The Assembly Member for the Krofrom East Electoral Area, Mr. Patrick Kwame Frimpong, who doubles as the Presiding Member (PM) for the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), has been honoured by
Golf 1 Municipal Assembly Lome -Togo, for his distinguished leadership.
Gomado Koamy Gbloekpo and Patrick Kwame Frimpong
Mr. Frimpong, who has been elected to represent his electoral area since 2006 to date, is serving his second term as the PM of KMA.
He has also been adopted as a member of Golf I Municipal Assembly to help it tap his rich experience and expertise in local governance.
Mr. Frimpong received the award on Friday, 22nd March 2024 in Lome, Togo, during an ordinary meeting session of Golf I Municipal Assembly.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Golf 1 Assembly, Gomado Koamy Gbloekpo,
in a citation in French, acknowledged the meritorious achievements and outstanding contributions of Mr. Patrick Kwame Frimpong that have strengthened the local governance system in Ghana.
Mr.Patrick Kwame Frimpong (first on left) at the meeting at Golf I Municipal Assembly
The MCE, on behalf of Golf I Municipal Assembly, also recognised Mr. Frimpong’s long service as an assembly member, his quality leadership as KMA PM, his expertise in local governance issues, as well as his recognition as one of the best assembly members and PMs in Ghana.
They have, therefore, adopted Patrick Frimpong, who could be invited at any time to participate in any of their meetings to impart his knowledge and experience to their members.
The MCE and his delegation have already been to Ghana to study KMA and Ghana’s local governance system as part of building a sister-city relationship with KMA in order to learn from each other to strengthen the local governance systems of the two assemblies.
The highly elated Kwame Frimpong thanked the MCE of Golf I Municipal Assembly, the PM and the entire Assembly for recognising his invaluable service.
He also pledged his readiness to attend their meetings every time they invite him to share his knowledge and experience.
In the milieu of Ghanaian politics, Alan Kyerematen emerges as a towering figure, embodying hope and transformative leadership. His extensive experience across public and private sectors, coupled with a diverse skill set spanning economics, law, management, trade, and diplomacy, positions him uniquely as a visionary leader poised to lead Ghana into a prosperous future.
At the heart of Kyerematen’s vision lies a commitment to transcend the traditional winner-takes-all system that has long divided the nation and deprived her of the deserved development.
He advocates for a government of national unity, aiming to harness the collective expertise of Ghana’s brightest minds to drive a cohesive national development agenda that prioritizes agricultural, industrial, infrastructural, and technological revolution to create jobs for the teeming unemployed youth.
Under Kyerematen’s proposed leadership, partisan divides would give way to a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration. His vision seeks to end the era of abandoned projects and prioritize national progress over party politics, ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across all communities.
Moreover, Kyerematen pledges to establish a merit-based system where appointments, employment, scholarships, and contracts are awarded based on competence and integrity rather than political allegiance. This shift towards meritocracy promises to foster transparency and accountability, effectively combating corruption within the government.
A government of national unity, guided by principles of meritocracy, offers a viable solution to the pervasive issue of corruption that has hindered Ghana’s progress.
By prioritizing competence, vision, good character, integrity, and credibility over political connections, Kyerematen aims to create an environment intolerant to corrupt practices, thus laying the groundwork for sustainable development.
In conclusion, Kyerematen’s vision for Ghana represents a departure from divisive politics towards a future defined by collaboration, equity, and national unity.
As the nation stands at a crossroads, the choice between clinging to an outdated winner-takes-all paradigm or embracing a new era of inclusivity rests in the hands of every Ghanaian who aspires for a brighter tomorrow.
Dan Kwaku Botwe, the Campaign Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections, has stated that the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, is not facing any pressure to announce his running mate.
Dr. Bawumia has faced criticism for the prolonged delay in announcing his running mate, despite requesting additional time from the National Council of the party.
Addressing journalists in Kumasi, Dan Botwe assured that the flagbearer would announce his desired candidate at the right time.
