As anticipation builds for the Tamale Central by-election, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to subject all aspirants to a strict vetting process, aiming to trim down the crowded field and guarantee only the most qualified candidates make it onto the ballot. The by-election, triggered by the tragic death of sitting Member of Parliament Hon. Dr. Murtala Muhammed in a military helicopter crash on August 6, has drawn at least twelve hopefuls. Among them are seasoned politicians, academics, and professionals, all eager to step into the shoes of the respected MP whose loss has left both the party and the nation in mourning. Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the NDC, Rashid Tanko Computer, explained that the large number of contenders is a testament to the faith party members have in the NDC. “We are not surprised by the number, we are not overwhelmed. It is the confidence they have in us,” he remarked. However, he was quick to point out that purchasing nomination forms is merely the first step—the true test will come during the vetting, which will be guided strictly by the party’s constitution. “We will vet them to see who qualifies. We will use the constitution to bring the numbers down,” Mr. Tanko emphasized. He assured that the process will be fair and credible, combining both party checks and self-assessment by the aspirants to identify the strongest candidate for the constituency. The party’s focus, he said, is to manage the selection process in a way that prevents unnecessary tension and preserves party unity. Initially, fourteen individuals expressed interest by picking nomination forms, but two—Lawyer Abdul Rauf Halid, the NDC’s National Vice Chairman, and Engineer Alhaji Ibrahim Seidu—have since withdrawn, citing personal reasons and the high number of aspirants. The upcoming primary is not just a contest for a parliamentary seat; it comes at a time of deep loss, following an accident that claimed eight lives in total, including Dr. Murtala Muhammed’s. The by-election is being held in accordance with Article 112(5) of the Ghanaian Constitution. Meanwhile, the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has decided not to field a candidate for the by-election. In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP said the decision followed careful deliberation at a National Steering Committee meeting on August 11, 2025. For the NDC, the immediate priority is to run a smooth and unifying primary, ultimately presenting a candidate capable of honoring Dr. Murtala Muhammed’s legacy and maintaining the party’s stronghold in the Northern Region Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Ghana is setting its sights high, aiming to become Africa’s premier digital trade hub, a goal underscored by Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang at the opening of the National ICT Week Celebration in Accra. Speaking through government representatives, she reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to harnessing innovation, robust policy, and strategic partnerships to shape the continent’s digital future. Gathering under the theme, “Ghana as Africa’s Digital Trade Hub: Innovation, Policy, and Partnerships for the Future,” this year’s ICT Week brought together a vibrant mix of policymakers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovators. The event highlighted Ghana’s unique strengths: a stable democracy, trusted institutions, and a dynamic, growing economy, foundations that position the country at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation. Key to this vision are several flagship programmes driving Ghana’s digital agenda. Among them is the 24-Hour Economy Initiative, designed to boost productivity by enabling businesses and public institutions to operate around the clock. Another pillar, the One Million Coders Project, is equipping young Ghanaians with coding and software engineering skills to seize opportunities in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and beyond. The expansion of the national fibre-optic backbone is bridging the digital divide, bringing high-speed internet access to schools, hospitals, businesses, and homes nationwide. The Ghana.Gov platform, a single portal for accessing government services like passport applications and tax filing, is cutting bureaucracy and enhancing transparency. Ghana also stands out as the only African nation with fully interoperable instant payment systems, a breakthrough that has fueled the growth of mobile money, e-commerce, and financial inclusion nationwide. But as Prof. Opoku-Agyemang made clear, this digital vision cannot be realized by the government alone. She called for active collaboration among entrepreneurs, start-ups, telecoms, fintech firms, banks, investors, development partners, and the Ghanaian diaspora. Universities and vocational institutions, she said, must continue fostering innovation and equipping students with the skills needed to drive digital growth. She also emphasized Ghana’s commitment to digital governance and trust, referencing the enforcement of the Data Protection Act and the country’s support for the AfCFTA’s Digital Trade Protocol—both vital for cybersecurity, data privacy, and harmonized trade regulations across Africa. “Ghana is ready. We have a stable democracy, a dynamic economy, bold initiatives, and modern infrastructure in motion. Yet, the real measure of success will be determined by what we accomplish together,” she declared. Concluding her remarks, the Vice President urged entrepreneurs to keep innovating, investors to seize opportunities in Ghana’s digital space, and development partners to back ventures that transform lives. Her final call was clear: Only by working collectively can Ghana become the undisputed digital trade hub of Africa. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Former Vice President and 2024 NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has challenged his rivals in the party’s upcoming leadership race to shift their focus from divisive rhetoric to vision, policies, and proven achievements. Addressing the NPP New York 33rd Anniversary celebration on Sunday, August 24, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the need for leadership defined by integrity and competence, rather than tribal or religious propaganda. Dr. Bawumia’s message was clear: he wants the party’s internal contest to be about ideas, track records, and integrity, rather than identity politics. “If you want to contest me, come with a vision, come with your ideas, come with your track record, come with your integrity and let us decide,” he told the gathering. The former Vice President dismissed attempts to discredit him based on his northern roots or Islamic faith, describing such propaganda as false, dangerous, and unworthy of the NPP’s democratic tradition. He reminded his critics of his faithful service to the party, including defending the NPP in court during the 2013 election petition and advancing major national reforms such as digitalization. Dr. Bawumia stressed that the NPP had historically thrived on inclusivity, bringing together diverse traditions and communities under its tent. He noted that past victories had been built not on sectionalism but on a collective vision for Ghana’s progress. He urged the party to focus its internal contest on leadership qualities such as humility, incorruptibility, steadiness, and competence. In a warning to his party colleagues, Dr. Bawumia cautioned that succumbing to tribal or religious bigotry would endanger the very survival of the party. “The NPP has always been the party that embraces all Ghanaians, regardless of where they come from or what religion they practise. That is our heritage and our strength. If we stay true to this and focus on ideas, we will be well-positioned to win the 2028 elections,” he said. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, a renowned educationist and politician, has officially met with the NPP USA Branch Chairs and Executives in New York to share his vision for the New Patriotic Party and Ghana’s future. This meeting highlighted the crucial role the diaspora plays in shaping the nation’s future, leveraging their commitment and global networks to accelerate Ghana’s transformation. Dr. Adutwum’s journey from humble beginnings to global recognition serves as a testament to the power of determination and opportunity. He attributes his success to education, which he believes must be the foundation for Ghana’s next growth chapter. His dedication to making education the engine of national development is rooted in its potential to bridge inequality, empower youth, and secure Ghana’s place in the global economy. With the support of the diaspora and every Ghanaian, Dr. Adutwum aims to turn his vision into reality, building a prosperous nation that Ghanaians dream of. His leadership aspirations are built on a proven track record of transformational policies in STEM education, free SHS reforms, and infrastructure expansion during his tenure as Education Minister. Dr. Adutwum’s declaration to run for the NPP flagbearership in 2028 has generated interest among party members and delegates, positioning him as a potential candidate with a strong background in education and leadership. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The race to replace the late Member of Parliament for Tamale Central has officially kicked off, and it’s already generating significant interest. According to a report, thirteen individuals have picked up nomination forms to contest in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries. Notably, three of these aspirants are women, determined to make their mark in what promises to be one of the most competitive primaries this year. The female contenders are making waves with their unique strengths and backgrounds. *Mariama Naamaa Salifu*, a diplomat at Ghana’s Embassy in Niamey, Niger, has quickly emerged as a frontrunner. With a strong record in diaspora advocacy and women’s empowerment, she’s focused her campaign on youth and job creation. Her promises include vocational training, scholarships, improved ICT access for schools, and enhanced healthcare and financial services. Leveraging her international connections, she aims to bring in diaspora support for local development. *Hajia Shamima Yakubu*, the NDC’s Northern Regional Treasurer, is relying on her experience in party organization and financial management to win support. Her track record in these areas could prove valuable in the role of MP. The third female aspirant, *Muliaka Sualisu*, may be less well-known, but her entry adds an intriguing layer to the contest. While little is currently known about her background, her participation is sure to generate interest and potentially shake up the dynamics of the race. As the primaries approach, these women, along with their ten male counterparts, will be vying for the chance to represent Tamale Central in parliament. With such diverse backgrounds and campaign promises, the contest is shaping up to be a closely watched and potentially pivotal event in Ghana’s political landscape Source:ApexNewsGh.com.

