Chairman of the committee investigating the recent disturbances during the vetting of ministerial nominees, Emmanuel Bedzrah, has assured that the probe is focused on uncovering facts, not victimizing any Member of Parliament.
Speaking at a press conference on February 3, alongside committee members, the Ho West MP emphasized the committee’s commitment to a fair and transparent process.
“The committee would like to place on record that it is not part of its job to target or witch-hunt anyone. We’re not here to witch-hunt any of our colleagues or Members of Parliament. This work is to look for evidence of any Member of Parliament who may have flouted the rules of engagement in this house,” he stated at the committee’s first public meeting.
He urged all stakeholders, including MPs, the media, and individuals present during the vetting, to provide relevant information to support a peaceful and collaborative atmosphere in Parliament.
As part of its work, the committee will hold public hearings, allowing witnesses to testify openly about the events that led to the chaotic scenes on January 30.
The seven-member committee, established by Speaker Alban Bagbin on January 31, 2025, has been tasked with identifying those responsible for the disruptions and recommending appropriate sanctions.
In an address to the House, Speaker Bagbin warned that public funds would not be used to cover the cost of any damaged items resulting from the altercations. Instead, MPs found guilty of misconduct would bear the financial burden of repairs.
Meanwhile, four MPs have already been handed a two-week suspension as a consequence of the disorder.
Ghana’s inflation rate dropped to 23.5% in January 2025, marking a slight decline after four consecutive months of rising inflation.
The latest figures indicate a slowdown in price increases after inflation peaked at 23.8% in December 2024, missing the government’s end-of-year target of 15%.
Food inflation, however, remains a concern, climbing from 27.8% in December to 28.3% in January. In contrast, non-food inflation continued its downward trajectory, easing from 20.3% in the previous month to 19.2%.
Providing further insights into the inflation trend, Government Statistician Professor Samuel Kobina Annim stated:
“In January 2025, general price levels of goods and services went up by 23.5%. Between January 2024 and January 2025, general price of goods and services went up by 23.5%.
This indicates a disinflation as the rate of inflation has slowed down by 0.3 percentage points, slowing down from the year-end 2024 figure of 23.8% to 23.5% for the month of January 2025,” he explained.
The Minority in Parliament has raised alarms over what they describe as increasing threats to their safety, prompting them to take measures to strengthen their security.
Addressing the press on Monday, February 3, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority of intimidation and harassment, stating that New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs were being targeted.
“We’ve been cooperative, but they’re bullies,” he declared. “They intimidate us, and if we don’t stand strong, they’ll continue to bully us and we won’t allow that.”
He pointed to a recent development in the Appointments Committee, where an initial agreement to vet three ministerial nominees was unexpectedly changed by the NDC, leading to five nominees being vetted instead.
Beyond procedural disputes, Afenyo-Markin alleged that NPP MPs have been subjected to physical intimidation by NDC foot soldiers.
“We’ve brought this to the attention of Parliament Police, and we’re taking steps to beef up our security,” he revealed. “The attacks are becoming too frequent, and we don’t feel safe.”
He also defended the NPP MPs’ conduct during their protest on Thursday night, stressing that they were law-abiding and did not damage public property. Afenyo-Markin called on critics to review footage of the incident before drawing conclusions.
Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, has extended financial assistance to teachers of Nkyenekyene Presbyterian Basic School following a devastating fire that razed their bungalow in the Kwahu South Municipality.
The fire, which broke out on January 9, reportedly started after a mentally challenged individual set the structure ablaze, leaving the affected teachers without shelter and resulting in severe property losses.
In a swift response, Mr. Opoku visited the scene to assess the extent of the damage and provided GH¢10,000 to the Education Directorate to help temporarily house the displaced teachers.
Additionally, he made a separate cash donation to two female teachers who lost their personal belongings in the incident, supplementing this with bags of rice to help them cope in the aftermath.
Recognizing the need for improved fire emergency responses in the area, the MP also allocated GH¢10,000 to the Ghana National Fire Service to aid in fuel acquisition for emergency operations.
Authorities have since apprehended the suspect behind the fire, and investigations are currently ongoing.
The European Union (EU) has pledged to deepen its security collaboration with Ghana following the appointment of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah as the country’s new Minister for Defence.
The EU Delegation to Ghana extended its congratulations to Dr. Omane Boamah, who was officially sworn into office last week by President John Dramani Mahama, marking a new chapter in Ghana’s defence and security leadership.
Reaffirming its commitment to Ghana’s security, the EU emphasized its longstanding role as a “trusted and reliable security partner” to the country.
Over the years, the EU has played a crucial role in supporting Ghana’s military through strategic partnerships in peace, security, and defence. This collaboration has facilitated the supply of essential military equipment and resources tailored to strengthen Ghana’s defence operations and regional stability.
As part of this continued partnership, discussions are expected between the Minister and the EU delegation regarding the delivery of military equipment at the end of February, forming part of a €50 million defence package aimed at enhancing Ghana’s security infrastructure.
Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has accused the NDC Majority of employing intimidation tactics against his caucus, insisting that his side will not succumb to pressure.
Speaking to the press, Afenyo-Markin expressed frustration over what he described as unfair treatment from the Majority, despite his caucus’s willingness to cooperate on government matters.
“This is the first time in the history of the 4th Republic that a Minority in Parliament is allowing the government to form, appoint its ministers in record time,” he said.
According to him, despite their cooperation, the Majority continues to “bully and intimidate” the Minority.
“We’ve been most cooperative with the NDC Majority, but they are bullies. They bully. They intimidate, and if you don’t stand strong, they will bully you. We will never be bullied,” he stressed.
The Minority Caucus has reaffirmed its commitment to resisting any form of intimidation, declaring that they remain resolute in their duties as the opposition.
“Indeed, we are going through difficult moments, but we will never be intimidated. Aluta continua, victoria acerta. We will not allow ourselves to be cowered. The mighty few and the happy few, we are going to stand our ground and ensure that the right thing is done all in the national interest,” Afenyo-Markin emphasized.
Despite these tensions, he assured that the Minority had no intention of obstructing government business but would continue to hold the Majority accountable.
“We are not going to fight anybody, we are not going to disrupt and obstruct government business. So far, we have been the most cooperative in the chamber, and the NDC should applaud us for supporting them,” he added.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has raised concerns about the slow pace of development in Africa despite the continent’s commitment to democratic governance. He noted that many citizens, especially the youth, have yet to see the tangible benefits of democracy.
Speaking at the 2025 Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Accra on February 2, Mahama lamented that while democratic governance was expected to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods, progress has been largely “sluggish and intangible.”
“Our youth are tired and frustrated at the lack of opportunities to realize their dreams and aspirations. Our decision to embrace democratic governance was supposed to yield a dividend that would improve the lives of our people and bring prosperity to all. Unfortunately, progress has been sluggish and intangible,” he stated.
The former president stressed that economic prosperity in Africa hinges on good governance, transparency, and accountability. He highlighted the need for stability, clear policies, and adherence to the rule of law to attract investment and drive sustainable development.
“Investors and businesses thrive where there is stability, predictable policies, and the rule of law,” he emphasized.
Mahama urged African leaders to take decisive steps to strengthen democratic institutions, ensure free and fair elections, and intensify efforts to combat corruption.
“We must reaffirm our commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. We must also fight corruption, which robs our nations of resources needed for development,” he said.
He further warned that economic growth cannot be sustained in an atmosphere of instability, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and security across the continent.
“As leaders, we must promote peace and security, as economic growth is impossible in times of conflict,” he concluded.
Africa Prosperity Network Dialogues 2025: "We must transition from exporting raw materials to exporting finished products."
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has announced plans to engage Speaker Alban Bagbin today to discuss the suspension of four members of the Appointments Committee due to a melee that occured on January 30.
The Minority group in Parliament has criticised the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, for suspending three members of their caucus from parliamentary proceedings for two weeks, effective January 31, 2025.
Their suspension of the MPs follows violent confrontations at the Appointments Committee on Thursday evening of January 30, 2025, over the vetting of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
These members are Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, the second minority whip and Member of Parliament for Gushegu, Alhassan Sulemana Tampulo.
The Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor was also suspended alongside the three. In a statement released on Saturday, February 1, the Minority Caucus strongly opposed the Speaker’s decision, describing it as politically motivated and an abuse of power.
In a press conference today, Mr Afenyo-Markin revealed his inability to reach Speaker Bagbin over the weekend. He also shared that Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga’s efforts to reach the Speaker were futile.
However, he noted that his side of the House will do its best to engage the Speaker today.
“We are going to ferry our concerns in a memo to his office,” he added.
It is unknown whether the Minority will be successful in engaging the Speaker today.
A routine patrol by firefighters from the Techiman Regional Headquarters Sub-Station on Sunday averted what could have been a major fire disaster at the Techiman main market.
The patrol team, as part of the Ghana National Fire Service’s (GNFS) ongoing strategy to prevent market fires, spotted a pile of burning rubbish left unattended near wooden structures and a metal container. Recognizing the imminent danger, the firefighters acted swiftly to douse the flames before it could spread and cause destruction.
In addition to extinguishing the fire, the team engaged market vendors on fire safety awareness, emphasizing the risks of leaving fires unattended and the importance of responsible waste disposal to prevent future incidents.
The intervention aligns with GNFS’s recent deployment of a special task force, tasked with patrolling markets nationwide to combat the increasing number of fire outbreaks.
Furthermore, the GNFS has reinforced fire safety measures in key markets by establishing dedicated fire units, intensifying fire education, conducting regular inspections, and enforcing safety protocols.
A devoted Asante Kotoko supporter, Frimpong Yaw Francis, has tragically lost his life after being stabbed during violent clashes following the club’s Ghana Premier League Matchday 19 fixture against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Koramansah Park.
The match, which ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for Kotoko, was marred by heated confrontations both on and off the field. Tensions flared as players engaged in a physical altercation, forcing the referee to issue four red cards.
The situation deteriorated further after the final whistle when supporters from both sides clashed violently.
In a statement confirming the incident, Kotoko revealed that the fan suffered fatal injuries and was rushed to Sunyani Hospital, where he later passed away.
The club strongly condemned the violent scenes, lamenting the hostile treatment their players and officials endured upon arrival at the venue.
The clashes escalated when Kotoko’s Head of Media sustained a serious ear injury after being struck by an object. Additionally, a section of home supporters invaded the pitch and physically assaulted Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara, pelting him with various objects.
