Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has notified the national executive of his running partner.
He has chosen Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, ahead of the December 7 election.
On Monday, the Vice President met with the party’s national officials at its headquarters in Accra.
This decision was made after negotiations with President Nana Addo Dankwa and Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Henry Nana Boakye, National Organiser of the NPP, added that Dr Bawumia’s nomination “however awaits the decision of the National Council which is the final approval organ of the NPP.”
Stéphane Roudet, the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Mission Chief in Ghana, is optimistic that the Fund’s existing loan arrangement with Ghana would deliver favourable outcomes in the next months and years.
Mr. Roudet recognised the country’s present economic issues and expressed confidence that if Ghana fully implements the Fund’s planned changes, the country will soon see favourable benefits.
In his closing remarks at a joint news conference with the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Ghana on July 1, the IMF head stated that Ghana’s key economic indicators are improving, demonstrating the success of the Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG).
“We understand the frustration of Ghanaians when the currency depreciates and we collectively do but what I think is important is for us to remember where we are coming from. We are coming from a very painful crisis in 2022 and what has been achieved so far is quite remarkable and so what is important is the direction of travel.
“Things are improving, the fiscal and external positions are improving, inflation is decreasing, growth is increasing, and everything is going in the right direction.
“The IMF programme will continue to be implemented provided the government keeps implementing the PC-PEG reforms and I am very optimistic that things will improve and that Ghana is on the right track and I am very optimistic that Ghanaians will see the benefits of the reforms in the months and years ahead.”
Dr. Amin Adam, Ghana’s Minister of Finance, claimed that the economy is continuing to show indications of recovery following the successful completion of the debt restructuring strategy.
This comes after Ghana received IMF Board approval for the second review of the $3 billion programme, enabling for the immediate transfer of $360 million to Ghana and increasing the overall payment to $1.56 billion.
During a joint news conference with the IMF on July 1, the Finance Minister discussed encouraging economic indicators that point to a strong rebound.
According to him, the 4.7% GDP growth rate in 2024 is the greatest since the fourth quarter of 2020.
“The economy continues to show strong signs of recovery, particularly in Quarter 1 of 2024; the results were remarkable. Overall real GDP growth for Q1 2024 was 4.7%, the highest since Q1 2022.
“This growth performance is better than the 3.1% growth recorded in the same period in 2023. Industry grew the most at 6.8%, followed by agriculture at 4.1% and services at 3.3%.
“The 2024 GDP growth rate is the highest since Q4 of 2020. The growth in industry is particularly interesting; in the past, growth came largely from services and, to some extent, agriculture.
“The industry did not perform well. So, if we are beginning to see the industry performing well, it tells us that the real recovery is here.
“Manufacturing is going to grow continuously, and that will mean more jobs being created for the Ghanaian people, more wealth being created for the Ghanaian people, and therefore we have turned the corner, as we have said over and over,” he stated.
The National Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has cleared the way for Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, often known as NAPO, to compete alongside Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the December 7 elections.
This comes after the flagbearer completed the requisite consultations, which resulted in Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s endorsement by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the NPP majority in Parliament.
Ahead of the presentation of his running mate to the party’s National Council, Dr Bawumia, on Sunday evening, met with Dr Opoku Prempeh and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, commonly referred to as Chairman Wontumi, to iron out the differences between the two, and strategise for the way forward.
On Friday, June 28, 2024, Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, confirmed that the caucus is in full support of Dr Bawumia’s choice of Napo as his running mate.
He disclosed that the leadership of the Majority met with Dr Bawumia to discuss his choice of running mate.
Speaking to Citi FM, Mr Afenyo-Markin said the party’s national council will soon meet to finalise the decision.
“Yes, the leader of our party and flagbearer met with the leadership of Parliament and had an extensive engagement with us, regarding the way forward for the party going into the 2024 elections.
“The conclusion was that our respected colleague, Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh is his choice for running mate. And that is normally the practice, and out of respect, the caucus would have to be informed and engaged about the decision,” he said.
He added: “After, I proceeded and engaged the caucus, and so far, the feedback has been positive. The generality of the caucus members is in support of his choice. What it is, is that for it to become official or confirmed, there’s going to be a national council meeting.
“From what he tells us, it appears that there’s going to be a general consensus on that and that will be no problem. We also enquired from him, about the views of the President on it, and it was very positive.
“So, this means that the various organs have been engaged with the information and that everything is set for our brother, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh to join him to hold the flag of the party for the 2024 elections.”
