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Press Release

The Minority In Ghana's Parliament is a 'waste'
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – February 27, 2025

The Alliance for Civic Action (ACA), a civil society organization committed to promoting transparent governance, accountability, and the principles of good governance and peace, expresses profound concern over the recent conduct of the Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, during the parliamentary vetting process.

On February 26, 2025, during the vetting of Deputy Attorney General and Justice Minister-designate, Justice Srem-Sai, an incident occurred that has raised serious questions about the decorum and leadership within our parliamentary proceedings. Hon. Afenyo-Markin posed a question to the nominee, requesting him to demonstrate a cultural dance from his heritage, stating, "We are here to learn about our country. It is also about our culture."

The Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, overruled this question, deeming it inappropriate for the setting, and stated, "Honourable nominee, the question is overruled. You are not going to answer that question."

In response, Hon. Afenyo-Markin accused the Chairman of being "whimsical and capricious" in his handling of the proceedings. When the Chairman demanded a withdrawal of these remarks, Hon. Afenyo-Markin refused, further stating, "Chairman, I will not withdraw. You rudely overruled me."

Such conduct not only undermines the integrity of our parliamentary processes but also reflects a troubling lack of leadership and decorum expected of someone in his esteemed position. The ACA is particularly alarmed by the Minority Leader's apparent impatience and his propensity to resort to confrontational tactics, which have led to unnecessary tensions and disruptions within the legislative body.

The recent boycott by the minority during the vetting committee sessions is a glaring manifestation of intolerance and a blatant disregard for parliamentary principles and the rule of law. Hon. Afenyo-Markin's refusal to retract unacceptable remarks directed at the committee's chairperson further exemplifies a concerning level of arrogance and disrespect.

In light of these developments, the ACA calls upon all Ghanaians to recognize the gravity of this situation. It is imperative to address these issues promptly to prevent potential chaos and to preserve the sanctity of our parliamentary democracy.

We are in an era that demands collaborative teamwork, mutual respect, and a unified commitment to nation-building. The time for individualistic displays of authority has passed. It is essential for our leaders, especially those within the minority caucus led by Hon. Afenyo-Markin, to adopt a more constructive and cooperative approach. The current trajectory of incessant disruptions and confrontations is detrimental to our democratic fabric.

The ACA urges the minority leadership to reflect on their actions and to realign their strategies in a manner that fosters productive discourse and upholds the dignity of our parliamentary institution. Our democracy thrives on healthy debates and collaborative efforts, not on discord and disrespect.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President, Alliance For Civic Action
0244819302

Press Release

Enough of the Arrest, MR. President: Fix the galamsy mess'
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – September 25, 2024

The government's failure to effectively address this issue, despite substantial financial investments in its so-called fight against Galamsey, remains deeply concerning. Additionally, the continued issuance of licenses to miners within our forest reserves exacerbates the situation, which should be the government's focus. The destruction caused by Galamsey is immense, with thousands of acres of forests, farmlands, and even protected reserves being devastated. Our rivers are not spared either, with many being heavily polluted. This has left entire communities without access to potable drinking water due to contamination from illegal mining activities. We ask the critical question: why does the President remain indifferent to the environmental and societal destruction caused by Galamsey, yet swiftly arrests protesters? Which of these issues poses a greater threat to the nation and its people? We call on the President to shift his focus and fix the Galamsey mess instead of targeting innocent protesters. The real crisis facing the state is illegal mining, not the peaceful citizens voicing their concerns. We also recommend that all political actors, especially the President and his government appointees, demonstrate greater tolerance. Furthermore, we urge the police to maintain professionalism and neutrality to ensure a peaceful and fair election process.
Fix the Galamsey Mess, Mr. President. For media inquiries, please contact:
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President, Alliance For Civic Action
0244819302

Press Release

A Call for a 24-Hour Economy to Transform Ghana’s Future
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – January 27, 2025

