The Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, Dr George Amoh, has raised concerns about the role of social media in exacerbating the Bawku conflict.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, he called for immediate action to curb the spread of hate speech and inflammatory content online, which he said is fueling tensions between feuding factions in the area.

“The media has also played some role in what is happening in Bawku today,” Dr. Amoh said.

“You see the things that are shared on social media platforms—two days ago, somebody sent me a post, and the content was simply not good.

“We have to find ways of containing hate language and hate speeches that are spread through social media and even some traditional media platforms.”

Bawku, a town in the Upper East Region, has been plagued by a long-standing chieftaincy dispute that has led to violent clashes, displacement, and loss of lives.

Dr Amoh stated that while efforts to address the root causes of the conflict are ongoing, the spread of divisive content on social media poses a significant obstacle to peacebuilding.

“Social media has become a common tool for the feuding factions,” he noted.

“We have what we call ‘conflict entrepreneurs’—people who benefit from chaos—and they are using these platforms to spread hate and misinformation. These spoilers are waiting to see what will happen, so we must act swiftly to counter their efforts.”

Dr Amoh acknowledged recent interventions, including former President John Mahama’s visit to Bawku, as steps in the right direction.

“The President has begun very well by saying, ‘We need to bring everybody on board.’ His presence and his words send a powerful signal,” Dr. Amoh remarked.

“But we need to maintain this momentum and address the digital dimension of the conflict.”

He called on government officials, traditional authorities, and civil society organizations to collaborate in tackling the issue.

“It’s not just about what happens on the ground; we must also focus on what happens in the digital space. Hate speech, misinformation, and inflammatory content must be tracked and addressed,” he said.

Dr Amoh further urged President Mahama and other leaders to ensure that appointed ministers and chief executives are proactive in promoting peace and countering narratives that incite violence.

“We need leaders who can prosecute the peace agenda in the strongest terms. Bawku can return to peace, but we must work together to neutralize the spoilers,” he added.

The National Peace Council has reiterated its commitment to promoting coexistence and dialogue in the region, stressing that peace is essential for development.

Dr Amoh’s remarks underscore the growing recognition of social media’s influence in modern conflicts and the urgent need for measures to regulate its misuse.

The Bawku crisis, rooted in historical disputes, has been compounded by modern communication tools that amplify tensions.

As peace efforts continue, experts warn that failing to address the digital dimension of the conflict could undermine progress and prolong the suffering of affected communities.

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A file photo of a deceased person

A heated argument between two taxi drivers at Agona Swedru in the Agona West District of the Central Region has ended in tragedy, as 26-year-old Evans Owusu lost his life after being struck with a wheel spanner by his colleague, Alex Amihere.

The incident occurred at their workplace on Tuesday and escalated to the point where Amihere reportedly used the wheel spanner as a weapon, inflicting fatal injuries on Owusu’s head.

The exact cause of the heated argument remains unknown to the family and friends of the deceased.

Speaking to Kasapa News, Yaw Boagyan, the victim’s father, Stephen Owusu, recounted the struggle to save his son.

“He was first sent to the Agona Swedru Hospital, then referred to the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital, but none could handle the severity of the damage. He eventually died at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital,” he lamented.

The distraught father has called on the Ghana Police Service to apprehend the suspect and ensure justice is served.

Meanwhile, Lydia Andoh, the younger sister of the deceased’s wife, tearfully revealed the extent of the injury:

“The suspect damaged his brain before he passed away,” she said.

The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital Mortuary for autopsy and preservation, while the suspect has been arrested and is assisting police investigations at the Agona Swedru Police Command.

KA

Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

Former Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul has opened up about his regrets during his tenure as Defense Minister, emphasising the challenges of achieving total peace in Bawku.

The Bimbilla MP speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, Nitiwul provided a candid assessment of the obstacles he faced in managing security issues, particularly in conflict-prone areas like Bawku.

Mr Nitiwul lamented the insufficient resources allocated to security during his tenure, a factor he believes limited the government’s ability to fully address the complex situation in Bawku.

“Funding, in the context of what was available as a country and the challenges we faced economically, was not adequate. I must put on record that we didn’t receive our fair share,” he said.

Despite the constraints, he stated that his administration made significant efforts to maintain peace. However, achieving lasting peace remained elusive.

