Speaking in an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, January 29, Dr. Draman noted that this is not the first time such allegations have surfaced, referencing past incidents in both the Seventh and Eighth Parliaments.

This follows human rights activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor’s apology to Parliament’s Appointments Committee for accusing them of demanding money from ministerial nominees before granting their approval after being vetted.

Speaking during his appearance before the committee, Mr. Barker-Vormawor stated that his comments were not intended to harm the committee’s reputation.

“I want to make it clear that my post was not meant to disparage any member of the committee. I did not intend to imply that committee members received or demanded bribes from any individual. For this reason, I apologise,” he said.

However, Dr. Draman expressed disappointment that Parliament had not taken significant steps to investigate the matter, stating that such inaction could damage the institution’s credibility.

“I would have thought that, with this kind of very serious allegation, Parliament itself would take a lot of interest in making sure the matter is investigated properly and then we are given some clarity, particularly one that clears the name of Parliament and the committee. But that’s not what we have seen,” he said.

He also echoed Speaker Alban Bagbin’s recent statement that “respect is earned,” emphasizing that the current controversies surrounding the Appointments Committee are unprecedented.

Dr. Draman warned that failure to address these allegations could set a dangerous precedent, where future nominees might exploit the system.

“Tomorrow, somebody would say the same thing and then come before the committee and say, ‘I’m sorry.’ And people might be asking the question, was there any negotiation? Was there any discussion to sweep this under the carpet?”

He stressed that it was in the best interest of Parliament to ensure a transparent investigation, as public trust in the institution is already low. Citing Afrobarometer data and other surveys, he pointed out that MPs are frequently perceived as corrupt by the public.

“When you have this adding to that, I believe it is not doing any good to their own image. So it might be in their own interest to make sure that this matter is properly investigated and then their names are cleared once and for all,” he added.

The others are Tiah Ibrahim, North East Regional Minister-designate; Frank Amoakohene, Ashanti Regional Minister-designate; and Akamugri Atanga Donatus, Upper East Regional Minister-designate.

However, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah’s approval came despite initial opposition from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

He noted that there was a directive from the NPP regarding concerns over the ministerial nominee’s conduct, which must be addressed.

He emphasized that until this matter is resolved, the Minority’s objections would remain.

The opposition stemmed from Armah-Kofi Buah’s refusal to retract or apologize for comments he made about former President Akufo-Addo’s final State of the Nation Address on January 3, 2025.

During his vetting on Monday, Armah-Kofi Buah acknowledged that his remarks, which were widely seen as harsh or inappropriate, were not intended to offend the former President but rather reflected the prevailing circumstances at the time.

However, he declined to offer a retraction or apology.

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Speaking during a parliamentary session on January 28, Mr. Bagbin expressed concern over the committee’s conduct.

He said: “…Even members themselves don’t take them [Appointments Committee] seriously. I think we need to. But before we ask for our pound of flesh, respect is earned.”

He reminded the committee of the structured guidelines governing their work and urged them to uphold the integrity of the process.

“Please, Appointments Committee, we have crafted rules on how the Appointments Committee should conduct the business of public hearings. That is the term used—public hearing of nominees of the President. I’m not too sure there’s a reference to those rules in what I am witnessing myself.”

This follows the Appointments Committee coming under intense public criticism over the past two weeks during the vetting of President John Mahama’s ministerial nominees.

The Chairman has been accused of failing to control proceedings, allowing frequent interruptions, and undermining the efficiency of the hearings.

Speaker Bagbin revealed that he had received numerous complaints from both local and international observers regarding the committee’s conduct.

He used the opportunity to caution members, saying, “This is an opportunity for me to draw your attention to it, that please, respect is earned. How we behave or misbehave will determine how the people behave towards us or misbehave towards us.”

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Despite the controversy surrounding his selection for the top revenue mobilization role, Sarpong remains focused on optimizing limited resources to boost government revenue for national development.

He was the guest speaker at the African Tax Administration Forum held in Accra.

On Monday, January 27, a group of aggrieved youth, believed to be linked to the NDC, gathered at the headquarters of the GRA to protest the appointment of Kwesi Sarpong as Acting Commissioner-General.

President John Dramani Mahama announced Sarpong’s appointment on January 21, assigning him the critical role of overseeing Ghana’s tax collection and revenue mobilization efforts.

Mr. Sarpong, a highly accomplished accountant and auditor, previously served as a Senior Partner at KPMG, a globally respected auditing and consulting firm.

His appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Ghana’s revenue systems, especially at a time when the government is under pressure to meet fiscal targets and stabilize the economy.

Despite his qualifications, some NDC members have opposed the appointment, citing concerns over Mr. Sarpong’s alleged ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). This has raised questions about his loyalty to the government’s revenue agenda and the potential influence of the ruling party over key institutions.

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According to him, the Committee is mandated to vet ministerial nominees and not probe contempt issues, hence must stick to that.

Mr. Dafeamekpor made this statement amidst disagreements during the Committee’s session on Wednesday when social activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor was asked to substantiate his bribery allegation against them.

The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, on Tuesday, when the matter came to the Committee’s attention, called for an immediate suspension of the vetting process, stressing that they must purge themselves.

The vetting, however, proceeded as scheduled, with Mr. Barker-Vormawor summoned to appear before the House on Wednesday.

Speaking during the sitting, Mr. Dafeamekpor asserted that the Committee members could not act as judges in their own court.

“So I believe that the possible procedure to take, upon the invitation of the possible contempt… of his lawyers and having admitted to the statement or one of the statements in question, Mr. Chairman, with all due respect, we would have made a referral to the appropriate Committee of Parliament, which is the Committee on Privileges. Then we can proceed to our mandate, which is to vet,” he explained.

He emphasized that the issue must be referred to the Privileges Committee for appropriate action.

“So this matter must be disgorged and hived off to the Committee of Privileges. We are not mandated, and we cannot, in the present exercise, however preliminary it is. For me, it’s a journey to nowhere. We can’t make that determination. Our mandate under (217) is to vet ministerial nominees,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Mr. Barker-Vormawor, who denied making the allegation, was made to apologize and is expected to issue a disclaimer after stating he had no intentions of disparaging the Committee.

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Bleboo, a business leader with financial expertise, emphasized that Keta’s economic potential remains largely untapped, particularly in tourism and local enterprise development.

He stressed the need for innovative financial strategies to attract investment into the municipality, stating, “With the right financial models and stakeholder partnerships, we can create sustainable businesses that provide jobs and drive economic growth in Keta.”

A key priority for Bleboo is the completion of the second phase of the Sea Defense project, which he described as essential for protecting coastal communities from erosion.

He also highlighted the economic benefits of a harbor, arguing that such infrastructure would not only enhance trade but also create new business opportunities.

“A well-planned harbor will complement our sea defense efforts and attract commercial activities, boosting the local economy,” he noted.

Beyond large-scale projects, Bleboo underscored the importance of community-led development, citing his experience in financial engineering as a tool to unlock resources for grassroots initiatives.

He proposed a public-private partnership model where local businesses, chiefs, and financial institutions collaborate to fund and execute minor infrastructure projects. “Some individuals and organizations within the municipality have more resources than the assembly itself. If we engage them effectively, we can initiate self-help projects that benefit all,” he explained.

Touching on tourism, Bleboo described Keta’s beaches as an underutilized asset that, if properly developed, could generate significant revenue. He pledged to work with tourism stakeholders to create a strateg

ic plan that positions Keta as a prime destination for both local and international visitors. “We need to turn our natural beauty into an economic engine. A thriving tourism sector means more jobs and better livelihoods for our people,” he added.

