TIG Post

Author: Phoebe Martekie Doku

  • 15% fare reduction: GPRTU to sanction non-compliant drivers

    15% fare reduction: GPRTU to sanction non-compliant drivers

    Transport stations and branches that have refused to comply with the recent directive on the 15% fare reduction by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) are liable to sanctions by the union.

    In an interview with Citi News on Saturday, May 24, the General Secretary of GPRTU, Godfred Abulbire, said, “the chairman has forwarded another press release and made it known that by tomorrow, if stations or branches working under us don’t comply with the directives, sanctions will be meted out to those terminals.”

    GPRTU on Wednesday, May 21, announced a 15% drop in transport fares, which took effect on Saturday, May 24. According to GPRTU, the reduction follows successful deliberations between the Ministry of Transport and transport operators following the recent macroeconomic developments, specifically the Ghanaian cedi experiencing sustained appreciation against major foreign trading currencies, particularly the dollar.

    Some transport operators in the Ashanti Region have, however, refused to adhere to the recent directive that seeks to provide some economic relief to commuters. They have attributed the delay in adjusting fares to the late receipt of the official instruction.

    But the General Secretary of GPRTU has indicated that the communique has been reissued and assured that measures have been put in place to ensure full compliance in the coming days.

    Other transport operators in the Volta Region are working with a 10 percent reduction in transport fares, citing the spiking prices of spare parts and the failure of the authorities to see to a reduction.

    A section of spare parts dealers at Abossey Okai has insisted on not reducing the prices of their items, despite the value of the Ghanaian cedi gaining strength against the U.S dollar. This comes after the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region directed its members to reduce prices of spare parts.

    A dealer who engaged the media said, “For now, maybe it can’t be possible because we ordered the goods at a certain rate, which is higher than what we are seeing now. With that price we have to sell, and when the goods finish and you are ordering another one with a reduced [exchange] rate, then definitely the prices will come down.”

    The cedi has appreciated sharply by nearly 19 percent between April and May, helping to ease imported inflation pressures and restore public confidence.

    The average interbank rates used by commercial banks for transactions at the close of business, May 23, show the US dollar buying at GH₵11.62 and selling at GH₵11.63. The British pound is buying at GH₵15.60 and selling at GH₵15.62. The euro is currently being bought at GH₵13.11 and sold at GH₵13.12.

    Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has insisted that the cedi appreciating against the dollar is due to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) deliberate policies.

    In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 20, Sammy Gyamfi outlined a stringent monetary policy stance, fiscal consolidation by the Ministry of Finance, and robust forex inflows and accelerated foreign reserve accumulation as factors influencing the cedi’s stability.

    His remark was a response to a recent statement by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Speaking at an event, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the NDC administration’s policies are not influencing the cedi positively.

  • CJ’s removal: Upholding judicial respect requires in-camera hearing – Dr Khalid

    CJ’s removal: Upholding judicial respect requires in-camera hearing – Dr Khalid

    Professor Sharif Mahmud Khalid, Economic Adviser to the Vice President, has explained the relevance of holding in-camera proceedings regarding Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo’s suspension.

    Speaking to JoyNews on Saturday, May 24, he noted that such a move will safeguard the dignity of the Chief Justice’s office.

    According to him, conducting a closed-door engagement will prevent unnecessary public spectacle and protect the integrity of the judicial system.

    “While transparency is important in any democracy, certain constitutional processes require confidentiality to ensure fairness and preserve institutional integrity,” Prof. Khalid noted, urging Ghanaians to trust the legal process.

    A series of petitions have been 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 senior police officer describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal from office.

    A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The committee is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Associate Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    Legal matters arising

    Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has moved to challenge the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, filing an application at the Supreme Court to injunct the presidential decision.

    The notice of motion, dated April 24, is a direct response to President John Dramani Mahama’s April 22 suspension of the Chief Justice, which was carried out in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution after consultations with the Council of State and a determination that a prima facie case existed.

    According to Mr Assafuah, the process that led to the Chief Justice’s suspension violated constitutional provisions, as she was not informed of the petitions nor given an opportunity to respond before the President engaged the Council of State.

    He further described the actions taken thus far, including the formation of an investigative committee, as “a farce and the product of a pre-conceived orchestration to unconstitutionally remove the Chief Justice from office.”

    Ekow Vincent Assafuah filed an injunction application to halt the process for the removal of the Chief Justice; however, this application was also dismissed by the Supreme Court on May 6.

    The second interlocutory injunction application challenging the process for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office has been thrown out by the apex court.The Supreme Court, by a 4 to 1 majority decision, deemed the application by a private citizen, Theodore Kofi Atta-Quartey, unmeritorious on Wednesday, May 21.