“We acted, and we did everything right. But I can say that we were unable to bring total peace to Bawku. That will always remain my regret,” he admitted.

He explained that addressing conflicts like the one in Bawku required a nuanced approach that balanced enforcement with caution to avoid harming citizens.

“You cannot unleash the same level of force on your own people as you would on an invading force or enemy combatants. Maintaining peace requires you to enforce it without risking the lives of your own citizens,” he explained.

Dominic Nitiwul revealed that criminal elements exploiting the chieftaincy system in Bawku further complicated efforts to restore order.

“At a point, Bawku became a place where criminals infiltrated the chieftaincy system and used it for their own ends, creating significant problems,” he disclosed.

The former minister reflected on President Nana Akufo-Addo’s acknowledgement of the issue in his final State of the Nation Address.

“For the president to find space in his last address to mention that total peace in Bawku eluded us shows how important it is and the message he wanted to leave for the incoming government,” Mr Nitiwul said.

He expressed optimism about President John Mahama’s immediate focus on resolving the Bawku crisis.

“I am happy that the current president has decided to take up the issue and has shown commitment to handling it. I wish him and the government well,” he stated.

Mr Nitiwul stressed the importance of building trust among the factions involved in the conflict.

“The government must engender trust within the people. That is the first thing that needs to be done. If you appoint people who are not trusted by both factions, you are going to have problems,” he warned.

He stated that fairness and firmness in government dealings were critical to achieving sustainable peace.

“If people see weakness or perceive the government as being unfair, they will exploit it. The mistrust in Bawku is deep-seated, and resolving it requires a firm and fair approach,” Mr Nitiwul advised.

Reflecting on the historical nature of the conflict, he cautioned against quick fixes.

“This is not a problem you can sweep under the carpet. It has existed for decades, and resolving it requires time, commitment, and a genuine understanding of the complexities involved,” he concluded.

Dominic Nitiwul’s reflections serve as a reminder of the enduring challenges in resolving conflicts like the one in Bawku.

As the new administration takes on the task, his insights provide valuable lessons on the importance of trust, fairness, and sustained commitment to achieving lasting peace.

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The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has strongly condemned the recent acts of hooliganism, vandalism, and assaults on state officials and properties following the December 7, 2024 general elections.

These incidents have been reported across the country since the National Democratic Congress (NDC) took over from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on January 7, 2025.

CDD-Ghana in a release on January 14 expressed concern over the recurring pattern of post-election violence, which has become a troubling feature of Ghana’s political culture. The Center emphasised that such behaviour, if left unchecked, could undermine the nation’s efforts to mitigate winner-take-all politics and threaten the peace and stability of the Republic.

In response to these incidents, CDD-Ghana has called on law enforcement authorities to apply the laws of Ghana firmly to curb this growing tendency.

The Center also urged the newly installed government of President John Dramani Mahama to send a clear message that post-election violence will no longer be tolerated.

The government must ensure that the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies are not hindered in their efforts to deal lawfully with those involved in recent or ongoing acts of hooliganism and vandalism.

CDD-Ghana highlighted the success of the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act (2019) in addressing party-aligned political vigilantes and proposed that similar enhanced criminal penalties be applied to post-election partisan hooliganism. The Center also recommended that future Transition Teams prioritize addressing and containing post-election violence as a critical component of the transition process.

The Center commended the orderly conduct of the December 7, 2024 general elections, noting the steady progress Ghana has made in its democratization journey since 1992. CDD-Ghana called for continued efforts to ensure that elections and their aftermath are free of violence and harm to life, limb, and property.

Stop destroying state properties – Mahama to NDC supporters

The residents woke up Monday January 13, 2024, to a shocking revelation of the looting

Fear has gripped the Mpatasie community in the Berekum Municipality of the Bono Region following reports of grave looting in the area.

Residents woke up on Monday, January 13, 2024, to the shocking revelation that about five graves had been looted at the Mpatasie cemetery.

Although the intentions of the suspected grave looters remain unclear, rumors circulating in the area suggest that the crime may be for ritual purposes.

During a visit, Nana Asomah-Kyereh Effah II, the Krontrihene (sub-chief) of the community, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that residents suspect the looters are using human body parts for money rituals, as some vital parts of the exhumed bodies were missing.

Condemning the act, the chief urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that the traditional leaders in the town would conduct thorough and swift investigations to take the necessary action.

He also warned those involved in the crime to stop or face consequences, saying, “The chiefs will also consult the local deity in their investigations.”

Some of the youth, who spoke to the GNA, expressed concern about the growing menace of the get-rich-quick syndrome, popularly known in the area as “sakawa” and internet fraud. They alleged that some of the youth involved in the crime use rituals to influence their unsuspecting targets for money.

Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has warned chiefs, queen-mothers, and others contesting for traditional stools against the careless invocation of the sacred Great Oath of Asanteman.

Speaking at the first meeting of the Asanteman Traditional Council for 2025 at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Otumfuo Osei Tutu cautioned chiefs, queens, and other traditional leaders to exercise prudence when handling matters involving the invocation of the sacred Great Oath.

“Invoking the Great Oath is akin to exacerbating my affliction,” he emphasized, warning that transgressors would face the repercussions associated with such actions.

He pointed out that the oath serves as a means of asserting claims; therefore, individuals who deliberately or inadvertently invoke it or counter-invoke it would not escape the ramifications if found culpable.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu advised chiefs against invoking the oath if they lacked certainty about their lineage and historical background in matters concerning culture and tradition.

“The oath serves as a tool for asserting claims, so if one lacks a thorough understanding of their heritage and invokes the oath, they forfeit any entitlements sought and risk losing their standing if found guilty,” he explained.

Recalling events from the previous year, he highlighted that four traditional authorities forfeited their stools due to deceitful invocation of the revered Great Oath.

The occupant of the Golden Stool also recounted the distressing and poignant events that led to the establishment of the oath many years ago, emphasizing that it should never be invoked in vain.

Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

President John Dramani Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama to Nominate Security Ministers to Address National Concerns

President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to nominate officials to key security ministries and agencies within the week.

The move aims to ensure swift management of the country’s security architecture and address pressing security concerns.

The President made the announcement during a visit to Bawku, where he called on the Bawku Naba, Zugraan Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, Overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area, at his palace.

The visit was part of President Mahama’s commitment to engage feuding factions and stakeholders in resolving the protracted Bawku Chieftaincy conflict, which has persisted for decades.

The President assured the chiefs and people of Bawku of his determination to achieve lasting peace in the area to foster socio-economic development.

“So, within this week, we will make appointments for the Minister of Defence, Minister of the Interior, the National Security Advisor, the National Security Coordinator, the National Intelligence Bureau Director, and others. Once these appointments are made, I will charge them to prioritize Bawku and address its issues comprehensively,” he stated.

President Mahama reiterated that bringing peace to Bawku is a top priority for his administration, and he intends to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to accomplish this goal.

“During the campaign, I made it clear that, with God’s help, if I became President, bringing peace to Bawku would be one of my top priorities.

“Today marks exactly one week since I was sworn in at the Black Star Square. This is my first major assignment outside Accra, and I came to assure you that we will work tirelessly to restore peace to Bawku,” he added.

The President recalled that during his previous tenure, Bawku and its environs were peaceful, with residents freely going about their daily activities. He expressed sadness that the situation has deteriorated in recent years.

“It is unfortunate that the situation has worsened again. I know you have endured sleepless nights and immense stress over the past three years. Rest assured, our government will make restoring peace in Bawku a priority so that everyone can live without fear or harassment,” he emphasized.

President Mahama, acknowledging his understanding of the issues in Bawku, appealed to the chiefs and residents for patience as the government works towards a permanent solution.

“We cannot live in a country where people feel unsafe. Our citizens must be able to travel freely and safely at all times without fear of violence. You can count on us to resolve these challenges, so peace can prevail, allowing traditional areas to thrive,” he affirmed.

The President was accompanied by Felix Ofosu Kwakye, Acting Spokesperson to the President, and Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for the Bawku Central Constituency.

Later, the President is expected to visit the Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, Overlord of Mamprugu, in Nalerigu in the North East Region.

At least 40 people have lost their lives since the conflict re-emerged in October 2024.

Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, and his wife, Cristina Serra, have decided to part ways after 30 years together.

According to El Periodico on Monday, the separation is amicable, described as cordial, stable and friendly.

The couple, who met in 1994 and married in 2014 near Barcelona, had reportedly grown apart, particularly after Guardiola’s managerial roles in different countries over the past five years.

The couple shares three children: Maria, 24, Marius, 22, and Valentina, 17. Serra, a Brazilian journalist, has been living in Barcelona with their youngest daughter, Valentina, while Guardiola remains in Manchester. Guardiola and Serra spent Christmas together with their children.

The decision to divorce was made in December, with only close friends and family initially aware of the situation. Those close to the couple have been asked to keep the details private.

Serra left Manchester in 2019 to pursue a career in fashion with her family’s company, Serra Claret.

Despite speculation that he might leave Manchester City at the end of his contract, Guardiola signed a new two-year deal with the Premier League champions in November, extending his tenure through 2027.

Guardiola will hope to focus solely on on-pitch matters this week as City play Brentford. They are currently sixth on the Premier League table.

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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Chairman of the new government initiative, Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL), has described the program as a “corruption Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)” aimed at uncovering and reclaiming looted state funds and properties.

Mr. Ablakwa reiterated the government’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for the unlawful acquisition of public resources.

“The Mahama government is determined to recover all looted state funds and properties,” Mr. Ablakwa stated.

He explained that ORAL was established to serve as a watchdog over state resources, ensuring that public assets are safeguarded and restored where they have been wrongfully taken.

“This initiative is not about witch-hunting but about protecting the public purse and ensuring fairness in the use of our national resources,” he added.

Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the operation would be thorough and impartial, vowing that no one would be exempt from scrutiny.

“We are sending a strong message that impunity will no longer be tolerated. Those who have engaged in corruption or benefited from the unlawful appropriation of state resources will be held accountable,” he said.

He further noted that recovering such resources is critical to addressing Ghana’s economic challenges.

The ORAL Chairman also called for public support in the fight against corruption.

He encouraged citizens to provide credible information about looted state assets, assuring them of confidentiality and protection.

“This is a collective effort, and with the support of patriotic Ghanaians, we can build a nation where accountability and integrity are prioritized,” Mr. Ablakwa concluded.

He made these remarks during an interview on JoyNews on Monday, January 13.

Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

Sierra Leone has declared a public health emergency after two cases of mpox were reported.

The West African country’s health minister announced the move on Monday after the second case of the deadly viral disease was confirmed.

“The confirmation of two cases of mpox in the country has prompted immediate action as mandated by the Public Health Act,” Health Minister Austin Demby told reporters in the capital, Freetown. “On behalf of the government of Sierra Leone, I am declaring a public health emergency.”

Last week, Sierra Leone reported its first confirmed case of mpox since the African Union’s health watchdog declared a public health emergency over the growing mpox outbreak on the continent last year.

A second case was confirmed after a 21-year-old man showed symptoms on January 6, the National Public Health Agency said on social media.

Neither case had known recent contact with infected animals or other sick individuals, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation said.

Only the first case involved recent travel, limited to the airport town of Lungi in the northern Port Loko District between December 26 and January 6. Both patients are receiving treatment at a hospital in Freetown.

The public health emergency “allows us to act immediately to mobilise the resources needed to contain the disease, prevent further spread and provide care to those affected”, the minister said.

Demby also announced increased border surveillance and testing, as well as the launch of a national awareness campaign. He added that Sierra Leone’s medical system was ready to respond to cases, pointing to experience gained during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks.

“We urge all citizens to remain calm, stay informed and report any suspected cases promptly to healthcare authorities,” Demby said.

Mpox is caused by a virus from the same family as smallpox, manifesting in a high fever and skin lesions, called vesicles.

Also known as monkeypox, it was first identified by scientists in 1958 when outbreaks of a “pox-like” disease in monkeys occurred. Until recently, most human cases were seen in people in Central and West Africa who had close contact with infected animals.

In 2022, the virus was confirmed for the first time to spread via sex, as outbreaks were triggered in more than 70 countries across the world that had not reported mpox previously.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has borne the brunt of the epidemic, with a vast majority of the roughly 43,000 suspected cases and 1,000 deaths in Africa this year.

A decade ago, Sierra Leone was the epicentre of the Ebola outbreak that ravaged West Africa in an epidemic killing some 4,000 people, including nearly 7 per cent of the country’s health workers, between 2014 and 2016.

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Two individuals have appeared before an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly dishonestly appropriating GH¢344,960. 

Gyasi Robert Sekyere, unemployed, and Esther Akuamoah face charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and stealing.  

Both accused have pleaded not guilty. 

The court, presided over by Samuel Bright Acquah, has granted each of the accused bail in the sum of GH¢400,000 with three sureties, one of whom must be justified.  

The case has been adjourned to January 28, 2025. 

Inspector Sheila Tetteh, representing the prosecution, stated that the complainant, Matilda Agyapong, is a businesswoman residing in East Airport.  

She operates shops selling women’s dresses and handbags in Makola and Dzorwulu, Accra. 

According to the prosecution, Sekyere was the manager of the Dzorwulu shop, and Akuamoah was sales personnel there.  

Sekyere was employed in October 2022, while Akuamoah joined in August 2023. 

The prosecution explained that Akuamoah kept daily sales records in a book, while Sekyere entered the sales data into a computer provided by the complainant. 

In June 2024, the complainant noticed that several ladies’ handbags were missing from the shop.  

As a result, she hired an internal auditor to conduct a stock audit and compare the stock with the amount reported from sales. 

The audit revealed a discrepancy of GH¢194,000, which the accused could not account for.  

On October 2, 2024, the complainant reported the matter to the police. 

The investigation was further expanded on October 17, 2024, when the police enlisted the services of AA Adams Chartered Accountants, a licensed audit firm, to re-audit the sales and stock records. 

On December 16, 2024, the audit firm submitted a report covering November 25, 2023, to October 2024, indicating that the accused had stolen GH¢344,960. 

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CDS, Lt. General Thomas Oppong-Peprah [second from right] and other senior army officers

The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, has said the Army is ready to help reset Ghana under John Mahama’s leadership.

The CDS, who was appointed to the role in January 2024 by the now-outgone former President Akufo-Addo, made this statement during a meeting with the new President in Accra, accompanied by other security chiefs.

Speaking on behalf of the security chiefs, Lt. Gen. Oppong-Peprah affirmed the Army and the security services’ “unflinching support and dedication” to John Mahama “to achieve your objective of resetting Ghana.”

The CDS congratulated President Mahama and assured him of the security services’ total loyalty.

“We wish to congratulate you on your assumption of office as President of the country and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces,” he said.

“Mr. President, we want to assure you of our loyalty, professionalism, and dedication. We’ve been working together as a team to address the complex challenges of the security environment. We have been able to keep Ghana quiet and stable. I want to assure you that we will continue with even greater zeal to maintain the security and stability of this country,” he added.

“We want to assure you of our unflinching support and dedication, as I said, to duty and to ensure that we help you achieve your objective of resetting Ghana,” he concluded.

Watch as religious leaders pray for Mahama and his family’s well being

On his overall take on the game…

I couldn’t have asked for more today. I think most people talk about the second half – that they are really positive about the second half. If you ask me, I am also more positive about the second half than the first half, but if you play at this ground against this team, who are in such good form, hardly concedes a chance in every single game – and I have watched many of them back… so many counter-attack threats, almost every game they have counter-attack after counter-attack after counter-attack. We conceded only one counter-attack here today in 98 minutes of football of total domination. Unfortunately for us, that ball immediately went in.

Then in the second half, our ball possession also led to a lot of chances. You have to give credit, again, to Nottingham because the way they defend, they throw themselves in front of shots, in front of every cross and then there is a goalkeeper that has an outstanding season this year and tonight again. Being 1-0 down over here and it’s so hard to score against this team, it’s not what we wanted – we want to have three points, but in the end what I want, what the fans should want and what the players should want is that they give it all they [have] got during every single game they play. That is what they did today, combined with outstanding football in the second half.

On whether tonight highlighted any areas he’d like to strengthen in the transfer window…

I think you saw today again that I can still strengthen the team or impact the game with the substitutes I have on the bench. Not for the first time this season, these players have helped us, that I could bring in. If you look at today, like I said, I couldn’t have asked for more. I said to them at half-time don’t get frustrated, you will not get many chances, probably the game is going to be slow, but just keep focusing on what you have to do and hopefully you will get two or three chances and let’s try to score from that. I was completely wrong because they created chance after chance after chance.

On how difficult Forest are to play against and whether their style is ‘unique’…

I wouldn’t say unique, but the playing style suits the players really well and I think this is what is the job of every manager: to try to find a playing style that suits your players. What makes it difficult, and we faced it not only against them but we faced it a bit against [Manchester] United as well, is they play the long ball and they have some very good players for this. So, first of all you have to make sure you win the first ball and then the second or the third ball because they play the ball off Wood, who is a very strong target man, and then they have got these quick forwards that can hurt you as well.

But then the moment you win the second or the third ball there are 11 players behind the ball and it is so difficult to score against teams that play in a low block; it’s so difficult to create chances against teams like that. And yeah, that’s why for us it was such a disappointment that we went 1-0 down because then they could even play their style even better, which made it a difficult evening for us because apart from the [Forest] players that I have to give compliments, I have to give the fans compliments as well because they were really there for the home team and tried to influence the game as much as they could. They were a big help for Forest tonight.

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Rocky55 Blog of Wednesday, 15 January 2025

Source: Isaac Appiah

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Rocky55 Blog of Wednesday, 15 January 2025

Source: Isaac Appiah

The national outlook of the 2024 General Elections saw the National Democratic Congress (NDC) sweeping the political landscape and making history by claiming dominance even in traditional New Patriotic Party (NPP) strongholds. This resounding call for change echoed across the country as the NDC amassed an impressive 6,591,790 votes, decisively defeating the NPP’s 4,877,611 votes from 11,931,420 ballots cast. In Parliament, the NDC solidified its mandate with a significant 183 seats, leaving the NPP with just 88 seats, along with four independent representatives.

Yet, amidst this wave of change, the North East Region stood out as an anomaly. Defying the national trend, the region tipped the scales in favour of the NPP, delivering a surprising twist to an otherwise one-sided electoral outcome.
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Ghana’s North East Region

The Northern Region of Ghana was split into Northern, North East, and Savannah regions in 2018, following a referendum designed to boost decentralisation efforts in these areas. This fulfilled a key promise made by the NPP during their 2016 election campaign. The North East Region is bordered by the Upper East Region to the north, the Ghana-Togo border to the east, the Northern Region to the south, and the Upper West Region to the west.
The region has a voter population of 339,885, which is spread across six constituencies:
• Bunkurugu
• Chereponi
• Nalerigu/Gambaga
• Walewale
• Yagaba/Kubori
• Yunyoo
These six constituencies have been divided into the following ethnic divisions:
• The Mamprusi dominate Nalerigu/Gambaga, Walewale, and Yagaba/Kubori constituencies.
• The Bimoba, Chokosi, and other minor tribes inhabit Yunyoo, Chereponi, and Bunkurugu.

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Ethnicity and Voting Patterns

Since Ghana’s return to democratic rule in 1992, the North East Region (formerly part of the Northern Region) has consistently leaned towards the NDC. This trend was largely due to the works of late President Jerry John Rawlings, founder of the NDC, who made deliberate efforts to support and amplify the image and development of the North, a marginalised region for so many years.

He spearheaded initiatives that resonated deeply with Northerners, including significant investments, such as the extension of electricity to Northern Ghana in 1989, and the promotion of the region’s traditional attire, the “fugu,” which he wore to formal events, giving it international recognition. Additionally, in 1993, Rawlings used his US$50,000 Hunger Project prize as seed money to establish the University of Development Studies in the North to boost education in the region. For inhabitants in this region, the move presented the NDC as an inclusive and responsive option for Northerners. However, a noticeable shift occurred in 2012 when the NPP began to see a steady rise in its numbers within the region. This development raises the question: what accounted for this sudden change?

Political analysts point to the influence of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who became the running mate of President Akufo-Addo in 2008 and has been a central figure in NPP politics since. Although the NDC maintained its dominance in the 2008 elections, the NPP began gaining traction in the North East Region by 2012. Although the NDC narrowly won the presidential race in that year, the parliamentary results favoured the NPP, as they gained majority with four seats: Walewale, Yagaba/Kubori, Chereponi and Bunkurugu, while the NDC had only two seats, Nalerigu/Gambaga and Yunyoo constituencies.

Dr Bawumia’s influence is widely credited for this shift because evidently, the wave of change for the NPP blew across the Mamprusi division of the six constituencies within the North East Region. Therefore, with Bawumia being a Mamprusi man and a native of Walewale, he appealed to voters in the region, leveraging ethnic ties to build the NPP’s popularity.
The outcome of subsequent elections in 2016, 2020, and 2024 has seen the NPP retaining its dominance in the North East Region, a trend that will be explored further in the course of this article.

For the NDC, the introduction of John Dramani Mahama, in 2008, as running mate to the late Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, similarly boosted the party’s appeal in his home region, the Savannah Region (also formerly part of the Northern Region). Even through his candidacy as President from 2012 to 2024, his dominance in the Savannah and Northern Region, has not affected Bawumia’s influence in the North East Region.
While previous Northern candidates for the NPP, such as the late Aliu Mahama, Vice President during President Kufuor’s tenure, played vital roles in mobilizing votes in Northern Ghana, Dr Bawumia’s influence and popularity in the North East Region have proven particularly significant.
________________________________________

Electoral Trends in the North East Region: 2012–2024

In 2012, Nana Akufo-Addo and Dr Bawumia contested the Presidential seat for the NPP, while John Dramani Mahama and Amissah-Arthur contested for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). At the end of the polls, the NDC emerged victorious in the North East Region with 85,283 votes (52.13%), while the NPP secured 73,384 votes (44.86%), resulting in an 11,899 vote margin in favor of the NDC.

Interestingly, this election reflected a “skirt and blouse” voting pattern, where the NPP, despite losing the presidential race, won the majority of parliamentary seats in the region—four seats against the NDC’s two.

The 2016 elections marked a turning point for the NPP in the North East Region. Their message of rallying behind a candidate from the region, Dr Bawumia, began to resonate strongly with voters. For the first time since 1996, the NPP won the presidential race in the region. Nana Akufo-Addo garnered 94,066 votes (50%), narrowly defeating John Dramani Mahama, who secured 92,395 votes (48.50%), with a slim margin of 1,671 votes. This historic victory was primarily secured by strong performances in the Walewale and Nalerigu/Gambaga constituencies.

However, the parliamentary results told a slightly different story. The NPP experienced a net loss of one seat, bringing their tally to three, while the NDC gained one seat, also reaching three constituencies.

By the 2020 elections, the NPP widened its presidential margin in the region. Nana Akufo-Addo garnered 122,742 votes (51.33%), while John Dramani Mahama received 112,306 votes (46.97%). The parliamentary results mirrored the 2012 outcome, with the NPP reclaiming its majority, winning four seats, while the NDC held two.

The 2024 elections were even more intriguing due to the unique dynamics of having two Northern candidates leading the major parties: Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (NPP), a Mamprusi, and John Dramani Mahama (NDC), a Gonja.

This historical moment meant Northern electorates had to choose between two leaders from their own region, sparking heightened interest in the election. Out of 339,885 registered voters, 258,387 votes were cast. Dr. Bawumia, leading the NPP, secured 134,800 votes (54.06%), outperforming Akufo-Addo’s 2020 performance in the region by 12,058 votes. John Mahama, representing the NDC, received 111,051 votes (44.54%).At the parliamentary level, the trend from 2020 persisted. The NPP lost one seat, reducing their tally to three, while the NDC gained one, also securing three seats.

This equilibrium underscored the competitive nature of politics in the North East Region, with ethnic affiliations and regional representation playing crucial roles in voter decisions.

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Stronghold Constituencies

For the NPP

• Walewale: Since 2012, the Walewale Constituency has consistently favored the NPP, largely due to the “Bawumia factor.” Dr Bawumia, being a Mamprusi man and a native of Walewale, has significantly influenced the constituency’s loyalty to the NPP.
• Yagaba/Kubori: This constituency has also leaned toward the NPP, except for a deviation in the 2016 elections.
For the NDC
• Bunkurugu and Yunyoo: Both constituencies have remained strongholds for the NDC since 2012, maintaining a predominantly pro-NDC stance.

