Politics

The Municipal Chief Executive of the Afigya Kwabre Municipal Assembly, Hon. Christian Adu-Poku, has expressed gratitude to President Nana Akufo-Addo for upgrading their Assembly from District to Municipal status. This milestone is expected to drive development in the Municipality.

Hon. Adu-Poku made this statement during a mini commissioning ceremony at the Assembly’s forecourt. He also urged the people of Afigya Kwabre to vote for Bawumia and all NPP aspirants to maintain the current government and complete ongoing projects.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Simon Osei-Mensah, attended as a special guest and highlighted various developmental projects initiated by the NPP government in the Ashanti Region.

He appealed to all stakeholders and individuals to avoid election violence and appreciate peace, ensuring a peaceful vote on December 7th.

Sincerely speaking, Ghanaians experienced some significant level of economic difficulties especially during the Post Covid-19 economic recovery periods of 2021, 2022 and 2023, exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions caused by the geopolitical tensions/war between Russia and Ukraine.

Before the war, Ukraine and Russia were major suppliers of wheat, fertilizers, and fuel to many African countries including Ghana.

Despite the aforementioned challenges, the facts and data on Ghana’s economy show that the New Patriotic Party(NPP) and its roots, UP Tradition still come across as the Party with the best track records when it comes to the prudent management of the economy of Ghana.

This includes;

Ghana’s Inflation Rates Statistics between NPP and NDC

According to facts and data, the worst yearly inflation rates of Ghana were recorded under the governments of NDC, and Hilla Limann’s government(54.44% in 1979, 50.04% in 1980 and 116.50% in 1981).

Ghana’s worst yearly Inflation Rates recorded under the PNDC/NDC governments are as follows:

122.87% in 1983
39.6% in 1984
24.57% in 1986
39.82% in 1987
31.36% in 1988
25.22% in 1989
37.26% in 1990
24.96% in 1993
24.87% in 1994
59.46% in 1995
46.56% in 1996
27.89% in 1997
14.62% in 1998
40.24% in 2000
19.25% in 2009
15.49% in 2014
17.15% in 2015
17.45% in 2016.

However, Ghana’s worst yearly inflation rates recorded under NPP governments are as follows:

41.51% in 2001
29.77% in 2003
18.04% in 2004
15.44% in 2005
16.49% in 2008
31.71% in 2022
37.53% in 2023

I want to state authoritatively that, the New Patriotic Party has NEVER recorded a yearly inflation rate of 54.1%.

The 54.1% recorded under Akufo-Addo’s government was a monthly inflation rate of December 2022, however, the yearly inflation rate for 2022 was 31.71%.

In terms of excellent inflation rates track records of Ghana, the UP Tradition which has produced Busia’s government, Kufuor’s government and Akufo-Addo’s government possess the best track record for Ghana.

Best Inflation Rates under Busia government are as follows:

7.32% in 1969
3.03% in 1970
9.56% in 1971
10.07% in 1972

So far, absolutely no government in Ghana’s history has been able to beat the inflation rates track record of Busia’s government.

Best Inflation Rates under Kufour’s government are as follows:

9.36% in 2002
11.68% in 2006
10.73% in 2007

Best Inflation Rates under Akufo-Addo’s government are as follows:

12.37% in 2017
7.81%.in 2018
7.14% in 2019
9.89% in 2020
9.99% in 2021

Moving to the governments of NDC, the Best Inflation Rates under Rawlings government are as follows:

10.31% in 1985
4.87% in 1999
10.06% in 1992

Best Inflation Rates under Mills’ government are as follows:

10.73% in 2010
8.73% in 2011
11.19% in 2012

Best Inflation Rates under Mahama’s government are as follows:

11.67% in 2013
15.49% in 2014
17.15% in 2015
17.45% in 2016

It is important to state that, there was NO Covid-19 pandemic and global supply chain disruptions under Mahama’s government, and Mills’ government.

Historically, on the average, the New Patriotic Party(NPP) has excellent inflation rate track records than the NDC based on Facts and Data.

*Why Akufo-Addo Recorded a Monthly Inflation Rate of 54.1% in December 2022*

The monthly inflation rate of 54.1% recorded in December 2022, and yearly inflation rates of 31.71%, and 37.53% respectively recorded in 2022 and 2023 were predominantly influenced by unforseen external factors beyond the control of the government.