Illegal sand winning, a major environmental challenge in the municipality, also featured prominently in his vision. He assured that under his leadership, there would be a strong regulatory framework developed through stakeholder consultations to manage sand mining sustainably. “We cannot continue to lose our coastline. It is crucial that we sit with all parties involved to chart a path that balances economic needs with environmental protection,” he stated.

Bleboo concluded by reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance, emphasizing that continuous dialogue with traditional leaders, business owners, and residents would be the foundation of his administration. “No leader can succeed in isolation. The future of Keta depends on deliberate engagement with all stakeholders to drive development,” he said.

His vetting in Ho marks a crucial step in his bid to lead the Keta Municipality, as he aims to leverage his financial expertise and leadership skills to drive economic prosperity and sustainable development.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, 29 January, the caucus described Ms. Hardcastle’s actions on Tuesday, 28 January 2025, as one of the most “flagrant attacks on parliamentary dignity in recent memory.” They are calling for stern sanctions against her.

According to the statement, Ms. Hardcastle attempted to direct Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh, on how to carry out his parliamentary duties and went further to describe a senior Member of Parliament as “silly.”

The Minority caucus sees this as a serious assault on the authority of Parliament.

“Such conduct strikes at the very foundation of our democracy and must be met with the full force of parliamentary sanctions,” the statement read.

The issue was raised on the floor of Parliament by Hon. Annoh-Dompreh, where both Minority and Majority MPs expressed outrage over Ms. Hardcastle’s actions. The bipartisan condemnation, according to the Minority, reflects Parliament’s firm stance against any behavior that undermines its authority.

The statement also referenced a past ruling in the case of Hon. K. T. Hammond v. William Ampem Darko, which established that no member of the public has the authority to direct or verbally attack an MP for carrying out their parliamentary duties. This precedent, they argue, reinforces the need for strict action against Ms. Hardcastle.

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The altercation between Ms. Hardcastle and Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh occurred on Tuesday during the vetting of Defence Minister-designate Dr. Edward Omane Boamah.

Tensions flared after Ms. Hardcastle reportedly referred to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus as a “Micro-Minority,” leading to a confrontation.

Reacting to the incident, Mr. Odike, in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, described Ms. Hardcastle’s behavior as disrespectful and inappropriate.

“What is painful in this country is that people work hard to pay taxes, yet those in high offices still disrespect us. Mahama needs to fire her because that attitude is uncalled for. Respect and consideration for others are signs of an educated person,” Mr. Odike stated.

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Addressing Parliament on 29th January 2025, he emphasised the need to secure the financial well-being of former lawmakers, arguing that a well-supported retirement plan would strengthen the institution of Parliament and promote integrity among its members.

He noted that many MPs dedicate decades of their lives to public service but retire without a structured pension scheme, which could leave them financially vulnerable.

Mr. Ayariga’s proposal introduces an innovative funding mechanism, suggesting that the pension scheme be financed through revenues from carbon credits rather than relying on taxpayers.

He explained that Ghana could generate revenue by selling carbon credits from environmental projects, such as afforestation and renewable energy initiatives, on international markets.

A portion of these proceeds would then be allocated to the pension fund for retired MPs.

This approach, he argued, would not only secure lawmakers’ futures but also incentivise Parliament to prioritise climate action and environmental sustainability.

Drawing from international examples, the Majority Leader cited pension schemes for legislators in the United Kingdom and Kenya, both of which provide financial security for retired MPs. He pointed out that Ghanaian parliamentarians, some of whom serve for over 20 years, currently retire without a structured pension.

He warned that the lack of financial security could expose MPs to undue influence and corruption while in office, undermining the integrity of the legislature.

A pension scheme, he argued, would help prevent such vulnerabilities and ensure a more independent and effective Parliament.

Beyond financial security, Mr. Ayariga emphasised that linking MPs’ pensions to carbon credits would drive legislative action on environmental issues.

He outlined several ways Parliament could promote sustainability, including developing laws on climate change mitigation, encouraging renewable energy adoption, and supporting afforestation projects.

He expressed confidence that this model would align Ghana’s legislative priorities with global climate goals while securing long-term benefits for retired parliamentarians.

The Majority Leader moved for the House to establish a committee to consider proposals for setting up the pension scheme based on carbon credit revenues.

He acknowledged potential challenges, such as fluctuations in carbon credit prices, but maintained that a well-managed system with transparent oversight could provide a sustainable solution.

He urged his colleagues to support the initiative, describing it as a step towards ensuring both financial security for lawmakers and a greener future for Ghana.

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According to him, he has always been a committed member of the Convention People’s Party (CPP) and votes for the party in every election.

Mr Barker-Vormawor made this statement when he appeared before the Appointments Committee on Wednesday in relation to his bribery allegation.

“I have never been an NDC member. I have always been a CPP member. I have always stood by the principles of the CPP,” he stated.

He further emphasized that his political actions and statements align with the values and ideology of the CPP.

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During a session on Wednesday, when Barker-Vormawor appeared before the Committee, Mr. Boamah emphasized that the activist must face the consequences of his actions. He referenced two social media posts made by Barker-Vormawor on January 24 and 25, 2025, where he claimed that nominees were paying for approval. Mr. Boamah stressed that such serious allegations should not go unaddressed.

“He did not issue a disclaimer to that post to date. He is before us denying the origins of these posts. It is about four days later, and he has not issued a disclaimer to these posts. And he comes here to tell us that he doesn’t know about it,” Mr. Boamah remarked.

The MP’s comments followed Barker-Vormawor’s denial of authorship of the controversial cryptic message, which had sparked a social media uproar.

“How fake and dishonest can a person be, to claim he did not know the origins of these posts and, after over 96 hours, still fail to issue a disclaimer?” Mr. Boamah questioned, adding that the situation was “sad and disgraceful.”

Mr. Boamah described Barker-Vormawor’s efforts to distance himself from the allegations as “an afterthought” and insisted that the activist should face consequences for his actions.

In response, Barker-Vormawor assured the Committee that he would remove the post and issue a formal disclaimer after apologizing for the incident.

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Barker-Vormawor appeared before the Committee on Wednesday with his legal team, led by Nana Ato Dadzie.

In his address, Mr. Dadzie clarified that the controversial comments made by Barker-Vormawor were not meant to insult or undermine the Committee.

“Mr. Chairman, we apologize for the post we made, which was intended for something else,” Mr. Dadzie explained. He suggested that some posts believed to be linked to the bribery allegation did not, in fact, originate from Barker-Vormawor.

The social media post in question, which attracted mixed reactions, read: “So all the monies the ministerial appointees are being asked to pay to the Appointments Committee just to get approved, are those ones not affected by ORAL? Strange Republic.”

The cryptic nature of the statement, combined with a direct mention of the Appointments Committee, sparked public speculation.

However, when he appeared before the Committee, Barker-Vormawor distanced himself from the words, claiming that the post appeared on an NPP Project Bureau Facebook account and he did not know the source.

The activist also expressed willingness to delete the post and issue a disclaimer to clear up any confusion.

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Speaking during a tour of agencies under his ministry on Monday, Mr. Agbodza emphasized the urgent need to enhance the country’s road network to support economic growth and improve citizens’ quality of life.

He highlighted the importance of sustainability and cost-effectiveness in road projects, adding that his team will seek professional input to determine whether incomplete projects should remain active or be put on hold until sufficient funding is secured.

Mr. Agbodza, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Adaklu, expressed his commitment to advocating for the removal of the cap on the Roads Fund.

He argued that the current restrictions hinder the road sector’s development and prevent adequate financing of key projects.

The Minister pledged to work collaboratively with staff, contractors, and stakeholders to address challenges in the sector, stating that finding practical solutions is his primary responsibility.

