Parliament’s Appointments Committee will today, Tuesday, March 5, start the vetting process for the newly nominated ministers and deputy ministers.

The vetting process will extend from today until Tuesday, March 12, encompassing a thorough examination of each nominee’s qualifications and suitability for their respective positions.

Among the first nominees to undergo vetting is Andrew Egyapa Mercer who is designated as the Tourism Minister. He will be followed by Lydia Seyram Alhassan, slated for the Sanitation and Water Resources Ministry.

Later, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, nominated for the Local Government Ministry, and Ophelia Mensah Hayford, designated for the Environment, Science, and Technology Ministry, will undergo scrutiny by the committee.

The day’s proceedings will conclude with the vetting of Dakoa Newman, designated for the Gender and Social Protection Ministry.

President Akufo-Addo’s recent cabinet overhaul, announced on February 14, saw approximately 12 current ministers affected, including 10 cabinet members and two regional ministers. Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta was among those relieved of their positions.

In response to various pressures from political parties, civil society groups, and internal party members, President Akufo-Addo conducted this reshuffle, appointing certain deputy ministers to substantive ministerial roles while others transitioned to new ministries. These individuals will now undergo the vetting process by the Appointments Committee.

The timetable is outlined below:

Tuesday, March 5:

9 am: Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
10 am: Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources
11 am: Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development
12 pm: Ophelia Mensah Hayford, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
2 pm: Darkoa Newman, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection

Thursday, March 7:

9 am: Dr Bernard Okoe Boye, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Health
10 am: Titus Glover, Minister-designate for the Greater Accra Region
11 am: Fatimatu Abubakar, Minister-designate for the Ministry of Information
2 pm: Daniel Machator, Minister-designate for the Oti Region

Friday, March 9:

9 am: Dr Benjamin Sekyere Yeboah, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection
10 am: Sylvester Tetteh, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Information
11 am: Charles Acheampong, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Communication and Digitalisation
12 pm: Adelaide Ntim, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Health
2 pm: Alexander Akwasi Acquah, Deputy Minister-designate for the Health Ministry

Monday, March 11:

9 am: Vincent Ekow Assafuah, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development
10 am: John Kobina Sanie, Deputy Minister-designate for the Energy Ministry
10 am: Collins Adomako Mensah, Deputy Minister-designate at the Energy Ministry
12 pm: Dr Prince Hamidu Armah, Deputy Minister-designate for the Works and Housing Ministry

Tuesday, March 12:

9 am: Kingsley Nyarko, Deputy Minister-designate for the Education Ministry
10 am: Festus Awuah Kwofie, Deputy Minister-designate for the Employment and Labour Ministry
11 am: Akwasi Konadu, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
12 pm: Musah Abdul Aziz Ayaba, Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Development.

Former head of the Political Science Department at KNUST, Dr. Amoako Baah, has appealed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo not to sign the proposed anti-LGBT+ Bill into Law.

Dr. Baah argued that, the Bill infringes on individual rights and freedoms, criticizing the drafters for overlooking these concerns.

“The Bill is not good, not because I support LGBT, but because of how they wrote the Bill. Those who wrote the Bill, I wonder what they learned to be able to write that Bill.”

He further highlighted the potential infringements on fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, opinion, and association, stating, “We have freedom of speech, freedom of opinion, freedom of association, and there is more freedom, but based on how those people wrote the bill, they have infringed upon all these freedoms.”

Questioning the morality of punishing individuals based on religious doctrines, Dr. Baah said, “If God says he doesn’t want homosexuals, fine, I don’t also support them, but has God come down to kill someone? So why would you decide that someone should be arrested or be punished? Nana Addo shouldn’t sign it; if they like, they should call him gay; it won’t matter because those who are intellectuals would know that there are issues with the bill.”

Dr. Baah also raised concerns about the bill potentially criminalizing certain sexual practices within heterosexual marriages.

He questioned whether the government would intrude into people’s bedrooms to determine their sexual activities, especially regarding anal sex between married couples.

“Right to privacy has been infringed; if your child is a homosexual and you don’t report him, that is also a sin. Why? Which kind of law is written like this? Is it because men are having anal sex with women or what? And if that is it, I can tell you that a lot of men have anal sex with their wives, and I know what I am talking about; a lot of men do that. So are we going to arrest such people also, or what?” he said in on Accra based Neat FM.

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The former Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Obiri Boahen, has rescinded his earlier decision to leave the party.

He had expressed dissatisfaction with his role within the NPP and threatened to depart from the party ahead of the 2024 campaign.

In an interview on Accra-based Okay FM, Nana Obiri Boahen said he has reconsidered his decision to leave the party.

“I have rescinded my decision to leave the party. I must say that it’s not everything I can discuss on air” he noted.

Meanwhile, Nana Obiri Boahen has been appointed as a co-chair of the Local Government sub-committee the party’s manifesto committee.

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The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has expressed shock with the Finance Ministry’s plea to President Nana Akufo-Addo not to assent the anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law.

In an interview on Adom FM Burning Issues, the General Secretary of GPCC, Reverend Immanuel Tettey stated the Ministry’s caution was out of place and must be resisted.

According to him, the proposed legislation is crucial to upholding Ghana’s cultural values and independence from external influence.

Reverend Tettey stressed that there are countries with worse forms of punishment for people who engage in LGBTQI+ activities, but are doing well and have kept their relationships with other multilateral agencies.

“Kenya, Senegal and other countries have more stringent measures yet the IMF is lending its support. So I can’t fathom why the Ministry of Finance will come out with this. Besides this Bill was in parliament way before the IMF negotiations started and it was not part of the conditions,” he stated.

The Bill which criminalizes and prohibits LGBTQI+ activities, was approved on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

It has sparked criticism from various quarters, including prominent figures like Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, the Board Chair of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), and other groups coupled with threats of legal action.

It is expected to land on the President’s desk within the week, but the Ministry on Monday cautioned Ghana could lose more than 3 billion dollars in external financing if passed into law.

Meanwhile, Akufo-Addo has said he is awaiting a ruling of the Supreme Court to decide on the Bill as it is currently being challenged.

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Listen to Reverend Tettey in the video attached above:

One of the sponsors for the anti-LGBTQI+ Bill, Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah has said it is in the best interest of people who identify with the gay community.

According to the Ho West Member of Parliament (MP), the bill will not criminalise or violate the human rights of individuals but rather protect them.

He gave this assurance on Adom FM Burning Issues, explaining the has been explicitly stated in clause 17 of the Bill.

“The bill is not for everyone but the people who hold themselves as members of the gay community. The bill will rather protect and not violate their human rights as they claim because clause 17 says that we cannot touch anyone who is involved or perceived to be involved.

“We must report them to the police for the law to take its course. So if you touch them you will be caught up with the law and will face the consequences,” he added.

The Bill passed on February 28 by Parliament currently proscribes lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) activities and criminalises their promotion, advocacy and funding.

Persons caught in these acts would be subjected to six months to three-year jail term with promoters and sponsors of these acts bearing a three to five-year jail term.

The Bill would now require presidential assent to come into force but has been met with fierce criticisms amidst calls for Akufo-Addo for reject it.

The critics have argued the bill violates and infringes on fundamental human rights and have threatened to initiate legal action against it.

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Listen to Mr Bedzrah in the video attached above:

The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has vowed it will not hesitate to advise congregations on how to cast their votes on December 7 polls if President Nana Akufo-Addo fails to assent the anti-LGBTQI+ bill into law.

Speaking on Adom FM Burning Issues, the General Secretary, Reverend Immanuel Tettey stated the bill will help to uphold the values that are important to the people of Ghana.

He, therefore, noted none of the religions and Ghanaians at large will sit aloof and accept anything that frowns on morals and values.

Reverend Tettey made these comments in reaction to the Finance Ministry’s caution for the President not to sign the bill which was passed on Wednesday February 28, 2024.

Even though Akufo-Addo has said he is yet to receive the controversial bill, the Ministry on March 4 said it could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the Bretton Woods Institutions.

But Reverend Tettey has emphasised the importance of upholding Ghana’s unique cultural, and family values and has urged the President to serve the interest of Ghanaians by assenting to the bill.

“The 275 MPs in parliament did not get there by themselves; they are representatives of the people and we are all saying we don’t like LGBTQI+ activities.

“But if they decide not to listen to us, we will advice ourselves in the upcoming election. We will ask our people to reject anyone who wants to ignore our moral, values and impose what we don’t like on us,” he cautioned.

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The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as Running Mate to John Dramani Mahama.

Mr Mahama, in a tweet shortly after the endorsement, said, “Naana Jane is God-fearing, a distinguished scholar, a conscientious public servant and a role model.”

This is the second time the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast and Minister of Education will be partnering former President Mahama on the ticket of the NDC for a major election in 2024.

Before her selection, several names were floated as potential running mates which included Julius Debrah, former Chief of Staff; Dr Kwabena Duffour, former Finance Minister and Governor of Bank of Ghana; Mr Kwame Awuah Darko, former Chief Executive of Tema Oil Refinery and BOST,  Kojo Bonsu, former Mayor of Kumasi; Dr Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings, the NDC Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey Constituency.

The former President submitted name of his preferred running-mate to the National Executive Committee and the Council of Elders of the party for scrutiny.

The party through its General Secretary, Mr Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, in an earlier statement, indicated that the NEC and the Council of Elders of the party were preparing to deliberate on Mr Mahama’s choice for running mate.

 In addition, the former President Mahama is expected to make an official announcement of his running-mate to the public on March 7, 2024.

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The Founder and Leader of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), Christian Kwabena Andrews, has announced that he will choose his running mate from the Western Region.

The decision stemmed from the fact that, the Region in the 2020 elections, gave GUM, the highest votes, indicating the desire of ‘Westerners’ to see most of the projects and programmes by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah revived.

Mr Andrews, popularly known as Osofo Kyiri Abosom declared at the weekend during a meet the press and stakeholders’ engagement in Takoradi in the Western Region, to talk more about the party’s principles and philosophies aimed at lessening the economic burden of the Ghanaians.

He said, “I have asked the people to engage with the chiefs and religious leaders and whoever they select from the Region becomes my running mate in the 2024 presidential elections”.

