A five-member delegation of the Council of State, led by the Chairman, Nana Otuo Siribuor, today called on the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin to ascertain at first hand, happenings in the legislature in recent times, resulting in the adjournment of the House indefinitely After a long deliberation, members of the Council assured the Rt. Hon Speaker of their preparedness to assist him and the leadership of the House to resolve whatever impasse there maybe, to pave the way for a recall of the House.

The Speaker gave a brief of the situation in Parliament and the basis of his pronouncements on the floor of the House. He assured the delegation of his commitment to the development of the country’s democracy and its people.

The Council applauded the efforts of the Speaker, in keeping the democratic credentials of the country high, through efficient handling of the legislature and his leadership as the President of Parliamentary organizations like the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association International, (CPA), Conference of the Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSHAL) and an Executive member of the International Legislative Advisory Council of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) in the United States of America. HRH Nana Otuo Siribuor encouraged him to continue with the good works in the interest of Ghana and all Ghanaians.

Mr. Speaker informed the delegation that he is compelled to lead the Ghana parliamentary delegation to attend the 67th Conference of the CPA International at Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The Ghanaian delegation includes the former MajorityLeader and Member of Parliament for Suame, Hon Osei KyeiMensah Bonsu, the two Leaders of the House, two Whips, theClerk to Parliament and other officials of the Parliamentary Service. The conference is to take place from the 3rd to the 8th of November, where Speaker Bagbin, the Immediate Past President of CPA International, is expected to hand over to the newlyelected President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the Speaker of the Parliament of New South Wales, Australia.

The Rt. Hon Speaker however indicated that he will return to Ghana earlier than anticipated, due to a request by Members of Parliament to recall Parliament. He indicated that his office has already started processes to recall the house in early November. Speaker Bagbin has recently been elected to a second term as President of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Amenfi Central Constituency has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the Electoral Commission’s (EC) disqualification of their parliamentary candidate, Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe.

At a press conference addressed by Constituency Secretary Hon. Fiifi Sangmoah, the party described the EC’s action as “undemocratic, unconstitutional, provocative, and barefacedly instigated.”

The controversy surrounds the May 13, 2023, parliamentary primaries, where Madam Gyan Cudjoe won overwhelmingly.

However, dissatisfied individuals filed a lawsuit, securing an interlocutory injunction that temporarily restrained her from holding herself out as the duly elected candidate.

The NDC’s Functional Executive Committee annulled the May 13, 2023, elections and conducted fresh primaries on September 8, 2024. Madam Gyan Cudjoe emerged victorious once again, with the EC supervising the process.

The party argues that the September election superseded the May election, rendering the earlier contest irrelevant and reinforcing Madam Gyan Cudjoe’s legitimacy.

Despite the NDC’s arguments, the EC disqualified Madam Gyan Cudjoe, citing the interlocutory injunction tied to the annulled May 2023 election. The party sees this decision as a gross display of incompetence and vows to fight back.

The NDC demands that the EC restore Madam Gyan Cudjoe’s name on the notice of poll and ballot papers for Amenfi Central. They will only accept the outcome of the December 7, 2024, elections if Madam Gyan Cudjoe remains a contender.

As Hon. Fiifi Sangmoah emphasized, “We will not stop until justice is done and the people’s will is restored.”

READ BELOW THE FULL PRESS STATEMENT

PRESS CONFERENCE ADDRESSED BY THE CONSTITUENCY SECRETARY
HON. FIIFI SANGMOAH ON THE DISQUALIFICATION BY THE ELECTORAL
COMMISSION OF THE NDC’S AMENFI CENTRAL PARLIAMENTARY CANDIDATE.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen. Respectful Comrades and Party faithfuls, the press and the good people of Ghana, we are indeed grateful for your time and appreciate your quick response to this urgent call. This call is of importance to us and we are grateful that you have gathered here on this short notice. We bring you warm greetings from Amenfi Central Constituency Executive Members.