“Our roads are critical to Ghana’s development, and we must ensure that all projects deliver value for money and meet the needs of our people,” he affirmed.

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Nana Ato Dadzie, lawyer for political activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has stated that his client’s social media post alleging bribery within Parliament’s Appointments Committee is fake.

He further clarified that the post was not directed at the committee.

“The statement is fake; this is not coming from Mr. Vormawor. He never posted that statement. The statement reads: ‘NDC members on the Appointments Committee take monies from Mahama’s ministerial nominees before approving them, and the Deputy Speaker must submit himself to ORAL.’ This is not from Mr. Vormawor,” he clarified.

Nana Ato Dadzie made these remarks when they appeared before the committee for interrogation over the post, which has sparked public outrage.

“It is not directed at the Appointments Committee in any way. It was completely not directed at the Appointments Committee; it is only intended to expose certain matters,” he explained.

He added that the post was meant to inform the public about reports that had come to Barker-Vormawor’s attention, emphasizing that his client was acting as a whistleblower.

Mr. Dadzie, however, apologized on behalf of Mr. Barker-Vormawor.

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Mahama Ayariga strongly refuted the allegations and called on Barker-Vormawor to substantiate his claims.

“The issue of protecting your integrity is sometimes even more important than the substance of what you do, because you will go very far if you are perceived to have integrity,” the Bawku Central MP stated.

“I heard what he said, and the chairman reached out. I said, call him—let him come. If he has anything and can substantiate it, we need to deal with it openly and transparently,” he added.

Ayaria emphasized the need for concrete evidence, reiterating his own lack of awareness of any such activities within the Appointments Committee.

“You spent a few days on the committee. What personal knowledge or otherwise do you have to share on these claims being made, that some monies were paid to members of the committee to approve some of the nominees? I am unaware of any such thing. That’s why I think he should come. Maybe he has something because, in this country, all sorts of things happen,” he said.

He also shared an anecdote about encountering someone in the private sector who assumed they needed to “help” their sector minister get approved.

“I actually met somebody who operates in a sector, and the person said, ‘Oh, our minister is being considered this week, so we want to go and help him.’ And I asked, ‘Has your sector minister asked you to come and help him?’ They said no but insisted on mobilizing resources. I told them clearly, ‘There is no need for you to do this. None of the nominees has a problem,’” Ayariga narrated.

He stressed that such perceptions of bribery or undue influence undermine the integrity of the Appointments Committee and must be addressed head-on.

“If he [Barker-Vormawor] has anything about money being handed over to members of the Appointments Committee, he should just come, and we’ll look into it. I encourage it—not just in this instance but in any other instance. We want to build institutions that have integrity, are credible, and that Ghanaians have trust and confidence in,” Ayariga emphasized.

The Majority Leader further questioned the motivation behind such allegations, especially given the current parliamentary dynamics.

“NDC is in power. We have 184 members, plus four independent members—two of whom are originally NDC members and the other two aligned with us. We can approve anybody. No nominee needs to give anybody money because, as a party, you will be whipped in line to vote according to the party’s interest,” Ayariga explained.

He further explained that if there were any significant issues with a nominee, they would be addressed through formal petitions or by referring the matter back to the President.

“If it’s revealed through a petition or something that there’s something fundamentally wrong with a nominee, we’ll go back to His Excellency and say, ‘Please, Excellency, we know your standards. This person doesn’t meet them. Can you withdraw the nomination?’ Otherwise, most of the nominees are sitting members of Parliament, and constitutionally, they are already qualified to be ministers of state,” he stated.

Ayariga concluded by reiterating his belief that the claims lack merit.

“You do not need to give anybody anything. I have not seen it. So, I’ll be surprised if he comes up with anything tomorrow. I’ll be surprised. But I encourage every other person who has evidence to come forward,” he said.

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According to him, he resigned from the position following the NDC’s victory in the 2024 election.

“I took up the job for IT and Elections with the NDC, and after the elections, I informed them that my job was over,” he announced.

Dr. Boamah made these comments during his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, addressing concerns regarding his impartiality.

“No Ghanaian should have any fear about my impartiality. In fact, I could be the chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) and remain impartial,” he stated.

He reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and transparency in his new role, emphasizing that his political background would not influence his actions.

Dr. Boamah also expressed confidence that his professional journey, which has always been about fulfilling his roles and responsibilities, would ensure the same commitment to his new position.

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According to him, he resigned from the position following the NDC’s victory in the 2024 election.

“I took up the job for IT and Elections with the NDC, and after the elections, I informed them that my job was over,” he announced.

Dr. Boamah made these comments during his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, addressing concerns regarding his impartiality.

“No Ghanaian should have any fear about my impartiality. In fact, I could be the chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) and remain impartial,” he stated.

He reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and transparency in his new role, emphasizing that his political background would not influence his actions.

Dr. Boamah also expressed confidence that his professional journey, which has always been about fulfilling his roles and responsibilities, would ensure the same commitment to his new position.

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According to Article 89(1) of the 1992 Constitution, the Council of State is “to counsel the President in the performance of his functions.”

Who are the members of the Council of State?

The Council of State consists of:

(a) The following persons appointed by the President in consultation with Parliament—

1. One person who has previously held the office of Chief Justice;
2. One person who has previously held the office of Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Ghana;
3. One person who has previously held the office of Inspector General of Police;

(b) The President of the National House of Chiefs;

(c) One representative from each region of Ghana elected, in accordance with regulations made by the Electoral Commission under article 51 of this Constitution, by an electoral college comprising representatives from each of the districts in the region nominated by the District Assemblies in the region; and

(d) Eleven other members appointed by the President.

How are regional representatives elected?

The election of regional representatives is conducted by the Electoral Commission on the first-past-the-post formula. Election of the Council of State is not open to the general voting public but through an Electoral College made up of two (2) representatives nominated by each District Assembly.

Who can contest as a candidate? 

Any registered voter who is a citizen of Ghana and of sound mind, can contest as a candidate.

When and where will the elections be organised?

The elections will take place on Tuesday, 11th February, 2025, at all regional capitals.

Where can one pick a nomination form?

Forms can be downloaded from the website of the Electoral Commission.

His challenge comes in response to allegations made by lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who claimed that the Appointments Committee demanded money from nominees in exchange for their approval.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Ayariga dismissed the claims, emphasizing that integrity in governance is paramount.

“The issue of protecting your integrity is sometimes even more important than the substance of what you do because, as I indicated, you will go very far if you are perceived to have integrity,” the Bawku Central MP stated.

“For me, spending time to really erase all doubts regarding your integrity is very important.”

Ayariga revealed that upon hearing about the allegations, he urged the Chairman of the Appointments Committee to invite Barker-Vormawor to substantiate his claims.

“I said, call him, let him come. And if he has anything and he can substantiate it, we need to deal with it openly and transparently,” he said.

“At least, he spent a few days on the committee. What personal knowledge or otherwise does he have to share on these claims that money was paid to members of the committee to approve some nominees?”

Reaffirming his stance, Mr. Ayariga maintained that he is unaware of any such transaction.

“I am unaware of any such thing, and that is why I think he should come. Maybe he has something, maybe… because, you see, in this country, all sorts of things happen,” he added.

Sharing an anecdote, Mahama Ayariga recounted an encounter with someone from a particular sector who expressed interest in “helping” their ministerial nominee get approved.

“I actually met somebody who operates in a sector, and the person said, ‘Oh, our sector minister is being considered this week, so we want to go and help him.’ And I asked, ‘Has the sector minister asked you to come and help him?’ The person said, ‘No, no, we just want to come together and help him,’” he narrated.

The former Sports Minister categorically rejected the notion that any sector or group should mobilize funds to secure ministerial approval.