Swing Constituencies
• Nalerigu/Gambaga and Chereponi: These constituencies have exhibited a swing pattern at the presidential level, with no consistent dominance by either party.

Conclusion

The North East Region has become an interesting case study in Ghana’s electoral politics, showing the relationship between ethnicity and political strategy.
As Ghana continues to navigate its democratic journey, the North East Region will undoubtedly remain a crucial battleground, reflecting broader national trends and the enduring influence of ethnicity in shaping voter behaviour.

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Rocky55 Blog of Wednesday, 15 January 2025

Source: Isaac Appiah

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Zeqblog Blog of Tuesday, 14 January 2025

Source: Okine Isaac

Nigerians on social media are mourning the death of a woman who was allegedly beheaded by a man reported to be her boyfriend in Nasarawa state.

Police arrested Timileyin Ajayi, a gospel singer, on Sunday with the severed head of his victim, 24-year-old Salome Adaidu, near a church.

He is alleged to have been carrying the head in a bag which drew attention from other people who accosted him before police took over and arrested him.

Other dismembered parts of the deceased’s body were alleged to be have been recovered later in his home.

Mr Ajayi has not commented on the allegations.

“The suspect was found with a fresh human head, and when we got to the scene, we rescued him from being mobbed,” Nasarawa police spokesman Ramhan Nansel was quoted by the Punch news website as saying.

The deceased was identified as a member of the National Youth Service Corps who was serving in the federal capital, Abuja.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing, the police said.

Ms Adaidu’s family has urged the Nigerian government to thoroughly investigate and prosecute those responsible for her death.

A friend of the deceased, Abby Simon, told BBC Pidgin that it was a sad experience for Ms Adaidu’s mum who lost her husband only seven months ago. She said the mother had fainted from the shock of losing her daughter.

She also said the deceased was not in a relationship with the suspect.

“Nobody deserves to die this way. Even if she was his girlfriend, she didn’t deserve to die this way,” she said.

The deceased’s sister, Patience Adaidu, told local TV outlet News Central that she was disappointed at the way the police were handling the case and called for help from Nigerians.

“Police have not given us any information about my sister… They have not answered our questions… We demand justice, we need help from Nigerians.”

Nigerians on social media have been sending messages of support following the incident.

“RIP Salome Adaidu. Your killer will never have rest even after death,” Avni James said.

Amara Josephine said on X: “That gruesome image of that young lady saddens my heart. I pray for her family.”

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Justina Nelson, acting CEO of MIIF

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Justina Nelson as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Income and Investment Fund (MIIF).

The announcement was made by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Acting Spokesperson to the President, in a press statement on January 14, 2025.

According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the appointment is in line with Article 195(1) of the 1992 Constitution and Section 21(2) of the Minerals Income and Investment Fund Act, 2018 (Act 978).

“The President, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, has, in accordance with Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 21(2) of the Minerals Income and Investment Fund (MIIF) Act, 2018 (Act 978), appointed Ms. Justina Nelson as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Income and Investment Fund. Ms. Nelson is an accomplished banking professional with over twenty years of experience.

“She is currently a Group Head at Zenith Bank (Ghana) Limited, with oversight responsibility for both the Energy and Commercial Banking sectors.

“Ms. Nelson holds a Master of Laws (LLM) in Corporate and Commercial Law and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing, both from the University of Ghana. She also holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Management and Psychology from the University of Ghana,” the press statement said.

AM/KA

Watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:

The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG) has extended congratulations to John Dramani Mahama on his election as the President of Ghana.

In a statement, TAGG expressed confidence in President Mahama’s leadership to steer the nation towards a prosperous and equitable future.

TAGG, an influential organization representing the interests of traders across Ghana, has pledged its full support to the newly elected President.

The group commended the President’s vision for transformative policies, including the establishment of a 24-hour economy, initiatives such as women’s banking to support women in business, tax relief for small enterprises, and the elimination of nuisance taxes at ports and other levies like the E-Levy to encourage business growth.

“We believe that His Excellency’s approach will create an environment conducive to partnerships and innovation,” part of the statement said.

TAGG’s leadership reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the government to ensure the successful implementation of these policies.

AM/

Watch as Ghanaians share their views on National Cathedral project, cutting down of ministries