Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed strong confidence in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing victory in the 2024 general elections and achieving a majority in parliament.
Speaking to the media after casting his ballot in Bole Bamboi, Mahama highlighted the party’s efforts and the positive reception of their campaign message among the electorate.
“I am confident that we will secure victory and a majority in parliament,” Mahama stated.
He said the voting process was seamless and hoped it was same across the country.
Meanwhile, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has also expressed optimism in winning the polls.
“By the grace of God, I am very hopeful of winning this election. I think that we have done a lot of work and put our message to the people.
“I think the message has been well received, and I believe that by the grace of God when the ballots are counted, the NPP, myself, and our parliamentary candidates will emerge victorious in this election,” he added.
Security in Bawku has been heightened ahead of the crucial December 7 general elections. Travellers entering the town are subjected to strict checks before being escorted into the area, which has been identified as a potential trouble spot.
With tensions high, authorities are not taking any risks. More security officers have been sent to the area, and strict rules are in place to ensure peace and safety.
JoyNews’ Albert Sore reports that some voters are finding it hard to return home to cast their votes.
“Voters are struggling to get back home to vote. Since the start of the week, it seems like people have been left to their fate. The authorities, who should help organize transportation, are not around, so we decided to handle it ourselves. In other areas, buses are being provided for voters, but not here,” he said.
In the Ashanti Region, preparations are underway for what is expected to be a large voter turnout. Over 3.2 million registered voters are set to vote.
The Electoral Commission’s Upper East Regional Director, Francis Osei Nsiah, said, “We are fully ready for tomorrow. All materials have been distributed to the constituencies. Coalition centres will be set up by noon. We expect results quickly because the pink sheets will be scanned and sent to the portal before being transported.”
In the Upper West Region, everything is also set for the elections. Regional Electoral Director, Ali Osman Adamu told JoyNews’ Rafiq Salam that all election materials have been delivered.
Meanwhile, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has raised concerns about supposed illegal ballots.
The member claimed these might be moved secretly in bullion vans or ambulances to avoid suspicion, warning that anyone caught with such ballots would face action.
Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), has urged electoral officials to uphold integrity and professionalism in the upcoming elections.
In her address on Thursday, December 5, the EC Chair emphasized the crucial role that officials play in ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
“As the Commission has already indicated, our collective roles – yours and ours – is not to make anybody a President or a Member of Parliament. Ours is to conduct orderly, credible, fair, and highly professional and efficient elections.
“That is what we have all been employed to do and that is what we have employed you to do. In doing so, we charge you to do it with integrity and to let truth guide you.
“Be fair in all your dealings; be transparent and above board; follow the directions provided you by the Commission, including the wearing of gloves before counting of votes, the posting of Pink Sheets in all Polling Stations, among others. Count the votes accurately, and fill out the forms professionally,” Mensa stated.
She stressed the significance of the Presiding Officers’ roles and their work at the polling stations, which culminates with the Pink Sheets, determining the election’s outcome.
Jean Mensa urged officials to perform their duties with integrity and truth, guided by God’s light.
“Your role as Presiding Officers, and here I am talking about Presiding Officers, and your work at the Polling Stations, which culminates with the Pink Sheets, is what determines the outcome of the Election. We urge you to do it with integrity and truth and let God’s light guide you.
“Let us all remember, you and us alike, that at the end of the day, we will be answerable to God for our actions and our activities. Let us remember that God will judge us for all we do,” she added.
A former Managing Director of the GCB Bank, Ernest Agbesi, has assured Persons living with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Eastern Corridor of the country that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will prioritise their peculiar needs.
He also assured them that the NDC will make available many opportunities for them to be able to expand and grow, even as they live comfortable lives.
Ernest Agbesi made this known to the PWDs when he and a team of NDC leaders visited some constituencies in the Eastern Corridor of the country, as part of their last trip before the December 7 elections.
The team has been traveling and to and from the Eastern Corridor communities in the last months in an attempt to capture some 9 orphan seats of the NDC.
Agbesi, while addressing the PWDs, told them that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has always proven to be a party that is concerned about their plights than any other.
