Charles Danso, Leader of the Ghana Commuters Drivers Association, has expressed skepticism about the recent reduction in fuel prices, questioning the underlying factors behind the changes and raising concerns about the overall fairness of the system. Speaking on Think Tv 's political talk show, SE NO PEI, he noted that the price of fuel at certain Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) had dropped, with Star Oil, for instance, reducing its price from GHS 13.99 per liter to GHS 13.65. However, he challenged the stability and sustainability of these reductions, suggesting that the pricing mechanisms may be manipulated. “When we talk about fuel prices in this country, I can confidently say that it is someone who manipulates the prices,” Danso stated. He pointed out that the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) often attributes price fluctuations to the rise and fall of the dollar, yet this explanation doesn’t fully account for the inconsistencies in pricing. According to Mr. Danso, Ghana’s numerous OMCs contribute to a complex pricing environment. He questioned whether the recent price reduction was a result of a drop in the dollar’s value or changes in the international oil market. “The most important thing to ask ourselves is what has led to the reduction of the fuel? Has the dollar dropped, or is it from the international market?” he asked. Mr. Danso also highlighted the lack of transparency and communication regarding price changes. "It is sad that when the prices shoot up, we do not hear anything. Likewise, when it is being reduced. We are not being fair to ourselves because our currency is not a dollar, but we have priced everything to that currency,” he lamented. He further criticized the continued payment of levies, such as the Stabilization and Recovery Levy, without seeing tangible benefits. “We pay these monies, but we are not getting anything. As to whether the price will go up or down again, no one can tell,” Danso remarked, expressing his frustration with the unpredictability of fuel pricing. He also cautioned against celebrating the reduction in fuel prices prematurely, pointing out that other factors like car prices are on the rise. "I can't be happy just because fuel prices are down, while that of cars is skyrocketing. We will buy whether they increase or decrease the prices. They can do whatever they want with the prices,” he said. He explained that the decision to adjust lorry fares is not solely based on fuel prices but takes into account several factors, including the cost of spare parts, depreciation, and inflation. "We look at 1/3 of all these components before the prices of lorry fares are determined,” he explained, emphasizing that fare adjustments are not straightforward. Mr. Danso noted that his association operates independently of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), making it more challenging to implement fare reductions. “It will be difficult to have prices of fare reduced,” he acknowledged. Mr. Danso's remarks underscore the complexities surrounding fuel pricing in Ghana and the broader economic challenges that affect both transport operators and consumers. His call for fairness and transparency in the system reflects a growing concern among stakeholders about the factors influencing fuel prices and their impact on everyday life. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, has announced a significant overhaul of the Ghana School Feeding Programme, revealing plans to digitalise all operational processes starting September 2024. The move is aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability within the programme. In a press briefing held in Accra on Thursday as part of the Ministers' Press Briefing series, Madam Newman outlined the government's commitment to transition from the current manual procedures to a fully digital information management system. The new system is expected to handle every aspect of the programme, including caterer selection, data collection, and payment processing. "We are moving away from a manual system to an online system, where everything will be done electronically. This will help us to streamline the process, reduce duplication, and increase accountability," the Minister stated. The digital transformation, scheduled to begin with the 2024-25 academic year, aims to enhance the efficiency of the programme by providing real-time updates on its operations. Madam Dakoa Newman emphasized that the new system would allow the ministry to monitor the progress of caterers more effectively, ensuring that all processes are transparent and up-to-date. Under the digitalised system, prospective caterers will be required to apply online, paying a fee of GHC200 to create a profile for assessment. The application process will necessitate the submission of essential documents, including health certificates, business operating permits, and proof of financial capability. "This new system is going to give us real-time updates; we will know today the number of caterers who have cooked in the past few weeks, without having to wait until the end of the term," Newman explained. The minister also revealed that the system would be piloted in the New Juaben South District in the Eastern Region and Krachi East District in the Oti Region before a nationwide rollout. She encouraged caterers to embrace the new online application process, noting that it is a significant step towards creating a paperless and greener society. “We are excited to launch this new system and improve the efficiency of the Ghana School Feeding Programme,” Newman said. The introduction of this digital system marks a pivotal moment in the government's efforts to modernize public services and improve the welfare of children across the country through more efficient management of the school feeding initiative. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Police Service and nation at large bid a solemn farewell to one of its most revered leaders, Former Inspector General of Police (IGP), James Yalley Assuah Kwofie, at a funeral service held in his memory at the State House in Accra on Thursday. The late IGP Kwofie, who served as the 12th Inspector General of Police from 1st January 1990 until his retirement on 1st October 1996, was celebrated for his unwavering dedication to duty and his commitment to the welfare of police personnel. His tenure was marked by significant improvements in the image and operations of the Ghana Police Service, earning him the admiration and respect of his colleagues and the wider public. Born with a passion for service, Late James Kwofie began his illustrious career in the police force on 1st September 1968, when he was appointed as an Assistant Superintendent of Police after a competitive selection process. He quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the development of the service. His promotions were a testament to his hard work and dedication: Chief Superintendent of Police, 1st March 1976, Chief Lieutenant of Police, 1st July 1978, Assistant Commissioner of Police, 1st December 1980 and Deputy Commissioner of Police, 26th November 1993. As IGP, Late James Kwofie was instrumental in the formation of the Police Welfare Scheme on 1st April 1996, an initiative that continues to support the well-being of police personnel. This scheme is just one example of his commitment to ensuring that the needs of those under his command were met, both professionally and personally. Throughout his career, Late Kwofie held several key command positions that showcased his leadership and strategic thinking. These included; Staff Instructor, Police Depot,Accra, District Commander, Asawase, Ashanti Region, Secretary to the Inspector General of Police, National Police Headquarters, District Commander, Takoradi, Western Region, Divisional Commander, Tapa, Western Region, Regional Commander, Central Region, Regional Commander, Greater Accra Region, In Charge of Services, National Police Headquarters and Regional Commander, Eastern Region His expertise and leadership were also recognized beyond the police service when he was seconded to serve as the Commissioner of Customs, SRS, and Preventive Services before ultimately becoming IGP in 1990. Late James Kwofie’s commitment to professional development was evident in his participation in numerous courses, most notably the Senior Officer Course at Bramshill Police College in the UK. His thirst for knowledge and improvement was a driving force behind the advancements he brought to the police service during his tenure. The funeral service was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Vice President and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, current and former members of the Ghana Police Service, government officials, family, and friends, all of whom came to pay their final respects to a man whose life was defined by service to his country. As he was laid to rest Late James Yalley Assuah Kwofie left behind a legacy of leadership, dedication, and compassion that will continue to inspire future generations of the Ghana Police Service. In his sermon, DCOP/Rev. Fr. George Arthur, Director of the Religious Affairs Directorate of the Ghana Police Service, delivered a poignant reflection on the essence of true leadership. In his address, Rev. Fr. George Arthur emphasized that the foundation of great leadership is self-leadership. He urged leaders to embody honesty, truthfulness, and transparency, drawing from the experiences of notable figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger, who rose from being a celebrated actor to the governor of California. "Great leadership starts with self-leadership," he stated, highlighting that a leader must first find their own way before they can effectively guide others. "We are what we do, not what we think," he added, reminding those present that actions speak louder than intentions in defining a leader's legacy. Reflecting on the transient nature of power and authority, Rev. Fr. Arthur reminded the gathering that positions of influence are not permanent. He cautioned against placing trust in power, money, fame, or intelligence as the ultimate keys to success. Instead, he urged the congregation to focus on their good works and lasting legacy, as "nothing lasts long in life but days." In a moving tribute to the late IGP Kwofie, Rev. Fr. Arthur described him as an exemplary leader whose dedication, sincerity, and fairness left an indelible mark on the Ghana Police Service. He encouraged all to follow the path of selfless service, as demonstrated by Jesus Christ, who taught that true greatness lies in serving others. "As we remember Late Mr. Kwofie today, let us strive to live by his example—working with uprightness, sincerity, love, and fairness—so that our shadows do not haunt us in the evening or night of our lives," he concluded. At the State House in Accra, a tribute was paid to the late James Yalley Assuah Kwofie, Ghana's former Inspector General of Police (IGP), who passed away on May 2, 2024. Kwofie’s distinguished career began with his academic achievements, including his admission to the Premier University of Bangalore in 1964, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Late James Kwofie’s police career began on September 1, 1978, and saw him rise through various ranks and training programs, including at the Ghana Police College, Browns Hill Police College in London, and the International Police Academy in Washington, D.C. By June 10, 1977, he was appointed Commissioner of Customs, Excise, and Preventive Services, and later became the Inspector General of Police on January 1, 1990. During his tenure as IGP, Late Kwofie introduced several reforms, including the Police Welfare Scheme, and encouraged police personnel to pursue higher education. After retiring on October 1, 1996, Late Assuah Kwofie continued his public service as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria from 1998 to 2001. His commitment to service extended to various boards and councils, demonstrating his dedication to national interests. His legacy includes mentoring future IGPs and contributing to Ghana’s transition to civilian rule. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) paid tribute to the late James Yalley Assuah Kwofie, former Inspector General of Police (IGP), for his significant contributions to the institution during his tenure. Late James wofie, who passed away on May 2, 2024, is remembered for leaving behind a lasting legacy, including the creation of a vintage garden at the Kaplan headquarters, which became a social hub and was fittingly named in his honor. During his time with the GRA, he spearheaded the completion of numerous infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing revenue mobilization across the sector. A notable achievement was the establishment of a local border station along the Western Africa Trail road corridor, serving as a key point on the main southern road lanes. Late Kwofie was also committed to capacity building, ensuring that more staff were sent on management courses at institutions like the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) to sharpen their managerial skills. He encouraged staff to pursue higher education, leading to their promotion and professional advancement within the GRA. Known for his warm and approachable demeanor, Late Kwofie's broad smile and personable nature made him a valued and respected figure within the GRA. His legacy continues to inspire the institution and its staff. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration took its turn and paid tribute to the late H.E. James Y.A. Kwofie, who passed away on May 2, 2024. In a statement, the Ministry lauded Kwofie’s distinguished service as Ghana's High Commissioner to Nigeria from 1997 to 2001, highlighting his pivotal role in strengthening ties between Ghana and Nigeria. He was instrumental in relocating Ghana's High Commission from Lagos to Abuja in 1998, making Ghana one of the first nations to establish its diplomatic mission in Nigeria’s new capital. His efforts were key in addressing crucial issues such as trade, regional security, and cultural exchange, leaving an enduring legacy in the annals of Ghanaian diplomacy. Ambassador Kwofie, who also served as the Inspector General of Police, was remembered for his dedication, grace, and integrity in public service. The Ministry expressed its deep sorrow at his passing, underscoring the profound impact of his work on the nation's diplomatic relations. In a heartfelt tribute, the wife of the late James Yalley Assuah Kwofie, former Inspector General of Police, Madam Elizabeth reflected on the profound impact he had on their family and all who knew him. Despite the challenges of dementia, which clouded some of his memories, his unwavering belief in positivity and his ability to inspire his children remained undiminished. She expressed deep gratitude for the years they shared, praising God for blessing them with such a loving partner. Though Late Kwofie has passed, she finds solace in the cherished memories of their time together—the laughter, joy, and the positive influence he had on their lives. His legacy, she notes, will continue to inspire not only her but future generations. She bid him farewell with a promise to keep his memory alive and to honor the love and impact he brought to their lives. The children of the late James Yalley Assuah Kwofie, former Inspector General of Police, reflected on his profound influence on their lives. They shared how, even in his final years, his love and legacy remained a guiding force. To them, their dad was more than just a parent—he was a mentor, a pillar of strength, and a source of unwavering support and guidance. Late Kwofie’s kindness, patience, and generosity inspired them to strive for excellence and value humanity. His tireless dedication to his family and his work, always prioritizing their needs, taught them the virtues of hard work, discipline, and compassion. His legacy, marked by his commitment to maintaining high standards and his memorable advice, will continue to shape their lives. Recalling his favorite quote, “Revolutions are brought about by men who think as men of action and act as men of thought,” they honored him as their hero, role model, and friend. His guidance to not follow the crowd but to forge one’s path will live on through their stories of his love, wisdom, and generosity. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Prominent Ghanaian Media Personality and Cultural Icon, King Kwasi Kyei Darkwah (KKD), has sharply criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for what he describes as a gross disrespect toward traditional leadership in Ghana. In a strongly worded statement, KKD lamented the perceived erosion of dignity surrounding the office of the presidency, pointing to an incident where the President allegedly required a traditional chief to rise and salute him during an event. KKD argued that while the President may hold office for a term, the respect accorded to chiefs, who hold their positions for life, should be unwavering. "If I make you my president for four years, you are not my chief for life," he asserted, emphasizing that the President’s behavior was not only improper but also a sign of arrogance. He further explained that the President, as a royal himself, should be well-versed in traditional etiquette. "If he is a royal, then he should have been called to order by maybe even the Twafo Hene of his village, not the chief himself," KKD stated, expressing disappointment that the President failed to uphold the dignity expected of his office. KKD contrasted President Akufo-Addo’s actions with those of past Ghanaian leaders, such as former Presidents John Agyekum Kufuor and John Evans Atta Mills, as well as military rulers like I.K. Acheampong and F.W.K. Akufo. He noted that none of these leaders ever demanded such a gesture from traditional leaders, maintaining that such respect should be mutual and not demanded. "Our presidency has fallen to its lowest level of dignity," KKD lamented, adding that the lack of respect for traditional institutions reflects poorly on the office of the presidency. He called for a metaphorical cleansing of the presidency, suggesting that it be "washed with Azar and hung out to dry for two weeks before another person takes over." Furthermore, KKD criticized the Council of State for its apparent silence on the matter. He questioned the relevance of the council if its advice is not heeded by the President, despite the significant resources allocated to it. "Maybe our elders were not wise. The young are beginning to notice," he concluded. KKD's remarks have sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many Ghanaians expressing their views on the relationship between the presidency and traditional authorities. The incident has also reignited the debate on the role and influence of traditional leaders in modern Ghanaian governance. As the nation reflects on these concerns, it remains to be seen whether any formal response will come from the presidency or traditional councils regarding the criticisms leveled by KKD. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Special Prosecutor of Ghana, Kissi Agyebeng, has officially cleared Former President and current National Democratic Congress (NDC) Flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, of any wrongdoing in the long-standing Airbus scandal. This comes after years of speculation and legal scrutiny both domestically and internationally. The investigation, which had attracted global attention, centered on the purchase of C-295 military transport aircraft from Airbus by the government of Ghana in 2011, during Mahama’s tenure as Vice President. The deal became embroiled in controversy following allegations of corruption involving Airbus intermediaries, including Samuel Adam Mahama, the younger brother of the former President. However, in a detailed report, the Special Prosecutor affirmed that there was no evidence linking John Mahama to any corrupt practices in the transaction. According to the findings, Mahama's interactions with Airbus officials were driven by legitimate state interests, and his involvement in the deal was in full compliance with Ghanaian laws. The report also highlighted that Samuel Adam Mahama's role as an intermediary in the Airbus-Ghana deal was purely coincidental and did not amount to any corruption-related offense. The OSCE which also reviewed the case, echoed similar conclusions, noting that there was nothing unusual or illicit about the deal that would warrant the attention it received from U.K. and U.S. authorities. With this clearance, John Mahama’s path to the upcoming elections appears unencumbered by the legal challenges that have dogged his political career in recent years. This decision is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape as the nation heads to the polls. Background The Airbus scandal, often referred to as "Airbusgate," is a corruption case that has cast a shadow over the political career of former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. The controversy centers on a deal struck in 2011, during Mahama's tenure as Vice President, for the purchase of C-295 military transport aircraft from the European aerospace giant, Airbus. The scandal first came to light in 2020, when Airbus entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with authorities in the United Kingdom and the United States. The agreement revealed that Airbus had engaged in a widespread bribery scheme across multiple countries, including Ghana, to secure lucrative contracts. The allegations suggested that these intermediaries were paid bribes to facilitate the deal, raising questions about the integrity of the procurement process and whether then-President Mahama had a role in the corrupt scheme. The case quickly became a political hotbed, with Mahama's opponents using it to question his integrity and suitability for leadership. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Moses K. Baiden, Chief Executive Officer of Margins ID Group, recently highlighted the remarkable progress and success of the Ghana Card project during a stakeholder engagement session organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation. The project, aimed at providing a robust national identification system, has set a new benchmark in Africa. Reflecting on the initial stages, Mr. Baiden detailed the substantial investment and efforts that have gone into the project over the years. "In the first ten years, we invested over $150 million," he noted. "Despite the significant expenditure, only 900,000 cards were delivered initially. If you divide even $100 million by 900,000, the cost per card was exorbitantly high. However, we have made tremendous strides since then." Between 2019 and 2020, amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project registered an impressive 15.7 million people within a year. "The difficulties we faced were immense, but we overcame them, proving the system's design and efficiency," Mr. Baiden said. "We reached a registration capacity of up to 250,000 people a day, utilizing only about two-thirds of our full potential. This allowed us to register 85% of the population and issue cards free of charge." As of now, the project boasts nearly 18 million registered individuals, with over 17.8 million cards printed. "Ghana's national ID project stands as the most successful in Africa," Moses Baiden declared. "We've received inquiries from seven other African countries who are keen to understand and replicate our model." The engagement session also addressed the project's financial sustainability and operational efficiency. "Our model allowed us to provide these cards free of charge, unlike many other countries. This achievement has garnered international attention and acclaim," he added. Moreover, the project has maintained a low error rate, with only about 195,000 cards requiring corrections. This meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence has solidified Ghana's position as a leader in national identification systems on the continent. The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, in collaboration with Margins ID Group, continues to prioritize stakeholder engagement to ensure the project's ongoing success and adaptability. The comprehensive implementation of the Ghana Card is set to revolutionize identification processes, enhance security, and streamline public and private sector operations across the country. Background Margins ID Group, a pioneering company with a 34-year legacy in Ghana, is now a global leader in digital identity solutions. With operations and subsidiaries in multiple countries, our mission is to leverage digital intellectual property to elevate African businesses on the global stage. Founded in 1990, Margins ID initially focused on print publishing and financial documents. By 1995, we shifted our focus to identity solutions, establishing Margins ID Systems in 1998, now Margins ID Group. It is instrumental in the fusion of banking and IT technologies, leading to the production of our first ID cards in 2006. Today, the company employs over 500 people worldwide, with teams in Rio, Silicon Valley, India, and Singapore. Margins ID Group is proud to be the first EFV-certified card production facility in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa. Its facility meets the highest security standards, certified by Intergraph, allowing us to produce secure documents and currency-level security cards. Margins ID Group has been at the forefront of Ghana's digital transformation. It is now transitioning to using the Ghana card as the sole register for voting, following extensive coverage of over 98% of the adult population. This system ensures clean and secure elections, reducing the risk of fraud and improving governance. The Ghana card's integration into banking and other services has streamlined processes, allowing for instant account openings and mobile money transfers. This efficient system has significant implications for disaster management, tax collection, and overall economic growth. Its innovative approach has not only inspired other industries but has also demonstrated that world-class companies can be built in Africa. Margins ID Group is dedicated to proving that Ghanaian companies can compete and thrive globally. Story: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a powerful message delivered at this year's Greater Works conference, Dr. Mensa Otabil, the Founder of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), urged his congregants to not let material desires compromise their future potential. "Because you need a phone, your destiny is better and greater than an iPhone 15. One day, you won't just own phones; you'll be manufacturing them. You'll have more phones than you can use" "Don't sell your destiny for a phone! You are bigger, better, and greater than that!" Dr. Otabil passionately declared to an energized audience. The conference, held in Accra, saw thousands in attendance, with many taking to social media to share and reflect on Dr. Otabil's compelling advice. His words resonated with the crowd, emphasizing the importance of long-term vision over short-term gratification. The context of Dr. Otabil's message has sparked discussions, particularly in light of recent comments made by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). On a campaign platform, Dr. Bawumia hinted that Ghanaians would be able to acquire phones and pay as little as GH₵1. While it remains unclear if Dr. Otabil's message was directly influenced by Dr. Bawumia's promise, it has certainly fueled speculation. Regardless of the connection, Dr. Otabil's counsel stands as a powerful reminder to prioritize one's destiny and potential over immediate material possessions. His call to focus on greater ambitions continues to inspire many within and beyond the congregation. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has rendered a heartfelt apology to Ghanaians for the significant hardships caused by the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). He made these remarks while speaking at a Town hall meeting in Accra on Tuesday. The Karaga lawmaker clarified that the DDEP was a critical requirement imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as part of Ghana's broader economic recovery plan. "We decided to restructure our debts because it was one of the requirements by the IMF," Dr. Amin Adam explained. "We started with the domestic debt exchange programme, which was very successful, achieving 95 percent participation. On this note, I would like to appeal to the people of this country to forgive us." With a tone filled with remorse, he stressed, "It is never the intention of any government to impose hardships on its people, more so the NPP government that has demonstrated that we want to reduce the burden of the Ghanaian people." He acknowledged the strain placed on citizens, emphasizing that the decision was made with the nation’s long-term economic stability in mind. "It was a necessary, important decision at the time," he continued. "If we had avoided it, our development or economy would not be what it is today. All the support you gave us during the DDEP has contributed largely to the recovery our economy is seeing today." In a gesture of gratitude and reconciliation, Dr. Amin Adam expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by Ghanaians. "This is why I want to appeal to you to forgive us but also to thank you on behalf of the president for the sacrifices, for the efforts that you all have made to participate in the DDEP." The Finance Ministry had previously outlined that the DDEP was essential to protect the economy and enhance Ghana's capacity to service its public debts effectively. Without it, the nation faced the risk of severe disorder in debt servicing and a worsening economic crisis. Initially aimed at exchanging GH¢137.3 billion worth of Government of Ghana bonds, the programme was later revised to GH¢109.84 billion, with GH¢87 billion being voluntarily exchanged. The successful execution of this programme was deemed pivotal in stabilizing the country's economy. Dr. Amin Adam’s apology serves as a poignant reminder of the tough decisions governments sometimes must make for the greater good, while also highlighting the resilience and solidarity of the Ghanaian people in times of economic challenge. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Minister of Finance, Dr. Amin Adam, has announced that One Hundred and Sixty-Nine (169) factories are fully operational under Government's 1 District 1 Factory (1D1F) initiative. This milestone was shared during a townhall meeting at the GNAT Hall on Tuesday, reflecting the significant progress made under President Akufo-Addo's administration. Dr. Adam highlighted the importance of these factories in driving industrialization and economic growth across the country. The 1D1F initiative aims to decentralize industrial development by establishing at least one factory in each of Ghana's districts, promoting local production and job creation. "We have 169 fully functional factories working under the 1D1F," Dr. Adam stated. He also emphasized the initiative's role in enhancing the manufacturing sector and boosting the economy. The success of these factories, he stated marks a pivotal step towards achieving the government's vision of transforming Ghana into an industrialized nation. He stressed that 1D1F is one of the reasons, Ghana is exporting more. The townhall meeting served as a platform for discussing the progress and impact of the 1D1F initiative, with stakeholders expressing optimism about its potential to drive sustainable development and improve livelihoods across the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The 2024 flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has vowed to reinstate July 1 as a national holiday in Ghana if he secures victory in the upcoming elections. Ghana, which became a Republic on July 1, 1960, celebrated this day annually until the Akufo-Addo administration altered its status, making it a commemorative day instead. The government of President Nana Akufo-Addo replaced July 1 with August 4 as a statutory holiday to honor the founders of Ghana. Speaking on the second day of his tour in the Upper East Region, Mahama criticized President Akufo-Addo's decision to change the holiday from July 1 to August 4. He accused the current administration of attempting to "rewrite history" by substituting Republic Day with Founders' Day. “Apart from destroying the economy, one of the things this government wants to do is to rewrite our history, and we shall not allow them to rewrite our history,” Mahama asserted. He further elaborated that the president's refusal to recognize a single founder of the nation is an attempt to distort Ghana’s historical narrative. Highlighting historical tensions, Mahama recounted that the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), which the Akufo-Addo administration seeks to honor on August 4, petitioned the British monarchy to delay Ghana’s independence, arguing the country was not ready. In a recent national broadcast on August 3, President Akufo-Addo reignited the debate, rejecting the idea that Ghana was founded by a single individual. This stance has drawn sharp criticism from Mahama and his supporters. Underlining his commitment to preserving Ghana’s historical integrity, Mahama promised that an NDC government would restore July 1 as a holiday. “July 1 is our Republic Day and we also made it our senior citizens day. They have come to take the holiday from July 1 to August 4 which is the day the UGCC was founded. When we come to office, we will rectify those things. July 1 will be a holiday again,” he declared. Mr. Mahama’s pledge has struck a chord with many who see the restoration of July 1 as crucial to honoring Ghana’s journey to becoming a republic and recognizing its senior citizens. The promise adds a significant historical and cultural dimension to the political discourse as the election draws nearer. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s initiative to distribute GH₵1 phones, arguing that Ghanaian youth need sustainable job opportunities rather than inexpensive gadgets. Addressing a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, Mahama underscored the importance of creating meaningful employment opportunities for the country's burgeoning youth population. “The Ghanaian youth needs jobs, not your GH₵1 phone,” he stated emphatically, taking a direct jab at Bawumia’s recent distribution initiative. Mahama argued that the government's focus should be on long-term economic strategies that foster job creation and economic growth. “Our youth deserve better opportunities, quality education, and skills training that will enable them to secure decent jobs and build sustainable careers,” he continued. The former president also criticized the current administration’s economic policies, claiming they have failed to address the pressing issue of unemployment. “The distribution of GH₵1 phones is a superficial solution that does not address the underlying challenges facing our young people,” Mahama said. “We need comprehensive policies that will create real jobs and improve the standard of living for all Ghanaians.” Mahama's comments have sparked a heated debate, with supporters and critics weighing in on social media and other platforms. Proponents of Bawumia's initiative argue that the affordable phones are intended to increase digital inclusion and access to information, especially in remote areas. In response to Mahama's criticism, a spokesperson for the Vice President defended the program, highlighting its potential to enhance connectivity and access to digital services. “The GH₵1 phones are part of a broader strategy to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens with the tools they need to participate in the digital economy,” the spokesperson said. As the political discourse intensifies ahead of the upcoming elections, the issue of job creation remains a central theme. Both Mahama and Bawumia have laid out their visions for tackling unemployment, with each side presenting contrasting approaches to economic development and youth empowerment. Mr. Mahama reiterated his commitment to addressing the unemployment crisis and urging Ghanaians to support his vision for a prosperous and inclusive economy. “Together, we can build a Ghana where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and succeed,” he said. The debate over the GH₵1 phones versus job creation highlights the broader challenges facing Ghana's economy and the differing philosophies of its political leaders as they seek to win the support of the electorate. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Akufo-Addo has emphasized that his final major challenge as President is to ensure peaceful and fair elections in December 2024. The President made this declaration while hosting senior citizens, where he also reiterated his decision to step down on January 7, 2025. Addressing the gathering, President Akufo-Addo reflected on his two-term presidency and the significant moments that have defined his tenure. "It has been the greatest honor of my life to have served as President not once, but twice. I will willingly step down as President on 7th January [2025],” he stated. He stressed the importance of overseeing a transparent electoral process. “My last major challenge is to preside over peaceful and fair elections in December 2024,” he said. “This is a commitment that, with the help of all Ghanaians, I intend to realize because the people of Ghana deserve no less than to be given the best atmosphere in which to choose freely their next President and Parliament.” President Akufo-Addo assured the nation of his dedication to maintaining Ghana's reputation as a beacon of democracy and stability. “I intend to ensure that our reputation as the beacon of democracy and stability in Africa and the world is maintained,” he affirmed. The President also took the opportunity to reflect on the difficulties faced during his administration, particularly the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed optimism about Ghana's economic recovery, noting, “It's been a very difficult time, but I believe most of us can see that we are now turning the corner and returning our economy back to normalcy and revive growth, the growth that made our economy one of the fastest growing economies in the world in the years prior to the outbreak of the COVID pandemic.” The event was marked by celebration, with attendees enjoying food and traditional Ghanaian music. President Akufo-Addo and other officials, alongside the senior citizens, took to the dance floor, celebrating the nation's resilience and unity. Reflecting on the significance of Founders’ Day, President Akufo-Addo addressed concerns about the celebration's date and its historical context. He reiterated his belief in the consensus reached by Parliament in 2019, which honors Kwame Nkrumah with a memorial day while preserving the importance of August 4th in Ghana's history. He concluded by expressing gratitude to Ghanaians for their support throughout his presidency and hopeful that the same support would be extended to his successor. "It is no secret who I hope that will be. And I hope the people of Ghana will agree with me,” he added. As the nation prepares for the upcoming elections, President Akufo-Addo's commitment to a peaceful and fair electoral process underscores his dedication to democratic principles and a stable future for Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith