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Author: Amanda Cartey

  • Food insecurity in Ghana drops by nearly 22% in 3 years – GSS

    Food insecurity in Ghana drops by nearly 22% in 3 years – GSS

    Ghana has recorded a nearly 22 percent reduction in the number of people experiencing food insecurity over a three-year period, according to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

    Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, disclosed that the number of food-insecure persons reduced significantly within the period, although he cautioned that the progress remains vulnerable to economic and seasonal changes.

    “Between 2022 Q1 and 2025 Q3, the number of food-insecure people in Ghana declined from about 16 Million to 12.5 Million, a reduction of nearly 22%. The incidence of food insecurity stood at 38.1% in 2025 Q3 down from 41.1% in 2025 Q2 and 38.7% in 2024 Q3 (a year earlier). Progress is real but remains fragile,” he stated.

    The latest data released by the Service shows that food insecurity levels have generally declined between the first quarter of 2022 and the third quarter of 2025, reflecting gradual improvements in household access to food across the country.

    The figures indicate that while the overall trend shows improvement, food insecurity levels have experienced fluctuations within the period under review.

    Mr. Alhassan Iddrisu added that the report highlights significant disparities in how food insecurity affects different household groups, stressing that household characteristics remain a critical factor.

    He explained that female-headed households, particularly those in rural areas, continue to experience higher levels of food insecurity. He noted that households with children, especially those caring for both children and elderly persons, face the greatest vulnerability.

    Mr. Iddrisu further raised concern about the strong link between food insecurity and child nutrition, indicating that the data shows worrying trends across the country.

    He stated that households with underweight, wasted, or stunted children record food insecurity rates exceeding 44 percent nationally. He added that the situation is more severe among rural female-headed households with underweight children, where food insecurity levels exceed 80 percent.

    Touching on education, Mr. Iddrisu noted that educational attainment plays a key role in reducing vulnerability to food insecurity. He revealed that nearly half of food-insecure households have no formal education, compared to only 15 percent among households with tertiary education.

    He also highlighted what he described as a growing overlap between food insecurity, poverty, and unemployment, referring to it as a “triple burden.” According to him, between the second and third quarters of 2025, the number of people who were food insecure, poor, and unemployed increased by 9.4 percent, representing 19,455 persons.

    Mr. Iddrisu stressed that the findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions. He recommended directing resources towards high-burden regions with solutions tailored to local conditions, expanding nutrition-sensitive social protection programmes, particularly for female-headed households and families with children and the elderly, and strengthening the link between food security, employment, and skills development, especially for young people and rural communities.

    He further emphasised the importance of investing in education and child nutrition as key measures for reducing long-term vulnerability. He also called for sustained investment in high-frequency data systems to improve targeting and enable early and effective interventions.

    Mr. Iddrisu expressed appreciation to households that participated in the survey, field officers who collected the data, the Government of Ghana and the World Bank for funding support, development partners, the media, and staff of the Ghana Statistical Service for their contribution towards the report.

    He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to producing reliable data to guide policy decisions, noting that evidence-based data remains essential for saving time, resources, and lives while supporting Ghana’s development planning.

    President John Dramani Mahama says the government is preparing to introduce a significant new policy called the School Agriculture Programme, designed to boost the nation’s food security by giving students hands-on training in agriculture.

    Addressing the National Farmers’ Day event in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, President Mahama explained that the initiative will mandate every secondary and tertiary institution to run its own school farm.

    “We are asking all secondary schools and tertiary education institutions to have a school farm. They can produce their own chickens; they can raise livestock such as goats, sheep, and even larger animals like cattle. They can also grow vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, okra, and other crops they consume,” he said.

    The President noted that a National School Agriculture Coordinator has already been designated to lead the programme and oversee its nationwide rollout.

    He added that he is confident the initiative will improve hands-on learning for students while helping to boost the country’s overall food production.

    The School Agriculture Programme is expected to promote self-sufficiency in schools while encouraging young people to develop greater interest in agriculture.

    Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman has revealed that the government will soon engage five thousand (5,000) graduates in agriculture and veterinary science to support farmers nationwide.

    The initiative is aimed at closing the gap between research findings and practical application in the agricultural sector.

    She made this known at the 2025 Asogli Yam Festival held in the Volta Region on October 4, 2025.

    The annual festival, also called Asogli Te Za, began on July 14 and concluded on October 5, under the theme “Together in Honesty and Purpose, We Build a Just, Peaceful and Prosperous Nation.”

    The celebration highlighted the importance of Unity, transparency and national growth.  

    It featured lively cultural performances, drumming and traditional dances.

    It sought to foster peace and togetherness, preserve cultural values, and boost tourism and local business growth in the Volta Region.

    It brought Asogli people together to honour the yam harvest and highlight their enduring culture.

    A colourful durbar took place on October 4, to climax the entire festival.

    “Indeed, the Volta Region is showing her potential to be our agricultural backbone under the Feed Ghana Programme. With an irrigation system that is underutilized and ready to be rehabilitated, the region is ideally placed to scale up crop production, especially rice and yam”.

    The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli state, Togbe afede XIV urged leaders including chiefs and politicians to show commitment to the development of the country. He says corruption is a bane of the country’s underdevelopment and wants people to embrace honesty for a United Ghana.

    Meanwhile, in July this year, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, Her Excellency Imane Ouaadil, on July 28, handed over two thousand (2,000) tons of fertilizer, equivalent to 40,000 bags of fertilizer, to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

    According to the Foreign Ministry, the fertilizer was donated to the West African country by the Kingdom of Morocco during the official visit of Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa to Morocco last month as part of the two countries’ commitment to sustainable agriculture to enhance food security.

    Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Setor Dumelo, received the donated fertilizers on behalf of the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku. He expressed gratitude to the Morrocan government for the donation. He assured that farmers will receive the fertilizers to aid crop production.

    “Yesterday, 40,000 bags of fertilizer was donated to Ghana by the Kingdom of Morocco through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On behalf of my boss Hon Eric Opoku, I want to say a big thank you to Hon Ablakwa and Her Excellency Ouaadil for this kind gesture. We at the Ministry of Agriculture will ensure the fertilizers get straight to the deserving farmers as soon as possible,” he wrote in a post on the X platform on July 29.

  • Why Ghana should declare February 4 National Fugu Day

    When Ghana’s President John Mahama arrived in Zambia on February 4, 2026, he wore a traditional Ghanaian smock known as fugu, banaa, or batakari. Some people in Zambia reacted with laughter and misunderstanding when they saw the outfit, saying it looked unusual or like women’s clothing.

    But the smock tells a deeper story of culture and identity, and this moment shows why Ghana should declare February 4 as a National Fugu Day to honour and explain its meaning to the world.

    In northern Ghana, the smock is a symbol of respect, tradition, and leadership worn at important occasions such as festivals, weddings, ceremonies, and state events. Chiefs, elders, warriors, and respected citizens have worn it for centuries.

    It became a national emblem when Ghana’s first president, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, wore it during the declaration of independence on 6 March 1957. This turned the smock from regional wear into a proud national symbol that stands for cultural identity and pride.

    The reaction in Zambia shows that many people outside Ghana do not understand the smock’s meaning. Instead of seeing it as a sign of culture, some viewed it only as “clothing.” But the smock carries history, dignity, and artistic skill that deserve respect.

    Declaring a National Fugu Day would help educate people both in Ghana and around the world about the true story of the smock. It would turn misunderstanding into learning and cultural pride.

    The smock tradition supports many families and communities. Skilled weavers, dyers, and seamstresses make these garments by hand from cotton and plant dyes. The craft is ancient and passed down through generations, preserving important cultural knowledge.

    A National Fugu Day would boost local artisans and weavers, cultural tourism and made-in-Ghana fashion. It would show that Ghana not only protects heritage, but also uses culture to create jobs and grow the economy.

    National Fugu Day could be celebrated every year on 4 February, the same date as some Zambians mocked the traditional dress. This would link the day to history, identity, and unity.

    On this day, schools, communities, and institutions could wear smocks and share stories of their meaning, hold exhibitions and talks about Ghanaian culture, and promote local designers and weavers.

    Let us not forget that the smock is a culture woven into fabric. It connects Ghana’s past with its present and future. It tells a story of how Ghanaians are strong, proud, and rooted in tradition.

    Declaring National Fugu Day will make that story known, not just in Ghana, but across Africa and the world. It will transform a moment of misunderstanding into one of pride, education, and cultural celebration.

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

    DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana

  • Abu Trica sues gov’t, FBI over alleged torture and rights abuse

    Abu Trica sues gov’t, FBI over alleged torture and rights abuse

    Twenty-seven-year-old Ghanaian, Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, has filed a lawsuit at the High Court against the Government of Ghana and the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over an alleged cyber fraud-related arrest.

    Mr Kumi is accusing the state and the foreign agency of subjecting him to torture, unlawful detention and violations of his fundamental human rights.

    In an application filed at the Human Rights Division of the High Court in Accra, Kumi is demanding GH₵10 million as compensation. He claims he was subjected to what he described as a coordinated act of “cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment” after his arrest on December 11, 2025.

    The suit lists the Minister for Interior, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the FBI, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), and the Attorney-General as respondents.

    Kumi alleges that his arrest and detention involved physical assault, forced interrogations by foreign officers, and the unlawful seizure of his belongings.

    Court documents indicate that his legal team claims more than 15 armed officers allegedly raided his apartment at the Airport Residential Area while he was playing video games with friends.

    Kumi contends that he was immediately placed in handcuffs and kept restrained from morning until evening without being provided food, water, or rest.

    A key aspect of his claims centres on the alleged involvement of the FBI.

    He alleges that while in the custody of Ghanaian security agencies, he was interrogated by three foreign nationals introduced as FBI agents.

    Kumi further claims the officers allegedly compelled him to sign documents he could not read due to limited literacy and threatened to associate him with fraudulent transactions amounting to $8 million if he refused to provide passwords to his mobile phones.

    “The decision and conduct of officers of the 2nd Respondent in permitting agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation… to interrogate the Applicant without access to Counsel, was unlawful and in violation of Articles 14 and 19 of the 1992 Constitution,” the motion states.

    Kumi also alleges that officers from NACOC and EOCO conducted searches at his residence in Swedru, known as “Abu Trica’s Mansion,” while he remained in detention.

    He claims the officers seized several luxury items and electronic gadgets, including vehicles such as a Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, and Cybertruck.

    The applicant further alleges that several electronic devices, including multiple iPhones ranging from model 7 to 15 Pro, MacBooks, an Alienware laptop, a PlayStation 5 console, and a Starlink Wi-Fi modem, were taken.

    He also claims personal items, including Cartier watches, jewellery and silver chains, were confiscated during the operation.

    Kumi alleges that some of the items seized belonged to his friends and that officers failed to provide any inventory list or receipt for the confiscated properties.

    He is also accusing EOCO of breaching his presumption of innocence after describing him as a “notorious cyber-criminal” in an official publication before any court ruling.

    Apart from seeking GH₵10 million in damages, Kumi is requesting additional reliefs from the court.

    He is seeking an order to prevent the use of any information or items obtained through what he describes as coercive interrogations and unauthorised searches in future legal proceedings.

    He is also asking the court to issue an interlocutory injunction to stop the state from extraditing or deporting him to any foreign country until the case is determined.

    Additionally, he is seeking an order to restrain the FBI and its agents from conducting investigations or interrogations involving him within Ghana.

    The case is expected to be heard at the Human Rights High Court in February 2026.

    The outcome of the case is anticipated to influence the scope of operations of foreign law enforcement agencies in Ghana and reinforce safeguards for citizens involved in cybercrime investigations.

    MOTION-ON-NOTICE-FOR-ENFORCEMENT-OF-FUNDAMENTAL-HUMAN-RIGHTS-Frederick-Kumi (1)Download

    Abu Trica was initially arrested by Ghanaian security agencies on Thursday, December 11, 2025, following an indictment by United States authorities over his alleged role in a large-scale online romance scam estimated at more than $8 million.

    Unsealed documents from the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio allege that he was part of a criminal network that targeted elderly victims across the United States beginning in 2023.

    Prosecutors say the group relied on artificial intelligence software to create fake identities and establish intimate online relationships with senior citizens through social media and dating platforms. Victims were then allegedly deceived into sending money and valuables under false pretences, including claims of medical emergencies, travel costs, and investment opportunities.

    The indictment further alleges that Abu Trica assisted in distributing funds transferred from Ohio to conspirators in Ghana and other locations. He faces charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and a forfeiture specification.

    Months ago, a secret FBI operation also led to the arrest of Ghana’s nightlife mogul and alleged crypto kingpin, Nana Kojo Boateng, popularly known as Dada Joe Remix, with possible extradition to the United States of America (U.S.A).

    Sources said he was “scooped up Rambo-style,” over his alleged involvement in fraudulent financial activities.

    Even though people have known him as a big player in the oil and gas business, rumors have it that he might have been involved in shady activities behind the scenes.

    Panic has reportedly gripped Accra’s elite social circles since the news broke.

    Some prominent figures allegedly involved in cryptocurrency, forex trading, and high-end real estate have also allegedly gone into hiding.

    Dada Joe Remix could stand trial and face significant legal consequences if convicted.

    Official details regarding his arrest and the nature of the charges are yet to be released.

    It will be recalled that in 2022, the Nigerian social media influencer, Ramon Abbas, who called himself Ray Hushpuppi and flaunted a lavish lifestyle supported by laundering millions of dollars was sentenced in Los Angeles to more than 11 years in federal prison.

    Ramon Abbas, 40, was also ordered by a federal judge to pay $1.7m in restitution to two fraud victims, according to a statement from the United States Department of Justice.

    Abbas was “one of the most prolific money launderers in the world,” Don Alway, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles office, said in the statement.

    Prosecutors said Abbas and a Canadian man laundered money from various online crimes, including bank cyberheists and business email compromise, or BEC, a prolific crime in which crooks hack into email accounts, pretend to be someone they’re not, and fool victims into wiring money where it doesn’t belong.

    Abbas had more than two million Instagram followers before he was arrested in 2020 in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

    His social media posts showed him living a life of luxury, complete with private jets, ultra-expensive cars, and high-end clothes and watches.

    “I hope someday I will be inspiring more young people to join me on this path,” read one Instagram post by Abbas, who pleaded guilty in April 2021 to one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering.

    In the aftermath of recent FBI-led operations in Ghana involving suspected fraud, entertainment pundit Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, has pushed for an inquiry into Criss Waddle’s source of wealth.

    His concerns come on the back of Criss Waddle’s frequent display of large sums of money and luxurious vehicles on social media.

    In an interview spotted by The Independent Ghana on social media, KOKA intimated that since the musician criticized Akufo-Addo’s government over economic hardship, it is appropriate to investigate the legitimacy of his wealth too.

    “I am looking for the FBI to ask them to commerce an investigation on Criss Waddle because his source of revenue is questionable to me.”

    “Lately, when our girls are celebrating their birthday, you will see them posting their wish list on Snapchat because they don’t want to fry eggs anymore since there are people buying cars for them.”

    “The FBI should look for him, and also look for all the cars he has shipped into the country…Those who claim that they bought their Rolls-Royce from Acheke should also be investigated,” he added.

    Entertainment pundit Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, has pushed for an inquiry into Criss Waddle’s source of wealth.

    His concerns come on the back of Criss Waddle’s frequent display of large sums of money and luxurious vehicles on social media.

    In an interview spotted by The Independent Ghana on social media, KOKA intimated that since the musician criticized Akufo-Addo’s government over economic hardship, it is appropriate to investigate the legitimacy of his wealth too.

    “I am looking for the FBI to ask them to commerce an investigation on Criss Waddle because his source of revenue is questionable to me.”

    “Lately, when our girls are celebrating their birthday, you will see them posting their wish list on Snapchat because they don’t want to fry eggs anymore since there are people buying cars for them.”

    “The FBI should look for him, and also look for all the cars he has shipped into the country…Those who claim that they bought their Rolls-Royce from Acheke should also be investigated,” he added.

  • As soon as the surgeon takes a knife, I run out of the operating theatre” — President Mahama on wife’s caesarean sections

    As soon as the surgeon takes a knife, I run out of the operating theatre” — President Mahama on wife’s caesarean sections

    President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that he often ran out of the operating theatre whenever his wife underwent a caesarean section.

    He shared this at the 66th Annual Conference of the West African Association of Surgeons (WAAS) at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Monday, February 9, 2026, where he was named Grand Patron and admitted as an honorary fellow.

    “Let me thank you very much for the honour done me, but I wonder if I actually deserve to be a fellow of surgeons. My wife had to undergo several caesarean sections for all our children. As soon as the surgeon takes a knife and starts cutting, I run out of the operating theatre,” he said.

    The president also warned that the migration of skilled health professionals is weakening health systems across Africa. He urged governments to take practical steps to improve working conditions for health workers, stressing that retaining professionals is key to strengthening healthcare delivery.

    President Mahama paid tribute to volunteer surgeons whose outreach services have brought relief and dignity to many patients across Ghana. He also commended the college for its long-standing role in training specialists in the sub-region, noting that many surgeons currently serving across West Africa were trained under its programmes.

    Meanwhile, in April last year, a new program dedicated to providing financial aid to those battling with chronic conditions like kidney failure, cancer, and heart diseases, Mahama Cares Ghana Medical Trust Fund, was unveiled by government.

    It was also initiated to alleviate the financial burden faced by patients in need of life-saving medical care.

    The event marking the launch took place at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in Accra on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. The ceremony saw the attendance of key stakeholders from the healthcare sector and the corporate world.

    President John Dramani Mahama, who officially introduced the fund, called on the private sector to support Mahama Cares as part of their corporate social responsibility.

    “I want to encourage corporate Ghana, businesses, the mines, the banks, and all the other companies, that this Ghana Medical Trust Fund, is coming to your clients who save their monies in your banks or do business with you. Some of them are even your own staff.

    “So, as part of your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), if you give anything, consider that you are giving to your own staff or customers. So, I would like to encourage all corporations in Ghana, both private and public, to at the end of the year, donate some portion of their annual CSR to Ghana Medical Fund because it is going to do a lot of good to the country,” he stated.

    The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, expressed his support for the initiative, describing it as long overdue. He emphasized that the fund would ensure equitable access to healthcare, particularly for individuals facing financial barriers to treatment.

    “The draft bill for the Mahama Care is ready and will be submitted immediately Parliament resumes,” he confirmed.

    Akandoh also announced a significant policy change to strengthen the programme, revealing that the government has removed the capping of the national health insurance firm. This, he explained, will unlock substantial resources for the fund.

    “Most importantly, the uncapping of the capping of the national health insurance firm has been removed. This move has unlocked substantial resources to ensure that a dedicated allocation of funds will now support the Mahama Care Programme,” he added.

    The Mahama Cares fund is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare access for many Ghanaians, particularly those battling chronic diseases and unable to afford the necessary medical treatment.

    Nonetheless, the initiative sprung into action ahead of its official rollout, providing immediate and life-saving support to a two-year-old child battling a rare form of cancer in December last year.

    The case of young Meshack, who was afflicted with rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive soft-tissue cancer, was brought to the attention of the Trust Fund last week.

    The organization responded with remarkable speed and commitment.

    ​Within 24 hours of learning about the child’s plight, the Trust Fund established contact with the family to assure them of comprehensive support.

    In just 48 hours, the Administrator, Obuobia Darko-Opoku, led the GMTF team to the Oncology Unit of the Department of Child Health at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.

    ​During the visit, a cheque presentation was made to the family, officially initiating the funding for Meshack’s full treatment plan. This plan includes a critical multi-phase regimen of chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, and essential supportive care.

    ​A representative for the GMTF noted that while the organization’s benefits package is not yet formally operational, “our core mission is already tangible in moments like this. When a young life hangs in the balance, we believe in moving with compassion, speed and unwavering purpose.”

    ​The prompt intervention underscores the driving principle of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund: to be a source of hope that arrives exactly when it is needed most, demonstrating that the ‘MahamaCares’ philosophy is already translating into action.

    MahamaCares is a landmark initiative introduced by the government to decisively confront the growing burden of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

  • KNUST confirms death of student who died after falling from hostel

    KNUST confirms death of student who died after falling from hostel

    The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has confirmed the death of a second-year student following a tragic fall from an off-campus hostel over the weekend.

    According to a statement issued on Monday, February 9, shared by the management of the University, “Mr. Ransford Amankwah Asomani, a student of the BSc Agribusiness Management programme, reportedly fell from the second floor of a hostel in Ayeduase in the early hours of Sunday, February 8, 2026. He was rushed to the KNUST Hospital by his colleagues, with support from the KNUST District Police Patrol Team, but was pronounced dead on arrival.”

    The statement signed by the University’s Relations Officer, Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe added that the KNUST Police, in collaboration with the university’s security services, has begun investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall.

    Dr. Bekoe assured that updates would be provided to the public once all facts have been established.

    KNUST reaffirms it committment to the safety, security, and well-being of all students and staff.


    Talking about the death of stidents, the National Graduates Association of Teachers (NAGRAT) in 2023, expressed displeasure over how authorities of a Senior High School handled an incident in the school which resulted in the death of one student.

    President of the group, Angel Carbonu, criticised the authorities of St. Monica’s Senior High School in Mampong, over the death of a female student.

    According to a news reports, the deceased was denied an exeat to go to the hospital by a house mistress, resulting in her untimely death.

    The report stated that the unfortunate incident happened in May 2023 thus the management of the school is being investigated.

    Angel Carbonu who has been devastated by the news, in an audio recording, furiously questioned why the management of the school could act in such a manner by denying a sick girl the access of going to the hospital for treatment.

    He said “A girl falls sick and comes for exeat to go to the hospital, the girl is shown to the house staff. And the girl was denied exeat, leading to the death of this girl. Now people are threatening brimstone against the Ghana Education Service, teachers are being insulted left-right, and center on local radio stations, and so on and so forth.

    “My colleagues, sometimes I don’t know what is wrong with us the teachers, drawing onto ourselves, problems, and challenges that no one compensates us for. If a student is sick, and there is evidence that the student is sick, and the student comes to you for an exeat, what on earth do you benefit from refusing an exeat for the student to go to the hospital? What do you stand to gain as a teacher for refusing to give exeat to a student to go to the hospital?”

    Angel Carbonu further explained that the issue of students being denied exeat to go for treatment or treat other important matters has been going on for a while and it must come to a halt.

    He also argued that teachers are the cause of their own troubles, adding that when they feel they are being overburdened by a lot of responsibilities, they should quit and allow a responsible person to take over.

    “We have reports where parents have come to the schools to take their own children home for this and that reason and school authorities will say I will not allow it. At the end of the day, when there is a problem, you want all of us to share the problem. How much are you being compensated for, for a job that is unnecessarily done by you? That people don’t even recognize? The story in Mampong is a very sad one. An innocent girl lost her life just because a house mistress refused to do her duty.

    “How can you say it’s not time for exeat and therefore whether you are sick or not, dying or not, I’m not going to give you exeat? Colleague teachers, sometimes we attract ourselves into invectives and negative expressions people make against us. If you feel that the housemistress job is too much for you, you can resign. There’s no need for this girl to die at St. Monica’s SHS at all,” he pointed out.

  • Family observes 8th anniversary of Ebony’s demise

    Family observes 8th anniversary of Ebony’s demise

    The family of the late Ghanaian singer Priscilla Opoku-Kwarteng (Ebony Reigns) has commemorated her eighth anniversary.

    Family, friends and admirers of the late dancehall artiste Ebony gathered at the Osu Cemetery on February 8, 2026, to commemorate her memory.

    A video circulating on X showed the singer’s father alongside relatives and fans observing the moment with emotional tributes. They were seen placing a wreath at her graveside and spraying perfumes in her honour during the solemn visit.

    The annual visit has become a tradition for the family, who mark Ebony’s birthday each year with a remembrance ceremony at her gravesite.

    Ebony lost her life in a fatal accident on the Kumasi–Sunyani highway. The crash also claimed the lives of Franky Kuri and Atsu Vondee while they were travelling back to Accra after visiting her mother.

    Last year, the family honored her memory by visiting her gravesite at the Osu Cemetery, marking seven years since her passing.

    Priscilla Opoku Kwarteng, widely known as Ebony Reigns, tragically lost her life in a car accident on February 8, 2018. Since then, her family has made it a tradition to visit her final resting place every year to pay tribute to the young star whose promising career was cut short.

    In a video shared by 1957 News, her father, Nana Opoku Kwarteng, was seen at the gravesite dressed in black and white alongside other relatives, including a woman believed to be her mother.

    “Today is the 7th year since you left us, queen. It has been our ritual yearly not to disrespect but to honor you because you were and still are a queen that we shall adore, appreciate, pamper and accept in every step we take. We shall always adore you, queen,” her father expressed.

    “You shall forever live, your legacy shall always be around for people to see and mention,” he added.

    Ebony, fondly called the 90s Bad Gyal, passed away alongside her best friend Franky Kuri and soldier Atsu Vondee in a tragic accident on the Kumasi-Sunyani road.

    In 2024, entertainment pundit Ola Michael expressed his disagreement with Stonebwoy’s appeal to be recognized as the VGMA Artiste of the Year for 2019.

    Ola believed that altering the award’s history would undermine the lessons learned from that year’s events.

    The 2019 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards were marred by a conflict between dancehall artists Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy. The altercation erupted when Stonebwoy was announced as the Reggae Dancehall Artiste of the Year, leading to a confrontation on stage. Both artists faced charges for their conduct and were subsequently granted bail.

    During the 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards in June 2024, Stonebwoy, who won the Artiste of the Year award, urged the event organizers, Charterhouse, to retroactively name him the 2019 Artiste of the Year, a title that went unannounced due to the incident.

    Appearing on United Showbiz on June 8, 2024, Ola Michael criticized this idea, arguing that the 2019 incident should remain a part of history as a cautionary tale.

    “I’m disappointed in Robert Klah and Charterhouse for considering Stonebwoy’s request,” Ola stated. “We can’t rewrite history; the 2019 title wasn’t awarded for a reason. Changing that erases the important lessons we should learn from it.”

    Ola also dismissed Stonebwoy’s claims of being the intended winner in 2019, saying, “Every artist has the right to boast, but history should be preserved. Let’s keep it sacred.”

    He proposed that the late Dancehall artist Ebony, who posthumously won the Artiste of the Year in 2018, should be considered the de facto titleholder for 2019.

    “Typically, an Artiste of the Year is named every year. If no one was officially crowned in 2019, it’s only fair to consider Ebony as having retained the title,” Ola argued. “Since the 2019 award wasn’t given, Ebony should be recognized as the reigning Artiste of the Year for that period.”

    Kurl Songx recently shared his pride in having recorded the song “Feeling” with the late Ebony Reigns.

    In an interview with Cape Coast-based Property FM, he expressed a deep sense of loss, revealing that he often reflects on how wonderful it would have been to perform the song alongside Ebony.

    “I always feel a pang of sadness when I listen to ‘Feelings,’ knowing Ebony is no longer here,” he said.

    “But I find comfort in believing she is in a better place, and I am grateful for the chance to have worked with such a remarkable artist.”

    He added that he had hoped to perform the track with Ebony, but accepted that her untimely passing is something beyond their control. Ebony Reigns tragically lost her life in a car accident on February 8, 2018.

  • Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Ebo Taylor is dead

    Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Ebo Taylor is dead

    Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Ebo Taylor is dead.

    The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) announced that he died at the age of 90 in the early hours of Saturday, 7 February 2026.

    MUSIGA president Bessa Simons said: “Ghana and indeed the world has lost a great son.” 

    Taylor died only a month after marking his 90th birthday and a day following the inauguration of the Ebo Taylor Festival, which was established to celebrate his musical contributions.

    He was born Deroy Taylor on January 6, 1936, in Cape Coast and grew to become one of Ghana’s most respected guitarists, composers, bandleaders and producers. Over a career spanning more than sixty years, he played a major role in developing highlife and Afrobeat in Ghana and internationally, fusing indigenous rhythms with elements of jazz, funk and soul to form his distinct musical style.

    Taylor gained early recognition in the late 1950s through his involvement with the Stargazers and the Broadway Dance Band. He later travelled to London in 1962 with the Black Star Highlife Band, where he collaborated with Afrobeat trailblazer Fela Kuti and other African artistes, before returning to Ghana to produce songs for renowned musicians such as Pat Thomas and C.K. Mann.

    His work later attracted global attention and reached new listeners worldwide. In the 21st century, his music was sampled by international producers, including Usher on “She Don’t Know” featuring Ludacris, which drew from Taylor’s track “Heaven.” He also produced highly praised albums including Love and Death (2008), Appia Kwa Bridge (2012) and Yen Ara (2018).

    Taylor remained active in live performances and recording well into his late eighties. His most recent project was the Ebo Taylor JID022 album, released in 2025 under the Jazz Is Dead series.

    MUSIGA’s tribute described him as “Saltpond’s light … Ghana’s legend … the world’s icon” and highlighted that he created and managed more than twelve bands throughout his career, with the last being the Ebo Taylor and Family Band.

    His passing has drawn tributes from musicians and admirers across Ghana and the international music scene, many of whom acknowledge his influence in elevating West African music on the global stage.

    The music industry is grieving the death of Kwabena Owusu, better known as Aseibu Amanfi, who died on the morning of Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a short illness.

    A video shared on X the same day highlighted Amanfi’s passing as a powerful reminder of his influence and the mark he left on generations, signalling the close of a chapter in Ghana’s vibrant highlife music history.

    His legendary track, “Kakra b3ka wo” (“a little will tell you” or “little by little will reveal to you”), embodies the virtue of patience and the revelations that come with time.

    Aseibu Amanfi was a towering presence in Ghana’s music scene, celebrated for his emotive voice and the lively rhythms that brought his songs to life.

    He once said, “We have somewhere to go or a journey to embark on,” reflecting on life and mortality during a performance paying tribute to the late Daddy Lumba.

    With unforgettable songs like “Kakra Bɛka Wo,” “Bamaso,” and “Asoko,” Amanfi’s music has become an enduring part of Ghanaian culture, bridging generations and resonating with fans of all ages.

    His work was more than entertainment; it became a cultural legacy, linking people across different times and experiences.

    “In life, when a child is born, joy fills the air, celebrated with white cloth and gifts during naming ceremonies. However, when death strikes, we are left with sorrow and sympathy as we bid farewell,” he once said, capturing the profound emotions tied to life and loss.

    Aseibu Amanfi’s impact went beyond music; he mentored upcoming artists and inspired many, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the future of highlife music.

    Though his passing leaves a deep void, the melodies he created will live on in the hearts of countless fans.

    The music industry is grieved the death of Kwabena Owusu, better known as Aseibu Amanfi, who died on the morning of Sunday, December 28, 2025, following a short illness.

    A video shared on X the same day highlighted Amanfi’s passing as a powerful reminder of his influence and the mark he left on generations, signalling the close of a chapter in Ghana’s vibrant highlife music history.

    His legendary track, “Kakra b3ka wo” (“a little will tell you” or “little by little will reveal to you”), embodies the virtue of patience and the revelations that come with time.

    Aseibu Amanfi was a towering presence in Ghana’s music scene, celebrated for his emotive voice and the lively rhythms that brought his songs to life.

    He once said, “We have somewhere to go or a journey to embark on,” reflecting on life and mortality during a performance paying tribute to the late Daddy Lumba.

    With unforgettable songs like “Kakra Bɛka Wo,” “Bamaso,” and “Asoko,” Amanfi’s music has become an enduring part of Ghanaian culture, bridging generations and resonating with fans of all ages.

    His work was more than entertainment; it became a cultural legacy, linking people across different times and experiences.

    “In life, when a child is born, joy fills the air, celebrated with white cloth and gifts during naming ceremonies. However, when death strikes, we are left with sorrow and sympathy as we bid farewell,” he once said, capturing the profound emotions tied to life and loss.

    Aseibu Amanfi’s impact went beyond music; he mentored upcoming artists and inspired many, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the future of highlife music.

    Though his passing leaves a deep void, the melodies he created will live on in the hearts of countless fans.

    Legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kojo Fosu, also passed away months ago.

    A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family confirmed that the music veteran passed on today, July 26, after a short illness.

    He succumbed to the illness at the Bank Hospital in Accra, per reports.

    The statement reads: “With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness.”

    “Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience.”

    The bereaved family has respectfully requested privacy as they navigate this profound grief. Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.

  • From Hollywood to the homeland: Why African countries are courting black American stars

    From Hollywood to the homeland: Why African countries are courting black American stars

    Although their forefathers were seized from West and Central Africa centuries ago, the bond between African-Americans and their ancestral home has been a lasting one.

    For instance, Liberia, Africa’s oldest republic, was founded by freed black American slaves in 1822. After Ghana became independent in 1957, a wave of black intellectuals and artists moved there from the US. Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali subsequently paid high-profile visits to Ghana, while Guinea became home to Black Panther leader Stokely Carmichael.

    This transatlantic connection has ebbed and flowed over time – but in recent years, there has been a real resurgence, helped by the use of DNA tests.

    A number of black American celebrities have sought the nationality of African countries – singer Ciara has become a citizen of Benin, rapper Ludacris and film star Samuel L Jackson are officially Gabonese, actors Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors are citizens of Guinea and musical icon Stevie Wonder has Ghanaian papers.

    Just last week, wildly popular content creator IShowSpeed was approved for a Ghanaian passport after stopping in the country on a whirlwind African tour.

    The celebs have, in most cases, flown out for elaborate citizenship ceremonies and tours of local beauty spots, all of which have been captured for glossy social media content.

    Posting photos of her citizenship ceremony in Guinea, Meagan Good told her 7.8m Instagram followers last month: “This is history in motion”.

    Good, who has featured in films like Think Like A Man and Saw V, and her husband Majors, known for Creed and Marvel flick Ant-Man and the Wasp, became citizens after DNA testing traced their ancestry to Guinea.

    “This recognition goes beyond titles, it is a homecoming and a reconnection to our Afrodescendant roots,” said Good.

    Messaging from the various African governments has echoed this sentiment.

    “In conferring Ghanaian citizenship upon Stevie Wonder,” former president Nana Akufo-Addo said at Wonder’s 2024 ceremony, “we not only extend our warmest embrace to a beloved son of Africa but also reaffirm our belief in the enduring spirit of pan-Africanism and the global African family”.

    Ghana has long promoted its pan-African credentials – for a decade anyone whose ancestors came from Africa have been entitled to Ghanaian nationality, a policy that arguably inspired Benin to launch a similar scheme.

    Ghana also launched the “year of return” in 2019, a buzzy initiative encouraging Africans in the diaspora to relocate there.

    More than 1,000 African-Americans have done so in the past decade, according to Dr Erieka Bennet, ambassador for the Diaspora African Forum, which helps people relocate to Ghana.

    “It is not only about romanticism,” Marie-Roger Biloa, a Cameroonian journalist with a focus on West Africa, tells the BBC.

    “It’s all very much about how can we tap into the potential they have, the Americans.”

    Tourism is an obvious motivator. Governments hope that social media posts from the stars will encourage other black Americans, a large group with a growing economic power, to visit and inject money into their countries.

    Biloa notes that Benin’s president, a former business tycoon, is keenly aware that his country’s former role as a key departure point for slaves makes it a poignant destination for black Americans.

    “President [Patrice] Talon has really started investing in cultural heritage, in a way to engage the African-Americans worldwide. He understood it could be an engine for a new form of tourism and a new branch of economy,” she says, mentioning The Marina Project, a memorial and tourist complex being built in Ouidah, once one of Benin’s main slave ports.

    Positive publicity from stars like Ciara may also encourage diasporans to invest or buy property in Benin, as they have been doing in Ghana since the year of return.

    Soft power is also an important factor – by promoting their culture and building a robust network around the world, countries like Benin, Guinea, Gabon and Ghana stand to gain global influence.

    In this mission, celebrity citizens act as ambassadors, Francis Kpatindé, a Beninois lecturer at France’s Sciences Po University, tells the BBC.

    “Benin has no diamonds like the Democratic Republic of Congo, no petrol, nothing. We just have cotton, the ports and culture,” he says.

    The celebrity ambassadors are “a way for us to be on the record, to be on-screen. Now it’s working. You can go to the social networks. You see Benin everywhere,” Kpatindé says.

    Many peoplefrom the countries involved recognise the economic and political benefits of giving citizenship to black American celebrities, but others are more critical.

    There is an underlying feeling that the stars are bypassing what can be, for those born in the countries, a cumbersome and costly process to get passports.

    Taufic Suleman, a painter and decorator from Ghana, felt “irritated” when the foreign minister announced that IShowSpeed, who grew up in the US but has a Ghanaian mother, had been approved for a passport.

    “It is really, really, really a bad precedent… why do people, your citizens, have to go through vetting? Sometimes others end up being denied,” Suleman, aged 32, tells the BBC.

    “You just can’t hand out a passport to anyone just because the person is a celebrity.”

    AFP via Getty Images People stand under and around the door of no return
    The “door of no return” monument in Ouidah marks the last place seen by many enslaved Africans before they were forced to leave for other continents

    Following the foreign minister’s announcement, Patrick Boamah, a member of the Ghanaian parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, told local broadcaster Channel One that the content creator must follow the required legal procedures to get a passport, although the authorities “may waive certain steps for him”.

    Sindé Chekete, the head of Benin’s tourism authority, told the BBC that “citizenship processing is not influenced by celebrity status” and that Ciara “followed the same standard procedure as any other applicant”.

    Another criticism of the celebrity citizenship trend is that it will be superficial and fleeting – the stars will collect their certificates, publish a few social media posts, then go quiet.

    It is not clear whether, in all cases, the celebrities are required to publicise or maintain lasting links to their second homes, but Chekete stressed that Beninois citizenship “is not a transaction and it does not come with contractual obligations, whether promotional, financial, or otherwise”.

    Six months after getting her citizenship, Ciara returned to Benin in January to play at the Vodun Days festival.

    Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors have stressed that their connection with Guinea would be “long-term and evolving”.

    “We could absolutely see ourselves having a home here and spending meaningful time in Guinea,” they told the BBC over email.

    Yaw Nyame, one of the numerous Ghanaians who welcomed IShowSpeed’s naturalisation, says he hopes the content creator uses his passport to set up a base in the country.

    “Even if he’s not going to come to Ghana all the time, at least him having his presence in Ghana or doing a project in Ghana,” Nyame says.

    The doctor says giving IShowSpeed, real name Darren Watkins Jr, a passport is a “brilliant, strategic move” as the creator currently has “all eyes on him”. He has more than 50 million YouTube subscribers, with a recent 20-country tour of Africa contributing to the growth of his platform.

    It will take time for Ghana, Gabon, Guinea and Benin to gauge whether their strategies have paid off – maybe one or two decades, Kpatindé says.

    Earlier this week, Benin’s government said it would open a government agency specifically dedicated to nationalising “Afro-descendants”.

    However, Ghana reached a roadblock in its plans to reconnect with the diaspora, announcing it was pausing its citizenship applications as it needed to make the system more accessible and user-friendly.

    Regardless, Kpatindé believes that by welcoming home some of the diaspora’s brightest stars, the African countries are on the right trajectory.

    People on the continent have long hailed pan-Africanism, “but now we need action,” he says. “We need concrete acts, not to just speak”.

    Source: BBC

    DISCLAIMER: Independentghana.com will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana

  • Hamamat will be commissioned as tourism ambassador for shea butter – Abeiku Santana announces

    Hamamat will be commissioned as tourism ambassador for shea butter – Abeiku Santana announces

    The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Abeiku Santana, has announced that model and entrepreneur Hamamat Montia will soon be officially given a role to promote shea butter as part of Ghana’s tourism and cultural promotion efforts.

    Speaking on Joy News, Abeiku Santana disclosed that Hamamat will be joined by award-winning musician Wiyaala and that the two personalities have already been engaged by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie in this regard.

    “Our sister Hamamat will be commissioned as a tourism ambassador for shea butter. Wiyaala also is coming on board. The Honourable Minister, Dzifa Gomashie, has engaged these personalities,” he said.

    “Our sister Hamamat will be commissioned as a tourism ambassador for shea butter. Wiyaala also is coming on board. The Honourable Minister, Dzifa Gomashie, has engaged these personalities,” he said.

    Hamamat Montia has earned global recognition not only through her modelling career but also for promoting shea butter and natural skincare products, an industry closely tied to the economy of Northern Ghana and largely driven by women.

    Wiyaala is widely known for showcasing Ghanaian and African culture through her music, language, and traditional style, gaining international praise for her performances and strong cultural representation.

    The move is part of a wider plan by the Ministry of Tourism and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to use influential Ghanaian personalities to promote local industries, strengthen destination branding, and highlight Ghana’s cultural heritage globally.

    Shea butter is a skin superfood that comes from the seeds of the fruit of the Shea (Karite) tree and that is naturally rich in vitamins A, E and F.

    One of the most viral moments from American streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr, popularly known as IShowSpeed’s Ghana visit occurred at the Shea Butter Museum, a private cultural space owned by beauty queen and entrepreneur Hamamat Montia.

    During the visit, Speed received a traditional shea butter massage from a group of women.

    As they massaged him, the women repeatedly chanted the phrase “Kuriya Kuriya,” which quickly caught the attention of online viewers, many of whom began asking: what does “Kuriya Kuriya” actually mean?

    “Kuriya Kuriya” is a Ghanaian slang expression rooted in Dagbani culture, commonly found in Northern Ghana.

    It originates from a traditional call-and-response chant sung by women while working together.

    The call, “kuriya kuriya,” is usually answered with “kuri gen gen,” often followed by names or playful phrases.

    Historically, Dagbani women sang this chant during communal activities or other group tasks. It was not religious or ritualistic, but rather a form of entertainment, bonding, and rhythm to make work feel lighter and more enjoyable.

    When the American streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr, popularly known as IShowSpeed, walked through the streets of Ghana on January 26, 2026, shouting his newly given Akan name, Barima Kofi Akuffo, few could have anticipated the cultural conversations that would follow.

    Streaming live to a global audience of over 50 million, Speed’s visit to Ghana became one of the most talked-about moments of his African tour.

    Known for his viral real-life streams from countries around the world, IShowSpeed has built a massive international following.

    His African tour alone has taken him through Zambia, Ethiopia, Senegal, Rwanda, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Angola, among others.

    However, Ghana stood out, not just for the spectacle, but for the cultural exchange it sparked, particularly among Africans themselves.

    Speed was unable to visit several other locations during his Ghana tour due to time constraints.

    Still, his brief stay managed to open conversations about local languages, traditions, and cultural practices, proving that the tour was not only about showcasing Africa to foreigners, but also about Africans rediscovering and explaining their own cultures.

    Shea butter is one of the most versatile products readily available on the market. Since ancient times, Shea butter has been used for moisturizing skin and also apply to natural locks to promote hair growth and prevent breakages and dandruff.

    The buttery rich cream can also be used to prepare sumptuous local and international dishes.

    Many studies show that it is especially good at penetrating the skin and contains 60% fat, making it highly emollient.

    Thanks to some other special properties, it does more than moisturizing its anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing components right into the skin.

    Did you also know that due that the skin superfood, when applied on saggy breast, can make it firm and perky? Yes, this is another great reason why women should buy 100% natural shea butter.

    To use shea butter to help firm the breasts, warm the butter up between the palms of both hands and massage in a circular motion for about 10-15 minutes.

    Let the shea butter sit on the breasts for another 15 minutes and then remove the excess butter with warm water or a towel.

    Repeating this process three to four times weekly will improve the appearance of sagging breast.

  • Diana Hamilton shares how her song titled ‘Aha Ye’ gained attention

    Diana Hamilton shares how her song titled ‘Aha Ye’ gained attention

    Celebrated Ghanaian gospel artiste Diana Hamilton has opened up about the inspiration behind her highly awaited song Aha Ye, which features veteran musician Elder Mireku.

    Speaking in an interview on TV3, later shared on X on February 5, 2026, she explained that the partnership happened naturally rather than through prior arrangements.

    Diana Hamilton explained that the song emerged during a worship session at Elder Mireku’s home, noting that working together on the track felt seamless.

    “It happened from the onset. When I started writing it, I found myself in Elder Mireku’s house, and we were writing the song and just worshipping. Then the song came to my mind. I put it in and realised that even though it is an all-English song, there is something he is doing that is bringing the song alive,” she said.

    Recounting how South African gospel artiste Ntokozo was later included, Diana Hamilton said her participation also happened spontaneously.

    She stated that Ntokozo came to mind unexpectedly, and when she contacted her about joining the project, she readily accepted the offer.

    “But when I thought of Ntokozo, I remembered we were driving, and then she came to mind. That was when I knew it was her and how easily it all came together.

    “When I called her, she said, ‘I don’t need to hear it, I’m on it, just tell me when.’ She didn’t ask to hear the song until a few days before she was about to fly down, and that was when she said, ‘When you’re done with the song, can I listen?’” she added.

    Several months ago, the musician explained why she doesn’t consider herself a musician by profession despite her widespread success.

    According to her, she always goes back to nursing and doesn’t solely define her career by music.

    “I struggle to say I am doing music professionally because I am not. That is why I would always go back to nursing. I never said this is the right time.

    Anywhere I saw the microphone, and I was given a chance, I picked it,” she emphasized.

    She discovered her love for music at a very early age,highlighting how she’d turn every text, or message into a song when given the least opportunity.

    She recounted how “whenever they gave me a long list to recite something, I would turn it into a song”.

    “I remember in church, at 13, I took the microphone to sing because it was my birthday and my teacher had taught me a song, and I sang it. But even prior to that, she recounted.

    Nursing she insists is a calling she says.

    Diana Hamilton is considered one of the most successful artiste both in the international and local scene.

    Her music career took shape when she became a backing vocalist for gospel legend Francis Agyei around 1991. In 2002, she released her debut album “Ɔsoro Bɛkasa” which introduced her to the Ghanaian gospel scene.

    Following the success of the album, her subsequent songs, including “Ensi Wo Yie”, “Blessings”, and “Yehowah”, cemented her place as one of the most influential gospel artists in Africa and beyond.

    In recent years she has had collaborations with other international acts such as Nigeria’s Mercy Chinwo

    The renowned singer was bestowed with a traditional title in the Oti Region.

    In a video posted on Instagram on January 29, 2025, she announced her enstoolment as the ‘Nkosuohenmaa’ of Dodo-Tamale.

    The footage captured a significant moment where pastors prayed over her following the ceremony.

    During her visit to the region, Diana is also set to inaugurate a newly built five-unit classroom block, reinforcing her dedication to improving local communities.

    Following the news, many fans and well-wishers have flooded social media with congratulatory messages, celebrating this remarkable milestone in her journey.

  • Agradaa’s lawyers begged, expressed remorse to reduce 15-year jail sentencing to one – Court

    Agradaa’s lawyers begged, expressed remorse to reduce 15-year jail sentencing to one – Court

    Court document has shown that convicted preacher Evangelist Patricia Asiedua (popularly known as Nana Agradaa), through her lawyers, expressed remorse and begged for her actions in court.

    Presiding judge His Lordship Solomon Oppong-Twumasi noted Agradaa’s lawyers informed the court that their client was extremely fearful ahead of the hearing, to the point where she could not sleep at night and was even afraid to attend the final sentencing.

    This, among others, he explained accounted for the reduction of Agradaa’s  jail term from 15 years to 12 months.

    “The Appellant, through her lawyers, showed a lot of remorse to the extent that she was said to have been afraid to attend the sentencing hearing and could not sleep for days.

    “Her lawyers then went down on their knees to beg the court to spare the Appellant a custodial sentence, pleading that as a mother with young children, such a sentence would affect not only the Appellant but also her innocent children,” part of the judgment noted.

    His Lordship Oppong-Twumasi explained that although five people alleged they had been defrauded by Agradaa, only two individuals were recognised as victims in the case and supported the prosecution. He indicated that the total sum involved was GH¢4,000, and Agradaa had been directed to refund GH¢1,000 to the victims.

    The ruling also pointed out that the Circuit Court failed to factor in the 32 days Agradaa spent in custody before sentencing, describing the initial 15-year jail term as unduly severe.

    Meanwhile, her lawyer maintains that being labelled an ex-convict does not affect her role or calling as a minister of God.

    Background

    Agradaa is serving a prison term at the Nsawam Female Prison after an Accra Circuit Court sentenced her to 15 years on July 3, 2025, for charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretences.

    She was accused of taking money from church members after claiming she had spiritual powers to double cash. The prosecution built its case on her broadcasts on Today’s TV and posts across social media, where she promoted the scheme and invited the public to an all-night church service with promises of multiplying their money through spiritual means.

    Reports indicate that over 1,000 people attended the event and handed over significant amounts of money, but the promise was never fulfilled, leaving several victims in financial difficulty. Agradaa, together with her legal team, later challenged the conviction and made her first appearance before the Amasaman High Court on December 4, 2025.

    Appeal

    Agradaa, through her lawyers, argued that the trial was unfair, that the evidence did not support the ruling, and that the 15-year sentence was excessive.

    On Thursday, February 5, 2026, the Amasaman High Court delivered a landmark judgment, reducing her original 15-year prison term to 12 months.

    The ruling means Nana Agradaa will serve a one-year sentence under the revised judgment unless further legal action is pursued.

    judgement – agradaa appealDownload

    Last month, the Tema High Court directed evangelist Patricia Asiedua, to pay GH¢100,000 in damages to gospel musician Empress Gifty Adorye following a defamation action.

    The decision concluded a legal battle that started in May 2025, when Empress Gifty instituted a GH¢20 million lawsuit, accusing Nana Agradaa of making defamatory remarks about her.

    The matter was determined at the Tema High Court “A”, with Justice Janet Marfo presiding, after both parties reached an agreement to resolve the case outside the courtroom.

    As part of the settlement, the court further ordered Nana Agradaa to withdraw all claims made against Empress Gifty and render an unreserved public apology.

    According to Adom News reporter Mike Two, the ruling effectively brought the dispute between the two personalities to an end. 

    Nonetheless, Nana Agradaa, has been slapped with a fine of GHS12,000 for displaying nude photos of fellow pastor Emmanuel Appiah Fumum, also known as Osofo Biblical.

    She has been further ordered to pay GHS50,000 as compensation to the complainant. Agradaa’s conviction resulted from a plea bargain agreement with the State, concluding a legal battle that had dragged on for nearly three years.

  • Agradaa’s calling as Minister of God has not changed despite ex-convict label – Lawyer

    Agradaa’s calling as Minister of God has not changed despite ex-convict label – Lawyer

    Evangelist Patricia Asiedua (Nana Agradaa)’s counsel, Lawyer Richard Asare Baffour has dismissed claims that her client’s imprisonment will hinder her work as a preacher.

    According to him, prison, as a correctional institution, exists for everyone, and anyone who fails to order their steps properly could also find themselves there.

    In an interview with Channel One TV on February 5, 2026, following the reduction of Agradaa’s jail term from 15 years to 12 months, Lawyer Asare Baffour referred to the bible recalling some individuals who were also imprisoned while doing the Lord’s work.

    “There are many examples of people in the Bible who went to jail, yet it did not change their calling. So she is not the first person to be imprisoned. There are also many prominent figures in Ghana and beyond who have been jailed at some point in their lives.”

    “Prison is for all of us. The lessons we draw from it are what matter most. Today it is Mama Pat; tomorrow it could be you. If you don’t order your steps well, you may also end up there,” he said.

    The lawyer further added, “The prison gate is not closed; it is there for all of us. It is the lessons learned from the experience that are the most important.”

    Nana Agradaa was jailed after she was convicted by an Accra Circuit Court on charges of defrauding by false pretence and engaging in charlatanic advertisement in July 2025.

  • Ghana Zambia agree on visa-free travel agreement for citizens

    Ghana Zambia agree on visa-free travel agreement for citizens

    Ghana and Zambia no longer require visas for travel between the two countries following a historic visa waiver agreement .

    The move, announced by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during President John Dramani Mahama’s three-day state visit to Zambia, is aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people relations between the two African countries.

    Narrating the events that preceded the agreement, Mr Ablakwa explained that he was in contact with the Chief Director, who was chairing a technical committee meeting.

    He reminded her of the presidential directive, but there was initially some confusion because Ghana has three types of passports, diplomatic, service, and ordinary—while they only had two, Diplomatic and then the ordinary passport.

    Ablakwa said he stressed that the directive came from the president, leaving the Zambian government with no choice but to agree to the deal.

    “If you want our president to be here and you want his wishes to be granted, then you have to make sure that we reach this deal. And at 11: 30pm last night, they reached out to their president, and he said if it is my brother’s wish, I am going to grant you. So we have the visa-waver agreement,” Ablakwa announced.

    Adding that, “this will bring the number to fifteen visa waiver agreements since President Mahama was sworn into office.”

    Holders of the Ghanaian passport have been assured of additional visa waiver agreements expected to take effect between March and May 2026, a move aimed at expanding international travel opportunities for citizens.

    The assurance was given by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, after signing a visa-free travel agreement with Zambia weeks ago, on the sidelines of the ongoing AU summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on February 12.

    “Expect more visa waiver agreements this year. Even within the month of March, you’ll be hearing some good news. April, some good news. May, there’ll be some good news. Expect more,” he told journalists.

    The travel arrangements cover a combination of full visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival access, and electronic visa (E-visa) options.

    Countries offering visa-free access include Bahamas – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Bangladesh – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Barbados – 180 days visa-free stay allowed, Belize, Benin – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, British Virgin Islands, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia – 30 days, Cape Verde Islands – 90 days visa-free stay allowed (Requirement to register online 5 days before arrival), Cook Islands, Cote d’Ivoire – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Dominica – 180 days visa-free stay allowed, eSwatini – 30 days visa-free stay allowed, Fiji – 4 months visa-free stay allowed, Grenada – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Guinea – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Guinea-Bissau – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Guyana – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Haiti – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Jamaica – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Kenya – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Kiribati – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Liberia, Malawi – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Maldives – Free VOA, Mali, Mauritius – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Micronesia – 30 days visa-free stay allowed, Niger, Nigeria, Palau Islands – Free VOA, Philippines – 30 days visa-free stay allowed, Rwanda – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Samoa – 60 days visa-free stay allowed, Senegal – 90 days visa-free stay allowed.

    Other destinations providing similar travel privileges include South Africa – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Tanzania – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Uganda – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Vanuatu – 120 days visa-free stay allowed, Zimbabwe – 90 days visa-free stay allowed, Zambia – Visa On Arrival, Bolivia, Burundi, Cambodia, Comoro Islands, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Iran, Jordan, Macao (SAR China), Maldives, Namibia, Nicaragua, Palau Islands, Samoa, Somalia, St. Lucia, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu – E-Visa, Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Botswana, Bolivia, Cameroon, Colombia, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Georgia, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lesotho, Malaysia, Mauritania, Moldova, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, São Tomé and Príncipe, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.

    Mr Ablakwa stressed that the government is determined to enhance the global standing of the national travel document.

    “We want the Ghanaian passport to be the most valued passport in Africa and one of the most valued anywhere in the world. And we are on course. We are very much on course,” he stated.

    He praised officials of the Foreign Affairs Ministry for their role in advancing negotiations and urged them to sustain their efforts.

    “I’m excited about the progress we are making, and I want to congratulate the team of diplomats I work with who are helping me in the negotiations and who are in the advance team doing a lot of heavy lifting as we negotiate with all of these countries. And I’m really excited about what we are achieving with visa waivers since I became foreign minister,” he noted.

    The Minister also highlighted improvements in the security features of Ghana’s new passport.

    “Remember that the passport itself, many people do not know that it is now probably the most secure in terms of the security features we have. It’s now fully chip-embedded, no longer biometric, and we are ahead of so many countries,” Mr Ablakwa stressed.

    Visa waiver arrangements allow citizens to enter participating countries without undergoing the often lengthy and expensive process of applying for a visa before travel.

    For businesses in Ghana, the policy is expected to simplify entry into foreign markets and strengthen cross-border trade. The tourism sector is also anticipated to benefit, as reciprocal visa arrangements could attract more visitors into the country, supporting growth in hospitality, aviation, and related industries.

  • Maintain economic discipline after IMF exit to avoid return – GNCCI to government

    Maintain economic discipline after IMF exit to avoid return – GNCCI to government

    The government has been urged to manage the country’s finances carefully and stick to good economic decisions as it targets an exit from its current International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme-supported programme this year.

    According to the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) CEO, Mark Badu-Aboagye, on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition on Thursday, February 5, 2025, “If after the exit of the IMF, we cannot manage our economy, then the IMF should bring their head office here and control us.”

    He explained that Ghana usually follows the IMF’s financial guidelines while under the programme, but often returns to poor spending habits once it ends, which pushes the country back to seek help again.

    “There shouldn’t be any reason why we should deviate for these important fundamental changes that the IMF have brought to us; that is why we keep going there.”

    “If after the exit of the IMF, we cannot manage our economy, then the IMF should bring their head office here and control us,” he stated.

    Mr Badu-Aboagye said Ghana’s frequent return to the IMF has become a pattern that needs to stop, emphasising that the changes and financial reforms introduced during IMF programmes are long-term measures the country must continue to follow, not just short-term fixes.

    He warned that failure to manage the economy independently would make the country a permanent client of the Fund.

    He said Ghana will be judged on how it manages its economy after the IMF programme ends, stressing that the country must prove it can control spending, carry out reforms, and keep the economy stable without relying on outside monitoring.

    He said Ghana cannot continue to blame the IMF while still going back to them for help. He explained that the country must take responsibility for the economic changes and treat them as important national plans.

    Mr. Badu-Aboagye’s comments show that many business leaders want Ghana to keep the economy stable and restore investor trust, especially after the challenges the country has faced in recent years.

    He also stressed that leaving the IMF programme should not be seen as the final goal. Instead, he said it should push the country to stay disciplined, manage the economy better and continue the changes that have already been made.

    Meanwhile, a renowned economist at the University of Ghana Business School, Professor Godfred Bokpin, has warned that ending Ghana’s participation in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme in 2026 could have serious repercussions for the country.

    He expressed deep concerns, saying that such a decision could be disastrous, remarking, “I find it difficult to see how Ghana will survive after the programme.”

    At an event hosted by the Canada Ghana Chamber of Commerce, Professor Bokpin shared his views on the “2025 Budget in Perspective” and explained that if the government chooses to exit the IMF programme, the country would likely face considerable fiscal challenges. He stressed the importance of being prepared for these challenges.

    He also linked the recent increase in utility costs to IMF-required adjustments, clarifying that the IMF Board made it clear that these measures must be implemented for Ghana to access the vital $360 million balance of payment support.

    Addressing the issue of the IMF programme’s potential end, Bokpin referred to the previous administration’s suggestion not to renew the agreement, despite the economy still facing difficulties. He noted that after 2026, Ghana will begin paying back loans, which could place tremendous strain on the national budget.

    Reflecting on Ghana’s economic history, Professor Bokpin mentioned that despite the country’s initial advantage over nations like Malaysia and Singapore, its economy has never fully taken off since independence.

    He observed, “Since 1992, every budget has talked about macroeconomic stability, which is not an end in itself but a means to an end. Ghana’s economy is still struggling, despite initially performing better than Malaysia and Singapore, which are now far ahead.”

    He highlighted the fact that while Malaysia has never needed the IMF’s help, Ghana has sought IMF bailouts 17 times. He pointed out that although Ghana has invested similar amounts in development as Malaysia and Singapore, it continues to lag behind, attributing this to poor use of fiscal policy to foster economic growth.

    Joe Jackson, the CEO of Dalex, also weighed in, attributing the country’s economic woes to over-borrowing by the previous administration. He noted, “Our difficulties were triggered by over-borrowing. It was alarming to see the government spend 47% of its tax revenue just on debt servicing.” Jackson revealed that in 2020, Ghana’s public debt stood at GH¢ 291 billion, or 76.1% of GDP, and that interest payments consumed 47% of government revenue, which he described as a dire situation.

    Jackson also emphasized that the country’s exchange rate problems stemmed from the high interest payments on external debt and the repatriation of dividends by foreign investors, rather than any issues with the trade balance. “Our exchange rate struggles are not due to our trade balance, as we’ve had a trade surplus for some time. The real issue is the money we’re sending out to service debt and repatriate dividends,” he stated.

    In her opening speech, Linda Vasinani, President of CANCHAM, urged business leaders to take a more active interest in understanding the performance of the economy to better navigate future challenges.

    The session offered an in-depth look at the 2025 Budget and discussed the future of the IMF-supported programme, as well as its implications for the private sector.

  • Ghana to earn up to $1bn from beverage exports annually if 20% tax on juice is not scrapped – Agribusiness Chamber

    Ghana to earn up to $1bn from beverage exports annually if 20% tax on juice is not scrapped – Agribusiness Chamber

    Ghana could generate up to $1 billion annually from beverage exports if the government removes the 20% excise duty imposed on natural fruit juices.

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) introduced taxes on sweetened beverages, wines, liquors, and e-cigarettes, among other products  intended to reduce sugar consumption.

    But according to the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG), the 20% excise duty on natural fruit juices is destroying up to 127,000 jobs across the agricultural and processing value chains, while undermining Ghana’s potential to earn $1 billion annually in juice exports.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, CAG explained that the policy, originally implemented as a public health intervention, is instead causing juice processing plants to function at only 30–45% capacity, far below the preferred 70–85%. This situation is negatively affecting rural farmers who depend on these factories as steady buyers of pineapples, oranges, mangoes, and other fruits.

    Anthony Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of CAG, said, “The 20% excise duty is not just a tax on juice processors; it is a direct attack on the livelihoods of 50,000 to 120,000 farming households across Ghana.

    Farmers face 15-30% price declines, watch 30-40% of their harvest rot in the fields, and lose the reliable markets that contract farming provides.”

    The Chamber also indicated that women, who account for 55–60% of fruit farmers, are bearing a heavier burden. The reduced production levels are also putting youth jobs in processing plants at risk and contributing to economic downturns in rural areas, particularly in the Eastern, Volta, and Central Regions.

    CAG additionally expressed concern that the tax is weakening Ghana’s competitiveness on the global market.

    “Global demand for natural and functional beverages is growing at 6-8% annually. Ghana is uniquely positioned to capture $700 million to $1 billion in exports, but the current tax undermines our competitiveness,” Morrison noted.

    The Chamber has called on the government to promptly remove the excise duty on fully natural fruit juices, warning that inaction could lead to job losses, reduced earnings for farmers, and a decline in Ghana’s standing in the international juice industry.

    The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) had earlier called on the government to eliminate 20% excise tax on locally made sweetened drinks and fruit juices.

    According to the AGI, getting rid of this tax will help support the government’s 24-hour economy program by allowing local producers to grow their businesses and create more jobs.

    They believe that removing the tax will help juice makers return to full production capacity and even produce more than before.

    The AGI also argued that cutting the tax will provide more job opportunities in local factories.

    Excise tax was introduced in 2023 under the Amendment Act 2023 (Act 1093) and has made things harder for local juice makers.

    Since the tax started, sales for some companies have dropped by over 50%, and their production capacity has fallen from about 85% to just 38%.

    In a letter to the new Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the AGI said the tax has led to many job losses and allowed imported products to take over the local market.

    Local producers like Ekumfi Fruits and Juices Limited, Healthlife Beverages Limited, Kasapreko Limited, and Aquafresh Limited are also struggling to compete with imported goods, rising production costs, and multiple taxes.

    The AGI has therefore, warned that if the government doesn’t address these problems, the entire sector could collapse, placing the 24-hour economy goals in jeopardy.

    While the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson gears up to present 2025 Budget to Parliament on March 10, the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) has called for the inclusivity of pro-business reforms and policies.

    According to the institution, the private sector has experienced significant economic difficulties over the past decade due to lack of fiscal discipline, high fiscal liabilities from the financial and energy sectors, and expensive fiscal response to global shocks. 

    In view of this the GNCCI calls on government to use the 2025 National Budget to initiate policies and incentives that simulate private sector growth as a launch platform to resetting the economy.

    The Ghana Federation of Labour also sent a letter to the government, asking them to reconsider the excise tax, as it is seriously damaging the local beverage production industry.

  • Woe betides you if you fail to submit annual report by April – President Mahama to CEOs of SOEs

    Woe betides you if you fail to submit annual report by April – President Mahama to CEOs of SOEs

    President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern warning to Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), declaring that failure to submit annual reports and complete audits by the end of April will not be taken lightly.

    According to him, many state-owned enterprises have failed to produce annual reports for seven to eight years, despite it being a mandatory requirement.

    Thus, “This year, I said, woe betide any chief executive of a state-owned enterprise who, by the end of April, which is the target date, has not done your audits and presented your annual reports,” the President warned while addressing Ghanaians living in Zambia during an engagement on Wednesday, February 4.

    Although the President did not spell out the specific sanctions, his remarks indicated that firm action would be taken against defaulting heads of state institutions.

    “I won’t say what will happen,” he added, reinforcing the seriousness of the directive.

    He stressed that the current situation was unacceptable and would no longer be tolerated under his administration.

    President Mahama added that clear timelines had been set to ensure compliance.

    https://twitter.com/Citi973/status/2019155597778669742?s=20

    In the first quarter of last year, President John Mahama issued a stern warning to Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), making it clear that underperformers will not be spared as his government pushes for a complete overhaul of the sector.

    Addressing CEOs of specified entities under the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) on Thursday, March 13, 2025, President Mahama emphasised that SOEs must operate efficiently and contribute meaningfully to the national economy. He warned that any enterprise failing to align with his administration’s reset agenda would face tough decisions, including mergers, privatisation, or closure.

    “I will assess you based on your performance. If you do not align with the pace of the reset agenda, you may be asked to step aside. If that adds to the horror movie, so be it,” he declared.

    He stressed that the days of financial mismanagement, unaccountability, and inefficiency in SOEs were over.

    “The era of impunity, mediocrity, and financial recklessness must end today,” he asserted.

    President Mahama’s remarks follow Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s revelation that several SOEs remain financially weak and continue to be a drain on the economy.

    Dr. Forson expressed deep concern over their ongoing losses, noting that their underperformance does not reflect their true potential.

    “Unfortunately, some of them are posing significant fiscal risk to the economy of Ghana. The two most threatening, worrisome are the ECG, COCOBOD. We must implement a bold turnaround strategy that transforms loss-making SOEs into financially viable and self-sustaining institutions,” he stated.

    The Finance Minister outlined three key strategies aimed at improving SOE performance:

    Capacity building to strengthen leadership and ensure effective management.

    Enhanced corporate governance training to enforce regulatory compliance.

    Financial discipline and strategic decision-making to restore profitability.

    He urged the CEOs to fully embrace the government’s vision of reforming SOEs into productive entities that contribute to national development.

    “I want to end by urging all stakeholders, State-Owned Enterprises, and heads of state institutions to buy into your vision. A vision to restore hope, a vision to work in transparency and the determination that you have always led us – a determination to the people of the Republic of Ghana,” Dr. Forson said.

    With these directives, the Mahama administration has signaled its commitment to driving efficiency and accountability in the management of state enterprises, ensuring that only those who meet performance expectations retain their positions.

  • Help us retool Ridge with CT scanners and other diagnostic equipment to “save lives” – GMTF boss appeals

    Help us retool Ridge with CT scanners and other diagnostic equipment to “save lives” – GMTF boss appeals

    Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, has appealed to Corporate Ghana and individual citizens to help retool the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital) to save lives.

    Following a needs-assessment tour conducted ahead of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund’s official rollout in April, the GMTF boss discovered that the facility lacks fundamental tools required for timely and accurate diagnosis of non-communicable diseases, trauma cases, obstetric emergencies, and other complex medical conditions.”

    “Ridge Hospital is one of Ghana’s major referral centres, serving nearly 1,000 patients every single day. Yet, despite the overwhelming demand, the facility lacks critical diagnostic equipment such as CT scanners, MRI machines, mammography units, and fluoroscopy equipment; tools that are essential for detecting and treating life-threatening conditions,” a post shared on the GMTF’s Facebook page stated.

    Obuobia Darko-Opoku therefore called on Corporate Ghana to channel part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)budgets toward retooling the hospital and urging ordinary Ghanaians not to look away.

    “Please, this is critical,” she pleaded. “Let’s all come together and support. Help us retool Ridge Hospital. You have no idea when you or a loved one, a colleague, a friend may need its services. This is too serious to ignore.”

    The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, part of the MahamaCares initiative, was officially unveiled to offer financial assistance to individuals battling long-term and life-threatening illnesses.

    The launch ceremony was held at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in Accra on Tuesday, April 29.

    The fund has been designed to ease the financial burden on patients suffering from chronic conditions, including kidney disease, cancer, and cardiovascular ailments.

    The MahamaCares initiative is expected to enhance access to critical treatment for vulnerable groups across the country, providing timely support where medical costs often become a barrier to care.

    President John Dramani Mahama became the first major contributor to the initiative as he pledged to donate half of his annual salary.

    He recalled how his father died of prostate cancer in 2001, followed by his mother’s passing in 2016 due to hypertension-related complications. He also shared the case of a staff member whose child requires expensive weekly dialysis to survive.

    Calling on businesses to follow suit, the president urged the private sector to consider supporting the fund as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.

    “I want to encourage corporate Ghana, businesses, the mines, the banks, and all the other companies that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund is coming to your clients who save their money in your banks or do business with you. Some of them are even your own staff.

    “So, as part of your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), if you give anything, consider that you are giving to your own staff or customers. So, I would like to encourage all corporations in Ghana, both private and public, to at the end of the year, donate some portion of their annual CSR to Ghana Medical Fund because it is going to do a lot of good to the country,” he stated.

    The Mahama Cares initiative is expected to significantly improve access to critical medical treatment for underprivileged patients, while advancing national efforts toward healthcare equity and support for vulnerable groups.

    Joining the list this time round are service commanders of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) who have donated one month’s basic salary.

    Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier General William Agyapong, made this donation known to President John Mahama during a courtesy visit on Friday, May 16.

    “We are intrigued, and it is heartwarming to know that persons with conditions such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney failure, stroke, among many others, will equally benefit from this fund. Your Excellency, that is why my military command and I have decided to contribute our one-month basic salary to the fund,” he said.

    On his part, the president expressed gratitude to the military command for their donation, highlighting their love the country.

    “Let me take this opportunity to thank our high command for this initiative. It shows that aside from your primary responsibility of protecting our territorial boundaries and wielding weapons, you have a heart and soul beating in your chest.

    “You have love for the country and love for the people you are protecting. On behalf of the people of Ghana, I thank you for this,” he said.

    In addition, the general public has been encouraged to make contributions through the short code *255#, accessible on all mobile networks.

  • Video: Agradaa heads to court for the first time without mask

    Video: Agradaa heads to court for the first time without mask

    Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, widely recognised as Agradaa, has appeared in court without her customary facial covering, attracting renewed public interest as she challenges her 15-year custodial sentence through an appeal.

    Footage circulating on social media shows Agradaa without the signature white handkerchief she previously used to conceal her face during public appearances and court proceedings.

    Her recent appearance follows earlier claims pointing to changes in her physical look. Although her complexion showed only minor variation, many observers remarked that she looked noticeably brighter than anticipated.

    Despite appearing calmer and less energetic, Agradaa carried herself with greater assurance than she did during earlier public sightings.

    The situation has also sparked public debate, with some questioning whether the person who attended court sessions during her trial was indeed Agradaa.

    She is seeking to overturn the 15-year sentence imposed in July 2025 after she was found guilty of charlatanic advertisement and other related charges.

    Investigators concluded that her promotional campaigns were misleading and posed risks to the public, which contributed to the court’s ruling against her.

    The Tema High Court has directed evangelist Patricia Asiedua, widely known as Nana Agradaa, to pay GH¢100,000 in damages to gospel musician Empress Gifty Adorye following a defamation action.

    The decision concludes a legal battle that started in May 2025, when Empress Gifty instituted a GH¢20 million lawsuit, accusing Nana Agradaa of making defamatory remarks about her.

    The matter was determined at the Tema High Court “A”, with Justice Janet Marfo presiding, after both parties reached an agreement to resolve the case outside the courtroom.

    As part of the settlement, the court further ordered Nana Agradaa to withdraw all claims made against Empress Gifty and render an unreserved public apology.

    According to Adom News reporter Mike Two, the ruling effectively brings the dispute between the two personalities to an end.

     Nonetheless, Nana Agradaa, has been slapped with a fine of GHS12,000 for displaying nude photos of fellow pastor Emmanuel Appiah Fumum, also known as Osofo Biblical.

    She has been further ordered to pay GHS50,000 as compensation to the complainant. Agradaa’s conviction resulted from a plea bargain agreement with the State, concluding a legal battle that had dragged on for nearly three years.

    The case stems from claims that Nana Agradaa, a former fetish priestess turned evangelist, aired nude images of Pastor Emmanuel Appiah Fumum (widely known as Osofo Biblical) on her television channel and social media pages without his permission.

    Prosecutors say the images were broadcast during a live programme where panelists mocked the complainant—conduct they argue violates the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), which prohibits the sharing of intimate images without consent.

    Nana Agradaa, who is already serving a 15-year prison sentence in a separate defrauding-by-false-pretence case, was present in court.

    Her lawyers raised concerns about recent media interviews granted by the complainant, in which he allegedly claimed their client had been in poor condition since her imprisonment.

    The presiding judge, however, advised the prosecution to caution the complainant against making such public statements.

    In 2022, Agradaa was accused of luring victims with claims that she possessed spiritual powers to double their money. Initially admitting guilt to charges including fraudulent advertising and obtaining money under false pretences, she spent two weeks on remand before being granted bail of GH₵150,000 with three sureties, one to be justified.

    She is said to have tricked members of the Godsway International Heaven Church into handing over their cash during a night vigil service at her church in Weija, Accra.

    Meanwhile, Ghanaian gospel musician Gifty Oppong Adorye, known in showbiz as Empress Gifty, dragged Evangelist Mama Pat to court for defaming her.

    In a video targeting Empress Gifty’s husband, Hopeson Adorye, Agradaa extended her attacks to the singer, accusing her of engaging in bestiality and unfaithful activities. According to Gifty, other bloggers leveraged Agradaa’s statements to spread false narratives about her.

    This, she said, has affected her family, as their children are being ridiculed by friends at school. In addition to the emotional impact, lawyers for Empress Gifty say her trip abroad scheduled for August has been jeopardised.

    The words used by Agradaa are interpreted to mean the following:a) The plaintiff is promiscuous and a prostitute.b) The plaintiff is a zoophile who flirts with dogs to earn money to cater for her husband.c) The plaintiff is an adulterous or unchaste wife who engages in extramarital affairs, most of them with pastors.d) Pastors who invite the plaintiff to their programmes have sexual intercourse with her in their offices before she mounts the pulpit to sing.e) The plaintiff is an imbecile.

    Consequently, Empress Gifty is claiming twenty million Ghana cedis in damages for slander. She is also seeking a perpetual injunction to restrain the defendant, her associates, agents, or anyone acting on her behalf from making further publications of the same or similar defamatory statements.

    Lawyers for the former chief priestess turned evangelist, Patricia Asieduaa Asiamah (Nana Agradaa), have also filed an appeal challenging the 15-year jail sentence handed down by the Circuit Court.

    This was disclosed by lead counsel Richard Asare Baffour on Monday, July 7.

    He stated:“We filed the petition of appeal this morning because the judgment delivered by the court is so unreasonable, and the evidence on record does not support it.

    “We have also stated that the trial as a whole is wrong in law, and we are saying that the judge demonstrated manifest bias by harassing and intimidating the accused.”

    Nana Agradaa is currently serving a 15-year prison sentence for charlatanic advertisement and defrauding by false pretence. The Circuit Court in Accra delivered the sentence after confirming that she was not pregnant.

  • Samini’s eighth album, ORIGIN8A to be released on February 12

    Samini’s eighth album, ORIGIN8A to be released on February 12

    celebrated music legend Samini has announced that his eighth studio album, ORIGIN8A, will be released on February 12, 2026.

    The project marks a significant milestone in his music journey. Its cover art displays a striking 8 ball, symbolising fate, balance, completeness, and a reconnection to his musical foundation.

    Samini explains that ORIGIN8A is a deeply reflective project inspired by personal growth, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose.

    “This album represents my journey coming full circle. ORIGIN8A is about remembering where I come from, reconnecting with my roots, and celebrating the people who shaped my story,” Samini said.

    ORIGIN8A goes beyond being simply a set of tracks. It represents a symbolic return, reconnecting Samini with a number of musicians he guided at the start of their journeys.

    Artists confirmed to appear on the album include Mugeez from R2Bees, Stonebwoy, Kofi Kinaata, and Kaakie. Their involvement reflects togetherness, deep admiration, and a longstanding bond within Ghana’s music industry.

    The project further brings together a diverse lineup of collaborators, including globally recognised group Soweto Gospel Choir, M.anifest, and Kuami Eugene. Their contributions help craft a body of work that merges different eras and cultural sounds into one creative direction.

    Musically, ORIGIN8A presents a rich African-inspired soundscape. The album incorporates elements of indigenous African beats, highlife, Afrobeats, Afropop, Amapiano, African dancehall, and reggae.

    The final body of work highlights Samini’s evolution as an artist while maintaining the signature sounds that shaped his early career and left a mark on Ghana’s modern music landscape.

    Samini explains that the 8-ball symbol carries deeper significance beyond its appearance on the album artwork.

    “After all the years of experimenting, touring, and evolving, I believe this is the moment where everything aligns again. ORIGIN8A is purpose-driven music,” he said.

    The album is set for worldwide distribution through Prime Music Partners and will be accessible on leading streaming platforms once it is officially released.

    Prime Music Partners founder, Akeju, commended both the album and the partnership behind its production.

    “Samini is one of Africa’s most authentic musical voices. ORIGIN8A is not just an album; it is a cultural statement. We are proud to be distributing this project and sharing its message with audiences across the world,” Akeju said.

    In essence, ORIGIN8A will debut on digital streaming services on February 12, 2026, further strengthening Samini’s lasting impact on African music.

    Samini dropped a new single titled , ‘Summer King’, in August last year. It was an upbeat Afro‑Dancehall anthem crafted by Mix Master Garzy, perfect for beach vibes, house parties and fun in the night. 

    Summer King,” is Samini’s anthem inviting fans to live in the moment and enjoy the thrill of freedom.

     “This one’s for everyone who’s been waiting all year to let loose. Summer is the time to shine, and I’m calling all the ladies over to my yard. We’re partying like never before,” he said.

    Samini’s fusion of Afrobeat rythms reflects his artistic growyj and ability to channel the energy of a carefree generation.

    Being a national treasure and a continental star, Samini’s new release reaffirms why he remains ahead of the curve.

    The song’s dynamic energy and sing-along chorus have many in the industry predicting it will rule the airwaves all season long.

    A stunning music video accompanies the release with scenes that mirror its joyful summer-soaked rhythm.

    In the video, Samini moves through colourful tropical scenes and dance-filled moments that match the song’s joyful essence.

    “Summer King” is Samini’s call to both loyal followers and newcomers to bask in the joy and freedom of the season.

    Talking about music, Samini is just not ready to throw in the towel despite his absence when it comes to releasing songs.

    Critics and fans alike are betting on the track to take over summer playlists with its energizing beat and catchy melodies.

    The song is now streaming on all digital music services, and a visual is available on Samini’s verified YouTube page.

    He opened up about why he prefers music over acting, citing the significant pay disparity between the two industries. According to him, acting is a physically and financially draining profession, yet actors in Ghana are not compensated fairly for their efforts compared to musicians.

    Speaking on a podcast, Samini explained that while he has dabbled in acting, he finds the financial returns unimpressive.

    He revealed that top musicians can earn between GHS 150,000 and GHS 250,000 for a single full-band live performance, with even lesser-known artists making between GHS 15,000 and GHS 20,000 for a 30-minute set in Accra.

    However, the situation is entirely different for actors, who often spend weeks on set but earn significantly less.

    Samini disclosed that even A-list actors struggle to secure GHS 10,000 to GHS 25,000 for an entire movie project, which could take up to three weeks of filming.

    He pointed out that some of the biggest names in the industry might push for GHS 20,000 or GHS 25,000, but that largely depends on the production house hiring them.

    Meanwhile, lesser-known actors reportedly earn as little as GHS 2,000 for weeks of work—an amount far below what musicians make for just a few songs on stage.

    “It’s crazy when you think about it,” Samini said. “A musician can go on stage for 30 minutes and earn GHS 15,000, while an actor spends weeks filming and barely makes that. Something has to be done about it.”

    As an advocate for fair pay, Samini called for the introduction of a standardized salary structure for actors, similar to what exists in the music industry.

    He proposed that A-list actors should not be paid below GHS 50,000 per movie, B-list actors should earn at least GHS 30,000, and no mainstream actor should be paid less than GHS 15,000 per role.

    “If for nothing at all, there should be some form of regulation so that actors are fairly compensated,” he emphasized.

    Samini believes that a structured pay system would not only improve the livelihoods of actors but also enhance the quality of Ghanaian films. He urged producers and industry stakeholders to re-evaluate their compensation structures to ensure actors receive what they truly deserve.

    His comments have reignited discussions about the financial realities of acting in Ghana and whether reforms are needed to bridge the pay gap between musicians and actors.

    Beyond the shores of Africa, Canadian singer Justin Bieber released his seventh album, featuring 21 tracks on July 11.

    It is the first album by the songwriter in the past four years.

    The pop star collaborated with rap artist Gunna, gospel singer Dijon, rapper Lil B, comedian Druski, rapper Sexyy Red, musician Cash Cobain and singer-songwriter Eddie Benjamin on the album

    In a post on Instagram on Friday, July 11, Dijon wrote “Congratulations @lilbieber for making a wild and deeply inspiring record. Grateful to have been able to witness and be a tiny part of a beautiful thing. Humbled!”

    The album is said to reflect Justin Bieber’s vulnerability following his social media post where he opened up about feeling unworthy and broken on separate occasions.

    In the “Therapy session” of the 14 track, Justin Bieber tells Druski, “I think that’s been a tough thing for me recently is feeling like, you know, I have had to go through a lot of my struggles as a human, as all of us do, really publicly. And so people are always asking if I’m okay, and that starts to really weigh on me.”

    “It starts to make me feel like I’m the one with issues and everyone else is perfect,” the 31-year-old, who welcomed his first child, Jack, in August last year expressed.

    On of the songs on the track by Druski titled “Standing on Business” pokes fun at a viral June video where Justin Bieber was seen ranting at paparazzi on the beach, accusing them of trying to provoke him.

    Druski humorously highlights how Bieber, even in the heat of the moment, pronounced the word “business’ with perfect clarity.

    Away from his album, Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez had a whirlwind romance that made headlines and broke hearts.

    The two stars wrote many songs about each other, expressing their love, pain, and confusion.

    Even after they parted ways, fans still wonder if they still have a spark. And when he writes a song for his wife, Hailey, some people think it’s secretly about Gomez.

    But let’s forget about the drama and focus on the music. Could these Justin Bieber songs be about Selena Gomez?

  • The story behind Valentine’s Day

    The story behind Valentine’s Day

    Whenever Valentine’s Day comes around, people often think of expressing love, exchanging romantic gifts, heart-shaped symbols, and dressing in shades of red or pink.

    In recent times, Ghanaian society has marked the day as a National Chocolate Day celebration.

    But what exactly is the story behind this day?

    The origins of Valentine’s Day date back to 268–270 AD in the Roman Empire, during the short reign of Emperor Claudius II Gothicus. A Christian martyr, St. Valentine, lived and served as a priest during this period.

    Historical accounts suggest that St. Valentine secretly performed marriage ceremonies for Christian couples, defying the Emperor’s decree that prohibited marriage.

    Claudius had banned young men from marrying, believing that unmarried men made better soldiers since they had no wives or families to worry about when called to war.

    Eventually, St. Valentine was arrested by Roman soldiers and imprisoned while awaiting execution.

    During his imprisonment, he grew close to the jailer’s daughter and, according to legend, healed her blindness through prayer. On the day of his execution, St. Valentine left her a farewell note signed “from your Valentine”, a gesture that inspired the tradition of sending love notes and flowers on Valentine’s Day.

    St. Valentine was executed on February 14, 270 AD, and buried near the Via Flaminia. Couples who had been married by him began commemorating his sacrifice, and over time, the day became associated with love and romance.

    By the 18th century in England and France, Valentine’s Day had evolved into an occasion for couples to express affection through gifts, flowers, and greeting cards.

    Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide as one of the most iconic events dedicated to love. As February 14 approaches, while you share love with your special ones, remember the man whose courage and compassion gave birth to this tradition.

    Source: GhanaWeb

  • Papa Shee announces March 28 and 29, slated to celebrate Daddy Lumba in Accra

    Papa Shee announces March 28 and 29, slated to celebrate Daddy Lumba in Accra

    Gospel artiste and confidant of the late Highlife great, Daddy Lumba, Evangelist Papa Shee, has revealed intentions to hold a ‘celebration of life’ event to honour the celebrated musician.

    In a video that has gained widespread attention online, Papa Shee stated that the programme is scheduled for March 28 and 29, 2026, in Accra.

    He clarified that the occasion is meant to honour and celebrate Daddy Lumba’s life and contributions rather than serve as a funeral.

    He indicated that the arrangement and information about the programme were relayed by the late musician’s family.

    “His wife, Akosua Serwaa, will definitely be there. The family will also be at the funeral. But the venue this time will be in Accra, the date will be on the 28th and 29th of March 2026. It will be a celebration of the life of Daddy Lumba. That is the information from the family; the exact venue has not been disclosed yet,” he said.

    Papa Shee further invited the public to attend, urging admirers, sympathisers, and loved ones to join in commemorating the legend.

    He also thanked individuals who showed support to Akosua Serwaa, especially those who received her at the airport earlier in January.

    Papa Shee said the demonstration of kindness and unity would remain unforgettable.

    “Everyone is duly invited. We would like to appreciate the supporters of Akosua Serwaa, especially those who came to welcome her at the airport. The love they showed her will never be forgotten, especially after the name tarnishing she has received over the years,” he added.

    The planned event follows the contentious funeral rites of the Highlife icon, held on December 13, 2025, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, months after his death in July 2025. The ceremony drew large crowds of fans, relatives, and dignitaries who gathered to honour his impact.

    Akosua Serwaa, who is legally married to Daddy Lumba, did not attend the funeral, which came amid a public legal dispute involving the musician’s two wives.

    She maintained that her legal marriage entitled her to be recognised as Daddy Lumba’s sole wife.

    The disagreement was later settled by a Kumasi High Court, which directed that both women be acknowledged.

  • I will not participate in 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards – Joe Mettle

    I will not participate in 2026 Telecel Ghana Music Awards – Joe Mettle

    Gospel artiste Joe Mettle has disclosed that he will not be part of this year’s Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), clarifying that the choice is a short-term break and not a total exit from the scheme.

    In an interview on Hitz Praise Zone hosted by Nii Noi, Joe Mettle stated, “I won’t be available on the date scheduled for the 2026 awards, so I will be taking a break from the event this year.” He further noted, “This is only for this edition. It doesn’t mean I am stepping away from TGMA permanently.”

    As part of his decision to step aside, the celebrated gospel singer will neither present his songs for nomination nor take part in events connected to the awards. He revealed that Charterhouse, organisers of the TGMA, have officially been notified and have accepted his decision.

    Looking back on his journey, Joe Mettle recounted a defining achievement in 2017 when he secured the VGMA Artiste of the Year title, triumphing over contenders such as Sarkodie, EL, Medikal, Stonebwoy, and MzVee.

    “That win was not just for me,” he said. “It was a victory for the entire gospel music family in Ghana, proving that our voices and our work matter on the national stage.”

    He also highlighted the growing influence of gospel music in the awards space, noting that four years later, in 2021, fellow gospel artiste Diana Hamilton claimed the ultimate award.

    Joe Mettle’s temporary pause comes as he focuses on other creative projects, promising fans that he will return stronger for future editions of TGMA.

  • Supreme Court ruling paves way for Kpandai MP Nyindam’s return to Parliament

    Supreme Court ruling paves way for Kpandai MP Nyindam’s return to Parliament

    Kpandai MP Mathew Nyindam returned to Parliament on Tuesday, February 3, following a Supreme Court ruling that reversed a lower court judgment which had removed him from office.

    He took his seat alongside other legislators when the House reconvened for the second session on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, ending months of uncertainty over his status as a Member of Parliament.

    Mr Nyindam joined fellow lawmakers in honouring the late Ayawaso East MP, Nasser Toure Mahama, describing him as a figure who brought people together and transcended party lines.

    “Alhaji was not excessively partisan; he treated everyone as a brother,” he said. “He was not loud and did not speak often, but when he did, his words carried wisdom. He was calm, gentle and affable.”

    A Supreme Court ruling delivered on January 28 has cleared the way for Kpandai MP Mathew Nyindam to return to Parliament, after the apex court overturned a decision by the Tamale High Court that had nullified his election and ordered a rerun in the Kpandai Constituency of the Northern Region.

    In a 4–1 majority decision, the court granted an application for certiorari filed by Mr Nyindam, holding that the High Court exceeded its jurisdiction in setting aside the parliamentary election. Justices Yonny Kulendi, Amadu Tanko, Samuel Asiedu and Henry Kwofie formed the majority.

    Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, who presided over the panel as its President, dissented from the decision. The Supreme Court is expected to publish its detailed reasons on February 6, 2026.

    The ruling effectively halted preparations by the Electoral Commission for a rerun election, allowing Mr Nyindam to reclaim his seat in Parliament.

    The legal dispute dates back to November 24, 2025, when the Tamale High Court annulled Mr Nyindam’s election and directed that a fresh poll be held within 30 days. Following that ruling, Parliament officially declared the seat vacant.

    In a letter dated December 4, 2025, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, informed the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, that the court’s decision required the conduct of a rerun election.

    Earlier this year, the former Member of Parliament (MP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Candidate for Kpandai, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, submitted a petition to the Tamale High Court challenging the results of the 2024 parliamentary election in the constituency.

    According to the petitioner, the Kpandai parliamentary election was marred by irregularities in the voting and collation processes. He argued that Pink Sheets from many polling stations were not accurate or consistent.

    He stated: “The parliamentary election held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 was not conducted in compliance with Regulations 39 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (CI 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 39, and that the said non-compliance affected the results of the elections.

    “The declaration and publication of the parliamentary election results held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 were not made in compliance with Regulations 43 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 43, and that the said non-compliance affected the entire results of the parliamentary elections in the Kpandai constituency.”

    This will be the second time the country will witness a rerun of elections after the 2024 general polls. Ablekuma North had remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    In view of this, the Electoral Commission on Friday, July 11, held a rerun election in 19 polling stations in Ablekuma North to provide constituents with a representative. Ewurabena Aubynn polled 34,090 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges. These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified Pink Sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    After extensive deliberations, the Electoral Commission in July announced that it would hold a rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after meeting with representatives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Tuesday, July 1.

    Violence mars Ablekuma North rerun election

    At the Odorkor Methodist 1 polling station in the Ablekuma North constituency, some individuals engaged in a fisticuff with the police personnel. Also, a JoyNews journalist was slapped by an unknown individual.

    Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency, Hawa Koomson, was also assaulted by a group of men. A journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, was also slapped by a police officer.

    The Ghana Police Service has interdicted one of its officers who was caught on camera slapping a journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, during the rerun election at Ablekuma North.

    In line with internal disciplinary procedures, he has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.

    The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North. The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter, and further updates will be communicated.

    It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped. The police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.

    Deputy Minister for Government Communications, Shamima Muslim, in reaction to the said incident, commended the police for its swift action to reprimand its officer for such unlawful acts and condemned the recent attacks against civilians and journalists during the Ablekuma North election rerun.

    “What we are happy about is the swift action that the Ghana Police itself has taken in interdicting the officer in question. It is completely unwarranted. Government itself takes a very serious stance, especially on security agencies meting out unwarranted attacks to civilians under any circumstances,” she added.

  • American gospel musician Ron Kenoly has passed on

    American gospel musician Ron Kenoly has passed on

    Renowned American gospel singer, worship leader and pastor Ron Kenoly has died at the age of 81.

    The news was confirmed in a social media post by his long-time music director, triggering an outpouring of tributes from across the global Christian and gospel music community.

    Kenoly was widely regarded as a pioneering figure in contemporary praise and worship music, particularly from the early 1990s, and was best known for his dynamic live worship recordings.

    His impact extended well beyond church settings, influencing worship practices and musical styles in congregations across Africa, Europe, the Americas and Asia.

    Born in Coffeyville, Kansas, Kenoly gained international recognition with the release of his 1992 album Lift Him Up, which became one of the most successful live worship albums of its time.

    Several of his songs, including Ancient of Days, Jesus Is Alive and We’re Going Up, became widely sung in churches around the world, noted for their energetic arrangements, scripture-inspired lyrics and emphasis on congregational participation.

    Throughout a career that spanned decades, Kenoly released a number of acclaimed albums, among them Ron Kenoly, God Is Able, Welcome Home and Sing Out with One Voice.

    His musical style was characterised by a fusion of gospel, contemporary Christian music and praise choruses, often performed with large choirs and enthusiastic audience engagement.

    In addition to his music career, Kenoly served as a pastor and worship leader at Jubilee Christian Center in San Jose, California, where he ministered for many years.

    He was also a regular speaker and worship leader at international conferences and crusades, particularly across Africa, where his music gained strong and lasting popularity.

    Since the announcement of his death, fellow gospel artistes, worship leaders and admirers have paid tribute to his influence, with many crediting him for shaping their faith and musical journeys.

    Ron Kenoly’s contribution is widely regarded as foundational to the global praise and worship movement, and he is remembered for a life devoted to ministry, worship and inspiring generations to praise through music.

    In November last year, one of the most prominent and beloved proponents of reggae music, Jimmy Cliff, died at the age of 81.

    Cliff’s wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death via a statement on Instagram.

    “It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes,” she wrote.

    Her message was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.

    He was a star since the 1960s, who helped to bring the sound of Jamaica to a global audience through hits such as Wonderful World, Beautiful People and You Can Get It If You Really Want.

    His lead role as a gun-toting rebel in the 1972 crime drama “The Harder They Come” is a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema and was attributed as the movie that brought reggae to America.

    Born James Chambers in 1944, Cliff grew up as the eighth of nine children in abject poverty in the parish of St. James, Jamaica.

    Blessed with a sweet, mellifluous voice, he began singing at his local church at the age of six.

    He was inspired to write his own material when he heard ska pioneer Derrick Morgan on the radio – and asked his woodwork teacher how one might go about composing their own song.

    “He told me, ‘You just write it! So I went ahead and… wrote a song called I Need A Fiancée, another called Sob Sob and I made a guitar out of bamboo to accompany myself,” he told Mojo magazine.

    According to the BBC, by the time Cliff was 14, he’d moved to Kingston and adopted the surname Cliff to express the heights he intended on reaching.

    He recorded a handful of singles before topping the Jamaican charts with his own composition, Hurricane Hattie.

    In 1965, he relocated to London to work with Island Records – later the home of Bob Marley – but the label’s attempts to make his sound palatable to rock audiences were initially unsuccessful.

    He eventually struck gold with the 1969 single Wonderful World, Beautiful People – an upbeat, feelgood anthem; and the more politically-charged Vietnam, which Bob Dylan called “the best protest song ever written”.

    Its lyric tells the story of a young soldier who writes from the war, promising his mother he’ll be home soon; only for her to receive a telegram the next day, informing her of his death.

    Cliff reflected on the song in 1986, telling reggae archivist Roger Steffens: “The essence of my music is struggle. What gives it the icing is the hope of love.”

    The musician became an international star with The Harder They Come, expressly written for the movie of the same name, in which he played Ivan Martin, a young man trying to break into Jamaica’s corrupt music industry.

    “The film opened the door for Jamaica,” Cliff recalled. “It said, ‘This is where this music comes from.’”

    Cliff contributed four songs to the soundtrack, including the gospel hymn Many Rivers To Cross, which reflected his early days as a struggling artist in the UK.

    “I was still in my teens,” he later recalled. “I came full of vigour: I’m going to make it, I’m going to be up there with the Beatles and the Stones.”

    “And it wasn’t really going like that, I was touring clubs, not breaking through. I was struggling, with work, life, my identity. I couldn’t find my place. Frustration fuelled the song.”

    Instead, the film and its soundtrack won him international acclaim. Rolling Stone magazine even named it one of their top 500 albums of all time.

    During the 1980s, he collaborated with the Rolling Stones on their Dirty Work album, and he returned to the US charts in 1993 with his cover of I Can See Clearly Now, from the soundtrack for Cool Runnings, which followed the escapades of Jamaica’s bobsled team.

    His other recordings included the Grammy Award-winning albums Cliff Hanger (1985) and Rebirth (2012), a nostalgic return to form.

    Cliff entered the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, calling it “a great thrill and an honour”.

    Inducting him, Fugees star Wyclef Jean said he’d been inspired by Cliff’s success as a young boy growing up in Haiti.

    “When we saw Jimmy Cliff, we saw ourselves,” he said.

    Cliff continued to tour late into his life, playing Glastonbury’s legends slot in 2003; and winning over a new generation of fans at the 2010 Coachella Festival.

    His contributions to Jamaican music and culture were recognised in October 2003 when he was awarded the country’s prestigious Order of Merit.

    But the singer said his connection to fans was more important than any of the other honours bestowed upon him.

    “When someone comes up to me and says, ‘I was a dropout in school and I heard your song You Can Get It If You Really Want, and that song made me go back to school, and now I am a teacher and I use your song with my students’ – that, for me, is a big success,” he told US radio station NPR in 2012.

  • Ghana’s crude oil earnings fall from US$369.25m to US$198.25m in H2 2025 – BoG

    Ghana’s crude oil earnings fall from US$369.25m to US$198.25m in H2 2025 – BoG

    The Bank of Ghana has reported a decline in Ghana’s crude oil earnings in the second half of 2025, according to the latest Ghana Petroleum Funds report.

    The semi-annual report showed that receipts from crude oil liftings between July and December 2025 fell to US$198.25 million, down from US$369.25 million recorded over the same period in 2024.

    Data in the report indicated that proceeds from the 83rd and 84th crude oil liftings from the Jubilee field amounted to US$134.55 million, compared with US$144.20 million earned from the 81st and 82nd liftings in the second half of 2024.

    Receipts from the Sankofa Gye-Nyame Field also declined, with the 18th lifting generating US$63.70 million, lower than the US$68.54 million recorded from the 16th lifting in the corresponding period of 2024.

    “During the period under review, a total amount of US$201.40 million was received as other income for corporate income tax and Petroleum Holding Fund interest. The amounts received comprise US$198.09 million for corporate income tax and US$3.31 million for Petroleum Holding Fund interest”, the report said.

    The report noted that total inflows into the Petroleum Holding Fund for the second half of 2025 amounted to US$399.65 million, made up of US$198.25 million from crude oil liftings and US$201.40 million from other income sources.

    It further disclosed that total disbursements from the Petroleum Holding Fund during the period reached US$493.40 million. This included US$134.55 million from the 83rd and 84th Jubilee liftings, US$63.70 million from the 18th lifting at the Sankofa Gye-Nyame Field, and US$295.15 million from other income.

    The Petroleum Holding Fund and the Ghana Petroleum Funds were established under the Petroleum Revenue Management Act, 2011 (Act 815), as amended by Acts 893 and 1138.

    Under Sections 28(1) and (2) of the Petroleum Revenue Management Act, the Bank of Ghana is mandated to report on the performance and operations of the Petroleum Holding Fund and the Ghana Petroleum Funds for the second half of the year ended December 31, 2025.

    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge to revive Ghana’s premier crude oil processing facility, the Team Oil Refinery (TOR) has been fulfilled.

    After several years of inactivity, management of Tema Oil Refinery has announced the resumption of operations. The resumption has become possible following the completion of extensive Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) works on the refinery’s Crude Distillation Unit (CDU). Maintenance works on began on August 1 and October 30 this year. This information was contained in a press statement released by the management on Saturday December 27.

    TOR’s resumption is expected to boost energy security, industrial growth and national development, potentially saving Ghana up to $10.2 billion in oil import bills annually.

    Tema Oil Refinery halted its operations in 2018 citing lack of crude oil which serves as a raw material in maintaining the refinery. Other factors that influenced the closure include broken equipment, piled debt, among others.

    Addressing party delegates in 2023, President Mahama assured the creation of jobs through the revamping of the refinery.

    He pledged to revive the Oil Refinery to its former glory which he claimed was collapsed by the then Akufo-Addo government.

    “Since we (NDC) left office, TOR has never processed crude oil again. I remember before we left office, we sent to TOR the first batch of Ghanaian crude oil from our own oil fields for TOR to process. That oil sat there for several years, eventually, they discounted the oil and sold it out without processing it. I can assure you, when NDC comes back, TOR will stand on its feet again”, he noted.

    In June, this year, Managing Director of TOR Mr. Edmond Kombat has revealed refinery operations will commence in October.

    He informed the Parliamentary Committee on Energy on Sunday, June 22, when he briefed the committee on the leadership’s mandate, work plans for the year 2025, and their operational challenges.

    The engagement forms part of the committee’s oversight responsibility of the agencies under the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition.

    In his submission, Mr. Edmond Kombat indicated that TOR will continue with the gantry and terminal upgrade.

    He noted that the current leadership will also complete ongoing projects commenced by the previous administration as well as work on their debt and financial restructuring as well as retooling of their laboratory.

    He noted that the refinery was wallowing in debt worth $517 million after being inactive for the past four years. The current debt is as of December 2024.

    The Managing Director said: “There were times that the Ministry of Finance in the past had given some funds to TOR and some of it, for example, was grants and then when they entered into the agreement with the IMF, the IMF asked them to reclassify it as debt.

    “So, those things have accumulated to that amount of money and I think the last time TOR traded, some of the trades were not hedged,” he said.

    “We are doing that verification and once we do that verification and authentication of what we have been able to bring down, that will be communicated publicly,” Mr. Edmond Kombat.

    According to him, for the past 6 months, TOR had not audited its financial accounts.

    The Managing Director made a special appeal to the parliamentary committee to help them resolve some of their challenges.

    They include restructuring of their debts with the ESLA receivables, converting GOG debts into equity,reinstating the TOR portion of the ESLA Levy, allowing TOR to participate in the primary distribution margin, and giving TOR a representation on the Laycan Committee, among others.

  • KIA to be renamed Accra International Airport after parliamentary approval

    KIA to be renamed Accra International Airport after parliamentary approval

    The government has announced plans to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport, pending parliamentary approval.

    Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga revealed the decision while speaking to journalists ahead of the first sitting of the Second Session of the 9th Parliament.on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, 

    He explained that the airport was originally called Accra International Airport, but its name was later changed.

    “It is not fair to the people of Accra that they gave out their land for the construction of an airport that was named after them, and the one who received the land changed it and named it with his name,” he said.

    “To honour the people who gave the land, government is going back to using it,” he added.

    A bill to formalise the change will be introduced in Parliament by the Transport Minister.

    “Government intends to rename Kotoka International Airport to Accra International Airport,” the Majority Leader said, noting that the bill would be presented in line with established procedures.

    In February last year, the Democracy Hub, in partnership with the Convention People’s Party (CPP), took legal action at the Supreme Court to push for a change in the name of Ghana’s international airport, Kotoka.

    They asserted that associating the facility with Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka goes against the country’s democratic values, as he was instrumental in the 1966 government takeover.

    “For 59 years, Ghana has lived with the contradiction of denouncing coups while honouring one of the architects of the first military overthrow of an elected government,” the group stated.

    The CPP and advocacy group Democracy Hub contended that the continued use of Kotoka’s name for the country’s main airport represents an official approval of military takeovers. They argue that renaming the facility would reinforce Ghana’s dedication to democratic governance.

    “It is time for Ghana to make a clear statement that it stands against unconstitutional rule, not just in rhetoric but in practice,” the statement added.

    This court case, initiated with the support of legal professionals from Merton & Everett LLP, follows in-depth historical and legal examinations.

    Democracy Hub appealed to civic organizations, youth movements, and champions of democracy to endorse the lawsuit, describing it as “more than a legal battle—this is about confronting our history.”

    Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka (26 September 1926 – 17 April 1967) played a key role in the National Liberation Council, the military administration that ousted Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s government through a coup on 24 February 1966.

    Prominent among those calling for the airport’s name to be changed back is Samia Yaba Christina Nkrumah, daughter of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah. She has repeatedly suggested that the facility should return to its original name, Accra International Airport.

    The airport originally served as a military base for the British Royal Air Force during World War II before being handed over to civilian authorities. In 1956, under President Kwame Nkrumah, a project was launched to convert the site into a passenger terminal.

    The project was completed in 1958, transforming the former military installation into a civilian airport capable of handling about 500,000 passengers a year. It was initially called Accra International Airport.

