Ashanti Region Sees Overwhelming Interest in MMDCE Positions
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been inundated with applications from aspiring Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the Ashanti Region. Apexnewsgh reports A staggering 343 individuals have submitted their names for consideration across 43 assemblies, demonstrating a strong desire to contribute to local governance. The vetting process, which commenced on January 16, will span three days, with 11 district assemblies being vetted on the first day. Applicants will present their qualifications, leadership skills, and vision to the selection committee, showcasing their ability to drive development at the local level. After the vetting process, three applicants will be selected from each of the 43 district assemblies, and President John Mahama will nominate one of them for the MMDCE position. This exercise reflects the new government’s commitment to competence, dedication, and visionary leadership in local governance. The NDC has consistently advocated for non-partisan selection of DCEs and MMDCEs, emphasizing its benefits for promoting development at the local level. As such, candidates are expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of the socio-economic dynamics in their areas and propose practical strategies to address pressing issues like unemployment, infrastructure, sanitation, and access to education and healthcare. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Celebrities for NDC Urge President Mahama to Fulfil Movie Theatre Promise
Members of the Celebrities for NDC group are calling on President John Dramani Mahama to deliver on his manifesto promise to construct a movie theatre, a vital step in reviving Ghana’s struggling film industry. Apexnewsgh reports At a press conference in Kumasi, the group expressed gratitude to NDC executives for their support during the 2024 election campaign and voiced optimism about the government’s commitment to its pledge. Nana Boakye Yiadom, the group’s Chairman, highlighted the critical need for infrastructure to boost the local film industry. “The promised movie theatre is essential for revitalizing the industry and providing a platform for Ghanaian filmmakers to showcase their work,” he emphasized. The group also appealed to President Mahama to consider banning the broadcasting of telenovelas on local television, citing the negative impact of these programmes on the Ghanaian film sector. “The dominance of telenovelas has diminished local content creation and affected the livelihoods of many in the industry,” Yiadom added. President Mahama’s administration has shown commitment to supporting the creative industry, with plans to establish a new national theatre in Kumasi. The Celebrities for NDC group is hopeful that the president will fulfill his promise and provide the necessary infrastructure to revitalize Ghana’s film industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CLOGSAG Urges President Mahama to Scrap Redundant Agencies
The Civil and Local Government Staff Association (CLOGSAG) has appealed to President John Mahama to abolish agencies like the Technical, Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Commission for Technical and Vocational Educational Training (COTVET), citing duplication of functions with the Civil Service. Apexnewsgh reports According to CLOGSAG’s Executive Secretary, Isaac Bampoe Addo, the Civil Service already performs technical and vocational training, making these agencies unnecessary. “The President should also look at services that are being hived off from the Civil Service… it’s a duplication, just creating roles,” he emphasized. Bampoe Addo believes these agencies are a waste of government resources, created without proper consultation with relevant councils. He described TVET and COTVET as “really unnecessary, just to create another bureaucracy.” In a related development, Bampoe Addo has also appealed to President Mahama to re-introduce the general orders policy, which would provide clear guidelines for transactions and eliminate discretionary decision-making. “Let’s bring back the general orders… it will give the processes on any transaction, and in the Service, there is nothing like discretion,” he noted. This appeal comes amidst ongoing discussions about the merger of some ministries announced by President Mahama. CLOGSAG’s concerns highlight the need for efficient governance and effective resource allocation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Ayariga Tipped to Replace Ato Forson as Majority Leader
Mahama Ayariga, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, is highly likely to be named the new Majority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament. Apexnewsgh reports This development comes amid ongoing deliberations within the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) over the leadership structure of the majority caucus. The likelihood of Ayariga’s appointment follows a decision to re-evaluate earlier choices for parliamentary leadership positions. Initially, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson was named Majority Leader after the NDC’s electoral victory. However, with his nomination as Minister of Finance by President John Dramani Mahama, Ato Forson is set to assume a different role in government. Sources suggest that Ato Forson’s financial and economic expertise is better suited for a role within the Finance Ministry. This has paved the way for Ayariga to take the reins as Majority Leader. Ayariga’s qualifications make him an ideal candidate for the position. As a seasoned lawmaker, he has earned a reputation as a skilled debater and legislative strategist. With multiple terms as an MP, he has held key ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Minister of Information. Ayariga’s experience and expertise will likely be valuable assets in his new role as Majority Leader. As he prepares to take on this new challenge, all eyes are on him to see how he will lead the majority caucus in Ghana’s Parliament. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Appoints Haruna Iddrisu as Minister of Education