“To be honest, there is a world of difference between the NDC and the NPP when it comes to our relationship with Persons living with Disabilities. The point is that, as a social democratic party, we have that organic chemistry with persons who are disadvantaged. We run a policy of inclusivity and that is the reason why when we were in office, we were the first to appoint a Person living with Disabilities to become Minister of Chieftaincy. Whenever the party constitutes government appointees, we have ensured that we have a Person living with Disability. As chief executive, I ensured that PWDs got employment opportunities and the current secretary of the PWDs is an example; I influenced his appointment to the district assembly.
“But what I hear is the way we used to disburse funds to the People living with Disabilities is not the same that is happening now, because one, the quantum of money and resources that got into the Disability Fund has dwindled and for good reasons, for the fact that the Common Fund has been capped so the quantum of money that comes into the Disability Fund has dwindled drastically,” he said.
He added that, “Also, I understand that their needs, as we used to meet them, are not being met. We had a program to construct a resource center for them but ever since we left office, that has been shelved, and so, to be honest, to compare the current administration to the NDC administration in terms of the handling of the Persons living with Disabilities is like comparing day and night.”
On their part, one of the leaders of the PWDs, Azumah Kama, gave assurances that they will also continue to support the NDC’s campaign to return to power.
He stressed on how, in the last eight (8) years, they have had to grapple with many challenges, including dealing with delays in the release of their Common Fund contributions.
“It wasn’t easy because life for eight years with this government, we didn’t find it easy as a group, because all our needs and appeals that have been submitted to them, they turned down those appeals. So, it’s not good for us. Members, for instance, here, they lack entrepreneurial training and that entrepreneurial training is what is going to empower them economically. So, without that entrepreneurial training, I don’t think life will be good for persons with disabilities in this constituency and the country at large. We see that the differences and the margins are there.
“When the NDC was in power, in fact, really, our Common Fund wasn’t delaying at all. And even there are certain things that we pass to them and they approve it for us. So, actually, to say the truth, life cannot compare with this current and previous one… I might not we’ve been neglected but as a demand as a group, some of our needs are not met, especially the unemployment sector,” he said.
He further stated that, “Currently, we have three graduates among us. The lack of employment, and they were even demanding for them to pay an amount of GH¢15,000 and GH¢23,000 and I said no. so, currently, we are facing those challenges. We have not been neglected, but the demands that we were due from them has not been met.
“We are assuring and appealing to the NDC that those challenges should be addressed when they come to power. They should remember that today that they are here with us, they should remember us when they come to power. If they do not address these issues, I don’t think if the next government comes, they will address these issues. So, for now, we are supporting the NDC to win power and we are praying for them to also win the power because the challenges that we’ve witnessed currently and within the country is very critical; economically, educationally, and unemployment is high. So, we are looking for the next government that will come to find solutions to those issues.”
Also present at the events was a former Nanumba North District Chief Executive (DCE), Mohammed Ibn Abass, who reiterated the fact that PWDs have been neglected, but the NDC will make them a priority.
He explained that there is the need for PWDs to be given more opportunities to showcase themselves and contribute to the country’s development.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is optimistic that it will win back all the 9 orphan constituencies in the Eastern Corridor that are currently held by the NPP.
These constituencies are Zabzugu, Chereponi, Gusgiegu, Bimbilla, Wulensi, Karaga, Yendi, Tatale, and Miong/Sang.
Former First Lady Lordina Dramani Mahama has inaugurated a renovated and expanded health centre at Hohoe Adabraka in the Volta Region.
The dilapidated structure that once housed the facility has been transformed into a modern health centre, providing additional service space for patients and healthcare workers.
The renovated facility now features two separate wards, fully equipped with modern hospital beds and accessories, two consulting rooms with examination beds, a laboratory, a storeroom, and a spacious waiting area, complete with a reception desk and visitor chairs.
“My heart is full of gratitude and joy because what was once a shabby, run-down structure has been transformed into a modern facility equipped to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to this community,” Mrs Mahama stated at a ceremony in Hohoe on Tuesday.