The GUM flagbearer said the party was an epitome of hope, restoration, and revival of the Ghanaian economy and social life and prayed that Ghanaians supported it to achieve its vision for the country, adding, “GUM is not a small party, therefore let’s continue to support the party to the high office of the land.”

The GUM party, Mr Andrews said, intended to run an all-inclusive government to “save” the country from “demons and witches” destroying the fortunes: oil, gold and other natural resources meant for the holistic development of the Nation.

He urged Ghanaians to be alert to the happenings in the country, reason through it very critically and make the best of decisions come 2024.

He added that it was time Ghanaians used their brains very actively to avoid being used.

Mr Andrews said, “We have no monies to spend, but I entreat you to be very circumspect, digest the policies presented to you, as against taking tokens and peanuts to sell the very foundation and future of the country into the hands of some selfish individuals who avoid the collective good for individualism.”

The GUM party, born out of the ideologies of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah first appeared on the ballot paper in 2020, as a first timer, during which Mr. Andrews secured 105,548 of the valid presidential votes cast, representing 0.08 percent, and thus placing third to the NPP and the NDC.

The party’s core principle was that every Ghanaian must arise to contribute impactfully to the development of the country to turn around the country’s economic, political, and social structure.

Mr Andrews believed that there should be a new Ghana with unity and peace, industrialization, free ports, employment for all, strict monitoring, and punishment for corrupt practices.

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Economist Prof Lord Mensah has questioned the rationale behind the Ministry of Finance’s statement for President Nana Akufo-Addo not to assent to the anti-LGBTQI+ bill.

The senior lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) says he cannot comprehend why the Ministry will put money ahead of protecting the Ghanaian culture and values.

“We must show the Western world we can be independent economically. If they say they won’t lend support, we will not starve to death. There is no cause for alarm,” he said.

In a statement on March 4, the Ministry asked the President not to sign the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law following its passage on February 28.

The statement bemoaned this could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the Bretton Woods institutions.

The statement highlighted concerns that the expected US$3.8 billion financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), currently awaiting Parliamentary approval, might not be disbursed.

But speaking on Adom FM Burning Issues, Prof Mensah admitted every action comes with economic repercussions.

However, it will be in the best interest of Ghana to lose US$3.8 billion now instead of a generational cost which will be incurred if the bill is not passed.

“The Ministry is panicking given the amounts they are mentioning. There are always economic repercussions but is it is too early to tie the IMF deal to this or predict in this direction

“Losing that money is nothing compared to the generation cost that the LGBTQI+ will create for Ghana. Do we know how much it will cost us to import adult diapers or the medical cost to treat people? We can’t even deal with bed syndrome so how are we going to handle the consequences of LGBTQI+ activities?” he quizzed.

Prof Mensah admonished President Akufo-Addo to be bold in his stance on LGBTQI+ to send a clear signal to the Western world.

“We have our own values and why should we sit for someone in their country to dictate to us? it is not a sign of respect and this goes a long way to prove our dependence on foreign inflow.

“We should take the bull by the horn for the president to sign and he must be bold too because he seems to be wobbling. His statement of waiting for a Supreme Court ruling on the bill is just to buy time and protect his indecision,” he admonished.

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The Coalition of Muslim Organisations, Ghana (COMOG), has said Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia should be worried about President Akufo-Addo’s posture on the  anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

According to the Chairman on Media and Research Committee, Mohammed Shamsudeen Shaibu, Akufo-Addo is ruining the political fortunes of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer with his actions.

Mr Shaibu made these comments on Adom FM Burning Issues following Akufo-Addo’s announcement to await a Supreme Court ruling on the bill which is being challenged before making a decision.

Speaking at the New Year greetings event with members of the Diplomatic Corps at Peduase, the President emphasised Ghana’s commitment to upholding its Human Rights record.

However, Mr Sahibu has questioned why the ruling of the apex court must determine whether or not Akufo-Addo will assent to the bill.

In his view, the majority of Ghanaians are in support of the bill, hence the President’s delay tactic is unnecessary.

“Across the house, we never saw any MP against the bill so why should the president delay and consider someone is going to court on what basis?

“Is it to derail or unnecessarily delay the process so that he will not sign before he leaves office? Vice President Bawumia should be worried because his political fortunes is being ruined by the actions of Akufo-Addo,” he stated.

On February 28, 2024, Parliament unanimously approved the bill that criminalises LGBTQ+ activities, as well as their promotion, advocacy, and funding.

Those found guilty could face a jail term ranging from 6 months to 3 years, while those promoting and sponsoring the act could face a jail term between 3 to 5 years.

Despite intense call for Akufo-Addo immediately sign the bill, he says it is yet to reach his desk.

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The Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops Conference, Reverend Father Clement Kwasi Adjei, is advising President Akufo-Addo to ignore any attempts by external bodies to dictate whether or not to assent to the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

According to him, although the country depends on external support from bodies such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, he [the President] should not be influenced into making a decision that Ghanaians do not support.

Speaking on JoyFM’s Top Story on March 4, he said “This financial assistance, it is a grant or a loan. In fact when I follow the discussions going on what I get is that because Ghanaians are poor and we are going out for financial assistance, you want to just strangle us .

“Something we don’t want as Ghanaians, you want to use your money just to prevent us from doing it. LGBTQ we don’t want it. Ghanaians don’t want it. Majority say they don’t want it; about 98.5% we don’t want it.

“Is this what the UN is actually standing for? I don’t think so. Yes, we are ready to engage government to explain certain things to us.

“We also put forward our ideas and our understanding, but I still hold that poverty should not be used to let somebody succumb to the will of the other. That is what I have to say,” he said.https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RiaKQhoDNI

Rev. Adjei added that he doubts the IMF and the World Bank would cease to support the nation just because it had passed legislation against the practice of same-sex marriage.

“I don’t think because we have agreed to ban LGBTQ+ practices and so on, the UN, IMF and World Bank will not help us. I don’t think so. Maybe they are using it to terrify us. To put fear in us, I don’t think so,” he added.

Rev Adjei added that the Catholic Bishops Conference still stood by the decision for the President to assent to the bill.

On Monday, March 4, the Finance Ministry issued a statement cautioning the President to refrain from signing the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law.

According to the ministry, such an action could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the Bretton Woods institutions.

The statement highlighted concerns that the expected US$300 million financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), currently awaiting Parliamentary approval, might not be disbursed if the bill is signed into law.

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The US Supreme Court has struck down efforts by individual states to disqualify Donald Trump from running for president using an anti-insurrection constitutional clause.

The unanimous ruling is specific to Colorado, but it also overrides challenges brought in other states.

Colorado had barred Mr Trump from its Republican primary, arguing he incited the 2021 Capitol riot.

The court ruled that only Congress, rather than the states, has that power.

The top court’s decision clears the way for Mr Trump to compete in the Colorado primary scheduled for Tuesday.

Mr Trump is the front-runner for the Republican nomination and looks likely to face a rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden in November’s general election.

On Monday, the ex-president immediately claimed victory following the ruling, taking to his Truth Social media platform to claim a “big win for America”. The message was followed by a fundraising email sent to supporters of his campaign.

Speaking from his estate in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, soon afterwards, he said that the decision was “very well crafted” and will “go a long way towards bringing our country together, which it needs”.

“You can’t take someone out of a race because an opponent would like it that way,” Mr Trump added.

Colorado’s Secretary of State, Jena Griswold, said that she was disappointed by the ruling and that “Colorado should be able to bar oath-breaking insurrections from our ballot”.

Additionally, the watchdog group that brought the case in Colorado, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (Crew), said in a statement that while the court “failed to meet the moment”, it is “still a win for democracy: Trump will go down in history as an insurrectionist”.

Maine and Illinois had followed Colorado in kicking Mr Trump off the ballot on similar grounds.

The efforts in both those states were put on hold while his challenge to the Colorado ruling was escalated to the Supreme Court.

“We conclude that states may disqualify persons holding or attempting to hold state office,” the court’s opinion says. “But states have no power under the Constitution to enforce Sections 3 with respect to federal offices, especially the presidency.”

The nine justices ruled that only Congress can enforce the 14th Amendment’s provisions against federal officials and candidates.

Part of the Civil War-era amendment – Section 3 – bars federal, state and military officials who have “engaged in insurrection or rebellion” against the US from holding office again.

Groups including Free Speech For People had argued that the attempt to delay the peaceful transfer of power on 6 January 2021 matched the definition of insurrection outlined in the amendment.

One of the court’s justices, Amy Coney Barrett, wrote separately that the fact that all nine justices agreed on the outcome of the case is “the message that Americans should take home”.

“The court has settled a politically charged issue in the volatile season of a presidential election,” Justice Barrett wrote. “Particularly in this circumstance, writings on the court should turn the national temperature down, not up.”

But the court’s three liberal justices argued that the ruling seeks to “decide novel constitutional questions to insulate this Court and [Trump] from future controversy” by announcing “that a disqualification for insurrection can occur only when Congress enacts a particular kind of legislation”.

“In doing so, the majority shuts the door on other potential means of enforcement,” they added.

Atiba Ellis, a law professor at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, told the BBC that while the court’s concerns about Mr Trump’s exclusion from the ballot are “fair”, the ruling “may have far-reaching consequences”.

“It opens the door to constitutional interpretation matters that weren’t at issue in the case. The decision throws the problem to Congress at a time when partisan deadlock will guarantee inaction on this matter,” Mr Ellis added. “The decision effectively ensures that the question of the former president’s constitutional eligibility under Section 3 will not be resolved prior to the 2024 election.”

Another legal scholar, Albany Law School’s Ray Brescia, said the court’s decision prevents a situation in which there is a “patchwork of states with different processes”.

“If the court was to allow Colorado to proceed in this way, what’s to stop some rogue prosecutor in another state from saying that a candidate from a different party is not a viable candidate because they engaged in insurrection?” he said.

Republican voters in Colorado and 14 other states will vote on Tuesday in a marathon contest dubbed Super Tuesday.

The former president is widely expected to sweep the board and defeat his sole remaining opponent, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, in every battleground.

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Co-sponsor of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor has described the attempt by Civil Society Organisations to challenge the newly passed Anti-LGBTQ+ bill as premature.

