Politics

What country are you describing to us?”, Kwasi Pratt Jnr asks NPP

Kwesi Pratt Jnr, a veteran journalist and Managing Editor of Insight Newspaper, has questioned the NPP and the Nana Addo administration’s description of Ghana in a recent public speech.

He stated that the economy is at a survival stage and on the verge of collapsing, yet the administration claims everything is fine.

Speaking on Good Morning Ghana with Dr. Randy Abbey, Pratt expressed concern that the NPP administration has done more harm to the country than they are admitting, touting a perfect Ghana that does not exist.

The former Publicity Committee Chairman of the CPP criticized Nana Addo and Bawumia’s rosy depiction of Ghana at the unveiling rally of Napo, where Nana Addo claimed there is no “dumsor” (power outages) and boasted about their achievements in economy, education, and infrastructure development.

However, Pratt argued that Ghanaians are suffering due to the administration’s poor performance, citing high taxes, high cost of living, unstable power supply, corruption, scandals, and misuse of public funds.

He believes the administration should apologize to Ghanaians instead of touting their achievements.

Source: kwame Asare

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) running mate and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo), has faced intense scrutiny and backlash following his controversial statement about Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s achievements.

During his acceptance speech at his unveiling rally in Kumasi, Napo compared his achievements to those of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, claiming that under the latter’s administration, no one has experienced hunger, and the economy is thriving.

However, Dr. Randy Abbey, host of Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV, vehemently disagreed with Napo’s claims, labeling them as “complete lies.”

Dr. Abbey urged Napo to visit the Ghana Statistical Service to access accurate data, revealing that over 850,000 Ghanaians go to bed with empty stomachs, according to the multidimensional poverty index.

He also cited the 2023 Global Hunger Index, which ranks Ghana 62nd out of 125 countries with a moderate hunger level (score of 13.7), and the 2024 Food Insecurity report, which indicates that 2 million people are food insecure, with 657,000 children under 5 chronically malnourished.

Source: Kwame Asare

Mr. Richard Zinleri, Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) South Korea Branch, has commended Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s Flagbearer, for selecting Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his Vice Presidential Candidate for the upcoming December elections.

Zinleri praised the choice, stating that the Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia was the ideal candidate to help secure a third term for the NPP under the Fourth Republic.

On Oman FM, Zinleri expressed his full support for the NEC’s decision, congratulating the party’s grassroots base for endorsing the pairing.

He urged party members in Ghana and the diaspora to intensify their campaign efforts, emphasizing that the move was long overdue and a perfect choice for the December polls.

Zinleri, a prominent Ghanaian businessman and International Development Cooperation Practitioner based in South Korea, reiterated his confidence in the pair’s ability to secure an outright victory.

“This is a perfect and solid pair. It is possible with Bawumia and NAPO,” he emphasized.

As CEO of Ghana Korea Trading Company Limited in South Korea, Zinleri brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the party.

His endorsement reflects the growing support for Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy, with many party members expressing optimism about the party’s chances in the upcoming elections.

By Adu Gyamfi odopa

The Member of Parliament for Manhyia South and running mate for Dr. Bawumia, Hon. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, has taken a swipe at Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s achievements, dragging them through the mud.

Dr. Kwame Nkrumah was a Ghanaian politician and leader who played a significant role in the country’s fight for independence from British colonial rule. Some of his notable achievements include:

1. Leading Ghana to independence: Nkrumah was instrumental in Ghana’s fight for independence, which was finally achieved on March 6, 1957.

2. Africanization of the economy: He implemented policies aimed at increasing African ownership and control of the economy, reducing foreign domination.

3. Industrialization and infrastructure development: Nkrumah’s government invested in industrial projects like the Akosombo Dam, Tema Steel Works, and the Ghana Airways.

4. Education and healthcare: He prioritized education and healthcare, establishing schools, universities, and hospitals, including the University of Ghana and the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

5. Pan-Africanism: Nkrumah was a key figure in the Pan-African movement, promoting African unity and solidarity. He hosted the 1965 African Heads of State summit, which led to the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU).

