Dr. Maryam Issaka Kriese has been unveiled as the running mate of independent presidential candidate and leader of the New Force, Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar, for the upcoming December 7 presidential election. The announcement was made at a press conference in Kumasi, where Dr. Kriese’s impressive qualifications and extensive experience were highlighted as a critical asset to the campaign.
Dr. Kriese brings a wealth of financial expertise to the table, having served as Senior Manager at the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), Ghana. In this role, she played a pivotal part in shaping Ghana’s financial landscape through her strategic oversight of investments, licensing of capital market operators, and the development of essential regulations. Her work in training market operators and educating investors has positioned her as a leader in financial empowerment.
Beyond her professional achievements at the SEC, Dr. Maryam Issaka Kriese is also a distinguished academic. She has taught at the University of Ghana Business School and the University of Professional Studies, Accra, imparting her deep knowledge of finance to the next generation of business leaders. She holds a PhD in Finance, an MBA, and advanced certifications in Islamic Finance and ERP software, which underscore her comprehensive understanding of both conventional and Islamic financial systems.
A devout Muslim and passionate advocate for women’s rights, Dr. Kriese has dedicated her career to advancing financial education and inclusion, and her advocacy work has garnered widespread respect. Nana Kwame Bediako praised her contribution to the campaign, saying, “Whether it’s reshaping policies, advancing financial education, or contributing to groundbreaking research, she stands as an indomitable force driving both Ghana and Africa toward financial inclusion and economic resilience.”
With the New Force gaining momentum as a promising alternative to the two leading political parties, Dr. Maryam Issaka Kriese is expected to play a key role in pushing forward the party’s vision for economic transformation, inclusivity, and opportunity. As the election season heats up, all eyes will be on Dr. Kriese and Nana Bediako as they take their message of hope and change to the people of Ghana.