TIG Post

Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

  • Bono NPP Chairman Abronye reportedly detained by police

    Bono NPP Chairman Abronye reportedly detained by police

    The police has reportedly arrested the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye. Circumstances surrounding his arrest is yet to be made known.

    However, reports indicate that, on Sunday, September 8, armed police officers stormed the residence of former NPP Youth Organiser, Moses Abor, in search of Abronye.

    Last week, Abronye made headlines after he formally wrote to eight different countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, the United States, France, Italy, Canada, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Germany seeking for protection over his safety in Ghana.

    Defending his reason for seeking asylum, he added that “consistent, escalating political persecution, threats to my life, and systemic abuse of state security powers by the current Government of Ghana”.

    Abronye’s arrest comes days after the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) held into custody the presidential candidate and leader of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Akpaloo for  alleged financial misappropriation and other related misconduct.

    On Wednesday, September 3, Kofi Akpaloo was picked up at his residence in Kumasi by EOCO officials for interrogation. Mr Akpaloo vied for presidency in the 2024 general elections. Prior to the election, Akpaloo expressed strong confidence in his chances for a decisive win, predicting victory over major contenders. 

    However, he obtained 5,219 being 0.09%. Recently, EOCO has given much attention to investigating high-profile political figures and business leaders.

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office was established by the Economic and Organised Crime Office Act , 2010 (Act 804) as a specialized agency to monitor and investigate economic and organised crime and on the authority of the Attorney-General prosecute these offenses to recover the proceeds of crime and provide for related matters.

    The EOCO has similar mandates to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Recently, the OSP released a fifty-page report covering investigations and prosecutions carried out between January 1 and July 31 this year.

    The OSP’s Seventh Half-yearly Report is pursuant to Section 3(3) of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959). The document also outlines key developments in the Office’s operations.

    According to the OSP, despite resistance from powerful interests, it stayed focused on executing its mandate during this period. As such, the Office successfully progressed significant corruption-related investigations to the stage of court proceedings, while also initiating new inquiries into suspected acts of corruption.

    “Then again, the Office, as one of three implementing partners of the new National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Strategy and Implementing Plan, is fashioning and moulding anti-corruption structures that would stand the test of time. The task ahead remains formidable. Much more so is our resolve to perform.

    “This reporting period was characterised by intensification of the Office’s prosecutorial mandate. We advanced high-profile investigations to court and initiated bold inquiries into suspected corruption, often in the face of deep-seated resistance from entrenched interests.

    “Notwithstanding these expected challenges, the Office remains resolute and guided by the rule of law, fairness, firmness, evidence-based action, and the interest of the public. We recognise that the fight against corruption cannot be waged and won only through punitive action and incarceration,” parts of the report read.

    The legislative framework of the Office of the Special Prosecutor mandates the Authority to crack down on corruption, recover assets, and confiscate illicit property.

    “Indeed, the legislative set-up of the Office leans heavily on corruption-prevention and asset recovery and disgorgement of tainted property. Consequently, we proceed on sustainable anti-corruption outcomes by pairing enforcement with robust prevention and asset recovery, especially founded on our unique plea bargaining regime.

    In this spirit, the Office scaled up its preventive mandate through active engagement with public institutions, private sector actors, civil society- and secured convictions and asset recovery through impactful plea bargaining. We also reckon that the nation’s anti-corruption legal framework requires re-imagination, modernisation and retooling to address the immense scale and complexity of modern corruption in the context of our social, economic and political constructs.

    “On this score, the Office has proposed the inclusion of a new chapter in the Constitution dedicated to the fight against corruption through definitive constitutional expression by the institution of proposed concrete measures to effectively and comprehensively suppress and repress corruption in public life as well as in the private sector chief among which include lifestyle audit non-conviction-based asset recovery, enhanced asset declaration and verification regime, and reverse onus presumption of corruption as the foundation of both anti-corruption criminal proceedings and civil asset recovery proceedings,” parts of the report added.

    The Office is also leading the charge in respect of the passage of a comprehensive Corrupt Practices Act and Conduct of Public Officers Act.

    Currently, sixty-seven(67) cases are being handled by the Office, all of which are undergoing comprehensive review.

    The corruption cases being investigated by OSP include: Minerals Income Investment Fund, Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Education Service, National Commission on Culture, Ghana Revenue Authority/Tata Consulting Services, National Service Authority, Ministry of Health/Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, National Cathedral.

    The others are: Tema oil refinery and Tema Energy and Processing Limited and the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited, State lands, Stool lands, and other Vested lands, Illegal Mining, National Sports Authority, Customs Division of Ghana Revenue Authority, Bank of Ghana and Estate of Kwadwo Owusu-Afriyie, alias Sir John.

    It further hinted that “There were seven (7) convictions and one (1) acquittal in respect of the cases pending before the criminal courts during the period under review. The Office has filed an appeal in respect of the case in which the accused was acquitted.

    Additionally, one hundred and fifty-two (152) cases are at the preliminary investigation stage, with the OSP assuring that details will be made public once they progress to the next stage.

    The Office is also seized with one hundred and fifty-two (152) other cases at the preliminary investigation stage. These may be publicised if the Special Prosecutor determines that they are within the mandate of the Office and that they should be moved past the preliminary investigation stage.

    This is a policy intended to protect the privacy of individuals and the business operations of institutions and companies, and to avoid unnecessary stigmatization.

  • Former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo to sue Committee of Inquiry over her removal

    Former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo to sue Committee of Inquiry over her removal

    The legal team of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has revealed plans to sue the Committee of Inquiry that recommended their client’s removal from office.


    Speaking to the media on Saturday, September 6,Gertrude Torkornoo’s lead counsel and former Attorney-General, Nii Ayikoi Otoo, indicated that the court process will grant Gertrude Torkornoo the opportunity to clear her name.

    “This is an option we are looking for to get the records straight. When Dr. Danquah went to court to talk about Re and Akoto, and that there was the abuse of a fundamental human right, people did not take him seriously. But today, people are praising him for having fought that good fight. So, we will go to court at the right time,” Mr. Otoo said.

    President John Dramani Mahama announced the removal of the Chief Justice from office on Monday, September 1, after receiving recommendations from the committee probing petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

    Having violated Article 146 (9), as mentioned in the Committee’s report and recommendations, President Mahama dismissed Madam Torkonoo not only from her position as Chief Justice but also as a Supreme Court Judge.

    In a statement dated September 1, the Presidency justified the dismissal of Gertrude Torkonoo as in accordance with Article 146 (9) of the 1992 Constitution.

    “NOW THEREFORE, KNOW YE ALL MEN that I, JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA, President of the Republic of Ghana, in pursuance of the said Article 146(9), do hereby REMOVE the said Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, from the office of Chief Justice and Justice of the Supreme Court, with effect from the date hereof,” parts of the statement noted.

    According to Article 146 (9), “A Justice of a Superior Court or a Chairman of a Regional Tribunal shall not be removed from office except for stated misbehaviour or incompetence or on grounds of inability to perform the functions of his office arising from infirmity of body or mind.”

    In the case of Madam Torkonoo (Esq), the committee found her guilty of stated misbehaviour, including unlawful expenditure of public funds, abuse of discretionary power, and interference in judicial appointments. These findings were tied not just to her role as Chief Justice, but also to her conduct as a Justice of the Supreme Court. Therefore, the committee recommended her complete removal from both roles, and President Mahama was constitutionally obligated to act on that recommendation.

    Outlining the charges against the Chief Justice on unlawful expenditure of public funds, the Committee’s report suggested that, “In the opinion of the committee, the travel expenses which the Chief Justice heaped on the Judicial Service when she travelled on holidays in September 2023, first to Tanzania with her husband and second, to the United States of America with her daughter, together with the payment of per diem to the spouse and daughter of the Chief Justice, constituted unlawful expenditure of public funds.”

    “Those acts… constitute avoidable and reckless dissipation of public funds and, in the view of the committee, to have been occasioned by the overall head of the Judiciary and the Judicial Service, whose duty is to guard public resources allocated by the Government, is caught within the spectrum of stated misbehaviour.”

    According to the Committee, she abused her powers as a Chief Justice in the transfer of one Mr Baiden, adding, “The committee also stated without fear or favour that the Chief Justice unjustifiably breached the provisions in Article 295 (a) and (b) of the Constitution, 1992, in the way and manner that she transferred Mr. Baiden. It said her conduct amounted to misbehaviour.”

    On interference in judicial appointments, the Committee highlighted the Chief Justice’s deliberate actions of bypassing the designated system of selecting Spreme Court Judges. Hence, the Committee labelled her as unacceptable and counted it as misconduct.

    “Justice Torkornoo… cannot lay claim to ignorance of the nomination process and procedure, notwithstanding the fact that the process and procedure are not spelt out in the Constitution but case law”

    “Therefore, to seek, wittingly, to outwit this known process and procedure for appointing Supreme Court Justices amounts to misbehaviour in the eyes of the Committee and the Committee finds it as such,” excerpts of the Committee report read.

    The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.

    The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.

    Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed. The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.

    The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully. She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.

    The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.

    As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.

    In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.

    This forms part of the 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.

    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.

    The measures are: “That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”

    “That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”

    “Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”

    The other reliefs are as follows: “ A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair, equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”

    “An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”

    “An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”

    “An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”

    On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani Mahama and the Executive arm of government.

    “Immediately and without delay, reinstate the Chief Justice of Ghana to her Office. consistent with both the hitherto strong attachment to the rule of law demonstrated by Ghana and also the constitutional duties incumbent upon it.

    “And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.

    Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.

    Also, both groups demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.

  • Ghana to host IMF staff mission for 5th review in September

    Ghana to host IMF staff mission for 5th review in September

    A staff mission with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will at the end of September 2025 pay a visit to Ghana to conduct the 5th review under the Fund programme. After this review, there will be one more review in April 2026 before the entire programme officially ends in May 2026.

    Earlier this year, Ghana concluded its 4th review. Market analysts are anticipating the coming of the International Monetary Fund mission, they have argued that the assessment will reveal if whether Ghana is on track or not.

    They caution that once Ghana finishes the programme and no longer has IMF supervision, the country might find it difficult to keep government spending and borrowing under control (maintain fiscal discipline).


    In July, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced that five banks, including National Investment Bank (NIB)are currently struggling to meet their recapitalisation requirements.


    This was reported by the IMF in its July 2025 Country Report, which shared details with the country’s Fourth Review under the Extended Credit Facility, along with assessments of Ghana’s banking sector, fiscal performance, and debt sustainability.


    “…a few banks (including one state-owned) are materially behind on their recapitalisation schedule due to slow progress against shareholder capital commitments, higher NPLs, and/or delayed booking of credit impairments and required provisioning identified under the BoG’s 2023 asset quality assessments” parts of the report revealed.


    Recapitalisation requirements refer to the minimum amount of money (capital) that a bank is required to have to stay financially strong and stable to avert a collapse despite incurring losses.


    The report also noted that banks that are currently still struggling with recapitalisation requirements are under intensified monitoring by the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and are subject to corrective measures aimed at accelerating their recapitalisation plans to achieve a CAR of 13% by the end of March 2025.


    “Parliamentary approval and implementation of the World Bank-funded segment of the GFSF could help some banks achieve CAR targets by end-2025, provided that they secure capital injections sufficient to reach capital levels eligible for access,” the Fund projected.


    The IMF further emphasized that “stepped-up efforts to improve the crisis management and resolution framework, enhance financial-sector safety nets, and address legacy issues at the specialised deposit-taking institutions are also important.”


    According to the reports, about 13 banks that faced capital deficits after the implementation of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) by the erstwhile government have now met their requirements, with some even exceeding their recapitalization requirements as of the end of 2024.


    The IMF believes that these banks are performing well and on track due to increased profits and support from the Ghana Financial Stability Fund (GFSF)—a net fund that was set up in August 2023 under the Akufo-Addo-led administration to support financial institutions affected by Ghana’s DDEP.


    It also says these banks are likely to reach the required safety level of 13% (called the Capital Adequacy Ratio, or CAR) on their own—without needing extra help—by the end of 2025.


    “The Bank of Ghana has implemented risk containment measures to support banking system stability. It appropriately intensified monitoring and escalated measures at weak, undercapitalised banks to promote timely recapitalisation.

    “The Ghana Financial Stability Fund (GFSF), established in August 2023, has provided targeted support to banks, contributing to improved profitability and recapitalisation progress,” the report noted.


    The IMF stated that the government is working to support the struggling banks as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s financial stability.


    “The authorities have taken intensified actions to address undercapitalised banks. Looking ahead, further strengthening financial sector stability requires fully implementing the plan to strengthen NIB, finalising the reform strategy to support state-owned banks’ viability and sustainability, and developing contingency plans to address weak banks that fail to recapitalise,” the report stated.


    Earlier reports indicated that 15 out of 21 banks had recorded losses as a result of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme.

    Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has announced the government’s decision to recapitalize National Investment Bank (NIB), Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited (CBG).


    Fuller details of this comprehensive recapitalization plan will be unveiled during the upcoming mid-year review, Dr Forson noted in a post on X on July 9.


    In May last year, the erstwhile government earmarked GH¢2.3 billion for the recapitalization of the National Investment Bank (NIB).


    “As part of the implementation of the Post Covid-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG), Cabinet has approved the plan for restructuring and recapitalization of the National Investment Bank (NIB),” the former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam said.


    The recapitalization plan was to involve a programmed equity injection of about GHS2.3 billion over a year, with the first tranche of GHS400 million expected to be transferred to NIB before the end of May last year.


    This initiative was critical to strengthening the governance structure, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving risk management to ensure the financial viability of NIB.

  • Gbenyiri conflict: Man shot dead by unknown assailants in Kalba

    Gbenyiri conflict: Man shot dead by unknown assailants in Kalba

    Unknown assailants have shot a middle-aged man to death near Kalba, a suburb of the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District in the Savannah Region. The gunmen ambushed the deceased person and opened fire as he rode his motorcycle.

    This information was made known by the police on Sunday, September 7. According to the police, the deceased, whose identity is yet to be revealed traveled from his community, Uro to Kalba to charge his mobile phone due to the lack of power in his area.

    The body of the deceased has since been deposited at the St. Anne’s Catholic Hospital in Damongo by the Ghana Police Service. The incident is amid the ongoing protracted conflict in Gbenyiri, which has claimed multiple lives.

    Properties have been destroyed with more than 50,000 individuals displaced due to the tension in the area. The latest death brings the official toll from the conflict to 32. The ongoing conflict in Gbenyiri is stemmed from a parcel of land dispute between a Gbenyiri resident and the chief’s son which began on Saturday, August 23.

    The resolved conflict spreading to Kalba and other parts of the district. Despite the deployment of 400 police personnel to the area to ensure law and order, clashes between the rival groups persisted.

    Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohunu, alongside senior officials from the Armed Forces, Prisons Service, and Immigration Service, have already visited Kalba, Sawla, and other affected communities in efforts to bring calm to the area.

    Residents have however, expressed fear over the security situation. Speaking to the media a resident noted “With this killing, who do you think will trust the system again? Some of us suspected this to happen because the guys are still around in Kalba town, and if you deceive yourself and go there, they will just end your life like this farmer.To me, this reaffirms the fears and mistrust in the system. The authorities need to do more than just talk and go”.

    In a related development, President John Mahama has initiated steps to restore peace in the Sawla-Bole area of the Savannah Region following renewed tensions between the Gonja and Brifor communities.

    Upon his return from a state visit to Singapore, the President received a full briefing from the National Security Coordinator and the Minister for the Interior on the latest developments in the conflict.

    While abroad, Mr. Mahama held a telephone conversation with the King of Gonja, Yagbonwura Jira Bikunuto Jewu Soale I, during which they discussed measures to end the clashes and foster lasting peace in the area.

    As part of efforts to de-escalate the situation, the President has dispatched a government delegation led by the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohamed-Mubarak, to engage the Yagbonwura and other key stakeholders.

    Meanwhile, security has been reinforced with the deployment of additional police and military personnel to the conflict zone. President Mahama has urged all parties to support the peace initiatives being rolled out, stressing the importance of dialogue in resolving outstanding disputes.

    He has further directed the government delegation to work closely with the Regional Security Council, traditional authorities, and community leaders to ensure calm is restored and law and order upheld.

    Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has assured the Overlord of Gonja, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, that the government will take every necessary step to restore peace in the Sawla-Bole area.

    “We have taken note of all the concerns, and we have also assured him that we will do everything humanly possible to ensure that peace will be restored. But we need his cooperation and the cooperation of all others. Surely, what talking can solve, dance cannot solve,” he stated.

    “Surely, what talking can solve, dance cannot solve, so we are hoping that after all the lengthy discussion and the conclusion that we have come to, we will go and implement our part, we are hopeful that they will also listen to us and also adhere to whatever agreement that we’ve had,” he noted.

    Less than a week ago, the sector minister imposed a curfew on the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba township and its surrounding communities in the Savannah Region. The curfew runs from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., effective Wednesday, August 27, 2025, until further notice. This measure was taken in response to the recent outbreak of conflict in the area.

    In addition to the curfew, there is a total ban on the possession of firearms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons. Any individual found with such items will be arrested and prosecuted. Furthermore, no two or more persons are permitted to ride on motorbikes throughout the day, and the wearing of war regalia has also been prohibited.

    Last year, intense security measures were implemented in the Bole and Sawla districts of the Savannah Region due to the chieftaincy dispute between the Bolewura and the Jahori clan. This heightened security response followed a ruling by the Tamale High Court concerning the dispute between the Jahori and Bolewura factions.

    In response to the court ruling, youths from Bole set fire to houses belonging to members of the Jahori community residing in both Bole and Sawla districts. The devastating fires resulted in significant property losses for the affected individuals, leaving many tenants in despair and tears. In recent years, the country has witnessed a number of casualties and destruction of property arising from chieftaincy disputes.

    The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has also reviewed the earlier curfew hours imposed on Bawku and Nalerigu townships following recent attacks. The previous curfew, which ran from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., has been revised to 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. The minister took this decision after receiving advice from the National Security Council.

    The Bawku Municipality in the Upper East Region and the East Mamprusi Municipality in the North East Region are affected by the new directive. The curfew has created an environment conducive for the evacuation of students from educational institutions in the affected areas, some of whom had unfortunately been targeted during the conflict.

    In a statement issued on July 27, the government announced that it is stepping up its approach from peacekeeping to peace enforcement in Bawku and other affected areas due to the recent escalation of violence, which threatens to derail the peacebuilding process.

    These heightened tensions and conflicts have had an impact on the country’s global peace ranking. Ghana has been ranked 61st out of 163 countries in the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), marking a continued decline in its standing on peacefulness. The latest ranking follows a downward trajectory from 55th in 2024, 51st in 2023, and 40th in 2022.

    Despite the decline, Ghana still ranks ahead of several of its West African neighbors, including Senegal (69th), Liberia (70th), and Nigeria (148th).

    The Global Peace Index, compiled annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), measures the peacefulness of nations based on 23 indicators across three broad domains: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and militarisation.

  • DStv tariffs to drop as MultiChoice agrees to price cuts – Sam George

    DStv tariffs to drop as MultiChoice agrees to price cuts – Sam George

    The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, has disclosed that MultiChoice Ghana has agreed to reduce its DStv subscription fees for Ghanaian customers.


    Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Friday, September 5, Sam George noted that the government has established a joint committee with MultiChoice Ghana to reach a final agreement on how its prices will be adjusted to ensure Ghanaian customers pay less.

    “We have taken an immediate step to put together a committee comprising representatives from the ministry, the regulator, NCA, Multichoice Ghana, and Multichoice Africa. I will personally chair the committee.Let us be clear—they have finally accepted that there will be a reduction and they want us to discuss the level of reduction. I believe that as a minister, we do not need 30 days,” he said.

    Earlier, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, announced that should Multichoice fail to reduce the prices of its subscription services, the DStv broadcast license will be suspended nationwide effective August 7, 2025.


    Engaging the public today as part of the Government Accountability Series, the minister noted that he received a 9-page document from Multichoice on July 21 over its inability to reduce its subscription fees.

    The company cited depreciation of the cedi in past years, despite the recent cedi appreciation, as the reason for its inability to reduce prices.
    Sam George noted that it is unacceptable for Nigerians to be paying less for the same packages offered Ghanaians at higher costs when the naira has depreciated at an accelerating rate against the cedi.


    As such, he has directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend the broadcast of DStv should Multichoice fail to reduce prices of its packages.


    “Their reasons included that the cedi had depreciated in the preceding eight years by 240%, and they claimed that my request for a reduction on the basis of the appreciation of the cedi was unfounded because, in their words, the appreciation of the Ghana cedi over the last 6 months has been a fluke which could not be sustainable.


    “As Minister, my fidelity is to the Ghanaian people. I have to act in the interest of the Ghanaian people, and I believe the Ghanaian people have been fleeced and exploited for too long. I wrote back to the NCA on Monday and directed the NCA in that letter to suspend the broadcasting license of dstv effective 7th of August 2025 if they fail to effect a reduction in their bundle prices.


    “I can’t as minister serving the Ghanaian people, continue to watch what can be best described as plain stealing happening to the Ghanaian people. In my letter to them, I gave them scenarios from seven markets that dstv is operating in. The same content in the premium bouquet that is offered to Ghanaians for the $83 equivalent is offered to Nigerians for the $29 equivalent.


    How can anyone explain this price disparity to me? Enough of the mistreatment of the Ghanaian consumer. In Nigeria, in the same timeframe, they say the Ghanaian cedi has depreciated by 240%, the Nigerian naira has depreciated by 409%. If Nigerians are paying the equivalent of $29, dstv must charge the same here in Ghana,” he said.


    The minister has sought a 30 percent reduction in the price of packages provided by Multichoice. In reaction, MultiChoice Ghana responded to the directive demanding an adjustment of its subscription services.

    As per a statement signed by its Managing Director, Mr. Alex Okyere, on August 3, the company emphasized that the Minister’s proposal to drastically review its prices is not workable.


    According to the company, it acknowledges the positive impact of the local currency, the cedi, against foreign currencies, specifically the U.S. dollar. However, a significant decrease in prices cannot be attained by the company.


    “While we appreciate the recent appreciation of the cedi— which we have never referred to as a ‘fluke’— it is not tenable to reduce the DStv subscription fees in the manner proposed by the Minister,” the statement read.


    Should both parties fail to reach common ground, the suspension of the DStv broadcast license is imminent.


    On July 4, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, engaged the leadership of MultiChoice Ghana to discuss a possible reduction in fees for DSTV subscriptions.

    This comes after issues of affordability became topical in recent months after an increase in subscription fees in April.


    The sector minister made this known when he engaged the media on July 3 on key initiatives and developments within the sector under the second quarter.


    “Last week, I invited the senior leadership of MultiChoice Ghana to a formal dialogue on DSTV’s subscription pricing in Ghana. The meeting addressed public concerns about affordability, value for money, and fairness in service delivery. I made it clear the ministry’s expectation that pricing structures must be responsive to Ghana’s economic context,” he said.


    “I have a meeting scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, even though it’s a public holiday, with the Ghana team and their South African counterparts, the management from South Africa, they arrived tonight to agree on a way forward on the issues raised,” the minister indicated.


    He further said; “The outcomes will be shared with the public in due course. This engagement reflects our commitment to regulatory accountability and our resolve to ensure that digital services in Ghana remain fair, accessible, and responsive to the needs of citizens. I’ll make you one promise, I won’t leave tomorrow’s meeting without securing a drop in the pricing of DSTV. That is a solemn promise I make to you.”


    Subscribers of DStv across Africa, effective April 1, 2025, experienced a price increase of over 15% on their monthly subscription fees, a decision that left many Ghanaian customers aggrieved.


    The pay-TV provider cited rising consumer inflation and economic challenges as key factors influencing the decision. According to the new pricing structure, in Ghana, the cost of the premium package rose from GHC750 to GHC865, representing a 15.33% increase.

    The Compact Plus package moved from GHC495 to GHC570, marking a 15.15% jump, while the Compact package increased from GHC330 to GHC380, also reflecting a 15.15% rise.


    The Family package now costs GHC190, up from GHC165, indicating a 15.15% increase, whereas the Access package went up by 16.47%, from GHC85 to GHC99.


    Subscribers to the DStv Lite package experienced the highest percentage surge of 18.00%, moving from GHC50 to GHC59. The DStv-Asia Standalone package climbed by 14.75%, from GHC305 to GHC350. The Great Wall Add-on increased from GHC70 to GHC80, marking a 14.29% rise.


    For those subscribed to the French content add-ons, the French Add-on now costs GHC250, up from GHC215 (16.28% increase), while the French Plus Add-on rose from GHC435 to GHC500, reflecting a 14.94% increase. The French Touch Add-on costs GHC150, up from GHC130, marking a 15.38% increase.


    The cost of premium packages with add-ons has also been adjusted. Premium with Asia Add-on increased from GHC1,055 to GHC1,215 (15.17% increase), while Premium with French Add-on now costs GHC1,365, up from GHC1,185 (15.19% increase). The HD-PVR service rose by 15.00%, from GHC100 to GHC115.


    Following this, consumer rights organization CUTS International pushed for government intervention in MultiChoice Ghana Limited’s decision to raise subscription fees, arguing that customers were given inadequate notice ahead of the increase.


    About a month ago, MultiChoice Ghana announced an upgrade in all of its DStv and GOtv packages as well as a reduction in the price of its decoders, from GH¢169 to GH¢89, due to the rebound of the economy.


    The Minority caucus in Parliament has requested the appearance of the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, along with representatives of MultiChoice Ghana, to address concerns over the recent reduction in package prices.


    A statement signed by the Member of Parliament for Kpandai, Matthew Nyindam, on behalf of the Minority, on Sunday, August 3, indicated that the invitation has become crucial in order to strike a better deal between the two parties.


    Meanwhile, the Minority has also emphasized that “We agree that subscription fees must be set fairly and reflect the realities of Ghana’s economy”.


    “We fully support the advocacy initiated by patriotic citizens, which has now attracted the attention of the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation. We agree that subscription fees must be set fairly and reflect the realities of Ghana’s economy”.

  • WASSCE 2025: WAEC intensifies crackdown on exam malpractice; 14 suspects arrested nationwide

    WASSCE 2025: WAEC intensifies crackdown on exam malpractice; 14 suspects arrested nationwide

    The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has announced that at least 14 individuals have been arrested across the country for their involvement in malpractice in the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). 

    According to the Council, the victims include teachers, students, and invigilators Speaking to the media on Friday, September 5, Head of Public Affairs at the West African Examination Council, John Kapi noted, “As part of our commitment to upholding the integrity and credibility of our examination, we have deployed for we had to employ a number of staff, as well as our own specialized personnel, to monitor the examination centres. Our monitoring teams have …. of irregular activity at a number of the examination centres”.

    Three out of the victims will spend a combined 20 months behind bars, the Kasoa-Ofaakor District Magistrate Court has ruled. The convicts include a teacher at Ghana College SHS, Samuel Armah, and two university students, Kwame Oteng Nkansah and Amedeka James.

    Armah who is an invigilator has been awarded an eight months in prison with a fine of 80 penalty units. He was caught dictating answers from his mobile phone to candidates during the Social Studies Paper 1.

    Nkansah, who is a level 100 student of Accra Technical University, impersonated one Quayson Francis Atta of Ghana College SHS. He therefore received a jail term of six months with a fine of 80 penalty units.


    A level 100 student of the University of Ghana, James, has been granted a six-month jail term after an attempt to write the exam in place of his twin brother, Amedeka Justice.


    On Monday, August 25, authorities caught an invigilator at the Forces SHTS with a phone loaded with exam questions during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).


    His phone contained exam questions on Picture Making and Oral English.
    On Wednesday, August 20, the West African Examination Council commenced the 2025 WASSCE. A total of 461,640 candidates sat for the Oral English exam.

    The practical papers commenced on August 4. The number of students who sat for this year’s exams saw a 0.22 percent increase. In 2024, a total number of 460,611 sat for the WASSCE. This year’s candidates compromise 207,381 males and 254,259 females.


    Ahead of the exams, the Ghana Education Service (GES) released funds to cater for the 2025 WASSCE practical examinations for all Senior High Schools (SHSs) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTSs) across the country.

    An amount of GH¢15,849,920 was released, according to reports. According to GES, in a statement issued on Saturday, July 27, and signed by the Head of Public Relations, Daniel Fenyi, the funds are expected to provide all necessary materials and supplies for their practical exams.


    “ The Managaement of the Ghana Education Service (GES) announces that funds have been released to all Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) across the country to cover the fees for the 2025 WASSCE practicals.


    “This payment ensures that all practical examinations scheduled for the 2025 WASSCE are fully supported, including the provision of the required materials and other essential resources,” the Service noted.


    Additionally, the Service explained that the move is intended to shield guardians as well as parents from extra cost and also create a conducive environment in ensuring that students excel in the upcoming exams.


    “With the release of the funds, GES seeks to facilitate a smooth and well-cordinated examination process that enables students to focus on their academic work, while relieving parents and guardians of any such financial burden,” it stated.


    The GES cautioned school authorities against diverting the funds from its intended purpose, warning that any misappropriation will attract strict sanctions in accordance with existing financial regulations and disciplinary procedures.


    “Regional, district and school authorities are, therefore, strongly urged to ensure the due application of the funds for their intended purpose to guarantee efficiency and accountability. Management will continue to monitor the utilisation processes to ensure compliance and to maintain high standards in the administration of the examination.


    “The Ghana Education Service appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders in advancing quality education and remains dedicated to creating an enabling environment for the success of all students,” part of the release read.


    In an unrelated event, the West African Examinations Council has cancelled and withheld the subject results and entire results of some two thousand, two hundred and twenty-eight (2,228) candidates who sat for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).


    The Council made this known after revealing that it had released provisional results of candidates who sat for the BECE for School Candidates, 2025.


    Following the completion of investigations into a number of cases of irregularity detected during the conduct of the examination and marking of scripts, the 36th Meeting of the Final Awards and Examiners’ Appointment Committee for the BECE, 2025, held on Friday August 15, 2025 approved the cancellation of the subject results of 718 candidates and the entire results of 177 candidates.

    The committee also withheld the subject results of 1,240 candidates and entire results of 93 candidates. Meanwhile, the subject results of some candidates from 119 schools have been cancelled. In addition, the subject results of some candidates from 87 schools have been withheld for further scrutiny.

    The withheld results may be cancelled or released based on the outcome of investigations by September 6, 2025. WAEC has indicated that candidates whose results have been cancelled or withheld should visit their website for details and reasons for withholding or cancelling the results.


    Meanwhile, the Council will dispatch the results of school candidates to their respective schools through the Metropolitan/Municipal/District Directors of Education.


    The results are also available on the Council’s official website at www.waecgh.org for candidates who so desire to access them online.


    A total of 603,328 candidates, comprising 297,250 males and 306,078 females from 20,395 participating schools, entered for the school examination that commenced on June 11.


    This includes 72 candidates with visual impairment, 239 with hearing impairment and 161 candidates with other test accommodation needs. The examination was conducted at 2,237 centres across the country. Out of the total number, 2,526 candidates were absent.


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


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


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


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


    Two months ago, four persons were handed a 30-day prison sentence by the Kintampo Circuit Court in the Bono East Region for their involvement in examination malpractices during the recent Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).


    Presiding Judge Lily Amoah Kankan issued the ruling on Tuesday, June 17. Two others were fined, while three were remanded into police custody for further investigation.


    Diana Tii, a teacher at Krabonso D/A School, was caught distributing photocopied materials to candidates in the exam hall. In addition to her 30-day sentence, she signed a two-year bond to be of good behaviour.


    Sylvester, also a teacher, was found to have aided one Diana, a candidate, in sneaking the photocopies into the exam hall. He received the same 30-day sentence.


