TIG Post

Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

  • Parliament approves bill to reinstate July 1 as a public holiday

    Parliament approves bill to reinstate July 1 as a public holiday

    July 1 has been reinstated as a statutory public holiday after Parliament on Wednesday, June 25, passed the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which amends Act 601.

    This followed the assessment by the Committee on Defence and Interior, along with the leadership of the Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs, who deemed the bill urgent.


    While presenting the motion for the adoption of the committee’s report, Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, explained that the government had reviewed the number of public holidays in line with its earlier commitments to reform and streamline the holiday calendar.

    He emphasized that Republic Day holds great significance in Ghana’s history, which is why the government is reinstating it as a full public holiday.

    According to him, Ghana would continue to observe key holidays such as New Year’s Day on January 1, Constitution Day on January 7, Independence Day on March 6, Good Friday and Easter Monday in March or April for Christians, Labour Day on May 1, and Republic Day on July 1.


    The bill was introduced to Parliament by Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka in his capacity as Interior Minister last week and was passed under a certificate of urgency after its first reading.

    In 2024, President John Dramani Mahama expressed regret over his predecessor, former President Akufo-Addo’s decision to abolish Republic Day as a public holiday, and pledged to reinstate it.

    He wrote on Facebook, “It is most regrettable that the current government has scrapped commemorating this important day as a public holiday. However, as we reflect on the significance of Republic Day, let us use this as a rallying call to rekindle the spirit of dedication and commitment that our forebears demonstrated. We must continue building a better, renewed Ghana, where opportunities are created for everyone to thrive.

    During his Thank You tour in the Western Region on February 5, President Mahama revealed not only does he plan to declare July 1 a statutory holiday but also a day Ghanaians will gather and pray.


    This proposed day would provide an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on and appreciate the country’s achievements and progress.


    “We will have the opportunity as a nation soon to pray and give thanks to the Almighty God, as enjoined by the Holy Book that says, ‘In all things, give thanks,’” he stated.


    Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians to support President John Dramani Mahama’s declaration of July 1 as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.


    “All of us have to support this initiative. It is a worthwhile initiative that we have this one day where all of us come together to give thanks to the Almighty for the many, many blessings He has bestowed upon us,” former President Akufo-Addo said.


    To facilitate a seamless observance, President Mahama has established a committee of religious leaders responsible for coordinating the event’s preparations.


    Meanwhile, the amended Act grants an additional holiday for the Muslim community, Shaqq Day, a statutory public holiday to be observed the day after Eid-ul-Fitr.

    In the same vein, August 4 has been removed from the list of public holidays as Founders’ Day, and instead, September 21 will now be observed as Founder’s Day.

  • Govt presents 24-hour economy document to Speaker, policy kicks off on July 2

    Govt presents 24-hour economy document to Speaker, policy kicks off on July 2

    Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy Policy, Goosie Tanoh, on Thursday, June 26, presented the 24-hour economy policy to the Speaker of Parliament, Kingsford Sumana Alban Bagbin.

    The 24-hour economy policy, which was a key promise during President Mahama’s campaign in 2024, is set to be launched on July 2, according to Goosie Tanoh.

    The initiative aims to enhance economic productivity by encouraging businesses to operate continuously, creating more job opportunities, boosting revenue generation, and improving service delivery.

    It also seeks to extend working hours nationwide. Sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, retail, healthcare, hospitality, and financial services stand to benefit significantly from this model.

    In his presentation yesterday, Mr Tanoh mentioned the move is to officially inform ‘the people’s representatives’ about the government’s readiness to roll out the programme.

    On some details on the policy, Mr Goosie Tanoh said the programme is expanded into three anchors: “production transformation, supply chain and market efficiency, and human capital development.” The three anchors, according to him, are supported by eight sub-programmes.

    “Roll 24 – which is the agricultural component, Make 24 – which is the manufacturing component, Connect 24 – the supply chain component, Aspire 24 – which is the mindset change, the resetting of the Ghanaian and Ghanaian bureaucracy with a strong and powerful attitude to work and productivity,” he explained.

    According to him, the government is set to include strong digital technology training in the TVET curriculum to train and equip an employable workforce with the requisite skills for employment opportunities.

    Another component, dubbed ‘Show Ghana,’ is also set to focus on an intentional effort and approach by the government to give visibility to Ghana’s rich cultural heritage to the rest of the world to attract more tourists and increase revenue generation through tourism.

    Speaker Alban Bagbin, in response, mentioned that the team’s arrival had been anticipated and his outfit would call on them for any clarity when the need be, urging the legislation to back the programme.

    Earlier, President John Dramani Mahama stated that the 24-Hour Economy Policy is a long-term goal that will keep the country productive on a 24/7 basis, alongside stabilising the economy through the creation of more jobs.

    In a meeting with some stakeholders in Accra in May, President Mahama indicated that the policy is a comprehensive programme that requires strategic planning and collaborative efforts.

    According to him, the final draft of the policy has undergone review by him, and he is confident it will realise its objectives.

    “I have authorised the 24-hour economy secretariat to begin detailed programme design and investment packaging. The draft programme document will be released publicly on Tuesday for broader consultation.”

    “I have reviewed it, and I’m confident we now have a coherent and actionable framework with which to deliver the results. An effective catalyst for the 24-hour economy policy is a stable macroeconomic environment, which we are achieving through close coordination between the monetary and fiscal authorities,” he added.

  • Over 1,600 join Fire Service

    Over 1,600 join Fire Service

    The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has welcomed a total of 1,658 recruits following an eight-month training programme at the Fire Academy and Training School in Jamestown, Accra.

    843 men and 815 women were officially inducted into the service on Friday, June 20, at Recruit Course 55.

    The graduation ceremony witnessed a parade and live demonstrations from the firefighters.

    In a speech, Reviewing Officer and Special Guest of Honour, Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, applauded the recruits for undergoing a successful training.

    He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhance welfare and morale within the service.

    According to him, firefighters who experience non-permanent injuries in the line of executing their duties are entitled to GHS50,000.

    With those who may die or suffer permanent injuries will on duty, will receive GH₵100,000.

    In addition, if a firefighter dies from a non-duty-related incident and is still serving, their family will receive GHS50,000 compensation.


    Four exceptional recruits were honored for their outstanding performance during the course. Recruit Fireman Samuel Kenneth Ayibontey was named the Overall Best Recruit for excelling across all training modules.

    Prior to the minister’s insurance announcement, the GNFS bemoaned the absence of an insurance package that ensures its officers who get injured in the line of duty are catered for.

    Recruit Fireman Anamfo Gerrard Adombila received the award for Best in Academics.

    Recruit Fireman Emmanuel Addo Ahunu was recognized as Best in Foot Drill. Recruit Firewoman Anita Awagah earned the Commandant’s Award for Best Conduct.


    The Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares), an initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to individuals living with chronic diseases across the country, continues to receive major support from stakeholders.

    Some 11 agencies under the Ministry of the Interior have collectively donated GH¢1 million to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund at a short ceremony at Jubilee House in Accra.


    Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, who led the team for the donation, explained that it was a gesture of goodwill, as sickness knows no boundaries and can affect anyone.


    The breakdown of the contributions made by the agencies is as follows: Ghana Police Service (GH¢580,000), Ghana Immigration Service (GH¢100,000), Ghana National Fire Service (GH¢50,000), National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) (GH¢50,000), and the Ghana Prisons Service (GH¢50,000).
    Others include the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) (GH¢10,000), National Identification Authority (NIA) (GH¢50,000), Gaming Commission (GH¢50,000), Ghana Refugees Board (GH¢5,000), National Peace Council (GH¢5,000) and the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (GH¢10,000).
    `
    The Minister for the Interior and National Security, Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, also made a personal contribution of GH¢50,000, while the Deputy Minister for the Interior, Mr. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, also donated GH¢30,000.


    President John Dramani Mahama expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of the Interior and its agencies for their support, emphasizing that the initiative is rooted in compassion, equity, and shared national responsibility.
    The Cabinet had approved a bill for the Mahama Cares Fund.

  • OSP files appeal challenging High Court ruling in former Juaben MCE nominee bribery case

    OSP files appeal challenging High Court ruling in former Juaben MCE nominee bribery case

    A ruling by the High Court in Kumasi, which acquitted and discharged Alexander Kwabena Sarfo Kantanka, 2021 nominee for Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Juaben, Ashanti Region, is being challenged by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

    In a post on the X platform on Wednesday, June 25, the OSP argued that “the judgment is inconsistent with the weight of the evidence and that the trial judge erred on key legal and factual issues”.

    According to the OSP, “justice was not served and has taken steps to challenge the decision at the appellate level”.

    In 2022, the OSP leveled 26 counts of corruption against Alexander Kwabena Sarfo Kantanka under the Akufo-Addo-led government, following a viral video of him demanding money he had given to assembly members to gain approval for his nomination.

    Sarfo Kantanka ‘s demand came after failing to secure the needed votes to become the MCE for the Juaben Municipal Assembly in the after two rounds of voting in September and November.

    The OSP’s charges were in respect of a public election contrary to Section 256 (1)(2) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) as amended by Section 9 of the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Act, 2020 (Act 1034) by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    The suspect allegedly gave the elected members of the assem­bly GH¢5000 each and gave GH¢2,500 to each of the govern­ment appointees.

    The trial commenced at the Kumasi High Court on 20 October. The following year in July, the OSP closed its case. Four months later, the then-accused filed a Submission of No Case.

    On November 29, the OSP filed a written response to the Submission of No Case by the accused. The court on April 9, 2024, dismissed the Submission of No Case.

    This prompted Mr. Sarfo-Kantanka to file an appeal at the Court of Appeal and concurrently file for a stay of proceedings at the Kumasi High Court, but both failed.

    The trial judgment was delivered on May 26, which was initially ready for delivery in November 2024 after the presiding judge was transferred.

    The Republic vs. Alexander Sarfo Kantanka legal tussle that spanned 2 years and 11 months came to an end with the latter emerging victorious.

    The court ruled that the video evidence does not show that he gave money to influence assembly members.

  • Lectures excluded from social gatherings ban – UG

    Lectures excluded from social gatherings ban – UG

    Management of the University of Ghana, Legon, has clarified that its ban on social gatherings does not include lectures.

    In a recent report, the UG said it has taken drastic measures to quell the spread of COVID-19 cases that have resurged within its vicinity.

    As such, all student bodies, including the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG), Students’ Representative Council (SRC), Junior Common Rooms (JCRs), and departmental and school associations, have been directed to halt all week celebrations.

    In a statement dated June 23, the Health Services Directorate of UG noted that a few suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases in the immediate vicinity.

    In light of this, the Health Services Directorate has reactivated its COVID-19 Response Protocols, including screening and triage measures at health facilities.

    Subsequently, all staff, students, and visitors are strongly advised to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to recommended preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection and community spread.

    The preventive measures include wearing face masks properly, especially in enclosed or crowded spaces, and washing hands frequently with soap under running water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.

    The university community has been instructed to maintain physical distancing of at least one metre where possible as well as avoid large gatherings unless absolutely necessary.

    “Ensure good ventilation in offices, lecture halls, and meeting rooms,” one of the preventive measures mandates.

    Individuals who experience any flu-like symptoms are advised to stay at home and seek prompt medical attention.

    The Directorate noted that it is monitoring the situation closely and will provide regular updates, while calling on all and sundry to “work together to protect ourselves and our community.”

    COVID-19 is the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. It usually spreads between people in close contact.

    COVID-19 vaccines provide strong protection against severe illness and death. Although a person can still get COVID-19 after vaccination, they are more likely to have mild or no symptoms.

    According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 symptoms typically appear 5 to 6 days after exposure and can last between 1 and 14 days, ranging from common symptoms like fever, chills, and sore throat to less common ones such as muscle aches, severe fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, sore eyes, dizziness, a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, hoarseness, numbness, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, altered taste or smell, and difficulty sleeping.

    In 2020, COVID-19 was declared a public health emergency of international concern. In March of the period in question, Ghana recorded its first case.

    In May 2023, the UN World Health Organization declared an end to COVID-19 as a public health emergency, stressing that it does not mean the disease is no longer a global threat.According to the Ghana Health Service (GHS), significant portions of the population remain either partially vaccinated or unvaccinated, posing ongoing vulnerability to the disease.

    In July 2024, the GHS initiated a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination campaign where it administered 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines to all individuals aged 18 years and above, intensifying efforts to bolster vaccination rates.

    Vaccination teams operate at hospitals, clinics, and health centers, ensuring accessibility to COVID-19 vaccines.

    Additionally, teams conduct outreach activities at residences, markets, places of worship, workplaces, and other venues to facilitate widespread access.

    According to GHS, COVID-19 vaccination is now a routine for adults, available at all vaccination sites nationwide.

    As of 2023, the cumulative cases worldwide stood at 765,222,932, with nearly seven million deaths. As of 30 April, a total of more than 13.3 billion vaccine doses have been administered worldwide.

    According to data provided by the UN WHO, Europe recorded the highest number of confirmed cases, approaching 300 million, whereas Africa recorded the least. The highest number of deaths, exceeding 2.5 million, was recorded in Europe. Africa recorded the least number of death cases.

  • Proceedings to probe petitions against CJ not politically motivated – Felix Kwakye

    Proceedings to probe petitions against CJ not politically motivated – Felix Kwakye

    The government has refuted recent claims made by the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, amidst investigations and petitions for her removal.

    According to the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.

    Engaging the press today, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reiterated allegations of unconstitutionality with regard to the process of her removal, as well as infringement of her rights during the hearing by the committee set up by the president.

    However, in response, the government’s spokesperson noted, “The Chief Justice, more than anybody else, perhaps in this country, should be aware of the platform that is available to address such threats. If today, someone sends you a threat, you know where to go to seek redress in the matter, and that is what I will say about it”.

    Justice Torkornoo was suspended on Tuesday, April 22, by President John Dramani Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case based on separate petitions calling for her removal. The action was in accordance with Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution and comes after consultations with the Council of State.

    In her engagement with the press, Justice Torkornoo expressed displeasure over the use of the Adu Lodge during hearings, which she believes is being used to make her insecure, as it served as a site where plans were made to kill judges on June 30, 1981, as well as the alleged refusal of the committee to give her copies of the petitions presented to them by the president.

    “There has never been a hearing for the removal of the Chief Justice. One would have therefore hoped that if such a process becomes necessary, it will provide good guidance and precedent for nation building.

    Unfortunately, every step of the removal process being undertaken against me is being done in a manner that breaks every rule on how justice is delivered in our country

    This is why I find the need to draw the nation’s attention to the serious violations of the constitution and law in the process and the danger it holds for the development of the nation’s democracy,” she added.

    Chief Justice Torkornoo has noted that she has received threats to resign from her position.

    “I have also received threats and veiled threats to the effect that if I fail to resign or retire voluntarily, I will be made to suffer some harm or the other,” she told the media on June 25.

    Background

    On May 21, Justice Torkornoo filed an injunction application, which, among other things, questioned the constitutionality of the committee’s formation and the legality of her suspension announced in April.

    The five-member committee includes Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang—Supreme Court Justice (Chairman), Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu—Supreme Court Justice, Daniel Yaw Domelevo—Former Auditor-General Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces Representative Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, and Associate Professor at the University of Ghana.Justice Torkornoo requested the apex court to bar Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Adib-Asiedu from sitting on the case, citing a conflict of interest.

    She again argued that Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu also served as a Supreme Court panel member who presided over a related injunction application.

    The suspended Chief Justice also raised questions about the eligibility of the three remaining committee members, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, under Articles 146 (1), (2), (4), 23, and 296 of the Constitution and sections of the Oaths Act, 1972.Article 23—This article guarantees administrative justice, stating that all administrative bodies and officials must act fairly and reasonably and comply with the law.

    Article 296—This provision regulates the exercise of discretionary power by public officials, requiring them to act fairly, transparently, and without bias. It prevents arbitrary decision-making and ensures that discretion is exercised within legal limits.

    Oaths Act, 1972—This law governs the oaths of office taken by public officials, ensuring they uphold their duties with integrity.

    The Attorney-General, in response to Madam Torkonoo’s interlocutory injunction, also filed an affidavit on May 26, stating that there is no basis in law for the two Supreme Court judges to be restrained from participating in the petition probe.

    The Supreme Court on May 28 dismissed a supplementary affidavit filed on May 26, where the suspended Chief Justice made allegations of rights abuse by the committee.

    Justice Torkonoo alleged she was subjected to mental torture at the hearing. According to her, upon her arrival at the venue set for her hearing, she was made to go through a body search, her phones and laptops were collected, and her spouse and children were denied access to the room.

    According to the apex court, the events referenced happened before the committee investigated the petitions for her removal — proceedings that, by law, are expected to be held in camera.

    Making a case for the chair of the committee, Justice Pwamang, argued that his participation in cases put before the courts by one of the petitioners cannot constitute evidence of bias.

