Swedish coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren has arrived in Ghana to officially begin his tenure as head coach of the Black Queens.
The 43-year-old landed at Kotoka International Airport on Wednesday, February 12, where he was welcomed by officials from the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
His appointment follows the exit of Nora Hauptle, leaving him with the challenge of building on her legacy.
Bjorkegren’s appointment was confirmed last month after finalizing a two-year contract with the GFA.
He is set to hold his first official press conference on Friday, February 14, at the GFA Secretariat, where he will outline his vision for the national women’s team.
His first assignment with the Black Queens will be a friendly match against Morocco in Casablanca next week, serving as part of the team’s preparation for the rescheduled 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in July.
As he takes charge, Bjorkegrenwill be focused on guiding the team beyond the group stage of the WAFCON and making a strong impact in the tournament.
A coalition of civil society organisations and concerned individuals has formally petitioned the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to urge the government to abandon its plans to privatise theElectricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The petition, spearheaded by groups such as the Moving Africa Pan-Africanist Movement, Ghana in Planet Repairs Action Dialogue (GIPRAD), the African Continental Unity Party (ACUP), and activists from the Convention People’s Party (CPP), was submitted to TUC General Secretary Alhaji Iddrisu Fuseini on January 28.
In their letter, the petitioners outlined their strong opposition to the privatisation plan, encapsulated in a campaign titled “Civic Action Alert: Ghanaian Citizens Against Privatisation of Utility Companies.” They warned that such a move could have far-reaching consequences for public access to essential services and called on the TUC to intervene.
Critics of the privatisation policy have strongly opposed the move, arguing that it would deepen socioeconomic disparities, drive up utility costs, and limit public access to essential services.
In a statement signed by Explo Nathaniel Nani-Kofi, Chairman of the Moving Africa Pan-Africanist Movement, the group cautioned that going ahead with privatising the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) could lead to increased costs for basic utilities, job losses, reduced accountability, and a weakening of national sovereignty.
Rather than selling off the state-owned power distributor, the petitioners urged the government to prioritise anti-corruption reforms, invest in modernisation, and enforce transparent governance measures to sustain ECG’s operations.
They emphasised that publicly managed utilities play a critical role in community development and warned that privatisation could shift the focus from public welfare to profit-making.
Addressing President John Mahama and his administration, the petitioners called for their concerns to be taken seriously, reminding the government that they were exercising their constitutional right to voice their objections.
In response to the debate, the government has formed a seven-member committee to assess the privatisation proposal and recommend the best course of action.
Energy Minister John Jinapor has instructed the newly constituted committee to engage with key stakeholders in the power distribution sector and deliver a detailed roadmap within a month.
Comprising energy experts and industry representatives, the committee has been tasked with formulating strategies for transitioning ECG to private sector managementwith the goal of enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery.
Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso and former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Stephen Amoah, has firmly stood by former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta amid growing scrutiny.
On Wednesday, February 12, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) declared Ofori-Atta a fugitive,accusing him of causing financial loss to the state. The allegations stem from his involvement in multiple transactions, including the construction of the controversial National Cathedral and the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) partnership with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Dr Amoah emphatically stated that Ofori-Atta has not “run away” from the country, countering the narrative pushed by some detractors.
“I want to make it emphatically clear that Ken Ofori-Atta hasn’t run away,” Dr Amoah told the House.
“Mr Speaker, I would like to advise this august house. Our actions and omissions over the years have actually defined us, and we have allowed external stakeholders to view us through different lenses. It is time we stop doing this to each other,” he said
Dr Amoah also condemned the harsh language used by members, particularly regarding the state of the economy.
“Some of the descriptions they give him, some even went to the extent of commenting on the economy that he left behind. In fact, I cannot repeat those evil words they use in-house,” he added, alluding to the strong criticism that Ofori-Atta has faced.
In his remarks, Dr Amoah pointed to the achievements made during Ofori-Atta’s tenure, particularly in managing Ghana’s economy.
“In 2016, the economy that Ken Ofori-Atta inherited was growing at just 3.4 percent, with an inflation rate of 15.4 percent. Under his leadership, we have been able to implement one of the most enviable, strong policy frameworks on the African continent,” Dr Amoah argued, asserting that Ofori-Atta’s tenure was marked by significant progress despite challenges.
Rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs has taken legal action against the creators of a recent documentary about him, demanding $100 million (£80.5 million) in damages.
Diddy, who is currently in a New York jail facing charges of sex trafficking and racketeering—charges he denies—is suing TV network NBC, its streaming platform Peacock, and production company Ample.
His lawyer announced on Wednesday that the lawsuit claims the documentary, Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy, contains false and damaging statements about him.
So far, the three companies have not responded to the lawsuit.
The lawsuit says the “entire premise of the documentary assumes that Mr. Combs has committed numerous heinous crimes, including serial murder, rape of minors, and sex trafficking of minors”.
It said the programme “maliciously and baselessly jumps to the conclusion that Mr Combs is a ‘monster’”, and included claims that makers “knew were false or published with reckless disregard as to whether they were false or not”.
Diddy is seeking $100m in damages for the “reputational and economic harm” caused by the documentary.
The lawsuit says the programme “falsely, recklessly, and maliciously accuses Mr Combs of murdering” figures around him including former partner Kim Porter and rapper Christopher Wallace, known as Biggie Smalls and The Notorious BIG.
Mr Combs’ lawyer Erica Wolff said NBC, Peacock and Ample “made a conscious decision to line their own pockets at the expense of truth, decency, and basic standards of professional journalism”.
They “maliciously and recklessly broadcast outrageous lies”, she said in a statement.
BBC News has reached out to NBC and Ample for their response to the lawsuit.
Over the past 16 months, more than 30 civil lawsuits have been filed against rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs by both men and women.
He has been accused of kidnapping, drugging, and forcing women into sexual acts, sometimes using weapons and threats. Some lawsuits also allege that he assaulted and raped people.
Earlier this month, a lawyer representing many of the accusers said he expected at least 10 more lawsuits to be filed against Diddy.
Last week, the BBC released an investigation after speaking to more than 20 former employees of Diddy’s Bad Boy Records. They shared disturbing accounts of incidents they claim to have witnessed during the label’s rise in the 1990s.
Diddy has repeatedly denied all allegations, calling them “sickening.” He has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges against him.
In a previous statement to the BBC, Mr Combs’ lawyer said: “In court, the truth will prevail: that Mr Combs never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone – man or woman, adult or minor.”
World Banksays Ghana’s financial problems are mainly due to poor budget management, which has led to uncontrolled government spending, rising interest payments, and financial struggles.
In its latest Public Finance Review, the Bank explains that heavy spending during election years, expensive bailouts in the financial and energy sectors, and costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic have put a huge strain on Ghana’s finances. As a result, the government has little money left for important development projects.
Between 2010 and 2023, almost 70% of government spending went to salaries for public sector workers, interest payments on loans, and mandatory expenses, leaving little for infrastructure and economic growth.
Rising borrowing costs have also made it harder to invest in crucial projects.
The report stresses that Ghana must improve its financial management by increasing domestic revenue, reducing unnecessary tax breaks, and enforcing stricter spending controls.
If these changes are not made, the World Bank warns, Ghana could lose recent economic progress and remain in financial trouble for a long time.
To ensure stability, the government needs to cut unnecessary spending, improve financial oversight, and adopt a stricter budget system to rebuild investor confidence and encourage long-term growth.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, has supported investigations into alleged corruption involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
His statement comes after the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) named Ofori-Atta as a suspect in four major cases. These include issues related to the National Cathedral Project, the Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML) revenue deal, and two other cases.
Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Wednesday, February 12, Opoku raised concerns about how the OSP is handling the case, especially its decision to call Ofori-Atta a fugitive.
He stressed the importance of accountability but questioned whether the Special Prosecutor’s approach was fair and followed due process.
“I am not here to defend anybody that the state feels has engaged in any wrongdoing. I mean, we are public officers and we are expected to govern with a certain dignity and so if there is sufficient evidence to indicate that the former Finance Minister has engaged in any wrongdoing, I believe that he ought to face the law and the due process must be followed.
“However, we strongly believe that the processes leading to that process ought to follow a particular rule of law.
We need to uphold the fundamental rights of every Ghanaian, irrespective of your service or whether the Ghanaian people like you or not and that has been our position.”
The Acting Director of theGhana National Service Authority, Felix Gyamfi, has assured National Service personnel nationwide that all overdue allowances will be disbursed in full starting tomorrow, following a directive from President John Mahama.
Speaking on Joy FM’s PM Express on Wednesday, February 12, Gyamfi commended the President for taking swift action to resolve the backlog.
He highlighted Mahama’s long-standing commitment to ensuring timely payments for service personnel, noting that the issue has been a priority for him even before assuming office.
“We should be grateful to President John Mahama. You’ve realized that even before he became president, he had his press worry about the delay in payment of service personnel, especially so when the service allowance is a meagre ¢715, considering that we have serious inflation issues around us. So he sat down, and once we presented the figures to him, he ordered for a complete payment of all arrears,” he stated.