She explained that although the NDC parliamentary candidate for Hohoe had requested medical equipment, she and her husband, President John Dramani Mahama, reviewed images of the centre and decided to renovate and expand it for the benefit of the people.
“I am sure you are all surprised at how we have transformed that death trap of a building into what we see here today,” she remarked.
Highlighting the importance of healthcare, Mrs Mahama referenced key innovative health initiatives outlined in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 manifesto, including Free Primary Health Care, which aims to alleviate the financial burden that often deters families from seeking medical attention.
She also celebrated her husband’s generosity in financing the project through the Lordina Foundation as his 66th birthday gift to the people of Hohoe.
“This health centre will not only serve as a place of healing but also symbolise hope, empowerment, and John Mahama’s love for the people of Hohoe and Ghana,” she added.
Mrs Mahama conveyed a message of hope and prosperity for all Ghanaians under a John Mahama administration, urging the people to vote for him and all NDC parliamentary candidates in the upcoming elections.
A representative of the Lordina Foundation, Pastor Kwame Boateng-Sarpong, praised Mr. and Mrs. Mahama for their philanthropy and visionary leadership. He also acknowledged the foundation’s efforts to improve the lives of women and children, particularly in underserved communities, through enhanced healthcare, education, and overall well-being.
“This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 and underscores Mrs Mahama’s commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of location or circumstance, has access to quality healthcare,” he stated.
Jessica Honya-Tsiewu, the medical officer in charge of the facility, highlighted the previous lack of space and adequate medical equipment, which hindered healthcare delivery.
“This situation compelled us to admit only male patients at times because it was medically inappropriate to house both genders in the same room, especially in a Muslim community that disapproves of such arrangements,” she explained.
Madam Honya-Tsiewu expressed her excitement about the newly commissioned project, calling it a game-changer because it will add separate male and female wards, which is crucial for healthcare delivery in the community.
The Lordina Foundation, in addition to the expansion works at the facility, donated essential medical supplies to the Centre. The items included hospital beds, an electric suction unit, delivery beds, baby cots, baby cribs, boxes of latex gloves, syringes, and a refrigerator.
Established in 2014, the original facility had deteriorated over the past decade. The Lordina Foundation’s renovations mark a significant step toward improving healthcare access in the region.
The NDC presidential candidate, John Mahama, has urged Ghanaians to reject the governing NPP and their impunity during the elections on Saturday and choose a leadership that understands their challenges.
Speaking at the NDC’s final campaign rally in Madina, Accra, the former president noted the hardship the Akufo-Addo-led adminstration has pushed Ghanaians into, stressing that the current government deceived Ghanaians to vote them to power.
Courting the votes of the Ghanaian youth, Mahama said the time to vote to change the current direction of the country is on Saturday, December 7.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the time to reset our country, Ghana, is now.
“Saturday’s election is not just another election. It is a defining moment for our nation. It is a choice between the Ghana we have and the Ghana we want—a Ghana of opportunity, prosperity, and justice for all,” the former Head of State urged.
Mahama intimated that the young people of the country “deserve to live in a Ghana where their voices are heard and their dreams become realities.”
“The working people deserve decent, sustainable jobs that enable them to care for their families and live with pride. I mean well-paying jobs,” he said while assuring Ghanaians that his administration will put pragmatic steps in place to achieve that.
“People in the public sector deserve recognition for their merit. They also deserve stability, predictability, and good working conditions.”
“Our entrepreneurs deserve a free and fair market where their ingenuity and industry can flourish,” Mahama assured.
Touching on the welfare of females, who constitute the larger population of the country , the NDC flag bearer pledged to implement policies that will empower women and give them the dignity they deserve.
“Women and girls deserve true equality, safety, and the chance to reach their full potential. And every Ghanaian deserves leadership that puts the people first, fights corruption, and builds a nation we can all be proud of.”
In terms of jobs for the youth, Mahama reiterated his commitment to implement the much-talked about 24-Hour Economy Policy to create sustainable jobs for Ghanaians to live decently.
“This is why I am committed to building a stable, safe and viable 24-hour economy that creates opportunities for millions of jobs.