Dr.Mahamudu Bawumia
‘We have not mentioned a particular candidate and no such discussion has come up but finding a running mate has never been our problem. It has never been a contentious issue for us.”By:Citi Newsroom
The potential vacuum in the Ejisu Constituency Parliamentary seat following the demise of the MP, John Ampontuah Kumah has sparked early interest from prospective contenders eyeing the upcoming by-election.
Among them, former President of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, has emerged as a possible candidate for the vacant seat.
With Parliament yet to declare the seat vacant for a by-election, Nyantakyi has publicly declared his intent to contest once the electoral process is officially initiated. Speaking at the New Patriotic Party’s Ashanti Regional Campaign team launch in Kumasi, Nyantakyi confirmed his eligibility to run while being mindful of the current mourning period within the constituency.
Kwesi Nyantakyi
Recognizing the sensitivity of the timing following the loss of the late MP, Nyantakyi emphasized his deep connection to the Ejisu constituency and indicated his preparedness to participate in the electoral race pending the formal announcement of the by-election schedule.
Indicating his willingness to abide by the mourning period out of respect for the late MP, Nyantakyi reassured his commitment to the area he hails from and urged party members to place trust in the decision-making process of the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, especially in selecting a suitable running mate.
While stressing the inevitability of the Ejisu by-election, Nyantakyi urged for patience and respect for the mourning process, underscoring his belief in the democratic process and the importance of adhering to established protocols before finalizing any candidacy decisions for the upcoming by-election.
I have taken notice of the unfortunate controversy that has arisen as a result of a comment I made at a reception organized last Thursday by the Churchstreet group of NDC faithfuls for Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Running Mate to our esteemed flagbearer, H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
I sincerely regret the wrong impression that my comment has created.Indeed, it was not my intention, and never will it be my intention to pray that H.E. John Mahama does not serve his full four-year term when he wins the 2024 general elections.
I concede that I misspoke on the occasion. I accept the criticisms in good faith, even though some of the criticisms arise out of a deliberate misrepresentation of my statement.
Indeed, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang in response to my toast, pointed out the erroneous impression created by my statement and was categorical in asserting that she was certain that H.E. John Mahama will win the 2024 general elections and serve his full four-year term.
It is unfortunate that my statement appears to have taken the shine off what was otherwise a cheerful and light-hearted occasion.
I hereby render an unreserved and unqualified apology to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the leadership and rank and file of the great NDC.
Comrades and friends, let us put this unfortunate incident behind us and unite behind our flag-bearer, the visionary Nation Builder, to rescue our beloved country in the December 2024 elections.
The Governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Sunday,24th March,2024, inaugurated its Ashanti Regional campaign team for 2024 Parliamentary and Presidential elections.
Picture of Dan Botwe inaugurating the Ashanti regional campaign Committee
The Campaign team members were sworn into office by Mr.Dan Botwe,the
Former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, who doubles as Campaign Strategist at a short inaugural ceremony held at Great Hall of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi
Mr.Dan Botwe advised members of the team to discharge their mandate diligently in spearheading the party’s campaign in its “political world bank” in order to vindicate the confidence that had been reposed in them by the Party’s Flagbearer and the leadership of the Party..He called for all-inclusive campaign from the national level through to the polling station level.
Chairman Wontumi
On his part, the Ashanti regional chairman of the Party,Mr.Bernard Antwi Boasiako aka Chairman Wontumi, who spoke on behalf of the Regional executives assured the party that they would work hard to secure an emphatic victory for His Excellency Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia and all the 47 Parliamentary Candidates (PCs) of the NPP in the Ashanti Region.
He appealed to the rank and file of the party to stay United so as to make breaking the 8 target . Chairman Wontumi stated he knows how to win power and declared that they’re going to win 2024 polls
Mrs.Akosua Frema Opare,the Chief of Staff and other speakers,stressed on the need for all hands on deck campaign devoid of complacency and disunity.