The Russia-Ukraine War severely disrupted the global supply chains, fuelling a devastating surge in the prices of food(wheat), fuel, Iron rods, fertilizers and other materials.

In Ghana, Kenya and Egypt, for example, Russian and Ukraine wheat once accounted for as much as 80%, 85%, and 67% of imports respectively.

Furthermore, the impact of the Russia-Ukraine War comes at a time when Ghana, Africa and the world at large were still reeling from the economic setbacks caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic, adding about 18-25 million people to the already estimated 546 million Africans living in poverty.

*Management of Ghana’s Debts to GDP Analysis*

John Mahama has accused Akufo-Addo’s government of increasing the national debts of Ghana to 767 Billion Ghana Cedis at the exchange rate of 16.02ghc to $1, giving us $47.88 Billion debts in terms of dollars.

However, John Mahama has forgotten to acknowledge the fact that, the worth or total size of Ghana’s economy(GDP) has grew to $76.37 Billion under Akufo-Addo’s government, far better than the $56.16 Billion that Akufo-Addo Inherited from John Mahama in 2016.

Under John Mahama, the GDP of Ghana was $56.16 Billion at a population of 29.55 million Ghanaians. Dividing the $56.16 Billion by the population of 29.55 million, every Ghanaian was worth $1,900 at exchange rate of 3.95ghc to $1 which is equal to 7,505ghc.

What this means is that, if Ghana was to be sold to an Investor in 2016 under John Mahama, every Ghanaian would have received a total amount of $1,900 or 7,505ghc.

Fast forward to the government of Akufo-Addo, the GDP of Ghana has grown to $76.37 Billion at a population of 34.78 million Ghanaians. Dividing the $76.37 Billion by the population of 34.78 million, every Ghanaian is now worth $2, 200 at an exchange rate of 16.02ghc which is equal to 35, 244ghc.

What this means is that, if we are selling Ghana under Akufo-Addo’s government to an investor, every Ghanaian would receive a total amount of $2, 200 or 35,244ghc.

Therefore, despite economic challenges, Akufo-Addo’s government is still better than the government of John Mahama in terms of GDP growth in relation to the population growth of Ghana.

Ghana’s Relations with the IMF

Also, the opponents of NPP have ridiculed Akufo-Addo’s government for securing bailout from the IMF.

However, the facts and data prove that the New Patriotic Party is NOT reckless when it comes to securing support from the IMF. Per the records, PNDC/NDC has been to the IMF for bailout 10 Times as compared to the NPP which has been to the IMF 2 Times.

NDC Bailouts From the IMF are as follows:

3rd August 1983
27th August 1984
15th October 1986
November, 1987(for Structural Adjustment Facility Commitment)
6th November, 1987(for Extended Fund Facility)
9th November 1988
30th June 1995
3rd May 1999
15th July 2009
3rd April 2015

NPP Bailouts from the IMF are as follows:

9th May 2003
26th September 2022

Kufuor went to the IMF as a HIPC Country for a debt relief, and this initiative reduces Ghana’s debt from $66 Billion to $23 Billion after the IMF programme.

Akufo-Addo government went to the IMF for balance payments support largely due to Post COVID-19 economic recovery and the Russia-Ukraine War.

*Would Bawumia’s Government Be Different from Akufo-Addo & Mahama’s Government?*

Most definitely, the government of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would perform far better than the governments of Akufo-Addo and John Mahama.

The policy propositions of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia are superior to the policies initiated and implemented by the governments of Akufo-Addo and John Mahama.

Also, the government of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia would review the Foreign Exchange Act 723 in order to better manage and control the depreciation of the Cedi against the dollar and other major trading currencies.

Akufo-Addo’s government introduced E-levy but the government of Bawumia shall cancel E-levy.

Many have argued why not now? The answer is enshrined in Articles 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, and 184 of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana whereby a Vice-President has NO Authority and Power to effect changes in policies even if he disagree with his President.

Mills’ government managed the economy with Dr. Kwabena Duffuor as a Minister of Finance, and Amissah-Arthur as a Governor of Bank of Ghana.

However, the government of John Mahama managed the economy with Seth Terkper as a Minister of Finance, Dr. Henry Kofi Wampah as a Governor of the Bank of Ghana, subsequently replaced by Dr. Abdul-Nashiru Issahaku. The same NDC with different governments with different people managing the respective Fiscal Policy and Monetary Policy.

