Tag Ghana

Pandemonium erupted on the Ablekuma West collation centre within the Greater Accra area shortly after polls closed in Ghana’s basic elections on Saturday, December 7.

Tensions flared as some individuals tried to pressure their manner into the premises to look at the collation, resulting in a standoff with safety and Electoral Commission officers.

Officers have been seen pushing in opposition to the gate to stop the group from getting into the centre, whereas agitated residents threw missiles over the barricade.

Some of the poll bins needed to be thrown over the gate amid the chaos with two extra bins seemingly being transported similarly.

The state of affairs created chaos across the collation centre, disrupting the in any other case orderly shut of voting within the constituency.

Authorities are working to de-escalate the tensions and restore calm because the collation of outcomes continues.

Speaking on JoyNews, safety analyst Prof Kwesi Aning known as for cooperation and extra safety deployment to make sure a clean conclusion to the electoral course of.

More quickly…

Source: myjoyonline.com

The 2024 basic elections in Ghana have formally entered the following part as polls closed throughout the nation late Saturday night. With the votes solid now being counted, the main focus has shifted to the essential process of figuring out the result of each the presidential and parliamentary elections.

Observers and stakeholders alike are protecting a detailed watch on the method as expectations and anticipation construct.

Dr. Kwame Sarpong Aseidu, a distinguished political commentator and analyst, took to Facebook shortly after polls closed, expressing optimism whereas underscoring the significance of the election’s peaceable and clear conclusion.

“The ballot has closed. Well completed Ghana, the Electoral Commission, and Ghana Police. You nonetheless have so much to do, don’t drop the ball. Ghana should win.

”Dr. Sarpong’s phrases echoed the feelings of many voters, emphasizing the necessity for diligence, impartiality, and professionalism because the nation navigates this essential democratic second.

The assertion highlighted the roles of key establishments—the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Ghana Police Service—as they oversee the voting course of, handle the vote depend, and be sure that peace is maintained as Ghana transitions to its subsequent authorities.

The elections have been largely reported as peaceable, with few incidents of violence. The Ghana Police Service, working in collaboration with different safety businesses, maintained a visual presence at polling stations and surrounding areas to make sure security and calm all through the day.

Reports point out that voter turnout was robust, reflecting the dedication of Ghanaian residents to take part within the democratic course of.

The Electoral Commission was additionally recommended for its preparation and execution of the method, with no main disruptions reported at polling stations throughout the nation.

Voters in each city and rural constituencies exercised their franchise in a decided method, desperate to form the nation’s political future. As counting will get underway, the integrity of the EC’s programs and its transparency throughout this stage shall be of utmost significance.

Dr. Sarpong’s point out of “a lot to do” alludes to the essential hours forward because the votes are verified and collated. While polls closed within the night, counting has been reported as continuing methodically, with the EC assuring the general public of transparency and immediate updates as outcomes are made obtainable.

In the wake of the polls’ closure, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), one in all Ghana’s two main political events, has urged its supporters to take an lively position in guaranteeing the integrity of the counting course of.

“We call on all our supporters to proceed immediately to their respective polling stations to witness the counting of ballots. Your presence is crucial to ensure transparency and provide support to our agents.”

This name to motion from the NDC underscores considerations about transparency and equity within the electoral course of. The occasion’s management has emphasised that monitoring the depend will be sure that any irregularities are swiftly recognized and addressed. It displays Ghana’s ongoing dedication to uphold democratic ideas and stop disputes within the outcomes’ announcement part.

The assertion got here as voters and political observers anxiously awaited the following steps within the course of, with each events vying for management of Ghana’s presidency and parliamentary seats.

The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, has expressed confidence within the occasion’s probabilities of victory within the ongoing elections.

“Our confidence in victory is high, but we cannot afford to relax. The real work is ensuring that the votes are protected, counted, and declared accurately. I urge all our party agents to remain vigilant and proactive until the process is fully concluded.”

The assertion from the NPP’s General Secretary comes at a pivotal second as ballots are being counted and each main political events — the NPP and NDC — mobilize their supporters and representatives to make sure transparency throughout this essential stage.

Party brokers are instrumental in observing the counting course of at polling stations and guaranteeing that no irregularities go unchecked. Frimpong’s name serves as a reminder that vigilance is important not only for monitoring votes however for guaranteeing that every one authorized processes are adopted.

