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Dr. Zangina endorses President Mahama’s speech, defends ORAL

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A National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team member, Dr. Nicholas Naani Zangina, has expressed strong approval of President John Dramani Mahama’s recent inaugural speech, describing it as a breath of fresh air. He emphasized that the speech comprehensively addressed key issues of governance and the economy, leaving no critical topic untouched.

“I received it with a breath of fresh air because when you listen to the speech that was delivered, and then you read the text, you cannot but come to the conclusion that he (President John Dramani Mahama) had virtually touched every aspect of governance or every aspect of the economy that needed to be addressed in that speech.”

Regarding the establishment of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, Dr. Zangina defended the initiative, particularly in light of some criticism. He called it a positive step toward ensuring accountability in governance, noting that the committee’s purpose is to gather evidence on issues of public concern and forward the findings to relevant prosecuting institutions.

“I think that it’s a good step to try to solicit or hold people to account for their stewardship.”

He clarified that the committee’s role is not to prosecute but to facilitate the process by collecting evidence, especially from individuals who may be hesitant to report to traditional institutions. Dr. Naani suggested that the ORAL committee provides a safer, more accessible avenue for such individuals to contribute evidence.

“He (John Dramani Mahama) was clear in the establishment that these are the people that I am tasking to gather evidence and forward it to the prosecuting institutions. We are not saying that you should collect the evidence and prosecute them yourself.”

He also noted that those with nothing to hide should not be concerned about institutions like police stations or prisons, suggesting that similar sentiments should apply to the ORAL committee.

“Like we always say, if you are not a criminal, why should you be bothered about the establishment of a police station or prison?” he questioned.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

Ayinbisa questions legality of ORAL, speaks about fight against corruption

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Peter Ayinbisa, the Upper East Regional Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised concerns about the legitimacy and funding of the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) newly formed Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee. He expressed doubts about the committee’s constitutionality and its financial backing.

In an interview on A1 Radio, Mr. Ayinbisa dismissed the committee, claiming that it lacks legal standing under the country’s constitution and described it as an illegal entity. He questioned the source of its funding and raised suspicions about whether its members are being compensated for their work, casting doubt on claims made by the committee’s chairman that members are volunteering their time without payment.

“ORAL has no space in our constitution. It’s an illegal organ that you have constituted, and I ask the question, where are they drawing their finance from? How are they being paid?”

He hinted at the possibility that members might be receiving financial support despite claims to the contrary, suggesting that the truth will eventually come to light.

In his commentary, Mr. Ayinbisa also emphasized the risks involved in tackling corruption. He cautioned that if not approached carefully, efforts to combat corruption could backfire.
“If you want to fight corruption and you are not careful, corruption will fight you.”

Furthermore, he criticized the NDC for reintroducing individuals from previous administrations, arguing that such actions indicate little will change in their approach to governance.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

Peter Ayinbisa challenges Mahama to deliver results, critiques overreliance on “faith”

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Peter Ayinbisa, the Upper East Regional Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has questioned the substance of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s inaugural speech.

While he acknowledged that it is often difficult to critique any president’s inaugural address, he expressed concerns about Mahama’s heavy reliance on faith as a solution to the country’s challenges.

“I don’t know whether anyone has heard the inaugural speech of any president and said that it is not good. You don’t have to base everything on faith, because if you go and parade incompetent leaders, as he did the other time, and bring them on board, and then say we should have faith in them, it won’t work. You must first assemble a team of qualified individuals with the expertise to deliver results.”

He criticized decisions to reappoint former leaders from previous administrations, suggesting that such actions risk repeating past mistakes unless competent individuals with the right expertise are engaged.

Mr. Ayinbisa emphasized that the NPP would hold Mahama accountable for the promises made during his campaign.

The NPP official also set clear expectations for the new administration, particularly on economic matters. He highlighted the need for tangible improvements in the economy, using the price of kenkey as an example, and called for its reduction to a maximum of 3 Ghana cedis. He further stressed the importance of not only stabilizing the cedi but also improving its value.

“President John Mahama told us what he’s going to do in his first 120 days, and we are going to hold him accountable. We expect a ball of kenkey to cost no more than 3 Ghana cedis. The cedi shouldn’t just be stable; it should appreciate in value.”

Mr. Ayinbisa assured the public that the NPP would serve as a proactive and responsive opposition, pledging to hold the government to a higher standard. He concluded by stating that Mahama’s administration must outperform the previous government or face strong resistance from the opposition.

“They should do better than we did, else we’ll hold them back,” he said.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

Ebenezer Akandurugo calls for holistic dev’t of Upper East Region’s entertainment industry

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Blogger Ebenezer Akandurugo has pointed out that while the Upper East Region has some presence in the entertainment sector, it lacks a fully developed industry that encompasses all aspects of entertainment, such as film production, nightlife, and media support.