    Paul Busi, a student of Kintampo College of Health, was caught with computing questions on his phone. After pleading guilty with remorse, he was fined 100 penalty units, equivalent to GHS1,200.
    Edmond Merrato Boi, a teacher at Just Love International School in Kintampo, was caught solving computing questions at the school’s dining hall.


    He pleaded guilty with explanation and was sentenced to 30 days in prison with hard labour. Samuel Waabero, an administrator at the same school, was also caught solving computing questions in the dining hall.


    He received the same sentence after pleading guilty with explanation. Three other suspects are to reappear in court on July 2, 2025.


    Belinda Yaa Adjeiwaa, a fashion designer from Techiman, was found with photocopied answers to the Computing Paper 2. She has been remanded into police custody.


    Haruna Mohammed, a teacher at Kintampo SHS, was caught with a mobile phone containing Social Studies questions during the exam. He is also on remand.


    Sadique Abubakar, another teacher, was caught with answers to the Computing Paper 1 Objective Test. He was granted court bail of GHS10,000 with two sureties and is expected back in court on the same date.


    Proprietor of The Big Six Educational Complex located at Meduma in the Kwabre East Municipality, Afoakwa Sarpong, was also apprehended over an alleged case of assault by imprisonment. On Monday, June 17, the Educational Director for Kwabre East Municipal, Nana Adu Mensah Asare, accompanied by Ms. Mavis Okyere Anane, Public Relations Officer of the Education Directorate, effected the arrest of Mr. Afoakwa Sarpong.


    The arrest stemmed from a disturbing incident that occurred on 16th June during the just-ended Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).


    Mr. Sarpong is said to have unlawfully prevented two Junior High School (JHS) candidates, whose names have been withheld, from writing the Mathematics paper, citing their failure to pay registration fees.
    Preliminary reports indicate that the suspect confined the two candidates in a separate room at the examination centre and released them only after the examination had concluded. He has been handed over to the Mamponteng District Police Command.
    The number of candidates that registered for this year’s BECE (SC) is 5.99% higher than the 2024 entry figure.
    Overall, 569,236 candidates participated in the 2024 BECE, comprising 282,703 boys and 286,533 girls from 19,505 schools.
    Special accommodations were provided for 59 visually impaired candidates, 263 with hearing impairments, and 161 others requiring specific assistance.
    The exam took place at 2,123 centres nationwide, though 3,845 candidates were marked as absent.
    The BECE for Private Candidates had 1,390 participants, 750 males and 640 females, taking the exam at 15 centres across the country’s regional capitals. Among them, 57 candidates did not show up for the exam.
    Some 33 school candidates and 3 private candidates had their results withheld due to investigations into possible irregularities. WAEC also flagged subject results from 149 schools, pending further investigations into reported malpractices.
    Following thorough investigations, the Final Awards and Examiners’ Appointment Committee, at its 35th meeting on October 16, 2024, decided to nullify the subject results for 377 school candidates and 3 private candidates.
    Also, two teachers were arrested in Jachie Pramso, Ashanti Region, over alleged examination malpractice, following the earlier arrest of three teachers and two residents in Bekwai.

  • BECE results for private candidates to be released today

    BECE results for private candidates to be released today

    Candidates who sat for the private Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) will today, Friday, September 5, have access to their results. This information was disclosed by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC)’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, while speaking at a press briefing on Septermber 5. 

    According to him, “The results of BECE for private candidates will be released by the close of today, September 5, 2025”.  BECE for Private and School Candidates with 603,328 candidates  began on Wednesday, June 11 thorough to Wednesday, June 18. A total of 603,328 candidates, comprising 297,250 males and 306,078 females from 20,395 participating schools took part in the exam. While 1,661 candidates, comprising 858 males and 803 females, registered for the BECE for Private Candidates. Ahead of the exams, Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, entreated the candidates to remain focused and stay away from exam malpractices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Assin South District Education Director, Isaac Opoku, confirmed the demise of a 14-year-old Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidate, Awudu Gariba, who was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Assin Fosu Polyclinic on Friday, June 13.

    The Nnuanua Number 1 Basic School student, according to reports, showed unrest last Thursday at the exam hall and was rushed to the Adiembra CHPS compound but was denied medical care as the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) was still in motion.

    Two Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates of Big Six International School, located at Meduma in the Ashanti Region were also denied the chance to write their Mathematics paper after being locked in a room by their headmaster over unpaid school fees.

    According to reports, the headmaster issued a directive barring the students from participating in the exams unless their outstanding fees were settled. After the students defied the order and attempted to proceed to the exam centre, they were locked in a room on the school premises, causing them to miss the Mathematics paper.

    Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Kwabre East, Onyina-Akyeampong Akwasi Gyamfi, has taken a strong stance against the detention of two Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates by the headmaster of their school.

    He has formally reported this incident to the police and “expects the individual responsible to face the consequences of his actions.” “It’s alarming to learn that a similar situation arose at this school last year, and I’m committed to pursuing this case vigorously,” Mr Gyamfi assured.

    The number of candidates that registered for this year’s BECE (SC) is 5.99% higher than the 2024 entry figure.

    Overall, 569,236 candidates participated in the 2024 BECE, comprising 282,703 boys and 286,533 girls from 19,505 schools. Special accommodations were provided for 59 visually impaired candidates, 263 with hearing impairments, and 161 others requiring specific assistance.

    The exam took place at 2,123 centres nationwide, though 3,845 candidates were marked as absent. The BECE for Private Candidates had 1,390 participants, 750 males and 640 females, taking the exam at 15 centres across the country’s regional capitals. Among them, 57 candidates did not show up for the exam.

    Some 33 school candidates and 3 private candidates had their results withheld due to investigations into possible irregularities. WAEC also flagged subject results from 149 schools, pending further investigations into reported malpractices.

    Following thorough investigations, the Final Awards and Examiners’ Appointment Committee, at its 35th meeting on October 16, 2024, decided to nullify the subject results for 377 school candidates and 3 private candidates.

    Also, two teachers were arrested in Jachie Pramso, Ashanti Region, over alleged examination malpractice, following the earlier arrest of three teachers and two residents in Bekwai.

    To avert the cancellation of results and legal issues, WAEC has urged candidates and teachers to avoid engaging in exam malpractices.

  • Three jailed 20 months for involvement in 2025 WASSCE malpractice

    Three jailed 20 months for involvement in 2025 WASSCE malpractice

    Three persons implicated in exam malpractice during the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will spend a combined 20 months behind bars, the Kasoa-Ofaakor District Magistrate Court has ruled.

    The convicts include a teacher at Ghana College SHS,  Samuel Armah, and two university students, Kwame Oteng Nkansah and Amedeka James. Armah who is an invigilator has been awarded an eight months in prison with a fine of 80 penalty units.

    He was caught dictating answers from his mobile phone to candidates during the Social Studies Paper 1. Nkansah, who is a level 100 student of Accra Technical University, impersonated one Quayson Francis Atta of Ghana College SHS. He therefore received a jail term of six months with a fine of 80 penalty units. 

    A level 100 student of the University of Ghana, James, has been granted a six-month jail term after an attempt to write the exam in place of his twin brother, Amedeka Justice.

    Meanwhile, addressing the media on Friday, September 5, the Ghana Education Service (GES), the Service announced the arrest of fourteen (14) individuals for exam malpractice.

    According to the Service, the victims include teachers, students and invigilators. 

    Speaking to the media on Friday, September 5, Head of Public Affairs at the West African Examination Council, John Kapi noted, “As part of our commitment to upholding the integrity and credibility of our examination, we have deployed for we had to employ a number of staff, as well as our own specialized personnel, to monitor the examination centres. Our monitoring teams have …. of irregular activity at a number of the examination centres”.

    On Monday, August 25, authorities caught an invigilator at the Forces SHTS with a phone loaded with exam questions during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    His phone contained exam questions on Picture Making and Oral English.

    On Wednesday, August 20, the West African Examination Council commenced the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). A total of 461,640 candidates sat for the Oral English exam. The practical papers commenced on August 4.

    The number of students who sat for this year’s exams saw a 0.22 percent increase. In 2024, a total number of 460,611 sat for the WASSCE. This year’s candidates compromise 207,381 males and 254,259 females.

    Ahead of the exams, the Ghana Education Service (GES) released funds to cater for the 2025 WASSCE practical examinations for all Senior High Schools (SHSs) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTSs) across the country.

    An amount of GH¢15,849,920 was released, according to reports. According to GES, in a statement issued on Saturday, July 27, and signed by the Head of Public Relations, Daniel Fenyi, the funds are expected to provide all necessary materials and supplies for their practical exams.

    “ The Managaement of the Ghana Education Service (GES) announces that funds have been released to all Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) across the country to cover the fees for the 2025 WASSCE practicals.

    “This payment ensures that all practical examinations scheduled for the 2025 WASSCE are fully supported, including the provision of the required materials and other essential resources,” the Service noted.

    Additionally, the Service explained that the move is intended to shield guardians as well as parents from extra cost and also create a conducive environment in ensuring that students excel in the upcoming exams.

    “With the release of the funds, GES seeks to facilitate a smooth and well-cordinated examination process that enables students to focus on their academic work, while relieving parents and guardians of any such financial burden,” it stated.

    The GES cautioned school authorities against diverting the funds from its intended purpose, warning that any misappropriation will attract strict sanctions in accordance with existing financial regulations and disciplinary procedures.

    “Regional, district and school authorities are, therefore, strongly urged to ensure the due application of the funds for their intended purpose to guarantee efficiency and accountability. Management will continue to monitor the utilisation processes to ensure compliance and to maintain high standards in the administration of the examination.

    “The Ghana Education Service appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders in advancing quality education and remains dedicated to creating an enabling environment for the success of all students,” part of the release read.

    In an unrelated event, the West African Examinations Council has cancelled and withheld the subject results and entire results of some two thousand, two hundred and twenty-eight (2,228) candidates who sat for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

    The Council made this known after revealing that it had released provisional results of candidates who sat for the BECE for School Candidates, 2025.

    Following the completion of investigations into a number of cases of irregularity detected during the conduct of the examination and marking of scripts, the 36th Meeting of the Final Awards and Examiners’ Appointment Committee for the BECE, 2025, held on Friday August 15, 2025 approved the cancellation of the subject results of 718 candidates and the entire results of 177 candidates.

    The committee also withheld the subject results of 1,240 candidates and entire results of 93 candidates.

    Meanwhile, the subject results of some candidates from 119 schools have been cancelled. In addition, the subject results of some candidates from 87 schools have been withheld for further scrutiny. The withheld results may be cancelled or released based on the outcome of investigations by September 6, 2025.

    WAEC has indicated that candidates whose results have been cancelled or withheld should visit their website for details and reasons for withholding or cancelling the results.

    Meanwhile, the Council will dispatch the results of school candidates to their respective schools through the Metropolitan/Municipal/District Directors of Education.

    The results are also available on the Council’s official website at www.waecgh.org for candidates who so desire to access them online.

    A total of 603,328 candidates, comprising 297,250 males and 306,078 females from 20,395 participating schools, entered for the school examination that commenced on June 11.

    This includes 72 candidates with visual impairment, 239 with hearing impairment and 161 candidates with other test accommodation needs. The examination was conducted at 2,237 centres across the country. Out of the total number, 2,526 candidates were absent.

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

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

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

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

    Two months ago, four persons were handed a 30-day prison sentence by the Kintampo Circuit Court in the Bono East Region for their involvement in examination malpractices during the recent Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

    Presiding Judge Lily Amoah Kankan issued the ruling on Tuesday, June 17. Two others were fined, while three were remanded into police custody for further investigation.

    Diana Tii, a teacher at Krabonso D/A School, was caught distributing photocopied materials to candidates in the exam hall. In addition to her 30-day sentence, she signed a two-year bond to be of good behaviour.

    Sylvester, also a teacher, was found to have aided one Diana, a candidate, in sneaking the photocopies into the exam hall. He received the same 30-day sentence.

    Paul Busi, a student of Kintampo College of Health, was caught with computing questions on his phone. After pleading guilty with remorse, he was fined 100 penalty units, equivalent to GHS1,200.

    Edmond Merrato Boi, a teacher at Just Love International School in Kintampo, was caught solving computing questions at the school’s dining hall.

    He pleaded guilty with explanation and was sentenced to 30 days in prison with hard labour. Samuel Waabero, an administrator at the same school, was also caught solving computing questions in the dining hall.

    He received the same sentence after pleading guilty with explanation. Three other suspects are to reappear in court on July 2, 2025.

    Belinda Yaa Adjeiwaa, a fashion designer from Techiman, was found with photocopied answers to the Computing Paper 2. She has been remanded into police custody.

    Haruna Mohammed, a teacher at Kintampo SHS, was caught with a mobile phone containing Social Studies questions during the exam. He is also on remand.

    Sadique Abubakar, another teacher, was caught with answers to the Computing Paper 1 Objective Test. He was granted court bail of GHS10,000 with two sureties and is expected back in court on the same date.

    Proprietor of The Big Six Educational Complex located at Meduma in the Kwabre East Municipality, Afoakwa Sarpong, was also apprehended over an alleged case of assault by imprisonment.

    On Monday, June 17, the Educational Director for Kwabre East Municipal, Nana Adu Mensah Asare, accompanied by Ms. Mavis Okyere Anane, Public Relations Officer of the Education Directorate, effected the arrest of Mr. Afoakwa Sarpong.

    The arrest stemmed from a disturbing incident that occurred on 16th June during the just-ended Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

    Mr. Sarpong is said to have unlawfully prevented two Junior High School (JHS) candidates, whose names have been withheld, from writing the Mathematics paper, citing their failure to pay registration fees.

    Preliminary reports indicate that the suspect confined the two candidates in a separate room at the examination centre and released them only after the examination had concluded. He has been handed over to the Mamponteng District Police Command.

    The number of candidates that registered for this year’s BECE (SC) is 5.99% higher than the 2024 entry figure.

    Overall, 569,236 candidates participated in the 2024 BECE, comprising 282,703 boys and 286,533 girls from 19,505 schools.

    Special accommodations were provided for 59 visually impaired candidates, 263 with hearing impairments, and 161 others requiring specific assistance.

    The exam took place at 2,123 centres nationwide, though 3,845 candidates were marked as absent.

    The BECE for Private Candidates had 1,390 participants, 750 males and 640 females, taking the exam at 15 centres across the country’s regional capitals. Among them, 57 candidates did not show up for the exam.

    Some 33 school candidates and 3 private candidates had their results withheld due to investigations into possible irregularities. WAEC also flagged subject results from 149 schools, pending further investigations into reported malpractices.

    Following thorough investigations, the Final Awards and Examiners’ Appointment Committee, at its 35th meeting on October 16, 2024, decided to nullify the subject results for 377 school candidates and 3 private candidates.

    Also, two teachers were arrested in Jachie Pramso, Ashanti Region, over alleged examination malpractice, following the earlier arrest of three teachers and two residents in Bekwai.

  • I never sold state land to my wife for GHS2k – NPP Secretary

    I never sold state land to my wife for GHS2k – NPP Secretary


    The Constituency Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Tema Central, Okwei Ian Tabalor, has shot down assertions that he illegally sold a public plot of land in Tema Community 5 to his wife for GHS 2,000. Speaking to the media, he described the claims as baseless and unjust, adding that he had no involvement in the process.

    “This was something my wife herself told me about. Her brother, Caleb Kisei, who once worked at TDC before traveling abroad, already had a plot in the same area, Community Five.

    “He informed her that the adjacent plot was a commercial plot she could apply for. She went through the official process to apply for it. I had no involvement. I am a protocol officer, not a manager—I don’t handle land allocations,” he explained.

    On Thursday, September 5, the Managing Director of TDC, Courage Makafui Nunekpeku, accused Okwei Ian Tabalor of selling public land in Community 5 to his wife for GHS2,000 illegally. During a press briefing held in Accra, Thursday, September 4, the Managing Director of TDC, Courage Makafui Nunekpeku, revealed that the former staff member in question served as a protocol officer to a former TDC Managing Director.

    However, he disclosed that, he has reclaimed the land which was originally earmarked for the construction of a public toilet for the constituents after a successful intervention.

    “The NPP Tema Central Constituency Secretary sold that place to the wife at the cost of GHS 2,000. The documents are with me; I can make them available. When I went into the matter, I said no way; I engaged the woman, and I terminated the contract. I am not grabbing any land; I am just doing the right thing for the Ghanaian. I terminated that contract, and now the place is for the state to be used as a public toilet,” he announced.

    He firmly stated that this reclaiming of state property is not land grabbing, as some media houses may report it, but a step in the right direction.

    “The likes of the crusading guys captured it as though I was grabbing land. I am not grabbing any land. I am just doing the right thing. For the past 10 years, I have terminated that contract. It’s not for me. So, I am not grabbing any land in this case”.

    In light of this, he educated the public that, when a land allocation is made for someone, whether through a license, a deed, or direct allocation, it doesn’t mean the person automatically owns it forever or that the arrangement can never be changed.

    “…whether through a license, a deed, or direct allocation, it doesn’t mean the person automatically owns it forever or that the arrangement can never be changed”, he noted.

    The pre-briefing held by the TDC was aimed at addressing and exposing illegal land transactions and affirming their commitment to cracking down on such actions. The briefing forms part of TDC’s broader campaign to recover illegally acquired lands and redirect them toward public infrastructure and housing development.

    This comes at a time when President John Dramani Mahama has lifted the ban on transactions on state land. The ban was announced in an official statement dated January 10 and addressed to the Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission, citing the need to protect public lands for the benefit of current and future generations.

    Eight months on, President Mahama, on Tuesday, September 2, announced that he had lifted it with immediate effect. He made this announcement during his speech at the inauguration of the newly constituted Board of the Lands Commission on Tuesday, September 2, highlighting that the pause exposed major shortcomings in the country’s land transactions, which called for a reset.

    “In pursuit of this reform agenda, my government placed a temporary ban on all state land transactions to enable a thorough review of existing processes. That exercise has yielded valuable insights into the weaknesses of our current system and the urgent reforms that are required.

    “So today, with the integration of the new commission and the adoption of robust accountability measures, I’m pleased to announce that the ban on land transactions has been lifted,” President Mahama explained.

    TDC’s revelation about the former staff member, his connections to the corridors of power, and the events surrounding his sale of state land to his wife, affirms President Mahama’s remarks pointing to influential people and politicians as the culprits behind the country’s broken and decaying land administration system.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, the unrestrained dissipation of state lands is not the work of the ordinary Ghanaian citizen. It is spearheaded by influential individuals who wield public office not as a trust but as a personal entitlement.

    “ Prime government lands, ecological buffer zones, school land reserves, forest enclaves, Ramsar sites, and even lagoons have been appropriated by individuals who had been given the responsibility of protecting them. This must end with this commission.

    “Over the years, these actions by corrupt individuals have consistently led to Ghana’s land administration system being flagged as one of the most corrupt, making it one of the institutions most in need of urgent reform”, he lamented.

    He continued, “Indeed, no area of our national life is in greater need of a reset than our land administration system. Our ancestors taught us that land is sacred. However, successive years of mismanagement, compounded by political interference and institutional decay, have left our land governance system broken and vulnerable.

    “ Independent anti-corruption surveys have consistently ranked the Lands Commission amongst the most distrusted institutions in our country. Public lands made for the benefit of all Ghanaians have been illegally sold, rezoned, or encroached upon with little accountability or consequences,” he fumed.

    Meanwhile, following the president’s announcement on the ban on state land transactions, the Minority caucus in Parliament demanded the immediate reversal. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 15, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Subin, Kofi Obiri Yeboah, admitted the President’s intention to safeguard public lands.

    However, he expressed concerns about the potential of the directive to halt economic activity and disrupt the works of legitimate land owners.

    “Although the President’s decision may aim at safeguarding public lands, these directives may also affect individuals and corporate entities who may have legitimately acquired interests in these lands,” the MP said.

    They further argued that if the government genuinely believes the private sector is the engine of growth, then such a ban undermines its own economic principles.

    Consequently, the MP admonished the government to “…as a matter of urgency, should lift the ban”.

    The MPs also expressed concern about potential revenue losses to the state, noting that the Lands Commission generates significant income through stamp duties, consent fees, and lease preparations, all of which contribute to the Consolidated Fund.

  • Remittance partnership of 3 payment service providers suspended by BoG

    Remittance partnership of 3 payment service providers suspended by BoG

    Effective September 18, the remittance partnership of three Payment Service Providers will be suspended for one month by the Bank of Ghana (BoG). BoG’s suspension affects Flutterwave, Cellulant Ghana, and Halges Financial Technologies.

    Justifying the basis for their suspension, the central bank explained that the affected firms breached guidelines with regard to international money transfer operations and regulatory compliance for Inward Remittance Services for Payment Service Providers, 2023. In June, BoG drawn the attention of the general public to Money Transfer Organisations (MTOS) operating within the Remittance and the Ghana Forex Market without approval.

    These MTOs include ACE MONEY TRANSFER, REMIT UNION, REMIT HOME, ROZE REMIT, MONTY GLOBAL. The other five are NAIRAGRAM, I-TRANSFER, HURUPAY, EVERSEND, and IZI SEND.

    The public, banks, Dedicated Electronic Money Issuer (DEMI) and Enhanced Payment Service Providers (EPSP) have been cautioned to desist from dealing with any of these institutions.

    Approved MTOs have been entreated to terminate their foreign exchange flows through their partner institutions only and to adhere strictly to all the guidelines in respect of their operations.

    Section 3.1 of the Foreign Exchange Act, 2006 Act 723, states that “a person shall not engage in the business of dealing in foreign exchange without a licence issued under this Act.”

    Further, section 15.3 of the Foreign Exchange Act states, “each transfer of foreign exchange to or from Ghana shall be made through a person licensed to carry out the business of money transfers or any other authorised dealer.”

    All market players have been instructed to comply with the directives.

    “Non-compliance will result in severe sanctions including the withdrawal of the licence of the institution in breach,” the BoG added.

    Earlier this month, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) blew the alarm on the operations of Yellow Card Financial Inc., an unapproved digital payment platform.

    According to the central bank in a statement dated June 11, the unlicensed entity is actively promoting itself as a provider of digital payment services, cryptocurrency trading, and cross-border remittance solutions.

    The platform purports to enable users to make payments, send and receive electronic money and stable coins across borders, as well as convert stable coins into local currency.

    These activities, the central bank says, require appropriate licensing from the Bank of Ghana.

    The Bank of Ghana has also discovered that YellowPay is engaged in an ongoing collaboration with HanyPay, an entity that claims to be licensed by the Africa Diaspora Central Bank (ADCB).

    This partnership reportedly seeks to develop and integrate a new stable coin, AKL Lumi, into the global financial ecosystem.

    According to the central bank, this development raises significant regulatory concerns, as HanyPay is neither licensed nor authorized to operate within the jurisdiction of Ghana.

    In 2024, the Popular international money transfer service Taptap Send temporarily suspended its operations in Ghana.

    This pause raised concerns among users who depend on the platform to send money to loved ones in the country. In a statement issued in early November, the company apologized for the inconvenience and emphasized its efforts to restore service promptly.

    The platform explained that its teams are collaborating closely with local partners in Ghana to ensure a seamless reactivation of services. While the exact date for resuming transfers has not been disclosed, Taptap Send assured users of its ongoing commitment to delivering “exceptional service.”

    In the interim, Taptap Send reassured its customers that their funds remain fully secure. Money stored in Taptap Send wallets can still be withdrawn to personal bank accounts. The company emphasized that the service interruption is temporary and that all customer funds are safe.

    This pause in operations comes at a crucial time when remittances from the diaspora are vital to Ghana’s economy. Many Ghanaians are eager for a swift resolution, particularly as digital remittances play an increasing role in supporting families and communities.

    Launched in the summer of 2018, Taptap Send enables users to send money quickly and affordably to Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. With operations in the UK, EU, US, Canada, and UAE, the service supports transfers to countries such as Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Ghana, Cameroon, the Ivory Coast, and several others.

  • Ghana to save over $15m as President Mahama scraps annual ‘excessive’ rent funding for foreign missions

    Ghana to save over $15m as President Mahama scraps annual ‘excessive’ rent funding for foreign missions

    Ghana will save $15 million annually after President John Dramani Mahama announced plans to end government funding for expensive rent at its diplomatic missions abroad.

    Speaking at the induction ceremony for the 15 distinguished individuals, President Mahama emphasized that Ghana can no longer bear the cost of expensive properties rented by diplomatic missions abroad.

      He called the practice wasteful and one that can no longer be tolerated under the ruling National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Reset Agenda. 

    The President added that the Cabinet has given the nod to the government’s new initiative, Strategic Transition from Rental to Developing (STRIDE).

    However, the Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Finance to review the STRIDE policy that has already been approved by the Cabinet.

    The STRIDE policy is to reduce unnecessary losses the country absorbs on renting properties abroad for its diplomatic missions, hence, ensuring Ghana’s foreign missions are accommodated in state-owned properties. 

    “From my latest briefing, a transaction advisor has been appointed, standard developments are being prepared, and funding mechanisms are already being negotiated. This shift will ensure that our missions abroad are housed in proper homes owned by the republic, reducing wasteful expenditure while safeguarding Ghana’s dignity on the international stage.

    “Ghana cannot continue spending more than $15 million every year on renting properties abroad for our diplomatic use. This is not a judicious use of taxpayers’ resources, and the Reset Agenda is an immediate reversal of this trend,” he stated.


    Meanwhile, the first batch of Ghana’s newly appointed envoys has been sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama. The induction ceremony was held at the Jubilee House on Thursday, September 4.

    The fifteen (15) of appointees sworn in today include; Benjamin A. Quashie will oversee the operations of Ghana’s diplomatic mission in the Republic of South Africa, while Kojo Bonsu takes charge of the People’s Republic of China. Kulsoume Sinare Baffoe will head affairs in the Kingdom of Spain.

    Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali will the United Arab Emirates, Hon. Captain George Kofi Nfojoh in the Togolese Republic, and Grace El Mahmoud Marabe in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Prof. Ohene Adjei will head the mission in the Federal Republic of Germany, Abdul Nasiru-Deen in the Republic of Turkey.

    Theresah Adjei-Mensah in the Czech Republic, and Prof. Kwasi Obiri-Danso in India. Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, Ph.D., will serve in Canada, Dr. Margaret Miewien Chebere in Denmark, Labik Joseph Yaani in Equatorial Guinea, Nii Amasah Namoale in the Federative Republic of Brazil, and Dr. Felix Kumah Godwin Anebo in the Republic of Senegal.

    The remaining eight appointees yet to be sworn in are Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah, the Ambassador to the Republic of Namibia; Kojo Choi, Ambassador to the Republic of South Korea; Dr. Kwame Ampofo, who will represent Ghana in Hungary; Mona Helen Kabuki Quartey, who will serve as Ambassador to the Italian Republic; Magnus Kofi Amoatey, who has been appointed as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

     Kenneth Akibate, who is Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Said Sinare, who is Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Paul Evans Aidoo, who will head Ghana’s mission in the Republic of Kenya.The twenty-three individuals are expected to promote Ghana’s foreign policy and protect the welfare of Ghanaians overseas. 

    Speaking at the induction ceremony for the 15 distinguished individuals, President Mahama noted that their “appointment is a mark of the confidence reposed in you and a recognition of your years of dedicated service, sterling achievement, and exemplary contributions both in the public and private sectors”.

    He urged the envoys to uphold transparency in carrying out their duties. On Monday, September 1, Ghana’s historic five hundred (500) Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for heads of missions was launched by President John Dramani Mahama.

    The initiative is to provide heads of mission with a clear framework for assessing their work and supporting the President’s Reset Vision for the country.

    Delivering his keynote address, President Mahama stated that Ghana’s mission had advanced into paths of economic engagement, facilitating trade, attracting investment, and promoting innovation.

    Thus, he charged the heads of missions to promote investments in Ghana’s priority sectors, industrialization, renewable energy, digital services, agro-processing, infrastructure and tourism.

    “I charge you to expand our export markets, especially for value-added goods such as processed food, shea butter, textiles, crafts, and digital services. I charge you to move the life of our diaspora not only as remittance of money, but also as investors, innovators, and partners in Ghana’s development,” he said.

    The 500 KPIs cover areas such as securing scholarships and promoting exchange programmes with foreign institutions to build human capacity as well as increasing tourist arrivals by a least 10 per cent each year to create jobs and strengthen foreign reserves.

    They also require strict compliance with financial and procurement rules, enhancing national security through stronger intelligence sharing and partnerships with foreign agencies, navigating Permanent Joint Commissions for Cooperation (PJCC) with major partners, and shifting from renting office spaces to building permanent infrastructure to cut down rent costs.

    He stressed that the performance of the heads of missions will be judged not by ceremonial protocols, but by the level of investment, trade, and opportunities they can attract for the country.

    President Mahama explained that the Government’s Reset Agenda also focuses on governance, particularly restoring public trust through transparency and accountability.

    He added that as Ghana’s envoys abroad, the heads of mission are expected to reflect these principles, managing the nation’s missions with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism.

    “Our citizens abroad must experience fairness and respect, for our diplomacy’s credibility is inseparable from the credibility of our governments,” he added.

  • First batch of Ghana’s envoys sworn in by President Mahama

    First batch of Ghana’s envoys sworn in by President Mahama

    The first batch of Ghana’s newly appointed envoys has been sworn in by President John Dramani Mahama. The induction ceremony was held at the Jubilee House on Thursday, September 4.

    The fifteen (15) of appointees sworn in today include; Benjamin A. Quashie will oversee the operations of Ghana’s diplomatic mission in the Republic of South Africa, while Kojo Bonsu takes charge of the People’s Republic of China. Kulsoume Sinare Baffoe will head affairs in the Kingdom of Spain.

     Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali will  the United Arab Emirates, Hon. Captain George Kofi Nfojoh in the Togolese Republic, and Grace El Mahmoud Marabe in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Prof. Ohene Adjei will head the mission in the Federal Republic of Germany, Abdul Nasiru-Deen in the Republic of Turkey.

    Theresah Adjei-Mensah in the Czech Republic, and Prof. Kwasi Obiri-Danso in India. Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, Ph.D., will serve in Canada, Dr. Margaret Miewien Chebere in Denmark, Labik Joseph Yaani in Equatorial Guinea, Nii Amasah Namoale in the Federative Republic of Brazil, and Dr. Felix Kumah Godwin Anebo in the Republic of Senegal.

    The remaining eight appointees are Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah, the Ambassador to the Republic of Namibia; Kojo Choi, Ambassador to the Republic of South Korea; Dr. Kwame Ampofo, who will represent Ghana in Hungary; Mona Helen Kabuki Quartey, who will serve as Ambassador to the Italian Republic; Magnus Kofi Amoatey, who has been appointed as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Kenneth Akibate, who is Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Said Sinare, who is Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Paul Evans Aidoo, who will head Ghana’s mission in the Republic of Kenya.

    The twenty-three individuals are expected to promote Ghana’s foreign policy and protect the welfare of Ghanaians overseas. Speaking at the induction ceremony for the 15 distinguished individuals, President Mahama noted that their “appointment is a mark of the confidence reposed in you and a recognition of your years of dedicated service, sterling achievement, and exemplary contributions both in the public and private sectors”.

    He urged the envoys to uphold transparency in carrying out their duties. Additionally, the President disclosed that taxpayers would no longer bear the cost of expensive properties rented by diplomatic missions abroad.

    According to him, the country cannot bear the cost of more than $15 million every year on renting properties for diplomatic missions.

    He called the practice wasteful and one that can no longer be tolerated under the ruling National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Reset Agenda.

    The President added that the Cabinet has given the nod to the government’s new initiative, Strategic Transition from Rental to Developing (STRIDE).

    The STRIDE policy is to reduce unnecessary losses the country absorbs on renting properties abroad for its diplomatic missions, hence, ensuring Ghana’s foreign missions are accommodated in state-owned properties. 

