TIG Post

Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

  • Six arrested as police, NACOC seize 1,195 boxes of Tramadol at Gbintri

    Six arrested as police, NACOC seize 1,195 boxes of Tramadol at Gbintri

    1,195 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride 120mg locally known as ‘Red’ have been confiscated, with six individuals arrested, following a joint operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC).

    The seizure took place at Gbintri, near Nalerigu in the North East Region on Thursday, September 18. 

    This information was contained in a statement signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Robert Anabiik Anmain of the Public Affairs Unit and issued by the North East Regional Police Command on September 21.

     The trucks with registration numbers GR 1712-16 and AW 4417-14 were loaded with Tramadol en route to Gbintri from Sankase in the Republic of Togo. The suspects, have been  identified as Alhassan Braimah, Yakubu Muntaka, Abdulai Shakur, Mumuni Iddrisu, Mumuni Yakubu, and Moses Ayorik. 

    “The North East Regional Police Command in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) in Nalerigu, has intercepted 1,195 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride 120mg, popularly known as “Red,” a restricted drug concealed in a truck and arrested six suspects at Gbintri near Nalerigu in the North East Region.

    “A search of the trucks uncovered the 1,195 boxes of Tramadol Hydrochloride 120mg, popularly known as “Red,” concealed among other goods in the truck with registration number GR 1712-16. The exhibits have since been secured for evidential purposes.During interrogation, the suspects admitted that the consignment was destined for Moses Ayorik at Gbintri for onward delivery to another individual at Gushegu,” part of the statement read. 

    According to the statement, the apprehended individuals are in police custody assisting investigations. In addition, efforts are underway to trace and arrest other individuals connected to the case.

    Officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) at the Transit Terminal on Thursday, June 19, intercepted a shipment disguised as general merchandise and headed for Niger.

    The officials uncovered 100 cartons of Tramadol (50 of 250mg, 50 of 120mg), also known on the streets as “red.”

    The operation, led by CRO William Kpodo and the monitoring team, has now been escalated to the Tema Collection’s investigation unit in collaboration with Narcotics Board, Port Security and JPCU.

    In March, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division intercepted contraband goods at Tema Port.

    Boxes containing opioids were confiscated before noon today. There were 26 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol 250 mg, 160 cartons of Tafradol Tapentadol 120 mg, 40 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol 120 mg, 4 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol 250 mg, 190 cartons of Diazole Loperamide 2 mg, and 320 cartons of Chlorpheniramine Maleate.

    The drugs are worth approximately GH₵20 million. The shipment was en route to Niger, its final destination.

    Engaging the media, Health Minister Mintah Akandoh condemned the use of land borders to smuggle drugs and announced that the impounded consignment would remain in the safe custody of the Authority.

    “There are only two designated areas for the import and export of medication—Tema Port and Kotoka International Airport. Drugs are not imported through our land borders,” he said.

    He called on stakeholders and security agencies to confiscate any drugs brought in through the land borders.

    The Health Minister indicated that authorities would swiftly seek a court order for the proper disposal of the consignment. Following the court order, the consignment was disposed of.

    Ghana is witnessing a surge in drug consumption and addiction among young people.

    As such, the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, led by George Opare Addo, has introduced an initiative to address the rising issue of substance abuse among young people through a campaign called “Ghana against Drugs (GAD) – Red Means Stop,” which aims to combat the problem effectively.

    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.

  • Hundreds gather at GNAT Hall over school placement grievances

    Hundreds gather at GNAT Hall over school placement grievances

    The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Hall in Accra is choked with hundreds of parents and their wards today, Tuesday, September 23, over challenges disrupting the 2025 Senior High School (SHS) placement process.

    They have lodged complaints over misplaced placements to difficulties in accessing schools of choice. Others have also raised concerns about being assigned to schools far from their preferred locations despite meeting the required grades. On September 19, the Deputy Education Minister, Dr. Clement Apaak, called for calm following reports of technical glitches in the placement process.


    During a visit to the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Hall in Accra on Friday, September 19, the minister stated that the issue is being resolved and assured parents and students that all Senior High School placements would be finalized soon.


    He explained that the current challenge was anticipated and that measures have been put in place to address it promptly. “It’s a process. It has not ended. Be patient and be reassured that we anticipated a number of challenges, and that is why we decided to set a reporting date that gives you enough time and gives us enough time to address all the issues.


    “So be assured that by the time our wards are expected to report, which is around this same time next month, October 18, many of these issues, if not all, will be resolved,” he added.


    On Wednesday, September 17, the Ghana Education Service (GES) opened the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) portal to allow prospective Senior High School (SHS) students to access their designated schools.

    As per a circular dated Wednesday, September 17, signed by the acting Deputy Director-General for Quality and Access at the GES, Dr Munawaru Isshaque and addressed to all regional directors, freshers will report to their designated schools from October 18.


    The statement warned school authorities against enrolling students against the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat, stressing the need for transparency and impartiality during the registration process.


    “Admission of students should strictly follow the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat. No school is permitted to admit students outside the official placement without prior written approval from GES,” parts of the circular read.


    483,800 have been placed into various Senior High Schools across the country out of the 590,000 candidates. On Monday, September 1, the school placement portal was opened for new entrant students to verify their school choices, biodata, and other relevant information ahead of the final placement.


    The deadline for the fact-checking exercise was brought to a close on Monday, September 8. Of this figure,248,038 are females (51.4%), and 234,783 are males (48.6%). However, 107,509 candidates (18.2%) could not be matched with their initial school choices due to high demand for certain Category A schools.


    There have been recent speculations that the Education Ministry solely depends on a rigid score system to place students in Senior High Schools. But the Ministry has described the claims as misleading and inaccurate.


    Deputy Education Minister, Dr Clement Apaak, has emphasized that multiple factors influence how students are assigned to specific Senior High Schools.


    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 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.


    Meanwhile, SHS 3 students will reopen on October 11 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.


    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.


    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).


    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.


    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 urged other private schools that have 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.

  • NPP to vet Bawumia and 4 other presidential aspirants today

    NPP to vet Bawumia and 4 other presidential aspirants today

    The vetting committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will today, Tuesday, September 23, assess the former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and four other persons contesting to lead the party into the 2028 elections.

    Today’s session forms part of the party’s process to elect the party’s presidential candidate in 2026. Several prominent party figures have already publicly signaled their intent to contest, including Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (former Education Minister and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe), Bryan Acheampong (Member of Parliament for Abetifi), former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyepong, and former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong.


    On Tuesday, July 29, the NPP opened nominations for its 2028 flagbearer position. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s 2024 flagbearer and former Vice President, Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyepong, and Dr. Osei Adutwum have all picked up nomination forms.


    Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26. Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful Kennedy Ohene Agyapong on Wednesday, August 27. Former Food and Agric Minister Bryan Acheampong has also filed his nomination forms. Dr Adutwum is expected to file his nomination forms today.
    In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.
    Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.
    In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President who decided to make him his running mate despite the many individuals who advised him to do otherwise.
    According to Dr Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.
    “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party and upon all the people who were praying for the running mate slot, he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.”
    “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate but he ignored them. There are some names that if I mentioned, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me but still he chose me,” he remarked.
    He thus said; “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”
    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates who are eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.
    In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, which include nineteen new categories of people. This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19.
    The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of Party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming Presidential Primary voter register.”
    The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These are: all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.
    Other groups added to the list are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution.
    Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.
    The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”
    To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to External Branch Executives for online registration. All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register.
    However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website. “The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website. For ease of reference, a sample copy is hereby attached,” excerpts of the statement read. The statement further warned that the registration was strictly for the aforementioned categories of people, with a deadline set for Friday, September 19.

    “The deadline for registration is Friday, September 19, 2025. Please be advised that this registration exercise is exclusively open to officers and members who meet the aforementioned criteria. The Presidential Elections Committee shall undertake a comprehensive verification and validation of the Party’s album to ensure that only an authentic and credible register is used for the conduct of the presidential election,” the party cautioned, while expressing confidence in members’ cooperation.

    “We count on your usual cooperation and adherence to this directive in furtherance of the Party’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency.”
    The NPP is on a journey of reset, reinforcement, and healing following its historic defeat in the 2024 elections. Dr. Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.
    Since the beginning of this year, the party has undertaken several reforms to position itself strongly against its main opponent, the NDC, and to recapture power.
    Among these reforms is the abolition of the electoral college in favour of a broader base of delegates. The party has also added 19 new delegate categories and granted amnesty to suspended members.
    The NPP has announced that suspended members have been reinstated, and all charges against those facing the disciplinary committee have been dropped.
    This decision was taken by the National Council during an emergency meeting held on July 25. In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the Party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, members were informed that as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all banned members had been given the right to return.
    “This measure reflects the Party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead.
    “I write to inform you that the National Council, at its Emergency Meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a General Amnesty to all Party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.
    The party further urged all relevant bodies, including Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, to reinstate suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles.
    “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” the statement added.
    However, the party clarified that this recall does not apply to members who willfully forfeited their membership. In cases where such individuals wish to return, they are required to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat. Upon acceptance, a two-year ban will be imposed, preventing them from contesting in any internal elections.

  • Playback: NPP holds on ‘Yɛn Suro Ahunahuna’ march

    Playback: NPP holds on ‘Yɛn Suro Ahunahuna’ march

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has today, Tuesday, September 23, taken to the streets over the alleged “state-sponsored police” harassment by the John Dramani Mahama-led government.

    The protest, known as ‘Yɛn Suro Ahunahuna’, will begin at Obra Spot at 6:00 a.m., proceed to the Police Headquarters to present a petition to the Inspector General of Police (IGP)/National Security, and conclude at Jubilee House with a petition to the Office of the President.

    Earlier, the NPP fixed a Friday, September 23, for its protest.

    Taking to Facebook, the party’s National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha, wrote, “Tuesday, 23rd September, the National Youth Wing will organise a demo against the state-sponsored police harassment. From Obra Spot to police headquarters. 6 a.m. sharp!”.

    Watch the livestream below:

    The move, they say, is to protest what it calls state-sponsored harassment by the Ghana Police Service against its members. The protest comes after the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye, was arrested and remanded in prison custody for fourteen days until his appearance on September 19.

    He made his second appearance in court ( the Accra Circuit Court), Friday, September 12 and his first appearance in court on Tuesday, September 9. He is being held in custody for offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace.

    During his first appearance in court, the NPP Bono Chairman’s legal team requested bail after the presiding judge scheduled his next appearance for the next three days; however, the presiding judge at the Accra Circuit Court denied their request.

    Consequently, Abronye was held in custody by the police until his next appearance. The Ghana Police, in an official statement shared on their Twitter page, confirmed the arrest of the NPP member on Monday, September 8.

    “The Ghana Police Service has today, 08/09/25, arrested Mr. Kwame Baffoe @ Abronye for Offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace”, confirming he is in their custody awaiting arraignment before the Court.

    He arrived in handcuffs, escorted by police officers from a black police van known as “Black Maria, sparking bitter concerns among members of the opposition NPP, including the party’s National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha.

    The court’s denial of bail visibly did not sit well with some members of the opposition NPP, who appeared in court in solidarity with their member.

    During a media engagement, he complained bitterly about how the Chairman’s case of misdemeanour was being treated like a criminal case when it is a civil case.

    He said Abronye wasn’t a criminal to be transported in handcuffs and in a Black Maria, citing it as a waste of taxpayers’ money and time of concerned individuals.

    He warned the government against what he described as the mistreatment of NPP party members, stating that, “Power has an end, the tables will turn, and we will all have our revenge”.

    Criticizing the Ghana Police for bias, he announced an upcoming protest against the law enforcement agency in the coming days, which he will lead.

    Also, the lawyer of the accused Daniel Martey Addo, the Managing Counsel at Nkrumah & Associates, while commending the adherence to legal proceedings following his client’s arraignment in court, he, however, stated that, “it appears that the prosecution would just want him to be remanded.

    “For whatever reason, you gave us an invite, and the charges levelled against my client were just misdemeanours, and in law, you would know that there are categories of offences, and misdemeanour is the basic one that should not be the reason an accused person should be remanded”, he added.

    Armed police officers stormed the residence of former NPP Youth Organiser, Moses Abor, in search of Abronye on Sunday, September 8.

    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 protection for 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 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 the presidency in the 2024 general elections.

    Before the election, Akpaloo expressed strong confidence in his chances for a decisive win, predicting victory over major contenders.

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

    Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, is also under investigation for alleged fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.

    Several other party affiliates have reportedly been arrested in separate cases.

  • Petrol now selling at GHS13.38, diesel GHS14.20

    Petrol now selling at GHS13.38, diesel GHS14.20

    Petroleum product prices at the pumps have been adjusted by GOIL stations. The price of petrol is now selling at Goil stations for GH¢13.38 from GH¢12.99 per litre.

    While diesel is selling at GH¢14.20 per litre, from GH¢13.90. The second-largest player in the industry, GOIL, is the first to adjust prices. For about a week, most other oil marketing companies did not change their prices, even though experts had predicted that fuel prices should go up by around 6% per litre starting September 16. More than 200 OMCs nationwide have yet to effect the change.


    According to JoyNews’ report, as of September 2, Shell fuel stations were selling a litre of petrol at GH¢13.59, up from GH¢12.89. Market leader Star Oil was selling petrol at GH¢12.77 per litre and diesel at GH¢13.35. However, Star Oil had declared its intention not to change the prices of its fuel products until September 15.

    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 litre.


    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 decide whether the United States would 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.


    The government has launched a 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.

  • NPP takes to the streets over alleged “state-sponsored police” harassment by govt

    NPP takes to the streets over alleged “state-sponsored police” harassment by govt

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has today, Tuesday, September 23, taken to the streets over the alleged “state-sponsored police” harassment by the John Dramani Mahama-led government.


    The protest, known as ‘Yɛn Suro Ahunahuna’, will begin at Obra Spot at 6:00 a.m., proceed to the Police Headquarters to present a petition to the Inspector General of Police (IGP)/National Security, and conclude at Jubilee House with a petition to the Office of the President.

    Earlier, the NPP fixed a Friday, September 23, for its protest.

    Taking to Facebook, the party’s National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha, wrote, “Tuesday, 23rd September, the National Youth Wing will organise a demo against the state-sponsored police harassment. From Obra Spot to police headquarters. 6 a.m. sharp!”.


    The move, they said, is to protest what it calls state-sponsored harassment by the Ghana Police Service against its members.
    The protest comes after the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye, was arrested and remanded in prison custody for fourteen days until his appearance on September 19.


    He made his second appearance in court ( the Accra Circuit Court), Friday, September 12 and his first appearance in court on Tuesday, September 9. He is being held in custody for offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace.


    During his first appearance in court, the NPP Bono Chairman’s legal team requested bail after the presiding judge scheduled his next appearance for the next three days; however, the presiding judge at the Accra Circuit Court denied their request.


    Consequently, Abronye was held in custody by the police until his next appearance. The Ghana Police, in an official statement shared on their Twitter page, confirmed the arrest of the NPP member on Monday, September 8.


    “The Ghana Police Service has today, 08/09/25, arrested Mr. Kwame Baffoe @ Abronye for Offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace”, confirming he is in their custody awaiting arraignment before the Court.


    He arrived in handcuffs, escorted by police officers from a black police van known as “Black Maria, sparking bitter concerns among members of the opposition NPP, including the party’s National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha.


    The court’s denial of bail visibly did not sit well with some members of the opposition NPP, who appeared in court in solidarity with their member.


    During a media engagement, he complained bitterly about how the Chairman’s case of misdemeanour was being treated like a criminal case when it is a civil case.


    He said Abronye wasn’t a criminal to be transported in handcuffs and in a Black Maria, citing it as a waste of taxpayers’ money and time of concerned individuals.


    He warned the government against what he described as the mistreatment of NPP party members, stating that, “Power has an end, the tables will turn, and we will all have our revenge”.


    Criticizing the Ghana Police for bias, he announced an upcoming protest against the law enforcement agency in the coming days, which he will lead.


    Also, the lawyer of the accused Daniel Martey Addo, the Managing Counsel at Nkrumah & Associates, while commending the adherence to legal proceedings following his client’s arraignment in court, he, however, stated that, “it appears that the prosecution would just want him to be remanded.


    “For whatever reason, you gave us an invite, and the charges levelled against my client were just misdemeanours, and in law, you would know that there are categories of offences, and misdemeanour is the basic one that should not be the reason an accused person should be remanded”, he added.


    Armed police officers stormed the residence of former NPP Youth Organiser, Moses Abor, in search of Abronye on Sunday, September 8.


    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 protection for 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 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 the presidency in the 2024 general elections.


    Before the election, Akpaloo expressed strong confidence in his chances for a decisive win, predicting victory over major contenders.


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


    Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, is also under investigation for alleged fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering.


    Several other party affiliates have reportedly been arrested in separate cases.

  • #StopGalamseyNow demo underway

    #StopGalamseyNow demo underway

    Scores of Ghanaians are marching through the streets of the capital today, Monday, September 22, in protest, demanding that the President Mahama-led government tackle the galamsey menace with strategic measures.

    They began the march from Spanner Junction, Accra, through  other areas of the Capital in the morning. The protest which is spearheaded by the Democracy Hub started with a vigil on Sunday, September 21 scores of Ghanaians gathered at the Revolution Square in Accra. 

    Taking to the X platform (formerly Twitter), on Monday, September 15, the group’s convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, stressed that the solution to end the menace requires collective efforts, hence, he called on all and sundry to participate in the upcoming vigil and the march sessions.

    “On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis.“The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics”.

    Illegal mining activities continue to retrogress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards.

    The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.

    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.

    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.

    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.

    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.

    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 will 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 fell 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 have been 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 like 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 that would 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 better oversight.

    The move is part of broader government efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion. 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 include 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 include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.

    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.

    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025. Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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.

    The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation. This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.

    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).

    The others are 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.

  • Newly recruited teachers to hit the streets on September 30 over unpaid salary arrears

    Newly recruited teachers to hit the streets on September 30 over unpaid salary arrears

    The aggrieved Newly Posted Teachers group will embark on a protest on Tuesday, September 30, if the government fails to settle the debts owed them.

    On September 30, the group, comprising graduates from Colleges of Education and universities, initially declared their intentions to hit the streets over salaries owed them on Tuesday, September 23.


    However, speaking to Citi News, the group’s Lead Convener, Simon Kofi Nartey, noted that the Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities are yet to respond to their earlier petitions.


    Simon Kofi Nartey called on the government to settle their 12 months and 8 months, respectively within the given ultimatum. According to him, the group will have no option than to hit the streets if the government does not treat their demands with urgency.


    “It is rather unfortunate that as we speak, nothing has been done about the concerns we raised at our press conference. We have no option but to take to the streets to let Ghanaians know what is happening. We have already met with the Greater Accra Regional Police Command and agreed on September 30 for the demonstration,” he said.,

    In August, the Ghana Education Service (GES) announced that qualified teachers and officers can now apply for promotion to higher ranks within the service. The ranks for which applications have been opened include Deputy Director, Assistant Director I, Assistant Director II, and Principal Superintendent.


    Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline on Friday, September 5, 2025. Application forms can be obtained from the Ghana Education Service’s website or by scanning the QR code provided online.


    Applicants have been advised to attach a clear and legible passport-sized photograph in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format, along with their last promotion, appointment, or upgrading letter, and their highest academic certificate when applying for promotion.


    The GES has emphasized that, except for the passport-sized photograph, all other documents must be in PDF format. This was contained in a press statement issued by the Ghana Education Service.


    “An applicant should upload the following documents: passport-size photograph (in jpeg, jpg, or png format), last promotion or appointment or upgrading letter, highest academic certificate used for applying for the promotion. All documents uploaded MUST be in PDF (except the passport picture) and should be clear and legible. Application window opens from Monday, 18th August to Friday, 5th September 2025. SCAN TO APPLY,” parts of the statement read.


    In detailing the eligibility criteria, the Service indicated that applicants for the Deputy Director rank must have held the position of Assistant Director I in or before 2020 and must have remained active in the service.

    Applicants for Assistant Director I must have been promoted to the rank of Assistant Director II in or before 2020 and remained continuously at the post.

    Similarly, applicants for Assistant Director II should have been promoted to the rank of Principal Superintendent in or before 2020 and must have been consistently at post since then. For the Principal Superintendent rank, applicants must have attained the position of Senior Superintendent I in 2020 or earlier.


    “Deputy Director: An applicant should have been promoted to the rank of Assistant Director I in or before 2020 and should have been continuously at post since date (except for the periods of approved leave of absence).


    “Assistant Director I: An applicant should have been promoted to the rank of Assistant Director II in or before 2020 and should have been continuously at post since date (except for the periods of approved leave of absence).

    “Assistant Director II: An applicant should have been promoted to the rank of Principal Superintendent in or before 2020 and should have been continuously at post since date (except for the periods of approved leave of absence).


    Principal Superintendent: An applicant should have been promoted to the rank of Senior Superintendent I on or before 2020 and should have been continuously at post since that date (except for the periods of approved leave of absence). An applicant who has obtained an approved undergraduate degree will be automatically placed on this rank,” the statement added.


    Additionally, applicants who wish to apply with Master’s or Doctorate degrees must ensure their certificates are in courses recognized by the GES.


    “For the avoidance of doubt, applicants who wish to rely on Master’s/Doctorate degrees to join the interviews out of turn should note the following:Master’s/PhD programme should be on the approved GES course of study.”


    Additionally, applicants who wish to apply with Master’s/Doctorate degrees must ensure their certificates are in courses recognized by the GES and should have been acquired before their most recent promotion.


    “The Master’s/PhD certificate should not have been obtained before the previous promotion. Applicants who wish to use the Master’s/PhD certificate for ADI, ADII, and Deputy Director promotion should have obtained their certificate in or before 2022,” it concluded.


    Meanwhile, the Service continues to grapple with unresolved issues concerning newly trained teachers. On Monday, June 23, over 100 aggrieved teachers picketed at the GES headquarters in Accra, demanding the payment of several months of unpaid salaries.


    The intended peaceful protest turned chaotic, prompting police intervention. However, the teachers refused to disperse. The group’s spokesperson, Eric Darfuor, explained to the media that their decision to protest stemmed from unmet assurances by the GES that their outstanding salaries would be paid by the end of July.


    “The PRO said there has been an official communiqué from GES, so we have suspended our picketing for now, and we are hoping to receive our salaries by the end of July. The PRO said they are at the final stage of resolving our issue, so very soon we will receive our salary.


    “So we are waiting and waiting for the very soon, by the end of July, so when the time is due, and we do not hear anything from them, we will come back again stronger.”


    Defiant, the protesting teachers have vowed to intensify their actions. “We’ll be here overnight so that by morning, we can go to the Finance Ministry and then proceed to Parliament,” one protest leader said.