“I don’t see that we have an entertainment industry in the Upper East Region because when we’re talking of entertainment, it comprises a lot, not just music.”

Speaking on A1 Radio recently, Mr. Akandurugo acknowledged the existence of a music industry in the region but highlighted that it remains unreliable and underdeveloped.

“I might agree with you when you say we have a music industry in the Upper East Region. We have, not a reliable one like that, but we have a music industry.”

According to him, a truly robust entertainment industry would require a thriving movie sector, which is currently absent in the region. He noted that no notable movie production could be pointed to in 2024, underscoring the gap in the regional film industry. The blogger also stressed the importance of improving the region’s nightlife and media support for the creative arts.

“I’ll be looking at the media support for whatever the creative art industry is doing. To me, I can say aside from a few media houses in the region that are supporting, we don’t see the support like that.”

He praised the efforts of a few media houses that have supported the arts but called for greater collaboration to elevate the region’s entertainment scene.

Despite the challenges, Mr. Akandurugo expressed optimism about the music industry’s progress, particularly in 2024. He commended local artists for their hard work and urged them to continue pushing boundaries. He encouraged musicians to be true to themselves and embrace their unique styles, dismissing the idea that language barriers could hinder their success.

“I’ll applaud our artists for what they did last year, and I’ll encourage them that this year, they should try to do more. They shouldn’t relent on whatever they did last year. People do argue that language is a barrier, but to me, I don’t see language to be a barrier in music. They should be themselves and do whatever they feel will sell them out.”

Furthermore, Mr. Akandurugo pointed out the economic challenges artists face, urging them to engage in other income-generating activities while pursuing music, as the industry is not always financially rewarding. He called for more community support, particularly for smaller events that allow artists to showcase their talents and further develop their careers.

“We need to support these guys, especially when they come with a small program somewhere,” he said.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

A Beacon for Upper East Music: The 6th Edition of HMB-UEMA is here

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The Happy Man Bitters Upper East Music Awards (HMB-UEMA) 2024 is set to dazzle music lovers on Saturday, January 11, 2024, at the GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga. Now in its sixth edition, the awards scheme has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for musicians and industry personalities in the Upper East Region.

With 26 categories ranging from Artiste of the Year to Group of the Year, the event promises to honor the region’s finest talents. Each winner will receive a cash prize of GH¢1,000.00, adding to the excitement and competition.

A platform for growth 

Launched in 2019, the HMB-UEMA was created to celebrate, nurture, and expose talents in the Upper East Region. The initiative is the brainchild of Dr. Emmanuel Bortey Borketey, CEO of Charger Limited, the producer of Happy Man Bitters.

Dr. Borketey’s vision has elevated the region’s music industry, providing artists with visibility and opportunities for national and international collaborations.

“HMB-UEMA is a great opportunity to showcase and increase market share. It has made the industry visible and competitive,” said Pandy, the 2022 Artiste of the Year.

Reviving a struggling industry 

Before the inception of HMB-UEMA, the music industry in the Upper East Region struggled to survive. From 2000 to 2018, the absence of organized structures left many young talents without support. HMB-UEMA has changed this narrative, investing hundreds of millions of Ghana cedis annually to revitalize the industry and inspire young artists.

The Man Behind the Vision 

Dr. Emmanuel Bortey Borketey, a philanthropist and entrepreneur, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the region. Despite limited local support, he continues to invest in the music industry and other developmental projects.

In 2022, Dr. Borketey received Honorary Georgia Citizen recognition in the United States. Recently, he supported two regional bloggers with GH¢10,000.00, emphasizing his belief in the power of media and youth development.

A Night of Rewards 

This year, Dr. Borketey has added another layer of excitement: flight tickets between Tamale and Accra for the top three Artiste of the Year winners in 2025.

“Best of luck to all nominees. Let’s keep supporting UEMA to grow to the level we all desire. Remember, others started but couldn’t sustain it due to lack of support and togetherness,” he noted.

Beyond Music 

Dr. Borketey’s impact transcends music. He continues to provide social amenities for rural communities and supports talented youth in various crafts.

A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga

“You deserve it” – Ayinbisa Congratulates Dr. Ayine on his nomination as AG and Minister for Justice

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The Upper East Regional Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Peter Ayinbisa, has congratulated Dr. Dominic Ayine, Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga East, on his nomination by President John Mahama as Attorney General and Minister for Justice.

Mr. Ayinbisa took to his official Facebook page to share his congratulations, writing: “Congratulations to Hon. Dominic. You deserve it.”

The announcement, made in a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Acting Spokesperson to the President, marks one of the first significant steps in forming President Mahama’s new administration following his inauguration.

Dr. Ayine, who represents the Bolgatanga East constituency in the Upper East Region, is a seasoned legal practitioner with over three decades of experience. He previously served as Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice and is the founding partner of Ayine & Partners Law Offices.