Frimpong’s assertion additionally displays considerations that the counting stage can typically grow to be weak to disputes, significantly in tight races. His emphasis on “monitoring every activity carefully” indicators the NPP’s dedication to stopping any potential malfeasance that might compromise public belief within the system.

Both events are deeply invested within the final result, given the socioeconomic challenges Ghana faces, together with inflation, unemployment, and different structural financial reforms. The election represents a turning level as Ghana seeks to stabilize its economic system and tackle citizen considerations whereas sustaining its democratic ideas.

Observers from native and worldwide organizations are poised to report on the method, with the worldwide neighborhood protecting a watchful eye on Ghana’s means to take care of stability and democracy throughout this vital election.

As each main events and residents await readability, the trail ahead rests on equity, transparency, and belief within the establishments governing the nation’s democracy.

Ghana has lengthy been celebrated as a beacon of democracy within the West African area, and this election marks yet one more pivotal second in its democratic journey. With the polls closed and the counting underway, the eyes of the nation—and the world—stay mounted on the ultimate final result.

By Leo Nelson || Ghananewsonline.com.gh

The Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC) has clarified that security-related issues earlier than, throughout, and after the elections fall beneath the jurisdiction of the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF).

At its maiden election day press briefing in Saturday morning, Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensa, responding to a journalist’s query concerning the presence of navy personnel at sure polling facilities, firmly said that her workplace has not deployed navy personnel to any voting middle.

“Security arrangements are the sole responsibility of the National Election Security Taskforce. Questions on such matters should be directed to the head of the taskforce for clarification,” she emphasised.

The EC reiterated its dedication to specializing in the sleek administration of the electoral course of whereas counting on the taskforce to make sure legislation and order all through the elections.

Source: ghananewsonline.com.gh

The President of the United States Africa Command, Ghana, Abednego Orstin Rawlings, has assured Ghanaians that the cedi depreciation menace shall be addressed by former President John Dramani, Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), if re-elected on December 7.

According to him, a former deputy chief of workers, Lawyer Dr Esther Valerie Sawyerr, gave a touch of ongoing discussions on the right way to sort out the depreciation of the cedi by instituting foreign exchange desks in all banks.

This measure, she stated, would stabilize the cedi and promote financial development by making certain managed entry to foreign exchange.

According to John Mahama, the Ministry of Finance will direct the Bank of Ghana to ascertain foreign exchange desks in each financial institution to streamline forex alternate for companies, significantly these complying with Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) rules.

This system will prioritize corporations registered underneath SSNIT and adhering to tax obligations, making certain that solely certified companies may entry foreign exchange for imports.

He criticized the present authorities, led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, for mismanaging the economic system and inflicting the cedi to depreciate considerably.

Mahama highlighted excessive taxes such because the COVID-19 levy, betting, and extra which he described as burdensome and pointless, pledging to abolish them to alleviate Ghanaians.

Mahama additionally promised stricter rules on overseas forex transactions, together with banning people from buying and selling in foreign exchange with out authorization and penalizing companies that worth items or properties in foreign exchange.

The proposed reforms embody reintroducing overseas account taxes to generate income and making certain that overseas forex transactions are tightly managed.

Dr. Valerie Sawyer, a distinguished member of the NDC, supported Mahama’s proposals, noting that underneath his earlier administration, the cedi was way more steady.

She attributed the present financial challenges to what she referred to as “recklessness and incompetence” within the administration of Ghana’s monetary programs by the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).

In addition to foreign exchange reforms, Mahama vowed to implement insurance policies making certain that companies with over 20 staff have entry to versatile overseas forex transactions, offered they meet SSNIT necessities.

He additionally proposed a cap on weekly overseas forex transfers to discourage capital flight and stabilize the native forex.

The former president assured Ghanaians that his administration would maintain accountable any people or establishments participating in unlawful foreign currency trading.

Furthermore, diplomatic missions and overseas nationals concerned in unregulated forex transactions shall be subjected to strict scrutiny and penalties.

John Mahama expressed confidence that these measures would restore investor confidence and rebuild the cedi’s energy, positioning Ghana on a path to sustainable financial stability.

As Ghanaians put together to solid their votes right now, December 7, 2024, it’s important to mirror on the 2020 normal elections, a contest that formed the present political panorama and supplied crucial classes for democracy in Ghana.

The 2020 elections had been characterised by shut parliamentary contests, excessive voter turnout, and important political drama that underscored the vibrancy of Ghanaian democracy.