    The five-member panel comprised Justices Paul Baffoe-Bonnie (Presiding), Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Yonny Kulendi, Henry Anthony Kwofie, and Yaw Asare Darko. Justice Yaw Asare Darko was the only one who disagreed with the majority’s opinion.

    Justice Torkornoo heads to court

    Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has headed to the Supreme Court to prevent the committee set up by President John Mahama to probe the petitions seeking her removal from office.

    She is also requesting the apex court to halt her suspension issued by the President under Article 146(10) of the Constitution until a final determination is made on the matter.

    On Wednesday, May 21, her legal team at Dame and Partners filed an interlocutory injunction application.

    The defendants per the writ, are Attorney-General Dr Dominic Ayine, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah.

    The plaintiff has prayed the apex court to restrain the committee from proceeding with any further inquiry as well as prevent Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, the acting Chief Justice, from participating in the process.

    Experts react to Torkornoo’s suit

    A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, believes that Justice Torkornoo should have first sought counsel from the Judicial Council before heading to the apex court.

    “The Judicial Council has been established to aid successive Chief Justices to behave themselves. So if an incumbent Chief Justice has a problem, her first port of call should be to seek counsel. I don’t think that has been done,” he said.

    Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, described the suspended Chief Justice’s move as interesting.

    “I’m happy that the suspended Chief Justice is going to have the benefit of how the justice system works. Just like any one of us, her leadership may need the benefits of the very justice she, together with others, over the years, delivered to people,” he said while engagaing the media in an interview.

  • You will soon see reduction in prices as cedi appreciates – BoG assures Ghanaians

    You will soon see reduction in prices as cedi appreciates – BoG assures Ghanaians

    Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, has assured that the positive impact of the cedi will reflect in the prices of goods and services in the coming days.

    Speaking at a press briefing following the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on Friday, May 23, the BoG governor noted that the reduction will, however, take a gradual process.

    “You can understand that some people stock their goods at a higher exchange rate. So naturally, even with the appreciation – it takes a while for you to see that adjustment. However, rest assured that you will see the adjustment certainly so long as there is competition, so long as it is not a monopoly, and we will see that kind of phenomenon very soon.”

    On the other hand, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has revealed that Ghanaian importers have expressed willingness to adjust prices on their items, following the stability of the cedi.

    While engaging with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), and the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG) she clarified that price adjustments for goods and services are determined by traders and not the government, but the power to liaise between consumers, traders, and manufacturers.

    The cedi has appreciated by almost 24% since the beginning of the year. 

    The cedi is currently trading at around GH₵11.85 to the dollar, GH₵15.84 to the British pound, and GH₵13.34 to the euro, per the May 2025 Summary of Economic and Financial Data.

    Meanwhile, players in the business community have argued that the significant reduction in the prices of goods and services cannot occur over time, despite the cedi appreciating against the dollar.

    According to the Dean of the University of Cape Coast School of Business, Professor Gatsi, most traders and businesses are yet to sell off old stock that were bought at higher exchange rates.

    He added that the situation may delay the immediate price adjustment in goods and services.

    Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has cited stringent monetary policy, complemented by aggressive liquidity sterilization, and disciplined fiscal stance anchored around prudent public finance management.

    “In fact, our foreign exchange reserves at the Bank of Ghana reached a record high in April 2025, surpassing targets set under the IMF-supported programme ahead of schedule,” he added.

    Bolstering these efforts, he said, included “enhanced foreign exchange inflows from gold, cocoa, and remittances, alongside a softening US dollar amid global uncertainties.”

    According to Forbes, the dollar has depreciated by 8% in 2025, whereas gold prices have hiked by 23%.

    This has been reported as investors seek safe-haven assets.

    They “have significantly driven the strength of the Ghana cedi,” the sector minister confirmed.

  • NIB releases NPP’s Adenta Kumi

    NIB releases NPP’s Adenta Kumi

    The National Investigations Bureau (NIB) has released a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alfred Ababio Kumi from custody.

    Alfred Ababio Kumi who is also known as Adenta Kumi was officially charged by the NIB for publishing false news after petitioning President John Mahama to dissolve the committee probing the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

    He was picked up by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) and National Security operatives on Friday, May 23.

    Reports from a top executive of the opposition party, the general secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, and confirmation from Alfred’s mother confirm his arrest by the officials.

    “All patriots should rush to Adenta Kumi’s house, as over 20 CID and National Security officers are there to pick him up,” the General Secretary wrote in a post on social media.