According to him, until the bill is assented into law, there is no basis on which it can be challenged in the Supreme Court.

Speaking on JoyFM’s Newsnight on March 4, he explained that challenging a bill in court would imply that the basis for which it is contested is more about a declaration of intent rather than a matter of law.

The South Dayi MP clarified that if the said intent was the grounds for visiting the court, then that was a faulty premise.

“The law is very clear. The bill is in the state that it is, to the extent that it has not been assented to by the President to become a law, it remains a declaration of intention by Parliament.

“So, you can not challenge a declaration of intention in the court of law. Your cause of action cannot rise upon a declaration of intention so that school of thought is faulty. It is built on a faulty premise. I am ready to file an amicus in respect of anybody who will go to challenge this matter.

“Let the law be assented to and given effect as law probably so-called. Then the validity in terms of its constitutionality can be challenged. But until we get there, any call for any person to proceed to the Supreme Court is premature,” he told host, Evans Mensah.

He continued that last year, some individuals proceeded to the Supreme Court to challenge the controversial bill but the court said a bill cannot be challenged unless it becomes law.  

Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has reassured the international community of Ghana’s commitment to upholding human rights despite the passage of the bill.

Addressing concerns during a diplomatic engagement, the President emphasised that Ghana remains steadfast in its long-standing reputation for respecting human rights and adherent to the rule of law.

He clarified that the Bill is facing a legal challenge at the Supreme Court and that until a decision is arrived at, no action would be taken by his government on the private Member’s bill.

“l am aware that last week’s bi-partisan passage by Parliament of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, on a Private Member’s motion, has raised considerable anxieties in certain quarters of the diplomatic community and amongst some friends of Ghana that she may be turning her back on her, hitherto, enviable, longstanding record on human rights observance and attachment to the rule of law. I want to assure you that no such back-sliding will be contemplated or occasioned.”

However, President Akufo-Addo noted that the Bill has yet to reach his desk for any formal action.

He indicated that any decision he makes regarding the Bill would be contingent upon the outcome of the lawsuit filed against it in the Supreme Court.

“I think it will serve little purpose to go, at this stage, into the details of the origin of this proposed law, which is yet to reach my desk. But, suffice it to say, that I have learnt that, today, a challenge has been mounted at the Supreme Court by a concerned citizen to the constitutionality of the proposed legislation,” the President added.

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Members of Parliament on the Minority side are furious over the Finance Ministry’s advice to President Akufo-Addo not to sign the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law.

The bill is expected to land on President Akufo-Addo’s desk this week, but the Finance Ministry says Ghana could lose more than 3 billion dollars in external financing if the bill becomes law.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Alhassan Bashir Alhassan Fuseini, has urged Ghanaians to take action in support of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

The MP stated that the proposed legislation is crucial to upholding the country’s cultural values and independence from external influence.

Speaking to JoyNews on March 4, 2024, he said “Let’s rise up. I am telling you that the streets must be flooded. Everybody must be prepared on this matter, to come onto the streets. Thousands and millions of people must be prepared to flood the streets on this matter to protect our independence and sovereignty.

“We are not going to sit there and allow these external bodies to come and dictate to us and bring policies that are so perverse, that are so backward as far as our culture is concerned.”

Mr Fuseini stated that the European Court of Human Rights says that LGBTQ is not a human right but rather a sexual preference.

According to him, the fact that there is democracy does not mean all things that are punishable by law should be given the freedom to operate.

“Go to the western countries, do they allow people to exercise polygamy? If I want to marry a second wife in any of those countries, would they allow me? And is that not an infringement on my fundamental human rights? Why do they not talk about that in their communities?

According to the MP, these external forces only choose countries that are vulnerable to impose their will on.

“Why are they picking and choosing Ghana as a basis upon which to launch their crusade? It is unacceptable.”

In addition to Mr Fuseini’s comments, the MP for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, also voiced his opinion on the issue.

He said that the Ministry of Finance has pointed out some potential losses that the passage of the bill could cause.

Mr Suhuyini also pointed out that, there are countries with worse forms of punishment for people who engage in LGBTQ activities, but are doing well and have kept their relationships with other multilateral agencies.

“So I’m surprised that we are afraid that this law will isolate us and affect our relationship with these bilateral institutions. I think that if we rather remain forthright and remain proud of who we are and this law reflects who we are, then we’d be given the respect that we deserve and we will not in any way lose relationships that are mutually beneficial,” he said.

“It is unfortunate that we seem to be focused more on what we may lose and I stress potential and may because there is no evidence that these loses may actually manifest. It’s unfortunate that we seem to be focusing on what we may lose and not thinking of what they may lose if they pursue whatever agenda that they intend to pursue against us.”

Also, the MP for Bole-Bamboi, Yusif Sulemana, expressed disappointment in the Finance Minister, Dr. Amin Mohammed.

The Ministry of Finance in a statement urged President Akufo-Addo to refrain from signing the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law.

In the Monday, March 4 release, the Finance Ministry cautioned that such an action could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the Bretton Woods institutions.

Mr Sulemana went on to say that Dr Amin Adam seems to be more focused on financial considerations than on moral values.

“He should be concerned about the moral decay of this country. He should be concerned about the moral impact that the LGBTQ would bring on us if we allow it to go on. He should be concerned about the children yet to be born and their future. He should be concerned about his children.”

Mr Sulemana also revealed that there is a plan to repeal the bill if it is signed into law.

“They will organise or plan with the judiciary, go to court and then it will be thrown out. We are aware of all these things and calling on morally upright people in the country to stand up.”

The MP noted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, has taken a stand on the LGBTQ matter publicly and called on the current Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, to do same.

“Are you saying that when he [John Mahama] comes into power, he won’t need foreign aid? He is aware of the implications but he has juxtaposed the harm this will cause us vis-à-vis the income or wealth we are going to get from foreign aid, and that’s the perspective from which we have to look at it. It is so shameful, and I am very sad today,” he said.

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President Nana Akufo-Addo has touted his government’s achievements, stating in all good conscience, he has not betrayed the mandate the good people of Ghana conferred on him.

Akufo-Addo was addressing members of the Diplomatic Corps at the 2024 News Year’s Greetings event held at Peduase.

“I can say in all conscience that I have not betrayed the mandates of the good people of Ghana conferred on me. All that has been done is partly due to the support I have received from the International community,” he stated.

He emphasised that his track record in the various sectors is evident for all to see.

“I want to state with all modesty, I am exceedingly proud of my record in office and the considerable achievements that have been recorded in all sectors of national life these last seven years; several of which have been very difficult as a result of global developments.

“Whether it is in the management of the economy, education, healthcare, roads and railway development, digitalisation, infrastructural development, Agriculture and industrial transformation, the protection of Ghana’s territorial integrity and security, the fight against corruption, the battle against environmental degradation, the response to COVID-19 pandemic, entrenching the tenets of good governance and the rule of law, upholding respect for international law and multilateralism; the record is there for all to see,” President Akufo-Addo noted.

The President also used the occasion to reiterate his administration’s commitment to ensuring peaceful elections this year and ensure that the free will of the people manifests.

“As you all know this year is an election year, on 7th December, Ghanaian people will elect a new President and a new Parliament; the term of the present Parliament expires at the end of the year and I am in the last year of the permissible eight years that the citizens can exercise the functions of President,” he added.

His government he touted is clear about its obligation and duty to ensure that the impending elections are conducted in an atmosphere of peace and security, in full transparency and respect for the electoral laws.

“I am confident that the Security Agencies will be alive to to their responsibilities and will ensure that the free will of the Ghanaian people, their choice of national leadership will be manifest.

“Ghanaians cherish our reputation as the beacon of democracy in Africa and that the forthcoming elections will reinforce this reputation,” he emphasised.

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Ho West Member of Parliament(MP), Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah has confirmed that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly known as the anti-LGBTQI+ bill, is yet to be submitted to President Nana Akufo-Addo for his assent.

Mr Bedzrah made these comments on Adom FM Burning Issues amidst public discussions and agitations for the President to assent to the Bill which was passed on February 28.

“Parliament has completed all the work we are supposed to do and it is left with the presidential assent. The Clerk is yet to take to the government Printer, Ghana Publishing Corporation for it to be placed on tinsel for his assent but it is not true the bill will return to parliament,” The MP who was one of the sponsors of the Bill clarified.

Parliament unanimously approved the bill that criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities, as well as their promotion, advocacy, and funding.

Those found guilty could face a jail term ranging from 6 months to 3 years, while those promoting and sponsoring the act could face a jail term between 3 to 5 years.

Amidst intense pressure for Akufo-Addo to assent to the Bill, the Ministry of Finance, has however said otherwise.

In a press release on Monday, the Ministry cautioned that approving the bill could result in significant financial consequences for Ghana.

According to the Finance Ministry’s statement, Ghana stands to lose a substantial amount of World Bank financing, estimating a potential loss of USD$3.8 billion over the next five to six years.

On the part of Akufo-Addo, he says he is awaiting the Supreme Court’s ruling before deciding on the controversial Bill following a court action.

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• Anti-LGBTQI+ bill: Finance Ministry’s statement a lobbying attempt – Prof Gatsi

The Dean of the University of Cape Coast Business School, Professor John Gatsi, has described the Finance Ministry’s suggestion to the President not to sign the recently passed anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law as a lobbying attempt.

According to him, there is no portion of the deal with the International Monetary Fund that says that if Ghana enacted such legislation, it would be a breach of contract.

Speaking on JoyNews’ the Pulse on March 4, he elaborated that upon close examination of the country, no advocacy group was potent enough to obstruct the President from assenting the bill.

Therefore, this was somewhat a form of blackmail from the Finance Ministry, anticipating potential hindrances to securing funds.

Again, he added that this was also a way to sort of justify the President’s intention to not sign the bill.

“This thing is just trying to keep the momentum about lobbying. We do not have those things as conditions in engaging with the World Bank or IMF. There are other minority issues, there are other vulnerable issues in our countries. It is based on those things that we are getting development funding from the World Bank to fund benefit all these classes of people.

“So the World Bank cannot say that because of the Anti-LGBTQ+ issues they will not extend money to us, which of course is a loan that will be paid over – I do not see that.