    Regarding Justice Samuel Adibu Asiedu, the Attorney-General indicated that he did not participate in the injunction hearing and can therefore not be barred.

    The Attorney-General further noted that members of the committee have all taken the necessary oath of office, contrary to claims by the Chief Justice.

    So far, the Supreme Court has dismissed four suits filed against the petitions seeking the removal of the Chief Justice.

    Justice Torkornoo was appointed as Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice in June 2023, succeeding Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah. Her appointment marked her as the third woman to serve in the role in Ghana’s history.

  • Every claim in petitions against me are false – CJ Torkornoo

    Every claim in petitions against me are false – CJ Torkornoo

    The suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has refuted the claims outlined in petitions calling for her removal.

    She has described them as baseless and untrue, adding that she has evidence to prove her innocence.

    Addressing the press on Wednesday, June 25, she noted that the ongoing proceedings set a dangerous precedent for judges in the country, adding that it violates CI 47.

    “The clear danger is that in light of flagrant violation of CI 47, the very rules the Committee claims to be using, and the darkness of the current proceedings being held in camera, my lawyers and I can come to the end of proceedings; the evidence will show that every allegation in the Petitions that were given to me by the President on 27th March 2025 is unfounded and untrue.”

    She raised concerns about transparency concerning the venue for the hearings being conducted.

    “It is clear that the choice of venue, against the background of the secrecy of proceedings, was intended to intimidate me and to prevent any citizen of Ghana from knowing how the proceedings are being conducted,” she added.

    Justice Torkornoo was suspended on Tuesday, April 22, by President John Dramani Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case based on separate petitions calling for her removal. The action was in accordance with Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution and comes after consultations with the Council of State.

    Engaging the press today, Wednesday, June 25, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reiterated allegations of unconstitutionality with regard to the process of her removal, as well as infringement of her rights during the hearing by the committee set up by the president.

    She expressed her displeasure over the use of the Adu Lodge during hearings as well as the alleged refusal of the committee to give her copies of the petitions presented to them by the President.

    “There has never been a hearing for the removal of the Chief Justice. One would have therefore hoped that if such a process becomes necessary, it will provide good guidance and precedent for nation building.

    Unfortunately, every step of the removal process being undertaken against me is being done in a manner that breaks every rule on how justice is delivered in our country

    This is why I find the need to draw the nation’s attention to the serious violations of the constitution and law in the process and the danger it holds for the development of the nation’s democracy”

    Background

    On May 21, Justice Torkornoo filed an injunction application, which, among other things, questioned the constitutionality of the committee’s formation and the legality of her suspension announced in April.

    The five-member committee includes Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang—Supreme Court Justice (Chairman), Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu—Supreme Court Justice, Daniel Yaw Domelevo—Former Auditor-General Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces Representative Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, and Associate Professor at the University of Ghana.Justice Torkornoo requested the apex court to bar Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Adib-Asiedu from sitting on the case, citing a conflict of interest.

    She again argued that Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu also served as a Supreme Court panel member who presided over a related injunction application.

    The suspended Chief Justice also raised questions about the eligibility of the three remaining committee members, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, under Articles 146 (1), (2), (4), 23, and 296 of the Constitution and sections of the Oaths Act, 1972.Article 23—This article guarantees administrative justice, stating that all administrative bodies and officials must act fairly and reasonably and comply with the law.

    Article 296—This provision regulates the exercise of discretionary power by public officials, requiring them to act fairly, transparently, and without bias. It prevents arbitrary decision-making and ensures that discretion is exercised within legal limits.

    Oaths Act, 1972—This law governs the oaths of office taken by public officials, ensuring they uphold their duties with integrity.

    The Attorney-General, in response to Madam Torkonoo’s interlocutory injunction, also filed an affidavit on May 26, stating that there is no basis in law for the two Supreme Court judges to be restrained from participating in the petition probe.

    The Supreme Court on May 28 dismissed a supplementary affidavit filed on May 26, where the suspended Chief Justice made allegations of rights abuse by the committee.

    Justice Torkonoo alleged she was subjected to mental torture at the hearing. According to her, upon her arrival at the venue set for her hearing, she was made to go through a body search, her phones and laptops were collected, and her spouse and children were denied access to the room.

    According to the apex court, the events referenced happened before the committee investigated the petitions for her removal — proceedings that, by law, are expected to be held in camera.

    Making a case for the chair of the committee, Justice Pwamang, argued that his participation in cases put before the courts by one of the petitioners cannot constitute evidence of bias.

    Regarding Justice Samuel Adibu Asiedu, the Attorney-General indicated that he did not participate in the injunction hearing and can therefore not be barred.

    The Attorney-General further noted that members of the committee have all taken the necessary oath of office, contrary to claims by the Chief Justice.

    So far, the Supreme Court has dismissed four suits filed against the petitions seeking the removal of the Chief Justice.

    Justice Torkornoo was appointed as Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice in June 2023, succeeding Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah. Her appointment marked her as the third woman to serve in the role in Ghana’s history.

  • Let’s elect an un-baised leader – Kufuor to NPP ahead of its presidential primaries

    Let’s elect an un-baised leader – Kufuor to NPP ahead of its presidential primaries

    Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has sent a word of advice to the members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of the party’s flagbearer race.

    Speaking at the launch of the party’s new think tank, the Patriotic Institute, on Wednesday, 25 June, Mr Kufuor called on party supporters to elect a leader who is not influenced by religious and tribal bias.

    “We are a democratic party and we uphold common humanity. In a democracy, we don’t go for tribe or religion or gender but the individual. It is one man, one vote, and if we want power, we have to present a person who will be convincing to the generality of the electorate,” he added.

    He explained that the flagbearer should be one who can diligently serve the people of Ghana.

    “We’ve been brushed by our opponents as a tribal party — and these days, we are even adding religion. If these things come from our own mouths, then I tell you, we are perpetuating it ourselves,” he lamented.

    “Tell the truth to ourselves” and focus on selecting a leader who can unify the country and “help solve the problems of the community at large, so it benefits and spreads across the board for all,” he stated.

    The NPP will hold its presidential primaries on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

    The decision was taken at a crucial meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held on Tuesday, 17th June 2025, and later confirmed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua and also in an official statement.

    “And the National Council today also made the decision that the date for our presidential primaries is set for January 31, 2026. That will be the date that we shall hold our presidential primaries” parts of the statement said.

    This sets the stage for a decisive contest to elect the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    The statement also revealed that “the Committee also spoke about the time for our presidential primaries. And again, the Committee agrees that that decision does not warrant amendment of our Constitution”.

    The primaries are anticipated to attract significant interest from both longstanding members and new contenders seeking to lead the NPP into the next electoral cycle.

    Party officials also noted that nomination guidelines, timelines for campaign activities, and the code of conduct for aspirants will be released in the coming weeks, with the NEC promising party members a transparent and credible process that upholds the democratic values of the NPP.

    Also speaking in an interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday, June 17, Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, explained that the seemingly early date slated for the party’s primaries is intentional.

    He noted that it is meant to give the chosen flagbearer a head start in policy communication and to foster stronger connections with both the international community and the business sector.

    He believes this will reposition the party as a credible and prepared alternative ahead of the 2028 general elections.

    “It is going to market the candidate enough, particularly in terms of building contacts with the international community, the business community, and stakeholders across the globe,” he noted.

    “We will have sufficient time to communicate our policies effectively and hold the government accountable.”

    Also, given the NPP’s current minority status in Parliament, with only 88 seats, he believes an early start will help intensify external engagements.

    “We need someone who can rise above internal distractions and rally support nationally and beyond to keep the government in check,” he added.

  • ‘Goodbye’ was written in my mum’s kitchen – Sarkodie

    ‘Goodbye’ was written in my mum’s kitchen – Sarkodie

    Multiple award-winning Ghanaian rapper, Sarkodie, has shared how his song, ‘Goodbye’, was composed.

    According to him, the idea and the inspiration for the lyrics came to him while at his mum’s kitchen.

    “Wrote this particular song in my mums kitchen (Tema),” Sarkodie tweeted in response to a video of a lady jamming to infectious rythms and lyrics of the 2019 song.

    ‘Goodbye’ is a track from Sarkodie’s 2012 album Rapperholic and was produced by Kill Beatz and features Mugeez.

    The song tells a touching story with a focus on love, regret, and separation.

    Over the years and to date, Sarkodie has received admiration from many Ghanaians and across the globe.

    He has been hailed as a source of inspiration for numerous artists and music enthusiasts across Africa.

    Recently, Dancehall artiste Shatta Wale labeled Michael Owusu Addo, known as Sarkodie, the greatest rapper in the country’s history.

    He explained that while Samuel Adu Frimpong, known as Medikal, remains his favourite rapper, he believes Sarkodie tops the chart of musicians with consistency and lyrical excellence.

    “My favourite rapper is Medikal. His music is for Gen Z, but if we are talking about the best of all time, I would give it to Sarkodie,” Shatta Wale stated.

    In 2012, Sarkodie continued his success with his Rapperholic album, securing 12 nominations and winning three awards, including ‘Artiste of the Year’ and ‘Most Popular Song of the Year’ for “U Go Kill Me.”

    Although he missed out on the Artiste of the Year nomination in 2013, Sarkodie began an impressive streak starting in 2014, with his Sarkology album earning eight nominations.

    Since then, he has consistently been a major contender, especially in the Artiste of the Year category.

    However, 2025 marks the year he has been absent from that category.

    Despite missing out on the top honour, Sarkodie has earned other nominations at the awards, including Best Hiplife Song, Best Rap Performance, Best Hiphop Song, and Best Hiplife/Hiphop Song.

  • Sarkodie raps better than them all – Shatta Wale

    Sarkodie raps better than them all – Shatta Wale

    Dancehall artiste Shatta Wale has labeled Michael Owusu Addo, known as Sarkodie, the greatest rapper in the country’s history.

    He explained that while Samuel Adu Frimpong, known as Medikal, remains his favourite rapper, he believes Sarkodie tops the chart of musicians with consistency and lyrical excellence.

    “My favourite rapper is Medikal. His music is for Gen Z, but if we are talking about the best of all time, I would give it to Sarkodie,” Shatta Wale stated.

    In an interview with U.S.-based Ghanaian fashion critic Firestick, the dancehall artiste positioned Medikal as the most rap legend after Sarkodie.

    “Medikal will be able to succeed Sarkodie hands down. What Medikal does is what most of the boys learn. The way Medikal raps is how plenty of the boys also rap. It’s just that we don’t speak the truth here,” he said.

    According to him, Medikal is talented, as such most of the young rappers in the country have adopted his style of rapping.

    Additionally, Shatta Wale mentioned that Medikal is talented as international rappers like Central Cee and Lil Baby.

    He explained that succeeding in Ghana’s music industry relies heavily on connecting with local tastes, which is why Medikal has intentionally crafted his lyrics to suit the Ghanaian market in order to sustain his career.

    “The way we have Lil Baby and Central Cee, Medikal is also on their level, just that we are in Ghana that’s why he gives those lyrics for the Ghanaian market. If he doesn’t make his lyrics to suit the Ghanaian market, he won’t eat,” he said.

    Shatta Wale and Medikal initially launched the Freedom Wave Concert in 2021, following their legal entanglements that led to their incarceration.

    They continued this successful venture with a second edition in 2022, where they received acclaim from the 40,000-strong audience for filling the stadium to capacity.

    These two artists have consistently shown unwavering support for each other over the past few years, collaborating on various projects, including their joint album, ‘Cross Roads.’

  • Celestine Donkor to minister at ‘Exceptional Gratitude’ concert in Italy

    Celestine Donkor to minister at ‘Exceptional Gratitude’ concert in Italy

    Ghanaian gospel minister Celestine Donkor is expected to perform at an upcoming concert, the Exceptional Gratitude concert in Teatro Cittadella in Modena, Italy.

    The anticipated event will take place on Saturday, 28 June, is organised by TAG Events.

    The upcoming event will be the second edition featuring guest ministers, including McDaniels OB from Düsseldorf, Germany, Lizzy and Gloria Sarfowaa from Sassuolo, Italy, and Minister Felix from Modena, Italy.

    Red carpet session starts at 15:00 DST with the main event at 16:00 DST.

    Pre-sale tickets are going for €25, with gate admission costing €30. A discounted family bundle is also available at €50 for two adults and two children under ten years old.

    Meanwhile, Celestine Donkor’s management has debunked claims purporting the cancellation of the programme.

    Her management has emphasized that it is an attempt to undermine the programme.

    “This is an evil attempt by some individuals to obstruct the show,” said Kofi Donkor, the singer’s manager.

    “The general public, especially fans of Celestine Donkor in Germany and Italy, should ignore the rumours and prepare for the event,” he added.

    Celestine Donkor, celebrated as one of Ghana’s foremost gospel voices, is widely admired for her powerful vocals and soul-stirring worship style.

    She is the visionary behind the popular Celestial Praise concert and is known for hit songs such as Agbebolo (Bread of Life), Final Say, and Only You.

    Her music ministry has reached audiences across Africa, Europe, and North America, where she continues to spread messages of hope, faith, and gratitude.

    The upcoming Exceptional Gratitude concert is expected to attract gospel music enthusiasts from across Europe, especially members of the Ghanaian and broader African diaspora in Italy and neighbouring countries.

  • Alabaster Box secures court’s approval to serve Medikal writ by alternative means

    Alabaster Box secures court’s approval to serve Medikal writ by alternative means

    Gospel group, Alabaster Box, has been granted permission by the Accra High Court to serve Ghanaian rapper Samuel Adu Frimpong, known as Medikal, via court documents through the court’s notice board, social media, and his manager.

    The court gave the order after unsuccessful attempts to reach out to the rapper through conventional means.

    Earlier this year, Alabaster Box took legal action against Medikal, for allegedly using part of their song without permission.

    The group is demanding GHC15 million in damages, claiming Medikal copied the first ten seconds of their 2002 hit Akwaaba in his new track Welcome to Africa.

    In a court document, Alabaster Box says the rapper used the sample without asking for their approval.

    They are asking the court to stop the use of the song, order compensation, and require Medikal to share all earnings made from the track.

    The lawsuit also mentions that even after sending a demand letter to Medikal, the song is still being played on major streaming platforms like Apple Music, Boomplay, Spotify, and Audiomack, and is also getting radio airplay.

    Alabaster Box is seeking to protect their intellectual property, creative work, and years of effort. The group had hoped for an amicable resolution and made five clear demands to Medikal before pursuing a lawsuit. However, their efforts were reportedly ignored.

    A written apology to the group, acknowledging the infringement and their concerns.

    Immediate removal of Welcome to Africa from all streaming platforms and media channels.

    Public acknowledgment that the song contains an unauthorized sample from Akwaaba.

    Financial compensation for the alleged use of their intellectual property.

    Sharing revenue reports detailing earnings made from the song.

    Medikal’s failure to act on these demands

    Instead of responding to Alabaster Box’s demands or trying to open a dialogue, Medikal made changes only to the YouTube version of his song Welcome to Africa, removing the first 10 seconds. However, the track remains unchanged on other major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and Boomplay—still including the part the group claims was taken from their song Akwaaba without permission.

    Alabaster Box says Medikal’s action is not just insufficient but also shows a lack of respect for their work. Their legal team called it “an admission of guilt” and “a clear indication that Medikal is aware of his infringing conduct.”

    “Plaintiff avers that defendant following the receipt of plaintiff’s demands, and in admission of his infringing conduct, edited the infringing song on his YouTube channel to remove portions relating to Plaintiff’s copyrighted work,” the writ read.

    More importantly, the group stated in their lawsuit that Medikal made this change without so much as a phone call, email, or any form of communication with the group or their lawyers.

    In the writ submitted to the court, Alabaster Box pointed out that despite being served with formal demands, Medikal “ignored and refused to honour” them.

    They further stated that while the YouTube version had been edited, the infringing version was still being promoted and distributed, from radio airplay to streaming platforms, the song is still out there and the group’s copyright is still being infringed, in their view.

    “Plaintiff repeats paragraph 25 above and says further that defendant nonetheless maintained and continued to promote the version of the song with plaintiff’s infringing copyright work on other digital platforms such as Apple Music, Spotify, Audiomack, Boomplay and for airplay on radio stations despite plaintiff’s demands,” the writ continued.

  • Having 7 justices at a time cannot be allowed – Minority

    Having 7 justices at a time cannot be allowed – Minority

    The nomination of seven justices to the Supreme Court has been opposed by the Minority in Parliament.

    The seven justices were appointed by President John Dramani Mahama to aid the operations of the judiciary.

    During Parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday, June 24, Ranking Member on the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee, Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, acknowledged the competence of the judges but expressed concern about their number.

    According to him, giving them the nod will violate the principles of the Constitution and represent an unprecedented event in the country’s history.