Today, we would like to take a moment to express our dissatisfaction on the recent pronouncement by the Electoral Commission on the disqualification of our Parliamentary Candidate of the Amenfi Central Constituency Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe. We want to unequivocally state here and now that we will not and shall not accept this decision made by the electoral commission. We see the EC’S action as undemocratic, unconstitutional but provocative and barefacedly instigated and executed by leadership of the Commission. The EC has shown gross incompetence by unlawfully disqualifying our duly elected parliamentary candidate for the Amenfi Central Constituency, Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe for which they the Electoral Commission supervised all the process leading to her candidature.

Ladies and gentlemen, let me set the records straight:

1. On May 13, 2023, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) conducted its parliamentary primaries in the Amenfi Central Constituency, where Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe won overwhelmingly as the chosen candidate.

2. However, following that victory, certain individuals who were dissatisfied with the outcome filed a lawsuit at the Sekondi High Court, questioning the legitimacy of the election. In response, an interlocutory injunction was secured, which temporarily restrained Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe from holding herself out as the duly elected parliamentary candidate until the final determination of the substantive matter.

3. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, and mindful of the electoral timelines, the NDC’s Functional Executive Committee made the prudent decision to annul the May 13, 2023, elections and proceed with fresh primaries.

4. Thus, on September 8, 2024, fresh elections were held. While five candidates initially contested the May election, for the September 2024 rerun, only Joana Gyan Cudjoe and the incumbent Peter Kwakye-Ackah filed and went through the vetting process.

5. The September election was conducted in accordance with all party rules and electoral guidelines, and was supervised by the Electoral Commission itself, which was duly informed of every step we took.

6. The process was transparent, and Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe was once again declared the clear and decisive winner, without any protests or objections from the other candidates there were no controversies surrounding the process.

7. The September 8 election superseded the May election, making the earlier contest irrelevant and reinforcing Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe’s legitimacy as the NDC’s parliamentary candidate for Amenfi Central.

8. The September 2024 election rendered the May 2023 election null and void. It effectively reset the clock. Despite these undeniable facts, the Electoral Commission, sought to disqualify Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe.

9. The May 2023 election, which was the subject of that injunction, no longer exists. It was annulled and replaced by the fresh September 2024 election.
10. The EC supervised the acclamation of Joana Gyan Cudjoe, allowed her to go through the filling of nominations for the December 2024 polls process. The EC made no objections during these critical moments. And now, suddenly, they claim she is disqualified based on an injunction tied to an annulled election.

Ladies and gentlemen, the NDC will fight back with everything we’ve got, and we will not stop until justice is done and the people’s will is restored. We need only one thing to be done by the EC and that is to restore the name of Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe’s credentials on the notice of poll and by extension ballot papers assigned for Amenfi Central. The NDC, Amenfi Central will welcome the outcome of the results on December 7, 2024 if and only if Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe remains as part of the contenders.

Last but not least, we want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you gathered here for your unwavering support throughout this journey. Your dedication, encouragement and trust in our Parliamentary Candidate is something we do not take for granted and we, the Constituency Executive Committee commend your good work and look forward for us to work together for HE John Dramani Mahama and we also have the conviction that our able Parliamentary Candidate’s name will be reinstated for all of us to vote massively for Madam Joana Gyan Cudjoe. We want to assure you that, the CEC will continue to work together with our Regional Executives and National Executives to get this disquiet resolved once and for all.

We thank you for your attention.

Alan Kyerematen, founder of the Movement for Change and the presidential candidate of the Afrafranto Alliance, has clarified his ultimate motivation for seeking the presidency, asserting that his drive is rooted in a deep-seated love for Ghana, not political ambition. “I am not in this to simply win power,” Mr Kyerematen stated. “My commitment to Ghana and the well-being of every Ghanaian is what drives me forward. We need to put Ghana first and rise above political lines for the sake of our future.” His call comes amid enthusiasm among supporters who view his platform as a unique, transformative vision for the nation.

Mr Kyerematen’s message of a government of national unity resonated during the second day of his caravan campaign tour, which saw him stop in the communities of Weija and Bortiano. He engaged locals directly, emphasizing that his primary goal is to ensure a prosperous Ghana that leaves no citizen behind. “This campaign is not just about votes; it’s about listening to Ghanaians, hearing their challenges, and ensuring we act on them. Weija, Bortiano, and every other community deserve to be heard,” Alan affirmed, reinforcing his commitment to a people-centred approach.