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of severely undermining Ghana’s potential following its independence on March 6, 1957.
In a commemorative address celebrating Ghana’s Republic Day, NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey stated that the present NPP administration’s shortcomings had slowed progress and harmed the economy.
The NDC said that the present NPP leadership lacked credibility and patriotism, which has weakened the economy and pushed young unemployment to new heights.
“On July 1, 1960, Ghana became an independent republic, with Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah as its first president. This historic day marked the beginning of Ghana’s journey as a beacon of progress and a shining star of Africa. Today, however, the promise of those early years has been overshadowed by the failures of the current NPP administration.
“A leadership lacking credibility and patriotism. An economy in disarray, youth unemployment at an all-time high, the quality of our education and healthcare systems in fast deterioration. Citizens are burdened with excessive taxes, businesses struggling to survive and hope and dignity of our people at their lowest ebb.”
The NDC’s statement urged Ghanaians to repose their trust in its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, to right the wrongs of the NPP.
NDC further alleged that the NPP is doing all it can to subvert the will of the people in the upcoming December general elections to deny them the needed leader, who is John Dramani Mahama.
“We are aware of the NPP’s desperation to cling to power and their palpable attempts to subvert the will of the people. Therefore, we need you to be vigilant and report any suspicious deeds. The NDC is committed to partnering with you to ensure a fair and transparent election process.
“Let us unite behind the NDC and wage a successful 2024 election campaign to bring about the change we seek. H.E. John Mahama is the leader Ghana needs. His vision for a prosperous, inclusive Ghana, combined with his unparalleled experience, makes him the ideal candidate.
“Under his previous tenure, he achieved significant improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. His administration was marked by transparency and accountability, demonstrating a genuine concern for the people. H.E. John Mahama embodies integrity, credibility, and a commitment to public service essential qualities to restore hope and drive meaningful change in Ghana.”
The University of Ghana Medical Centre Limited (UGMC) has announced the successful completion of its first six kidney transplant procedures.
According to a statement made on Sunday night [June 30, 2024], the procedures were carried out by a highly trained and devoted local and foreign medical staff.
“The UGMC has so far conducted six kidney transplant surgeries with utmost precision, care, and expertise,” according to the report.
According to the Head of Urology at UGMC, Dr. Emmanuel Asante, the procedures were performed seamlessly, showcasing the Centre’s capabilities in complex surgical interventions and post-operative care. Latex Foam
The Chief Executive Officer of UGMC, Dr. Kwame Anim Boamah on his part said the successful completion of the first set of six kidney transplants underscores the Centre’s commitment to pushing boundaries, achieving medical excellence, and improving the lives of patients through cutting-edge interventions and compassionate care.
He stated that UGMC was looking forward to continuing its mission of advancing healthcare standards and innovative practices in the field of transplantation.
The University of Ghana Medical Centre Ltd. (UGMC) is an academic medical centre offering world-class patient care, training and research in Ghana and beyond.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a stern warning against any attempt to remove the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
According to reports, the IGP was instructed to go on forced vacation and delegate his duties to his deputy, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who was reportedly involved in the 2023 leaked tape controversy.
The Ghana Police Service has denied these allegations, reaffirming the IGP’s commitment to managing the force as commanded by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Despite this, the NDC remains dubious, questioning the police service’s explanation and raising worries about an alleged plan to change the IGP as part of a bigger strategy to affect the impending December general election.
The Deputy Secretary of the NDC, Mustapha Gbande, speaking to Channel One News, accused President Akufo-Addo of being irresponsible and prioritising personal interests over national interests.
He emphasised that the NDC will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the country’s democratic processes.
“We can assure President Akufo-Addo that any attempt to rig the 2024 election will be resisted by the strength and might of the National Democratic Congress without any regret. There is nothing that will prevail over the will of the people.
“So, if this whole hullabaloo of trying to remove the IGP is about the election, President Akufo-Addo should review his mind and go home as a former president, at least in the minds of Ghanaians, he has made some appointments in the interest of Ghanaians.”
“IGP since he assumed his office, at least if you see the reformation of the Ghana Police Service, you see some seriousness. I have been arrested on a number of occasions by the police. You see some level of discipline, even in terms of the appearance of police personnel. It boosts the image of our country and not the NPP and not President Akufo-Addo. It is not about him, the president, it’s about the country.”