    The petitioner’s mother who engaged Asaase Radio in an interview said: “They broke the door to his house. They brought a paper (search warrant) but I didn’t take a look at it. They said they need to have a conversation with him so they took him away.”

    Prior to his pickup, Alfred Kumi, in his petition to the president, stated that he witnessed three Supreme Court justices—including two members of the committee—having dinner at a restaurant in Accra.

    He named the individuals as the chairman of the committee, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, and Justice Yonny Kulendi.

    His claims are yet to be verified following the publication of the video by the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo that captured the justices, to disprove the allegations.

    Meanwhile, the opposition party has accused the government of abusing the rights of Alfred Kumi.

    “Whatever reason they may have, whether it is linked to the petition or any other matter, he still has a fundamental human right.”

    “His human rights have been abused because that is not a way to arrest and detain a person. At least the due process must be followed,” General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua.

    Background

    A series of petitions have been 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 senior police officer describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal from office.

    A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The committee is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Associate Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    Legal matters arising

    Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has moved to challenge the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, filing an application at the Supreme Court to injunct the presidential decision.

    The notice of motion, dated April 24, is a direct response to President John Dramani Mahama’s April 22 suspension of the Chief Justice, which was carried out in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution after consultations with the Council of State and a determination that a prima facie case existed.

    According to Mr Assafuah, the process that led to the Chief Justice’s suspension violated constitutional provisions, as she was not informed of the petitions nor given an opportunity to respond before the President engaged the Council of State.

    He further described the actions taken thus far, including the formation of an investigative committee, as “a farce and the product of a pre-conceived orchestration to unconstitutionally remove the Chief Justice from office.”

    Ekow Vincent Assafuah filed an injunction application to halt the process for the removal of the Chief Justice; however, this application was also dismissed by the Supreme Court on May 6.

    The second interlocutory injunction application challenging the process for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office has been thrown out by the apex court.The Supreme Court, by a 4 to 1 majority decision, deemed the application by a private citizen, Theodore Kofi Atta-Quartey, unmeritorious on Wednesday, May 21.

    The five-member panel comprised Justices Paul Baffoe-Bonnie (Presiding), Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Yonny Kulendi, Henry Anthony Kwofie, and Yaw Asare Darko. Justice Yaw Asare Darko was the only one who disagreed with the majority’s opinion.

    Justice Torkornoo heads to court

    Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has headed to the Supreme Court to prevent the committee set up by President John Mahama to probe the petitions seeking her removal from office.

    She is also requesting the apex court to halt her suspension issued by the President under Article 146(10) of the Constitution until a final determination is made on the matter.

    On Wednesday, May 21, her legal team at Dame and Partners filed an interlocutory injunction application.

    The defendants per the writ, are Attorney-General Dr Dominic Ayine, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah.

    The plaintiff has prayed the apex court to restrain the committee from proceeding with any further inquiry as well as prevent Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, the acting Chief Justice, from participating in the process.

    Experts react to Torkornoo’s suit

    A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, believes that Justice Torkornoo should have first sought counsel from the Judicial Council before heading to the apex court.

    “The Judicial Council has been established to aid successive Chief Justices to behave themselves. So if an incumbent Chief Justice has a problem, her first port of call should be to seek counsel. I don’t think that has been done,” he said.

    Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, described the suspended Chief Justice’s move as interesting.

    “I’m happy that the suspended Chief Justice is going to have the benefit of how the justice system works. Just like any one of us, her leadership may need the benefits of the very justice she, together with others, over the years, delivered to people,” he said while engagaing the media in an interview.

  • Reports of safety breaches at KIA false – GACL

    Reports of safety breaches at KIA false – GACL

    The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has clarified that the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) is not experiencing operational and safety lapses.

    GACL’s clarification comes after recent reports alleging equipment shortages, staff security concerns, and challenges with restricted access protocols at the airport.

    However, the GACL in a statement has called the claims false and misleading, adding that they represent a deliberate attempt to undermine the KIA’s reputation built over time.

    According to GACL, “The article alleges that there is only one operational vehicle. On the contrary the Airside Operations Section has two dedicated vehicles to support the airside operations, in addition to a fleet of operational vehicles available for round-the-clock use”.

    It added that the only three pairs of wands are currently operational is false, explaining that the number of marshalling wands used depends on aircraft movement.

    GACL emphasized that “currently there is a surplus of marshalling wands in stock for operations at the company’s central stores”.

    Reacting to the safety breaches, it added that staff of the Airside Operations Section were distributed with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE’s) in Accra and the regional airports as well.