    However, in 1969, the airport was renamed Kotoka International Airport in honor of Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka (1926–1967), a member of the National Liberation Council who was killed during a failed coup attempt at what is now the airport’s forecourt.

  • Your favorite artiste kills babies for rituals – Nicki Minaj alleges

    Your favorite artiste kills babies for rituals – Nicki Minaj alleges

    American Rapper Nicki Minaj has shared a cryptic post on X indicating that some artists are ritualists.

    This comes after becoming the subject of a pointed joke at the 2026 Grammy Awards.

    She took to X and wrote that,  “Your favorite artiste has been practicing rituals in a satanic cult where they take babies from other countries & mutilate & kill them as a form of a blood sacrifice to their God. You see, when your master is satan, you must constantly shed blood. However, the JIG IS UP.”

    The ambiguous yet explosive allegation has ignited a flurry of reactions online, with many users pressing Nicki Minaj for clarification.

    Some tried to guess who the rapper was referring to, while others began naming individuals in an attempt to piece together the claim.

    The timing of Minaj’s post attracted attention, coming shortly after she was mentioned in Trevor Noah’s opening monologue at the Grammys on Sunday, February 1.

    Speaking to the audience at the Crypto.com Arena, Noah highlighted her absence from the event.

    “Nicki Minaj is not here. She is not here,” Noah, 41, said, drawing loud applause from the crowd.

    He added a political dig, saying, “She is still at the White House with Donald Trump discussing very important issues.”

    Noah then moved into a mock impression of the former US President, stating:

    “Actually, Nicki, I have the biggest a. I have it, everybody’s saying it, Nicki.

    I know they say it’s you, but it’s me WAP, WAP, WAP. Look at it, baby.”

  • Here are the winners of the 2026 Grammy Awards

    American rapper Kendrick Lamar emerged as the biggest winner at the 68th Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles on Sunday, securing five awards for the second consecutive year.

    Lamar won Record of the Year for “Luther,” his collaboration with SZA, and Best Rap Album for GNX, reinforcing his dominance at music’s most prestigious awards ceremony.

    However, the rapper fell short of clinching the night’s highest honour, Album of the Year, which went to Puerto Rican artiste Bad Bunny.

    The Grammy Awards, organised by the Recording Academy, recognise outstanding achievements in the global music industry and attract leading artistes from across genres.

    Lamar’s strong showing once again placed him at the centre of the ceremony, even as Bad Bunny claimed the most coveted prize of the night.

    Here’s a list of everyone who won, and who was nominated, in the main categories.

    • Winner: Billie Eilish – Wildflower
    • Lady Gaga – Abracadabra
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT
    • Bad Bunny – DtMF
    • Hunter/x – Golden
    • Kendrick Lamar feat SZA – Luther
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar feat SZA – Luther
    • Bad Bunny – DtMF
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Billie Eilish – Wildflower
    • Lady Gaga – Abracadabra
    • Chappell Roan – The Subway
    • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT
    • Winner: Bad Bunny – Debí Tirar Más Fotos
    • Justin Bieber – Swag
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
    • Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out
    • Lady Gaga – Mayhem
    • Kendrick Lamar – GNX
    • Leon Thomas – Mutt
    • Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia
    • Winner: Olivia Dean
    • Katseye
    • The Marias
    • Addison Rae
    • Sombr
    • Leon Thomas
    • Alex Warren
    • Lola Young
    • Winner: Lady Gaga – Mayhem
    • Justin Bieber – Swag
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
    • Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful
    • Teddy Swims – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Pt 2

    Best pop solo performance

    • Winner: Lola Young – Messy
    • Justin Bieber – Daisies
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Lady Gaga – Disease
    • Chappell Roan – The Subway

    Best pop duo/group performance

    • Winner: Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande – Defying Gravity
    • Huntr/x – Golden
    • Katseye – Gabriela
    • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT
    • SZA With Kendrick Lamar – 30 For 30

    Best dance/electronic recording

    • Winner: Tame Impala – End Of Summer
    • Disclosure & Anderson .Paak – No Cap
    • Fred again.., Skepta, & PlaqueBoyMax – Victory Lap
    • Kaytranada – Space Invader
    • Skrillex – Voltage

    Best dance/electronic album

    • Winner: FKA Twigs – Eusexua
    • Fred again.. – Ten Days
    • PinkPantheress – Fancy That
    • Rüfüs Du Sol – Inhale / Exhale
    • Skrillex – F*** U Skrillex You Think Ur Andy Warhol But Ur Not!! <3
    • Winner: Lady Gaga – Abracadabra
    • Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – Bluest Flame
    • Zara Larsson – Midnight Sun
    • Tate McRae – Just Keep Watching
    • PinkPantheress – Illegal

    Best traditional pop vocal album

    • Winner: Laufey – A Matter Of Time
    • Laila Biali – Wintersongs
    • Jennifer Hudson – The Gift Of Love
    • Elton John & Brandi Carlile – Who Believes In Angels?
    • Lady Gaga – Harlequin
    • Barbra Streisand – The Secret Of Life: Partners, Volume 2
    • Winner: Natalia Lafourcade – Cancionera
    • Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra
    • Andrés Cepeda – Bogotá (Deluxe)
    • Karol G – Tropicoqueta
    • Alejandro Sanz – ¿Y ahora qué?
    • Winner: Bad Bunny – DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
    • J Balvin – Mixteip
    • Feid – Ferxxo Vol X: Sagrado
    • Nicki Nicole – Naiki
    • Trueno – Eub Deluxe
    • Yandel – Sinfónico (En Vivo)
    • Winner: Yungblud ft Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, Adam Wakeman, II – Changes (Live From Villa Park) Back To The Beginning
    • Amyl and The Sniffers – U Should Not Be Doing That
    • Linkin Park – The Emptiness Machine
    • Turnstile – Never Enough
    • Hayley Williams – Mirtazapine
    • Winner: Nine Inch Nails – As Alive As You Need Me To Be
    • Sleep Token – Caramel
    • Hayley Williams – Glum
    • Turnstile – Never Enough
    • Yungblud – Zombie
    • Winner: Turnstile – Never Enough
    • Deftones – Private Music
    • Haim – I Quit
    • Linkin Park – From Zero
    • Yungblud – Idols

    Best alternative music album

    • Winner: The Cure – Songs Of A Lost World
    • Bon Iver – Sable, Fable
    • Tyler, The Creator – Don’t Tap the Glass
    • Wet Leg – Moisturizer
    • Hayley Williams – Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party

    Best alternative music performance

    • Winner: The Cure – Alone
    • Bon Iver – Everything Is Peaceful Love
    • Turnstile – Seein’ Stars
    • Wet Leg – Mangetout
    • Hayley Williams – Parachute
    • Winner: Turnstile – Birds
    • Dream Theater – Night Terror
    • Ghost – Lachryma
    • Sleep Token – Emergence
    • Spiritbox – Soft Spine
    • Winner: Clipse, Pusha T & Malice feat Kendrick Lamar & Pharrell Williams – Chains & Whips
    • Cardi B – Outside
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Kendrick Lamar feat Lefty Gunplay – TV Off
    • Tyler, The Creator feat Teezo Touchdown – Darling, I

    Best melodic rap performance

    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar with SZA – Luther
    • Fridayy feat Meek Mill – Proud Of Me
    • JID feat Ty Dolla $ign & 6Lack – Wholeheartedly
    • Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon feat Rapsody – WeMaj
    • Partynextdoor & Drake – Somebody Loves Me
    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar feat Lefty Gunplay – TV Off
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Clipse, Pusha T & Malice feat John Legend & Voices of Fire – The Birds Don’t Sing
    • Tyler, The Creator feat GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne – Sticky
    • GloRilla – TGIF
    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar – GNX
    • Clipse, Pusha T & Malice – Let God Sort Em Out
    • GloRilla – Glorious
    • JID – God Does Like Ugly
    • Tyler, The Creator – Chromakopia

    Best country solo performance

    • Winner: Chris Stapleton – Bad As I Used To Be
    • Tyler Childers – Nose On The Grindstone
    • Shaboozey – Good News
    • Zach Top – I Never Lie
    • Lainey Wilson – Somewhere Over Laredo

    Best country duo/group performance

    • Shaboozey & Jelly Roll – Amen
    • Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton – A Song To Sing
    • Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson – Trailblazer
    • Margo Price & Tyler Childers – Love Me Like You Used To Do
    • George Strait & Chris Stapleton – Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame
    • Winner: Tyler Childers – Bitin’ List
    • Shaboozey – Good News
    • Zach Top – I Never Lie
    • Lainey Wilson – Somewhere Over Laredo
    • Chris Stapleton – A Song To Sing

    Best contemporary country album

    • Jelly Roll – Beautifully Broken
    • Kelsea Ballerini – Patterns
    • Tyler Childers – Snipe Hunter
    • Eric Church – Evangeline vs The Machine
    • Miranda Lambert – Postcards From Texas
    • Winner: Kehlani – Folded
    • Justin Bieber – Yukon
    • Chris Brown feat Bryson Tiller – It Depends
    • Leon Thomas – Mutt (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk)
    • Summer Walker – Heart Of A Woman
    • Winner: Kehlani – Folded
    • Summer Walker – Heart Of A Woman
    • Chris Brown feat Bryson Tiller – It Depends
    • Durand Bernarr – Overqualified
    • Leon Thomas – Yes It Is
    • Winner: Leon Thomas – Mutt
    • Giveon – Beloved
    • Coco Jones – Why Not More?
    • Ledisi – The Crown
    • Teyana Taylor – Escape Room

    Best African music performance

    • Winner: Tyla – Push 2 Start
    • Burna Boy – Love
    • Davido feat Omah Lay – With You
    • Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin – Hope & Love
    • Ayra Starr feat Wizkid – Gimme Dat

    Production and songwriting

    Producer of the Year, Non-Classical

    • Winner: Cirkut (Lady Gaga, Rosé, Jade)
    • Dan Auerbach
    • Dijon
    • Blake Mills
    • Sounwave

    Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical

    • Winner: Amy Allen (Rosé, Jennie, Sabrina Carpenter)
    • Edgar Barrera
    • Jessie Jo Dillon
    • Tobias Jesso Jr
    • Laura Veltz
    • Winner: Nate Bargatze – Your Friend, Nate Bargatze
    • Bill Burr – Drop Dead Years
    • Sarah Silverman – PostMortem
    • Ali Wong – Single Lady
    • Jamie Foxx – What Had Happened Was

    Best compilation soundtrack for visual media

    • Winner: Sinners – Various artists
    • A Complete Unknown – Timothée Chalamet
    • F1 The Album – Various artists
    • K-Pop Demon Hunters – Various artists
    • Wicked – Various artists

    Best score soundtrack for visual media (includes film and televison)

    • Winner: Ludwig Göransson – Sinners
    • John Powell – How To Train Your Dragon
    • Theodore Shapiro – Severance: Season 2
    • John Powell & Stephen Schwartz – Wicked
    • Kris Bowers – The Wild Robot

    Best score soundtrack for video games and other interactive media

    • Winner: Austin Wintory – Sword of the Sea
    • Pinar Toprak – Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora – Secrets of the Spires
    • Wilbert Roget II – Helldivers 2
    • Gordy Haab – Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
    • Cody Matthew Johnson & Wilbert Roget II – Star Wars Outlaws: Wild Card & A Pirate’s Fortune

    Best song written for visual media

    • Winner: Huntr/x – Golden (From K-Pop Demon Hunters)
    • Nine Inch Nails – As Alive As You Need Me To Be (From Tron: Ares)
    • Miles Caton – I Lied To You (From Sinners)
    • Elton John & Brandi Carlile – Never Too Late (From Elton John: Never Too Late)
    • Jayme Lawson – Pale Pale Moon (From Sinners)
    • Rod Wave – Sinners (From Sinners)
    • Winner: Dalai Lama – Meditations: The Reflections Of His Holiness The Dalai Lama
    • Kathy Garver – Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story
    • Trevor Noah – Into The Uncut Grass
    • Ketanji Brown Jackson – Lovely One: A Memoir
    • Fab Morvan – You Know It’s True: The Real Story Of Milli Vanilli
    • Winner: Doechii – Anxiety
    • Sade – Young Lion
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Clipse – So Be It
    • OK Go – Love
    • Winner: John Williams – Music by John Williams
    • Devo – Devo
    • Raye – Live at the Albert Hall
    • Diane Warren – Relentless
    • Pharrell Williams – Piece By Piece
    • Winner: Samara Joy – Portrait
    • Dee Dee Bridgewater & Bill Charlap – Elemental
    • Terri Lyne Carrington & Christie Dashiell – We Insist 2025!
    • Michael Mayo – Fly
    • Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold & Rachel Eckroth – Live at Vic’s Las Vegas

    Best jazz instrumental album

    • Winner: Sullivan Fortner feat Peter Washington & Marcus Gilmore – Southern Nights
    • Chick Corea, Christian McBride & Brian Blade – Trilogy 3 (Live)
    • Branford Marsalis Quartet – Belonging
    • John Patitucci feat Chris Potter & Brian Blade – Spirit Fall
    • Yellowjackets – Fasten Up

    Best alternative jazz album

    • Winner: Nate Smith – Live-Action
    • Ambrose Akinmusire – Honey from a Winter Stone
    • Robert Glasper – Keys To The City Volume One
    • Brad Mehldau – Ride Into The Sun
    • Immanuel Wilkins – Blues Blood
    • Winner: Chick Corea, Christian McBride & Brian Blade – Windows (Live)
    • Lakecia Benjamin feat Immanuel Wilkins & Mark Whitfield – Noble Rise
    • Samara Joy – Peace Of Mind/Dreams Come True
    • Michael Mayo – Four
    • Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold & Rachel Eckroth – All Stars Lead To You (Live)

    Best musical theatre album

    • Death Becomes Her
    • Gypsy
    • Just In Time
    • Maybe Happy Ending
    • Winner: Heggie: Intelligence – Kwamé Ryan, conductor (Houston Grand Opera; Gene Scheer)
    • Huang Ruo: An American Soldier – Carolyn Kuan, conductor (American Composers Orchestra; David Henry Hwang)
    • Kouyoumdjian – Adoration Alan Pierson, conductor (Silvana Quartet; The Choir Of Trinity Wall Street)
    • O’Halloran: Trade & Mary Motorhead – Elaine Kelly (Irish National Opera Orchestra; Mark O’Halloran)
    • Tesori: Grounded – Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor (The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra; The Metropolitan Opera Chorus; George Brant)

    Best orchestral performance

    • Winner: Messiaen: Turangalîla-Symphonie – Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra)
    • Coleridge-Taylor: Toussaint L’Ouverture; Ballade Op. 4; Suites From ’24 Negro Melodies’ – Michael Repper, conductor (National Philharmonic)
    • Ravel: Boléro – Gustavo Dudamel, conductor (Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra Of Venezuela)
    • Still & Bonds – Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor (The Philadelphia Orchestra)
    • Stravinsky: Symphony In Three Movements – Esa-Pekka Salonen, conductor (San Francisco Symphony)
  • Kendrick Lamar becomes first artiste since 2010 to win Record of the Year twice in a row

    Kendrick Lamar becomes first artiste since 2010 to win Record of the Year twice in a row

    American rapper and songwriter Kendrick Lamar made history at the 68th Grammy Awards on Sunday night, becoming the first artiste since 2010 to win Record of the Year at two consecutive ceremonies.

    He secured the 2026 Record of the Year award for his collaboration with SZA, “Luther,” following his 2025 win in the same category for his Drake diss track, “Not Like Us.”

    The back to back wins place the Compton native among a select group of only four acts to achieve the feat, joining Billie Eilish, U2 and Roberta Flack.

    “Luther” appears on Lamar’s sixth studio album, GNX, released in November 2024. The track samples Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn’s 1982 duet “If This World Were Mine,” a cover of the song originally released by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1967 on Gaye’s album United, according to the LA Times. Vandross died in 2005.

    There was brief confusion during the announcement of the Record of the Year winner. Cher, who presented the award after receiving a lifetime achievement honour, initially mentioned only Luther Vandross’ name, causing uncertainty in the auditorium. She began to leave the stage before returning to read out the full list of nominees and eventually clarified that the award was for the song that sampled Vandross’ work.

    “Luther Vandross,” Lamar said during his acceptance speech, “is one of my favorite artists of all time. They granted us the privilege to do our version of it. When we got that clearance, I promise you we damn near all dropped a tear because we know how much him and Cheryl Lynn poured into that record, and being able to put our vocals in it, it proves we were somewhat worthy to be just as great as them individuals. The only catch was they couldn’t curse.”

    “Luther forever. Cheryl, thank you so much,” Lamar added as he closed his acceptance speech.

    Lamar won a total of five awards on the night, increasing his career Grammy tally to 27 and surpassing Jay Z as the most awarded rapper in the history of the ceremony.

    His wins included Best Rap Album and Best Melodic Rap Performance for “Luther,” which also secured the Record of the Year prize. The song has amassed over 1.3 billion streams on Spotify and became the longest reigning single of 2025 on Billboard’s Hot 100, spending 13 weeks at number one. It was produced by Jack Antonoff, Bridgeway, M Tech, Roselilah, Sounwave and Kamasi Washington.

    He also won Best Rap Song for “TV Off” and Best Rap Performance for Clipse’s “Chains & Whips,” marking Clipse’s first ever Grammy win.

    Entering the ceremony as the most nominated artiste, Kendrick Lamar emerged with the highest number of wins on the night, reinforcing his status as one of the most celebrated figures in modern music.

    Here’s a list of everyone who won, and who was nominated, in the main categories.

    • Winner: Billie Eilish – Wildflower
    • Lady Gaga – Abracadabra
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT
    • Bad Bunny – DtMF
    • Hunter/x – Golden
    • Kendrick Lamar feat SZA – Luther
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar feat SZA – Luther
    • Bad Bunny – DtMF
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Billie Eilish – Wildflower
    • Lady Gaga – Abracadabra
    • Chappell Roan – The Subway
    • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT
    • Winner: Bad Bunny – Debí Tirar Más Fotos
    • Justin Bieber – Swag
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
    • Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out
    • Lady Gaga – Mayhem
    • Kendrick Lamar – GNX
    • Leon Thomas – Mutt
    • Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia
    • Winner: Olivia Dean
    • Katseye
    • The Marias
    • Addison Rae
    • Sombr
    • Leon Thomas
    • Alex Warren
    • Lola Young
    • Winner: Lady Gaga – Mayhem
    • Justin Bieber – Swag
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend
    • Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful
    • Teddy Swims – I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Pt 2

    Best pop solo performance

    • Winner: Lola Young – Messy
    • Justin Bieber – Daisies
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Lady Gaga – Disease
    • Chappell Roan – The Subway

    Best pop duo/group performance

    • Winner: Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande – Defying Gravity
    • Huntr/x – Golden
    • Katseye – Gabriela
    • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT
    • SZA With Kendrick Lamar – 30 For 30

    Best dance/electronic recording

    • Winner: Tame Impala – End Of Summer
    • Disclosure & Anderson .Paak – No Cap
    • Fred again.., Skepta, & PlaqueBoyMax – Victory Lap
    • Kaytranada – Space Invader
    • Skrillex – Voltage

    Best dance/electronic album

    • Winner: FKA Twigs – Eusexua
    • Fred again.. – Ten Days
    • PinkPantheress – Fancy That
    • Rüfüs Du Sol – Inhale / Exhale
    • Skrillex – F*** U Skrillex You Think Ur Andy Warhol But Ur Not!! <3
    • Winner: Lady Gaga – Abracadabra
    • Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – Bluest Flame
    • Zara Larsson – Midnight Sun
    • Tate McRae – Just Keep Watching
    • PinkPantheress – Illegal

    Best traditional pop vocal album

    • Winner: Laufey – A Matter Of Time
    • Laila Biali – Wintersongs
    • Jennifer Hudson – The Gift Of Love
    • Elton John & Brandi Carlile – Who Believes In Angels?
    • Lady Gaga – Harlequin
    • Barbra Streisand – The Secret Of Life: Partners, Volume 2
    • Winner: Natalia Lafourcade – Cancionera
    • Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra
    • Andrés Cepeda – Bogotá (Deluxe)
    • Karol G – Tropicoqueta
    • Alejandro Sanz – ¿Y ahora qué?
    • Winner: Bad Bunny – DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS
    • J Balvin – Mixteip
    • Feid – Ferxxo Vol X: Sagrado
    • Nicki Nicole – Naiki
    • Trueno – Eub Deluxe
    • Yandel – Sinfónico (En Vivo)
    • Winner: Yungblud ft Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, Adam Wakeman, II – Changes (Live From Villa Park) Back To The Beginning
    • Amyl and The Sniffers – U Should Not Be Doing That
    • Linkin Park – The Emptiness Machine
    • Turnstile – Never Enough
    • Hayley Williams – Mirtazapine
    • Winner: Nine Inch Nails – As Alive As You Need Me To Be
    • Sleep Token – Caramel
    • Hayley Williams – Glum
    • Turnstile – Never Enough
    • Yungblud – Zombie
    • Winner: Turnstile – Never Enough
    • Deftones – Private Music
    • Haim – I Quit
    • Linkin Park – From Zero
    • Yungblud – Idols

    Best alternative music album

    • Winner: The Cure – Songs Of A Lost World
    • Bon Iver – Sable, Fable
    • Tyler, The Creator – Don’t Tap the Glass
    • Wet Leg – Moisturizer
    • Hayley Williams – Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party

    Best alternative music performance

    • Winner: The Cure – Alone
    • Bon Iver – Everything Is Peaceful Love
    • Turnstile – Seein’ Stars
    • Wet Leg – Mangetout
    • Hayley Williams – Parachute
    • Winner: Turnstile – Birds
    • Dream Theater – Night Terror
    • Ghost – Lachryma
    • Sleep Token – Emergence
    • Spiritbox – Soft Spine
    • Winner: Clipse, Pusha T & Malice feat Kendrick Lamar & Pharrell Williams – Chains & Whips
    • Cardi B – Outside
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Kendrick Lamar feat Lefty Gunplay – TV Off
    • Tyler, The Creator feat Teezo Touchdown – Darling, I

    Best melodic rap performance

    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar with SZA – Luther
    • Fridayy feat Meek Mill – Proud Of Me
    • JID feat Ty Dolla $ign & 6Lack – Wholeheartedly
    • Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon feat Rapsody – WeMaj
    • Partynextdoor & Drake – Somebody Loves Me
    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar feat Lefty Gunplay – TV Off
    • Doechii – Anxiety
    • Clipse, Pusha T & Malice feat John Legend & Voices of Fire – The Birds Don’t Sing
    • Tyler, The Creator feat GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne – Sticky
    • GloRilla – TGIF
    • Winner: Kendrick Lamar – GNX
    • Clipse, Pusha T & Malice – Let God Sort Em Out
    • GloRilla – Glorious
    • JID – God Does Like Ugly
    • Tyler, The Creator – Chromakopia

    Best country solo performance

    • Winner: Chris Stapleton – Bad As I Used To Be
    • Tyler Childers – Nose On The Grindstone
    • Shaboozey – Good News
    • Zach Top – I Never Lie
    • Lainey Wilson – Somewhere Over Laredo

    Best country duo/group performance

    • Shaboozey & Jelly Roll – Amen
    • Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton – A Song To Sing
    • Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson – Trailblazer
    • Margo Price & Tyler Childers – Love Me Like You Used To Do
    • George Strait & Chris Stapleton – Honky Tonk Hall Of Fame
    • Winner: Tyler Childers – Bitin’ List
    • Shaboozey – Good News
    • Zach Top – I Never Lie
    • Lainey Wilson – Somewhere Over Laredo
    • Chris Stapleton – A Song To Sing

    Best contemporary country album

    • Jelly Roll – Beautifully Broken
    • Kelsea Ballerini – Patterns
    • Tyler Childers – Snipe Hunter
    • Eric Church – Evangeline vs The Machine
    • Miranda Lambert – Postcards From Texas
    • Winner: Kehlani – Folded
    • Justin Bieber – Yukon
    • Chris Brown feat Bryson Tiller – It Depends
    • Leon Thomas – Mutt (Live From NPR’s Tiny Desk)
    • Summer Walker – Heart Of A Woman
    • Winner: Kehlani – Folded
    • Summer Walker – Heart Of A Woman
    • Chris Brown feat Bryson Tiller – It Depends
    • Durand Bernarr – Overqualified
    • Leon Thomas – Yes It Is
    • Winner: Leon Thomas – Mutt
    • Giveon – Beloved
    • Coco Jones – Why Not More?
    • Ledisi – The Crown
    • Teyana Taylor – Escape Room

    Best African music performance

    • Winner: Tyla – Push 2 Start
    • Burna Boy – Love
    • Davido feat Omah Lay – With You
    • Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin – Hope & Love
    • Ayra Starr feat Wizkid – Gimme Dat

    Production and songwriting

    Producer of the Year, Non-Classical

    • Winner: Cirkut (Lady Gaga, Rosé, Jade)
    • Dan Auerbach
    • Dijon
    • Blake Mills
    • Sounwave

    Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical

    • Winner: Amy Allen (Rosé, Jennie, Sabrina Carpenter)
    • Edgar Barrera
    • Jessie Jo Dillon
    • Tobias Jesso Jr
    • Laura Veltz
    • Winner: Nate Bargatze – Your Friend, Nate Bargatze
    • Bill Burr – Drop Dead Years
    • Sarah Silverman – PostMortem
    • Ali Wong – Single Lady
    • Jamie Foxx – What Had Happened Was

    Best compilation soundtrack for visual media

    • Winner: Sinners – Various artists
    • A Complete Unknown – Timothée Chalamet
    • F1 The Album – Various artists
    • K-Pop Demon Hunters – Various artists
    • Wicked – Various artists

    Best score soundtrack for visual media (includes film and televison)

    • Winner: Ludwig Göransson – Sinners
    • John Powell – How To Train Your Dragon
    • Theodore Shapiro – Severance: Season 2
    • John Powell & Stephen Schwartz – Wicked
    • Kris Bowers – The Wild Robot

    Best score soundtrack for video games and other interactive media

    • Winner: Austin Wintory – Sword of the Sea
    • Pinar Toprak – Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora – Secrets of the Spires
    • Wilbert Roget II – Helldivers 2
    • Gordy Haab – Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
    • Cody Matthew Johnson & Wilbert Roget II – Star Wars Outlaws: Wild Card & A Pirate’s Fortune