1.Digitalization: An Ongoing Initiative, Not a Revolutionary Solution Digitalization has been an ongoing evolution in Ghana. From the Ghana Card to mobile money interoperability, previous administrations, including John Mahama’s, laid the foundation for digital advances, making it a continuation rather than a unique promise. Given the global momentum toward digital transformation, Ghana’s digital evolution will naturally persist, driven by both public and private sectors. However, this does not directly address the country's immediate economic crisis. 2.The 24-Hour Economy: A Structural Transformation The 24-hour economy proposed by John Mahama, on the other hand, presents an entirely new approach that would increase productivity, drive economic growth, and alleviate unemployment. Operating key sectors—manufacturing, healthcare, retail, transportation, and logistics—around the clock can provide substantial economic benefits, creating a cycle of growth that digitalization alone cannot achieve. 3.How a 24-Hour Economy Addresses Ghana’s Current Economic Woes Debt Management and Revenue Growth Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio currently stands at alarming levels, above 70%, with national revenue falling short of meeting debt obligations. By increasing economic activity through a 24-hour operation, Ghana can generate more revenue across sectors, potentially adding billions of cedis in GDP growth over time. This additional revenue could lessen our debt burden and reduce our reliance on external loans. Job Creation and Lower Unemployment Youth unemployment remains high, with approximately 12% of young Ghanaians lacking employment. A 24-hour economy would create diverse employment opportunities by operating multiple shifts, immediately addressing job scarcity. Sectors such as retail, healthcare, security, and transportation would need more workers, reducing unemployment and uplifting the economy. Controlling Inflation and Stabilizing the Cedi A 24-hour economy could stabilize inflation by increasing production and lowering costs through economies of scale. More products and services available round-the-clock would reduce inflationary pressures. Additionally, with increased productivity, Ghana’s reliance on imports could decline, stabilizing the cedi and improving exchange rates. Comparative Figures Unemployment: Current rate at approximately 12%; projected reduction by 3-5% within the first five years of a 24-hour economy implementation. Debt-to-GDP Ratio: Currently above 70%; increased GDP through a 24-hour economy could reduce the debt ratio by generating internal revenue and decreasing the dependency on loans. Inflation Rate: Currently over 40%; by increasing domestic production and minimizing import reliance, inflation could be contained to manageable levels. Exchange Rate: The cedi has depreciated significantly against the dollar. With increased exports and decreased import reliance, we could stabilize the exchange rate, lessening the cedi’s vulnerability. 4. Digitalization as a Support Mechanism, Not the Core Solution Digitalization remains an essential part of a modern economy but should act as a supportive tool within the 24-hour economic framework. The ongoing digital systems, such as mobile payments and digital ID systems, will support the 24-hour economy by increasing efficiency but cannot independently drive economic growth or job creation. 5. Why Ghana Needs the 24-Hour Economy Now In a country facing a mounting debt crisis, high inflation, and an employment crisis, we need policies that provide real, immediate solutions. The 24-hour economy is a visionary yet pragmatic policy designed to drive economic stability and growth. Ghana’s challenges require an economic shift that can bring tangible results across all sectors, from industry to services, creating jobs, stabilizing the cedi, and reducing our debt. Conclusion: Choose Transformation Over Continuation The Alliance for Civic Action calls on all Ghanaians to critically examine the options before us. While digitalization is a necessary process that will continue regardless of leadership, the 24-hour economy presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Ghana’s economic structure fundamentally. We urge you to support a policy that aligns with Ghana's current economic needs and to choose the future that a 24-hour economy promises—a Ghana that works for all, around the clock. For media inquiries, please contact:
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President, Alliance For Civic Action
0244819302

Project Title:
Youth in National Decision Making - Elections 2024

Project Objective:
To engage and mobilize the youth (ages 18-35) to actively participate in the 2024 elections by voting for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The project aims to explain and promote the NDC's national policies and their impact on transforming Ghana's economy.

Key Goals:
1. Increase youth voter turnout for the NDC in the 2024 elections.
2. Educate the youth on the NDC's policies and how they benefit the youth and the nation.
3. Foster a sense of political engagement and national decision-making among the youth.

Target Audience:
Youth aged 18-35 across Ghana.

Project Components:
1. Educational Campaigns:
- Organize seminars, workshops, and town hall meetings.
- Create educational materials (brochures, flyers, social media content).

2. Digital Engagement:
- Launch social media campaigns (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok).
- Create interactive content (videos, infographics, live Q&As).

3. Community Outreach:
- Form youth volunteer teams for door-to-door campaigns.
- Partner with youth organizations, schools, and universities.

4. Youth Policy Forums:
- Host forums for youth dialogue and feedback.
- Feature NDC representatives for direct engagement.

5. Engagement through Entertainment:
- Organize concerts, sports events, and other youth-focused activities.
- Feature popular influencers and NDC ambassadors.

Programme Outline:
Phase 1: Planning (Aug–Sept 2024)
- Form teams, develop materials, and schedule events.

Phase 2: Launch (Oct 2024)
- Begin outreach and social media campaigns.

Phase 3: Community Engagement (Nov 2024)
- Door-to-door campaigns and policy forums.