    He added that, “It’s not that the justices are not competent, we do not doubt their competence, but Mr Speaker, it’s flooding the box. This is the first time we are having 7 justices at a time. … This is unprecedented, it has never happened in the country, and this must not be allowed”.

    So far, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo and Justice Hafisata Ameleboba have been vetted.

    Their vetting comes after the Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin on May 27 referred the nominees to the Appointments Committee for vetting and subsequent approval.

    This is in accordance with Article 144(2) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which mandates that Supreme Court nominees undergo parliamentary scrutiny before their appointments are confirmed.

    About the nominees

    Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he was elected to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2022 for a six-year term. He has served as Director of the Judicial Training Institute and Dean of the Faculty of Law at GIMPA. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law at multiple universities.

    Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh – Appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2010, he previously served as the Supervising High Court Judge in the Eastern Region and is known for his expertise in constitutional and administrative law and represents Court of Appeal judges on Ghana’s Judicial Council.

    Justice Senyo Dzamefe – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he chaired the Dzamefe Commission, which investigated Ghana’s performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was elected President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana (AMJG) in 2018.

    Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo – A Court of Appeal judge, has emphasised the need for legal education reforms and has advocated for the integration of artificial intelligence into Ghana’s legal system to enhance efficiency and transparency.

    Justice Philip Bright Mensah – Known for his contributions to appellate jurisprudence, he recently presided over a Court of Appeal panel that directed the Accra High Court to adopt proceedings from a previous trial in the Republic vs. Stephen Kwabena Opuni case.

    Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo – A Court of Appeal judge, he has been nominated to strengthen the Supreme Court’s capacity amid increasing demands on Ghana’s judiciary.

    Justice Hafisata Ameleboba – A Court of Appeal judge, she has been involved in key judicial decisions and reforms. Her nomination is expected to bring diversity and expertise to the Supreme Court.

  • Redevelopment of Tema Children’s Park undermined by private interests – Former Mayor

    Redevelopment of Tema Children’s Park undermined by private interests – Former Mayor

    Former Mayor for Tema, David Annan, has attributed the prolonged rehabilitation works on the Tema Children’s Park to the interest of private developers.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, June 24, he explained that some private developers are relentlessly trying to claim the Park, even though it remains a government asset.

    According to him, he turned down proposals to renovate the space while in office because they failed to serve the park’s intended purpose.

    “Our challenge is that private interest is overriding the public interest with which the area was reserved. When private individuals enter, the place will be developed, yes—but not for the purpose it was intended. It becomes concrete, not green.”

    “When private individuals enter, the place will be developed, yes—but not for the purpose it was intended. It becomes concrete, not green,” he added.

    Once a lively and strategically located park in the heart of Accra, it is now in a state of neglect.

    The collapse of the state-owned Tema Children’s Park shows no signs of improvement.

    In its heyday, the park was a hub of activity, attracting many families who brought their children there for fun, especially on public holidays and weekends. The facility also hosted various events such as the award-winning Italian IL Florilegio Circus, fun fairs, and more.

    However, for over a decade, the once lively park has remained inactive. This stands in stark contrast to private parks in the national capital, which are well-maintained and continue to draw visitors.

    In 2023, residents in Tema voiced displeasure over a supposed attempt by the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) and the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) to sell the Tema Library and Children’s Playground .

    The concerned residents vowed to oppose any efforts, adding that these vital community assets, which have faithfully served the area for over three decades, are purportedly being sold to a private developer for the construction of a shopping mall or casino.

    Their opposition is rooted in the belief that the park should not be repurposed for commercial use.

    They have made a resolute pledge to stage protests and demonstrations until all ongoing work is brought to a complete halt.

    Meanwhile, the former Mayor of the area has called on local authorities and city planners to protect the property from encroachment by prioritizing its swift renovation.

  • Inflation projected to drop sharply to 16% in June – IC Research

    Inflation projected to drop sharply to 16% in June – IC Research

    An economic research firm, IC Research, has projected that Ghana’s inflation rate will experience a significant decline, dropping to 16% by June ending.

    According to IC Research, the projected improvement is partly driven by the appreciation of the local currency and a reduction in fuel prices, both of which are easing inflationary pressures.

    “The June 2025 CP [Consumer Price Index]I data window recorded a 29.5% month-on-month and 35.3% year-on-year appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar.

    “This exerted downward pressure on prices of imported items with notable declines in petroleum prices and transport fares. The announced 15.0% reduction in commercial transport fares will continue to restrain transport inflation with downside spillovers for other items,”

    “Additionally, we estimate that the lower transport cost likely eased the month-on-month pressure observed for vegetables & tubers last month, potentially sustaining food disinflation in June [2025]. Consequently, we forecast a 240 basis points decline in the June 2025 annual inflation to 16.0% with the month-on-month rate at 0.8%”, IC Research added.

    Inflation eased to 18.4% on a year-on-year basis, marking a 2.8% decrease in the rate of increase.

    This marks the fifth consecutive reduction in the inflation rate this year so far.

    As of May 2025, the country recorded an 18.4% rate, a 2.8% decline from the 21.2% reported in April. This is also the lowest rate recorded since February 2022.

    The decline stems from the significant drop in transport fares and non-food inflation, according to the Government Statistician Alhassan Iddrisu.

    Ghana ended the year 2024 with 23.8% inflation. In January 2025, inflation slightly declined to 23.5%. And since then it has continued to ease. In February inflation declined to 23.1%; it saw another decrease in March to 22.4% and declined again in April to 21.2%.

    Discussing improvement with macroeconomic variables – exchange rate—the cedi has appreciated by approximately 24% against the US dollar, contributing to a decline in inflation.

    The current inflation rate marks a significant milestone, as Ghana’s inflation rate skyrocketed to 31.26 percent in 2022 due to disruptions and cedi depreciation.

    President Mahama has projected that single-digit inflation will be reported by the country at the end of the first half of the year.

    In an address at the Ghana-EU Business Forum held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra yesterday, President Mahama stated that his government will achieve this feat by effecting a tighter monetary policy rate, cutting expenditure, and reducing debt accumulation.

    “Inflation, which peaked at 23.8% at the end of 2024, has begun to ease, falling to 21.2% in April 2025 largely due to moderation of both food and nonfood inflation and prudent fiscal management. We’re projecting to achieve a single-digit inflation trajectory by the middle of 2026.”

    President Mahama noted there are positive signs that the country is recovering in a disciplined and inclusive way, pointing to the fact that Ghana’s international reserves have increased from $8.9 billion in December 2024 to $10.6 billion by April 2025. This is equivalent to almost five months of import cover.

    “This reflects enhanced export earnings, particularly from gold and non-traditional exports, as well as timely disbursements for our multilateral partners. These figures, though early in the year, are clear signs of a disciplined and inclusive economy,” the president added.

    He stressed that the government is enforcing contract sanctity and implementing firm measures to safeguard investor rights.In March, the Monetary Policy Committee by a majority decision, decided to raise the Monetary Policy Rate by 100 basis points to 28.0 percent to re-anchor the disinflation process. As inflation becomes firmly anchored, the Committee noted that it will reassess the scope for a gradual easing in the policy stance.

    During the 2025 budget presentation on March 11, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced the government’s objective to reduce inflation to 11.9% by the end of the year. The president’s projection suggests that the government may have to re-evaluate its earlier inflation projection.Fitch Solutions has also forecasted a more conservative outlook, predicting Ghana’s inflation will average 18.8% in 2025 and end the year at 13.6%. This projection suggests that while inflation may decrease, it might not reach the government’s ambitious target.The International Monetary Fund (IMF) also provided its assessment, projecting Ghana’s inflation to end 2025 at 17.5%, which is also higher than the government’s target.

    With the unprecedented performance of the cedi in recent times and the calls for reduction in prices of goods and services to reflect the gains in the cedi, stakeholders continue to monitor the financial sector to observe how the country’s inflation rate will be affected.

  • NYA registers over 150,000 youth under national apprenticeship programme

    NYA registers over 150,000 youth under national apprenticeship programme

    More than 150,000 Ghanaians have enrolled in the National Apprenticeship Programme, organised by the National Youth Authority (NYA).


    The National Youth Authority initially projected 10,000 participants for the first phase of the initiative.


    In an interview with Citi News on Tuesday, June 24, Deputy CEO for the NYA, Jacob Adongo, indicated that applicants have begun registration and assessment.

    According to him, the Authority in July will equip individuals with various apprenticeship skills and resources.


    “The young people of this country are very resilient; they are not lazy, and all they need is opportunity, and this type of opportunity has been made available. We want you to take advantage of this opportunity and learn. Strike very hard, let us reduce the alcohol intake, drugs and take advantage of the opportunity,” he advised.


    Launched on March 19, the National Apprenticeship Programme is managed by the National Youth Authority (NYA) and focuses on delivering hands-on vocational and technical training.


    It also supports individuals recovering from substance abuse and those affected by illegal mining activities, offering them a renewed path toward sustainable livelihoods.


    The initiative is a component of the flagship Adwumawura Programme, which was officially launched on Monday, April 28.


    The Adwumawura Programme is dedicated to supporting young entrepreneurs by offering business training, mentorship, funding, and technological resources.


    With a goal of incubating and accelerating 10,000 businesses each year, the initiative targets Ghanaian youth aged 18 to 35.


    Participants will gain a wide range of support, such as skills training, mentorship, start-up capital, and essential machinery and equipment to help them launch and grow their businesses.


    President Mahama, speaking at the event, highlighted youth unemployment as a major challenge for Ghana and emphasized the programme’s importance in addressing this issue.


    He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to generating sustainable, quality job opportunities for young people, aligning with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s broader focus on economic growth and innovation.


    “This programme is not like others that were announced in the recent past with a lot of fun fair but proved to be mirages without adequate funding to sustain them. Adwumawura is fully funded with adequate allocation proved by the Finance Ministry in the 2025 budget. It is designed to be inclusive, youth led and Ghanaian owned,” the president said.


    Funded through a GH₵100 million provision in the 2025 Budget Statement, the initiative received its financial backing from Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson.


    Meanwhile, the Youth Development and Empowerment Minister George Opare Addo urged the country’s young people to take full advantage of the programme, noting its potential to transform their lives and contribute to Ghana’s progress.

  • Improve VRA’s operations to lead power generation in Ghana – Energy Minister charges new Board

    Improve VRA’s operations to lead power generation in Ghana – Energy Minister charges new Board

    Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, has admonished the newly appointed governing board of the Volta River Authority (VRA) to improve the Authority’s operations.

    At the inauguration of the new board on Tuesday, June 24, the Energy Minister indicated that VRA must position itself as the leader in Ghana’s power generation sector.

    “The fortunes of VRA have stagnated and dwindled over the years as a result of government policies. We will provide strategic guidance and direction to bring VRA back as the lead power generator in the sub-region and Africa.”

    “This board has been entrusted with the task of improving VRA’s operations, optimising hydro and thermal assets, and firmly anchoring renewable initiatives within the Authority’s core mandate. VRA must work to be the lead institution when it comes to power generation,” he said.

    He warned the board against letting down President John Dramani Mahama and assured them of the government’s full backing to ensure the successful execution of their duties.

    “The Ministry will give you the needed support to deliver on your mandate. His Excellency the President has absolute confidence in the capabilities of the members of this board. As a board, you should lead VRA to champion the reforms in the power sector.”

    The members of the new governing board are Ing. Jabesh Amissah-Arthur (Chairman), Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo (Ag. Chief Executive), Dr. Lawrence Ofosu Adjare, Hon. Collins Dauda, Hon. Fred Kwesi Agbenyo, Lawyer Wonder Victor Kutor, Awulai Attibrukusu III, and Lawyer Peggy Addo.

    The VRA, which was established in 1961 under the Volta River Development Act, is responsible for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in Ghana.

    Its core mission is to power economies and improve living standards by providing reliable and environmentally responsible energy services.

    It is confronted with significant challenges such as increasing debt, limited cash flow, and the need for improved operational efficiency.

    The Ghana National Gas Company Limited (GNGLC) is facing a debt crisis, and this is due to the inability of the Volta River Authority to meet its debt service obligations. GNGLC’s debt to the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) as of June 30, 2024, was over $626 million from an excess of $559 million in the same period two years ago.

    Contributing to its financial strain are delayed remittances from power distributors, costly and inefficient power purchase deals, as well as surging operational expenses.

    The Authority also drew sharp criticism following the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage, which led to major flooding and the displacement of thousands across affected communities.

    The flood, which began mid-September and lasted over six weeks, displaced approximately 38,624 residents and wreaked havoc on properties, schools, health centres, and farmlands in communities such as North, Central, and South Tongu, Ada, and Kpong. Nearly 1,247 homes, 94 schools, and 17 health facilities were destroyed, while agricultural losses were estimated at $78 million. 

    President Mahama tasked a five-member committee to investigate the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage. The committee concluded its probe with a report highlighting how poor preparedness and communication by the Volta River Authority (VRA), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and local authorities intensified the devastating impact of the disaster.

  • Budget allocation secured for newly posted teachers – GES

    Budget allocation secured for newly posted teachers – GES

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has asked newly posted teachers to remain calm as budgetary allocations have been made to settle their unpaid salaries.

    This was revealed in a press release issued by the GES’ Public Relations Officer, Daniel Fenyi, on Tuesday, June 24.

    “It is important to note that significant progress has already been made. The Service assures all affected staff that every effort is being made to rectify the situation and ensure that all genuinely recruited teachers receive their due remuneration,” parts of the statement read.

    On Monday, June 23, over 100 aggrieved newly trained teachers picketed at GES’ headquarters in Accra, demanding the payment of months of unpaid salaries.

    The intended peaceful protest turned chaotic, prompting the intervention of the police. However, the teachers refused to comply.

    Defiant, the protesting teachers have vowed to intensify their actions.

    “We’ll be here overnight so that by morning, we can go to the Finance Ministry and then proceed to Parliament,” one protest leader said.

    “When MPs arrive, we’ll let them know what the government is putting us through. All we ask is for our staff IDs and the money owed to us.”

    According to the Service, it has formally requested an extension of the expired financial clearance salaries from the Ministry of Finance to enable the payment of outstanding salaries and issuance of staff IDs.

    Out of the 12,807 graduates recruited from the Colleges of Education last year, about 2,113 of them are yet to receive their salaries due to the expiration of financial clearance.

    The Service has attributed this to inconsistencies in the affected teachers’ Ghana Card details, SSNIT numbers, and instances of self-reposting.

    Article image 1

    In response, the GES has noted that it has established a technical committee to rectify the anomalies.

    “Letters have been sent through the Minister for Education to the Ministry of Finance requesting an extension of the expired financial clearance to allow for payment processing. Fortunately, a budgetary allocation was made in the 2025 budget statement.

    “The present GES Management, upon assuming office, immediately undertook a nationwide staff validation exercise from 7th-14th March 2025 to confirm the genuinely recruited teachers and clean up recruitment anomalies,” it added.

    Meanwhile, the Service has called for calm while assuring the Service’s commitment to resolving the matter.

    “It is important to note that significant progress has already been made. The Service assures all affected staff that every effort is being made to rectify the situation and ensure that all genuinely recruited teachers receive their due remuneration,” parts of the statement read.

  • We are working to resolve your concerns – GES to newly trained picketing teachers

    We are working to resolve your concerns – GES to newly trained picketing teachers

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has stated that it is working to resolve months of unpaid salaries and other matters raised by newly posted teachers.

    This was revealed in a press release issued by the GES’ Public Relations Officer, Daniel Fenyi, on Tuesday, June 24.

    According to the Service, it has formally requested an extension of the expired financial clearance salaries from the Ministry of Finance to enable the payment of outstanding salaries and issuance of staff IDs.

    Out of the 12,807 graduates recruited from the Colleges of Education last year, about 2,113 of them are yet to receive their salaries due to the expiration of financial clearance.

    The Service has attributed this to inconsistencies in the affected teachers’ Ghana Card details, SSNIT numbers, and instances of self-reposting.

    Additionally, the GES has noted that it has established a technical committee to rectify the anomalies.

    “The present GES Management, upon assuming office, immediately undertook a nationwide staff validation exercise from 7th-14th March 2025 to confirm the genuinely recruited teachers and clean up recruitment anomalies,” it added.

    On Monday, June 23, over 100 aggrieved newly trained teachers picketed at GES’ headquarters in Accra, demanding the payment of months of unpaid salaries.

    The intended peaceful protest turned chaotic, prompting the intervention of the police. However, the teachers refused to comply.

    Defiant, the protesting teachers have vowed to intensify their actions.

    “We’ll be here overnight so that by morning, we can go to the Finance Ministry and then proceed to Parliament,” one protest leader said.

    “When MPs arrive, we’ll let them know what the government is putting us through. All we ask is for our staff IDs and the money owed to us.”

    Meanwhile, the Service has called for calm while assuring the Service’s commitment to resolving the matter.

    “It is important to note that significant progress has already been made. The Service assures all affected staff that every effort is being made to rectify the situation and ensure that all genuinely recruited teachers receive their due remuneration,” parts of the statement read.