François,Prof O Addae-Mensah,CEO of Kath and others
The Director of Research and Innovation at the Kumasi Technical University (KTU), Prof. Smart Sarpong, has weighed in on the comparative political prowess of Chief of Staff, Mrs. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare and NDC Running Mate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang.
In a telephone interview on Kessben TV on Thursday, March 21, 2024, Prof. Sarpong asserted that while both individuals had a strong background in academia and have held ministerial positions, Frema Opare’s achievements in politics notably outweigh those of Prof. Opoku Agyemang.
Comparing roles
Drawing a parallel between their roles as former Minister of Education and current Chief of Staff respectively, Prof. Sarpong noted that although both individuals had made significant contributions in their respective fields, Mrs Opare’s ascent to the position of Chief of Staff demonstrates a remarkable accomplishment in Ghanaian politics.
Mrs. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare
“Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang has become Minister of Education before and Mrs. Akosua Frema Opare has also become the current Chief of Staff…With both having also taught at the university level before, they are both almost at par in terms of head-to-head considerations,” he stated.
However, Prof. Sarpong emphasized that the highest level for a university lecturer is to become a professor, since it doesn’t necessarily mean one should become a Vice-Chancellor. He, therefore, stressed that Frema Opare has surpassed this highest level to become a Chief of Staff.
“Chief of Staff’s position is an enviable one because all the ministers salute her, he said, highlighting the pivotal role of the Chief of Staff in ensuring the smooth functioning of the government machinery and maintaining constant communication between the executive and the citizenry.
Political experience
Prof. Sarpong stated that Frema Opare had risen through the ranks to get to where she is currently, and so when it comes to education, her effects can be felt in the same vein as Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang.
But Prof. Sarpong believes that Frema Opare’s extensive experience and strategic positioning within the political landscape make her a formidable candidate for higher political offices, such as the vice presidency.
Prof. Sarpong emphasised that Frema Opare’s grassroots political experience, citing her tenure as a former Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency.
He contrasts this with Prof. Opoku Agyemang’s lack of political representation at the constituency level, suggesting that Frema Opare’s familiarity with grassroots politics gives her an edge in connecting with the electorate.
“When it comes to discussions on who would better and ideally be the Running Mate and subsequent Vice President, it is more deserving and favorable for Frema Opare than Jane Naana Opoku. Because Frema was a grassroots MP before. For instance, she is a former Ayawaso West Wuogon Member of Parliament,” he stressed.
He added that Mrs. Osei-Opare has also been a former lecturer and Head of the Department of Home Science at the University of Ghana, and she has also served as the Country Director of Action Aid Ghana.
Vast advantages:
Based on these advantages, the KTU Director of Research and Innovation stated that Mrs Frema Opare would not encounter any challenges should she be selected as a running mate in her first attempt.
In his view, the Chief of Staff won’t also experience the low charisma and contributions of Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, who people perceived didn’t complement former President Mahama well.
It could be recalled that Prof. Naana Opoku-Agyemang partnered with Mr. Mahama for the 2020 election without delivering the Central Region, the home base.
“When it comes to the political analysis of the two women, Frema Opare is far ahead of Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang. Frema Opare knows everything about politics, she knows everything about grassroots politics. She won’t lead a campaign to be anxious or shake because this won’t be her first time in politics…,” Prof. Sarpong stated.
Political debate:
Prof. Sarpong contends that in a hypothetical political debate between both women, Mrs Opare’s extensive political experience and grassroots connections would give her a distinct advantage.
He suggested that the Chief of Staff’s candidacy should be seriously considered by the NPP leadership, particularly by Vice President Bawumia, as they strategize for the upcoming elections.
He indicated that “if both Mrs Frema Opare and Prof. Jane go on a political campaign debate, it will be interesting because they’ll both have the flare to talk about their education portfolios, with Prof. Jane talking about UCC and Frema Opare talking about UG, which will be refreshing”.