Mr Gyamfi confirmed that the delayed payments from August through December will be disbursed, bringing long-awaited relief to thousands of service personnel.
“From tomorrow, service personnel will start receiving all arrears due them, from, I think, all the way from August, September, October, November, December,” he assured.
He attributed the recurring payment delays in recent years to corruption and incompetence within the system, suggesting that inefficiencies had deprived service personnel of their rightful allowances.
“Why has it become so? I think in the last eight years, it all became part of humongous corruption, the incompetence that we had to deal with because you didn’t understand why a service person’s meagre allowance due them will not be paid on time,” he lamented.
When asked about the possibility of increasing the current allowance, Gyamfi hinted at President Mahama’s commitment to improving conditions for service personnel.
“I think President Mahama understands the circumstances that we are in and has reduced the corruption, the thievery, and the scheme by that much. And I’m sure already he’s thinking about, okay, can we claw back some of the money we saved? So it’s in the pipe a little bit. I’m sure he’s thinking about it,” he revealed.
The assurance of immediate payments has relieved National Service personnel, many of whom have endured months of financial strain due to the delayed allowances. With the government’s renewed focus on efficiency and anti-corruption measures, Gyamfi believes service personnel can look forward to a more reliable payment system in the future.
Effutu MP, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has donated GHC100,000 to the Winneba Municipal Health Directorate to support efforts in combating cholera in the constituency.
The former Municipal Chief Executive, Alhaji Kassim Zubeiru, presented the donation on behalf of the legislator, reaffirming Afenyo-Markin’s commitment to eliminating the disease from Effutu.
The contribution was made on February 12, 2025, with the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in attendance, including local chiefs and other key figures.
“This morning [February 12] we are here with some party executives, chiefs and people of Atekyedo to make a donation of one hundred thousand cedis [GHC100,000] to support the fight against cholera.
The MP is ever ready to support in the fight against the disease although he is not in the constituency now,” former MCE Kassim Zubeiru said.
The former Municipal Chief Executive also cautioned people living along the coastline of Effutu to keep their environment clean while avoiding open defecation which has been identified as one of the primary sources of the disease.
“We must maintain sanity, and cleanliness and avoid open defecation. The MP has built many toilets in these communities and I urge them to use the facilities. This to a larger extent will bring down the spread. The MP, Afenyo-Markin is not happy about the spread and is working with health authorities to deal with the situation,” Kassim Zubeiru said.
The directorate expressed its appreciation to Afenyo-Markin.
The World Bank’s Country Director for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, Robert Taliercio, has advised Ghana to exercise caution before re-entering international capital markets, stressing that a premature move could jeopardize the country’s recent economic progress.
Speaking at the launch of the World Bank’s latest Public Finance Review report, Building the Foundations for a Resilient and Equitable Fiscal Policy, Taliercio emphasized that rushing back to the markets too soon could create uncertainty among investors. He warned that such a step might undo the benefits of Ghana’s debt restructuring efforts and expose the nation to high borrowing costs that could strain its financial stability.
His remarks come in the wake of Ghana’s successful restructuring of both domestic and external debts, which provided substantial relief through the $3 billionIMF Extended Credit Facility (ECF)programme. While recognizing these milestones, Taliercio urged policymakers to remain vigilant, cautioning that Ghana has, in the past, struggled with maintaining long-term fiscal discipline.
He stressed the need for prudent financial management to consolidate the gains made under the debt restructuring process, warning that any hasty financial decisions could have long-term consequences for the country’s economic resilience.
“The risk now is falling into complacency with these achievements and returning to a business-as-usual mindset – a recurring error in the past. Ghana has requested a record 17 IMF programs and has been under active IMF supervision for 40 out of its 68 years of independence,” he noted.
He further cautioned that hastily seeking dollar financing from international markets could backfire, leading to a resurgence of high borrowing costs and renewed economic instability.
Ghana has remained shut out of international capital markets since 2022, largely due to its mounting debt burden, slow economic growth, and fragile balance of payments.
Although the government is keen to restore investor confidence, the World Bank emphasized that a well-timed approach, coupled with strict fiscal discipline, will be essential to achieving sustainable economic stability..
Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah has earned a Master’s degree in Communications from the University of Ghana.
In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by social media blogger @SIKAOFFICIAL1, the actress is seen walking gracefully in her graduation gown, wearing a stylish turquoise blue two-piece outfit consisting of trousers and a top.
Phenomenal Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah steps out in style to her graduation ceremony at the university of Ghana campus, after successfully completing her Master of Arts Degree in Communication Studies. pic.twitter.com/GM2MQPOlgF
Jackie Appiah began her Bachelor’s degree program in Political Science and Information Studies at the University of Ghana in 2019. She successfully completed the program and graduated with a First Class Honors degree in 2022.
Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a Master’s degree in Communication Studies, which she completed in 2025. Jackie Appiah is a Canadian-born Ghanaian actress who has made a significant impact in both the Ghanaian and Nigerian film industries. Born on December 5, 1983, in Toronto, Canada, she moved to Ghana with her mother at the age of 10.
She began her acting career in the late 1990s and gained widespread recognition for her role in the Ghanaian film “Princess Tyra” in 2003.
Throughout her career, Jackie Appiah has starred in numerous successful films, including “Divine Love,” “The Heart of Men,” “Beyoncé – The President’s Daughter,” “The Perfect Picture,” and “Black Soul”. Her talent has earned her several awards, including Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Awards and Best Actress in a Supporting Role in 2007.
In addition to her acting career, Jackie Appiah is also a movie producer, fashion model, and humanitarian
Vinícius Júniorrevealed that a banner displayed by Manchester City fans motivated him to deliver an outstanding performance in Real Madrid’s 3-2 comeback victory in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Before the match at the Etihad, City supporters unveiled a banner featuring midfielder Rodri holding the Ballon d’Or trophy, which he won ahead of Vinícius last year. The banner also included the phrase “Stop Crying Your Heart Out,” referencing a song by Oasis.
Vinícius responded in style, playing a key role in Madrid’s win. He was named UEFA’s Player of the Match after assisting Jude Bellingham’s dramatic 92nd-minute winner with a perfectly placed lob over City’s goalkeeper, Ederson.
“I saw [the banner],” Vinícius told Movistar. “But when opposition fans do things, it always gives me more strength to play a great game, and here I did that. … [City] know our history, and everything we’ve done in this competition.”
Madrid boycotted the Ballon d’Or ceremony in October last year, in protest of Vinícius missing out on the trophy.
“I don’t know if Vini saw it,” coach Carlo Ancelotti said in his postmatch news conference. “But having seen the game, if he saw it, it was a big motivation for him.”
Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said he was unaware of the banner but admitted that Vinícius is “an extraordinary player.”
Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team has a “slight advantage” in the tie after their 3-2 victory, with the second leg set to take place next week at the Bernabéu.
“This is the way,” Ancelotti said. “We’ve been talking about it for a long time. The season really starts now, and despite all our difficulties, we’ve got a very good result.
“The four at the back [Raúl Asencio, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde and Ferland Mendy] had never played together or even trained together, and they had a spectacular game. … From this emergency, we got something good.”
Ancelotti said he expected two more senior defenders –– Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba — to be available for the second leg.
One of the biggest talking points from the 2025 Super Bowl wasSerena Williams’crip walk during the halftime show.
As part of Kendrick Lamar’s performance, the tennis star did the popular dance move to entertain the crowd. However, her decision has sparked debate for several reasons.
Some critics argue that the dance is linked to gang culture and was inappropriate for the event. Others believe her appearance was aimed at her ex, Drake, since Kendrick Lamar was performing a diss track against him at the time.
On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Serena took to social media to share the reason behind her dance move.
“When @kendricklamar and team called and were like ‘we’ve been trying to do something forever, what about this? We loved your crip walk at the Olympics after you won the gold medal’.”
“When in the world would I ever be able to dance at aSuper Bowl?(Never) let’s do it. The best 15 seconds of my life!” she shared on social media.
The post came with a video of the dance, with Serena Williams entertaining the crowd with her moves.
Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has announced that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) will compel former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to return to the country to aid the OSP with some five corruption-related cases he is involved in to assist with investigation.
Engaging the media today, the OSP revealed that the lawyers of Mr Ofori-Atta indicated that he is currently outside the jurisdiction indefinitely due to medical reasons. Mr Kissi Agyebeng indicated that such a reason will not be taken and his office will be required to bring Mr Ofori-Atta in for questioning should he fail to return voluntarily.
“OSP is unconvinced that the purported medical report letter transmitted by Mr. Ofori through his lawyers to the OSP represents a medical report to the effect that Mr Ofori is so incapacitated or so sickly to return to the jurisdiction without impairing his life.”