“We have pampered President Akufo-Addo into becoming an irresponsible president and it’s high time we say it in his face that he cannot think it’s about him all the time.”
EU antitrust regulators slammed Meta Platforms (META.O), opens new tab, on Monday with failing to comply with major digital laws, focusing on the U.S. company’s newly announced pay or permission advertising approach, which has already sparked criticism from privacy regulators and campaigners.
Last November, the tech giant unveiled a no-ads subscription programme for Facebook and Instagram in Europe, claiming that users who agree to be monitored receive a free service subsidised by advertising revenues. Alternatively, users might subscribe for an ad-free service.
The European Commission, which acts as the EU competition enforcer, said the binary choice breaches the bloc’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) which seeks to rein in the power of Big Tech, as it sent its preliminary finding to Meta.
It said the binary choice forces users to consent to the combination of their personal data and fails to provide them a less personalised but equivalent version of Meta’s social networks.
“We want to empower citizens to be able to take control over their own data and choose a less personalised ads experience,” EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager said in a statement.
Meta said its model complied with a ruling from Europe’s top court.
“Subscription for no ads follows the direction of the highest court in Europe and complies with the DMA. We look forward to further constructive dialogue with the European Commission to bring this investigation to a close,” a Meta spokesperson said.
Meta can tweak its advertising model to stave off a fine of as much as 10% of its global annual turnover if found guilty of DMA breaches. The Commission has until March next year to wrap up its investigation.
Privacy activists and privacy watchdogs have also taken issue with Meta’s advertising model.
Reuters was the first to report that the EU competition enforcer would charge Meta with non-compliance under the Digital Markets Act.
The charge against Meta came a week after the EU watchdog issued its first DMA charge against Apple (AAPL.O), opens new tab for not complying with the new rule.
In the two years since his election, Kenya’s President William Ruto has astonished global climate activists under the Eiffel Tower, brushed shoulders with global tech giants in Silicon Valley, and been honoured as a global peacekeeper at the White House.
While he made hundreds of international travels, folks back home faced severe economic hardship.
Kenyans, already battered by a cost-of-living crisis and witnessing those in power enjoy the benefits of their positions, pushed Ruto to abandon plans to impose exorbitant tax rises after days of protests.
The U-turn has exposed the gulf between the image of Ruto as the jet-setting global voice not just of Kenya but the wider continent, and the grinding realities his nation faces – weighed down by debt, corruption and security threats.
It has left him severely weakened domestically with his administration divided in its response and his opponents rejuvenated, seeking to harness the wave of discontent ahead of elections in 2027, analysts and politicians said.
“Enslaved and supported by foreign interests, and never pro-people in its outlook and interests, (Ruto’s administration) was bound to face the consequences of its priorities,” Willy Mutunga, Kenya’s former chief justice, told Reuters.
“As long as the material interests of the youth are not addressed, the chasm grows bigger and bigger,” he said.
A spokesperson for Ruto did not respond to requests for comment.
Kenya – already one of Africa’s biggest economies and strongest democracies – has in recent years expanded its global role.
On the eve of the climax of the protests, Ruto flagged off 400 policemen to lead a stabilisation force in Haiti.
The U.S. has designated Kenya as a major non-NATO ally, the first in sub-Saharan Africa, which gives it access to training and equipment but does not oblige it to join NATO operations.
Earlier this month, Ruto spoke at the G7 summit about the need to reform the global financial system to help the poor and has emerged as a powerful advocate for Africa in calls for action on climate change.
However, with protests erupting countrywide, including in Ruto’s hometown, Eldoret, and louder calls for his departure, some analysts say his administration is fighting for survival.
Should Ruto dedicate more time and energy to addressing domestic concerns, Western powers risk losing the focus of one of their strongest allies in the battle for influence in Africa, where they seek to counter the growing power of Russia and China, diplomats and analysts said.
Ruto has offered dialogue to allay the fears of protesters but it is not clear if that will be accepted or who talks would be with.
He must also come up with a new plan to tackle Kenya’s economic challenges, likely a hard sell due to the deficit cuts he will need to make to meet the conditions of international lenders for future funding.
“Even if nationwide demonstrations dissipate, this civil disobedience is a generation-defining moment,” said Declan Galvin, managing director of Nairobi-based Exigent Risk Advisory, a consultancy.
“The next election is still several years away but Ruto clearly needs to shift his political position to address public needs for his own political survival.”
