The delay has sparked reactions from various Ghanaians since the event.

In an interview on Accra-based TV3, Mr. Ofosu Kwakye explained that Naa Momo Lartey’s late arrival was due to an unexpected family emergency, compounded by logistical challenges related to the Jubilee House schedule.

“The situation was caused by the President’s intense schedule. On the morning of the event, President Mahama was preparing to travel to Angola, Tanzania, and Kenya for government-related matters, and the previous day had been packed with engagements,” the spokesperson stated. “We had a trip to Ho, and President Mahama had been scheduled to attend the SWAG Awards event, which required last-minute adjustments, including asking the Vice President to stand in for him.”

The swearing-in ceremony had been planned for six ministerial appointees whose nominations had been approved by Parliament.

However, ongoing parliamentary deliberations caused last-minute changes to the schedule.

“We were liaising with Parliament to see if they could complete the approval process for other nominees, so they could be sworn in as well. By 4 pm, as we were on our way to Accra from Ho, it became clear that Parliament would not meet the deadline to approve the others. A decision had to be made at that point,” Mr. Ofosu Kwakye explained.

Efforts were made to contact the six approved nominees, and five of them were nearby and could easily make it to the Jubilee House. However, Naa Momo Lartey was away from Accra due to the family emergency.

“Naa Momo Lartey explained that a family emergency had taken her out of Accra, so her arrival would be tight. We encouraged her to come if possible, and if she arrived in time, she would be included. If not, we assured her it would be arranged for another day,” he said.

The spokesperson also addressed the public criticism regarding the delay, noting that the situation was beyond Naa Momo Lartey’s control.

“It wasn’t that she was deliberately late,” he stated. “If the public had known about the situation, their criticism might have been more tempered. She made a strong effort to attend and was only a few minutes late. It was not her fault.”

Felix Ofosu Kwakye assured that Naa Momo Lartey would be sworn in next week upon President Mahama’s return, dismissing any suggestion of blame on her part.

“In fact, she could have chosen not to attend at all. But out of respect for the President, she made every effort. She arrived just two minutes after the President had started the ceremony. We had prepared for the possibility of her absence and were ready with alternative speeches,” he explained.

Among the ministers sworn in at the ceremony were Asawase legislator Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, who was confirmed as Interior Minister, just hours before the deliberations in Parliament.

Additionally, nominees for ministerial positions in the Northern, Oti, Volta, and Eastern regions received parliamentary approval. The new regional ministers are Ali Adolf John, John Kwadwo Gyapong, James Gunu, and Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey.

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During a panel discussion on TV3, Ellen Ama Daaku, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) communication team, questioned whether Nana Yaa Jantuah’s new role signaled an official move to the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“I sat here about a year and a half ago and asked her to join the NDC. When I saw how she was speaking and campaigning, I actually suggested she vie for the position of Women’s Organizer in the NDC. She was very furious with me at the time—just after they [the CPP] had come out of their election. Now, I’d like to know if she has fully ditched the CPP and officially joined the NDC,” Ellen Ama Daaku remarked.

She further added, “Right now, I am confused as to why she is even here this morning. Is she here as the former General Secretary of the CPP? Oh, so the new appointment has not started yet? We will see from next week.”

In response, a visibly displeased Nana Yaa Jantuah shot back, saying, “It is not your business.”

Despite the speculations, Nana Yaa Jantuah has reaffirmed her allegiance to the CPP.

“I am representing Ghana, but I’m still a member of the CPP,” she firmly stated.

She expressed her appreciation for the appointment, highlighting President Mahama’s commitment to inclusivity and meritocracy.

“This is a good sign of inclusivity, and it shows that President John Dramani Mahama does not believe in a winner-takes-all approach. If he is appointing me to such a high office, it shows the trust he has in people and in systems. He believes in the hard work of individuals and does not dwell too much on politics,” she added.

Nana Yaa Jantuah, who previously served as the Director of Public Relations and External Affairs at the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), was among those appointed to the Office of the President on January 21, 2025.

Her endorsement of the NDC during the 2024 general elections fueled speculations about her political alignment. However, with her vast experience in public relations and leadership within the energy and political sectors, she is seen as a valuable asset to the presidency.

Ellen Ama Daaku likes vo!lence o eiii she says it’s none of your business la pic.twitter.com/1CRIisNJ3s

— CHARLOTTE NICOLE (@charllycolegh) January 23, 2025

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Mr Boakye has questioned why Prof Ocquaye was leading the New Patriotic Party’s(NPP) election review committee.

According to him, many within the party feel he [Prof Ocquaye] is part of the problem and should not be tasked with finding the solution.

But speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Fatimatu pleaded with all party faithful, leaders, and elders to avoid washing their dirty linen in public.

Fatimatu Abubakar insisted that there are proper forums for addressing such concerns.

“I know Mr. Boakye wants the best for the party, but running from one radio station to another is not the right forum. We have not said no one should complain, but it is better to do so behind closed doors rather than in public,” she stated.

She further advised party members to use the right channels to voice their concerns.

“There is a clear difference between leaders and followers. As a leader, it’s better to keep mute and use the appropriate forum. I also have so many things to say about the defeat, but I have chosen to use the right channels,” she said.

Reflecting on the elections, she noted that despite her best efforts, it may not have been enough.

“We could have done a lot of things differently. I gave it my all, but sometimes your all may not be enough.”

Fatimatu reassured party members that everyone will have the opportunity to voice their opinions through the established committee.

“Given the opportunity, everyone will be allowed to speak. There is a committee in place to lead the review of our defeat. Leaders should cease fire and use the appropriate channels to ensure our party remains united,” she stated.

She concluded by warning that continued public outbursts could have serious repercussions for the party.

“If we continue like this, the impact might be worse, and by the time we realize, it will be too late.”

The committee, which has been given three months to complete its work, is expected to review the party’s internal elections, campaign strategies, and identify challenges that led to the electoral defeat.

The party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, said the committee’s terms of reference also include proposing solutions for the way forward.

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According to Fatimatu, Mr. Kodua, as the party’s chief scribe, should not have made such a statement.

“He is the party’s CEO and general scribe, so how could he say it was spiritual?” she asked.

Mr. Kodua had claimed that there were inexplicable occurrences on the day of the election that suggested a spiritual dimension to the outcome.

He highlighted the unusually low voter turnout among NPP supporters across the country, a situation he believes cannot be explained by conventional means.

However, Fatimatu disagreed in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show.

“The committee’s report is not even out, and we haven’t started our work, so why make such a statement about the committee? It’s not necessary,” she stated.

She pointed out that Mr. Kodua was also part of the people who formed the committee to investigate the loss, questioning, “Why would you say it was spiritual when you are part of the committee?”

Fatimatu stressed the importance of leaders remaining strong in times of difficulty.

“People look up to us, and when we are broken, we should be strong,” she said.

She further noted that if Mr. Kodua had avoided such commentary and waited for the committee to do its job, it would have been more helpful.

“I didn’t expect Justin Kodua to say our heavy defeat in the election was a spiritual issue. We should avoid some of these statements,” she concluded.

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According to him, many of the affected customers were NPP supporters who felt abandoned by the government.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he stated, “The number one reason why the NPP lost massively was because of the financial sector cleanup exercise that happened under their administration. The issue of Menzgold was a big factor. Many of our members are NPP supporters, and they were not happy with how the government handled the situation.”

He revealed that the coalition consists of over 50,000 people whose lives have been severely affected.

“Life is treating us very badly, and it’s not pleasant at all,” he lamented.

Mr. Annoh further disclosed that more than 200 customers have died, with many others battling severe health conditions.

In his view, the NPP’s loss was particularly significant in the Ashanti Region due to the unresolved Menzgold crisis.

He admitted to convincing some Menzgold customers to either vote against the NPP or abstain from voting entirely.

“I was able to convince some people to vote against the NPP or not vote at all because of how the government treated us,” he revealed.

As someone who previously campaigned for the Free SHS policy, Mr. Annoh said he was disappointed with the NPP government’s response to their plight.

“I personally campaigned for Free SHS and convinced people to vote for the NPP, but I also managed to convince them to vote against the party because they didn’t treat us well regarding the Menzgold issue,” he said.

He described the situation as a betrayal, especially for die-hard NPP supporters like himself.

“We pleaded with the NPP government, but all our efforts fell on deaf ears. In the end, we decided to revenge at the polls,” he added.

When asked about reports of some Menzgold customers allegedly being paid secretly, Mr. Annoh dismissed them as mere rumors.

Mr. Annoh further advised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to learn from the NPP’s mistakes and take the Menzgold issue seriously if they want to avoid a similar fate.

“The NDC should take a cue from this and be careful with the Menzgold issue. They should also address other financial sector problems the NPP left behind, or they will suffer just like the NPP did,” he warned.

The customers have been calling for government intervention to retrieve their locked-up investments since Menzgold ceased operations in September 2018. They have repeatedly demanded a government bailout to help them recover their funds.

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He said not even the MP for the Bole-Bamboi constituency, Yusif Sulemana or anyone from the Savannah region.

Rather, he noted that what President Mahama assured the people of Bole was his commitment to bringing adequate development to the area.