    “When MPs arrive, we’ll let them know what the government is putting us through. All we ask is for our staff IDs and the money owed to us.” In response, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has stated that it is working to resolve months of unpaid salaries and other concerns raised by newly posted teachers. This was revealed in a press release issued by the GES Public Relations Officer, Daniel Fenyi, on Tuesday, June 24.

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


    Out of the 12,807 graduates recruited from the Colleges of Education last year, about 2,113 are yet to receive their salaries due to the expiration of financial clearance. The Service has attributed this situation to inconsistencies in the affected teachers’ Ghana Card details, SSNIT numbers, and cases of self-reposting.


    Additionally, the GES disclosed that it has set up a technical committee to resolve the anomalies. In the meantime, the Service has called for calm, assuring teachers of its commitment to addressing the matter.
    “The present GES Management, upon assuming office, immediately undertook a nationwide staff validation exercise from 7th-14th March 2025 to confirm the genuinely recruited teachers and clean up recruitment anomalies.


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


    In a related development, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has disclosed that it is investigating suspected corruption and corruption-related offences linked to the large-scale sale of appointment letters to prospective teachers and the laundering of proceeds from the unlawful enterprise.

  • Ghana-US deportee case to be heard on Tuesday

    Ghana-US deportee case to be heard on Tuesday


    The Labour Division of the High Court in Accra will on Tuesday, September 23, hear the case of two ex parte applications filed by eleven West African nationals against the government of Ghana.

    The West African nationals are challenging their alleged detention in Ghana after being deported from the United States (U.S).

    The plaintiffs are Daniel Osas Aigbosa, Ahmed Animashaun, Ifeanyi Okechukwu, and Taiwo K. Lawson; Liberian national Kalu John; Togolese nationals Zito Yao Bruno and Agouda Richarla Oukpedzo Sikiratou; Gambian national Sidiben Dawda; and Malians Toure Dianke and Boubou Gassama.

    According to the applicants they were forcibly transported to Ghana without prior notice. They allege that they were secretly moved from the U.S detention centers between September 5 and 6 in shackles.

    They want the court to temporarily stop them from being deported back to their home countries until the court decides on their case. Their submission further revealed that Ghanaian authorities allegedly confined in military facility.

    They cited Article 14(1) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which guarantees personal liberty, as well as Article 23, which protects the right to administrative justice.

    They are arguing that Ghana is violating international law by trying to send them back to countries where their lives or freedom could be at risk.

    As a result, they have demanded that the Attorney-General, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service at the Human Rights Division of the High Court appear before the court with valid reasons.

    The court has fixed Tuesday, September 23, to hear the case. In the meantime, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that Ghana is anticipating the arrival of forty (40) West African deportees from the United States of America.

    Speaking to Channel One TV on Wednesday, September 17, Mr Ablakwa noted, “I can reveal to you that we’re expecting another 40 in the next few days. We vet them before they come”.

    This revelation follows criticism from the Minority in Parliament, who accused the government of accepting 14 deportees without Parliamentary approval. Ablakwa, however, clarified that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S., which does not require Parliamentary ratification, necessitated the arrangement.

    Opposition Member of Parliament (MPs) have argued that President Mahama’s deal with the U.S. was never ratified and therefore unlawful. The Minority cited Article 75 of Ghana’s Constitution, which dictates that an international agreement must be approved by Parliament.

    They pointed to previous Supreme Court rulings, such as the one involving the Gitmo 2 detainees, as precedent for why executive-only agreements are unconstitutional.

    “The deal should have been brought to Parliament. It’s the same President Mahama who entered into a deal for the relocation of the Gitmo 2 to Ghana. What’s in it for our beloved country, Ghana?” NPP MP for Abirem, Charles Owiredu, wrote.

    The opposition also accused Mahama of hiding behind the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) protocol on free movement, describing it as misleading. They argued that those protocols apply to voluntary travel, not forced deportations orchestrated by non-member states like the U.S.

    “Accepting forced deportations orchestrated by non-ECOWAS states contradicts the spirit of regional integration protocols designed for voluntary movement,” stated the Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

    But the Foreign Affairs Minister has explained that the decision was driven primarily by humanitarian concerns after observing the harsh treatment of deportees abroad.

    “We didn’t agree to this because we agree with President Trump’s immigration policies. We’re not doing the U.S. a favour. We’re doing our fellow Africans a favour; we’re offering them refuge, hope, and we want them to come back home and be comfortable.

    “We solidarised with them when we saw those images, the arrests, the violation of their rights, and their being detained against their will. It was purely on a humanitarian basis; we did not take any financial benefits. We’re doing this because we want to continue to position Ghana as the Mecca for Africans,” Ablakwa stressed.

    Responding to whether the deportees will remain in Ghana, Honourable Ablakwa said, “So the choice is theirs really. For 90 days, if they want to stay here, they can stay. But so far all of them have indicated that they want to go back after some time, and we have been facilitating that.”

    At the Government Accountability Series held at the Jubilee House on Monday, September 15, Ablakwa clarified that Ghana’s agreement with the United States to accept some West African deportees was not motivated by financial or material gain.

    “It is important to state that Ghana has not received any money, compensation, or any material benefit in relation to this understanding. Our decision is grounded purely on humanitarian grounds and principle,” he said.

    On Wednesday, September 10, the first batch of West African nationals arrived in Ghana following their deportation from the U.S. During a media encounter at the Jubilee House, President John Dramani Mahama said that the batch consisted of 14 individuals, mostly Nigerians, along with one Gambian national.

    “We were approached by the U.S. to accept third-country nationals who were being removed, and we agreed that West African nationals could be accommodated, since all our fellow West Africans do not require a visa to enter Ghana. So, if they travel from the U.S. to Accra, entry is not an issue. Bringing our West African colleagues back is therefore acceptable,” President Mahama explained.

    Mahama did not explicitly detail the deal of Ghana serving as a transit hub for West African nationals deported from the U.S. A federal judge, Judge Tanya Chutkan, has expressed concern that the arrangement suggested complicity on the part of the Ghanaian government in the deportation process.

    Judge Chutkan granted an emergency hearing after lawyers for the deportees argued that their clients expected to be returned to Nigeria and Gambia, and feared torture or persecution if sent home. She instructed the Trump administration to submit a report outlining measures to prevent Ghana from returning the deportees to their home countries.

    According to her, concerns about their safety were not speculative but “real enough that the United States government agrees they shouldn’t be sent back to their home country.”

    Judge Chutkan described the arrangement as appearing to have been designed by U.S. officials “to make an end run” around legal requirements barring the government from deporting migrants to situations of danger.

    The deportations, she noted, form part of President Donald Trump’s broader strategy of relocating migrants to “third countries” to expedite removals and pressure undocumented immigrants to leave the U.S.

    It later emerged, following a lawsuit filed on Friday, September 12, by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Asian Americans Advancing Justice, that five of the nationals deported to Ghana had U.S. legal protections preventing deportation to their home countries. One of them, a bisexual man, was already sent to Gambia and is reportedly in hiding.

    The others were held in an open-air facility managed by the Ghanaian military, which was described as having squalid conditions. The complaint alleged that the migrants were taken from a Louisiana detention facility, shackled, and flown on a U.S. military aircraft without being told their destination. Some were reportedly restrained in straitjackets for 16 hours.

    The U.S. Department of Justice, responding to Judge Chutkan’s request, argued that it no longer had custody of the migrants and therefore the court lacked authority to interfere in matters of diplomacy. They cited a Supreme Court ruling allowing deportations to third countries.

    U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin rejected the claim that straitjackets were used during the flight, but declined to comment on allegations of circumventing immigration law.

    In January 2016, President Mahama welcomed two Yemeni nationals, Mahmud Umar Muhammad Bin Atef and Khalid Muhammed Salih Al-Dhuby, who had been detained at Guantanamo Bay for about 15 years. They were linked to Al-Qaeda activities, and their transfer to Ghana formed part of a bilateral agreement with the U.S.

    The Mahama government explained that the move was a humanitarian gesture and that the two men would stay in Ghana for two years. However, the deal was never submitted to Parliament as required by the Constitution.

    In June 2017, the Supreme Court ruled that the Gitmo 2 agreement was unconstitutional, ordering the government to present it to Parliament within three months or return the detainees to the U.S.

  • NPP terribly failed its fight against galamsey – UTAG-KNUST President

    NPP terribly failed its fight against galamsey – UTAG-KNUST President

    The President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor Eric Avabare, has described the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as hypocritical over its recent interest in fighting illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.


    Taking to Facebook on Monday, September 22, Prof. Avabare criticised the NPP for failing to address the menace during its tenure, only to now pretend to show concern. However, he was quick to jab the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) for slacking in its efforts to implement sustainable measures against illegal mining. He added that both political parties had failed the nation.


    “I am surprised the NPP suddenly appears concerned about the galamsey menace, but they were terribly worse than the devil himself. They passed the mining law LI 2462, oversaw the building of chanfangs, and issued more mining licenses than all previous administrations combined since independence.


    “These two destructive parties have destroyed Ghana in a literal sense because they are clueless about what they are doing. I blame Ghanaians squarely for knowing what they know about these two parties and still queuing to vote for them, while drinking poisoned water,” he added.


    He concluded that President John Dramani Mahama is confronting the menace with excuses rather than showing work. “President JDM looked into the eyes of Ghanaians and told them they had short memories, and yet when he returned promising to solve galamsey, they voted for him again. Instead, he gave weak excuses for why he could not stop the destruction of water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands,” he wrote.


    The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Ghana chapter, earlier called for decisive action to end the devastating impact of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.


    Speaking to the media on Monday, September 15, Dr. Jerry Joe Harrison, General Secretary of UTAG-UG, warned that the growing menace could end the lives of citizens if the remain unchecked.


    “If we don’t do what we are supposed to do now, we will all die. The water situation is causing havoc in people’s homes. Many areas, including Kwanyako, don’t have access to clean water. People can’t even afford to buy water for their households,” he added.


    According to him, some citizens continue to consume water, which will eventually cause long-term health issues, such as cancers and neurological diseases.


    Democratic“People have had to consume these waters, and they are going to have cancers and neuro diseases by all means. Is that not an emergency enough for you?. So, what do you prefer — that we sit down for 5%, 10% of the population to begin to have visible neurological symptoms before we take action? No,” he added.


    Illegal mining activities continue to regress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.

    For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards.

    The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.


    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.


    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.


    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.


    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.


    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 will 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 fell 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 have been used in illegal activities. Mr Kotey emphasised 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 like 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 with leading 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 better oversight.


    The move is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion. 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 include 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 include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.


    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.


    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025. Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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. The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.


    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.


    This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.


    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).


    The others are 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.

  • No one can dim Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s shine – NDC’s Sewoekpor

    No one can dim Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s shine – NDC’s Sewoekpor


    A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Communication Team, Delali Sewoekpor, has emphasized that no one can take the shine off Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, adding that he will forever remain the country’s true founder.

    Speaking on Breakfast Daily on Channel One TV on Monday, September 22, Sewoekpor stated that  the New Patriotic Party (NPP)  in several ways tried to undermine the achievements of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. 

    According to him, “Over the years, anytime the NPP has had the opportunity to rule this country, you realise that there is a deliberate attempt to obliterate, to undermine the achievement and the role of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. And you see I think by now the NPP as a political party, with their tradition must come to appreciate the fact that nobody can obliterate the name of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah as the Founder of this country of ours”.

    He added, “But the fact of the matter is we’ve also read about a story where several attempts were made on the life of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. We have read several articles where there was a deliberate orchestration to kill Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. And obviously any leader, any President of a country, where is obvious that your opponents were making anything possible to eliminate you, there are certain measures you put in place to address that”.

    Kwame Nkrumah was the first Prime Minister and first President of Ghana. Today, Monday, September 22, has been declared a public holiday to mark Founder’s Day by President John Dramani Mahama. The day would be observed throughout the country.

    The day, which commemorates the birthday of Dr Kwame Nkrumah, fell on Sunday, September 21. However, the Interior Ministry, through a press release on Thursday, September 17, indicated that “His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), as amended, declared Monday, 22nd September 2025”.

    In 2019, the then Akufo- Addo-led government scrapped September 21, which was known as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day from the list of public holidays.

    The former administration replaced the day to August 4 for the celebration of Ghana’s founding fathers. But in July this year, the President Mahama government reversed that decision to the initial arrangement, hence, removing August 4 as a public holiday following the amendment of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601).

    The government noted that statutory holidays that fall on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday will be commemorated on the preceding Monday or Friday.

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

    While presenting the motion for the adoption of the committee’s report, Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, it was passed under a certificate of urgency after its first reading.

    Muntaka explained that the government had reviewed the number of public holidays in line with its earlier commitments to reform and streamline the holiday calendar.

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

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

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

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

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

    The day provides an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on and appreciate the country’s achievements and progress.

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

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

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

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

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

  • FixTheCountry movement’s anti-galamsey march is today

    FixTheCountry movement’s anti-galamsey march is today

    The FixTheCountry movement will today, Monday, September 22, march from Spanner Junction, Accra, through to other areas of the Capital in response to illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, in the country.

    On Sunday, September 21, scores of Ghanaians gathered at the Revolution Square in Accra to hold a vigil protesting galamsey activities while urging the President Mahama-led government to address the menace with strategic measures.

    Taking to the X platform (formerly Twitter), on Monday, September 15, the group’s convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, stressed that the solution to end the menace requires collective efforts, hence, he called on all and sundry to participate in the upcoming vigil and the march sessions.

    “On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis.
    “The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics”.

    Illegal mining activities continue to retrogress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.
    For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards.


    The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.

    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.


    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.

    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.

    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.


    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 will 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 fell 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 have been 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 like 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 that would 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 better oversight.

    The move is part of broader government efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion. 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 include 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 include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.

    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.


    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025. Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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.

    The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.


    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation. This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.


    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).


    The others are 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.

  • Govt declares today a holiday to mark Founder’s Day

    Govt declares today a holiday to mark Founder’s Day

    President John Dramani Mahama has declared today, Monday, September 22, a public holiday to mark Founder’s Day.


    The day, which commemorates the birthday of Dr Kwame Nkrumah, fell on Sunday, September 21. However, the Interior Ministry, through a press release on Thursday, September 17, indicated that “His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), as amended, declared Monday, 22nd September 2025”.


    The day would be observed throughout the country. Dr Kwame Nkrumah was the first Prime Minister and first President of Ghana. In 2019, the then Akufo- Addo-led government scrapped September 21, which was known as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day from the list of public holidays.

    The former administration replaced the day to August 4 for the celebration of Ghana’s founding fathers. But in July this year, the President Mahama government reversed that decision to the initial arrangement, hence, removing August 4 as a public holiday following the amendment of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601).


    The government noted that statutory holidays that fall on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday will be commemorated on the preceding Monday or Friday.

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

    While presenting the motion for the adoption of the committee’s report, Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, it was passed under a certificate of urgency after its first reading.


    Muntaka explained that the government had reviewed the number of public holidays in line with its earlier commitments to reform and streamline the holiday calendar.


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


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


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


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


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


    The day provides an opportunity for Ghanaians to reflect on and appreciate the country’s achievements and progress.

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


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


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


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


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

  • Tyler Robinson told roommate he would kill Charlie Kirk because of his “hate speeches” – Prosecutors reveal

    Tyler Robinson told roommate he would kill Charlie Kirk because of his “hate speeches” – Prosecutors reveal

    Investigations conducted by authorities have revealed prior messages exchanged between Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the killing of the conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, and his roommate.

    On Tuesday, the officials noted that the duo exchanged messages two hours before the murder incident. 

    According to officials, the 22-year-old defendant is in a romantic relationship with the unnamed roommate, who is in the process of transitioning from a male to female. 

    Prosecutors say Robinson’s message to  his roommate read “I had the opportunity to take out Charlie Kirk and I’m going to take it.”

    Authorities have alleged that,  in response, his roommate asked “why” and Tyler Robinson wrote back. with “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out.”

    Utah County prosecutor Jeff Gray in a Tuesday news conference, indicated that the police were able to retrieve their messages with the assistance of Robinson’s roommate.

    The prosecutor revealed that Robinson’s lover, after the former instructed him to delete their messages, gave those messages to the police as evidence.

    However, Robinson’s mother, in an indictment, has disclosed that her son had recently developed an interest in political views, especially those that are “pro-gay and trans-rights oriented”. She noted that her son accused Charlie Kirk of spreading hate through his comments before the shooting incident.

    Meanwhile, no-one else has been charged in connection with the case yet. But the FBI director Patel during Tuesday’s Senate hearing announced that several others are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the shooting.

    Many individuals, together with those affiliated with President Trump and Kirk’s Turning Point USA organisation, have linked the unfortunate incident to transgender activism sponsored by left-wing activists.

    President Donald Trump has called Charlie Kirk’s death a “heinous assassination”. In a tribute, President Trump praised Charlie Kirk as a patriot and martyr. President Trump ordered flags at half-staff, reaffirming Kirk’s legacy of faith and freedom.

    Charles James Kirk was an American right-wing political activist, entrepreneur, and media personality. He co-founded the conservative organization Turning Point USA in 2012 and was its executive director.

    He published a range of books and hosted The Charlie Kirk Show, a talk radio program. He was shot dead at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday afternoon, September 10, while engaging the audience as part of his“American Comeback Tour.”

    His death has drawn widespread attention and reignited debates about political violence in the U.S. Charlie Kirk is survived by a wife, Erika Kirk, and two children: a boy of a year and some months old, and a three-year-old girl.

    His wife has vowed to carry out his movement. According to her, “The movement my husband built will not die. It won’t I refuse to let that happen. It will not die. All of us will refuse to let that happen. No one will ever forget my husband’s name, and I will make sure of it”.

    She has emphasized that  her late husband’s organization wouldn’t back down on campus tours, adding”There will be even more tours in the years to come”.

  • Govt declares Monday holiday to mark Founder’s Day

    Govt declares Monday holiday to mark Founder’s Day

    President John Dramani Mahama has declared Monday, September 22, a public holiday to mark Founder’s Day.

    The day, which commemorates the birthday of Dr Kwame Nkrumah, falls on Sunday, September 21. Dr Kwame Nkrumah was the first Prime Minister and first President of Ghana. By Executive Instrument (E.I.), the president acted in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2021 (Act 601).

    The day would be observed throughout the country. This was contained a press statement issued by the Interior Ministry and signed by the Minister for Interior Muntaka Mubarak on Thursday, September 17.

    According to the statement, the initial day would have been Sunday, 21st September “However, in view of the fact that 21st September 2025 falls on a Sunday, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), as amended, declared Monday, 22nd September 2025, as Additional Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country”.

    In July the government noted that statutory holidays that fall on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday will be commemorated on Monday or Friday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Meanwhile, the amended Act grants an additional holiday for the Muslim community, Shaqq Day, a statutory public holiday to be observed the day after Eid-ul-Fitr. In the same vein, August 4 has been removed from the list of public holidays as Founders’ Day, and instead, September 21 will now be observed as Founder’s Day.

  • FixTheCountry movement to hold galamsey vigil tomorrow

    FixTheCountry movement to hold galamsey vigil tomorrow

    The FixTheCountry movement will hold a vigil tomorrow, Sunday, September 21, at Revolution Square in Accra, in response to illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, in the country.

    Taking to the X platform (formerly Twitter), on Monday, September 15, the group’s convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, stressed that the solution to end the menace requires collective efforts, hence, he called on all and sundry to participate in the upcoming vigil.

    “On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis.

    “The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics”.

    Illegal mining activities continue to retrogress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.

    For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards.

    The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.

    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.

    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.

    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.

    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.

    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 will 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 fell 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 have been 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 like 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 that would 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 better oversight.

    The move is part of broader government efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion.

    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 include 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 include 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. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.

    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025.Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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.

    The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.

    This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.

    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).

    The others are Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), 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.

  • Kufuor’s achievements and mine will win NPP victory in 2028 election – Akufo-Addo

    Kufuor’s achievements and mine will win NPP victory in 2028 election – Akufo-Addo

    Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed optimism about the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) comeback in 2028.

    Speaking at the commissioning of a newly constructed Bantama Constituency office of the NPP on Friday, September 19, he noted that achievements during his tenure and that of former President John Agyekum Kufuor will usher the party to victory in the 2028 general elections.


    He explained that the track record of development and governance under both his administration and Kufuor’s era is strong enough to convince Ghanaians to return the NPP to power in 2028.

    “The work the NPP did during my time and during former President Kufuor’s time is enormous, and it is that legacy we will build on to win back power in 2028. We have all seen what is happening you’ve all seen it. Things are not going well. But when we unite and do things right, I know that, with God’s help, we will reclaim power in 2028,” he added.

    Following the 2024 polls, the opposition party has gone into retrospection. A 12-member committee led by former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Mike Oquaye, investigated the factors behind the party’s failure.

    Although the report by the committee has been withheld from the general public, the General Secretary of the NPP, Justine Kodua, noted that the party’s downfall centered around its inability to focus on key projects in its strongholds, economic instability.

    Particularly, the worsening value of the cedi against major trading currencies, including the dollar arrogance displayed by previous government officials, internal conflict, among other issues. Meanwhile, the leadership of the NPP has directed its members to desist from discussing internal party matters on media platforms, citing Article 10(7)(5) of the NPP Constitution.

    But then Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, under the Akufo-Addo government, believes the way forward for the party is to correct its errors and seize opportunities to reclaim power from the National Democratic Congres (NDC) government. “I believe that, by the grace of God, if we are given another opportunity, we will get many things right because we have learnt the lessons of where we are going.”

     During an engagement in London on Monday, May 19, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ook responsibility for the government’s shortcomings and issued an apology to Ghanaians on behalf of his former ministers.

    Reacting to this, the former Education Minister and the party’s flagbearer aspirant insisted he has no reason to apologise to Ghanaians, arguing that he delivered on the mandate entrusted to him under the Akufo-Addo government.

    He believes the former Vice President failed Ghanaians in his leadership of the economy and therefore should be the one to render an apology, rather than involving individuals who delivered in their respective sectors.

    “I am not a part of the apology. I came to the education sector, and many have said that if every other minister had worked like me… If you are working, you will certainly not please everyone. However, as the vice president who led the economic management team, if he wants to apologize, he should focus on the failed economy under him.

    “In education, we did not fail the people of Ghana. Mo Ibrahim ranked us second. The people of Ghana are in awe of what I did in the sector. People see me and hail me for the work that I did for the sector, and so I owe no apology,” Yaw Adutwum stated.

    He added that the former Vice President must own up and apologize for his failures in the sector that he led, and not just issue apologies en bloc.

    In April, the 2024 running mate of the Movement for Change, Kwame Danso, criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) during the party’s “Thank You Tour” agenda. Kwame Danso urged the party to launch an apology tour in response to growing public frustration.