Item 1 of 4 Kenya’s President William Ruto speaks at a press conference after police officers shot protesters demonstrating against Kenya’s proposed finance bill 2024/2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, June 25, 2024. REUTERS/Monicah Mwangi/File Photo
[1/4]Kenya’s President William Ruto speaks at a press conference after police officers shot protesters demonstrating against Kenya’s proposed finance bill 2024/2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, June 25, 2024. REUTERS/Monicah Mwangi/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
‘BRAZEN ARROGANCE’
Ruto’s has earned a reputation for a fierce work ethic but has struggled to shake an indictment by the International Criminal Court for his role in post-election violence in 2007-8 even after the court dropped the case.
Gabrielle Lynch, a Kenya expert at the University of Warwick in the UK, said that Ruto was “an incredible performer”, able to roll out facts and figures for donors and then adapt his body language and tone for a local rally later the same day.
“It is as if presenting himself as a world leader would help legitimise him at home and remove tag of parochial instigator of violence,” Lynch said.
Underscoring the scale of his globe-trotting, Ruto went on a total of 62 trips to 38 countries in his first 20 months in power, according to a tally by Kenya’s Daily Nation newspaper.
But when home, Ruto has appeared tone deaf to complaints over the direction the country was taking, according to two sources in regular contact with his office.
Having campaigned as a champion of low-income “hustlers”, Ruto’s opponents have since given him the nickname “Zakayo”, the Swahili name for a greedy tax collector in the Bible.
As protests mushroomed, videos of politicians flaunting their wealth circulated widely. Homes and businesses of parliamentarians who supported the tax hikes have been targeted.
Mutula Kilonzo Jr, a member of the opposition and governor of Makueni County, said the “brazen arrogance” of government officials fuelled discontent.
Anger has also been directed at the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), seen as the drivers of Ruto’s fiscal policies. Since his climb-down on tax rises, Ruto must now find another path to make his nation’s debt pile of some $80 billion, around 70% of GDP, more manageable.
IRON FIST, VELVET GLOVE
Kenya’s relationship with the United States has deepened under Ruto’s presidency but critics complain the mutual admiration has clouded Washington’s view on Kenya’s challenges.
U.S. support has been crucial in the fight against Islamist militants in Somalia and in May, Ruto enjoyed the first state visit to the U.S. by an African leader in over 15 years.
Ruto is seen as close to Meg Whitman, a former CEO at eBay and Hewlett Packard who is currently the U.S. ambassador to Kenya and the relationship has helped attract foreign investors, particularly U.S.-based tech firms, Nairobi-based diplomats say.
Boniface Mwangi, a prominent Kenyan social activist, said diplomatic statements of concern and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling Ruto after the violence was “too little too late” and Washington must now take a tougher line.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson said the the embassy in Nairobi had consistently called for restraint and the respect for constitutional rights.
Mwangi said that he advised the U.S. embassy last week to leverage their influence over the president to urge him to engage the protesters as the movement was swelling.
“People had to die for them say something,” he said. “They have bought this all shine and charming personality. They don’t see the iron first behind the velvet glove.”
According to the preliminary results revealed on Sunday, Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani is on pace to win a second term after establishing his country as a key ally of the West in a region plagued by coups and bloodshed.
Ghazouani, a former army leader and current African Union president who is running for reelection on a promise to provide security and economic prosperity, received 55% of the vote from more than 80% of polling stations, according to the country’s independent electoral body. His primary competitor, anti-slavery campaigner Biram Dah Abeid, who garnered 22.4% of the vote with over 55% turnout, cautioned on Sunday against “an electoral coup d’état for the benefit of Ghazouani, who was defeated by voters.”
Although his opponents accused him of corruption and mismanagement, Ghazouani remains popular among Mauritanians who see him as a beacon of stability. The vote is taking place in a particularly tense regional climate, with Mauritania’s neighbors shaken by military coups and jihadi violence.
Mauritania is rich in natural resources including iron ore, copper, zinc, phosphate, gold, oil and natural gas. It is poised to become a gas producer by the end of the year, with the planned launch of the BP-operated Greater Tortue Ahmeyin offshore gas project at the border with Senegal.
Despite these prospects, almost 60% of the population lives in poverty, according to the United Nations, working as farmers or employed in the informal sector. With few economic opportunities for young people at home, many are attempting to reach Europe, and some are even trying to get to the United States through Mexico.