With a heavy heart , we announce the untimely demise of our beloved supporter, Frimpong Yaw Francis, whose life was taken by some hooligans at the Nsoatre Park during our #GOLM19 game against Nsoatreman F.C
Reports indicate that travelling Kotoko fans and some media personnel from Kumasi also became targets of attacks during the chaotic scenes.
In response, Kotoko has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to launch an urgent investigation and ensure that those responsible face justice.
The club also expressed growing concern over recurring hooliganism in Ghanaian football, warning that such acts endanger the safety of players, officials, journalists, and fans.
Flashback of the late Francis Yaw Frimpong, affectionately called Nana Pooley, doing his usual pre-match ritual of beating the gong gong before Kotoko’s games.#3Sportspic.twitter.com/ioafYG7u8p
Beyond the tragic loss of life, Kotoko confirmed that the violence led to severe damage to crucial team equipment, including laptops, communication devices for the technical team, and other essential audio-visual gadgets.
Kotoko assured its full cooperation with the GFA’s investigations and called for stricter security measures at league venues to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that his childhood dreams had nothing to do with politics or leadership but rather simple aspirations of becoming a fireman or a driver.
Speaking at the Cedar Mountain Chapel of the Assemblies of God Church in East Legon, Accra, Mahama reminisced about his early ambitions, saying he was fascinated by fire trucks and transport buses as a child.
“I mean, if you ask me what do you want to be in future, I didn’t say I want to be a doctor or a lawyer. At one time I wanted to be a fireman. Because I like their uniform and the red fire trucks they used to drive,” he said.
“Then another time I wanted to be a State Transport Company driver. Because you sit in the car from Tamale to Accra, the way he’s driving it, it looks nice.”
Despite his childhood aspirations, Mahama acknowledged that his life took an unexpected turn, with divine intervention shaping his journey into politics.
“God has kept pushing me in the direction that he wants me to go. At every point, I have been reluctant to follow that trajectory. For instance, politics, I was reluctant to go into politics.”
He explained that his hesitation stemmed from his father’s experiences in politics. His father, Emmanuel Adama Mahama, was imprisoned for two years following the overthrow of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, an ordeal that left him disillusioned with politics.
“And so because of the narrations that he had given about the trauma he suffered in prison and the setbacks he suffered as a result of his politics, my mind was, I will not be a politician. But God said, who are you to decide? I will do with you what I want. And the rest is history.”
Mahama, a member of the Assemblies of God, visited the church to worship and reflect on his faith. He expressed his hope to serve as an instrument for positive change in Ghana.
“My prayer is, God use me as your instrument. It is you who brought me to this place. It is you who will let me serve your purpose. And the purpose is to serve my fellow Ghanaians and make sure that we’re able to turn the fortunes of this country around and make everybody’s life better.”
Reverend Stephen Wengam, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, commended Mahama and his wife, Lordina, for their support of the church’s growth. He highlighted Mahama’s significance as one of four Presidents associated with the Assemblies of God Church.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that his entry into politics was never part of his plans, as he initially resisted the path due to his father’s traumatic experiences in the political arena.
Speaking at the Cedar Mountain Chapel of the Assemblies of God Church in East Legon, Accra, Mahama recounted how his father, Emmanuel Adama Mahama, was imprisoned for two years following the overthrow of Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. This, he said, deeply affected his father’s outlook on politics, leading him to abandon it entirely and focus on business.
“And so because of the narrations that he had given about the trauma he suffered in prison and the setbacks he suffered as a result of his politics, my mind was, I will not be a politician. But God said, who are you to decide? I will do with you what I want. And the rest is history,” Mahama stated.
Reflecting on his childhood aspirations, Mahama shared that he never considered a political career and instead had simple ambitions.
“I mean, if you ask me what do you want to be in future, I didn’t say I want to be a doctor or a lawyer. At one time I wanted to be a fireman. Because I like their uniform and the red fire trucks they used to drive,” he said.
“Then another time I wanted to be a State Transport Company driver. Because you sit in the car from Tamale to Accra, the way he’s driving it, it looks nice.”
Despite his reluctance, Mahama acknowledged that divine intervention had shaped his journey, leading him to serve in various leadership roles, including President of Ghana.
“God has kept pushing me in the direction that he wants me to go. At every point, I have been reluctant to follow that trajectory. For instance, politics, I was reluctant to go into politics.”
Mahama, who is a member of the Assemblies of God, was unable to attend the church’s thanksgiving service on January 26 in honour of the late Madam Deborah Wengam, mother of Reverend Stephen Wengam, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, as he was outside the country.
During his visit, he expressed his desire to be an instrument of change for the nation.
“My prayer is, God use me as your instrument. It is you who brought me to this place. It is you who will let me serve your purpose. And the purpose is to serve my fellow Ghanaians and make sure that we’re able to turn the fortunes of this country around and make everybody’s life better.”
Reverend Wengam commended Mahama and his wife, Lordina, for their unwavering support during the construction of the Cedar Mountain Chapel. He also highlighted Mahama’s significance within the Assemblies of God community, noting that he is one of four Presidents the church takes pride in.
As part of the service, Rev. Wengam led a team of pastors to pray for Mahama.
Ningo-Prampram MP, Samuel Nartey George, has strongly criticized Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Appointments Committee, over his alleged treatment of the committee’s Clerk, Gifty Jiagge Gobah.
The controversy erupted after Minority MPs on the committee accused the Clerk of sidelining them during the vetting process, particularly on the night of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s session. They argued that in previous administrations, the same Clerk had ensured that draft reports were made available to the then-Minority before they were signed.
Reacting to the development in a post on X on Sunday, February 2, Sam George described Afenyo-Markin’s actions as “despicable” and “misogynistic,” stating that such behavior had no place in Parliament.
“I am appalled at the despicable behaviour of @AfenyoMarkin towards Madam Gifty Jiagge Gobah,” he wrote.
He further emphasized that Afenyo-Markin’s actions were inappropriate for a leader in Parliament, suggesting that the same treatment would not have been meted out to a male Clerk.
“This shameful behaviour is unbecoming of a Leader of the august House. I am absolutely certain he would not have dared to do this to a male Clerk of Parliament,” he stated.
Sam George insisted that Madam Gobah deserved the respect associated with her role and urged both Parliament and the public to condemn the incident.
He also called on the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, to escalate the matter to Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, stressing that such conduct should not be tolerated, especially after Parliament passed the Affirmative Action Law.
“Madam Gifty Jiagge Gobah, I and many more decent people stand with you,” he assured.
Encouraging the Clerk to remain resolute, he commended her for maintaining her composure despite the situation.
“Be encouraged and stand strong with your head held high. Your poise and composure even when you were under the barrage of insults is remarkable. Such a role model for our daughters,” he added.
I am appalled at the despicable behaviour of @AfenyoMarkin towards Madam Gifty Jiagge Gobah – the Clerk to the Appointments Committee of @parliament_gh.
This shameful behaviour is unbecoming of a Leader of the august House. I am absolutely certain he would not have dared to do… pic.twitter.com/P0Z7pHcv4g
Accra Academy has confirmed the arrest of one student and the suspension of several others in connection with a violent assault captured in a disturbing video that has gone viral on social media.
In a statement issued by the school’s management, the administration clarified the actions taken so far and underscored its commitment to addressing the situation with urgency.
“The student responsible for the act has been handed over to the police for further interrogation, while the other students have been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation,” the statement read.
The video, which surfaced on social media, shows one student flogging a colleague with a machete, causing widespread concern among parents and the general public. The incident, however, took place on January 17, but was not reported to the school until the footage gained attention online, prompting immediate action from the administration.
“The victims did not report the issue until the video was shared online, drawing attention to the situation,” the school explained.
The students involved in the assault have been identified as Shadad Aliu (aka Kester, IVA 1), Haleem Jibril (aka Chopper, 3Bus 5), Ahmed Dauda (aka Foreigner, 3GA 5), and Richard Ninsin (aka Poisonous, 3GA 5). The school confirmed that their parents have been contacted, and statements have been taken as part of the investigation.
The students who are not in police custody, all of whom are day students, have been asked to stay away from the school while the probe is ongoing.
Preliminary findings indicate that the machete used in the assault was not sourced from the school’s premises but was instead brought from home by one of the students.
Accra Academy has reassured parents and stakeholders that the situation is being handled with the utmost seriousness. “We are committed to ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to address the situation, and we will inform all stakeholders of the outcome once the investigation is concluded,” the school stated.
The school authorities also acknowledged the concerns raised by the community and assured everyone that the safety and well-being of all students remain their top priority.
Speaker Alban Bagbin has confirmed that the MPs responsible for the chaos will bear the financial responsibility for repairing or replacing the parliamentary property damaged following the violent disruption of Thursday’s ministerial vetting session,
The incident unfolded when a dispute between the Majority and Minority factions escalated into a physical confrontation. The disagreement began over the Majority’s insistence on continuing the vetting session past 10 PM, a decision vehemently opposed by the Minority. As tensions rose, Minority MPs began dismantling tables, causing microphones to fall and break.
The situation quickly spiraled out of control, requiring police intervention to restore order and prevent further destruction. Despite efforts by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and other parliamentary leaders to calm the situation, the damage to equipment led to the immediate adjournment of the session.
In the aftermath, Speaker Bagbin outlined a set of actions to address the incident:
Suspension of MPs Involved: Four MPs have been suspended for two weeks as a disciplinary measure. The suspended MPs, including Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor and Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, will not participate in parliamentary sittings and activities during this period.
Criminal Complaint to the Police: The Clerk of Parliament has been directed to file a criminal complaint with the police to trigger an investigation into the matter, with the aim of prosecuting those responsible for the violence.
Reconstitution of the Appointments Committee: The Committee on Selection will reconstitute the Appointments Committee to restore order and ensure the panel functions properly moving forward.
Assessment of Property Damage: A full assessment of the damage to parliamentary property will be carried out. MPs found responsible for the destruction will be held financially accountable for the cost of repairs or replacement of the damaged tables and microphones.
Seven-Member Investigative Committee: A seven-member committee, headed by Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, has been established to thoroughly investigate the incident. The committee is expected to present its findings and recommendations within 10 days.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has instructed the Clerk of Parliament to file a formal criminal complaint with the Police following the violent disruption that occurred during the vetting of President Mahama’s ministerial appointees on Thursday evening.