    “From my latest briefing, a transaction advisor has been appointed, standard developments are being prepared, and funding mechanisms are already being negotiated.This shift will ensure that our missions abroad are housed in proper homes owned by the republic, reducing wasteful expenditure while safeguarding Ghana’s dignity on the international stage.

    “Ghana cannot continue spending more than $15 million every year on renting properties abroad for our diplomatic use. This is not a judicious use of taxpayers’ resources, and the Reset Agenda is an immediate reversal of this trend,” he stated.

     On Monday, September 1, Ghana’s historic five hundred (500) Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for heads of missions was launched by President John Dramani Mahama. 

    The initiative is to provide heads of mission with a clear framework for assessing their work and supporting the President’s Reset Vision for the country.

    Delivering his keynote address, President Mahama stated that Ghana’s mission had advanced into paths of economic engagement, facilitating trade, attracting investment, and promoting innovation.

    Thus, he charged the heads of missions to promote investments in Ghana’s priority sectors, industrialization, renewable energy, digital services, agro-processing, infrastructure and tourism.

    “I charge you to expand our export markets, especially for value-added goods such as processed food, shea butter, textiles, crafts, and digital services. I charge you to move the life of our diaspora not only as remittance of money, but also as investors, innovators, and partners in Ghana’s development,” he said.

    The 500 KPIs cover areas such as securing scholarships and promoting exchange programmes with foreign institutions to build human capacity as well as increasing tourist arrivals by a least 10 per cent each year to create jobs and strengthen foreign reserves.

    They also require strict compliance with financial and procurement rules, enhancing national security through stronger intelligence sharing and partnerships with foreign agencies, navigating Permanent Joint Commissions for Cooperation (PJCC) with major partners, and shifting from renting office spaces to building permanent infrastructure to cut down rent costs.

    He stressed that the performance of the heads of missions will be judged not by ceremonial protocols, but by the level of investment, trade, and opportunities they can attract for the country.

    President Mahama explained that the Government’s Reset Agenda also focuses on governance, particularly restoring public trust through transparency and accountability.

    He added that as Ghana’s envoys abroad, the heads of mission are expected to reflect these principles, managing the nation’s missions with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism.

    “Our citizens abroad must experience fairness and respect, for our diplomacy’s credibility is inseparable from the credibility of our governments,” he added.

  • Confirmed Mpox cases in Ghana reach 467

    Confirmed Mpox cases in Ghana reach 467

    The total confirmed cases of monkeypox (Mpox) in Ghana now stand at four hundred and sixty-seven(467). The current update follows the confirmation of 21 new cases recorded as Thursday, August 28.

    On August 20, 15 new cases were recorded, making the number at the time 424. Currently, there’s no patient on admission. As of August 14, four hundred and nine (409) total cases were confirmed after thirty-seven (37) new cases were recorded.

    According to previous reports, twenty-six (26) new cases of infection were confirmed on August 11, increasing the total to 372, compared to 346 cases reported on August 7. However, the national death toll remains at one.


    Unfortunately, all 16 regions have recorded cases of the disease so far in the country. The increasing number of cases in the country continues to raise concerns. In the meantime, the country can breathe a sigh of relief following as 33,600 vaccines have been secured by the Health Ministry to strengthen Ghana’s fight against the monkeypox (Mpox) virus.


    “This is another milestone in safeguarding the health and well being of our citizens,” the ministry said in a Facebook post.
    Months ago, the Ministry of Health received a significant boost in its fight against the ongoing Mpox outbreak following the donation of essential medical supplies and public health materials from the World Health Organization (WHO).


    During a brief ceremony held at the Ministry, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s public health response and acknowledged the country’s commendable leadership in managing the outbreak.


    The donation, valued at USD 36,700, includes personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers, 780 GeneXpert cartridges to improve diagnostic capacity, and 9,000 risk communication posters along with 40 pull-up banners to support community sensitization efforts.


    The PPE will help enhance infection prevention and control, while the GeneXpert cartridges are expected to facilitate rapid and accurate testing, particularly at decentralized levels.

    The risk communication materials are aimed at promoting public awareness and behavioural change. The Minister for Health, Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who received the items on behalf of the government, thanked the WHO for its continued support.

    He indicated that Ghana is keen to adopt vaccines as part of its response strategy and called on the WHO to expedite assistance in that regard. He also encouraged the public to maintain good hygiene practices and to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, or skin rashes.

    He noted that the Ministry remains committed to strengthening public health systems and working closely with partners to contain the outbreak and protect the health of all Ghanaians.

    Health officials explained that the Mpox disease primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected individual. Common signs include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.


    The Ghana Health Service is urging the public to avoid close interactions with symptomatic persons, maintain regular handwashing with soap and water, refrain from frequently touching the face, and use masks when caring for patients.


    The Service added that it is closely monitoring the outbreak, conducting contact tracing, and strengthening public education with the support of regional health directorates.


    Following the detection of twenty (20) new infections as of Wednesday, July 30, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Monday, July 27, reported the unfortunate demise of one of the individuals who had contracted the disease.


    Since Ghana recorded its first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, this is the first time any of the infected persons has succumbed to the disease. In its regular updates, the Ghana Health Service noted that as of July 22, twenty-three (23) new cases were recorded, pushing the total confirmed cases to 257 at the time.


    Ghana’s confirmed Mpox cases rose to 234 following the detection of sixteen (16) new cases as of July 18.
    The number of cases stood at 218 after twenty-one (21) new infections were detected as of July 14.

    The Ghana Health Service reported 197 confirmed cases following the detection of eleven (11) new infections as of July 11.
    The Service, while revealing this information, described the trend as a gradual yet manageable increase and called for sustained public vigilance.


    The country has seen a slight uptick in infections. Health officials, however, maintain that the overall situation remains under control. Although many cases are mild, early medical care is crucial to avoid complications.


    In light of the growing Mpox cases, the GHS is boosting nationwide information campaigns to ensure citizens remain aware and cautious.

    Preventive actions such as avoiding direct contact with sick individuals, practicing proper hygiene, and promptly seeking care when symptoms show are being emphasized.


    Officials stress the importance of swift case detection and notification, with field teams and community health workers diligently monitoring developments.

    The public is being encouraged to stay watchful, adhere to health precautions, and contribute to collective efforts to stop the virus from spreading.


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

    The World Health Organization (WHO) in Ghana has provided laboratory PCR reagents to enhance the country’s diagnostic capacity. The donation was officially handed over to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory.


    Receiving the supplies on behalf of the GHS, Acting Deputy Director General Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah expressed gratitude for WHO’s ongoing logistical and technical support. “We promise from our end to do our bit, collaborate, go out there, and look for the cases to make sure that this is really brought under control,” she stated.


    WHO Country Representative Dr. Fiona Braka emphasized that the organization hopes the reagents will enable rapid diagnosis and prompt public health responses. The supplies are capable of testing 3,400 suspected Mpox samples, and additional kits provided will allow clade determination for 625 confirmed positive cases.


    Global Data

    The monkeypox virus was first discovered in Denmark in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). A nine-month-old boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970 was the first person to contract the virus.


    According to the World Health Organization, following the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and the end of smallpox vaccination worldwide, Mpox steadily emerged in central, east, and west Africa.


    “Since then, mpox has been reported sporadically in central and east Africa (clade I) and west Africa (clade II). In 2003, an outbreak in the United States of America was linked to imported wild animals (clade II).


    Since 2005, thousands of cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo every year. In 2017, mpox re-emerged in Nigeria and continues to spread between people across the country and in travellers to other destinations,” the WHO reports.


    In May 2022, an outbreak of Mpox appeared suddenly and rapidly spread across Europe, the Americas, and then all six WHO regions. Since 2022, there has also been an upsurge in Mpox cases and deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.


    In some areas of the country, a new offshoot of clade I, called clade Ib, has been spreading person-to-person. As of mid-2024, the clade has also been reported in other countries.


    Over 120 countries have reported Mpox between January 2022 and August 2024, with over 100,000 laboratory-confirmed cases and more than 220 deaths among confirmed cases.


    Following the meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of Mpox in 2024, held on June 5, 2025, the World Health Organization stated that “Over the past 12 months, the majority of mpox cases have continued to be reported from the African continent, largely driven by outbreaks of MPXV clade Ib in East African countries, including the DRC, where clade Ia is co-circulating.


    Sierra Leone, however, is experiencing a rapidly evolving outbreak, which, based on available genomic sequencing results, appears to be driven by MPXV clade IIb.

    “Outside of the African region, there continues to be a steady report of monthly cases (between about 500 – 1000 monthly), from all regions, mostly reflecting ongoing circulation of MPXV clade IIb among men who have sex with men (MSM),” the WHO added.

    WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice. The first was in May 2022, and the second time was in August 2024.

    The World Health Organization continues to work with member states and partners to prevent and respond to outbreaks of Mpox.

    This includes coordinating research on vaccines and treatments, strengthening country health systems, and working to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other tools.

  • I won’t accept excuses if you miss June 2026 completion deadline – President Mahama to Ofankor–Nsawam road contractor

    I won’t accept excuses if you miss June 2026 completion deadline – President Mahama to Ofankor–Nsawam road contractor

    President John Dramani Mahama has cautioned the contractor overseeing the Ofankor-Nsawam road against missing the June 2026 completion deadline.

    During an inspection tour of the project on Wednesday, September 3, the President stressed the importance of completing the works on schedule and ensuring quality delivery.

    In this regard, the President directed the contractor to meet the project deadline, stressing that no excuses will be accepted thereafter.

    “A loan was taken for this project and I don’t understand why the money is finished and the project is not over. We are now having to pay an additional 78 million cedis from government funds. We need to find out what really happened, whether the estimates were wrong or something else went wrong. So we will hold you to your word. You say by the end of the second quarter next year, you should be finished,” he cautioned,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the government has announced that the contractor on the project has has received all payments owed him. According, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, the government has fully met its financial obligations to the contractor, including all outstanding debts owed by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

    “Your Excellency, when you assumed office, the majority of the road contractors were off-site because they raised certificates to the tune of over GHS30,000m were not paid, so they were not on site. Including the contractor working on this project.

    “You directed that we do whatever we can to make sure they return to the site. Genuinely, people who ply this corridor were going through a lot of difficulties, and you expressed clearly that it wasn’t what we wanted, and you directed that all resources should be mobilized to ensure the contractor is paid to continue the work.

    “Indeed, Mr President, at the time you took office, the contractor raised a certificate of almost $78m before NPP left power, and they did not pay him. So it was surprising that just after you took office, people were expecting that what they couldn’t do over that period, you would do it. Guess what, Mr President, you did it, as of today, every certificate owed to the contractor on this project has been paid entirely. So we don’t owe the contractor any amount on this project,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the contractor for the Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, while engaging the President, confirmed receiving a recent payment from the government.

    He assured that construction works on the project will be completed in June 2026, as 75% of the work has already been done.

    “With your support and that of the Minister, the contractor has received some funding, and for the past two weeks, we have been working tirelessly. The areas where we had some challenges, where we saw on social media, we are currently almost at the level of asphalt, and then after we will continue all the way to the end,” he noted.

    The Project Director and Engineer for the Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, Ing. Awuku Asare, had earlier expressed pessimism about his outfit being able to complete the road project within nine (9) months. According to him, his team is confronted with several challenges that may necessitate a request for an extension of the completion deadline.

    Among the difficulties he highlighted, Ing. Awuku Asare explained that completing the interchange alone would likely take about seven months out of the proposed nine-month duration.

    According to him, by the seventh month, they might not have even “completed the top” of the interchange.

    “Within 2 or 23 weeks, you must be done with the basic maintenance. Yeah, we have up to May 2026 to complete it, and if there are any snags, they will definitely ask for an extension. And I’m telling you one snag—it’s going to take us about 7 months to complete the interchange.

    ‘But now, if the compensation is done and we are going to count another 3 months up to November, it means we are going to start from November. Then November to May is about 7 months; we wouldn’t have completed the top. Then we… so there will be a basis to ask for any extension if it comes like that…,” he noted.

    Another setback that may delay the completion of the project is the legal tussle with affected persons, some of whom have taken the government to court over their eviction, citing delays in compensation.

    “Talking about this compensation, we have to—there are some individuals who have sent us to court. In fact, they wanted to even put an injunction on the construction works. But we just had a letter from the engineer, who is the Highway Authority, that the court didn’t grant. So we can go ahead and do the demolitions and complete them,” he added.

    He further mentioned that the ongoing relocation of electricity cables, which were found in the right-of-way, remains another challenge that must be resolved before full-scale work can continue.

    “…So that challenge is there. There are also some electricity lines and water lines in the right-of-way. They have all encroached on the right-of-way, and it shouldn’t have happened like that,” he continued.

    In July this year, Parliament unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to divert all royalties from oil revenues and mineral resources to support the implementation of the Big Push Programme.

    This decision followed a request by the government for parliamentary approval to commit funds for the construction of specific road projects.

    According to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance, “The Committee has carefully considered the Referral, and it thinks that the request is in the right direction. The Committee also noted that Parliament had already approved the policy and the allocation to the ‘Big Push’ Programme in the 2025 Budget Statement. Granting the request would enable the Government to enter into multi-year contracts to execute the road infrastructure projects under the Programme.”

    “The Committee accordingly recommends to the House to approve the Request for the multi-year commitments for the selected road projects under the ‘Big Push’ Programme contained in the Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government of Ghana, under Section 33 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016, (Act 921).”

    The initiative, aimed at improving road infrastructure nationwide, is estimated at GH¢13.8 billion. It is expected to be completed by 2028 with support from the country’s financial resources.

    According to the 2025 budget, the Road Fund owes GH¢5.75 billion, with GH¢2.81 billion allocated for road maintenance. This represents a 155.5% increase from the 2024 allocation of GH¢1.1 billion, underscoring the government’s emphasis on sustaining Ghana’s road network.

    With Ghana’s economy valued at GH¢1.2 trillion, stakeholders are closely monitoring how the government balances infrastructure expansion with financial obligations. Earlier this year, Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza revealed that the government would settle GH¢4 billion of the debt owed to road contractors.

    Currently, the government owes road contractors GH¢21 billion, according to the Minister. President John Dramani Mahama has also announced plans to begin paying part of this debt within the month.

    “The Ministry of Finance has made dedicated financial allocations to address a substantial portion of the outstanding debts. We expect this to bring much-needed relief to the contractors and help accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure,” the President stated.

    Construction works on the stalled Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project resumed in August this year after several months of halt. Work resumed after the government released GH¢809 million on August 4, 2025, enabling the contractor to return to the site and fully mobilize.


  • Contractor working on Ofankor-Nsawam road project receives full payment from govt – Roads Minister

    Contractor working on Ofankor-Nsawam road project receives full payment from govt – Roads Minister

    The contractor tasked with the Ofankor-Nsawam road project has received all payments owed him, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, has disclosed.

    The Minister revealed this during an inspection tour of the project with President John Mahama on Wednesday, September 3. According to the Roads and Highways Minister, the government has fully met its financial obligations to the contractor, including all outstanding debts owed by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.


    “Your Excellency, when you assumed office, the majority of the road contractors were off-site because they raised certificates to the tune of over GHS30,000m were not paid, so they were not on site. Including the contractor working on this project.


    “You directed that we do whatever we can to make sure they return to the site. Genuinely, people who ply this corridor were going through a lot of difficulties, and you expressed clearly that it wasn’t what we wanted, and you directed that all resources should be mobilized to ensure the contractor is paid to continue the work.


    “Indeed, Mr President, at the time you took office, the contractor raised a certificate of almost $78m before NPP left power, and they did not pay him. So it was surprising that just after you took office, people were expecting that what they couldn’t do over that period, you would do it. Guess what, Mr President, you did it, as of today, every certificate owed to the contractor on this project has been paid entirely. So we don’t owe the contractor any amount on this project,” he added.


    Project Manager for the Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project, Ing. Awuku Asare, while engaging the President, confirmed receiving a recent payment from the government.

    He assured that construction works on the project will be completed in June 2026, as 75% of the work has already been done.


    “With your support and that of the Minister, the contractor has received some funding, and for the past two weeks, we have been working tirelessly. The areas where we had some challenges, where we saw on social media, we are currently almost at the level of asphalt, and then after we will continue all the way to the end,” he noted.


    In response, President John Mahama has directed the contractor to meet the project deadline, stressing that no excuses will be accepted thereafter.


    The project contractor had earlier expressed pessimism about his outfit being able to complete the road project within nine (9) months. According to him, his team is confronted with several challenges that may necessitate a request for an extension of the completion deadline.


    Among the difficulties he highlighted, Ing. Awuku Asare explained that completing the interchange alone would likely take about seven months out of the proposed nine-month duration.

    According to him, by the seventh month, they might not have even “completed the top” of the interchange.

    “Within 2 or 23 weeks, you must be done with the basic maintenance. Yeah, we have up to May 2026 to complete it, and if there are any snags, they will definitely ask for an extension. And I’m telling you one snag—it’s going to take us about 7 months to complete the interchange.

    ‘But now, if the compensation is done and we are going to count another 3 months up to November, it means we are going to start from November. Then November to May is about 7 months; we wouldn’t have completed the top. Then we… so there will be a basis to ask for any extension if it comes like that…,” he noted.


    Another setback that may delay the completion of the project is the legal tussle with affected persons, some of whom have taken the government to court over their eviction, citing delays in compensation.


    “Talking about this compensation, we have to—there are some individuals who have sent us to court. In fact, they wanted to even put an injunction on the construction works. But we just had a letter from the engineer, who is the Highway Authority, that the court didn’t grant. So we can go ahead and do the demolitions and complete them,” he added.


    He further mentioned that the ongoing relocation of electricity cables, which were found in the right-of-way, remains another challenge that must be resolved before full-scale work can continue.


    “…So that challenge is there. There are also some electricity lines and water lines in the right-of-way. They have all encroached on the right-of-way, and it shouldn’t have happened like that,” he continued.


    In July this year, Parliament unanimously endorsed the government’s proposal to divert all royalties from oil revenues and mineral resources to support the implementation of the Big Push Programme.

    This decision followed a request by the government for parliamentary approval to commit funds for the construction of specific road projects.


    According to the Joint Committee on Budget and Finance, “The Committee has carefully considered the Referral, and it thinks that the request is in the right direction. The Committee also noted that Parliament had already approved the policy and the allocation to the ‘Big Push’ Programme in the 2025 Budget Statement. Granting the request would enable the Government to enter into multi-year contracts to execute the road infrastructure projects under the Programme.”


    “The Committee accordingly recommends to the House to approve the Request for the multi-year commitments for the selected road projects under the ‘Big Push’ Programme contained in the Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review of the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of the Government of Ghana, under Section 33 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016, (Act 921).”


    The initiative, aimed at improving road infrastructure nationwide, is estimated at GH¢13.8 billion. It is expected to be completed by 2028 with support from the country’s financial resources.

    According to the 2025 budget, the Road Fund owes GH¢5.75 billion, with GH¢2.81 billion allocated for road maintenance. This represents a 155.5% increase from the 2024 allocation of GH¢1.1 billion, underscoring the government’s emphasis on sustaining Ghana’s road network.


    With Ghana’s economy valued at GH¢1.2 trillion, stakeholders are closely monitoring how the government balances infrastructure expansion with financial obligations. Earlier this year, Minister for Roads and Highways Kwame Governs Agbodza revealed that the government would settle GH¢4 billion of the debt owed to road contractors.


    Currently, the government owes road contractors GH¢21 billion, according to the Minister. President John Dramani Mahama has also announced plans to begin paying part of this debt within the month.


    “The Ministry of Finance has made dedicated financial allocations to address a substantial portion of the outstanding debts. We expect this to bring much-needed relief to the contractors and help accelerate the delivery of critical infrastructure,” the President stated.


    Construction works on the stalled Pokuase-Nsawam Highway project resumed in August this year after several months of halt. Work resumed after the government released GH¢809 million on August 4, 2025, enabling the contractor to return to the site and fully mobilize.

  • EOCO picks up Kofi Akpaloo for interrogation – Report

    EOCO picks up Kofi Akpaloo for interrogation – Report

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) reportedly has the presidential candidate and leader of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Kofi Akpaloo, in its custody.

    According to reports, Mr Akpaloo was picked up at his residence in Kumasi by EOCO officials for interrogation. Meanwhile, EOCO is yet to confirm this information.

    Mr Akpaloo vied for presidency in the 2024 general elections. Prior to the election, Akpaloo expressed strong confidence in his chances for a decisive win, predicting victory over major contenders. However, he obtained 5,219 being 0.09%.


    The new development has got many questioning the circumstances surrounding Kofi Akpaloo’s arrest. Recently, EOCO has been investigating high-profile political figures and business leaders.

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office was established by the Economic and Organised Crime Office Act , 2010 (Act 804) as a specialized agency to monitor and investigate economic and organised crime and on the authority of the Attorney-General prosecute these offenses to recover the proceeds of crime and provide for related matters.


    The EOCO has similar mandates to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Recently, the OSP released a fifty-page report covering investigations and prosecutions carried out between January 1 and July 31 this year.

    The OSP’s Seventh Half-yearly Report is pursuant to Section 3(3) of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959). The document also outlines key developments in the Office’s operations.

    According to the OSP, despite resistance from powerful interests, it stayed focused on executing its mandate during this period. As such, the Office successfully progressed significant corruption-related investigations to the stage of court proceedings, while also initiating new inquiries into suspected acts of corruption.

    “Then again, the Office, as one of three implementing partners of the new National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Strategy and Implementing Plan, is fashioning and moulding anti-corruption structures that would stand the test of time. The task ahead remains formidable. Much more so is our resolve to perform.

    “This reporting period was characterised by intensification of the Office’s prosecutorial mandate. We advanced high-profile investigations to court and initiated bold inquiries into suspected corruption, often in the face of deep-seated resistance from entrenched interests.

    “Notwithstanding these expected challenges, the Office remains resolute and guided by the rule of law, fairness, firmness, evidence-based action, and the interest of the public. We recognise that the fight against corruption cannot be waged and won only through punitive action and incarceration,” parts of the report read.

    The legislative framework of the Office of the Special Prosecutor mandates the Authority to crack down on corruption, recover assets, and confiscate illicit property.

    “Indeed, the legislative set-up of the Office leans heavily on corruption-prevention and asset recovery and disgorgement of tainted property. Consequently, we proceed on sustainable anti-corruption outcomes by pairing enforcement with robust prevention and asset recovery, especially founded on our unique plea bargaining regime.

    In this spirit, the Office scaled up its preventive mandate through active engagement with public institutions, private sector actors, civil society- and secured convictions and asset recovery through impactful plea bargaining. We also reckon that the nation’s anti-corruption legal framework requires re-imagination, modernisation and retooling to address the immense scale and complexity of modern corruption in the context of our social, economic and political constructs.

    “On this score, the Office has proposed the inclusion of a new chapter in the Constitution dedicated to the fight against corruption through definitive constitutional expression by the institution of proposed concrete measures to effectively and comprehensively suppress and repress corruption in public life as well as in the private sector chief among which include lifestyle audit non-conviction-based asset recovery, enhanced asset declaration and verification regime, and reverse onus presumption of corruption as the foundation of both anti-corruption criminal proceedings and civil asset recovery proceedings,” parts of the report added.

    The Office is also leading the charge in respect of the passage of a comprehensive Corrupt Practices Act and Conduct of Public Officers Act.

    Currently, sixty-seven(67) cases are being handled by the Office, all of which are undergoing comprehensive review.

    The corruption cases being investigated by OSP include: Minerals Income Investment Fund, Ghana Airports Company Limited, Ghana Education Service, National Commission on Culture, Ghana Revenue Authority/Tata Consulting Services, National Service Authority, Ministry of Health/Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, National Cathedral.

    The others are: Tema oil refinery and Tema Energy and Processing Limited and the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited, State lands, Stool lands, and other Vested lands, Illegal Mining, National Sports Authority, Customs Division of Ghana Revenue Authority, Bank of Ghana and Estate of Kwadwo Owusu-Afriyie, alias Sir John.

    It further hinted that “There were seven (7) convictions and one (1) acquittal in respect of the cases pending before the criminal courts during the period under review. The Office has filed an appeal in respect of the case in which the accused was acquitted.

    Additionally, one hundred and fifty-two (152) cases are at the preliminary investigation stage, with the OSP assuring that details will be made public once they progress to the next stage.

    The Office is also seized with one hundred and fifty-two (152) other cases at the preliminary investigation stage. These may be publicised if the Special Prosecutor determines that they are within the mandate of the Office and that they should be moved past the preliminary investigation stage.

    This is a policy intended to protect the privacy of individuals and the business operations of institutions and companies, and to avoid unnecessary stigmatization.

  • Ghana’s inflation drops to 11.5% in August

    Ghana’s inflation drops to 11.5% in August

    The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has disclosed that inflation for August 2025 dropped to 11.5% from 12.1% recorded in July this year. This marks the eighth consecutive month of recorded inflation since October 2021.


    As of June, the country recorded a 13.7 percent rate, a 4.7 percent decline from the 18.4 percent rate reported in May. Food inflation fell by 6.5 percentage points to 16.3 percent, down from 22.8 percent in May, whereas non-food inflation dropped by 3 percentage points to 11.4 percent.

    The Upper West Region recorded the highest regional inflation of 32.3%, largely due to food inflation and utilities. The Bono region recorded the lowest of 8.4%.


    On a regional level, the Upper West Region once again recorded the highest inflation at 24.8%, though this was down from 32.3% in June. This figure is more than twice the national average of 12.1%. In contrast, the Central Region posted the lowest rate at 7.7%.


    Before the release of GSS’s recent data, an economic research firm, IC Research, projected that Ghana’s inflation rate would experience a significant decline, dropping to 16% by the end of June.


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


    “The June 2025 CP [Consumer Price Index]I data window recorded a 29.5% month-on-month and 35.3% year-on-year appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar. This exerted downward pressure on prices of imported items, with notable declines in petroleum prices and transport fares.


    The announced 15.0% reduction in commercial transport fares will continue to restrain transport inflation with downside spillovers for other items.”


    “Additionally, we estimate that the lower transport cost likely eased the month-on-month pressure observed for vegetables & tubers last month, potentially sustaining food disinflation in June [2025].

    Consequently, we forecast a 240 basis points decline in the June 2025 annual inflation to 16.0% with the month-on-month rate at 0.8%”, IC Research added.


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


    Due to the consistent decline in the inflation rate and recorded progress with other macroeconomic variables, the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) Monetary Policy Committee has reduced the monetary policy rate from 28 percent to 25 percent.


    Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, noted that the deceleration was underpinned by the tight monetary policy stance, fiscal consolidation, easing food supply constraints, as well as the strong recovery of the cedi.

    In line with the easing underlying inflation pressures, the Bank’s main core inflation measure, which excludes energy and utility items, has declined markedly.


    “Similarly, inflation expectations by banks, consumers, and businesses are broadly anchored,” he added. He further revealed that “growth in monetary aggregates remained subdued during the first half of the year, primarily due to the tight monetary policy stance, strong liquidity management, and reduced government borrowing.”


    “In line with the disinflation process and easing inflation expectations, interest rates at the short end of the money market have declined sharply, and in turn, reduced the cost of government borrowing,” the BoG Governor added.


    According to Dr Asiama, data on budget execution indicated a strong commitment to fiscal consolidation as expenditures adjusted within set targets to accommodate the revenue shortfalls during the first half of 2025.


    As a result, the overall fiscal deficit on a commitment basis was 0.7 percent of GDP, outperforming the budget target of 1.8 percent of GDP.

    “The external sector has improved markedly, with a record current account surplus of US$3.4 billion in the first half of 2025, supported mainly by higher prices and increased production volumes of gold and cocoa.

    “The current account surplus, together with the outturns in the capital and financial accounts, culminated in an overall balance of payment surplus of US$2.2 billion, significantly higher than the US$588.5 million recorded in June 2024. On this score, Gross International Reserves stood at US$11.1 billion at end-June 2025, equivalent to 4.8 months of import of goods and services, compared to US$8.9 billion (4.0 months of import cover) as at end-December 2024,” he added.


    Overall, the Committee noted that macroeconomic conditions have significantly improved, “inflation expectations are broadly anchored, external buffers have strengthened, and confidence in the economy is returning.”


    The cedi has rebounded strongly against the major trading currencies. The cedi has recorded a remarkable turnaround in the first six months of 2025, appreciating by 42.6% against the US dollar.

    The cedi also appreciated by 30.3% against the British pound and 25.6% against the euro during the same period.


    Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has projected that inflation is likely to decline further and fall within the medium-term target range of 6 to 10 percent during the third quarter of 2025, ahead of earlier expectations.


    “The July forecast also shows that headline inflation is expected to decline further in the third quarter of 2025 and trend within the medium-term target of 8±2 percent by the end of 2025, earlier than initial projections,” the Governor noted.

  • I am glad NDC won Akwatia by-election, else I would’ve been slaughtered – Mussa Dankwah

    I am glad NDC won Akwatia by-election, else I would’ve been slaughtered – Mussa Dankwah

    Executive Director of Global Info Analytics, Mussa Dankwah, has expressed delight after his outfit’s projection for the Akwatia by-election proved accurate.

    Speaking to the media, he said the election outcome has eased the criticism he faced.

    Global InfoAnalytics predicted a 53% win for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Bernard Baidoo Bediako, ahead of the Akwatia by-election on Tuesday, September 2.

    “I knew I would have been taken to the slaughterhouse. They were preparing to take me there to finish me if I got this wrong,” he said.

    “The word here is poll, fair game, research, and science. Gone are the days when elections are won on propaganda, emotions, insults, or just anything. All the parties must realize that the demography of people who are voting in Ghana today has dramatically changed.

    “Over 70% of people who vote in Ghana today are below 35 years old. That is something that they must appreciate and understand the implications of the same,” Mr Dankwa explained.

    The National Democratic Congress’ Bernard Bediako Baidoo declared Member of Parliament (MP) elect for Akwatia constituency.

    He polled 18,199 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP), Solomon Kwame Asumadu who secured 15,235. votes. According to the retaining officer of the Electoral Commission (EC), the total votes were 33,819 with 33,516 valid votes and 303 ballots rejected.

    The EC on Tuesday, September 2, held a by-election for constituents in 119 polling stations of the Akwatia constituency to provide constituents a representative, following the sudden passing of their former MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi.

    Ernest Kumi was confirmed dead on Monday, July 7, 2025. At the time of his passing, Ernest Kumi had only served the constituency for six months.

    On Tuesday, September 2, more than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia cast their ballots to select an MP to represent the constituencyin Parliament.

    The NDC elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the other hand, selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP), was disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. As a result, the disqualified candidate filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

    He has challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him for failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused the delay to provide the required document.

    Additionally, he maintains that he completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He further prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel were deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. The police grouped the constituency into nine security zones to ensure effective coverage.

    600 officers were fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise. Prior to the election the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party allegedly held back from signing a peace pact.

    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

    The by-election did not witness a lot of chaos, unlike those that occurred during the Ablekuma-North rerun election. In the coming days, constituents of Tamale Central will vote to elect a representative in Parliament. The upcoming by-election is slated for Tuesday, September 30.

    This follows the death of its legislator, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. He was among the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6. He was laid to rest on August 10.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has already cleared 12 out of 16 aspirants who picked up nomination forms to contest the Tamale Central parliamentary primary.

    The 12 aspirants were cleared only after the completion of the vetting process. The NDC opened nominations on August 21, for aspirants seeking to contest the Tamale Central Constituency primary.

    Nomination forms were available at the Northern Regional Office of the party from Friday, August 22, to Sunday, August 24, 2025, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. each day.

    Prospective aspirants will pay a non-refundable nomination fee of GH¢5,000 and a filing fee of GH¢40,000 to be paid in cash only into the party’s official account at UMB Bank, Adabraka Branch. No cheques or bankers’ drafts will be accepted.

    There is a slash for …”female aspirants and persons with disabilities are entitled to a 50 per cent reduction on the filing fee. A certified copy of the delegates’ list will be made available to all aspirants after the vetting process.”

