Chairman of the New Patriotic Party’s campaign team, Dan Botwe, is challenging the National Democratic Congress’ flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, to either unveil or announce a major campaign message ahead of the December polls.
Dan Botwe criticized John Mahama for failing to announce any major policy since his election as NDC flagbearer in May 2023.
Hon.Dan Botwe H.E.John Mahama Dr.Mahamudu Bawumia
In an interview with Citi News, Botwe argued that Mahama has nothing new to offer to the Ghanaian people.
“I am not sure that we have been hit by anything new from the NDC or [John Dramani] Mahama. You have been in power and were rejected, and you had eight years with a whole team to come and tell Ghanaians something new and different, and you are talking about a 24-hour economy?”
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Constituency First Vice Chairman in Atwima Nwabiagya South and Ashanti Regional TESCON Patron, John Kwame Duodu (Sir John), has urged NPP constituency executives to be proactive to help the party break the 8.
According to him, the NPP has been in power for two terms now, and the party is gearing up for the next general election in 2024.
He said in order to stay in power and continue the progress they have made, the NPP constituency executives must be proactive and work together to break the eight-year cycle that has plagued Ghanaian politics for decades.
He added that one of the main reasons the NPP constituency executives must be proactive is that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is always working hard to regain power. The NDC has a strong support base and has come close to winning in the past elections, so the NPP must not downplay the possibility of an NDC victory.
According to him, to break the eight-year cycle, the NPP constituency executives must focus on mobilising grassroot support. They must work on building relationships with the party members at the grassroot level and ensure that they are engaged and motivated to come out and vote for the party in the next elections.
Another important aspect of being proactive is to identify and address any issues or challenges that may arise within the party. The NPP constituency executives must be open to feedback and willing to make necessary changes to ensure the success of the party in the next elections.
Sir John
He stressed that the NPP constituency executives must also work on expanding the party’s reach and appeal to a wider range of voters. This may involve reaching out to different demographics and communities and communicating the party’s policies and agenda in a way that resonates with them.
In addition, the NPP constituency executives must work on improving the party’s image and reputation.
They must ensure that the party is seen as a credible and trustworthy political entity perceived to deliver on its electoral promises.
Moreover, the NPP constituency executives must also work on building strong alliances and partnerships with other political parties and interest groups. By working together with other like-minded entities, the NPP can strengthen its position and increase its chances of success in the next elections.
Another important aspect of being proactive is to continuously engage with the constituents and listen to their concerns and needs. The NPP constituency executives must be responsive to the needs of the people and ensure that they are working towards addressing them.
Furthermore, the NPP constituency executives must also work on building a strong and effective campaign strategy.
They must focus on messaging, communication, and mobilisation to ensure a successful election campaign.
In conclusion, the NPP constituency executives must be proactive to break the eight-year cycle and ensure the party’s continued success in the next elections. By focusing on mobilising grassroot support, addressing issues within the party, expanding its reach, improving its image, building alliances, engaging with constituents, and building an effective campaign strategy, the NPP constituency executives can increase their chances of victory in the next elections.
The NPP constituency executives must work together towards achieving this goal and ensure that the party remains in power for a third term.
Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman is likely to be nominated as the presidential running mate for John Mahama
Former President John Mahama is to retain Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as his presidential running mate on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the upcoming general elections.
According to JoyNews sources, the names that have come up as possible running mates include the former Chief of Staff – Julius Debrah, former Kumasi Mayor Kojo Bonsu, the NDC Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey constituency – Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings and Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
John Mahama has submitted names to the National Executive Committee and the Council of Elders of the party for scrutiny.
The NEC and the Council of Elders of the party are preparing to deliberate on Mr Mahama’s choice for running mate but a highly placed source has confirmed to JoyNews that the former president will nominate Prof Opoku-Agyemang to partner with him for the 2024 general elections.
Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
Speaking to JoyNews’ Parliamentary correspondent, some MPs expressed their support for Prof Opoku-Agyemang’s nomination to partner with Mr Mahama in the December general elections.
The NDC MP for Tamale Central, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed said; “I think all the names you have mentioned are capable than Dr Bawumia but I really don’t think it will make any sense changing the running mate we used in the 2020 elections.
He said it was very clear that some impacts were being made by the running mateship of Prof Naana Jane and it would not make any political sense to replace her.
“I really don’t think there will be any changes. I will be shocked if there are any changes and the only way there could be a change is if Prof Naana says she is no longer willing to contest,” he told Kwaku Asante.