6. Nationalist and anti-colonial leader: He inspired nationalist movements across Africa and beyond, fighting against colonialism and imperialism.

7. Economic development: Nkrumah implemented policies aimed at rapid economic development, including the construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.

8. Cultural promotion: He encouraged Ghanaian culture, promoting traditional arts, music, and dance.

9. International relations: Nkrumah played a key role in international affairs, participating in the Non-Aligned Movement and advocating for global peace and cooperation.

10. Visionary leadership: He had a vision for a united, prosperous, and independent Africa, inspiring generations of Africans and global leaders.

These achievements have made Dr. Kwame Nkrumah a celebrated figure in Ghanaian and African history.

Here are some of the notable projects implemented by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s government:

1. Akosombo Dam (1965) – a hydroelectric dam on the Volta River, providing electricity for Ghana and neighboring countries.

2. Tema Steel Works (1965) – a steel production facility to industrialize Ghana’s economy.

3. Ghana Airways (1958) – the national airline, established to promote air travel and connectivity.

4. University of Ghana (1948) – a premier tertiary institution for higher education.

5. Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (1959) – a major hospital for medical care and training.

6. Tema Harbour (1961) – a modern seaport for international trade and commerce.

7. Accra-Tema Motorway (1965) – a major highway connecting Accra and Tema.

8. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (1952) – a science and technology university in Kumasi.

9. Ghana National Museum (1957) – a museum showcasing Ghana’s history, culture, and art.

10. Black Star Square (1961) – a ceremonial grounds and monument in Accra, symbolizing Ghana’s independence.

11. State House (1965) – the official residence and office of the President of Ghana.

12. Volta River Authority (1961) – a state-owned agency managing the Volta River and its resources.

13. Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (1953) – a state-owned media organization for radio and television broadcasting.

14. National Theatre (1992) – a performing arts center in Accra (initiated by Nkrumah but completed after his rule).

These projects reflect Nkrumah’s vision for Ghana’s economic, social, and cultural development, and many remain important national assets today.

By kwame Asare

The Member of Parliament for Manhyia South and running mate for Dr. Bawumia, Hon. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, has taken a swipe at Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s achievements, dragging them through the mud.

In his acceptance speech at his unveiling rally in Kumasi, Napo was captured on video taunting Nana Addo’s achievements compared to those of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

In an arrogant manner, Napo said that since 1957, no government has done better than his excellency Nana Addo Dankwah Akuffo Addo, not even our so-called Kwame Nkrumah.

The “so-called Kwame Nkrumah” comments came just moments after Otumfour Osei Tutu, the Ashanti king, admonished him for his arrogant tag.

Napo’s comments are a gross disrespect to Dr. Nkrumah and his own party leader, former President Kuffour, and their achievements.

Napo has been criticized for his arrogant behavior over some time now, with the most recent instance being when he told Ghanaians to draw their own low-power schedule time.

Nkrumah is known to be Ghana’s best president, fighting for independence and numerous developmental projects of which the current Ghana is benefiting from.

By Kwame Asare

In a bold move, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo Addo has categorically denied the existence of Dumsor, that have plagued Ghana in recent times.

Despite widespread complaints from citizens and businesses, the President remains resolute in his stance, attributing the recent power crisis to technical issues rather than a shortage of power supply.

Speaking at the unveiling rally of Napo in Kumasi, President Akuffo Addo assured Ghanaians that the recent power outages are not a result of Dumsor.

He emphasized that his government has worked tirelessly to improve the country’s power generation and distribution, and that the energy sector is more stable than ever before.

The President’s assertion has sparked mixed reactions, with some Ghanaians expressing skepticism and others supporting his stance.

The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticized the government’s handling of the energy sector, accusing them of mismanaging the country’s power resources.

Ghana has experienced frequent power outages in recent months, leading to widespread frustration and disruption of businesses and daily life.

The Sector Minister, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, who is also the running mate to Vice President Dr. Bawumia, has instructed Ghanaians to develop their own low-power timetables to cope with the situation.

However, President Akuffo Addo has dismissed these concerns, insisting that Napo has managed the energy sector better than any other sector minister has done.