“There was never a promise by President Mahama to appoint anyone from Savannah, including the MP for Bole, to any position in government or anyone at all. What President Mahama has done is to ensure that the people of Bole receive the development they deserve. That should be the focus, not ministerial appointments,” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem.

Mr. Bi-Awuribe acknowledged the competence of Mr Sulemana, stating, “The MP for Bole is competent and could occupy any position he is given, but the decision lies with the President.”

His comments come after some individuals in Bole reportedly destroyed party properties in protest, claiming that President Mahama had promised the MP a ministerial position if the NDC came to power.

But Mr. Bi-Awuribe condemned the actions, calling them “barbaric,” and said the party distances itself from the destructive behaviour. He called on the police to take action against those responsible.

“We cannot condone such actions. Whether you are a party member or not, if you break the law, you should be arrested and punished,” he said.

The Minister-Designate stressed that despite the unrest, the region remains hopeful.

“We are still praying that some deputy positions may be allocated to the region. We have competent people here who can serve well, but that doesn’t mean we should destroy things.”

He also praised President Mahama’s leadership and his ability to balance appointments across the country.

“Mahama is a unique individual who is committed to involving everyone in government. He is the only one who ensures fairness in appointments. No one is being used and dumped,” Mr. Bi-Awuribe stated.

He further reassured the people of Savannah that there would be more opportunities for them.

“If anyone says Mahama will appoint only his family and friends, they are lying. There are many more positions, and everyone will get their share when it’s due. We must maintain the trust we have in Mahama. He has competent people who will work to make Ghana better.”

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Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Kwakye Ofosu stated, “I have been in government communications for many years, and I am confident I can manage this responsibility.”

He acknowledged that the role would require him to be the official voice of the government and ensure timely and accurate information reaches the public.

“My job is to speak on behalf of the government and bring information closer to the people,” he added.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu admitted that his social life might be affected due to the demanding nature of the position but emphasized that he was ready to serve.

“I must work for God and country, so it’s fine if my social life takes a hit,” he noted.

As a Member of Parliament for Abura Asebu Kwamankese, he also assured his constituents of his commitment to their development.

“I will continue to serve my constituency while handling my government duties effectively. I will ensure that responsibilities are well allocated so I can perform my duties diligently,” he added.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu revealed that Shamima Muslim will be working under his leadership in the communications team.

He stressed the importance of collaboration with professionals to achieve government objectives.

“Where challenges arise, I will engage professionals to assist my team in delivering quality communication,” he stated.

He further disclosed the advantage of social media in modern governance, saying, “Social media has made communication much easier, and we will leverage it to reach the people effectively.”

Also, the NDC MP praised President Mahama’s inclusive leadership style, contrasting it with that of former President Nana Akufo-Addo.

“President Mahama’s approach to governance is inclusive and participatory, which makes a big difference,” he remarked.

He expressed optimism about working with officials in various ministries, noting that many of them are approachable and willing to collaborate.

“I have built relationships within the ministries, and I believe I can work well with them to achieve our communication goals,” he said.

Mr. Ofosu assured Ghanaians of his dedication to ensuring transparency and accessibility in government communication, promising to deliver accurate and timely information to the public.

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The Akatsi South MP stated that he did not, in any way, gag the caucus during the first phase of the vetting.

At a press conference on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the Minority accused Mr. Ahiafor of displaying bias and partisanship, hindering a thorough vetting process.

Tano North MP, Dr. Gideon Boako, cited incidents from the January 13, 2025, vetting, claiming that the Chairman shouted at Minority members, including Atiwa East MP, Abena Osei-Asare, in an attempt to shield the nominees from scrutiny.

However, the First Deputy Speaker disagreed with the Minority’s claims.

According to him, he had actually overly indulged the Minority, stating that the clear guidelines were agreed upon during a meeting. Yet, he [Ahiafor] even bent some rules.

He emphasized that he takes exception to the Minority’s claims.

“I take a very great exception to that because I have accommodated them and I have overindulged them. Going forward, I do not know how they are going to describe me; I never gagged them.

“I went to the extent of bending the ground rules that we had agreed upon to even accommodate certain things that I ought not to have accommodated, yet they describe me as being unfair to them. Well, posterity will be the judge,” he stated in an interview on Accra-based TV3.

Detailing some of the rules that were bent, he added, “There should be some limit on the number of questions or the time frame within which the Majority Leader is supposed to ask questions.”

“It looks like the very first experience he had an unlimited period, and for me, it was excessive.”

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He explained that they were simply there to earn a living, not to cause trouble.

“Reports that we went there armed with guns are false. We were only there to fight for our daily bread. When we saw the soldiers, we knelt and raised our hands, hoping they would just leave us alone. We told them we weren’t there to cause mayhem, but they didn’t listen.”

He made this known in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

Abdulai said that instead of the soldiers, leaving them, one received a call afterwards immediately opened fire on the group, killing some of them.

“They came to kill us. The soldiers who came were different. They were prepared, and they didn’t even talk to us. They just started shooting,” he narrated.

He said there was no exchange of fire, contrary to some reports. “There was no exchange of fire as was reported. We were not close to them, and there was a significant distance between us and the soldiers.”

Reflecting on the incident, Abdulai explained that this was not the first time they had gone to the mine, and such violence had never occurred before.

“For the number of years we’ve been going there, the soldiers usually don’t open fire like this. But these soldiers were different. They came with the intent to kill,” he said.

He also noted the tragedy of losing innocent people.

“One person who was killed was even a chief, and some were fathers. They were only there to find their daily bread. What we have seen, we will never go there again. We don’t want to see that ever again,” he cried.

Addressing a comment attributed to the miners, Abdulai clarified, “We never said that because our government is in power, we can do whatever we want. If our government was really in power, do you think we would risk our lives to go there and say those things?”

Abdulai acknowledged that the miners don’t blame the soldiers entirely for the unfortunate incident.

“We don’t blame the soldiers entirely, but also AngloGold because they employed the soldiers there. What was our crime? We only wanted to feed our families. We can’t just sit down and go hungry,” he stated.

When asked how they would eat in the future, Abdulai replied, “God will provide. We don’t want to commit any crimes.”

AngloGold Ashanti Ghana has confirmed the deadly clash between illegal miners and military personnel in its secured operational area at the northern section of the Obuasi concession.

The confrontation, which occurred on January 18, 2025, resulted in heightened tensions and the destruction of four vehicles.

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Mr. Armah stated that the national executives will travel to Obuasi to assess the situation, engage with local miners, and find a resolution.

“We are going to Obuasi today to see how things have progressed. We will speak to our people there and engage them to understand the situation better.

“As far as mining issues are concerned, we have an interest in resolving this,” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem.

He stated that while their members were not directly involved, they must investigate and find solutions due to the impact on the peace and stability of Obuasi.

He therefore urged the youth to remain calm and not escalate the situation.
“We are coming to Obuasi to ensure that the issue is resolved. I call on the youth to take it easy.”

Mr. Armah also reacted to the confusion surrounding the incident, which involved a group of approximately 60 illegal miners.

“There have been many different accounts, which make the situation a bit confusing. As per the law, miners do not have the right to enter another person’s concession, and even if they want to, they need permission. This needs to be thoroughly investigated,” he said.

According to reports, the miners breached the security fence of the mine and attempted to enter the Deep Decline area, armed with rifles, knives, and other tools.

When confronted by military personnel, the miners opened fire, leading to a dangerous confrontation.

Reflecting on the military’s response, Armah added,

“The way the military responded is unfortunate. If they had taken their time, this could have been resolved peacefully. We must wait and investigate to understand all sides of the story” he added.

Mr. Armah also noted that a similar incident occurred in 2016.

At that time, a committee was formed to engage with the youth, remove them from underground mining, and provide them with better alternatives.

He therefore believes that a similar approach can help resolve the current issue and ensure lasting peace in Obuasi.

“It is unfortunate what happened, but we believe that with the right approach, we can resolve the issue and restore peace,” he said.

The clash took place late on Saturday, January 18, 2025, around 11:00 PM, and has raised concerns about the safety of both miners and military personnel.

Mr. Armah and the Small-Scale Miners Association remain committed to finding a peaceful solution that benefits all parties involved.

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In an interview with Addai Munumkum on Adom FM’s Sunday afternoon news, he stated that the party had wronged the renowned man of God in many ways.

He further explained that Rev. Owusu Bempah turning against the NPP had a significant impact on their performance in the 2024 elections.

“He was with us in 2016 and 2020, but the party failed to support him when he was arrested by the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akufo-Dampare. This made the man of God turn against us, and now we have seen the consequences,” he said.

Paul Yando also mentioned that they did not take Rev. Owusu Bempah’s prophecies about the 2024 election seriously, dismissing them as jokes. However, those prophecies eventually came to pass.

“Let me quote his words: ‘We will lose the election, and our defeat will be massive, beyond comprehension.’ And indeed, we lost heavily, beyond imagination,” he said.

The Ashanti Regional Communications Director reiterated his apology, asking Rev. Owusu Bempah to forgive the party and expressed their readiness to reconcile.

He further explained that in every institution, there are pastors, contractors, and financiers who contribute to the direction of the organization. However, the party failed to honor someone who stood by them in 2016 and 2020, and now they are paying the price.

