister’s purported plans to deploy “illegal security personnel” and police officers sympathetic to him for election-day security services with the intention of influencing the election outcome. Abor asserts that these actions are aimed at intimidating and harassing delegates who are perceived as supporting him.
Additionally, Abor claims that Henry Quartey and his associates have devised a complex strategy to unlawfully tamper with the election results by stuffing vote boxes with pre-marked ballots.
Moses Abor, who held the position of Greater Accra Regional Youth Organiser for the NPP from 2017 until his resignation in September last year, declared his candidature for the Ayawaso Central seat.
Read Moses Abor’s petition:
I am Moses Abor, an aspiring Member of Parliament in the Ayawaso Central Constituency (hereinafter referred to as “Constituency”) and I refer to the above subject matter.
My attention has been drawn to the fact that the Greater Accra Regional Minister and Member of Parliament of the Ayawaso Central Constituency. Hon. Henry Quartey, who is also a candidate in the upcoming parliamentary primaries in the same constituency, intends to use illegal security personnel to disrupt the election process on the 27, 2024, to his favour.
Amongst other things, the Greater Accra Regional Minister intends to employ private security personnel and personnel from the Ghana Police Service who owe allegiance to him to intimidate and harass delegates whom he perceives as my supporters on the said day.
I also have information that during counting, he intends to unleash hooligans to snatch ballot papers and possibly burn them to halt the process if it goes otherwise.
Together with my team, we have intercepted a grand agenda by the Regional Minister to stuff the ballot boxes with his thumb-printed ballot papers when voting is ongoing. As law-abiding citizens, we do not intend to take the law into our own hands.
We therefore petition the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take a special interest in the elections of Ayawaso Central and deploy professional police personnel to the venue on the voting day to avoid clashes and ensure the election is free and fair.
Moses Abor, a participant in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries for Ayawaso Central, has lodged a formal complaint accusing the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Henry Quartey, of planning to manipulate the upcoming election using unauthorized security personnel.
In a complaint submitted to the Inspector General of Police, Abor, the former NPP Greater Accra Youth Organiser, asserted that Henry Quartey intends to deploy “illegal security personnel” to sway the poll in his favor.
Abor claimed that the Regional Minister plans to use both private security personnel and individuals from the Ghana Police Service who allegedly owe allegiance to him.
According to Abor’s allegations, the objective is to intimidate and harass delegates perceived as supporters of his candidacy on the voting day, scheduled for January 27.
Furthermore, Abor alleged that Henry Quartey and his team have devised an elaborate scheme to tamper with the election results by unlawfully stuffing ballot boxes with pre-marked ballots.
Moses Abor’s full statement
I am Moses Abor, an aspiring Member of Parliament in the Ayawaso Central Constituency (hereinafter referred to as “Constituency”) and I refer to the above subject matter.
My attention has been drawn to the fact that the Greater Accra Regional Minister and Member of Parliament of the Ayawaso Central Constituency. Hon. Henry Quartey, who is also a candidate in the upcoming parliamentary primaries in the same constituency, intends to use illegal security personnel to disrupt the election process on the 27th of January, 2024 to his favour.
Amongst other things, the Greater Accra Regional Minister intends to employ private security personnel and personnel from the Ghana Police Service who owes allegiance to him to intimidate and harass delegates whom he perceives as my supporters on the said day. I also have information that during counting, he intends to unleash hooligans to snatch ballot papers and possibly burn them to halt the process if it goes otherwise.
Together with my team, we have intercepted a grand agenda by the Regional Minister to stuff the ballot boxes with his thumb printed ballot papers when voting is ongoing. As law abiding citizens, we do not intend to take the law into our own hands.
We therefore petition the Inspector General of Police (IGP), to take a special interest in the elections of Ayawaso Central and deploy professional police personnel to the venue on the voting day to avoid clashes and ensure the election is free and fair.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, is scheduled to launch a campaign and fundraising ceremony for his parliamentary candidacy.
The event is slated for Sunday, January 21, at Kay’s Court in Low-Cost, Konongo.
Mr Ofosu Nkansah, determined to unseat the Chairman of Parliament’s Constitutional Legal Affairs Committee, Kwame Ayimadu, for the Asante Akyem Central seat, has entreated his well-wishers to support his campaign.
Engaging the media on Wednesday, January 17, he emphasized his goal of bringing development to the constituents and stressed that nothing would deter him from that mission.
He highlighted the abundance of human and natural resources in the constituency, which, in his view, should not be allowed to go to waste.
“I am for the people, and that is why they are calling me to come and serve them. Its family affair and I am not perturbed about the past but determined and focus for victory. I know by the grace of God and the support of the people, January 27, after the polls, I will be declared victorious and we will all work together for the constituency,” he said.
He has outlined comprehensive plans for the constituency’s development.
These include establishing an Educational Fund to support students, initiating a Credit Union for local businesses, conducting regular townhall meetings, setting up a call center, and implementing a community mining scheme.
Additionally, he aims to drive infrastructural development through effective lobbying, facilitate vocational and skills training programs, and ensure constituents benefit from various government opportunities.
Parliamentary candidate hopeful COP George Alex Mensah (Rtd), running for the New Patriotic Party in the Bekwai constituency, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing that might negatively impact his chances of winning the polls.
He was implicated in a leaked audio scandal that allegedly revealed a plot to remove the Inspector General of Police to manipulate the 2024 elections in favor of the governing party.