“I told the person, ‘I don’t think there’s a need for you and people in your sector to be mobilizing money that you are going to help your minister because we won’t even accept it,’” he stated.

Mr. Ayariga emphasized the importance of building institutions with integrity and credibility, stating that Parliament will always welcome individuals who come forward with evidence of wrongdoing.

“If he has anything about money being handed over to Appointments Committee members, he should just come, and we’ll look into it. And I encourage it—not just this instance, but any other instance—because we want to build institutions that have integrity, are credible, and in which Ghanaians have trust and confidence,” he stressed.

The Majority Leader also questioned the motivation behind the allegations, noting that with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in power and holding a strong parliamentary majority, there would be no need for any nominee to offer bribes for approval.

“NDC is in power. We have 184 members, and then we have four independent members. Two are actually NDC members, while the others, though not originally NDC, have agreed to do business with us. We can approve anybody,” he explained.

“No nominee needs to give anybody any money because, as a party, you will be whipped in line to vote according to the party’s interest. There’s no way any nominee has to pay for approval unless there’s something fundamentally wrong with them,” Mahama Ayariga continued.

“And in that instance, if it is revealed through a petition or something else that there is really an issue with the nomination, we’ll go back to His Excellency and say, ‘Please, Excellency, we know your standards. This nominee does not meet them. Can you withdraw the nomination?’”

Mr. Ayariga further noted that most of the nominees are already sitting Members of Parliament, which, constitutionally, qualifies them to be ministers of state.

“If you observe, most of them are already MPs. Constitutionally, at the barest minimum, they are qualified to be ministers of state,” he said.

In conclusion, he reiterated that there was no reason for nominees to offer bribes for their approval.

“There is no single nominee there that has any challenge of being processed successfully by Parliament. So, there’s no need for anyone to give anybody anything. I have not seen it,” he insisted.

“I’ll be surprised if he comes up with anything tomorrow. I’ll be surprised.”

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However, the Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP asserted that Madam Hardcastle was not genuinely remorseful for her actions.

“We went into a conclave meeting after the incident, and many of the women, including Emeafa, came to apologize. Interestingly, after the apology, I was informed that she made a worse comment,” he said.

In an interview with Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh explained that it was Hardcastle’s actions after the apology that led him to refer the matter to Parliament.

He emphasized that he had never met or interacted with Madam Hardcastle before, making her actions difficult to understand.

“It would be a wild imagination for anyone to say we have issues in the past. It was my first time seeing her. I have never met or engaged her in any way. Also, if I had provoked her in any way, I wouldn’t have referred the matter to Parliament,” he added.

The altercation occurred during the Appointments Committee proceedings on January 28, 2025, when Defence Minister-designate Dr. Edward Omane Boamah appeared before the committee.

The session became tense after allegations of bribery by political activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor were raised.

While the exact cause of the confrontation between Hardcastle and Mr. Annoh-Dompreh remains unclear, it reportedly stemmed from a remark made by Hardcastle, who referred to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus as a ‘Micro-Minority.’ This comment reportedly triggered a back-and-forth exchange between the two.

Madam Hardcastle’s actions have been widely condemned, with calls from Tamale South MP and Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, for a public apology.

Listen to Mr Annoh-Dompreh in the audio above:

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This milestone follows his distinguished 20-year tenure in the Parliament of Ghana, where he made significant contributions to the country’s financial landscape.

Avedzi’s impressive parliamentary career includes serving as Chairman of the Finance Committee from 2009 to 2017 and later as Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, while concurrently holding the position of Deputy Minority Leader of Parliament.

His expertise in finance and accounting has been instrumental in shaping Ghana’s fiscal policies.

With an MBA in Finance and Accounting from the University of Liverpool and credentials as a Chartered Accountant (ICA-G Chartered), Avedzi brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role at the SEC.

Born with an insatiable passion for numbers and a drive to make a difference, Avedzi embarked on a journey that would take him to the pinnacle of public service.

Growing up, he was fascinated by the world of finance and accounting, which led him to earn his Chartered Accountant certification from the Institute of Chartered Accountants (Ghana) in 2001.

Avedzi’s professional journey began in the Ministry of Tourism, where he served as an Accountant from 1995 to 1997. His exceptional skills and work ethic quickly earned him recognition, leading to his appointment as Deputy Chief Accountant at the Ministry of Health Headquarters.

In 2001, Avedzi became the Head of the Financial Reporting Unit at the Ministry of Health. His innovative approach to financial reporting led to the development of computerized accounting reporting systems, REPAC and PROAC, which streamlined financial reporting and enhanced transparency in public financial management.

In 2005, Avedzi was elected as a Member of Parliament for the Ketu North Constituency. His dedication to public service earned him a reputation as a champion of accountability and transparency.

As Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) from 2017 to 2025, he played a pivotal role in ensuring that public institutions and MDAs were held accountable for their financial management.

Throughout his career, Avedzi has received numerous accolades, including an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from the European American University in 2010.

James Klutse Avedzi stands as a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a passion for service. His legacy inspires future generations of public servants, accountants, and leaders.

As he takes on his new role at the SEC, Avedzi is poised to bring his exceptional leadership skills and financial acumen to the forefront, ensuring stability and confidence in Ghana’s capital markets.

On a personal note, James Avedzi is a devoted husband and father of four. His journey from a passionate young accountant to a trailblazer in public service and finance exemplifies the values of excellence, integrity, and service.

“I won’t allow her to have her way. Whatever she has to do to apologise to Parliament, she must. She cannot sit down and denigrate Parliament,” he said.

This follows a heated exchange that ensued between them during the vetting of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister-Designate for Defence, when the Appointments Committee took a brief recess.

During this break, a verbal altercation, a video from which has gone viral occurred between Annoh-Dompreh and Madam Hardcastle.

The Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP claimed that as he was leaving the room, Madam Hardcastle made remarks such as, “You are threatening me that you are taking me on because who are you? What do you mean by taking me on? You are a micro-minority. Doesn’t Afenyo-Markin himself use that phrase? I don’t have time for that. You think you can bully me here?”

But Mr. Annoh-Dompreh in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, responded firmly that he would take her on, stressing the seriousness of the exchange.

“I didn’t insult her. But I won’t let her denigrate the Parliament of Ghana. If I had acted that way towards her as a respected lawyer, I would have been condemned, and I won’t condone such behaviour from her.

“The world is round, and people should understand that. I believe she had already made up her mind to confront me even before she left home. I’m shocked that a woman would verbally abuse a man. This is something that should not be tolerated,” Annoh-Dompreh clarified.

The lawmaker acknowledged that the verbal exchange might have stemmed from comments he made in Parliament, which possibly angered Hardcastle.

Annoh-Dompreh also stressed that he did not provoke Hardcastle and is carefully considering how to proceed.

“I’m convinced my statements in Parliament triggered her reaction. I am thinking through the process very carefully. I will exhaust all internal arrangements within Parliament, and after that, we will decide the way forward, or not,” he stated.

While expressing his concerns, he said he was leaving the matter to the Speaker of Parliament, who had promised to settle it.

He added, “I know that history will judge us. I have been quiet, waiting to see how this unfolds. But I won’t allow this matter to die. We will go through the full cycle of the process to ensure the right thing is done.”

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Speaking on Tuesday, January 28, during a plenary session, Speaker Bagbin called for a resolute and uncompromising stance against galamsey, which he described as a significant contributor to environmental destruction across Ghana.

He reminded MPs of their responsibility as leaders and role models to uphold the law and avoid actions that harm the nation’s environment.

“Honourable members, galamsey must be confronted head-on. If any of you happen to be involved in galamsey, please advise yourself. You must be prepared, as a House, to bite the bullet. We must lead and show the way. And please, if I get any information that any of you is involved in galamsey, we will start taking the necessary action from the House,” Speaker Bagbin declared.