On her side, the Deputy Minority Whip, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah also backed the running mate position of Prof Opoku-Agyemang.
She remarked, “Why should it be another name? …. She was supporting way back before she came to the limelight. People were supporting behind and she was part of those people.”
Mrs Cudjoe-Ghansah stated that it is time for women to lead, emphasising that it starts from the vice president position.
“I believe the choice of a female running mate shows a commitment to gender equality and participation in leadership. John Mahama has made it and he’s going to do it again.
“We couldn’t get the general elections because of one or two reasons and this time, he’s going to name her again and have the first female vice president for Ghana,” she said.
The NDC MP for Kintampo North constituency, Joseph Kwame Kumah also backed the call to retain Prof Opoku-Agyemang as the running mate.
“I’m a gender activist, and I’m very sensitive when it comes to gender. For me, our mother Naana Jane did marvelously well.”
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has reaffirmed the party’s unwavering confidence in securing victory in the upcoming December elections.
He attributed this confidence to the NPP’s remarkable track record in governance, emphasizing superior performance across all sectors of the economy in comparison to their rivals, the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Speaking at the inauguration of the NPP’s Campaign and Manifesto Teams in Accra, Dr. Bawumia expressed optimism and determination for success in the December polls.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
He outlined the party’s clear vision and substantial achievements, as highlighted by the president during his State of the Nation Address on Tuesday, February 27.
“We have the vision and we have the record and it is very clear in the exhilarating speech that was given by the president at the State of the Nation Address.
“As I listened to the president, it was very clear that we have outperformed the NDC government in every single sector. I can’t see even one sector where they outperformed us.”
The Flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, says there is a lot to do in ensuring he wins the December 7 presidential election, and he trusts his campaign team will deliver.
Integrating his campaign team in Accra on Wednesday, 28th February 2024, Dr. Bawumia said he has confidence in the leadership of the campaign to do an exceptional job.
He also urged them to kick-start their strategy, adding that “there is no time to waste; we have to start now.”
Dr. Bawumia announced a strong line-up of top-notch members to lead his presidential campaign ahead of December 7.
Some scenes from the event
The team consists of prominent figures within the party, such as former President John Agyekum Kufuor and the current President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
They are to steer the campaign for the forthcoming elections to ensure a win for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Under the guidance of former President John Kufuor, President Akufo-Addo, former National Chairman Freddie Blay, and former Campaign Manager Peter Mac Manu, the NPP aims to strategise effectively and mobilise support across the country.
Mr. Dan Botwe is the chairman of Dr. Bawumia’s campaign.
See below the campaign team:
A. CAMPAIGN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
John Agyekum Kufuor
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
All members of the National Council of Elders
Freddie Blay
Elizabeth Ohene
Rev. Joyce Aryee
Akosua Frema Osei Opare
B. CAMPAIGN OPERATIONS
Justin Kodua Frimpong (Director)
Henry Nana Boakye (Deputy)
C. CAMPAIGN CHAIRMAN AND STRATEGIST
Dan Botwe (Chairman)
Fred Oware (Deputy)
Nana Akomea (Deputy)
D. CAMPAIGN MANAGEMENT
Fred Opare Ansah (Campaign Manager)
Dr. Antoinette Tsibu-Darko (Deputy – Research and Administration)
Osei Bonsu Amoah (Deputy – Parliamentary Campaign)
Dr. Ibrahim Anyars (Deputy – Presidential Campaign)
E. ELECTORAL AFFAIRS
Peter Mac Manu
F. SENIOR CAMPAIGN AIDES
Kwabena Agyei Agyepong
John Boadu
Kofi Dzamasi
Dr. Susana Alo
Salifu Saeed
Samuel Awuku
Anthony Karbo
Dr. Nyame Baafi
Nii Adjei Sowah
G. CAMPAIGN COORDINATORS
Joseph Cudjoe (Coordinator –Identifiable Groups)
Mavis Hawa Koomson (Coordinator – Coastal Zone)
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie (Coordinator- Middle Belt Zone)
Dominic Nitiwul (Coordinator – Northern Zone)
H. SPOKESPERSON FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
Dr. Gideon Boako
I. CAMPAIGN COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE
Dennis Edward Miracles Aboagye (Director of Communications)
Yaw Adomako Baafi (Deputy)
Akbar Khomeni (Deputy)
Maxwell Krobea Kwabena Asante (Coordinator, Social Media)
J. RESEARCH DIRECTORATE
Dr. Isaac Owusu Mensah
K. FINANCE AND FUNDRAISING
Dr. Alolo Mutaka
L. LEGAL DIRECTORATE
Frank Davies (Chairman)
Gary Nimako Marfo (Deputy)
DIPLOMATIC LIAISON
Amb. Edward Boateng
Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com
Governance expert and former United Nations Advisor on Governance, Prof Baffour Agyeman-Duah, has revealed that the NPP 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has a narrow chance of breaking the eight following President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA 2024).