    A certified copy of the delegates’ list will be made available to all aspirants after the vetting process.

    The party has urged all prospective aspirants and stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with these directives and to conduct their campaigns and related activities with decorum, unity, and fairness.”

    Meanwhile, the NPP has declared its intention not to participate in the upcoming by-election. According to a statement signed by NPP’s General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision was taken by the Party at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Party Headquarters pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the Party Constitution.

    According to the statement, this will be the party’s better way of honoring Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims.

    “In arriving at the decision, the Party considered many factors, including the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant and the possibility of a further polarization of the country at this critical time.

    The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP.

    The Party believes that the tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.

    “It is the considered view of the Party that the greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed, is not only to win the fight against Galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central.

    “Consequently, the NPP hereby announces that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election in line with Article 112 (5) of Ghana’s Constitution, the Party will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” parts of the statement read.

  • Ghana’s embassy in Tehran set to reopen on September 16

    Ghana’s embassy in Tehran set to reopen on September 16

    Ghana’s Embassy in Tehran, Iran, will fully resume its operations on Tuesday, September 16, after a temporary closure, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced.

    Heightened tensions between Iran and Israel forced the closure of the embassy in June. However, significant improvements in the security situation in Iran have influenced the resumption of operations in the area, according to a press statement issued on Tuesday, September 2, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform the public that with the improvement in the security situation in Iran, a decision has been taken for the Embassy to resume its operations on Tuesday, September 16, 2025,” the statement read.

    Meanwhile, Ghana’s historic five hundred (500) Key Performance Indicators (KPI) for heads of missions have been duly launched by President John Dramani Mahama. The initiative is to provide heads of mission with a clear framework for assessing their work and supporting the President’s Reset Vision for the country.

    The President was aided by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru, the Ghana Mantse, to perform the launch at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra, on Monday, September 1, 2025. Delivering his keynote address, President Mahama stated that Ghana’s mission had advanced into paths of economic engagement, facilitating trade, attracting investment, and promoting innovation.

    Thus, he charged the heads of missions to promote investments in Ghana’s priority sectors, industrialization, renewable energy, digital services, agro-processing, infrastructure and tourism.

    “I charge you to expand our export markets, especially for value-added goods such as processed food, shea butter, textiles, crafts, and digital services. I charge you to move the life of our diaspora not only as remittance of money, but also as investors, innovators, and partners in Ghana’s development,” he said.

    The 500 KPIs cover areas such as securing scholarships and promoting exchange programmes with foreign institutions to build human capacity as well as increasing tourist arrivals by a least 10 per cent each year to create jobs and strengthen foreign reserves. They also require strict compliance with financial and procurement rules, enhancing national security through stronger intelligence sharing and partnerships with foreign agencies, navigating Permanent Joint Commissions for Cooperation (PJCC) with major partners, and shifting from renting office spaces to building permanent infrastructure to cut down rent costs.

    He stressed that the performance of the heads of missions will be judged not by ceremonial protocols, but by the level of investment, trade, and opportunities they can attract for the country.

    President Mahama explained that the Government’s Reset Agenda also focuses on governance, particularly restoring public trust through transparency and accountability. He added that as Ghana’s envoys abroad, the heads of mission are expected to reflect these principles, managing the nation’s missions with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism.

    “Our citizens abroad must experience fairness and respect, for our diplomacy’s credibility is inseparable from the credibility of our governments,” he added.

    List of newly appointed envoys

    Twenty-three individuals have been appointed as ambassadors, high commissioners, and consul-generals following their nomination by President Mahama.

    Among the first fifteen appointees are Benjamin A. Quashie for the Republic of South Africa, Kojo Bonsu for the People’s Republic of China, Kalsoume Sinare Baffoe for the Kingdom of Spain, Hammed Rashid Tunde Ali for the United Arab Emirates, Hon. Captain George Kofi Nfojoh for the Togolese Republic, and Grace El Mahmoud Marabe for the United Arab Emirates–Dubai.

    The others are Prof. Ohene Adjei for the Federal Republic of Germany, Abdul Nasiru-Deen for the Republic of Turkey, Theresah Adjei-Mensah for the Czech Republic, Prof. Kwasi Obiri-Danso for India, Dora Francisca Edu-Buandoh, Ph.D., for Canada, Dr. Margaret Miewien Chebere for Denmark, Labik Joseph Yaani for Equatorial Guinea, Nii Amasah Namoale for the Federative Republic of Brazil, and Dr. Felix Kumah Godwin Anebo for the Republic of Senegal.

    The remaining eight appointees are Alhaji Abdul-Rahman Harruna Attah, the Ambassador to the Republic of Namibia; Kojo Choi, Ambassador to the Republic of South Korea; Dr. Kwame Ampofo, who will represent Ghana in Hungary; Mona Helen Kabuki Quartey will serve as Ambassador to the Italian Republic; Magnus Kofi Amoatey has been appointed as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Kenneth Akibate is Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Said Sinareis, Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and Paul Evans Aidoo will head Ghana’s mission in the Republic of Kenya.

    4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar set for September 5

    In an unrelated development, the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar is slated to commence on September 5 at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The three-day event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily.

    Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the theme “Championing Economic Diplomacy: Connecting Producers, Markets, and Opportunities,” the bazaar seeks to promote Ghanaian products and services globally through economic diplomacy. It will also connect Ghanaian producers with consumers, investors, diplomats, and foreign buyers.

    The event is being organized in partnership with institutions such as the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), Ghana Chamber of Commerce, Ghana Enterprises Agency, and the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

    Sponsors include Green Coast, GRA, and Zonda, among others.

    The official media partners are The Multimedia Group and SP Agency. For inquiries, interested persons may contact 0538 062 264 or 0209 249 932, or email bazaar@mfa.gov.gh. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar in Accra. At the launch, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stated that the bazaar seeks to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and increase the country’s export of non-traditional goods.

    “We are not merely talking about Made-in-Ghana; we are institutionalising it through bold reforms and strategic action,” he said.

    He added that the initiative forms part of President Mahama’s vision to make Ghanaian businesses competitive on the international market and drive national self-reliance.

  • President Mahama orders audit of state lands to track ownership

    President Mahama orders audit of state lands to track ownership

    In the coming days, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will carry out a thorough review of all state lands that were managed or sold between 2017 and 2024, following a directive from President John Mahama.

    The move is to ensure that all state lands allocated, leased, or sold during that time frame passed through all the required processes. On Tuesday, September 2, President Mahama lifted the temporary ban on state land transactions, which was imposed earlier this year.

    The ban was announced in an official statement dated January 10 and addressed to the Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission, citing the need to protect public lands for the benefit of current and future generations. 

    He made this announcement during his speech at the inauguration of the newly constituted Board of the Lands Commission on Tuesday, September 2, highlighting that the pause exposed major shortcomings in the country’s land transactions, which called for a reset.

    “In pursuit of this reform agenda, my government placed a temporary ban on all state land transactions to enable a thorough review of existing processes. That exercise has yielded valuable insights into the weaknesses of our current system and the urgent reforms that are required.

    “So today, with the integration of the new commission and the adoption of robust accountability measures, I’m pleased to announce that the ban on land transactions has been lifted,” President Mahama explained.

    Following the review, the President urged all stakeholders to join the reset train and not to return to business “as usual,” citing four major reset pillars set to be implemented to sanitise land transactions in Ghana.

    “Henceforth, all land transactions—allocation, lease, or sale—must strictly comply with transparent processes, digital verification, and oversight mechanisms. The lifting of this ban must not signal a return to business as usual. It is a signal that a new, disciplined era of land management has begun

    “That is why we are embarking on a bold reset, an agenda that is rooted in four pillars: To restore public confidence in land administration through transparency, fairness, and justice. To reverse illegal land transactions, reclaim encroached lands, and protect public assets. To digitise, modernise, and decentralise land services to ensure access and efficiency. To harmonise customary and statutory land systems to promote equity and coherence,” he noted.

    Consequently, President Mahama has directed the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Lands Commission to immediately undertake a comprehensive audit of all state lands allocated, leased, or sold, particularly between 2017 and 2024.

    According to him, “This audit will cover lands acquired for schools, hospitals, public institutions, forests, and ecological zones unlawfully converted to private use. Any transaction tainted by conflict of interest, abuse of power, or political patronage will be reversed, and the land will be recovered by the government by law”. 

    The president expressed his disdain for the current land administration system, describing it as broken and riddled with confusion, corruption, and violence, which has sunk public trust in land governance to an all-time low.

    “Our land administration system has become a symbol of everything we seek to change in Ghana: confusion, conflict, and expropriation. Public confidence in land governance is at an all-time low. Land acquisition is fraught with multiple sales, unending litigation, extortion, and even violence.

    “These problems persist in rural, peri-urban, and predominantly urban areas, nowhere more pronounced than in the Greater Accra Region, which is the capital region. From the illegal alienation of forest reserves in the Eastern Region to the conversion of public lands in the North, we’ve witnessed a national tragedy of greed, impunity, and dysfunction,” he added.

    He blamed the country’s “broken” land administration system on individuals connected to the corridors of power, who wield their influence for personal gain rather than for the good of the general public, lamenting the takeovers of prime lands by these individuals.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, the unrestrained dissipation of state lands is not the work of the ordinary Ghanaian citizen. It is spearheaded by influential individuals who wield public office not as a trust but as a personal entitlement.

    “ Prime government lands, ecological buffer zones, school land reserves, forest enclaves, Ramsar sites, and even lagoons have been appropriated by individuals who had been given the responsibility of protecting them. This must end with this commission,” he lamented. 

    “Over the years, these actions by corrupt individuals have consistently led to Ghana’s land administration system being flagged as one of the most corrupt, making it one of the institutions most in need of urgent reform.

     “Indeed, no area of our national life is in greater need of a reset than our land administration system. Our ancestors taught us that land is sacred. However, successive years of mismanagement, compounded by political interference and institutional decay, have left our land governance system broken and vulnerable. Independent anti-corruption surveys have consistently ranked the Lands Commission amongst the most distrusted institutions in our country. Public lands made for the benefit of all Ghanaians have been illegally sold, rezoned, or encroached upon with little accountability or consequences,” he lamented.

    Meanwhile, following the president’s announcement on the ban on state land transactions, the Minority caucus in Parliament demanded the immediate reversal. Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 15, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Subin, Kofi Obiri Yeboah, admitted the President’s intention to safeguard public lands.

    However, he expressed concerns about the potential of the directive to halt economic activity and disrupt the works of legitimate land owners.

    “Although the President’s decision may aim at safeguarding public lands, these directives may also affect individuals and corporate entities who may have legitimately acquired interests in these lands,” the MP said. They further argued that if the government genuinely believes the private sector is the engine of growth, then such a ban undermines its own economic principles.

    Consequently, the MP admonished the government to “…as a matter of urgency, should lift the ban”. 

    The MPs also expressed concern about potential revenue losses to the state, noting that the Lands Commission generates significant income through stamp duties, consent fees, and lease preparations, all of which contribute to the Consolidated Fund.

    “Revenue generated by the Lands Commission through stamp duties, consent fees, lease reparation fees, premium costs, and all charges embedded in offer letters will, by virtue of this directive, become non-existent. This revenue loss will adversely affect the Consolidated Fund,” they warned.

  • NDC’s Bernard Bediako is MP-elect for Akwatia constituency

    NDC’s Bernard Bediako is MP-elect for Akwatia constituency

    The National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Bernard Bediako Baidoo has been declared Member of Parliament (MP) elect for Akwatia constituency.

     He polled 18,199 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP), Solomon Kwame Asumadu who secured 15,235. votes.  According to the retaining officer of the Electoral Commission (EC), the total votes were 33,819 with 33,516 valid votes and 303 ballots rejected.

    The EC on Tuesday, September 2, held a by-election for constituents in 119 polling stations of the Akwatia constituency to provide constituents a representative, following the sudden passing of their former MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi.

    Ernest Kumi was confirmed dead on Monday, July 7, 2025. At the time of his passing, Ernest Kumi had only served the constituency for six months.

    On Tuesday, September 2, more than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia cast their ballots to select an MP to represent the constituencyin Parliament.

    The NDC elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the other hand, selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP), was disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. As a result, the disqualified candidate filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

    He has challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him for failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused the delay to provide the required document.

    Additionally, he maintains that he completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He further prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel were deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. The police grouped the constituency into nine security zones to ensure effective coverage. 

    600 officers were fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise. Prior to the election the National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party allegedly held back from signing a peace pact.

    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

    The by-election did not witness a lot of chaos, unlike those that occurred during the Ablekuma-North rerun election. In the coming days, constituents of Tamale Central will vote to elect a representative in Parliament. The upcoming by-election is slated for Tuesday, September 30.

     This follows the death of its legislator, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. He was among the eight individuals who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6. He was laid to rest on August 10. 

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has already cleared 12 out of 16 aspirants who picked up nomination forms to contest the Tamale Central parliamentary primary.

    The 12 aspirants were cleared only after the completion of the vetting process. The NDC opened nominations on August 21, for aspirants seeking to contest the Tamale Central Constituency primary.

    Nomination forms were available at the Northern Regional Office of the party from Friday, August 22, to Sunday, August 24, 2025, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. each day.

    Prospective aspirants will pay a non-refundable nomination fee of GH¢5,000 and a filing fee of GH¢40,000 to be paid in cash only into the party’s official account at UMB Bank, Adabraka Branch. No cheques or bankers’ drafts will be accepted.

    There is a slash for …”female aspirants and persons with disabilities are entitled to a 50 per cent reduction on the filing fee. A certified copy of the delegates’ list will be made available to all aspirants after the vetting process.”

    A certified copy of the delegates’ list will be made available to all aspirants after the vetting process.

    The party has urged all prospective aspirants and stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with these directives and to conduct their campaigns and related activities with decorum, unity, and fairness.” 

    Meanwhile, the NPP has declared its intention not to participate in the upcoming by-election. According to a statement signed by NPP’s General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the decision was taken by the Party at a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Party Headquarters pursuant to Article 10(10)(1) of the Party Constitution.

    According to the statement, this will be the party’s better way of honoring Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims.

    “In arriving at the decision, the Party considered many factors, including the circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant and the possibility of a further polarization of the country at this critical time.

    The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to competitive processes in search of a replacement for the departed MP. 

    The Party believes that the tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.

    “It is the considered view of the Party that the greatest tribute that the NPP and the rest of the nation can pay in honour of the departed, is not only to win the fight against Galamsey but also to ensure a smooth and peaceful replacement for the good people of Tamale Central.

    “Consequently, the NPP hereby announces that when the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election in line with Article 112 (5) of Ghana’s Constitution, the Party will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” parts of the statement read.

  • NDC candidate reportedly wins Akwatia by-election – NDC’s Pablo celebrates

    NDC candidate reportedly wins Akwatia by-election – NDC’s Pablo celebrates

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reportedly won the by-election conducted today, Tuesday, September 2, at Akwatia Constituency, Eastern Region.

    This was revealed through a Facebook post by the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo on Tuesday, September 2.

    His post featured a poster of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) candidate, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, with the caption “Victory! Thank you Akwatia”.

     Bernard Bediako reportedly polled over 3,000 votes against his opponents. Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission (EC) is yet to declare the official report of the by-election.

    https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EYUxYwED9/?mibextid=wwXIfr

    More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, cast their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.

    Today’s polls conducted by the EC follow the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.

    The NDC elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP), was disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

    He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.

    Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.

    He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.

    “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.

    Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.

    Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.

    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.

    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

    The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today.

    The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

    He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved.

    A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

    “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.

    Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.

    According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”

    In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.

    On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.

    A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.

    Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.

    Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they would intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.

    Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia.

    We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

    The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

  • GoldBod bars gold buyers with Tier 1 and Tier 2 licenses from selling gold to off-takers 

    GoldBod bars gold buyers with Tier 1 and Tier 2 licenses from selling gold to off-takers 

    Large and medium-scale domestic gold buyers operating under Tier 1 and  Tier 2 licenses have been cautioned against selling gold to off-takers with immediate effect, as announced by the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

     In a post on Facebook on Monday, September 1, the Media Relations Officer at GoldBod, Prince Kwame Minkah, emphasized that only the Ghana GoldBod and Self-Financing Aggregator (SFA) license holders are permitted to transact with Tier 1, and Tier 2 license holders.


    The Media Relations Officer at Goldbod added that all payments received by the said parties must be deposited  into the Goldbod account. Meanwhile, Goldbold has called on persons to contact the media relations office for clarifications. 

    “Please take note as an off-taker; gold buyers with Tier 1 and Tier 2 licenses are not permitted to sell gold to an off-taker. As an off-taker, you may only buy directly from the Ghana Goldbod or Self-Financing Aggregator license holder. Never send money directly to a Self-Financing Aggregator license holder; all payments must go into the Goldbod account. If you have any doubts or questions feel free to contact the media relations office,” he added.

    The GoldBod on August 28, suspended the license of Evanex Gold Enterprise, a licensed gold buyer (Tier 2), with immediate effect.

    Goldbod took this action following an adverse investigative finding of illegal gold pricing made against the company, contrary to the terms and conditions of the license of the company.

    The GoldBod has thereby cautioned licensed traders, miners, and the general public against trading or engaging in any form of gold transaction with Evanex Gold Enterprise forthwith.

    “GoldBod remains committed to enforcing the laws and regulations that govern the gold trading sector in the spirit of accountability and transparency,” a statement issued by GoldBod read.

    Meanwhile, miners operating under a valid mining license have been offered a special temporary bonus scheme from the Ghana Gold Board in efforts to support the industry as well as combat gold smuggling.

    The licensed miners will enjoy an additional GH¢832 per pound of gold sold through the Ghana Gold Board. This information was contained in a statement issued by the GoldBod on Wednesday, August 27.

    “This novelty is in response to legitimate complaints from licensed miners about the significant reduction in the local price of gold in the last few months due to the continuous appreciation of the Ghana cedi.

    “The special bonus will ensure that licensed miners who have contributed immensely to the country’s increased gold output and foreign exchange earnings do not indirectly suffer as a result of the significant appreciation of the Ghana cedi that they have helped the country achieve,” the statement read.

    According to GoldBod, the recent development has been made possible as a result of the continuous appreciation of the Ghana cedi.  On July 7, a task force was inaugurated with a special mandate with specific powers as police officers to wage war against smuggling and all forms of illegal gold trading activities in the country.

    According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, this will save the government from any leakages in revenue mobilisation in the sector, helping to generate and invest revenue for economic development.

    “(This will) help the state combat and defeat the phenomenon of gold smuggling, the canker of illegal gold trading, and price disruptions that deprive the state of the needed revenue, profit, and the needed forex for our economy and the development of our country,” he announced.

    He thus cautioned traders to secure the appropriate licence to engage in any form of gold trading in the country, saying, “But for those who are hell bent on trading illegally without the licenses, we are serving notice that we are coming after you”.

    Earlier, the GoldBod CEO on June 5 also warned that persons who trade without licenses would be prosecuted, adding that his outfit takes no bribes before the said licenses are issued.

    During a meeting with the Chamber of Licensed Gold Buyers, Mr Gyamfi stated that “I don’t take or demand bribes before I issue a licence.”

    The acting CEO noted that the process for registering has been made seamless and is devoid of corruption. “We have removed the human interface element, and so there is no corruption, bribery, inducements, or favouritism. It is a very transparent and competitive process, and once you qualify, you get the license,” he added.

    Lauding his outfit’s results-oriented reforms and initiatives since his takeover as CEO, Sammy Gyamfi, during a media engagement, revealed that GoldBod has exceeded the $5 billion mark in gold export value for the first half of 2025, surpassing the $4.6 billion recorded for the entire year of 2024.

    He expressed optimism that GoldBod would hit the 60-tonne export mark by the end of July 2025, driven by stronger compliance, improved oversight, and the streamlined licensing regime under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).

    “In the whole of 2024, gold exports stood at 66 tons with an export value of $4.6 billion. We have done only six months, and yet we have crossed the $4.6 billion. We have gone beyond $5 billion, and in terms of volumes, we have done 50 tons and over, and we are optimistic that by the end of next month, we will have hit 60 tons,” he said.

    The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is the sole authority with exclusive right to buy, sell, weigh, grade, assay, value and export gold and other precious minerals in Ghana. The Ghana Gold Board functions under the oversight and supervision of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Ghana.

    History of GoldBod

    The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is a body corporate established by an Act of Parliament (ACT 1140) in the year 2025 to oversee, regulate and undertake the buying, selling, assaying, refining, exporting and other related activities in respect of Gold and other Precious Minerals in Ghana.

    The GoldBod per section 78 of ACT 1140, took over the rights, obligations, assets, liabilities and workforce of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) Limited, which is an offshoot of the Ghana Diamond Marketing Board.

    In 1963, the Ghana Diamond Marketing Board was established and charged with the responsibility of purchasing and marketing Ghana’s diamonds.

    In 1965, by a Legislative Instrument (LI) 401, the Ghana Diamond Marketing Board was incorporated as a State-Owned Enterprise (SOE).

    Upon the promulgation of the diamonds decree (NRCD 32) in 1972, LI 916 was enacted to change the company’s name to Diamond Marketing Corporation.

    In 1989, PNDC Law 219 was enacted to yet again change the Company’s name to the Precious Minerals Marketing Corporation with enhanced functions to grade, assay, value gold, diamonds and other precious minerals of the country.

    In the year 2000, the Corporation was converted by the Statutory Corporations Conversion to Companies Act (ACT 461) to a Limited Liability Company to operate under the Ghana Companies Code Act, (ACT 179) 1963, as Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) Limited with the same functions.

    In the year 2016, the PMMC was appointed the national assayer by the government of Ghana.

    To strengthen industry regulation and optimize national benefits, the Ghana GoldBod was established on 2 April, 2025 by the government of Ghana to restructure and streamline the precious mineral trading sector of Ghana.

    The GoldBod initiative is a product of extensive stakeholder consultations and aims at maximizing foreign exchange inflows, gold reserve accumulation and value addition for sustainable growth and transformation.

  • Akwatia by-election: NPP executive slapped by NDC vice chairman’s aide amid heated scuffle

    Akwatia by-election: NPP executive slapped by NDC vice chairman’s aide amid heated scuffle

    The third National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alhaji Osman Masawudu, has been slapped following an intense confrontation with the aide of the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Vice Chairman, Chief Sofo Azorka.

    The incident occurred today, Tuesday, September 2, during the ongoing by-election at Akwatia, Eastern Region.

    Alhaji Osman Masawudu has reported that the scuffle began while he was monitoring the ongoing election, specifically at the Akwatia Zongo area.

    According to him, before the incident, the National Democratic Congress’s Vice Chairman’s aide had threatened to cane him.

    “I have been assigned to supervise and monitor the election at Akwatia Zongo. In fact, I was granting an interview when a national vice chairman of the NDC, Azorka — because of ignorance — came straight to where I was granting an interview to attack me.

    “This incident happened in the presence of the police. He said it clearly that today he will make sure that I will be caned here, myself and Afenyo-Markin,” Masawudu recounted.

    However, police personnel present at the scene managed to restore calm.

    Earlier today, a video circulating showed an individual being carried into a police van after he was arrested by the police for reportedly destroying a poster of a contestant in the Akwatia by-election.

    More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.

    Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.

    He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.

    Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.

    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.

    He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.

    “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.

    Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.

    Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.

    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.

    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.

    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.

    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

    The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today.

    The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

    He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved.

    A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

    “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.

    Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.

    According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”

    In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.

    On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.

    A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.

    Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.

    Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they would intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.

    Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia.

    We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

    The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

  • Diesel and petrol prices rise slightly at Shell, Goil fuel stations

    Diesel and petrol prices rise slightly at Shell, Goil fuel stations

    Petroleum product prices at the pumps are being adjusted by several major Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). The price of petrol is now selling at GH¢12.90 per litre from GH¢12.88; a litre of diesel, which was sold for GH¢14.30, is now selling at GH¢13.90 at Goil fuel stations.

    At Shell fuel stations, a litre of petrol is selling at GH¢13.59 from GH¢12.89.  Market leader, Star Oil, is selling petrol at GH¢12.77 per litre and diesel at GH¢13.35. However, Star Oil has declared its intention not to change the prices of its fuel products until September 15.

    Meanwhile, market leader Star Oil says its prices will remain unchanged until September 15, 2025. Currently, Star Oil is selling petrol at GH¢12.77 per litre and diesel at GH¢13.35.

    The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COAMC) had projected a decline in diesel and petrol prices, with Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) expected to increase at the pumps on Saturday, August 16.

    According to a report by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies, petrol at the pumps will increase by between 0.39% and 2.71% per liter.

    On the other hand, diesel and LPG prices have been projected to increase by up to 0.15% to 2.34% per litre.

    “Following the slight dip in crude prices, diesel fell sharply by 5.22%, while petrol and LPG rose marginally by 1.89% and 2.87%, likely due to product-specific demand and supply factors.

    “For 1st August 2025 pricing window (based on average exchange rates from 27th July to 12th Aug), the Ghanaian cedi experienced a slight depreciation against the US dollar. The rate shifted from GHS 10.68 to GHS 10.77, reflecting a 0.87% decline,” part of the statement read.

    However, over the weekend, some major Oil Marketing Companies kept prices unchanged to stay competitive and attract customers.

    COMAC has attributed the adjustment to the depreciation of the local currency, the cedi, against major foreign currencies, especially the US dollar.

    Some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) in June, reduced prices of petroleum products at the pumps. Fuel prices have now dropped for the second time this week under the current pricing window for June.

    Leading the trend, Star Oil announced on June 19, 2025, that it had slashed its petrol price from GHS10.99 per litre to GHS10.80. Diesel prices at the same outlets have also been cut, moving from GHS12.77 to GHS12.13 per litre.

    Looking ahead, Allied Oil has indicated it will implement further reductions beginning June 20. Earlier this month, on June 16, Allied was selling petrol at GHS10.97 per litre, but the new price stands at GHS10.75.

    Joining the trend, Zen Petroleum has also reduced its petrol price to GHS10.75. Reports indicate that the reduction in petrol prices is being driven by heightened competition among major OMCs, sparking a price war in the sector.

    Introduced in 2015, the government’s Price Deregulation Policy aimed to encourage competition and help bring prices down, beyond global oil market dynamics.

    Meanwhile, some OMCs have hinted that pump prices could increase from July 1, 2025, if the conflict between Israel and Iran in the Middle East continues.

    Since tensions escalated in the region, crude oil prices have surged from $66 to about $76 per barrel.

    Despite this, some industry insiders argue that if the Ghanaian cedi strengthens further in the coming days, it could help absorb the projected 5 percent or more rise in crude prices.

    So far, petroleum prices have seen over six reductions this year, with industry data attributing much of the decline to the cedi’s appreciation.

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

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

    However, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has assured that the escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel will not affect the oil market.

    Speaking to the media, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of COMAC, Dr. Riverson Oppong, noted that when prices go up or down in the world market, it takes some time before those changes are seen in local prices.

    A week-old air war escalated with no sign yet of an exit strategy from either side as Israel bombed nuclear targets in Iran on Thursday and Iran fired missiles and drones at Israel after hitting an Israeli hospital overnight.

    The White House said President Trump would make a decision as to whether the United States will join the war or not in the next two weeks.

    “Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.

    Government has launched new GHS1 Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy on petroleum products.

    This move is to settle energy sector shortfalls, reduce legacy debts, and stabilize power supply across the country, following parliamentary approval.

    President John Dramani Mahama assented to the levy on June 5, under the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141). GRA had announced earlier implementation of the levy; however, it was postponed after strong opposition from oil marketing companies and transport operators.

    Initially set to take effect on Monday, June 9, it was rescheduled to start on Monday, June 16. It was then rescheduled again due to the tensions between Iran and Israel.

    According to Tariff Interpretation Order (TIO) No. 2025/003, issued by the GRA, the new levy affects several key fuel products. The levy on petrol (motor spirit, super) and diesel (gas oil) will rise from GHS0.95 and GHS0.93, respectively, to GHS1.95 and GHS1.93 per litre.

    Marine gas oil (local) will increase from 0.3 to 0.23, marine gas oil (foreign) from 0.93 to 1.93, and heavy fuel oil by 0.04. However, all cash-and-carry transactions where products are lifted on or after the effective date will attract the revised levies.

  • Akwatia by-election: Police arrest one for causing chaos 

    Akwatia by-election: Police arrest one for causing chaos 

    One person has been arrested by the police for reportedly destroying a poster of a contestant in the Akwatia by-election, currently underway in the Eastern Region.

    The police’s swift intervention has ensured that the incident does not cause any disruption.

    More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.


    Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.


    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.


    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.


    He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate. Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.


    Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.


    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.


    He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.


    “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.


    Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.


    Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.


    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.


    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.


    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.


    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.


    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.


    The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today.

    The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

    He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved.

    A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

    “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.


    Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.


    According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”


    In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.


    On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.


    A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.


    Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.


    Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they would intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.


    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.


    Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia.

    We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.


    The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.


    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

  • Torkornoo’s removal entirely justifiable, govt acted without bias – Dafeamekpor

    Torkornoo’s removal entirely justifiable, govt acted without bias – Dafeamekpor

    The Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has commended President John Dramani Mahama for relieving Chief Justice (CJ) Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo of her duties.

    Speaking to the media on Monday, September 1, the Majority Chief Whip he shot down claims that the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) government had ulterior motives behind the CJ’s removal.

    According to him, the government acted rightfully in accordance to Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, therefore cannot be accused of any wrongdoing in the Chief Justice’s removal.

    “It’s absolutely incorrect for Hassan Tampuli [Gushegu MP], and some others, to suggest, however whimsical that it is, that the grounds underpining these petitions that went before the Article 146 Committee were whimsical and frivolous. There were no frivolities at all,” he pointed out.

    On Monday, September 1, a press statement issued by the presidency and signed by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, indicated that her dismissal is in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution.


    President Mahama, on Tuesday, April 22, suspended the Chief Justice after a prima facie case was established, following separate petitions calling for her removal.


    However, the new development comes shortly after President John Dramani Mahama officially received recommendations from the committee probing petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, Monday, September 1.


    According to the statement, the Article 146 Committee of Inquiry found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office.


    “President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution, removed the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, from office with immediate effect.


    “This follows receipt of the report of the Committee constituted under Article 146(6) to inquire into a petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr Daniel Ofori. After considering the petition and the evidence, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office. Under Article 146(9), the President is required to act in accordance with the committee’s recommendation,” parts of the statement read.


    The committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.


    In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.


    The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.


    Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.

    The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.


    The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.


    She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.


    The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.


    As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.


    In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.


    This forms part of the 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.

    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.


    The measures are: “That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”


    “That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”


    “Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”


    The other reliefs are as follows: “A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair, equitable, and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”

    “An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”


    “An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”


    “An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”


    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.


    The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country. Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.


    On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani Mahama and the Executive arm of government.


    “Immediately and without delay, reinstate the Chief Justice of Ghana to her Office. consistent with both the hitherto strong attachment to the rule of law demonstrated by Ghana and also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.


    “And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.


    Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.


    Also both groups, demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.


    In response, the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.

    “The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President will adhere,” he said.

  • Akwatia by-election underway

    Akwatia by-election underway

    More than 50,000 registered constituents in Akwatia, in the Eastern Region, will cast their ballots today, Tuesday, September 2, to select a Member of Parliament (MP) to represent the Constituency in Parliament.


    Today’s polls have become necessary following the sudden passing of the sitting MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, which occurred on Monday, July 7, 2025. Ernest Yaw Kumi had only served for six months as the MP for the area.


    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has elected legal practitioner Bernard Bediako Baidoo to contest the election. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has also selected the Chief Executive of Owuo Mining Company, Solomon Kwame Asumadu, as its parliamentary candidate for the by-election.