“I am committed to implementing economic measures to fight inflation and make food affordable for all households,” he added.
Ghanaians go to the polls on Saturday, December 7 to vote in a crucial election with former president John Mahama seeking a return to the presidency.
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Ghana’s Vice President and leader of the NPP is also seeking to replace his Boss, President Nana Akufo-Addo who has secured his mandated two terms.
Ghanaians are keen on the economy as they prepare to vote.
Corruption and impunity among high profile Government officials are key factors Ghanaians are considering in the run up to the polls.
Although, Bawumia is campaigning on post COVID solid economic fortunes and the Free SHS policy, some voters believe their finances have dwindled over the past few years, and that the economy will be the key determinant of their direction of votes.
Dr. Kwaku Asiedu Nketiah Jnr., the Vice Chairman of the NDC’s National Youth Working Committee, has urged Ghanaian youth to step out in their numbers and vote massively for the NDC and President John Mahama tomorrow December 7, 2024.
The Youth Activist who is on a tour of the Bono Region for the past week admonished the people to remember the hardship they have endured for the past 8 years under the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia administration and reject the the New patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking to some community members in the Tain, Banda, Sunyani East and West constituencies on Wednesday, Dr Asiedu Nketiah Jnr stressed the need to bring John Mahama to steer the affairs of the country to bring back the lost investor confidence and also fix the economy.
“Saturday’s election is the second independence struggle for the Ghanaian youth,” he said while touching on Mahama’s job-creation policies and his commitment to reducing hardship and impunity in the country.
“Vote for change and redeem yourself from hardship,” he added.
Bono Tour
Last week, Dr Asiedu Nketiah Jnr begun a tour of his home region-Bono- while supporting the campaign of the NDC Parl;iamentary Candidates in the 12 constituencies of the area.
At Yaw Wusukrom in the Dormaa West District in the Bono Region, he assured farmers that the next NDC government will initiate better policies to boost the agric sector. He charged them to vote against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the governing NPP because farmers, particularly cocoa producers, have become poorer under this administration due to the government’s poor agricultural policies.
Dr Asiedu Nketiah Jnr engaging with first time voters in Danyame in the Dormaa Central Constituency
As part of his tour, Dr. Asiedu Nketiah Jnr. highlighted the projects the NDC has undertaken in the area since the constituency was established in June 2012.
Dr. Asiedu Nketiah Jr. also accused the government of short-changing farmers in the area by selling them fertilizers that were meant to be free. With the new cocoa price increment, Dr. Asiedu Nketiah Jr. said the farmers were being cheated, while assuring them that the John Mahama government will restore the good policies they were enjoying.
In Jaman North and South Constituencies, he bemoaned the neglect of the government, stressing that the people required better roads, healthcare facilities, and access to potable water to survive.
He alleged that the NPP had resorted to vote-buying and urged the people to be wise and vote against them.
“The NPP has started sharing money to buy your votes because their internal polls have pointed to a loss. Take the money when they offer it to you, because it’s your own money, and vote against them,” he said.
He was accompanied by former MCE for Berekum, Hon. Lord Opoku Stephen, the MP for the area, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, NDC Bono Communication Officer Charles Akowuah, and Bono NDC Youth Organizer Kwaku Rooney.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, says he will only accept the upcoming December 7 general election results if the process is transparent and credible.
His remarks come amidst concerns about the integrity of the electoral process as Ghanaians prepare to cast their votes.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Mr Mahama raised doubts about the fairness of the elections, stressing that he would reject any outcome tainted by violence or irregularities.
The former President emphasised that for democracy to thrive, the electoral process must be free and fair.
The former president highlighted the importance of protecting the integrity of the election, stating that it is fundamental to Ghana’s democratic journey.
He insisted that any actions that undermine the credibility of the process would make it difficult for him to accept the results.
He cited potential issues such as ballot snatching, voter intimidation, and the use of security forces to disrupt the process as threats to a credible election.
“If on election day, there is widespread ballot snatching, beating of people, the military moving in and intimidating people, and thugs rampaging, you want me to accept that result? It will depend on the transparency and fairness of the process,” he said.