A hotly contested presidential race

The 2020 presidential election noticed a fierce battle between Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

In the tip, President Akufo-Addo secured re-election with 51.3% of the vote, whereas Mahama garnered 47.4%. This slim margin highlighted the aggressive nature of the election and the deep divisions throughout the Ghanaian voters.

A divided parliament

One of probably the most notable outcomes of the 2020 elections was the unprecedentedly shut parliamentary outcomes. For the primary time in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, the 275-member parliament was virtually evenly break up between the NPP and the NDC.

Each get together secured 137 seats, with one unbiased candidate holding the steadiness of energy. This growth launched a brand new dynamic into parliamentary proceedings, as no get together held an outright majority.

The practically equal break up in Ghana’s 2020 Parliament, with each the NPP and NDC securing 137 seats every, resulted in important governance challenges. This steadiness required compromises on main laws and coverage instructions, slowing some governmental processes however fostering better accountability and dialogue between events.

The 2024 marketing campaign season has seen political events talking to their voters on a extra granular stage. There is heightened voter consciousness in regards to the implications of parliamentary composition on coverage implementation.

Marginal constituencies and shut contests

Several parliamentary races had been determined by razor-thin margins, emphasizing the significance of each single vote. For occasion, the Sene West constituency was received by simply 16 votes, whereas the Banda seat was secured by a mere 81 votes​​.

The razor-thin margins in these constituencies highlighted the crucial significance of every vote. They additionally underscored the necessity for sturdy electoral programs to deal with recounts and disputes effectively, in addition to the need for events to prioritize voter mobilization in strongholds and swing areas

In 2024, events have intensified grassroots campaigns in marginal constituencies, acknowledging their decisive function in parliamentary and presidential outcomes. Increased safety measures have additionally been put in place to make sure peace throughout shut contest disputes.

Flashpoints and electoral safety

The 2020 elections had been marked by tensions in sure constituencies recognized as electoral flashpoints.

Flashpoints within the 2020 elections, significantly in areas like Ashanti, Central, and Greater Accra, required heavy safety presence to forestall violence and keep order. The heightened tensions in these areas affected voter confidence and led to requires stronger electoral battle administration programs.

Despite these challenges, the elections had been largely deemed free and truthful by home and worldwide observers, although the aftermath noticed some disputes.

For 2024, the Electoral Commission and the National Election Security Taskforce have recognized and ready for potential flashpoints, deploying early warning programs and extra sources to take care of peace. Civic training campaigns have additionally aimed to scale back voter tensions in traditionally unstable areas.

Lessons for the 2024 elections

Voter engagement: The 2020 elections showcased the significance of participating voters on points that matter to them. With voter turnout reaching roughly 79%, political events demonstrated their capacity to mobilize supporters successfully.

Institutional independence: The Electoral Commission’s function in managing a reputable election was crucial. Its reforms, together with the usage of new biometric verification programs, had been lauded regardless of preliminary scepticism.

Collaboration and compromise: The hung parliament that emerged from the 2020 elections required political actors to undertake a extra collaborative method to governance. This shift from partisanship to compromise might set a precedent for the following parliament.

Ghana is poised for an additional milestone – in yet one more dynamic election

As Ghana heads to the polls right now, the teachings from 2020 stay related.

The shut contests, sturdy voter participation, and the necessity for peaceable elections underline the resilience of Ghana’s democracy. With an voters that’s extra knowledgeable and politically conscious than ever, 2024 guarantees to be one other defining second within the nation’s historical past.

These pivotal outcomes from the 2020 elections function crucial classes for right now’s elections. The measures taken to deal with these points underscore Ghana’s dedication to strengthening its democratic processes.

As voting begins, the main focus stays on making certain peace, transparency, and inclusivity.

As Ghana gears up for its extremely anticipated common elections on December 7, 2024, Universal Peace Federation Ambassador Isaac Kofi Dzokpo has passionately urged all Ghanaians to concentrate on peace, unity, and accountable civic engagement all through the electoral interval.

In a press release forward of the polls, Ambassador Dzokpo highlighted the elections as a vital second for Ghana’s democracy and urged residents to see them as greater than a course of for choosing leaders however as a take a look at of the nation’s dedication to unity and progress.

A Call for Responsible and Peaceful Participation

“Ghana is a beacon of democracy in Africa, and we must protect that reputation,” Ambassador Dzokpo stated. “As we approach the 2024 elections, we must act responsibly, cast our votes peacefully, and reject violence and division. Our democracy thrives when we unite to achieve a better Ghana for all.”