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Haruna Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament for Tamale South, as the new Minister of Education. Apexnewsgh reports This appointment reflects Iddrisu’s extensive political experience and proven leadership capabilities, garnered from his years as a longstanding MP and former Leader in Parliament. Iddrisu has built a reputation for his strong advocacy for social equity and economic reform. As Minister of Education, he is expected to bring a results-driven approach, prioritizing policies that address critical challenges such as access to quality education, teacher welfare, and curriculum reform. With his wealth of experience in championing legislative initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth, Iddrisu is well-equipped to tackle the daunting task of addressing Ghana’s educational challenges. The implementation of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy has been a significant concern, and Iddrisu’s leadership will be crucial in reviewing and enhancing this policy. President Mahama’s commitment to improving the quality and accessibility of education was a cornerstone of his campaign. With Iddrisu at the helm of the Ministry of Education, stakeholders and citizens are hopeful that the sector will see significant reforms and improvements. Iddrisu’s nomination is subject to parliamentary approval. If confirmed, he will join other newly appointed ministers, including Kwame Governs Agbodza for the Ministry of Roads and Highways and Agnes Naa Momo Lartey for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
George Opare Addo Nominated as Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated George Opare Addo, affectionately known as “Pablo,” as the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment. Apexnewsgh reports This announcement was part of the second batch of ministerial appointments submitted to Parliament on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Opare Addo is a multifaceted individual, boasting an impressive background as a lawyer, local government official, and accomplished business executive. His dynamic leadership within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been instrumental in mentoring young leaders and mobilizing the party’s youth base since 2018. With his extensive experience in public service, Opare Addo has held various roles, including Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Akuapem North Municipal Assembly from 2009 to 2017. His efforts in this position led to numerous developmental initiatives, fostering growth and inclusion in the municipality. As the new Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment designate, Opare Addo is expected to leverage his expertise in youth mobilization, governance, and policy implementation to champion programs aimed at empowering Ghanaian youth. His nomination reaffirms President Mahama’s commitment to prioritizing youth development and addressing the challenges faced by the country’s young population. The appointment is subject to parliamentary approval, after which Opare Addo will assume office to spearhead the ministry’s agenda. This includes fostering skills development, entrepreneurship, and leadership opportunities for Ghana’s youth. Alongside Opare Addo, President Mahama announced nominations for other key ministerial roles, including: 1. Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection: Agnes Naa Momo Lartey 2. Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture: Emelia Arthur 3. Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts: Abla Dzifa Gomashie 4. Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs: Ahmed Ibrahim³ These nominations reflect President Mahama’s efforts to build a strong team to drive Ghana’s development agenda forward. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Nominates Governs Kwame Agbodza as Minister for Roads and Highways