    In an interview with Nana Jantuah on Nhyira FM’s Kuro Yi Mu Nsem, Mr. Danso described the NPP’s nationwide tour as “tone-deaf” and “misplaced,” particularly at a time when, in his view, economic hardships and poor policy decisions had contributed to the party’s electoral defeat.

    “Instead of a ‘Thank You Tour,’ the NPP should embark on an apology tour to Ghanaians,” he declared.

    He pointed to controversial initiatives such as the Electronic Levy (E-levy), the betting tax, and the National Cathedral project as examples of missteps that have alienated the public and damaged the party’s credibility.

    “To regain appeal, the NPP should apologize for the introduction of the E-levy, betting tax, and the National Cathedral, in which they invested so much, just to dig a manhole for Ghanaians. Your ‘Thank You Tour’ lacks purpose without reconciliation with the people of Ghana,” he stressed.

    Mr. Danso also called on the party to reposition itself as a responsible opposition in the current political climate, advising it to contribute constructively to national discourse rather than remain defensive.

    “They should focus on offering constructive ideas rather than obstructing efforts aimed at national progress,” he said.

    The NPP sought to “break the eight” and extend its governance for another four years under the leadership of Dr. Bawumia, who received the support of then-President Nana Akufo-Addo.

    Dr. Bawumia contested against the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, and lost. At the end of the polls, the Electoral Commission (EC) declared that the NDC flagbearer polled 6,328,397 total valid votes, representing 56.55%, whereas Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia garnered 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

    Before the EC officially declared its results, the former vice president conceded defeat. The parliamentary election also saw the NPP fall drastically in terms of seats won. The NDC obtained an absolute majority in Parliament by securing 183 seats, while the NPP lost its majority, securing only 88 seats.

  • Sierra Leone considering to introduce GoldBod’s framework to check gold smuggling

    Sierra Leone considering to introduce GoldBod’s framework to check gold smuggling

    Sierra Leone’s Finance Minister, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, paid a courtesy call to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, on Thursday, September 18, in Accra, to discuss measures to curb gold smuggling and boost revenue in Sierra Leone.


    While praising GoldBod’s management framework, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura disclosed that Sierra Leone is considering adopting, as part of measures to its mining sector.

    He added, “Innovative steps to formalise and strengthen its gold sector play a key role in boosting Sierra Leone’s economy.”


    The Ghana Gold Board’s CEO emphazised the Gold Board’s readiness to share technical expertise, institutional experience, and best practices to support Sierra Leone’s vision and mission.

    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. It 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 optimise 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 maximising foreign exchange inflows, gold reserve accumulation and value addition for sustainable growth and transformation.


    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 Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of 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 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,” he announced.


    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 license.”


    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.

  • Ghana offers strategic hub under AfCFTA – President Mahama woos UK businesses

    Ghana offers strategic hub under AfCFTA – President Mahama woos UK businesses

    President John Dramani Mahama has invited the United Kingdom (UK) business owners to establish operations in Ghana, as the country is a gateway to access the wider African market.

    President Mahama made the call during an engagement with the new British High Commissioner to Ghana, Christian Rogg, in Accra on Friday, September 19.


    According to him, Ghana’s environment is favorable for business, offering stability, strategic location, and access to a growing market. He emphasized that the government is committed to supporting investors in this regard.


    “We are encouraging more UK companies there are already so many of them but we are encouraging more to come and set up in Ghana, using Ghana as a hub and as a gateway to take advantage of the AfCFTA.


    “Because now, we are able to export duty-free, tariff-free into each other’s markets. So Ghana is positioning itself as the hub for manufacturing and processing into the other markets,” he stated.


    Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Development Minister, Jenny Chapman has disclosed that Ghana raised an additional £100 million in 2024 through a UK-supported tax partnership.


    She described the collaboration as proof of a thriving UK-Ghana relationship driven by innovation and expertise, creating new opportunities for both nations.


    “The UK is unlocking economic growth and trading opportunities in Ghana, as part of its modernised approach to international development,” Jenny Chapman said in a statement issued on Monday, September 15, 2025, after a three-day visit.


    Beyond tax revenue, she noted that the UK’s growth partnership with Ghana has also mobilised over £125 million to strengthen sectors such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, and garments, creating more than 5,000 jobs.


    According to her, this support has improved the production of advanced medicines and enabled Ghanaian textile exports across Africa and to the United Kingdom.


    She stressed that Ghana’s preference for trade over aid aligns with the UK’s development model, which prioritises investment and long-term partnerships.


    During her visit, the minister toured Atlantic Life Sciences, where UK expertise is advancing the production of essential medicines, and visited a garment company backed by British International Investment, which she described as a leading example of empowering women and boosting exports through ethical practices.


    She also held discussions with President John Dramani Mahama on ways to expand the United Kingdom’s growth and investment partnership.


    Trade between the UK and Ghana is valued at about £1.5 billion annually, with British firms such as Tullow Oil, Unilever, Standard Chartered, and Blue Skies operating in the country.


    Beyond trade, the government partnered the UK-Ghana Gold Programme to strengthen regulatory frameworks and curb illicit trade in March this year.


    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that about 60 tonnes of gold were illegally exported from Ghana at the height of the country’s economic crisis. “Imagine the impact if that wealth had stayed in our economy,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing illegal mining and gold smuggling.


    During a meeting with officials from the UK-Ghana Gold Programme, Dr. Forson discussed strategies to “ensure Ghana benefits fully from its gold resources while combating smuggling and illegal trade.”


    One of the key measures being introduced is the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), a regulatory body aimed at overseeing the gold sector and promoting responsible trade.


    Dr. Forson explained that through the partnership, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) would be actively working to prevent gold smuggling at key border points, including Bole.

    Additionally, GoldBod is collaborating with the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) to improve pricing mechanisms, introduce pre-financing for gold dealers, and encourage whistleblower reports to expose smuggling operations.


    To enhance the sector’s financial stability, the government has committed to funding GoldBod to “purchase three tonnes of gold every week,” a move aimed at bolstering the country’s foreign exchange reserves. In a major policy shift, the finance minister also announced plans to remove the 1.5% withholding tax on unprocessed gold as part of the 2025 Budget, describing it as a step towards “encouraging more legal gold trade and driving economic growth.”


    According to Dr. Forson, these reforms will help Ghana regain control of its gold industry, dismantle illegal networks, and ensure that the country’s natural resources contribute directly to national development.

    “This is just the beginning—together, we will build a stronger, more prosperous Ghana,” he affirmed.
    Of all UK exports to Ghana in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024, £435 million (58.2%) were goods and £312 million (41.8%) were services.


    UK exports of goods to Ghana increased by 11.8% or £46 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023 while UK exports of services to Ghana decreased by 3.4% or £11 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.


    Total UK imports from Ghana were £793 million a decrease of 15.2% or £142 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.


    In the same period, UK imports of goods from Ghana decreased by 32.2% or £93 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023, while UK imports of services from Ghana decreased by 7.6% or £49 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.


    This means the UK reported a total trade deficit of £46 million with Ghana, compared to a trade deficit of £223 million in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.


    The UK had a trade in goods surplus of £239 million with Ghana, compared to a trade in goods surplus of £100 million in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.


    Meanwhile, the UK reported a trade in services deficit of £285 million with Ghana, compared to a trade in services deficit of £323 million in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023.


    Ghana has been ranked as the United Kingdom’s 80th largest trading partner, accounting for 0.1% of total UK trade. It was the UK’s 78th largest goods trading partner and the 71st largest services trading partner, both also representing 0.1% of trade in their respective categories.


    Ghana ranked 64th for goods exports and 83rd for services exports, both making up 0.1% of their respective totals.
    On the import side, Ghana was the UK’s 79th largest import market, also accounting for 0.1% of total imports. 83rd for goods imports, with a share of less than 0.1%, and 62nd for services imports, which made up 0.2% of UK services imports.


    Then United Kingdom (UK) High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, has emphasized the UK’s commitment to strengthening a lasting relationship with Ghana.


    “Our ambition is to increase the UK-Ghana economic partnership. So partly that is about trade, and it’s very much in two directions. I’m very pleased to say that even after the difficult economic issues we have all seen around the world since the pandemic, the UK-Ghana trade partnership has grown, and that stands at £1.5 billion,” she said during a media engagement on July 16.

  • ECOWAS has not given up on Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger – President Mahama

    ECOWAS has not given up on Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger – President Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has not relented in efforts to have the three Sahelian nations, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, back to the bloc.

    During a courtesy call by Germany’s newly appointed Ambassador to Ghana at the Jubilee House on Friday, September 19, President Mahama indicated that this is the time ECOWAS needs them, given that West Africa is in a state of tension.

    “We would like to continue that collaboration, especially now that the West Africa subregion is facing the threat of violent extremism. The AES countries have broken away from ECOWAS, but we are engaged in continuous dialogue because we believe the difficulties they face are not theirs alone. If we do not show solidarity, the threat could easily spill over into the rest of the region,” he said.

    In July this year, President John Dramani Mahama shared exciting developments following his efforts to resolve tensions between the Sahel countries and the Economic Community of West African States regional bloc.

    Addressing journalists on Friday, July 18, he disclosed that the three countries, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, together with ECOWAS, have expressed willingness to rebuild their relationship.

    “We held an ECOWAS meeting barely three weeks ago, and happily, the whole mood has changed, and there is now an appetite for rapprochement between ECOWAS and the three countries,” the president said.

    In January 2025, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formally broke away from the community due to diplomatic tensions after military takeovers and due to economic and social failures by past governments.

    The military juntas of these countries are led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, General Assimi Goïta, and General Abdourahmane Tchiani, respectively.

    The trio accused the ECOWAS of failing to safeguard member states and deviating from founding principles and Pan-African spirit.

    In response to these claims, ECOWAS revealed that it did not receive formal notice before their withdrawal; therefore, it called for a dialogue to address their concerns. “The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves,” it added.

    President John Dramani Mahama extended invitations to the military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to participate in the official launch of ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary celebrations, which took place in Accra on April 22.

    The invitation to the Sahelian states was part of Ghana’s broader efforts to rebuild relations and enhance cooperation for a stable and united West African region.

    International Relations Analyst Dr. Yaw Gebe endorsed President John Dramani Mahama’s decision, describing the gesture as a positive step toward regional reconciliation.

    He, however, advised the ECOWAS to critically reflect on the underlying reasons behind the exit of the Sahel nations and emphasised the need for the bloc to adopt a more inclusive and problem-solving approach going forward.

    “My prayer and longing is that whatever the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu or President John Mahama are doing, they should be conscious of the problems or challenges these countries are facing. The ECOWAS must be willing and ready to tackle those problems collectively. And that is a major shortcoming on the part of ECOWAS,” he said.

    Despite the formal withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on January 29, citizens from these countries will still be able to use their national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo for travel within the region.

    ECOWAS has assured that in the interest of regional cooperation and to prevent unnecessary disruptions, all relevant authorities within and outside the bloc’s member states should continue to recognize these travel documents until further notice.

    Additionally, trade and economic activities involving these three nations will not face immediate restrictions. Goods and services from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will continue to receive the same treatment under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.

    Citizens from the affected countries will also retain their right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment across ECOWAS states, ensuring that travel and cross-border activities remain unhindered. Furthermore, officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger working within ECOWAS will be given full support and cooperation in carrying out their assignments.

    These measures will remain in place as ECOWAS leaders work on defining the future relationship between the bloc and the three nations. A special structure has been put in place to facilitate discussions on the next steps.

    The regional body emphasized that these transitional arrangements aim to maintain stability, minimize confusion, and support the people and businesses affected by the withdrawal.

  • We’re working to resolve school placement glitches – Deputy Education Minister

    We’re working to resolve school placement glitches – Deputy Education Minister

    Deputy Education Minister, Dr. Clement Apaak, has urged calm as technical glitches disrupt the Senior High School (SHS) placement process.

    During a visit to the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Hall in Accra on Friday September 19, the minister stated that the issue is being resolved and assured parents and students that all Senior High School placements would be finalized soon.

    He explained that the current challenge was anticipated and that measures have been put in place to address it promptly. “It’s a process. It has not ended. Be patient and be reassured that we anticipated a number of challenges, and that is why we decided to set a reporting date that gives you enough time and gives us enough time to address all the issues.


    “So be assured that by the time our wards are expected to report, which is around this same time next month October 18 many of these issues, if not all, will be resolved,” he added.


    On Wednesday, September 17, the Ghana Education Service (GES) opened the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) portal to allow prospective Senior High School (SHS) students to access their designated schools.


    s per a circular dated Wednesday, September 17, signed by the acting Deputy Director-General for Quality and Access at the GES, Dr Munawaru Isshaque and addressed to all regional directors, freshers will report to their designated schools from October 18.


    The statement warned school authorities against enrolling students against the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat, stressing the need for transparency and impartiality during the registration process.


    “Admission of students should strictly follow the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat. No school is permitted to admit students outside the official placement without prior written approval from GES,” parts of the circular read.


    483,800 have been placed into various Senior High Schools across the country out of the 590,000 candidates. On Monday, September 1, the school placement portal was opened for new entrant students to verify their school choices, biodata, and other relevant information ahead of the final placement.

    The deadline for the fact-checking exercise was brought to a close on Monday, September 8. Of this figure,248,038 are females (51.4%), and 234,783 are males (48.6%). However, 107,509 candidates (18.2%) could not be matched with their initial school choices due to high demand for certain Category A schools.


    There have been recent speculations that the Education Ministry solely depends on a rigid score system to place students in Senior High Schools. But the Ministry has described the claims as misleading and inaccurate.

    Deputy Education Minister, Dr Clement Apaak, has emphasized that multiple factors influence how students are assigned to specific Senior High Schools.


    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 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.


    Meanwhile, SHS 3 students will reopen on October 11, 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.


    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.


    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).


    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.


    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 urged other private schools that have 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.

  • Gomoa East: 15-bedroom house in Dominase destroyed by fire

    Gomoa East: 15-bedroom house in Dominase destroyed by fire

    A fire incident that occurred on the night of Thursday, September 18, at Dominase in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region has destroyed a 15-bedroom house, leaving several people displaced.

    The victims could not recover their personal belongings, including money, clothes, household appliances, and stored food items. However, there have been report on casualties.

     The country has recorded a number of fire incident this year. Just last Saturday, September 13 several shops selling wooden planks and hardware were razed as a result of the fire, which broke out near Aayalolo School. 

    One person was arrested in connection with the devastating fire incident at the Accra Timber Market. The suspect allegedly left a burning heap of rubbish unattended, which later spread and engulfed the Timber Market.

    Several houses at Darkuman Kokompe in Accra were destroyed following a fire incident in the early hours of Sunday, August 31. Reports indicated that victims were unable to salvage their belongings as they awaited emergency response. The cause of that fire is yet to be established.

    Earlier this month, a fire 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.

    Similarly, 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 ravaged the first floor of the Accra Tourist Information Centre at Cantonments. According to the GNFS, the blaze destroyed the contents of the first floor, though the ground floor and about eight offices, including the East Wing section, were salvaged.

    The first fire engine from the GNFS Headquarters arrived at 01:04 hours to find a fully developed fire spreading rapidly in all directions, aided by strong winds.

    Five additional appliances from Flagstaff House, Circle, Accra City, and Ministries fire stations, as well as the Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) from Headquarters, were swiftly mobilized to support firefighting operations.

    Although the blaze was brought under control at 03:32 hours, firefighting efforts continued until 06:35 hours to suppress the flames and prevent further spread to adjoining properties. No injuries were recorded, but the Service has launched an investigation into the cause.

    Another inferno destroyed several makeshift wooden and metal structures at the Madina Washing Bay near Redco Flats on Sunday, August 3.

    The blaze consumed utility poles, traders’ wares, personal belongings, and structures worth several thousand cedis. The GNFS reported that while battling the fire, one firefighter sustained a minor leg injury.

    The Service received the distress call at 12:36 hours, and the first crew from Madina Fire Station arrived within four minutes. Four additional fire engines from Legon, Abelemkpe, and GNFS Headquarters later joined to contain the blaze.

    The fire was confined at 13:42 hours and fully brought under control at 13:54 hours. Overhaul operations continued until 20:50 hours. An investigation into the cause is ongoing.

    Last month, a fire broke out at Madina Ritz Junction. Initial reports claimed that a two-month-old baby died in the incident, but the GNFS later clarified otherwise.

    “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 Service has thus entreated the public and media outlets to disregard any reports suggesting otherwise, as they are inaccurate and misleading,” the GNFS posted on Facebook.

    The Service explained that the fire began after a gas explosion in one of the shops and quickly spread to adjacent containers. Firefighters from the Madina, Legon, and Abelemkpe stations responded promptly and contained the blaze.

    In April this year, another fire ripped through the Madina Redco Flats area, destroying more than 150 structures and claiming the life of a young Nigerian woman known as Beauty. The inferno, which started around 11:15 p.m., spread rapidly across 140 wooden kiosks and 20 metal containers.

    Although firefighters arrived within minutes, the victim was trapped and could not escape. Her remains were handed over to the Madina Police. Last year, about 50 stalls were reduced to ashes after the Madina Market in Accra caught fire. Deputy Director of Operations at GNFS, D.O.1 Kofi Forson, who spoke to the media, recounted the challenges they faced.

    “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 GNFS has since provided statistics on fire outbreaks in the first half of 2025. The data shows a slight increase compared to the same period in 2024. Ghana recorded 3,595 fire cases between January and June this year, compared with 3,576 cases during the same period last year — an increase of 19 cases, representing a 0.53% rise.

    The monthly breakdown 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 incidents (628), followed by Ashanti (581) and Central (408). The North East Region had the lowest number, with just 10 cases.

    In an interview on Tuesday, July 8, the Head of Public Relations at GNFS, Desmond Ackah, revealed that due to their improved and swift response, the Service saved over GH¢203 million worth of property in the last two quarters of 2025.

    The GNFS listed the main causes of fire incidents as: electrical faults from illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloaded circuits; improper use of appliances such as overused extension cords and unattended devices; unattended cooking with gas, electric, or coal stoves; careless use of naked flames like candles, mosquito coils, lighters, and matches; gas leakages and poor handling of LPG cylinders; bush burning, especially in the dry season; vehicle fires due to poor maintenance or accidents; unsafe welding and other hot-work practices; and deliberate acts of arson.

    Meanwhile, the Service reported a significant improvement in its fight against prank calls. It recorded a 34.77% reduction, from 364,020 prank calls in the first half of 2024 to 237,470 in 2025. The GNFS attributed the decline to consistent public education campaigns and heightened awareness of the legal consequences of misusing emergency lines.

  • UCC Vice-Chancellor ordered to step down over retirement age

    UCC Vice-Chancellor ordered to step down over retirement age

    Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong has been ordered by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to step down as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) over prolonged tenure.

    According to a letter dated Friday, September 19, 2025, GTEC noted that Prof Nyarko has been in his current position beyond the compulsory retirement age of 60.


    This, it emphasized violates Article 199(1) of the 1992 Constitution, which stipulates that public officers must retire at age 60 unless otherwise provided.

    “The Office of the Vice-Chancellor, being an office established under Section 7(1) of the University of Cape Coast Act, 1992 (PNDCL 278), is a public office under the meaning and intendment of Article 199(1). Hence, anyone acting in the office of the Vice-Chancellor is presumptively mandated to proceed on compulsory retirement upon attaining 60 years,” the letter stated.


    According to GTEC, the University of Cape Coast Statutes (2016), sets the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure at an initial four years; however, it can be extended to three years if the person hasn’t already reached the official retirement age set by law.


    In this regard, GTEC has instructed Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, to act as Vice-Chancellor in the interim. Meanwhile, the Commission has asked the UCC Governing Council to put the hiring of a new VC on hold until the court or authorities settle the matter.


    In 2024, reports suggested that the Governing Council of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) removed Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong from his position as Vice-Chancellor. Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong officially assumed office in August 2020 after being appointed in June 2020 and was expected to end on July 31, 2024.

    Despite an earlier claim of a two-year extension to his term, the Governing Council declared this extension null and void, according to reports.

    In a statement signed by UCC’s Governing Council Chairman, Professor Harold S. Amonoo-Kuofi, it stated “Please note that the purported renewal/extension of your appointment as Vice-Chancellor at the Council’s meeting on the 28th of July 2023, for a term of two (2) years effective 1st August 2024, is void and consequently same is revoked as it breaches the University’s Statutes on renewal of appointment of the Vice-Chancellor.”

    The notice further explained that while extensions to Prof. Boampong’s appointment are permissible, no official extension decision has been made.

    “While your appointment may be extended by 2 years at a time up to a maximum of 5 years beyond your retirement age by contract, as provided in Article 199 clause (4) above, there has not yet been any such contractual extension.

    “And such extension is applicable only to your appointment as a member of the University in general, but not applicable to your position as the Vice-Chancellor, since the University’s Statutes has placed a limit on same in Statute 8.2.”

    Prof. Boampong has been encouraged to submit a formal application if he wishes to continue in his role.

    “You may, however, apply to Council for its consideration in line with laid down procedure for the purpose of renewing your term as Vice-Chancellor for a period not exceeding your retirement age and which does not breach the Constitution and the University’s Statutes,” he is reported to have stated.

    In an unrelated development, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission has raised alarm over the increasing trend of individuals adopting honorary titles such as “Doctor” and “Professor” after receiving such recognitions from institutions in Ghana and abroad.

    GTEC noted that these titles, often used by awardees, tend to confuse and mislead both the public and academic communities.

    The Commission said it is compelled to clarify its stance on the matter to safeguard academic integrity.

    “In light of this trend, the Commission has observed the use of the titles Doctor (Dr) and Professor (Prof) by recipients of such awards.

    These practices are deemed misleading and serve to misinform both the academic community and the general public.

    Consequently, the Commission seeks to clarify its position on this matter for the benefit of the public and those affected,” the Commission said in a statement.

    According to GTEC, honorary degrees should be given sparingly to individuals who demonstrate extraordinary achievement and service that reflect the mission and values of the awarding institution.

    However, it emphasized that such honours must only come from institutions accredited and recognized under Ghana’s higher education system.

    The Commission warned that using honorary titles as part of one’s official name or professional identity is improper and violates sections of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), along with other relevant laws.

    “The Mandate of GTEC: Section 8 (3) d of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act mandates the Commission to regulate the use of higher education nomenclature and titles, including ‘university,’ ‘college,’ ‘Emeritus,’ ‘Professor,’ ‘Doctor,’ ‘Chartered,’ and related terms,” the statement pointed out.

    GTEC urged individuals to take personal responsibility by avoiding the misuse of honorary titles and cautioned stakeholders in the education sector to act with restraint when conferring such distinctions.

    Reaffirming its commitment to upholding academic standards, GTEC said it reserves the right to take regulatory action against anyone or any institution involved in practices that could erode the value of academic credentials or mislead the general public.