    However, David Ankomah, who sought to contest on the ticket of the Action People’s Party (APP) has been disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over failing to submit his tax clearance certificate. In this regard, the disqualified candidate has filed a lawsuit against the Electoral Commission.


    He has therefore challenged the EC at the High Court for excluding him because he failed to submit his tax clearance certificate.


    Ankomah argued that the Commission gave him too short a notice to produce the certificate through the Akwatia District Electoral Officer, which caused his inability to provide the required document.


    Additionally, he maintains that he has completed all necessary processes needed to participate in the race. He has therefore prayed the Court to suspend the by-election until the case is determined.


    Meanwhile, over 5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia to ensure law and order during the by-election. Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.

    He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.
    The Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.


    “The military will be only on standby.As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.


    Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has encouraged Akwatia constituents to participate in the by-election without being intimidated by the security presence.


    Engaging with the media on Monday, August 25, he indicated that the security presence is to ensure that the electoral process is not tampered with.


    Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have allegedly held back from signing a peace pact ahead of the Akwatia by-election.


    This follows claims by the NPP that the NDC’s representatives presented constituency executives instead of national-level executives to sign the agreement.


    NPP National Organizer Henry Nana Boakye told reporters that the NDC had shown reluctance to commit to the peace declaration, accusing the party of deliberately stalling the process.


    Speaking to the media after the failed engagement, a Board member of the Peace Council, Sheikh Armeyaw Shaibu, said, “In the spirit of mutual dialogue and mutual respect, the two parties agreed that we should suspend the meeting”.

    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.

    The seized firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barrel gun.

    This was announced in a statement shared on the Command’s official Facebook page earlier today. The statement noted that, “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process.”

    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia. A search of the vehicle uncovered a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks. Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license. He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification.

    The statement further revealed that another operation led to the arrest of suspect Joshua Amenuku, from whom 15 live cartridges were retrieved. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered an Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live cartridges.

    “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges,” the police added.

    Later that evening, the police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pickup at the Boadua Livingstone snap checkpoint and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after retrieving four live BB cartridges from the vehicle.

    According to the statement, “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations.”

    In another operation on Friday, August 23, police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap checkpoint arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph after retrieving one Adler Tulpar pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm.

    On the same day, officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua intercepted a Toyota Tundra pickup with registration number WR 5535-13 traveling from Asamankese towards Boadua.

    A search conducted on the vehicle revealed three pump-action guns, including one Pardus pump-action, one Huglu Atroe pump-action, and one other pump-action gun.

    Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the firearms and stated that the third belonged to his chief. Nkansah has since been arrested and detained for investigation.

    Following these successful operations, the police assured the public and all stakeholders that they will intensify efforts to ensure the integrity of the elections as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the polls.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that his outfit will remain vigilant to avert any form of misconduct or electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.

    Engaging the media, the IGP stated that his officers are fully prepared. “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police are ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia. We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation, and then our eyes are red for Akwatia, and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.

    The IGP also cautioned political parties participating in the by-election against mobilising supporters to disrupt the electoral process.

    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he said.

  • Inquiry Committee rules petition alleging misbehavior by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo valid

    Inquiry Committee rules petition alleging misbehavior by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo valid

    The five-member committee, Article 146 Committee of Inquiry tasked to probe petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has concluded its investigations.

    The committee has described the first petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Daniel Ofori, which called for the Chief Justice’s removal as valid. 

    Daniel Ofori’s petition was filed under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, which outlines the process for removing a Chief Justice on grounds such as “stated misbehaviour” and “incompetence.

    “I, the undersigned, respectfully petition Your Excellency for the removal of the Honourable Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, Her Ladyship Gertrude Sackey Torkonoo CJ on grounds of “stated misbehaviour” and “incompetence” under Article 146 (1) of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.


    “ I state below twenty-one (21) specific allegations of misbehaviour of the Honourable Chief Justice and four (4) allegations of incompetence, all of which relate to the Honourable Chief Justice’s discharge of her administrative roles and functions as head of the Judiciary, responsible for its supervision and administration,” part of his petition read.

    However, a press statement issued by the presidency and signed by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu on Monday, September 1, indicated that the committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established.

    “This follows receipt of the report of the Committee constituted under Article 146(6) to inquire into a petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr Daniel Ofori. After considering the petition and the evidence, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office,” part of the statement read. 

    The committee further recommended that the Chief Justice be removed from office. The President upon the recommendations received from the committee today, Monday, September 1 relieved the suspended Chief Justice Getrude Tokornoo of her duties with immediate effect.

    The Chief Justice was earlier suspended by President Mahama on Tuesday, April 22, after a prima facie case was established, following separate petitions calling for her removal. 

    A series of petitions filed against Chief Justice Torkornoo, beginning with one from a group known as Shining Stars of Ghana.

    The group alleges she violated Article 144 of the Constitution by personally recommending judges for promotion to the Supreme Court, and further claims she ruled on a case involving the Speaker of Parliament without granting him a hearing, despite his refusal to respond to the suit.

    A series of petitions filed against Chief Justice Torkornoo, beginning with one from a group known as Shining Stars of Ghana. The group alleges she violated Article 144 of the Constitution by personally recommending judges for promotion to the Supreme Court, and further claims she ruled on a case involving the Speaker of Parliament without granting him a hearing, despite his refusal to respond to the suit.

    The group alleges she violated Article 144 of the Constitution by personally recommending judges for promotion to the Supreme Court, and further claims she ruled on a case involving the Speaker of Parliament without granting him a hearing, despite his refusal to respond to the suit.


    Another petition from a police officer who is also a lawyer accuses the Chief Justice of manipulating evidence and abusing her authority, following an incident during a Supreme Court session where he was reportedly reprimanded, arrested, and detained.

    However, court records suggest the lawyer’s conduct during proceedings prompted a unanimous caution from the bench, not just the Chief Justice.


    A third petition, submitted by a private individual, lists 21 alleged misconducts and four claims of incompetence. Among the accusations is the misuse of public funds—specifically, that she spent over GH¢261,000 and $30,000 on a family trip abroad in 2023 and misused an additional GH¢75,580 and $14,000 during another foreign assignment without proper accountability.


    Subsequent reports indicate two more petitions have been added to the list, intensifying pressure on the judiciary.


    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, in her written response to President Mahama, strongly denied allegations of misconduct and abuse of office brought against her by a senior police officer, describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal from office.

    In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.

    The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.


    Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.


    The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.


    The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.


    She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.

    The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.


    As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.


    In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.


    This forms part of 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.


    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.


    The measures are;
    “That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”


    “That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”


    “Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”


    The other reliefs are as follows;


    “A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”


    “An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”


    “An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”


    “An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”


    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case. The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country.Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.


    On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani Mahama and the Executive arm of government.


    “Immediately and without delay, reinstate the Chief Justice of Ghana to her Office. consistent with both the hitherto strong attachment to the rule of law demonstrated by Ghana and also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.


    “And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.


    Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.


    Also both groups demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.


    However, Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine has emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.
    “The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President will adhere,” he said.

  • President Mahama removes Chief Justice Gertrude Tokornoo from office

    President Mahama removes Chief Justice Gertrude Tokornoo from office

    President John Dramani Mahama has relieved the embattled Chief Justice Gertrude Tokornoo of her duties with immediate effect.

    A press statement issued by the presidency and signed by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, indicated that her dismissal is in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution. 

    President Mahama, on Tuesday, April 22, suspended the Chief Justice after a prima facie case was established, following separate petitions calling for her removal. 

    However, the new development comes shortly after President John Dramani Mahama officially received recommendations from the committee probing petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, today, Monday, September 1.



    The presidency justified its decision to dismiss the Chief Justice, citing findings from the Article 146 Committee of Inquiry.

    According to the statement, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehavior under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office.

    “President John Dramani Mahama has, in accordance with Article 146(9) of the 1992 Constitution, removed the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkonoo, from office with immediate effect.

    “This follows receipt of the report of the Committee constituted under Article 146(6) to inquire into a petition submitted by a Ghanaian citizen, Mr Daniel Ofori. After considering the petition and the evidence, the Committee found that the grounds of stated misbehaviour under Article 146(1) had been established and recommended her removal from office.

    “Under Article 146(9), the President is required to act in accordance with the committee’s recommendation,” parts of the statement read.

    The committee chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.

    The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.


    Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.


    The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.


    The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.


    She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.

    The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.


    As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.


    In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria, seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.


    This forms part of the 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.


    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.


    The measures are;
    “That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”


    “That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”


    “Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”


    The other reliefs are as follows;
    “A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”


    “An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”


    “An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”


    “An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”


    “An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”


    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.

    The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country.Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.


    On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani Mahama and the Executive arm of government.


    “Immediately and without delay, reinstate the Chief Justice of Ghana to her Office. consistent with both the hitherto strong attachment to the rule of law demonstrated by Ghana and also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.


    “And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.


    Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.


    Also both groups, demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.


    In response, the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.
    “The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President will adhere,” he said.

  • Report on first petition against suspended Chief Justice submitted to President Mahama

    Report on first petition against suspended Chief Justice submitted to President Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has officially received recommendations from the committee probing petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.

    The five-member committee Article 146 Committee of Inquiry was tasked by President John Dramani Mahama to investigate petitions calling for her removal. Consequently, the Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was suspended by President Mahama on Tuesday, April 22 following the establishment of a prima facie case based on separate petitions calling for her removal.


    The committee chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    In July, an application for review regarding an ‘abuse of court processes’ by the embattled Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, was dismissed by the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court.The court presided over by Justice Amoako on Thursday, July 31, revealed that several claims, such as illegal composition of the committee and wrongful conduct of adversarial proceedings, were already before the Supreme Court.

    Justice Amoako argued that relitigating these issues would result in duplication of litigation and abuse of court processes. As such, such claims were dismissed.

    The judge also dismissed reliefs such as an order of certiorari to quash the committee’s proceedings and nullify its sittings on the basis that the Chief Justice did not receive a fair hearing, on jurisdictional grounds.

    The judicial review application filed on June 9 this year sought nine reliefs, which included a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to probe her removal from office had acted unlawfully.

    She wanted the court to prevent the committee from proceeding with its work without providing her with authenticated copies of the petitions seeking her removal and the subsequent responses.

    The Chief Justice notes that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.

    As the proceedings of the Article 146 committee are to be held in-camera in accordance with Article 146(8) of the Constitution, the court noted that it could not inquire into matters raised by the suspended Chief Justice.

    In response, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo proceeded to the ECOWAS Community Court in Abuja, Nigeria seeking compensation worth $10 million over her suspension from office by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama.

    This forms part of 10 reliefs being requested. The Chief Justice’s recent suit follows several unsuccessful cases at the Supreme Court this year after her suspension.

    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case.

    The measures are;

    “That the Republic of Ghana suspend the disciplinary/ removal from office as Chief Justice process against the Applicant, pending the hearing and determination of the complaint on the merits.”

    “That Ghana refrains from taking any other measures that may harm the rights claimed by the Applicant and /or aggravate or extend the dispute submitted to the Court, or compromise the implementation of any decision that the Court may render.”

    “Given the urgency of the situation, the Applicant respectfully requests the Court to hold a hearing on this request as soon as possible, and that the President of the Court ask Ghana to act in order to allow any order that the Court may issue on the Request for Assignment of Precautionary Measures to have its appropriate effect.”

    The other reliefs are as follows;

    “A declaration that the panel instituted by the Respondent (Ghana) to investigate and determine the allegations of misconduct against the Applicant was not constituted to guarantee its independence and impartiality and as such has violated the Applicant’s human right to fair hearing guaranteed by Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025, constitutes a violation of her human right to fair equitable and satisfactory conditions guaranteed by Article 15 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “A declaration that the purported suspension of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana by the President of the Respondent State on 22 April 2025 has exposed her to public ridicule and odium locally and internationally and the said act constitutes a violation of her human right to dignity guaranteed by Article 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “A declaration that by subjecting the Applicant to an illegal and unfair investigation and trial since April 2025, the Respondent has inflicted injuries on her professional standing and image, thereby ‘exposing her and her family to immeasurable public ridicule.”

    “An order to the Respondent Republic to act immediately to prescribe the rule of procedure to govern the investigation of allegations of misconduct against the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in conformity with the right to fair hearing guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

    “An order directing the Respondent to immediately lift the suspension and restore the Applicant to full office until the conclusion of fair constitutional proceedings.”

    “An order restraining the Respondent from continuing with the purported inquiry for the removal of the Applicant as the Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana in its current form, until it conforms to fair hearing guarantees.”

    “An award of USD 10 million as compensation for moral and reputational damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of her illegal suspension and unfair investigation, and lastly, “Any other relief(s) as the Honourable Court deems just.”

    The suspended Chief Justice wants the court to ensure she continues to enjoy the paraphernalia and entitlements of her office as the Chief Justice of Ghana pending the hearing and determination of the case. The applicant has also requested the ECOWAS Court to assign four precautionary measures to the country.Meanwhile, the government’s spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted claims made by Justice Torkornoo, noting that the Chief Justice’s suspension aligns with the constitution.

    On Thursday, August 14, the Bar Council of England and Wales and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association called for the immediate reinstatement of Ghana’s Chief Justice by President John Dramani Mahama and the Executive arm of government.

    “Immediately and without delay, reinstate the Chief Justice of Ghana to her Office. consistent with both the hitherto strong attachment to the rule of law demonstrated by Ghana and also, the constitutional duties incumbent upon them.

    “And afford the Chief justice due and fair process in the investigation and determination of the disciplinary matters brought against her, including but not limited to) full and transparent access to that process by her legal representatives,” the group demanded in a joint statement issued on August 14.

    Additionally, the group asked the government for a proper and impartial investigation of the disciplinary charges against her, with her lawyers given full and transparent access to the proceedings.

    Also both groups, demanded the establishment of transparent procedural rules to guide the disciplinary process, including a definite timeframe within which the investigative committee must conclude its work and communicate its decision.

    However, Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine has emphasised that his outfit can only intervene after the committee concludes its work and submits a report to President John Dramani Mahama.

    “The suspension will, therefore, remain in effect until the inquiry committee completes its work and submits its report, to which His Excellency, the President, will adhere,” he said.

  • Placement portal opened for 2025 JHS graduates to review school choices and biodata

    Placement portal opened for 2025 JHS graduates to review school choices and biodata

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) has opened the school placement portal, today, Monday, September 1, for individuals who participated in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) to verify their school choices, biodata, and other relevant information ahead of the final placement.

    The deadline for this fact-checking exercise which has begun on the www.csses.gov.gh will conclude on Monday, September 8.

    At a media briefing on Wednesday, August 27, GES Director-General, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis noted “This process is expected to take no more than three weeks. From September 1 to September 8, the portal will be open for candidates to review their school choices, biodata, and other relevant information”.

    After placement, students are expected to report to their schools and start classes between October 18 and October 20 to begin the 2025/2026 academic year.SHS 3 students will reopen on October 11, 2025, and remain in school until February 27, 2026, covering 18 weeks.

    They will return on March 13, 2026, for a 14-week session ending June 21, 2026, ahead of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) scheduled for April 20 to June 20, 2026.SHS 1 and 2 students will start their first session on October 18, 2025, and break on February 27, 2026, after 17 weeks.

    They will resume on May 4, 2026, for a 16-week session ending August 21, 2026, marking the close of the academic year. The Transitional Calendar refers to a temporary academic schedule designed to bridge the gap between the old double-track system and the new single-track system.

    On that calendar, first-year students will also report on October 18, 2025, and stay until January 30, 2026, before proceeding on a short break.

    Their second term will then begin on March 16 and run until June 12, 2026, with additional breaks, including some four weeks of off-site learning to help manage overcrowding in school facilities.

    Second-year students in transitional schools will reopen on January 5, 2026, and vacate on May 18, 2026, with five weeks of online learning. They will then resume from the vacation later in September for the final stretch of the academic year.

    Final-year students in transitional schools will begin on October 27, 2025, for a 14-week session before the Christmas break and resume in February for an 18-week preparation period before they sit for their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    GES also highlighted some significant breaks in the new timetable. The Christmas break will begin on December 20, 2025, and end on January 4, 2026.

    Vacation for SHS 3 students is slated for February 27 to March 1, 2026, while SHS 1 and 2 students will break from August 21 to August 23, 2026. GES has also proposed September 11, 2026, as the start date for the 2026/2027 academic year.

    In an unrelated development, sixty (60) private schools have been included under the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. Junior High School (JHS) graduates will be admitted into these private schools, which fall under Category E in the school selection process. These schools will be accepting applications starting from the 2025/2026 academic year.

    The new development aligns with the government’s efforts to ease congestion in public SHSs as well as promote quality education across the country.In a press release issued on Sunday, July 20, by the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) and signed by its National Executive Director, Oberto Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, the council described the initiative as a historic and progressive move.

    “This progressive move marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s educational transformation journey. It underscores the Government’s commitment to inclusive, collaborative education delivery and reaffirms the important role of private schools in advancing national development goals,” part of the release read.

    The council further called on other private schools that are yet to be listed to remain patient, prepared, and compliant with regulatory standards. In May, Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Clement Apaak announced that the inclusion forms part of a broader plan to scale up capacity and gradually end the double-track system.

    “As part of our campaign promise, we have been working diligently to bring on board private senior high schools in the delivery of the Free SHS programme. Meetings have been held, engagements have been done, and we are very certain that with the diligence we expect from our side…” he noted.

    The double-track system was introduced in 2018 by the erstwhile government to accommodate the surge in student enrollment due to the Free SHS policy, addressing overcrowding in public schools. Under this system, students were divided into two groups—Green Track and Gold Track—attending school in shifts, with one track in session while the other was on break.

    The anticipated extension of the Free SHS policy, according to the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, is a fulfillment of the government’s manifesto promise, adding that it is a step to ensure eligible students gain admission without delays.

    “We believe strongly that in fulfilling this manifesto campaign promise, this is going to serve as an artery in helping us bring an end to the double-track system,” the deputy minister said.

    According to him, the Education Ministry has received encouraging feedback from private schools, many of which have expressed readiness to meet the standards and requirements of the Free SHS framework.“… and the eagerness of the private schools to participate, the private schools will deliver in their participation,” he assured.

    He added that this collaboration would not only help expand capacity but also ensure a more equitable distribution of educational opportunities across the country.

  • Central Region lost 22 lives to abandoned galamey pits – NADMO

    Central Region lost 22 lives to abandoned galamey pits – NADMO

    Abandoned illegal mining (galamsey) pits in the Central Region have claimed more than twenty-two (22) lives between January and August this year.

    During a media briefing after a Regional Security Council meeting, the Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Kwesi Dawood, indicated that the deceased persons lost their lives after drowning in these pits.

    The Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation described the situation as alarming and called for a collective effort to end illegal mining in the country.

    Meanwhile, a task force has been launched in response to galamsey activities in the region. Their areas of operation include: Assin North, Assin Central, Upper Denkyira East and West, Twifo Ati-Morkwa, Twifo Hemang Lower Denkyira, and the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality, which comprises security agencies, NADMO, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Minerals Commission, miners, and the media.

    In the coming days, the degraded galamsey sites are expected to be converted into productive agricultural land and tree plantations.

    The project, which is spearheaded by the Regional Minister, Mr. Ekow Payin Okyere Eduamoah, aims to generate revenue to support Ghana’s economy.

    “This initiative includes implementing our ‘Tree for Life’ reforestation policy, aimed at cultivating cash crops such as cocoa, palm and rubber on rehabilitated sites,” he explained.


    In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance, under the GRA Customs Division and the Ports and Harbours Authority, the Lands Ministry has initiated proactive tracking of all excavator imports and other heavy equipment from the point of entry.


    The Lands Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revealed that the government is developing a centralized digital platform named the Ghana Mine Repository Tracking Software, which has already been deployed at the Minerals Commission and is at an advanced stage to support this initiative.


    “The platform will serve as the single point of integration for all agencies, including Customs, DVLA, Ministry of Transport, Minerals Commission, and National Security,” the minister said.


    The platform will also provide authorized institutions with real-time permit history, equipment location, and operational compliance. A pilot project involving over 191 excavators is currently being tracked in a dedicated control room at the Minerals Commission.


    “I believe we are going to that point where every excavator in this country is actually regulated,” he said.

    The government is undertaking these initiatives in accordance with L.I. 2404, which prescribes the mandatory registration of all earth-moving and mining equipment used in mining operations.


    As part of efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities, the government has also rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by August 1.


    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, indicated that the state will confiscate unregistered mining equipment after the deadline.


    “The Government, as part of efforts to reform the mining sector in the country, requires that all machinery used in mining activities must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August 2025. Equipment that remains unregistered after this deadline will be confiscated by the State,” the Ministry stated on its website.


    The Ghana Police Service and the DVLA have been empowered to strictly enforce the new rule from August 2.

    “The Ghana Police Service and DVLA have been directed to enforce this directive from 2nd August 2025 onward rigorously. The general public, especially those who use mining machinery, is advised to take note and comply with the directive,” it added.


    The Ministry reiterated its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement.

    Meanwhile, a similar directive had been issued months earlier, requiring excavator owners and operators to register their machines with the DVLA within two weeks or risk losing them to the state.


    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, issued the directive in Accra, warning that effective June 1, any excavator not registered with the DVLA would be confiscated.
    Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Kotey announced that the Ghana Police Service and the DVLA’s operational team commenced a nationwide enforcement after the deadline, arresting and impounding excavators being used at mining sites or for commercial purposes without proper documentation.
    “This exercise will help identify every excavator that enters the country and trace how it is being used. The goal is to ensure we can monitor and hold people accountable,” Mr. Kotey said.
    The directive was in line with Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers, including farm and heavy-duty equipment.
    Despite the law, the DVLA found many unregistered excavators operating in mining areas, some of which were used in illegal activities.
    Mr. Kotey emphasized that the DVLA, with its 34 offices nationwide, could register all excavators and farm machinery within two weeks and was ready to strictly enforce the directive.
    “Excavators in the hands of illegal miners have worsened the destruction of our environment. This is why we must act,” Mr. Kotey said.
    To further control the situation, the DVLA, in collaboration with key agencies such as the Minerals Commission, National Security, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), commenced tagging all newly imported excavators.
    In addition to tagging new imports, the Minerals Commission was tasked to lead a team to tag all excavators already in the country. Legal small-scale mining sites have also been geo-fenced, with their site coordinates integrated into the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking Software for improved oversight.
    Three months ago, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced the rollout of a system to monitor excavator imports and usage, involving port tagging and digital tracking in partnership with several state agencies.
    According to the sector minister, excavators are the third most valuable item imported into the country, worth GHC 6.2 billion.
    Crackdown on illegal mining activities
    In April, a total of 47 individuals were arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forests in the Western Region.
    This followed a special four-day intelligence-led operation that commenced on April 17 within the Samreboi enclave.According to the Ghana Police Service, the suspects included 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals.
    The Police indicated that a significant amount of equipment and materials believed to have been used for the mining operations were retrieved. These included seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barrel gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.
    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. Forty-one of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into police custody to reappear before the court on April 30. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2. The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23.
    Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of several pieces of mining equipment.
    The operations were executed by the Ghana Police Service through its Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force.At Nikanika, the task force found no operators but retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.
    The team later extended its operation to Adeade, where three suspects—Prosper Quansah, Chrispin Nartey, and Owusu Gambra—were arrested with an excavator on a lowbed trailer.
    One SANY excavator, four unregistered Haojin motorbikes, and one lowbed vehicle with registration number GN 2136-24 were seized from the scene. All exhibits were secured in police custody.Some twelve accused persons standing trial for engaging in illegal mining activities at Tumetu, near Princess Town in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region, have been remanded into prison custody.
    While ten of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two others were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.
    This followed a coordinated police intelligence-led operation within the Ahanta West Municipality. The accused persons are Lord Yankey, Caleb Adu Kwaw, Stephen Agyei, Ebenezer Barnes, Mathew Somagevi, Paa Grant, Bashiru Kaviru, Joseph Borney, Aminu Issah, Kofi Sogah, Albert Normah, and Robert Mensah.
    Four water-pumping machines, one tricycle with registration number M-20-WR 1045, and two motorbikes were retrieved from the sites, according to the police. All twelve accused persons admitted to the offense during police interrogations.
    They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’ and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi. They reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.
    Additionally, fifteen individuals are in police custody for engaging in illegal mining activities at Manso Adubia. They were arrested following a special intelligence-led operation at Watreso and Preacher Krom. The suspects include Tahiru Ibrahim (24), Shaibu Idrissu (23), Boateng Emmanuel (27), Jamon Kwaku Samuel (21), Yaro Patrick (29), Kofi Boakye (21), Gubong Mathew (45), Fatawu Zackari Seidu (26), Abdul Malik Seidu (22), Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), and Kwame Adutwum (24).
    Two excavator control boards, two automatic pump-action guns, two Musler 12 firearms, 59 BB cartridges, three AA cartridges, one water-pumping machine, two power generators, one vulcanizing machine, and one Apsonic motorbike were seized from the site.

  • 907 small-scale miners to regularize their licenses today or risk revocation

    907 small-scale miners to regularize their licenses today or risk revocation

    Holders of small-scale mining licenses risk permanent revocation should they fail to submit proof of legitimacy to the Lands and Natural Resources Ministry by 5 p.m. today, September 1.


    This information was contained in a press release issued by the Ministry’s License Review Committee on Thursday, August 28. The caution follows a recent auditing exercise on existing small-scale mining licenses conducted by the Ministry’s special committee.


    The rigorous exercise revealed that nine hundred and seven (907) out of one thousand, two hundred and seventy-eight (1,278) licenses reviewed by the Review Committee were fraught with irregularities, with three hundred and sixteen (316) meeting the required standards.

    The committee revoked the remaining fifty-five (55) licenses.
    The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources noted: “Additionally, 907 out of 1,278 licenses are now under review for possible revocation due to irregularities identified by the Small-Scale Mining Review Committee.”


    According to the statement, the new deadline is to allow affected small-scale miners to provide additional evidence to support the legitimacy of their licenses. The Lands Ministry has also directed the Minerals Commission to submit reasons that led to lapses in the licensing process.


    “The Honourable Minister constituted a 3-Member Committee to receive petitions from affected license holders, if any, and/or to allow them to provide further and better particulars in support of their claim to the licenses.


    “Similarly, the Minerals Commission is expected to submit any explanations for lapses identified in the processing of the licences to the Committee.

    Affected license holders are therefore reminded to submit any documentation to prove the legitimacy of their small-scale mining licences to the Ministry on or before 17:00 hrs., 1 September 2025. Failure to do so will result in the revocation of their licence by the Honourable Minister,” portions of the statement stressed.


    In March this year, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the revocation of all small-scale mining licenses granted after December 7, 2024, due to procedural lapses in their issuance. The Ministry, however, granted time for affected miners to rectify the anomalies in their licenses.


    The announcement followed recommendations from key regulatory institutions, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Forestry Commission, and the Water Resources Commission.

    Authorities say the decision aligns with the government’s broader crackdown on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which has caused widespread environmental degradation.


    “Now, we are going full steam ahead to revoke all licenses based on the findings. Even all licenses—it’s mostly licenses that were issued from December 7—that are hereby revoked, whether you have EPA licenses or not, because the finding is very clear.

    “Those licenses from December 7 were rushed. Review processes were not followed; the right things were not done. It must be noted that 55 small-scale mining licences, issued during the transitional period, were revoked at the beginning of the year,” he noted.


    However, the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) called for an extension of the initial deadline following an engagement with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources in Accra on Wednesday, July 30.

    In response, the Minister postponed the deadline to the close of August to give small-scale miners the opportunity to regularize their licenses.


    To sanitize the mining sector and combat the menace of illegal mining, the Ministry is also expected to enforce compliance with mining laws and regulations.

    In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance, under the GRA Customs Division and the Ports and Harbours Authority, the Lands Ministry has initiated proactive tracking of all excavator imports and other heavy equipment from the point of entry.


    The Lands Minister revealed that the government is developing a centralized digital platform named the Ghana Mine Repository Tracking Software, which has already been deployed at the Minerals Commission and is at an advanced stage to support this initiative.

    “The platform will serve as the single point of integration for all agencies, including Customs, DVLA, Ministry of Transport, Minerals Commission, and National Security,” the minister said.


    The platform will also provide authorized institutions with real-time permit history, equipment location, and operational compliance. A pilot project involving over 191 excavators is currently being tracked in a dedicated control room at the Minerals Commission.

    “I believe we are going to that point where every excavator in this country is actually regulated,” he said.
    The government is undertaking these initiatives in accordance with L.I. 2404, which prescribes the mandatory registration of all earth-moving and mining equipment used in mining operations.


    As part of efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities, the government has also rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by August 1.


    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, indicated that the state will confiscate unregistered mining equipment after the deadline.

    “The Government, as part of efforts to reform the mining sector in the country, requires that all machinery used in mining activities must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August 2025. Equipment that remains unregistered after this deadline will be confiscated by the State,” the Ministry stated on its website.


    The Ghana Police Service and the DVLA have been empowered to strictly enforce the new rule from August 2. “The Ghana Police Service and DVLA have been directed to enforce this directive from 2nd August 2025 onward rigorously. The general public, especially those who use mining machinery, is advised to take note and comply with the directive,” it added.


    The Ministry reiterated its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive had been issued months earlier, requiring excavator owners and operators to register their machines with the DVLA within two weeks or risk losing them to the state.


    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, issued the directive in Accra, warning that effective June 1, any excavator not registered with the DVLA would be confiscated.

    Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Kotey announced that the Ghana Police Service and the DVLA’s operational team commenced a nationwide enforcement after the deadline, arresting and impounding excavators being used at mining sites or for commercial purposes without proper documentation.


    “This exercise will help identify every excavator that enters the country and trace how it is being used. The goal is to ensure we can monitor and hold people accountable,” Mr. Kotey said.


    The directive was in line with Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers, including farm and heavy-duty equipment.

    Despite the law, the DVLA found many unregistered excavators operating in mining areas, some of which were used in illegal activities.


    Mr. Kotey emphasized that the DVLA, with its 34 offices nationwide, could register all excavators and farm machinery within two weeks and was ready to strictly enforce the directive.

    “Excavators in the hands of illegal miners have worsened the destruction of our environment. This is why we must act,” Mr. Kotey said.


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


    In addition to tagging new imports, the Minerals Commission was tasked to lead a team to tag all excavators already in the country. Legal small-scale mining sites have also been geo-fenced, with their site coordinates integrated into the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking Software for improved oversight.


    Three months ago, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced the rollout of a system to monitor excavator imports and usage, involving port tagging and digital tracking in partnership with several state agencies.

    According to the sector minister, excavators are the third most valuable item imported into the country, worth GHC 6.2 billion.


    Crackdown on illegal mining activities


    In April, a total of 47 individuals were arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forests in the Western Region.

    This followed a special four-day intelligence-led operation that commenced on April 17 within the Samreboi enclave.
    According to the Ghana Police Service, the suspects included 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals.

    The Police indicated that a significant amount of equipment and materials believed to have been used for the mining operations were retrieved. These included seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barrel gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.


    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. Forty-one of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into police custody to reappear before the court on April 30. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2. The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23.


    Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of several pieces of mining equipment.

    The operations were executed by the Ghana Police Service through its Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force.
    At Nikanika, the task force found no operators but retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The team later extended its operation to Adeade, where three suspects—Prosper Quansah, Chrispin Nartey, and Owusu Gambra—were arrested with an excavator on a lowbed trailer.


    One SANY excavator, four unregistered Haojin motorbikes, and one lowbed vehicle with registration number GN 2136-24 were seized from the scene. All exhibits were secured in police custody.
    Some twelve accused persons standing trial for engaging in illegal mining activities at Tumetu, near Princess Town in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region, have been remanded into prison custody.

    While ten of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two others were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.