The incident, which saw physical altercations between members of the Majority and Minority sides of the Appointments Committee, has prompted further scrutiny. Speaker Bagbin also set up a seven-member committee, led by Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, to investigate the events and propose recommendations.
The four MPs who played a key role in the disorder—Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Gushegu MP Hassan Tampuli, and Ablekuma South MP Jerry Ahmed Shaibu—have been suspended for two weeks as part of the response to the chaotic situation. Their suspension creates vacancies within the Appointments Committee, which will require the Committee on Selection to reconstitute the panel.
The chaos began when tensions between the Majority and Minority over the extended hours of the vetting session turned physical. The Majority insisted on continuing the session past 10 PM, a proposal that the Minority strongly opposed.
In the heat of the dispute, members of the Minority started to dismantle tables, leading to the destruction of microphones and other equipment. The situation quickly escalated, requiring police intervention to restore order and prevent further damage.
After about 30 minutes of disorder, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and other senior leaders intervened to calm the atmosphere, but the damage was already done. With the equipment rendered unusable, the committee was forced to adjourn and reschedule the session for the following day.
Following the incident, the Speaker’s directive for a police investigation underscores the seriousness of the events, and Parliament is poised for deeper scrutiny of its procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has suspended for two weeks four Members of Parliament sitting on the Appointments Committee over the unfortunate fisticuff recorded on Thursday evening during the vetting of President Mahama’s ministerial appointees.
The four affected legislators are; Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor, Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri Constituency, Frank Annoh Dompreh, Member of Parliament for Gushegu, Hon. Hassan Tampuli, and Jerry Ahmed Shaibu, Ablekuma South MP.
By the decision, the Appointments Committee will be faced with four vacancies. The Committee on Selections would have to constitute the Appointments Committee.
The Speaker has also set up a 7-member committee chaired by Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, to investigate the chaos and make recommendations.
The rules of the Appointments Committee will also be reviewed, and the Speaker has directed the Clerk of Parliament to file a criminal complaint to the Police Service for investigation and possible prosecution.
The Appointments Committee’s session descended into chaos on Thursday evening when tensions between the Minority and Majority escalated into a physical confrontation.
The dispute arose after the Majority insisted on proceeding with the vetting session beyond 10 PM, a move the Minority vehemently opposed.
In the midst of the altercation, members of the Minority began dismantling arranged tables, causing several microphones to fall and break. The situation spiraled out of control, forcing police intervention to restore calm and prevent further damage to parliamentary property.
After about 30 minutes of disorder, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and other leaders intervened to de-escalate tensions. With damaged equipment making further deliberations impossible, the committee was compelled to adjourn and reschedule the session for the following day.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has disclosed that Cantonments, a suburb of Accra, is an area known to deal with dollars for transactions.
He made this comment when he quizzed the Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, about the location of the Operation Recover All Loot’s (ORAL) Secretariat during vetting today. Ablakwa noted that the ORAL shares its makeshift secretariat at the private office of Vice President Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang.
He further revealed that the private office is rented by the Vice President, making her a tenant.
Following Mr Ablakwa’s comment, Afenyo-Markin said, “She is the tenant. Because that place is a dollar-rated area. Yes, Cantonments properties you pay in dollars. We know that as a fact.”
He added that “I am happy to hear that the Vice President is able to afford a dollar rent in Cantonments. It doesn’t mean that if you are a public officer, you have to be poor.”
In reaction, Mr Ablakwa said, “I am also happy to observe that the Honourable Minority Leader is aware that Cantonments lands are dollar-rated. So when some of his colleagues are paying GHC42,000 for a plot of land in Cantonments, he must join my crusade to stop state looting.”
Minister-designate for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has revealed that concerns over the future of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo extend beyond fans, with some members of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and even players expressing uncertainty.
Otto Addo has faced intense scrutiny following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Despite the backlash, the GFA’s Executive Council voted to retain him, leading to a restructuring of his technical team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Speaking on Sporty FM, Adams admitted that doubts about Addo’s leadership persist within the football community, including from individuals directly involved in the national team setup.
“The future of Otto Addo is a matter of concern to me. This concern of stay or not stay is not just coming from the non-playing body—that is what is of great concern to me,” he stated.
“Not just the fans, but the engagements I have had go beyond that to even the playing body and some members of GFA (current and former).”
Adams, who faced vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, 30th January, is set to assume his role as Minister for Sports and Recreation in the coming days should he be approved by Parliament.
Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has alleged that the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) was overpriced by more than $100 million, calling for a renegotiation of its terms.
Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, 31st January, Ablakwa expressed concerns over financial irregularities in the project, which was launched in August 2024 to enhance road infrastructure at the district level.
He argued that the cost inflation required urgent intervention to prevent further financial losses to the state.
The DRIP initiative was designed to improve road construction and maintenance across all districts in Ghana while equipping Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) with modern machinery and technical expertise. However, Ablakwa insisted that inefficiencies in the financial execution of the project risked misallocating critical national resources.
“Fortunately, only 25 percent has been paid, and not all liabilities have been met. I have encouraged the new Mahama administration to renegotiate the DRIP initiative so that we can save money, as my conservative estimate is that it has been inflated by more than $100 million,” he said.
He further stressed that revising the financial terms of the project could free up significant funds for other essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.
Ablakwa noted that Ghana’s current economic challenges made it imperative for the government to scrutinize public spending and reallocate funds where they were most needed.
While the DRIP initiative was envisioned as a transformative effort to decentralize road maintenance, empower local authorities, and create jobs, Ablakwa’s concerns highlight the risk of financial mismanagement undermining its intended benefits. He urged swift action to safeguard public resources and ensure the programme delivers real value to Ghanaians.
Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has pledged to advocate for a well-defined presidential travel policy to regulate official trips undertaken by Ghana’s Head of State.
Appearing before the Appointments Committee, Ablakwa highlighted the need for structured guidelines to ensure accountability and efficiency in the management of presidential travel. He argued that the absence of such a policy has led to unnecessary controversies and inconsistencies in the use of state resources for both official and private trips.
“This is a matter that I am very passionate about, and I, if given the opportunity at the cabinet, will propose that Ghana formulate a presidential travel policy,” Ablakwa stated.
Drawing comparisons with international best practices, he cited the United States as an example, where strict rules govern presidential travel and the use of official aircraft.
“If you take the US, when the President uses the presidential jet (Air Force One) for private trips, he is made to reimburse the state. They also have clear guidelines on who can use those jets and how they should be maintained. We don’t have that,” he explained.
He reiterated his commitment to spearheading discussions on the policy, emphasizing that it is time for Ghana to adopt a transparent framework for presidential travel.
“It is important to pursue that policy. I can assure you that I remain committed to it, and I think that it is time for the government to have a presidential travel policy,” he affirmed.
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to launch an investigation into allegations of illegal mining involving the Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Ofori Larbi.
In a formal letter dated January 30, the coalition—comprising media organisations, labour unions, religious groups, and traditional leaders—expressed deep concerns over reports that the MP has been linked to illegal mining activities within the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.
Local traditional authorities have accused the lawmaker of enabling illegal miners to gain access to the forest reserve, an area that has reportedly suffered severe deforestation and environmental degradation due to unregulated mining operations.
According to the coalition, the destruction caused by these activities has led to the loss of significant forest cover and posed serious ecological threats.
The group is, therefore, calling for a comprehensive and independent investigation involving key state institutions such as the Ghana Police Service, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Minerals Commission to establish the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
It has also urged the government to take swift punitive action against any public officials or legislators found complicit in illegal mining, insisting that strong measures are necessary to reinforce the government’s commitment to fighting galamsey and protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
Beyond petitioning the President, the coalition has also reached out to the Speaker of Parliament and the Inspector General of Police, stressing that a failure to act decisively could weaken public trust in the government’s fight against illegal mining and undermine national efforts to curb the menace.
Foreign Affairs Minister nominee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for an overhaul of Ghana’s passport application system, arguing that citizens who already possess the Ghana Card should not have to endure long queues for passport registration.
Addressing the Appointments Committee on Friday, January 31, Ablakwa emphasized the need to leverage technology to simplify the process and eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic bottlenecks.
“I’ll like to use technology to reform our passport services, and I do not think that in this age, Ghanaians with Ghana Card should be queuing to register for passports,” he stated.
He explained that the Ghana Card already contains biometric and personal information, making additional biometric registration for passports redundant. Ablakwa believes that integrating the Ghana Card into the passport issuance system would reduce processing time and improve efficiency.
He further stressed that a digital-first approach would not only ease the burden on applicants but also enhance service delivery at passport offices nationwide.
“If we already have a national identification system that captures all necessary data, why should people go through the same process again just to obtain a passport? It is an unnecessary duplication that must be addressed,” he argued.
Ablakwa assured the committee that if confirmed as Foreign Affairs Minister, he would prioritize the modernization of Ghana’s passport administration by introducing digital solutions that streamline identity management.
🇬🇭 ‘No need to visit the passport office if you have a Ghana Card! Apply from home and receive it via courier.’ – Okudzeto Ablakwa outlines plans to simplify Ghana’s passport application process.
Foreign Affairs Minister nominee Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has pledged to establish a Consular Fund to support Ghanaians in distress abroad, particularly those affected by the United States’ mass deportation exercise.
Appearing before the Appointments Committee today, Ablakwa expressed concern over the lack of financial provisions for consular assistance, revealing that foreign service staff often use their own money to help distressed citizens.
“As ranking member, I advocated strongly for the establishment of a Consular Fund. I was shocked to learn that our hardworking foreign service staff have to sometimes contribute their own money to assist distressed Ghanaians out there who need consular assistance,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for a dedicated budget line for consular services, in line with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963. “In the budget for the foreign service, we don’t have a line item for consular relations. Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations 1963, countries must extend these courtesies to their citizens. As Foreign Minister, when given the nod, I will make sure that we establish the Consular Fund.”
Ablakwa stressed the urgency of the initiative, particularly in light of recent deportations by the US. “We must make sure that this fund exists and can be accessed by our foreign service staff to extend assistance, particularly in this period where the United States has announced mass deportation. Those who may be rounded up to be deported are entitled to consular support. We must get them legal assistance so that they are not just rounded up and their rights violated.”
He also condemned the reported inhumane treatment of some deportees. “Even in the deportation, how they were deported, sometimes chained to seats and all that, treated as criminals. That is a violation of their human rights. These are matters I will pursue forcefully,” he added.