  • Ghanaians want President Mahama to show results beyond promises – IMANI Africa

    Ghanaians want President Mahama to show results beyond promises – IMANI Africa

    A recent report by think tank IMANI Africa has revealed that scores of Ghanaians are not pleased with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration’s efforts so far. IMANI Africa’s  the Public Understanding and Literacy for Sentiment and Election Analysis (PULSE) focused on comprehensive review of political sentiment in Ghana.

    The responses were generated from Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, podcasts, newsfeeds, and the wider web between January and June 2025.

    According to the results gathered majority of Ghanaians had confidence in the Mahama-led government prior to taking office. However, the narrative has changed in recent months, with rising scepticism fueled by governance controversies, policy contradictions on fiscal discipline and anti-corruption, and the lack of visible results.

     As per the report, the majority want the government to “address job insecurity head-on, create genuine opportunities, and rebuild trust through delivery”.

    “Public sentiment was strongly positive (65–70%) during the inauguration and the launch of the #ResettingGhana agenda. The swearing-in of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, reinforced hope for progressive governance. Civil society and independents adopted a “watchful optimism,” while the opposition maintained relative quiet,” part of the report noted.

    Read the report below:

    From Optimism to Scrutiny_ Public Sentiment on the NDC’s First Six Months in Office – Imani AfricaDownload

    Meanwhile, President Mahama has called on African leaders and stakeholders to address the challenges facing Africa’s democracy with urgency, to sustain the rule of law, and make it attractive to the youth again.

    He made these remarks while delivering a keynote speech at the just-ended two-day Democracy Dialogue 2025 held at the Accra International Conference Centre under the theme “Why democracies die”. In his speech, he highlighted a 2024 survey conducted by Afrobarometer and released in July last year, which suggested that more of the youth prefer a military regime over democracy.

    President Mahama noted, “For those who attended my inauguration: if you were not on Black Star Square but were locked in a room and only heard the announcements of presidents coming up to greet me, you would have noticed that the loudest applause was for the countries that have overthrown democracy and are under military dictatorship. That should give us pause for thought. That should make us ask ourselves why democracy is dying.

    That’s why today’s topic is relevant: What are the things we need to do to sustain democracy? Democracy will not survive by itself if we don’t work for it. Surveys such as Afrobarometer show that many young people now say they would prefer to live under a military government. That should give us pause for thought”.

    He warned African leaders of the need to address the challenges faced by their citizens or risk losing their democracies to military rulers and other anti-democracy forces.

    In reference to the recent topplings, particularly in the Sahel, mostly referred to as the “Coup Belt”, President Mahama recommended the need to strengthen African institutions, including the judiciary, parliaments, and electoral bodies, adding the need to deliver development by providing proper roads, educational and healthcare facilities, as well as providing jobs for the youth.

    He said, “The first is that we must strengthen institutions; independent courts, parliaments, and our electoral bodies. The second is that we must deliver development, because democracy without development, democracy without roads, schools, hospitals, and jobs, will always be at risk. Third, we must educate our citizens.

    “As Thomas Sankara said, a soldier without political education or ideological training is a potential criminal. The same is true of leadership without ethical grounding.Fourth, we must protect media and civic space. A free press is democracy’s immune system. Finally, we must build regional solidarity, because the fall of democracy in one nation weakens democracy in all others”.

    He added, “Like Amadou Toumani Touré said: whatever system of government you have, autocracy, democracy, theocracy, if it does not deliver opportunities and prosperity to the people, it will not survive”.

    President Mahama outlined weak institutions, leadership deficits, exclusion and inequality as some of the challenges confronting Africa’s democracy in particular.

    After outlining the challenges confronting Africa’s democracy, President Mahama called for more forums like the ‘Democracy Dialogue’ to identify, discuss, and solve them to make democracy attractive to the youth.

    He said citizens have grown weary of corruption, tired of misgovernance, and tired of the lack of opportunity, hence the need for accountability among leaders.

    “That is why I said we need a reset of our democracy, our economy, and our governance. We need to make governance accountable. Anybody who wants to serve in public office must be prepared to account to the people. ….Those of us who believe in democracy must continue to use dialogues like this to see what is wrong with our implementation of democracy so that we can make a reset that makes the youth continue to have faith in democratic governance and not romanticise unconstitutional government,” he stressed.

    President Mahama also mentioned that it is for all the stated reasons why he has called for a reset. The Mahama-led administration assumed office with what he describes as a “reset agenda,” an economic recovery and social transformation move to help stabilise and ensure economic growth.

    Before he assumed power, one of the major highlights in his campaign message was to reset the country, and after just nine months in power. Many have lauded his efforts so far, despite challenges such as galamsey and other poor road networks marring his measures.

    In the educational sector, he announced free tuition for freshers entering university and other public tertiary institutions by allocating GH¢452.9 million via the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).

    In the transport sector, the Mahama-led administration has paid GH¢809 million to the contractor working on the Pokuase-Nsawam Road (Greater Accra to Eastern Corridor) for four interchanges planned for Amasaman, Pobiman, Medie, and Nsawam Junction.

    Also, the government, on September 16, cut sod for the construction of the Afienya road, promising a one-year completion.During the event, Roads Minister, Kwame Governs Agbodz, affirmed that “This is not a campaign promise, it’s a bold intervention. The contractor on this stretch can deliver in less than 24 months.”

    In the health sector, the government has invested GH¢2 Billion in Medical Equipment & Training between 2025 and 2028, as announced by the Ministry of Finance in April.Also, the Ga North Municipal Hospital (Accra) received $1.5 million worth of equipment in September 2025. The equipment includes anaesthesia machines, incubators, ECGs, sterilisers, delivery sets, and more.

  • Galamsey is a national death sentence – UTAG-UG

    Galamsey is a national death sentence – UTAG-UG

    The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Ghana chapter, has called for decisive action to end the devastating impact of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.


    Speaking to the media on Monday, September 15, Dr. Jerry Joe Harrison, General Secretary of UTAG-UG, warned that the growing menace could end the lives of citizens if the remain unchecked.


    “If we don’t do what we are supposed to do now, we will all die. The water situation is causing havoc in people’s homes. Many areas, including Kwanyako, don’t have access to clean water. People can’t even afford to buy water for their households,” he added.

    According to him, some citizens continue consume water which will eventually cause long-term health issues, such as cancers and neurological diseases.


    “People have had to consume these waters, and they are going to have cancers and neuro diseases by all means. Is that not an emergency enough for you?.So what do you prefer — that we sit down for 5%, 10% of the population to begin to have visible neurological symptoms before we take action? No,” he added.


    Meanwhile, the FixTheCountry movement will embark on vigil and march sessions on Sunday, September 21, and Monday, September 22, respectively, at Revolution Square in Accra, in response to illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, in the country.


    This information was disclosed by the group’s convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, September 15.
    “On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis,” he wrote.


    In his post he stressed that the solution to end the menace requires collective efforts, hence, he called on all and sundry to participate in the upcoming protest.


    “The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics,” he emphasised.


    Illegal mining activities continue to retrogress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results.


    Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards. The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.


    Govt’s efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities


    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.


    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.


    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.


    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement.

    Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.


    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 will 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 fell 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 have been 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 like 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 with leading 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 better oversight.


    The move is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion.


    Crack down 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 include 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 include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.


    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.


    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025.Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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. The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.


    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.


    This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.


    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).


    The others are 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.

  • Railway Workers Union to strike on Sept 30 over salary arrears

    Railway Workers Union to strike on Sept 30 over salary arrears


    The Railway Workers Union of Ghana, operating under the Trades Union Congress (TUC-Ghana), has declared it will commence a nationwide strike effective Tuesday, September 30.

    Explaining its decision to strike, the Union, in a letter dated September 15 and addressed to the Greater Accra Regional Police Commander, cited the non-payment of workers’ salaries and entitlements for the past 12 months.

    The statement indicated that the workers will converge at the Ministry of Transport in Accra, proceed to Parliament for the submission of a petition, continue to the Ghana Railway Development Authority, and conclude at the TUC-Ghana headquarters.

    According to the General Secretary of the Railway Workers Union of Ghana, Benjamin Essuman, the majority of workers have been left with deteriorating health conditions, broken homes, and other social challenges. He added that this situation is putting financial strain on their families.

    “If by Monday, September 22, 2025, no concrete measures are taken by the Ministry of Transport to address these issues, we shall proceed to act under Sections 160 and 171 of the Labour Act, effective September 30,” part of the release read.

    However, the Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe, who was speaking during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, assured that measures are underway to address the situation.

    “The railway industry has suffered neglect, and President Mahama has shown commitment to revitalise it to meet demand,” he said. “The Ghana Railway Company’s operations have declined over the years, affecting its capacity to generate internal revenue to pay staff and cover operations. We have engaged with the Ministry of Finance to find a more sustainable solution going forward.”

    According to Mr. Nikpe, the government is prioritising the welfare of the workers. “We feel for the workers, and we are getting close to getting them their salaries,” he added.

    In May, the Railway Workers Union commenced an industrial action over a 7-month unpaid arrears of 900 staff members if the Ghana Railway Company Limited fails to pay.

    This comes after the group issued a statement on Monday May 12, giving authorities until close of Tuesday on May 13 to pay them or explain the reason for the delay in payment of their salaries.

    During a media engagement, the Branch Secretary of the Accra division, Franklin Cobbinah, explained that the move has been necessitated as all efforts to engage government have proven futile citing that “…we learnt our management together with the union have been there but what comes out at the meeting we are told anything”.

    Responding to concerns of issuing a short notice of their action to the government, Mr Cobbinah insisted that; “For us, it’s not short because we have waited for quite a long ; 7 months so when should we tell them to bring us our salary again? The time is now. That is why we gave them by the close of yesterday.”

    “We started demanding this salary somewhere last year and we were told we are to wait till we get a sector minister so we continue from there. We are told there was no sector minister to talk about the Railway Ministry. We learnt our management together with the union and have been there but what comes out at the meeting we are told anything,” he added.

    The Ministry of Railway Development, according to the Branch Secretary of the Accra division, visited for a headcount promising to settle their salaries right after May Day however no news of their settlement for the past twelve days.

    “…the Ministry came to take particulars of ours and we were told just after May day we would receive our salaries and today is 13th (sic) we haven’t heard anything, nobody is telling us what is going on. So the only decision we the workers can take is to sit down and wait for the management to come and tell us why we haven’t been paid,” he added.

    In response to the union’s strike, Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) issued a statement distancing itself from the industrial action by workers of the Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL). They said they have no connection to it and does not affect its operations.

    “We wish to assure the public that the GRDA remains fully operational and has not initiated or endorsed any form of public demonstration on any issue,” the statement said.

  • Ghana sued by 11 US deportees over alleged rights violations

    Ghana sued by 11 US deportees over alleged rights violations

    Eleven West African nationals have filed two ex-parte applications at the Labour Division of the High Court in Accra, challenging their alleged detention in Ghana after being deported from the United States (U.S).


    The eleven individuals include Nigerians Daniel Osas Aigbosa, Ahmed Animashaun, Ifeanyi Okechukwu, and Taiwo K. Lawson; Liberian national Kalu John; Togolese nationals Zito Yao Bruno and Agouda Richarla Oukpedzo Sikiratou; Gambian national Sidiben Dawda; and Malians Toure Dianke and Boubou Gassama.

    According to the applicants they were forcibly transported to Ghana without prior notice. They allege that they were secretly moved from the U.S detention centers between September 5 and 6 in shackles.

    They want the court to temporarily stop them from being deported back to their home countries until the court decides on their case. Their submission further revealed that Ghanaian authorities allegedly confined in military facility.

    They cited Article 14(1) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which guarantees personal liberty, as well as Article 23, which protects the right to administrative justice.

    They are arguing that Ghana is violating international law by trying to send them back to countries where their lives or freedom could be at risk.

    As a result, they have demanded that the Attorney-General, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service at the Human Rights Division of the High Court appear before the court with valid reasons.

    The court has fixed Tuesday, September 23, to hear the case. In the meantime, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that Ghana is anticipating the arrival of forty (40) West African deportees from the United States of America.


    Speaking to Channel One TV on Wednesday, September 17, Mr Ablakwa noted, “I can reveal to you that we’re expecting another 40 in the next few days. We vet them before they come”.


    This revelation follows criticism from the Minority in Parliament, who accused the government of accepting 14 deportees without Parliamentary approval. Ablakwa, however, clarified that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S., which does not require Parliamentary ratification, necessitated the arrangement.


    Opposition Member of Parliament (MPs) have argued that President Mahama’s deal with the U.S. was never ratified and therefore unlawful. The Minority cited Article 75 of Ghana’s Constitution, which dictates that an international agreement must be approved by Parliament.


    They pointed to previous Supreme Court rulings, such as the one involving the Gitmo 2 detainees, as precedent for why executive-only agreements are unconstitutional.


    “The deal should have been brought to Parliament. It’s the same President Mahama who entered into a deal for the relocation of the Gitmo 2 to Ghana. What’s in it for our beloved country, Ghana?” NPP MP for Abirem, Charles Owiredu, wrote.


    The opposition also accused Mahama of hiding behind the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) protocol on free movement, describing it as misleading. They argued that those protocols apply to voluntary travel, not forced deportations orchestrated by non-member states like the U.S.


    “Accepting forced deportations orchestrated by non-ECOWAS states contradicts the spirit of regional integration protocols designed for voluntary movement,” stated the Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee.


    But the Foreign Affairs Minister has explained that the decision was driven primarily by humanitarian concerns after observing the harsh treatment of deportees abroad.


    “We didn’t agree to this because we agree with President Trump’s immigration policies. We’re not doing the U.S. a favour. We’re doing our fellow Africans a favour; we’re offering them refuge, hope, and we want them to come back home and be comfortable.


    “We solidarised with them when we saw those images, the arrests, the violation of their rights, and their being detained against their will. It was purely on a humanitarian basis; we did not take any financial benefits. We’re doing this because we want to continue to position Ghana as the Mecca for Africans,” Ablakwa stressed.


    Responding to whether the deportees will remain in Ghana, Honourable Ablakwa said, “So the choice is theirs really. For 90 days, if they want to stay here, they can stay. But so far all of them have indicated that they want to go back after some time, and we have been facilitating that.”


    At the Government Accountability Series held at the Jubilee House on Monday, September 15, Ablakwa clarified that Ghana’s agreement with the United States to accept some West African deportees was not motivated by financial or material gain.

    “It is important to state that Ghana has not received any money, compensation, or any material benefit in relation to this understanding. Our decision is grounded purely on humanitarian grounds and principle,” he said.


    On Wednesday, September 10, the first batch of West African nationals arrived in Ghana following their deportation from the U.S. During a media encounter at the Jubilee House, President John Dramani Mahama said that the batch consisted of 14 individuals, mostly Nigerians, along with one Gambian national.


    “We were approached by the U.S. to accept third-country nationals who were being removed, and we agreed that West African nationals could be accommodated, since all our fellow West Africans do not require a visa to enter Ghana. So, if they travel from the U.S. to Accra, entry is not an issue. Bringing our West African colleagues back is therefore acceptable,” President Mahama explained.


    Mahama did not explicitly detail the deal of Ghana serving as a transit hub for West African nationals deported from the U.S. A federal judge, Judge Tanya Chutkan, has expressed concern that the arrangement suggested complicity on the part of the Ghanaian government in the deportation process.


    Judge Chutkan granted an emergency hearing after lawyers for the deportees argued that their clients expected to be returned to Nigeria and Gambia, and feared torture or persecution if sent home. She instructed the Trump administration to submit a report outlining measures to prevent Ghana from returning the deportees to their home countries.


    According to her, concerns about their safety were not speculative but “real enough that the United States government agrees they shouldn’t be sent back to their home country.”


    Judge Chutkan described the arrangement as appearing to have been designed by U.S. officials “to make an end run” around legal requirements barring the government from deporting migrants to situations of danger.

    The deportations, she noted, form part of President Donald Trump’s broader strategy of relocating migrants to “third countries” to expedite removals and pressure undocumented immigrants to leave the U.S.


    It later emerged, following a lawsuit filed on Friday, September 12, by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Asian Americans Advancing Justice, that five of the nationals deported to Ghana had U.S. legal protections preventing deportation to their home countries. One of them, a bisexual man, was already sent to Gambia and is reportedly in hiding.


    The others were held in an open-air facility managed by the Ghanaian military, which was described as having squalid conditions. The complaint alleged that the migrants were taken from a Louisiana detention facility, shackled, and flown on a U.S. military aircraft without being told their destination. Some were reportedly restrained in straitjackets for 16 hours.


    The U.S. Department of Justice, responding to Judge Chutkan’s request, argued that it no longer had custody of the migrants and therefore the court lacked authority to interfere in matters of diplomacy. They cited a Supreme Court ruling allowing deportations to third countries.


    U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin rejected the claim that straitjackets were used during the flight, but declined to comment on allegations of circumventing immigration law.


    In January 2016, President Mahama welcomed two Yemeni nationals, Mahmud Umar Muhammad Bin Atef and Khalid Muhammed Salih Al-Dhuby, who had been detained at Guantanamo Bay for about 15 years. They were linked to Al-Qaeda activities, and their transfer to Ghana formed part of a bilateral agreement with the U.S.


    The Mahama government explained that the move was a humanitarian gesture and that the two men would stay in Ghana for two years. However, the deal was never submitted to Parliament as required by the Constitution.

    In June 2017, the Supreme Court ruled that the Gitmo 2 agreement was unconstitutional, ordering the government to present it to Parliament within three months or return the detainees to the U.S.

  • Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III laid to rest

    Asantehemaa Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III laid to rest

    The Asantehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, has been laid to rest. The Queen Mother, who is also the sister of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei TuTu II, was laid to rest with a befitting burial on Thursday, September 18, at the Manhyia Palace in the Ashanti Region following three days of funeral rites.

    President John Dramani Mahama, former Presidents John Kofi Agyekum Kufuor and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former Vice President Dr Bawumia, and Chief of Staff, Frema Opare, government officials, and other dignitaries were spotted at the funeral grounds paying their last respects to Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    Shops, schools, banks, markets, and offices in Kumasi were closed on Thursday for the final funeral rites of the Queen Mother. Residents also remained indoors on Thursday evening as the procession moved from Bantama to Breman.

    Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom II passed away at age 98 as the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom. Her passing was announced on August 11 at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    A one-week observation was held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the late Queen Mother on August 21. It followed a display of traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    The ceremony was nothing short of star-studded, as it saw the presence of dignitaries, including both current and past presidents and government officials. Former presidents John Agyekum and Akufo-Addo, and Vice President Professor Naana Jane, who was accompanied by the Chief Justice, Julius Debrah.

    They paid respects to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and signed the Book of Condolence as a gesture of sharing in his sorrow.

    The funeral rites for the Queen Mother began on Monday, September 15, and continued through to Thursday, September 18. Thursday was earmarked for the late queen’s “Dɔte Yie”, a day reserved for the most sacred rites.

    Traditional drumming, dirges, and musketry filled the air with various cultural displays. Fetish priests performed rituals to cleanse and protect the royal passage.

    Tributes from Otumfuo himself, President Mahama, the late queen’s grandchildren, as well as one from her sister in-law, Lady Julia, wife of Asantehene.

    A group of men, painted in red clay, signifying the pain of Asanteman, also came to display after the chief executioner was captured, tearing off the head of a live chicken in a cold-blooded sacrificial act, signifying that Asanteman is in mourning, and the ancestral spirits have been summoned to receive the soul of the departed Queen Mother.

    Manhyia Palace in Kumasi received Ghanaian sympathisers following the passing of Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    On Monday, September 15, religious groups, political parties, and corporate bodies paid their respects. The judiciary, security agencies, and financial institutions followed the next day. Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei TuTu II, received traditional leaders, ministers of state, diplomats, parliamentarians, and MMDCEs on Tuesday.

    On Wednesday, August 13, the Archbishop of Kumasi, Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, led a delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pray for the Asantehene and to express their condolences to the King, after the demise of the Asantehemaa.

    They also visited the late Ohemaa’s court to formally convey their sympathies to the family and offer prayers as well. Asantehemaa was named Nana Ama Konadu at birth and is also known by all as Nana Panin or Naa Panin. She later became Nana Konadu Yiadom III, after her enstoolment as the 14th Asantehemaa on February 6, 2016, following the demise of her mother, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II.

    Nana Konadu Yiadom III was born in 1927 at Benyaade Shrine at Merdan, a small town located at Kwadaso, Kumasi, in the days of the restoration of the Asante Confederacy. She was born to Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Asantehemaa, who reigned from 1977 to 2016. Her father was known as Opanin Kofi Fofie, known popularly as Koofie or Keewuo, a carpenter by profession from Besease near Atimatim in Kumasi.

    At a very tender age, just when she was a little over a year old and being breastfed, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, was separated from her biological mother and given to her aunt (mother’s sister), Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town), a suburb of Kumasi.

    Nanahemaa never had any formal education, but she underwent a rigorous and quality informal education, learning a lot of things that were not taught in the classroom. She was initiated and underwent puberty rites together with her niece, Nana Abena Ansa, in their early teens. She married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith by profession from Aduman in Kumasi.

    She was religious, kindhearted, calm, fair and firm, hardworking, very humble, unassuming, and accommodating. In the mid-1990s, Kwaku Firi Bosomfo, the priest of Kwaku Firi, prophesied through Baffour Akoto, a Senior Linguist of Asantehene, that Nanahemaa would be Queen of Asante someday, and surely, it came to pass.

    Nanahemaa achieved a lot and has been recognised as such. Through her constant generosity in doing God’s work, the Saviour Church named a school after her, Nana Konadu Saviour School. She exhibited a high level of equity, justice, and fairness, and all cases brought before her have been settled amicably to the satisfaction of both parties involved.

    In celebrating her 5th Anniversary as Asantehemaa, she made a huge donation to the mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU), and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) and paid for all the medical bills and expenses for new mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

    Nanahemaa started a vigorous campaign and instituted an annual event to encourage mothers to breastfeed their young ones. The main reason she made a generous donation to the Mother-Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

    During the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Sagrenti War in a panel discussion on February 6, 2024, revelations emerged about the opposition faced by the decision to engage in war against the British, led by Sir Garnet Wolseley.
    Nana Afia Kobi, the Asantehemaa at that time, expressed reservations about the war, advising against it despite her son, Kofi Karikari, occupying the Golden Stool.


    Discussing the role of women in Asante’s war and diplomacy, Professor Eugenia Anderson, a historian at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), recounted Afia Kobi’s stance.
    On November 20, 1873, at an Asanteman Nhyiamu gathering, she reportedly said, “From olden times, it has been seen that God fights for Asante if war is just. This one is unjust.”
    Despite her counsel, the decision of the military general prevailed, leading to the 1874 Sagrenti War, resulting in a significant defeat for the Asantes.
    The aftermath saw the dethronement of Kofi Karikari and the ascent of Mensa Bonsu, another son of the Asantehemaa.
    Afia Kobi deemed the war against the British unjust, a sentiment supported by Prof. Samuel.