He emphasised the necessity for an election season free from intimidation, violence, and hate, encouraging Ghanaians to concentrate on candidates and insurance policies that promote nationwide unity and inclusive improvement. “Violence and discord have no place in our elections,” he declared.

Appeal to Political Leaders and Security Forces

Ambassador Dzokpo urged political leaders to marketing campaign with integrity and prioritize points that deal with the wants of the individuals.

“This is the time for leadership that unites rather than divides. Candidates must focus on transparency, fairness, and service to the people,” he acknowledged.

He additionally known as on safety forces to take care of neutrality and defend the integrity of the electoral course of.

“Security forces play a crucial role in ensuring free and fair elections. Their neutrality is vital to guaranteeing every Ghanaian can vote without fear or coercion,” Ambassador Dzokpo famous.

Strengthening Unity for National Progress

Reiterating the significance of unity, Ambassador Dzokpo inspired Ghanaians to make use of the elections as a possibility to construct an inclusive and affluent future.

“Elections are not just about choosing leaders; they are about forging a path forward for Ghana. Let us reject division and strengthen our democracy through peaceful dialogue,” he stated.

He urged residents to carry political leaders accountable by demanding actionable commitments to nationwide improvement and peace. “Our votes are powerful tools for change. Let us cast them wisely to ensure Ghana’s progress,” he added.

A Global Mission for Peace

Ambassador Dzokpo’s message aligns with the Universal Peace Federation’s international mission to foster peace by means of dialogue and mutual respect. “Let Ghana show the world that we can conduct peaceful, fair, and transparent elections,” he stated. “This is our chance to set an example for Africa and the world in promoting unity and progress over division and conflict.”

A Unified Ghana is the Path to Progress

Ambassador Dzokpo reminded Ghanaians of the importance of the 2024 elections. “This is a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. Let us ensure the elections reflect our shared commitment to democracy and national progress. Together, we can choose peace, unity, and prosperity for Ghana.”

The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has emphasised that Ghanaians deserve a brighter future, particularly younger individuals who ought to thrive in a Ghana the place alternatives abound, and their goals can turn into actuality.

Addressing the NDC’s remaining rally on Thursday, December 5, 2024, the previous President careworn the necessity for peaceable and sustainable improvement.

He highlighted the significance of making an atmosphere the place younger Ghanaians can safe well-paying jobs, care for his or her households, and stay with dignity and pleasure.

The NDC chief additionally underscored the necessity for equity and recognition within the public sector. He acknowledged that public sector employees deserve acknowledgment based mostly on benefit, together with stability, predictability, and improved working situations.

These, he added, are important to fostering a motivated and productive workforce that may drive nationwide progress.

“Entrepreneurs deserve a free and honest market the place their business can thrive. Women and women deserve true equality, security, and an opportunity to achieve their full potential. And each Ghanaian deserves management that places the individuals first, that fights corruption, and that builds a nation we will all be pleased with.

“This is why I am committed to building a stable, safe, and viable 24-hour Economy to create opportunities for millions of jobs to be created. I am committed to implementing an economy to fight inflation to make food more affordable for all Ghanaians.”

The former President emphasised his dedication to establishing the leanest authorities within the nation’s historical past, pledging to nominate not more than 60 ministers and deputy ministers in addition to a decrease variety of political appointees, vowing to remove wasteful authorities spending and abolish the cost of ex-gratia, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to preventing corruption and reclaiming all misappropriated funds.

John Mahama highlighted that the “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) initiative can be pursued with steadfast dedication to get well stolen monies and property.

These assets, he acknowledged, can be redirected towards Ghana’s improvement and used to create alternatives for the nation’s youth. “I will fight corruption to restore integrity and fairness which are two critical ingredients missing from the government of Akufo-Addo and Bawumia.”

Furthermore, John Mahama reaffirmed his dedication to empowering girls and guaranteeing they aren’t handled as second-class residents.

He highlighted the NDC’s proposal to ascertain a Women’s Development Bank, aimed toward enhancing the financial well-being of ladies by offering tailor-made help to strengthen the muse of women-led companies.

Acknowledging the enormity of the duty forward, Mahama admitted that reaching these targets would require collective effort.

As such, he urged Ghanaians to help him by voting within the upcoming elections on Saturday, December seventh, 2024.

“Your vote is your voice and energy. Your vote is the important thing to unlocking the intense way forward for Ghana. Ladies and gents, I urge you to take motion on Saturday. This isn’t a call we will go away for one more time. It isn’t a call we will go away for one more election or one other technology.