“Rev. Owusu Bempah is a true NPP member. As the African proverb says, ‘If you wrong someone, you apologize and seek reconciliation.’ Rev., I am begging you to forgive us and come back to us. We are deeply sorry,” he concluded.

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In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Boakye questioned the rationale behind selecting Prof. Oquaye, suggesting that his involvement could be counterproductive.

“Prof. Oquaye is part of the problem, so why should he lead the team to investigate what caused the party’s defeat?”

Mr. Boakye’s remark follows the NPP’s decision to appoint Oquaye as the head of the 11-member committee tasked with reviewing the party’s loss in the 2024 general elections.

The committee, which has been given three months to complete its work, is expected to review the party’s internal elections, campaign strategies, and identify the challenges that led to the electoral defeat. Justin Frimpong Kodua, the party’s General Secretary, highlighted that the committee’s terms of reference also include proposing solutions.

However, Mr. Boakye believes that the issues that led to the party’s loss are already clear and that a committee is unnecessary.

“The issues are already there and glaring. So why do we need a committee to address them? They can be checked from our platforms.”

He also criticized the presence of Prof. Oquaye, noting that many within the party feel he is part of the problem and should not be tasked with finding the solution.

“People have raised concerns about the presence of Mike Oquaye. They believe he is part of the problem, and if that’s the case, how can he be part of the solution?” Boakye questioned.

Watch video below:

Furthermore, he said the NPP should follow a more transparent process, one that has been done in the past by former leaders like Mac Manu and John Boadu.

“Why not open the Secretariat to take submissions from party members? That’s what Mac Manu and John Boadu did, and it worked. So, why not this time?” Mr. Boakye asked.

Mr. Boakye also doubted the effectiveness of the committee, expressing that the recommendations it produces would likely be rejected.

“When the committee brings recommendations, they will be rejected. We can’t sit back and let someone else make decisions for us,” he added.

In his view, the party should focus on internal submissions and transparent discussions to address the issues, rather than relying on a committee led by someone who might not reflect the party’s current direction.

“They must open the Secretariat and deal with the issues directly,” he concluded.

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He recalled that one of the main concerns leading up to the 2020 elections was the party’s imposition of certain candidates on constituencies.

“We vowed not to allow such incidents to repeat themselves in the 2023/2024 primaries. You can attest that we held one of the most transparent and efficient parliamentary primaries, with no controversies afterward. The constituencies were given the chance to elect their preferred leaders for the 2024 elections,” he explained.

Kodua also revealed that an album validation committee was formed to ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings among party members during the election.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show on Tuesday, January 14, Mr. Kodua stated that the party’s parliamentary candidates acknowledged the maximum support they had received, making the election process unprecedented in its smoothness.

“Some of us are still shocked by the outcome,” he said, emphasizing his confusion over how the party lost so many seats despite the transparent process in the primaries.

He further explained that he refrained from granting interviews after the election because he was still trying to understand the results. However, he expressed confidence in the committee set up to investigate the aftermath of the election. “The committee, led by Prof. Mike Oquaye, will probe the situation to uncover what really happened,” he added.

Kodua attributed the party’s poor performance to apathy that had infiltrated the party, which, he argued, affected both the presidential and parliamentary candidates.

While both parties had 137 MPs in the 8th Parliament, with one independent MP backing the NPP for a slight majority, the 9th Parliament has seen the NDC win 183 seats, with the NPP securing only 88 seats and four Independent MPs.

One parliamentary seat remains undecided due to an outstanding dispute, according to the Electoral Commission.

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In an interview on Asempa FMs Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Chaie explained that the position was given to executives to choose.

However, he noted that some individuals submitted their names to the presidency but were not selected, while President Mahama ultimately made the decision.

Mr. Chaie noted that, as far as he is concerned, President Mahama’s decision should be respected.

“People took their names to the presidency, but I didn’t send my name. We are grateful to Mahama, and the most important thing is that Mahama has made a decision, and it should be respected whether other executives like it or not,” he said.

He said Madam Linda Ocloo is well-prepared for the role and has already started working.

“She understands the job already. She has even given me some assignments to do for her, and so we are ready to help her work and make Greater Accra better,” Mr. Chaie said.

He added that madam Ocloo, a Member of Parliament for the Shai-Osudoku Constituency, is competent and ready to work.

“Our mother has experience, and she will bring it to bear. She is competent and ready to work, so she should be trusted,” he noted.

Mr. Chaie’s comments follow the appointment of Linda Ocloo as one of the 10 regional ministerial nominees awaiting approval.

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He has described the appointee who is the Shai Osuduku Member of Parliament(MP) as a hardworking individual who will bring positive change to the region.

Mr. Chaie said Madam Ocloo’s approval by Parliament would not be difficult.

“Mahama has done well to appoint her. We know she is very hardworking, and her approval won’t be difficult at all,” he said.

The former Ablekuma Central MP urged party supporters to rally behind Madam Ocloo, noting that she is an open and selfless person.

“She is someone who is not selfish and is very open. I urge everyone to help her,” he charged.

Mr. Chaie also expressed gratitude to President Mahama and the party executives for their continued support.

“We are excited, and we will forever thank Mahama for this great honor done to the Greater Accra Regional Minister,” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem.

Mr. Chaie further mentioned the positive impact Madam Ocloo’s appointment could have on gender representation.

“This shows that Mahama is bridging the gender gap,” he said.

The regional secretary was confident that Madam Ocloo’s appointment would receive strong support from the region’s chiefs and people, including the Wulormei, who would help her in her mission.

“What Mahama has done, our chiefs and Wulormei will support and help her to ensure that Greater Accra Region progresses,” he explained.

Asked about the qualities Madam Ocloo brings to the table, Mr. Chaie described her as a result-oriented person who is committed to peace and development.

“She is someone who always wants to bring peace wherever she is. She wants to see massive development, especially in the areas of sanitation and good health. She knows how to lobby, and this position will bring her closer to the president, which is crucial for developing the region,” he lauded.

He also dismissed any concerns about dissent within the regional executive, affirming that everyone is pleased with the appointment.

“I don’t believe there is anyone in the regional executive who is not happy with this appointment. Every executive is happy about it. The president has the power to appoint, and once the president makes a choice, we are happy and respect it” he added.

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This according to him stems from their defeat in the 2024 election as a ruling party.

In an interview on Asempa FM Ekosii Sen, JFK as he is popularly known disclosed he was dealing with a lot due to the electoral outcome.

But amidst his struggles, he looks up to God as he still cannot understand why the NPP lost and are yet to come to terms with it.

“As a party that lost an election, you are dealing with a lot psychologically, people saying all sort of things, the proposals and all reactions coming in is a lot but it is the works of God and He is the only one who understands and knows why things turned out this way,” he stated.

Mr Kodua noted he recognises and shares in the pain of the party supporters.

However, it was about time the party reflect on their defeat and learn lessons that will shape and guide them, leading to the 2028 election.

The NPP government failed in its bid for a third consecutive term in the December 7, 2024, general election.

The main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured a decisive victory, giving former president John Mahama a return to the presidency.

The party has since set up a committee to conduct a thorough post-mortem analysis of the party’s defeat in the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.

The committee would engage with party stakeholders and the general public to identify the factors and circumstances that led to the loss.

It will also examine the need for constitutional amendments and restructuring of the party’s internal decision-making processes, particularly regarding the election of presidential and parliamentary candidates, as well as party executives.

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This follows the party’s assumption of office.

Expressing his concern in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Arthur, claimed that the current CEOs, who were appointed by former President Akufo-Addo, are still hiring their own people even after the NDC has taken power.

He said this must stop, as the NDC intends to appoint its own party members to occupy positions within these companies.

“The CEOs should step down to make way for the new government appointees. We want the NDC’s people to occupy these positions and help us deliver effectively. The youth are giving us a lot of pressure, and we can’t even sleep because they are demanding jobs,” he said.

He pointed out that the NDC’s actions are not violent, unlike the NPP’s treatment in 2016, after NDC was ousted from office.

“We didn’t cause any harm. It was peaceful,” he added, comparing the current situation to how NPP members were treated when the NDC lost power.

Mr. Arthur further stated that the NDC’s focus is to ensure that President John Mahama can govern without any interference from NPP appointees.

“Expectations are high, and we need to place the youth in jobs. That is why we are pushing for the CEOs to step down. We had to take action because maybe President Mahama has forgotten to remove them, and the process is delaying. We had to storm these institutions and remind them to step down for the new leadership to take over,” Mr. Arthur explained.

The group, which has been actively demanding a change in leadership at state-owned enterprises like the Tema Development Corporation, Cocobod, Valco, Tema Oil Refinery, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and the Tema Metropolitan Assembly, believes the tenure of these CEOs ended with the departure of the NPP from office.

He further noted that their efforts were spread across Tema East and Tema West to ensure that their demands were met.

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According to him, two of the children were twins from his ex-wife, whom he was pressured into marrying after she claimed he was responsible for her pregnancy.

“I was in school and very popular because I was an athlete, so most of the ladies were fond of me. One came to inform my father that she was pregnant for me, but I denied it because I was so sure I wasn’t responsible. However, her parents dragged us to court, and eventually, my father accepted it,” he narrated.

The situation, he said, cut short his education as his father made him aware he could not cater for him and the lady who bore twins in 2014.

“I worked tirelessly just to make ends meet and take care of my children and their mother. I got involved in galamsey, which I vowed never to do, and almost lost my life in the process,” he said.

For the third child, he explained it was from an ex-girlfriend with whom he reunited.

Narrating the harrowing experience, the man, who spoke under the condition of anonymity on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, revealed he reunited with his ex-girlfriend after the mother of the twins abandoned them.

“They were just three months old, and my life was brought to a halt because there was nobody to cater for them so I could work. I decided to bring in my ex-girlfriend so she could take care of them while I went out to work,” he recalled.

The mother of the twins, according to him, later came to apologise, but her parents threatened to sue him if he married any woman aside from their daughter.

“I decided to marry in 2020, and I settled with the mother of the twins. I did all a husband would do for his family, but her attitude changed, and she started to disrespect me,” he said.

Fast forward, he disclosed his desire to conduct a DNA test heightened after continuously watching and hearing stories on TV.

He, therefore, decided to come up with a ruse to obtain a DNA sample from the children without raising suspicion.

“I told my wife I wanted to send them abroad, but she was unhappy after I mentioned DNA, and she fled with the kids for over a month.”

However, he eventually managed to carry out the DNA test on the twins, and his fears were confirmed.

“I was heartbroken, so I took all the children. I had two others aside from the twins, and the results revealed that only the first child was mine.

“Finding out that they are not mine after all these years, I don’t know the kind of pain any human being can go through more than that. My heart was heavy, and all I could do was weep. I’m just grateful to God I didn’t harm myself in any way,” he stated.

Despite the pain of wasting almost a decade of his life and resources on other men’s kids, he said he has found happiness.

He has remarried and fathered a baby who will be four months old on Saturday, January 11, 2025.

Listen to the entire interview below:

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In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Domfe said Ato Forson’s competence is proven through his extensive work in Parliament, particularly in matters of public finance, and his prior role as deputy finance minister.

Despite some criticisms from sections of the public regarding Ato Forson’s academic credentials, Dr. Domfe stated that the Finance Minister-designate’s qualifications are more than sufficient.

“Dr. Forson is more than qualified to be nominated as the new Finance Minister and doesn’t need a PhD in Economics to become successful,” he said.

He pointed out that Ato Forson has accumulated significant experience, especially as a five-term lawmaker, and has a solid understanding of economics, accounting, and finance.

Dr. Domfe also addressed concerns about Ato Forson’s academic background, noting that while some have criticized his PhD in Business and Management rather than in Finance, it should not undermine his expertise.

“Ghanaians like titles too much, but that’s not what makes someone competent in their role,” Dr. Domfe explained.

He cited the example of Kwame Mpiani, who, despite lacking a PhD in economics, demonstrated considerable competence in economic matters.

Also, Dr. Domfe praised Ato Forson’s strong interpersonal skills, stressing that being a successful minister isn’t just about academic credentials but also about building respectful relationships.

“To be a successful minister, it’s not necessarily about your academic books; it’s about respect and human relations,” he noted.

While acknowledging that Ato Forson’s PhD is listed as in Business and Management, Dr. Domfe suggested the Presidency should verify this detail, as there is some confusion about the exact nature of his doctoral studies at KNUST.

He urged the government to correct any errors to prevent further confusion.

The Economist concluded by praising the nomination of Ato Forson and his potential to help turn the economy around.

“President Mahama made a good choice for Ghana,”

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On January 9, 2025, the John Mahama administration officially announced the first group of ministers, including Mr. Jinapor.

Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Special Aide to President John Mahama, issued a statement highlighting Mr. Jinapor’s practical experience and expertise.

The statement said with his extensive background in energy economics and finance, he is expected to play a crucial role in transforming the energy sector.

“He brings a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise to the energy portfolio,” said the Presidency.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Jinapor expressed that he was not entirely surprised by the appointment.

“I’ve been in the field for a long time, and I am well-versed in energy issues. This is not a new space for me; I’ve presented a lot of energy-related matters in meetings and have been working in this area for quite a while,” he said.

He also mentioned that President Mahama had hinted at this opportunity, which motivated him.

“Mahama gave us snippets showing that if you work hard, you will be rewarded. So, it wasn’t completely unexpected,” he added, acknowledging that others could also excel in this role.

He recognized that the position of energy minister is challenging.

“This job is not easy. It comes with a lot of challenges, and it’s important to be open about these challenges so people can appreciate the issues. It requires circumspection and negotiations because I cannot do this job alone,” he added.

Mr. Jinapor stressed the importance of collaboration and feedback.

“If things are going wrong, I encourage the public and stakeholders to let us know. I can never be right in everything, and I believe in a collective effort to address the challenges in the energy sector,” he stated.

Psychologically, emotionally, and physically, he expressed readiness for the role.

“I am prepared for this responsibility, but I need the support of industry players because this is not a job I can do alone,” he concluded.

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Nana Akua has asserted that she has won the election per results from all pink sheets from the polling stations in her possession.

“I have all my 281 pink sheets presented to the EC. The NDC went to make photocopies to change the figures and they were requesting for a re-run, claiming the three outstanding polling stations are their strongholds and there should be a re-run but I will never agree today or tomorrow. After all the money I have spent?” she stated.

In an interview on Adom FM Dwaso Nsem, the former MP accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Ewurabena Aubynn of inciting supporters to cause mayhem in the constituency.

The re-collation of the Ablekuma North results have been delayed for the past days oas tension has been running high.

The constituency is yet to have the winner of the parliamentary seat in the December 7, election declared following another chaotic scene at the Electoral Commission (EC) office.

Ewurabena Aubynn has accused Akua Afriyie, of playing manipulative games to hold on to power but will be fiercely resisted.

Amidst the unending confusion, the Returning Officer, Vincent Obeng, has withdrawn from the collation process and asked the EC to find a new person.

He cited the disagreement and other challenges that have marred and delayed the process.

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Akua Afriyie has reassured Mr. Obeng that he would not face any harm despite the threats he has reportedly received.

Her plea follows Mr. Obeng’s announcement that he was stepping down from the ongoing collation of parliamentary results, citing frustrations encountered during the process.

Mr. Obeng revealed that of the seven polling stations, results from four had been successfully collated, leaving three outstanding.

He explained that difficulties arose due to the inability of presiding officers to authenticate the statement of poll and the declaration forms.

But speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Akua Afriyie shared in Mr. Obeng’s frustrations but urged him to reconsider his decision.

“I understand that the Returning Officer may be feeling threatened by some actions, particularly from the NDC, but I urge him to rescind his decision and finish his work” she said.

She stressed the importance of completing the process to ensure transparency and fairness.

Akua Afriyie also pledged that they would support the Returning Officer in finishing the job and that peace should prevail throughout the process.

“We are praying that God calms his heart so he can complete the collation process and declare the results. He should remain calm and help us finish the job.”

The NPP PC confidently noted that she had secured copies of the pink sheets from all polling stations, which indicate her clear victory adding that the results would reflect the will of the people.

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According to him, such acts can lead to the loss of life, and the party will remain committed to peace and must, therefore, not encourage such behavior.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, the former Adentan MP stated that he can only advise NDC supporters to be vigilant, but not to take the law into their own hands.

Ashie Moore’s comment follows reports of attacks on state agencies and assaults on personnel by individuals believed to be NDC supporters.

Two security officers of the Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO) were assaulted on Wednesday when a group reportedly stormed the company’s premises.

They intended to lock the offices of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Deputy CEO in connection with the end of President Akufo-Addo’s tenure.

However, Mr. Moore has stated that it is not the place of party supporters to embark on such acts, even if they consider them to be reprisals for past events.

He emphasized that a security task force has been deployed to ensure that nobody takes away state properties and that they must be allowed to work effectively.

He has, therefore, urged calm and order, amid calls for NDC supporters to refrain from the acts if they are indeed behind them.

“We must not take the law into our own hands. People may take advantage of the situation and infiltrate, but if any NDC supporter is involved, I will admonish them to stop because if they destroy these things, it will be our cost to bear.

“Security task forces have been put in charge, so we should not hesitate to report to the appropriate quarters for action,” he said.

Reacting to claims that the NDC leadership may not sanction the illegal acts, he retorted, “No party hierarchy; you know President Mahama, Asiedu Nketia, Fifi Kwetey, and you know me, Joseph Yammin; we are not this violent. No party official from the top and the region has sanctioned this, and we disassociate ourselves from it.”

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Cudjoe praised the speech, stating that it was “uplifting and free from jabs.”

He noted that the speech was “original” and appeared to be something Mahama had written himself.

“He didn’t attack anyone, and it was a refreshing departure from the usual rhetoric. I think Mahama has truly transformed, and this speech reflected that. There was no need for him to remind the world how the NPP destroyed the economy because it was obvious—they lost,” he stated.

Mr. Cudjoe added that the speech was “a good standard speech” that didn’t include any “nasty comments” about the previous NPP government.

He said it was “well executed” and focused on “diligence, hard work, and meritocracy.”