    Meanwhile, GACL has indicated that it will deal with the individuals, media houses behind the allegations deemed defamatory.

    “Media houses who accept to disseminate defamatory articles without researching the facts will also be dealt with according to the full rigors of the law,” parts of the statement added.

    Read the full statement below:

    “The attention of Management of GACL has been drawn to a publication in the Herald Newspaper of Friday, May 23, 2025 on various media platforms.

    GACL wishes to respond as follows:

    The article alleges that there is only one operational vehicle. On the contrary the Airside Operations Section has two dedicated vehicles to support the airside operations, in addition to a fleet of operational vehicles available for round the clock use.

    The assertion that only three pairs of wands are currently operational is false. The number of marshalling wands used depends on aircraft movement. Currently there is a surplus of marshalling wands in stock for operations at the company’s central stores.

    Staff of Airside Operations Section have been provided with the required quantity of Personal Protective Equipment (i.e reflective vests, wellington boots, raincoat, safety boots, hand gloves, ear defenders, googles & safety blankets). This assertion is categorically false. PPE’s were distributed in Accra and the regional airports as well.

    The claim that Motorola radios used for coordinating operations are mostly unserviceable is false. The Airside Operations section has been provided with adequate handheld and base radios for effective communication between the Airside Operations and Air Traffic Control.

    Regarding access to some restricted areas of the airport, there is a protocol where Aviation Security grant staff access to restricted areas as and when necessary. This is to enhance security while maintaining safety standards, therefore the allegation of airside staff unable to access certain restricted areas to carry out inspections is false.

    There is currently no agitation amongst staff of Airside operations as a few bad nuts would want. Staff found complicit in fabricating and spreading malicious lies about the organization to put the image of the company, the management and the government’s image into disrepute emanating from their own parochial interest will be dealt with severely.

    Media houses who accept to disseminate defamatory articles without researching the facts will also be dealt with according to the full rigors of the law.

    Ghana Airports Company Limited remains committed to providing the highest level of safety and security to both staff and passengers.

    Facts and pictorial evidence of the items being purported to be lacking tools for airside operations are captured below”.

  • We have no fixed target for cedi appreciation – BoG

    We have no fixed target for cedi appreciation – BoG

    The Central Bank has indicated that it is focused on stabilizing the Ghanaian economy rather than aiming for a specific exchange rate for the cedi’s appreciation.

    Speaking at a press conference after the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Johnson Asiama, noted that “We don’t have such a plan on the table that says when the cedi reaches a certain point, we must move to ease the appreciation.”

    According to BoG, it is committed to halting excessive depreciation of the cedi due to its potential effects on inflation.

    The BoG Governor revealed plans to allow market forces to guide the currency’s value and will only intervene when there is extreme volatility in the cedi.

    “As much as we don’t want to see the Ghana cedi depreciate excessively, we don’t keep a target rate that we want to defend aggressively,” the BoG added.

    The BoG has assured it will keep to the monetary and fiscal reforms that are responsible for the stability of the cedi to end its volatility.

    According to the Governor of the BoG, the central bank plans to implement a series of reforms aimed at monitoring the forex market.

    This, he explained, will aid in preventing illegal activities that could weaken the cedi as well as destabilize the market.

    The BoG Governor made these statements at the opening of the bank’s 124th Monetary Policy Committee meeting at the Bank Square on Wednesday, May 21.

    Dr. Johnson Asiamah noted that the cedi has gained significant value, almost 19%, between April and May.

    The BoG governor attributed the sharp appreciation to the “combination of factors, including prudent monetary policy, improved market sentiment, and external sector gains”.

    According to Forbes, the dollar has depreciated by 8% in 2025, whereas gold prices have hiked by 23%.

    This has been reported as investors seek safe-haven assets.

    As of May 21, the average interbank rates used by commercial banks for transactions at the close of business showed the US dollar buying at GH₵11.84 and selling at GH₵11.85.

    The British pound is buying at GH₵15.83 and selling at GH₵15.84. The euro is currently being bought at GH₵13.33 and sold at GH₵13.34.

    The last time a dollar was worth a little over GHC11 was two years ago under the Akufo-Addo-led government.

    Meanwhile, the former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has asserted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration’s policies are not influencing the cedi positively.

    “If you are to ask the NDC to point out exactly what policy they have implemented that has resulted in the appreciation of the cedi, they cannot tell you one that has been implemented, not sort of talked about, but actually implemented. They cannot tell you one such policy,” the former Vice President said.

    However, acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has insisted that the cedi appreciating against the dollar is due to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) deliberate policies.