A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has raised concerns over the Electoral Commission’s (EC) refusal to grant them accreditation to observe the upcoming December 7 elections, a move they describe as a direct threat to Ghana’s democracy.
Addressing the media on the matter, the CSOs, including the Centre for Conflict Resolution-Ghana (CENCOR), Human Security Research Centre (HSRC), Jatikay Centre, FESF, and the Coalition of CSOs for Transparent Elections, accused the EC of undermining transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
“This troubling unilateral decision by EC Chair Jean Mensa, despite our formal appeal and subsequent follow-ups, raises serious questions about the Commission’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections,” the coalition stated.
The CSOs expressed deep concerns about the EC’s lack of justification for its actions and the outright dismissal of efforts to engage its leadership for clarification.
“The question is, what does the EC have to hide? For decades, election observation by independent CSOs has been fundamental to safeguarding the integrity of our democratic process,” the group asserted.
The coalition outlined the broader consequences of excluding CSOs from observing the elections:
• Eroding Public Trust: They argued that the lack of independent oversight could cast doubts on the credibility of the entire electoral process.
• Threatening Democratic Values: They emphasized that denying CSOs their role contradicts the principles of transparency and inclusivity that underpin Ghana’s democracy.
• Risk of Electoral Violence: Without independent monitoring, the likelihood of disputes and irregularities increases, heightening tensions that could lead to violence.
• International Fallout: They warned that the move could tarnish Ghana’s reputation as a democratic beacon in Africa, attracting criticism from the international community.
The coalition issued a three-point demand to the Electoral Commission:
1. Rescind the Decision: Grant accreditation to all CSOs that have applied to observe the elections.
2. Provide Justification: Clearly explain the reasons for the initial refusal to ensure accountability.
3. Engage Stakeholders: Convene an emergency meeting with CSOs to address the issue and restore trust in the electoral process.
The CSOs also called on Ghanaians, political parties, religious leaders, traditional authorities, and the international community to join their push for accountability and transparency.
The statement concluded with a strong reminder to the Electoral Commission:
“Democracy is not a gift; it is a collective responsibility. The EC must remember that it serves the people of Ghana, not its Chairperson. We will not relent in ensuring that the upcoming elections reflect the true will of the people.”
The statement was signed by representatives of the Centre for Conflict Resolution-Ghana (CENCOR), Human Security Research Centre (HSRC), Jatikay Centre, FESF and Coalition of CSOs for Transparent Elections/
Public frustration over Ghana’s economic travails, including high prices and a dearth of jobs, has dominated the run-up to Saturday’s general election, which will likely test the nation’s longstanding democratic credentials.
Support for outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo and his ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) party has sunk in his second term amid the West African nation’s worst economic crisis in a generation, along with cost-of-living protests and turmoil in its vital cocoa and gold industries.
Indeed, the clamour for change has tipped the presidential and legislative race firmly in favour of opposition leader John Dramani Mahama and his National Democratic Congress party, polls show, though voter patience with the political process is running low.
“The country is ruined. I will vote but I don’t think it will change anything,” said 18-year-old high school graduate Emmanuel Kwaku Jr, who will be casting his ballot for the first time.
An October survey by pan-African research group Afrobarometer found 82% of Ghanaians felt the country was headed in the wrong direction and less than half expected change for the better in the next year.
“We have the trappings of democracy: we do the elections every four years, yet the dividends … are low,” said Abena Tekyiwaa Manuh, senior fellow of the Accra-based Centre for Democratic Governance (CDD). “That’s dangerous.”
Ghana’s commitment to two-term limits for presidents and largely peaceful transfers of powers have increasingly made it an outlier in a region swept by coups and constitutional shenanigans in recent years.
But whoever wins the election will be under pressure to deliver on campaign promises to improve the livelihoods of citizens, or the largely youthful population could begin to wonder if democracy is overrated, said Manuh and two Western diplomats.
“We see a lot of anger among the youth, a sense of hopelessness but also a sense of change. If that doesn’t happen at the elections, what will happen?” asked one of the diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“There is growing concern Ghana’s peace and democracy is fragile.”