  • Playback: Asantehemaa goes home

    Playback: Asantehemaa goes home

    The final funeral rite for the Asntehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, is currently taking place at the Manhyia Palace in the Ashanti Region.

    Shops, schools, banks, markets, and offices in Kumasi have been closed today, Thursday September 18, for the final funeral rites of the Queen Mother.

    In the same vein, residents have been directed to remain indoors on Thursday evening as the procession moves from Bantama to Breman.

    Watch the livestream below:

    Addressing the media, the funeral committee announced that the directive is part of tradition to honor the Queen Mother.

    “On Thursday, as we bid a final farewell to the Queen Mother, we wish to give this important notice. The procession will move from Bantama to Breman, and we humbly ask everyone to remain indoors in the evening. In the past, when events involving the King took place, people would stand in respect even in the afternoon. In this case, since it will be held in the evening, we ask simply that you stay in your homes.”

    “With utmost humility, we remind all that Thursday is the funeral of the Asantehemaa. On that day, shops are to remain closed. Schools, banks, and offices will also be closed in observance of the occasion,” the committee announced at a press briefing.

    Here are some pictures below:

    Article image 1
    Article image 2

    The funeral rites for the Queen Mother began on Monday, September 15, and continued through Wednesday, and will be concluded today, Thursday, September 18.

    Article image 3

    Manhyia Palace in Kumasi has received Ghanaian sympathizers following the passing of Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    Article image 4

    On Monday, September 15, religious groups, political parties, and corporate bodies paid their respects. The judiciary, security agencies, and financial institutions followed the next day.

    Article image 5

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei TuTu II received traditional leaders, ministers of state, diplomats, parliamentarians, and MMDCEs.

    A one-week observation was held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the late Queen Mother on August 21. It followed a display of traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    Article image 6

    On Wednesday August 13, the Archbishop of Kumasi, Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, led a delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pray for the Asantehene and to express their condolences to the King, after the demise of the Asantehemaa.

    Article image 7

    They also visited the late Ohemaa’s court to formally convey their sympathies to the family and offer prayers as well.

    Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom II passed away at age 98 as the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom.

    Her passing was announced on August 11 at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Article image 8

  • Photos: Asantehemaa’s final funeral rites underway

    Photos: Asantehemaa’s final funeral rites underway

    The final funeral rite for the Asntehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III, is currently taking place at the Manhyia Palace in the Ashanti Region.

    Shops, schools, banks, markets, and offices in Kumasi have been closed today, Thursday September 18, for the final funeral rites of the Queen Mother.

    In the same vein, residents have been directed to remain indoors on Thursday evening as the procession moves from Bantama to Breman.

    Addressing the media, the funeral committee announced that the directive is part of tradition to honor the Queen Mother.

    “On Thursday, as we bid a final farewell to the Queen Mother, we wish to give this important notice. The procession will move from Bantama to Breman, and we humbly ask everyone to remain indoors in the evening. In the past, when events involving the King took place, people would stand in respect even in the afternoon. In this case, since it will be held in the evening, we ask simply that you stay in your homes.”

    “With utmost humility, we remind all that Thursday is the funeral of the Asantehemaa. On that day, shops are to remain closed. Schools, banks, and offices will also be closed in observance of the occasion,” the committee announced at a press briefing.

    Here are some pictures below:

    The funeral rites for the Queen Mother began on Monday, September 15, and continued through Wednesday, and will be concluded today, Thursday, September 18.

    Manhyia Palace in Kumasi has received Ghanaian sympathizers following the passing of Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    On Monday, September 15, religious groups, political parties, and corporate bodies paid their respects. The judiciary, security agencies, and financial institutions followed the next day.

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei TuTu II received traditional leaders, ministers of state, diplomats, parliamentarians, and MMDCEs.

    A one-week observation was held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the late Queen Mother on August 21. It followed a display of traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    On Wednesday August 13, the Archbishop of Kumasi, Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, led a delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pray for the Asantehene and to express their condolences to the King, after the demise of the Asantehemaa.

    They also visited the late Ohemaa’s court to formally convey their sympathies to the family and offer prayers as well.

    Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom II passed away at age 98 as the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom.

    Her passing was announced on August 11 at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Asantehemaa was named Nana Ama Konadu at birth and is also known by all as Nana Panin or Naa Panin. She later became Nana Konadu Yiadom III, after her enstoolment as the 14th Asantehemaa on February 6, 2016.

    She was born in 1927 at Benyaade Shrine at Merdan, a small town located at Kwadaso, Kumasi, in the days of the restoration of the Asante Confederacy.

    She was born to Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Asantehemaa, who reigned from 1977 to 2016. Her father was known as Opanin Kofi Fofie, known popularly as Koofie or Keewuo, a carpenter by profession from Besease near Atimatim in Kumasi.

    At a very tender age, just when she was a little over a year old and being breastfed, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, was separated from her biological mother and given to her aunt (mother’s sister), Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town), a suburb of Kumasi.

    Nanahemaa never had any formal education, but she underwent a rigorous and quality informal education, learning a lot of things that were not taught in the classroom.

    She was initiated and underwent puberty rites together with her niece, Nana Abena Ansa, in their early teens. She married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith by profession from Aduman in Kumasi.

    She was religious, kindhearted, calm, fair and firm, hardworking, very humble, unassuming, and accommodating. In the mid-1990s, Kwaku Firi Bosomfo, the priest of Kwaku Firi, prophesied through Baffour Akoto, a Senior Linguist of Asantehene, that Nanahemaa would be Queen of Asante someday, and surely, it came to pass.

    Nanahemaa achieved a lot and has been recognized as such. Through her constant generosity in doing God’s work, the Saviour Church named a school after her, Nana Konadu Saviour School. She exhibited a high level of equity, justice, and fairness, and all cases brought before her have been settled amicably to the satisfaction of both parties involved.

    In celebrating her 5th Anniversary as Asantehemaa, she made a huge donation to the mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU) and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) and paid for all the medical bills and expenses for new mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

    Nanahemaa started a vigorous campaign and instituted an annual event to encourage mothers to breastfeed their young ones, the main reason why she made a generous donation to the Mother-Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

  • 2025 SHS placement released, students to report on Oct 18

    2025 SHS placement released, students to report on Oct 18

    Prospective Senior High School (SHS) students can have access to their placement results online using the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) portal, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced.

    As per a circular dated Wednesday, September 17, signed by the acting Deputy Director-General for Quality and Access at the GES, Dr Munawaru Isshaque and addressed to all regional directors, freshers will report to their designated schools from October 18.

    The statement warned school authorities against enrolling students against the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat, stressing the need for transparency and impartiality during the registration process.

    “Admission of students should strictly follow the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat. No school is permitted to admit students outside the official placement without prior written approval from GES,” parts of the circular read.

    483,800 have been placed into various Senior High Schools across the country out of the 590,000 candidates.

    On Monday September 1, the school placement portal was opened for new entrants students to verify their school choices, biodata, and other relevant information ahead of the final placement. The deadline for the fact-checking exercise was brought to a close on Monday, September 8.

    Of this figure,248,038 are females (51.4%), and 234,783 are males (48.6%). However, 107,509 candidates (18.2%) could not be matched with their initial school choices due to high demand for certain Category A schools.

    There have been recent speculations that the Education Ministry solely depends on a rigid score system to place students in Senior High Schools. But the Ministry has described the claims as misleading and inaccurate. Deputy Education Minister, Dr Clement Apaak, has emphasized that multiple factors influence how students are assigned to specific Senior High Schools. 

    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 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.

    Meanwhile, SHS 3 students will reopen on October 11,  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.

    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.

    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).

    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.

    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.

    Attached below is a copy of the letter

    ANNOUNCEMENT OF RELEASE OF 2025 SCHOOL PLACEMENT

    The Ghana Education Service (GES) wishes to officially inform all Regional Directors of Education that the 2025 Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) results have been released

    You are hereby directed to communicate this information promptly to all District Directors of Education and Heads of schools within your jurisdiction.

    1. Admission Process
      Admission of students should strictly follow the placement list generated by the CSSPS Secretariat.
      No school is permitted to admit students outside the official placement without prior written approval from GES.
    2. Reporting and Registration
      Placed students are to report to their schools from 18th October, 2025.
      Heads of Schools are to ensure that registration is conducted smoothly and in accordance with the guidelines provided.
    3. Compliance
      Any infraction, including unauthorized admissions, will attract the necessary administrative sanctions.

    Regional and District Directors are to monitor and provide the necessary supervisory support during the admission period.
    The GES counts on your cooperation to ensure a transparent and successful admission process for the 2025 academic year.

    Kindly treat this information with the urgency and importance it deserves.

  • Kumasi halts activities as Asantehemaa is laid to rest today

    Kumasi halts activities as Asantehemaa is laid to rest today

    Shops, schools, banks, markets, and offices in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, will be closed today, Thursday September 18, for the final funeral rites for the Asntehemaa, Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    In the same vein, residents have been directed to remain indoors on Thursday evening as the procession moves from Bantama to Breman.

    Addressing the media, the funeral committee announced that the directive is part of tradition to honor the Queen Mother.

    “On Thursday, as we bid a final farewell to the Queen Mother, we wish to give this important notice. The procession will move from Bantama to Breman, and we humbly ask everyone to remain indoors in the evening. In the past, when events involving the King took place, people would stand in respect even in the afternoon. In this case, since it will be held in the evening, we ask simply that you stay in your homes.”

    “With utmost humility, we remind all that Thursday is the funeral of the Asantehemaa. On that day, shops are to remain closed. Schools, banks, and offices will also be closed in observance of the occasion,” the committee announced at a press briefing.

    The funeral rites for the Queen Mother began on Monday, September 15, and continued through Wednesday, and will be concluded today, Thursday, September 18.

    Manhyia Palace in Kumasi has received Ghanaian sympathizers following the passing of Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom III.

    On Monday, September 15, religious groups, political parties, and corporate bodies paid their respects. The judiciary, security agencies, and financial institutions followed the next day.

    Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei TuTu II received traditional leaders, ministers of state, diplomats, parliamentarians, and MMDCEs.

    A one-week observation was held at the forecourt of the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the late Queen Mother on August 21. It followed a display of traditional Asante customs, with chiefs, queen mothers, and government officials.

    On Wednesday August 13, the Archbishop of Kumasi, Most Rev. Gabriel Justice Anokye, led a delegation to the Manhyia Palace to pray for the Asantehene and to express their condolences to the King, after the demise of the Asantehemaa.

    They also visited the late Ohemaa’s court to formally convey their sympathies to the family and offer prayers as well.

    Nana Ama Konadu Yiadom II passed away at age 98 as the 14th Queen of the Asante Kingdom.

    Her passing was announced on August 11 at an emergency sitting of the Asanteman Traditional Council, which was presided over by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

    Asantehemaa was named Nana Ama Konadu at birth and is also known by all as Nana Panin or Naa Panin. She later became Nana Konadu Yiadom III, after her enstoolment as the 14th Asantehemaa on February 6, 2016.

    She was born in 1927 at Benyaade Shrine at Merdan, a small town located at Kwadaso, Kumasi, in the days of the restoration of the Asante Confederacy.

    She was born to Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, Asantehemaa, who reigned from 1977 to 2016. Her father was known as Opanin Kofi Fofie, known popularly as Koofie or Keewuo, a carpenter by profession from Besease near Atimatim in Kumasi.

    At a very tender age, just when she was a little over a year old and being breastfed, Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, was separated from her biological mother and given to her aunt (mother’s sister), Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town), a suburb of Kumasi.

    Nanahemaa never had any formal education, but she underwent a rigorous and quality informal education, learning a lot of things that were not taught in the classroom.

    She was initiated and underwent puberty rites together with her niece, Nana Abena Ansa, in their early teens. She married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith by profession from Aduman in Kumasi.

    She was religious, kindhearted, calm, fair and firm, hardworking, very humble, unassuming, and accommodating. In the mid-1990s, Kwaku Firi Bosomfo, the priest of Kwaku Firi, prophesied through Baffour Akoto, a Senior Linguist of Asantehene, that Nanahemaa would be Queen of Asante someday, and surely, it came to pass.

    Nanahemaa achieved a lot and has been recognized as such. Through her constant generosity in doing God’s work, the Saviour Church named a school after her, Nana Konadu Saviour School. She exhibited a high level of equity, justice, and fairness, and all cases brought before her have been settled amicably to the satisfaction of both parties involved.

    In celebrating her 5th Anniversary as Asantehemaa, she made a huge donation to the mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU) and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) and paid for all the medical bills and expenses for new mothers at the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

    Nanahemaa started a vigorous campaign and instituted an annual event to encourage mothers to breastfeed their young ones, the main reason why she made a generous donation to the Mother-Baby Unit at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.

  • Torkornoo drags President Mahama to court over her removal as Supreme Court Judge

    Torkornoo drags President Mahama to court over her removal as Supreme Court Judge

    An application for judicial review at the High Court has been filed by the Former Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, following her removal as a Supreme Court Judge by President John Dramani Mahama.

    Her submission, through her counsel, stated that President Mahama did not act in line with the 1992 Constitution regarding her dismissal. She maintains that the Inquiry Committee, which looked into the matter, was not a legally recognized body.

    Justice Torkornoo has asked the High Court to:

    • Declare that the President has no authority to remove a Justice of the Superior Court without adhering to the constitutionally required process.
    • Declare that jurisdiction to hear any removal petition against a Justice of the Superior Court lies solely with a body established under Article 146(4).
    • Declare that the President’s warrant of removal is “unlawful, null, void, and of no effect.”


    On Monday, September 1, the President stripped Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo of the Chief Justice and Superior Court Justice titles. President Mahama cited recommendations from the committee that was probing petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo as a key reason for revoking her appointment.


    The committee on Monday, September 1, 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.


    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 Supreme 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, even though the process and procedure are not spelled out in the Constitution but in 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 further recommended that the Chief Justice be removed from office.


    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.


    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, including a series of declarations that the Article 146 committee set up to investigate 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 to those petitions.


    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 former Chief Justice wanted 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 former Chief Justice wanted 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.


    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.

  • Ghana’s public debt sees GHS15.8bn increase

    Ghana’s public debt sees GHS15.8bn increase

    The Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) latest summary of economic and financial data, released for September 2025, has revealed that Ghana’s public debt stock rose by GH¢15.8 billion in July 2025, bringing the overall debt to GH¢628.8 billion, which is equivalent to $59.9 billion.


    According to the report, the rise is equal to 44.9% of the country’s total economic output. This follows three consecutive months of declines and is partly attributed to the earlier appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi. Ghana recorded GH¢613 billion in June and GH¢769.4 billion in March.


    The fluctuations in the figures during that period were largely influenced by changes in the exchange rate of the cedi.

    Ghana’s external debt stayed mostly unchanged in July at $29.0 billion. However, domestic debt climbed to GH¢323.7 billion, or 23.1% of GDP, from GH¢312.7 billion in the previous month.


    The Bank of Ghana also announced a 6.3% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in the second quarter of 2025. While acknowledging global financial pressures at the 126th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on September 15, BoG Governor Johnson Pandit Asiama stated that Ghana has seen a 1.0% increase in GDP from the previous 5.3% in the first quarter.


    “Ghana’s recovery is gaining momentum even as the global environment remains uncertain. Worldwide, growth is easing, and financial conditions are still tight amid trade tensions and geopolitical risks; yet domestically, improved fundamentals have strengthened confidence in our outlook.

    “Real activity has firmed. Provisional data show GDP growth accelerated to 6.3 percent in Q2 2025, led by services and agriculture, with non-oil GDP expanding by 7.8 percent,” Dr. Asiama stated.


    According to him, some short-term economic measurements, also known as high-frequency indicators, show that the economy is still growing. Among these, the Bank of Ghana’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was 6.1% higher in July than a year earlier.


    “High-frequency indicators confirm this momentum: the Bank’s Composite Index of Economic Activity was up 6.1 percent year-on-year in July, and recent PMI readings alongside our business and consumer surveys point to improving sentiment,” he added.


    In his update, he also touched on inflation, stating that it fell from 12.1% in July to 11.5% in August, marking a 0.6 percentage point drop in just one month, the eighth consecutive month of decline, and the lowest inflation rate since October 2021. He added that, even though there was a decline in remittance inflows, the cedi remains one of the strongest-performing currencies globally.
    “On the price front, headline inflation fell further to 11.5 percent in August, its lowest since October 2021, supported by a tight monetary stance, fiscal consolidation, and better food supplies; core measures and expectations continue to re-anchor. External buffers have strengthened. For the first eight months of the year, Ghana recorded a trade surplus of US$6.2 billion, underpinned by robust gold exports and higher cocoa receipts. Gross international reserves stood at US$10.7 billion in August, covering about 4½ months of imports. Despite seasonal pressures and a moderation in remittance inflows in recent weeks, the cedi remains among the strongest currencies globally year-to-date, appreciating by about 21 per cent as of September 12.


    “It now ranks alongside high performers such as the Russian ruble, Swedish krona, Norwegian krone, Swiss franc, Euro, and British pound. This outperformance reflects prudent monetary policy, effective liquidity management, fiscal consolidation, and increased foreign exchange inflows,” he stressed.


    The Bank of Ghana in late July projected that inflation was 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.


    According to a statement released by the Chairman of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, on July 30, 2025, macroeconomic conditions had significantly improved, inflation expectations were broadly anchored, external buffers were strengthened, and confidence in the economy was returning.


    “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 statement indicated.


    It further explained that the external sector outlook was positive, anchored on favourable commodity prices and improved remittance inflows, despite the resumption of external debt service.

    The statement added that the cedi has further strengthened against major trading currencies on the back of strong external sector performance and increased reserve accumulation.


    Meanwhile, the BoG cautioned that there are upside risks to the inflation outlook, including potential supply chain challenges from global trade tensions and upward adjustments in utility tariffs. This notwithstanding, the central bank maintained that the impact of these risks on inflation is expected to be offset by an appropriately tight monetary policy stance and continued fiscal consolidation.


    The IMF has projected a decrease in global inflation while predicting slower 2025 economic growth in the U.S. and other regions. The Bretton Woods institution attributed this anticipated improvement to the debt restructuring programme implemented by the previous government, noting its positive impact in placing the country on a path toward debt sustainability.


    During the IMF press briefing held on September 11 in Washington, D.C., Director of Communications Julie Kozack responded to a journalist’s question on Ghana’s debt sustainability and the impact of the restructuring agreement. She explained that Ghana’s “debt service indicators” have improved significantly because of the restructuring.


    According to her, this development provides the country with greater space to recover economically and channel resources into key investments. “The recent restructuring agreement has significantly improved debt service indicators for Ghana, and that has created more space for economic recovery and also much-needed investments in the economy,” she stated.


    Kozack added that IMF research indicates Ghana’s public debt will decline from 82% of GDP in 2022 to around 60% in 2025, describing the trend as a “fairly steep reduction” that demonstrates progress toward fiscal stability.

    “According to our latest assessment, public debt is expected to fall fairly sharply from 82% in 2022. We estimate or project that it will reach 60% of GDP in 2025. That is a fairly steep reduction in public debt and marks a significant step toward durably restoring fiscal sustainability,” she said.

  • TikToker sentenced to 7 months for threatening to kill President Mahama

    TikToker sentenced to 7 months for threatening to kill President Mahama

    The Accra Circuit Court has sentenced the Ghanaian TikToker, David Kwodow Prah Afful, who threatened to kill President John Dramani Mahama and other government officials, to seven months in prison.


    He pleaded guilty to charges of threat of death and offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace when he appeared before the court on Wednesday, September 17.


    The Ghana Police Service on Saturday, September 13, arrested David Kwodow Prah Afful, who is believed to be in his thirties, over accusations of inciting violence against public officials. This was announced on the Service’s Facebook page last Saturday, disclosing the name of the suspect as one David Kwadwo Prah Afful.

    According to the police, Prah Afful was captured in a viral video inciting violence against public officials.

    “The Ghana Police Service, through sustained intelligence operations, has today, 13th September 2025, arrested suspect David Kwadwo Prah Afful, who was seen in a viral video calling for violence against public officials and other government workers,” part of the post read.


    The police added that, “The suspect is in custody and will be put before court.” The Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, is also facing similar charges. Abronye has been charged with offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace.


    He made his first appearance in court on Tuesday, September 9. On September 12, Circuit Court Judge Samuel Bright Acquah remanded Abronye DC for the second time.


    During the court proceeding, the NPP Bono Chairman’s legal team requested bail after the presiding judge scheduled his next appearance for the next three days.


    However, the presiding judge at the Accra Circuit Court denied their request. Abronye will return to court on Friday, September 19. Ghana Police, in an official statement shared on their Twitter page, confirmed the NPP member’s arrest on Monday, September 8.


    “The Ghana Police Service has today, 08/09/25, arrested Mr. Kwame Baffoe @ Abronye for Offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace”, confirming he is in their custody awaiting arraignment before the Court.


    He arrived in handcuffs, escorted by police officers from a black police van known as “Black Maria, sparking bitter concerns among members of the opposition NPP, including the party’s National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha.

    The court denying him bail visibly did not sit well with some members of the opposition NPP, who appeared in court in solidarity with their member.


    During a media engagement, he complained bitterly about how the Chairman’s case of misdemeanour was being treated like a criminal case when it is a civil case.

    He said Abronye wasn’t a criminal to be transported in handcuffs and in a Black Maria, citing it as a waste of taxpayers’ money and time of concerned individuals.


    He warned the government against what he described as the mistreatment of NPP party members, stating that, “Power has an end, the tables will turn, and we will all have our revenge”.


    Criticising the Ghana Police for bias, he announced an upcoming protest against the law enforcement agency in the coming days, which he will lead.


    Also, the lawyer of the accused Daniel Martey Addo, the Managing Counsel at Nkrumah & Associates, while commending the adherence to legal proceedings following his client’s arraignment in court, he, however, stated that, “it appears that the prosecution would just want him to be remanded.


    For whatever reason, you gave us an invite, and the charges levelled against my client were just misdemeanors, and in law, you would know that there are categories of offences, and misdemeanor is the basic one that shouldn’t be should not be the reason an accused person should be remanded.”


    Meanwhile, the court has granted him bail in the sum of GH¢50,000 with one surety. Last month, the Ghana Police Service apprehended another suspect as part of its investigation into a viral TikTok video where the lives of President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama were threatened.


    Two suspects, Prince Ofori and Yayra Abiwu, were imprisoned and made to assist with the investigation, including Emmanuel Kwakye, who was the third suspect. The lives of the first family were threatened after the Adansi Akrofuom helicopter crash on August 6, which claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two Ministers of State.


    In one of the videos, Yayra Abiwu accused the president of having a hand in the crash and threatened to end his life before the end of the year. The Police Service reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens by rooting out criminal elements and preventing the proliferation of illegal arms.