Dr. Ayine holds a Ph.D. in Law from Stanford University, a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Michigan Law School, and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Ghana. In addition to his impressive academic qualifications, he has lectured at the University of Ghana School of Law, earning him widespread respect in Ghana’s legal fraternity.

Along with Dr. Ayine, President Mahama has nominated two other individuals for key ministerial positions: Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson as Minister for Finance Designate and John Abdulai Jinapor as Minister for Energy Designate. These nominations, submitted to the Speaker of Parliament in accordance with Article 78 of the 1992 Constitution, represent the first set of appointments in President Mahama’s administration.

Meanwhile, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine has responded to the news of his nomination by President Mahama. Taking to Facebook, he expressed his vision for leadership, stating: “Leadership, Justice, Equality, and Fairness for all.”

The Upper East Regional Executive Committee of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has also congratulated Dr. Ayine on his nomination. In a statement signed by Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, the Upper East Regional Communications Officer, the NDC described the nomination as well-deserved and expressed confidence in Dr. Ayine’s ability to deliver.

*”This appointment is a testament to your unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and outstanding contributions to the nation. We are confident that your expertise, vision, and commitment to justice will bring transformative progress to this critical sector.

We also extend our profound gratitude to H.E. John Dramani Mahama for entrusting this vital ministry to your capable hands. As you embark on this significant journey, we have no doubt that you will champion reforms that will strengthen the justice system and enhance its accessibility for all. The Upper East Region stands firmly with you, praying for God’s guidance, wisdom, and protection as you take on this noble responsibility. We wish you every success in this exciting new chapter,”* the statement read.

Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1 MHz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Ghana

NDC’s Dr. Zangina criticizes V8 use by MMDCEs, calls on Mahama to adopt practical alternatives

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Dr. Nicolas Zangina, a member of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) communications team in the Upper East Region, has voiced strong criticism of the use of V8 vehicles by Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) under the Akufo-Addo administration, labeling it as unnecessary extravagance that burdened the nation’s economy.

Speaking on A1 Radio, Dr. Zangina accused former President Akufo-Addo, regional ministers, and DCEs of mismanaging state resources while failing to address pressing economic challenges. He cited examples, including the use of high-consumption V8 vehicles for routine activities in rural areas.

“Imagine in Garu, my own constituency, the DCE was using a V8 just to attend local functions. This was unnecessary extravagance when DCEs were failing to improve the economy,” he argued. Dr. Zangina suggested that patrol or pick-up vehicles would have been more practical and economical alternatives.

The NDC communicator further alleged that many of these officials “slept on their jobs” despite having access to luxurious resources, which he claimed contributed to the economic hardships faced by Ghanaians today.

In response, Peter Ayinbisa, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), refuted the claims, clarifying that the vehicles used by MMDCEs were upgraded Nissan vehicles with fuel-efficient engines, not V8s. “The claim that these cars consume excessive fuel is baseless and misleading,” Ayinbisa stated.

Call for Change Under Mahama’s Administration

Dr. Zangina has also urged President John Mahama to avoid repeating what he perceives as mistakes made under the Akufo-Addo administration regarding vehicle selection for political appointees. He proposed that the Mahama government adopt more affordable and efficient vehicles, such as pick-up trucks, patrols, or Navara models, for appointees at the local government level.

“At the local level, I will appeal that President Mahama should not repeat the same mistake of former President Akufo-Addo and get his appointees to pick-ups, patrols, or Navaras for their day-to-day activities instead of V8 vehicles,” Dr. Zangina stated.

He argued that this approach could significantly reduce government expenditure and complement efforts to manage the economic challenges inherited from the previous administration. “It will not only reduce the expenditure burden, but it will also support measures like cutting down betting taxes, the E-levy, and Covid-19 expenditures,” he added.

Acknowledging the current poor state of the vehicles used by DCEs, Dr. Zangina emphasized that adopting practical and economical alternatives would reflect a commitment to prudent spending as the nation works towards economic recovery.

His remarks align with ongoing conversations about fiscal responsibility and the need for cost-effective solutions in government operations.

Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Ghana

NPP’s achievements in Upper East Region unmatched – Peter Ayinbisa

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The Upper East Regional Communications Director for the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, Peter Ayinbisa, has described the government’s achievements in the region as unparalleled in the Fourth Republic.

Speaking on A1 Radio, Ayinbisa dismissed criticisms suggesting that the NPP did little during its tenure, emphasizing the significant strides made in addressing key challenges in the region.

Ayinbisa particularly highlighted the NPP’s efforts in improving access to potable water.

“It is sad and laughable when people claim our government did nothing. In this very region, people used to walk several kilometers in search of potable water. Through the Tono Water Project, we have provided clean water to homes, even benefiting those who criticize us without carefully measuring their thoughts,” he stated.