“This is our moment and that time is now to bring about the change we need in order to reset Ghana. We need to reset our democracy, economy, finances, culture, and health and education sectors. It is  a collective responsibility and so let us vote to recjec despair and choose hope.”

The former President acknowledged that Ghanaians will maintain the NDC to a better customary than the NPP if it wins the upcoming election.

He subsequently cautioned the NDC in opposition to looking for political energy solely to repeat the identical misdeeds perpetrated by the NPP.

He emphasised that the celebration should rise above such actions to satisfy the expectations of the Ghanaian individuals.  “My brothers and sisters, Ghanaians are going to put their trust in us on December 7th and we must prove ourselves worthy of that trust.”

Mahama promised that the NDC would collaborate carefully with Ghanaians to ship the transformative change the nation urgently requires. “I will make you maore proud of the Ghana that we are going to build together.”

He urged the NPP, safety companies, and all election officers to chorus from partaking in any improper actions through the elections.

The NDC flagbearer emphasised that each the celebration and the individuals of Ghana would safeguard their votes and stand in opposition to any efforts to compromise the electoral course of.

Source: Whatsupnewsghana

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, delivered a passionate deal with on the get together’s remaining rally, held two days earlier than the essential December 7 elections

His speech exuded palpable confidence within the NDC’s prospects, emphasizing the necessity for a collective effort to make sure victory for John Dramani Mahama and the get together.

In a rousing deal with stuffed with political fervor, he urged Ghanaians to see the elections as a pivotal second for nationwide redemption.

Kwetey started by expressing religion in divine windfall, assuring the viewers that the NDC’s victory was preordained.

“Once you stand by the truth, God will fulfill His word. And the word of God concerning December 7 is that Ghana is due for a victory, Ghana is due for a change, and Ghana is due for the coming back of John Dramani Mahama. No power will stop it.”

This declaration set the tone for a rally charged with optimism and resolve.

He painted a grim image of the socio-economic challenges beneath the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

“December 7 is for you, the young people of our country. You have seen over the last 8 years what has happened to this beautiful country of Kwame Nkrumah and of Jerry John Rawlings—the suffering, the pain, the disappointment, and the loss of hope.”

He urged the youth to channel their frustration into votes that might restore hope to the nation. He charged; “On 7 December, you need to come out in your numbers and make a statement once and for all that enough is enough.”

Kwetey described the election as greater than a contest for political energy reiterating that: “The fight on Saturday is not an entity fight; it’s a fight for our country. We need to make sure that Ghana finds hope again on Saturday. The future of our young people depends on the victory of the NDC.”

Drawing on the legacy of Ghana’s founding fathers and previous leaders, he declared; “Kwame Nkrumah, Jerry Rawlings, Professor Mills—all our ancestors—will be watching to see how ready you are to fight for our country.”

He strengthened his name with a rallying cry; “As President Trump would say, fight, fight. Fight for Ghana. Fight for the soul of Ghana. Fight for the victory of this beautiful country.”

The NPP, beneath Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, was portrayed as a celebration pushed by self-interest and corruption. He lamented; “If we make a mistake and Bawumia wins on Saturday, this country is virtually gone. The NPP will say you can do anything—steal money, use money, and steal an election.”

He characterised the elections as a referendum on the NPP’s poor governance, which he mentioned had inflicted struggling and despair on the Ghanaian individuals.

Kwetey urged Ghanaians to reclaim their energy by means of the poll field, emphasizing the democratic precept of well-liked sovereignty. He emphasised; “Power belongs to the individuals. And on Saturday, you, the individuals, should take that energy to yourselves. In John Dramani Mahama, you’re bringing any individual who has the humility and ease to be just right for you and ensure we restore this nation once more.

The reset of Ghana is not only about taking on from the NPP. It is a reset of the NDC itself. Charity should start at dwelling, and the NDC have to be the primary to set that instance. And John Mahama, I’m positive, will lead the campaign. NDC, you have to not disappoint Ghana. Ghana is giving us a chance to not come and do the nonsense we’ve got seen over the past 8 years.”

Kwetey’s deal with underscored the stakes of the December 7 election, framing it as a defining second for Ghana’s future.

His speech, stuffed with rhetorical vigor mirrored the NDC’s dedication to restoring hope, dignity, and progress to Ghana.

By Leo Nelson || Ghananewsonline.com.gh