    “We urge the public to continue providing credible information to assist us in these crucial operations. Further updates will be provided as investigations progress, strictly adhering to due process,” the Police noted in a statement.


    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) condemned such comments and distanced itself from such individuals. “The NPP would never wish death on anyone, not even a worst enemy. These kinds of remarks are unhealthy for our democracy. Death is something that not even your worst enemy would wish upon you.”


    “Some are claiming that the NPP is behind these events, while others have gone so far as to say they expected more people to have died. Such remarks are dangerous and must be condemned by all well-meaning Ghanaians,” General Secretary of the party, Justin Frimpong Kodua, said.


    In September 2017, Frank Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as Appiah Stadium under President Nana Akufo-Addo (NPP Government), was arrested for calling President Akufo-Addo a “wee smoker.” His arrest sparked national debate over free speech and political bias.


    Also in May 2023, under the NPP government, Raphael Okoe Ankrah, also known as Okoe Killer, was arrested and remanded for posting a video on social media in which he used highly offensive language against President Akufo-Addo. He was charged with offensive conduct conducive to breaches of the peace.
    “Nana Akufo-Addo, this is me, Oko the Killer… We dey hung, your Excellency, in 2024, you won’t get anything,”… he said.

  • Including private schools in Free SHS programme can’t end double track – Dr Adutwum

    Including private schools in Free SHS programme can’t end double track – Dr Adutwum

    Former Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, who served under the Akufo-Addo-led government, has opposed the current administration’s measure to include private schools under the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy.

    Addressing the media on Monday, September 16, Dr Adutwum, now flagbearer of the NPP, questioned how such an initiative can be achieved given the heavy demand for certain schools.


    “I don’t understand the logic. The issue is not about lack of space in schools generally, but lack of space in the most desirable schools. So if you don’t get this right, you will prescribe the wrong solution. I don’t think private schools are the answer to the double-track system.

    “Parents have a right to select the schools they want, and everybody wants Category A. If you don’t have Category A private schools, parents are going to have nothing to do with it,” he said.

    The Mahama-led government’s plan to include private schools under the FSHS forms part of a broader strategy to expand capacity and gradually end the double-track system.

    In May, Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Clement Apaak, during a meeting with stakeholders, explained: “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…”

    However, the former Education Minister argues that it is impossible for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to successfully roll out the policy, as it fails to address the real challenge.

    He believes that although the government’s intention is to reduce overcrowding in certain Senior High Schools, such an initiative would be a fiasco, since most students want to attend only the top-ranked schools.

    The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has criticized the government’s intentions to include private schools in the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, June 3, GNAT’s General Secretary, Thomas Musah, stressed that the proposed plans would place additional strain on public schools.

    He noted that the government must tread cautiously to prevent citing a lack of resources as a reason for discontinuing the programme.

    “We don’t want the situation where tomorrow the government will come and tell us that there are no resources to teach in the public schools, and so we are adding on to those that parents have to pay. Already we have been calling for parents who can pay fees to pay, or should be made to make some contributions.

    “We have not yet been able to get all these things done. So, to be adding on to the already existing burden will be serious, and I have some difficulty with it,” he stated.

    Sixty (60) private schools have already been featured under the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. Junior High School (JHS) graduates will be admitted into these private schools that fall in category E in the school selection process.

    These schools will be accepting applications starting from the 2025/2026 academic year. 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 has 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. 

    The double-track system was introduced in 2018 by the Akufo-Addo government to accommodate the surge in student enrollment following the launch of Free SHS, helping manage 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 Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, is a fulfillment of the government’s manifesto promise, aimed at ensuring 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.  The Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy was introduced in 2017 by the Akufo-Addo government to make secondary education accessible to all eligible students without financial barriers.

    The policy was aimed at helping students who struggled to pay tuition, boarding, and other school-related expenses. However, it came with challenges, including overcrowding, congestion in schools, pressure on infrastructure and facilities, and increased workloads for teachers.

    Since its launch, about 3.5 million students have benefited from the Free SHS programme. The immediate past government revealed that it had spent over GH¢12 billion on implementation since its inception.

  • Cedi to stabilise at GHS13.5 –14 by December – Prof Bokpin

    Cedi to stabilise at GHS13.5 –14 by December – Prof Bokpin

    Ghanaian economist, Professor Godfred Bokpin, has projected the local currency to stabilise between the range of GH₵13.5 and GH₵14 per U.S. dollar by December this year.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 16, he explained that the recent fluctuations of the value of the cedi are a natural market phenomenon influenced by supply and demand dynamics. 

    He noted that increased government spending will keep the currency under pressure, urging Ghanaians to remain positive and hold on to the country’s core economic strengths (like productivity, revenue generation, exports, etc., which determine long-term stability.

    He stated, “We have our peak period and then we have our low period as well. In the peak period, when we experience what we call cash flow mismatch in terms of inflows and then outflows…businesses would import in anticipation of Christmas and all of that. So the demand will pick up.”   

    Ghana cedi’s strong performance was a central theme highlighted by President John Mahama during an interaction with potential investors in Singapore and Japan weeks ago.

    President Mahama emphasised the robust performance of the local currency to underscore Ghana’s macroeconomic stability and attractiveness as a destination for foreign capital.

    However, the cedi’s brief gains were short-lived after its rapid depreciation made it the worst-performing currency. According to Bloomberg’s recent report released on Thursday, September 4, the Ghana cedi is the worst-performing currency among all trading currencies, attributing the depreciation to a surge in demand for dollars by companies paying for imports.

    “A surge in demand for dollars by companies paying for imports has ended the Ghana cedi’s recent strong performance,” Bloomberg said.Bloomberg attributed the new development to the “strong gold prices,” while emphasizing that Ghana’s cedi has seen more than a ten percent (10%) depreciation in the current quarter.

    This, Bloomberg noted, has erased the fifty percent gain against the dollar in April and June. According to Bloomberg, the cedi traded 0.1 per cent weaker at GH¢11.9507 per dollar at 1:50 a.m. Despite the losses, it has gained 23 per cent so far this year.

    “Now, the currency, which had ranked first globally on the back of strong gold prices, has weakened by 13 per cent in the current quarter. Bloomberg data showed this was the steepest fall worldwide, erasing part of the 50 per cent gain recorded between April and June,” the report said.

    But Bloomberg has indicated that “Despite the losses, it has gained 23 per cent so far this year based on market data.” Reacting to Bloomberg’s report, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) noted, “The cedi should be stable within a reasonable range,” the central bank said in an emailed response.

    “Our role is to ensure fluctuations remain orderly, that they reflect fundamentals, and that they do not undermine confidence in the broader economy.”

    Bloomberg, in April this year, ranked the cedi as the best-performing currency with a sixteen percent (16%) gain against the dollar. What made the cedi earn the tag as the worst-performing currency is the steepest decline on the global level.

    The cedi’s appreciation in the last eight months helped ease inflationary pressures, pushing consumer inflation down to 21.2 per cent, the lowest in eight months at the time.

    Ghana’s import-dependent economy brings in a wide range of goods, from food to machinery, with demand typically rising toward the end of the year as businesses prepare for the Christmas season.

    The higher demand for dollars has piled pressure on the cedi, while the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) limited supply of foreign exchange has added to the strain.

    Head of Market-Risk Management at UMB Bank, Mr. Hamza Adam, said banks that submitted dollar requests on behalf of clients to the Bank of Ghana last week received only half of what they asked for. “This week the central bank is trying to meet all demand,” he said by phone from Accra on September 3, 2025.

    Meanwhile, before Bloomberg reported on the cedi, BoG addressed the concerns of Ghanaians concerning the fast depreciation of the cedi, calling for calm. Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr. Johnson Asiama, during an interview with Joy Business, which was aired on Wednesday, August 27, mentioned that the current depreciation of the cedi was temporary, assuring a comeback soon.

    “The Bank of Ghana operates a managed floating system in terms of framework; therefore, these blips will happen. But the assurance is that this is a short-term issue, and the challenges are being addressed,” he assured.

    According to data from the Bank of Ghana, which was shared on 23rd August, the Ghana cedi had seen a five percent (5%) depreciation. Between August 23 and August 28, the Ghanaian cedi depreciated from GH¢10.43 to around GH¢11.00 per US dollar.

    The sharpest movement was between August 23 and 24, where the cedi depreciated from GH¢10.43 to GH¢10.90. The dollar was selling at GH¢10.43 on August 23, GH¢10.90 on August 24, and between August 25–27, it staggered between GH¢10.85–11.00.

    As of August 28, it had crossed GH¢11, sparking major concerns. On Dr. Johnson Asiama’s part, the current depreciation is a result of the temporary shortage of foreign exchange supply in the market, resulting from the effects of the currency appreciation coupled with other phenomena that, “…we are beginning to see those phenomena at play. Imports become a lot cheaper, so it’s just natural to begin to see pressure build up on the currency.”

    He said there is no need for panic as the economic indicators are obviously strong, giving signs of a cedi recovery soon enough. Dr. Asiama attributed the depreciating cedi to the decline in remittance inflows, sharp appreciation of the cedi, and limited interbank trading.

    “…what is happening is just because of the sharp appreciation, we are beginning to have some cash flow problems, specifically because we have seen some decline in terms of remittance inflows. Also, imports become a lot cheaper, so it’s just natural to begin to see pressure build up on the currency. Over the last two months, we have also seen very limited interbank trading,” he stated.

    The Ghana cedi saw a remarkable appreciation against major trading currencies worldwide over the past six months. During the presentation of the 2025 Mid-Year Fiscal Policy Review on July 24, the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, revealed that the cedi has recorded a remarkable turnaround in the first six months of 2025, appreciating by 42.6% against the US dollar.Dr. Forson described the cedi’s performance as “impressive” and the first of its kind in the history of Ghana’s economy. The cedi, which was initially always experiencing depreciation, is currently showing resilience against the dollar.

    He noted that the cedi, which was previously trading at about GH¢17.0 to the US dollar, had strengthened to GH¢10.4 as of July 23.

    “Mr. Speaker, the cedi’s performance in the first half of this year has been impressive! The Ghana cedi experienced significant appreciation against all major trading currencies in the first six months of 2025. I am happy to inform the House that our precious cedi, which once upon a time was trading at about GH¢17.0 to the US dollar, was trading at about GH¢10.4 as of yesterday, 23rd July, 2025,” he revealed.

    In high spirits, the minister adopted the catchphrase from Ghanaian highlife musician King Paluta’s energetic party anthem “For the Popping (Apicki),” released on December 27, 2024, and said, “This level of appreciation of the Ghana cedi has never happened in the history of our nation. Ghanafo, cedi no apicki! Apicki apicki apicki!”

    He continued that the strength of the cedi has not appreciated against just the US dollar but against the British pound as well. The cedi also gained 30.3% against the British pound and 25.6% against the euro during the same period.

    This marks a sharp contrast to the same period in 2024, when the cedi depreciated by 18.6% against the dollar, 17.9% against the pound, and 16.0% against the euro.

    “Similarly, the cedi, which was once trading at GH¢21.0 to the Great British Pound, was trading at about GH¢14.1 as of yesterday, 23rd July. Mr. Speaker, as of the end of June 2025, the cedi appreciated by 42.6% against the US dollar, 30.3% against the British pound, and 25.6% against the euro.

    With these gains over the past few months, Dr. Cassiel stated that all the losses in the previous years had been reversed. “Mr. Speaker, I repeat, so far, we have almost reversed all the cedi depreciation in 2022, 2023, and 2024,” he mentioned.

  • Soldiers to guard 44 galamsey hotspots, waterbodies – Felix Kwakye

    Soldiers to guard 44 galamsey hotspots, waterbodies – Felix Kwakye

    The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications and MP for Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has announced the government’s new strategy as part of efforts to eradicate illegal mining, also known as galamsey, in the country.


    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 16, Felix Kwakye Ofosu said the government will, in the coming days, the government will deploy soldiers to permanently guard 44 galamsey hotspots, including waterbodies.

    “All the 44 areas that are threatened by galamsey, there is going to be a permanent military presence,” he added.

    The government’s recent move is a response to mounting calls for the declaration of a state of emergency on galamsey.

    Meanwhile, the FixTheCountry movement will embark on vigil and march sessions on Sunday, September 21, and Monday, September 22, respectively, at Revolution Square in Accra, in response to illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, in the country.

    This information was disclosed by the group’s convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, September 15.“On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis,” he wrote.

    In his post he stressed that the solution to end the menace requires collective efforts, hence, he called on all and sundry to participate in the upcoming protest.

    “The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics,” he emphasised.

    Illegal mining activities continue to retrogress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results.

    Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards. The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.

    Govt’s efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities

    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.

    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.

    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.

    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement.

    Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago, where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.

    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 will 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 fell 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 have been 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 like 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 with leading 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 better oversight.

    The move is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion.

    Crack down 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 include 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 include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.

    Prosecution began for the arrested suspects. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.

    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025.Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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. The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.

    This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.

    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).

    The others are 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.

  • MASLOC gives loan defaulters until September 30 to settle their debts

    MASLOC gives loan defaulters until September 30 to settle their debts

    The Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) has directed all loan defaulters to settle their debts by Tuesday, September 30, else face strict sanctions. This information was revealed by the management of MASLOC on Monday, September 15, 2025, in a press release.


    It stressed, “Beneficiaries are cautioned that MASLOC funds are public resources intended to support the growth of small businesses across Ghana. Abuse or neglect of repayment obligations undermines this national effort and will be met with firm corrective measures”.

    MASLOC is an apex body responsible for implementing the Government of Ghana’s microfinance programmes targeted at reducing poverty. It was established in 2006 to grant loans to start-ups and small businesses to help them grow and expand as part of its core functions.

    Recently a collaboration between the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) and the National Security operatives have resulted in the seizure of three out of five government vehicles which were in possession of the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.


    This information was disclosed by the Deputy Women Organizer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abigail Elorm Mensah who also doubles as the CEO of MASLOC on Wednesday, September 10.


    Speaking to Citi News, the retrieval of vehicles from Wontumi is in line with a broader initiative to recover government loans and vehicles from defaulters.


    She noted that Chairman Wontumi adds up to one of the many individuals who receive loans and vehicles from the institutions but have refused to fulfill the terms of the agreement.


    According to the CEO of MASLOC, her outfit is working tirelessly to ensure Chairman Wontumi returns the two other government-owned cars.


    “I have gone with National Security operatives to the house of the Chairman of the NPP in Ashanti Region, Chairman Wontumi. Three cars. In fact, the cars were five. We’ve retrieved three. I have collected all from his house. We are still chasing him for the two.


    “He has to pay for them. What we do is that once I seize the cars, the agreement we have with you is that you would have to repay whatever has accrued, and we release the cars to you,” she said.


    The CEO of MASLOC mentioned that, “Between February and now, I have recovered roughly about GHS8 million, but that is not even up to 10% of what is in debt. We have in debt over GHS430m”.

    In the meantime, three radio stations owned by Chairman Wontumi and six others have been directed by the National Communications Authority (NCA) to halt operations.
    Their suspension was enforced under Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), which prevents the operation without a valid Certificate of Compliance.


    In a press release by the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Authority explained that the affected radio stations, 95.9 FM in Accra, 101.3 FM in Kumasi, and 101.3 FM in Takoradi under the Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited, breached broadcasting regulations.


    According to the Authority, it served a 30-day grace period to the affected radio stations following an order by President John Dramani Mahama; however, the stations failed to adhere to the directive.


    “The National Communications Authority (NCA) has suspended the operations of nine (9) radio stations for various infractions. This action follows the expiration of the 30-day grace period granted by the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for defaulting stations to remedy the violation of the laws and regulations governing FM radio broadcasting in Ghana.


    “Six (6) stations failed, refused, and neglected to comply with the regulatory amnesty by taking no action. Consequently, the operations of the following stations have been suspended; Donplus Multimedia Limited; Dreams Ghana Media Limited, Jam Multimedia Limited, Jewel Group Limited, Unique Gateway Communication Limited and Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited.


    “Whereas many of the violating stations took steps to remedy breaches during the amnesty period, three (3) stations failed to remedy some of the breaches including unauthorised use of Studio-to-Transmitter Link (STL) frequencies and unapproved transmitter locations. Consequently, the operations of the following stations have been suspended for operating without a Certificate of Compliance in violation of Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011, L.I. 1991,” parts of the release read.


    Meanwhile, six other radio stations have been shut down in the same regard. The Authority has assured the general public that it remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector.


    The NCA warned that failure to comply with its recent directive shall constitute an affront to the prescribed conditions for FM broadcasting with grave consequences for their authorizations.
    On the other hand, in a letter dated August 12, Wontumi Multimedia insisted that it has met all regulatory requirements.

    According to Wontumi Multimedia, “We settled the outstanding regulatory and spectrum fees amounting to Twenty Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Thirty Ghana Cedis (GHC 22,330.00).


    “We invited the NCA for another inspection, which we facilitated as per the stipulated timeline. Given that all the issues highlighted in your previous letters have been addressed, we are currently working with our legal representatives to ensure that all matters related to our operations are handled appropriately.


    Earlier this month, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George revealed that a majority of the radio stations that were provided amnesty to meet regulatory requirements after being shut down have begun regularizing their paperwork.


    Providing an update to the public as part of the Government Accountability Series on August 1, the minister revealed that 58 out of the 64 radio stations are correcting their wrongs.


    “About five weeks ago, the ministry issued a directive to the NCA to shut down 64 radio stations. The President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama intervened and requested amnesty, which we granted—a 30-day amnesty.


    Of the 64 radio stations, 58 of them have written to the NCA and started the process of regularising their paperwork,” he said. He, however, noted that the 64 stations were just the first batch of the radio stations that were not complying with the laws.


    “However, you’d recall that I indicated that the total number of radio stations in default was 210. The 64 was just not one phase. We expect that the public sensitization with the first batch of 64 would have compelled the others to have taken steps to rectify their anomaly.”


    As such, the sector minister noted that “for all those who have failed to take any step, there will be no further public announcement on it. There will be simply enforcement in order to protect the public resource.”


    President John Dramani Mahama in June directed the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation to liaise with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately restore the broadcast of sixty-four (64) radio stations affected by the regulator’s action.


    The National Communications Authority (NCA) ordered a total of 62 FM broadcasting stations to immediately suspend operations on their respective frequencies due to persistent violations of regulatory requirements.


    The non-compliant stations violated Regulations 54 and 56 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991) and the Conditions of their FM Broadcasting Authorisations. In a statement by the Presidency on June 12, it was revealed that President Mahama thinks that regulatory compliance must take into account the need to uphold and enhance media freedom.


    Per the statement, “requiring radio stations to shut down while awaiting the regularisation of their authorisation could limit the space for expressing such freedoms.”


    The President thus requested the sector minister to work with the NCA on a reasonable timeframe within which the affected stations should regularise their authorisation. The Ministry for Communications complied with the directive.


    Founder of Asaase Radio, Mr Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, confirmed the suspended operations of his radio station. In a post on X, Mr Otchere-Darko revealed that his uniform was supposed to renew its licence in October last year, but only did so in December. Asaase Radio was set to commemorate its 5th anniversary on Saturday, June 14.


    “Yes, it’s true. Asaase Radio 99.5, which celebrates its 5th anniversary Saturday, has been shut down. The General Manager informs me it’s because the station was delayed in renewing its licence last year. It was to be renewed by October, but only done in December 2024,” Gabby Otchere-Darko wrote on X.


    In response, the Communications Minister, Sam Nartey George, entreated Mr Otchere-Darko to take advantage of the 30-day clemency the President has given and act according to what the law states. “The action by the NCA is in conformance with the law. We all must respect the laws and act accordingly.

    Those affected are advised to take advantage of the 30-day clemency the President has given. For God and Country.” Per a statement issued by NCA, its action followed a directive issued by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, mandating the authority to enforce applicable sanctions on stations found to violate the regulations in the recent audit conducted to ensure full compliance with licensing and operational requirements in the broadcasting sector.


    The NCA thus commenced enforcement of regulatory sanctions against the defaulting entities identified in the Frequency Audit Report in phases. The categorisation of infractions under the first phase includes 28 stations operating with expired authorizations.


    Some of these stations were ordered by the NCA in 2024 to cease broadcasting, but have persisted in the illegality. This represents a violation of Section 2 (4) of the Electronic Communications Act. 2008 (Act 775).


    Also, 14 FM stations that were issued Notices of Revocation for failure to set up within two (2) years from the date of their Authorizations subsequently requested inspection, but the process has not been completed due to various lapses they have to rectify; they are still on air.

    These stations violate Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011. LI. 1991. Thirteen (13) FM stations that applied for authorization to continue operating and have been issued provisional authorization, but have not settled the provisional authorization fees in full, and hence do not have the valid authorization to continue operating.


    This represents a violation of Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). The NCA noted that it acknowledges the vital role radio stations play in national development; however, it is imperative that all authorization holders strictly adhere to the regulatory requirements and conditions of their authorizations.


    The Authority assured the general public that it remains dedicated to maintaining order in the broadcasting sector.
    In February this year, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, ordered the closure of seven radio stations across the country for failing to comply with broadcasting regulations and national security requirements.


    Fire Group of Companies, I-Zar Consult Limited, Abochannel Media Group, Okyeame Radio Limited, Mumen Bono Foundation, and Osikani Community FM were operating without valid frequency authorizations, while one, Gumah FM in Bawku, was closed on security grounds.


    Announcing the decision in a Facebook post on Tuesday, February 18, the minister emphasized the need for strict enforcement of media regulations to ensure responsible broadcasting.


    The move sparked discussions on media freedom and regulation, with some welcoming the enforcement of broadcasting standards, while others questioned the potential impact on press freedom.


    The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) highlighted the unconstitutionality of shutting down the radio stations without consulting major stakeholders such as the independent National Media Commission (NMC).

    The Minority in Parliament then demanded that the Minister must appear before the House to provide clarity over the matter, but the Majority objected.

  • GoldBod places GHS1m bounty on 4 wanted gold smugglers

    GoldBod places GHS1m bounty on 4 wanted gold smugglers

    The Police and the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) have announced a GHS1 million cash reward to persons who will aid in the arrest of four individuals suspected of smuggling gold.

    The wanted individuals include Abdul Karim, Sadique Abubakar, Muhammed Afsal Puth Puthalan, and Muhammed Nandoli Rafeeq.

    Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, September 16, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board disclosed that these suspects add up to seven individuals who are involved in illegal gold smuggling activities.

    According to him, three of the seven suspects;  Mr. Nkroma, Razak, and Arim Yao  are currently in the custody of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) following their arrests. However, the four continue to remain at large.

     “We have an arrest warrant for all of them; they are wanted by the police and the GoldBod. If you have any information about them, you can report to the nearest police station or the GoldBod head office. We have a bounty of GHC1 million on each of them,” he said.