He urged Ghanaians to disregard rumors and speculations about a power crisis, assuring them that the government is working hard to address the technical issues affecting the power supply.

Despite the President’s assurances, many Ghanaians remain unconvinced, citing the frequent power outages and the impact on their livelihoods.

The opposition NDC has called for the government to take responsibility for the power crisis and to implement urgent measures to address the situation.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear, the power crisis has become a major political issue in Ghana, with the government and opposition locked in a bitter dispute over who is responsible and how to resolve the situation.

The President’s denial of Dumsor has only added fuel to the fire, and it remains to be seen how this issue will play out in the coming weeks and months.

By Kwame Asare

Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central and a contender for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flag-bearer position, has emphasized the importance of unity within the party to achieve victory in the upcoming election.

Addressing party stakeholders and supporters at the Napo unveiling in Kumasi, Hon. Agyapong reaffirmed his commitment to remain in the party and support its efforts to win power.

He urged his followers, particularly those who are uncertain or angry that he has joined Dr. Bawumia’s campaign, to put aside their differences and rally behind the party.

Hon. Agyapong cautioned that the alternative, a potential victory for John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), would be detrimental to the country’s progress.

He emphasized that unity is crucial to achieving the party’s goals and ensuring a better future for all Ghanaians.

By Kwame Asare

Residents of Buokrom in the Manhyia North Constituency have come out in strong support of their Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Akwasi Konadu, rejecting claims by their Assembly Member, Hon. Kofi Agyapong Frederick, that the MP has neglected them.

Speaking to the media, the residents expressed shock at the Assembly Member’s allegations, which they described as baseless and misleading.

They highlighted numerous developmental projects initiated by the MP, including borehole water projects, street lights, school roofing, and scholarships for over 90 students.

The residents attributed the delay in road construction to the refusal of some shop owners and landlords to remove their containers, allowing the contractor to work.

They also alleged that some shop owners cursed the contractors, leading to the case being taken to “Antoa” (a traditional dispute resolution center).

The headmaster of Buokrom Block A Basic School, Mr. Boamah, and the headmistress of Buokrom Block B School, expressed gratitude to the MP for his support, including roofing their schools, providing furniture and borehole water, and financial assistance.

The residents praised their MP for his prompt response to their challenges and his humility, praying for his massive victory in the upcoming elections on December 7th to continue his good work.

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Assembly Members and MPs in some constituencies, with some Assembly Members accusing MPs of neglecting their responsibilities.

However, in this case, the residents of Buokrom have made it clear that they stand behind their MP and appreciate his efforts.

The presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party, Dr. Bawumia, has temporarily suspended all other engagements to focus on an intensive three-day campaign in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

According to the vice chairman of Atwima Nwabiagya south constituency and the deputy National organizer for Friends of Bawumia (FoB -08), John kwame Duodu (Sir John) the visit is first of its kind.

According to Sir John this year saw all party members, past and present, come together to support him. This display of unity within the party is a significant advantage as the party heads into the upcoming general election.

During the three-day tour, Dr. Bawumia and his team engaged with various stakeholders in the region, including the Ashanti regional House of Chiefs, religious leaders, and professional organizations.

The goal was to showcase Dr. Bawumia’s vision for the nation and his commitment to unlocking the country’s economic potential if elected on December 7th.

The overwhelming enthusiasm and love shown by the people of the Ashanti region towards Dr. Bawumia were evident throughout his visit.

A memorable moment was when members of Suame Magazine presented him with a handmade key symbolizing their support for his leadership and his ability to unlock the country’s economic potential.

Another highlight of Dr. Bawumia’s visit was his love and support for young talents in the country, as demonstrated in a video where he danced to King Paluta’s ‘Aseda’ song, a favorite among the locals.

This gesture, along with his humble interactions, such as bowing to an elderly lady in a wheelchair, further solidified his reputation for humility.

Prominent figures in the region, including Otumfuo, have praised Dr. Bawumia’s leadership qualities, emphasizing his humility despite occupying the second-highest position in the land (vice president) for eight years.