The Speaker’s remarks come amidst growing concerns over illegal mining’s continued destruction of water bodies and forests.

Despite various government efforts, including task forces, bans, and military interventions, galamsey remains a persistent challenge, largely due to the complicity of powerful individuals.

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Speaking on PM Express on Tuesday, January 28, the Bawku Central MP shared his thoughts on his new role and the principles that have guided his political journey.

“It is exciting to be sitting there,” he began, reflecting on his appointment following the swearing-in of his predecessor, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as Finance Minister.

“In my career, I have been an assemblyman, an MP, Deputy Minister of State, Minister of State, and even a presidential spokesperson. The only thing I really have never been is to lead that caucus in the chamber.

“So, it comes with some sense of satisfaction that ultimately, I am leading in the chamber at a time when we have such an overwhelming majority and our party is in power.”

Mr. Ayariga expressed gratitude to his colleagues in Parliament and the leadership of the NDC, acknowledging their trust in him for the position.

“I really thank my colleagues for deciding to support my nomination as their leader, and I thank the party leadership. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who has been a former member of Parliament and understands the House very well, has been instrumental.

“The General Secretary was my colleague for about eight to twelve years, and President John Mahama, the leader of our party, who was also a colleague in Parliament and is now my boss, has shown incredible faith in me.”

He reflected on his political career with pride but stressed that he has never actively pursued positions of leadership.

“To tell you the truth, it’s not a position that I have ever actively gone out there to seek. At all times when the party is about to choose leadership, my name has always been out there. But I’ve never really gone out there pursuing it,” the former Sports Minister revealed.

For Mr Ayariga, the essence of leadership lies in the confidence of one’s peers rather than personal ambition.

“I believe that leadership should be conferred on you when your colleagues, your peers, develop enough confidence in you to believe that you should lead. And so, I don’t go out there seeking positions.

“All my bosses, they will tell you, I’ve never really gone out there to seek a position. I always wait. If my peers, my colleagues, and my party people feel that I can play a certain role very well, and they approach me, I just proceed.”

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, January 28, he shared his thoughts on his appointment, which was announced last week following the swearing-in of his predecessor, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as Finance Minister.

“It is exciting to be sitting there,” Ayariga said with a smile.

“In my career, I have been an assemblyman, a member of parliament, a Deputy Minister of State, a Minister of State, and even a presidential spokesperson. But leading the NDC caucus in the chamber is something I had never done before. So, it comes with a sense of satisfaction that, ultimately, I get to lead at a time when we have an overwhelming majority and our party is in power. I’m happy.”

Mr. Ayariga expressed deep gratitude to his colleagues for supporting his nomination and to the leadership of the NDC, including General Secretary Johnson Asiedu Nketia and President John Mahama, both of whom he described as trusted colleagues and mentors.

“I really thank my colleagues for their confidence in me,” he said.

“And I also thank the party leadership – Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who understands the house very well from his time as a member of parliament, and President Mahama, who was my colleague in Parliament and is now my boss. Their support means a lot.”

The Majority Leader revealed that, despite his extensive political experience, he never actively sought leadership positions, including his current one.

For Ayariga, leadership is about earning the trust and confidence of one’s peers rather than chasing titles.

“To tell you the truth, it’s not a position I have ever actively gone out to seek. Every time the party is about to choose leadership, my name has always been out there, but I’ve never really pursued it,” he explained.

“I believe leadership should be conferred on you when your peers and colleagues develop enough confidence in you to lead. I don’t go out seeking positions. I just wait—if they feel I can play a certain role well, and they approach me, I proceed.”

The seasoned politician spoke with a tone of humility and pride as he reflected on his journey, emphasising his belief in service and trust.

His appointment comes at a time when the NDC enjoys a strong majority in Parliament, a fact that Mr. Ayariga sees as both an opportunity and a responsibility.

“This role is significant not just for me, but for the collective work we’re doing as a party and as representatives of the people. I’m excited to take on the challenge and work closely with my colleagues to advance our agenda,” Ayariga concluded.

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The Shai-Osudoku Member of Parliament (MP) appeared before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.

Unlike her colleagues, who faced longer questioning sessions, she was not asked many questions.

Defence Minister-nominee, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, who appeared earlier, faced the committee for five hours.

However, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin noted that the delegation accompanying Madam Ocloo was formidable, demonstrating her competence to run the Ministry.

The Chairman, Bernard Ahiafor, acknowledged the nominee’s guests and discharged Linda.

In total, the nominee spent less than 10 minutes before the committee.

If approved, she is expected to focus on urban development, youth empowerment, and strengthening public services in the region.

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This remark followed a tense disagreement over a document Alexander Afenyo-Markin had presented to Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, relating to comments the nominee made about the Ghana International School (GIS) land issue.

During the vetting session on Tuesday, January 28, Mr. Afenyo-Markin pressed Dr. Boamah on the authenticity of his earlier claims.

On September 5, 2024, Dr. Boamah condemned what he described as the activities of “land looters” under the NPP administration.

His remarks came after an attempted land grab at GIS in Cantonments, Accra, which was thwarted by the school’s security team and local police.

Dr. Boamah had commended the school’s management for standing firm against what he called “liberal land looters.”

Mr. Afenyo-Markin sought clarification on these comments, which led to a heated exchange.

The nominee argued that he believed the matter had already been settled and suggested that the incident could involve an investor acting without government approval, rather than being linked to the NPP.

“But I said, I don’t believe that kind of situation is the case, and I promise here that I will investigate it as a citizen of Ghana to get to the bottom of it. So I felt we had settled this matter about GIS land,” he explained.

However, Mr. Afenyo-Markin clarified that he was not challenging Dr. Omane Boamah’s statements.

Instead, he explained that Dr. Omane’s earlier comments had not fully addressed the issue, which was why he revisited the question.

In response, Dr. Boamah questioned whether Mr. Afenyo-Markin was abandoning the GIS land issue.

The Minority Leader did not take kindly to this and retorted, “Dr., if you want to do politics with me, then don’t get irritated when we start the politics.”

Mr. Afenyo-Markin then added, “Let me remind you on a lighter note, that the fact that I’m grilling you does not mean that when you get there [Ministry of Defence] and you are supposed to give protocol allocation, you deny me.”

He further stated that in the past, committee members from the National Democratic Congress side had benefited from protocol allocations even more than their NPP counterparts.

“When I was a Defence Committee member, your ranking – your members benefited. I am saying it on authority, they did, and they even had more than we the NPP members,” Mr. Afenyo-Marking stated.

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Contributing to a panel discussion on the Joy Prime Morning Show on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Mr. Quashie described the action from the Nana Akufo-Addo government as disrespectful to Ghanaians.

“If we are all in the process of righting the wrongs, which have created environmental problems for us, and then licenses are still being issued after you have lost an election, then President Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP have not taken Ghanaians seriously,” stressed Mr. Quashie.

He added that if President Akufo-Addo had the slightest respect for Ghanaians, stemming from the monumental environmental damage mining has wrought on the nation, he wouldn’t have issued even one license, especially after his party lost the election.

Juxtaposing the constitutional amendments to the mining license issuance, Mr. Quashie suggested that the Presidential Transition Act should be re-examined.

“Certain portions need to be repealed to prevent a president or government that has lost elections from making major decisions while leaving office,” he said, underscoring that an outgoing party cannot hide behind legalities to plunge the country into chaos or unreasonably overburden the incoming government. “It has not helped in this present circumstance and has not helped previously,” he stated.

The NDC SA Council of Elders chair averred that with the overwhelming NDC majority in Parliament, and with the overarching vision of contributing to governance, “I think the NDC would repeal most of these laws that have not augured well for our governance system,” Mr. Quashie hinted.