  • Campaign with integrity – Kwabena Frimpong to NPP flagbearer hopefuls

    Campaign with integrity – Kwabena Frimpong to NPP flagbearer hopefuls

    Deputy Director of Protocol for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwabena Frimpong, has urged flagbearer hopefuls to conduct their campaigns with respect and decorum.

    He warned that internal divisions fueled by personal attacks could jeopardise the party’s strength and electoral success in 2028.

    “The unity of the party after these internal contests will be critical to our success in 2028. If campaigns are based on insults and personal vendettas, it will be difficult for those who lose to join hands with those who win, and that puts our collective goal at risk,” he added.

    The NPP will hold its presidential primaries on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

    The decision was taken at a crucial meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held on Tuesday, 17th June 2025, and later confirmed by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua and also in an official statement.

    “And the National Council today also made the decision that the date for our presidential primaries is set for January 31, 2026. That will be the date that we shall hold our presidential primaries” parts of the statement said.

    This sets the stage for a decisive contest to elect the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    The statement also revealed that “the Committee also spoke about the time for our presidential primaries. And again, the Committee agrees that that decision does not warrant amendment of our Constitution”.

    The primaries are anticipated to attract significant interest from both longstanding members and new contenders seeking to lead the NPP into the next electoral cycle.

    Party officials also noted that nomination guidelines, timelines for campaign activities, and the code of conduct for aspirants will be released in the coming weeks, with the NEC promising party members a transparent and credible process that upholds the democratic values of the NPP.

    Also speaking in an interview with Channel One TV on Tuesday, June 17, Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, explained that the seemingly early date slated for the party’s primaries is intentional.

    He noted that it is meant to give the chosen flagbearer a head start in policy communication and to foster stronger connections with both the international community and the business sector.

    He believes this will reposition the party as a credible and prepared alternative ahead of the 2028 general elections.

    “It is going to market the candidate enough, particularly in terms of building contacts with the international community, the business community, and stakeholders across the globe,” he noted.

    “We will have sufficient time to communicate our policies effectively and hold the government accountable.”

    Also, given the NPP’s current minority status in Parliament, with only 88 seats, he believes an early start will help intensify external engagements.

    “We need someone who can rise above internal distractions and rally support nationally and beyond to keep the government in check,” he added.

  • COPEC predicts fuel price hike in July amid Israel-Iran tension

    COPEC predicts fuel price hike in July amid Israel-Iran tension

    Fuel prices could increase in the first pricing window of July, due to rising tensions in the Middle East, per the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC).

    Speaking to Citi, the Executive Secretary of COPEC, Duncan Amoah, indicated that the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel could disrupt the global supply of oil.

    According to him, the impact on global oil supply will create supply issues in Ghana, as the country imports its fuel.

    “This week is likely to see a lot of activity on the international front as far as fuel pricing or petroleum pricing is concerned and Ghana clearly cannot be excused that possibility of paying more for fuel.

    “What I see happening locally is that the BDCs may take a cue knowing well that it is riskier landing cargo than it was a week before due to the tensions on the strait and so I will not be surprised that in the course of the week some BDCs will adjust their prices upwards and once that happens some of the OMCs will clearly have to follow because they buy directly from the BDCs,” he said.

    The executive secretary of COPEC has asked the government to revive Tema Oil refinery to help reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported fuel.

    Iran and Israel exchanged missiles on Saturday night, June 14, and early on Sunday, marking the third consecutive day of attacks between the two countries after Israel initially attacked Iran on Friday morning.

    The escalating missile exchanges between Israel and Iran are contributing to rising global crude oil prices, posing a potential threat to Ghana’s fuel costs and overall economic stability.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Ministers for Finance and Energy, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and John Abdulai Jinapor, respectively, to closely monitor the unfolding conflict between Israel and Iran and provide proactive measures to safeguard the country’s recent economic gains from external shocks.

    “I have instructed the Ministers of Finance and Energy to keep a close eye on the developments and model the possible impact on our petroleum prices. They must prepare appropriate measures to safeguard the gains we’ve made,” the president said during his Thank-You Tour of the Savannah Region on Saturday, June 14.

    Amid the conflict, the government has declared the immediate closure of the embassy in Tehran.

    The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the immediate evacuation of Ghanaians living in Iran on Monday, June 16.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, the evacuation through land borders covers all Ghanaian diplomats, students, professionals, and other compatriots.

    In a post on Facebook, the sector minister noted that the decision has been taken to “guarantee the safety of our embassy staff.”

    The government has again instructed that embassy operations in Tel Aviv be reduced to the barest minimum.

    The government noted that it is keenly following developments in Israel and will advise shortly.

    In the meantime, Ghanaians in Israel have been advised to maintain close communication with the country’s consular department.

    “Government assures that no effort would be spared in protecting Ghanaian lives and keeping all Ghanaians out of harm’s way,” the sector minister assured.

    The Government of Ghana has reiterated its demand on both parties to pursue diplomatic options and end hostilities.

    In a related development, Israel is urging Ghana to reconsider its neutral position after the country abstained from voting in support of or against charges brought against Iran for violating its nuclear non-proliferation obligations.

    The voting took place on Thursday, June 12, during a closed-door meeting of the 35-member Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) which is currently being chaired by Ghana. The session was held at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna, Austria.

    The vote, which was the first of its kind in nearly 20 years, saw the 35-member IAEA Board formally declare that Iran is in breach of its nuclear non-proliferation obligations. The resolution was supported by 19 countries and opposed by three—Russia, China, and Burkina Faso—while 11 nations, including Ghana, abstained.

    The resolution, submitted by the United States, Britain, France, and Germany, concluded that Iran had failed to provide the IAEA with full and timely cooperation since 2019 concerning undeclared nuclear material and activities. It marks a significant escalation in the agency’s standoff with Tehran.

    In what Israel describes as a friendly and respectful request, the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Roey Gilad, during a media engagement in Accra, though acknowledging the legitimacy of Ghana’s abstinence due to its chairmanship position, called on the government to re-evaluate its longstanding non-aligned foreign policy position in critical global matters, particularly where international peace and security are concerned.

    “The formal reason is that Ghana is the chair of the board of the IAEA, but we felt this is something that is so crucial to Israel, which has to do with the future of Israel—that the state that is a member of the United Nations, Iran, is completely for the destruction of the Jewish sovereign state in Israel

    As much as we have full respect for the sovereign decision-making process in Ghana, including the Foreign Affairs [Ministry], we believe in the traditional policy of non-alignment that has existed here since 1957 under Nkrumah…I personally believe that maybe the policy of non-alignment should be re-evaluated,” the Israeli Ambassador said.

  • Kwadee is healing but… – Ohemaa Woyeje

    Kwadee is healing but… – Ohemaa Woyeje

    Hiplife musician, Okomfour Kwadee, is showing signs of mental recovery after months of psychiatric care, according to Ghanaian entertainment pundit, Ohemaa Woyeje.

    However, she noted that Kwadee needs a conducive environment to avoid going back to his old deeds.

    “Currently his condition is okay, he looks very fine. But we don’t know the person who sent him to the care home. Like I said he is fine. But you know since he is stable right now he doesn’t have to stay there.

    “His mother even called me to ask me if there is any place he can stay so that he won’t go back to the drugs anymore.

    “His mother is in Accra right now. I spoke to the MUSIGA president and the funds Kwadee received are with him. So we are looking for a place that can accommodate him. A place where people won’t get access to him. And influencing him into doing drugs again,” she added.

    Kwadee, once a dominant figure in Ghanaian music, has battled mental health issues for years, reportedly linked to substance abuse.

    In 2020, former rapper-turned-pastor Lord Kenya took him to a rehabilitation center after a severe breakdown. However, in 2022, his mother revealed that he had been abandoned at the facility, pleading with the public for support.

    Concerns about his well-being resurfaced in 2024 when a video of him looking frail while drinking pito and freestyling among friends circulated online.

    The claims made by Pope Skinny have reignited discussions about Kwadee’s condition, though the musician himself has not publicly responded to the allegations.

    “This is what Okonfo Kwdee told me” I did not know that he was dating Akosua Puni. When I went to cantoment, Okonfuo’s house was at the back and Akosua Puni was in the main house. we were there when Akosua become pregnant. Okomfo felt he was the father. A big woman who lived with his family at Kantoment who was managing an artist. Akosua Puni was dating an ex-president, hence her level was not tallying with Okonfuo.

    “Okomofour told me, skinny, I was in my room when they came for me. They took me to the Titanic beach at dawn. They stripped me naked and took pictures of me. they broke my nails and a part of the hair on my head. My hair and nails were then kept on top of a nightclub somewhere. It was a famous nightclub. Okomofour Kwadee is the one who disclosed this to me. Okomofour Kwadee’s issue is quite similar to the issue of Funny Face,” he added.

  • I was judged by my clothes, not my talent – Tiwa Savage on her journey to stardom

    I was judged by my clothes, not my talent – Tiwa Savage on her journey to stardom

    Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has opened up about her challenges before rising to fame in the music industry.

    Speaking on a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Tiwa revealed that her sense of fashion received massive criticism, preventing her from performing at shows.

    “I was really hurt. I would go to shows and wait backstage, and they wouldn’t call me because maybe the governor’s wife had said I couldn’t come up. Or they’d say.

    “Make sure you don’t wear any of those skimpy dresses.’ I’m not making this up.”My fashion sense attracted criticism. Then, I ran back to L.A.,” Tiwa said.

    The backlash, she said, forced her to relocate to United States of America, Los Angeles.

    According to her, it took the intervention of her longtime manager, Bizzle, to get her back to Nigeria.

    Despite her return, Tiwa said she faced rejection from all the top record labels back then.

    “I’ve told the story where I went to all the labels and they all said no—Storm Records, Mo’Hits, Banky W’s EME, everyone,” she noted.

    Tiwa added that Bizzle motivated, encouraged, or supported her at a crucial time.

    “I remember Bizzle called me and told me that ladies were loving me, so I came back to Nigeria,” she stated.

    Initially drawn to acting as her first love, Tiwa disclosed that it was a man in the music industry who caught her attention and influenced her career choice.

    She shared that her crush’s close association with musicians led her to abandon acting and pursue a career in music instead.

    “I’ve always wanted to do acting. Acting was one of my first loves before music. I got into music because I had a crush on a guy, and he was always around musicians, so I said, ‘yeah, forget acting and just go into music,’” Tiwa revealed.

  • Dada KD to be laid to rest on August 16

    Dada KD to be laid to rest on August 16

    The final funeral rites of renowned Ghanaian Highlife star, Nana Kwakye Duah, also known as Dada KD, are slated for Saturday, August 16, Kwadaso, Ashanti Region.

    On Saturday, June 21, a remembrance service was held for Dada KD at the East Legon Executive Fitness Club in Accra.

    Scores of musicians, politicians, and sympathisers were spotted during the one-week observance ceremony.

    Dada KD passed away on May 16, at the age of 56, after seeming to have a short illness (seeming mild malaria symptoms), things took a turn so quickly that he couldn’t survive upon arrival at the hospital.

    What exactly caused his demise is yet to be confirmed by his family, but his manager, Clarence Kenneth Ekow Peterson, known in showbiz circles as King Pee, suggests that Dada KD could have survived if he hadn’t been turned away by three health facilities due to absent doctors.

    Dada KD’s untimely death comes just days before his scheduled trip to the UK to perform at the ‘Celebrating Hiplife & Highlife Legends’ event on May 25, at the Dominion Centre in London.

    While alive, Dada KD composed songs that expressed love, resonating with his audience.

    Dada KD’s most memorable songs include Fatia Fata Nkrumah, Tekyere Ma, Ene Menye, Wosuro a Wondi, and Honey Love. His legacy as a Highlife icon continues to inspire generations.

    In 2004, he was honoured as the Best Male Vocal Artist at the 2004 Ghana Music Awards, UK.

    Meanwhile, MUSIGA President Bessa Simons has reflected on his personal relationship with Dada K.D, which began in the early 2000s after they met in Germany. “Dada K.D was a fine gentleman—affable, humble, and immensely talented.

    He will be sorely missed,” he said. President Simons reassured the family of MUSIGA’s full support in honoring the late artist’s legacy. Dada K.D’s repertoire included hits like Fathia Fata Nkrumah, My Heart Goes Boom and Odo Mu Anigye.

    His death has come as a huge blow to Ghanaians and many others beyond the region.

  • Gov’t allocates GHS40m to UNER, UHAS, others for operational support

    Gov’t allocates GHS40m to UNER, UHAS, others for operational support

    Four newly established public universities will receive a GH¢40 million seed funding package from the government to ensure their successful operations.

    The beneficiary universities include the C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, University of Energy and Natural Resources (UNER), University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), and the S.D. Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SD-UBIDS).

    Through the Fund, these institutions will also be able to expand infrastructure, enhance research capabilities, and create conducive learning environments.

    This information was made known by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, at the 5th Congregation Ceremony of the C.K. Tedem University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS) in the Upper East Region on Saturday, June 21.

    The Fund, according to the minister, will be distributed through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) as part of the 2025 budgetary provisions.

    Addressing the attendees, the Education Minister pledged the government’s commitment to making education accessible to all Ghanaians regardless of their background.

    “This government is fully committed to nurturing our young public universities, ensuring they have the necessary resources to develop and provide quality education that meets the demands of our evolving economy. This seed funding through GETFund is a testament to that commitment,” the Minister stated.

    In a move to boost education funding, the John Dramani Mahama-led government removed expenditure restrictions on the GETFund in April.

    The government aims to assess the state of Ghana’s education system and introduce evidence-based reforms, prompting a call for a National Education Conference.

    The government in April announced a refund in June for first-year students at public tertiary institutions who have paid their academic user fees for the 2024/2025 academic year.

    However, first-year public university students who have already paid their academic fees for the current academic year will not receive cash refunds.

    Instead, the government will apply the equivalent amount as credit toward the students’ second-year fees.

    The “No-Fee Stress” initiative is being implemented by the incumbent government and absorbs academic fees for all Level 100 students. The government has allocated GH¢499.8 million under the 2025 national budget to support the policy.

    https://web.facebook.com/moe.gov.gh/posts/pfbid02zy52cBa3VFBHYkg7T6AwHwroDFPLjX7yv9tQtFQD7tp5Di3mWCqwX28WQz9oUBEWl

  • Our seedlings can boost Ghana’s economy – Oil Palm Research Institute to govt

    Our seedlings can boost Ghana’s economy – Oil Palm Research Institute to govt

    The Oil Palm Research Institute under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has called on the government to allocate funding to the Institute, as it can boost the country’s economy.

    During an engagement with the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, on Saturday, June 21, officials from the industry touted the economic potential of Ghana’s oil palm sector emphasizing the urgent need for government support to scale up production and research efforts.

    “We need the government to come to our aid. We need funds for our research activities. We have the planting materials, but the government is not buying,” one representative stated. “We have a lot of oil palm seedlings in our nursery, but the government is not coming on board. We are pleading with the government to please come to our aid.”

    Ghana’s annual palm oil consumption stands at approximately 450,000 metric tons, largely driven by demand for vegetable oil.

    However, domestic production accounts for only 300,000 metric tons, creating a substantial deficit of 150,000 metric tons, which is met through imports.

    Ghana’s oil palm exports have declined by more than 50% in 2024, according to the Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana (OPDAG).

    The association’s president, Samuel Avaala, attributes this sharp downturn to insufficient government backing and the influx of cheaper foreign alternatives, which have put immense pressure on local producers.

    Speaking with Joy Business, Mr Avaala made a strong appeal for protective measures to safeguard the domestic oil palm industry.

    He urged the government to take decisive action against the uncontrolled importation of foreign palm oil, which continues to undercut local businesses.

    “We want to develop it ourselves, and it is in a state where we are not going to be competitive compared to our neighbors. Let’s play it safe. It’s around 50%. But in recent times, what has happened is that it is probably crossing the 50% mark, leaving the local side to take less than 50%,” he said.

    The association stressed the urgency of investing in local production capacity to close the widening gap in palm oil supply. Avaala underscored the importance of sound policy measures, exchange rate stability, and efficient liquidity management, stating that a more favorable economic environment would bolster growth in the sector.

    Meanwhile, the government is set to launch a comprehensive agribusiness export policy to promote Ghanaian farmers and agribusinesses to export their products more easily and successfully.

    This was revealed by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, on Saturday, June 21.Addressing the media, he noted that the new policy, which will be unveiled in July, is a part of President John Dramani Mahama’s strategy for driving sustainable export growth.

    “The president is talking about sustainable exports and he is chairing a committee to make sure that we export what we produce.

    “If we want to do exports then we have to add value to whatever we produce and I have seen that a lot of farmers are adding value to their produce, they are packaging very neatly so most farmers are now ready for the international market,” he stated.