“No serious law enforcement agency and certainly not the OSP would be convinced that the purported medical report stops it from demanding the physical appearance of Mr Ofori Atta before it in the described circumstances. We are of a firm conviction that this is a ruse by Ofori-Atta to avoid returning to the jurisdiction and to personally answer questions before the OSP.”
“He has no intention of willingly returning to the jurisdiction, and that is much clear to us. Consequently…and this is to Mr Ofori Atta, you have 2 choices: you can either return to the jurisdiction voluntary or the OSP will enforce your return,” the Special Prosecutor said.
The OSP has declared Mr Ofori-Atta a fugitive for failing to appear for interrogation into corruption-related investigations. The said dealings, include:
Contractual arrangement between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority for the stated objective of the enhancement of revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production, and minerals and metals resource value chain.
Termination of a distribution, loss reduction, and associated network improvement project contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited and Beijing Xhao Chen Technology BXC.
Procurement of contractors and materials and activities and payments in respect of the National Cathedral project
Activities and payments in respect of a contract awarded by the Ministry of Health initially commenced by the Ministry for Special Development Initiative to service Ghana Auto Group Limited for purchases and after-sales service and maintenance of 307 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 304 5 CDI Ambulances for the National Ambulance Service.
Payments out of and utilization of the tax refund account of the Ghana Revenue Authority.
He said he has two wives and not six as widely speculated.
In an interview on Angel FM, he said, “People say I have six wives; others say five. When did I marry all these women and I’m not even aware of it? I am married to just two women.”
He shared a story about his mother’s funeral, where some people mistakenly thought that one of his female friends was the mother of his first daughter.
“I remember when my mother died and I was busy mourning. There was this woman who is my friend. She was sitting right next to my wife. My first daughter was also sitting beside them. At the funeral, people said that the lady sitting next to my wife was the mother of my first child. Oh, how?”
“Others were also claiming that I was taking turns spraying several women, whom they assumed were my wives,” he stated.
Speaking about how such rumours affect him, he said, “Sometimes I hear these lies, and I’m stunned. About 98% of the things said about me out there are lies. I hear all these things but I barely respond to them because if you fight your own fight, God will not fight for you.”
When asked why he thinks people have the courage to spread false information about him, he added, “I barely speak. It’s true that I have a lot of radio stations, but I even rarely speak on air. It’s not because I can’t, but because I don’t like it. That’s why people spill lies about me, and I’m unable to defend myself.”
He also addressed individuals who profit from spreading lies about him online.
“There are people who can’t even afford toothpaste to brush their teeth but will sit online and insult you. It’s painful. They use me to gain traction and make money from it,” he stated.
Dr. Kwaku Otenghas been the center of many online discussions, especially after his recent divorce from Akua Amoakowaa.
He also made news when rumors surfaced that he had removed his son, Samuel Acheampong, from his role as CEO of Angel Broadcasting Network and reassigned him as the manager of Angel FM Kumasi.
Additionally, there have been several speculations about him, including claims that he fathered Tracey Boakye’s daughter and was the mysterious ‘Papano’ linked to her
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has taken responsibility for the children of the late Asante Kotoko fan, Francis Frimpong, also known asNana Pooley.
A report by GHOne TV on X (formerly Twitter) stated that the King has ensured the children’s education will be funded through his educational trust. However, the specific details of the support package were not disclosed.
Nana Pooley tragically lost his life after being stabbed during violent clashes following Kotoko’s Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Koramansah Park. The match, which ended in a 1-0 loss for Kotoko, was marked by rising tensions, with four red cards issued to players from both teams.
Unfortunately, tempers flared after the final whistle, leading to a brawl among rival fans that resulted in Frimpong’s death.
Meanwhile, the police have arrested four more suspects, bringing the total number of people in custody to seven. The new suspects include Isaac Ofosu, Augustine Yeboah, Elizabeth Ntiriwaa (also called “Akosua Black Chinese”), and Yaa Asantewaa.
Earlier, three individuals had already been arrested: Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, the owner of Nsoatreman FC and a former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Joseph Kyeremeh, and Agyemang Duah Owusu.
During their court appearance at the Sunyani District Court ‘B,’ presided over by Judge Eric Daning, Baffour-Awuah and Kyeremeh were granted bail of GH¢500,000 each with three sureties. They have been charged with abetting murder under Sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29).
However, Owusu, a police inspector, has been charged with murder and remains in custody.
The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has dismissed claims that the previous government’s Gold-for-Oil (G4O) policy was the main reason for lower fuel prices in Ghana.
According to COMAC, the drop in fuel prices was due to changes in global oil markets, not the G4O program.
Ghana introduced the G4O policy in December 2022, with the first shipment arriving in January 2023. The plan aimed to stabilize fuel prices by using gold to buy petroleum products.
However, COMAC argues that the policy covered only 10% of Ghana’s monthly fuel needs at the start and reached a peak of just 30%.
The Chamber also noted that fuel prices in Ghana had already begun to fall before the first G4O shipment arrived. Between November 2022 and June 2023, crude oil prices dropped from $96.04 per barrel to $74.27.
At the same time, petrol and diesel prices fell from GHS 16.57 and GHS 23 per liter to GHS 11.90 and GHS 11.96 per liter, respectively.
Based on these trends, COMAC believes that G4O had only a small impact on price stability, with global oil supply and demand being the real driving forces behind the reductions.
TheChamber also rejects claims that the policy significantly contributed to Ghana’s inflation rate falling from 54% in 2022 to 23.5% in 2025. It argues that, given the limited effect of G4O on fuel prices and its declining role in fuel imports, it is misleading to credit the policy for the drop in inflation.
The Gold-for-Oil (G4O) policy was introduced by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government in Ghana in December 2022 and implemented in January 2023. The policy aimed to use Ghana’s gold reserves to import petroleum products, hoping to stabilize fuel prices, reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves, and ensure a stable supply of petroleum products.
Since its implementation, the policy has had mixed results. While some government officials claim it has helped reduce fuel premiums and inflation, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) argues that external market forces, such as the decline in global oil prices post-Russia-Ukraine war, were the primary drivers behind the price reductions.
Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has announced thatOkada riders will soon receive licenses to operate as commercial transport providers.
He explained that this move is part of the government’s plan to legalize and properly regulate the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes.
During a visit to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) office in Accra on his first day in office, February 10, 2025, Nikpe stressed the importance of better regulation and certification for all road users.
“On my first day in office, with so many agencies under my ministry, it is essential that I visit their offices and understand their operations.
“The DVLA is one of the key institutions we intend to work with to ensure that every individual behind the wheel is properly certified to use the road. We want safety on our roads and for people to travel in comfort. It is also crucial that all vehicles are properly registered,” he stated.
Highlighting the government’s promise to regulate the Okada industry, the transport minister revealed that the process is commencing immediately.
“You may recall that we made a campaign promise to regularize the use of motorcycles for commercial purposes. That process starts today. We are now examining the necessary regulations and legal frameworks to allow them to operate commercially,” he explained.
The minister further stated that the initiative aims to provide Okada riders with proper training and licensing to ensure the safety of passengers and other road users.
“Our brothers in the Okada business will now have their own licenses, be certified, and be well-trained to transport passengers safely. This will also help reduce congestion on our roads,” he added.
President John Dramani Mahama has removed Dr. Alexander Adusei from his position as Director of the Keta Port, a project that has remained inactive since its announcement.
Dr. Adusei was appointed in 2019 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration to oversee the port’s development in the Volta Region.
While no official reason has been given for his dismissal, many believe it is due to the lack of progress on the project.
The Akufo-Addo government designated Keta as the site for the port in 2018 through an Executive Instrument, placing the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) in charge of its development.
However, years have passed with little to no work done, leading to frustration among residents and stakeholders.
In August 2024, six private investors showed interest in partnering with the government to develop the facility, but no concrete agreements have been made yet.
The Keta Port project was initiated by the Government of Ghana under the administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo. The project was officially announced in 2018, with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) overseeing its development.
President John Dramani Mahama, during his 2024 election campaign, criticized the previous administration for what he described as a wasted opportunity. He stated that despite the promises made, no significant progress had been made on the project, and he referred to it as a political gimmick. Mahama promised to conduct a comprehensive audit of the project if he were to be re-elected.
The Keta Port project aims to develop a third commercial port in Ghana, located in the coastal town of Keta. The project is part of Ghana’s broader plan to enhance its port infrastructure to facilitate increased regional trade, especially in light of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The port is envisioned to include facilities for containerized cargo, bulk shipments, and oil and gas, along with a shipyard. The project is planned to be developed in four phases, with the first phase estimated to cost around $600 million.
Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has responded to assertions regarding the impending dismissal of the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC),Jean Mensa, by the Mahama-led administration.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu stated that, at present, there is no concrete evidence against Jean Mensa to justify her removal, despite increasing calls from civil society organizations, individuals, and other stakeholders demanding her dismissal over allegations of misconduct, constitutional violations, and incompetence during the 2024 elections.