The two critical people to the economic success of every government are the Minister of Finance(responsible for the management of Fiscal Policy), and Governor of the Bank of Ghana(responsible for the management of Monetary Policy).

Therefore, the government of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia shall definitely appoint different people to manage the Fiscal Policy and Monetary Policy of Ghana when elected as the President of the Republic of Ghana on 7th December, 2024.

A statement released by John Kwame Duodu, First Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Constituency, has strongly condemned the derogatory comments made by Mr. Dela Edem, a member of John Mahama’s national campaign team, against former President John Agyekum Kufuor.

Duodu described the comments as “offensive and shameful,” particularly for mocking Kufuor’s current physical condition.

According to Duodu, such remarks are not only a personal attack on the former president but also an affront to the dignity of all persons living with disabilities.

He emphasized that Kufuor is an icon of Ghana’s democracy and development, with unmatched contributions to the nation. Any attempt to tarnish his legacy or ridicule his condition is unacceptable and goes against the principles of decency and respect.

Duuodu also expressed concern over John Mahama’s silence on the matter, which he believes sends a dangerous signal that such behavior is tolerated within his campaign. He called on Mahama to publicly denounce the comments and take action against Dela Edem.

This incident is not only an insult to President Kufuor but also a blow to individuals and families affected by disability. It reflects a deeper disrespect for inclusivity and diversity in Ghanaian society, which must be rejected by all well-meaning citizens. Duodu urged Ghanaians to condemn this act and demand accountability from those who propagate hate-filled rhetoric.

As a respected figure in the NPP, Duodu has been involved in various community initiatives, including supporting BECE candidates with educational materials.

His statement highlights the need for leaders and citizens to rise above divisive politics and maintain respect and unity in national discourse.

Razak Kojo Opoku, a concerned citizen, has posed 24 critical questions to John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding their proposed 24-hour economy policy. The questions seek clarity on various aspects of the policy, including its implementation, benefits, and potential challenges.

Opoku’s questions cover a wide range of topics, including the total cost of implementation, the policy’s effects on macro and microeconomics, exchange rates, debt reduction, and legal frameworks. He also inquires about the benefits for specific groups, such as farmers, villagers, and people with disabilities.

Some of the key questions include:

1. What would be the total cost for the implementation of the 24-hour economy? and what would be the significant effects of the 24-hour economic policy at the macroeconomics level, and microeconomics level?

2. How would the 24-hour economy help Ghana to reduce the exchange rate from $1 to 2ghc or $1 to 1ghc?

3. How would the 24-hour economy reduce Ghana’s debt from 767 billion Cedis to the debt level of 120 billion Cedis within 2025-2029?

4. What would be the legal framework supporting the 24-hour economic policy?, and what salary adjustments would the government introduced for the Public Sector Employees working under the 24-hour economy?

5. How would the villages, towns and communities without electricity benefit from the 24-hour economy?

6. How would the farmers and their workers benefit from the 24 hour economy?

7. How would Ghanaians benefit from the Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government that closes from work at exactly 5pm?

8. How would the limited number of Police and Security agencies sustain the 24-hour economy especially in the criminal zones, villages, towns and communities without electricity?

9. If there is a come back of DUMSOR, how would the 24-hour economy be implemented across the Country?

10. How would the aged, people with disabilities, babies, children, and the vulnerable in society benefit directly from the 24-hour economy as Citizens of Ghana?

11. What would be the correlation between the 24-hour economy and digitalization?

12. How would the 24-hour economy be successful without One District One Factory Programme of Akufo-Addo’s government?

13. How would the 24-hour economy be successful without Bawumia’s digital economic Policy initiatives?

14. What would be the significant contribution of the 24-hour economy to Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP) within 4years?

15. What would be the significant contribution of the 24-hour economy to the reduction of Banks interest rates on loans?

16. What would be the significant contribution of the 24-hour economy to the reduction of the Inflation rates?

17. What would be the significant contribution of the 24-hour economy to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals within 4years?

18. How would the Judiciary, lawyers, and the various Courts across the Country benefit from the 24-hour economy?

19. How would the marketwomen, traders, and the general private sector business community benefits DIRECTLY from the 24-hour economy?

20. Can the 24-hour economy address all the socioeconomic problems of Ghana?, and how feasible would that be practically?