    This followed a coordinated police intelligence-led operation within the Ahanta West Municipality. The accused persons are Lord Yankey, Caleb Adu Kwaw, Stephen Agyei, Ebenezer Barnes, Mathew Somagevi, Paa Grant, Bashiru Kaviru, Joseph Borney, Aminu Issah, Kofi Sogah, Albert Normah, and Robert Mensah.


    Four water-pumping machines, one tricycle with registration number M-20-WR 1045, and two motorbikes were retrieved from the sites, according to the police. All twelve accused persons admitted to the offense during police interrogations.

    They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’ and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi. They reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.


    Additionally, fifteen individuals are in police custody for engaging in illegal mining activities at Manso Adubia. They were arrested following a special intelligence-led operation at Watreso and Preacher Krom. The suspects include Tahiru Ibrahim (24), Shaibu Idrissu (23), Boateng Emmanuel (27), Jamon Kwaku Samuel (21), Yaro Patrick (29), Kofi Boakye (21), Gubong Mathew (45), Fatawu Zackari Seidu (26), Abdul Malik Seidu (22), Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), and Kwame Adutwum (24).


    Two excavator control boards, two automatic pump-action guns, two Musler 12 firearms, 59 BB cartridges, three AA cartridges, one water-pumping machine, two power generators, one vulcanizing machine, and one Apsonic motorbike were seized from the site.

  • Nursing trainee admission fees slashed, students to pay 50%

    Nursing trainee admission fees slashed, students to pay 50%

    First-year students enrolling in Nursing and Allied Health Training Institutions for the 2025/2026 academic year will enjoy a 50% reduction in admission fees.

    The new development fulfills President John Dramani Mahama’s promise to make education accessible to all groups of Ghanaian citizens under the “No-Fee-Stress” policy.

    This information was made known by the Ministry of Health in a Facebook post on Sunday, August 31.

    “The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the general public and all stakeholders that, effective the 2025/2026 academic year, school fees for Nursing and Allied Health Training students have been reduced by 50%.

    “This intervention has been made possible through the introduction of Government’s flagship ‘“’No-Fee-Stress” Policy for tertiary students across the country. By this initiative, the Government has absorbed about half of the approved fees for all first-year students enrolled in Nursing and Allied Health Training Institutions,” parts of the release read.


    All institutions have been directed by the Ministry to strictly adhere to the approved fees and items as communicated by the Ministry.

    The ‘No Fees Stress’ policy was launched on Friday, July 4, at Koforidua in the Eastern Region.

    According to President John Dramani Mahama at the launch, fifteen thousand (15,000) of Ghanaian students have so far received the alerts for payment.

    He further stated that, “Out of this, 34,500 have been validated and are awaiting payment. And out of that number, as at July 3, 15,000 students had received the alerts for payment.”

    “This policy is not about welfare. It is about fairness. It is about restoring dignity to the Ghanaian student. It is about affirming that the right to education is not a privilege for the wealthy, but a shared national inheritance”.

    The “No-Fee Stress” initiative was a major campaign promise by then-presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama, who pledged to absorb academic fees for all Level 100 students within the first 120 days of his administration.


    To support the rollout of the “No-Fee Stress” policy, GH¢499.8 million has been allocated under the 2025 national budget, which was presented to Parliament by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson on Tuesday, March 11.


    The Ministry of Education has made accessible a registration portal to help first-year students at public tertiary institutions in Ghana apply for financial assistance under the government’s new No-Fees-Stress Policy.


    Launching the portal on Monday, April 29, Education Minister Hon. Haruna Iddrisu described the policy as a bold and strategic move by the government to improve access to tertiary education and invest in the country’s future workforce.


    The Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) explained that the new system will make it easier for eligible students to register, submit their details, and be assessed for financial support.


    A total of 35,608 tertiary students across 130 public and private institutions nationwide have received financial support from the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) for the 2024/2025 academic year.


    The SLTF, conversely, has reiterated its resolve to release funds on time to allow students to gain admission into their preferred tertiary institutions without financial hindrance.


    Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that the Ghana Education Trust Fund’s (GETFUND) allocation to the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) will be doubled in 2026.


    “Next year, the GETFUND will double its allocation to the Students Loan Trust from 70 million to 150 million to support students who may want to access it further,” the minister said.

    In July this year, the government disbursed an amount of GHS 462 million to settle training allowances owed to 120,000 nursing students nationwide.

    The six-month payment is part of the government’s wider effort to assist students in Nursing Training Colleges financially.

    A statement released by the Ministry of Health on Thursday, July 17, indicated that the new development aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s campaign promise in 2024.

    “The Ministry views this development as a significant step in improving the welfare of nursing trainees and sustaining the motivation of future health professionals. It further aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen the health sector by ensuring that critical human resources receive the needed support throughout their training,” parts of the statement read.

    The Ministry extended its appreciation to President Mahama for facilitating the timely release and distribution of the funds.

    It pledged to strengthen its collaboration with nursing schools to uphold the quality of healthcare education countrywide.

    “The Ministry extends its appreciation to the president of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for fulfilling his promise to the nurses, as well as all other stakeholders involved in facilitating the timely release and distribution of the funds.”

    In 2024, President Mahama encouraged trainee nurses to prioritize securing stable employment over relying on allowances. He highlighted the need for sustainable job opportunities in Ghana’s healthcare sector.

    Speaking to trainee nurses on Saturday, Mahama acknowledged their financial difficulties but emphasized that long-term job security is more beneficial than temporary financial support.

    He assured them that his administration would focus on job creation within the healthcare industry, ensuring stable and rewarding careers for nurses and other health professionals.

    “We know the problems with trainee nurses and that is why when we were in government, we said we were going to substitute your allowance with the students’ loan because we wanted to create more employment for you. What is important for you is not the allowance it is to get a job when you finish school,” he stated.

    Adding that “But somebody came and said he will pay the allowances. Unfortunately, it was 419…Come and pay the nurses you owe them almost 30 months of arrears. Some of them have left school without receiving their allowances and some of them are going to leave school again without receiving their allowances.

    “…I make you a commitment when I come to the hospitals, we were building that have been abandoned by this government we will continue them.

    “When I come to the agenda 111 hospitals, they are building I will continue and finish them so that we can create more space to be able to absorb all of you when you finish school. This election is between Ghana and NPP.”

  • Ablekuma North violence: The eight got off too lightly – Kofi Bentil reacts to court’s ruling

    Ablekuma North violence: The eight got off too lightly – Kofi Bentil reacts to court’s ruling

    IMANI Africa’s Vice President, Kofi Bentil, has called for stricter punishment for the eight individuals who have been convicted by the Accra Circuit Court for their involvement in the Ablekuma North electoral violence.


    Speaking to the media on Saturday, August 30, he described his proposal as one that will discourage others from participating in chaos during elections. According to him, violence during elections in Ghana has become a norm; therefore, there must be collective efforts and stringent decisions to find a lasting solution to the menace.


    “We need to treat political violence differently. It shouldn’t be a misdemeanor but aggravated assault. The fines imposed on the convicted eight are not deterrent enough,”he added.

    On Friday, August 29, Mohammed Abubakari, Tijani Mahmudu, Prince Dzakpasu, Anas Mohammed, Mohammed Hamda, Darko Otibu Samuel, Musah Muntari, and Ali Saeed (alias Bomba) were convicted by the Accra High Court.

    His Honour Isaac Addo ordered each culprit to pay a fine of 500 penalty units (GH¢6,000) or, in default, serve 24 months in prison.

    They were charged with conspiracy to commit assault and three counts of assault, contrary to Sections 23(1) and 84 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

    They all pleaded guilty to the charges, a decision that fast-tracked the legal case.

    Prior to their arrest and conviction, the police expressed their commitment to holding accountable anyone found culpable of violence, intimidation, or electoral misconduct. They encouraged the public to share credible information via emergency lines 18555 or 191.

    The Electoral Commission (EC) on Friday, July 11, held a rerun election in 19 polling stations of the Ablekuma North to provide its constituents a representative after the 2024 parliamentary elections.

    Ewurabena Aubynn polled 34,090 votes to beat the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Akua Afriyie, who secured 33,881 votes.

    Ablekuma North remained the only constituency in Ghana without a sitting MP, due to unresolved disagreements over the outcome of the parliamentary vote after the 2024 polls.

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

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

    Efforts to restart the collation in January 2025 were disrupted by multiple challenges.

    These included interruptions due to the submission of unverified pink sheets and a violent intrusion at the collation centre that heightened security concerns.

    The Electoral Commission (EC), after extensive deliberations, in July noted that it will hold the rerun election because the 19 scanned polling station results used for the collation, though approved by agents of both political parties, were not verified by the presiding officers responsible for those polling stations.

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

    Violence mars Ablekuma North rerun election

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

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

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

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

    The officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.

    The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated.

    It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped.

    The police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.

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

    “What we are happy about is the swift action that the Ghana Police itself has taken in interdicting the officer in question,” she said.

    “It is completely unwarranted. Government itself takes a very serious stance, especially on security agencies meting out unwarranted attacks to civilians under any circumstances,” she added.

    President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) Albert  Kwabena  Dwumfuor also condemned the attack on journalists. Due to the chaos that erupted, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno visited some polling stations in the constituency.

    The Minority in Parliament has also condemned the violence that took place during the just-ended Ablekuma North rerun election, accusing members of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of instigating violent activities.

    In a statement signed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus said:

    “The most disturbing aspect of today’s violence is not just the brutality itself, but the deliberate endorsement and celebration of these attacks by senior government officials. For example, Dr.

    Hanna Louisa Bissiw, National Women’s Organiser of the NDC and CEO of the Minerals Development Fund, provided perhaps the most damaging response with her statement that “violence begets violence” and her suggestion that the brutal attacks were somehow justified.”

    “Even more shocking is the Facebook post by Malik Basintale, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and Deputy National Communications Officer of the NDC,

    who apparently celebrated the man who attacked Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson with the disturbing declaration, “From today, I name him the Flying Python. He shall be in charge of the 5k Airforce!” This grotesque celebration of violence against a former Member of Parliament represents a new low in Ghana’s political discourse,” the statement added.

    The Minority has registered its displeasure with the operation of the Ghana Police Service at the polling stations.

    “The Ghana Police Service’s response raises serious questions about their preparedness and commitment to protecting our electoral process. Security personnel were overwhelmed by the perpetrators, failing to prevent these attacks on political figures, party agents, and journalists. More concerning are allegations surrounding Chief Superintendent Lumor Frederick Senanu and his potential role in facilitating these disruptions.”

    The caucus stressed the need for increased protection for voters, electoral officers, journalists, and candidates. It also called on the international community, civil society, and media to monitor developments closely.

  • The role of women in the success of AfCFTA: opportunities and challenges 

    The role of women in the success of AfCFTA: opportunities and challenges 

    The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a transformative opportunity for economic growth and development across the continent.

    By creating a single market for goods and services, AfCFTA aims to boost intra-African trade, enhance industrialization, and create employment opportunities.  

    Women, who constitute a significant proportion of Africa’s workforce, play a critical role in the success of this agreement. Moreso, the Protocol to the Agreement establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area on Women and Youth in Trade [“Protocol”] is a welcome effort to help alleviate endemic challenges faced by women and the youth.

    This paper will highlight the contributions of women to African trade, the challenges they encountered, the in roads made by the Protocol, and how the protocol can be properly implemented to ensure the active involvement of women in Africa’s economic transformation. 

    Women as Key Drivers of Trade and Economic Growth 

    Women have historically been at the forefront of trade in Africa, particularly in the informal sector. According to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), women account for approximately 70% of informal cross-border traders on the continent.

    These traders are vital to the supply chains that sustain local economies, providing goods and services to both urban and rural areas. Additionally, women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) contribute significantly to job creation and economic resilience.

    The International Trade Centre (ITC) estimates that women-owned businesses account for over 30% of registered SMEs in Africa. With AfCFTA’s potential to expand markets and remove trade barriers, women entrepreneurs can access new opportunities to scale their businesses and compete on a continental level. 

    Demographic and Socioeconomic Context 

    Africa has experienced a sustained population boom for decades, with its current population estimated at approximately 1.5 billion in 2024.

    Projections indicate that this figure will rise by an additional 950 million, reaching 2.5 billion by 2050.

    Women comprise nearly half of this population and, on average, have a higher life expectancy than men, living approximately four years longer.3 In fact between 2000 and 2019, the region’s healthy life expectancy for women increased from 46.62 to 57.09 years, marking an improvement of approximately 10.5 years.  

    This demographic trend clearly shows the critical role and potential of women in Africa’s socioeconomic transformation. 

    Challenges Women Face in Africa 

    Despite their contributions and the important position of women, women traders and entrepreneurs encounter several structural and systemic barriers that limit their participation in cross-border trade.  

    First, there is a limited access to Finance by women on the continent. Access to capital remains a major obstacle for women in trade. Women entrepreneurs face a $42 billion financing gap compared to men. Many female entrepreneurs struggle to secure loans due to lack of collateral, restrictive lending policies, and gender biases in financial institutions.

    This financial exclusion prevents them from expanding their businesses and taking advantage of new markets under AfCFTA. 

    Second, there are several Informal Trade and Legal Barriers which affect women. A large proportion of women engage in informal trade, which exposes them to harassment, bribery, and inconsistent regulatory frameworks at border crossings.

     Reports, for instance, in Democratic Republic of Congo reveal that about 38% of women traders are abused by border officials.5 Without formal registration, they cannot benefit from trade agreements or access essential business support services. 

    Third, there is inadequate Market Information and education which hinders their trade. Many women traders lack access to critical market information, such as pricing, demand trends, and trade regulations.

    This challenge may be because of the unavailability of information in the local languages spoken by the women. For instance, research in Burundi shows that many women do not understand the differences in the taxes and duties owed by them, and this ignorance sometimes results in fines, penalties, which invariably lead to an increase in the prices of goods.  

    Fourth, are socio-cultural constraints. Gender norms and traditional roles continue to limit women’s mobility and decision-making power in trade. In many African societies, women face restrictions on property ownership, education, and business leadership, affecting their ability to fully engage in AfCFTA’s opportunities. 

    Last, Poor Infrastructure and Trade Logistics are part of the challenges women face. Limited access to transportation, storage facilities, and digital trade platforms pose a significant barrier to women traders. Poor infrastructure increases transaction costs and reduces the competitiveness of women-led businesses in the AfCFTA framework. 

    How is the Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade seeking to empower women 

    The Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade is a good step by the AfCFTA to address the challenges women. Predominantly the Protocol provides for the following-  

    1. Elimination of Non-Tariff barriers affecting women- Non-tariff barriers (NTBs) are trade restrictions that restrict trade but are not in the form of direct taxes or tariffs. These barriers can make it more difficult or expensive for foreign goods and services to enter a market,  

    The Protocol at article 6 seeks to eliminate these non-tariff barriers by requesting of state parties to progressively eliminate the non-tariff barriers which affect women and youth in trade.  

    1. Inclusive Socio-economic development- The protocol in its bid to facilitate an inclusive socio-economic development allows for member states to undertake where appropriate to promote and facilitate the empowerment and the effective integration of Women in Trade, to amend or repeal legislation; identify, and progressively eliminate discriminatory practices against Women in Trade, to promote quality education and information awareness programmes on trade, to enhance the productive capacity of Women in Trade, to strengthen and support associations of Women responsible for coordinating and advocating trade issues, to collect and share information on best practices relating to the inclusion of Women, and to take such other measures aimed at eliminating prejudices against and promote equality for Women and.  
    1. Access to Finance for Women- Also, the protocol makes provision for access to finance for women by allowing state parties to implement in accordance with their national legislation, measures in collaboration with financial service providers that facilitate access to affordable financial instrument services, and guarantees that are adapted to trading activities by women. Moreover, the state party is obligated to establish and/or strengthen business development services to train Women in financial literacy and services and to facilitate access to relevant knowledge and information on financial products and services, and make it available to Women. 

    4. Other Provisions- The Protocol further provides for the development of capacity; participation in formal trading activities by women; protection against harassment, such that state parties are given the obligation to establish mechanisms to address issues of harassment of women.

    It also provides for digital trade and for measures to support business association and business clusters of Women and women led micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.20 

    Conclusion 

    The success of AfCFTA is closely linked to the active participation of women in Africa’s trade ecosystem. The member state cannot be left out. The Protocol places an arduous task on the member states to ensure the creation and implementation of national laws which gives effect to the solutions of the challenges faced by women.  

    The member state is thus called to duty to enforce the rights of women traders for the success of AfCFTA. When the challenges such as access to finance, market information, legal protection, and digital inclusion by member states are addressed, AfCFTA can unlock the full potential of women in trade. A gender-inclusive approach to trade policies will not only empower women but also contribute to sustainable development and economic prosperity across Africa. 

    Authors: Kweku Attakora Dwomoh & Kelvin Hansen 

    Kweku Attakora Dwomoh is an international trade lawyer and practitioner, and a law lecturer with Ashesi University. 

    Kelvin George Hansen is a financial consultant at Prudential Life Insurance Ghana. He also holds an undergraduate degree in Bsc. Computer Science and Executive MBA in Finance from the University of Ghana. 

  • Mpox detected in Nkwanta North for the first time

    Mpox detected in Nkwanta North for the first time

    The viral disease, monkeypox (Mpox) , has been recorded for the first time at Nkwanta North District in Oti Region. The disclosure comes at a time the country is witnessing a surge in the disease in some parts of the country.

    During a press briefing, the District Health Director for Nkwanta North, Eric Kojo Agboka, stated that the confirmation follows a Ghanaian traveler started exhibiting the disease’s symptoms after visiting the Accra Konkomba market.

    According to the District Health Director for Nkwanta North, a thorough assessment and testing on the victim revealed he had contracted the disease.

    The total number of confirmed Mpox cases in the country now surges to 425 cases. On August 20, 15 new cases were recorded making the number at the time 424. Currently, there’s no patient on admission.
    As of August 14, four hundred and nine (409) total cases were confirmed after thirty-seven (37) new cases were recorded.


    According to previous reports, twenty-six (26) new cases of infection were confirmed on August 11, increasing the total to 372, compared to 346 cases reported on August 7. However, the national death toll remains at one.

    In the meantime, the country can breathe a sigh of relief following as 33,600 vaccines have been secured by the Health Ministry to strengthen Ghana’s fight against the monkeypox (Mpox) virus.


    “This is another milestone in safeguarding the health and well being of our citizens,” the ministry said in a Facebook post.


    Months ago, the Ministry of Health received a significant boost in its fight against the ongoing Mpox outbreak following the donation of essential medical supplies and public health materials from the World Health Organization (WHO).


    During a brief ceremony held at the Ministry, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s public health response and acknowledged the country’s commendable leadership in managing the outbreak.


    The donation, valued at USD 36,700, includes personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers, 780 GeneXpert cartridges to improve diagnostic capacity, and 9,000 risk communication posters along with 40 pull-up banners to support community sensitization efforts.


    The PPE will help enhance infection prevention and control, while the GeneXpert cartridges are expected to facilitate rapid and accurate testing, particularly at decentralized levels. The risk communication materials are aimed at promoting public awareness and behavioural change.


    The Minister for Health, Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who received the items on behalf of the government, thanked the WHO for its continued support. He indicated that Ghana is keen to adopt vaccines as part of its response strategy and called on the WHO to expedite assistance in that regard.


    He also encouraged the public to maintain good hygiene practices and to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, or skin rashes.

    He noted that the Ministry remains committed to strengthening public health systems and working closely with partners to contain the outbreak and protect the health of all Ghanaians.

    Health officials explained that the Mpox disease primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected individual. Common signs include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.

    The Ghana Health Service is urging the public to avoid close interactions with symptomatic persons, maintain regular handwashing with soap and water, refrain from frequently touching the face, and use masks when caring for patients.


    The Service added that it is closely monitoring the outbreak, conducting contact tracing, and strengthening public education with the support of regional health directorates.


    Following the detection of twenty (20) new infections as of Wednesday, July 30, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Monday, July 27, reported the unfortunate demise of one of the individuals who had contracted the disease.

    Since Ghana recorded its first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, this is the first time any of the infected persons has succumbed to the disease. In its regular updates, the Ghana Health Service noted that as of July 22, twenty-three (23) new cases were recorded, pushing the total confirmed cases to 257 at the time.

    Ghana’s confirmed Mpox cases rose to 234 following the detection of sixteen (16) new cases as of July 18.

    The number of cases stood at 218 after twenty-one (21) new infections were detected as of July 14. The Ghana Health Service reported 197 confirmed cases following the detection of eleven (11) new infections as of July 11.

    The Service, while revealing this information, described the trend as a gradual yet manageable increase and called for sustained public vigilance.


    The country has seen a slight uptick in infections. Health officials, however, maintain that the overall situation remains under control. Although many cases are mild, early medical care is crucial to avoid complications.


    In light of the growing Mpox cases, the GHS is boosting nationwide information campaigns to ensure citizens remain aware and cautious. Preventive actions such as avoiding direct contact with sick individuals, practicing proper hygiene, and promptly seeking care when symptoms show are being emphasized.

    Officials stress the importance of swift case detection and notification, with field teams and community health workers diligently monitoring developments. The public is being encouraged to stay watchful, adhere to health precautions, and contribute to collective efforts to stop the virus from spreading.


    The government is engaging international organizations for assistance in procuring vaccines to help curb the rising number of cases being reported. The World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana has provided laboratory PCR reagents to enhance the country’s diagnostic capacity. The donation was officially handed over to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory.


    Receiving the supplies on behalf of the GHS, Acting Deputy Director General Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah expressed gratitude for WHO’s ongoing logistical and technical support. “We promise from our end to do our bit, collaborate, go out there, and look for the cases to make sure that this is really brought under control,” she stated.


    WHO Country Representative Dr. Fiona Braka emphasized that the organization hopes the reagents will enable rapid diagnosis and prompt public health responses. The supplies are capable of testing 3,400 suspected Mpox samples, and additional kits provided will allow clade determination for 625 confirmed positive cases.


    Global Data
    The monkeypox virus was first discovered in Denmark in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). A nine-month-old boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970 was the first person to contract the virus.


    According to the World Health Organization, following the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and the end of smallpox vaccination worldwide, Mpox steadily emerged in central, east, and west Africa.


    “Since then, mpox has been reported sporadically in central and east Africa (clade I) and west Africa (clade II). In 2003, an outbreak in the United States of America was linked to imported wild animals (clade II).


    Since 2005, thousands of cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo every year. In 2017, mpox re-emerged in Nigeria and continues to spread between people across the country and in travellers to other destinations,” the WHO reports.


    In May 2022, an outbreak of Mpox appeared suddenly and rapidly spread across Europe, the Americas, and then all six WHO regions. Since 2022, there has also been an upsurge in Mpox cases and deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    In some areas of the country, a new offshoot of clade I, called clade Ib, has been spreading person-to-person. As of mid-2024, the clade has also been reported in other countries.


    Over 120 countries have reported Mpox between January 2022 and August 2024, with over 100,000 laboratory-confirmed cases and more than 220 deaths among confirmed cases.


    Following the meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of Mpox in 2024, held on June 5, 2025, the World Health Organization stated that “Over the past 12 months, the majority of mpox cases have continued to be reported from the African continent, largely driven by outbreaks of MPXV clade Ib in East African countries, including the DRC, where clade Ia is co-circulating.

    Sierra Leone, however, is experiencing a rapidly evolving outbreak, which based on available genomic sequencing results, appears to be driven by MPXV clade IIb.”


    “Outside of the African region, there continues to be a steady report of monthly cases (between about 500 – 1000 monthly), from all regions, mostly reflecting ongoing circulation of MPXV clade IIb among men who have sex with men (MSM),” the WHO added.


    WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice. The first was in May 2022, and the second time was in August 2024.


    The World Health Organization continues to work with member states and partners to prevent and respond to outbreaks of Mpox. This includes coordinating research on vaccines and treatments, strengthening country health systems, and working to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other tools.

    The Ministry of Health has successfully secured 33,600 vaccines to strengthen Ghana’s fight against the monkeypox (Mpox) virus.
    “This is another milestone in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our citizens,” the ministry said in a Facebook post.


    Months ago, the Ministry of Health received a significant boost in its fight against the ongoing Mpox outbreak following the donation of essential medical supplies and public health materials from the World Health Organization (WHO).


    During a brief ceremony held at the Ministry, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s public health response and acknowledged the country’s commendable leadership in managing the outbreak.


    The donation, valued at USD 36,700, includes personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline health workers, 780 GeneXpert cartridges to improve diagnostic capacity, and 9,000 risk communication posters along with 40 pull-up banners to support community sensitization efforts.


    The PPE will help enhance infection prevention and control, while the GeneXpert cartridges are expected to facilitate rapid and accurate testing, particularly at decentralized levels. The risk communication materials are aimed at promoting public awareness and behavioural change.


    The Minister for Health, Honourable Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who received the items on behalf of the government, thanked the WHO for its continued support. He indicated that Ghana is keen to adopt vaccines as part of its response strategy and called on the WHO to expedite assistance in that regard.


    He also encouraged the public to maintain good hygiene practices and to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, or skin rashes. He noted that the Ministry remains committed to strengthening public health systems and working closely with partners to contain the outbreak and protect the health of all Ghanaians.

    Health officials explained that the Mpox disease primarily spreads through direct contact with an infected individual. Common signs include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.

    The Ghana Health Service is urging the public to avoid close interactions with symptomatic persons, maintain regular handwashing with soap and water, refrain from frequently touching the face, and use masks when caring for patients.


    The Service added that it is closely monitoring the outbreak, conducting contact tracing, and strengthening public education with the support of regional health directorates.


    Following the detection of twenty (20) new infections as of Wednesday, July 30, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) on Monday, July 27, reported the unfortunate demise of one of the individuals who had contracted the disease.

    Since Ghana recorded its first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, this is the first time any of the infected persons has succumbed to the disease.


    In its regular updates, the Ghana Health Service noted that as of July 22, twenty-three (23) new cases were recorded, pushing the total confirmed cases to 257 at the time.

    Ghana’s confirmed Mpox cases rose to 234 following the detection of sixteen (16) new cases as of July 18. The number of cases stood at 218 after twenty-one (21) new infections were detected as of July 14.

    The Ghana Health Service reported 197 confirmed cases following the detection of eleven (11) new infections as of July 11. The Service, while revealing this information, described the trend as a gradual yet manageable increase and called for sustained public vigilance.


    The country has seen a slight uptick in infections. Health officials, however, maintain that the overall situation remains under control. Although many cases are mild, early medical care is crucial to avoid complications.


    In light of the growing Mpox cases, the GHS is boosting nationwide information campaigns to ensure citizens remain aware and cautious. Preventive actions such as avoiding direct contact with sick individuals, practicing proper hygiene, and promptly seeking care when symptoms show are being emphasized.

    Officials stress the importance of swift case detection and notification, with field teams and community health workers diligently monitoring developments.

    The public is being encouraged to stay watchful, adhere to health precautions, and contribute to collective efforts to stop the virus from spreading.


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

    The World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana has provided laboratory PCR reagents to enhance the country’s diagnostic capacity. The donation was officially handed over to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory.


    Receiving the supplies on behalf of the GHS, Acting Deputy Director General Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah expressed gratitude for WHO’s ongoing logistical and technical support. “We promise from our end to do our bit, collaborate, go out there, and look for the cases to make sure that this is really brought under control,” she stated.


    WHO Country Representative Dr. Fiona Braka emphasized that the organization hopes the reagents will enable rapid diagnosis and prompt public health responses.

    The supplies are capable of testing 3,400 suspected Mpox samples, and additional kits provided will allow clade determination for 625 confirmed positive cases.


    Global Data


    The monkeypox virus was first discovered in Denmark in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). A nine-month-old boy from the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970 was the first person to have contracted the virus.


    According to the World Health Organization, following the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and the end of smallpox vaccination worldwide, Mpox steadily emerged in central, east, and west Africa.


    “Since then, mpox has been reported sporadically in central and east Africa (clade I) and west Africa (clade II). In 2003, an outbreak in the United States of America was linked to imported wild animals (clade II).


    Since 2005, thousands of cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo every year. In 2017, mpox re-emerged in Nigeria and continues to spread between people across the country and in travellers to other destinations,” the WHO reports.


    In May 2022, an outbreak of Mpox appeared suddenly and rapidly spread across Europe, the Americas, and then all six WHO regions. Since 2022, there has also been an upsurge in Mpox cases and deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    In some areas of the country, a new offshoot of clade I, called clade Ib, has been spreading person-to-person. As of mid-2024, the clade has also been reported in other countries.


    Over 120 countries have reported Mpox between January 2022 and August 2024, with over 100,000 laboratory-confirmed cases and more than 220 deaths among confirmed cases.


    Following the meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of Mpox in 2024, held on June 5, 2025, the World Health Organization stated that “Over the past 12 months, the majority of mpox cases have continued to be reported from the African continent, largely driven by outbreaks of MPXV clade Ib in East African countries, including the DRC, where clade Ia is co-circulating.

    Sierra Leone, however, is experiencing a rapidly evolving outbreak, which based on available genomic sequencing results, appears to be driven by MPXV clade IIb.”


    “Outside of the African region, there continues to be a steady report of monthly cases (between about 500 – 1000 monthly), from all regions, mostly reflecting ongoing circulation of MPXV clade IIb among men who have sex with men (MSM),” the WHO added.


    WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice. The first was in May 2022, and the second time was in August 2024.


    The World Health Organization continues to work with member states and partners to prevent and respond to outbreaks of Mpox.

    This includes coordinating research on vaccines and treatments, strengthening country health systems, and working to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other tools.

  • Several houses at Darkuman Kokompe destroyed by fire

    Several houses at Darkuman Kokompe destroyed by fire

    Several houses at Darkuman Kokompe in Accra have been destroyed following a fire incident in the early hours of Sunday, August 31.

    Reports indicate that the victims were unable to salvage their belongings as they awaited emergency response. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

    Earlier this month, a fire incident destroyed a Benz cargo truck transporting over 2,500 bags of rice from Côte d’Ivoire to Kumasi on the Adugyama-Bechem highway, near the Star Oil Filling Station, on Monday, August 25.

    A popular pub and food joint at Nogora Junction, near the Ho Technical University, was reduced to ashes following a fire outbreak on Wednesday, August 13.

    On August 4, a fire incident destroyed the first floor of the Accra Tourist Information Centre located at Cantonments. According to the Ghana National Fire Service, the fire destroyed the contents on the first floor.

    However, the ground floor and about 8 offices, including the East Wing section of the ground floor, were successfully salvaged from the fire’s ruins.

    The first fire engine from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Headquarters arrived on the scene at 0104 hours to a fully developed stage fire, which was spreading rapidly in all directions, aided by strong winds.

    Five additional fire appliances from the Flagstaff House, Circle, Accra City, Ministries Fire Stations, and the Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) from Headquarters were swiftly mobilized to support firefighting operations.

    Although the blaze was brought under control at 0332 hours, rigorous firefighting efforts continued to fully suppress the flames and prevent further spread to adjoining properties at 0635 hours.

    No injuries were recorded during the fire incident. The Service has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

    An inferno destroyed several makeshift wooden and metal structures used for both commercial and residential purposes at Madina Washing Bay near Redco Flat on Sunday evening, August 3.

    The blaze destroyed utility poles, traders’ wares, personal belongings, and an unspecified number of structures worth several thousand cedis, according to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). In a Facebook post, the Fire Service noted that while battling the inferno, one of its firefighters sustained a minor leg injury.

    The Ghana National Fire Service noted that it received the distress call at 12:36 hours and responded swiftly, with the first crew from Madina Fire Station arriving within 4 minutes at 12:40 hours to confront the fully developed fire.

    Also, four (4) fire engines from Legon, Abelempke, and GNFS Headquarters joined the operation to contain the blaze. According to the GNFS, thanks to the timely and coordinated efforts, the fire was confined at 13:42 hours and fully brought under control at 13:54 hours.