COP George Alex Mensah (Rtd) is one of four candidates competing for the seat, along with Ralph Poku-Adusei, Henry Opoku-Ware, and Kingsley Opoku Agyemang, all vying to replace the current Bekwai MP, Joe Osei-Owusu.
In an interview on Eyewitness News, COP Mensah (Rtd) emphasized that he has not been involved in any fraudulent activities that would disqualify him from becoming a Member of Parliament.
Asked if he could clear things in his cupboard before going to the polls on January 27, he retorted, “I don’t have anything in my cupboard.”
COP George Alex Mensah (Rtd) asserted that his involvement in an alleged attempt to oust the Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, would not tarnish his credibility or hinder his chances of winning the parliamentary seat.
“No, it will not,” he said.
The parliamentary aspirant stated that he was the most competent person among his contenders to win the primaries.
“I’m more competent among other aspirants; none of them has the experience and qualifications I have. I’m going to win,” he underscored.
The committee assigned to investigate the leaked tape has not yet released its report.
In the lead-up to the NPP primaries, a wave of controversy has swept through the party, with serious allegations of ‘mafia tactics’ being deployed by prominent Members of Parliament (MPs) to sideline their contenders.
In the midst of swirling controversy over alleged ‘mafia tactics,’ the party is forging ahead with advanced stages of its primary processes. The party is on the verge of completing the vetting of candidates, predominantly incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs) and challengers vying for their seats in the upcoming primaries.
Nevertheless, challenges have surfaced at numerous regional centers, with several candidates leveling accusations against incumbent MPs, as well as regional and constituency party executives. These allegations suggest a concerted effort to disqualify them from participating in the upcoming primaries.
Disqualified aspirants seeking NPP parliamentary candidacy have alleged that the party establishment unjustly disqualified them, with claims that such actions were taken to guarantee the incumbent MPs run unopposed in the upcoming primaries.
Here are some NPP MPs who have been accused of masterminding the disqualification of their opponent to go unopposed:
Lydia Alhassan:
A disqualified parliamentary candidate hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, Samuel Amankwah, accused executives of the party of bribery.
He explained that along the process of his campaign to represent the party in the constituency, he was presented with an offer to step down for the incumbent Member of Parliament, Lydia Seyram Alhassan.
He explained, in a video shared by Citi FM on X, that he out rightly shot down this desire of the executives because he believed the people want him to contest the seat but he was unjustly disqualified during the vetting.
“… I, Kwabena Owusu Amankwah, am going to fight for each and every one of us. Look, we are going to appeal today. I am going to see my lawyers and appeal this case because it cannot happen. This is not the JB Danquah party. This is not the JA Kufuor party. This is not the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo party. It cannot happen,” he explained.
“How can you disqualify a candidate with just two candidates contest in the race? How? How on earth? This is purely a scheme, a game and an agenda against Amankwah. This is not just against Amankwah; this is against the youth of Ghana… against the youth of Ayawaso West Wuogon, and I, Kwabena Owusu Amankwah Samuel, we will fight for you,” he said.
Ambrose Dery
Another MP accused of foul play is the Member of Parliament for the Nandom Constituency, who doubles as the Minister for Interior, Ambrose Dery.
The MP and the executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in his constituency have been accused of scheming to disqualify his contender for the party’s January 20 parliamentary primaries.
According to the disqualified NPP parliamentary candidate, Alois Mohl, the vetting committee for the parliamentary primaries told him they were not going to vet him because he failed to respond to a petition by the constituency executives.
He indicated that members of the vetting committee said they were not going to vet him because he had forfeited his membership of the party even before picking the nomination form for the primaries by his refusal to respond to the petition.
He said that the constituency executives of the party accused him of supporting an independent candidate and campaigning against Ambrose Dery during the 2012, 2016 and 2020 parliamentary elections, an allegation he had previously denied.
Alois Mohl indicated that he did not respond to the said petition because he felt it was just a letter which had no evidence of him campaigning against the current MP.
He said that he was forced to pick the nomination form for the primaries at the national office of the party because both the regional and constituency executives of the party were bent on preventing him from contesting Ambrose Dery.
“… you have accused me of campaigning against our parliamentary candidate in 2012, 2016 and 2020, but you took no action. And in 2023 there is an opportunity for anyone who wants to become an MP to pick a form and then you now want to invoke these proceedings, that clearly is bad fate,” he said as he was addressing the press after his disqualification on January 5, 2024.
He added that the “body language of the executives” indicated that they had already decided not to allow him to contest Ambrose Dery.
Ursula Owusu
The Minister for Communication and Digitalisation, who doubles as the MP for Ablekuma West Constituency, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has also been accused of scheming to remove her contender for the parliamentary candidature of her constituency for the 2024 elections.
Sylvia Manu, an NPP parliamentary candidate aspirant for Ablekuma West, has accused Ursula Owusu-Ekuful of masterminding her disqualification during vetting ahead of the parliamentary primaries.
According to a report by starfm.com.gh, Sylvia Manu, a grassroots politician, said Ursula Owusu worked through her friend and NPP National Women’s Organizer, Kate Gyamfua, who was the Chairperson of the vetting committee, to ensure that she (Sylvia Manu) was dropped from the race to enable Ursula win the contest.
She further alleged that the MP tried to induce her to step down from the contest.