“I believe inaugural speeches are not meant to complain but to be straightforward. President Mahama did a beautiful thing by keeping the tone positive and focused on the future” he said.

John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as the President of Ghana at the Black Star Square in Accra. This colorful occasion followed his decisive victory in the general elections held on December 7, 2024, where he secured a commanding mandate from the people of Ghana.

The event attracted a wide range of international dignitaries, including 21 Heads of State, diplomats, and representatives from various global organizations.

The Vice President-elect, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, also took the oath of allegiance and the oath of office, making her the first female Vice President in the country.

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The ceremony, held at Accra’s Black Star Square, was a grand display of Ghana’s democratic strength, featuring speeches, music, and cultural performances.

However, one particular moment gained significant attention: Dr. Bawumia’s respectful bow to Mahama.

The image, shared on Facebook, quickly went viral, sparking various emotions among Ghanaians.

Some praised the former Vice President for demonstrating humility, maturity, and statesmanship.

They highlighted how his gesture showcased respect for political opponents and promoted unity in a politically divided country.

The bow was seen as a reflection of Ghana’s political values, emphasizing mutual respect and democratic principles.

But in an interview on Adom FM’s, morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Franklin Cudjoe shared his perspective on the moment.

He explained that the bow was a true reflection of Dr. Bawumia’s character, rather than a carefully orchestrated act for the cameras.

“That’s Bawumia for you—he’s not arrogant, and he’s always respectful. His gesture was simply to show respect for Mahama. It’s not about putting on a show or pretending” he said.

He continued, “People should not read too much into it. This is just his nature—he values competition but respects others. He even conceded defeat earlier, which was also a gesture of grace.”

Mr. Cudjoe concluded by stating, “Bawumia has a bright future ahead of him, and I believe his actions reflect his genuine values.”

Mr. Cudjoe, further urged Ghanaians not to overanalyze the gesture but to appreciate it as a sincere reflection of Dr. Bawumia’s humility and respect for the nation’s democratic ethos.

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According to him, Mr Mahama made a lot of promises to Ghanaians ahead of the December 7, 2024, election.

But considering the resources available and the current state of the economy, Dr Suleiman is skeptical about Mahama’s ability to fully deliver on his promises.

“I pity this president a bit because he made a lot of promises to develop the country but weighing what he said against the money and other resources available, Ghana does not have that strength. So he may not be able to deliver on all his promises,” he said.

However, Dr Suleiman in an interview on Adom FM Dwaso Nsem admonished President Mahama to psych Ghanaians for the challenges ahead.

“As soon as possible, he should sensitise Ghanaians so that if he starts and things gets tough, he will come back and ask Ghanaians to be patient and I agree with that.

“He has four years and I believe he may not be able to deliver on all his promises so I will appeal to Ghanaians that when he asks for patience, we would understand him,” he stated.

Dr Suleiman further stressed that given the overwhelming endorsement in the 2024 election, Ghanaians may run out of patience of President Mahama continues to give excuses after a year or two.

“His communication strategy must focus on sensitising Ghanaians to better understand the sequence of governance because from where I sit, I don’t think Ghanaians will be patient without this understanding,” he added.

Listen to Dr Suleiman in the audio above:

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His remarks came in response to criticism from former Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who questioned the necessity of the newly formed ORAL committee announced by President Mahama.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin criticized the committee, arguing that it undermines existing state institutions tasked with combating corruption.

Speaking during his final remarks as Majority Leader of the 8th Parliament, Mr. Afenyo-Markin dismissed the initiative as a “wild goose chase” and warned that it could be used for political retribution.

He expressed concerns that the committee’s activities might create an atmosphere of fear and instability in governance.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin further criticized the committee, saying it could lead to unnecessary pursuits of individuals on mere suspicion of corruption.

“We don’t want people chasing others into their homes, going into their rooms, thinking that their government is in office and therefore they should pursue people on suspicion of so-called corruption,” he said.

In response, Okudzeto Ablakwa, speaking in an interview with the media, assured the public that the committee would not target innocent individuals.

“If you have not taken anything that belongs to the Ghanaian people, you don’t have to fear ORAL. If you haven’t taken the people’s lands, hotels, forest reserves, river bodies, cars, or money, then you have nothing to fear. You shouldn’t be raving and ranting. All this sleeplessness and restlessness is so suspicious,” Ablakwa remarked.

He added, “Why are senior and leading members of the NPP, like Obiri Boahen and Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe, welcoming ORAL? Even Hon. Ennin, the former MP for Obuasi East, has reached out to us and is assisting us. Those who have not looted or engaged in kleptocracy or lootocracy are not worried about ORAL. Why is Afenyo-Markin so concerned that people will come and look under their beds or into their accounts? Does that not raise suspicion? What are they hiding? What are they so afraid of? Why this outburst? He is beside himself and looks so frightened. Why is he scared?”

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Debrah shared that his daughter’s fiancé had not been well the day before the wedding, and he was hospitalized on Thursday.

However, on Friday—the day of the wedding—he was discharged and went to the hotel where the ceremony was being held.

Unfortunately, shortly after his arrival, the groom complained of feeling unwell.

“He said he wasn’t feeling well and was taken to the hospital. But on Friday, the wedding day, he came to the hotel. He complained of a sudden sickness, and we struggled to get him on a drip. The nurse realized the situation wasn’t improving. Then, the nurse pronounced him dead. Some people started calling the town to inform them of the tragic news” Mr. Debrah recalled.

The father continued, emotionally recounting how the news devastated the family.

“When my daughter, Florence, heard the news, she collapsed. We immediately began praying hard for her. It was as if she was going to die too. She couldn’t believe it. It was a very tough moment for all of us. We rushed to revive her. By God’s grace, we managed to bring her back” he said.

Mr. Debrah shared that, in the midst of this tragedy, a glimmer of hope emerged when some people brought word that Chief Inspector Beniba might still be alive.

“Some messages came in saying he was not dead, so we rushed to the hospital. But when the doctors checked his body, they confirmed that he had indeed passed away,” he said.

The family’s devastation was compounded by the fact that the wedding preparations had to be halted.

“The food and decorations were all prepared, but no one was interested in eating. The guests were too grief-stricken. We had to pack everything up, and all the food was wasted. The sadness was overwhelming” Mr. Debrah said.

He also spoke highly of Chief Inspector Beniba, describing him as a highly respected man in the community.

“He was an affable man, a protector of the community. Even during events, as a police officer, he ensured safety. He was a man of integrity. He always gave us his protection, even when we had gatherings. He was a good man, and it’s all in God’s hands. We can’t complain.”

In his emotional final remarks, Mr. Debrah urged people to value life and rely on God.

“Life is precious. Let my daughter’s experience be a lesson to everyone. We should rely on God, not on humans or anything else. We should worship God, for anything can happen at any time. Always walk with God,” he said.

The tragic incident unfolded on Friday at the Anamase Hotel, the venue for the wedding in Akyem Anamase near Oda in the Eastern Region. Chief Inspector Beniba, the Station Officer at the Anamase Police Station, collapsed shortly after arriving at the venue.

According to eyewitnesses, the groom, accompanied by his best men, complained of dizziness upon entering the event. Before anyone could assist him, he collapsed on the floor.

He was rushed to the Anamase Clinic, but sadly, he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The news devastated the hundreds of attendees, including police personnel who had traveled from Accra, Koforidua, Oda, Akyem Achiase, Akyem Swedru, and other parts of the country. Many were overcome with grief, and tears flowed freely as the tragic event unfolded.

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Speaking in an emotional interview on Adom FM’s morning Dwaso Nsem on Monday, the 32-year-old recounted the devastating events leading up to her groom’s sudden death.

“We’ve been together for three years. We finally decided to settle down, and now this has happened. I was in the room dressing when my mother came in to tell me that my husband was sick and had been rushed to the hospital. I was shocked and confused; I didn’t even know what to do” Florence said tearfully.

Florence, crying throughout the interview, described her late fiancé, Chief Inspector Godwin Beniba, as a respectable and honest man.

“He was the kind of man who would always wait for me before eating. Even when he was at the police station, he made sure I was with him as much as possible,” she recalled.

Reflecting on her loss, she said, “I have really suffered in life. This was my moment to be honoured by a man who loved me, but death has taken him away. God, have mercy on me. Why me? Only me?”

Florence said she will always cherish the fond memories she shared with her late fiancé.

“He was my everything. This is not easy for me, but I will forever remember his love and respect for me,” she concluded.

The tragic incident occurred last Friday at the Anamase Hotel, the venue for their wedding in Akyem Anamase near Oda in the Eastern Region. Chief Inspector Beniba, who served as the Station Officer at the Anamase Police Station, collapsed shortly after arriving at the event.

Eyewitnesses reported that the groom, accompanied by his best men, complained of dizziness moments after entering the venue. Before anyone could assist, he collapsed on the floor.

He was rushed to the Anamase Clinic by some of the guests, but tragically, he was pronounced dead on arrival by medical personnel.

The untimely death of Chief Inspector Beniba has left the Akyem Anamase community and beyond in deep sorrow. The couple’s friends, family, and well-wishers are grappling with the devastating loss.