The nominee further criticized the inefficiencies in Ghana’s diplomatic missions, questioning their role in assisting citizens abroad. “Why do we establish embassies if we cannot use them to help our own people? It is unacceptable that Ghanaians in distress struggle to get the necessary support from our missions,” he remarked.
Ablakwa assured the committee that, if approved as Minister for Foreign Affairs, he would prioritize making Ghana’s embassies more responsive and citizen-centred. “We must not allow our embassies to merely exist as symbolic institutions. They must function as true extensions of the Ghanaian government, ready to serve and protect our people wherever they are,” he concluded.
His comments come at a time when the US government, under President Donald Trump, has intensified immigration crackdowns, leading to the detention and deportation of thousands of undocumented immigrants, including Ghanaians. Reports indicate that the US has launched its largest deportation operation, targeting individuals who had previously been shielded under immigration policies from the Biden administration.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reportedly arrested nearly 1,200 people in a single day, with almost half of them having no criminal records. The administration has also announced plans to establish a large facility at Guantánamo Bay in Cuba to house deported migrants.
Ablakwa’s commitment to setting up a Consular Fund reflects Ghana’s growing concern over the plight of its citizens abroad and the need for stronger diplomatic support in the face of global migration challenges.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, has expressed the country’s displeasure over the United States’ recent decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, calling it a significant setback for global climate efforts.
Speaking before the Appointments Committee on January 30, 2025, Ablakwa emphasized Ghana’s role in supporting the climate accord and the disappointment felt following the US’s exit.
“Let me register our unhappiness at the latest withdrawal by the United States of America from the Paris Climate Accord. That was a very key intervention in the climate change agenda. Ghana played a leading role under former President Mahama when he was president at the time,” Ablakwa stated.
He further lamented that the US’s departure disrupted international climate cooperation but reassured that Ghana would continue advocating for the United States and other major nations to return to the global climate dialogue. “That has clearly created a disruption but we will continue to urge our big brothers and sisters to come back to the climate change agenda and to commit to a new global order to climate issues,” he added.
On January 27, 2025, US President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States had officially notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the Paris Accord, set to take effect by January 27, 2026. The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015 by nearly all countries, aims to limit global temperature rise and combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
This is not the first time the US has pulled out of the agreement. During his previous term, Trump had withdrawn from the accord, though the agreement has remained intact, with other nations continuing to honor their commitments. In a statement, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric confirmed the US’s withdrawal: “I can confirm to you that the United States has notified the secretary-general, in his capacity as a depository, of its withdrawal on January 27 of this year from the Paris agreement.”
Despite the setback, the Paris Accord is poised to endure, with the broader international community working to keep the climate action momentum going. Major financial contributors, including the United States, play an essential role in funding the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change secretariat. With Washington’s withdrawal, the foundation will seek new sources to meet its financial needs. Billionaire Michael Bloomberg has pledged to fill the gap by providing the necessary funding through his philanthropic efforts.
The Paris Agreement remains a critical framework for addressing the global climate crisis. At COP21 in 2015, world leaders committed to limiting global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, and ideally to 1.5°C, through international cooperation and emissions reduction.
The agreement is legally binding and requires countries to regularly assess their climate goals, finance efforts to help developing nations mitigate climate change, and support climate adaptation measures. All countries must submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to outline their actions for emission reductions and resilience-building, reviewed every five years.
While the US’s withdrawal creates a challenge for the climate change movement, the Paris Agreement remains the cornerstone for global climate action, urging all nations to step up their commitment to a sustainable future.
Former Deputy Chief Executive of the Forestry Commission, Musah Superior, has suggested that President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to appoint Sam George as Communications Minister is a deliberate attempt to quell his strong stance on the Anti-LGBTQI+ Bill.
According to Superior, Mahama’s changing approach to the controversial bill is linked to his recent ministerial appointments.
In an interview on Oyerepa FM on January 28, 2025, Musah Superior highlighted Sam George’s previously vocal advocacy for the bill, noting that George had been one of its fiercest proponents ahead of the 2024 elections. Superior recalled how George had even warned Mahama that he would “know no peace” if the former president failed to sign the bill into law.
However, Superior argued that Mahama’s position on the bill seemed to have shifted after his victory, with the president now calling for further discussions rather than a decisive commitment to passing the legislation. “You know this gay, lesbian thing. You know how Sam George and Mahama were forceful about it, and Mahama said he is a Christian and that his faith will not allow him to encourage it,” Superior said.
He continued, “Mahama was the number one person at every NDC rally insisting Akufo-Addo should sign it, and I also insisted Akufo-Addo should sign it, but it was so unfortunate that President Akufo-Addo didn’t sign the bill. Today, Mahama is flip-flopping. He is saying we have to have communication and this and that.”
Superior further claimed that Mahama’s change in tone was directly related to his appointment of Sam George, suggesting that the president was trying to suppress George’s advocacy. “Do you know that he is intimidating the person he has nominated as Communications Minister? He is saying that it is no longer a private members’ bill, so the government will own it,” he alleged. “And then he has given the loudest person, the leader of that crusade, a juicy appointment… and Sam George has told Ghanaians that if Mahama doesn’t follow through, he will not know peace.”
Meanwhile, Sam George, the Communications, Digitalisation, and Innovation Minister-nominee, has reiterated his commitment to bringing back the Anti-LGBTQ bill in the 9th Parliament. During his vetting on January 30, 2025, George underscored that the bill is not about discrimination but about upholding Ghana’s moral and cultural values.
“This is a matter of principle and national interest. The Anti-Gay Bill is not about discrimination but about preserving our moral and cultural values as a country,” he stated. George emphasized that although Ghana respects human rights, certain practices are incompatible with the nation’s cultural heritage.
The previous iteration of the bill expired after the dissolution of the 8th Parliament, but George expressed confidence that once reintroduced, it will receive widespread support. “The people of Ghana have spoken clearly on this issue, and as their representative, I will ensure that their voice is heard,” he remarked.
In response to concerns from international organizations, George dismissed any external pressure, asserting that Ghana has the sovereign right to determine its own laws. He reaffirmed his determination to work with Parliament and relevant stakeholders to push the bill through, stressing the importance of protecting Ghana’s societal values.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the nominee for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has firmly rejected claims made by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin that he was not supposed to appear before the Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30.
Afenyo-Markin had previously suggested that Ablakwa “forced” his way into the committee’s session, casting doubt on the legitimacy of his presence.
Speaking to the press ahead of his own vetting session today, Ablakwa expressed his dissatisfaction with the accusations, stating that he was properly invited to the committee and did not “smuggle” himself into the proceedings.
“I am not some hooligan who will be smuggled into the Appointments Committee’s meeting to be vetted,” Ablakwa asserted in his remarks, rejecting the notion that his appearance was in any way improper.
He also noted that the allegations had raised concerns not only among him but also among his chiefs and respected ambassadors, who were left questioning the authenticity of his invitation. “The claims raised doubts about whether I had been actually invited to the vetting session,” he said.
The nominee did not hesitate to demand an apology from Afenyo-Markin for what he described as baseless accusations. “We demand an unqualified apology for his acts,” he stated, emphasizing the harm such allegations could do to his reputation.
In response to the controversy, Chairman of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, offered an apology to Ablakwa on behalf of Afenyo-Markin for the earlier miscommunication regarding the scheduling of his vetting.
Ranking member of the Appointments Committee and Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has emphasized the importance of good conduct and humility for President Mahama’s ministerial appointees as they appear before the committee.
He believes that their demeanor can significantly impact the speed and tone of the vetting process.
In an interview with the press today, Afenyo-Markin advised nominees to show respect and professionalism when they face the committee to ensure their vetting goes smoothly without unnecessary delays or conflict.
“The Ranking Members have always been given an unlimited opportunity. Why is it that when it gets to Afenyo-Markin, the NDC would want to frustrate the process?” he asked, referencing the sometimes contentious nature of the vetting sessions.
He further explained, “In any event, it is not every nominee that I question. This morning, the nominee for the Ministry of Health, we spent only 30 minutes. So the nominees themselves should know that they are now coming into public office. Their conduct, humility, will help matters.”
Afenyo-Markin stressed that nominees who approach the process with arrogance or disrespect would not be tolerated.
“If you have a nominee who is so arrogant, partisan, so disrespectful, deceptive, dishonest, you don’t expect us to spend 5 minutes. Those who come and prepare well and know their brief and show us respect, we also reciprocate. Not those who will come and insult and abuse the Chief Justice of the Republic, former president of the land and you expect us to clap for them and take tea with them. We will not.”
The resumption of the ministerial vetting today was marred by tension as Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) stormed the hearing, accusing the clerk of bias.
The session began with the Minister-designate for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, facing a committee largely composed of Majority MPs, as the Minority was absent. However, shortly after Akandoh took his oath, Minority MPs entered the room, visibly upset, and raised concerns that they had not been properly informed of the start of the vetting process.
Their protest quickly escalated, with a heated exchange between the Minority and Majority sides. The disagreement brought the session to a halt, further delaying the proceedings.
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has noted that his side of the Appointments Committee, will not resort to boycotting vetting proceedings should they face any obstacle or irregularity to ensure a fair probing of the ministerial nominees.
Engaging the media today, he noted that the Minority Members of Parliament would rather protest to prevent vetting from taking place.
“In fact, we are not going to boycott any proceedings. Boycott is not part of us. We will stay in and protest, and they will not have their way,” he said.
The Minority Leader, however, assured that “because we have been in government before and know governance, we will not obstruct government business.”
His comment follows several tensions witnessed since the vetting of President Mahama’s ministerial appointees commenced.
The Appointments Committee’s session descended into chaos on Thursday evening when tensions between the Minority and Majority escalated into a physical confrontation. The dispute arose after the Majority insisted on proceeding with the vetting session beyond 10 PM, a move the Minority vehemently opposed.
In the midst of the altercation, members of the Minority began dismantling arranged tables, causing several microphones to fall and break. The situation spiraled out of control, forcing police intervention to restore calm and prevent further damage to parliamentary property. After about 30 minutes of disorder, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and other leaders intervened to de-escalate tensions. With damaged equipment making further deliberations impossible, the committee was compelled to adjourn and reschedule the session for the following day.
The vetting of ministerial nominees resumed today but proceedings quickly descended into chaos as Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) stormed the Appointments Committee hearing, accusing the clerk of bias.
The session began with the Minister-designate for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, appearing before a committee dominated by Majority MPs due to the absence of the Minority. However, about five minutes after Akandoh took his oath, Minority MPs entered the room, visibly agitated.