“On Wednesday, a night before the vetting, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful sent Grace Acheampong the Greater Accra Women’s Organizer to come and see me with cash so that I step down from contesting the primary. She said Ursula asked her to tell me to name my price and I will be sorted so that I drop from the race. I told her to go and tell Ursula that I won’t step down and that I don’t like even her one cedi, because I am not ready to betray delegates of Ablekuma West who have reposed their trust in me. I know this was recorded because I saw Grace recording me and I also spoke my mind.”
She added: “When I appeared before the vetting committee, Kate Gyamfuor said she knows me and I have really worked in the NPP, but for the past two years, the work that I have done in the constituency is not remarkable and she’s not pleased with my level of work and so on that basis, she as the chairperson of the vetting committee was disqualifying me. She asked me to go and work much more in the constituency and contest the next time around. But I know all this is because I did not step down for Ursula, they have found a means to disqualify me.”
Okyere Baafi:
Micheal Okyere Baafi, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry and Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, has been accused of foul play as his contenders in the primaries have been removed for what some are describing as meagre reasons.
According to a report by rainbowradioonline.com, the Eastern Regional Vetting Committee disqualified the contestant who filed nominations to contest Okyere Baafi in the New Juaben South primaries, Yaa Ansah.
The report indicated that Yaa Ansah was out of the country during the original date scheduled for the vetting but was allowed to meet with the vetting committee on, Thursday, January 4, 2024.
She was however disqualified after a petition was submitted before the committee over impersonation allegations.
Yaa Ansah’s disqualification means Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi will run unopposed for the New Juaben South Constituency parliamentary primary.
The Eastern Regional NPP Secretary, Tony Osei Adjei speaking to journalists on the matter said “Some members said their names had been used and top-printed on Madam Yaa Ansah’s forms, which they did not authorize. The committee was petitioned, and we called the petitioner, and he agreed that he wrote the petition. We asked Yaa Ansah, who said the petitioner consented to using his name, which the petitioner insisted he didn’t. So, there was an issue of impersonation, and we had to hold on to her vetting and refer the matter to the national level for redress.
“As it stands now, she has been disqualified by the vetting committee. So, unless there is an appeal or whatever, if she pulls through successfully, the MP [Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi] will go unopposed.”
The Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has emphasized that there is no hindrance to Controller and Accountant-General’s, Kwaning-Bosompem, participation in the parliamentary primary, citing his unique status as a government appointee rather than a traditional civil servant.
Mr. Ahiagbah, speaking on TV3’s Key Points on Saturday, December 30, addressed the call for Mr. Kwaning-Bonsompem’s resignation by stating, “His situation is unique; nothing precludes him from running on the ticket of the NPP.”
Contrary to this perspective, the Civil and Local Government Staff Association (CLOGSAG) has insisted on the Controller and Accountant General’s resignation, asserting that his involvement in partisan politics violates Civil Service regulations.
Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG, Isaac Bampoe Addo, highlighted the Supreme Court’s Neutrality Act 2017 ruling, which prohibits civil servants from engaging in active partisan politics while in active service.
Mr. Bosompem, despite the controversy, collected nomination forms on December 20 to contest in the NPP’s parliamentary primaries in the Akim Swedru Constituency.
Mr. Bampoe Addo cited the Supreme Court’s ruling and stressed the need for civil servants to maintain political neutrality while in service.
The Member of Parliament(MP) representing the Abura Asebu Kwamankese Constituency in the Central Region, Elvis Morris Donkor, has acknowledged that fulfilling all his campaign promises within a mere eight years is a challenging task.
As he seeks a third term and has submitted his nomination forms, he expressed the view that the limited time in office makes it difficult to accomplish all outlined commitments.
In an interview with Ghone News’ Yaw Boagyan, the MP emphasized the potential positive impact on the constituency if granted another mandate by NPP delegates.
He urged delegates to support his candidacy in the upcoming primary, highlighting his intention to contest the 2024 parliamentary election for a third term.
Hon. Elvis Morris Donkor also called on the Abura Asebu Kwamankese NPP Constituency Executives to ensure a fair and transparent primary process for all aspirants.
Meanwhile, fishermen and fishmongers who obtained nomination forms for the MP expressed their trust in him, citing ongoing projects such as the construction of landing sites in various fishing communities within the Constituency.
They believe that granting him another four-year mandate will enable him to continue and improve upon his work.
Achieving another milestone, Dr. Ayew Afriyie, the incumbent Member of Parliament for Effiduase Asokore, has gone unopposed in his constituency.
Effiduase Asokore, once known for its contentious primaries, now experiences newfound peace under Dr. Ayew Afriyie’s dynamic leadership.
Closing the nomination period on December 25, he stood as the sole candidate, receiving overwhelming endorsements from high-profile personalities, including Chiefs and religious leaders. This achievement follows his stellar coordination of activities during the DMB Campaign in the region.
Dr. Ayew Afriyie, widely expected to lead the party’s national campaign, has successfully transformed Effiduase Asokore into a symbol of stability and positive change since his election as MP.
Earlier this year, President Akufo-Addo praised Dr. Ayew Afriyie for his crucial role in the success of the Kumawu by-election, where the NPP retained its seat.
Before the demise of the former MP for Kumawu, Philip Basoah, internal issues had marred the party.