    In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 20, Sammy Gyamfi outlined a stringent monetary policy stance, fiscal consolidation by the Ministry of Finance, and robust forex inflows and accelerated foreign reserve accumulation as factors influencing the cedi’s stability.

  • One feared dead as security officers clash with squatters at Gomoa Dominase

    One feared dead as security officers clash with squatters at Gomoa Dominase

    One man has reportedly lost his life following a clash between squatters and some security officers in Dominase Onion Market in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region.

    Per reports, the deceased was found dead in one of the structures while bleeding profusely.

    In response, the enraged squatters attacked the security personnel with stones and sticks, injuring two police officers and an immigration officer.

    Meanwhile, the victims are receiving medical attention at the Police Hospital in Accra.

    Six suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.

    The disturbance was generated from a joint demolition exercise organized by the Gomoa East District Security Council and the Central East Regional Police Command.

    The operation, which was aimed at raiding armed robberies along the Kasoa–Winneba Highway, turned chaotic over a misunderstanding.

    Security personnel had discovered drugs and offensive weapons in the possession of some of the squatters before the exercise.

    This prompted the personnel to tear down illegal structures occupied by the encroachers.

    Two heavy-duty machines belonging to the District Roads Improvement Programme (DRIP)and the windshield of a police vehicle have been smashed as a result of the incident.

    Recently, the country has observed a worrying trend where security personnel are attacked by civilians.

    Earlier this month, security personnel were assaulted by residents of Dambai Lakeside, in the Oti Region, over the death of a 19-year-old.

  • Squatters defy eviction at Neoplan bus stop

    Squatters defy eviction at Neoplan bus stop

    Recalcitrant squatters and traders who were evicted from the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange Neoplan Bus Stop in Accra on Wednesday, May 21, have returned to their spots.

    On Wednesday, May 21, Circle Neoplan was freed from illegal structures as part of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) decongestion exercise.

    Environmental Health Officer in charge of operations at Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), Mr Joseph Asitanga, confirmed this while speaking to media on Thursday, May 22 – Day 3 of the decongestion exercise.

    He said, “So as we enforced the laws yesterday, this morning we got wind of that; they are back again, so we had to come. When we got here, they had resurfaced with different developments with their items, so we had to come again and clean and tidy up the place.”

    “As part of the decongestion exercise, wherever we move to, we follow up to see whether whatever we did the previous day has been complied with. It is a bylaw enforcement; bus stops are not meant for activity. It is meant for only passengers to transit, and it is difficult getting people out here,” Mr Joseph Asitanga added.

    To avert a possible return of the traders after being removed for a second time, three permanent guards will be deployed to the Neoplan Bus Stop to prevent squatters from thronging the street.

    “We are going to ensure that this place is as clean as it is now. Nobody will sell here; this is a bus stop. We are not demolishing anything here, but we are clearing the bus stop free of trading,” Mr Asitanga reiterated.

    The 3-day decongestion exercise launched on Tuesday, May 20, which sought to clear traders, squatters from the pavements and streets in the country’s capital, Accra came to an end on May 22.

    The first phase focused on areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.Today, Wednesday, May 21, the AMA extended the operation to Circle Neoplan.

    Prior to the launch of the decongestion exercise, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.

    Meanwhile, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has assured that the operation will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.

    “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.

    Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.

    However, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned the traders against returning to the streets. Speaking to the media after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.

    “We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

  • Visa applications to travel to Ghana to be processed within 5 working days

    Visa applications to travel to Ghana to be processed within 5 working days

    The processing of visas by individuals seeking to travel to Ghana will no longer take more than five working days.

    The new visa application policy, according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, takes effect immediately.

    In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 21, the Foreign Affairs Minister announced that the fresh move forms part of efforts to make Ghana attractive to investors and tourists.

    He noted that the ministry has laid down measures that will allow the policy to be rolled out effectively.

    “On January 7th, President Mahama declared that Ghana is open for business. At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we are determined to give real, practical meaning to that promise,” Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa stated.

    According to the minister, the new policy does not imply an automatic visa approval.

    “I must, however, add that this 5-day visa processing policy does not by any stretch of imagination mean automatic visa approval; a decision will be made within 5 working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he wrote.

    The restructuring is expected to speed up the process that could take an average of four to six weeks.

    Visa applicants requiring further assistance should reach out to ipab@mfa.gov.gh or +233 240 793072.

    Meanwhile, the former Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Charles Owiredu, has argued that the process never took 6 weeks to complete under the tenure of former President Akufo-Addo.

    The former deputy minister noted that the process always took between 2 and 5 days.