“What I see is a strong force of lobbying that the law should not be passed. That is where we are now. I am not sure that there is any pressure on us about that. It is all about lobbying. So lobbying is scaling up seriously at the last hour because the bill is on its way to the presidency.

“The President made statements to the extent that he has not seen a force in the country built up in relation to LGBTQ. So if we can have something measured in this form that the Finance Ministry has done then that will be understandable for the President to say, I will not sign the law.

“And for me, that is how I see it. We don’t have a legal relation that says that if you pass anti –LGBTQ then we will not give you money,” he said.

In a press release issued on Monday, March 4, the Finance Ministry cautioned that such action could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the Bretton Woods Institutions.

The statement highlighted concerns that the expected US$300 million financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), currently awaiting Parliamentary approval, might not be disbursed if the bill is signed into law.

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President Nana Akufo-Addo has announced plans to put on hold his decision to assent the anti-LGBTQI+ bill into law.

This according to him is on the back of a challenge mounted at the Supreme Court following the passage of the Bill on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

Addressing Members of the Diplomatic Corps at Peduase on Monday, Akufo-Addo noted he is yet to receive the Bill.

However, the decision of the court will determine the next line of action.

“The operations of the institutions of the Ghanaian state will determine the future trajectory of the rule of law and human rights compliance in our country,” the President noted.

The Bill criminalizes LGBTQ+ activities, their promotion, advocacy, and funding within the country.

The Bill would now require presidential assent to come into force but has been met with fierce criticisms amidst calls for Akufo-Addo for reject it.

The critics have argued the bill violates and infringes on fundamental human rights and have threatened to initiate legal action against it.

The Ministry of Finance has also pleaded with the President not to assent to the Bill, stating it could result in significant financial consequences for Ghana.

According to the Ministry’s statement, Ghana stands to lose a substantial amount of World Bank financing, estimating a potential loss of USD$3.8 billion over the next five to six years.

Specifically, the impact for 2024 includes a loss of USD$600 million in budget support and USD$250 million for the Financial Stability Fund, adversely affecting Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and exchange rate stability.

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Read below the President’s remarks:

Founder and leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen is on a campaign tour ahead of the December general elections.

The independent presidential candidate is on a market tour across the country to galvanise support.

During these visits, he received a warm welcome from Ghanaians who expressed their support and promised to vote for him.

He recently shared a video on social media showcasing a lively scene at a funeral, where he was surrounded by enthusiastic supporters.

In the video, Mr. Kyeramaten was joyfully showcasing the butterfly dance.

The butterfly dance is a significant aspect of Kyeramaten’s campaign, symbolizing change, transformation, hope, and positivity, as represented by the Monarch Butterfly, which is the emblem for his Movement for Change.

He explained that, the butterfly also embodies traits such as strength, endurance, spirituality, and trust, which he values as a political leader.

In the Akan language, the butterfly is known as “Afrafranto.”

Watch video below

Start the week energized and positive like the butterfly.#AlanForPresident #GhanaWillRiseAgain#MovementForChange #ButterflyDance#JobsAndCashEconomy pic.twitter.com/mAJgzOtAdo

— Alan Kyerematen (@AlanKyerematen) March 4, 2024

I bet Bawumia will choose Opoku Prempeh as his running mate – Ben Ephson

Two confirmed dead in another accident in Offinso North

Ghanaian musician and politician, Rex Omar, has expressed his willingness to accede to a political position if he is given the opportunity.

He made this statement in an interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z on Saturday, March 3, 2024.

Rex Omar, a staunch member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), explained that he would gladly accept the appointment if the task falls within his ambit.

“I will [accept a political appointment] because now I think I am of age and I think if I am given any appointment that is within my capacity, I will be able to contribute positively to the development of this country,” he told the host Kwame Dadzie.

Asked if he would want to hold a position at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, he answered that “when we get to that road, we will cross it because at the end of the day, all these positions are political appointments and so long as you are smart and intelligent and you know what is going on in this country, wherever they put you, you can deliver if you really want to.

Expressing his opinion on the state of Ghana’s democracy, the ‘Abiba’ hitmaker said governance of the country will be better if the term for the presidency is reviewed.

He said the current 4-year term is not enough for any government to make a meaningful impact on the economy.

“Because America does elections every four years, we also jump on the bandwagon but the question is, America’s democracy is over 200 years. We just started, okay. So look at our situation,” he said.

He suggested that a six-year term would give room for the government in power to perform creditably.

“I think it [the four years] is too much. I would have wished if we can go six years in one term. Because if you are given six years you use one year or one and half years to set up your government. If four years, five years you are not able to do anything it means you can’t do anything. There is no need for you to go for a second term.

The whole situation is, look at our scenario. After election, the first year is now that the government is being formed, the appointments and all these things. By the time the government settles to actually start to roll out its programme, you are getting to two years,” he added.

Rex Omar rose to prominence in 1989 with the Aware Pa album which also included the track, Wodofo Ne Hwan? Following this, in 1992 he formed Nakorex together with fellow highlife artistes Nat Brew (now Amandzeba) and Akosua Agyapong, the group’s name being an acronym made up of the first letters of each member’s name.

He later pursued a solo career, released great albums, performed in and outside Ghana, won a number of awards and earned nomination in Kora Awards in 2004.

Rex Omar has been hugely involved in activism for the music industry and has been instrumental in intellectual property administration.

Ghanaian musician and politician, Rex Omar, says Ghana’s governance will be better if the term for the presidency is reviewed. 

He told Kwame Dadzie on Joy FM‘s Showbiz A-Z that the current 4-year term is not enough for any government to make a meaningful impact on the economy. 

“Because America does elections every four years, we also jump on the bandwagon but the question is, America’s democracy is over 200 years. We just started, okay. So look at our situation,” he said.

Asked if he wanted the tenure to be changed, he answered in the affirmative.

“I think it [the four years] is too much. I would have wished if we can go six years in one term.   Because if you are given six years you use one year or one and half years to set up your government. If four years, five years you are not able to do anything it means you can’t do anything. There is no need for you to go for a second term. 

The whole situation is, look at our scenario. After election, the first year is now that the government is being formed, the appointments and all these things. By the time the government settles to actually start to roll out its programme, you are getting to two years,” he added.

Rex Omar is not the first person to have made this statement. Former President John Agyekum Kufuor also made a similar statement in 2022 while speaking at a seminar on reviewing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

This event was organised by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), at his residence in Peduase, in the Eastern Region.

The former president explained that he came to the realisation after he was invited to Malaysia and got to see how much developmental growth the country had made, even though at the time of independence. it was on par with Ghana.

Rex Omar, a staunch member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) also said on Showbiz A-Z that he was ready to hold any political position if given the mandate.

“I will [accept a political appointment] because now I think I am of age and I think if I am given any appointment that is within my capacity, I will be able to contribute positively to the development of this country,” he said.

Rex Omar rose to prominence in 1989 with the Aware Pa album which also included the track, Wodofo Ne Hwan? Following this, in 1992 he formed Nakorex together with fellow highlife artistes Nat Brew (now Amandzeba) and Akosua Agyapong, the group’s name being an acronym made up of the first letters of each member’s name.

He later pursued a solo career, released great albums, performed in and outside Ghana, won a number of awards and earned nomination in Kora Awards in 2004.

Rex Omar has been hugely involved in activism for the music industry, and has been instrumental in intellectual property administration.

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On Saturday, March 2, 2024, UK for DMB, in collaboration with the NPP UK Branch, celebrated a significant milestone with a Unity Get-Together and Thanksgiving Service to bring together the rank and file of NPP UK members and sympathisers.

The event, organised by Team UK FOR DMB in partnership with Branch members, aimed to unify various factions and energize the base for a formidable push towards breaking the eight-year cycle.

The gathering was graced by esteemed personalities, including Chairman Otchere Darko, head of the Strategic Team UK (the lead group of UK FOR DMB project), NPP-UK Branch 1st vice Chairman Alex Appiah Mensah, 2nd Vice Chairman Ibrahim Abdul- Mumuni, Secretary Otuo Acheampong, Women Organiser Patricia Boakye (Daakyehemaa), Nasara Coordinator Issa Ayumah, Youth Organiser Ike Price Asante, Treasurer Charles Asmah, along with other Branch and chapter executives.

The presence of the special guests of honour; Dr. Mutaka Alolo, Technical Adviser to the Vice President, Ms. Abigail Swad Layea, Deputy CEO of NEIP, and Kwame Frimpong, NPP Deputy Director of Protocol, highlighted the importance and significance of the occasion.

Under the theme ’Energising Our Base to Break the Eight,’ speakers delivered poignant messages emphasizing unity and determination.

On his part, Dr. Alolo emphasised how the event was timely and the first of its kind in either Ghana or the diaspora as a process to bring everyone on board after the presidential, and parliamentary primaries. 

He stressed on the beauty of democracy and encouraged members to champion the collective interest of the elephant party over personal gains in ensuring that we win the 2024 elections to continue the many great works of the NPP government.

Dr Alolo further conveyed best wishes from NPP Presidential candidate, H.E Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, urging continued support to promote government achievements and secure victory on December 7.

Ms Abigail Sward Laryea, Deputy CEO in sharing the success story of NEIP, enumerated the great works of the NPP government over the last seven years and urged members of the diaspora to boldly share those achievements.

She mentioned that very soon a performance tracker will be outdoored to showcase all programs and projects undertaken by the current administration for everyone to see how well the NPP has performed.

She further underscored the importance of unity among Patriots and encouraged all diasporans to contribute their best to ensure a triumphant historic victory for the elephant party on December 7, 2024.

The event exuded vibrancy with a massive turnout from NPP members and sympathizers in the UK, showcasing a unified front and a shared commitment towards achieving the collective goal.

The colourful and beautiful Get-together and Thanksgiving successfully came to an end with members and guests present fully energised for the great task ahead in winning election 2024 and making Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia the next President of Ghana.

The former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has urged party members to work hard to win and retain power in the December general elections.

According to him, the NPP’s mantra of breaking the 8 is a must therefore, urged the party to work effortlessly towards that vision.

John Boadu specifically tasked the Regional and constituency Chairmen to work tirelessly to ensure the party retains power in the elections.