The council nominated Dr. Ayew Afriyie to mend the cracks and ensure effective organization.
President Akufo-Addo commended him for his organizational skills throughout the electioneering period, acknowledging his efforts from the planning stages to the day of the polls.
The Member of Parliament for the Damongo Constituency, also the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, is poised for a second uncontested run as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate in the Damongo Constituency.
As of the closure of nominations on Monday, December 25, 2023, Mr. Jinapor, the incumbent MP, stood as the sole nominee in the constituency.
The Damongo Constituency, situated in the Savannah Region, has traditionally been a stronghold of the National Democratic Congress since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1993.
However, in the 2020 elections, Mr. Jinapor secured a surprising victory against the incumbent MP, Adam Mutawakilu, clinching over fifty-four percent (54%) of the valid votes and marking the first NPP victory in the constituency.
Following his election, President Akufo-Addo appointed him as the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, a position he continues to hold.
Nominations for constituencies with sitting MPs opened on December 20, 2023, and across the nation, individuals have filed to challenge incumbent MPs, prompting calls from traditional leaders and stakeholders for the protection of certain MPs.
In a departure from this trend, Mr. Jinapor, at the close of nominations on December 25, 2023, emerged as the sole candidate for the NPP Parliamentary Candidate in Damongo.
This reflects the high confidence the NPP in the constituency places in Mr. Jinapor to retain the seat, despite the traditionally strong NDC presence.
Expressing gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him, Mr. Jinapor affirmed his commitment to collaborating with the party and constituents to secure the NPP’s parliamentary seat and achieve victory for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Constituents lauded Hon. Jinapor for unprecedented development initiatives, including the construction of the MP’s office, an astroturf in Damongo, electricity extension projects, and various infrastructure developments.
Supporters, even from the opposing NDC, expressed confidence in Mr. Jinapor’s ability to continue the constituency’s developmental agenda.
The NPP primaries for MPs are scheduled for Saturday, January 27, 2023. According to the party’s constitution, when only one candidate files for the contest at the close of nominations, that candidate is acclaimed on the day of the election.
As such, Mr. Jinapor is affirmed as the undisputed NPP Parliamentary Candidate for the Damongo Constituency, poised to face Adam Mutawakilu once again, whom he defeated in the 2020 General Elections.
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Henry Quartey, has urged delegates in the Ayawaso Central Constituency to cast overwhelming votes in his favor during the upcoming NPP primaries.
His plea is rooted in the goal of securing the party’s hold on the seat for the 2024 general elections, where he faces competition from Moses Abor, the former Greater Accra Regional Youth Organiser of the NPP.
Grateful for the continued trust and support of the delegates, Quartey acknowledged their pivotal role in his political journey. He recounted their past endorsement, emphasizing, “I decided not to contest again but you said I should go. Today, I thank you again. In 2020, you contributed and bought the forms on my behalf, and I went unopposed. Today, I was in the office and saw that you’ve made such an offer again. So today I’m here to say I’m back again.”
Henry Quartey, a three-time Member of Parliament, expressed his appreciation by submitting his nomination form at the Ayawaso Central Constituency office in Alajo. During his address to the delegates, he emphasized the importance of their support, urging them, “When you are voting, vote massively for me.”
“I decided not to contest again but you said I should go. Today, I thank you again. 2020, you contributed and bought the forms on my behalf and I went unopposed. Today, I was in the office and saw that you’ve made such an offer again. So today I’m here to say I’m back again”.
“When you are voting, vote massively for me,” Mr Quartey added.
The New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries are undergoing significant changes, with some experienced incumbents opting not to run for re-election.
Daniel Kwaku Botwe, the Member of Parliament for Okere in the Eastern Region and Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, has officially declared that he will not seek re-election, citing personal reasons for his decision.
Additionally, Samuel Atta Akyea, MP for Abuakwa South, also in the Eastern Region, has chosen not to contest again, signaling a shift in the party’s dynamics.
These departures leave constituents anticipating new representatives for these constituencies.
There are also indications that the MP for Kwabre East, Francisca Oteng, may not seek re-election.
A group of New Patriotic Party (NPP) youth in the Ablekuma West Constituency has taken the initiative to secure and submit nomination forms on behalf of aspirant Roni Nicol.
These youths, previously empowered by Nicol, are demonstrating their support for his bid to become the Parliamentary candidate for the constituency.
Expressing his confidence, Roni Nicol anticipates victory in the upcoming party primary scheduled for Saturday, January 27, 2024. Despite challenging the incumbent Member of Parliament, Ursula Owusu Ekuful, Nicol remains optimistic about the outcome.
In an interview, Nicol emphasized his focus on his strengths, abilities, and the positive reception of his message among delegates.
He stated, “I am extremely confident of unseating Hon. Ursula Owusu Ekuful as the NPP Parliamentary candidate because I focus on my strength and abilities and what I bring on board. I don’t focus on my opponent’s strength or weakness.”
A well-regarded and well-resourced politician, Nicol believes that his ground-level efforts and the encouraging feedback from constituents position him favorably for victory.
He envisioned leading the NPP to retain the Ablekuma West seat in the 2024 Parliamentary election.
Arguing for a change in leadership, Nicol pointed out the declining voter turnout and the increasing votes for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the constituency.
He highlighted the need for a fresh face to energize the electorate and boost party numbers.
Nicol further emphasized the significance of the 2024 election, noting the large number of unparticipated voters in the previous election.