    Best song written for visual media

    • Winner: Huntr/x – Golden (From K-Pop Demon Hunters)
    • Nine Inch Nails – As Alive As You Need Me To Be (From Tron: Ares)
    • Miles Caton – I Lied To You (From Sinners)
    • Elton John & Brandi Carlile – Never Too Late (From Elton John: Never Too Late)
    • Jayme Lawson – Pale Pale Moon (From Sinners)
    • Rod Wave – Sinners (From Sinners)
    • Winner: Dalai Lama – Meditations: The Reflections Of His Holiness The Dalai Lama
    • Kathy Garver – Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story
    • Trevor Noah – Into The Uncut Grass
    • Ketanji Brown Jackson – Lovely One: A Memoir
    • Fab Morvan – You Know It’s True: The Real Story Of Milli Vanilli
    • Winner: Doechii – Anxiety
    • Sade – Young Lion
    • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
    • Clipse – So Be It
    • OK Go – Love
    • Winner: John Williams – Music by John Williams
    • Devo – Devo
    • Raye – Live at the Albert Hall
    • Diane Warren – Relentless
    • Pharrell Williams – Piece By Piece
    • Winner: Samara Joy – Portrait
    • Dee Dee Bridgewater & Bill Charlap – Elemental
    • Terri Lyne Carrington & Christie Dashiell – We Insist 2025!
    • Michael Mayo – Fly
    • Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold & Rachel Eckroth – Live at Vic’s Las Vegas

    Best jazz instrumental album

    • Winner: Sullivan Fortner feat Peter Washington & Marcus Gilmore – Southern Nights
    • Chick Corea, Christian McBride & Brian Blade – Trilogy 3 (Live)
    • Branford Marsalis Quartet – Belonging
    • John Patitucci feat Chris Potter & Brian Blade – Spirit Fall
    • Yellowjackets – Fasten Up

    Best alternative jazz album

    • Winner: Nate Smith – Live-Action
    • Ambrose Akinmusire – Honey from a Winter Stone
    • Robert Glasper – Keys To The City Volume One
    • Brad Mehldau – Ride Into The Sun
    • Immanuel Wilkins – Blues Blood
    • Winner: Chick Corea, Christian McBride & Brian Blade – Windows (Live)
    • Lakecia Benjamin feat Immanuel Wilkins & Mark Whitfield – Noble Rise
    • Samara Joy – Peace Of Mind/Dreams Come True
    • Michael Mayo – Four
    • Nicole Zuraitis, Dan Pugach, Tom Scott, Idan Morim, Keyon Harrold & Rachel Eckroth – All Stars Lead To You (Live)

    Best musical theatre album

    • Death Becomes Her
    • Gypsy
    • Just In Time
    • Maybe Happy Ending
    • Winner: Heggie: Intelligence – Kwamé Ryan, conductor (Houston Grand Opera; Gene Scheer)
    • Huang Ruo: An American Soldier – Carolyn Kuan, conductor (American Composers Orchestra; David Henry Hwang)
    • Kouyoumdjian – Adoration Alan Pierson, conductor (Silvana Quartet; The Choir Of Trinity Wall Street)
    • O’Halloran: Trade & Mary Motorhead – Elaine Kelly (Irish National Opera Orchestra; Mark O’Halloran)
    • Tesori: Grounded – Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor (The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra; The Metropolitan Opera Chorus; George Brant)

    Best orchestral performance

    • Winner: Messiaen: Turangalîla-Symphonie – Andris Nelsons, conductor (Boston Symphony Orchestra)
    • Coleridge-Taylor: Toussaint L’Ouverture; Ballade Op. 4; Suites From ’24 Negro Melodies’ – Michael Repper, conductor (National Philharmonic)
    • Ravel: Boléro – Gustavo Dudamel, conductor (Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra Of Venezuela)
    • Still & Bonds – Yannick Nézet-Séguin, conductor (The Philadelphia Orchestra)
    • Stravinsky: Symphony In Three Movements – Esa-Pekka Salonen, conductor (San Francisco Symphony)
  • Prosecute Ken Ofori-Atta in absentia if he has committed any crime – Justin Kodua

    Prosecute Ken Ofori-Atta in absentia if he has committed any crime – Justin Kodua

    NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua has dared the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to proceed with prosecuting former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta in absentia if they are convinced he has engaged in any criminal conduct.

    Addressing the issue on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Kodua accused the NDC of turning Mr Ofori-Atta’s absence into a political issue rather than following the appropriate legal process.

    “I dare the NDC to try Ken Ofori-Atta in absentia if they believe he has committed any crime. The NPP tried Sedina Tamakloe in absentia. So if they cannot get hold of Ken, they should go ahead and try him in absentia if they have evidence and a proper case,” he stated.

    He argued that making allegations in the public space without filing charges amounts to propaganda and does little to address the country’s challenges.

    “They should bring the charges and take him to court. Now they are blaming Ken’s absence for everything,” Mr Kodua said.

    The NPP General Secretary further maintained that the former Finance Minister has become the NDC’s main political reference point. “Ken is now their message. When people complain about water bills, they mention Ken. When you ask about unemployment, they say Ken is not in Ghana,” he noted.

    He also accused the party of shifting focus away from meaningful policy discussions by centring national issues on one individual. “They should try him and stop throwing dust into the eyes of Ghanaians,” he added.

    Mr Kodua stressed that the courts remain the appropriate avenue if evidence exists. “The law provides the path. If there is a case, prosecute it,” he said, underscoring the need for due process rather than political commentary.

    https://www.facebook.com/share/v/189ioPhF2S

    Former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, and several other former government officials were to be charged by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in November.

    Addressing the press on Thursday, October 30, 2025, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng revealed that a detailed investigation uncovered evidence of alleged corruption-related offences involving top officials formerly affiliated with the Ministry of Finance, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML).

    In the aftermath of a detailed investigation into alleged corruption and related offences, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) announced plans to charge former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, and several other former government officials by the end of November 2025.

    “The outcome of the investigation is that the OSP will charge the following persons with various corruption and corruption-related offences before the end of November 2025,” the OSP said.

    According to Mr Agyebeng, the OSP will charge Mr Ofori-Atta, along with Ernest Akore, former Chef de Cabinet to the former Minister of Finance, Emmanuel Kofi Nti, former Commissioner-General of the GRA, Rev Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, former Commissioner-General of the GRA, Isaac Crentsil, former Commissioner of the Customs Division of the GRA and General Manager for Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited as well as Kwadwo Damoah, former Commissioner of the Customs Division of the GRA and Member of Parliament for Jaman South.

    OSP solidified its case against the contentious Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) contract, alleging that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta approved payments without any technical or operational justification.

    According to the OSP, Ofori-Atta failed to intervene even though SML openly lacked the necessary capacity, expertise, and tools to execute its contract.

    Instead, he allegedly remained complicit, approving payments from the Consolidated Fund, the Petroleum Revenue Account, and the Tax Refund Account.

    The  OSP’s investigation concluded, “Had he not been personally benefiting from the SML’s unlawfully procured contracts, the openly displayed by SML of a lack of capacity’s expertise and tools would have immediately triggered his intervention to halt payments to SML and demand accountability. Instead, he looked on conspiratorially in silence, while endorsing and approving payments to SML from the consolidated fund, petroleum revenue account, and Tax Refund account with no technical or operational basis.” OSP said during a press conference on Thursday, October 30.

    OSP’s findings exposed SML’s clear inability to perform the revenue assurance services it was contracted for, which included key responsibilities such as transaction audits and external price verification.

    According to the investigation, the continuous “troubleshooting displayed during this period was born of the unlawful imposition of SML in the space and the still lingering reality of SML’s lack of capacity to carry out transaction audits and external price verification.”

    Even after 15 months of engagement, SML reportedly “had no system in place to receive ccvrs” (customs control and valuation records), the essential data needed to execute its tasks.

    Additionally, the existing data provider, West Blue, was under “no legal obligation to release the vital data” to SML.

    As a result, the assigned work remained uncompleted, yet the company “continued to be paid,” reinforcing the OSP’s conclusion that the situation led to a financial loss to the state.

    It is important to note that the former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted by the OSP for causing financial loss to the state in several dealings, which include the 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.

    The activities of SML came to light years ago after Manasseh Azure Awuni raised contractual breaches in a deal involving Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

    The original purpose of the GRA-SML contract was to boost revenue assurance in vital sectors of Ghana’s economy, including the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production, and the minerals and metals value chain.

    The goal was to streamline revenue collection, ensuring greater transparency and efficiency in these high-revenue sectors.

    Following concerns, an in-depth audit was carried out by international firm KPMG, commissioned by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    The audit was launched to examine the contractual agreements between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and SML, with a particular focus on the procedures and approvals related to the contract.

    The KPMG audit uncovered significant procedural errors and regulatory violations in awarding the contract. Specifically, the GRA did not obtain the required approvals from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) and failed to seek parliamentary oversight before finalizing the agreement with SML

    The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) entered into six service agreements with Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) using the single-source procurement method without obtaining approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA).

    The first agreement, covering Transaction Audit Services, was signed on June 1, 2018. This was followed by a Contract Extension on January 1, 2019.

    On April 1, 2019, the GRA entered into another agreement with SML for External Price Verification Services. Subsequently, on October 3, 2019, the two parties signed a Consolidation Services Agreement, which combined the Transaction Audit and External Verification Services.

    That same day, a separate agreement was also signed for the Measurement Audit of Downstream Petroleum Products. Later, on July 29, 2020, an Addendum to the Measurement Audit for Downstream Petroleum Products Agreement was executed.

    The audit report also revealed that SML owes the government over GHC31 million in taxes.

    During the period from 1 September 2020 to 30 April 2021, a bulk payment to SML covering invoices for an 8-month period did not have VAT and WHT deductions, amounting to GHE13.38 million.

    This contradicts GRA’s standard practice of deducting such taxes for payments to SML between 1 June 2020 and 31 August 2023.

    Additionally, SML failed to fulfil its statutory obligations by neither filing returns nor remitting these taxes to GRA.

    Pursuant to Section 71(1) of the RA Act, the accrued interest on the tax liability is estimated at GHC18.50 million owed by SML to GRA as of 31 January 2024. Consequently, the total liability incurred by SML amounts to GHC31.88 million.

    In May 2024, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, noted that the then Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta had a role to play in the controversial deal.

    “The SML or SMEL deal is a clear example of what Justice Dotse described as a create, loot and share. One thing Ghanaians must bear in mind is that all of these happened with the tacit approval of the then Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.”

    “As usual, he is trying to run under the radar and people are failing to realise, the key cardinal role he played in this entire arrangement,” he stated while speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, May 25.

    In February this year, SML dragged Azure Awuni to court, claiming that Manasseh referred to its agreement with the government as “the biggest scam” and labeled the deal as “shady” while branding the entire situation “the SML scandal.”

    SML was seeking several remedies from the court, including: GHS1,000,000 in general damages for defamation, GHS20,000,000 in exemplary damages for what it describes as malicious reporting, a perpetual injunction to prevent Manasseh from making further defamatory claims about the company, public retraction and apology specifically for statements made in Chapter 28 of his book and any other reliefs the court deems appropriate.

  • Postings to rural areas not a punishment but a call to duty – Health Minister tells doctors

    Postings to rural areas not a punishment but a call to duty – Health Minister tells doctors

    The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has rejected claims that newly deployed doctors are being punished through postings to rural districts.

    He explains that such deployments are necessary to ensure equitable access to healthcare across the country.

    “Since I took office as Minister responsible for the health sector, I have indicated that no health professional should see going to serve in rural areas as a punishment. For me, in my humble opinion, it’s a call to duty,” he said, during a working visit to the Oti Region.

    The minister revealed during the visit that although 25 medical doctors were posted to Oti in 2025, only two have so far reported for duty.

    Nonetheless, the Health Minister has emphasized that, the Ministry of Health will not change postings outside the approved process, stressing that doctors must serve where vacancies exist.

    “We are not going to change anybody’s posting. If you have been posted to Oti, you will go to Oti. That is where the government has a vacancy, and that is where you will go,” Mr Akandoh stated. Mr Akandoh also raised concerns about health data from the region, noting that Oti remains one of the most deprived areas in terms of key health indicators.

    During the visit, he inspected the proposed site for the construction of the Oti Regional Hospital and disclosed that the government has made budgetary provision for the construction of three new regional hospitals in 2026.

    “In the 2026 budget, the government has made provision for the construction of three regional hospitals, Oti Region, Savannah Region, and Western North Region,” he said.

    According to the minister, Oti is among the first regions where construction will commence, subject to the completion of all land documentation and the resolution of any litigation issues.

    “The processes will start when we have full documentation on the land, devoid of litigation. If you bring your documents tomorrow, you start your processes the next day. If you delay it, it’s your own issue,” he added.

    Mr Andoh has therefore called on Stakeholders, “A Member of Parliament, a Regional Minister, whoever you are, we must all put our heads together to find the solution.” 

    In early November 2025, the Health Ministry announced the allocation of doctors nationwide, with about 80% earmarked for district health facilities.

    Fast forward to November 5, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh revealed that his outfit was processing about 700 junior medical doctors for posting.

    According to the statutes of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), newly posted medical officers are generally expected to report to their assigned health facility within two weeks of receiving their posting letter.

    However, a recent report dated November 28 released by the health authority shows that about 70% of the newly posted doctors have yet to report to their new posts.

    An overwhelming 305 doctors, or 66%, have still not shown up. This means that 7 out of 10 doctors failed to report to their assigned regions.

    Article image 1

    According to the data, urban facilities in Greater Accra and Kumasi, as well as the Eastern region, are recording the highest turnout, with many doctors reporting to their posts, representing over 60% of the total turnout, to the neglect of rural centres. Several health centres in rural areas still wait in hopes of the appearance of medical officers deployed to their districts.

    Article image 2

    Out of the 20 medical officers allocated to Greater Accra, 16 have reported, with only 4 left to show up. representing an 80 percent turnout. In the Ashanti Region, there were 33 allocations, and so far, 25 have reported, representing a 76 percent turnout. Also, the 36 allocations to the Eastern Region had 23, representing a 64 percent turnout.

    Article image 3

    On the other hand, regions in the North have recorded an abysmal turnout. North East so far has recorded a zero turnout after a 19 medical officers’ allocation. The Upper West Region also had no reporting despite an allocation of 32. Oti, with 21 allocations, saw only one officer reporting (4.8%), Western North recorded two out of 31, representing a 6.5% turnout, and Savannah had seven officers reporting out of 19 allocated, representing a 36.8%. In the other low-performing regions, Upper East recorded seven reports out of 35 allocations, representing a 20% turnout, while the Northern Region saw seven out of 32 officers reporting, representing 21.9% percent.

    Following this, GHS have encouraged Regions to intensify engagements with the medical officers to improve the current numbers.

    The low turnout recorded in Ghana’s rural centres, particularly in the |Northern sectors, is nothing new as it is a long-standing challenge in Ghana’s health sector. Over the years, doctors have refused or delayed postings to rural and deprived areas, mainly due to poor infrastructure, lack of accommodation, and limited career opportunities.

    Consequently, President John Dramani Mahama announced in his healthcare manifesto and policy statements, some reforms his government intends to make in the health sector to make postings to these rural areas attractive. Part of these include providing affordable accommodation at health facilities, offering home ownership schemes, and introducing risk exposure insurance for health workers.

    The doctor–patient ratio in Ghana is about 1:10,450, with most doctors concentrated in Accra, Kumasi, and other urban centres, while areas like the Upper West and Northern regions have historically faced severe shortages, leaving rural populations underserved.

    The posting of these doctors came about a month after the President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr Frank Serebour, disclosed that approximately 800 doctors are jobless because they are waiting to be posted to various institutions to commence work.

    Dr Frank Serebour, told Channel One TV in an interview sighted by GhanaWeb on Friday, October 3, 2025, that failure to resolve the situation could compel these yet to be posted doctors to seek opportunities abroad.

    “We still have about 800 doctors who are also at home who need to be posted, because if we don’t post them, this is the avenue we create, and then people begin to look for other areas to go.

    “If we are not careful before we want to employ them, we won’t find them. So, I think it’s also a call for these doctors to be posted,” he said.

    The GMA president appealed to the government to process the salaries of newly posted doctors promptly, emphasising that further delays could worsen their discontent.

    “Once you finish school and you start work, everybody knows that you are supposed to be on a salary. So, I believe we will be able to resolve this matter amicably without the nuances of the strike action kicking off,” he added.

    Meanwhile, a nationwide withdrawal of services by the Junior Doctors’ Association of Ghana (JDA-GH) was declared on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, over unpaid salaries and stalled postings.

    A statement signed by its President, Dr Louisa Afia Nkrumah, and General Secretary, Dr Rhoda Wun-Nam Amadu, disclosed that on Friday, October 10, emergency services will be withdrawn until further notice. It noted that all patients who are currently in the hospital will continue to receive treatment until they are discharged.

    Explaining further, the statement said over 200 junior doctors have been left unpaid for 10 to 14 months. The statement added that some medical officers have been suspended without explanation, although they were previously on the government payroll.

    “Despite goodwill shown towards the government, no solutions have been offered. The continued exploitation of junior doctors will no longer be tolerated,” the statement read.

  • High costs, strict conditions at O2 Arena, a challenge for hosting gospel events – Diana Hamilton

    High costs, strict conditions at O2 Arena, a challenge for hosting gospel events – Diana Hamilton

    UK-based Ghanaian gospel musician Diana Antwi Hamilton has explained that organising events at London’s O2 Arena involves strict conditions and higher financial demands for gospel artistes.

    When asked about the likelihood of hosting a version of her annual Awake Experience at the iconic venue, she noted that her management team is still considering several issues before taking a final decision.

    In an interview with Kwame Dadzie and Doreen Avio on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz, Diana pointed out that the O2 Arena operates under rules that must be carefully considered during event planning.

    “The only thing with O2 is that you know when we do these events, we get content out of that. How many O2 events have you seen content from that put out? The laws of those venues do not allow for you to own the film of that place,” she said.

    She also indicated that gospel musicians are charged far more than secular artistes when attempting to stage events at the venue.

    “Whatever they will charge secular artistes to do O2, secular artistes will be charged more than double of that and I will tell you why: because you don’t sell alcohol,” she said.

    The O2 Arena remains one of the most sought-after venues that many Ghanaian event organisers have aspired to fill over the years.

    Meanwhile, Diana Hamilton is set to host her annual Awake Experience concert on February 15, 2026, at the ICGC Christ Temple in East Teshie, with the Kumasi edition scheduled for February 22, 2026, at the Church of Pentecost, Bantama.

    Nigerian sensation, Davido, solidifies his reign in the music industry by captivating a full house at the 20,000-capacity O2 Arena in London.

    The dazzling concert, held on Sunday, January 28, not only enthralled the city but also served as a testament to his recent Grammy nomination.

    This milestone marks Davido’s third consecutive sold-out performance at the prestigious O2 Arena, affirming his status as a music powerhouse since his inaugural appearance a few years ago.

    The event featured a stellar lineup of Davido’s chart-topping hits, with special appearances by collaborators Mayorkun and Kizz Daniel.Mayorkun, signed to Davido’s DMW label, graced the stage for a joint performance of their hit track, ‘The Best,’ while Kizz Daniel joined forces with Davido to showcase their latest remix, ‘Twe Twe.’

    The atmosphere reached unparalleled excitement as Davido delivered outstanding renditions of crowd favourites like ‘Jowo’ and ‘FIA,’ accompanied by his accomplished saxophonist.

    The night soared to new heights as Davido treated the audience to unique performances of tracks such as “LCND” (Track 16) and “In the Garden” from the Timeless Album, featuring Morravey.

    The eagerly awaited rendition of his acclaimed song, “Unavailable,” featuring Musa Keys, triggered ecstatic chants from the captivated crowd.

    Following the sensational show, Davido hosted an exclusive after-party to celebrate this monumental achievement with his crew and the contributing artists, solidifying the resounding success of the O2 Arena event.

    Nigerian sensation, Davido, solidifies his reign in the music industry by captivating a full house at the 20,000 capacity O2 Arena in London.The dazzling concert, held on Sunday, January 28, not only enthralled the city but also served as a testament to his recent Grammy nomination.

    This milestone marks Davido’s third consecutive sold-out performance at the prestigious O2 Arena, affirming his status as a music powerhouse since his inaugural appearance a few years ago.

    The event featured a stellar lineup of Davido’s chart-topping hits, with special appearances by collaborators Mayorkun and Kizz Daniel.Mayorkun, signed to Davido’s DMW label, graced the stage for a joint performance of their hit track, ‘The Best,’ while Kizz Daniel joined forces with Davido to showcase their latest remix, ‘Twe Twe.’

    The atmosphere reached unparalleled excitement as Davido delivered outstanding renditions of crowd favourites like ‘Jowo’ and ‘FIA,’ accompanied by his accomplished saxophonist.

    The night soared to new heights as Davido treated the audience to unique performances of tracks such as “LCND” (Track 16) and “In the Garden” from the Timeless Album, featuring Morravey.

    The eagerly awaited rendition of his acclaimed song, “Unavailable,” featuring Musa Keys, triggered ecstatic chants from the captivated crowd.Following the sensational show, Davido hosted an exclusive after-party to celebrate this monumental achievement with his crew and the contributing artists, solidifying the resounding success of the O2 Arena event.

  • The only people who don’t like me are witches and wizards – A-Plus

    The only people who don’t like me are witches and wizards – A-Plus

    Entertainment pundit and A-Plus has confidently indicated that he is well-loved by the general public, except for individuals he labels as demon-possessed.

    Speaking on The Show, hosted by Serwaa Amihere ESQ, he said his relationship with parliamentary leaders remains positive, notwithstanding an earlier standoff with the Chief Justice that saw him removed from the Majority caucus WhatsApp platform.

    “So the relationship between me and the leadership, including the Honourable Richard Acheampong, is very good. You know, Kwame A-Plus is everybody’s friend. Everybody. If you like, you can pick up your phone and speak with Otumfuo and he will say A-Plus is my grandson. Everybody. The Chief Justice. Me I am every everbody’s friend, brother…the only people who don’t like me are witches and wizards,” he expressed.

    He added that his relationship with the Majority Leader dates back to even before he became a Member of Parliament, describing it as a close and personal bond.

    According to him, they often meet privately at night to hold conversations, stressing that the Majority Leader is a good friend and that many people are unaware of how close they are. He also described Hon. Dafeamekpor as his brother, while referring to Hon. Doe as his girlfriend, joking that she is his “parliamentary girlfriend” in Parliament.

    The Gomoa Central, Member of Parliament, leveled accusations against the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    During an August 12, 2024 interview on Hitz FM, A Plus asserted that many members of the NPP are primarily those who opposed former President Jerry John Rawlings, rather than individuals who truly embrace the party’s ideology.

    A Plus argued that Rawlings sought to reform the system but was often viewed as an adversary by many.

    He pointed out that while Rawlings supported certain churches, he was critical of exploitative practices in others.

    A Plus claimed that some Kumasi pastors engaged in expensive funeral practices opposed by Rawlings, which contributed to their antagonism towards him.

    “Rawlings supported Action Chapel; he supported Archbishop Agyinasare’s church; he supported them and ensured that he got rid of this; go and bring your underwear and let’s burn it churches,” he said.

    This, according to him, led to many pastors being NPP supporters, not because they understood the party’s ideology, but because they disliked Rawlings.

    “So all these pastors, the majority of them, are NPP, and it is not because they understand the ideology; no, they just don’t like Rawlings,” he said.

    A Plus further alleged that numerous NPP members’ parents were implicated in corrupt practices, leading to their arrest or reprimand by Rawlings.

    While reflecting on Rawlings’ legacy, A Plus praised him as a staunch Nkrumahist, drawing a parallel between his charisma and that of Kwame Nkrumah.

    However, A Plus expressed regret that Rawlings ultimately abandoned his original objectives.

    “Rawlings is part of the problem that we are facing now because he gave up. Rawlings was the only person who could tell everybody in Ghana to sleep, and everybody will sleep, so he had the opportunity to do a lot, but at a point he was tired,” he said.

    Popular Ghanaian musician Kuami Eugene has addressed the disparity between how he is perceived on social media and the reality of his relationships with fans, attributing much of the misconception to the rise of platforms like TikTok.

    Speaking during an engagement with fans, the singer highlighted how TikTok has democratized content creation and given everyone a platform to voice their opinions, regardless of their basis in reality.

    “TikTok gives everyone leverage. There’s no big difference between a normal blogger and a girl on TikTok. Sometimes these young girls even have more numbers than your bloggers,” he remarked.

    Kuami Eugene noted that some individuals form opinions about him based on these social media narratives, often portraying him as someone he doesn’t recognize himself to be.

    “Trust me, I’ve had conversations with people, and they think I’m that aggressive, hardcore kind of guy. But personally, I don’t think I’m like that,” he explained.

    The musician went on to emphasize that in real life, he is genuinely appreciated and loved by his fans. Addressing the audience with a warm smile, he said, “In reality, I’m actually loved. You love me, right? I love you guys, too.”

    Kuami Eugene’s reflections offer insight into the challenges public figures face in navigating the gap between online perceptions and real-world interactions. Despite the noise on social media, his heartfelt connection with fans remains undeniable.

  • “He opened his mouth as if he could not breathe” – President Mahama’s funny comment on IShowSpeed’s sheabutter massage

    “He opened his mouth as if he could not breathe” – President Mahama’s funny comment on IShowSpeed’s sheabutter massage

    President John Dramani Mahama has made a funny comment about American YouTube sensation IShowSpeed’s shea-butter massage experience when he visited Ghana.

     At the launch of the SheaPark Resource Hub Project in Wa on Saturday January 31, 2025 the President recalled a moment where his children, with excitement, drew his attention to avideo of the young man in a shea butter museum of some sort.

    “I saw him lying down, and about 10 girls, all with shea butter, were massaging this boy. And the way he was enjoying it, he opened his mouth as if he couldn’t breathe,” President Mahama said with a chuckle. 

    Expressing optimism about IShowSpeed’s return to Ghana, the president said, “That guy, I’m sure he’ll come back here.”

    Popular Ghanaian YouTuber and digital storyteller Wode Maya shed light on what truly happened behind the scenes during IShowSpeed’s widely discussed trip to Ghana.

    In an interview with Bola Ray on GHOne TV, he said the viral clips circulating online captured only a fraction of the full experience.