They alleged that the clerk had failed to notify them of the vetting’s commencement, an act they deemed unfair. Their protest sparked a heated exchange, with the Majority side responding to their chants. The tension in the room led to a deadlock, stalling the process once again.
Minister-designate for Health, Mintah Akandoh, has promised to investigate an alleged overinflated maintenance contract for 307 ambulances if approved by Parliament.
Speaking before the Appointments Committee during his vetting today, Akandoh expressed concern over a service contract that has raised eyebrows for its unusually high costs.
“Per my briefing, the facts are that, number 1, that same company was given the opportunity to buy not less than 307 ambulances at the rate of $41 million. Mr Chairman, per my briefing, the contract I have seen, the Ministry went ahead to sign a contract for the maintenance of the 307 ambulances at the rate of $77 million in 5 years,” he stated.
Akandoh emphasized that, based on his understanding, the maintenance costs seemed disproportionate, highlighting that vehicles typically don’t deteriorate significantly in the first few years of use.
“We all have cars. The deterioration of cars is not as much as the first five or four years. Your machines may not be deteriorated that much. If I am approved by the committee, I am determined to investigate that particular matter,” he added.
The contract in question was originally signed by the Ministry of Special Development Initiatives in 2020, when it entered an agreement with Service Auto Group Ghana Limited to provide after-sales services and maintenance for 307 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 315 CDI ambulances. The deal also included provisions for spare parts and lubricants to ensure the smooth operation of the ambulances.
However, after the dissolution of the Ministry of Special Development Initiatives, the Special Initiatives Development Secretariat assumed responsibility for executing the contract. When the Secretariat faced budgetary challenges in 2023, the Ministry of Health was tasked with finding alternative means of funding the maintenance services for the National Ambulance Service.
In response, the Ministry of Health sought financial assistance from the Ministry of Finance to secure a line of credit for the purchase of spare parts, ultimately requesting $34.9 million. However, the Ministry of Finance could only approve $10 million, advising the Ministry of Health to seek additional funds from the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). The NHIA, however, refused to contribute, stating that the expense was not covered by the approved budget allocation.
Despite claims to the contrary, the Ministry of Health clarified that Service Auto Group Ghana Limited had not received the full $34.9 million. The Ministry underscored its commitment to ensuring the sustainable upkeep of the ambulance fleet to guarantee that the National Ambulance Service could continue offering reliable emergency medical services.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised serious questions about the deal, alleging that the contract was rushed through and that a significant amount of money had already been paid to Service Auto Group Ghana Limited.
Ablakwa has also expressed concerns about the legitimacy of the company, noting that it was incorporated a year after the ambulances were delivered in 2019. He has further suggested potential conflicts of interest, citing links between the company’s directors and President Akufo-Addo’s family. These allegations have prompted Ablakwa to request an investigation from the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has launched the 2025 DV plates across all its offices nationwide, introducing cutting-edge security enhancements to curb counterfeiting and guarantee authenticity.
Speaking on the release, DVLA’s Chief Executive, Julius Neequaye Kotey, emphasized that the upgraded plates mark a significant milestone in vehicle registration and licensing.
“We are excited to introduce the 2025 DV plate, which represents a significant improvement in vehicle registration and licensing in Ghana.
“The new plate demonstrates the Authority’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance security and convenience for its customers,” he stated.
The 2025 plates feature advanced security elements such as holograms, watermarks, and QR codes, all designed to prevent unauthorized duplication and protect vehicle owners.
Now available at all DVLA operational offices, the new DV plates can be acquired by vehicle owners, automobile dealers, distributors, freight forwarders, and agents.
In collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, the DVLA has also issued a stern warning against the use or sale of fake DV plates. Authorities are actively working to identify and prosecute individuals involved in such illegal activities.
For additional information, customers can reach out to the DVLA Customer Service Centre at 0302746760.
The vetting of ministerial nominees resumed today, but without the presence of Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) on the Appointments Committee.
The absence of the Minority has raised questions about whether they are boycotting the process following Thursday night’s chaotic session.
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister-designate for Health, appeared before a half-sided committee, with only the Majority members present.
About five minutes after the nominee took his oath, the Minority MPs walked in and caused tension. They accused the Clerk of being unfair to them by not notifying them of the commencement of today’s vetting.
They chanted, causing the Majority side of the committee to respond.
Vetting suspended after the Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin stormed in and angrily accused the clerk of initiating vetting without consulting the minority.#TV3GHpic.twitter.com/py3Ieww9O8
Thursday’s session ended in turmoil when a disagreement over sitting beyond 10 PM led to heated exchanges between the Majority and Minority. The Minority insisted on adjourning, but the Majority pushed to continue, escalating tensions.
In the commotion, tables were overturned, and microphones were damaged, forcing security officers to intervene. The incident has since drawn widespread criticism, with civil society groups like the One Ghana Movement calling for legal action against those responsible for vandalizing state property.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the nominee for Foreign Affairs, is also expected to face the committee later in the day.
Rewrite entirely and let the story be distinct from the original
Let the lede reflect the headline “Minority MPs absent as Appointments Committee begins vetting”
The vetting of Ministers-designate for Health and Foreign Affairs, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, by Parliament’s Appointments Committee is set to take place today.
This follows their inability to be vetted yesterday due to chaos that broke out.
The Appointments Committee descended into chaos on Thursday evening as tensions flared between members of the Minority and Majority, leading to a heated confrontation.
The Majority insisted on proceeding with the vetting session beyond 10 PM, but the Minority strongly opposed the move, declaring that they were done for the day.
Members of the Minority started to lose the arranged tables, and in the process, most of the microphones fell off and got broken.
The clash escalated to the point where tables and microphones were destroyed, prompting the intervention of the police to restore order and prevent further destruction.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs), stating that those found engaging in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, will be stripped of their parliamentary seats.
His declaration comes amid growing national concern over the destructive impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment, particularly its water bodies and forests.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 30, Bagbin called on the public to submit credible evidence against any lawmaker involved in the illicit activity, assuring that such reports would be acted upon decisively.
“If you have evidence of any member indulging in Galamsey, draw my attention. I will put in motion a process where you will lose your membership as a member of parliament. Please bring the information to my notice.
“We will take action. That is how we can fight Galamsey. I mean what I am saying, I am not joking, unless you hide such information from me. If I get any credible information on any of you on this matter, I am going to initiate the process and you can lose your seat as a member of parliament.
“The law is there to enable us to do that,” he stressed.
Bagbin’s statement signals a strong commitment by Parliament to combat illegal mining, which has long been a contentious issue in Ghana due to its environmental and socio-economic consequences. His remarks also serve as a direct warning to lawmakers who may be complicit in the menace.
The One Ghana Movement has called on the Attorney-General, Dr Dominic Ayine, to take swift legal action against individuals responsible for the destruction of state property during the chaotic ministerial vetting session in Parliament on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
The civil society organization, led by its Director Senyo Hosi, strongly condemned the conduct of members of the Vetting Committee, describing the vandalism as an affront to Ghana’s democratic values. It emphasized the need for accountability and urged the Speaker of Parliament, parliamentary leadership, and the Chairman of the Vetting Committee to uphold order and discipline during the proceedings.
“Ministerial vetting, as enshrined in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, is a crucial process designed to ensure that nominees for public office possess the necessary competence, integrity, and experience to serve in the public interest,” the statement from the One Ghana Movement read. “This process fosters transparency, safeguards national interests, upholds the principle of checks and balances, and strengthens public confidence in governance.”
The Appointments Committee’s session descended into chaos on Thursday evening when tensions between the Minority and Majority escalated into a physical confrontation. The dispute arose after the Majority insisted on proceeding with the vetting session beyond 10 PM, a move the Minority vehemently opposed.
Parliament in chaos as Minority, Majority clash over Ministerial vetting
In the midst of the altercation, members of the Minority began dismantling arranged tables, causing several microphones to fall and break. The situation spiraled out of control, forcing police intervention to restore calm and prevent further damage to parliamentary property. After about 30 minutes of disorder, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and other leaders intervened to de-escalate tensions. With damaged equipment making further deliberations impossible, the committee was compelled to adjourn and reschedule the session for the following day.
If Citizens are been punished for destroying state properties, these governments officials must not be left out they need to face the law, this is unacceptable 🤦♂️ Legon Balthazar Appointments Committee Emefa Hardcastle Haruna Iddrisu Ablakwa Annor Dompreh Sam George Silly Dzata pic.twitter.com/KxPVtQpdfj
Addressing the incident, Mr. Ayariga expressed regret over the disruptions and assured that MPs would conduct themselves appropriately when proceedings resume. “He announced that with the tables broken and microphones destroyed, sitting can’t continue, forcing the Committee to reschedule for tomorrow.”
Meanwhile, Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin defended the Majority’s stance on pushing forward with the vetting process, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly questioning nominees.
“You are aware that some of the nominees, we don’t even ask them questions. Where we have to ask the relevant questions, we ask. Nothing will stop us from asking the necessary questions,” he asserted.
The One Ghana Movement reiterated its commitment to promoting responsible governance and urged all parliamentarians to uphold the highest standards of leadership, accountability, and respect for the citizens they serve.
Samuel Nartey George, the Minister-nominee for Communications, Digitalisation, and Innovation, has emphasized the pivotal role of financial technology (fintech) in advancing Ghana’s economic transformation under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.
During his vetting by the Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, Mr. George reaffirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing digital financial services as a key driver of economic growth and financial inclusion. He described fintech as a central element of Mahama’s vision for a modernized economy.
“Fintech is at the heart of Mahama’s government. We recognise the transformative power of digital financial services in driving economic development and ensuring financial inclusion for all,” Mr. George stated, highlighting the administration’s focus on utilizing technology to reshape the country’s financial landscape.
The Minister-nominee noted that the government would prioritize the development of policies that foster digital payments, broaden financial accessibility, and stimulate innovation within the fintech sector. These policies, he explained, would contribute to greater economic efficiency and a reduction in cash dependency.
“We recognise the transformative power of digital financial services in driving economic development and ensuring financial inclusion for all,” he added.
Mr. George also promised that the government would provide an environment conducive to the growth of fintech companies, while maintaining robust regulatory frameworks to ensure industry stability and accountability.
Under the leadership of President Mahama, Mr. George assured that the government would continue embracing digital innovation, striving to enhance the country’s financial ecosystem and ensure that the benefits of fintech reach all sections of society, particularly underserved communities.