Phase 4: Entertainment Events (Dec 2024)
- Large-scale youth events and rallies.

Phase 5: Final Push (Jan 2025)
- Final mobilization and volunteer deployment.

Budget Estimate:
1. Educational Materials: GHS 50,000
2. Social Media Campaign: GHS 30,000
3. Community Outreach: GHS 40,000
4. Policy Forums: GHS 20,000
5. Entertainment Events: GHS 60,000
6. Miscellaneous: GHS 10,000
Total: GHS 210,000

Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Track social media metrics.
- Gather feedback from participants.
- Analyze voter registration and turnout data.
- Conduct follow-up surveys to assess impact.

Conclusion:
The "Youth in National Decision Making - Elections 2024" project is a strategic initiative to educate and mobilize young voters in support of the NDC. Through education, outreach, and engagement, the youth will become a decisive force in the upcoming elections.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Alliance For Civic Action Condemns Minority Leader’s Rush to Supreme Court over Parliamentary Issues

The Alliance For Civic Action (ACA) has observed with concern the recent developments in Ghana's Parliament, notably the rushed decision by the Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to seek Supreme Court intervention on a matter clearly within the purview of parliamentary procedure. This action underscores a lack of experience in handling parliamentary affairs and threatens the autonomy of Parliament as a co-equal branch of government.

In what we believe to be a misguided appeal, Hon. Afenyo-Markin is reportedly seeking the Supreme Court’s interpretation of Article 79(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution. However, the Constitution itself is clear: matters relating to parliamentary elections fall exclusively within the jurisdiction of the High Court, as outlined in Article 99. The Minority Leader’s actions not only contravene established parliamentary norms but also cast doubt on his commitment to upholding the sanctity and sovereignty of Parliament.

This unusual approach, coupled with the Supreme Court’s swift ruling, raises questions about the impartiality of this intervention. For decades, parliamentary leaders, including Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu and Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, have upheld Parliament’s independence by resolving its matters internally. ACA firmly believes this respect for legislative sovereignty is critical in maintaining a balanced, functioning democracy.

Alliance For Civic Action is calling on the Supreme Court to exercise restraint and defer to Parliament’s authority in addressing its internal matters. Parliament must retain the ability to interpret and enforce its rules without undue judicial interference, safeguarding its role as a co-equal arm of government.

In the spirit of upholding Ghana’s democratic principles, we urge all Ghanaians to remain vigilant and committed to the rule of law. The stability of our democracy relies on mutual respect between the judiciary, legislature, and executive.

Signed,
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
Alliance For Civic Action (ACA)
Tel: 0244819302

Press Release

Explaining John Mahama’s "Big Push" Initiative: A Transformative Plan for Ghana's Economy
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – November 14, 2024

The Alliance For Civic Action (ACA) is proud to endorse and bring to the public’s attention an important aspect of former President John Dramani Mahama’s plan for Ghana’s development — the “Big Push.” As the 2024 elections approach, it is essential for Ghanaians to understand the vision and transformative policies that John Mahama offers to move our nation forward.

The “Big Push” initiative is a comprehensive economic strategy aimed at transforming Ghana through a significant infrastructure investment drive. This ambitious plan addresses Ghana’s immediate infrastructure deficits while laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and the improvement of living standards for all Ghanaians.

1. Massive Infrastructure Development
The Big Push is committed to addressing Ghana’s infrastructure needs. It envisions the construction and improvement of roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and housing to ensure reliable infrastructure across the nation.

2. Job Creation Through Local Investments
The initiative will generate thousands of jobs, especially for the youth, by empowering local contractors and businesses, thereby stimulating local entrepreneurship and economic activity.

3. Public-Private Sector Partnerships
The Big Push seeks to bring in public and private investment, encouraging partnerships that enable large-scale development projects through collaborative efforts with local and foreign investors.

4. Sustainable Funding Strategies
Funding will be sourced through a responsible mix of public financing, bonds, and PPPs. The plan ensures sustainability without overburdening the national budget.

5. Social Infrastructure: Health and Education
The initiative also includes major investments in health and education — more hospitals, schools, better equipment, and more professionals to ensure universal access to quality services.

Conclusion
The ACA believes the Big Push represents a transformative opportunity for Ghana. It promises jobs, growth, and lasting development. We call on all Ghanaians to understand and support this bold vision.