Prof. Agyeman-Duah maintained that it would be very difficult for Dr Bawumia to dissociate himself from the current economic situation in the country.
Prof. Agyemang-Duah’s comment came to light following President Akufo-Addo’s SoNA delivered in Parliament on Tuesday, February 27, wherein the latter claimed that all government appointees and officials only offer advice to the President.
Prof. Agyemang-Duah and Dr.Mahamudu Bawumia
“It would be an unwise President that would pretend to have all the answers, and refuse the advice of his officials, but the fact remains that the President holds the executive power,” said President Akufo-Addo.
The statement by the President only seems to buttress the assertion of Dr. Bawumia during his 7th February’s Vision lecture at the UPSA where he had emphasized that the Economic Management Team’s role is only advisory.
Prof Agyeman-Duah had a dissenting view.
Speaking on TV3’s Ghana Tonight monitored by Peacefmonline.com, Prof. Agyemang Duah opined it will take a lot of convincing on the part of Vice President Bawumia to break the eight.
He said, “This is a very interesting situation”.
“His [President Akufo-Addo] vice president, with whom he has ruled the country for eight years, is seeking to be president and the public and himself know that there are so many policies of his government that have not been satisfying to the public and of course, he works together with the vice president,” he stressed.
According to Prof Agyeman-Duah, for Dr Bawumia to succeed in breaking the ‘eight’ for the NPP, he would need to devise different strategies.
“But seeking the presidency, the vice president has to find a clever way to distance himself from some of the failed policies,” adding that it is a “dilemma for any vice president seeking the office of the president while the incumbent is still in office”.
The Governance Expert further stated that, “I think [Dr] Bawumia is in a very tight situation because, on one hand, he cannot publicly denounce the policies of the president of which he was part, and at the same time he is aware that certain policies have not been very good and he cannot carry that to the campaign trail”.
The situation, according to him, is “a difficulty both of them are facing”, adding that it has become a puzzle for the president and the vice president.Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com
The flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama, has formally submitted his choice for a running mate to the party’s leadership for consideration ahead of the 2024 elections.
This development was communicated through an official release by the party’s leadership, stating that they have received the flagbearer’s official notice and are preparing for the consideration process.
The meeting for the consideration is scheduled for Thursday, March 7, 2024, during which the National Executive Committee (NEC) will convene to deliberate on this crucial matter.
According to a statement signed by the General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the NDC acknowledged the receipt of a formal communication from their Presidential Candidate.
“The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has today received a formal communication from our Presidential Candidate, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, regarding the nomination of his Running Mate in accordance with Article 45 of the NDC Constitution,” stated Fifi Fiavi Kwetey in the release.
The NDC expressed confidence that the selected running mate would bring a wealth of expertise and experience to their campaign, effectively complementing the vision of their esteemed party.
Furthermore, the party mentioned that venue and logistical details for the upcoming meetings will be communicated directly to all participants in due course.
Read below the statement by the NDC
NDC ANNOUNCES MEETING TO CONSIDER PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE’S RUNNING MATE NOMINATION
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has today received a formal communication from our Presidential Candidate, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, regarding the nomination of his Running Mate in accordance with Article 45 of the NDC Constitution.
In response to this communication, the party is pleased to announce that a meeting of the Council of Elders will convene at 11:00 hrs on Thursday, March 07, 2024, to deliberate on this significant matter.
Subsequently, the National Executive Committee will gather at 14:00 hrs on the same day to further consider the nomination.
The venue and logistical details for these meetings will be communicated directly to all participants in due course. The NDC is confident that the Running Mate will bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and dedication to our campaign.
The selection will undoubtedly complement the vision of our esteemed leader, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, as we collectively strive to “Build the Ghana We Want together.” United in purpose, we are committed to working tirelessly towards positive transformation and progress for our beloved nation.
We express our sincere gratitude to our supporters for their steadfast loyalty and unwavering commitment. Together, let us join hands and embark on this journey towards a brighter future for Ghana.