“Even though the EC has been unfair to the NDC, the law is clear—the EC Chair cannot be removed until she turns 70 or unless there is clear evidence of misconduct. As we speak, the President has not been presented with any such evidence,” he said while engaging the media on February 10.
Highlighting the laws governing the appointment and removal of the Electoral Commission (EC) boss, he emphasized that the EC’s tenure is enshrined in the Constitution, making arbitrary removal impossible.
However, he noted that any evidence brought before the President regarding the EC Chair would be thoroughly examined, and appropriate action would be taken if necessary.
“If that happens, he (the President) will initiate the process to investigate the complaint and take the necessary action,” he stated. He further stressed that President Mahama does not have a track record of dismissing appointees purely for partisan reasons.
“Mahama does not have a history of doing that, especially in institutions where the law regulates how appointments should be made,” he added.
Article 43(3) of the 1992 Constitution states that “The Chairman of the Electoral Commission shall have the same terms and conditions of service as a Justice of the Court of Appeal.”
Additionally, Article 146 states: “The President may, acting in accordance with the advice of the Council of State, remove a Justice of the Supreme Court, a Justice of the Court of Appeal, or a Regional Tribunal from office for inability to perform the functions of his office (whether arising from infirmity of body or mind or any other cause) or for misbehavior, but only on the grounds and in the manner provided by this article.”
Some civil society organizations (CSOs), including the Positive Transparency and Accountability Movement-Africa (PTAAM-Africa), have petitioned President Mahama to remove Jean Mensa and her deputies, namely Dr. Bossman Asare (Deputy Chairperson in charge of Corporate Affairs) and Samuel Tettey (Deputy Chairperson in charge of Operations).
A notable advocate for her removal is the Vice President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, alongside an individual named Kwame Ofosu-Appiah, who also petitioned President Mahama. They cited constitutional violations and incompetence, pointing to issues such as the exclusion of certain residents from the 2020 parliamentary elections and alleged bias in handling election results.
However, former Attorney-General Ayikoi Otoo expressed skepticism about the allegations against Jean Mensa, suggesting that they did not meet the constitutional threshold for removal. He emphasized the importance of careful evaluation and due process in handling such serious claims.
Carlo Ancelotti has likened the rivalry betweenManchester City and Real Madrid to a Clásico, as the two European giants prepare to clash once again in the Champions League. This marks their fourth consecutive meeting in the competition, with the Italian coach predicting that the winner will have a strong chance of advancing deep into the tournament.
Unlike their previous encounters in the semifinals and quarterfinals—where Madrid triumphed in 2022 and 2024, while City prevailed in 2023—this season’s showdown takes place in the knockout playoff round after both teams had underwhelming group stage performances.
Heading into the first leg at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, City are struggling domestically, currently sitting fifth in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Madrid top LaLiga but are dealing with a defensive injury crisis, missing key players such as Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba.
With both teams facing their own challenges, this high-stakes encounter promises another thrilling chapter in their growing Champions League rivalry.
“It feels like a Clásico now, because we’ve played them now for many years,” Ancelotti said in his pre-match news conference in Manchester on Monday. “I still think City are one of the best teams in Europe. City have the best coach [Pep Guardiola] in this competition. It’s one of the most difficult games you can have … And the same goes for us, we’re competitive, despite the emergency we face.”
In 2022, Real Madrid triumphed over Manchester City with a 6-5 aggregate victory in the Champions League semifinals. During the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid staged a thrilling comeback, scoring all three of their goals in added time to win 3-1.
When the two teams faced off again in the 2024 quarterfinals, it took a dramatic penalty shootout to decide the match. Madrid ultimately emerged as Champions League winners in both instances, while Manchester City claimed the title in 2023 after knocking out Madrid.
“It’s the most difficult rival, the most important rival, and the best manager,” Ancelotti said. “The team that goes through to the next round has the possibility to go far in the competition. In the last years, the team that won this tie, won the Champions League.” Ancelotti said facing Guardiola’s City is “always a headache.”
“He’s a coach who always tries to bring something new to his team,” Ancelotti said. “He’s done a lot for football in terms of possession, pressing, playing out from the back. He’s an innovator. I have a lot of respect for him … It’s always a nightmare preparing for the game.”
In 2022, forward Rodrygo starred when the two teams met, scoring twice in a minute to see Madrid progress.
“I was talking two or three days to [midfielder] Fede Valverde, about the game against City,” Rodrygo said.
“I asked him if we’d ever feel that emotion again. It was the most special night of my career … Sometimes I’ve been happy playing against [City], other times not so much. I’m in good form and I can be decisive. But I try to be decisive in every game, not just against City.”
Former president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubialesalong with three other officials,are set to appear before a judge on Tuesday over allegations related to the controversial kiss involving player Jenni Hermoso at the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.
Rubiales faces charges of sexual assault, while ex-women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda, former men’s national team sports director Albert Luque, and former marketing chief Ruben Rivera are accused of coercion.
Prosecutors allege that the three attempted to pressure Hermoso into publicly backing Rubiales’ claim that the kiss was consensual.
Hermoso, however, maintains that she did not consent, while Rubiales has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, insisting the act was mutual.
The fallout from the incident led to his resignation three weeks later amid mounting criticism, and FIFA subsequently handed him a three-year ban. Rubiales has defended himself against the accusations, calling the scandal a “witch hunt” driven by “false feminists.”
During her testimony on the first day of the trial last week, Jenni Hermoso expressed feeling “disrespected” by Luis Rubiales after Spain’s World Cup victory. She stated that the kiss had “tarnished one of the happiest days of my life.”
The incident sparked widespread outrage in Spain, reigniting discussions about sexism in sports and society at large.
Prosecutors, along with Hermoso and the Spanish players’ association, are seeking a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for Rubiales, along with a €50,000 ($51,800) fine for damages and a ban from holding any sports-related position.
Meanwhile,they are calling for the other three defendants to receive one-and-a-half-year prison terms.
Ghana Premier Leagueclub Accra Lionshas been fined GH¢5,000 by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for misconduct.
The club was found guilty of making inappropriate comments about match officials on social media, a move the GFA’s Disciplinary Committee says damages the reputation of the game.
The controversy arose during Accra Lions’ 1-0 defeat to Dreams FC.
The club’s social media post suggested that unseen forces had influenced the match outcome in favor of Dreams FC.
Following this, the GFA Prosecutor charged the club with violating section 34(6)(d) of the GFA Premier League Regulations, 2019.
The post was deemed misconduct that tarnished the image of football in the country.
In addition to the fine, Accra Lionshas been warned to maintain good conduct and avoid similar actions in the future.
The two boreholes constructed by the Ghana Football Association (GFA)at Sunyani Coronation Park are reportedly too shallow and have not served their intended purpose since being commissioned a year ago according to .
The project was part of the GFA’s initiative to provide reliable water access to sports facilities. However, Bono Regional Director of the National Sports Authority, Foster Boakye, revealed that one of the boreholes is so shallow that it pumps out clay instead of clean water, making it unusable for watering the pitch.
GFA President Kurt E.S. Okraku had commissioned three boreholes in the region—two at Coronation Park and one at Sunyani Technical University.
This was part of the GFA Executive Council’s decision to use funds from FIFA’s Forward 1.0 program to improve playing conditions by ensuring access to water at various stadiums nationwide.
The project has benefited several leagues, including the Premier League, Division One League, Women’s Premier League, and other regional game centers. However, a year later, the NSA director for Bono says the initiative has not fully achieved its goal.
“They gave us two boreholes, but unfortunately one of the boreholes was too shallow. Right now, they have connected the new dressing room to that borehole and that is what the players use to shower anytime they play matches. Before God and man, anytime we pump water it’s more or less clay that comes out. How can we use such clay water to water the park, he quizzed. That’s why we channelled that borehole to the dressing room,” he said.
Foster Boakye said that when he informed aGFA Executive Council member about the issue, he was told to handle it himself.
“I even spoke to one of the FA Exco members and pleaded with him that if it could be possible, they could even let the person come and do the drilling again so that the dirt or clay we see in the water will go down. I spoke to him and he said as for that one the NSA should take care of the cost. But my question is where is the NSA going to get the money from to do all those things?” he quizzed.
Meanwhile, the club licensing board of the GFA has revoked the license of the Sunyani Coronation Park with immediate effect for not meeting their requirements.
Nollywood actress and successful businesswoman,Chika Ike,has thrilled fans with the news of her first pregnancy at 39.
She shared beautiful photos of her baby bump, dressed in an elegant, royal-inspired outfit, and glowing with happiness.
The announcement quickly spread online, with many fans and celebrities, including Rita Dominic, Mercy Johnson, and Queen Nwokoye, congratulating her and sending their best wishes.
Chika, who divorced in 2013 after seven years of marriage, has kept her personal life private.
However, she has spoken in the past about her dream of becoming a mother.With this exciting news,2025 is set to be a special year for her.
Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah has revealed that engineers from the Ghana Armed Forceshave visited Asuokow in the Eastern Region to assess the difficulties schoolchildren face when crossing a dangerous water body to attend school.