He aims to address this issue by mobilizing support, working tirelessly, and ensuring a robust campaign to maximize votes for both the Parliamentary and Presidential candidates.
Managing Director (MD) of the Ghana Publishing Company, David Asante, has taken a significant step in his political aspirations by obtaining forms to vie for the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s parliamentary primaries in Nkawkaw.
This move took place on Wednesday, December 20, at the party’s constituency office.
In remarks to the media following the form pickup, Mr. Asante expressed that his decision to contest follows extensive consultations with key party stakeholders in the constituency.
He emphasized his commitment to delivering quality leadership and articulated his goal of ensuring that Nkawkaw assumes its rightful place in the political landscape of Ghana.
“I am the man the Nkawkaw people are calling for at the moment and I am ready to do the job for them. I won’t disappoint them and I will be the Member of Parliament, they yearn for. I am a son of the soil and I understand their needs better,” he said.
In his commitment to the welfare of party delegates, Mr. Asante has established a Delegates Welfare Fund, contributing GH¢20,000 to support their needs.
Additionally, he pledges to create job opportunities for the people of Nkawkaw once he is elected.
Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of building the human resource capacity of the constituency’s residents and focusing on infrastructure development for the towns in Nkawkaw.
This marks Mr. Asante’s second attempt to lead the NPP in the constituency, reflecting his determination to contribute to the political landscape in Nkawkaw.
Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive, Sule Salifu, has secured the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary candidature for Tamale Central in the upcoming 2024 general election.
He emerged victorious by garnering 433 votes out of a total valid count of 848, surpassing competitors Ismail Yahuza and Abass Zakaria, who received 350 and 65 votes, respectively.
Following the announcement of the results, Mr. Salifu expressed gratitude to the delegates for their trust in him.
In an interview with the media in Tamale, he reaffirmed his confidence in winning the Tamale Central Constituency seat for the party, emphasising that effective strategies, unity, and meticulous groundwork were instrumental in achieving this objective.
Mr. Salifu’s victory signals his commitment to breaking new ground for the party in Tamale Central, and his emphasis on strategic planning and unity underscores his dedication to securing success in the upcoming electoral contest.
“As the parliamentary candidate-elect, I am going to team up with the Council of Elders, party executives, women and youth groups and all stakeholders who matter in determining how to win the seat,” he said.
“There is no seat that is not winnable because once upon a time we were told the Mion, Karaga and Damongo seats were for the NDC. These seats are now owned by theNew Patriotic Party(NPP).”
Mr Salifu described the NPP as a united, focused and determined political party, whose peaceful nature was demonstrated in the smooth process of the election in the “orphan constituencies.”
Head of the Psychology Department at the University of Ghana, Professor Joseph Osafo, has expressed admiration for the performance of the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong, in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer election.
He commended Kennedy Agyapong for his ability to achieve a surprising outcome in the contest after just six months of intense campaigning.
“Kennedy had 37%, and he has done very well because if you check, it was about six months that he used to campaign. I like his posturing during the time that he conceded defeat.
“He also said that the showdown has been transferred to the NDC, which was quite hilarious and very interesting because that shows that all tensions in the party had ceased and he giving all his support to Dr Bawumia to face the NDC is the way to go,” he said on a panel discussion on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo on November 13, 2023.
Assin Central Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, has highlighted that the recent New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on November 4 saw many individuals underestimating his influence in the political landscape.
Mr Agyapong stressed that his opponents consistently underestimated him, evident in their surprise at his securing over 37% of the votes. He pointed out the initial predictions suggesting he would receive less than 15% or at most 20%, noting that those who made such forecasts are now silent.
During an event in Accra on November 11, 2023, he noted that the race was essentially a clash between himself and the entire government of President Akufo-Addo.
“We all fought a good fight. We went into a contest and as you know, you either win or lose. This contest was one man against the whole system,” he said to cheers from the gathering that brought together campaign officers and supporters from across the country.
“They underestimated me, when the election was getting close, I was told I will get 10% maximum. Others floated a research finding that I will get 15%, today they are all hiding,” he stressed.
Following the November 4 vote, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious in the party’s flagbearer contest, securing 61.47% of the total votes cast by nearly 200,000 delegates. His closest contender, Ken Agyapong, secured around 37.41%, a figure that surprised observers and critics.
Since the contest, party members who had previously criticized Ken have commended him for his performance during the campaigns. Earlier this week, Bawumia visited Ken at his residence in what is perceived as an initial effort to bring him on board for the 2024 campaign.
Assin Central Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong has noted that the recent New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on November 4 was, in essence, a showdown between himself and the entire government of President Akufo-Addo.
He made this known during an event in Accra to express gratitude to his campaign team and supporters on November 11, 2023.
Mr Agyapong emphasized that his opponents had continually underestimated him, evident in their surprise at his securing over 37% of the votes. He highlighted the initial predictions that he would receive less than 15% or at most 20%, noting that those who made such forecasts are now silent.
“We all fought a good fight. We went into a contest and as you know, you either win or lose. This contest was one man against the whole system,” he said to cheers from the gathering that brought together campaign officers and supporters from across the country.
“They underestimated me, when the election was getting close, I was told I will get 10% maximum. Others floated a research finding that I will get 15%, today they are all hiding,” he stressed.