“But when the debate enters politics, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang will find difficulties countering Mrs Frema Opare because she has no political experience. The Chief of Staff has seen it all, she served as an MP for more than one term in Parliament. Unlike Prof. Jane Naana, who hasn’t represented any constituency before. So it would be a really interesting debate for both women, but firstly, Frema Opare should pray she catches the eye of the flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, then we can talk about it,” he added.
Age factor:
Prof. Sarpong also dismissed concerns about Mrs Frema Opare’s age hindering her eligibility as a running mate, asserting that divine intervention ultimately determines political appointments.
He underscored the importance of Mrs Opare’s potential candidacy in bolstering the electoral prospects of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and assisting Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia in securing victory in the 2024 elections.
Some members of the Ashanti Regional Executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have petitioned the party’s national leadership and their flagbearer’s campaign team to call the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako alias Chairman Wontumi, to order.
They raised four (4) key issues that, if not resolved within the Ashanti Region, will jeopardise the party’s chances of breaking the 8.
A statement signed by six (6) out of ten (10) of the regional executives and copied to Peacefmonline.com suggested that there is a ‘crack’ within the party in their stronghold – hence, the need for the party’s national leadership to act swiftly or suffer the repercussions that may hinder the party’s success in the December 7 general election.
“We respectfully request that you intervene and address these concerns promptly. Our collective success in the upcoming campaign activities hinges heavily on cohesive and proactive leadership at all levels.” A portion of the statement reads.
Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Wontumi)
Read the statement below:
22nd March, 2024
The General Secretary,
New Patriotic Party,
Headquarters Accra.
SUBJECT: PETITION AGAINST ASHANTI REGIONAL CHAIRMAN OF NPP
Dear Sir,
I write on behalf of SIX ELECTED ASHANTI REGIONAL EXECUTIVES of the party to bring to your attention some disturbing issues relating to the performance of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP.
These issues can impact negatively on the party’s unity and general effectiveness going into the 2024 general elections.
The issues are:
FAILURE TO CONVENE REGULAR REGIONAL EXECUTIVES COMMITTEE MEETINGS. For over four months now the regional chairman has failed to call for a Regional Executive Committee meeting. The absence of these regular meetings hampers our ability to address critical matters and undermines the democratic processes within the regional party.
NEGLECT OF REGIONAL EXECUTIVES OVER PARTY ISSUES THAT NEED CONSENSUS. The regional chairman always makes unilateral decisions without the involvement of the regional executives on matters bothering the governance of the party in the region. According to the Memo issued by the General Secretary dated 16th March 2024, the regional party was to liaise with their respective team leaders to select a date and venue for the inauguration of their various regional campaign coordinating teams but this never happened in our region but was unilaterally done by the chairman without the involvement and knowledge of the regional party. The regional chairman has failed to engage with regional executives on the formation of campaign committees. This neglect has been a disincentive to the strategic planning and execution of campaign activities, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities.
UNRESOLVED DIVISION: Among Constituency Chairmen. The regional chairman has not shown interest in resolving the divisions among constituency chairmen. These unresolved conflicts not only create internal strife but also weaken our collective ability to mobilize support and deliver on our party’s objectives.
UNDERUTILIZATION OF PARTY STRUCTURES. Despite the available party structures in the region, the regional chairman has regrettably failed to effectively utilize them but prefers to work with his team at the neglect of the party structures. This underutilization diminishes the impact of our organizational framework and draws back our outreach and engagement capabilities.
These issues demand immediate attention to put things to ensure the smooth functioning of the party in the region and to uphold our values of transparency, inclusivity and effective leadership.
We respectfully request that you intervene and address these concerns promptly. Our collective success in the upcoming campaign activities hinges heavily on cohesive and proactive leadership at all levels.
We have resolved that the Sunday program should be postponed until the critical issues that have been raised are settled amicably.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
……Signed………
PATRICK ACHEAMPONG (1ST REGIONAL VICE CHAIRMAN) – 0244162289