This follows President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to urgently resolve the issue.
In a Facebook post on Monday, February 10, Dr. Omane Boamah reassured the public that the government is fully committed to finding a permanent solution.
“Engineers of the Ghana Armed Forces have already visited Asuokow community (where young schoolchildren have to cross this water body to access school) in the Eastern Region,” he stated.
The minister reiterated the government’s dedication to resolving the issue, emphasising that steps are being taken to ensure the safety of the children and the entire community.
“As President John Dramani Mahama assured Ghanaians, we’re working to permanently and urgently resolve the challenge the people and the schoolchildren of Asuokow are facing,” he added.
The military engineers’visit is the first step toward creating a safer way for schoolchildren to travel, showing the government’s dedication to making education more accessible and ensuring the safety of vulnerable communities.
The government is in talks with theInternational Monetary Fund (IMF)to discuss key economic issues, including tax cuts, revenue reforms, managing energy sector debt, controlling spending, and stabilizing the exchange rate.
These discussions, which run from February 10 to February 14, will focus on Ghana’s economic future and the policies shaping the 2025 budget.
As part of efforts to ease financial strain, the government plans to remove certain taxes, such as the E-Levy, betting tax, and COVID-19 levy, while also reducing the country’s dependence on imports.
IMF Mission Chief for Ghana, Stéphane Roudet, is leading the talks, working closely with government officials to refine fiscal strategies.
Key institutions involved include the Bank of Ghana, the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Controller and Accountant General’s Department.
Analysts have urged the government to focus on cutting unnecessary spending to reduce the budget deficit, which is expected to drop to 4.2% in 2025.
To support these efforts, the government has already taken steps such as reducing the number of ministers to 60 and restricting non-essential foreign travel for officials.
Minister of State for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has justified theAttorney General’s decision to drop certain major court cases, saying they were politically motivated.
In an interview on Point of View on Channel One TV on Monday, February 10, he claimed that the previous government used these cases to unfairly target opposition members, particularly those from the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He mentioned former Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and former NDC National Chairman Samuel Ofosu Ampofo as some of those affected.
Kwakye Ofosu argued that these legal actions had no real basis and were mainly intended to intimidate NDC officials and silence critics.
“I have always maintained that what justification existed for prosecuting Ofosu Ampofo and leaving out the state-sponsored terrorists who engaged in the mayhem at the Ayawaso West by-election?” he questioned.
“There was a commission of inquiry that prescribed sanctions for them. The government refused to act on it. Rather, it chose to go after the chairman of the opposition party, accusing him of convening a meeting to discuss a response to the attack that NDC members suffered. This was clearly a travesty of justice,” he added.
Kwakye Ofosu also pointed to the prosecution of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as another example of politically motivated legal action. He suggested that the case against Ato Forson was deliberately brought to weaken his influence in Parliament during crucial national debates.
“There is no doubt that the Ato Forson case was instituted to silence him as a ranking member of the Finance Committee when the E-Levy debate came up. The Appeals Court threw it out,” he stated.
The Minister also disclosed thatAttorney GeneralDr. Dominic Ayine will soon hold a press conference to explain why charges against certain individuals were dropped.
He accused the previous government of using the courts to go after NDC members, including former Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) CEO, Dr. Stephen Opuni.
The Attorney General’s decision has stirred public debate, with some raising concerns about its legal and political impact. However, Kwakye Ofosu believes it is the right move to fix past wrongs.
The Electoral Commission (EC) is conducting the nationwideCouncil of State electionstoday, February 11, 2025. From the 16 regions, 155 candidates, including 10 women, have stepped forward to contest.
The voting will take place between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the regional coordinating councils in various regional capitals.
The Council of State members are chosen by an Electoral College, which consists of two representatives nominated by each District Assembly. This election is not open to the general public.
A total of 522 people are expected to vote in today’s election. Once the voting ends, the winners will be announced at the voting centers.
The Council of State, consisting of 30 members, acts as an advisory body to the President, Ministers of State,Parliament, and other public agencies, promoting responsible and accountable governance.
The Spanish giants boycotted the ceremony in Paris in October in protest at City midfielder Rodri winning the award ahead of Vinícius Júnior.
The two teams face each other in the first leg of their Champions League play-off at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. And ahead of the game, Guardiola insisted there is no ill feeling between the clubs.
“Happy for Rodri,” Guardiola said, when asked for his opinion on the fall-out. “Vinícius made an extraordinary year as well. He deserved it. Like in the past when [Lionel] Messi and Cristiano [Ronaldo] were fighting for that. The subject is over.”
Rúben Dias, who travelled to Paris with Rodri for the ceremony, also attempted to play down the dispute. “Being very honest I didn’t spend one second thinking if it was disrespectful or not,” he said.
“I was there, I celebrated with him, I was very happy for him. I didn’t spend my time thinking about it.”
For the fifth time in six seasons, Manchester City and Real Madrid have been drawn together in the Champions League. Last season, Carlo Ancelotti’s team emerged victorious on penalties, whereas City comfortably triumphed in 2023 with a 4-0 win at the Etihad Stadium, ultimately securing a treble.
This time around, Pep Guardiola faces the additional challenge of contending with Kylian Mbappé, alongside threats from Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham. The French international has already netted 23 goals in his debut season with Madrid, including one in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Atlético Madrid.
“I think it’s impossible for 90 minutes or 180 minutes to control these four players,” Guardiola said. “They are exceptional. So how they combine, the runners, the ability one against one, how they keep the ball. So all four, they are exceptional. Everybody knows it. So we have to reduce their involvement as much as possible. Knowing that is going to happen, accept it.”
Dias, meanwhile, said Madrid should be wary ofCity’s stars, including Erling Haaland.
“I think since I have been there the most difficult season but I am a firm believer, even in the most difficult situations, you can achieve something beautiful,” the City defender said.
“We know how difficult it will be. But we have loads of guns in the dressing room and we just have to use them the right way.”
Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has pledged to do everything possible to ensure the Black Stars secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Following intense criticism over their surprising failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—the first time in twenty years—the national team has faced significant backlash. Ghana finished at the bottom of Group F, earning just three points from six matches.
With the Black Stars set to resume their World Cup qualification campaign next month against Chad and Madagascar, Mr. Adams has promised fans that he will leave no stone unturned in helping the team secure their fifth World Cup appearance, scheduled to be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
“Whatever I will have to do as the Sports Minister to ensure that Ghana qualifies for the 2026 World Cup, I’ll do it,” the Member of Parliament for the Buem Constituency told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.
He acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on AFCON but emphasized that the World Cup remains a top priority.
“It is unfortunate that African countries will be meeting at AFCON, and Ghana will not be present, but the World Cup is different, and I know the government also has an interest in that.”
Mr. Adams also called for unity and support from Ghanaians as the team embarks on this crucial journey.
“If the team has wronged anyone, I will appeal that we all unite for the good cause of the team and ensure that we qualify for the tournament.”
Ghana will host Chad on March 17 before traveling to face Madagascaron March 24 in two decisive fixtures.
Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced that discussions will be held with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) concerning the future of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo.
Reappointed in March 2024 on a three-year contract, the 49-year-old Addo has faced significant scrutiny after failing to secure the national team’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In response to growing concerns, the GFA has taken measures to bolster the Black Stars’ technical team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
As part of these changes, the experienced German coach and former Cameroon AFCON winner, Winfried Schäfer, has been appointed as the technical advisor and football director for both the Black Stars and the GFA.
Additionally, Kris Perquy will join as the team psychologist, and Gregory De Grauwe will take on the role of video analyst.
In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Minister Adams recognized the decision to retain Addo but stressed the importance of further evaluation to determine if he remains the right fit for the role.
“We will engage the GFA on the future of Otto Addo, and we will arrive at a common ground and know whether he will stay or leave,” he said.
“We didn’t qualify for the AFCON, but we plan to qualify for the World Cup, so we will engage the GFA to know if Otto Addo is the right person for the team going forward.
“I have heard all the complaints of Ghanaians, but we will engage the GFA. I believe that we cannot do the same thing and expect a different result,” he added.
Meanwhile, formerBlack Stars players John Paintsil and Fatau Dauda have been retained as part of the technical team.
Neymar’s second debut for his boyhood club Santos proved to be disappointing, with the Brazilian star posting subpar statistics.
After having his lucrative contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal terminated due to injuries, Neymar returned to Santos, where his professional career began.
Though there were speculations about him joining Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at Inter Miami in MLS, Neymar opted for a six-month deal with Santos instead. His first game back since 2013 saw him come off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Botafogo.
Starting in the subsequent match against Novorizontino, Neymar struggled to make an impact over 75 minutes in a goalless draw.
The 33-year-old managed to complete just one out of eight dribbles, lost possession 24 times, and failed to register a shot on target. Additionally, his successful passing rate stood at only 79 percent, indicating the need for Neymar to regain his form.
As Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, Neymar is aiming to shake off the rust and perform better in the coming weeks, especially with aspirations of playing in the 2026 World Cup.
Despite his lackluster performance, he received a warm welcome fromSantos fans.
Bedirhan Durak, chairman of Adana Demirspor, announced his resignation. This decision came just a day after the team walked off the field in protest during their Super Lig match againstGalatasaray, on Monday morning.
“I now sadly see that we have reached a deadlock. For the sake of my club, my family, my loved ones, and my health, I hereby announce my resignation from the presidency,” Durak said in a statement.
Adana Demirspor’s recent resignation stemmed from their dramatic decision to walk off the field 30 minutes into their Super Lig match against Galatasaray on Saturday night, trailing 1-0 due to a penalty. The match was subsequently abandoned.
According to several club officials, the walk-off was a protest against Turkey’s referees committee and the football federation.
Adana Demirspor, who are at the bottom of the table, were trailing to a 12th-minute penalty scored by Galatasaray’s Spanish striker, Álvaro Morata.
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk suggested in a post-match interview that the penalty decision might have been incorrect.
In response to the incident, Fenerbahce vice-president Acun Ilıcalı has called for “the most famous and best referees in the world” to officiate the league derby at Galatasaray scheduled for February 23.
“We definitely hope that there will be a foreign referee in the derby, but the federation will decide … Our federation has such power,” Ilıcalı said.
“They can bring one of the best referees in the world here. I am calling out toGalatasaray Club on behalf of Fenerbahçe Club: We followed your statements on the foreign referee issue. Let them apply on this issue, let us apply as well. And we want this derby to be managed by the most famous and best referees in the world.”
Jack Grealishhas faced harsh criticism, with his boyhood club Aston Villa reportedly unwilling to consider re-signing him amid his ongoing struggles at Manchester City.
The England international midfielder, who became the most expensive player in British football history with his £100 million ($124 million) transfer to the Etihad Stadium in 2021, has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup titles with City.
Despite these achievements, Grealish’s performance has been questioned, with only two goals recorded this season.
Critics have noted that he no longer seems to glide past defenders as he once did, and securing a starting position under Pep Guardiola has proven challenging.
Grealish is now 29 years of age and has seen a move elsewhere speculated on. Quizzed by GOAL on whether he could return to his roots in the West Midlands, ex-Villa striker Stan Collymore – speaking in association with William Hill Vegas – said: “No. I sincerely hope not. I think Jack’s output is nowhere near the required level.
“If you look at the two players that have been brought in, [Marco] Asensio and [Marcus] Rashford, they can play either side of Ollie Watkins. There is a question mark over both – can they do it, will they do it? They have got pedigree.
“Jack, really, going to Manchester City and being a part of the treble-winning team – even then he wasn’t the main man, that was Kevin De Bruyne. He was good but not great. Last season, a stat of scoring one goal in just over a year… I don’t think he goes past people any more. [Jeremy] Doku when he first came into the team did that, [Omar] Marmoush you imagine will do that.”
The committee investigating the violent altercation during the January 30 ministerial vetting will today engage key individuals involved in the escalation of unparliamentary conduct by members of theAppointments Committee.
Chaired by Emmanuel Bedzrah, the committee resumes its sittings with several members of the Appointments Committee set to appear. Those expected to testify include Ranking Member Alexander Afenyo-Markin, New Juaben South MP Michael Kofi Okyere Baafi, Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Communications Minister Sam Nartey George, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Weija-Gbawe MP Jerry Ahmed Shaib, and Gushegu MP Hassan Tampuli, among others.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, along with Marshal of Parliament Lt. Col. Samuel Kofi Owusu and Clerk to the Appointments Committee Gifty Jiagge Gobah, had appeared before the investigative committee to provide their accounts of the incident.
During the public hearings, Mr. Afenyo-Markin accused the chairman of the investigative committee of bias, but Emmanuel Bedzrah dismissed the claim. He also warned that constitutional provisions would be applied if Minority MPs on the Appointments Committee continued to boycott the inquiry.
Mr. Bedzrah, who also serves as MP for Ho West, expressed disappointment over the absence of the Minority Caucus from the proceedings.
“We are waiting for them to come and testify. I have not seen any accusation against me for being biased. I am not biased; you have all seen the work we have been doing.
“We were even surprised that they didn’t show up. We are waiting for them on Monday, and if they fail to appear, we will invoke constitutional provisions as well as the standing orders,” he stated.
The investigative committee, aside from Mr. Bedzrah, includes Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui, Abena Osei Asare, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, and Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng.
The committee was initially given 10 days to submit its report and recommendations to Parliament. However, following reports circulated by the Minority claiming the committee’s work had been suspended, Mr. Bedzrah has announced plans to request a two-day extension from Speaker Alban Bagbin to complete the inquiry.
Meanwhile, Speaker Bagbin has revoked the suspension of four Members of Parliament who were sanctioned following violent clashes during the ministerial vetting of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The affected MPs—Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh,Second Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Gushegu MP Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli, and Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor—were initially suspended on January 31.
With tensions still high, the committee’s findings are expected to provide clarity on the events that transpired during the vetting process.
Sevilla president José María del Nido Carrasco hit out at Real Madrid on Sunday, accusing them of “trying to destroy Spanish football” with their complaints over refereeing decisions.
Madrid filed a formal complaint over the referee’s handling of their 1-0 LaLiga defeat at Espanyol on Feb. 1, asking the Spanish football federation to release audio recordings of conversations between the on-field referee and VAR around two key incidents, including the decision not to send off defender Carlos Romero — who later scored the winner — for a foul on Kylian Mbappé.
Madrid’s open letter called Spain’s refereeing system “totally discredited,” saying decisions against them represented “manipulation and adulteration of the competition,” in language which was rejected by their fellow clubs in a meeting with LaLiga and the federation on Thursday.
“We have to differentiate two things: being able to modify the refereeing system and some aspects of refereeing, and Real Madrid’s statement,” Del Nido Carrasco said, speaking to broadcaster DAZN ahead of Sevilla’s 4-1 defeat to Barcelona on Sunday.
“It’s intolerable and unacceptable. It brings into question the honour of referees and the competition. The world of football should denounce, publicly and in the courts, a statement which goes against football’s integrity.”
Real Madrid have regularly voiced their dissatisfaction with refereeing decisions via their club TV channel. In the latest instance, during Saturday’s derby against Atlético Madrid at the Bernabéu, the visitors were awarded a first-half penalty following a VAR review of Aurélien Tchouaméni’s challenge on Samuel Lino.
“The worst of all is that Real Madrid are trying to destroy Spanish football, with Real Madrid TV, and in various other ways,” Del Nido Carrasco said. “We can’t tolerate that a club like Real Madrid try to destroy us … First of all, we give our unconditional support to referees. We won’t tolerate that their honour is being questioned. [Madrid] want to put pressure on them, so that they don’t make decisions freely.”
Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Atlético, coupled with Barcelona’s win, means that just two points separate the three teams at the top of the LaLiga table, with Madrid top, Atlético second, and Barça third.
Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams revealed that President John Dramani Mahama’s directive banning first-class travel for government officials will now also include members of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Aimed at reducing costs and easing financial burdens, this measure requires GFA officials to comply with the directive to improve sports governance in the country.
Adams mentioned his intention to meet with GFA executives to convey the new directive and expressed confidence that they would support the move.
In an interview with JoySports, Adams highlighted that this measure will help restore public confidence, given the current unsatisfactory state of sports in Ghana.
President Mahama's first-class travel ban on government appointees should apply to GFA officials – Sports Minister, Kofi Adams#JoySportspic.twitter.com/GsTr2jPahN
“At our swearing-in, the president stated that foreign travels are restricted and must be cleared with the Chief of Staff. Those cleared to travel should not fly first-class. This reflects the president’s mindset, and everyone must adopt a similar mindset, including the GFA. They cannot operate independently when the president’s objectives are clear,” he said.
Adams emphasised that the GFA will not resist the proposal, given the current state of football in Ghana.
“Our sport is struggling, and trust between management, fans, and followers is low. Actions like this, proposed by the president and myself, can help restore confidence,” he added.
This development follows President John Mahama’s announcement of a ban on first-class travel for government appointees, emphasizing the need for modesty and respect for the Ghanaian people.
The president stressed that public officials must be mindful of their use of state resources.
The 2025 National Chocolate Week has officially kicked off with a message urging Ghanaian consumers to prioritize the health benefits of chocolate over its price. This comes in response to concerns about the notable increase in chocolate prices during the celebration.
Speaking at the event organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority on February 7, 2025, Benjamin Larweh, the deputy Public Affairs Manager of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), revealed plans to involve more processing companies in the initiative. This move aims to make chocolate more accessible to consumers.
“For instance, natural cocoa powder can help reduce blood pressure and manage diabetes. So, cost shouldn’t be the primary concern. At COCOBOD, we’re encouraging more processing companies to join us, ensuring more people can access these benefits,” Larweh explained.
Representing the newly appointed Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Marilyn Maame Efua Houadjeto, Deputy CEO Ekow Sampson highlighted a notable shift in consumer preferences toward locally made cocoa products.
He revealed that per capita cocoa consumption has grown significantly, rising from 0.45 kilograms to 1 kilogram over the past five to seven years.
He further urged hoteliers to incorporate chocolate products into their menus as part of the celebration.
Meanwhile, Vera Adjei Agyemfra, Deputy Marketing Manager of the Cocoa Processing Company Limited, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to the event, emphasizing that their chocolate brands remain affordable and accessible.
National Chocolate Daywas established in 2005 by the Ghana Tourism Authority to coincide with Valentine’s Day on February 14, aiming to promote Ghana’s rich cocoa industry, especially its chocolate products. Over the years, the event has been supported by COCOBOD, the Cocoa Processing Company (CPC), and various chocolatiers.
The theme for the 2025 National Chocolate Week is “Eat Chocolate, Stay Healthy, Grow Ghana,” with the sub-theme “Chocolate for All: Taste, Share, and Care.”
The Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL)Committee will today, February 10, present its final report to President John Dramani Mahama, marking a critical step in the government’s efforts to investigate individuals suspected of misappropriating state resources.
During the swearing-in of 17 ministerial appointees on February 7, President Mahama underscored the significance of the committee’s findings, stating, “On Monday, I will receive the report of the committee I set up to prepare the way for the implementation of Operation Recover All Loot.
Upon receipt of this report, appropriate action will be taken against those deemed to have acted against the economic and financial interests of this country through corruption and related acts.”
The president further assured Ghanaians that the findings would be forwarded to the appropriate investigative agencies for necessary action. Speaking during his ‘Thank You’ tour in the Central Region on February 6, he emphasized that accountability would not be limited to past officials but would also extend to those currently in office.
“Even as we investigate those who have just left office and carry out Operation Recover All Loot, those who are currently in office should know that they will be held to the same standard as the past regime,” he stated.
Mahama also outlined plans to implement a comprehensive accountability framework and a strict code of conduct for public officials to strengthen governance and transparency.
The ORAL Committee, established on December 18, 2024, is tasked with recovering state properties and assets unlawfully acquired, particularly under previous administrations.
The five-member team, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, is expected to ensure accountability and restore public confidence in the management of state resources.
Defending the constitutionality of the initiative following concerns from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Attorney General and Minister for Justice Dr. Dominic Ayine described ORAL as a crucial mechanism for promoting accountability and recovering stolen state assets.
In January, the committee revealed that it had received 700 petitions from the public, detailing alleged cases of corruption and mismanagement. With the report now set for submission, attention will turn to the government’s next steps in implementing its recommendations.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is set to engage in crucial discussions with the government this week as Ghana prepares its 2025 budget, slated for presentation in March.
The deliberations come at a significant juncture, with authorities planning to eliminate several key taxes, including the controversial E-levy, betting tax, and COVID-19 levy.
These revenue measures, implemented by the previous administration to bolster domestic finances, have been widely criticized by businesses and the general public.
Given Ghana’s participation in a $3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program, the IMF is expected to assess the fiscal implications of these proposed tax cuts.
The Fund will likely seek assurances that the removal of these levies will not compromise revenue targets or hinder the country’s economic recovery.
Apart from revising tax policies, the government faces significant pressure to resolve the escalating debt crisis in the energy sector, which poses a major challenge to public finances.
With the sector’s liabilities surpassing $2 billion, its instability remains a substantial risk to power producers and the wider economy.
Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have frequently warned of possible power supply disruptions if the government fails to settle the outstanding arrears.
The financial difficulties within the energy sector have contributed to the depreciation of the cedi, as the government needs a significant amount of foreign exchange to meet its payment obligations to power producers.
The IMF will be advocating for robust measures to address structural inefficiencies in the energy sector, enhance cost recovery, and establish a sustainable financial framework for the country’s energy industry.
The government is expected to present a comprehensive roadmap tothe IMF,detailing how it plans to offset revenue losses, settle energy sector debts, and maintain macroeconomic stability while implementing these tax reforms.
The outcome of these discussions will be closely monitored by investors, businesses, and international partners as Ghana strives to balance fiscal responsibility, economic growth, and stability within the energy sector.
Ghana has been ranked 8th in Africa for internet quality, according to the 2024 Surfshark Digital Quality of Life Index (DQL). The country earned an index score of 0.304 in the latest report.
Mauritius topped the African rankings with an internet quality index of 0.361, followed by Ivory Coast (2nd), Egypt (3rd), and Algeria (4th).
South Africa, Senegal, and Burkina Faso secured the 5th, 6th, and 7th positions, respectively. Morocco and Nigeria completed the top 10, ranking 9th and 10th.
Internet quality in each country is assessed based on factors such as speed, stability, and overall performance, which influence digital access for communication, business, and entertainment.
Despite progress, the report highlighted ongoing challenges across Africa, including slow internet speeds, high data costs, and unreliable network coverage.
These issues continue to hinder access to essential online services such as banking, e-commerce, and telemedicine.
These categories were further examined through 14 key indicators, providing a comprehensive measure of a nation’s overall digital well-being.
The report highlighted that African countries continue to struggle with digital quality of life, particularly in internet quality, which encompasses both mobile and fixed broadband connections.
Meanwhile, European nations dominated the top 10 rankings, with only 18 non-European countries making it into the top 50. In contrast, African nations ranked significantly lower, with the highest-performing country placing 66th globally.
Ivy Heward-Mills, wife of the late former Abuakwa North MP,Joseph Boakye Danquah Adu, has voiced her frustration over the prolonged delay in investigations and prosecution surrounding her husband’s death.
She lamented that nearly nine years have passed since his tragic murder, yet authorities have failed to deliver justice.
In a heartfelt tribute, Heward-Mills reflected on her husband’s memory, describing the stalled progress in the case as deeply distressing for both her and the family.
She also questioned whether they would ever see justice served and if the perpetrator would ever be held accountable, expressing growing doubts about the country’s justice system.
“That indelible smile… 9yrs have gone by … Will there ever be justice? It is not well. It is not well at all,” she posted on her Facebook on Sunday, February 9, 2025.
Today, February 9, 2025, marks nine years since the tragic murder of former Abuakwa North MP, Joseph Boakye Danquah Adu.
He was brutally killed in the early hours of February 9, 2016, when unidentified assailants attacked him at his residence in Shiashie, near the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange in Accra. Reports indicate that he was stabbed multiple times around 1:45 a.m. on that fateful Tuesday, leading to his untimely death.
In December 2024, a seven-member jury acquitted the prime suspect, Daniel Asiedu, of robbery and murder charges.
However, anAccra High Court later ruled that the jury’s verdict was legally flawed under Section 285 of Act 30. As a result, the jury was dismissed, and the court ordered a retrial, with Asiedu remaining in lawful custody.
Ghanaian highlife starKwabena Kwabenahas once again sparked debate over the existence of true record labels in Ghana.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z with Kwame Dadzie, the Adult Music hitmaker questioned the widely held belief that the Ghanaian music industry operates with established record labels.
When asked if he would accept to sign to a Ghanaian record label if the terms are favourable, he replied: “are there record labels in Ghana?”
“No, no, no. I am sorry there is no record label in Ghana,” he said.
Like Kwabena Kwabena, some people argue that many so-called record labels in the music industry are, in reality, just management and promotional firms.
He believes that while these entities offer label services, they do not function as traditional record labels in the true sense of the term.
On the other hand, some argue that the size of a record label does not define its legitimacy, as businesses worldwide vary in scale but often perform similar roles.
Several music companies in Ghana are commonly referred to as record labels, including RuffTown Records, Highly Spiritual Music, Lynx Entertainment, Black Avenue Musik, Mimlife Records, SarkCess Music, MicBurnerz Music, and Flip the Music, among others.
President John Mahama has assured residents of Asuokow in the Eastern Region of a prompt response to their plight, as schoolchildren risk their lives daily crossing a river to attend classes.
In a Facebook post, he shared a video highlighting the community’s struggles and pledged swift action to address the issue.
Mahama further stated that Asuokow has been identified for urgent intervention, with plans already in motion to implement a lasting solution.
“Earlier today, the MP for Lower West Akim, Owen Kwame Frimpong, visited the Asuokow community and assured them that the Eastern Regional Minister will also visit, as we work to permanently and urgently resolve the challenge the people and the schoolchildren are confronted with,” the President stated.
He emphasized that his Reset Ghana agenda is focused on eliminating barriers to education and healthcare, guaranteeing equal opportunities for all Ghanaians.
“Our quest to Reset Ghanaincludes a determination to remove barriers to education and healthcare across the country,” he stated.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) has declared that it will not recognize the results of the 2024 parliamentary election inAblekuma Northunless proper collation procedures are followed.
This stance comes after the Electoral Commission’s Deputy Director of Research announced that the Commission was preparing to complete the collation process and officially declare the outcome.