    He added that the President will be chairing the national committee that will oversee the implementation of the agribusiness export policy.

    “We in the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness we have a programme in place to launch the policy with regards to the agribusiness where we will spell out benefits, advantages that exporters can take.

    “I am sure we will launch it somewhere next month. When we do that we will engage the exporters so that they can take advantage of what the government has for them,” Ahi stated.

    In April this year, Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, met with representatives from British International Investment (BII) to explore strategic opportunities, particularly in agribusiness and the financial sector in a significant move to deepen foreign investment in Ghana.

  • Western Region accounts for 71% of confirmed Mpox cases – Report

    Western Region accounts for 71% of confirmed Mpox cases – Report

    The Western Region is experiencing a sharp rise in Monkeypox (Mpox) infections, according to the Regional Health Director.

    Addressing attendees at a Regional Development Retreat at Western Region, Essipong on Saturday, June 21, Kwadwo Okyere Apenteng revealed that the area makes up for 71% of all confirmed Monkeypox infections nationwide.

    “Monkeypox is also in the country, and currently, the Western Region is number one; we have taken over. 71% of the cases in the country are coming from the Western Region. As it stands, we have 187 suspected cases and 43 confirmed cases,” Mr Apenteng stated, highlighting the dramatic shift in the geographical distribution of the disease within Ghana.

    Ghana recorded the first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, and by November 2023, health authorities had confirmed a total of 34 cases. Despite the increase in cases, Ghana has not recorded any Mpox-related deaths.

    Mpox is a viral illness similar to smallpox. It typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids, including through sexual contact.

    To reduce your risk, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, maintain proper hand hygiene, and refrain from sharing personal items.

    Symptoms may include fever, rash or lesions, tiredness, headaches, muscle and back pain, and swollen glands.

    The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported seven new cases of monkeypox (Mpox), bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 98 as of June 16.

    In a circular on Wednesday, June 18, the Service indicated that all patients had been discharged, with no individuals remaining hospitalized.

    As of June 12, the number of confirmed cases rose to 91 from 79 reported as of June 6, with no reports of fatalities.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Health Service has assured that the country will soon experience relief in response to the surging cases.

    The government is engaging international organizations for assistance in procuring vaccines to be able to curb the surging number of cases being reported.

    Speaking to the media on Saturday, June 7, Director for Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Franklyn Asiedu Bekoe, stated, “We’re engaging WHO and the Africa CDC so that we get the vaccines. Somewhere last year, Ghana didn’t have any established human-to-human transmission, so we do not qualify. Now that we have human-to-human transmission. The idea is that we will be able to identify a clear group who will benefit from the vaccine.”

    The Government of Ghana has assured its commitment to safeguarding public health by implementing appropriate measures to protect the health and well-being of all residents.”

  • Agribusiness export policy to be launched in July– Trade Ministry

    Agribusiness export policy to be launched in July– Trade Ministry

    The government is set to launch a comprehensive agribusiness export policy to promote Ghanaian farmers and agribusinesses to export their products more easily and successfully.

    This was revealed by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, on Saturday, June 21.

    Addressing the media, he noted that the new policy, which will be unveiled in July, is a part of President John Dramani Mahama’s strategy for driving sustainable export growth.

    “The president is talking about sustainable exports and he is chairing a committee to make sure that we export what we produce.

    “If we want to do exports then we have to add value to whatever we produce and I have seen that a lot of farmers are adding value to their produce, they are packaging very neatly so most farmers are now ready for the international market,” he stated.

    He added that the President will be chairing the national committee that will oversee the implementation of the agribusiness export policy.

    “We in the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness we have a programme in place to launch the policy with regards to the agribusiness where we will spell out benefits, advantages that exporters can take.

    “I am sure we will launch it somewhere next month. When we do that we will engage the exporters so that they can take advantage of what the government has for them,” Ahi stated.

    In April this year, Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, met with representatives from British International Investment (BII) to explore strategic opportunities, particularly in agribusiness and the financial sector in a significant move to deepen foreign investment in Ghana.

    The meeting highlighted Ghana’s evolving investment landscape, with a focus on leveraging private capital for economic growth.

    “Ghana is open for business, and we welcome partners ready to grow with us,” Dr. Forson emphasized.

    A major highlight of the discussion was Ghana’s upcoming Palm Industry Policy, aimed at diversifying the nation’s agricultural base beyond cocoa.

    The government plans to develop 50,000 hectares of oil palm, beginning with a $100 million investment for the first 20,000 hectares.

    “Our goal is to attract private sector investment into large-scale agribusiness that creates jobs and boosts export earnings,” said Dr. Forson.

    The Finance Minister also extended an invitation to BII to support the repositioning and growth of Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), signaling a broader push to strengthen the banking sector.

    BII, which currently holds over $200 million in investments in Ghana—particularly in the energy sector—responded positively, reaffirming their long-term commitment to the country.

    “We see Ghana as a priority market in the region,” BII representatives noted.

    In a promising development, BII is considering bringing its full Board to Ghana for the first time in nearly a decade, signaling renewed interest at the highest level.

    The institution also expressed readiness to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), forestry, and other key sectors.

    Dr. Forson concluded, “We are creating the right environment for investors who are committed to sustainable growth and shared prosperity.”



  • 1st of 7 batches of Hajj returnees arrive in Ghana

    1st of 7 batches of Hajj returnees arrive in Ghana

    Ghanaian pilgrims who participated in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, have begun arriving in the country.

    The first out of seven batches, consisting of over 400 pilgrims, was flown on Friday, June 20, with the last expected back home on Friday, June 27.

    Welcoming the Hajj participants at the Yakubu Tali International Airport in Tamale, Chairman of the Hajj Task Force, Alhaji Collins Dauda, lauded the government for conducting one of the most successful and impactful pilgrimages in Ghana’s history.

    The 2025 Hajj pilgrimage encountered several setbacks, including the death of members of the Hajj community and the repatriation of some pilgrims from Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

    The Ghanaian Hajj community lost seven of its members who left for the programme.

    Speaking to the media on Saturday, June 7, Alhaji Collins Dauda revealed that the deceased include five women and two men. All seven have since been buried in Saudi Arabia, as per Islamic customs.

    He explained that six of the seven individuals who died were elderly and had pre-existing health conditions before traveling to Mecca.

    “From our contingent, I can confirm six deaths. We have received information about a seventh person who also passed away, but he did not travel with the official group. He went on a tourist visa. Nevertheless, he is Ghanaian. Those who died were elderly and had underlying health conditions. It was not our wish for this to happen, but it was the will of Allah,” he said.

    Due to visa-related issues, five pilgrims could not participate in the mandatory religious duty for all Muslims as they were repatriated back to the country.

    “Some said they were deported, but we choose to use the word ‘repatriated.’ Deportation connotes some criminality, but these people who have returned have not committed any crime. It was an error in the issuance of their visa.

    “Some attempts to realign the visas resulted in some unfortunate mistakes where their visas were withdrawn. I can assure you that we are making every effort to get them to go back,” he explained.

    Approximately 6,000 Ghanaian Muslims traveled to Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2025. These numbers show an increase of 2,000 Ghanaian participants as compared to 4,000 last year.

    On Sunday, an incident was reported at the Rafahya Al-Seteen Hotel in Mecca, where hundreds of Ghanaian pilgrims had lodged, causing a temporary evacuation.

    Per reports, a structural concern and a fire incident on the 12th floor of the edifice are said to be responsible for the ruckus that occurred on Sunday afternoon, May 25. But the authorities are yet to ascertain the cause of the panic.

    Saudi fire and police officials arrived at the scene to ensure all was safe for the residence to return to their various rooms.

    This year’s pilgrimage recorded a massive turnout due to the Mahama-led government’s decision to reduce the Hajj pilgrimage fee to 62,000 to 75,000 Ghana cedis under the previous administration.

    The Hajj pilgrimage begins on the 8th day of Dhul Hijjah and lasts till the 13th of the month.

    In Ghana, Friday, June 6, was declared a statutory public holiday for the Eid al-Adha celebration, which marks the end of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca or Hajj.

    Meanwhile, the continuous appreciation of the local currency could reduce the fees Ghanaian Muslims pay to travel to Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. President John Dramani Mahama announced this during his Thank You Tour in Kintampo in the Bono East Region on Thursday, May 29.

    “At the time we started paying for the Hajj, the cedi was at GHC15.5 to the dollar. So, the fare we came up with for the $4,000 cost to do the Hajj came to GHC 62,000. Next year, if you do a calculation with where the Cedi is currently—GHC 10.5—it means the fare for Hajj may go below GHC 50,000,” he said.

  • Otumfuo Osei Tutu II honoured with six new Adinkra symbols

    Otumfuo Osei Tutu II honoured with six new Adinkra symbols

    Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has been honoured with six newly created Adinkra symbols in recognition of his distinguished leadership.

    The symbols, which were unveiled during the fifth Awukudae festival on Wednesday, June 18, were crafted by an indigenous financial advisory firm, Aliska Business Advisory and Research.

    During the presentation of the symbols, officials from the institution indicated that the symbols were designed after extensive three-and-a-half-year research.

    “Through our research, it came up that it’s advisable we get new authentic words to represent these new designs to set a tone that in the event when there are new words in academia, medicine, and arts, the council can come up with new words to match it,” the officials noted.

    They noted that their extensive research placed particular emphasis on the Asantehene’s contributions, especially his efforts in preserving and promoting Asante arts, culture, traditions, and heritage.

    Receiving the items, Otumfuo expressed gratitude, adding, “Twenty-six years ago, when I was going to Pampaso, I symbolically put my hands together, but many chiefs didn’t understand. I was in Apakankro. My grandchildren understand it, but many of the chiefs couldn’t understand it at the time.”

    ‘Otumfuo Nsa’, which implies ‘The Hand of Otumfuo,’ is the most prominent amongst them all. Manhyia Palace is expected to name the other 5 symbols at a later date following further consultation.

    The second, which has two parallel hands, one pointing upwards and downwards, depicts the Asantehene’s free spirit to embrace different cultures.

    The next figure, shaped like a bulging eye, describes Otumfuo’s intelligence, one that is admired by leaders across the world.

    The Asantehene’s ability as a key advisor in the management of Ghana’s natural resources is illustrated through the fourth symbol. 

    The fifth symbol signifies his influence on sustainable development and bears the crest of Manhyia alongside the Golden Stool. 

    The final symbol draws attention to his enduring commitment to advancing education and research in the country. Adinkra symbols are visual representations of concepts and proverbs.

    Traditionally, they have been widely featured in textiles, pottery, and logos and are often integrated into walls and architectural elements. Some can even be found on traditional Akan goldweights.

    These symbols are also carved into stools used both domestically and for rituals. In recent years, tourism has influenced their application, leading to their appearance on modern items like T-shirts and jewellery.

    The Asantehene is recognised locally and internationally for his leadership in promoting peace, democracy, and cultural preservation. Currently, he is leading a delegation to end the Bawku chieftaincy conflict that has taken the lives of many and displaced several others.

  • You could have resolved your grievances without a strike – Titus Beyuo to GRNMA

    You could have resolved your grievances without a strike – Titus Beyuo to GRNMA

    The Member of Parliament for Lambussie, Prof. Titus Beyuo, has stated that the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) rushed its strike.

    He explained that the Association could have resolved its concerns with the government without putting down its tools.

    “Strikes are one of the means by which labour can make a demand or protest for improved conditions of service. But when used whimsically, it is not good.

    “In this particular instance, the nurses had a very genuine case to demand what they were demanding, but I felt the strike was a bit premature considering that the government was talking.”


    Members of GRNMA on June 2 withdrew from their posts over delays in their 2024 Collective Agreement. In response, the National Labour Commission (NLC) filed an ex parte application on Thursday, June 5.

    Health Minister Mintah Akandoh, on the matter, revealed that the government will not be able to meet the conditions of service for the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), currently on strike, this year.

    Engaging the press, the sector minister announced that the conditions of service being requested to be implemented were not captured in the 2025 budget statement; hence, it will “completely throw the economy off gear if implemented in the manner it currently exists.”

    “We are mindful of the serious economic consequences of unbudgeted expenditure and want to avoid the economic slippages that have led to the hardship in the recent past,” the Health Minister revealed.

    However, on Friday, June 13, the President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), Mrs. Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, announced the suspension of the association’s strike action that left many patients stranded as nurses and midwives left their posts.

    Parliament’s Health Committee on Thursday, June 12, engaged the leadership of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) as part of efforts by the government to resolve the strike action.

    In an online news conference, Mrs. Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo noted that the meeting was fruitful and there are plans for a follow-up meeting on June 26.

    “The engagement held with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health and other interested parties on Thursday, 12 June, was very fruitful, and has paved the way for an amicable resolution of the impasse with our employer concerning the implementation of our collective bargaining agreement.”

    “In view of point one above, the GRNMA’s industrial action initiated on 2nd June 2025, is hereby suspended pending the outcome of a follow-up meeting scheduled for 26th June 2025.”

    The nationwide strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) took a heavy toll on the delivery of healthcare services, with many lives being lost due to patients being stranded.

    The Mortuary Workers Association of Ghana (MOWAG) bemoaned the evident rise in mortality cases amid the ongoing strike by nurses and midwives in the country.

    General Secretary of MOWAG, Richard Kofi Jordan, noted that the death rate has increased by approximately 100% to 150% due to nurses not being at post.

    “Looking at the [number] of deaths compared to the past and now, the death toll has increased significantly, and it is not surprising because of the impact of the nurse’s absence. On average, where we are to record about 10 a day, we are recording about 20 to 25. This tells you that the absence of our nurses is becoming so severe,” he said.

    Making reference to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, he mentioned that “we know averagely in Korle Bu, you can have about 50 this time. It has risen above that. Other facilities (like) KATH and all that, we are hearing it.”

    According to him, the nurses who are no longer at their posts were mitigating the daily death rate across medical facilities in Accra.

  • Prices of goods and services to drop further from July 1 – GNCCI CEO

    Prices of goods and services to drop further from July 1 – GNCCI CEO

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Mark Badu Aboagye, has assured that Ghanaians will experience relief beginning July 1, as businesses are set to further reduce prices of their goods and services.

    In an interview with Joy News on June 19, Mr. Badu Aboagye noted that although some vendors had initially adjusted prices, they are now better positioned to offer deeper cuts in the coming weeks as a result of the local currency’s appreciation.

    “We should manage expectations on these reductions. We should remember that some of these industries have already started reducing prices earlier this year, therefore what will happen from July 1, 2025 will be an addition to what has happened so far”, he explained.

    Earlier this month, the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) reported an average of 20.6% decline in staple food, attributing the trend to the continuous appreciation of the Ghana cedi against major trading currencies.

    Speaking to the media on Monday, June 2, the Head of the Economic and Business Bureau at GUTA, Charles Kusi Appiah Kubi, said the price reductions are the result of a careful assessment by the Association.

    He noted that the price of a 50kg bag of rice has dropped from GH¢950 to GH¢750, representing a 21.05% decrease. Cooking oil, which previously sold at GH¢780, now goes for GH¢650 — a 20.51% reduction.

    Additionally, a 4kg bag of rice has been reduced from GH¢400 to GH¢330, a 17.5% drop, while spaghetti prices have fallen from GH¢150 to GH¢115, marking a 23.33% decrease. According to Mr. Appiah Kubi, some of these gains are already benefiting consumers.

    He emphasized that several economic factors play into pricing, including borrowing costs, fuel prices, consumer taxes, procurement, and replacement costs.

    “The point is this: we understand the dynamics within the market, and as an integral part of economic revival, we have a responsibility. One of them is to ensure that we safeguard our gains — that we don’t just jump on the bandwagon and lose out. That is why we said give us some months so that we can better predict what is going to happen tomorrow.”

    “So, even within the food commodities sector, we see a drop in prices. We said that for a drastic reduction in prices, we need two months to achieve that — but even within that time, prices are dropping. A 50kg bag of rice, previously selling at about GH¢950, is now selling at GH¢750. That’s GH¢200 down. You take general oil — GH¢780 — some are now selling it at GH¢650,” he added.

    Ghana ended 2024 with an inflation rate of 23.8%. The rate slightly declined to 23.5% in January 2025 and has continued on a downward trend since.

    In February, inflation dropped to 23.1%; in March, it decreased further to 22.4%, and in April it declined again to 21.2%.

    This improvement is partly attributed to the cedi’s appreciation — approximately 16% against the US dollar — which helped push inflation down to 21.2% by May 2025.

    This marks a significant recovery, considering that Ghana’s inflation rate had peaked at 31.26% in 2022 due to economic disruptions and cedi depreciation.

    From April 14 to June 2 this year, the interbank interest rate remained relatively stable, moving slightly from 27.01% to 27.02%.

    The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has stated that no bank currently offers loans to individuals at interest rates below 20%. According to BoG data, the cedi appreciated by 19% in April and May alone.