According the sir John who as double as the Ashanti regional Tescon Patron, Such endorsements speak volumes about the type of leadership Ghana can expect under Dr. Bawumia’s presidency.

Contrary to John Mahama, who is known to have told Ashantis to be ungrateful and that even if he used gold to construct roads in the Region, the people would still be ungrateful, Dr. Bawumia’s positive remarks from influential figures in this Region speak volumes about the type of leadership Ghana will experience under his watch come January 2025 when he is sworn in as the next president of the country.

Dr. Bawumia’s tour in the Region has been incredibly impactful in all the places and constituencies he visited.

The traders at the Kumasi Central Market made it a joyous moment for the incoming president when they enthusiastically demonstrated that the spirit of the Party in the Ashanti Region has been revitalized by his visit.

As he concludes his tour of the Region today, I would like to use this platform to advise the top hierarchy of the party to allow Dr. Bawumia to choose his preferred candidate for the vice presidential position without further delay and any objections from the rank and file of the Party across the country. We are all one people in the same Party, so whoever is selected to deputize His Excellency Alhaji Dr. Mahmoudu Bawumia should be accepted by all in our efforts to break the 8-year rule by a single party since 1992.

With Dr. Bawumia at the helm of affairs of this nation, he will undoubtedly steer us to a safe landing both domestically and internationally.

Story by Kwame Asare

In a resounding declaration of political prowess, Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, affectionately known as Wontumi, asserted the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) indomitable spirit as it inaugurated its Ashanti Regional campaign team for the impending 2024 Parliamentary and Presidential elections.

With unyielding confidence, Wontumi proclaimed, “I know how to win power,” sending a clear message to the opposing National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the NPP stands poised for victory.

In a bid to fortify its stance and electoral strategies, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) executed a pivotal move on Sunday, 24th March 2024, by formally inaugurating its Ashanti Regional campaign team for the upcoming 2024 Parliamentary and Presidential elections. The ceremony, held at the illustrious Great Hall of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, marked a significant milestone in the party’s preparatory endeavors.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, assumed the podium on behalf of the Regional executives, emanating confidence and determination.

With unwavering commitment, Chairman Wontumi pledged the Regional team’s unwavering commitment towards securing an emphatic victory for His Excellency Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia, alongside all 47 Parliamentary Candidates (PCs) representing the NPP in the Ashanti Region.

The solemnity of the occasion was accentuated as the campaign team members were sworn into their respective offices by none other than Mr. Dan Botwe, the Former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, who also assumes the role of Campaign Strategist.
In his address, Hon. Dan Botwe articulated a fervent call to action, urging the team members to discharge their duties with utmost diligence. Emphasizing the pivotal role of the Ashanti Region as the NPP’s “political world bank,” he implored the team to vindicate the trust and confidence reposed in them by the Party’s Flagbearer and leadership.

The resonating call for unity and inclusivity reverberated throughout the ceremony, as Hon. Dan Botwe advocated for an all-encompassing campaign approach, transcending hierarchical boundaries from the national echelons down to the grassroots level.

In alignment with the party’s overarching vision, he underscored the imperative of solidarity and cohesion in realizing the ambitious objective of breaking the eight-year cycle of political transitions.

Chairman Wontumi, in his resolute demeanor, exuded a palpable sense of determination, exclaiming his adeptness in navigating the intricacies of political maneuvering. With conviction, he pronounced the impending triumph of the NPP in the forthcoming 2024 polls, reaffirming his unwavering resolve to secure victory.

The resonance of unity and collective action was further amplified by Mrs. Akosua Frema Opare, the Chief of Staff, and other distinguished speakers. Stressing the urgency of a concerted effort devoid of complacency and discord, they echoed the sentiment of a unified front, poised to surmount any challenges encountered on the campaign trail.

As the curtains drew on the inaugural ceremony, the Ashanti Regional campaign team poised at the vanguard of the NPP’s electoral machinery, the stage is set for a riveting electoral showdown, one defined by resilience, unity, and an unwavering commitment to the collective aspirations of the Ghanaian populace.