Following the November 4 vote, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia emerged victorious in the party’s flagbearer contest, securing 61.47% of the total votes cast by nearly 200,000 delegates. His closest contender, Ken Agyapong, secured around 37.41%, a figure that surprised observers and critics.
Since the contest, party members who had previously criticized Ken have commended him for his performance during the campaigns. Earlier this week, Bawumia visited Ken at his residence in what is perceived as an initial effort to bring him on board for the 2024 campaign.
A prominent candidate in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer election, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has expressed his equanimity regarding today’s electoral outcome.
“I am going into the election. I know I can win, I know I can lose, so I don’t have a problem at all,” Agyapong stated, highlighting his readiness to accept the results, regardless of whether he wins or loses.
Agyapong’s commitment to the democratic process and his love for the party are evident as he affirms his willingness to congratulate the winner, should he not be successful. His main concern, he stresses, is the fairness of the election.
“The only time I have a problem is unfairness,” he reiterated, adding that a fair process is his utmost priority.
The NPP’s election has drawn significant attention, with Agyapong and other candidates in a tight race that could have far-reaching implications for the party and Ghana’s political landscape.
Agyapong remains confident and at peace with any outcome, grounded in the belief that electoral competition is inherently a 50-50 chance.
“I have psyched myself, as for elections, it is 50 50 you can win you can lose,” he concluded, prepared for any result as the nation awaits the final count.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo chose not to directly address an economic question when he voted at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) headquarters in Accra.
In response, he inquired whether the time and place were suitable for such a discussion.
After participating in the November 4 Presidential Primaries of his party, reporters approached the president, posing inquiries about his observations of the process and his opinions on the potential winner of the flagbearership race among the four contenders.
“It is the people who decide,” he said before a question on the economy was asked by another journalist.
“Mr President, would you say you’ve managed the economy well?” the yet-to-be-identified journalist asked.
Pausing briefly and turning to the direction of the said journalist, the president retorted, “You want me to come and have this interview here today?”
After making this statement, the president signalled to the party’s general secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, with a nod, indicating his readiness to leave the centre.
The NPP is holding a crucial election to choose its flagbearer for the upcoming 2024 general elections in Ghana. This election is significant as it aims to break the traditional eight-year election cycle pattern in the country.
There are four contenders in this flagbearer race.
Among them, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is considered a frontrunner, while Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the Member of Parliament forAssin Central, is expected to be a strong competitor, particularly after his surprising second-place finish in the party’s Super Delegates Conference, which took place in August.
The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party, Justin Frimpong-Kodua, has announced that candidates who do not emerge as winners in the NPP primaries on November 4, 2023 to elect a flagbearer for the 2024 general elections will not be allowed to resign from the party.
He made this known after a meeting held on November 2, 2023, by the NPP national council of elders, which gathered all the aspirants together to foster unity and address their differences as a cohesive party family.
Mr. Kodua revealed that the candidates, including Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Agric Minister, Dr Owusu Akoto Afriyie, former MP for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh, have signed an agreement stating that following the primaries, “candidates will accept election primary results, promote peace and cohesion.”
“In the event that they don’t win, they will not resign from the party. They will support the winner of the election primary. Ensure and enforce mechanisms established by the party and also to work within the timelines and durations that has been established by the party from now till the results are declared and to respect the decision by the delegate of our party,” he told the media.
The dust will soon settle as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries, slated for November 4, 2023, draw nearer.
‘Breaking of the Eight’ mantra as posited by the NPP is currently seen carried shoulder high by two of the contestants, namely Current Vice President Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia and Assin Central Member of Parliament, Ken Ohene Agyapong.
The election will take place in the various constituencies across all 16 regions of the country. It is going to be a four-horse race between the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, MP for Assin, Central Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Agric Minister, Dr Owusu Akoto Afriyie, and former MP for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh.
Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Bibiani Anhwiaso Constituency, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, has made it clear that he is fully willing to financially support delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to secure the party’s parliamentary ticket for the upcoming 2024 general election.
In a widely circulated audio clip broadcasted by Sompa FM, the MP revealed that he had previously allocated substantial amounts, up to GHC3,000 per delegate, during the previous primaries.
He further emphasized his readiness to match or exceed any financial offers made by his competitors to gain the favor of the delegates in the upcoming selection process.
“I knew from day one that upon all the resistance I faced during my coming (into office), this time people will regroup more forces, pull their resources together and fight one person.
“So knowing all this, I know everyone’s financial strength; I know everyone’s financial limit here. So I know how much they can easily pull without being worried about it. When you have say a million Ghana cedis, you can give away GHC1,000 each without flinching.
“So we are about to go for primaries with about a thousand-two hundred delegates, the other time we paid around GHC3000 minimum per person and the primaries is coming again,” the MP said.
He stressed that he has deliberately set aside funds in US dollars to shield himself from the effects of inflation and is ready to provide up to GHC20,000 to each of the 2,200 delegates within the constituency to ensure his nomination for the party’s parliamentary ticket.
“I am telling you that the money I will use for the primaries is in dollars and that money has been secured long ago, I must be frank with you. That is money I am not touching under any circumstance.
“So I laugh seeing all that they are doing, I have dollars there for that primaries. What I can tell my delegates is that I will pay more than double of what anyone who will contest me will offer them, they should take that from me. If they come together and decide to pay GHC10,000 per delegate I will pay more than that.