    In a statement at the Bank’s 124th Monetary Policy Committee meeting on May 21, BoG Governor Dr. Johnson Asiamah said the central bank is committed to maintaining fiscal and monetary policies that support the cedi’s stability.

    Dr. Asiamah noted that the Bank will continue implementing reforms to monitor the forex market and prevent illegal practices that threaten the currency’s strength.

    The cedi, he said, had gained “significant value — almost 19% — between April and May,” attributing the appreciation to “a combination of factors, including prudent monetary policy, improved market sentiment, and external sector gains.”

    Meanwhile, Forbes has reported an 8% depreciation of the US dollar in 2025, while gold prices have increased by 23%, as investors seek safe-haven assets — a trend that has also strengthened the Ghanaian cedi.

    The average interbank rates as of Thursday, June 19 show the US dollar buying at GH₵10.29 and selling at GH₵10.30. The British pound is buying at GH₵13.82 and selling at GH₵13.83. The euro is currently being bought at GH₵11.80 and sold at GH₵11.81.

  • Govt allocates GHS1bn to retool Police, GNFS and others

    Govt allocates GHS1bn to retool Police, GNFS and others

    The government has allocated GH¢1 billion to strengthen the operational capacities and effectiveness of the country’s security agencies. 

    President John Dramani Mahama revealed this at a recent meeting with security agencies on Friday, June 20, after receiving a donation of GH¢1 million to support the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (Mahama Cares) from 11 agencies.

    Dignitaries present at the ceremony were the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak; the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh; and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno.

    Others include the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Prisons Service, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), and the National Identification Authority (NIA). 

    According to him, the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has already approved the allocation despite the odds to strengthen the security agencies.

    He expressed concern over the operational challenges confronting the security services, particularly the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), emphasizing that the service’s tools and machinery were procured over a decade ago and have not been replaced or upgraded.

    President Mahama added that these challenges are hampering their efforts to effectively carry out their security and emergency response duties.

    According to him, the new funding would go a long way in addressing these critical shortfalls and restoring public confidence in the operations of the security agencies.

    “I have managed to squeeze the hand of the Minister of Finance to his back, and we will get a budget of a billion cedis for the retooling of your various services. The Fire Service needs equipment urgently. I empathise with them when they get insulted by people when they do not get to fire incidents early. The issue is that they do not have the equipment. Some of the equipment was bought 10 years ago. There has not been a retooling,” the president explained.

    “The police have to confront armed robbers every day, and you do not expect them to do it in light-skinned vehicles,” he said.

    The Fire Service has, on several occasions, attributed delays in emergency response to outdated equipment, contributing to the escalating loss of lives and properties.

    Many of the existing fire tenders are outdated and no longer meet the demands of modern firefighting, compromising the speed and efficiency of operations.

    In response, the GNFS has repeatedly appealed for more fire tenders, advanced firefighting equipment, and an expanded workforce.

    Despite their plea, support has been limited, leaving personnel to rely on aging tools and vehicles that often slow down response efforts.

    Addressing concerns about the police service, President Mahama highlighted the risks officers encounter in dealing with armed criminals and stressed the immediate need for adequate equipment to protect their lives.

    “The armed robbers are well armed with AK-47s. They’re back at them and so getting them armor-plated vehicles for their patrol, highway patrols, and things is also something that we’ll look at,” he stated.

    Additionally, he lamented mobility challenges facing the Ghana Immigration Service and the Ghana Prisons Service. He noted that the fund is expected to procure modern vehicles to improve their operational efficiency and ensure a timely response to security duties.

    “And so we’ll help you; we’ll retool you. You have a mandate to look after us, but we must help you to look after us, and so I can assure you that getting equipment and logistics for you to do your work will be one of our priorities,” he said.

    Should government disburse the allocated amount, this will go a long way to aid the delivery of security services by the security agencies.

    On the other hand, the Cabinet had approved a bill for the Mahama Cares Fund. According to President Mahama, the fund will be managed by independent trustees, reputable individuals appointed once Parliament gives a nod.

  • Our citizens cannot be blamed for illegal mining activities in Ghana – Chinese Ambassador Tong Defa

    Our citizens cannot be blamed for illegal mining activities in Ghana – Chinese Ambassador Tong Defa

    Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Tong Defa, has absolved Chinese citizens residing in Ghana from blame over the degradation of the environment by activities of illegal miners (galamseyers) in the country.

    Speaking to the media on Thursday, June 19, he held Ghanaians, particularly rural dwellers, responsible for the destruction of properties and loss of lives due to the menace.

    He indicated that a significant number of Chinese nationals arrested for illegal mining were migrant workers invited by Ghanaians seeking to profit quickly from the mining industry.

    “Some of those who were caught red-handed are just migrant workers… I have social media, and when I post on X, people tag me with galamsey as if galamsey is caused by China. It is unfair to me. It is really unfair to me and to the majority of Chinese. Actually, it is not Chinese. It didn’t originate from China. Chinese nationals cannot obtain licences or get permits. It is the Ghanaian people who throw the Chinese people over here.

    “To my understanding, in this country, you can never eliminate those small mines. Those mines will have illegalities involved in them. We need to find ways to solve this problem… The government needs to work on a policy to eliminate the pollution of waters and forests,” he noted.

    He further called on the government to initiate stricter measures and policies to curb illegal mining activities and hold perpetrators accountable.

    Several Chinese individuals have been involved in galamsey activities, leading to their arrest; however, prosecution has not been successful due to poor coordination between law enforcement and prosecutors, and language barriers during legal proceedings.

    Recently, the government attributed the lack of justice delivery to Chinese foreign nationals to a language barrier. Supreme Court Judge nominee Justice Philip Bright Mensah, corroborated this information, stating that the lack of proper interpretation in court by interpreters adds to the challenges of judges to prosecute culprits.

    “The interpreters themselves, sometimes they are also a problem. So if the judge himself understands the language, it will be better served for him to understand what he is doing for us to be able to curb the menace of galamsey,” he said, noting the need for judges to learn the Chinese language.

    Over 500 arrests have been made from January to May this year in response to efforts to combat illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.

    In May, the Ghana Police Service confirmed the arrest of 17 individuals, including seven Chinese nationals and ten Ghanaians, in connection with illegal mining activities in Samreboi, located in the Western Region.

    The Central North Police Regional Command’s Special Anti-Galamsey Taskforce on April 7 apprehended five suspects — two Ghanaians and three Chinese nationals — for engaging in illegal mining activities on River Fum at Assin Ayitey, a farming community near Assin Akonfudi in the Assin North Constituency, within the Central North Police Region.

    The arrested individuals were identified as Duut Kwabena Sakakba, aged 29; Bismark Asare, aged 36; and three Chinese nationals — Lin Wei, aged 45; Zhao Min, aged 38; and Lu Chen, aged 41.

    The effects of illegal mining continue to affect the country adversely. Billions of cedis are lost due to the smuggling of gold by illegal miners. Also, the water bodies and forest reserves are due to the use of mercury, other harmful chemicals, and heavy equipment.

    The government has initiated a number of measures to quell the activities of illegal miners in the country.

    Excavator owners and operators who have failed to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.

    To further control the situation, the DVLA, in collaboration with key agencies like the Minerals Commission, National Security, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has started tagging all newly imported excavators.

    Legal small-scale mining sites have also been geo-fenced, with their site coordinates integrated into the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking software for better oversight.

    According to President John Dramani Mahama, the government plans to reclaim 10,000 hectares of mined-out lands from illegal mining activities.

  • I am against child marriage – Justice Ackaah-Boafo

    I am against child marriage – Justice Ackaah-Boafo

    Supreme Court Judge nominee, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo, has opposed the practice of some parents giving their underage daughters in marriage.

    Appearing before the Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, June 20, he indicated that every Ghanaian girl child deserves the opportunity to access education.

    He advocated for changes in the law to better safeguard the rights of vulnerable girls.

    “The girl child should have the opportunity to be educated and develop her talent, so that when you place a child into a marriage against their wishes, it is certainly a no-no.

    “So I do not believe that children should be put in marriage at a tender age. Every child should have the opportunity to develop their talents, and if there is a need for us to regulate that through law, I am all for it. But I think many of these things come with education rather than just law,” he concluded.

    The Appointments Committee of Parliament on Friday, dismissed a petition filed that sought to prevent the vetting of one of President John Dramani Mahama’s Supreme Court judge nominees, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo.

    The petition was brought before the Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, June 19, by an acclaimed international human rights activist, Anthony Kwabenya Rau, who levels serious allegations of judicial bias against the nominee.

    The dramatic development prevented Justice Ackaah-Boafo from being vetted on Thursday and sought to ruin his promotion to Ghana’s highest court.

    But his vetting resumed today, making him the last person to appear before Parliament’s Committee for interrogation.

    Addressing the media, Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, described the petition as “frivolous, vexatious, and a complete abuse of process,” thereby dismissing it.

    He based the decision on Article 127(3) of the 1992 Constitution, which protects judges from legal action regarding their judicial conduct.

    Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, also condemned the increasing trend of using baseless allegations to publicly tarnish the reputations of accomplished individuals.

    “I am in agreement with the views you’ve expressed for and on behalf of this committee,” he said. “Indeed, as a country, we need to veer off from trivialities and situations where we subject people’s reputation to undue public ridicule.”

    “I am happy that this committee has boldly stood up for democracy and the rule of law in helping deal with matters as frivolous as what came before us,” he added.

    The petition alleges Justice Ackaah-Boafo used unprintable words during past court proceedings, emphasizing extreme bias.

    Mr Rau questioned Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s legitimacy to serve at the Supreme Court, labeling him a “so-called Messiah international Human Rights Activist”.

    “For me, he will be a disaster at the Supreme Court if approved (sic) for the international and national interest of the republic. These are my reasons to petition the vetting committee not to approve this particular judge,” parts of the petition read.

    According to the petitioner, Justice Ackaah-Boafo “insulted and attacked” him during a court hearing, which he claims is undeniable evidence of bias and corruption.

    He called Justice Ackaah-Boafo “arrogant, biased, power-drunk, an abuser of human rights (sic) and supportive of corruption.”

    The Appointments Committee referred the complaint to Speaker Bagbin for further review. As per Parliament’s Standing Order 99, petitions received must undergo a 30-day inquiry to ensure they are not “frivolous or vexatious.”

    So far, all President Mahama’s nominees, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo, Justice Hafisata Ameleboba and Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo have been vetted.

    Their vetting comes after the Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin on May 27 referred the nominees to the Appointments Committee for vetting and subsequent approval.

    This is in accordance with Article 144(2) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which mandates that Supreme Court nominees undergo parliamentary scrutiny before their appointments are confirmed.

    The Appointments Committee, is chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, and assisted by Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.Other members of the committee also include, Alexander Afenyo-Markin (Ranking Member), Patricia Appiagyei (Deputy Ranking Member), Mahama Ayariga (Majority Leader), Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Patrick Yaw Boamah, Shaibu Mahama, Alhassan Umar, Kwame Governs Agbodza.

    About the nominees

    Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he was elected to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2022 for a six-year term. He has served as Director of the Judicial Training Institute and Dean of the Faculty of Law at GIMPA. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law at multiple universities.

    Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh – Appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2010, he previously served as the Supervising High Court Judge in the Eastern Region and is known for his expertise in constitutional and administrative law and represents Court of Appeal judges on Ghana’s Judicial Council.

    Justice Senyo Dzamefe – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he chaired the Dzamefe Commission, which investigated Ghana’s performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was elected President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana (AMJG) in 2018.

    Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo – A Court of Appeal judge, has emphasised the need for legal education reforms and has advocated for the integration of artificial intelligence into Ghana’s legal system to enhance efficiency and transparency.

    Justice Philip Bright Mensah – Known for his contributions to appellate jurisprudence, he recently presided over a Court of Appeal panel that directed the Accra High Court to adopt proceedings from a previous trial in the Republic vs. Stephen Kwabena Opuni case.

    Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo – A Court of Appeal judge, he has been nominated to strengthen the Supreme Court’s capacity amid increasing demands on Ghana’s judiciary.

    Justice Hafisata Ameleboba – A Court of Appeal judge, she has been involved in key judicial decisions and reforms. Her nomination is expected to bring diversity and expertise to the Supreme Court.

  • Mob justice is illegal, let the law speak – Justice Ackaah-Boafo to Ghanaians

    Mob justice is illegal, let the law speak – Justice Ackaah-Boafo to Ghanaians

    Supreme Court nominee, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo, has admonished Ghanaians to desist from taking the laws into their hands, instead turn to legal authorities for assistance.

    Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, June 21, he indicated that lynching and other vigilante acts undermine the rule of law and must not be used as a means of seeking justice.

    Justice Ackaah-Boafo insisted that all these acts are illegal and individuals caught in the practice must face the law.

    “If somebody has done something wrong, the judicial process should be allowed to take its place. Using mob justice clearly is illegal, and people who engage in it must be dealt with by the law.

    “I believe that nobody can use mob justice or demonstrations to resolve a legal matter,” he stated.

    Moving away, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo also opposed the practice of some parents giving their underage daughters in marriage.

    He indicated that every Ghanaian girl child deserves the opportunity to access education.

    He advocated for changes in the law to better safeguard the rights of vulnerable girls.

    “The girl child should have the opportunity to be educated and develop her talent, so that when you place a child into a marriage against their wishes, it is certainly a no-no.

    “So I do not believe that children should be put in marriage at a tender age. Every child should have the opportunity to develop their talents, and if there is a need for us to regulate that through law, I am all for it. But I think many of these things come with education rather than just law,” he concluded.

    Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo was the final nominee of President John Dramani Mahama’s Supreme Court judge nominees, who had undergone vetting.

    So far, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo and Justice Hafisata Ameleboba have been vetted.

    Their vetting comes after the Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin on May 27 referred the nominees to the Appointments Committee for vetting and subsequent approval.

    This is in accordance with Article 144(2) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which mandates that Supreme Court nominees undergo parliamentary scrutiny before their appointments are confirmed.

    The Appointments Committee, is chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, and assisted by Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.Other members of the committee also include, Alexander Afenyo-Markin (Ranking Member), Patricia Appiagyei (Deputy Ranking Member), Mahama Ayariga (Majority Leader), Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Patrick Yaw Boamah, Shaibu Mahama, Alhassan Umar, Kwame Governs Agbodza.

    About the nominees

    Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he was elected to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2022 for a six-year term. He has served as Director of the Judicial Training Institute and Dean of the Faculty of Law at GIMPA. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law at multiple universities.

    Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh – Appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2010, he previously served as the Supervising High Court Judge in the Eastern Region and is known for his expertise in constitutional and administrative law and represents Court of Appeal judges on Ghana’s Judicial Council.

    Justice Senyo Dzamefe – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he chaired the Dzamefe Commission, which investigated Ghana’s performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was elected President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana (AMJG) in 2018.

    Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo – A Court of Appeal judge, has emphasised the need for legal education reforms and has advocated for the integration of artificial intelligence into Ghana’s legal system to enhance efficiency and transparency.

    Justice Philip Bright Mensah – Known for his contributions to appellate jurisprudence, he recently presided over a Court of Appeal panel that directed the Accra High Court to adopt proceedings from a previous trial in the Republic vs. Stephen Kwabena Opuni case.

    Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo – A Court of Appeal judge, he has been nominated to strengthen the Supreme Court’s capacity amid increasing demands on Ghana’s judiciary.

    Justice Hafisata Ameleboba – A Court of Appeal judge, she has been involved in key judicial decisions and reforms. Her nomination is expected to bring diversity and expertise to the Supreme Court.

  • Okyeame Kwame, KK Kabobo, featured in 2025 BECE

    Okyeame Kwame, KK Kabobo, featured in 2025 BECE

    Reports indicating the inclusion of other Ghanaian musicians who featured in the 2025 BECE aside from King Paluta has surfaced.

    The other musicians include James Armaah, the late KK Kabobo, born Kwabena Kwakye Kabobo, a veteran Highlife musician; Dela Botri is celebrated as Ghana’s “flute magician”.

    Others are: Rev. Newlove Kojo Annan, a prolific Ghanaian choral director, Okyeame Kwame, born Kwame Nsiah-Apau and popularly known as the “Rap Doctor.

    The candidates were made to answer the question, “King Paluta, whose real name is Thomas Adjei Wireko, is a Ghanaian musician known for combining traditional rhythms, storytelling and modern hip-hop beats in his music. One of his most popular songs, Aseda, carries deep messages that address important issues in the Ghanaian society. Identify two of these issues?” the question read.

    This led a section of Ghanaians to raise concerns that some students may struggle to answer the question if they are unable to understand the message in the song.

    On the other hand, the West African Examination Council (WAEC) has stated that language was never a barrier for students who wrote their BECE exams, answering questions on King Paluta’s Aseda song, composed in the Twi dialect.

    WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, explained that the students were prepared to expect to answer the question.