    Revealing how their operations were uncovered, Mr. Sammy Gyamfi indicated that the group, which includes foreign partners, was being aided by licensed GOLDBOD traders to smuggle gold out of the country. He added that his outfit monitored the group for weeks after receiving a tip off.

    According to GoldBod’s CEO, a vehicle transporting gold from Tarkwa was intercepted at Winneba Junction on Wednesday, August 27, following intelligence received on Tuesday, August 26. The vehicle was being operated by a Guinean courier. 

     In response, the Guinean courier, Abdul Razak was arrested after authorities retrieved three packs of gold weighing a net 8.5 kilogrammes with a purity of 92.5 per cent. He noted that at the time, the seized gold was worth more than GH¢10.2 million.

    Sammy Gyamfi noted that Razak ventured into the illegal business through his cousin Abdul Karim and receives GH¢500 per trip. He revealed that in recent months, Razak had made about four trips to Tarkwa. As indicated by Sammy Gyamfi, the seized goldwas supplied by NK Benak Enterprise, owned by Bernard Nkroma, a licensed GoldBod trader.

    Sammy Gyamfi named the mastermind and sponsor of this whole gold smuggling syndicate a the shareholder of the company by name Rafik Mohammed Nandoli (Ramfoh) also known as Salam. He stated that between June and August 2025 Rafmoh, though not licensed by GoldBod, had bought no less than 100 kilogrammes of gold at more than GH¢120 million.

    “The shareholder of the company by name Rafik Mohammed Nandoli, Rafmoh for short, who is also called Salam, is the mastermind and sponsor of this whole gold smuggling syndicate we’ve been tracking for a couple of months now,” Mr Gyamfi said.

    As efforts to combating gold smuggling, the GoldBod have offered a special temporary bonus scheme to miners operating under valid mining license. 

    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.

  • Fatal accident at Wakrom Junction leaves 5 dead, 12 injured

    Fatal accident at Wakrom Junction leaves 5 dead, 12 injured

    A fatal accident at Wakrom Junction near Yamoransa on the Cape Coast–Accra Highway has killed five people and left twelve others injured. One critically injured victim is currently receiving treatment.

    The unfortunate incident occurred on Monday, September 15, after a DAF truck loaded with 700 bags of rice, registration number AW 9548-13, collided with a Toyota Hiace passenger vehicle, registration number GC 9728-21.

    A rescue team from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) at the Central Regional Headquarters arrived promptly at the scene to assist the accident victims.

    Ghana has recorded a series of road accidents this year. In just the past few weeks, an accident at Bechem in the Bono Region has claimed the lives of two individuals, including a church leader of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church.


    The fatal crash, which occurred on Sunday, August 10, left several others sustaining injuries, including children. According to reports, the victims who were close to Aburaso were coming from a camp meeting they attended in Kumasi. Reportedly, the trye of the bus carrying the individuals had a fracture, leading to a burst, hence, causing the vehicle to somersault.


    On Monday, July 28, a 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. Days after, an accident at Asamankese in the Eastern Region on Wednesday, August 6, reportedly claimed the life of an individual. Officials have yet to confirm any casualties.


    The unfortunate incident occurred after a tipper truck veered off its road, crashing into shops around the Dukes Filling Station. According to sources, many other individuals sustained injuries. Reports have it that the tipper 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.


    Following the incident, it is said that emergency services went to the scene to rescue individuals who were trapped. Medical assistance was also provided, according to reports. Per reports, the Police Service has commenced investigations into the accident, with the driver of the tipper truck providing assistance.


    Local officials have reportedly given assurance of aiding the victims of the accident. The deceased were reportedly returning from the church’s annual programme in the Eastern Region.


    Their deaths were confirmed after their bus crashed with an oncoming fuel tanker. All 16 victims were laid to rest in a single large grave on Thursday, July 31, by the Obogu community and church leadership.


    Ghana has reported a surge in the number of fatalities recorded due to road crashes. In the first half of 2025, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported one thousand, five hundred and four (1,504) deaths, compared to one thousand, two hundred and thirty-seven (1,237) fatalities reported in the corresponding period in 2024, representing a 21.58 percent increase.


    According to provisional data released by the National Road Safety Authority 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.


    Per the data, a total of twelve thousand, three hundred and fifty-four (12,354) vehicles were involved in the road crashes. Owing to the road accidents, a total number of eight thousand, three hundred (8,300) individuals sustained injuries.


    Also, one thousand, three hundred and one (1,301) pedestrians were knocked down across the country. According to the recent data provided by the National Road Safety Authority, on average, eight (8) lives are lost every day due to road crashes.

    Each day, forty (40) road crashes are recorded, and forty-six (46) individuals sustain injuries. Daily, sixty-nine (69) vehicles and motorcycles are involved in road crashes. To aid in combating road crashes, the National Road Safety Authority has called for stern enforcement of traffic regulations and public education.


    The NRSA has called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and increased public education to help curb the rising number of road accidents across the country.


    The Road Traffic Act 2004, an Act to consolidate and revise the Road Traffic Ordinance, 1952 (No. 55), provides for a more comprehensive regulation of road traffic and road use, to ensure safety on the roads and to provide for related matters.


    A person who drives a motor vehicle dangerously on a road commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction, (a) where (i) a bodily injury does not occur, or (ii) a minor bodily injury does occur, to a person, other than the driver, to a fine not less than one hundred penalty units and not exceeding two hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding nine months or to both the fine and imprisonment.


    (b) Where bodily injury of an aggravated nature occurs to a person, other than the driver, to a minimum fine of two hundred penalty units and not exceeding five hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than twelve months and not exceeding two years or to both the fine and the imprisonment; or (c) where death occurs, to a term of imprisonment for a term of not less than three years.


    (d) Where there is damage to state property, to a fine of not less than one hundred penalty units and payment for the damage caused in an amount determined by the Court.


    The Court may, on the conviction of a person under subsection (1), (a) order the payment of appropriate compensation to an injured person or to the estate of that person, or (b) order the withdrawal of the licence for a period of not less than three years and not more than five years.


    A person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding five years or to both the fine and the imprisonment.


    A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, that person, (a) causes anything to be on or over a road, (b) interferes with a motor vehicle, trailer or cycle, or (c) interferes, directly or indirectly, with traffic equipment, where that it would be obvious to a reasonable person that to do so would be dangerous.


    A person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding twelve months or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

  • More than 161k passports printed, 122k delivered so far – Ablakwa

    More than 161k passports printed, 122k delivered so far – Ablakwa

    Over 161,824 chip-embedded passports have been printed since the introduction of the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s new system, the sector minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed.


    Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, September 15, Mr. Ablakwa indicated that as of September 10, the Ministry had delivered 122,895 of these to applicants.


    “These passports incorporate over 175 advanced security features, compared to 32 in the previous version, and fully meet International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. This has greatly enhanced the global credibility and security of Ghanaian travel documents,” he added.

    He noted that the new development marks significant progress in the country’s passport reform agenda. The reform initiatives surrounding the new passports also include 24-hour operations, e-tracking, and reduced application fees, all aimed at improving the overall experience for applicants.


    The ministry has emphasized that the passport overhaul is an integral component of a comprehensive initiative aimed at modernizing the system, eliminating intermediaries, and ensuring a more transparent and user-centric application process.


    In addition, the rollout will include several reforms throughout 2025, such as 24/7 passport processing, courier delivery to both home and office addresses, electronic application tracking, and a 30% reduction in processing fees.


    As an upgrade to the current biometric passport, the new chip-embedded passport also boasts an improved design that reflects Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. The passport design incorporates Adinkra symbols such as “Fawohodie” (Freedom and Independence) and “Funtunfunefu Denkyemfunefu” (Democracy and Cooperation).


    The new chip-embedded passport, which was rolled out on April 28, represents a major shift from the outgoing biometric system and brings Ghana in line with international travel standards. The updated document contains 175 security features and is embedded with nanotechnology to safeguard against fraud and damage.

    It also includes a compressed polymer-based biographical data page, which users are advised to handle carefully. Ghanaians still holding valid biometric passports can continue using them until 2030 in line with regulations set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), though they may opt to upgrade to the new version at any time.


    Biometric Travel Solutions spearheaded the development of the new passport platform, with Troskit and Ghana Post leading courier services under a 24-hour operational model. In May, the minister announced that a total of 31,935 passports had been printed.

    As of the time, a total of 8,463 Ghanaians had received their new chip-embedded passports across the country. During that period, Mr Ablakwa saw to the first round of delivery of Ghana’s new chip-embedded passport. The minister joined Ghana Post on 9th May to personally hand over passports to clients at the addresses they provided.


    Applicants facing address challenges will be able to retrieve their passports from designated Ghana Post offices at no extra cost. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured that Ghana Post will continue to ensure the timely delivery of passports across the country. Delivery packages have been designed with tamper-evident sealing to guarantee document integrity.


    Meanwhile, Director of the Accra Passport Office, Felix Nyarku, has expressed concerns over the inconsistencies in applicants’ identification documents, highlighting mismatches between names on Ghana Cards and birth certificates.


    During a visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Foreign Affairs last week, Mr Nyarku noted that this often delays the processing of chip-embedded passports.

    What not to do


    The new passport contains a biographical data-page composed of layers of polymer compressed into a solid substrate that must not be bent or kept in the pocket, especially the back pockets.
    It must be protected from heat and all forms of liquid.

    Holders are advised not to store other cards with chips embedded in them inside the passport, as it may interfere with encoded information on the RFID. inside the passport.
    Avoid attempting to split the biographical data page. This will permanently damage the passport.

    Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has debunked reports that it is responsible for the United States government’s revision of the reciprocity schedule for a considerable number of African countries, including Ghana, reducing the B1/B2 visa validity from 5 years multiple entry to 3 months single entry.

    Ghanaian visa applicants can no longer access the 5-year visa and multiple-entry.

    It was reported that the Foreign Ministry had also limited the number of entries and duration given to US passport holders, hence the reciprocity by the US government.

    However, in a statement, the Ministry refuted this claim, noting that consistent with bilateral arrangements, US passport holders are entitled to a maximum visa validity of five years, and in most instances, five-year multiple-entry visas are issued upon request.

    “Some applicants, however, apply for single-entry visas owing largely to limited validity of their passports,” the statement read.

    Besides the maximum five-year multiple visas, Ghana also issues multiple-entry 6-month, one-year, two-year, three-year, and four-year visas based on various considerations.

    From January 2025 to date, 40,648 visas have been issued by Ghana’s missions in Washington, D.C., and New York. Out of this, 28,626 are multiple-entry visas to Ghana.

    The statement further indicated that “The official statistics clearly demonstrate that contrary to false narratives, Ghana has issued, on average, an impressive 70.42% of multiple long-term visas to US passport holders, consistent with our bilateral arrangements.”

    The Foreign Ministry noted that the present limitations imposed by the United States vary substantially from the prior reciprocal arrangements that Ghana has kept with the United States.

    The US’ decision has sparked concerns, and the Ministry has acknowledged the legitimate concerns of Ghanaian travellers to the United States for professional, business, educational, touristic, medical and family purposes inconvenienced.

    The Ministry has expressed its firm solidarity with all thoseGhana recognizes the sovereign right of every country to determine its visa regime.

    While the Government of Ghana studies the current developments more closely and considers its options, it remains committed to working expeditiously with its longstanding partner, the US Government.

    “We hope for an early resolution of the concerns that have led to the revision of the schedule which have been confirmed to be overstays, including by ensuring that the conduct of applicants align with the visa application procedures and requirements of the United States,” the statement added.

    Government has stated that it will, at its highest levels, sustain best efforts in strengthening relations with the United States in a manner that further enhances people-to-people relations in the mutual interest of both countries.

    The updated guidelines, published under the U.S. Visa, reveal that Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country for Ghana also affect student visa applicants.

    F-1 visa holders, who are typically enrolled in full-time academic programmes in the U.S., will now be issued visas that allow for only one entry and expire after three months.

    Diplomats and government officials will, however, continue to receive multiple-entry visas with validity ranging from 24 to 60 months.

    The K1 visa, issued to the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a US citizen intending to marry within 90 days of arrival in the United States, and the K2 visa, provided to the unmarried dependent child (under 21 years old) of a K1 visa holder, are single-entry visas that will be valid for 6 months.

    The K3 visa, for the foreign-citizen spouse of a US citizen, and the K4 visa, for their unmarried dependent child (under 21 years old), are multiple-entry visas that will be valid for 24 months.

    All other visa applicants, including those applying for B-class visas, which cover business and tourism travel, will now be issued single-entry visas valid for just three months.

  • Court approves GHS50k bail for Abronye

    Court approves GHS50k bail for Abronye

    The court has granted bail in the sum of GH¢50,000 with one surety to the Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC.


    This was revealed by his lead counsel, Daniel Mantey Addo, on Monday, September 15.


    According to Citi News’ report, his lead counsel noted that the recent development brings relief, given that Abronye’s health is deteriorating.


    Abronye has been charged with offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace. Abronye’s legal team is currently working to meet the bail conditions to secure his immediate release.


    He made his first appearance in court on Tuesday, September 9. On September 12, Circuit Court Judge Samuel Bright Acquah remanded Abronye DC for the second time.


    During the court proceeding, the NPP Bono Chairman’s legal team requested bail after the presiding judge scheduled his next appearance for the next three days.


    However, the presiding judge at the Accra Circuit Court denied their request. Abronye will return to court on Friday, September 19. Ghana Police, in an official statement shared on their Twitter page, confirmed the NPP member’s arrest on Monday, September 8.


    “The Ghana Police Service has today, 08/09/25, arrested Mr. Kwame Baffoe @ Abronye for Offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace”, confirming he is in their custody awaiting arraignment before the Court.

    He arrived in handcuffs, escorted by police officers from a black police van known as “Black Maria, sparking bitter concerns among members of the opposition NPP, including the party’s National Youth Organiser, Salam Mustapha.
    The court denying him bail visibly did not sit well with some members of the opposition NPP, who appeared in court in solidarity with their member.

    During a media engagement, he complained bitterly about how the Chairman’s case of misdemeanour was being treated like a criminal case when it is a civil case. He said Abronye wasn’t a criminal to be transported in handcuffs and in a Black Maria, citing it as a waste of taxpayers’ money and time of concerned individuals.

    He warned the government against what he described as the mistreatment of NPP party members, stating that, “Power has an end, the tables will turn, and we will all have our revenge”.

    Criticising the Ghana Police for bias, he announced an upcoming protest against the law enforcement agency in the coming days, which he will lead.

    Also, the lawyer of the accused Daniel Martey Addo, the Managing Counsel at Nkrumah & Associates, while commending the adherence to legal proceedings following his client’s arraignment in court, he, however, stated that, “it appears that the prosecution would just want him to be remanded.

    For whatever reason you gave us an invite, and the charges levelled against my client were just misdemeanors, and in law, you would know that there are categories of offences, and misdemeanor is the basic one that shouldn’t be should not be the reason an accused person should be remanded.”

    Armed police officers stormed the residence of former NPP Youth Organiser, Moses Abor, in search of Abronye on Sunday, September 8.
    Weeks ago, 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 protection for 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 the presidency in the 2024 general elections.

    Before the election, Akpaloo expressed strong confidence in his chances for a decisive win, predicting victory over major contenders.
    However, he obtained 5,219, which is 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 molding 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 characterized 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, modernization, 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, and 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 embassy in Iran will resume operations on Tuesday – Ablakwa

    Ghana’s embassy in Iran will resume operations on Tuesday – Ablakwa

    Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that Ghana’s embassy in Iran will resume its operations tomorrow, Tuesday, September 16.

    Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, September 15, Mr Ablakwa indicated that all measures have been put in place to ensure the successful operations of the embassy.“I can announce that after three months of closure of our embassy in Iran, we shall fully reopen tomorrow, the 16th of September 2025.

    Measures have been put in place to guarantee the safety of our diplomatic staff,” the Minister stated.

    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, Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to end government funding for expensive rent at its diplomatic missions abroad. He explained that the move will save the country $15 million every year.


    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.


    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) 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, and 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.

  • Ghana gains nothing from U.S. deportee deal – Ablakwa

    Ghana’s agreement with the United States to accept some West African deportees is not for financial or material benefit, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has clarified. 

    Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Monday, September 15, he emphasised that the government’s decision to support the deal was grounded purely on humanitarian grounds and principle.

    “It is important to state that Ghana has not received any money, compensation or any material benefit in relation to this understanding. Our decision is grounded purely on humanitarian grounds and principle,” he said.

    The clarification is a response to claims that the government has ulterior motives in its agreement with the United States won the deportee arrangement.

    Among the critics are the Minority in Parliament, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has questioned the legality of the deal, citing Article 75 of Ghana’s Constitution.

    The article dictates that international agreements, as such, should be approved by Parliament. Opposition MPs argue that Mahama’s deal with the U.S. was never ratified and is therefore unlawful.

    They cite previous Supreme Court rulings, like the one involving the Gitmo 2 detainees, as precedent for why executive-only deals are unconstitutional.“The deal should have been brought to Parliament. It’s the same President Mahama who entered into a deal for the relocation of the Gitmo 2 to Ghana. What’s in it for our beloved country, Ghana?,” wrote Charles Owiredu, NPP MP for Abirem.

    The opposition slammed Mahama for hiding behind the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) protocol on free movement, calling it a misleading move. Those protocols apply to voluntary travel, not forced deportations orchestrated by non-member states like the U.S.

    “Accepting forced deportations orchestrated by non-ECOWAS states contradicts the spirit of regional integration protocols designed for voluntary movement,” stated the Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

    President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, revealed during a media encounter held on Wednesday, September 10, at 8:00 PM at the Jubilee House, that the first West African nationals have arrived in Ghana following their deportation from the USA.

    The batch consisted of 14 individuals, mostly Nigerians, along with one Gambian national.

    “We were approached by the US to accept third-country nationals who were being removed, and we agreed that West African nationals could be accommodated, since all our fellow West Africans do not require a visa to enter Ghana. So, if they travel from the US to Accra, entry is not an issue. Bringing our West African colleagues back is therefore acceptable,” President Mahama explained.

    While President Mahama didn’t explicitly detail the deal of being a purported transit hub for the West African national sent from the US, the judge, until Trump’s government submits its report, suspects complicity on the part of the Ghanaian government in the full deportation process.

    Meanwhile, A federal judge, Tanya Chutkan, has questioned the Trump-led administration over its decision to deport West African nationals to Ghana instead of sending them straight to their home countries, describing the move as an apparent attempt to circumvent U.S. immigration laws.

    These laws say the U.S. government cannot deport or return a person to a country where they are likely to be tortured or persecuted.

    Her remarks come after the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, revealed during a media encounter held on Wednesday, September 10, at 8:00 PM at the Jubilee House, that the first West African nationals have arrived in Ghana following their deportation from the USA.

    Judge Tanya Chutkan granted an emergency hearing after lawyers of the deportees contended that their clients, expected to be returned to their home countries, Nigeria and Gambia, feared they would be tortured or persecuted.

    For clarity, Chutkan instructed Donald Trump’s administration to submit a report by 9 p.m. on Saturday, detailing what efforts they are taking to prevent Ghana from sending the deportees back to their home countries.

    She explained that concerns about their safety in their home countries were not speculations or claims but real enough “that the United States government agrees they shouldn’t be sent back to their home country.”

    According to her, the arrangement appeared to have been designed by U.S. officials “to make an end run” around legal requirements that bar the government from sending migrants back to situations of danger.

    The controversial deportations form part of President Donald Trump’s strategy of relocating migrants to “third countries” to expedite removals and pressure undocumented immigrants to leave the U.S.

    The deportation of the West African Nationals and their conditionsIt emerged after a lawsuit filed on Friday, September 12, by the counsel of the migrants, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Asian Americans Advancing Justice that five of the nationals deported from the US to Ghana had U.S. legal protections preventing deportation to their home countries over fear of danger or persecution. One of them, a bisexual man, has already been sent to Gambia and is reportedly in hiding.

    The others were held in an open-air facility managed by the Ghanaian military, described as having squalid conditions.

    The said migrants, according to claims, were taken from a Louisiana detention facility, shackled, and flown on a U.S. military aircraft without being told their destination. The complaint further alleges that some were restrained in straitjackets for 16 hours.

    Trump’s government responds to the Judge’s request for clarity in the deportation case

    The U.S. Department of Justice, in response to the judge’s request, stated that it no longer had custody of the migrants, challenging the court’s authority to interfere in diplomacy, citing a Supreme Court ruling that approves their deportations to third countries.

    U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin, however, rejected claims that straitjackets were used during the flight, refusing to comment on the allegations of circumventing immigration law.

    About the Gitmo 2 deal

    In January 2016, President Mahama welcomed two Yemeni nationals, namely, Mahmud Umar Muhammad Bin Atef and Khalid Muhammed Salih Al-Dhuby, who had been detained at Guantanamo Bay (the U.S. military prison located in Cuba) for about a decade and a half, approximately.

    They were held there after being linked to Al-Qaeda activities, and their transfer to Ghana in January 2016 was part of a bilateral agreement between the U.S. and the Mahama-led administration.

    The Mahama government then explained that the move was merely a humanitarian gesture, and the two were to stay in Ghana for two years. This humanitarian deal, originally supposed to be approved by Parliament as the constitution demands, wasn’t hence, in June 2017, Ghana’s Supreme Court ruled that the Gitmo 2 deal was unconstitutional.

    The court ordered the government to submit the agreement to Parliament within three months or return the detainees to the U.S.

  • FixTheCountry movement to hold galamsey vigil,march on Sept 21-22

    FixTheCountry movement to hold galamsey vigil,march on Sept 21-22

    The FixTheCountry movement will embark on vigil and march sessions on Sunday, September 21, and Monday, September 22, respectively, at Revolution Square in Accra, in response to illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, in the country.


    This information was disclosed by the group’s convenor, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, September 15.


    “On Sunday 21st September, we will have a vigil at the Revolution Square, and on Monday 22nd (a holiday), there will be a march, calling attention to the urgency of our environmental crisis,” he wrote.

    In his post he stressed that the solution to end the menace requires collective efforts, hence, he called on all and sundry to participate in the upcoming protest.


    “The responsibility to protect and preserve the environment is by divine assignment, ours as a people,” he wrote, adding that the issue transcends electoral politics.Our responsibility to end galamsey does not end at elections. Nor does it begin after our party loses one. This is bigger than petty politics,” he emphasised.
    Illegal mining activities continue to retrogress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.
    For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of river guards.
    The river guards are selected from communities most affected by illegal mining, ensuring they have a deep understanding of the local landscape and challenges.regress

    Govt’s efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities


    The government has rolled out an official order requiring all machinery used in mining operations to be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August.

    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will go ahead to 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.


    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of 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,” he wrote.