This forward-thinking approach, he believes, will be instrumental in empowering individuals and businesses, making financial services more accessible and efficient for everyone.
Minister-nominee for Communications, Digitalisation, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has declared his intention to bring back the controversial Anti-LGBTQ bill in the 9th Parliament.
Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, Mr George reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to ensuring the bill’s passage, arguing that it reflects the values and beliefs of the Ghanaian people.
“This is a matter of principle and national interest. The Anti-Gay Bill is not about discrimination but about preserving our moral and cultural values as a country,” he stated.
He maintained that while Ghana respects human rights, certain practices remain incompatible with the country’s cultural heritage.
With the expiration of the bill following the dissolution of the 8th Parliament, Mr George is confident that once reintroduced, it will gain widespread support.
“The people of Ghana have spoken clearly on this issue, and as their representative, I will ensure that their voice is heard,” he added.
Addressing concerns from international organisations, he dismissed any form of external pressure, insisting that Ghana has the sovereign right to determine its laws.
He pledged to work closely with Parliament and relevant stakeholders to push the bill through, underscoring his determination to uphold what he describes as Ghana’s societal values.
Minister-nominee for Communications, Digitalisation, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced plans for a fresh SIM re-registration exercise, assuring that the process will be more efficient and cost-free for Ghanaians.
During his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, Mr George criticised the previous registration process, describing it as cumbersome and poorly executed. He pledged to introduce a streamlined, technology-driven system that would eliminate long queues and delays.
“We will do a proper SIM re-registration again, and this time, there will be no queues because common sense will prevail, and we will use technology to do it,” he assured.
He further emphasised that the financial burden of the new exercise would be placed on Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), not citizens.
“Unlike the immediate past government where people had to pay by using an app, no Ghanaian will have to pay for it, and the cost will be borne by the MNOs,” he stated.
According to him, a well-executed re-registration process is essential for strengthening national security, preventing fraud, and ensuring a secure and reliable telecommunications network.
He assured the Committee that, if approved, his leadership at the Ministry would focus on efficiency and digital innovation, ensuring that all initiatives—including SIM registration—contribute to a more inclusive and technologically advanced telecommunications sector.
Minister-nominee for Communications, Digitalisation, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has vowed to impose financial penalties on Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) that fail to meet service quality standards.
During his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, he underscored his commitment to ensuring that telecommunications companies provide Ghanaians with reliable connectivity and efficient digital services.
“I will not be a minister who’ll be afraid to impose a fine when MNOs fail to provide the quality of services required, as well as we support them in doing so,” he asserted.
Sam George stressed that while the government would collaborate with network providers to enhance their infrastructure, there would be no tolerance for poor service delivery.
He reaffirmed his resolve to hold telecom firms accountable while also fostering an ecosystem that encourages technological progress and innovation in Ghana’s digital space.
The previous administration had urged citizens to report MNOs delivering poor services, but under Sam George’s leadership, stricter enforcement measures are expected to ensure greater accountability in the telecommunications sector
President John Mahama has officially inaugurated an eight-member committee tasked with reviewing Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, marking a significant step in shaping the country’s democratic future.
At a ceremony held at Jubilee House on Thursday, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, emphasized the importance of the committee’s work, highlighting the careful selection of its members.
“You have been carefully selected for this important work on behalf of our country. The easier part of the job is to follow the prescribed method for altering the constitution. The more challenging aspect, and I can say this without fear of contradiction, is to recommend substantive provisions to add to or replace elements of the current constitution,” he noted.
President Mahama clarified that the review is not a response to failure but a proactive measure to refine the nation’s governance framework.
“The call for constitutional reform is not an admission of failure, but an acknowledgment of progress, a recognition that our democracy must be dynamic, responsive, and ever attuned to the needs of our people,” he stated.
The committee, chaired by legal scholar Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh, includes Justice Sophia Adinyirah, Prof. Kwame Karikari, Mrs. Charlotte Osei, Dr. Godwin Djokoto, Ibrahim Tanko Amidu, Dr. Esi Ansah, and Dr. Rainer Akumperigeya, who serves as secretary.
Calls for constitutional reform have been growing, with various stakeholders—including former parliamentarians, the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG)—advocating for changes to address key governance issues.
Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Policy Engagement and Partnerships at CDD-Ghana, has stressed the need for a multi-stakeholder approach in the review process. Meanwhile, former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo has specifically called for revising presidential appointment powers, warning that they contribute to an “imperial presidency.”
With the review process underway, citizens have been urged to participate actively, contributing ideas to shape a governance structure that reflects the evolving needs of the nation
Judgment debts have been a major problem and the Achilles heels of Attorneys-General in the recent past. Some dubious judgment debts like the Woyome and Isofotun Scandals had even contributed to the perception of corruption around some administrations and played a key role in their downfall.
These words of the learned Chief Justice as she then was, Georgina wood C.J in the case ofREPUBLIC v HIGH COURT, KUMASI EX PARTE BANK OF GHANA (REV. DE-GRAFT SEFA & ORS. INTERESTED PARTY) [TLP-SC-2013-10] available at thelawplatform.online captures the sense of this appalling situation: “the time has indeed come for this court to comment on the manner in which legal representation of state and para-statal interests are handled in our law courts. The quality of legal representation of these institutions leaves much to be desired.”
The Law Platform chronicles the direct intervention of the immediate past Attorney-General and Minister for Justice of Ghana, Godfred Yeboah Dame, whose tenure span from 5th March, 2021 to 6th January, 2025, in the mitigation and avoidance of judgment debts. It should be noted that cases for the payment of money by the State in favour of various individuals and companies for breach of contract, unlawful violation of rights, compensation for compulsory acquisition, termination of employments, etc. ran into hundreds, if not thousands of civil actions defended by the Attorney-General.
The records as provided herein leads to the irrefutable conclusion that, through a process of proactively responding to judgment debts entered against the State before his era and diligently defending civil claims filed against the State or already pending his era, Mr. Dame was able to avoid huge scandalous judgment debts. In fact, his management of civil actions, including arbitration cases, is generally deemed by many a lawyer and stakeholders of the industry to be par excellence.
Pictured: Godfred Dame and his Deputy, Alfred Tuah-Yeboah and other State Attorneys outside Ghana for an International Conference which was addressed by Mr. Dame
EXAMPLES OF HUGE DOMESTIC “JUDGMENT DEBT CASES” WHICH HAD THE TENDENCY TO SEVERELY AFFECT THE PUBLIC PURSE
The action by NDK Financial Services Limited was filed in 2008 and had gone through the hands of successive Attorneys-General. All the Superior Courts of Ghana – High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court had actually given judgment in favour of NDK and the Supreme Court had actually affirmed NDK’s entitlement to the payment of over GHC1.2 Billion in compound interest on a principal sum of GHC867,000 awarded as judgment debt in December, 2011. The State had actually paid a total of GHC79 Million in settlement of the NDK judgment debt before Dame’s tenure as Attorney-General.
On assumption of office as A-G, Godfred Dame instituted an action invoking the inherent jurisdiction of the Supreme Court for a declaration that the payments to NDK were wrong and that, the amount paid by the State should be upheld as full and final satisfaction of all claims by NDK against the State. He succeeded on the application resulting in the State being relieved of any obligation to pay to NDK Financial Services Limited the amount of over GHC1.2 Billion.
2. Heritage Imperial Limited vrs. 1. Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources 2. The Attorney-General
In June, 2021, three months after being appointed A-G, the attention of Godfred Dame was drawn to a radio discussion on Joy Fm which discussion was about a judgment debt of Fifteen Million, Three Hundred and Four Thousand, Seven hundred and Fourteen United States Dollars and Twenty Cents (US$15,304,714.20) entered against the State by a company whose equipment had been allegedly seized for illegal mining, in July, 2020 – this was before being appointed Attorney-General.
Unamused by the news, Godfred Yeboah Dame filed an application under the inherent jurisdiction of the High Court for an order setting aside the judgment of US$15,304,714.20 as entered without jurisdiction and offensive of Ghanaian statutes.
The High Court in July, 2021, upheld the Attorney-General’s application and set aside the judgment of US$15,304,714.20 entered in favour of Heritage Imperial Limited.
3. China Jieling Limited vrs. The Attorney-General
The company issued a writ at the High Court, Kumasi, for payment of almost One Billion United Staes Dollars (US$1,000,000) against the State for alleged termination of its contract by the erstwhile Ministry of Roads and Transport. Judgment was entered in favour of the company.
The Attorney-General filed an application at the Supreme Court to set aside the judgment which was granted.
Pictured: Godfred Dame performing duties outside of the Jurisdiction
INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION AND INTERNATIONAL CASES
The upsurge in international arbitration in recent times is attributed to the expansion of the Ghanaian economy, frequent insertion of arbitration clauses as the dispute resolution mechanism in commercial agreements involving the Government of Ghana and the tendency of government officials to terminate or default on obligations in agreements signed with business partners. The high number of arbitration claims filed against the Government of Ghana compelled the immediate past Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, to remark at the first ever Conference on Public Sector Lawyers in Ghana envisioned and organized by him in November, 2024, that “arbitral claims filed against the Government, if not diligently managed, have the tendency to collapse the entire Ghanaian economy. A single arbitral claim, if successful can bring the economy of a developing country like Ghana, to its knees”
Against this background, the chronicle develops to how arbitration claims were handled between 2021 to 2025. What were the outcomes of such actions? Who were the counsel or lawyers for the Government of Ghana? Our research established that, in all, there were six (6) major awards or rulings delivered in international arbitration cases involving the Government of Ghana. There was also one major civil action pursued in the domestic court of an European country against Ghana.
1. Beijing Everyway Traffic & Lighting Tech. Co. Ltd. vrs. The Government of Ghana (US$60 Million involved).
A dispute arising from the termination of a Master Facility Agreement and Engineering, Procurement and Installation Contract (EPIC) for the planning, design, construction, supervision, operation and training for the Accra Traffic Management System. The claimant filed an investor-state arbitration against Ghana under the 2013 United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Arbitration Rules claiming a breach of Article 4(1) of the China-Ghana Investment Treaty. The Claimant argued that the decision of the Parliament of Ghana to rescind the EPIC contract with claimant, amounted to expropriation and that, Ghana had failed to observe its obligation to protect Chinese investors as required under the China-Ghana Investment Treaty.