As part of his outreach, Alan Kyerematen invited Ghanaians of all political backgrounds to join his movement, appealing to those who share his vision for a better Ghana. “My doors are open to anyone who wants to see real progress,” he declared. “Let’s build a coalition that goes beyond party colours because Ghana’s future is more important than any political affiliation. Whether you are NPP, NDC, or independent, we can stand together as one for Ghana.”

The caravan campaign tour, led by Mr Kyerematen and his Movement for Change team, aimed to engage with citizens across the country, listening to their concerns and sharing a vision for a brighter future. In Weija and Bortiano, he outlined practical steps to tackle issues like youth unemployment, education, and healthcare, all central to his Great Transformational Plan (GTP). “I’m not here to make promises for the sake of it,” Alan said. “We have a clear plan to build an economy that supports all Ghanaians and to create opportunities for everyone.”

The response from the communities was overwhelmingly positive, with crowds cheering his arrival and engaging in dialogue. Many locals expressed their desire for a leader who is invested in grassroots issues and aligned with their hopes. “This is what we’ve been waiting for—a leader who will actually listen to us and not just tell us what we want to hear,” said a resident of Weija.

Mr Kyerematen’s commitment to building bridges within communities is underscored by his interactions with community leaders and citizens. His Movement for Change seeks to establish a stronger presence in every region by fostering collaboration with traditional and community leaders. “Local leaders play a critical role in the development of their communities, and their support is vital to our vision. We’re not just here to visit; we’re here to partner with these communities for the long haul,” he emphasized.

The Movement for Change caravan tour is designed not only to inform but also to mobilize, creating a sense of unity across Ghana. Alan is focused on laying the groundwork for a government that places citizens at its core and prioritizes the nation’s growth. “Our journey is just beginning, and we will work passionately and tirelessly to ensure that every Ghanaian has the opportunity to prosper,” he promised, emphasizing that that is his passion. “The Movement for Change is more than a political organization – it’s a vision for a new Ghana.”

In closing, Alan Kyerematen reiterated his unwavering dedication to the country. “What drives my interest in politics is not the allure of power. It is my love for Ghana. I am here for the people, for the communities, and for a future where every Ghanaian has the opportunity to thrive,” he declared, inspiring many to see him as a leader whose vision goes beyond political ambition to a true commitment to national progress.

Source: Myjoyonline.com

The Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama has slammed Vice President Dr. Muhammad Bawumia for what he describes as a useless attempt to divert attention

According to the former President, what is bothering Ghanaians today is the untold hardship and why Dr Mahamadu Bawumia who was was falsely packaged as an economic guru must answer, the critical questions about what brought Ghana this far and not as he put it in the parlance of American politics, ‘stupid’ responses.

John Mahama who was addressing a mini durbar at Savelugu as part of his tour of the Northern region raise rates his demand for answers to the five questions on why the economy has been run aground, with exchange rate hitting a record high of GH¢17 to a dollar ($1), Why the Central Bank incurred losses of over GH¢62 billion after government borrowed over GH¢42billion
from the Bank of Ghana.

John Mahama is also seeking answers to why Ghana’s inflation sky rocketed to 54% , what accounted to Ghana’s public debt which has sky-rocketed to over 740 billion cedis, about 80% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to from 120 billion cedis as of December 2016, and most of all, why Dr Bawumia has stopped talking about the economy.

Dr Bawumia has come under criticism for rather responding with 50 question to John Mahama which included why nursing and teaching traininee allowances were cancelled and hospitals the Nana Addo government is constructing.

But John Mahama in a sharp rebuttal is again asking the Vice President to simply answer the questions if he admits the economy hasn’t been destroyed.

“I asked you 5 simple questions on the economy that’s all. You go and respond with how many cost plants did you build etc. that is not what the issue is in Ghana today” he said

Referencing the 1992 elections in Ghana, John Mahama cited Clinton who said that election was about the Economy ‘stupid’.