He made this call when he joined the NPP parliamentary candidate for Fanteakwa North Constituency, Kwame Appiah Kodua, party executives, and members in Begoro of the Eastern Region for a thanksgiving service after a successful parliamentary primary held in the area ahead of the general elections.

For his part, the parliamentary candidate for Fanteakwa North constituency, Kwame Appiah Kodua pledged to retain the seat for the NPP come December 7.

He also promised a violence-free campaign and appealed to party members to keep focused and work hard to win the polls.

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The Electoral Commission (EC) has scheduled a new voters’ registration drive for the upcoming December elections, running from May 7 to May 27, according to the Commission’s calendar.

Preceding the registration, a 56-day public education campaign will commence on April 1 and conclude on May 26, 2024.

Additionally, the EC plans to provide the provisional voters’ register to political parties between July 9 and 18, 2024, while an exhibition of the voter register is set to take place from July 15 to 24, 2024.

The final voters’ register is slated for submission to political parties between August 30 and September 5, 2024.

Nomination of candidates for both presidential and parliamentary elections will open from September 9 to 13, with balloting for positions on the presidential ballot paper scheduled for September 23, 2024, followed by parliamentary balloting on September 24, 2024.

Furthermore, the EC aims to declare the results of the 2024 presidential polls within three days of the voting exercise, contingent on successful execution of the plan.

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Pollster, Ben Ephson has predicted that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), will choose Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Energy Minister, as his running mate.

Mr Ephson’s forecast stems from extensive research he conducted and insights gathered from individuals connected to Dr Bawumia’s camp.

He highlighted that, his research findings point to Dr Opoku Prempeh as a candidate who could secure maximum votes for Dr Bawumia in the Ashanti Region, a crucial stronghold for the NPP.

In an interview with JoyNews on Monday, March 4, the pollster expressed his strong conviction that Dr Bawumia’s selection of Dr Opoku Prempeh as his running mate would not only be strategic but also greatly beneficial for the party in the upcoming December elections.

“From the research and my interactions with some members of the NPP and what Dr Bawumia’s team is said to have done, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh will give Dr Bawumia maximum votes amongst the possible running mates from the Ashanti Region. So I bet Dr Bawumia will choose him (Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh) as his running mate,” he said.

He emphasised that, a Bawumia-Opoku Prempeh ticket presents a stronger combination compared to the John Mahama-Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang ticket.

On November 4, 2023, Vice President Dr Bawumia clinched the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer position, setting the stage for the upcoming December polls.

While Dr Bawumia has yet to officially unveil his running mate for the impending elections, analysts have been busy speculating on potential candidates.

Among those frequently mentioned by analysts are Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Dr. John Kumah, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Joseph Osei Owusu, and esteemed clergyman and former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Prof. Opoku Onyinah.

Additionally, Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare and Communications Minister Ursula Owusu Ekulful have emerged as notable contenders in the running mate selection process for Dr Bawumia.

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IMANI Africa’s latest edition of social media analysis spanning from February 11th to February 26th, 2024, has revealed intriguing insights into public sentiment towards the two major political parties in Ghana, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The survey is a comprehensive study of over 10,000 tweets, Facebook posts, TikTok and YouTube videos, Instagram posts, podcasts, and news websites.

The report suggests that the leader of the NDC, John Mahama, has experienced a reduction in negative sentiments even though his reach on non-social media web sources has seen a significant drop.

Below are some details of the report:

Performance Comparison: Analyzing the social media performance of the presidential candidates, it’s observed that former President Mahama experienced a reduction in negative sentiments by about 8.27% during the period.

However, his reach on non-social media web sources saw a significant drop of 6.78%. On the other hand, Vice President Bawumia saw a notable 14% increase in social media mentions, accompanied by a significant rise in negative mentions by 7%.

Growing Interactions: The report also establishes the fact that despite a few fluctuations, the number of interactions is steadily growing.

The NDC is gradually expanding its audience on social media, with more mentions and interactions growth compared to NPP/Bawumia-related content, although the absolute numbers still favor the NPP.

Stable Positive Sentiment: Despite the period under review, the positive public opinion and sentiment remain stagnant at 10%, with an equal proportion between NPP and NDC mentions.

Both parties registered exactly 10.22% positive sentiment out of the total sentiments analyzed, indicating no significant upsurge in positivity triggered by any events or pronouncements from either candidate.

Rising Negative Sentiment: However, negative sentiment towards both party candidates increased during this period.

Negative mentions of the NPP experienced a higher percentage increase, rising from around 21% to just over 28%, while negative sentiment towards the NDC saw a more modest increase of approximately 4%.

This suggests a general increase in negativity towards both parties, with the NPP bearing the brunt of growing negative mentions.

Impact of Ministerial Reshuffle: Despite a ministerial reshuffle during the period, it did not significantly alter the level of positivity towards the NPP but rather triggered negative sentiments overall.

This raises questions about public faith in politicians and their ability to influence public opinion positively.

Dominance in Social Media Mentions: Despite the challenges, the NPP maintained its lead in social media mentions.

The ministerial reshuffle did not diminish the NPP’s dominance in mentions and social reach, with more commentators scrutinizing their policies and the messaging of their presidential candidate compared to the NDC.

The analysis underscores the dynamic nature of public sentiment on social media and its potential impact on political discourse and electoral outcomes.

As Ghana’s election approaches, understanding these trends becomes increasingly vital for political strategists and candidates seeking to engage effectively with the electorate.

For insights into Mahama and Bawumia’s current Social Media Performance vs Previous Period Under Review, insights on NPP’s continued dominance of headspace on social media, interactions and discussions and on Associated Keywords related to the campaigns as a worldcloud please go to here.

The next sentiment report will also gauge the public’s response to the SONA.For a ‘live’ graphical representation of this episode, please go here.

The Ministry of Finance has urged President Akufo-Addo not to sign the recently passed Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill into law.

In a press release issued on Monday, March 4, the Finance Ministry cautioned that such action could lead to severe repercussions on the country’s financial support from international organisations like the Bretton Woods Institutions.

The statement highlighted concerns that the expected US$300 million financing from the First Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), currently awaiting Parliamentary approval, might not be disbursed if the bill is signed into law.

Additionally, ongoing negotiations on the Second Ghana Resilient Recovery Development Policy Operation (Budget Support), amounting to US$300 million, could be suspended.

The Ministry emphasized that these potential outcomes could result in a significant loss of financial resources, leading to a financing gap in the 2024 budget.

To address these challenges, the Ministry called upon the President to engage with religious bodies to discuss the implications of signing the bill and to establish a robust coalition and framework for supporting key development initiatives.

“The Presidency may have a structured engagement with local conservative forces such as religious bodies and faith-based organisations to communicate the economic implications of the passage of the ‘Anti-LGBTQ’ Bill and to build a stronger coalition and a framework for supporting key development initiative that is likely to be affected.”

It also added that “the President may have to defer assenting to the Bill until the court rules on the legal issues tabled by key national stakeholders (CSOs and CHRAJ).”

On February 28, 2024, Parliament approved a bill criminalizing LGBTQ activities and prohibiting their promotion, advocacy, and funding.

Under the legislation, individuals convicted of such acts could be sentenced to 6 months to 3 years in prison, while those promoting or sponsoring such activities could face 3 to 5 years behind bars.

The Bill’s passage has sparked criticism from various stakeholders, including Virginia Evelyn Palmer, the Ambassador of the United States to Ghana.

Below is the full statement

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A senior Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, has proposed that Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is the most suitable choice for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate.

Dr. Asah-Asante asserted that, Dr. Opoku Prempeh has demonstrated exceptional competence in various roles, making him the preferred candidate for the running mate position.

During an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show, Dr. Asah-Asante expressed confidence that Dr. Opoku Prempeh would enhance Dr. Bawumia’s electoral prospects in the 2024 elections.

He emphasised that Dr. Bawumia recognises the strengths and advantages that the Energy Minister brings to the table, ensuring a prudent decision-making process.

“As for me, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is number one. In his area of work, he has demonstrated that he has what it takes to lead anytime the call comes and all that. So he will be Dr Bawumia’s top choice for his running mate,” he said.

On November 4, 2023, Vice President Dr. Bawumia clinched the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer position, setting the stage for the upcoming December polls.

While Dr. Bawumia has yet to officially unveil his running mate for the impending elections, analysts have been busy speculating on potential candidates.

Among those frequently mentioned are Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Dr. John Kumah, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Joseph Osei Owusu, and esteemed clergyman and former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Prof. Opoku Onyinah.

Additionally, Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare and Communications Minister Ursula Owusu Ekulful have emerged as notable contenders in the running mate selection process for Dr. Bawumia.

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Former President John Mahama is in Abeokuta, Nigeria at the invitation of former Nigerian leader Olusegun Obasanjo to chair the launch and presentation of his new book titled, “The Art of Leading: Unconventional Wisdom from Biblical Leaders.”

Mr. Mahama will also be the Special Guest of Honour at a Grand Lecture at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library on March 05, to commemorate the 87th birthday of the former Nigerian President.

The lecture will be attended by many world leaders, including former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados and HE Danilo Turk, former President of Slovenia.

While in Nigeria, Mr Mahama, who is leading the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the 2024 elections, will also be the Special Guest of Honour at an event honouring Dr Akinwunmi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank.

Dr Adesina will be presented with the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership at an awards presentation ceremony.

The theme for the ceremony is “Transformational leadership and good governance: Lessons from the Awolowo example.”

The Electoral Commission (EC) will receive nominations of candidates for this year’s presidential and parliamentary elections from September 9 to 13 in a major countdown to the climax of the political season.

This will be followed by the balloting for positions on the presidential ballot paper on September 23, 2024, and the parliamentary balloting on September 24, 2024.

Furthermore, the EC expects to declare the results of the 2024 presidential polls within three days of the voting exercise, if everything goes according to plan.

In its programme of activities for the 2024 general election, obtained exclusively by the Daily Graphic, the EC will conduct a voters’ registration exercise from May 7 to May 27, 2024, and proceed with a nationwide exercise to replace missing voter ID cards from May 30, 2024.

The registration exercise will, however, be preceded by 56 days of public education on the exercise from April 1 to May 26, 2024.