In conclusion, Mr. Quashie underscored the fact that it is still early days yet, suggesting he has a strong conviction that President Mahama will strengthen the legal framework to help combat the canker of illegal mining. “We have a duty to perform so that the Ghanaian people don’t lose hope in trusting the NDC with their mandate.

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The incident occurred on Tuesday, January 28, when Dr. Omane Boamah arrived later than expected, prompting the Minority Leader to rebuke him for tardiness.

In a surprising turn of events, it emerged that the delay was due to a miscommunication regarding the time allocated to the nominee.

After completing his vetting, Dr. Omane Boamah received a formal apology from Mr. Afenyo-Markin, who acknowledged the error and took responsibility for his earlier remarks.

“Dr. Omane Boamah, in the morning, I had certain comments with regards to the lateness, and I think some persons who listened or viewed wouldn’t, but it seems there was a miscommunication about the time that was given to you. So I want to say sorry to you,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated during the proceedings.

The Defence Minister-designate graciously accepted the apology, paving the way for a more cordial conclusion to the vetting process.

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Businessman attempted to pay for ministerial nominee’s approval – Mahama Ayariga…

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, January 28, the Bawku Central MP recounted the encounter, stating that the Appointments Committee does not demand money from nominees and urging anyone with evidence of bribery to come forward.

“I actually met somebody who operates in a sector, and the person said, ‘Oh, our minister is being considered this week, so we want to go and help him.’ And I said, ‘Has the sector minister asked you to come and help him?’ He said, ‘No, no, we just want to come together and help him,’” Mr. Ayariga narrated.

He recounted how he immediately shut down the idea, warning the individual that such mobilization was unnecessary and would not be accepted.

“I told the person, ‘I don’t think there’s a need for you and people in your sector to mobilize money that you are going to help your minister, because we won’t even accept it,’” he said.

His revelation comes in response to allegations by lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who claimed that ministerial nominees were being asked to pay bribes in exchange for parliamentary approval.

Mr. Ayariga dismissed the claims and called on Barker-Vormawor to provide proof.

“I had wind of what he said, and then the chairman reached out. I said, ‘Call him, let him come. And if he has anything and he can substantiate it, we need to deal with it openly and transparently,’” he stated.

The former Sports Minister stressed that the Appointments Committee operates with integrity and that no nominee needs to pay money to secure approval.

“You spent a few days on the committee. What personal knowledge or otherwise do you have to share on these claims being made—that some monies were paid to members of the committee to approve some of the nominees?

“I am unaware of any such thing. That’s why I think he should come. Maybe he has something, because, you see, in this country, all sorts of things happen.”

He pointed out that with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) having a majority in Parliament, there is no incentive for such payments.

“NDC is in power. We have 184 members, and then we have four other independent members. Two are actually NDC members. The others are not originally NDC but have agreed to do business with NDC. We can approve anybody. So no nominee needs to give anybody any money, because as a party, you will be whipped in line to vote according to the party’s interest,” he explained.

Mr. Ayariga further clarified that unless a nominee faces a serious issue raised through a petition, they are almost certain to be approved.

“Unless there’s something fundamentally wrong with you, and in that instance, if it’s revealed through a petition or something of that sort, we will go back to His Excellency. ‘Please, Excellency, we know your standards.

“This guy doesn’t meet your standards. Can you withdraw the nomination?’ Otherwise, every other person, most of them, are sitting members of Parliament, and constitutionally, at the barest minimum, they are qualified to be ministers of state.”

Reaffirming his stance on transparency, Mahama Ayariga encouraged anyone with credible evidence of wrongdoing to present it.

“If he has anything about some money being handed over to Appointments Committee members, he should just come, and then we’ll look into it. And I encourage it—not just this instance, but any other instance—because we want to build institutions that have integrity, that are credible, and that Ghanaians have trust and confidence in,” he emphasized.

The Majority Leader expressed skepticism about the allegations but remained open to investigation.

“I have not seen it. So I’ll be surprised if he comes up with anything tomorrow. I’ll be surprised. But we encourage every other person to come forward if they have evidence.”

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The altercation occurred at the Appointments Committee proceedings when Defence Minister-designate, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, appeared.

The session was marred by disagreements after concerns were raised about bribery allegations by Political Activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor.

The Minority demanded a suspension of the session, stating that the reputation of the committee had been tainted.

The Chairman, Bernard Ahiafor, subsequently announced a short break.

Although the exact trigger of the confrontation between Miss Hardcastle and Mr. Dompreh remains unclear, it reportedly stemmed from a remark by the former, who referred to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus as a ‘Micro-Minority.’

The comment sparked tensions, leading to a back-and-forth between the duo.

As members and guests exited the hall, the disagreement between Mr. Annoh-Dompreh and Mrs. Hardcastle became public, drawing attention from those present.

Emeafa was heard shouting: “You are threatening that you will take me on because you are who?… what do you mean you are taking me on?”

Annoh-Dompreh: “You called us Micro-Minority.”

Emeafa: “But you’re Micro-minority. Doesn’t Afenyo himself use that phrase? Don’t bring yourself. Do you think you can bully me here?”

Watch the scene below:

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Mr. Nkrumah has said such a dialogue is good and strengthens democracy.

However, the former Information Minister has stated that it should not be a session for the ruling government to backtrack on its promises.

“This is not the first time we have had such a dialogue. Before 2012, there were a series of them, and in 2014, there was another in Senchi. Akufo-Addo also held the National Policy Summit. So there must be name changes, but it looks at the same thing,” he stated.

In an interview on Asempa FM Ekosii Sen, the lawmaker emphasized that the Ghanaian youth voted massively for President Mahama with high expectations; therefore, any disappointment would be a disaster.

“It should not be business as usual. We should look at implementing solutions and not repeat mistakes of the past. We must have feasible and workable ideas,” he stated.

He reiterated the Minority’s pledge not to be a destructive opposition, stressing they will keep an eye on this dialogue.

“We will point out the good parts, critique the bad parts, and highlight places where we believe the administration is repeating some of the mistakes we made in our last term.”

“The 2025 dialogue should not repeat the mistakes of the 2014 economic forum or the 2017/2018 national policy summits,” he assured.

This was at a solemn ceremony on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Lashibi Funeral Home, Accra.

Chief Biney was deeply sorrowful as he reflected on the kind and memorable moments they shared.

In his grief, he found solace in the belief that it is God who gives and takes life.

Family, friends, colleagues, and NDC members from the executives, Women’s Wing, and Youth Wing gathered to offer their condolences.

Lucy’s children, overwhelmed with emotion, bid farewell to their devoted mother, whose kindness and nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

During the service, the Deputy Director for Special Duties, Brogya Genfi, Ghanaian actress Kasoume Sinari, and Acting Deputy Director of the National Youth Authority (NYA) Ruth Seddoh, shared words of comfort and encouragement for the family in this difficult time.

Former Deputy NDC General Secretary, Dr. Peter Boamah Otukonor, National Youth and Minister for Youth Development and Employment, Organizer George Opare-Addo also paid their respects.

Madam Lucie left behind three children whom she bore with Chief Biney.

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According to him, this decision reflects the President’s commitment to fostering national unity and continuity in governance.

Speaking during his appearance before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, 28 January, Dr. Omane Boamah commended President Mahama for resisting the urge to revert the name to its former designation, “Flagstaff House.”

He emphasized that such restraint demonstrates a focus on more pressing issues rather than engaging in symbolic controversies.

“It is by the good nature of President Mahama that he hasn’t changed the name from Jubilee House to Flagstaff House,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of prioritizing inclusivity over potentially divisive debates. He noted that this gesture underlines the President’s respect for Ghana’s historical evolution while embracing its progress.