A ‘TRICKY PHASE’
Twelve candidates are vying for the presidency, with Mahama and the ruling party’s Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia seen as the main contenders.
Both have vowed to turn the page on economic instability since 2020 that saw inflation soar above 50%, the International Monetary Fund wade in with a $3 billion bailout, and a mass restructuring of Ghana’s debts.
Polls open for the 18.7 million registered voters at 0700 GMT and close at 1700, with legislative results due by early on Monday and presidential results by Tuesday, although trends often allow the outcome to be called early.
The vote results period “is going to be a tricky phase” as tensions may rise due to low trust in institutions, including the electoral commission, said Jonas Claes, elections lead for the EU delegation in Ghana.
Mahama and his party have repeatedly questioned the commission’s ability to deliver credible elections, alleging voter roll irregularities and other issues.
Bawumia and the ruling NPP say the allegations show Mahama is preparing to reject the results if they do not go his way.
“I don’t think widespread violence is to be expected, but it’s difficult to be 100% sure,” Claes said.
Shatta Wale’s mother denies receiving a house gift, sparking fresh controversy online.
After news broke that Ghanaian dancehall musician Shatta Wale had gifted his mother, Madam Elsie Evelyn Avemegah, a fully furnished three-bedroom house, an audio recording emerged of her denying the claim.
Popular Ghanaian blogger Kwadwo Sheldon shared the recording, in which Mama Elsie refuted receiving the house keys and criticised Shatta Wale’s manager, Sammy Flex, for sharing a video online about the alleged gift.
In the audio, she warned Sammy Flex to retract the post, stating: “Before I get to Atsiavi, if you do not come online and talk to the whole Ghana and remove that thing from social media, you will regret unknowing me. You will regret working with my son.”
This denial contrasts with Sammy Flex’s earlier YouTube video, which showed the luxurious house and documented Mama Elsie touring and settling into her purported new home.
The situation follows a strained relationship between Shatta Wale and his mother. Madam Elsie had previously accused her son of neglecting her for over a decade, claiming she was battling a severe illness and living under the care of her sister and niece. Her public plea for financial support stirred controversy and led to criticism of the musician.
In response, Shatta Wale had publicly criticised his mother while eulogising his late stepmother, Madam Stella Gasu. However, Sammy Flex later announced that the musician had reconciled with his mother and purchased a lavish house for her in Abokobi. Sammy Flex described the three-bedroom property as a significant investment in a luxurious community, secured after consultations with notable associates.
The conflicting narratives have sparked intense debate online, leaving fans and observers questioning the true state of affairs between Shatta Wale and his mother.
Ghanaian musician Sister Derby has shared some of the challenges she faced while pursuing her higher education, including how her mother had to borrow money to fund her fees.
In an interview with GTV, Sister Derby revealed that her uncle encouraged her to pursue a Master’s degree immediately after completing her Bachelor’s degree.
“My uncle encouraged me and pushed me to do a Master’s degree. He was like, ‘Don’t let time pass. You just finished your Bachelor’s. You are still in the learning mode. So just continue,'” she shared.
However, the financial burden fell on her mother, who had to take out a loan of £11,000 to cover the tuition fees.
“I followed his advice, even though it was difficult because my mom had to pay my fees. She had to take out a loan of £11,000, which was a lot of money,” she said.
Initially, they assumed that Sister Derby’s European passport would qualify her for subsidized fees, but they encountered a problem.
“We thought that, because I had a European passport, the fees would be subsidized. Unfortunately, I hadn’t been living in Europe or the UK for the past three to five years, so I didn’t qualify. I had to pay international fees,” she explained.
Born Deborah Vanessa Owusu-Bonsu on August 25, 1984, Sister Derby is a Ghanaian-Romanian artist known for her work as a television presenter, musician, model, and academic.
She gained international recognition with her 2012 hit single “Uncle Obama.”
In addition to her entertainment career, she is an activist for environmental sustainability and LGBTQ+ rights.
Sister Derby holds a Bachelor’s degree in Publishing Studies from KNUST and a Master’s degree in Book/Journal Publishing from the University of the Arts London.
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