    Overhaul operations continued until 20:50 hours, with firefighters salvaging multiple adjoining structures and their contents. Investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway, according to the Ghana National Fire Service.

    Last month, a fire outbreak occurred at Madina Ritz Junction. It was earlier reported that a 2-month-old baby died as a result of the fire incident. However, GNFS, in a Facebook post on July 17, said that after engaging with some victims, particularly women, they confirmed that no lives were lost.

    “A verification team was dispatched to the scene this morning, and after engaging affected residents, particularly the women, and a Unit Committee Member of the area, the Service can confirm that no lives were lost.”

    The Fire Service has thus entreated the public and media outlets to “disregard any reports suggesting otherwise, as they are inaccurate and misleading,” adding that it remains firmly committed to public safety, emergency responsiveness, and transparent communication.”

    The fire began after a gas explosion in one of the shops and quickly spread to adjacent containers, consuming everything in its path.

    The incident, which involved multiple wooden structures used for both residential and commercial purposes, was fully contained through the swift and professional response of firefighters from the Madina, Legon, and Abelemkpe Fire Stations.

    An investigation by the Service was launched to ascertain the cause of the fire, which destroyed several properties. It has yet to be reported what caused the fire.

    In April this year, a raging fire ripped through the Madina Redco Flats area, reducing more than 150 structures to ashes and claiming the life of a young Nigerian woman.

    The inferno, which began around 11:15 p.m., rapidly spread across 140 wooden kiosks and 20 metal containers that served as homes and business outlets. Though firefighters from the Madina Fire Station arrived on the scene within two minutes, the blaze had already intensified.

    One fatality was recorded—a Nigerian woman affectionately known in the area as Beauty. Believed to be in her early twenties, she was trapped in her room and could not escape. Her charred remains were retrieved and handed over to the Madina Police for preservation and further investigation.

    Last year, about 50 stalls got burnt to ashes after the Madina Market in Accra caught fire. Deputy Director of Operations at the Ghana National Fire Service, D.O.1. Kofi Forson, who engaged the media, recounted the challenges the firefighters faced in quenching the flame.

    “It was not easy for us, and there was a lack of access to where the fire was spreading, and because it happened in the night, the shops were closed, and we had to break through, and that made it tedious,” he said.

    The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has provided statistics on fire outbreaks so far this year. There has been a slight increase in fire cases nationwide in the first half of 2025.

    A comparison of data from January to June last year and that of this year’s first six months indicates that Ghana recorded 3,595 fire cases.

    According to the Ghana National Fire Service, that is about 19 more cases than the 3,576 cases recorded during the same time in 2024, a sharp increase in cases representing a 0.53% rise.The monthly breakdown of fire cases reported this year is as follows: January (964), February (678), March (619), April (483), May (457), and June (394).

    The Greater Accra Region recorded the highest number of fire incidents, with 628 cases, followed by the Ashanti Region with 581 cases and the Central Region with 408. The North East Region reported the lowest number of incidents—just 10.

    During an interview on Tuesday, July 8, the Head of Public Relations at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Desmond Ackah, revealed that due to their improved and swift response to fire cases, they have been able to save over GHC203 million worth of property in the last two quarters of 2025.

    Below are the top causes of fire incidents, according to the Ghana National Fire Service. Electrical faults can result from illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloading of circuits.

    Improper use of electrical appliances, such as overused extension cords and unattended devices.Unattended cooking, especially with gas, electric, or coal-based stoves.

    Careless use of naked flames like candles, mosquito coils, lighters, and matches.Gas leakages and poor handling of LPG cylinders. Bush and vegetation burning, particularly during the dry season. Vehicle fires are due to poor maintenance and road accidents.

    Unsafe welding and other hot-work practices. Deliberate acts of arson. Meanwhile, GNFS has reported a significant improvement in the fight against prank calls.

    The Service recorded a dramatic 34.77% reduction in prank calls, having recorded about 364,020 prank calls in the first half of 2024, as against 237,470 in 2025.

    The Service attributed the reduction in prank calls to consistent public education campaigns and increased awareness of the legal consequences of misusing emergency lines.

  • Qatar announces $1.5bn investment to aid agricultural production in Ghana

    Qatar announces $1.5bn investment to aid agricultural production in Ghana

    Qatar has expressed interest in a deal with the Government of Ghana to support agricultural production. Addressing the media on Friday, August 29, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, revealed that Qatar plans to commit $1.5 billion to the agricultural sector by November.

    As part of the agreement, Qatar is expected to obtain and irrigate Ghanaian farmlands and assign them to local farmers for crop cultivation. The produce will then be purchased by Qatar and exported to feed its population.

    According to the Agriculture Minister, the project aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, which seeks to reduce the unemployment rate in the country. He noted that over two thousand five hundred (2,500) Ghanaians are expected to be employed and gain technical skills once the project is launched.

    “$1.5 billion is going into food production. You know Qatar does not have the land to produce the food to feed its population. Now what they want to do with us is that they will make the funds available, they will secure land, irrigate the land, allocate the land to the farmers to produce the food and then they will buy the food and export to Qatar.

    “Under that arrangement agriculture will be agribusiness. It will be a money-making venture and everybody will be interested in doing that. In fact, we are done with them and the assurance is that their German technical people will be in the country to start with the implementation right from November to December.

    “In fact we are done with them, the assurance is that their German technical people will be in the country to start with the implementation right from November, December. So we are hopeful that as soon as that is put in place, we will create direct jobs of over 2,500 and it will contribute significantly to the development of our economy because it is going to reduce the importation of fertilizer into this country,” he noted.

    Ghana has recorded a decline in its poverty rate from 26.4 percent in 2023 to 25.9 percent in 2024, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The IMF reported that the Ghanaian population living in extreme poverty is measured at the international poverty line of $2.15 per day.

    The improved growth recorded last year, particularly in services and agriculture, together with continued efforts to expand the country’s social protection programmes, contributed to the drop in poverty. This included the four highly targeted initiatives covered by programme conditionality: the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP), the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP), the Capitation Grant, and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

    The Fund, in its 4th Review Under the Economic Credit Facility Arrangement with Ghana, stated that government is redoubling efforts to expand social spending and shorten delays in releasing budgeted funds to beneficiaries.

    According to the IMF, going forward, “staying the course of macroeconomic policy adjustment and reforms is essential to fully and durably restore macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability, while fostering a sustainable increase in economic growth and poverty reduction.”

    In April, President Mahama launched the ‘Feed Ghana Programme’ as a key component of his plan to strengthen Ghana’s economy through farming. At the launch in Techiman on Saturday, April 12, the President emphasized that making farming central to Ghana’s progress can only be achieved through stringent agricultural policies.

    “Mr. Chairman, the time has come for bold and decisive actions. We must no longer treat agriculture as an afterthought. Agriculture must be placed at the center of our national economic transformation,” he stated.

    He explained that the Feed Ghana Programme is only the beginning of a broader plan called the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA). This initiative seeks to modernize farming, create jobs, reduce food prices, and ensure consistent food security.

    President Mahama added that the programme would serve as the main framework guiding all agricultural projects and initiatives. He said it focuses on boosting food production, encouraging modern farming methods, improving farm infrastructure, and developing agro-industrial areas nationwide. According to him, the Feed Ghana Programme demonstrates his government’s seriousness about prioritizing farming and investing in it.

    “It represents a bold commitment to put our resources where our ambitions lie,” he concluded.

    Earlier in August, Ghanaian entrepreneur and investor Richard Nii Amarh Quaye launched the RNAQ Food Bank initiative, the flagship project of the RNAQ Foundation. The initiative is aimed at combating food insecurity and empowering vulnerable communities across Ghana.

    According to the foundation, the RNAQ Food Bank will partner with local food vendors to establish accessible food distribution hubs across the country. During the launch event on Friday, August 1, at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, the founder, Richard Nii Amarh Quaye, shared a heartfelt reflection on the inspiration behind the project in his keynote address.

    “I stand before you as a man who remembers what it feels like to be hungry, not just for food, but for hope, for dignity, and for change. Today, we launched the RNAQ Food Bank. But this is not just about food. This is about justice. It’s about dignity. It’s about telling every Ghanaian… that you also matter.”

    He further mentioned that the initiative would begin with five food bank locations in Greater Accra — Korle-Gonno, Kasoa, Ashaiman, Odorkor, and Madina — with plans to expand nationwide.

    “These food banks will open every single day, and through them, thousands of people will be fed daily. This is not charity. This is nation-building. This is how we create the Ghana we’ve all been dreaming of, one plate at a time,” he added.

    This vision has earned Richard Nii Amarh Quaye applause and strong support from the government. Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Osman Abdulai Ayariga, commended the initiative, describing it as a much-needed response to the growing food challenges facing young people and children.

    “This food bank offers relief and hope. It is not just charity; it is impactful, and it will touch generations. In Ghana alone, 3.6 million students, about 11.7% of our population, struggle with access to sufficient food, with risk levels exceeding 30% in many northern districts,” Mr. Ayariga said.

  • Ghana’s additional $1m payment reduces University of Memphis scholarship arrears from $3.6m to $1.35m

    Ghana’s additional $1m payment reduces University of Memphis scholarship arrears from $3.6m to $1.35m

    The government of Ghana’s debt owed to the University of Memphis (UofM) in the United States (US) has been reduced from $3.6 million to $1.35 million following a recent $1 million payment.

    This development comes as a relief to Ghanaian students studying at the University of Memphis. However, the University has given the government until October 15 to settle the remaining debt, or else Ghanaian students risk being evicted. This disclosure was made by Memphis-based media outlet ABC24 Memphis on Wednesday, August 27.

    Ghanaian awardees in Memphis, most of whom are pursuing science, engineering, and business-related courses, face the threat of eviction from University housing and possibly deportation should the government miss the deadline.

    In July, the government made a payment of $1.4 million to the school. Speaking to the media, the Registrar of the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat, Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, on Wednesday, July 30, reiterated the government’s commitment to settling the outstanding debt owed to the University of Memphis to safeguard the education of Ghanaian students.

    “We are on course with the issues regarding the Ghanaian students at the University of Memphis. Ghanaian students will not be deported; I give you that assurance. Because the audit is ongoing, we are not paying all,” he said.

    The funds were released swiftly after the University of Memphis declared its intention to revoke the scholarships of Ghanaian students should the government of Ghana miss an August 9 deadline. The affected students appealed for urgent support from the government to avoid returning home and abandoning their studies. The leader of the Ghanaian student cohort, Fredrick Badu-Asamoah, expressed deep frustration over the situation.

    “This situation is heartbreaking. We’re not here on personal funds—we’re here representing the Republic of Ghana. We’ve written to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Embassy in Washington, and the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat, and efforts to reach the Presidency proved futile, and we’ve received no decisive intervention,” he said.

    President of the University of Memphis, Dr Bill Hardgrave, attributed Ghana’s delay in clearing outstanding debts to the change of government. The University also launched an appeal for donations through the Gary Shorb International Student Support Fund.

    In response to the scholarship crisis, the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, revealed that the debt owed in terms of scholarships affects several schools across the world.

    He said that an audit is underway to investigate the circumstances surrounding the scholarship debt crisis. “There is a debt of fees that we have across the world. And so my registrar now has to go around the world and negotiate with schools, and that is what we’ve been undertaking in the last four, five months. I keep sending him—go here, go there—because you keep getting threats all over the world: ‘We are going to sack your students,’” he said during an appearance on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, July 23.

    The previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government left a startling GH¢700 million in unpaid scholarship debt, according to the Minister. He described the current situation as a “bad, bad, bad mess” that threatens the future of Ghanaian students abroad and the country’s international reputation.

    “The current bill that I have is over GH¢700 million in debt that we have to find money to pay,” he said. Given the current state of the economy and the ballooning debt crisis, the Minister was asked whether the government had enough to pay—or was even willing to pay—the GH¢700 million.

    In an empathetic response, he said, “It involves Ghanaian students; it involves lives. It involves our citizens. And so we must find the money to pay.” While admitting that Ghana currently does not have this money in cash, he said negotiations are ongoing. He also commended the Chief of Staff for his input during negotiations on the terms of the debt.

    “The Chief of Staff has been very helpful. With the Finance Minister and the Chief of Staff, we are working closely to offset the debt… So yes, we will pay, but we have to negotiate.”

    Some schools, Mr Opare said, have shown a positive response, understanding that the debt was inherited from the previous government. “They know that we are a new government that has come in. We inherited these problems, and so we are aligning and fixing them gradually.”

    He also responded to reports of students receiving threats of eviction from their schools. “You can’t blame this government for the mess we inherited. And most of these things have been outstanding for a year or two,” he continued.

    Mr Opare revealed that a meeting had been held with a group of students in London, and sadly, some of the affected students have decided to forfeit their stipends in exchange for a further stay abroad to continue their education or seek a job.

    “They had the option of choosing between being paid their stipends and returning to Ghana or letting it go to stay. If I pay your fees, you must come back and help. So, do you want to stay? If you are going to stay there, I’m not going to pay your stipend, because you have already finished school. And so, a lot of them said, ‘Okay, let the stipends go.’”

    “A lot of the students have opted out. We held a meeting with some of them in London and gave them some options.” Although he declined to disclose the options discussed, he revealed that a major issue lies with stipends owed to students who have already graduated.

    “Somebody might have finished school for two years, and the government still owes him or her stipends, but per the law, once you finish, you must come back home. And a lot of them want to remain there,” he revealed.

    He emphasised that a continued stay abroad after graduation without returning violates the terms of the scholarship. Ghanaian students studying abroad on government scholarships have, over the years, faced similar threats over unpaid debts. In late 2024, some Ghanaian students at the University of Birmingham in the UK were warned of deportation following the revocation of their student visas.

    This was a result of their failure to settle tuition fees. News of their impending deportation was contained in a statement from UK Visas and Immigration. According to the letter, which was sent to the affected students, they were given the option to leave voluntarily or face legal consequences, including possible detention and prosecution.

    “You still have permission until 09 November 2024, and the current conditions of your stay will continue to apply until then. Please ensure that you comply with these conditions.

    “You now have until 09 November 2024 to either leave the United Kingdom (UK) or make another application to stay here. You do not have a right of appeal or administrative review against the decision to cancel your permission.

    “If you leave or are already outside the Common Travel Area (the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, and the Republic of Ireland) before 9 November 2024, your permission will end immediately, and you will have to make a new application to re-enter the UK,” the letter added.

    Even in schools in Russia and Algeria, Ghanaian students continue to wallow in debt due to unpaid fees by the government of Ghana. They have lived in foreign lands for nearly a year without stipends, while book and health allowances have not been paid for two academic years.

  • C/R: Kia truck ploughs into crowd at Agona Asafo; 5 critically injured

    C/R: Kia truck ploughs into crowd at Agona Asafo; 5 critically injured

    A Kia truck loaded with coconuts ran into a crowd at Agona Asafo in the Agona East District of Ghana’s Central Region, leaving five individuals critically injured with thirteen others sustaining injuries. The victims were reportedly on the streets participating in a float as part of the community’s annual ‘football gala’ when the unfortunate occurred.

    This information was disclosed by the Assemblyman for the Agona Asafo Electoral Area while speaking to meading on Saturday, August 30. 

    “The Kia, heavily loaded with coconuts, failed to stop despite seeing the large crowd and ran into the people celebrating on the street,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the victims are at the receiving Agona Swedru Government Hospital. 

    On Saturday, August 16, a fatal road accident at Asuboi, near Suhum, on the Kumasi–Accra Highway, claimed at least five lives and left seventeen others with severe injuries.

    The tragic incident occurred when a Sprinter bus, with registration number GW-5535-24, suffered a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control and veer off the road.

    According to eyewitnesses, the victims died on the spot. About 30 minutes later, emergency services arrived and transported the injured to the Suhum Government Hospital for treatment. Fatal accidents have become rampant across the country; just last week, one in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region claimed four lives, including that of a one-year-old girl.

    An accident at Bechem in the Bono Region claimed two lives, including a church leader of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church.

    The crash, which occurred on Sunday, August 10, left several others, including children, with injuries. Reports indicate that the victims, who were near Aburaso, were returning from a camp meeting in Kumasi.

    The bus carrying them reportedly suffered a tyre fracture that led to a burst, causing the vehicle to somersault.

    On Monday, July 28, another tragic road accident on the Atwedie stretch of the Kumasi–Accra Highway resulted in the deaths of sixteen members of the Saviour Church of Ghana.

    An accident at Asamankese in the Eastern Region on Wednesday, August 6, claimed one life. Officials are yet to confirm any further casualties. The incident occurred after a tipper truck veered off the road and crashed into shops near the Dukes Filling Station.

    According to sources, several individuals sustained injuries. Reports suggest the truck was overspeeding when it veered off the road. “It happened so fast—one moment the road was clear, the next, the truck was crashing into everything in its path,” an eyewitness recounted.

    Emergency services reportedly rushed to the scene to rescue trapped victims and provide medical assistance. Police say investigations have commenced into the cause of the crash, with the tipper truck driver assisting in the process. Local officials have also pledged support for the victims.

    The deceased in the Atwedie crash were said to be returning from the church’s annual programme in the Eastern Region. Their deaths were confirmed after their bus collided with an oncoming fuel tanker. On Thursday, July 31, all sixteen victims were buried in a single large grave in Obogu by the community and church leadership.

    Ghana has recorded a surge in road traffic fatalities. In the first half of 2025, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported 1,504 deaths, compared to 1,237 fatalities in the same period in 2024, representing a 21.58 percent increase.

    According to provisional data released by the NRSA in collaboration with the Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), a total of 7,289 road crashes were recorded between January and June this year.

    The data shows that 12,354 vehicles were involved in these crashes, with 8,300 individuals sustaining injuries. In addition, 1,301 pedestrians were knocked down nationwide.

    The NRSA further indicated that, on average, eight lives are lost daily due to road crashes. Each day, about forty crashes are recorded, forty-six individuals sustain injuries, and sixty-nine vehicles and motorcycles are involved in accidents.

    To address the surge, the NRSA has called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and enhanced public education.

    The Road Traffic Act, 2004, enacted to consolidate and revise the Road Traffic Ordinance of 1952, provides comprehensive regulations on road traffic and road use to enhance safety. Under the Act:

    A person who drives dangerously commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction:(a) where no bodily injury, or only minor injury, occurs, to a fine between one hundred and two hundred penalty units, or to imprisonment not exceeding nine months, or both;(b) where aggravated bodily injury occurs, to a fine between two hundred and five hundred penalty units, or imprisonment of not less than twelve months and not more than two years, or both;(c) where death occurs, to imprisonment for not less than three years;(d) where damage to state property occurs, to a fine of not less than one hundred penalty units and compensation for the damage caused, as determined by the Court.

    The Court may, upon conviction:(a) order compensation to an injured person or their estate, or(b) withdraw the offender’s licence for a period of not less than three years and not more than five years.

    The Act also stipulates that a person who drives without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other road users, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand penalty units, or imprisonment not exceeding five years, or both.

    Additionally, anyone who, without lawful authority or reasonable excuse:(a) causes anything to obstruct a road,(b) interferes with a motor vehicle, trailer, or cycle, or(c) tampers with traffic equipment in a way that would be obviously dangerous to a reasonable person,commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty penalty units, or imprisonment not exceeding twelve months, or both.

  • Ghana will establish a consulate in Singapore by 2026 – President Mahama

    Ghana will establish a consulate in Singapore by 2026 – President Mahama

    Ghana and Singapore have made significant strides in fostering diplomatic and economic partnerships, with His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama announcing new initiatives to kindle the relationship.

    During an official State visit to Singapore, President Mahama disclosed the government’s plans of establishing a Consulate in Singapore next year. The initiative is to ensure Ghanaians in the area have access to essential consular services, such as applying for visa, passports and others within their reach as well as boost Ghana and Singapore relations.

    In a post on the X platform on Friday, August 29 , the Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa wrote, “ President Mahama announced that Ghana is set to establish a Consulate in Singapore by 2026”.


    Singapore has already opened Enterprise Singapore in Accra to oversee its West African investment portfolio. President Mahama’s three-day visit to Singapore focused on strengthening investment ties and engaging with Singaporean leaders and business magnates.


    However, the President of Singapore, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, sees President Mahama’s intention to establish a consulate in the country as one that will go a long way in strengthening the existing relationship between the two countries and securing a brighter future for the Ghanaian youth.

    “President Mahama is a man on a mission. He is determined to see his country and its young population succeed.” Our two modern founding fathers who instructively were great friends and were noted for their frequent exchange of letters — Kwame Nkrumah and Lee Kuan Yew, will be exceedingly ecstatic with the rekindling of high-level impactful Ghana-Singapore relations,” he added.


    Other matters discussed aligned with major investment partnerships integral to President Mahama’s Reset Agenda, leading to the securing of US$1billion worth of investment deals.

    Meanwhile, a multinational food and agribusiness company that operates in over 60 countries which is headquartered in Singapore, OLAM plans US$200million for establishing new projects in Ghana.

    Shangri-la has pledged to construct a US$300million green ultra-modern iconic 5-Star Hotel with a grand mall for local and international brands and a convention centre in Ghana. This is to place Ghana as the leading conference destination in West African.


    Singapore has partnered with Ghana to establish a 10,000-capacity student hostel for the University of Ghana. The two countries have collaborated to launch a common payment platform to boost trade and international commerce between Africa and Asia. Singapore has expressed willingness to establish a model Accra Institute of Technology in Ghana.


    An MoU for regular high-level political consultations has been reached between the two countries. In discussions on the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), both countries have agreed to finalize negotiations. Also concerning the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) agenda, Singapore has declared intentions to train and build capacity for Ghanaian forensic investigators.


    Under a special public service reset initiative, the first cohort of 18 Chief Directors from Ghana’s Ministries will travel to Singapore in September 2025 for a leadership and capacity-building bootcamp.


    The value of goods and services exchanged between Ghana and Singapore stood at over US$215 million in 2024. President Mahama has noted that this achievement has greatly influenced Ghana’s trade outlook for 2025.


    According to him, Ghana and Singapore are now targeting billion-dollar trade growth, reflecting stronger bilateral ties and deeper cooperation between the two nations.


    “Ghana-Singapore trade has also grown, reaching over US$215 million in 2024,” he told the gathering of government leaders and business executives. “Africa-Singapore trade rose by about 50 per cent between 2020 and 2024 to nearly US$14 billion, with West Africa accounting for more than half of that.”

    He added that the development reflects Africa’s growing potential to drive sustainable economic growth and attract significant global investment.


    “I speak today as an African leader and as President of Ghana. Our message is simple: Africa is investable, and Ghana is your reliable gateway to the continent. The continent is the world’s most dynamic emerging market. We are 1.4 billion people today—young, fast-urbanising, digitally connected—and by 2030, Africa’s cities will host more than 700 million consumers.”

    Meanwhile, the total value of all commodities bought and sold on Ghana’s Commodity Exchange (GCX) in 2024 amounted to GHS 24.23 million. A report by the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) 2024 Financial Stability Review attributed the gains to strong demand for maize and soybean contracts, which boosted overall market performance.


    “The Ghana Commodity Exchange (GCX) experienced remarkable growth, reinforcing its role in agricultural trade and market efficiency. Trading volume surged by 107.4 per cent to 5,161.03 metric tonnes in 2024. The total trade value soared by 114.8 per cent, from GH₵11.29 million in 2023 to GH₵24.23 million.


    This growth was driven by several factors, including increased market participation, the strategic use of commodity aggregation funds, a faster settlement cycle (T+1, a day after the transaction date), improved warehouse infrastructure, and enhanced trader confidence.


    Additionally, settlement values grew by 113.3 per cent to GH₵23.31 million, reflecting enhanced liquidity and improved transactional efficiency,” the report stated.


    In 2023, the Ghana Commodity Exchange recorded a substantial decline in trading activity, with total trade value falling to GH₵11.3 million from GH₵20.7 million in 2022, representing a 45 per cent decrease. Economic and environmental challenges facing Ghana’s agricultural market were instrumental in this decline.


    GCX’s traded commodities include maize, soybeans, sorghum, sesame, rice, and cashews. In 2024, major commodities such as maize, sesame, rice, and soybeans were actively traded compared to 2023.


    The number of contracts executed on the GCX surged by 122.03 per cent to 4,898 contracts compared to 2023, boosting trading activity and market confidence.

    “The excellent growth in 2024 culminated in a six-year Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 14 per cent. The Exchange, for the period, traded three commodities relative to two commodities in 2023. The 2024 performance reinforces GCX’s role in driving price discovery, improving market accessibility, and promoting inclusion in Ghana’s commodities sector,” the report noted.


  • SHS placement is based on multiple factors, not just aggregate and raw scores – Education Ministry

    SHS placement is based on multiple factors, not just aggregate and raw scores – Education Ministry

    Deputy Education Minister, Dr Clement Apaak, has emphasized that multiple factors influence how students are assigned to specific Senior High Schools (SHSs).

    According to an official statement signed and issued by the Deputy Education Minister on Saturday August 30, the Ministry noted that the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) used in designating SHS graduates to various schools considers the aggregate and raw scores of students, the availability of vacancies in schools, and the popularity of specific programmes.


    The statement added that the Ministry does not demand or accept rewards from parents or guardians to guarantee that students are placed in schools of their choice as speculated.

    “The Ministry confirms that this information is not only false but also maliciously misleading. The placement is based on a combination of factors, including aggregate and raw scores, availability of vacancies in the various schools and programmes of study. Limited vacancies and high competition can affect placement. The Ministry unequivocally states that no form of payment or inducement is required or solicited from parents, guardians, or their representatives for the purpose of securing placement.


    “All interactions with the Ministry and Ghana Education Service (GES) officials are expected to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and transparency. The public is advised to be cautious and report any cases of extortion or bribery attempts related to student placements. Stakeholders are encouraged to report miscreants to the nearest police station,” parts of the statement read.

    The Ministry’s clarification is a rebuttal to recent claims that the Ministry solely depends on a rigid score system to place students in Senior High Schools. Meanwhile, the Ministry has described the claims as misleading and inaccurate.


    The 2025 school placement exercise will officially commence on September 17, as announced by the Ghana Education Service (GES).

    At a media briefing on Wednesday, August 27, GES Director-General, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, indicated that before final placement is completed, prospective Senior High School (SHS) students will be allowed to double-check and correct their information via www.csses.gov.gh to avoid errors.


    He explained that the exercise will run from September 1 to September 8.
    “In order to reduce the errors associated with school placement, candidates will have the opportunity to review the entries they have made; gender, school code, programme code, online on www.csses.gov.gh.

    “This will be supported by an explainer video to guide parents. This exercise is expected on the 1st September and ends on 8th September. The Actual placement exercise will commence on the 17th of September. Students are expected to report to campus and begin their studies between 18th to 20th October,” he stated.


    After placement, students are expected to report to their schools and start classes between October 18 and October 20 to begin the 2025/2026 academic year.SHS 3 students will reopen on October 11, 2025, and remain in school until February 27, 2026, covering 18 weeks.


    They will return on March 13, 2026, for a 14-week session ending June 21, 2026, ahead of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) scheduled for April 20 to June 20, 2026.

    SHS 1 and 2 students will start their first session on October 18, 2025, and break on February 27, 2026, after 17 weeks. They will resume on May 4, 2026, for a 16-week session ending August 21, 2026, marking the close of the academic year.

    The Transitional Calendar refers to a temporary academic schedule designed to bridge the gap between the old double-track system and the new single-track system. On that calendar, first-year students will also report on October 18, 2025, and stay until January 30, 2026, before proceeding on a short break.


    Their second term will then begin on March 16 and run until June 12, 2026, with additional breaks, including some four weeks of off-site learning to help manage overcrowding in school facilities.

    Second-year students in transitional schools will reopen on January 5, 2026, and vacate on May 18, 2026, with five weeks of online learning.
    They will then resume from the vacation later in September for the final stretch of the academic year.

    Final-year students in transitional schools will begin on October 27, 2025, for a 14-week session before the Christmas break and resume in February for an 18-week preparation period before they sit for their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    GES also highlighted some significant breaks in the new timetable. The Christmas break will begin on December 20, 2025, and end on January 4, 2026. Vacation for SHS 3 students is slated for February 27 to March 1, 2026, while SHS 1 and 2 students will break from August 21 to August 23, 2026.


    GES has also proposed September 11, 2026, as the start date for the 2026/2027 academic year.In an unrelated development, sixty (60) private schools have been included under the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. Junior High School (JHS) graduates will be admitted into these private schools, which fall under Category E in the school selection process.

    These schools will be accepting applications starting from the 2025/2026 academic year. The new development aligns with the government’s efforts to ease congestion in public SHSs as well as promote quality education across the country.


    In a press release issued on Sunday, July 20, by the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) and signed by its National Executive Director, Oberto Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, the council described the initiative as a historic and progressive move.


    “This progressive move marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s educational transformation journey. It underscores the Government’s commitment to inclusive, collaborative education delivery and reaffirms the important role of private schools in advancing national development goals,” part of the release read.


    The council further called on other private schools that are yet to be listed to remain patient, prepared, and compliant with regulatory standards. In May, Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Clement Apaak announced that the inclusion forms part of a broader plan to scale up capacity and gradually end the double-track system.


    “As part of our campaign promise, we have been working diligently to bring on board private senior high schools in the delivery of the Free SHS programme. Meetings have been held, engagements have been done, and we are very certain that with the diligence we expect from our side…” he noted.


    The double-track system was introduced in 2018 by the erstwhile government to accommodate the surge in student enrollment due to the Free SHS policy, addressing overcrowding in public schools.

    Under this system, students were divided into two groups: Green Track and Gold Track, attending school in shifts, with one track in session while the other was on break.


    The anticipated extension of the Free SHS policy, according to the Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, is a fulfillment of the government’s manifesto promise, adding that it is a step to ensure eligible students gain admission without delays.


    “We believe strongly that in fulfilling this manifesto campaign promise, this is going to serve as an artery in helping us bring an end to the double-track system,” the deputy minister said.


    According to him, the Education Ministry has received encouraging feedback from private schools, many of which have expressed readiness to meet the standards and requirements of the Free SHS framework.“… and the eagerness of the private schools to participate, the private schools will deliver in their participation,” he assured.

    He added that this collaboration would not only help expand capacity but also ensure a more equitable distribution of educational opportunities across the country.

  • 5,500 police personnel deployed to Akwatia ahead of by-election

    5,500 police personnel deployed to Akwatia ahead of by-election

    5,500 police personnel have been deployed to Akwatia, Eastern Region, for the upcoming by-election slated for Tuesday, September 2.


    Briefing the media on the Police’s preparation ahead of the by-election on Friday, August 30, the Director-General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba Gariba, noted that to ensure effective coverage, the constituency has been grouped into nine security zones.


    He disclosed that 600 officers have been fully armed to swiftly respond to any disturbances that may occur during the exercise.

    Meanwhile, the Director General of Operations has assured that the military will only assist should matters get beyond control.

    “The military will be only on standby. As and when we need them, then we will deploy them, but if we don’t need the military, then we will not request for the deployment of the military. They are only going to be on standby,” COP Gariba stated.

    The election has become a necessity following the tragic passing of the Member of Parliament for the area, Ernest Yaw Kumi, who had only served for six months.


    In a series of security operations in Akwatia, the Eastern South Regional Police Command has announced the arrest of ten persons and the confiscation of nine firearms ahead of the upcoming by-election.


    The firearms include eight pump-action shotguns and one locally manufactured single-barreled gun. This was announced in a statement shared on their official Facebook page earlier today.

    They revealed that “These seizures form part of intensified efforts to prevent the unlawful possession and use of weapons during the electoral process”.


    The first suspects were intercepted in a vehicle being driven by one Bernard Kumi Ofosu near the St. Dominic Hospital in Akwatia.


    Following a search of the vehicle, they found a Tulpar double-barrel pump-action gun, four AAA live cartridges, and two FTB blanks.
    Ofosu admitted ownership and presented a valid license.