    “Language wouldn’t have been a barrier because teachers would have guided the students through it. In fact, the materials are provided to them ahead of time, giving them the opportunity to interpret and understand the content properly before the exam,” Kapi said.

    He added that the inclusion of songs in exams is part of the Creative Arts and Music syllabus.

    “The issue about this, especially this aspect of the syllabus, is to have the candidates studied more like you study poetry or comprehension. The music is supposed to send a message or to bring something to the society. And so it is something that the candidates are supposed to have studied and then they should be able to, you know, put it in their own words and maybe tell the world what they have learned from this kind of music,” he stated.

    A total of 603,328 candidates participated in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) today, Wednesday, 11 June.

    Ahead of the exams, Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, entreated the candidates to remain focused and stay away from exam malpractices.

    Barely 72 hours after the commencement of the exams, the West African Examination Council announced that 10 individuals had been caught engaging in exam malpractice.

    “These 10 culprits have been handed over to law enforcement agencies. Their actions are criminal under WAEC law, and the police will now work to prosecute them in court.”

    “There was one supervisor who had a mobile phone. He had taken smart shots of the questions and posted them on social media. In addition, six other invigilators were found with mobile phones containing pictures of the examination questions,” Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, told JoyNews.

    During the period, several candidates sustained injuries due to accidents, and a life was lost. Eight BECE candidates from Nangbagu Yapala M/A JHS in the Northern Region were involved in a road accident on their way to write Tuesday’s paper (June 12) at the Tamale Secondary School (Tamasco) examination centre in the Sagnarigu Municipality.

    A supervisor accompanying the candidates, Mr Abdulai Mohammed, recounted that the accident happened after the tricycle’s steering reportedly locked, causing the rider to lose control and crash into the motorbike.

    “We got another means to carry them to the Tamale West Hospital, but because of the ongoing strike, it took a while before they managed to get two nurses and one doctor to attend to them.”

    “When we got to the centre, they had finished the first paper, and the students were coming out. We isolated our students so they could write, but unfortunately, they were denied,” Mr Mohammed explained.

    The candidates, comprising 297,250 males and 306,078 females, were from 20,395 schools.

    This year examination exercise was brought to completion on June 18.

    Ahead of the exams, Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, entreated the candidates to remain focused and stay away from exam malpractices.

    Barely 72 hours after the commencement of the exams, the West African Examination Council announced that 10 individuals had been caught engaging in exam malpractice.

    “These 10 culprits have been handed over to law enforcement agencies. Their actions are criminal under WAEC law, and the police will now work to prosecute them in court.”

    “There was one supervisor who had a mobile phone. He had taken smart shots of the questions and posted them on social media. In addition, six other invigilators were found with mobile phones containing pictures of the examination questions,” Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, told JoyNews.

    During the period, several candidates sustained injuries due to accidents, and a life was lost. Eight BECE candidates from Nangbagu Yapala M/A JHS in the Northern Region were involved in a road accident on their way to write Tuesday’s paper (June 12) at the Tamale Secondary School (Tamasco) examination centre in the Sagnarigu Municipality.

    A supervisor accompanying the candidates, Mr Abdulai Mohammed, recounted that the accident happened after the tricycle’s steering reportedly locked, causing the rider to lose control and crash into the motorbike.

    “We got another means to carry them to the Tamale West Hospital, but because of the ongoing strike, it took a while before they managed to get two nurses and one doctor to attend to them.”

    “When we got to the centre, they had finished the first paper, and the students were coming out. We isolated our students so they could write, but unfortunately, they were denied,” Mr Mohammed explained.

  • Yaa Jackson sings better than Gyakie – Keche Joshua claims

    Yaa Jackson sings better than Gyakie – Keche Joshua claims

    Keche Joshua has stated that Ghanaian female artist Yaa Jackson has vocal abilities over fellow songstress, Gyakie.

    In an interview with ZionFelix, Keche Joshua commended Yaa Jackson’s for her efforts she puts into singing.

    He noted that he was speaking the truth and not flattering Yaa Jackson.

    “I love your song,” he noted, before declaring that his opinion was not just flattery but a fact. “What I said is the truth,” he insisted.

    He made this remark after Yaa Jackson’s latest single, Moses, release.

    His comments have stirred controversy online, with many debating who is the better vocalist between the two.

    Yaa Jackson rose to fame as an actress and is now balancing her career between acting and music.

    Moses is a sensual Afrobeat track that blends love, rhythm, and raw emotion.

    Meanwhile, the musician has slammed critics who condemn her style of dressing.

    In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Yaa Jackson noted that she is not perturbed by the opinions of people, adding that she doesn’t dress to express anyone.

    “Oh, the comments! I’m not worried about what people say about my style. Fashion is subjective, and I’m all about being true to myself. If people love it, great! If not, that’s okay too.

    “I won’t change for someone else’s idea of style. Besides, on an ordinary day, you will not see Yaa Jackson dressed like that,” she stated.

  • I dress for me – Yaa Jackson fires back at critics

    I dress for me – Yaa Jackson fires back at critics

    Ghanaian musician and actress Yaa Jackson has slammed critics who condemn her style of dressing.

    In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Yaa Jackson noted that she is not perturbed by the opinions of people, adding that she doesn’t dress to express anyone.

    “Oh, the comments! I’m not worried about what people say about my style. Fashion is subjective, and I’m all about being true to myself. If people love it, great! If not, that’s okay too.

    “I won’t change for someone else’s idea of style. Besides, on an ordinary day, you will not see Yaa Jackson dressed like that,” she stated.

    Yaa Jackson rose to fame as an actress and is now balancing her career between acting and music.

    According to her, music allows her to express her emotions and ideas than acting does.

    “Honestly, I love both music and acting. I think they’re both forms of storytelling, just in different ways. Right now, I’m leaning more towards music because it allows me to express myself in a personal and raw way. However, I will continue to explore both passions,” she added.

    Meanwhile, her father, Jackson K. Bentum, has responded to ongoing public scrutiny over the social life of his daughter.

    A section of Ghanaians has asserted that her social lifestyle does not align with the cultural expectations of a young Ghanaian woman.

    According to him, “She’s over 18 now. There’s little I can do to control her choices.”

    Yaa Jackson’s father believes that all her daughter is putting up in the public eye is meant to contribute to building a solid brand for herself.

    “It’s part of the branding. It’s the business of entertainment,” he emphasised.

    Contrary to Yaa Jackson’s social reputation, Mr Bentum revealed that his daughter has become a different person behind the scenes ever since she assumed the role of a mother.

    “Even when we’re on set, she no longer agrees to wear those revealing outfits. Motherhood has changed her a lot,” Mr. Bentum shared.

    Meanwhile, Yaa Jackson Konadu had disclosed in 2023 that she was five months into her pregnancy before she knew she was carrying a child.

    On the account of Yaa, “it was too late” when news of her pregnancy was announced to her.

    Speaking in an interview with Zionfelix, she noted that she could have taken good care of herself if only she had discovered her pregnancy in the first trimester.

    “It got to a time where I lost my appetite and became weak. I went to check at the hospital but then, it was too late. It was after five months that I found out I was pregnant…had I known earlier, I could have taken much care of myself.

    “I never abort my pregnancy. I won’t harm that innocent baby…I was ready for anything. I have been with my man for almost two years but we’ve been friends since 2016,” she said.

    The mother of several years added that she performed shows without raising eyebrows, adding that she kept posting on social media until 7 months into her pregnancy.

    “I was playing shows until my 7th month. My belly wasn’t protruding; I kept on posting on social media.”



  • Praye was doing well until Kiki joined – Choirmaster

    Praye was doing well until Kiki joined – Choirmaster

    Kiki Banson, ex-manager for the defunct music group, Praye, has been held responsible for the team’s collapse.

    In an interview on Okay FM on June 19, Chiormaster, also known as Praye Ho Ne Ho also indicated that, Kiki Banson didn’t give the group the necessary support it needed.

    “Kiki was the reason behind the downfall of the group, Praye. He did not contribute any tangible work to support the group. Praye was already loud before he joined; we had Angelina banging on the street and other projects,” Choirmaster stated.

    He explained that the group was already in the limelight before Kiki Banson joined the group.

    According to him, the group had foreseen their then-manager as someone who was coming in to add to their success.

    But their expectations had a twist due to Kiki’s decisions, which eventually led to their split.

    “Before he joined us, we were already making progress, but after bringing him on board, we began to decline. He was expected to put in effort, especially since many people, including us, believed in him. However, he failed to elevate the group as we had hoped.

    “When we met Kiki, we had high hopes, believing he would work hard to advance the group. However, we were disappointed, as he turned out to be the opposite of what we expected,” he said.

    The Praye music group was made up of Eugene Baah (Praye Ho Ne Ho), Steven Fiawoo(Praye Tiatia), and Nana Kwame (Praye Tenten).

    The trio gained attention in 2004 after winning the maiden Nescafe’s African Revelation competition.

    They released their debut album, Mfitiasee, in 2005, which featured The single, My Shoddy, which went viral across Ghana.

    Praye won them a Kora Music Award for Best Group in West Africa as well as two Ghana Music Awards in 2006 namely: New Artiste of the Year and Hiplife Song of the year.

    However, Praye Tenten left the group in 2011 while their career was at a peak.

  • I’m back like I never left – Deborah Seyram speaks after 45-day jail release

    I’m back like I never left – Deborah Seyram speaks after 45-day jail release

    Deborah Seyram Adablah has broken her silence after serving a 45-day sentence at Nsawam Female Prison for contempt of court.

    In a TikTok video, Seyram announced her presence and pledged her readiness to move forward confidently and remain undeterred by past controversies.

    “I’m back with a bang. To all my haters, your battery will get low, and I will still be standing strong,” she proclaimed confidently.

    She also expressed gratitude to the friends and family who supported her through her difficult moments.

    “Thank you, OIC, chiefs, my Ewurabas, and the special inmates of Nsawam Female Prison for preservation, correction, and security. I love you all,” she captioned the video.

    Seyram’s 45-day jail term began on May 6, after she attacked the judges handling her case with unparliamentary words on social media.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DLFefT8MT3U/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

    Seyram first gained attention in 2023 after filing a case against a former Chief Finance Officer of a bank, Ernest Kwasi Nimako, for alleged sexual harassment.

    She claimed Nimako, whom she referred to as her “sugar daddy,” failed to fulfill some promises he made to her after she agreed to be in a relationship with him.

    The pledges she listed are buying her a car, covering accommodation for three years, providing a monthly stipend of GH¢3,000, marrying her after divorcing his wife, and offering a lump sum to start a business.

    The plaintiff claimed that despite the car being initially registered in Nimako’s name, he later took it back after just a year. Additionally, she asserted that Nimako paid for only one year of accommodation, despite promising three years.

    Adablah sought court orders for the transfer of the car’s title into her name, the return of the car, payment of the lump sum for starting a business, payment of the outstanding two years’ accommodation, and covering medical expenses due to the side effects of a family planning treatment recommended by Nimako.

    However, the case thrown out by the High Court in Accra has ruled out, stating that although the relationship between the two was deemed immoral and against societal norms, there was no reasonable cause of action based on the filed writ.

    As a result, the plaintiff, Deborah Seyram Adablah, has been ordered to pay a cost of GH¢10,000.

    This decision follows an application by the former Chief Finance Officer urging the court to strike Adablah’s case.

  • Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s vetting resumes today

    Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s vetting resumes today

    The vetting session for one of President John Dramani Mahama’s Supreme Court judge nominees, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo, which was suspended over a petition, resumes today, Friday, June 20.

    The petition was brought before the Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, June 19, by an acclaimed international human rights activist, Anthony Kwabenya Rau, who levels serious allegations of judicial bias against the nominee.

    The dramatic development left Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s promotion to Ghana’s highest court hanging in limbo.

    But his vetting resumes today, making him the last person to appear before Parliament’s Committee for interrogation.

    The petition alleges Justice Ackaah-Boafo used unprintable words during past court proceedings, emphasizing extreme bias.

    Mr Rau questioned Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s legitimacy to serve at the Supreme Court, labeling him a “so-called Messiah international Human Rights Activist”.

    “For me, he will be a disaster at the Supreme Court if approved (sic) for the international and national interest of the republic. These are my reasons to petition the vetting committee not to approve this particular judge,” parts of the petition read.

    According to the petitioner, Justice Ackaah-Boafo “insulted and attacked” him during a court hearing, which he claims is undeniable evidence of bias and corruption.

    He called Justice Ackaah-Boafo “arrogant, biased, power-drunk, an abuser of human rights (sic) and supportive of corruption.”

    The Appointments Committee referred the complaint to Speaker Bagbin for further review. As per Parliament’s Standing Order 99, petitions received must undergo a 30-day inquiry to ensure they are not “frivolous or vexatious.”

    So far, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo and Justice Hafisata Ameleboba have been vetted.

    Their vetting comes after the Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin on May 27 referred the nominees to the Appointments Committee for vetting and subsequent approval.

    This is in accordance with Article 144(2) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which mandates that Supreme Court nominees undergo parliamentary scrutiny before their appointments are confirmed.

    The Appointments Committee, is chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, and assisted by Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.Other members of the committee also include, Alexander Afenyo-Markin (Ranking Member), Patricia Appiagyei (Deputy Ranking Member), Mahama Ayariga (Majority Leader), Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Patrick Yaw Boamah, Shaibu Mahama, Alhassan Umar, Kwame Governs Agbodza.

    About the nominees

    Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he was elected to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2022 for a six-year term. He has served as Director of the Judicial Training Institute and Dean of the Faculty of Law at GIMPA. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law at multiple universities.

    Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh – Appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2010, he previously served as the Supervising High Court Judge in the Eastern Region and is known for his expertise in constitutional and administrative law and represents Court of Appeal judges on Ghana’s Judicial Council.

    Justice Senyo Dzamefe – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he chaired the Dzamefe Commission, which investigated Ghana’s performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was elected President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana (AMJG) in 2018.

    Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo – A Court of Appeal judge, has emphasised the need for legal education reforms and has advocated for the integration of artificial intelligence into Ghana’s legal system to enhance efficiency and transparency.

    Justice Philip Bright Mensah – Known for his contributions to appellate jurisprudence, he recently presided over a Court of Appeal panel that directed the Accra High Court to adopt proceedings from a previous trial in the Republic vs. Stephen Kwabena Opuni case.

    Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo – A Court of Appeal judge, he has been nominated to strengthen the Supreme Court’s capacity amid increasing demands on Ghana’s judiciary.

    Justice Hafisata Ameleboba – A Court of Appeal judge, she has been involved in key judicial decisions and reforms. Her nomination is expected to bring diversity and expertise to the Supreme Court.

  • EC not considering re-run for Ablekuma North parliamentary polls

    EC not considering re-run for Ablekuma North parliamentary polls

    The Electoral Commission (EC) has opposed calls for a re-run of the 2024 parliamentary election in the Ablekuma North constituency.

    Appearing before Parliament on Thursday, June 19, the Deputy Chairperson of the EC in charge of Corporate Affairs, Dr. Bossman Asare, justified that the winner of the elections can be declared based on results from three outstanding polling stations.

    He noted the Commission will only resort to a re-run after all measures have been exhausted.

    “So, for Ablekuma North, we have not reached the point where we will say we don’t have the results. When we try and we cannot get the results, that is when we will resort to the rerun. The rerun will be a last option,” he said.

    Ablekuma North remains the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, months after the 2024 general elections, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has warned that the continued delay poses a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic reputation and the integrity of its electoral system.

    He cautioned that how the dispute is handled will shape public trust in Ghana’s electoral processes well beyond the current cycle.

    “This is a pivotal moment. The way we handle the collation in Ablekuma North will resonate across the country. It will set the tone, not only for this election, but also for public confidence in the years to come,” Dr. Yohuno stated.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    By January 6, only seven polling station results remained uncollated. Yet the process came to a standstill as the EC began engaging both major political parties in an attempt to break the deadlock.

    Both the NPP and the NDC have declared victory in the December parliamentary elections.

    The NPP maintains that its candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie, emerged the winner based on Electoral Commission figures, while the NDC insists that Ewurabena Aubyn was rightfully elected by the people.

  • Fire destroys over 100 wooden structures at Tema

    Fire destroys over 100 wooden structures at Tema

    Over 100 wooden structures at the Tema Heavy Industrial Area were destroyed by fire on Wednesday, June 18.

    Reports suggest the fire originated from a kiosk where cooking activities were being conducted around 11:00 p.m., quickly spreading to surrounding wooden structures.

    The victims have been left with nothing to recover; they have therefore appealed to the government to come to their aid.

    Speaking to the media, the victims accused the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) for the scale of the destruction, citing their delayed response to the scene.

    “I was asleep with my daughter that night while my elder brother was at church. Later, he called me to come outside because there was a fire. When I heard the sound of the flames, I rushed out almost naked.

    “As we speak, I’ve lost everything. We hear the person who caused the fire has fled. He should keep running and make sure we never set eyes on him again. In the meantime, we are appealing to the government to come to our aid,” one resident said.