Ghana, in addition to contending that the decision of Parliament to rescind the EPIC Contract with the Claimant was taken in the interests of national security, raised a number of jurisdictional objections to the competence of the tribunal in determining the claim. The A-G argued that the China-Ghana Agreement limits the Tribunal’s jurisdiction to only the determination of the quantum or amount of expropriation, and not the determination of the primary issue of whether there has been expropriation in the first place. The Tribunal thus had no jurisdiction to determine whether Ghana expropriated the Claimant’s investment in terms of the Treaty. Ghana further asserted that under the Constitution of Ghana, it is Ghanaian courts that have jurisdiction over the question of lawfulness of an alleged expropriation, not an arbitral tribunal.
On 30th January, 2023, the Tribunal delivered a “final award on jurisdiction (save as to costs), upholding Ghana’s jurisdictional challenge. The tribunal held that Article 10(1) of the China-Ghana Treaty cannot be read as empowering the tribunal to determine the question of entitlement of expropriation. The Tribunal noted the important qualification of the term “the amount of” prior to the terms “compensationfor expropriation” as placing clear limitations on the scope of questions which can be referred to arbitration. Thus, the matters the tribunal could determine did not include the question of entitlement or determination of whether expropriation has taken place in the first place.
On the issue of costs, Ghana waived its right to apply to the Tribunal for costs, taking into account the pendency of another arbitration claim between the parties.
Ghana’s counsel were the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, Deputy A-G Diana Asona-Dapaah, Solicitor-General, Helen Ziwu and other state attorneys.
2. Michelletti Company Limited vrs. Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The claimant instituted arbitration proceedings against the government for its termination of EPC contracts for rehabilitation of various sports stadia in Ghana. The proceedings were under the Arbitration Rules of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
Ghana raised an objection to the admissibility of the arbitration, contending that the claimant had failed to exhaust the dispute resolution mechanism set out in the arbitration agreement before instituting the proceedings. Ghana further contended that the claim was statute barred as same was prohibited to be pursued in terms of the Limitations Act of Ghana.
In an award dated 8th March, 2024, the tribunal upheld Ghana’s objections and declared that the claimant’s action is time barred and therefore all of the claimant’s reliefs are not admissible. The tribunal dismissed the entire action.
Costs of US$25,000 was awarded in favour of Ghana.
Ghana’s counsel – The Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, Solicitor-General, Helen Ziwu and state attorneys from the Office of the A-G.
Pictured: Mr. Dame addressing an event of the International Criminal Court
3. GCNET Company Limited vrs. Republic of Ghana (GHC4Billion involved)
The claimant instituted proceedings against the Republic of Ghana under Article 18 of the Arbitration Rules of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law of 1976. The claimant claimed damages under various heads amounting to over GHC4 Billion, following the termination of its Service Agreement it had with the Government by which the company was granted the exclusive right to develop, customise, update and operate an electronic system for processing customs payment and trade documents at ports in Ghana.
Ghana rejected GCNet’s claims and invited the Tribunal to hold that the country had validly terminated the agreement between the parties, canvassing a plethora of legal arguments in the process. Ghana asserted that the Agreement between the parties provided no scope for the application of common law principles on the measure and assessment of unliquidated damages, and that, by the Agreement, the compensation payable to GCNET should not exceed US$ 5.4 million.
After many rounds of submissions and a full trial, on 18th November, 2024, the tribunal upheld the whole of Ghana’s case and decided that Ghana had validly terminated the Agreement in accordance with its terms, and therefore the termination was lawful. The tribunal found that GCNet was the “unsuccessful party in the arbitration” and that Ghana had “expended money and time in defending a claim that the Tribunal has held to be ill-founded”. It therefore ordered that GCNet to pay a total of US$2,185,983.21 in favour of Ghana as costs representing legal fees.
Ghana’s counsel – The Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, Deputy A-G Diana Asona-Dapaah, Solicitor-General, Helen Ziwu and other state attorneys.
Pictured: The Legal team of Ghana led by Godfred Yeboah Dame in the GCNET case
4. Cassius Mining Company Limited vrs. the Republic of Ghana (minimum of US$300 Million claimed).
The claimant has been suing Ghana in various international arbitration fora since February 2023, seeking compensation amounting to over USD300 Million for Ghana’s refusal to extend the term of a Prospecting Licence Agreement obtained by the company which allowed it to prospect for gold. The prospecting licence was issued on 28th December, 2016, after the first Mahama administration had lost power on 7th December, 2016. This prospecting licence expired in December, 2018.
Cassius Mining Limited instituted the proceedings under the Minerals and Mining Act of 2006 (Act 703) and applied to the international tribunal that the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules should apply to the proceedings and that the seat of arbitration should be London, UK.
Ghana opposed the claim and asserted that firstly, the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules were inapplicable to the proceedings since the agreement required arbitration to be conducted under the Ghana Alternative Dispute Resolution Act. Secondly, the seat of arbitration ought to be Ghana and thirdly, the Minerals and Mining Act was inapplicable to the dispute.
On 28th February, 2024, the tribunal whilst refusing to stay proceedings, upheld all of Ghana’s other contentions. It held in the ruling on the preliminary issues, that, Cassius Mining was not entitled to invoke the arbitration clauses in the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). Further, the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules shall not apply to the arbitration and, that, the arbitration is subject to the rules of Ghana’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Act. Finally, the tribunal ruled that the seat of the arbitration shall be Ghana, and not any other foreign jurisdiction.
Ghana’s counsel – The Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, Solicitor-General Helen Ziwu and other state attorneys.
Cassius Mining has since proceeded to file its statement of claim in support of the arbitration. Ghana is required to file its statement of defence by September, 2025.
5. Eni Ghana Exploration and Production Limited & Vitol Upstream Ghana Limited (collectively called “Claimants) instituted international arbitration proceedings against the Government of Ghana (Ghana) & Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
The claimants filed an international arbitration against the Government of Ghana & GNPC for a declaration that Ghana had breached their Petroleum Agreements by issuing and/or refusing to withdraw Unitisation Directives in respect of the Afina and Sankofa fields. The claimants sought six (6) other reliefs including damages initially of over US$ 7Billion for losses suffered by the Claimants arising out of the alleged breaches of the Petroleum Agreement.
Ghana’s resistance of the monetary compensation sought by the claimants resulted in a reduction of same to US$915 Million by the Claimants in their post-hearing brief.
On 8th July, 2024, the Tribunal held in a final award, that, the manner in which Ghana had issued the unitisation directives was contrary to the Petroleum Agreement. However, the tribunal proceeded to dismiss all other reliefs sought by the claimants including the entire claim for damages. The Tribunal finally held that given that both parties had prevailed, with Ghana successfully resisting the financial claims by ENI/Vitol and GNPC also defending itself completely against all claims by ENI/Vitol, it “considers it fair and appropriate that each party bear its own costs.” Thus, no costs was awarded in favour of or against any of the parties to the action.
Tullow Ghana Limited alleged that the imposition by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) of branch profit tax on it was in violation of the Petroleum Agreements it had signed with the Government of Ghana. In the view of Tullow, taxes payable by it were limited by the Petroleum Agreement and GRA was not entitled to levy branch profit tax on it.
The GRA asserted its right to impose branch profit tax on the company.
In an award communicated on 2nd January, 2025, Tullow Ghana Limited’s position was upheld by the tribunal. It was held that Ghana was not entitled to impose branch profit tax on Tullow. Costs of £1.9Million was awarded against Ghana.
Ghana’s counsel: Philipa Hopkins, KC (Essex Court Chambers), Messrs. Howard Kennedy LLP (both English law firms).
7. Messrs. Jongsbru AS Vrs. Government of Ghana (Norway Courts) – claim for about US$10Million.
Even though not an arbitration dispute, this was an international case brought against the Government of Ghana in the courts of Norway. It engaged a lot of attention in the Ghanaian media between 2021 and 2023.
Following the decision of the Government of Ghana to resile from an agreement with the plaintiff company to purchase a building for use by Ghana as its embassy building in Oslo, Norway, the plaintiff sued Ghana in the Oslo District Court claiming about seventy-eight million Norwegian Kroner (equivalent of about US$10 Million) for breach of contract, loss of profits, interest and costs of litigation.
The Government of Ghana resisted the claim citing the absence of a valid contract between the parties as known to Ghanaian law, particularly the common law and the provisions of the Public Procurement Act of Ghana.
After a trial in which Ghana summoned witnesses from the Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to testify, the Oslo District Court dismissed the claim against Ghana with costs of 1 million Norwegian Kroner (approximately, US$130, 000) in favour of Ghana. An appeal by the plaintiff to the Norway Court of Appeal was also dismissed with costs of 1.5 million Norwegian Kroner (approximately US$180 000) in favour of Ghana.
A final appeal by the plaintiff to the Norway Supreme Court was also dismissed without a hearing by the Court on 22nd November, 2022. In total, costs of about US$310,000 was awarded in favour of Ghana for its troubles in that litigation in the courts of Norway.
A quick analysis of the 6 international arbitration cases examined above shows that in all four (4) in which the A-G’s Office handled without foreign legal counsel, it succeeded in all. In the other 2 in which foreign counsel were engaged, the Government lost 1 and partially succeeded in the other.
We will publish in due course a brief on all international arbitration cases currently pending against the Government of Ghana. Sources of The Law Platform indicate that there are about eleven (11) international arbitration cases pending. Ghana has foreign legal representation in only 1 of them, with the Office of the Attorney-General directly conducting the rest by itself.
Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, alongside the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Ayariga, has toured the deteriorating Azumah Nelson Sports Complex, highlighting its urgent need for refurbishment.
During the visit, Osman Ayariga lamented the facility’s deplorable state and reaffirmed his commitment to making its renovation a top priority under his leadership at the NYA.
Accompanied by Okaikwei South Member of Parliament, Ernest Adomako, Ayariga acknowledged that despite previous pledges by former sports ministers, the complex has yet to receive the necessary facelift. However, he expressed confidence in breaking this cycle and ensuring the multi-sport facility is finally upgraded to meet modern standards.
The Azumah Nelson Sports Complex, named in honor of Ghanaian boxing legend Azumah Nelson, has suffered years of neglect, affecting its ability to serve as a hub for developing young sporting talent. Ayariga assured stakeholders that his administration would take decisive steps to restore the facility and maximize its potential.
Parliament has given its approval to the nominations of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah as Minister-designate for Defence and Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources. Additionally, three regional ministers-designate have also been cleared to assume office.