    He mentioned that the then administration ensured that individuals applied for a visa when they visited the country for tourism events like: the Year of Return, Detty December revelers, and others.

    In a sharp rebuttal, Mr Ablakwa has insisted that the ministry’s embassy websites across the world do not confirm the two- to five-day claim by the former deputy minister.

    “Kindly check our embassy in Washington DC’s website which provides 15 to 20 business days for standard applications, our New York website indicates 3 weeks, our embassy website for Germany says 15 business days, our UK High Commission website indicates 15 working days.”

    “None of the websites, which by the way were created when you were Deputy Minister, states that standard visas can be obtained between 2 to 5 days,” the sector minister wrote.





  • OKESS student, stepfather granted bail GHS80k in illegal firearm case

    OKESS student, stepfather granted bail GHS80k in illegal firearm case

    The 16-year-old form two student of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) who was arrested by the Tafo Pankrono Divisional Police Command for illegally possessing a firearm has been granted GH¢50,000 bail.

    The court, presided over by Natacha Abena Tuffour, has also handed GH¢30,000 bail to the stepfather, who is said to own the firearm.

    As part of the bail condition, each person must provide two sureties.

    The court has directed that at least one of the individuals who will guarantee for the student should be a senior staff or a government employee earning not less than GH¢4,000 monthly.

    The police arrested the suspect following a routine dormitory search by school authorities on Wednesday, May 14.

    The illegal possession of guns has become a common trend in Ghana. Experts have called for stricter punishments for culprits.

    Speaking to The Independent Ghana, the Deputy Director of Policy, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PPME) at the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), Gyebi Asante, highlighted the urgent need to review existing laws governing firearms possession to better align with current security challenges.

    “We are advocating for the law to be reviewed to suit the current situation and also be able to align with our current dispensation. It is something we have taken steps to do.”

    “Already we have a proposed bill, National Arms Bill, at the Ministry of Interior to look at the document and endorse it. For example, the penal sanction: when you have a law that regulates the possession of arms that can kill, you must have a strong penal sanction that can deter people from going behind the law to buy these weapons, so the law as it is now is not deterrent enough,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has bemoaned the influx of unregistered arms and ammunition in the country.

    During a working visit to the Northern Region on Wednesday, May 21, the Minister noted that the current trend threatens national security.

    “Let us see you abiding by the laws of our country. It’s the only way you will be able to help. The number of arms in the hands of our citizens is getting to an alarming level. It’s giving the Peace Council, police, and other security agencies a lot of headaches. At the least provocation, you hear a gunshot. How did the people get the guns?” he asked.

    The minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase, called for a united effort to free the country from illegal arms.

    “We have to get private people to partner with the government. The government alone cannot do it. Now technology is so easy that we should be able to use technology to detect who imports and sells the guns. What can we use technology to make our country safe?

    “We have to get private people to partner with the government. The government alone cannot do it. Now technology is so easy that we should be able to use technology to detect who imports and sells the guns. What can we use technology to make our country safe?

  • Illegal weapons threaten Ghana’s safety – Interior Minister

    Illegal weapons threaten Ghana’s safety – Interior Minister

    The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has bemoaned the influx of unregistered arms and ammunition in the country.

    During a working visit to the Northern Region on Wednesday, May 21, the minister noted that the current trend threatens national security.

    “Let us see you abiding by the laws of our country. It’s the only way you will be able to help. The number of arms in the hands of our citizens is getting to an alarming level. It’s giving the Peace Council, police, and other security agencies a lot of headaches. At the least provocation, you hear a gunshot. How did the people get the guns?” he asked.

    The minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase, called for a united effort to free the country from illegal arms.

    “We have to get private people to partner with the government. The government alone cannot do it. Now technology is so easy that we should be able to use technology to detect who imports and sells the guns. What can we use technology to make our country safe?”

    A 16-year-old form two student of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) has been arrested by the Tafo Pankrono Divisional Police Command for illegally possessing a locally manufactured firearm.

    The police arrested the suspect following a routine dormitory search by school authorities on Wednesday, May 14.

    According to the accused, the weapon belonged to his stepfather, Mr. Daniel Owusu Baafi, who has been apprehended.

    Also, two individuals – Yaw Adu and Samando Dokurugu, alias Shapichino—were arrested on May 16 for unlawful possession of arms and ammunition at Ahenkro in the Ashanti Region.

    The Ashanti North Regional Police Command nabbed the duo while riding a motorbike with registration number M-25-NR 1634.

    The police retrieved an Adler Tulpar Pump Action shotgun with serial number 24SA-1073, and three live BB cartridges from Samando Dokurugu after a search was conducted.