    Wode Maya explained that the visit came with major logistical challenges, noting that problems began shortly after they arrived in Akropong. Within minutes, a massive crowd had formed, effectively bringing the area to a halt. He said the sudden influx of people made it difficult to control movement and maintain their plans.

    He admitted to being particularly disappointed that details of IShowSpeed’s itinerary had circulated prematurely.

    “I wasn’t happy that information about his movements got out early,” he said, explaining that the leaks undermined several carefully planned surprises. Some of the streamer’s ideas were designed to shock and delight audiences, but once the public already knew what to expect, the impact was lost. As a result, a number of activities had to be called off.

    @marfo_micky

    #ishowspeed #Wodemaya #ghanatiktok🇬🇭 #fyp #ViralVideo

    ♬ original sound – 𝕄 𝕀 𝕔 𝕂 𝕐 👊🏿

    It has emerged that American streamer and YouTuber IShowSpeed could not visit all the places arranged for is tour in Ghana.

    In an interview on Okay FM on January 27, 2026, the deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Abeiku Santana, said IShowSpeed was supposed to visit five (5) more places before ending his tour in Ghana.

    Unfortunately, limited time and the large crowds following him altered the plan.

    “He was supposed to see Reggie Rockstone and go to the Despite Automobile Museum. However, how things worked out yesterday, he couldn’t visit some of the planned places. Republic Bar, Osu Night Market, Goldbod Jewellery, etc. They were all part of the itinerary, but he couldn’t visit them all,” he said.

    Ghana attracted global attention on January 26, 2026, following the arrival of international streamer and content creator Daren Jason Watkins, popularly known as IShowSpeed, as part of his tour of the African continent.

    During the visit, the content creator travelled to Akropong in the Eastern Region, where traditional authorities received him with an Akan naming ceremony.

    The ceremony exposed the streamer to traditional cultural practices, after which he was given the local name Barima Kofi Akuffo.

    Following the naming rite, IShowSpeed boarded a private helicopter that transported him from Akropong to Burma Camp in Accra before proceeding to the Independence Square for scheduled activities.

    The brief helicopter journey from Akropong to Accra became the most tracked flight globally on Flightradar24.

    Reports indicate that flight 9GAFW AS50 ranked first on the platform on January 26, 2026, with more than 3,000 people monitoring the flight while following the livestream.

    The visit, which generated significant public interest, featured several activities, including car stunt displays, a massage session at the shea butter museum, an interaction with the daughter of Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, a boxing experience in Bukom, a backflip at Black Star Square, and a visit to the Asenema Waterfall.

    If you want this tightened further or adjusted to match a news release style, I can refine it

    When American livestreamer iShowSpeed announced plans for an African tour, early reactions from his online audience pointed to Ghana as one of the safest destinations on the continent.

    By January 25, 2026, the streamer arrived in Ghana after visiting several other African countries.

    The visit has sparked debate over the tangible image or economic benefits Ghana stands to gain and whether the impact is mutually beneficial or largely one-sided.

    At face value, the question appears reasonable, particularly around why the arrival of a 21-year-old American streamer has generated significant public interest.

    Understanding the scale of his influence provides some clarity. iShowSpeed has more than 50 million subscribers on YouTube, a figure that surpasses Ghana’s population of just over 30 million.

    In effect, his digital reach exceeds the total number of people living in the country.

    His livestreams often attract more than 200,000 concurrent viewers, with previous broadcasts recording even higher peaks.

    This level of exposure mirrors the audience size governments typically pursue through expensive tourism campaigns, cultural diplomacy, and international branding efforts.

    The tour also challenges traditional tourism promotion models. A single content creator with global reach can achieve in weeks what formal strategies may take years to deliver.

    Unlike state-led marketing campaigns, his streams are not packaged as advertisements, making them appear spontaneous and authentic to viewers.

    Although Speed holds no official tourism ambassador role, his content has shaped perceptions in ways comparable to structured national branding efforts.

    His core audience consists largely of Gen Z viewers, mostly under the age of 26, who represent the next generation of tourists, investors, and cultural consumers.

    Reaching this demographic early positions Ghana for long-term relevance rather than short-term visibility.

    By contrast, many traditional tourism campaigns across the continent have historically targeted older audiences.

    Early signs of impact are already evident elsewhere on the continent. In Benin, Speed’s visit delivered visibility that would normally require significant tourism expenditure.

    Footage from his livestreams also sparked conversations on Ghanaian social media, with users drawing comparisons between Benin’s development and Ghana’s.

    This demonstrates how digital perception can shift in real time through livestreaming rather than brochures or promotional videos.

    For Ghana, the implications extend beyond the immediate visit. A young viewer outside Africa watching Speed experience Ghana live — engaging with local culture, food, and people — may carry that familiarity for years.

    When that viewer eventually has the means to travel, Ghana is likely to remain a recognisable option.

    This is how long-term tourism interest is built, extending beyond present gains to future returns.

    The longevity of digital content further amplifies the impact, as Speed’s videos remain searchable long after his departure.

    Short-form clips will continue circulating on social media, news organisations will reference the visit, and other creators will react or remix the content.

    Increased cultural visibility often coincides with rising interest from the African diaspora and potential investors.

    The broader question, therefore, is not why Ghana should pay attention to a young streamer, but whether the country can afford to overlook such digital influence.

    In an era where soft power is increasingly shaped online, influence no longer rests solely with governments, advertisers, or diplomats.

    At times, it belongs to a single creator with a camera, an internet connection, and millions watching.

  • 16 Oil Marketing Companies under investigation over alleged fuel diversion – OSP announces

    16 Oil Marketing Companies under investigation over alleged fuel diversion – OSP announces

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has disclosed that it is conducting investigations into 16 Oil Marketing Companies over alleged irregularities involving the diversion of marine gas oil and gas oil products lifted in 2023 and 2024.

    This information is contained in the OSP’s 2025 Half-Year Report, published in December 2025 and endorsed by the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng.

    The report indicates that the probes focus on suspected acts of corruption and related offences connected to petroleum products officially loaded during the period under review but allegedly diverted from their intended destinations.

    The companies being investigated are Big Energy, Energetic Petroleum, Goodness Energy, Jet Petroleum, Kabore Oil, La Clem Ghana, Maxx Energy, Moari Oil Company, N3, Naagamni Ghana Ltd., Onxyma Company, Petro Sankofa, Plus Energy, Quantum Petroleum, Sotei Energy, and West Port Petroleum.

    Additionally, the report reveals that the OSP is examining a separate matter involving the alleged diversion of condensate products lifted from the Ghana Gas Plant at Atuabo in 2024. The condensate was originally meant for delivery to the Tema Oil Refinery.

    This aspect of the investigation implicates Maranatha Oil Services, which is suspected of diverting the products using five trucks registered in the name of R.B.A. Goodness Enterprise.

    According to the OSP, the investigations are part of its ongoing mandate to fight corruption and protect public resources within the petroleum and energy sector.

    Last week, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) strongly justified its financial and operational relevance, stating that through investigations and corruption-risk audits, it has generated savings for Ghana that exceed more than twenty times the total funds allocated to the office since it was established in 2018.

    In the Half-Yearly Report covering the second half of 2025 (July to December), which was recently released, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng criticised a fresh move in Parliament to scrap the office, characterising the effort as a distraction orchestrated by vested interests “justly threatened by accountability”.

    The report directly pushes back against claims by critics who have labelled the OSP a “drain on national resources”.

    The Special Prosecutor noted that even though the office remains in its early stages of development and continues to face “immense budgetary challenges”, it has more than justified the resources allocated to it.

    Figures from the OSP indicate that for every cedi spent by the taxpayer on the office, the country has been spared losses exceeding 20 cedis through the disruption of fraudulent contracts, asset recoveries, and the prevention of procurement violations.

    “It cannot be maintained by any form of argument that the Office has not performed as expected and that it is a drain on national resources,” Mr Agyebeng stated in the report. “The Office… had a stellar record and its ultra-high profile and ground-breaking corruption and corruption-related investigations… had saved the nation more than twenty-fold the total amount of money actually released to the Office,” he stated.

    “Therefore, it cannot be maintained by any form of argument that the Office has not performed as expected and that it is a drain on national resources.”

    The report details a period of “existential trial” during which a Private Member’s Bill was introduced in Parliament by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor to repeal the OSP Act (Act 959). The bill sought to return prosecutorial power to the Attorney-General’s Office, citing “administrative inefficiencies”.

    The bill was, however, quickly pulled back after a strong and public intervention by President John Dramani Mahama, who has repeatedly maintained that calls to shut down the office are premature.

    President Mahama maintained that the OSP remains the sole institution with the independence needed to prosecute officials within a sitting government, noting that this responsibility is one for which a Cabinet-member Attorney-General is “not well-suited”.

    By January 2026, the OSP’s influence is reflected in the volume of major cases before it. Key among them is the prosecution of former National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Chief Executive Mustapha Abdul-Hamid and others (CR/0603/2025), as well as ongoing probes into the Airbus SE affair, payroll fraud that prevented losses of more than GHS 34 million in 2024 alone, the Cecilia Dapaah matter, and the continuing corruption-related case involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    The Special Prosecutor also stressed that the office remains open to oversight, citing its regular appearances before parliamentary committees.

    He cautioned, however, that the 2026 fiscal year is likely to bring heightened pushback as the OSP broadens its Lifestyle Audits and Unexplained Wealth Investigations.

    “The Office does not avoid accountability. It welcomes scrutiny,” the statement concluded, while maintaining that current attempts to dismantle the office are “advanced without any reference to the actual performance” of the agency.

    Mr. Agyebeng was administered the Oath of Office and the Oath of Secrecy by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo today, August 5, 2021, at the Jubilee House in Accra.

    He was approved unanimously by Parliament for the role after vetting by the Appointments Committee. Mr. Agyebeng became the second person to occupy the office of Special Prosecutor after Mr. Martin Amidu who resigned in November 2020 amidst controversy.

  • President Mahama to visit Zambia from February 4-6 for bilateral talks, trade and AfCFTA cooperation

    President Mahama to visit Zambia from February 4-6 for bilateral talks, trade and AfCFTA cooperation

    President John Dramani Mahama is getting ready to embark on a three-day State visit to the Republic of Zambia from February 4 to 6, 2026.

    This follows an invitation by his Zambian counterpart, President Hakainde Hichilema to hold bilateral talks with him on matters of mutual interest, including the strengthening of diplomatic relations, enhancement of trade and investment cooperation, and the exploration of collaborative opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    A statement signed by the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu had it that the President will be accompanied by the First Lady of the Republic, Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama.

    “A key highlight of the visit will be an address(by President Mahama) to the National Assembly of Zambia, where he is expected to share Ghana’s vision for a more integrated and prosperous Africa. President Mahama will also meet with members of the Ghanaian community in Lusaka to interact with compatriots living and working in Zambia,” the statement indicated.

    It added that, there will also be a Ghana-Zambia Business Dialogue, co-chaired by Presidents Mahama and Hichilema, providing a platform for Ghana to showcase its digital technologies and fintech services to Zambian businesses and government institutions, while fostering economic partnerships and knowledge exchange between the two countries.

    According to the Presidency, the State Visit underscores President Mahama’s commitment to advancing an Africa that is interconnected through improved transport infrastructure, expanded trade linkages, and the free movement of people and goods.

    President Mahama remains a strong advocate for the accelerated implementation of the AfCFTA, which he believes is critical to transforming African economies, creating sustainable employment opportunities for the continent’s growing youth population, and enhancing Africa’s competitiveness in the global economy.

    Prior to the Zambia visit, President Mahama will depart Accra on Sunday, February 1, 2026, for Dubai in the United Arab Emirates at the invitation of the Ruler of the UAE to participate in the World Governments Summit 2026, scheduled for February 2 to 4.

    He will travel to Dubai aboard a special aircraft provided by the Ruler of the UAE, which will also convey him and his delegation to Zambia for the State Visit.

    In the first quarter of 2025, President John Dramani Mahama arrived in Sierra Leone for a state visit aimed at fostering stronger economic and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    The discussions between President Mahama and his Sierra Leonean counterpart, Julius Maada Bio, also focused on trade, infrastructure development, and regional cooperation. The visit aimed at deepening economic collaboration and exploring new growth opportunities.

    Confirming the visit in a Facebook post on March 18, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide to President Mahama, stated that both leaders engage in high-level discussions covering economic partnerships, social infrastructure, and regional integration.

    Ghana and Sierra Leone share a rich history of mutual support and development cooperation, particularly in times of crisis. In January 2025, President Bio attended Mahama’s inauguration in Accra, underscoring the strong ties between the two West African nations.

    This visit was intended to build on that relationship, reinforcing bilateral trade agreements and advancing initiatives that promote economic stability and sustainable development in the region.

    As key members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ghana and Sierra Leone’s partnership is viewed as essential in driving peace, security, and economic progress across West Africa.

    Talking about state visits, the German President, His Excellency Frank-Walter Steinmeier, also arrived in Ghana for his three-day state visit, the Foreign Affairs Ministry announced.

    In an X (formerly Twitter) post, the Foreign Affairs Minister, who also doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu Constituency, announced the arrival of the President, highlighting the impact of his visit on Ghana-German relations. He arrived on the evening of Sunday, November 2, and was welcomed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and an entourage of cultural group at the Kotoka International Airport.

    Article image 1

    His post read, “An honour to welcome the President of Germany, His Excellency Frank-Walter Steinmeier, to Ghana on behalf of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama. Ghana is absolutely elated to host the German President on a three-day State Visit. The inseparable bond between Ghana and Germany is about to get even stronger and more beneficial to the citizens of our two countries. God bless Ghana and Germany”.

    Article image 2

    President Steinmeier embarked on about seven activities, including holding bilateral talks with his host, President John Mahama, at the Presidency, after which a State Luncheon was held in his honour. He was later scheduled to meet IT specialists in Ghana and, finally, attended a reception at the German Ambassador’s Residence.

    Article image 3

    “The official programme will commence on Monday with President Steinmeier’s inspection of a full military Guard of Honour at the Forecourt of The Presidency. President Steinmeier and his host, President Mahama, will hold a closed-door meeting before joining their respective delegations for bilateral talks in the Credentials Room. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening Ghana-Germany relations, particularly in areas of trade, investment, technology, and development cooperation.

    Article image 4

    A State Luncheon was held in honour of President Steinmeier and his delegation at the Presidential Banquet Hall in the afternoon. Later in the day, the German President was conducted on a guided tour of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, where he laid a wreath at the tomb of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. He also engaged young Ghanaian IT specialists before attending a reception at the German Ambassador’s Residence, as part of the statement listed.

    On Tuesday, November 4, President Steinmeier will travelled to Kumasi on the third day of his visit, where he performed a sod-cutting ceremony at the Kumasi Technical Institute. He also interacted with the Vice Chancellor, staff, and alumni of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

    He also visited the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research before paying a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace”.

    After he embarked on all these activities, President Steinmeier was scheduled to depart Ghana on Tuesday evening”.

    Article image 5

  • 12,000 new military recruits to join Ghana Armed in 2029 — President Mahama announces

    12,000 new military recruits to join Ghana Armed in 2029 — President Mahama announces

    President Mahama has officially announced that twelve thousand (12,000) new Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) personnel will be recruited by the year 2029.

    At the Ghana Military Academy Graduation Parade in Accra on January 31, 2026, for Regular Career Course 64 and Special Duties Course 62, President Mahama stated that recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces will be strictly merit-based, with only qualified individuals given the opportunity to serve among the 256 new officers.

    “Over the next three years, approximately twelve thousand new personnel will be recruited nationwide, supported by the establishment of forward operating basis in strategic border areas. These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to a professional, resilient, and well-equipped armed forces,” the President announced.

    President Mahama emphasized that the recruitment process would be conducted with transparency, fairness, and merit, warning that any form of influence, favoritism, or unauthorized hiring would not be allowed.

    He praised the graduating officers for their discipline and hard work during training, and encouraged them to maintain professionalism, loyalty, and integrity as they serve the nation.

    On matters of national security, the President urged all citizens to remain vigilant and support the security forces, especially in combating terrorism and other emerging threats.

    He stressed that protecting the country’s peace and stability is a shared responsibility, requiring active cooperation between security agencies and the public.

    In November last year, recruitment exercise conducted by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) lead to a stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra.

     It claimed the lives of at least six individuals, with several others who got injured.

    Reports indicated that the incident occurred as thousands of young Ghanaians thronged the stadium, forced their way through the entry points in an attempt to secure enlistment into the Service.

    The bodies of the deceased were deposited at the 37 Military Hospital morgue, while several others received emergency treatment.

    The Ghana Armed Forces announced an extension of the date for its originally scheduled one-month recruitment exercise.

    The national defence force’s recruitment exercise, which was expected to end on October 31, was extended to November 7. GAF announced the new date in an official statement shared on November 1st via their official X (formerly Twitter). The statement titled “Extension of recruitment deadline” and signed by the Acting Director General, Public Relations, Evelyn Ntiamoah Asamoah, reads,

    “The Ghana Armed Forces has extended the deadline for the ongoing recruitment exercise by one week due to some technical challenges encountered on the recruitment portal during the initial period. The new deadline is 7 November 2025.”

    Before the extension, GAF, in a statement signed by Acting Director General for Public Relations, Veronica Afei Arjun, outlined a new development in which the recruitment exercise were conducted in all sixteen (16) regions nationwide.

    It noted that it marked a significant change in the security force’s recruitment process, moving away from the traditional method that was largely centralised in a few selected centres such as Accra, Tamale, and Kumasi. The new approach, GAF explained, ensures equal opportunity for applicants across the country, particularly those in remote or underserved areas who previously had to travel long distances and incur high costs.

    “The Ghana Armed Forces wishes to inform the public that the 2025 Enlistment/Recruitment Exercise into the Ghana Armed Forces will commence in the coming days at all the regional capitals of the 16 Regions of the country. This approach offers equal opportunity for all potential applicants in the entire country,” parts of the statement read.

    According to GAF, recruitment announcements will be made through its official website and Ghana’s two main state-owned national newspapers.

    GAF also warned the public to disregard recruitment advertisements circulating on social media, stressing that no member of the force would issue such notices or ads.

    “The general public is kindly informed that any purported recruitment links on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp or any other social media platforms inviting people for protocol recruitment are a scam and should be ignored. Additionally, no such enlistment/recruitment invitation will emanate from any member of the Ghana Armed Forces or its High Command and should be ignored as well,” it added. “The Ghana Armed Forces counts on the cooperation of the general public in this endeavour.”

    The strong warning came against the backdrop of fraudulent recruitment schemes that have increased in recent years, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. These scams often promise “protocol recruitment,” suggesting backdoor access in exchange for payment.

    Scammers typically impersonate senior officers, circulate fake enlistment links, and demand fees in return for guaranteed placement.

  • President Mahama launches SheaPark Resource Hub to drive industrialisation, economic revival in Upper West

    President Mahama launches SheaPark Resource Hub to drive industrialisation, economic revival in Upper West

    President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched the SheaPark Resource Hub at the Wa Naa’s Palace in the Upper West Region.

    It is designed to process shea into finished products such as cosmetics, ointments and food items for both domestic use and export.

    According to a post shared on the Parliament of Ghana’s Facebook page, the flagship intervention, launched on Saturday, January 31, 2026, will revitalize the Upper West Region’s economy through industrialisation and value addition in the shea sector, positioning the area as a key player in Ghana’s agro-industrial transformation agenda.

    Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, thePresident urged Ghanaians to add value to shea locally rather than exporting raw nuts, warning that the country is losing significant economic benefits by selling the product in its unprocessed form.

    “Our women sell shea nuts cheaply, but when the same shea is processed into lotions and ointments abroad, the value increases many times,” the President said. “We must bring that full value home,” President Mahama urged.

    He said the SheaPark Resource Hub has been set up to keep the harvesting, processing and packaging of shea nuts within Ghana, allowing the country to export finished products rather than raw materials. The initiative is projected to generate employment, raise household incomes and boost domestic industrial capacity.

    President Mahama noted that the project fits squarely into his administration’s 24-hour economy agenda, explaining that economic activity should not be limited to certain periods of the year. He indicated that the facility will run in shifts covering processing, packaging, logistics and distribution, offering continuous job opportunities, particularly for the youth.

    He further pointed out that the creation of sustainable jobs in northern Ghana would help reduce migration pressures and ease economic challenges in the region.

    The President stressed that the SheaPark model prioritises environmentally responsible practices, including climate-resilient farming, efficient land management, the use of clean energy and recycling, while safeguarding natural resources.

    He commended the collaborative effort driving the project, which brings together the state, traditional leaders, private sector players, cooperatives, development partners and members of the diaspora, describing it as a practical example of long-term, inclusive development.

    President Mahama encouraged women and young people in the Upper West Region to fully embrace the opportunity by acquiring skills, pursuing innovation and building competitive businesses. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing infrastructure, policy stability, financing options and a business-friendly environment to support enterprise growth.

    Adding his quota, Rt Hon Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin and the proponent of the initiative described the occasion as a “royal honour and blessing.”

    He noted that the launch marked a significant milestone in efforts to resuscitate the regional economy through sustainable, inclusive and community-driven development.

    The Speaker reiterated that the SheaPark Resource Hub aligns seamlessly with the government’s flagship programmes, particularly the Big Push, the 24-Hour Economy and the Accelerated Export Development agenda.

    He said the initiative draws inspiration from the President’s vision of building a self-reliant, industrially competitive and export-driven Ghanaian economy with integrated value chains and a globally competitive workforce.

    Honourable Aban Bagbin also expressed profound gratitude to the organisers for the invitation to be part of what he termed a historic and potentially impactful intervention.

    SheaPark Resource Hub launch was graced by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana; His Royal Highness Naa Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV, Paramount Chief of Wa; the Member of Parliament for Wa Central; Parliamentary and Presidential staffers; regional ministers; Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs); and several other distinguished guests.

    PBC Shea Limited, a state-owned shea processing factory in the Central Gonja District of the Savannah Region, was revamped by President John Dramani Mahama in 2025.

    The facility, which was commissioned in 2012 to process shea nuts into shea butter and oil, had remained inactive since 2019 due to funding challenges.

    With an estimated annual processing capacity of between 130,000 and 150,000 metric tons of shea nuts, valued at about $118 million, the factory resumed operations under the 24-hour economy policy to strengthen the shea industry and generate employment for young people across the five northern regions.

    PBC Shea Limited produced and distributed 100 per cent natural, refined and unrefined shea butter for both domestic and international markets.

    Rev. Aaron Fant, Board Chairman of PBC Shea Limited, led board members to inspect the reopened facility and commended management and staff for their commitment.

    “I am thrilled to see PBC Shea Limited come back to life after being shut down for several years. Today we can witness the commencement of production, and I am sure the President will be excited, as he entrusted us with this mandate,” he said.

    He expressed confidence that the factory, operating under the 24-hour economy, would generate jobs for young people and women. However, he called on the government to prohibit the export of raw shea nuts, stressing the importance of local value addition.

    “We need adequate raw materials to sustain the factory’s operations. A ban is crucial for the sustainability of both the factory and the shea industry,” he explained.

    Rev. Fant also urged staff to give off their best, reminding them that the factory belonged to all Ghanaians.

    Managing Director Alhaji Abubakari Abdul-Mumin thanked President Mahama for restoring the factory to operation and supported calls for a ban on raw shea nut exports, noting that countries such as Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Togo had already adopted similar measures.

    He expressed optimism that the operations of PBC Shea Limited would expand, create more jobs and help reduce unemployment in Ghana.

  • When prophecy fails – A case of Prophet El Bernard Nelson-Eshun

    When prophecy fails – A case of Prophet El Bernard Nelson-Eshun

    “No prophet sees the whole picture; only God does. Prophecy, by its nature, is partial and subject to human limitations”.

    The public apology issued by Prophet El Bernard Nelson-Eshun following the failure of a prophetic declaration concerning the New Patriotic Party’s presidential primaries has sparked widespread discussion across Ghana.

    Beyond the controversy itself, the episode presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on the limits of prophetic authority, the dangers of excess, and the importance of humility in public ministry.

    In this instance, Prophet El Bernard’s prophecy did not remain a single spiritual declaration. It was consistently repeated across church services, reinforced through a published book, videos, radio and media interviews, and a public appearance at campaign-related programme.

    Over time, the message appeared settled and certain, leaving little room for doubt or discernment. In fact, critics who questioned the prophecy were often met with strong and uncompromising responses, further entrenching the impression of prophetic infallibility.

    Yet Scripture consistently teaches that certainty of the future belongs to God alone. The Bible records God declaring that He alone “declares the end from the beginning” (Isaiah 46:9–10). This distinction is foundational. No prophet, regardless of conviction or visibility, shares in God’s omniscience.

    The New Testament reinforces this limitation. The Apostle Paul acknowledged that believers “know in part and prophesy in part” (1 Corinthians 13:9). This admission establishes that prophecy is inherently partial and subject to interpretation. Repetition, confidence, or media amplification does not convert partial revelation into absolute truth.

    Biblically, prophets are servants, not guarantors of outcomes. Amos 3:7 describes prophets as servants to whom God reveals His intentions. The servant role demands humility and restraint. When prophecy is amplified across platforms and defended aggressively against all criticism, the line between divine message and human certainty becomes blurred.

    Scripture also places responsibility on the community of believers. Christians are instructed not to despise prophecy, but to test all things and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:20–21). Testing requires openness, patience, and the willingness to accept correction. Fierce responses to critics undermine this biblical safeguard.

    The Bible is clear on how unfulfilled prophecy should be addressed. Deuteronomy 18:22 states that when a prophetic word does not come to pass, it was not spoken by the Lord. The passage calls for honesty, not defensiveness.

    It is here that Prophet El Bernard’s public apology deserves commendation. By openly admitting the error, accepting responsibility, and asking for forgiveness, he has demonstrated humility that aligns with Scripture. James 4:6 reminds believers that God gives grace to the humble. Public accountability, especially in a highly visible prophetic ministry, is not weakness. It is obedience.

    Biblical history supports this approach. Nathan the prophet once assured King David that he could build the temple, only to later return with a corrected message after further revelation from God (2 Samuel 7). Nathan did not entrench his earlier position or attack dissenting voices; he corrected himself. His integrity was preserved because he chose humility over pride.