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza to serve as the Minister for Roads and Highways. Apexnewsgh reports This announcement was made on Thursday, January 16, 2025, as part of the second batch of ministerial appointments submitted to Parliament for vetting and approval. As a distinguished architect and Member of Parliament for Adaklu, Kwame Agbodza brings a wealth of expertise in architectural design, project management, and governance to this critical role. His impressive professional qualifications from renowned institutions like Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Westminster University, and East London University, make him a chartered architect and a Principal Consultant at Kay + Partners Ltd. Throughout his career, Agbodza has spearheaded major projects in healthcare, education, and residential development both in Ghana and the UK. Since 2013, he has served in various parliamentary leadership roles, rising to become the Majority Chief Whip in the 9th Parliament. He is also a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Ghana Institute of Architects. President Mahama’s nomination of Governs Kwame Agbodza reflects his government’s commitment to prioritizing infrastructure development as a key driver of economic and social progress. As Agbodza awaits parliamentary approval, all eyes are on his vision for Ghana’s Roads and Highways Ministry, which is expected to advance the nation’s connectivity agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mahama Appoints Dzifa Gomashie to Head Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Dzifa Abla Gomashie, a veteran actress and seasoned politician, to lead the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. Apexnewsgh reports This appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Ghana’s creative and cultural sectors. Gomashie’s decades-long experience in the arts, coupled with her commitment to cultural preservation, makes her a natural fit for this role. As a former Deputy Minister under Mahama’s previous administration, she played a significant role in promoting Ghana’s tourism and creative industries. Industry stakeholders, including experts and cultural commentators, have praised Gomashie’s understanding of the sector’s unique challenges and opportunities. George Quaye, a prominent industry advocate, described her as “the best fit for the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts,” citing her passion and track record in advocating for creative professionals. Gomashie’s nomination is subject to parliamentary approval, but her confirmation is widely anticipated given her credentials and broad support within the industry. Once approved, her leadership will focus on creating a turning point for Ghana’s tourism, culture, and creative arts sector, setting the stage for a new era of growth and innovation. The tourism industry has seen significant growth in recent years, particularly during the former Nana Akufo-Addo led administration, which initiated programs like Year of Return and Beyond The Return. Gomashie’s appointment is expected to build on this momentum and drive further development in the sector.
Breaking News: Upper East NPP Deputy Regional Communication Director Andrews Atarawini Resigns
Andrews Atarawini, the Deputy NPP Communication Director of the Upper East Region, has tendered his resignation, effective January 16, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports While the reasons behind his decision are unclear, sources suggest that he expressed frustration and disappointment with the regional NPP leadership just last week. Notably, Atarawini’s resignation only applies to his position as Deputy Regional Communication Director, and he remains a member of the party. His decision is believed to be linked to the party’s poor performance in the 2024 elections. Atarawini’s resignation raises questions about the internal dynamics of the NPP in the Upper East Region. As the party seeks to regroup and rebuild after the 2024 elections, the loss of a key communication director may have significant implications for their future strategy. More to come soon… Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Brief history about Agnes Naa Momo Lartey a Nominated Gender Minister
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Member of Parliament for Krowor, to head the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Apexnewsgh reports This appointment is seen as a strategic move to restore public confidence in a ministry plagued by controversy and underperformance during the previous administration. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey’s journey to this nomination is a testament to her dedication to social justice and her commitment to championing women’s and children’s rights. Born on April 16, 1976, in Krowor, Greater Accra Region, Lartey began her political career in 2000, serving as an assemblywoman and later as the presiding member of the Krowor Municipal Assembly. Despite losing her first parliamentary bid in 2016, Lartey persevered and won the Krowor parliamentary seat in the 2020 general election with 55.8% of the total votes cast. She retained her seat in the 2024 Parliamentary Elections with an impressive 62.68% of total valid votes cast. As a Member of Parliament, Lartey has focused on initiatives to empower women, improve access to quality education, and support vulnerable groups. Her local governance experience and resilience make her an ideal candidate to lead the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. The ministry has faced significant challenges in recent years, including allegations of corruption and inefficiency under former Minister Sarah Adwoa Safo. The prolonged absence of Adwoa Safo from her duties and the controversies surrounding her performance led to a supposed leadership vacuum, weakening public confidence in the ministry. President Mahama’s decision to appoint Lartey is likely an effort to overhaul the ministry and chart a new course. If approved by Parliament, Lartey will inherit a ministry facing urgent challenges, and her success will depend on her ability to drive meaningful reforms and foster collaboration among stakeholders. Source: Apexnewsgh.com