Per the schedule, available to the Daily Graphic, the EC intends to submit the provisional voters’ register to the political parties between July 9 and 18, 2024, and mount an exhibition of the voters register between July 15 and 24, 2024.

The final voters register is expected to be submitted to the political parties between August 30 and September 5, 2024.

Meetings

In between the datelines, the EC — per the schedule — will hold meetings with stakeholders outside the political parties frame, and also engage the public through its “Let the Citizen Know” series.

Sources within the EC said this exercise was intended to ensure that all stakeholders understood and appreciated the efforts towards a free and fair electoral process in order to eliminate any tendencies for suspicion and mistrust.

The exercise, the source said, would be in line with the EC’s mandate to ensure and enhance open and transparent operations of the electoral processes.

The sources at the EC told the Daily Graphic that the EC would be holding its Special Voting for selected professionals on December 2, five days before the main polls.

It will be opened for security agencies and accredited media practitioners who would be performing duties during election day on December 7, 2024.

All the dates are, however, subject to review, the sources indicated to the Daily Graphic.

Results

The sources said although there was no law requiring the EC to declare the results within a specified period, the EC intended to ensure that it would be able to declare the presidential results within a maximum of three days.

The sources indicated that the Regional Collation Centres would be maintained to announce the results at the regional level.

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The Electoral Commission (EC) has scheduled an Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting for Thursday, March 7.

This is to address critical issues concerning the upcoming December 7, 2024 general elections.

In an official communication dated March 1, 2024, Deputy Chairperson for Corporate Services at the EC, Dr. Bossman Eric Asare, invited political parties to the IPAC meeting.

Each party is requested to send three representatives.

The meeting is scheduled to start at 10:am in the IPAC room of the Electoral Commission and will focus on finalizing the Election 2024 programs.

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Counseling the NDC Council of Elders

Dear Seniors,

I wish to salute you for all your dedication and sacrifices for our party over the years. I read on social media that our flagbearer John Mahama will be meeting with you on March 7, 2024 to discuss his options for running mate.

I am an ordinary party foot soldier who lays no claim to experience and knowledge on matters of our party but I wish to plead with all of you to act in the best interest of our party. You have a responsibility to save our collective future.

Our flagbearer needs your expert guidance on the major decision of running-mate and I am praying that you will rise to the occasion.

I have noticed that supporters of our mummy Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman have taken their campaign for her to be retained to another level in the last few weeks. I even read a news story suggesting that she is already confirmed.

My checks indicate that John Mahama has yet to disclose the list of persons he is considering. I know you are experienced enough to discern the attempt to stampede all of you in the direction of Prof. Naana by a few shameless individuals.

I have nothing against Prof. Naana. She is a wonderful and admirable person whose profile makes me feel proud to be a foot soldier of our party. But the more I think about her as our running mate, the more I wonder whether our interest as a party is in staying in power for long or only interested in the remaining one term of John Mahama.

We have before us an opportunity to choose a running-mate with a succession plan in mind, and I doubt very much if at 76 years of age now, Prof Naana can carry us forward after John Mahama.

I have also observed that several major newspapers including Daily Graphic and Ghanaian Times have all placed Prof. Naana on their front pages showcasing her as the chosen running-mate. I don’t believe Prof. Naana is behind such recklessness.

She would not do such a thing. Those behind the publications have attacked the reputation of our Council of Elders who are yet to know who John Mahama has in mind.

Creating the impression in the press that the Council of Elders has received a list from John Mahama is erroneous and dangerous for the future of the NDC.

I feel scandalized by the publications because I am convinced that the publications are intended to scandalize you the members of our Council of Elders.

Never in the history of our party has a purported running-mate been confirmed before the meeting of the Council of Elders; never in the history of our party have few individuals hidden behind their access to resources to hijack the duties of the legitimate structures of the party; and never in the history of our party has the party itself been disrespected as we are witnessing now.

But I know that you the members of the Council of Elders are all knowledgeable and noble statesmen and women with tremendous experience. I pray that you rise above any special interests and give us the rank and file, a younger firebrand running-mate upon whose shoulders our long-term fortunes as a party will rest.

Your reputation and credibility are under attack and if you succumb to the mafia tactics and political machinations being deployed, the young people in our party will not forgive you.

Close to 70% of our voting population is in the youth cohort. Most of them are disillusioned by what appears to be deliberate mismanagement of our economy by power holders.

Most of them want someone they can relate to, someone who shares their frustrations and can inspire them to an optimistic future. Our youth wish you to choose a running-mate that reflects their worldview and aspirations. Let’s not disappoint them to disappoint ourselves.

Even from my less vantage point, I know that many well-meaning Ghanaians across diverse backgrounds in our society have expressed interest in seeing the NDC choose a younger running mate.

In it all, let us be careful not to dent the hard-won reputation of the good Professor, whose calm nature is very assuring and disarming.

The decision is ultimately John Mahama’s but trust me, people in his circle have been playing all manner of games to shift any future blame to the party and especially you the Council of Elders. We the foot soldiers demand you see through the veil and avoid the traps. Finally, whatever names are submitted to you, please demand a thorough intelligence report to ensure your reputations are not sacrificed.

My elders, please be reminded that John Mahama was a beneficiary of wise decisions by Professor Mills, so he cannot act in a manner inconsistent with the strategy that paved his way to the presidency.

Let’s not make the vice presidency a stepping stone into political oblivion. This requires that the decision for a running mate must be guided first and foremost by a deliberate succession strategy.

In effect, the decision is for John Mahama to choose who he can best work with, as much as, it is about the state in which he wishes to leave our party when he completes his tenure in office.

Please forgive a poor ordinary foot soldier for trying to counsel a whole council of elders, but I write this piece for two reasons.

First to save the integrity of our Council of Elders as well as the party, and second to call out the faceless people who think they can hide behind the media to throw dust into the eyes of the unsuspecting public.

It is not everyone in the public that is unsuspecting, some of us are quite alive to all the scheming and machinations. We shall speak openly if pushed to the wall.

But be rest assured that I shall return in the coming days.

The Worried NDC Foot Soldier

Former Oti Regional Minister, Joshua Makubu says he was a bit surprised about his removal from office.

He indicated no concerns were raised about him during his tenure in office as a regional minister for redress.

He therefore finds it strange when the President told him he could not be part of his government after the ministerial reshuffle on the 14th of February.

Joshua Makubu was speaking to Joy News’s Peter Senoo two weeks after his removal from office.

Meanwhile, some residents in the Oti Region have commended President Akufo-Addo’s ministerial reshuffling.

They said the removal of Joshua Makubu as Oti Regional Minister will provide equal opportunities for others to serve and bring the needed development.

President Akufo-Addo last month relieved some Ministers and Deputy Ministers of their portfolios as part of strategies to strengthen governance.

Mr. Makubu was removed and was replaced by Daniel Machator.

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The Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Nuru Sharubutu has led the National Muslim Conference of Ghana, to present a manifesto proposal to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama.

The 14-point ‘Muslim Manifesto’ is important in ensuring that political actors do not neglect the Muslim community.

The presentation was made last Thursday at a meeting attended by Mr Mahama, NDC executives, and some members of parliament.

The proposals included the construction of STEM and TVET schools in all Zongo communities across the nation’s sixteen administrative regions, an amendment to the interstate succession bill to allow Muslims to inherit according to Islamic ordinances, and the establishment of modern abattoirs adhering to World Health Organization standards in all regions of Ghana.

Also, the conference proposed the formation of a permanent pilgrimage board to facilitate the annual Mecca trips.

Mr Mahama upon receipt of the proposal assured the National Chief Imam and the Muslim community that he will take a keen interest in their requests and work to ensure that they benefit from what is due to them.

“Thank you for your proactive approach, and rest assured that your voice will be heard in our 2024 manifesto.

“Together, we will work to build a more inclusive and equitable Ghana that we all want.

In response, Mahama acknowledged that many of the points in the Muslim Manifesto are already included in the NDC’s 2020 People’s Manifesto,” he lauded.

Meanwhile, the conference within last week submitted a similar proposal to Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

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The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has raised concerns about events held at the forecourt of the State House.

The forecourt of the State House in the past years has been the venue for funerals, especially of some political figures in Ghana.

But Mr Bagbin has said these events pose security threats to Members of Parliament (MPs) in their line of duties.

The Speaker made these reservations during discussions with the top five schools that took part in the National Public Speaking Competition on Friday.

“I’m sure when you were coming you heard some noise outside, when we are busy doing our work, then there are people outside there permitted to come and make and noise. By the time we go outside, they could have broken into our cars, and stolen things.

“You talk to them it is like they are deaf and dumb, they don’t hear. We are constrained to be able to function properly,” he bemoaned.

Additionally, Speaker Bagbin expressed his frustration about the public’s declining trust in politicians.

“When you hear the politicians talking do you believe it? Once you are a leader and the people following you don’t believe you, you can’t achieve anything,” he said.

On the sidelines of the interaction, he also touched on the Ghana-International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal.

“Anytime they want Ghana to falter and return to them, they will tell their small boys to come and misadvise us. When we do the wrong thing and we collapse, they [IMF] say aha, that is what they do to us. Ghana we have been there 17 times, we have not solved our problems,” he stated.

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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Trobu constituency, Gloria Owusu has officially been unveiled at a Thanksgiving rally on Saturday.

The event which was attended by hundreds of enthusiastic party members came together to show their support for the NPP and its candidate.

Speaking at the rally, Madam Owusu highlighted the achievements of the NPP government and outlined the party’s vision for the future.

She stressed the importance of unity within the party and called on all members to work together to ensure a resounding victory in 2024.

“This is a new beginning for our party and our country. We must be united in our efforts to make Ghana a better place for all, we will work towards achieving 100,000 votes for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and Gloria Owusu in Trobu Constituency,” she said.

Madam Owusu also took the opportunity to thank the people of the Trobu constituency for their continued support.

The event had major Party big wigs and opinion leaders in attendance as well as the Chief of Aladjo, Nii Armah Adjor II.

Some Party members who were in attendance were the Director General for SIGA and Former National General Secretary of the Party, John Boadu, the regional executives, constituency executives, and other major stakeholders in the constituency.