    Meanwhile, the GNFS has yet to report the exact cause of the fire.

    Ghana has experienced multiple fire outbreaks within the first few months of the year, raising concerns among citizens as homes, businesses, and markets suffer extensive damage.

    Many have demanded an investigation, suspecting that some of these incidents may be deliberate acts by unidentified individuals.

    While the GNFS probes these occurrences, it has emphasized the need for heightened fire safety awareness, routine inspections, and strict enforcement of safety regulations to prevent further disasters.

    Meanwhile, the service has on several occasions contributed to response delays due to outdated equipment.

    The GNFS has called for an increase in fire stations nationwide as well as a supply of modern equipment.

  • Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s vetting halted over petition citing bias

    Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s vetting halted over petition citing bias

    The vetting session for one of President John Dramani Mahama’s Supreme Court judge nominees, Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo, has been indefinitely suspended following a last-minute petition filed to Parliament on Thursday, June 19.

    The formal complaint was brought before the Parliament’s Appointments Committee by an acclaimed international human rights activist, Anthony Kwabenya Rau, who levels serious allegations of judicial bias against the nominee.

    The dramatic development leaves Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s promotion to Ghana’s highest court hanging in limbo. The petition alleges Justice Ackaah-Boafo used unprintable words during past court proceedings, emphasizing extreme bias.

    Mr Rau questioned Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s legitimacy to serve at the Supreme Court, labeling him a “so-called Messiah international Human Rights Activist”.

    “For me, he will be a disaster at the Supreme Court if approved (sic) for the international and national interest of the republic. These are my reasons to petition the vetting committee not to approve this particular judge,” parts of the petition read.

    According to the petitioner, Justice Ackaah-Boafo “insulted and attacked” him during a court hearing, which he claims is undeniable evidence of bias and corruption.

    He called Justice Ackaah-Boafo “arrogant, biased, power-drunk, an abuser of human rights (sic) and supportive of corruption.”

    Meanwhile, the Appointments Committee has referred the complaint to Speaker Bagbin for further review. As per Parliament’s Standing Order 99, petitions received must undergo a 30-day inquiry to ensure they are not “frivolous or vexatious.”

    Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackaah-Boafo would have been the last person to have appeared before the Parliament’s Committee for interrogation.

    So far, Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei, Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, Justice Senyo Dzamefe, Justice Philip Bright Mensah, Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo and Justice Hafisata Ameleboba have been vetted.

    Their vetting comes after the Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin on May 27 referred the nominees to the Appointments Committee for vetting and subsequent approval.

    This is in accordance with Article 144(2) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which mandates that Supreme Court nominees undergo parliamentary scrutiny before their appointments are confirmed.

    The Appointments Committee, is chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, and assisted by Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.Other members of the committee also include, Alexander Afenyo-Markin (Ranking Member), Patricia Appiagyei (Deputy Ranking Member), Mahama Ayariga (Majority Leader), Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Patrick Yaw Boamah, Shaibu Mahama, Alhassan Umar, Kwame Governs Agbodza.

    About the nominees

    Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he was elected to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2022 for a six-year term. He has served as Director of the Judicial Training Institute and Dean of the Faculty of Law at GIMPA. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law at multiple universities.

    Justice Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh – Appointed to the Court of Appeal in 2010, he previously served as the Supervising High Court Judge in the Eastern Region and is known for his expertise in constitutional and administrative law and represents Court of Appeal judges on Ghana’s Judicial Council.

    Justice Senyo Dzamefe – A Court of Appeal judge since 2010, he chaired the Dzamefe Commission, which investigated Ghana’s performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was elected President of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Ghana (AMJG) in 2018.

    Justice Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo – A Court of Appeal judge, has emphasised the need for legal education reforms and has advocated for the integration of artificial intelligence into Ghana’s legal system to enhance efficiency and transparency.

    Justice Philip Bright Mensah – Known for his contributions to appellate jurisprudence, he recently presided over a Court of Appeal panel that directed the Accra High Court to adopt proceedings from a previous trial in the Republic vs. Stephen Kwabena Opuni case.

    Justice Janpere Bartels-Kodwo – A Court of Appeal judge, he has been nominated to strengthen the Supreme Court’s capacity amid increasing demands on Ghana’s judiciary.

    Justice Hafisata Ameleboba – A Court of Appeal judge, she has been involved in key judicial decisions and reforms. Her nomination is expected to bring diversity and expertise to the Supreme Court.

  • LEKMA Hospital receives 10,000-litre capacity oxygen plant

    LEKMA Hospital receives 10,000-litre capacity oxygen plant

    Access to medical-grade oxygen for critical and emergency care at the LEKMA Hospital in the Greater Accra Region will now see a massive improvement following the commissioning of a 10,000-litre capacity oxygen plant.

    The plant was commissioned on Wednesday, June 18, by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) following a collaboration with the Ghanaian U.S. Embassy and technical support from a nonprofit organization for international health, Jhpiego.

    The newly launched plant adds to the ten oxygen plants to be installed in strategic health facilities across the country.

    Director of the Health Administration and Support Services Division, Dr. Ebo Hammond, at GHS, who was speaking at the commissioning event, lauded the government for its timely and impactful intervention.

    The US Embassy’s Chargé d’affaires, Rolf Olson, also commended the United States Government’s long-standing commitment to enhancing health systems in Ghana, particularly in maternal and neonatal care.

    He also revealed the US government’s plans to supply the plant with liquid oxygen for a year to ensure its continued operation.

    Also, the Country Director at Jhpiego, Dr. Pearl Nanka Bruce, noted that biomedical engineers and fire service personnel have undergone specialized training to ensure the plant’s proper maintenance.

    Recently, The LEKMA Hospital received medical equipment, consumables and pharmaceuticals from the 14th Chinese Medical Team to Ghana.

    The items were donated to support two critical initiatives: the minimally invasive surgery project (laparoscopic surgeries) and the Beautiful World Charity project.

    Health Minister Mintah Akandoh urged the leadership of LEKMA Hospital, under the capable direction of Dr. Akua Gyimah Asante, to ensure that this equipment is used effectively, maintained diligently, and serves its intended purpose, providing better health outcomes for the people of Ghana.

    This donation represents another tangible demonstration of support from the Chinese government to both the government of Ghana and the Ghanaian people.

    The U.S. Embassy has expressed commitment to strengthening health services through collaboration, innovation, and sustained investment in primary healthcare.

    As such, the Embassy under its Ghana Integrated Health Program (IHP) donated some 104 motorbikes to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG).

    The donation is meant to strengthen primary healthcare, improve disease surveillance, and enhance maternal and child health outreach by equipping frontline workers with reliable means of transport.

    Of the total, 90 bikes were allocated to GHS and 14 to CHAG. Receiving the motorbikes on behalf of the Director-General of the Service, Director for Health Administration and Support Services at GHS, Dr. Ebo Hammond, expressed profound appreciation for the support and described the motorbikes as vital mobility tools that will boost frontline health workers’ ability to reach hard-to-access areas.

    Dr. Hammond highlighted that motorbikes form 90% of GHS’s transport fleet, making them especially effective when visiting hard-to-reach areas, and assured the U.S. Embassy of the effective use and maintenance of the donated items.

    He commended the US embassy for past interventions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delivering remarks on behalf of the U.S. Embassy, Ms. Kimberley Rosen emphasized the strong partnership between Ghana and the U.S. in healthcare delivery.

    She noted that the handover reflects America’s continued investment in Ghana’s health system, praising healthcare workers for their dedication.

  • Over 441,000 HPV vaccine doses arrive in Ghana to fight cervical cancer

    Over 441,000 HPV vaccine doses arrive in Ghana to fight cervical cancer

    Ghana has received its first shipment of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to protect the health of girls and women against cervical cancer.

    This information was made known by the lead agency responsible for procuring and shipping the vaccines, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Ghana, on Tuesday, June 18.

    According to UNICEF, over 2.5 million additional doses of the HPV vaccine will arrive in the coming weeks, following the initial batch of 441,860 doses.

    The incoming vaccines will be utilized in a nationwide immunisation campaign led by the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

    The campaign exercise is scheduled for September this year and will span five days. The vaccine will be offered for free to girls turning 9 to 14 years old in the country.

    It added, “By including the HPV vaccine in the national Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) routine vaccines, Ghana is taking a significant step to protect future generations from cervical cancer.”

    Cervical cancer is the most common cancer among young girls and women, and it is caused by a viral infection of the female reproductive tract, particularly the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus.

    Although cervical cancer is among the most preventable types of cancer affecting women, efforts to prevent it have been hindered by limited awareness of the disease and its risk factors, inadequate access to preventive services such as vaccination, and the high cost of these services.

    Prophylactic vaccination against HPV can prevent these cancers. In addition, HPV screening and treatment of precancerous lesions are effective ways to prevent cervical cancer, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). 

    More than 140 countries have already begun administering the vaccine, contributing to a global effort to reduce cervical cancer rates and protect future generations of women and girls.

    At least 14 of them are more than 100 types of HPV and are known to trigger cancer. Due to limited access to screening and treatment, low- and middle-income countries account for 85 percent of all new cases and deaths from cervical cancer.

    “Cervical cancer was the fourth leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths in women in 2022, with some 660,000 new cases and around 350,000 deaths worldwide,” the WHO reports.

    Per reports, cervical cancer kills over 2,000 women every year in Ghana. Last year, cervical cancer cases stood at 522, marking an increase of 224 cases from the 298 recorded in 2023 in the country.

    Meanwhile, the GHS has bemoaned the low uptake of Ghanaian women taking screen­ing for cervical cancer, as its cases continue to soar in the country.

    The goal of screening for cervical cancer is to find precancerous cell changes before they become cancer, and when treatment can prevent cancer from developing. Screening for cervical cancer is an important part of routine health care for people who have a cervix.

  • Confirmed Mpox cases hit 98 – GHS

    Confirmed Mpox cases hit 98 – GHS

    The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported seven new cases of monkeypox (Mpox), bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 98 as of June 16.


    In a circular on Wednesday, June 18, the Service indicated that all patients had been discharged, with no individuals remaining hospitalized.


    As of June 12, the number of confirmed cases rose to 91 from 79 reported as of June 6, with no reports of fatalities.


    The GHS earlier noted that the recent rise in cases is due to stronger surveillance, such as contact tracing and increased public awareness, helping the Service detect and isolate cases faster.


    Ghana recorded the first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, and by November 2023, health authorities had confirmed a total of 34 cases. Despite the increase in cases, Ghana has not recorded any Mpox-related deaths.


    Mpox is a viral illness similar to smallpox. It typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids, including through sexual contact.


    To reduce your risk, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, maintain proper hand hygiene, and refrain from sharing personal items.


    Symptoms may include fever, rash or lesions, tiredness, headaches, muscle and back pain, and swollen glands.


    The Ministry of Health and the GHS have called on all media houses to support public education efforts by using their platforms to raise awareness and provide accurate information on Mpox.


    Meanwhile, the Ghana Health Service has assured that the country will soon experience relief in response to the surging cases of monkeypox (Mpox).

    The government is engaging international organizations for assistance in procuring vaccines to be able to curb the surging number of cases being reported.

    Speaking to the media on Saturday, June 7, Director for Public Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Franklyn Asiedu Bekoe, stated, “We’re engaging WHO and the Africa CDC so that we get the vaccines. Somewhere last year, Ghana didn’t have any established human-to-human transmission, so we do not qualify. Now that we have human-to-human transmission. The idea is that we will be able to identify a clear group who will benefit from the vaccine.”

    The Government of Ghana has assured its commitment to safeguarding public health by implementing appropriate measures to protect the health and well-being of all residents.”

  • 2025 BECE: Three invigilators nabbed for exams malpractices in Ashanti Region granted bail

    2025 BECE: Three invigilators nabbed for exams malpractices in Ashanti Region granted bail

    Three individuals who were arrested for alleged examination malpractices during the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Ashanti Region have been granted bail.

    The suspects were arrested at different examination centres, including Twedie and Mampong, while supervising the exams.

    The accused reportedly shared photocopied answers and images of examination questions on their mobile phones at the exam centre.

    A total of 603,328 candidates participated in this year’s exams, which began on Wednesday, June 11, and concluded on Tuesday, June 17.

    The candidates, comprising 297,250 males and 306,078 females, are from 20,395 schools.

    Ahead of the exams, Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, entreated the candidates to remain focused and stay away from exam malpractices.

    Barely 72 hours after the commencement of the exams, the West African Examination Council announced that 10 individuals had been caught engaging in exam malpractice.

    “These 10 culprits have been handed over to law enforcement agencies. Their actions are criminal under WAEC law, and the police will now work to prosecute them in court.”

    “There was one supervisor who had a mobile phone. He had taken smart shots of the questions and posted them on social media. In addition, six other invigilators were found with mobile phones containing pictures of the examination questions,” Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, told JoyNews.

    During the period, several candidates sustained injuries due to accidents, and a life was lost. Eight BECE candidates from Nangbagu Yapala M/A JHS in the Northern Region were involved in a road accident on their way to write Tuesday’s paper (June 12) at the Tamale Secondary School (Tamasco) examination centre in the Sagnarigu Municipality.

    A supervisor accompanying the candidates, Mr Abdulai Mohammed, recounted that the accident happened after the tricycle’s steering reportedly locked, causing the rider to lose control and crash into the motorbike.

    “We got another means to carry them to the Tamale West Hospital, but because of the ongoing strike, it took a while before they managed to get two nurses and one doctor to attend to them.”

    “When we got to the centre, they had finished the first paper, and the students were coming out. We isolated our students so they could write, but unfortunately, they were denied,” Mr Mohammed explained.

    Assin South District Education Director, Isaac Opoku, confirmed the demise of a 14-year-old Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidate, Awudu Gariba, who was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Assin Fosu Polyclinic on Friday, June 13.

    The Nnuanua Number 1 Basic School student, according to reports, showed unrest last Thursday at the exam hall and was rushed to the Adiembra CHPS compound but was denied medical care as the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) was still in motion.

    Two Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates of Big Six International School, located at Meduma in the Ashanti Region were also denied the chance to write their Mathematics paper after being locked in a room by their headmaster over unpaid school fees.

    According to reports, the headmaster issued a directive barring the students from participating in the exams unless their outstanding fees were settled.

    After the students defied the order and attempted to proceed to the exam centre, they were locked in a room on the school premises, causing them to miss the Mathematics paper.

    Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Kwabre East, Onyina-Akyeampong Akwasi Gyamfi, has taken a strong stance against the detention of two Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates by the headmaster of their school.

    He has formally reported this incident to the police and “expects the individual responsible to face the consequences of his actions.” “It’s alarming to learn that a similar situation arose at this school last year, and I’m committed to pursuing this case vigorously,” Mr Gyamfi assured.

    The number of candidates that registered for this year’s BECE (SC) is 5.99% higher than the 2024 entry figure.

    Overall, 569,236 candidates participated in the 2024 BECE, comprising 282,703 boys and 286,533 girls from 19,505 schools.

    Special accommodations were provided for 59 visually impaired candidates, 263 with hearing impairments, and 161 others requiring specific assistance.


    The exam took place at 2,123 centres nationwide, though 3,845 candidates were marked as absent. The BECE for Private Candidates had 1,390 participants, 750 males and 640 females, taking the exam at 15 centres across the country’s regional capitals.

    Among them, 57 candidates did not show up for the exam. Some 33 school candidates and 3 private candidates had their results withheld due to investigations into possible irregularities. WAEC also flagged subject results from 149 schools, pending further investigations into reported malpractices.

  • Assemblies to receive not less than GHS25m each – President Mahama

    Assemblies to receive not less than GHS25m each – President Mahama

    The government has pledged a minimum of ₵25 million each to all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assembly (MMDAs) across the country this year.

    The Fund is to support district assemblies in executing their duties in the regions.

    The president made this known at an orientation and training programme held in Accra on Wednesday, June 18.

    “This year, every assembly—from the largest to the smallest—will receive not less than GH₵25 million. The NDC manifesto outlines a bold and people-centred agenda that puts local government at the heart of national development. You are the first line of the economy,” he stated.

    The government earlier announced the distribution of 80% of the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) to MMDCEs.

    The remaining 20% of the fund, he noted, will be designated for projects managed by agencies such as the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), ensuring continued support for critical national initiatives.

    President Mahama has cautioned that the government will assess the performance of each MMDCE to ensure accountability.

    He warned that MMDCEs who do not live up to expectations shall be sacked.

    “The Minister of Finance is about to release the first quarter of the District Assemblies Common Fund. As I said, 80% of the money is going directly to the regions for you to decide how to use it. So, MMDCEs, you have no excuse.

    “We will send you the guidelines, approved at the last Cabinet meeting, to show how the funds should be disbursed. This will serve as your Key Performance Indicators. Every year, we will assess your performance, and based on that, we will decide whether you stay or go,” he said.