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Speaking during an interview on Joy FM on December 24, 2024, Mr. Blay described the move as unnecessary and potentially destabilizing for the country’s peace.

The NDC, which asserts it has secured 187 parliamentary seats, has announced plans to seek legal action to claim victory in a few disputed constituencies.

“I’m surprised that NDC has won 187 seats and is still chasing after two or three more,” he said, questioning the rationale behind the opposition’s aggressive stance.

He further warned of dire consequences if court rulings and decisions by the Electoral Commission (EC) are not respected.

“If justice is denied, can you imagine the chaos this country will run into? If we’ve all voted, counted, and signed the pink sheets, and someone with a gun forces a declaration, chaos will ensue,” he cautioned.

I’m surprised NDC won 187 seats and is still chasing a few more – Freddie Blay.#PMExpress pic.twitter.com/qmQs8NEEAW

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) December 24, 2024

Controversial Re-Collation Results in Seat Reassignments

A controversial re-collation exercise held at the Greater Accra Regional Office of the EC on December 21, 2024, resulted in four parliamentary seats initially declared for the NDC being reassigned to the NPP.

• Obuasi East: Initially declared for NDC’s Samuel Aboagye, was reassigned to NPP’s Patrick Boakye-Yiadom.
• Tema Central: Declared for NDC’s Ebi Bright, now reassigned to NPP’s Charles Forson.
• Techiman South: Initially declared for NDC’s Christopher Beyere Baasongti, was reassigned to NPP’s Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah.
• Okaikwei Central: Declared for NDC’s Baba Sadiq, now reassigned to NPP’s Dr. Patrick Boamah.

Additionally, constituencies previously marked as incomplete were finalized:

• Nsawam Adoagyiri: Declared for NPP’s Frank Annoh-Dompreh.
• Ahafo Ano South West: Declared for NPP’s Eric Nana Agyeman-Prempeh.
• Ahafo Ano North: Declared for NPP’s Elvis Osei Mensah Dapaah.

Two Constituencies Remain Undecided

Two constituencies, Ablekuma North and Dome Kwabenya, remain unresolved.

• Ablekuma North: NDC’s Ewurabena Aubynn was declared the winner despite results from 62 polling stations remaining unaccounted for. NPP’s Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh, a former MP and current Deputy Chief Executive of the Coastal Development Authority, contests the results.
• Dome Kwabenya: NDC’s Elikplim Akurugu was declared the winner over NPP’s Mike Oquaye Jnr.

If the current reassignments hold, the NDC would have 181 seats in the 9th Parliament, with four independent candidates holding seats.

In his Christmas message, he acknowledged the challenges the nation faced throughout the year, including governance, the economy, and democratic processes.

He described these as lessons to strengthen the country and called on Ghanaians to celebrate the blessings of the year while striving to do better in the future.

“We have come across challenges, whether with governance, our economy, institutions, or our democracy.

“These are all lessons meant to build us up to perform better. But what is most important is that we are assured once again of God’s love, grace, and blessings,” Mr Bagbin stated.

Reflecting on the outcome of the 2024 elections, Bagbin expressed surprise and gratitude for the divine intervention that ensured peace during a tumultuous period.

“I am happy that God has intervened in a rather very difficult election in this country. None of us thought this would be the outcome of the 2024 general elections, but as God would have it, it has happened,” he said.

Mr Bagbin urged all Ghanaians to accept the election results with humility, emphasizing that they reflect the will of God.

He called for introspection and unity, urging citizens to set aside differences and focus on building a stronger nation.

“My call to each and every one of us is to accept the results in humility, to agree that this is how the Almighty God wants it to be, and for us to reflect deeply on what went wrong and what went right.

“Let us come together to build a nation, for without a united nation, we live divided, and that gives room for hatred,” he admonished.

The Speaker also celebrated Ghana’s status as a model of democracy in Africa, highlighting the country’s 32 years of multiparty democracy and its role as a beacon of hope on the continent.

“Ghana is still seen as the Mecca of the Black race. We might have faulted, but people still look up to us. The fact that we are being eulogised by other countries is something that should uplift our spirits,” he noted.

In his message to the youth, Bagbin assured them of a bright future, urging them to remain hopeful and committed to Ghana’s progress.

“The future is bright. I can assure you that Ghana is on the right path. We remain the beacon of hope, democracy, and inspiration for the African continent,” he said.

Mr Bagbin concluded his message with warm wishes for the festive season, extending gratitude to the clergy, chiefs, elders, and the media for their contributions to the nation’s progress.

“I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May the good Lord continue to bless us and keep our nation greater and stronger,” he said.

The Speaker’s message resonates as a call for unity, hope, and continued faith in Ghana’s ability to navigate challenges and remain a shining light for Africa and the world.

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The video, which began trending shortly after Rev. Bempah publicly advised Mahama to focus on stabilizing the Ghanaian cedi, has sparked widespread conversations.

In the clip, Rev. Bempah’s passionate remarks reflect his genuine concern for Ghana’s economic challenges and his unwavering love for the country.

In his address, the revered pastor remarked, “We voted for you to bring the dollar down, not to chase people,” expressing frustration at the perceived neglect of pressing economic issues.

His candid statement has been met with mixed reactions, with some social commentators attempting to twist his words into a critique of the former president.

However, the viral prophecy offers a different perspective, showcasing Rev. Bempah declaring a hopeful future under Mahama’s leadership.

His prediction of Mahama becoming Ghana’s next president has reignited debates about the role of prophetic declarations in politics and governance.

The pastor’s statement reflects a broader call for unity and a focus on addressing Ghana’s economic woes.

His message resonates with many who share his hope for a brighter future under effective leadership.

Watch the viral video as Rev. Bempah prophesies President-elect John Mahama’s victory in the 2024 general elections, delivering what he describes as a “powerful message about Ghana’s future.”

Prophetic Declaration!
“God’s plans for Ghana are bigger than political divides,” Rev. Bempah emphasized, urging leaders to prioritize the nation’s development.

During a visit to the site on Wednesday, December 25, he assured the public that the project is on track and that earlier reports of significant damage or loss of documents were untrue.

According to him, the Managing Director of Quarm LMI, Kofi Ofori briefed him about the fire development noting that the fire, which occurred at the campsite, was limited to two sheds and two containers.

“The Managing Director of Quarm LMI Kofi Ofori and his team conducted us around the site. They’ve started the redevelopment, clearing the site, setting up for the redevelopment…The buildings are all here.

“They’ve not been affected by any incident. He explained to us that what happened was that at the campsite, they had two sheds that caught fire yesterday and two containers.

“And even for the containers, he explains that they are containers that contain some old items that were used for the initial construction.

“I also asked him about these reports that there was an office with documents. He says it’s not true. There’s no office with any such documents,” he clarified.

Addressing speculation that the fire was deliberate, Mr Oppong Nkrumah dismissed the claims, noting that there was no evidence to suggest foul play.

“Having been here and seen the situation firsthand, I can confirm that there is no basis for such allegations,” he stated.

Mr Oppong Nkrumah commended the Fire Service for their swift response in managing the fire and stated that a detailed report from the service would shed more light on the cause of the incident.

When asked about concerns of safety on-site, Mr Oppong Nkrumah urged the contractors to adhere strictly to the building codes and safety standards.

“They must ensure nothing untoward happens as they proceed with the project,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of meeting the project’s timeline, which is set at a little over 400 days, including the commercial and residential property components.

The Works and Housing Minister urged them to remain diligent and ensure that the project progresses according to plan, providing much-needed infrastructure to the area.

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In a viral video, Baba Sadiq strongly condemned the Electoral Commission’s (EC) re-collation exercise, which overturned several NDC victories, and vowed that no force could stop the elected NDC MPs from being sworn in.

“On December 6 or 5, not even the IGP, the CDS, or Nana Addo himself can prevent us. If Jean Mensa is minded, she will step down in Parliament on the 6th. We won the elections credibly,” he asserted.

Citing specific constituencies, he issued a warning: “This is a strong message for Dome Kwabenya, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, and Obuasi East. To Afenyo Markin, if you aimed to retain your position as Minority leader through this, you have failed. We are not cowards. The blood that runs through the NDC is the blood of revolution, and that revolution begins on January 5.”

Baba Sadiq dismissed any potential imposition of a state of emergency as a threat. “Nobody can intimidate us with a state of emergency. Nana Akufo-Addo is outgoing. Dr. Bawumia has lost. The IGP has no locus. Jean Mensa cannot decide for Ghanaians who their MPs are. We worked hard for our victory, and every seat we won will be represented in Parliament.”

Re-Collation Controversy

The EC’s re-collation exercise on December 21, held at the Greater Accra Regional Office, led to the reversal of four previously declared NDC wins:

• Obuasi East: Initially declared for Samuel Aboagye (NDC), re-declared for Patrick Boakye-Yiadom (NPP).
• Tema Central: Initially declared for Ebi Bright (NDC), re-declared for Charles Forson (NPP).
• Techiman South: Initially declared for Christopher Beyere Baasongti (NDC), re-declared for Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah (NPP).
• Okaikwei Central: Initially declared for Baba Sadiq Abdulai (NDC), re-declared for Dr. Patrick Boamah (NPP).