Dr. Omane Boamah further underscored that decisions like these are significant in promoting harmony, especially in a diverse country like Ghana.

He praised the President for setting an example of how leadership can bridge differences by focusing on what unites the nation rather than what divides it.

The Defence Minister-designate concluded by expressing optimism that such thoughtful leadership will continue to guide the administration, ensuring that decisions made in governance reflect the collective interests of Ghanaians.

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John Mahama appoints Eric Adjei as Acting CEO of NEIP

Before his appointment, Eric Adjei served as the Deputy Spokesperson for Vice Presidential Candidate Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang during the 2024 general election and as Deputy Bono Regional Communicator.

The National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) has a rich history, dating back to August 2014 when it was launched as the Youth Enterprise Support (YES) under the NDC administration.

The program was later rebranded and relaunched by the NPP government in July 2017 with a renewed focus on supporting entrepreneurship and innovation.

The three-day exercise, conducted by the Regional Vetting Committee, commenced on Monday, January 27, 2025, and will assess 124 aspirants from all 12 constituencies in the region.

So far, 36 applicants from Banda, Tain, Wenchi, and Sunyani East districts have appeared before the panel. The process is expected to conclude on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Kwadwo Takyi Arhin, the Second Vice Chairman of the Bono Region NDC, has urged unsuccessful applicants to rally behind the final nominees, stressing the need for unity and collaboration to advance the region’s development.

Sulemana Adama, a member of the Regional Vetting Committee and representative of the parliamentary caucus, underscored the critical role MMDCEs play in local governance and development.

He emphasized the importance of selecting capable and dedicated leaders to drive progress across the districts.

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Asserting that his extensive background and commitment to the region equip him with a unique set of skills, Dr. Wuaku outlined a bold plan to use his position to spearhead the region’s development through education, job creation, and strategic partnerships.

A Vision for Economic Diversification and Job Creation
Dr. Wuaku made it clear that his primary goal, if elected, is to diversify the Volta Region’s economy and create sustainable jobs. Drawing on his vast network of investors, particularly within the financial and industrial sectors, he expressed his intent to attract major investments in sectors like agro-processing and manufacturing.

“I have spent my career building relationships in the investment and financial sectors. These connections will be pivotal in driving projects that will not only create jobs but also encourage local entrepreneurship in the Volta Region. We will build factories, create opportunities, and lay the foundation for a thriving local economy,” Dr. Wuaku promised.

He emphasized the importance of bringing in new industries that can provide long-term employment for the region’s youth, highlighting how such developments can also boost local agriculture, which remains a key economic activity.

A Strong Focus on Education and Youth Empowerment
Understanding that the future of the Volta Region lies in the hands of its youth, Dr. Wuaku is proposing a competitive scholarship scheme aimed at equipping young people with cutting-edge skills in fields such as information technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship. His plan seeks to ensure that young individuals from every district and municipality in Volta Region have access to the highest levels of education, with an emphasis on empowering them to become future leaders in their respective fields.

“The Volta Region has enormous potential, and that potential lies in its young people. By investing in their education, particularly in fields like IT, we will build a highly skilled workforce that can lead the region into a prosperous future. This is a key focus of my agenda,” Dr. Wuaku stated.

Leveraging Political and Party Networks for Progress
With a political career rooted in the NDC, Dr. Wuaku stressed that his long-standing membership in the party, dating back to 1992, positions him as a strong partner for effective governance in Volta Region. He is confident that an NDC-led government, under former President John Mahama, will provide the necessary political will to implement his development plans for the region.

“The NDC has a clear vision for national development, and I am committed to ensuring that Volta Region is at the heart of that vision. I have built strong political networks, both within the party and across other sectors, and these will be instrumental in ensuring that our region gets its fair share of development,” he said.

Dr. Wuaku added that his role in the Council of State will allow him to play an important part in ensuring that the government remains responsive to the needs of Volta Region.

Fostering Collaboration and Building Unity
Dr. Wuaku’s approach to governance is rooted in collaboration. He intends to work closely with all stakeholders, including local government officials, traditional leaders, and community representatives, to ensure that decisions made at the regional and national levels are reflective of the people’s needs and aspirations.

“I will work with assembly members and local leaders to ensure that Volta Region’s voice is heard in government. Our development cannot be achieved by a single individual or group—it requires collective effort, unity, and dedication to our shared vision,” he remarked.

His commitment to regular engagement with the region’s assembly members and grassroots leaders reflects his belief in the importance of local participation in decision-making processes.

A Leadership Rooted in Service to the People
Dr. Wuaku closed his remarks by reiterating his deep commitment to the service of the Volta Region and its people. He pledged to remain accessible to the community, promising that his leadership will be marked by transparency, dedication, and service to the people.

“Above all, my goal is to serve the people of Volta Region. I am not just seeking a position; I am seeking an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who call this region home. Together, we will build a region that thrives economically, socially, and politically,” he concluded.

Conclusion
With his wealth of experience, clear vision for the future, and a demonstrated commitment to his party and the people of Volta Region, Dr. Kofi David Wuaku’s candidacy for the Council of State is one that promises meaningful change. Assembly members now have the opportunity to elect a leader who will prioritize development, youth empowerment, and collaborative governance to ensure a bright future for the Volta Region.

During his appearance before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr. Boamah made it clear that he had resigned from his position with the NDC after the 2024 elections, emphasising that his current role in government would not affect his impartiality.

Responding to questions about the potential conflict of interest, Dr. Boamah firmly reassured the Committee and Ghanaians that there was no cause for concern.

“No Ghanaian should have any fear about my impartiality. In fact, I can be the chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) and I will be impartial,” he stated. He stressed that he was committed to fairness and transparency in his new role, regardless of his political background.

Dr. Boamah elaborated on his previous responsibilities within the NDC, stating that he had only taken up the position for the party’s IT and Elections work in the run-up to the 2024 general elections.

“I took up the job of the NDC for IT and Elections, and after the elections, I told them my job was over,” he confirmed.

He asserted that his professional journey has always been about delivering on his roles and responsibilities and that his commitment to his new position would be no different.

In closing, Dr. Boamah reassured the public that his focus now lies entirely with his duties as Defence Minister-designate.

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Speaking before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr. Omane Boamah responded to questions about his previous position as Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which raised questions about potential conflicts of interest.

“No Ghanaian should have any fear about my impartiality,” Dr. Omane Boamah said confidently. “In fact, I can be the chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) and I will be impartial. I am committed to serving Ghana with fairness and integrity.”

He went on to explain that his role with the NDC was strictly confined to elections, and that he had concluded his duties after the election period.

Dr. Omane Boamah further clarified his stance by stating, “I took up the job of IT and Elections for the NDC, and after the elections, I told them my job was over. I am no longer involved in any political party activities.”

This clarification aimed to dispel any concerns regarding his ability to serve impartially as Defence Minister.

He concluded by assuring the committee and the public that his focus would be solely on the duties of his new role.

“I am here to serve the people of Ghana, and I will do so without any political bias or agenda,” he affirmed, reinforcing his commitment to fairness in his new position.

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Omane Boamah commends Gbevlo-Lartey’s appointment

I look forward to appearing before Appointments Committee – Barker-Vormawor

Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr. Omane Boamah described Gbevlo-Lartey’s appointment as a strategic and commendable decision by the President.

“I believe Larry Gbevlo-Lartey is a man of vast experience and excellent diplomatic acumen. His appointment as Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahelian States demonstrates the President’s commitment to prioritising regional security and diplomacy,” Dr. Omane Boamah said during the session.