“Today I am repeating those words. This election is about the economy stupid, answer the five simple questions” he emphasized

John Mahama said Dr Bawumia’s call for a debate to answer the equations is unfounded if he has solutions to them.

“You don’t need a debate to answer the 5 questions. When you asked Amissah Arthur the 170 questions you did not agree to a debate for him to go and answer them”. he teased

The Ashanti Regional chapter of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) is demanding full commitment by the National Democratic Congress, NDC to abolish some taxes to ease the burden of doing business as promised in its 2024 Manifesto.

According to the traders, their capitals have virtually been swallowed as a result of the debilitating effect of high taxes and the depreciation of the of the cedi, a painful experience that is taking away their course of livelihood and job opportunities for the youth.
At a meeting with the NDC Vice-Presidential candidate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, during her campaign tour of the Ashanti region, the GUTA members commended the party for the bold promise to abolish some taxes such as the E-levy, the COVID levy, Emissions, Betting taxes among others government has pushed down the throat of Ghanaians despite several protests.

Speaking on their behalf, Vice Chairman of the Ashanti regional chapter of GUTA, Nana Kwame Amoanyame said “As a business community, we are suffering; these taxes are crippling our operations”.

He appealed to the NDC to not to renege on its promises.

“Please kindly do something about it for us in your next government”.

Nana Kwame Amoanyame also urged the next NDC government if John Mahama is elected, to help clamp down on foreigners particularly Nigerians operating in the retail business.

He noted that the retail market was a reserve for Ghanaians but now has become a safe haven for foreigners who he said are gradually pushing Ghanaian traders out of business.

Again, Nana Kwame Amoanyame called for additional incentives for traders like soft loans to help boost their trading activities.

The outcry comes on the heels of similar complaints from GUTA national members about exorbitant fees charged by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

In light of these challenges, the business community in the Ashanti Region has vowed to support the NDC, promising to cast their votes in favor of the party in the upcoming December 7 elections.

In response, Mr. Alex Segbefia, Campaign Manager for Professor Opoku-Agyemang, emphasized the need for swift tax reform.

He cautioned that if left unaddressed, the current tax landscape could be counterproductive.

Mr. Alex Segbefia also reaffirmed the NDC’s commitment to abolish various “nuisance taxes” within the first 90 days of the next NDC government. Taxes he mentioned include the E-levy, COVID-19 levy, 10% betting tax, and the Emission levy.

He assured the business community that all “burdensome taxes” would be eliminated to provide relief, stimulate economic growth, and enhance living standards for Ghanaians.

A leading member of the Movement for Change, Solomon Owusu has criticised the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia government for the escalated activities of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, in the country.

According to him, key people in government and the NPP including Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia benefits from the destruction of the environment as the canker thrives.

Bawumia who is also the presidential candidate of the governing NPP has pledged to clamp down on galamsey activities when elected as President of the country.

But Owusu described his policies on mining as a charade.

Speaking to Pan African TV, Owusu said he is convinced the NPP leadership benefits from galamsey, stressing that investors in the illicit act fund most of the campaign of the npp thus Bawumia cannot be trusted to tackle illegal mining.

“Because of galamsey alone, this government must not get 13 percent [during the election],” he said.

Not only did he blame Bawumia and leading members of the NPP for the menace, but blamed the clergy.

He asserted that politicians are engaged in galamsey, adding that the development is a threat to the lives of Ghanaians due to the heavy metals used in mining in the water bodies of the country.

Owusu assured that for the illicit activities to stop, Ghanaians must vote for the flag bearer of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen .

Once Alan wins the polls, Mr Owusu said mining will be banned for a year to allow for the sector to be sanitized.

According to him, Ghana under Alan Kyerematen will see stringent measures to control the mining sector.

“It is obvious that the NPP has no solution for galamsey,” he stated.

Under Alan’s Great Transformation Plan (GTP), he said licensing regime for small scale mining will be transparent and the sector will be monitored to fish out illegal miners and dealt with.

He said Alan Kyerematen’s incorruptible nature makes him the right man to lead Ghana to be able to tackle corruption and it’s related matters.

Source: Myxyzonline.com