Additionally, seats in Nsawam Adoagyiri, Ahafo Ano South West, and Ahafo Ano North were declared for NPP candidates Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Eric Nana Agyeman-Prempeh, and Elvis Osei Mensah Dapaah, respectively.

Undecided Constituencies

Two constituencies remain undecided:

• Ablekuma North: NDC’s Ewurabena Aubynn was declared winner without results from 62 polling stations.
• Dome Kwabenya: NDC’s Elikplim Akurugu was declared winner over NPP’s Mike Oquaye Jnr.

With these developments, the NDC would secure 181 seats in Parliament, alongside four independent candidates.

Baba Sadiq’s brave response to the bizarre re-collation exercise of the Jean Mensah led EC pic.twitter.com/YRvRnqwRBh

— Radio Gold 90.5FM (@radiogold905fm) December 24, 2024

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He cited the results of the 2024 elections as evidence of a shift in voter behaviour.

“Ghanaian voters are now enlightened and sophisticated. Nobody can deceive any voter,” he remarked during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show.

Mr. Frimpong, who ran as an independent candidate, stressed his commitment to representing the will of his constituents.

“I will only accept a position from the incoming government if the people of Asante Akyem North approve of it. Every decision I make concerning the constituency will involve consultation with my people,” he stated.

He stressed the importance of accountability and respect for the electorate.

“I will always be accountable to the people of Asante Akyem North and respect their decisions. My footprints are all over the constituency, and I have earned the support of both NPP and NDC members” he said.

Reflecting on his motivation, Mr. Frimpong shared, “I want to always challenge myself naturally. This victory has strengthened my resolve to serve and deliver for the people.”

Mr. Frimpong secured a resounding victory with 26,926 votes, defeating the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP, Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, who received 8,933 votes.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Kofi Asamoah, garnered 2,469 votes.

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In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Ashie Moore expressed dissatisfaction with the EC’s handling of the recent parliamentary election disputes.

“Things have changed now. What were the dynamics? The boss rushed too much. She was supposed to take it easy and allow all the challenges to be resolved first. But instead, she took hasty decisions” he said.

Mr. Ashie Moore alleged that the EC Chair, Jean Mensa, acted unilaterally in some instances.

“We know she took that decision with her two deputies and didn’t involve anyone else. Why couldn’t she just call for an IPAC meeting and involve stakeholders to take the right decision?” he quizzed.

He also compared the current EC leadership to previous administrations.

“Was this the same way things were done under Dr. Afari-Gyan?” he questioned. “We, in opposition, have been very gentle. Unlike the NPP, who are desperate, we will ensure the right thing is done through the proper channels before Mahama is sworn in.”

Meanwhile, the EC has defended its decision to re-collate results in certain constituencies, citing it as a legitimate step to uphold the accuracy and integrity of election outcomes.

In a statement, the EC explained, “Re-collation of votes is not unprecedented. It has been done under previous EC administrations, such as in the Tolon constituency in 2004, Yapei Kusawgu in 2004, and the Pru constituency in 2004.”

The EC dismissed allegations of illegality, stating, “Re-collation is a lawful process to address discrepancies and ensure election results are accurate.”

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In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Monday, Mr. Ashie Moore disclosed the dedication and sacrifices that contributed to the NDC’s historic success in the 2024 general elections, where the party secured 31 parliamentary seats in the region.

“When I became regional chairman in 2022, the NDC had 20 seats out of 34 in Greater Accra. I promised to increase that number to 25, but we exceeded expectations and secured 31 seats,” he stated.

This marked a significant improvement from the 2020 elections when the party held 20 seats, showcasing the impact of his strategic leadership.

Mr. Ashie Moore revealed the immense challenges he faced, including internal and external opposition.

“Some people genuinely like you, while others hate you for no reason, but you must learn to work with everyone,” he noted.

The chairman also admitted that sleep was a rare luxury during his time in office.

“For one year and eight months, I barely slept well. It was only on December 9th, after the elections, that I managed to sleep for eight hours because some people wanted to see me fail, while others wanted to see me succeed. But through it all, God made it possible.”

The chairman attributed the victory to innovative, people-centered campaign strategies.

“We used a top-down approach combined with innovation and technology. We didn’t sit in cars to campaign; we went door-to-door to engage directly with the people,” he explained.

Revealing the importance of fulfilling promises, Mr. Ashie Moore said, “I promised the delegates I would fulfill 80% of what I told them, and I have delivered. For instance, I pledged to organize refresher courses for our communication officers, and I will make sure that happens.”

He expressed gratitude to party members who contributed to the success.

“Everyone who worked diligently to ensure John Dramani Mahama’s overwhelming victory and the acquisition of 31 seats in the region will be duly rewarded” he said.

As a businessman, he noted his ability to secure support from other businesspeople.

“I was able to convince many businesspeople to support our cause. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to focus on what helps the team and not talk about everything publicly. This is the time to implement every strategy that works” he noted.

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In a media briefing, the Deputy Chairman of the EC in charge of Corporate Services, Dr Bossman Asare emphasised the importance of cooperation and trust to ensure a transparent and credible conclusion of its work.

He highlighted the Commission’s constitutional independence as stipulated in Article 46 of the 1992 Constitution.

“The Electoral Commission, in the performance of its functions, shall not be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority,” Dr. Bossman stated, reiterating the EC’s mandate to act impartially and independently in electoral matters.

The Commission urged political parties, candidates, and the public to allow the EC to fulfill its constitutional duties without interference.

“The Commission urges all stakeholders to support the Electoral Commission, for the Commission to be able to carry out its mandate to the conclusion, and once we are able to carry out our mandate to the conclusion, If anyone has any adverse findings, then the person can proceed. But as I stated the law is very clear that we are well mandated to perform the functions we are performing.”

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Tuesday, Mr. Frimpong reflected on his decision to run as an independent candidate and the overwhelming victory he achieved.

“Despite everything that happened to me, I remained focused on serving the constituency. Nothing they did pushed us away” he said.

He also noted that, he had always maintained a strong relationship with the people, adding, “I don’t segregate. I am very cool with them, and that’s why we had an overwhelming victory.”

Mr. Frimpong acknowledged the broad support he received across party lines.

“Even NDC people voted for me, and those who initially didn’t want to vote, voted for me.”

Going forward, the independent MP elect outlined his plans for the future, stressing the importance of collaboration with the government.

“During my campaign I promised them that whoever comes into power, I will work with them to ensure development for our country,” he said.

He also disclosed job creation as a priority, saying, “I will open job opportunities for the people in the constituency.”

Mr. Frimpong also revealed that he has access to investors who have pledged to help build a stronger constituency.

“I have good investors who are ready to support me in making the constituency better,” he added.

Mr. Frimpong won the seat with a resounding 26,926 votes, defeating the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP, Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, who secured 8,933 votes.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Kofi Asamoah, received 2,469 votes.

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The FixingTheCountry Convener said he was not assigned any specific role but had to leverage his expertise to support the party.

This according to him contributed to the NPP’s defeat, particularly in the Ashanti region where he claims to have over two million loved ones and could have garnered votes.

“Some of us were sidelined in the whole campaign operations. I was just following the bandwagon because I am a national executive. I wasn’t assigned to any specific role to play. Someone like me, who has about 2 million followers in the Ashanti region, was sidelined,” he bemoaned.

Mr Bempah expressed his frustration in an interview on Accra-based Okay FM.

“Even when I am on a campaign platform, they do not invite me to talk. If you look at the young politicians, I am the best political strategist in the country. Strategy is very key in politics.

“As a political party, you need to be strategic. You are campaigning in an election and you think that bantering Sammy Gyamfi on radio and TV will win you an election? You’ll be making a terrible mistake,” he stated.

“Even one month to election, when you call the leadership of the party to complain that there is apathy in the Ashanti region, no one picks your calls. Those who will pick your call will also do that after trying to reach them for over a month,” he added.

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He made these remarks during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme following the establishment of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

“If they invite me, I will go. If EOCO or any state agency invites me, who is Freddie Blay to say he won’t go? I have no choice. If, for whatever reason, I am invited, who am I to refuse? Even if I’m in Afghanistan and they call me, I will gladly come.”

He stressed his respect for the law, adding, “I will not sit here and say I won’t travel. This country is not mine or anyone’s personal property. Refusing to go would even put me in contempt of the law. I’ve been to prison 15 times and come back, so why would I run away because of ORAL or anything else?”

Mr. Blay further expressed confidence that no member of the Akufo-Addo administration would evade investigations if summoned.

“No one in the Akufo-Addo government would refuse to go if invited by any investigative body. They won’t run,” he declared.

On the appointment of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa as the chairman of the ORAL committee, the former NPP chair admitted surprise but commended the initiative.

“I didn’t expect Okudzeto Ablakwa to be appointed chairman of the ORAL committee, but be it as it may, it is good. If ORAL brings out information and retrieves stolen money, so be it,” he remarked.

He acknowledged concerns about the credibility of some members on the committee but maintained that the initiative could be beneficial.

“Irrespective of the personalities, if they stick to their mandate and go through the process to retrieve stolen resources, then they should go ahead. It will be good for us,” he added.