Long live the NDC, long live Ghana!
Signed,
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey
General Secretary
When the time comes for the Vice-President and flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, to announce his running mate for this year’s elections, he is likely to settle on one from a narrow pool of members of parliament (MPs) and government appointees, the Daily Graphic has gathered from inside sources.
The MP for Manhyia South and Minister of Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and the MP for Bosomtwe and Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, are the frontrunners for the slot, even though other names are receiving the backing of specific blocs.
A female running mate, the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, to bring gender balance to the ticket, and the former Majority Leader in Parliament, Ose Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, have also been touted as the desired candidates to fill the position.
The pool of possible candidates also includes the Chief Executive of STC, Nana Akomea, and the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng.
Dr.Mathew Opoku Prempeh and Dr.Osei Yaw Adutwum
Major decision
That major decision to be made by the Vice-President and the party’s flag bearer for the 2024 general election, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, in consultation with the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party, is expected in May this year.
Some stalwarts of the party, who shared their views on the potential running mate with the Daily Graphic on condition of anonymity, placed premium on the broad quality of the person needing to be a Christian, while others preferred “a Christian leader” altogether, stressing that such a partnership would further cement the Christian and Muslim relationship across the country to hold the country together even better.
What is clear at this point is that it would take something significant to dislodge both Dr Prempeh and Dr Osei Adutwum from their current pole positions.
Dr Prempeh and Dr Adutwum worked together at the Ministry of Education during President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo’s first term, where Dr Adutwum was deputy to Dr Opoku Prempeh.
Indeed, the two ministers were conspicuously among the few that survived the mass ministerial changes effected by the President this month.
Energy Minister
Dr Prempeh, a nephew of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, is also said to have a royal lineage connected to the Manhyia Palace.
His constituency is not merely a stronghold of the party, but actually delivered 83 per cent of the presidential votes to the NPP in the 2020 elections.
Dr Prempeh, as former Minister of Education is credited with the bold implementation of the free senior high school flagship education policy of the government, strongly supported by his then deputy, Dr Adutwum.
Education Minister
Dr Adutwum has earned plaudits for his commitment to the party to have left his personal investment in the education sector in the United States to accept a ministerial appointment in Ghana when the NPP came to power in 2017.
His constituency also delivered 84.8 per cent votes to the party in the 2020 presidential election.
He has been the face championing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEMM) education in Ghana.
He is seen to have done a lot to improve the infrastructural needs in the education sector, coupled with his push for digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI), which many believe also resonates with the vision of the NPP flag bearer.
Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu
Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has emerged as a surprise name following his resignation from the position in the course of last week.
He is a seven-term MP who declined to return to Parliament in 2025.
His resignation as the Majority Leader in Parliament followed his appointment as the chair of the party’s 2024 election Manifesto Committee, a decision ostensibly already taken by the party’s hierarchy.
While his colleagues in Parliament appeared to reject any supposed interference that would disrupt the identity of their leadership in the House, he forced the situation by resigning from the post he had held for about 12 years.
Akomea, Boateng
Nana Akomea has been one of the foremost communicators for Dr Bawumia’s campaign since he won the intra-party primary.
He is a former MP and minister during the regime of President Kufuor.
Mr Boateng once vied to lead the party after his first stint as a minister.
Other candidates
Mrs Osei-Opare’s name has been put forward by those who believe that gender balance would make a difference in the electoral fortunes of the candidates.
She is a two-time MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon, having served the constituency from 2005 to 2012.
She once served as the Deputy Minister of the then Manpower and Social Welfare, now Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations.
Mrs Osei-Opare continues with her women empowerment initiatives, as well as mentorship sessions, in her quest to groom the next generation of women leaders.
Qualities
While a number of NPP stalwarts who spoke to the Daily Graphic preferred to remain anonymous on who could emerge the lucky one for the position of running mate, it emerged that many of the party elders are in for a Christian.
Others preferred a member of the clergy.
They believe that partnership would further cement the Christian and Moslem relationship across the country and also hold the country further together.
Some senior members of the party were also of the view that choosing a successful business personality from outside the party who would come with his or her rich business background could also not be overlooked.
They were of the view that such a personality combining with an “astute” economist like Dr Bawumia was enough to “break the 8” and enhance the work already done by the government.
According to the NPP bigwigs, competence was basic and the choice must be one with charisma and who is knowledgeable.