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In a significant development for the South Tongu District Assembly in the Volta Region, members have confirmed Innocent Tettey as the District Chief Executive (DCE).

Tettey, whose initial nomination faced rejection, has now been overwhelmingly endorsed with an 87.72 per cent ‘yes’ vote, securing 50 out of 57 votes.

The confirmation of Tettey comes on the heels of President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo’s revocation of the former DCE’s appointment, signalling a new chapter for the district’s governance.

The confirmation ceremony, witnessed by notable figures including the District Chief Executive for Afadjato and the dean of Municipal and District Chief Executives, Hon. Etornam Flolu, alongside regional party executives, chiefs, heads of departments, party loyalists, and supporters, underscored the community’s engagement in the democratic process.

With the participation of all 40 elected assembly members and 18 government appointees, the confirmation exercise saw Tettey receive resounding support, with 87.72 per cent in favour and only 12.28 per cent opposing.

Following his swearing-in, Tettey expressed his commitment to inclusive governance, emphasizing his open-door policy for all stakeholders invested in the district’s development. He pledged to work tirelessly towards elevating South Tongu to municipal status, a promise that resonated with the community’s aspirations.

Togbega Dugbaza Nakakpo, the Paramount Chief of Tefle Traditional Area, urged Tettey to prioritize listening to all voices in decision-making, fostering unity and progress.

Victoria Dzeklo, the Presiding Member of the Assembly, expressed optimism about the district’s future under Tettey’s leadership, foreseeing the continuation of stalled developmental projects.

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A Senior Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, has blamed Ghana’s underdevelopment on the poor quality of leadership structures in the country.

According to him, the country has not experienced significant infrastructural and economic growth due to a lack of selfless leaders. He describes this as a “leadership crisis.”

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe on March 3, he explained that recent leaders are often ethnocentric, which makes it impossible for them to look beyond their tribes and address matters of the country as a whole.

“The wrong thing about Ghana that we have today is that we are in a leadership crisis. If you look at where we took off from independence, we had great potential with leaders who had vision; whose vision went beyond their ethnic group to move beyond Ghana and other parts of Africa and that you cannot single out.

“We cannot mention names without Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah. He looked way beyond his contemporaries in terms of ideas, in terms of plans, in terms of development, and the rest of them,” he told host, Emefa Apaw.

Dr Asah-Asante, juxtaposing the 67-year-old country to its toddler years, said that those stages were the best, as the then leader Dr Nkrumah saw the nation as a whole, hence his vision to build the Ghana we envisage.

However, he added that after those days, the political system began to decay, which translated into abuses in all sectors and consequently affected our identity as one people.

 “After independence, we saw the politics of decay. Politics of misgovernance, misrule, human rights violations, and the rest of them.

“And you realise that all these things have affected our identity as a people and lowered our desire to fight as one people for one cause. Today, you have a large army of youth without jobs, we have a lot of natural resources given to us but we don’t tap them and develop them for the benefit of human society.

“The eco-system that God gave us, that we need to protect and defend, has been bastardised and we have a government that sits down as if it is on sabbatical leave,”he added.

The Political science lecturer added that the situation had worsened to the point that moral values including integrity have been compromised for wealth.  

In light of this, he stressed that this could only end if there was some internal evaluation.

“If we wanted to fix this we need soul searching. As Aristotle said, the unexamined life is not worth living. We must come to that realisation that things are not good enough and that there is a need to have a paradigm shift,” he added.

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Hundreds of protesters in the Senegalese capital Dakar have called for elections to be held before the end of President Macky Sall’s term on 2 April.

Mr Sall sparked huge protests when he postponed last month’s elections and failed to announce a new date.

On Saturday, protesters from opposition parties and campaigning groups called the president a dictator and demanded the release from prison of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko.

Delegates taking part in political crisis talks last week, which were organised by the president but boycotted by the opposition, recommended holding elections in June.

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Former President, John Dramani Mahama says education is crucial to the country’s development since the sector attracts a greater chunk of budgetary allocations by every government.

He said the sector continuous to produce human resource capital for accelerated development, thus it is heartwarming when individuals complement the government’s efforts to educate the youth.

Mr Mahama said this on Saturday at the 40th Anniversary of the enstoolment of Togbe Dzegblade IV of Adaklu Kodzobi in an address delivered on his behalf by Mr Kwame Agbodza, the Member of Parliament for Adaklu.

He commended Togbe Dzegblade for setting up an educational fund to help brilliant but needy students in the area.

The former President entreated students to take advantage of the Fund to upgrade themselves.

He said before the political dispensation, chiefs were at the forefront of leadership who ensured the development of their communities.

Mr. Mahama said Togbe Dzegblade’s stay on the stool for 40 years without chieftaincy disputes that translated into the rapid development of the community was commendable and congratulated him for the feat.

Togbe Gbogbi Atsa V, Paramount Chief and President of the Adaklu Traditional Council said Togbe Dzegblade had helped to shape the fortunes of Adaklu across all spectrums of development.

“I commend you for your hard work and excellent demonstration of neighbourliness that have helped to establish and maintain peaceful coexistence with other traditional areas,” he stated.

Togbe Dzegblade, in his welcome address, gave a catalogue of development projects undertaken by the community without the government’s assistance.

They included a 20-seater water closet toilet, classroom blocks, pipe-borne water and a one-storey Information Centre.

The Education Fund would not only support brilliant students, but also those in apprenticeship and skills training, he said.

He said he would soon establish a Centre for Fabrication and Crafts Construction to sharpen the talents and skills of the youth interested in those fields.

Professor Kenneth Egbadzor, the Head of the Agriculture Science Department, at Ho Technical University, who chaired the function, reminded the youth that the path to success was education and entreated them to prioritise it no matter how rough it might be.

Solidarity messages were delivered by the National Democratic Congress, the University of Health and Allied Sciences, chiefs from other traditional areas, and religious leaders.

An 11-member board was inaugurated to run the Togbe Dzegblade Education Trust Fund.

Mr Mahama donated GHC10,000 in support of the Fund whilst Mr Agbodza also donated GHC5,000 in addition to the GHC20,000 he had earlier donated.

Present were Mr Ganyaglo, a former Deputy Volta Regional Minister, Mr Phanuel Kade Donkor, former DCE for Adaklu, heads of tertiary institutions and leaders of political parties.

Agboti Yao, a renowned artiste from Togo, entertained the gathering with good music.

The Ranking Member of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Isaac Adongo has outlined the National Democratic Congress (NDC) commitment to implementing an advanced digitalization system for Ghana if elected, surpassing current efforts led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

During a public lecture organized by the Coalition for Restoration (CFR) at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on February 28, 2024, Mr Adongo stressed the need for a digitalization strategy that minimizes human intervention in public service delivery, reduces corruption, and combats crime.

Mr. Adongo criticized the government’s digitalization agenda as limited to “stand-alone improvement tools,” arguing that it has not significantly addressed corruption or improved efficiency.

“You said John Mahama was using manual rudimentary systems and you have come to digitalise. If you have come to digitalised, shouldn’t you be better than John Mahama in corruption perception? Your best, 43 is John Mahama’s worst – 43,” he stated.

Describing digitalization as the integration of digital technologies across society and the economy, Mr. Adongo highlighted its potential to enhance security systems, stimulate economic growth, and foster innovation.

He contrasted the NDC’s proposed digitalization system with current practices, envisioning a model akin to European standards, where police could access comprehensive public records during routine stops.

The lecture aimed to analyze Ghana’s economic performance under the current administration and outline the NDC’s proposed solutions, should they win the 2024 General Election.

Mr. Adongo credited past NDC administrations for transformative communication and infrastructure projects, pledging to implement economic interventions to bolster resilience, create jobs, and prioritize local participation across key sectors.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of responsible borrowing practices to prevent adverse impacts on citizens holding government bonds.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has joined hundreds of mourners at Keta Senior High Technical School (KETASCO) Park to pay his last respect to the late Mrs Gertrude Essie Quashigah (nee Darteh). 

Also, in attendance to bid farewell to the wife of the late Major (Rtd) Courage Quashigah, a former Minister of Health, and Agriculture under the Kufuor government, was the First Lady, Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo. 

Among other dignitaries at the funeral were Madam Akosua Frema Osei Opare, the Chief of Staff, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister, and other national, high-ranking members of government, Regional and Constituency Executives of the ruling New Patriotic Party. 

Mrs Quashigah, the former National Coordinator of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) and Chief Executive Officer of Ambar Quality Foods Limited, died on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at age 63.  

Under her leadership, the GSFP made remarkable strides in ensuring that schoolchildren nationwide had access to nutritious meals. 

The programme, a government intervention, which started in 2005 to provide food to children in public basic schools from kindergarten to primary six, aims to increase school enrolment, attendance and retention while reducing short-term hunger and malnutrition among pupils. 

Some attendees speaking to Ghana News Agency at the funeral, described her as someone, who had left a mark on the nation’s socio-economic landscape by dint of dedicated service and entrepreneurial endeavours. 

A staff from the GSFP alluded to the significant contributions the late Mrs Quashigah made as the GSFP boss, saying, she worked to uplift the country’s educational system and improve lives of many schoolchildren and that “her legacy which is the power of perseverance, compassion, and leadership will inspire Ghana’s future generations.” 

The special aide to O. B Amoah, the current Member of Parliament for Akuapem South, Eric Apeadu Yeboah, has emerged as the winner in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary primary for the constituency.

On Saturday, March 2, 2024, Mr. Yeboah secured 267 votes out of the total valid votes cast, which represented 49.3%, securing him the parliamentary candidacy for the constituency.

According to reports, 574 delegates gathered at the Presby Women’s College of Education in Aburi to vote in the Akuapem South constituency parliamentary primaries in the Eastern Region.

Initially, the party leadership had postponed the election following the withdrawal of the incumbent Member of Parliament, O.B Amoah, from the contest.

Subsequently, the Municipal Chief Executive of the area, Frank Aidoo, was included on the ballot.

Competing against Aidoo were Eric Yeboah Apeadu, Eric Samuel Annor Mensah, and Kwame Ofori Gyau.