    Jesus warned that many false prophets would arise and that discernment would be essential (Matthew 24:11). This warning speaks not only to deliberate deception, but also to unchecked certainty and untested declarations. In a deeply religious society like Ghana, where prophetic pronouncements can influence political decisions and public expectations, restraint and accountability are critical.

    In Ghana, where prophetic words often influence public opinion politics and personal decisions, the failure of a prophecy is a lesson for everyone, It reminds us that even the most respected spiritual voices are human and that integrity and humility matter more than certainty.

    Prophet El Bernard’s apology sets a standard stuck in admitting the mistake, seeking forgiveness and leading with responsibility .It affirms a central biblical truth that only God is infallible and prophets communicate what they believe they have seen, heard or received.

    As Romans 3:4 reminds believers, God remains true even when every human voice proves fallible. Recognizing this truth and acting on it through humility and accountability is the way forward for El Bernard’s prophetic ministry in Ghana’s public life.

    By: Nii Apatu-Plange

    (Born-again Christian)

    Source: Myjoyonline.com

  • “We have voted for peace, and for the future of the NPP” – Chairman Wontumi

    “We have voted for peace, and for the future of the NPP” – Chairman Wontumi

    In the quest of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to reconcile and unite ahead of the 2028 general elections, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi,  says the party is prepared to rally behind its elected presidential candidate 

    He made the comments after voting at the Manhyia South polling station in the Ashanti Region.

    As the campaign drew to a close, the party experienced isolated incidents of tension, with personal exchanges between some contenders and their supporters, sparking worries about internal unity going into the 2028 elections.

    Chairman Wontumi, however, is confident that choosing a flagbearer early, while the party is in opposition, will allow sufficient time to mend rifts, strengthen cohesion, and prepare the NPP to return to power.

    “We have voted for peace, and we have voted for the future of the NPP,” he said.

    “The party has chosen its flagbearer for Ghana, and as delegates can see, the atmosphere is peaceful. Peace will prevail, and there will be victory.”

    He added that the party is committed to supporting the eventual winner to restore harmony within its ranks.

    “We are going to support him to bring peace into our party. That is the reason for holding early presidential primaries.

    “This exercise was not meant to undermine the NPP’s constitution, but to strengthen the party and give us enough time to campaign effectively,” Chairman Wontumi stated.

    Balloting in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries has come to an end, with delegates across the country voting to choose the party’s flagbearer for the next general elections.

    A total of more than 211,000 delegates took part in the polls, which were conducted at 333 voting centres spanning all 275 constituencies nationwide.

    Throughout the process, heightened security arrangements were put in place, while party officials closely monitored proceedings to guarantee orderliness.

    Across several constituencies, the sorting and compilation of votes are currently in progress, and preliminary results have started filtering in from parts of the country. Party leaders have assured stakeholders of openness and fairness as the process moves forward.

    Below are the results so far received

    NPP Headquarters

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 160

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 3

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 308

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 7

    Assin Central 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 495

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 4

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 28

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 1

    Kwabena Agyepong – 1

    Bimbilla 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 61

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 118

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia –

    Dr Yaw Adutwum –

    Kwabena Agyepong –

    Adansi Asokwa

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 114

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 70

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 306

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Yabaga/Kubori

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 0

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 0

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 379

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Effiduase Asokore

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 26

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 114

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 456

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Sekondi 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 81

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 39

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 392

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Okere

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 164

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 169

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 162

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Bole Bamboi

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 71

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 375

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 4

    Ho Central

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 233

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 227

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Akim Swedru

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 45

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 66

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 177

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Klottey Korley

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 125

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 60

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 366

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Nkawkaw 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 129

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 312

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 368

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

  • I expected a 60% win for Kennedy Agyapong at Nhyieso -Stephen Amoah

    I expected a 60% win for Kennedy Agyapong at Nhyieso -Stephen Amoah

    Results for Kennedy Agyapong at the Nhyiaeso constituency in the just-ended New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer race have come as a surprise to Member of Parliament for Nyhiaeso, Dr Stephen Amoah.

    According to Stephen Amoah, he expected Mr Agyapong to earn a comfortable victory, due to the investments made by his campaign team.

    “It’s very surprising because I thought Kennedy was going to win by 60%,” Dr Amoah said.

    the lawmaker said the strong presence and intensive campaign activities of the Ken Campaign in the area had created expectations of a different result, adding that the outcome fell short of what many people on the ground had predicted.

    Meanwhile, former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has so far been declared the winner in Nhyiaeso.

    Nhyiaeso Constituency

    Kennedy Agyapong -321

    Bryan Acheampong- 91

    Dr Mahammudu Bawumia – 379

    Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum – 4

    Kwabena Agyapong- 0

    Total Delegates- 889

    NPP Headquarters

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 160

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 3

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 308

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 7

    Assin Central 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 495

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 4

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 28

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 1

    Kwabena Agyepong – 1

    Bimbilla 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 61

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 118

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia –

    Dr Yaw Adutwum –

    Kwabena Agyepong –

    Adansi Asokwa

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 114

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 70

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 306

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Yabaga/Kubori

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 0

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 0

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 379

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Effiduase Asokore

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 26

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 114

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 456

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Sekondi 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 81

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 39

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 392

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Okere

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 164

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 169

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 162

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Bole Bamboi

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 71

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 375

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 4

    Ho Central

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 233

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 227

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Akim Swedru

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 45

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 66

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 177

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Klottey Korley

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 125

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 60

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 366

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Nkawkaw 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 129

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 312

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 368

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

  • 2026 NPP Presidential Primary: Police arrest 2 delegates for using body cameras

    2026 NPP Presidential Primary: Police arrest 2 delegates for using body cameras

    The arrest of two elegates suspected of using body cameras to film their ballots during the ongoing voting exercise has been announced by Ashanti South Regional Police Command.

    It indicated that the arrest was made in the Adansi Asokwa Constituency.

    In an interview with Channel One News on Saturday, January 31, the Ashanti South Regional Police Commander, DCOP Joseph Hammond Nyaaba, disclosed that the suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

    He stressed that such actions violate electoral rules and undermine the integrity of the voting process.

    “When we got to the polling centres, we realised that some of the delegates were with body cameras on their chests to capture their ballots, and they had been arrested.

    “Delegates should stop bringing cameras to the voting centres because if you are found, you will be arrested and dealt with,” he said.

    He warned delegates not to carry any recording devices into the polling centres.

    One person was arrested by the police for reportedly destroying a poster of a contestant in the Akwatia by-election, in the Eastern Region on September 2.

    The police’s swift intervention has ensured that the incident does not cause any disruption.

    More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, casted their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.

    Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

    He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.

    Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

    In February 2025, security tensions heightened at the re-run of the Council of State election in the Ashanti Region after police arrested a supporter of one of the candidates for breaching security protocols.

    The suspect, believed to be an ally of former NDC regional chairman Yaw Obimpeh, was detained after attempting to bypass barricades set up by law enforcement officers at the election venue.

    The individual, along with others, reportedly ignored police directives to remain behind the restricted area.

    The poll was a repeat ofprevious election disrupted following an attack on Electoral Commission (EC) officials by a group of thugs. The violent incident led to the destruction of election materials, including cast ballot papers, prompting authorities to call off the process.

    In response, the police strengthened security measures to prevent a recurrence. Vehicles were barred from accessing the election venue, and six police-manned barricades were erected along roads leading to the Prempeh Assembly Hall. Additionally, the surrounding streets were closed to traffic.

    Hundreds of police officers were deployed to the area, equipped with crowd control gear to maintain order as the election proceeded.

    Following the disturbance and violence that erupted during the Ablekuma North by-elections, police have beefed up efforts to prevent a similar occurrence at Akwatia.

    The Akwatia by-election is slated for Tuesday, September 2. The election has become a necessity following the tragic passing of the Member of Parliament for the area, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who had only served for six months.

    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons, confiscating nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

    The firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun.

    This was announced in a statement shared on their official Facebook page earlier today. They revealed that “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process”.

    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle being driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia.

    Following a search, of the vehicle, they found a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks.

    Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license. He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification.

  • Results recorded so far in NPP’s Presidential Primaries

    Results recorded so far in NPP’s Presidential Primaries

    Balloting in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries has come to an end, with delegates across the country voting to choose the party’s flagbearer for the next general elections.

    A total of more than 211,000 delegates took part in the polls, which were conducted at 333 voting centres spanning all 275 constituencies nationwide.

    Throughout the process, heightened security arrangements were put in place, while party officials closely monitored proceedings to guarantee orderliness.

    Across several constituencies, the sorting and compilation of votes are currently in progress, and preliminary results have started filtering in from parts of the country. Party leaders have assured stakeholders of openness and fairness as the process moves forward.

    Below are the results so far received

    NPP Headquarters

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 160

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 3

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 308

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 7

    Assin Central 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 495

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 4

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 28

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 1

    Kwabena Agyepong – 1

    Bimbilla 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 61

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 118

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia –

    Dr Yaw Adutwum –

    Kwabena Agyepong –

    Adansi Asokwa

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 114

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 70

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 306

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Yabaga/Kubori

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 0

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 0

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 379

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Effiduase Asokore

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 26

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 114

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 456

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Sekondi 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 81

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 39

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 392

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 0

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Okere

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 164

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 169

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 162

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Bole Bamboi

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 71

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 375

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 4

    Ho Central

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 142

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 233

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 227

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 8

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Akim Swedru

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 45

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 66

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 177

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 2

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

    Klottey Korley

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 125

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 60

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 366

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 2

    Nkawkaw 

    Kennedy Agyapong  – 129

    Dr Bryan Acheampong – 312

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia – 368

    Dr Yaw Adutwum – 3

    Kwabena Agyepong – 0

  • Bawumia secures 308 votes, Ken Agyapong gets 160 at NPP headquarters

    Bawumia secures 308 votes, Ken Agyapong gets 160 at NPP headquarters

    Former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, chalked up a clear win at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) headquarters polling station, polling 308 votes from the total ballots cast.

    Businessman Kennedy Ohene Agyapong emerged as his nearest rival at the party’s national office with 160 votes, while the remaining three contenders recorded much lower figures.

    Figures from the NPP headquarters indicate that Dr Bawumia captured roughly 64 percent of the votes, compared to about 33 percent obtained by Mr Agyapong.

    Former Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum and former Food and Agriculture Minister Dr Bryan Acheampong each received three votes, while former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong polled seven votes.

    Nationwide, more than 211,000 delegates are expected to cast their ballots across over 300 polling centres.

  • At no time have I been anywhere near the voting area as claimed – Afenyo-Markin clarifies

    At no time have I been anywhere near the voting area as claimed – Afenyo-Markin clarifies

    Minority Leader in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has debunked claims that he went near a polling station in the constituency to influence voters during the New Patriotic Party’s ongoing flagbearer contest.

    Mr Afenyo-Markin described the allegations as false and misleading, saying he has strictly adhered to the Electoral Commission and party guidelines throughout the process.

    “At no time have I been anywhere near the voting area as claimed, nor have I engaged in any conduct that could be construed, even remotely, as undue influence,” he stated.

    The Effutu MP said his activities in the constituency were restricted to casting his vote and carrying out legitimate oversight, in line with the regulations guiding the process.

    Mr Afenyo-Markin added that the accusation forms part of what he described as a sustained and coordinated effort by opponents to discredit him since the start of the flagbearer contest.

    He further referenced a previous episode in which an edited video circulated on social media after the NPP peace pact was signed in Accra on January 22, 2026, wrongly implying that he declined to applaud a specific candidate.

    “These vile tactics are as transparent as they are desperate,” he said.

    The Minority Leader urged the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and political stakeholders to uphold peace, ensure transparency, and protect the credibility of the democratic process, cautioning that the spread of misinformation could undermine public trust in elections.

    “Crass fabrications such as these only seek to sow discord and undermine the integrity of our democracy,” he added, urging all parties to allow the process to proceed freely and fairly.

    He further invited journalists and independent observers to verify events on the ground in Winneba, noting that media coverage provides objective accounts of developments at polling centres.

    Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah has predicted Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • Photos: Over 200,000 delegates vote to elect NPP flagbearer

    Photos: Over 200,000 delegates vote to elect NPP flagbearer

    More than 211,000 delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are casting their votes to choose the party’s flagbearer for the December 7, 2028, presidential election.

    Among those competing for the position are Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Bryan Acheampong, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    In the run-up to the January 31 contest, the stakes are high, as the winner will face the yet-to-be-determined flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    While many polls have favored Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, some indicate that Kennedy Agyapong could pull off a surprise victory.

    Meanwhile, Kwabena Agyepong, Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Bryan Acheampong are hoping for an upset to challenge expectations.

    As voting continues, the real test is now underway, and the close of polls will settle all debates, analyses, and predictions.

    Here are photos from some voting centres:

    Source: 3news

  • Elderly delegate permitted to vote from taxi by polling officials

    Elderly delegate permitted to vote from taxi by polling officials

    A delegated and aged man who walks with the aid of a stick has been allowed to vote in a taxi in which he arrived at one of the polling centres in the Ablekuma North Constituency.

    Confirming the incident, 3news indicates that polling officials took the ballot paper to him in the car to vote.

    The delegate

    In a related update, an 87-year-old woman made her way to a voting centre in the Northern Region to participate in the election.

    She arrived riding as a passenger on a motorcycle.

    Despite requiring help to walk, her determination to vote was evident in the brisk pace of her steps.

    She is part of more than 211,000 delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) casting their ballots to choose the party’s flagbearer for the December 7, 2028, presidential election.

    The contenders for the position include Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Bryan Acheampong, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    In the lead-up to the January 31 contest, the election has gained significance, as the winner will go on to compete against the yet-to-be-determined flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    While many surveys have favored Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, some suggest a possible win for Kennedy Agyapong. Meanwhile, Kwabena Agyepong, Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Bryan Acheampong are hoping for a surprise to overturn expectations.

    For now, the true outcome will only be revealed as voting proceeds, with results at the close of the day set to settle all discussions, analyses, and predictions.

    Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah has predicted Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • The rest is left to divine providence – Words of Adutwum after casting ballot

    The rest is left to divine providence – Words of Adutwum after casting ballot

     Flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, has voted in the party’s internal polls at St. George Catholic School in the Bosomtwe Constituency.

    About 1,042 delegates are expected to cast their ballots at the venue.

    After voting, Dr Adutwum told journalists that he was thankful to party officials and supporters in the constituency for their dedication to his campaign.

    “I am very appreciative of the work that has been done by the leaders of this constituency, rallying around me to campaign for me. They have done everything it takes to ensure that we end this race with pride. And we are ending with pride,” he said.

    He reflected on his political journey, describing his candidature as a product of divine direction.

    “If someone had told me growing up that one day I would run for the flagbearership of a major party like the NPP, even if the person was a prophet, I would have said no, not me. But today, I am here. Divine Providence has brought me this far,” he noted.

    Dr Adutwum said he is optimistic about his prospects in the contest, noting that reports from his campaign agents nationwide have been encouraging.

    Responding to a question on whether he anticipates victory at the end of voting, he said, “By the grace of God. I’ve done what human beings can do. The rest is left to Divine Providence.”

    Touching on party cohesion after the election, Dr Adutwum described himself as the candidate best positioned to unite the party going forward.

    “I have always maintained that I am the most unifying of all the contestants. On the campaign trail, I never said anything untoward about any of the aspirants. So none of their followers will have a problem following Dr Yaw Adutwum. I ran a dignified campaign,” he stated.

    The New Patriotic Party is conducting its nationwide internal elections to choose a flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwah has predicted Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to win 14 out of the 16 regions.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, January 28, he noted that Dr. Bawumia would sweep massive votes in the party’s stronghold, the Ashanti Region.

    He added, “Yes, [Bawumia will win in 14 regions out of 16 regions].“All the areas we have looked at are pointing in one direction, and that direction is that Bawumia will win this Saturday’s election one-touch.

    According to him, “Based on our model, his lowest score will be 54 percent, which is the 57 percent we are giving him minus the three percent margin of error, or he could get up to 60 percent”.The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics emphasised that the data is consistent across all regions. “I am very confident in Bawumia’s numbers because they are more stable in terms of variability. There is no noise in the data,” he added.

    Last year, the National Tracking Poll by Global InfoAnalytics disclosed that 56 per cent of voters and 72 per cent of committed NPP delegates want former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

    According to the poll, 28 per cent of voters are rooting for former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, with 6 per cent each for Dr Bryan Acheampong and Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum, and 4 per cent supporting Kwabena Agyapong.

    Among NPP delegates, 19 per cent want Kennedy Agyapong, while Dr Bryan Acheampong records 4 per cent, Dr Osei-Adutwum 3 per cent, and Kwabena Agyapong 1 per cent.

    The poll was conducted between December 1 and December 21 across all 16 regions of the country. Methods used include a combination of web-based, telephone, and face-to-face interviews.

    In October 2025, the Pan-African civil society organisation Sanity Africa, which predicted the victory of Bernard Baidoo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the tightly contested Akwatia by-election, released its Phase Two survey on the NPP presidential primaries.

    According to the organisation’s survey, there has been a shift in the landscape as the party gears up towards the January 2026 primaries.

    The abridged October report suggests that Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, popularly known as Ken, has strengthened his lead among NPP delegates, commanding 53.1% of voting intentions, representing a 1.7 percentage-point increase from the Phase One survey conducted in July.

    Dr Mahamudu Bawumia (DMB) trails with 39.0%, indicating a 3.2-point drop. Behind them are Dr Bryan Acheampong at 5.0% (up 1.9 points), Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum at 2.0% (down 1.0 point), and Ing. Kwabena A. Agyepong at 0.9% (rising from 0.3%).

    The survey, carried out between July and October 2025, sampled 15,000 delegates from an estimated 218,000 in the expanded voter album across all 276 constituencies.

    It boasts a 99% confidence level with a ±5% margin of error. At the regional level, Ken Agyapong sits atop as the leading candidate in 10 out of Ghana’s 16 regions, including strongholds such as Ashanti (54.8%), Central (69.0%), and Eastern (54.8%).

    His biggest contender, Dr Bawumia, on the other hand, still holds his lead in the northern sector, with an advantage in the remaining six regions. He leads in the North East (70.0%) and Upper West (60.2%). Competitive races are unfolding in Bono East, Savannah, and Upper East, where margins remain slim.

    Notable shifts include Dr Bawumia widening his lead in the North East Region from 51.6% to 70.0%, while Ken strengthened his position in Volta (50.8%) and Bono (53.0%).

    Dr Bryan Acheampong registered significant gains in his home region of Eastern, rising to 21.7%. Sanity Africa noted that these shifts reflect evolving delegate sentiments influenced by campaign strategies and regional dynamics.

    The organisation emphasised that while Ken Agyapong currently has the upper hand, the contest remains fluid. Endorsements, messaging, and campaign strategies, it said, are expected to play critical roles in shaping the outcome.

    With Phase Three of the survey scheduled for release in January 2026, Sanity Africa concluded that Ken may be the one to beat, but the race is far from over.

    However, the Global InfoAnalytics tracking poll named Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the people’s preferred candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election, ahead of his closest contender, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The poll suggests that 57% of voters prefer Dr Bawumia as the party’s presidential candidate, while 29% picked Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.

    The other contenders—former Minister of Education Dr Yaw Osei-Adutwum (6%), Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong (5%), and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong (3%)—trailed behind.

    In the critical swing regions of Greater Accra, Central, and Western, Dr Bawumia also led decisively with 57%, followed by Kennedy Agyapong at 32%. Dr Adutwum and Dr Acheampong each secured 4%, while Kwabena Agyapong obtained 3%.

    The survey further indicated that in a potential runoff between Dr Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, Dr Bawumia would extend his lead with 62% against Agyapong’s 38%.

  • Kpandai Ruling: It is unconstitutional for Supreme Court’ to adjudicate an election petition – Tanko-Computer

    Kpandai Ruling: It is unconstitutional for Supreme Court’ to adjudicate an election petition – Tanko-Computer

    The Deputy Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Rashid Tanko-Computer, has challenged the Supreme Court’s authority to hear election petition cases.

    He argues that Article 91(1) of the Constitution does not grant the apex court the power to determine election petitions, maintaining that jurisdiction over such cases lies solely with the High Court.

    “The Supreme Court doesn’t have the jurisdiction of the substance of the matter. If you look at the PNDC Law 284. That of the election petition, under article 91 (1) of the constitution, it is only the High Court that goes into the election petition matter, the Supreme Court doesn’t deal with that,” he argued.

    He argued that although the apex court has supervisory authority over all matters, it is unconstitutional for it to adjudicate an election petition: “When it comes to the substance of the matter and the intricacies of an election petition under Article 91(1), it is the High Court that has jurisdiction, not the Supreme Court.”

    Mr Tanko-Computer made the remarks during JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, January 31, in reaction to the Supreme Court’s recent decision on the Kpandai parliamentary election.

    On January 28, the Supreme Court, in a 4–1 split decision, set aside a High Court judgment that had nullified the Kpandai parliamentary election, which was won by Matthew Nyindam of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The ruling came after Mr Nyindam filed an application asking the apex court to exercise its supervisory authority, arguing that the High Court acted beyond its jurisdiction in annulling the election.

    The Supreme Court agreed with his argument, a move that reinstated him as the duly elected Member of Parliament.

    According to Tanko-Computer, the apex court’s intervention reflects a flawed reading of the constitutional provisions on election disputes, warning that such rulings risk weakening coherence and predictability within Ghana’s electoral justice system.

    Mr Tanko-Computer added that the NDC is not satisfied with the ruling, “We are a law-abiding political party, but we disagree with the ruling.”

    “We are waiting for the reason behind their ruling on the 6th of February, and we will advise ourselves appropriately,” he emphasised.

    Controversies surrounding the Kpandai parliamentary seat have received a reaction from the Supreme Court. Today, Tuesday, December 16, the Supreme Court ordered that the parliamentary rerun election in the area, scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, be suspended until further notice.

    The legal team of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate Matthew Nyindam has also been directed by the Supreme Court to follow due process in serving the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal. Meanwhile, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, has been set for the next hearing.

    Weeks ago, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Kpandai constituency, Mathew Nyindam, filed an application challenging the recent High Court ruling on the 2024 parliamentary elections in the area.

    Earlier this year, the former Member of Parliament and NDC parliamentary candidate for Kpandai, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, submitted a petition to the Tamale High Court challenging the results of the 2024 parliamentary election in the constituency.

    According to the petitioner, the Kpandai parliamentary election was marred by irregularities in the voting and collation processes. He argued that Pink Sheets from many polling stations were not accurate or consistent.

    He stated: “The parliamentary election held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 was not conducted in compliance with Regulations 39 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (CI 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 39, and that the said non-compliance affected the results of the elections.

    “The declaration and publication of the parliamentary election results held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 were not made in compliance with Regulations 43 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 43, and that the said non-compliance affected the entire results of the parliamentary elections in the Kpandai constituency.”

    However, Mathew Nyindam has argued that “The Parliamentary Election Petition filed by the 1st Interested Party on 25th January 2025, in respect of the Parliamentary Election held at the Kpandai Constituency on 7th December 2024, was invalid and could not have properly invoked the jurisdiction of the High Court, Commercial Division, Tamale.”

    This will be the second time the country has had a rerun of elections after the 2024 general polls. Ablekuma North had remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote.

    In view of this, the Electoral Commission (EC) on Friday, July 11, held a rerun election in 19 polling stations in Ablekuma North to provide constituents with a representative. Ewurabena Aubynn polled 34,090 votes to beat the NPP’s Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.

    On December 10, 2024, three days after the national polls, the EC declared Ewurabena Aubynn of the NDC the winner of the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat, defeating the NPP’s Nana Akua Owusu Afriyieh.

    However, the EC later revoked the announcement, revealing that results from 62 of the 281 polling stations had not been included in the initial collation.

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges. These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified Pink Sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    After extensive deliberations, the Electoral Commission in July announced that it would hold a rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

    The EC arrived at this decision after meeting with representatives of the NDC and the NPP on Tuesday, July 1.

  • Go and look for your ID card before you come to vote – Isaac Baah Boamah tells delegates

    Go and look for your ID card before you come to vote – Isaac Baah Boamah tells delegates

    A leading member of the NPP Presidential Election Committee, Isaac Baah Boamah, has cautioned delegates to come to the polling stations with their ID cards, stressing that voting will not be permitted without proper identification.

    Speaking with Citi News ahead of the polls, Isaac Baah Boamah, emphasized that, no person will be allowed to vote based on “vouching” or verbal confirmation from party elders.

    Delegates must present one of four approved documents to gain entry.

    “We have approved four forms of identification; any one of them will be a permissible voter’s ID, party ID, national passport, or Ghana card. Any delegate without an ID cannot cast a ballot,” Boamah noted, adding a final warning: “I urge every delegate to go and look for their ID card before they come to vote,” he indicated.

    According to the guidelines provided for the presidential primaries, Mr Boamah said there will be zero tolerance for any form of vote-buying at the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary today.

    Thus the NPP has banned all mobile phones and foreign materials from the inner voting perimeters to safeguard the secrecy of the ballot.

    Also, he added that all polling venues nationwide will be clearly divided into three separate areas.

    The outer area will serve as the entry point, where officials will confirm the identity of delegates.

    The middle area will function as a holding and orientation space, allowing delegates to receive final instructions and line up.

    The inner area will be a tightly secured zone reserved exclusively for the casting of ballots.

    “The electoral officials, per the guidelines, have been told that it is a walk-in exercise. The areas will be demarcated into three sections: the outer section, the middle section, and the inner section. The outer section is where the electoral officials will identify you using your ID card for this exercise,” Mr Boamah explained.

    According to the NPP, any delegate caught violating these directives will face immediate arrest and criminal prosecution, alongside being stripped of their right to cast a ballot.

    This measure is reportedly aimed at stopping delegates from taking ballot selfies—photos of their marked ballots—which are often used as proof of vote in exchange for monetary inducements.

    “When you enter the inner circle, you are not supposed to go in with any foreign material, including mobile phones,” Mr Boamah stated firmly.

    Today’s poll will determine who leads the “Elephant Party” into the next general election. The ballot paper will feature five prominent figures:

    Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (Former Vice President)

    Kennedy Ohene Agyapong (Former MP for Assin Central)

    Dr. Bryan Acheampong (MP for Abetifi)

    Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (MP for Bosomtwe)

    Kwabena Agyepong (Former NPP General Secretary)

      The New Patriotic Party (NPP) officially announced today, 31st January 2026, as the date for its presidential primaries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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