“Whatever they pay, even if they pay GHC20,000 I will pay more than GHC20,000 because I know how much I have put there; I know how much I have reserved. That is why I saved in dollars so that the money will not lose value,” he noted.
Alfred Obeng-Boateng, a noviceMember of Parliament, presently holds the position of Vice Chairperson on Parliament’s Government Assurance Committee.
The NPP is gearing up for the selection of its presidential candidate and parliamentary nominees in anticipation of the 2024 general elections.
Apostle Elijah Kofi King, the leader of the Fire Nation Arena Ministries in Lusaka, Zambia has made some interesting predictions about the flagbearer race of the New Patriotic Party.
In a sermon in his church that has been in circulation on social media, Apostle Elijah King disclosed that there will be instances of backbiting and betrayal from some of the candidates.
According to him, one of the leading candidates who is an an anti-christ will will break away from the NPP and set up his own party.
This person, he claims will win the general elections and set the country on the path of autocracy and military rule.
He will send military men to invade and disrupt church activities; and The angel of the told me he’s an an-anti, the prophet added.
“The Lord shows me that there will be confusion in the present government of Ghana. There will be confusion in the NPP and they will end up fighting each other and setting each other up. There is this race of the next presidential candidate. I won’t go into details but there is one particular man amongst the candidates that the Lord focused on and spoke to me about.
“I saw that the man will be set up and betrayed by the party. Out of the betrayal and anger, he will walk away and set up his own political party. He will buy people and Lord says, he will rule like a military government. Whatever he says will become final,” he said.
The three leading candidates in the NPP race are Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Trades, and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, and Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong.
Though the first two names are yet to officially announce their interest in the race but Kennedy Agyapong has announced his, detailing his plans for the primaries and the national election.
A hopeful presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ing Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, will conclude his nationwide tour on Tuesday, August 22nd, by meeting with Super Delegates of the Ashanti Region in Kumasi.
His 9-day journey covered various locations, including Accra, Dambai, Ho, Takoradi, Cape Coast, Techiman, Sunyani, and Goaso. The purpose of the tour was to engage with the party’s delegates ahead of the NPP Super Delegates Conference scheduled for Saturday, August 26.
While addressing delegates in the Oti Region, Agyepong reiterated his commitment to lead a streamlined and efficient government should he be elected as the country’s President.
He further expounded on his 6 Point Plan, emphasizing his determination to reduce wastefulness in public procurement by ensuring optimal Value For Money. Agyepong also noted that his vision of ushering in a “NEW DAWN” has been positively received by the general populace.
“If I’m blessed to have the opportunity to be President, I’ll be substantially different. I don’t see why there should be a Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs or Ministry of Chieftaincy. It used to be a Secretariat at the Presidency.”
“So there are many things I want to see cut, especially when we are going through very tough economic times. It is not the quantum of money you save by reducing the number of Ministries per se but it is the strong moral message you send to the country that as government we’re tightening our belt, leading by example, and walking the talk,” he said.
At Ho in the Volta Region, Ing Agyepong called on the delegates to eschew materialism, resist the monetization of politics, instead he entreated them to vote for values, virtues, principles and reward long dedicated service to our great party. He told delegates that they have a sacred responsibility to deliver a brighter future to generations unborn.
Ing Agyepong added that if elected President he will demonstrate exemplary leadership in order to carry the country along as we implement austerity measures to set the economy back on a path of sustainable growth.
“Its time for a drastic departure from the status quo, business as usual and more of the same will not work for the Npp in 2024” he told the delegates.
Meeting the delegates of the Central Region in Cape Coast the aspirant insisted that the party needs a lease of new life by electing a Flagbearer who represents a NEW DAWN in order to enhance the party’s chances of winning the elusive third consecutive term in the 2024 general elections.
Ing Kwabena Agyei Agyepong who was Press Secretary to President JA Kufuor and a former NPP General Secretary maintained that he has the skills set and relevant experience to help retain power for the party.
“We need an energetic and decisive leader to reconnect with our party base and earn the trust of the Ghanaian people. I humbly submit that I offer that hope of a fresh start for Ghana.”
The Centre for Sustainable African Development Initiatives, UK, has forecast that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is positioned to secure a substantial victory in the upcoming NPP Super Delegates election on Saturday.
A survey conducted by the group, which delved into the outcome of the Special Delegates Conference and potential top 5 contenders, indicated that Dr. Bawumia is expected to emerge as the winner with a decisive margin.
The remaining candidates are projected to gather relatively modest percentages to secure a spot in the top 5.
According to the findings, which were based on the views of Super Delegates, Dr. Bawumia is anticipated to achieve 72.6% of the votes. Former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen is predicted to come in second with 7.7%.
Kennedy Agyepong is positioned to take the third spot with 4.3%, followed by Kwabena Adjei Agyepong with 1.3%, and former Agriculture Minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto concluding the top 5 with 0.6%.
The survey also disclosed that 13% of the delegates were undecided at the time of the research.
The special delegates, composed of Members of Parliament, constituency chairmen, regional executives, national executives, and other members, were asked about their predictions for the top 5 candidates to be elected by the delegates of NPP’s special electoral college. Additionally, they were questioned about the criteria they use to assess candidates for the NPP flagbearer position.
According to the report, the primary factors considered by delegates when evaluating candidates were the candidate’s vision for the party and the country, as well as their competence.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team has launched an innovative set of digital campaign donation platforms.