The atmosphere, initially calm, became tense when allegations arose that one of the candidates had camped some delegates in a nearby room. However, swift intervention from security personnel and regional executives prevented the situation from escalating.

Frank Aidoo polled 69 votes, Eric Samuel Annor Mensah 54, and Kwame Ofori Gyae 152.

The Eastern Regional Secretary of the party, Tony Osei Adjei, who oversaw the elections, outlined plans to foster unity among party members.

He refuted claims that the delay in conducting the primaries would impact the party’s prospects in December.

In his acceptance speech, Eric Yeboah Apeadu expressed gratitude to the delegates for their support and urged them to work diligently for the party to secure victory in the upcoming elections.

The Member of Parliament for the area, OB Amoah also stressed the need for unity.

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A prominent figure within the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko has voiced his reservations regarding the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, recently passed by Parliament.

Expressing his concerns, Mr Otchere-Darko criticised the perceived severity of the bill, arguing that it fails to align with the needs of the Ghanaian populace and the fundamental rights of individuals.

He advocated for a public discourse to weigh the merits and drawbacks of the proposed legislation, highlighting the importance of engaging in an open dialogue on such sensitive matters.

Below is the post

Ghana’s parliament, in which is vested the sovereign will of the people, has democratically passed a harsher anti-LGBTQ Bill. Yes, democratically! In fact the threat of being unseated for standing for the rights of gays, etc, certainly created its own culture of silence in the…

— Gabby Otchere-Darko (@GabbyDarko) March 1, 2024

“Ghana’s Parliament, in which is vested the sovereign will of the people, has democratically passed a harsher anti-LGBTQ Bill. Yes, democratically! In fact the threat of being unseated for standing for the rights of gays, etc, certainly created its own culture of silence in the House! But, it is the decision of Parliament and one which enjoys huge popular support in the country. The world must understand that.

“But, Ghanaians must also understand that it comes with consequences. Choices have consequences. We expect the media and the politicians to be fair to the people by letting them know the pros and cons of this decision to impose stiffer penalties against gays, etc. We also expect those who believe the Bill is constitutionally wrong to do what is right and go to court.”

“That is democracy! Our institutions of democracy are still strong and alive. Let’s have faith in our democracy. Let’s respect the choices we make and their consequences and believe in the process. Ghana remains a sovereign state, with cultural norms that cannot be wished away but must be respected.

“I still believe, though, that we can balance our traditional family values with our traditional values of tolerance and diversity. That’s the Ghanaian way. The Ghanaian culture. The Ghanaian spirit. Our history. Our DNA. That is Ghanaian.”

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As Ghana gears up for the upcoming general elections, the children of Ghana are earnestly appealing to various political parties to prioritize the preservation of the country’s peace and democracy.

The children are also urging political parties to conduct themselves in a peaceful and tolerant manner while safeguarding Ghana’s rich culture and traditions.

This plea was eloquently expressed by selected school children who addressed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and other participants at the 2024 Independence Day Awards ceremony held at the Accra International Conference Center.

The event aimed to honour 46 students who demonstrated outstanding performance in the 2023 BECE exams.

In addition to advocating for peace and democratic values, the children pledged to dedicate themselves to academic excellence in order to become future leaders.

They also appealed to the government to implement stringent measures to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the environment.

The Deputy Minister of Education, Rev. Ntim Fordjuor, highlighted the substantial investments made by the Akufo-Addo administration in the education sector and emphasized the positive outcomes resulting from these investments.

He noted that despite critics initially focusing solely on the Free SHS initiative, the government’s total investment in education amounted to GH¢114 billion between 2017 and 2023.

Of this amount, GH¢12.9 billion was allocated to Free SHS, with the remainder allocated to various other areas of education, particularly early childhood education.

Rev. Ntim Fordjuor emphasized the significant improvement in literacy rates, citing that now 38% of class two pupils can read, compared to only 2% under the previous government.

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The former Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu is skeptical about the impact the running mate of former President John Mahama will make in the party’s quest to win the December general elections.

In his view, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman given her age might not help appeal to the youth.

Mr. Amidu’s comment comes after National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer named her a running mate for the 2024 elections.

He has submitted her name to the National Executive Committee and the Council of Elders of the party for scrutiny.

But Martin Amidu in a post hoped Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s choice would do magic for the opposition party.

He feared her choice might affect the NDC’s fortunates in the 2028 general elections.

“Let us hope that should Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang be the presumptive nominee John Mahama has submitted to the NDC in his communication of 27 February 2024, she would be stronger than another tested younger candidate from the NPP for the 2028 election should the NDC win the 2024 elections as already arrogantly predicted. And old age from my experience in my seventies has everything to do with Nana Akufo-Addo’s mishaps as President of Ghana” Mr. Amidu added.

The former Attorney General urged the leadership of the NDC to be “strategic” ahead of the December elections.

“The NDC must in its strategic, tactical planning and evaluation remember that, the first four years after 2024 within the present messy economic dispensation is not going to be an easy tenure for anybody to put money in the peoples’ pockets as one of the NDC’s young lawyers tried to deceive the electorate recently in the media. The 2028 elections even if John Mahama could contest would not be a walkover for him, let alone when a new face has to be presented by the NDC. The preceding arguments are made upon the assumption that the NDC can win the 2024 presidential elections for which there is no certainty” Mr. Amidu stated.

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Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, says no part of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill (Anti-LGBTQ Bill) infringes on the laws in the 1992 constitution.

Speaking on Newsfile, on Saturday, he pointed out that many individuals who oppose the bill by arguing that it contradicts the provisions of the 1992 constitution, have failed to specify the exact sections.

However, Sam George stated that though Article 17 ensures that all persons are equal before the law and not discriminated against, sub-section four gives Parliament the power to enact laws reasonably necessary to provide aid for the implementation of policies and programs aimed at addressing social, economic and educational imbalances in the Ghanaian society.

“This is a social issue and so Parliament is within the same Article 17.4 exercising its right that the constitution has conferred on us to deal with the social issue. It says for the matters relating to adoption, which is in this bill, marriage is in this bill, divorce, burial, and the evolution of property. But clearly, parliament has not acted ultra vires the constitution,” he said.

The Ningo Prampram MP added that many of the restrictions in the bill are already legislations which have been aggregated into the Anti-LGBTG bill.

“If you take the Children’s Act of Ghana today, it prohibits anybody who is not a heterosexual from being allowed to adopt or foster a child. That is in the Children’s Act. Now, you put that provision in this law and the professors and the gay lobbyists have not found the Children’s Act offensive to the Constitution. But as soon as you put it in the LGBTQ bill, it becomes offensive to the Constitution.”

“The Marriage Act of Ghana does not recognize a marriage consummated between a man or persons of the same sex. We put that in this bill. Boom, it becomes unconstitutional. Why? There is a new definition for unconstitutional?” he quizzed.

This comes after Parliament faced opposition from some people after passing the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, on Wednesday, February 28.

Among other things, the bill punishes those who take part in LGBTQ sexual acts, as well as those who promote the rights of gay, lesbian or other non-conventional sexual or gender identities with time in prison.

Although a section of the public have welcomed the bill, others including CHRAJ have raised many concerns including discrimination against people and their freedoms as stated in the constitution.

However, Sam George noted that Article 21 lists the general fundamental freedoms people can enjoy including freedom of speech and expression, belief, thought and others.

He says it is in parliament’s right to pass laws to deal with people who are teaching or propagating a doctrine that exhibits or encourages disrespect for the country’s values.

The Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare was star-strucked after meeting Ghanaian football icon, Asamoah Gyan at the launch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) campaign team.

She saw the former captain of the Black Star on her blindside and she could not believe her eyes.

Madam Osei-Osei was astonished when Asamoah Gyan approached her at the event.

The Chief of Staff paused to look at him before exclaiming “atuu atuu” repeatedly. She then warmly embraced Gyan, the all-time leading scorer for the Black Stars.

Asamoah Gyan, clearly moved by the Chief of Staff’s display of affection, reciprocated by embracing her.

Gyan was appointed as a member of the NPP manifesto committee.

In his role as the Chairman of the Youth and Sports sub-committee, Mr Gyan has been entrusted with leveraging his expertise to formulate policies for sports development of Ghana sports.

Watch attached video for more

When the Chief of Staff saw BABYJET behind her pic.twitter.com/rmCqErZXK7

— ASAMOAH GYAN (@ASAMOAH_GYAN3) March 1, 2024

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The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) is appealing to President Akufo-Addo to assent to the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill passed by Ghana’s Parliament.

Popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ Bill, the legislation which punishes those who take part in LGBTQ sexual acts, as well as those who promote the rights of gay, lesbian or other non-conventional sexual or gender identities with time in prison was approved on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

In a statement issued on Friday March 1, 2024 and signed by Apostle Immanuel N. O Tetteh, General Secretary, GPCC also lauded the private sponsors and supporters, noting: “They have supported the passage of this Bill through the arduous journey spanning almost three (3) years.”

Find a copy of the statement below:

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed gratitude to the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, for her pivotal role, emphasising her exceptional leadership qualities and compassionate approach.

Speaker Bagbin’s remarks during the State of the Nation Address last Tuesday, February 27, 2024, underscored the profound impact Osei-Opare has had on the nation, portraying her as a beacon of hope and support for Ghanaians from all walks of life.

While introducing the guests who were present at this year’s SONA delivered by President Nana Akufo-Addo, on reaching the turn of Frema Osei-Opare, Bagbin said: “The chief of staff is in charge of the whole family of the Right Honourable Speaker.”

Throughout her tenure,  Frema Opare has dedicated herself to initiatives aimed at uplifting communities and individuals in need. From providing essential aid to orphanages and covering medical expenses for underprivileged families to supplying hospitals and schools with necessary resources, her commitment to serving the people has been unwavering.

Moreover, Chief of Staff Opare’s leadership style is characterised by empathy and understanding. She actively engages with citizens, amplifying their voices within the corridors of power and advocating for causes that promote inclusivity and social justice.

Her efforts have garnered widespread respect and admiration nationwide, with her name becoming synonymous with integrity, compassion, and effective leadership. Frema Osei-Opare continues to lead with benevolence and dedication, her unwavering commitment to making a positive difference ensures a brighter future for Ghana.

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