    The illegal possession of guns has become a common trend in Ghana. Experts have called for stricter punishments for culprits.

    Speaking to The Independent Ghana, the Deputy Director of Policy, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PPME) at the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), Gyebi Asante, highlighted the urgent need to review existing laws governing firearms possession to better align with current security challenges.

    “We are advocating for the law to be reviewed to suit the current situation and also be able to align with our current dispensation. It is something we have taken steps to do.”

    “Already we have a proposed bill, National Arms Bill, at the Ministry of Interior to look at the document and endorse it. For example, the penal sanction: when you have a law that regulates the possession of arms that can kill, you must have a strong penal sanction that can deter people from going behind the law to buy these weapons, so the law as it is now is not deterrent enough,” he added.

  • Another injunction application against Justice Torkonoo’s removal process dismissed

    Another injunction application against Justice Torkonoo’s removal process dismissed

    The second interlocutory injunction application challenging the process for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo from office has been thrown out by the apex court.

    The Supreme Court, by a 4 to 1 majority decision, deemed the application by a private citizen, Theodore Kofi Atta-Quartey, unmeritorious on Wednesday, May 21.

    The five-member panel comprised Justices Paul Baffoe-Bonnie (Presiding), Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Yonny Kulendi, Henry Anthony Kwofie, and Yaw Asare Darko.

    Justice Yaw Asare Darko was the only one who disagreed with the majority’s opinion.

    Background

    The recent development follows 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 senior police officer describing them as baseless and lacking grounds for her removal from office.

    A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the matter. The panel is chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, and includes Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Associate Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

    Legal matters arising

    Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has moved to challenge the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, filing an application at the Supreme Court to injunct the presidential decision.

    The notice of motion, dated April 24, is a direct response to President John Dramani Mahama’s April 22 suspension of the Chief Justice, which was carried out in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution after consultations with the Council of State and a determination that a prima facie case existed.

    According to Mr Assafuah, the process that led to the Chief Justice’s suspension violated constitutional provisions, as she was not informed of the petitions nor given an opportunity to respond before the President engaged the Council of State.

    “The thrust of the instant action is that the consultations initiated by the President with the Council of State to determine whether a prima facie case is disclosed in the three petitions against the Chief Justice, when the Chief Justice had not been notified of the petitions, was in flagrant violation of the Constitution and renders the whole process under article 146 null, void and of no effect,” his suit reads.

    He further described the actions taken thus far, including the formation of an investigative committee, as “a farce and the product of a pre-conceived orchestration to unconstitutionally remove the Chief Justice from office.”

    In the interim, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, the most senior Justice of the Supreme Court, has assumed the role of Acting Chief Justice in accordance with Article 144(6) of the Constitution, which provides for such a transition in the event the office becomes vacant or its occupant is unable to perform their duties.

    Ekow Vincent Assafuah filed an injunction application to halt the process for the removal of the Chief Justice; however, this application was also dismissed by the Supreme Court on May 6.

    The full reasons for the court’s decision will be made public today, May 21.

  • Cedi stability is here to stay – BoG assures

    Cedi stability is here to stay – BoG assures

    The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has assured it will keep to the monetary and fiscal reforms that are responsible for the stability of the cedi to end its volatility.

    According to the Governor of the BoG, Dr. Johnson Asiamah, the central bank plans to implement a series of reforms aimed at monitoring the forex market.

    This, he explained, will aid in preventing illegal activities that could weaken the cedi as well as destabilize the market.

    The BoG Governor made these statements at the opening of the bank’s 124th Monetary Policy Committee meeting at the Bank Square on Wednesday, May 21.

    Dr. Johnson Asiamah,noted that the cedi has gained significant value, almost 19%, between April and May.

    The BoG governor attributed the sharp appreciation to the “combination of factors, including prudent monetary policy, improved market sentiment and external sector gains”.

    According to Forbes, the dollar has depreciated by 8% in 2025, whereas gold prices have hiked by 23%.

    This has been reported as investors seek safe-haven assets.

    They “have significantly driven the strength of the Ghana cedi,” the sector minister confirmed.

    The average interbank rates used by commercial banks for transactions at the close of business, May 20, show the US dollar buying at GH₵12.09 and selling at GH₵12.10.

    The British pound is buying at GH₵16.16 and selling at GH₵16.18. The euro is currently being bought at GH₵13.61 and sold at GH₵13.62.

    Meanwhile, the former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has asserted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration’s policies are not influencing the cedi positively.