    He is currently assisting with investigations while the exhibits undergo verification. Also, the statement continued that another operation led to the discovery of 15 live cartridges from another suspect, Joshua Amenuku. A later search at his residence led to the discovery of a gun and more live cartridges.


    “In a separate operation at the Akwatia Y-Junction snap check, the Police arrested suspect Joshua Amenuku after retrieving 15 live BB cartridges from him. A subsequent search at his residence uncovered one ADLER TULPA pump-action gun and five additional live BB cartridges” the police added.


    They also revealed that “later that evening, Police intercepted a Toyota Hilux pick-up at the Boadua Livingstone snap check point and arrested suspects Enoch Asiedu, and Lu Youyan, a Chinese national, after four live BB cartridges were retrieved from the vehicle.


    “Preliminary interrogation revealed that the ammunition allegedly belonged to their employer, one Mohammed, identified as the owner of the vehicle. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest suspect Mohammed for interrogation, while the two suspects remain in custody assisting investigations,” the statement said.


    The police continued that “Four live BB cartridges were retrieved from the vehicle. Preliminary checks linked the ammunition to their employer, identified as Mohammed, owner of the vehicle. Police are pursuing him for questioning while the two suspects remain in custody.


    In another operation on Friday, August 23, “Police officers on duty at the Boadua Livingstone Junction snap check point again arrested suspect Pieterson Joseph, after retrieving one (1) ADLER TULPAR pump-action gun and 46 AAA and BB cartridges from his vehicle. The suspect admitted ownership of the firearm”.


    On the same day, the police “officers on snap-check duty at Staff Village Boadua, intercepted a Toyota Tundra pick-up with registration no WR 5535-13 from the Asamankese direction towards Boadua. A

    search conducted in the Tundra pick up revealed the three pump-action guns, including (1) Pardus pump-action gun, one (1) Hulglu Atroe pump-action and one (1) other pump-action gun. Suspect Stephen Nkansah claimed ownership of two of the pump-action guns and stated that the third pump-action gun belongs to his chief.

    Meanwhile, suspect Stephen Nkansah has been arrested and detained for investigation.

    Following such successful operations, the Police assured the public and all other stakeholders that they would intensify operations to ensure the integrity of the elections, as well as maintain peace and security in the region ahead of the elections.


    Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has noted that his outfit will stay alert and avert any form of misconduct and electoral violence during the Akwatia by-election.


    Engaging the media, the IGP noted that his officers are up to the task.

    “We want to assure Ghanaians that the police is ready to handle any type of thing that may come in Akwatia. We are ready with the men. We have the men who can handle this situation and then our eyes are red for Akwatia and nobody, nobody should think of coming to cause trouble,” he said.


    IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno cautioned the political parties participating in the by-election against marching men to the polling stations to distrupt the electoral process.


    “No political party should mobilise men to come and foment trouble, and nobody should have in mind the intention of snatching a ballot box. We have prepared our men adequately to handle this situation, and that, I informed the political parties as I met them yesterday [Tuesday],” he explained.


    He noted that individuals who attempt to cause any form of violence during the Akwatia by-election will be quickly whisked away by police personnel to face the full rigors of the law.


    According to the police, a mobile prison will be set up to detain suspects. The IGP made this information known to the media during the final day of a five-day intensive training at the High Risk Operations Training Centre (HROT-C) at Akyeremanteng in the Eastern Region.


    “There is no fear for Akwatia, this will be one of the best and peaceful elections because we are fully prepared. If you come quietly to vote, we will receive you quietly, if you have any intention of causing trouble, we will not allow you to go free, we will change your location. We will house you in different forms, before your trouble goes far.”


    “Under no circumstances will someone come to the polling station to create a problem, and we will allow the person to go free,” the IGP said.
    The training included tactical drills such as rappelling, precision shooting, handcuffing, vehicle stop and search, crowd control, and human rights considerations. Over 5,000 police personnel are expected to be deployed to Akwatia for the by-election.


  • Osei Assibey received GHS8.2m as a volunteer while at post as NSA D-G – Report

    Osei Assibey received GHS8.2m as a volunteer while at post as NSA D-G – Report

    A report by a non-profit investigative body, The Fourth Estate, has alleged that the former Director-General (D-G) of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi, was listed as a volunteer within the NSA while at post.

    According to the report by the former Director-General of the NSA was enlisted with the  2022/2023 service year batch, which is a year after assuming the D-G position.

    Osei Assibey Antwi was assigned an EZWICH card with the number 1177042059 and posted to the Greater Accra region as a volunteer.

     However, The Fourth Estate has reported that an Auditor-General’s investigation traced the former Director-General, listed as an NSA volunteer, to his company Kumawu Farms in the Ashanti Region where he was paid GH¢516,000 every month for 16 months, amounting to GH¢8,256,000 in total.

    This revelation aligns with an earlier statement by the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, while providing an update on the investigations by Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) into financial irregularities within the Authority on Friday, June 13. 

    “In the 2022/2023 service year, a total of eight million, two hundred and fifty-six thousand Ghana Cedis (GH¢8,256,000.00) was deposited into EZWICH account number 1177042059, which is registered in the name of suspect Osei Assibey. Investigations showed that he personally received these funds,” Dr Ayine said.

    The alleged  irregularities at the Service are being probed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). In July, Dr. Dominic Ayine,  revealed that eight individuals, including three former officers of the National Service Authority (NSA), have admitted to their involvement in the misappropriation of funds at the National Service Scheme (NSS).

    Providing an update on the case as part of the Government Accountability Series on Monday, July 28, Dr. Ayine disclosed that eight individuals want to plead guilty in exchange for lighter punishment in this regard.

    He explained that the office intended to file formal charges last week; however, it has been postponed following new revelations regarding the ongoing case.

    The new evidence, he noted, is tied to a Bank of Ghana account linked to former NSA Director-General, Mr. Osei Assibey, suggesting potential embezzlement involving public funds.

    According to him, a total of GH¢189 million was deposited into the account of Mr. Osei Assibey; however, GH¢80 million can not be accounted for.

    Furthermore, nearly GH¢2 million was allegedly withdrawn using two cheques that carried Mr. Assibey’s name and account information.

    The A-G has stated that the office has reached out to the Bank of Ghana, the Ministry of Finance, and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department for further information and documentation.The National Service Authority scandal case was due to be filed last week. 

    “However, we stumbled upon evidence of malfeasance involving an account at the Bank of Ghana.Out of the GH¢189 million transferred, GH¢80 million cannot be traced. Two cheques linked to the former Director-General were used to withdraw just under GH¢2 million,” Dr. Ayine stated.

    He added that some of the accused have shown readiness to provide testimony against their fellow accused, with several vendors and service providers also reportedly willing to support the prosecution as witnesses.

    Earlier this year, a non-profit investigative body, The Fourth Estate, released a report into the payroll records from 2017 to 2023 and the 2024 National Service Year.

    The finding revealed serious irregularities within the NSA, uncovering how a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, was wrongly listed as a beneficiary. Mr Donkor was enlisted on the payroll with a photo and not an official ID card, which is unusual.

    However, the photo belonged to Emmanuel Mutio, a Human Resource Manager at a private IT company in Kenya. The 72-year-old Kenyan had his name appear on the payroll 226 times as a registered beneficiary.

    The Fourth Estate initially uncovered the issue in November 2024, but the NSA obtained a court order preventing them from publishing the findings. After the court lifted the injunction, the report was finally released. In response, President John Dramani Mahama ordered a probe into the matter.

    The NIB, upon the President’s directive, interrogated the former Deputy Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, and Kwaku Ohene Djan, who is also a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority.

    The payroll fraud reportedly cost Ghana GHȼ50 million monthly. In May, the Authority interdicted two of its officials in the Brim North District, Eastern Region.

    During a press briefing on Monday, March 24, the AG provided an update on the progress of the investigations, revealing significant findings, particularly regarding financial irregularities within the National Service Scheme.

    He disclosed that investigators had gathered substantial evidence pointing to corruption and financial mismanagement within the scheme.

    “I can confirm that investigation will conclude in the National Service and Sky Train scandals by the middle of April for prosecutions to proceed,” he said during a briefing.

    Dr. Ayine further indicated that authorities had traced suspicious financial transactions involving senior officials.

    “In the National Service scandal, eight suspects have been interrogated, and a good number of them have started ‘singing’ literally. We will give you details of their songs at the appropriate time,” he stated.

    Also in June, the office of the A-G revealed that a whopping GHC548,333,542.65 was lost to the criminal enterprise perpetrated by executives, directors, and staff at NSA.

    Providing a breakdown during a press briefing today, June 13, the A-G stated that “In the 2022/2023 service year, 350,926,977.12 was lost to the state. For the 2023/2024 service year, 32,881,157.07 was lost to the republic.”

    He further added, “The criminal enterprise that resulted in the loss of this colossal loss of sum of money involved the creation of ghost names in the NSA payroll system by some directors and staff, which was subsequently exploited to misappropriate state funds for their gain.”

    Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, has been named as one of the suspects who will be charged and prosecuted.

    In May, two NSA officials in the Brim North District, Eastern Region, were interdicted by the Authority. An official release by the NSA on Wednesday, May 14, found the culprits guilty of their involvement in a “well-orchestrated act of systemic fraud” within the area.

    The NSA explained that the culprits falsified records to approve and process monthly allowances for 78 personnel: at least 29 in the 2024/2025 service year and 49 in the 2023/2024 service year. The Authority has noted that the suspension of the district manager and the MIS manager remains in effect pending the outcome of investigations.

    “The Management of the National Service Authority (NSA), through a collaboration with a whistleblower, has uncovered a well-orchestrated act of systemic fraud involving the District Manager and the MIS Manager in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.

    “During a meeting convened this morning, both individuals were presented with substantial evidence of their misconduct. In further discussions the two officers admitted to their direct involvement in the fraudulent activity. As a result, the Management of the Authority has interdicted the two officers, pending further investigations,” parts of the release read.

    The Attorney-General has pledged to uphold justice by ensuring that all individuals involved are held accountable and made to answer before the law.

  • Support Fund for helicopter crash victims’ children receives over GHS3.5m and $20,000 in donation

    Support Fund for helicopter crash victims’ children receives over GHS3.5m and $20,000 in donation

    The Support Fund established for the children of the eight individuals who lost their lives on Wednesday, August 6, following a helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region has accrued a total of GH₵3,576,600 and US$20,000.

    This was contained in a statement issued on Friday, 29 August 2025, by Dr Valerie Sawyerr, Senior Presidential Advisor on Governmental Affairs and Coordinator of the Fund. According to the presidency, 14 individuals and organisations have made donations to the Fund between August 19 and August 28.


    The donors include Ghana Airport Ltd, Kennedy Hedoe, Peter Adongo, Mensah Michael, Appaul Wiredu Lateef, Samuel Hodalor, Dauda Iddi, ARB Apex Bank PLC, STL Foundation, Olam Agric, Fidelity Bank Ghana, ADB Bank, GLICO General Insurance, and the National Insurance Commission.
    The Fund was officially launched by President John Dramani Mahama while speaking at the State funeral organized for the victims at Black Star Square on Friday, August 15.

    DONATIONS FOR HELICOPTER CRASH VICTIMS’ CHILDRENDownload

    On Tuesday, August 27, families of six out of the eight deceased persons received GHC 2 million in donations from Ghana’s leading insurance company, GLICO General Insurance.


    The beneficiaries include the families of the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator in charge of Human Security, Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed; Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Samuel Sarpong; Deputy Director-General of NADMO, Samuel Aboagye; Wing Commander Peter Baafemi Analaa; Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Flight Sergeant Mensah Ernest Addo.


    The families of the two ministers—Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed—have also received benefits under the personal accident cover, as both were insured with the company.
    Speaking during the presentation, Andrew Achampong-Kyei, Managing Director of GLICO, urged the families of the deceased to take advantage of insurance packages as a safeguard against unforeseen circumstances.


    “I’ll encourage you all that it’s important we protect our lives. Having insurance should be part of our social fabric, so we safeguard our lives and investments,” he said.


    The Group Chief Executive Officer, Edward Forkuo Kyei, expressed sympathy to the grieving families while assuring them of the company’s support during these difficult times.


    “You are not standing alone; we are with you. It is for this reason we express our deepest condolences,” he noted.


    Meanwhile, President Mahama has expressed his gratitude to Stanbic Bank Ghana for donating GHS 500,000 to the Fund, as well as to companies including Procus GH Limited, GB Foods Ghana, Sunda FM Manufacturing Ltd, Sage Distribution Ltd, Quantum Oil Terminals, Quantum LPG Logistics Ltd, Newgas Cylinder Ltd, and Quantum Terminals PLC for their contributions.


    During the August 15 state burial, the President also announced posthumous promotions for three Ghana Air Force officers who perished in the crash. Squadron Leader Peter Analaa, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo were all elevated to their next ranks as a tribute to their professionalism, sacrifice, and dedication.

    Their new ranks are Wing Commander Peter Baafemi Analaa, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Mensah Ernest Addo.


    On Friday, the government organized a State funeral to lay to rest six out of the eight victims of the Adansi helicopter crash. Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed and Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, however, had been buried earlier on Sunday, August 10.


    Janazah prayers were held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra before their burial at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo. At the State burial, tributes were read by the bereaved families, who reflected on the love, peace, and joy they had shared with the deceased.


    President Mahama, in his tribute, eulogized each of the victims, highlighting their contributions and outstanding qualities. “Each of these men had a story. Each had a family they cherished, a vision they pursued, and a heart that beat with love for Ghana,” the President said.


    The solemn and emotional ceremony brought together families, friends, mourners, and representatives of international organizations. Following the interfaith service at Black Star Square, the gathering proceeded to the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo, Greater Accra Region, where the burials took place.


    President Mahama, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the families of the deceased, the Ghana Armed Forces, government officials, members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and other dignitaries took turns to lay wreaths in memory of the victims of the tragic incident.


    Investigations into the Z-9 helicopter crash have officially begun following the establishment of an investigative Board, as announced by the Ministry of Defence.


    The Board is chaired by the National Security Coordinator, with members drawn from the Ghana Air Force and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).


    This was contained in a press statement issued by the Acting Defence Minister, Ato Forson. “The Ministry of Defence hereby informs the public that the Investigation Board established to inquire into the recent Z-9 helicopter crash has formally commenced its work,” parts of the statement read.


    According to the Ministry, “the United States of America is providing advice and assistance to the board through visiting investigators from the U.S. Air Force.”


    Additionally, other relevant experts and institutions are expected to be consulted by the Board to aid in the investigations. President John Mahama had earlier disclosed that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders of the Z-9 Air Force helicopter had been retrieved.

    He made this announcement during his national address on Thursday, August 7, a day after the incident. In the United States, the authority responsible for investigating aircraft accidents is the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

    The NTSB is an independent federal agency mandated by Congress to investigate every civil aviation accident in the U.S. as well as significant incidents in other modes of transportation, including railroad, transit, highway, marine, pipeline, and commercial space.


    Since its establishment in 1967, the NTSB has investigated more than 153,000 aviation accidents and thousands of surface transportation events. Its mission is to determine probable causes, examine safety issues, and develop recommendations to prevent similar accidents in the future.


    To date, the Board has issued more than 15,500 safety recommendations to over 2,470 recipients, with an implementation rate of 82 percent for the more than 12,700 recommendations that have been closed. In Ghana, the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB) is responsible for investigating plane crashes.


    On July 6, 2020, former President Nana Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the laying before Parliament of the Aircraft Accident Investigation and Prevention Bureau Bill, 2020.

    The bill sought to establish an autonomous Bureau to conduct investigations into aircraft accidents and incidents in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).According to the AIB, Article 26 of the Chicago Convention requires every state in which an aviation accident occurs to investigate the event.


    Furthermore, ICAO Annex 13 stipulates that such investigations must be conducted professionally, independently, and without bias.The investigatory body must therefore not only have a legal mandate but also be well-structured, adequately resourced, and autonomous in its operations and findings.


    In 2019, when ICAO conducted a Validation Mission to assess Ghana’s level of Effective Implementation (EI) of its SARPs, the country obtained an impressive EI score of 89.89 percent.

    Those wishing to contribute to the Support Fund have been directed to make donations through Stanbic Bank Ghana Limited (Stanbic Heights Branch, Accra) using the following accounts: US Dollar (USD) Account – 9040013628534 and Ghana Cedi (GHS) Account – 9040013628372. According to the Coordinator, cheques and bank drafts should be made payable to CHILDREN SUPPORT FUND 6825.

  • 28% of university students abusing cough syrup – Youth Minister Opare Addo

    28% of university students abusing cough syrup – Youth Minister Opare Addo

    Shocking revelations have emerged over the abuse of drugs, specifically opioids, on university and college campuses.

    Opioids are pain relievers; while they help with pain, opioids can also cause an euphoric high which makes users addicted.

    In a recent interview, Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, revealed that a survey conducted on tertiary students discovered that about 28 out of every 100 university or college students abuse codeine and cough syrup.

    On Thursday, August 28, he indicated that 12 in every 100 tertiary students are involved in cocaine abuse. The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment further reported that 11% of the participants admitted to overusing heroin.

    “Codeine and cough syrups stand at 28%. And then you will be amazed to know that 12% of our university and tertiary students are abusing cocaine and 11% heroin,” he added.

    According to him, more than half of the respondents have admitted to consuming marijuana-infused products. In July, Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, declared Opioid abuse a national emergency.

    During the induction of a new cohort of pharmacists who join the Pharmacy Council of Ghana, the inductees were charged to aid the government’s efforts in combating the opioid crisis, particularly the misuse of tramadol.


    Hon. Akandoh reminded the new pharmacists of their motto, “Amicus Humanis Generis” Friends of the Human Race, urging them to uphold it with compassion, ethics, and excellence.


    The ceremony, held under the theme “The Future is Now: Young Pharmacists at the Forefront of Preventing Opioid Misuse in Ghana”, highlighted both the promise and responsibility that lie ahead for the nation’s newest healthcare professionals.

    Hon. Akandoh described the event as a “special day” marking the beginning of a crucial professional journey. “You have reached this milestone through dedication, hard work, and perseverance,” he said.
    The Minister emphasised the critical and evolving role of pharmacists in Ghana’s healthcare landscape, describing them as “frontline healthcare providers, educators, patient advocates, and guardians of public health.”


    He noted that pharmacists’ work has a direct impact on health outcomes and the well-being of the public. The Minister highlighted how pharmacists are central to the government’s broader health agenda, including the MahamaCares and Free Primary Health Care initiatives.


    These programs, he said, rely on pharmacists to deliver accessible, quality healthcare and manage chronic diseases at the community level.


    The Ministry of Health has extended its heartfelt congratulations to all newly inducted pharmacists and commends the Pharmacy Council for its unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery.

    In April, the Ministry of Health destroyed a significant consignment of illicit opioid-containing drugs that had entered Ghana under questionable circumstances.


    The consignment, which consisted of 128 boxes of Tafrodol, 92 boxes of Timaking Tapertado, and 10 boxes of Rahol Tapentadol, totaling 230 boxes, posed serious risks to public health, particularly due to the potential for widespread misuse and addiction among the youth.


    The destruction of the drugs took place at Vigour-DW Enterprise, a waste management company based in Ashaiman, and was supervised by key regulatory and legal authorities.
    The operation was carried out in strict compliance with a court order. In a rare and highly symbolic gesture, the Ministry chose to publicly incinerate the drugs, sending a strong message to those involved in the illegal drug trade.


    Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, emphasized that this action was only the beginning in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.


    “We will not stop here. After the safe disposal of this consignment, we will further investigate the clearing agent and the importer, and hand them over to the Attorney General for prosecution,” he stated firmly.

    A BBC Africa Eye investigation uncovered that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, based in Mumbai, has been producing unlicensed, highly addictive opioids that are illegally exported to West Africa.

    These drugs, packaged to resemble legitimate medications, contain a dangerous combination of tapentadol, a powerful opioid, and carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant banned in Europe due to its addictive properties.

    This combination, which is not licensed for medical use anywhere in the world, can cause severe side effects, including respiratory distress, seizures, and fatal overdoses. Despite these risks, the drugs have gained popularity as cheap, readily available street substances in Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.

    The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has condemned the illegal importation of dangerous opioids and called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

    The Society has urged multiple agencies—including the FDA, the Pharmacy Council, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, the Narcotics Control Authority, and the National Intelligence Bureau—to probe the issue and hold those responsible accountable.

    “If any local pharmaceutical company is found to have breached regulatory protocols, appropriate sanctions should be enforced to maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain in Ghana,” PSGH stated in a press release issued on February 24.

    Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has revoked the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification of Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian pharmaceutical company, after investigations linked it to the illegal distribution of opioid-based medications in West Africa.

    As part of the crackdown, the FDA has also directed Samos Pharma, a Ghana-based importer, to terminate all business relations with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International. Additionally, the registration of six products from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which intended to use Aveo as a contract manufacturer, has been suspended.

    https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=789129517192578

  • Bagre Dam spillage has claimed no life – NADMO

    Bagre Dam spillage has claimed no life – NADMO

    No death has been recorded following the release of water from the Bagre Dam in Burkina Faso, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has clarified.

    A statement issued by the organisation dismissed reports that the spillage caused the death of 55-year-old Baba Takora from the Yama community. According to the reports, the farmer lost his life after drowning during the release of water from the dam.

    However, NADMO emphasised that the farmer actually died on Tuesday, August 26, after drowning in a small river that flows into the White Volta while attempting to fetch water for labourers working on his maize farm.

    “Contrary to media reports, his death was not caused by flooding from the Bagre Dam spillage. At the time of the incident, the dam’s discharges had not yet reached Ghanaian rivers. On the day of the incident, the dam’s discharge stood at 47.34 cubic metres per second—too low to influence water levels in local rivers. Any rises observed around that period were due to rainfall, not the dam spillage,” the statement added.

    The Water Resources Commission had earlier announced that water from the Bagré Dam, a multipurpose facility on the White Volta located near Bagré Village in Burkina Faso, would be spilled from Wednesday, August 27, following updates on water levels from SONABEL, the electricity-producing company in Burkina Faso.

    “The current water level of the Bagré Dam as of Friday, August 22, 2025 is 233.98 metres and the filling rate of the dam is 86.38%,” the Commission revealed in a statement.

    However, in a follow-up announcement, the Commission explained that the schedule was changed due to a sudden rise in the dam’s water level, which reached a filling capacity of 90.24 percent, with a recorded level of 234.27 metres as of August 23, 2025. Hence spillage began on Monday, August 25.

    Communities along the White Volta River and adjoining areas were advised to take the necessary precautions and adhere to safety guidelines issued by local assemblies and relevant agencies.

    A total of 95,823 residents have already evacuated from their communities due to the Bagre Dam water spillage. Speaking to JoyNews during an interview on Monday, August 25. Sakibu Buhari noted, “They have moved already, about 95,823 people along those communities have packed their things and moved.”

    “They saw what happened to them last year, so that is why I say that education has gone down well,” he added. On the issue of relief items, Buhari explained that special packages prepared for victims were yet to be received.

    “This morning, we were expecting the things from Accra to come to the Northern Region so we move there together. When we get there, we will be able to see how best we can put our hands to support them. He, however, cautioned residents against ignoring evacuation orders. “If you refuse to move, anything that happens will be of your own consequences,” he warned.

    Water spillages in Ghana

    In May last year, Ghana Water Limited (GWL) warned residents of Weija and surrounding communities of a looming “disaster” if they failed to evacuate. The company began a controlled spillage of excess water from the Weija Dam and, to avert any crisis, advised residents in likely affected areas to relocate immediately.

    A statement issued on Friday, May 23, explained that water levels at the dam had reached 45 feet, just two feet below its maximum operating level, due to the onset of the rainy season. “To safeguard the structural integrity of the dam and avert any potential disaster, minimal spillage has begun,” the statement said.

    “The Management of GWL is, by this release, sounding a word of caution to inhabitants downstream to evacuate the area to forestall any eventuality.” Communities affected by the spillage included Tetegu, Oblogo, Pambros Salt, Lower McCarthy Hill, Lower Weija, Bojo Beach, Adakope, and surrounding areas.

    GWL directed all residents in the flagged zones to move to higher ground and strictly adhere to safety instructions issued by NADMO and other relevant agencies.

    The key directives included immediate evacuation to higher ground, avoiding low-lying areas, and staying away from flooded roads and bridges to prevent accidents. NADMO further advised residents to secure valuables and disconnect electrical appliances.

    Additionally, GWL urged the Ga West Municipal Assembly to desilt the estuary and clear refuse along the river course to ensure free flow of water into the sea and minimise flooding risks.

    “We kindly request that all affected residents remain cooperative and adhere to any safety instructions issued by the Municipal Assembly to ensure their safety and prevent any untoward incidents,” the statement added.

    The company stressed that public cooperation was crucial to avoid a repeat of past flood disasters caused by dam overflows. Several previous spillages had resulted in the flooding of homes and destruction of property.

    One of the major flood disasters linked to dam spillage occurred at the Akosombo Dam in 2023. That flood, which began in mid-September and lasted for over six weeks, displaced approximately 38,624 residents and destroyed properties, schools, health centres, and farmlands in communities such as North, Central, and South Tongu, Ada, and Kpong.

    Nearly 1,247 homes, 94 schools, and 17 health facilities were destroyed, while agricultural losses were estimated at $78 million. The then government allocated GH¢220 million as support for victims.

    However, it later emerged that the funds never reached those affected. Both the victims and the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, threatened to take legal action against the government.

    The committee tasked with investigating the 2023 Akosombo Dam spillage concluded its work with a report that highlighted how poor preparedness and weak communication by the Volta River Authority (VRA), NADMO, and local authorities worsened the disaster’s impact.

    The five-member committee, inaugurated by President John Dramani Mahama, spent two months investigating the causes and response to the spillage and submitted its 110-page report to the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, on May 7.

    While acknowledging that the spillage was necessary to protect the dam’s structural integrity, the committee strongly criticised the inadequate emergency response that followed.

    It noted that although the VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) had been shared with stakeholders and simulated in selected communities, political divisions among District Chief Executives (DCEs), Metropolitan Chief Executives (MCEs), and Members of Parliament (MPs) hindered effective communication and disrupted the implementation of relief efforts.

    Central to the committee’s findings was the failure of coordination among key agencies. Moreover, the government’s overall response revealed worrying gaps.

    “While there were efforts to provide immediate assistance, gaps in communication, resource allocation, and community engagement were identified,” the committee reported. It added that “operational challenges, such as a lack of local disaster preparedness plans and inadequate evacuation resources, hampered the emergency response process.”

    Other challenges included failed resettlement attempts, cultural resistance, and poor consultation. “The people lament that their opinions were not sought in selecting the sites for the resettlement, and therefore, have refused to relocate and are requesting that the resettlement project be halted as the objective is not served,” the report stated.

    The committee further noted widespread grievances from communities both upstream and downstream about inadequate compensation. “The affected people in these communities have not been adequately compensated for the devastating impact the floods had on their properties and source of livelihoods,” it noted.

    To avert future disasters, the committee recommended urgent reforms, including stronger stakeholder coordination, better community engagement, and stricter land use regulations.

    The incumbent government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, has since pledged to compensate the affected individuals.

  • Rapid Response Team deployed to Oti region to fight surge in Typhoid cases – GHS

    Rapid Response Team deployed to Oti region to fight surge in Typhoid cases – GHS


    Ghana Health Service (GHS) has deployed the National Case Management Rapid Response Team to the Oti Region in response to the surge in typhoid fever cases. The deployment follows a collaboration with the Oti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) under the leadership of the Ministry of Health.

    This information was contained in a press release issued by the Health Ministry and signed by the Acting Deputy Director-General, Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah, on Thursday, August 28.  “The Service, with support from the Ministry, has deployed the National Case Management Rapid Response Team to support the regional team to ascertain the situation,” the statement read.

    The task force is expected to play a role similar to that of the former town council, whose personnel in the past conducted house-to-house inspections to monitor hygiene standards in homes and communities. 

    These officers ensured compliance with sanitation bylaws, issuing fines or warnings for poor conditions, among other responsibilities. However, this practice gradually lost popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s following changes in the local governance structure. Eventually, resource constraints and a lack of personnel to sustain regular inspections led to its phase-out. Authorities in the Oti Region now intend to revive this system.

    The region has recorded 10,233 cases of typhoid fever in the first half of 2025. The affected districts include Biakoye, Krachi East, Krachi West, and Krachi Nchumuru. According to Environmental Health Officer Cynthia Sekyere, two out of every twenty people in the region are currently suffering from typhoid fever.

     “Just in the first and second quarters of typhoid, we have recorded 10,233 cases of typhoid, which is quite troubling. Deducing from the report of the Ghana Health Service, out of every 20 people selected in the Oti Region, 2 of them have typhoid,” she noted.

    Speaking to the media, Oti Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Bismarck Owusu, attributed the alarming rise in cases to poor sanitation practices such as open defecation, indiscriminate waste disposal, and contaminated water sources. He emphasized that sanitation is not merely an environmental concern but a health emergency requiring urgent action. He commended the formation of the task force, describing it as a “timely intervention” and a “game-changer” in reducing the burden of outbreaks in the region.

    Dr. Owusu further called on traditional leaders, assembly members, and youth groups to support the enforcement of sanitation bylaws and champion behavioural change.

    Municipal Chief Executive for Krachi West and Dean of MMDCEs in the Oti Region, Prosper Addo, also expressed concern about the outbreak’s impact on vulnerable groups. He pledged that municipal and district assemblies would roll out targeted initiatives to curb the spread while stressing the need for active community participation.

     “The outbreak is hitting vulnerable populations the hardest. Community involvement is essential in promoting hygiene practices and supporting efforts to curb this public health challenge. We can only win this fight if communities themselves adopt good sanitation and hygiene practices,” Addo urged.

    Typhoid statistics in Oti Region in the last few years

    The 2025 typhoid cases represent the highest figures recorded since 2020. Over the last five years, the Oti Region has witnessed a troubling upward trend in typhoid cases, with occasional declines.

    In 2020, the region recorded 1,853 confirmed cases of typhoid fever. However, in 2021, the situation escalated sharply, with cases rising to 5,807—an increase of 3,954 cases, representing a staggering 213.4% surge compared to the previous year. This spike was largely attributed to deteriorating sanitation conditions and improved diagnostic capacity across health facilities.

    The trend continued into 2022, with 6,242 cases, an increase of 435 over the 2021 figure, representing a 7.49% rise. In 2023, however, some improvement was recorded following the dramatic rise in earlier years, particularly in 2021.

    Data from January to June 2023 showed a decline, with 4,935 cases reported in the first half of the year. This represented a reduction of 1,307 cases compared to the total for 2022, amounting to a 20.94% drop.

    Yet, after this decline, late 2024 saw another troubling escalation in typhoid cases across the region. While exact figures for that period were not publicly detailed, reports described the situation in Dambai, the regional capital, as “bad” and “scary,” with the disease spreading rapidly and claiming lives, including those of a traditional chief and a former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

    What is typhoid?

    Typhoid fever is a life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, commonly referred to as Salmonella Typhi.

    The disease is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the faeces or urine of infected individuals. It is especially prevalent in areas with poor sanitation, unsafe drinking water, and inadequate hygiene practices—conditions particularly common in communities with limited financial, medical, or infrastructural resources.

    Symptoms of typhoid typically appear within one to three weeks after exposure. These include high fever, persistent headache, and general fatigue. Patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation or diarrhoea. In some cases, rose-coloured spots may appear on the chest, and the spleen and liver may become enlarged as the infection progresses.

    In severe cases, where the disease is left untreated or poorly treated, complications may occur, potentially leading to death. Even after apparent recovery, approximately 2 to 5 percent of individuals become chronic carriers of the bacteria. These carriers continue to shed Salmonella Typhi in their stool or urine, posing a risk of transmission to others and contributing to the persistence of the disease in affected communities.