“The issue of ethnicity, religion, regional balance, selflessness and how the choice inures significantly to the fortunes of the party especially in its strongholds is also being pushed by those pulling the strings,” said one party source.
“Everyone must take it easy because even if I give you a name, it can change in the very last minute; that is how it works,” it added.Source:Daily Graphic
The executives and entire membership of Patriotic Youth Alliance (PYA) celebrates Hon Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu for taking such a decisive and matured decision to save our party at this crucial time, this is a sign of a true Unifier and a Matured leader.
In the intricate dance of politics, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) found itself at a crossroads, navigating internal dynamics and preparing for the upcoming elections. Amidst this backdrop, the decision to refresh parliamentary leadership stands out as a pivotal move. It’s a delicate balance, where any misstep could fracture the unity and cohesion so vital for the party’s aspirations in the 2024 elections, especially in its quest to break the eight-year cycle.
At the heart of this transition is the Hon Osei Kyei-Mensah -Bonsu, whose decision to gracefully step aside for new leadership is nothing short of commendation. His tenure, spanning nearly three decades as a parliamentarian, has been marked by astuteness and an unwavering commitment to Ghana’s parliamentary process and democracy. This act of selflessness to step aside is a rare gem in the political arena especially in Africa, setting a high bar for leadership and party loyalty.
We extend our deepest appreciation to Hon. Mensah Bonsu for his exemplary service and urge him to continue imparting his wisdom and experience to the soon to be formed new leadership. His legacy is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that true leadership is about putting the greater good above personal ambition.
Hon.Osei Kyei-Mensah- Bonsu in a chat with with new Majority leader
The Patriotic Youth Alliance salutes you, Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, for your dedication to democracy and patriotism. Your contributions will forever be etched in the annals of our party’s history.
We would use this opportunity to Congratulate you on your appointment as the Party’s Manifesto Committee and wish you the very best of luck in your next journey of life.
The National Council of the New Patriotic Party has confirmed the new leadership of the majority caucus in Parliament as Alexander Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu, prepares to take on the mantle of Majority Leader starting today, Friday, February 23.
This significant change in the Majority Front Bench’s leadership follows the recent interpretation of parliamentary procedures and aligns with the Speaker’s recent ruling on the selection process.
The leadership changes were confirmed at a meeting led by the General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong.
Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu in a chat with Alexander Afenyo-Markin
This meeting, involving members of the Majority Caucus, deliberated on recommendations from the National Executive Committee (NEC) concerning the leadership reshuffle.
Following the meeting, the General Secretary, according to our sources, presented the recommendations, along with the concurrence letter from the Majority Caucus, to the National Council which was approved at a meeting at the Alisa Hotel in Accra.
This process adheres to the stipulations of Order 6 of the Standing Orders of Parliament (2024), as interpreted by Speaker Alban SK Bagbin.
The Speaker’s interpretation has clarified that while parliamentary caucuses play a pivotal role in leadership selection, the involvement of political parties in this process cannot be sidelined, ensuring a balance between internal party democracy and parliamentary norms.
Subsequently, the Speaker of Parliament will officially announce the leadership changes on the floor, following the receipt of a detailed letter from the NPP General Secretary confirming the changes. This will be followed by a farewell statement from the outgoing Majority Leader, Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, symbolising the end of his tenure.
In a ceremonial act of transition, Kyei Mensah Bonsu, along with Adansi Asokwa MP, KT Hammond, will then formally install Alexander Afenyo-Markin as the new Majority Leader. Afenyo-Markin will then deliver his first address in this new role, outlining his vision and commitments.
According to the NEC’s recommendations, the newly appointed leadership team for the Majority Front Bench will be:
Majority Leader: Alexander Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu
2. Deputy Majority Leader: Patricia Appiagyei, MP for Asokwa
3. Majority Chief Whip: Frank Annoh Dompreh, MP for Nsawam/Adoagyiri
4. First Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Habib Iddrisu, MP for Tolon
5. Second Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Alex Tetteh Djornobuah, MP for Sefwi Akontombra
After Afenyo-Markin’s statement, members from both sides of the House are anticipated to offer their contributions and support, demonstrating a unified front in Ghana’s parliamentary governance.
The reshuffle, aligning with the Speaker’s interpretation and the Standing Orders, signifies a pivotal moment in ensuring that Ghana’s parliamentary leadership reflects both democratic and legal principles.
This leadership transition is expected to usher in a new phase of parliamentary operations, with the NPP’s refreshed team poised to lead the country’s legislative proceedings and national development initiatives.