The ORAL team has been tasked with investigating fraudulent activities that have resulted in significant financial losses for the country.

Supported by both local and international experts, the team aims to enhance transparency, restore trust in government institutions, and ensure the effective use of public resources for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

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He stated that, the loss has left the party struggling to recover.

“We were beaten by the rain, and it’s not easy to recover fully from such a knockout defeat,” Mr. Blay said in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Monday.

He admitted that, the outcome came as a surprise, particularly given the challenges and opposition the government faced during the campaign.

“I never believed we would lose, especially with the difficulties and the challenges the government was facing. I thought Ghanaians would understand, but the defeat came unexpectedly,” he added.

He described the result as a “big mind-boggling” moment, but added that in politics, such outcomes are part of the game and offer valuable lessons.

“We’ve learned a hard lesson, and while it’s a tough blow, we’ll pick up the pieces and regroup. It could happen to any politician. No one is immune to defeat” he noted.

The former NPP chair reflected on the party’s performance, noting that despite the economic hardships, the NPP’s campaign had been strong, especially with improvements in the economy by the third quarter of the year.

However, he acknowledged that the party had taken certain things for granted, which ultimately contributed to their loss.

“We did a lot during the campaign and believed we were on the right track, but unfortunately, the results didn’t reflect that. We will focus on the things we took for granted and come back stronger” he stated.

Despite the defeat, Mr. Blay remains hopeful, stating that the NPP will bounce back and continue to fight for its place in Ghana’s political landscape.

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According to Mr. Blay, such demands are impractical and lack legal basis.

“Those calling for their removal are just blowing hot air. I don’t believe John will do that. They are just talking. They don’t take the time to know the law. How do you remove the Chief Justice or the EC Chairperson? Unless there’s a petition against them with evidence of wrongdoing that leads to impeachment. If she has done something bad and you can prove it, then fine—but how do you just remove her?”

He made these remarks during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Senprogramme Monday.

He added: “Go ahead and try. Unless you walk into their offices and force them out—which is not how it works. But knowing John for who he is, I don’t believe he will go to that extent to sack them.”

Ahead of John Mahama’s inauguration on January 7, 2024, some critics, primarily from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have called for the removal of Madam Jean Mensa and Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

They accuse the EC Chairperson of partisanship and incompetence, and the Chief Justice of bias.

Joyce Bawah Mogtari, a spokesperson for former President Mahama, recently added her voice to the criticism. She called for Jean Mensa’s resignation, citing “partisanship, lack of credibility, and a lack of integrity.”

However, Freddie Blay believes these demands are unrealistic and politically charged.

“If the NDC wants to push for that, they can go ahead. But John Mahama won’t go to that extent,” he reiterated.

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“Our members told us they wouldn’t vote. They’ve been angry for a long time, and in our instance, it happened. I could see it firsthand. We had to persuade them, but unfortunately, they didn’t come out to vote” Mr. Blay said in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Monday.

Mr. Blay explained that, the NPP faced significant challenges in mobilizing its own supporters to vote.

“We had to persuade some of them to come, but they didn’t show up. That’s why there was such a low turnout, which contributed to our loss,” he added.

The former NPP Chairman also acknowledged that the difficult economic situation played a role in the party’s defeat.

“The economy struggled, and many people, especially the youth, were unemployed. Business people were also feeling the pinch and blaming the government. People expected the government to improve the economy, but the reality was different” he said.

He further noted that, while some critics claimed the NPP’s arrogance led to its defeat, he disagreed.

“It wasn’t about arrogance. People were angry, but President Nana Addo had no choice but to introduce certain taxes because of the economic conditions. Our own people were frustrated, and it affected voter turnout.”

Mr. Blay also suggested that the NPP should take time to evaluate the performance of the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.

“We need to give ourselves some time and see how the NDC government performs. If things improve, it will show that the NPP government didn’t do a good job. If not, we’ll see what we can do next.”

Mr. Blay also acknowledged that the NDC was effective in its campaign, especially in terms of ground-level propaganda.

“The NDC did a great job in distracting our members and promoting their own agenda,” he said.

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Mr Chaie has vowed the NDC will use every legal means possible to stop the swearing-in of the New Patriotic Party(NPP) candidate and MP-elect, Patrick Boamah on January 7, 2025.

“It will not happen that Patrick Boamah will be sworn in. He can never represent the people of Okaikwei Central; he was not voted for. There are laws in Ghana and it will take its course,” he stated.

Mr Boamah, the incumbent MP was on Saturday, December 21, declared the winner of the disputed election after a re-collation.

He secured 21,099 votes to retain his seat, defeating his sole challenger, the NDC’s Abdulai Abu Baba Abubakar Sadiq who garnered 19,368 votes but was earlier declared winner.

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Monday, the former Ablekuma Central MP declared the NDC will not accept the re-collation and declaration.

According to him, the process was marred with fraudulent acts, alleging Baba Sadiq’s results were swapped with that of Patrick Boamah.

“The EC officials brought their own pinks sheets so the figures the political parties had were different and that is what we were drawing the attention of Jean Mensa but she refused because they knew what they were doing.

“But Patrick will not go to Parliament. We can’t do this to ourselves. He is my friend but the truth is just one,” he said.

Mr Chaie further indicated that, the outcome of the 2024 election demands an overhaul of the Electoral Commission(EC).

The re-collation exercise was part of a broader effort by the EC to address disputes in nine constituencies, in compliance with a directive from the Accra High Court.

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According to him, these buildings cannot be considered as hospitals if they lack essential medical resources to ensure healthcare delivery.

President Akufo-Addo on December 5, 2024, commissioned the Atwima Kwanwoma Municipal Hospital at Trede and the Oforikrom Municipal Hospital in the Ashanti Region under the Agenda 111 project.

Ahead of the commissioning, the Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr Anthony Nsiah-Asare announced there was a complete 100-bed hospital with an accident and emergency centre, with a neonatal unit and paediatric unit.

Additionally, he mentioned a maternity home, kitchen, mortuary, OPD, pharmacy, X-ray, and a laboratory, touting it as a complete hospital.

However, the Ranking Member Parliament Health Committee on Asempa FM Ekosii Sen programme indicated that, the hospitals are incomplete and not operational.

“The three they commissioned is even empty. There is nothing inside. Can anybody seek medical treatment there? A hospital is not a shrine to be worshipped but for people to seek treatment.

“If we have veronica buckets and thermometers in a hospital, it doesn’t mean all that is what is required for a hospital to be operational,” he stated.

Mr Akandoh noted that, the Mahama Transition Team in the coming days will update Ghanaians on the state of the health facilities.

He further claimed that, there is no dedicated funding to ensure continuity of the projects by the next government.

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Mr. Adofo stated that if the victims’ family or anyone else is dissatisfied with the outcome, they have the right to pursue a case, but he cautioned that the ruling is likely to stand.

“The law has been made, and there’s little they can do about it. The family complaining also has a case, but the law has spoken,” he said.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he further suggested that the issue lies with lawmakers.

“We should be talking to our Members of Parliament to make laws that can change this. It’s not about complaining now, but about working to amend the law so that future cases don’t end in such unsatisfactory rulings. If we fail to make laws that amend these outdated regulations, it will always go against us as citizens. The MPs have failed us in this regard by not bringing these issues to our attention,” he stated.

The case stems from the tragic accident in East Legon, in which 16-year-old Justine Agbenu lost her life, and another victim also passed away.

The juvenile responsible for the fatal collision was sentenced to six months at the Senior Correctional Centre, the maximum penalty permitted under the current Juvenile Justice Act of 2003 (Act 653).

However, lawyer Adofo stated that if the family decides to appeal this ruling, it may not be successful, but the family can still pursue civil remedies against the parents of the offender to seek compensation.

While some advocate for harsher penalties, others emphasize the importance of maintaining a rehabilitative approach to juvenile justice.

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“You cannot repeat a student right now under the Free SHS policy because the government is providing a scholarship for that student, and it cannot be granted twice” he said.

He further explained that if a student enters Form 1, the government has already funded their education for that year.

“If that student repeats Form 1, it means the government is paying fees twice for that student, which creates a financial burden on the government,” he said in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Thursday.

Due to this, he said, the option of repeating a student is no longer available.

“There’s no pressure for students to learn since there are schools in Ghana where students simply don’t attend class, and whether they fail or not, they are automatically promoted,” Mr. Carbonu noted.

He referred to this practice as “wholesale promotion” because of the funding constraints that prevent students from being held back.

“Some head teachers have tried to request that certain students be repeated, but they’ve been unsuccessful. The question is: Where would you get the funding to pay for that student?.It is not government policy, so students are automatically promoted, with no repetition or withdrawal” he noted.

In his view, the Free SHS policy functions like a scholarship for each student.

“When a student is repeated, it means the government is paying for their education again, which goes against the government’s financial interests. This is a serious issue, and it’s something that should be addressed. Some head teachers have complained to me many times, but they feel powerless to do anything about it” he said.

Going forward, Mr. Carbonu called for a dialogue on the matter and urged government to reconsider its stance.

“When there’s a proper conversation, the government should admit that students who need to be repeated should be allowed to do so,” he concluded.

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Full text: EC’s update on outstanding results of 9 constituencies