He further noted that the Tono Water Project directly contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation.

“This project alone, even if you are being mischievous, addresses one of the SDGs in this region. Let us appreciate progress when it is due,” Ayinbisa added.

In addition to water, Ayinbisa commended the NPP’s contributions to the health sector. He said the government significantly enhanced healthcare access, particularly in rural areas.

“The NPP government did marvelously well by upgrading health centers in rural areas,” he remarked.

Ayinbisa called on residents of the Upper East Region to objectively assess the NPP’s contributions, urging them to acknowledge the government’s investments in critical sectors such as water and health.

He concluded by asserting that the NPP’s initiatives have left an indelible mark on the region’s development.

Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Ghana

CSOs in northern Ghana urge President Mahama to prioritize the area’s dev’t

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The Coalition of Northern Ghana Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), led by the Executive Director of the Northern Patriots in Research and Advocacy (NORPRA), Bismark Ayorogo has called on newly inaugurated President John Dramani Mahama to commit more resources to the development of Northern Ghana.

In a congratulatory message, the Coalition urged the President to leave a legacy of transforming Northern Ghana to ensure even and balanced national development.

Portions of the statement read: “The Coalition equally recognizes, acknowledges, and appreciates the President’s sterling leadership during his previous administration, which saw the establishment of strong systems and structures, including a very comprehensive development blueprint developed after broad-based consultations for the Northern Savannah Ecological Zone, otherwise known as the SADA Master Plan.

The said Master Plan, which was shelved to gather dust following the change of government in 2016, remains relevant and fit for purpose. It should be revisited with significant public investment made for its effective implementation to eradicate poverty, hunger, and regional inequalities.

Interestingly and coincidentally, the SADA Master Plan aligns with some of the key policy proposals in the 2024 NDC Manifesto. These include investing in women’s empowerment, industrialization, renewable energy, and building climate-resilient irrigation infrastructure, such as the Pwalugu Dam and Phase 2 of the Tono Irrigation Project. These efforts are essential for establishing a modernized agricultural economy, improving agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, creating jobs, increasing incomes, and enhancing livelihoods.”

The Coalition further urged the new government to take advantage of the vast arable lands in Northern Ghana by developing agricultural policies aimed at creating jobs for the youth in the region.

“Northern Ghana, with 8 million hectares of arable land, has the potential not only to become the food basket of the entire country, feeding over 50 million people, but also to contribute more to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) than its current annual contribution of US$10.1 billion—if it receives significant public investment devoid of corruption and mismanagement of public resources,” the statement added.

The Coalition also called on President Mahama to create more opportunities for periodic engagement with CSOs, particularly those based in Northern Ghana, to enable effective policy dialogue, prioritization, and implementation aimed at transforming lives and building a better Ghana.

Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1 MHz | Samuel Adagom | Ghana

ActionAid celebrates Prof. Opoku-Agyeman’s historic achievement as Ghana’s first female VEEP

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ActionAid Ghana (AAG) has congratulated Her Excellency Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman on her election as the first female Vice President of the Republic of Ghana. Described as a landmark achievement, AAG considers this a defining moment in Ghana’s Fourth Republic and a significant milestone for women’s representation in governance.

In a statement released by AAG, the organization lauded Ghanaians for their commitment to democracy and the largely peaceful conduct of the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary elections, despite isolated incidents of violence.

“The peaceful elections highlight our collective commitment to democracy and are commendable, deserving recognition,” the statement read.

As a gender-focused organization, AAG expressed pride in Prof. Opoku-Agyeman’s achievement, viewing it as a testament to progress in feminist leadership and gender equality in Ghana. The organization praised her victory speech, in which she affirmed, “I’ll hold the door open for others to walk through,” as a powerful message of her commitment to advancing the feminist action cause.

ActionAid Ghana emphasized its optimism about the Vice President’s leadership, stating, “We firmly believe that your leadership will not only inspire but also empower women and girls, significantly enhancing their confidence to participate in governance and advocate for their dignity and quality of life.”

The organization called on Prof. Opoku-Agyeman to prioritize the rights of women and girls in government policies and programmes, noting that this would strengthen Ghana’s democratic credentials and promote social justice for all.

AAG also extended congratulations to all newly elected female Members of Parliament and commended female Parliamentary candidates who contested but did not win. “We commend Ghanaians for their growing belief in and appreciation of what women in leadership can achieve for the overall development of the country,” the statement added.

About ActionAid Ghana

ActionAid Ghana (AAG) is an affiliate of ActionAid, a global justice federation committed to achieving social justice, gender equality, and poverty eradication. AAG focuses on promoting sustainable food production systems and agricultural practices to enhance productivity while advocating for gender equality and social justice.

Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1 MHz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Ghana

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