Dr. Omane Boamah further noted that Gbevlo-Lartey’s extensive background in security and international relations made him an ideal candidate to represent Ghana in the Sahel region.

He emphasised that fostering stronger ties with the Alliance of Sahelian States would be crucial in addressing shared challenges such as terrorism and instability.

“At a time when the Sahel faces significant security threats, having someone with his expertise is a clear indication that Ghana is taking its regional responsibilities seriously,” he added.

The Defence Minister-designate concluded by calling on Parliament to fully support the President’s decision, underscoring the importance of strong leadership in advancing regional cooperation.

“We must rally behind such appointments to ensure Ghana’s active role in promoting peace and stability in the Sahel and beyond,” Dr. Omane Boamah stated.

Appointments Committee summons Barker-Vormawor over bribery allegations

Okere MP condemns ORAL and Basintale’s appointment

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Barker-Vormawor expressed optimism about the process, stating, “I look forward to appearing before the committee tomorrow. This is how a democracy improves.”

Barker-Vormawor had accused members of the Appointments Committee of soliciting bribes from nominees seeking approval.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, January 28, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, dismissed the allegations as baseless, asserting that no member of the committee had engaged in such practices.

“To address the matter, I have directed the Clerk of the Committee to formally invite him to appear before us tomorrow to substantiate his claims, or we will apply the necessary law,” Mr. Ahiafor stated.

The activist is expected to provide evidence to support his accusations during his appearance.

The allegations have also caused a stir within Parliament, with some Minority members calling for the suspension of the vetting process until the claims are thoroughly investigated.

They argue that the accusations undermine the integrity of the committee and must be resolved before further proceedings.

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The invitation is for Mr. Barker-Vormawor to substantiate the allegations that the committee has been receiving money from ministerial nominees to validate their approval.

The Chairman of the Committee and Akatsi South MP, Bernard Ahiafor, has vehemently denied the allegation.

Mr. Ahiafor emphasised that neither he nor any members of the committee had engaged in such practices, describing the allegation as baseless and calling for evidence to support them.

He, therefore, instructed the Clerk of the Committee to formally invite Mr. Barker-Vormawor to appear before the committee.

Barker-Vormawor is expected to appear before the Committee on Wednesday, January 29.

“So, I am therefore directing the Clerk to the Committee to invite him to appear before the committee tomorrow to substantiate his claims, or we will apply the necessary law,” Mr. Ahiafor stated.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Appointments Committee and its processes.

Meanwhile, the Minority members on the committee are demanding that the proceedings be suspended until finality is brought to the matter.

The Minority argued that their reputation is all they have had as lawmakers and cannot play ostrich for it to be ran down.”

Read Barker-Vormawor’s post below:

So all the monies the ministerial appointees are being made to pay to the Appointments Committee just to get approved, are those ones not affected by ORAL?

Strange Republic

— Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor (@barkervogues) January 24, 2025

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His comments come after a new trend where youth, purported to be NDC supporters, invade offices to take over in the name of the NDC government.

Speaking on Burning Issues, the MP stated that the establishment of Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) and the appointment of Malik Basintale to oversee the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) is the highest form of endorsing vigilantism.

This is because Basintale had incited the youth to take over offices right after John Dramani Mahama’s victory as president. Despite this, he has now been appointed to a government position.

“The establishment of ORAL is the highest form of endorsing vigilantism. I mean, look at the embarrassment. If you claim to be a fact-finding group, do you go around taking other people’s properties?” he said.

“Malik Basintale was inciting the youth to take over offices, but he has been awarded an appointment as the head of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), and that is another form of endorsing vigilantism,” Daniel Nana Addo-Kenneth added.

The MP also shared a personal experience: “I was slapped by my best friend because of the elections, but I took it calmly and approached his uncle about it.

He later realized his mistake and apologized. So, what I’m saying is that if those who get attacked decide to fight back, it won’t end well. That’s why the police should be professional after the elections.”

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Obuasi Small-Scale Miners demand justice and compensation for military shooting victims

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Owusu urged the government to reconsider its stance on halting the issuance of mining licenses, particularly for small-scale miners operating in forest reserves.

“The problem is the politicization of things in this country—that is why we are suffering. Offering mining licenses is the right step; it’s not illegal. The fight against illegal mining is simple, but the politicization is too much,” he stated.

Mr. Owusu advocated for granting more licenses to local miners while ensuring strict regulation, arguing that local miners would reinvest their revenue into the country, unlike some foreign miners who repatriate their profits.

He also urged the Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, to conduct a comprehensive audit of forest reserves and hold broad stakeholder dialogues with miners to address both illegal mining and logging.

“The Minister should ‘walk the talk’ with practical solutions that benefit all parties. The country needs to move forward, not backward. With the right consultations and oversight, I believe Ghana can effectively fight galamsey,” he added.

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In a statement, the community expressed their sincere gratitude to the President for appointing their own Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, as Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The people of North Tongu are immensely proud of this recognition, acknowledging the significant role their representative plays in Ghana’s progress.

The chiefs noted that Mr. Ablakwa’s contributions to the development of both the North Tongu constituency and Ghana as a whole have been invaluable.

They added that his leadership, integrity, loyalty, and dedication to public service have earned him the trust and admiration of the people.

The chiefs also emphasized that he has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his constituents, and his new role as Minister for Foreign Affairs is seen as a testament to his exemplary service.

They are confident that he will continue to serve with the same level of excellence and integrity that has defined his career to date.

“We, the chiefs and people of North Tongu constituency, congratulate His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for an emphatic win in the just-ended presidential election and on the assumption of another term as President of the Republic of Ghana.”

“We wish to express our utmost appreciation and deepest gratitude to the President for the appointment of our son and Member of Parliament of the North Tongu constituency as Minister of Foreign Affairs,” an excerpt of the statement said.

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Mahama Ayariga says commitment to creating the Kusaug Region remains firm

Former Health Minister, Alex Segbefia, has been named Chief of Staff to Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, with former National Democratic Congress (NDC) member Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo appointed as Political Policy Advisor.

Also, Ama Pratt, the daughter of veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt, has been appointed Press Secretary, while Mrs. Alberta Graham will serve as Head of Administration.

These appointments were announced in a statement issued by Acting Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

The statement also touched on the appointment of Mrs. Theresah Ennin as Presidential Staffer and Aide to the Vice President, among others.

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Below is the full statement:

Speaking on Accra-based Channel One TV, Mr. Ayariga addressed longstanding perceptions of tension between himself and Mr. Iddrisu arising from the incident.

He acknowledged that the events may have given the impression of a rift but maintained that no deliberate effort was made to challenge Haruna Iddrisu’s leadership.

“That was the beginning of the 7th Parliament because, at that time, there were misunderstandings regarding how we treated Hon. Agyarko when he was nominated as the Minister for Energy,” Ayariga stated.

“It led to some thinking that there was a rift between myself and Haruna Iddrisu. But that has never really been the case. I think we were probably a bit over-exuberant… but it wasn’t a deliberate decision to undermine his authority as the leader. Subsequently, we apologised.”

Background

The controversy began in February 2017, ahead of Boakye Agyarko’s ministerial confirmation.

Mahama Ayariga accused Agyarko of attempting to bribe minority members of the Parliamentary Appointments Committee through then-Minority Chief Whip, Muntaka Mubarak, to secure his approval as Minister of Energy.

In response, the then Speaker of Parliament, Aaron Mike Oquaye, set up an ad hoc parliamentary committee to investigate the matter.

The Joe Ghartey Committee eventually exonerated Agyarko but found Ayariga guilty of contempt of parliament for making false allegations, which brought the institution into disrepute.

Ayariga was subsequently directed to issue an apology on the floor of Parliament and was cautioned to exercise restraint in his future actions.

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