We stand with John Mahama in his mission to rebuild Ghana and provide the prosperity and stability that every citizen deserves.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President, Alliance For Civic Action
0244819302

Press Release

Ghanaians Must Brace for More Errors, Discrepancies, and Irregularities by the Electoral Commission (EC)
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – February 27, 2025

The Alliance for Civic Action (ACA) expresses grave concern over the persistent errors, discrepancies, and irregularities in the operations of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana. These ongoing issues have significantly eroded public confidence in the institution tasked with safeguarding the credibility of Ghana’s electoral process.

Since the contentious 2020 elections, the EC has demonstrated a worrying pattern of lapses that undermine its mandate. Among the most notable incidents were the frequent adjustments to the results used to declare the presidential election outcome, which raised serious doubts about the integrity of the process. Additionally, the theft of registration kits and biometric verification devices (BVDs) from supposedly high-security environments has further dented the EC’s reputation.

During the recent limited voter registration exercise, the EC itself admitted to discrepancies in voter registration data. Furthermore, instances of unauthorized voter transfers, errors in ballot printing, ballot shortages in regions such as Volta and Bono, and the retrieval and destruction of ballot papers have painted a troubling picture. Most recently, defaced ballot papers from the special voting exercise on December 2 resulted in voters in regions like Western and Eastern being rescheduled, highlighting a lack of preparedness and operational inefficiency.

It is deeply concerning that these irregularities persist despite the EC’s assurances of improvement. The institution’s repeated admission of errors without meaningful corrective measures suggests either incompetence or the pursuit of an undisclosed agenda. The rescinded decision to limit media representation at collation centers further fuels suspicions of a lack of transparency and readiness for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

Public trust in the EC has plummeted. Research shows that nearly half of Ghanaians doubt the Commission’s ability to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections. The EC Chairperson’s recent statement that “perfection should not be expected as we are only human” is both disheartening and unbefitting of an institution with the experience and resources to build a reliable electoral system.

The ACA believes these repeated failures jeopardize Ghana’s democracy. As we approach the critical December 7, 2024, elections, we urge all political stakeholders, particularly opposition parties, to prepare their supporters for potential irregularities and errors. Orienting party members to respond calmly and lawfully will be crucial in preserving national peace and stability.

We call on the Electoral Commission to redeem its image by ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. The EC must commit to addressing its systemic lapses, restoring public trust, and upholding its constitutional mandate to deliver credible elections.

The Alliance for Civic Action remains committed to advocating for accountability and transparency in Ghana’s democratic processes. We hope every Ghanaian will join us in holding the EC accountable while maintaining the peace we cherish.

God bless our homeland Ghana.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President, Alliance For Civic Action
0244819302

Press Release

ACA Commends Supreme Court Justices for Upholding Democracy and Judicial Integrity'
Alliance for Civic Action (ACA)

Accra, Ghana – December 27, 2024

The Alliance for Civic Action (ACA) expresses profound appreciation and commendation to the Justices of the Supreme Court of Ghana for their bold, impartial, and constitutionally grounded ruling on the re-collated parliamentary election results for Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, and Techiman South.

This landmark judgment underscores the Supreme Court's critical role as the guardian of our democracy and a beacon of justice in ensuring the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process. By annulling the Electoral Commission’s (EC) declarations for these constituencies, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed the foundational principles of fairness, transparency, and adherence to constitutional and procedural requirements.

The ACA acknowledges the judiciary's commitment to addressing electoral irregularities decisively, which restores confidence in our judicial system. The ruling further amplifies the importance of due process and the protection of the rights of all citizens, including parliamentary candidates who sought a fair hearing in challenging the disputed re-collation process.

We laud the presiding judge, Justice Gabriel Pwamang, and the entire panel for their meticulous and impartial examination of this case. By exercising their discretionary power to quash the orders of mandamus for re-collation in Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, and Techiman South, the Supreme Court has demonstrated its resolve to uphold the sanctity of Ghana’s democracy.

The ACA also notes with satisfaction the Court’s clarification that, despite this annulment, the mandate to ensure due process in other unresolved constituencies remains intact. This approach reflects a balanced and judicious stance in preserving the rule of law and ensuring that no party is unfairly disadvantaged.

We call on all Ghanaians to support the judiciary’s efforts to strengthen our democratic structures and ensure that justice prevails in every aspect of our national life. The ACA remains committed to working with all stakeholders to safeguard the democratic values we hold dear as a nation.

Once again, we extend our gratitude to the Supreme Court for its determination, courage, and unwavering dedication to the principles of justice.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Francis Kwesi Badu-Mello
President, Alliance For Civic Action
0244819302