The campaign team is inviting citizens to actively participate and contribute to the Vice President’s campaign in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) primaries and 2024 general elections.
This comprises a website (www.bawumia.com), USSD *202#, and a mobile App (Bawumia Connect) to engage with supporters and also for them to contribute to his campaign ahead of the NPP Presidential Primaries slated for 26 August and November 4.
The newly launched digital campaign donation platforms offer a range of user-friendly options, making it easier than ever for citizens to engage with the campaign.
Supporters can now conveniently make contributions to the campaign, through secure online payment gateways, providing a seamless experience that matches the fast-paced nature of modern life also follow his campaign activities and interact with him digitally.
The Vice President emphasized the importance of these digital platforms in promoting inclusivity and encouraging widespread participation.
“Our campaign is fueled by the passion and enthusiasm of our supporters.
By embracing technology, we are ensuring that every citizen who believes in our vision can contribute, regardless of their location,” he stated during the launch of the event.
The campaign team’s dedication to transparency is evident in the real-time tracking feature integrated into the platforms.
Donors can readily monitor how their contributions are being utilized, enhancing accountability and building trust between the campaign and its supporters.
Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign team has unveiled a strategic approach that centers around a “strong signal” and three key avenues of connection.
The move comes as the internal political landscape in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) heats up in anticipation of its presidential primaries.
The campaign team has identified that the “strong signal” aims to convey the Vice President’s commitment to leading the nation with determination, vision, and unwavering dedication.
According to sources close to the campaign, this signal also represents Dr Bawumia’s firm resolve to address pressing national issues and steer the country towards prosperity.
To effectively reach and engage a diverse range of constituents, the campaign team has outlined ways to connect by dailing *202# to contribute to Bawumia’s campaign.
The Vice President’s campaign team believes that this strong signal will enable them to effectively communicate his agenda and build a broad base of support ahead of the presidential primaries and subsequently the 2024 general elections.
Camp of the former Trades Minister who is now contesting for the flagbearership position of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alan Kyerematen, has issued a stern warning to candidates planning to engage in vote buying in the upcoming primaries.
A former Member of Parliament for Manhyia North and member of the Alan Kyerematen campaign team, Collins Owusu Amankwaa, speaking in an interview on Okay FM’s Ade Kyea Bia on August 12, 2023, praised Alan’s contributions to the NPP, attributing their current status as the ruling party to his efforts as the chairman and chief mobilizer of the party.
He asserted that Alan’s dedicated service to the party necessitates recognition and urged party delegates to consider his track record when making their decision at the upcoming special delegates congress, scheduled for August 26, 2023.
“Individuals won’t labour so that others can reap the benefits. Alan Kyerematen, in his capacity as chairman, chief mobilizer, and the driving force behind the party’s advancement, has earned recognition.
“The current victory stands as a testament to his contributions. Come November, the delegates’ choices will become evident,” he said.
He expressed concerns about the potential influence of vote-buying tactics during the Congress.
According to him, Alan Kyerematen’s camp would resist any attempts to manipulate the election results through the use of taxpayer funds to sway votes.
“Anyone who will say go and vote and come for money, if we see you, we will slap you because a guideline has been established to prohibit vote buying.
“So, anybody who will make up his mind that he/she is going to use the taxpayer’s money to influence people …, we will really take action against that person. So, what I am saying is that NPP is not for sale, and democracy is not for sale.
“We won’t allow anybody to destroy our democracy, never, because if we don’t take care, a time will come when armed robbers will rule this country. So, if anybody brings a Landcruiser with money to influence the election and disregards the guidelines, then that person will suffer.”
He added, “Let me put it on record that, for this election, we are both spiritually and physically fortified.”
Alan Kyerematen will contest for the flagbearership slot along with nine other contenders including Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, who are seen as his main challengers.
The NPP will slash the 10 candidates, who passed the vetting stage, down to five in a preliminary vote (set for August) before the main contest is held in November 2023 to elect a successor to president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as leader of the party.
The political landscape in Ghana is heating ahead of the 2024 elections. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are gearing up for a fierce battle among other parties.
The NPP is determined to defy the traditional eight-year cycle by securing victory once again. The party, which clinched the presidency in 2016 and retained it in 2020, is setting its sights on securing another term in the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is eyeing a comeback. The party, which lost power to the NPP in the previous election, is banking on the leadership of former President John Mahama to spearhead its resurgence.
Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, has successfully submitted his nomination to participate in the parliamentary primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the Awutu Senya West constituency.
Amidst an enthusiastic gathering of party members, Mr. Arhin submitted his nomination on Wednesday, August 9, at the constituency office of the party.
In a subsequent Facebook post on Thursday, August 10, he expressed his gratitude for the significant support he has received from the constituents and pledged not to let them down.
He conveyed his sense of being overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and assured the party delegates of his unwavering dedication to their cause.
“Yesterday, 9th August 2023, I successfully filed my nomination forms to contest the NPP Parliamentary Primaries in the Awutu Senya West Constituency.”
“I was overwhelmed by the show of support for my candidature by the rank and file of the Party in the constituency, which can only spur me on to victory in the primaries and, God willing, in the parliamentary election on 7th December 2024.”
He added that he is focused on reclaiming the seat for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“The quest to turn Awutu Senya West BLUE has commenced,” he concluded.