21. How would the 24-hour economy benefit Public & Private Universities and other tertiary institutions in the Country?, and what would be the impact on students especially pregnant and nursing mothers?

22. How would the 24-hour economy protect the environment and natural resources of the State?

23. Practically, how would the 24-hour economy helps to reduce government’s borrowing from both the domestic and international markets?

24. How would the 24-hour economy address the structural problems of Ghana’s economy?, and help Ghana to pay all its internal and external debts?

Opoku also seeks answers on how the policy will contribute to Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), reduce bank interest rates, and inflation rates.

Additionally, he asks about the policy’s impact on the judiciary, market women, traders, and the private sector business community.

The questions also touch on the policy’s feasibility in addressing socioeconomic problems, its benefits for public and private universities, and its potential to protect the environment and natural resources.

Opoku respectfully requests that John Mahama and the NDC provide sincere answers, supported by data projections and best practices, to these 24 questions within 24 hours.

This call for transparency and accountability aims to ensure that Ghanaians understand the implications and potential benefits of the proposed 24-hour economy policy.

Mr. Nyaaba Aweeba Azongo, running mate to independent presidential candidate George Twum-Barima-Adu, yesterday outlined a comprehensive development policy aimed at curbing the high rate of rural-urban migration in Ghana.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra, Mr. Aweeba Azongo unveiled the “Building Common Prosperity For All” initiative, a cornerstone of the Twum-Barima-Adu administration’s people-centric approach to governance.

We recognize the immense pressure urban areas face due to unchecked rural-urban migration, Mr. Aweeba Azongo noted. Our policy seeks to address this challenge by ensuring balanced development across all 16 regions, creating opportunities and improving living standards nationwide.

The initiative, according to Mr. Aweeba Azongo, will prioritize regional development, focusing on infrastructure expansion, economic empowerment programs, quality education and healthcare, and environmental sustainability.

By spreading development across the country, we will reduce the allure of urban centers and create vibrant, self-sustaining communities, Mr. Aweeba Azongo explained.

Critiquing the current growth-oriented development model, Mr. Aweeba Azongo argued that it has failed to yield desired results.

Ghana’s sustainable development goals remain elusive due to an overemphasis on growth at the expense of people’s needs.

He urged Ghanaians to reject the duopoly of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC) and vote for George Twum-Barima-Adu, promising a better Ghana.

The time for change has come. We offer a fresh perspective, prioritizing people’s welfare and environmental sustainability.”

Environmental protection measures were also highlighted, including investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture practices, and waste management and recycling initiatives.

With the December 7 presidential election looming, Mr. Aweeba Azongo’s announcements have generated significant interest among voters seeking alternative leadership.

The Twum-Barima-Adu campaign has pledged to deliver a people-centric government, committed to Ghana’s inclusive development and prosperity.

Small scale miners in the Amansie West District have accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy in the fight against galamsey.

The miners claim the NDC secretly supports strikes demanding a moratorium on all mining activities while publicly pretending to support their businesses.

“We can’t trust them; they’re hypocrites,” said some angry miners.

The Small Scale Miners Association has launched a crusade against illegal mining, particularly on water bodies and forest reserves.

Zonal Chairman Joseph Mensah appealed to the government to support their efforts.

“We’ve formed a taskforce to flush out illegal miners,” Mensah said. “Galamsey activities hurt our businesses and must be stopped.”

Miner Hon. Amankwa Anthony disagreed with calls for a total ban on their activities, saying it won’t solve the problem.

“This will only lead to more unemployment and hardship,” Anthony said.

The Association has pledged to work with the government to eradicate illegal mining.

The galamsey menace has devastated Ghana’s environment and water resources.

The government has vowed to tackle the issue.

John Kwame Duodu, NPP Constituency First Vice Chairman for Atwima Nwabiagya South, has emphasized the urgent need for a clear plan to combat galamsey, illegal mining that threatens Ghana’s environment, water bodies, and natural resources.

As the 2024 elections approach, Duodu stresses that every presidential candidate must present actionable strategies to address this critical national concern.

Duodu commends NPP Presidential Candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for outlining a comprehensive plan to combat galamsey, restore the environment, enforce laws, introduce technological solutions, provide alternative livelihoods, and collaborate with traditional authorities and local communities.

However, Duodu notes that this fight requires a collective effort, urging the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its Presidential Candidate, John Dramani Mahama, to present their plan to tackle galamsey.