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has firmly dismissed reports alleging that it failed to invite President John Dramani Mahama to its forthcoming 2025 Annual Conference slated for Wa in the Upper West Region. In a statement from the Association’s National Secretariat, the GBA described such publications as “false, misleading, and a misconception of facts,” urging the public to verify information before circulation. The Association clarified that President Mahama was officially invited as Guest of Honour and has confirmed his attendance at the event. According to the GBA, the invitation process began with an informal approach during a courtesy call on the President in March 2025. This was followed by a formal invitation sent on July 21, 2025, and acknowledged by the Presidency on July 29. The Presidency subsequently issued an acceptance letter on August 1, 2025. The Association explained that initial conference notices are typically sent to members prior to receiving responses from invited dignitaries. Upon receiving President Mahama’s confirmation, the GBA promptly circulated an updated notice on August 8, explicitly stating that the event would be held under the President’s distinguished patronage. Addressing concerns about inviting the Chair of the Bar Council of England and Wales, the GBA noted that collaborations with international legal bodies are standard practice. The Association cited longstanding relationships with organisations such as the African Bar Association, International Bar Association, Nigerian Bar Association, Sierra Leonean Bar Association, Law Society of Kenya, and the American Bar Association. Reaffirming its neutrality, the GBA emphasised its non-partisan stance, underscoring its commitment to the Constitution of Ghana and the rule of law. “The GBA will not undermine the authority and dignity of the office of the President of the Republic of Ghana,” the statement concluded. The clarification was jointly signed by Mrs. Efua Ghartey, National President, and Kwaku Gyau Baffour, National Secretary, on behalf of the Association’s National Officers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The Member of Parliament for South Dayi and Majority Chief Whip, Mr Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has publicly questioned the impartiality of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), alleging clear bias in the organisation of its upcoming 2025 Annual Conference. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Mr Dafeamekpor highlighted a notable break from recent tradition. From 2017 to 2024, he observed, the then-sitting President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, was “nearly always the Special Guest of Honour and Speaker” at the GBA’s annual events. This year, however, the President of Ghana is conspicuously absent from the roster of advertised speakers. Instead, the GBA has extended an invitation to the President of the Bar Council of England & Wales—a move Dafeamekpor finds particularly controversial. He claims that this foreign legal association had “recently attacked this Government without any provocation.” With a touch of sarcasm, the MP further suggested that the GBA invite the President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association to “add effect” to what he perceives as a pattern of partiality. “Your unalloyed bias against President John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress government is too glaring to be ignored now,” Dafeamekpor declared. “You can continue to act as a wing of the main opposition party New Patriotic Party(NPP), to do its bidding; we are ready for you.” His remarks have sparked renewed debate about the GBA’s neutrality and its role in Ghana’s political and legal landscape.   Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Dr Razak Kojo Opoku, representing the UP Tradition Institute, has cast serious doubts on the reliability of a recent survey conducted by Musa Dankwa and his organization, Global Info Analytics. The poll, which aimed to gauge support among candidates in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary, presented results that Dr Opoku found deeply troubling. According to the published figures, Vice President Bawumia led with 52%, followed by Ken with 17%. Bryan received 3%, Adutwum was at 1%, while Kwabena, Boakye, and Nimo each registered 0%. The survey also recorded 10.7% of respondents as undecided and 9% who did not disclose their preference. However, Dr Opoku noticed a glaring issue: the total percentage tallied only 92.7%, leaving 7.3% of responses unaccounted for. Seeking to address this, he considered the possibility that the three candidates recorded at 0%—Kwabena Agyepong, Boakye Agyarko, and Francis Addai Nimo—might each have received 1% of the vote. Even with this adjustment, the sum only reached 95.7%, still leaving a 4.3% discrepancy. “This gap raises serious concerns,” Dr Opoku emphasized. “How can a poll claim a 99% confidence level with a plus 2.44 margin of error when the arithmetic itself does not add up? Such discrepancies undermine the credibility and integrity of the entire survey.” Dr Opoku’s pointed critique has sparked a conversation about the accuracy of political polling and the importance of transparent data analysis in shaping public perception. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama have delivered on a major campaign promise with the completion of ten “Legacy Temple Projects” for the Assemblies of God Church. The new houses of worship, spread across multiple regions, stand as modern beacons of hope and community, fully equipped with chairs, sound systems, and musical instruments. The ambitious initiative was first announced by President Mahama during his 2024 campaign tour in Navrongo, where he pledged to strengthen faith-based infrastructure and foster social development. Less than a year later, the vision has become reality, with the new temples set to serve as vibrant community hubs for spiritual growth, social engagement, and youth development programs. Church leaders and congregants alike have expressed gratitude and excitement, describing the temples as a milestone in the history of the Assemblies of God Church and a testament to the power of government partnerships with religious organizations. The completion of the Legacy Temple Projects highlights the Mahama administration’s commitment to supporting religious institutions and nurturing the role of faith in national development. As communities gather in these modern worship centers, the positive impact on spiritual life and youth empowerment is expected to resonate for generations to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com