    The Ministry reiterates its resolve to maintain national peace through effective internal security and law enforcement. Meanwhile, a similar directive came in months ago where excavator owners and operators were asked to register their machines with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) within two weeks or risk losing them to the state, as the government intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.


    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 will 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 fell 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 have been 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 like 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 that would 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 better oversight.


    The move is part of broader government efforts to combat illegal mining. 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. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion.


    Crack down 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 include 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 include 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. On Tuesday, 41 of them were arraigned, with 29 remanded into Police custody to reappear before the court on April 30, 2025. Twelve others were also remanded to return to court on May 2, 2025.

    The remaining seven were put before the court on April 23, 2025.
    Two coordinated operations conducted on Friday, June 20, at Nikanika and Adeade in the Central Region led to the arrest of 3 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.


    The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The task force 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 12 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 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.


    This was due to 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 offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.


    Also, 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), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).

    The others are Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), 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.

  • Accident on Koforidua-Nyamekrom stretch claims one life, four hospitalised

    Accident on Koforidua-Nyamekrom stretch claims one life, four hospitalised

    One person has died and four others hospitalized following a deadly crash on the Koforidua–Nyamekrom road in the Eastern Region. The fatal incident occured after an Opel Astra B taxi cab with registration number GS 4492-Z and a Honda Civic with registration number GR 5529-22 collided head-on.

    Speaking to the media, the Assemblyman for the Nyamekrom Electoral Area, Enoch Boahene, reported that the vehicles almost crashed into the motorcycle he was riding on near the Jehovah’s Witness Church in Nyamekrom. He added that the taxi driver was on top speed, causing the deadly crash.

    Ghana has recorded a series of road accidents this year. In just the past few weeks, an accident at Bechem in the Bono Region has claimed the lives of two individuals, including a church leader of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church.


    The fatal crash, which occurred on Sunday, August 10, left several others sustaining injuries, including children. According to reports, the victims who were close to Aburaso were coming from a camp meeting they attended in Kumasi. Reportedly, the trye of the bus carrying the individuals had a fracture, leading to a burst, hence, causing the vehicle to somersault.


    On Monday, July 28, a 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. Days after, an accident at Asamankese in the Eastern Region on Wednesday, August 6, reportedly claimed the life of an individual. Officials are yet to confirm any casualties.


    The unfortunate incident occurred after a tipper truck veered off its road, crashing into shops around the Dukes Filling Station. According to sources, many other individuals sustained injuries. Reports have it that the tipper 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.


    Following the incident, it is said that emergency services went to the scene to rescue individuals who were trapped. Medical assistance was also provided, according to reports. Per reports, the Police Service has commenced investigations into the accident, with the driver of the tipper truck providing assistance.

    Local officials have reportedly given assurance of aiding the victims of the accident. The deceased were reportedly returning from the church’s annual programme in the Eastern Region.

    Their deaths were confirmed after their bus crashed with an oncoming fuel tanker. All 16 victims were laid to rest in a single large grave on Thursday, July 31, by the Obogu community and church leadership.


    Ghana has reported a surge in the number of fatalities recorded due to road crashes. In the first half of 2025, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported one thousand, five hundred and four (1,504) deaths, compared to one thousand, two hundred and thirty-seven (1,237) fatalities reported in the corresponding period in 2024, representing a 21.58 percent increase.


    According to provisional data released by the National Road Safety Authority 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.


    Per the data, a total of twelve thousand, three hundred and fifty-four (12,354) vehicles were involved in the road crashes. Owing to the road accidents, a total number of eight thousand, three hundred (8,300) individuals sustained injuries.

    Also, one thousand, three hundred and one (1,301) pedestrians were knocked down across the country.


    According to the recent data provided by the National Road Safety Authority, on average, eight (8) lives are lost every day due to road crashes. Each day, forty (40) road crashes are recorded, and forty-six (46) individuals sustain injuries.

    Daily, sixty-nine (69) vehicles and motorcycles are involved in road crashes. To aid in combating road crashes, the National Road Safety Authority has called for stern enforcement of traffic regulations and public education.


    The NRSA has called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and increased public education to help curb the rising number of road accidents across the country.


    The Road Traffic Act 2004, an Act to consolidate and revise the Road Traffic Ordinance, 1952 (No. 55), provides for a more comprehensive regulation of road traffic and road use, to ensure safety on the roads and to provide for related matters.


    A person who drives a motor vehicle dangerously on a road commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction, (a) where (i) a bodily injury does not occur, or (ii) a minor bodily injury does occur, to a person, other than the driver, to a fine not less than one hundred penalty units and not exceeding two hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding nine months or to both the fine and imprisonment.


    (b) Where bodily injury of an aggravated nature occurs to a person, other than the driver, to a minimum fine of two hundred penalty units and not exceeding five hundred penalty units or to a term of imprisonment of not less than twelve months and not exceeding two years or to both the fine and the imprisonment; or (c) where death occurs, to a term of imprisonment for a term of not less than three years.

    (d) Where there is damage to state property, to a fine of not less than one hundred penalty units and payment for the damage caused in an amount determined by the Court.


    The Court may, on the conviction of a person under subsection (1), (a) order the payment of appropriate compensation to an injured person or to the estate of that person, or (b) order the withdrawal of the licence for a period of not less than three years and not more than five years.


    A person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two thousand penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding five years or to both the fine and the imprisonment.


    A person commits an offence if without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, that person, (a) causes anything to be on or over a road, (b) interferes with a motor vehicle, trailer or cycle, or (c) interferes, directly or indirectly, with traffic equipment, where that it would be obvious to a reasonable person that to do so would be dangerous.


    A person who commits an offence under subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty penalty units or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding twelve months or to both the fine and the imprisonment.

  • Apostle Dr Kwadwo Safo ‘Kantanka’ dies at age 77

    Apostle Dr Kwadwo Safo ‘Kantanka’ dies at age 77

    Ghana’s renowned technological innovator, Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo, popularly known as “Kantanka,” has been confirmed dead. The announcement of his passing was made in a press release issued by the family on Sunday, September 14.

    The late philanthropist died at the age of seventy-seven (77) years. The agriculturist and industrialist was the biological father of New Patriotic Party (NPP) member Sarah Adwoa Safo, the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome Kwabenya Constituency.

    In the press release signed by Adwoa Safo, the family disclosed that Apostle Safo died peacefully on Thursday, September 11.

    “With profound sorrow and deepest grief, the Safo Family and the Kristo Asafo Church announce the peaceful passing of Ghana’s beloved man of God, the greatest technological icon, philanthropist, agriculturist, and industrialist popularly referred to as ‘Kantanka, the African Star.’

    “Our dearest Father passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 11, 2025. Romans 14:8 states: ‘For if we live, we live to the Lord and if we die, we die to the Lord,’” a portion of the statement read.

    Apostle Kantanka was described as a “gallant son,” a true genius, a beacon of hope for many, and a father to the fatherless. According to the family, “Ghana has indeed lost a gallant son and a true legend.”

    In the meantime, the family has noted that details of the late Apostle Kantanka’s burial will be announced in due course, while requesting privacy as they mourn their loss.

    Born on August 26, 1948, in Bom (near Kensere) in the Ashanti Region, Apostle Prof. Dr. Ing. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka was a revered man of God. His parents were Opanin Yaw Safo and Obaapanin Yaa Amoanimaa. He died at the age of 77.

    His son, Kwadwo Safo Kantanka Jr., is the CEO of Kantanka Group, a pilot, and an entrepreneur. His daughter, Sarah Adwoa Safo, is a politician, lawyer, and former MP and Gender Minister. His other children include Joche Safo (lawyer), Monarch Safo, among others.

    Apostle Kantanka gained recognition as a practical, self-taught innovator in electronics and mechanics. He studied engineering at the Ghana Technical Works Institute, now the Kumasi Technical University. At VALCO and West African Metals, he trained as a welder for three years. He also received honorary academic titles, including an Honorary Professorship (Emeritus) from Alfred Nobel University, Ukraine, in 2019, and an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Ghana in 1999.

    He went on to establish Ghana’s largest indigenous technology conglomerate, spanning automotive manufacturing, electronics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. In 1994, he founded a Ghanaian-based automotive company that designs, manufactures, assembles, and sells luxury cars. The company produces vehicles tailored to African conditions, such as the Onantefo and pickups like the Omama. Some of his vehicles feature voice-activated systems and remote ignition.

    Beyond automobiles, he built impressive futuristic machines, many of which were exhibited at the Apostle Safo Technology Research Centre in Gomoa Mpota. He also established a religious movement, Kristo Asafo, an independent church, which began as a prayer group in 1969 and was transformed into a Church on 3rd February 1971.

    The church is a member of the Sabbath Association of Ghana. Within the church, both members and non-members have acquired diverse skills across different professions and trades, including carpentry, welding, and mechanics.

    See the full statement from his family below:

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    THE PASSING OF APOSTLE DR. KWADWO SAFO

    With profound sorrow and deepest grief, the Safo Family and the Kristo Asafo Church announces the peaceful passing of Ghana’s beloved man of God, the greatest technological icon, philanthropist, agriculturalist and industrialist popularly referred to as “Kantanka, the African Star”.

    Our dearest Father passed away peacefully on Thursday 11th September, 2025.

    Romans 14:8 states; “For if we live, we live to the Lord and if we die, we die to the Lord”.

    Apostle Safo was a true genius, the beacon of hope for many, a father to the fatherless. Ghana has indeed lost a galant son and a true legend.

    His unique persona was shaped by his life struggles, dreams, resilience, courage, determination and dedication to His calling and conviction.

    During this time of grief, we humbly request that the general public respects the privacy of the family and loved ones.

    The burial and funeral arrangements shall be duly communicated in the coming days

    Signed

    Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo (Esq)

  • Kumasi: 20 passengers robbed at gunpoint on Tweapease-Mfensi stretch

    Kumasi: 20 passengers robbed at gunpoint on Tweapease-Mfensi stretch


    A group of armed robbers have attacked at least 20 passengers at gunpoint in a Sprinter bus with registration number GG 4181-16 en route to Kumasi on the Sunyani road in the Ashanti Region.

    According to Citi News, the incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. on Friday, September 12, between Tweapease and Mfensi, near the Moments of Glory Prayer Army (MOGPA).

    Per a victim’s account, the armed men who were five in number ordered passengers to surrender their belongings, including money, mobile phones, and other valuables after blocking the road. 

    The passenger added that the victims were left severely traumatised; however, no one was physically assaulted during the robbery. Residents and commuters have since lamented over the deplorable state of that stretch.

    They have attributed the increasing spate of robberies in the area to the poor road. In recent years, the Police Service has made significant progress in tackling robberies and prosecuting offenders. 

    Currently, the police are on a manhunt for eight others allegedly involved in a gold shop robbery at Mpohor in the Western Region . The Ghana Police declared them wanted after they retrieve of items used by a gang of armed men during a gold shop robbery. 

    Weapons, ammunition, clothing, and other materials were among the exhibits. According to a Facebook post on Tuesday, August 19, the police stated that the retrieved items would aid in the ongoing investigation into the case.

    On Sunday, August 17, one person was arrested in connection with the robbery. The police explained that the retrieval was made possible after officers from the Kuntanase District in the Ashanti Region intercepted a suspicious white Toyota Sienta near the Aputuoagya–Bekwai road.

    According to the police, a search of the vehicle led to the recovery of an AK-47 assault rifle, a locally manufactured firearm, two AK-47 magazines loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition each, and other materials believed to have been used during the robbery.

    On July 30, a shootout between suspected armed robbers and police officers at Atebubu in the Bono East Region led to the death of two suspects.

    According to the Ghana Police Service, the patrol team encountered a robbery attack on commuters along the Atebubu Highway. The suspects opened fire on the officers upon sighting them.

    Those struck during the exchange were rushed to a hospital but were pronounced dead on arrival, while others escaped into nearby bushes.

    A search of the scene led to the retrieval of a shotgun loaded with two live cartridges, four spent cartridges, and a machete. Intensive efforts are still underway to apprehend the fugitives, police confirmed.

    On July 15, an intelligence-led operation by the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) foiled a robbery attempt by five armed men targeting a foreign national at Cantonments. Police received credible intelligence that the men were lodging at a hotel in Labadi.

    While en route in a Toyota Yaris vehicle, the suspects opened fire on a police team after detecting surveillance. An officer sustained gunshot wounds, and in the ensuing shootout, two suspects died after being rushed to the Ghana Police Hospital.

    The injured officer, who suffered gunshot wounds to his arm and legs, has been hospitalized and is responding to treatment. Police retrieved two pump-action guns loaded with ammunition, live cartridges, three mobile phones, talismans, and other items from the scene.

    What the law says about robbery and stealing

    Section 149 of the Criminal Offences Act states that a person who commits robbery commits a first-degree felony. Per Section 150, “a person who steals a thing commits robbery (a) if in, and for the purpose of stealing the thing, that person uses force or causes harm to any other person, or (b) if that person uses a threat or criminal assault or harm to any other person, with intent to prevent or overcome the resistance of the other person to the stealing of the thing.”

    Section 124 of the Criminal Offences Act also indicates that a person who steals commits a second-degree felony. Where the court that finds a person guilty of stealing is satisfied that, on not less than two previous occasions, the accused was found guilty of stealing, the court shall order that the whole or a part of the term of imprisonment imposed shall be spent in productive hard labour.

    A person subjected to such an order is disqualified from election to Parliament or a District Assembly within the meaning of the Local Government Act, 1993 (Act 462), for up to five years. Productive hard labour refers to labour in a state farm, state factory, or any other public co-operative or collective enterprise specified by the Minister.

    Police efforts in combating robbery, in July, the Police secured a conviction in a four-year-old armed robbery case that occurred in Atonsu, Kuwait, Kumasi. The Kumasi Circuit Court sentenced two individuals to 15 years imprisonment for their role in the violent incident. The convicts, Abass Kasim (26) and Daniel Morro, alias “China” (25), were part of a gang of five that attacked a resident in Atonsu Kuwait on July 31, 2021, around 2:30 a.m.

    The gang, wielding a pistol and cutlasses, shot the victim in the abdomen, inflicted multiple cutlass wounds, and robbed him of valuables including an iPhone 11 worth GHS 5,500, a Samsung phone worth GHS 500, two Apple Watches valued at GHS 3,000, two ladies’ handbags, jewelry, $600, and an unspecified amount of Ghana cedis.

    Following investigations, Abass Kasim was arrested on August 12, 2021. During interrogation, he confessed and led police to arrest Daniel Morro. A pistol used in the attack was later retrieved.

    On August 19, 2021, the suspects were arraigned before Kumasi Circuit Court 4 and remanded into custody after pleading not guilty.

    They reappeared on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, when they were convicted and sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each on charges including conspiracy to commit robbery, robbery, unlawful entry, abetment of crime, and possession of firearms without authority.

    The sentences are to run concurrently. They have since been transferred to the Central Prisons in Kumasi. Meanwhile, three accomplices remain at large.

    The police also reported another success after an armed robber, Paul Avortide, was sentenced to 19 years with hard labour for robbery. The 25-year-old, on May 21 at about 4:00 a.m., attacked a pregnant Nigerian woman, Ogechi Chidiebere, at Tsikpota near New Housing, Ho.

    Armed with a machete, he robbed her of GHS 3,000 and a Tecno Spark 30c phone valued at GHS 2,500 as she made her way to antenatal care.On June 19, police arrested Harmony Nbonu at Ho Main Market with the stolen phone.

    He confessed that Avortide had sold it to him for GHS 850. A coordinated operation led to Avortide’s arrest at Matse, a suburb of Ho, as he attempted to flee.

    After investigations, Avortide was charged with robbery under Section 149 of the Criminal Offences Act, while Nbonu was charged with Dishonestly Receiving under Section 146.

    They were arraigned before Ho Circuit Court on Tuesday, July 1. Avortide pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 19 years in prison, while Nbonu was acquitted and discharged.

    Meanwhile, three individuals suspected in a robbery at Nyanikrom near Shama Junction on Wednesday, July 9, were apprehended. They are Francis Mensah, alias Francis Kwaw (34), Ebenezer Cofie (32), and Samuel Bentum (35).

    The Western Regional Police Command arrested them following targeted surveillance based on credible intelligence.

    Police revealed that the suspects, armed with insider information, planned to rob company officials returning from a bank in Takoradi with salary funds. On the said day, the suspects ambushed the company vehicle near Unique School Junction at Nyanikrom.

    They broke the vehicle’s window and made away with the cash. A swift police response led to the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of GHS 149,500.

    The suspects are currently in custody assisting with investigations. However, the company’s driver, Maxwell Kofi Yeboah, alleged to have conspired with them, is at large and being pursued.

    “The Western Regional Police Command assures the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspect and bring all perpetrators to justice,” the police said.

    Despite these successes, the Police Service continues to suffer casualties in its fight against armed robbery. Several officers have lost their lives while on duty, though the exact number remains unclear.One such incident occurred in September 2024, when an officer was ambushed and killed by armed robbers at Kwame Peprakrom in the Central Region.

    In response, the government introduced a GHS 50,000 insurance scheme for officers who lose their lives while on duty.

  • Police arrest one for involvement in Accra Timber Market fire incident

    Police arrest one for involvement in Accra Timber Market fire incident

    One person has been arrested in connection with the devastating fire incident at the Accra Timber Market in the early hours of Saturday, September 13. This information was made public by the Greater Accra Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), ACFO II Rashid Kwame Nisawu, during an interview with Channel One Newsroom.

    According to him, the suspect allegedly left a burning heap of rubbish unattended, which later spread and engulfed the Timber Market.

    “Indeed, through the firefighting, what we normally do is that during the firefighting, we also deploy some plainclothed officers to fish out for information. And what we gathered was that there is this gentleman who gathers some rubbish around and sets it on fire, goes to sleep, and this thing degenerated, and that is the result we are having,” he explained.

    He further noted that the police acted swiftly after receiving a tip-off. “The good thing is that this morning, the Police Commander came to report to the Chief Fire Officer — I was around — that they have been able to apprehend the gentleman and currently, as we speak, the alleged suspect is now in police custody at James Town Police Station,” he added.

    To contain the blaze, seven fire engines from stations across Accra, together with a GNFS water tanker and two others from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and the Ablekuma Municipal Assembly, were deployed to the scene.

    Several shops selling wooden planks and hardware were razed as a result of the fire, which broke out near Aayalolo School at 1:17 a.m. on Saturday, September 13.

    Meanwhile, in an update on its official page on Sunday, September 14, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) confirmed: “The flames were confined at 6:26 a.m., brought under control by 6:37 a.m., and fully extinguished by 11:44 a.m.”

    The GNFS added, “Two firefighters sustained injuries in the operation, one from an electric shock and another from burns to the left arm. Both were treated and discharged, and are reported to be in stable condition.”

    In a related development, several houses at Darkuman Kokompe in Accra were destroyed following a fire incident in the early hours of Sunday, August 31. Reports indicated that victims were unable to salvage their belongings as they awaited emergency response. The cause of that fire is yet to be established.

    Earlier this month, a fire 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.

    Similarly, 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 ravaged the first floor of the Accra Tourist Information Centre at Cantonments. According to the GNFS, the blaze destroyed the contents of the first floor, though the ground floor and about eight offices, including the East Wing section, were salvaged.

    The first fire engine from the GNFS Headquarters arrived at 01:04 hours to find a fully developed fire spreading rapidly in all directions, aided by strong winds. Five additional appliances from Flagstaff House, Circle, Accra City, and Ministries fire stations, as well as the Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) from Headquarters, were swiftly mobilized to support firefighting operations.

    Although the blaze was brought under control at 03:32 hours, firefighting efforts continued until 06:35 hours to suppress the flames and prevent further spread to adjoining properties. No injuries were recorded, but the Service has launched an investigation into the cause.

    Another inferno destroyed several makeshift wooden and metal structures at the Madina Washing Bay near Redco Flats on Sunday, August 3. The blaze consumed utility poles, traders’ wares, personal belongings, and structures worth several thousand cedis. The GNFS reported that while battling the fire, one firefighter sustained a minor leg injury.

    The Service received the distress call at 12:36 hours, and the first crew from Madina Fire Station arrived within four minutes. Four additional fire engines from Legon, Abelemkpe, and GNFS Headquarters later joined to contain the blaze. Thanks to the swift response, the fire was confined at 13:42 hours and fully brought under control at 13:54 hours. Overhaul operations continued until 20:50 hours. An investigation into the cause is ongoing.

    Last month, a fire broke out at Madina Ritz Junction. Initial reports claimed that a two-month-old baby died in the incident, but the GNFS later clarified otherwise.

    “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 Service has thus entreated the public and media outlets to disregard any reports suggesting otherwise, as they are inaccurate and misleading,” the GNFS posted on Facebook.

    The Service explained that the fire began after a gas explosion in one of the shops and quickly spread to adjacent containers. Firefighters from the Madina, Legon, and Abelemkpe stations responded promptly and contained the blaze.

    In April this year, another fire ripped through the Madina Redco Flats area, destroying more than 150 structures and claiming the life of a young Nigerian woman known as Beauty. The inferno, which started around 11:15 p.m., spread rapidly across 140 wooden kiosks and 20 metal containers. 

    Although firefighters arrived within minutes, the victim was trapped and could not escape. Her remains were handed over to the Madina Police. Last year, about 50 stalls were reduced to ashes after the Madina Market in Accra caught fire. Deputy Director of Operations at GNFS, D.O.1 Kofi Forson, who spoke to the media, recounted the challenges they faced.

    “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 GNFS has since provided statistics on fire outbreaks in the first half of 2025. The data shows a slight increase compared to the same period in 2024. Ghana recorded 3,595 fire cases between January and June this year, compared with 3,576 cases during the same period last year — an increase of 19 cases, representing a 0.53% rise.

    The monthly breakdown 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 incidents (628), followed by Ashanti (581) and Central (408). The North East Region had the lowest number, with just 10 cases.

    In an interview on Tuesday, July 8, the Head of Public Relations at GNFS, Desmond Ackah, revealed that due to their improved and swift response, the Service saved over GH¢203 million worth of property in the last two quarters of 2025.

    The GNFS listed the main causes of fire incidents as: electrical faults from illegal connections, poor wiring, and overloaded circuits; improper use of appliances such as overused extension cords and unattended devices; unattended cooking with gas, electric, or coal stoves; careless use of naked flames like candles, mosquito coils, lighters, and matches; gas leakages and poor handling of LPG cylinders; bush burning, especially in the dry season; vehicle fires due to poor maintenance or accidents; unsafe welding and other hot-work practices; and deliberate acts of arson.

    Meanwhile, the Service reported a significant improvement in its fight against prank calls.

    It recorded a 34.77% reduction, from 364,020 prank calls in the first half of 2024 to 237,470 in 2025. The GNFS attributed the decline to consistent public education campaigns and heightened awareness of the legal consequences of misusing emergency lines.