During the NDC Ablekuma North Parliamentary Election Results Vigil on Sunday, February 9, Constituency Organizer Musah Kalamu reaffirmed the party’s commitment to preventing any premature or unlawful declaration of results.
He also urged party supporters to remain calm and resist any attempts to disrupt peace in the constituency.
Speaking at the vigil, Peter Kabu, the NDC’s Deputy Constituency Secretary for Weija Gbawe, emphasized the party’s determination to ensure that only the right representatives take their place in Parliament.
He stressed that the NDC would not allow individuals who could undermine parliamentary proceedings to assume office.
Health authorities in the Effutu Municipality have confirmed29 cholera casesout of a total of 356 suspected cases recorded in the area.
Tragically, one person has succumbed to the outbreak, prompting an urgent response to curb further infections. Officials have launched a contact-tracing exercise to identify those who may have been exposed, with efforts focused on containing the disease’s spread.
Medical experts disclosed that all confirmed cases originated from the same household in a specific part of Effutu, raising concerns about potential environmental or sanitation issues contributing to the outbreak.
Dr. Douglas Amponsah, Acting Medical Superintendent of the Winneba Municipal Hospital, assured the public that an isolation centre has been established to manage affected patients. He emphasized that the hospital remains in control of the situation, with all infected individuals receiving the necessary medical care.
“We have established a cholera isolation centre due to the outbreak. So far, 29 cases have been confirmed out of 356 recorded cases,” he explained.
The doctor further disclosed that the majority of infections have emerged from a specific locality within Winneba, with children being the most affected.
He confirmed two deaths related to the outbreak—one occurring in October 2024 and the other in early 2025.
Despite these fatalities, he assured the public that most infected children were responding well to treatment, providing some hope amid the crisis.
Authorities have urged residents to practise strict hygiene measures, including regular handwashing and proper sanitation, to help curb the outbreak.
According to the hospital, one person has died as a result of the outbreak, prompting immediate efforts to trace contacts and contain the spread of the disease.
Medical authorities have assured the public that proactive measures are being taken to prevent further infections.
Health officials revealed that all 29 confirmed cases originated from the same family in a particular area within Effutu.
This has raised concerns about possible environmental or sanitary conditions contributing to the outbreak.
To prevent further spread, a contact-tracing exercise has commenced, focusing on identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the disease.
Dr Douglas Amponsah, Acting Medical Superintendent of the Winneba Municipal Hospital, stated that an isolation centre has been set up to manage infected patients.
He emphasised that the hospital remains in control of the situation and that all affected individuals are receiving the necessary treatment.
“We have established a cholera isolation centre due to the outbreak. So far, 29 cases have been confirmed out of 356 recorded cases,” he explained.
The doctor revealed that a significant number ofcholera cases have been traced to a particular area in Winneba, with children being the hardest hit.
He confirmed that the outbreak has resulted in two fatalities—one in October 2024 and another in early 2025. However, he reassured the public that most affected children were showing positive signs of recovery, offering a glimmer of hope in the midst of the crisis.
Health officials have urged residents to prioritize hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing and proper sanitation to help contain the spread of the disease.
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has insisted that new loan signing Marcus Rashford has trained “fantastically” and has “big potential” despite Manchester United’s willingness to part ways with the forward.
Following weeks of speculation after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim, Rashford joined Villa on loan at the end of January, signing with the Midlands club until the end of the season.
Amorim had exiled Rashford from his squad and said on Thursday that he didn’t “play football and train the way I see it” — the latest in a long line of hints that the United manager didn’t appreciate the England international’s aptitude.
But Emery said on Friday that Rashford has trained well at Villa and that he is excited to watch the 27-year-old in action, which could happen as early as Sunday’s FA Cup fourth-round clash against Tottenham.
“I’m very happy with him, he has trained fantastically today [Friday],” the Spanish coach said. “The conversation we had was very normal, speaking about football and what I want of him.
“I think his potential is still big. I don’t want to know the reason he is leaving Manchester United.
“But I am very happy to have him here, to try to help him to recover his performances. “My challenge with him is a huge challenge. His challenge as well with us is a very exciting challenge. I am very happy.”
Sources told ESPN the deal to sign Rashford includes an option to make the transfer permanent. Villa have agreed to cover a substantial part of Rashford’s wage, and other performance-related bonuses have also been built into the deal.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has expressed his desire to continue working with captain Virgil van Dijk “for a long time,” despite ongoing uncertainty about the defender’s future.
Van Dijk, along with teammates Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, is out of contract at the end of the season and is now able to negotiate with overseas clubs for a pre-contract agreement to join on a free transfer in the summer.
Nonetheless, there is an expectation at Anfield that the 33-year-old will extend his stay with the Premier League leaders, as his impressive form shows no signs of declining.
“Virgil deserves every compliment he gets,” Slot told a news conference on Friday. “He’s been outstanding for this club for so many years and, since I’ve been here, he’s been outstanding for me as well.
“Yesterday [in the 4-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur] was an example of that. He was, in a good way, aggressive, led the team with and without the ball, he was sharp and ready. It was no coincidence it took 80 mins for Tottenham’s first shot on target. Virgil, just like many others, has had a good season but he wants to make it a great season.
Asked what he hopes the future holds for his captain,Slotadded: “Good health is the first thing I wish him, and I hope to continue working with him for a long time, although I don’t think that will surprise you.”
Carlo Ancelotti has responded to LaLiga president Javier Tebas’ criticism, asserting that Real Madrid’s complaints about refereeing decisions are driven by a desire to “improve things” and “change a system they don’t like.”
Madrid lodged a formal complaint with the Spanish football federation (RFEF) earlier this week, expressing their anger over the decision not to send off Espanyol defender Carlos Romero—who went on to score the winning goal—for a challenge on Kylian Mbappé during Madrid’s 1-0 defeat at the RCDE Stadium last Saturday.
At a meeting of LaLiga clubs with the RFEF and the refereeing body, the CTA, which Madrid chose not to attend, Tebas claimed on Thursday that Madrid had “lost their minds” over the issue, accusing the club of “constructing a narrative of victimhood.”
“It’s something that I’d prefer not to discuss before such an important game,” Ancelotti said in a news conference on Friday, ahead of Real’s crucial derby with title rivals Atlético Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“But Tebas can stay calm. Nobody here has lost their minds. We’ve asked for an explanation of what happened, to try to improve things, to try to change the system.”
Real Madrid has requested that the federation release the audio recordings of conversations between on-field referee Alejandro Muñiz Ruiz and video assistant referee Javier Iglesias Villanueva regarding the foul on Kylian Mbappé and an earlier disallowed goal by Vinícius Júnior.
Ancelotti said that request had so far gone unheeded, despite RFEF president Rafael Louzan saying on Thursday that the federation had “nothing to hide.”
“From what I hear, nobody is happy [with referees],” Ancelotti said. “People think it’s a system that favours Real Madrid, but when Real Madrid want to change it, everyone is against it. That surprises me a bit … We haven’t received [the audio]. I don’t know why they don’t want to give it to us. You’d have to ask them.”
On Friday, the creators of the popular video game “Football Manager” announced that the 2025 edition, which had already faced two delays, has been canceled. The developers, Sports Interactive, cited that the “overarching player experience and interface” did not meet their standards.
The developers expressed their regret over the “difficult decision” and pledged to redirect their efforts towards developing the 2026 edition.
“For the large number of you who pre-ordered FM25, we thank you enormously for your trust and support — we’re very sorry to have let you down,” Sports Interactive said in a statement.
“We know this will come as a huge disappointment, especially given that the release date has already moved twice, and you have been eagerly anticipating the first gameplay reveal. We can only apologise for the time it has taken to communicate this decision. Due to stakeholder compliance, including legal and financial regulations, today was the earliest date that we could issue this statement.”
The game was originally due to be released in November 2024 and feature women’s football teams and players for the first time. The 2024-25 season will be the first without a new “Football Manager” release since it was first launched in the 2024-05 campaign.
The statement continued: “Due to a variety of challenges that we’ve been open about to date, and many more unforeseen, we currently haven’t achieved what we set out to do in enough areas of the game, despite the phenomenal efforts of our team. Each decision to delay the release was made with the aim of getting he game closer to the desired level but, as we approached critical milestones at the turn of the year, it became unmistakably clear that we would not achieve the standard required, even with the adjusted timeline.
“Whilst many areas of the game have hit our targets, the overarching player experience and interface is not where we need it to be. As extensive evaluation has demonstrated, including consumer playtesting, we have clear validation for the new direction of the game and are getting close — however, we’re too far away from the standards you deserve.
“We could have pressed on,released FM25 in its current state, and fixed things down the line — but that’s not the right thing to do. We were also unwilling to go beyond a March release as it would be too late in the football season to expect players to then buy another game later in the year.
“Through the cancellation, every effort is not focused on ensuring that our next release achieves out goal and hits the quality level we all expect. We will update you on how we are progressing with that as soon as we are able to do so.”