The approval follows the adoption of the ninth report of the Appointments Committee after a thorough vetting process that assessed the competence and experience of the nominees.
While the committee unanimously recommended Dr. Omane Boamah for the Defence Ministry, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin raised concerns during the debate, alleging that the Clerk of the Committee had excluded certain key submissions made by the nominee in the final report. His claims were met with a firm response from Speaker Alban Bagbin, who criticized the attack on the committee clerk and urged that any grievances be addressed through appropriate channels.
Meanwhile, the House also gave the green light for three regional ministers-designate to officially take up their roles. Tia Ibrahim has been appointed for the North East Region, Dr. Frank Amoakohene for the Ashanti Region, and Akamugri Atanga Donatus for the Upper East Region.
With their approval secured, the newly appointed ministers are expected to lead development efforts in their respective sectors and regions, working closely with stakeholders to implement government policies and foster socio-economic growth.
Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has assured young Ghanaians that the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) will be revamped into a reliable hub for job seekers and those in need of professional training.
During a working visit to the YEA, Mr. Opare Addo emphasized the government’s commitment to making employment services more accessible by setting up job centres in every district across the country.
He explained that the initiative is designed to provide career guidance, skills training, and direct employment opportunities for the youth in both the public and private sectors.
In an interview with Citi News, the minister underscored the importance of decentralizing job placement services to ensure that young people receive the support they need at the local level.
“The assurance I am going to give is that President Mahama is going to work hard to reposition the YEA as a place where young people can seek refuge anytime they are seeking job opportunities and training,” he said.
He further highlighted the government’s policy commitment to expanding job centres nationwide, reinforcing their accessibility to young job seekers.
“We have a similar policy in our manifesto, and so our assurance to them is that we are going to scale it up so that we have similar centres in all districts. The job centres should be closer to the person who seeks the job for young people to easily access it and the opportunities made available to them,” he added.
Former Member of Parliament for Lower West Akim, Gifty Klenam, has officially severed ties with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and joined the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Klenam, who represented Lower West Akim in Ghana’s Fourth and Fifth Parliaments and later served as Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Export Promotion Centre (GEPC) under the Akufo-Addo administration, announced her defection on Thursday.
She made her decision public after receiving her NDC membership card in the Anlo Constituency of the Volta Region, marking a pivotal moment in her political journey.
Explaining her move, Klenam attributed her shift to a stronger ideological connection with the NDC and a firm belief in its policy direction.
“Upon consultation with my family, I decided to join the NDC because it aligns with my values and vision for mother Ghana,” she stated.
The former NPP lawmaker also praised the NDC’s 2024 manifesto, describing it as “the most promising blueprint for Ghana’s future development.”
After reviewing the party’s policies, she expressed confidence in former President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership, believing his return to office would steer the country toward sustainable progress.
Klenam further emphasized her dedication to grassroots mobilization, community empowerment, and tackling youth unemployment to curb irregular migration among Ghanaian youth.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has reinforced its commitment to ensuring financial inclusion for persons with disabilities (PWDs) by issuing a directive aimed at breaking down barriers in accessing financial services.
This directive aligns with global financial inclusion standards, which emphasize secure, efficient, and accessible financial systems. It mandates financial service providers to improve service accessibility, expand service points, enhance interoperability, and implement targeted financial literacy programs for PWDs.
Citing legal backing, the central bank referenced key legislations, including the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), the Borrowers and Lenders Act, 2020 (Act 1052), the Banks and Specialised Deposit Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), and the Payment Systems and Services Act, 2019 (Act 987). These laws provide the framework for ensuring that PWDs have equitable access to financial products and services.
The directive seeks to increase accessibility and usability of financial products for PWDs while compelling financial institutions to develop policies and infrastructure that promote inclusive banking. It is also guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, reinforcing the need for proactive measures to eliminate obstacles faced by PWDs in financial transactions.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The BoG has made it clear that institutions failing to comply with the directive will face strict penalties.
“A Financial Service Provider that fails to institute policies, procedures, and facilities as prescribed by this directive shall be liable to an administrative penalty of not less than two thousand penalty units,” the directive warns.
This sanction is enforced under section 92 (8) of the Banks and Specialised Deposit Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930) and section 44 (3) of the Non-Bank Financial Institution Act, 2008 (Act 774).
Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, the Minister-Designate for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, has revealed that he is in the process of officially acquiring a piece of land allocated to him by the Lands Commission for his service as a ranking member on the Lands Committee of Parliament four years ago.
Appearing before the Appointments Committee today, the nominee stated that during his four-year tenure on the committee, it was customary for members, upon completing their service, to be allocated land by the Lands Commission.
According to Dr. Pelpuo, he has taken steps to acquire the land but has yet to finalize the transaction.
“I’ve made attempts to acquire it. They’re saying they will do the papers for me. I haven’t gotten the papers yet,” he said.
Tullow Oil has initiated a 4D seismic survey across its Jubilee and TEN fields in Ghana, a move aimed at pinpointing optimal sites for future wells and refining the company’s drilling programme for 2025 and 2026.
The survey will also enhance understanding of pressure and fluid movements within the reservoirs, contributing to more efficient resource extraction.
In a bid to sustain production levels, the company has ramped up water injection capacity at Jubilee to 300,000 barrels of water per day (kbwpd) since late 2024. This, combined with improvements in system reliability, is expected to slow production decline rates in 2025 compared to the latter half of 2024.
Tullow’s drilling programme in Ghana is scheduled to commence in May 2025, utilizing the Noble Venturer rig. The initial phase will focus on drilling one production well and one injection well in the Jubilee field, with both expected to be operational by the third quarter of the year. After planned maintenance, the rig will resume drilling at the start of 2026, supporting production growth.
Meanwhile, efforts to enhance the value of the TEN field remain a priority. Tullow is working to streamline operational costs and maximize the potential for further infill drilling, leveraging data from the ongoing 4D seismic survey.
Tullow’s Chief Executive Officer, Rahul Dhir, highlighted the company’s progress in financial stability and strategic planning, stating:
“Over the last four years, through our commitment to operational excellence and prudent implementation of efficiencies, we have continued to generate free cash flow and have significantly reduced our net debt from c.$2.81 billion to c.$1.45 billion. Our improved balance sheet, alongside the extension of our revolving credit facility, positions us well as we look to manage our debt maturities and optimise the Group’s capital structure in 2025. Following the successful resolution of the Ghana Branch Profits Remittance Tax arbitration and a return to drilling at Jubilee, combined with production optimisation activities to reduce decline rates and further cost reductions, 2025 is set to be an exciting year for Tullow as we lay the foundations for capital returns and pan-African growth.”
As part of its financial strategy, the company is considering divestment of certain non-core assets to accelerate debt reduction, with a target of bringing net debt below $1 billion and gearing to less than one times. However, asset sales will only proceed if they deliver value for both equity and leverage.
Tullow has earmarked approximately $250 million for capital expenditure in 2025, with 60% directed to Jubilee, 30% to non-operated assets, and the remaining 10% covering TEN, Kenya, and exploration efforts. Decommissioning costs are projected at $15 million for the UK and another $15 million allocated for Ghana and Gabon.
Further cost-cutting measures are expected to yield annual savings of approximately $10 million, reducing general and administrative (G&A) expenses to around $40 million. Additionally, cash tax payments for the year are estimated at $200 million, assuming an oil price of $80 per barrel, with 60% of payments concentrated in the first half of the year.
Tullow’s hedging strategy safeguards 60% of projected sales volumes at a weighted average price of $59 per barrel, while 60% of sales remain open to potential oil price increases. The remaining 40% is capped at a weighted average price of $89 per barrel.
With forecast free cash flow of approximately $200 million at $80 per barrel—bolstered by $50 million in outstanding gas payments from Ghana in 2024—Tullow intends to repay its 2025 Notes at maturity using available cash and its Glencore credit facility. The company also plans to refinance its capital structure over the course of the year.
Following this refinancing, Tullow aims to establish a clear strategy for capital returns and further expansion through acquisitions, with a new CEO expected to take charge of the company’s next phase of growth.
Minister-designate for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, has issued a strong warning to employers who fail to adhere to Ghana’s minimum wage regulations.
He stressed that violators will be prosecuted under his administration. Ghana’s minimum wage is a little over GHC18 daily.
Speaking before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Thursday, January 30, 2025, Dr. Pelpuo made it clear that enforcing minimum wage laws would be a top priority.
“If we agree on a minimum wage, the law is that it cuts across every organization. You shouldn’t pay below that wage. So, if we find anybody doing that, you will be questioned, and if you are found guilty, you will face the law.
Ghanaians should not be cheated. We know how much the minimum wage is, and if you can’t pay up to that, then it will bring many questions on your kind of organization,” he explained.
Touching on the debate over raising Ghana’s retirement age, Dr. Pelpuo acknowledged the growing public interest in extending the limit but noted that any change should be broadly considered before implementation.
“There’s a lot of talk about reviewing the retirement age now. Some say up to 65 or 70. I think it should come as a result of a harmonious decision.
We will need, as Ghanaians, to consider whether it is time for us to do so or not… I will go along with the many who would pose a view that there is a need for a reform, given our economy and our capacity to deal with it.”
Currently, Ghana’s public sector retirement age is set at 60, with an option for civil servants to be reappointed for up to five additional years. The private sector, however, has no mandatory retirement age, though employers must set a minimum retirement threshold of 60 years.
The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has issued clear guidelines on the appropriate cement types for various construction purposes to enhance structural integrity and durability in the building sector.
This initiative is part of a public education campaign spearheaded by the Cement Manufacturing Development Committee (CMDC) under the Ghana Standards Authority (Manufacture of Cement) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2480).
The goal is to help builders, contractors, and the general public make informed choices regarding cement application to prevent structural weaknesses and ensure long-lasting buildings.
The GSA has categorized cement into specific grades based on their strength and application in construction projects:
Portland Limestone Cement (32.5R) & Portland Composite Cement (32.5R): Best suited for plastering, masonry work, and screeding in general construction.
Portland Limestone Cement (42.5R): Recommended for manufacturing concrete products, including pavement slabs and building blocks.
Portland Limestone Cement (42.5N): Ideal for ready-mix concrete production and high-rise building construction.
Portland Limestone Cement (52.5N): Designed for structural elements in high-rise buildings, such as columns, beams, and suspended slabs.
Masonry Cement (MC 12.5/22.5): Specially formulated for plastering, tiling, block laying, and screeding, ensuring high-quality finishes and long-term durability.