The NDC owes it to Ghanaians to provide a clear, pragmatic solution to this crisis.

Ghanaians deserve to know how each candidate plans to protect the environment for future generations. Mere criticism without offering alternatives is insufficient.

The fight against illegal mining should be a non-partisan issue, with all presidential candidates outlining their vision and concrete measures.

The NPP has taken the lead with Dr. Bawumia’s plan; now it’s the NDC’s turn to follow suit. Ghanaians are watching and will vote for the candidate with the best plan for the environment and the country.

Nana Akomea, Managing Director of State Transport Company and a key figure in the Bawumia campaign, has assured Ghanaians that the government is committed to tackling the galamsey menace in the coming days.

Speaking on Good Morning Ghana with Dr. Randy Abbey, Akomea emphasized the government’s readiness to combat galamsey effectively within a short timeframe.

This commitment comes amidst mounting pressure from the Ghana Medical Association and other health unions, who have urged President Akufo-Addo to ban all small-scale mining operations due to environmental concerns. The associations have highlighted the urgent need for action to prevent a looming environmental disaster.

However, it’s worth noting that Akomea has previously expressed doubts about the government’s ability to win the galamsey fight within a short period, such as three months or one year. This raises questions about the feasibility of the government’s plans.

Despite these concerns, Akomea’s latest statement suggests a renewed sense of determination from the government. As the country waits with bated breath, one thing is clear the fight against galamsey requires swift and decisive action.

By Kwame Asare

The impending visit of Vice President Alhaji Mamudu Bawumia to Garu on October 5, 2024, to mourn the passing of the District Party Chairman, has shed light on the community’s long-standing struggle with poor road infrastructure.

The deplorable state of the roads has been a persistent issue since the Mahama administration, with no significant improvements made to date.

The dire condition of the roads has had far-reaching consequences, including deterring teachers from accepting postings to the community. In 2022 and 2023, some teacher trainees rejected their assignments due to the challenging accessibility.

This has raised concerns about the community’s development and the well-being of its residents.

As the Vice President’s visit approaches, the spotlight is on the government to address the pressing issue of Garu’s road network. The community’s plight highlights the need for urgent attention to improve the infrastructure and ensure better living conditions for its residents.

The poor road network in Garu has been a lingering problem, affecting various aspects of community life. The lack of proper maintenance and upgrading has resulted in difficulty in accessing basic services.

Residents face challenges in reaching healthcare facilities, schools, and markets due to the poor road conditions. Additionally, the bad roads hinder economic growth, discouraging investments and businesses from setting up in the area.

Furthermore, the community’s connectivity with neighboring towns and cities is severely limited, exacerbating feelings of social isolation.

As the Vice President prepares to visit Garu, residents and stakeholders are urging the government to prioritize road maintenance and upgrading, address the root causes of the poor road network, and ensure timely completion of infrastructure projects.

The visit of Vice President Alhaji Mamudu Bawumia presents an opportunity for the government to demonstrate its commitment to addressing Garu’s long-standing infrastructure challenges. It remains to be seen whether the government will seize this chance to bring relief to the community.

By Abugri Amos

Member of Parliament for Effiduase/Asokore Constituency, Ayew Afriyie, has sparked controversy with his recent statement that the government won’t stop galamsey operators anytime soon.

This declaration has left many Ghanaians stunned, especially considering the devastating environmental and social impacts of illegal mining.

Ayew Afriyie, who also serves as Middle Belt Campaign Coordinator for the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, made it clear that galamsey will continue unabated. His words have ignited heated debates, with some questioning the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.

Galamsey’s consequences are far-reaching, causing environmental degradation, water pollution, loss of livelihoods for local communities, and threats to national security.

The practice has also been linked to deforestation, soil contamination, and harm to wildlife.

Critics argue that the government’s inaction on galamsey undermines efforts to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure sustainable development.

With the country grappling with the consequences of climate change, many are calling for decisive action against galamsey.

The government’s stance on galamsey has been inconsistent, with previous promises to tackle the issue.

However, Ayew Afriyie’s statement suggests that the government may not be committed to taking concrete steps to address the problem.

The MP’s comments have sparked outrage among environmental activists, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens.

Many are demanding swift action from the government to halt galamsey operations and protect Ghana’s environment.

By kweme Asare