    “If you are to ask the NDC to point out exactly what policy they have implemented that has resulted in the appreciation of the cedi, they cannot tell you one that has been implemented, not sort of talked about, but actually implemented. They cannot tell you one such policy,” the former Vice President said.

    However, acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has insisted that the cedi appreciating against the dollar is due to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) deliberate policies.

    In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 20, Sammy Gyamfi outlined a stringent monetary policy stance, fiscal consolidation by the Ministry of Finance, and robust forex inflows and accelerated foreign reserve accumulation as factors influencing the cedi’s stability.

  • Circle Neoplan cleared of unauthorized structures

    Circle Neoplan cleared of unauthorized structures

    All illegal structures at Circle Neoplan in Accra have been removed as part of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) decongestion exercise.

    The 3-day decongestion exercise launched on Tuesday, May 20, targets street traders in the country’s capital, Accra.

    The first phase focused on areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.

    Today, Wednesday, May 21, the AMA extended the operation to Circle Neoplan.

    Prior to the decongestion exercise which began yesterday, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.

    Meanwhile, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has assured that the operation will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.

    “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.

    Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.

    Meanwhile, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned the traders against returning to the streets. Speaking to the media after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.

    “We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.




  • NDC’s proactive measures responsible for cedi stability – Sammy Gyamfi

    NDC’s proactive measures responsible for cedi stability – Sammy Gyamfi

    Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has insisted that the cedi appreciating against the dollar is due to the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) deliberate policies.

    In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 20, Sammy Gyamfi outlined a stringent monetary policy stance, fiscal consolidation by the Ministry of Finance, and robust forex inflows and accelerated foreign reserve accumulation as factors influencing the cedi’s stability.

    His remark is a response to a recent statement by former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Speaking at an event, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the NDC administration’s policies are not influencing the cedi positively.

    “If you are to ask the NDC to point out exactly what policy they have implemented that has resulted in the appreciation of the cedi.

    “They cannot tell you one that has been implemented, not sort of talked about, but actually implemented.They cannot tell you one such policy,” the former Vice President said.

    Minister for Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has also cited stringent monetary policy, complemented by aggressive liquidity sterilization, and disciplined fiscal stance anchored around prudent public finance management as factors being the cedi’s appreciation.

    “In fact, our foreign exchange reserves at the Bank of Ghana reached a record high in April 2025, surpassing targets set under the IMF-supported programme ahead of schedule,” he added.

    Bolstering these efforts, he said, included “enhanced foreign exchange inflows from gold, cocoa, and remittances, alongside a softening US dollar amid global uncertainties.”

    According to Forbes, the dollar has depreciated by 8% in 2025, whereas gold prices have hiked by 23%.

    This has been reported as investors seek safe-haven assets. They “have significantly driven the strength of the Ghana cedi,” the sector minister confirmed.

    The average interbank rates used by commercial banks for transactions at the close of business, May 20, show the US dollar buying at GH₵12.09 and selling at GH₵12.10.

    The British pound is buying at GH₵16.16 and selling at GH₵16.18. The euro is currently being bought at GH₵13.61 and sold at GH₵13.62.



  • Pwalugu Dam construction key to ending floods, boosting energy – Fmr VRA CEO

    Pwalugu Dam construction key to ending floods, boosting energy – Fmr VRA CEO

    Former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Kirk Koffi, has indicated that the establishment of a new hydroelectric power plant at Pwalugu will assist in managing floods in the northern parts of the country.

    Speaking to Citi News on Tuesday, May 20, Ing Koffi said the proposed Pwalugu Dam would boost agricultural productivity and provide a stable electricity supply.

    “I think we should be looking at the Pwalugu [dam] because of its importance. We should have our food basket in this country,” he advocated.

    He argued that small volumes of water spilling can cause flooding in the northern areas due to the flat terrain.

    “That small facility and they are producing many grains, when they spill very little volume, it comes up to the North, and because the place is a bit flat, you see it flooding. It doesn’t even impact much of the inflows into the [Akosombo] lake; it all spreads. When we build the dam [hydro power plant], it will contain the floods,” he stated.

    His comment is a reaction to the devastating effects of the Akosombo Dam spillage that occurred in 2023.

    He stated that the spillage was necessary to prevent disaster and not as a result of negligence.

    “No, no, it all depends… direct rainfall can impact what it comes from anywhere. It’s just a result of the inflow. You cannot hold them responsible because they would have died anyway.”

    According to him, the Volta River Authority (VRA) had to spill excess water to prevent damage to the Dam as well as ensure safety.

    “By September 2023, when we were to see a downward trend in the inflow, it picked up, which was an indication, and they had to spill a little bit more.

    “Those who run the facility don’t bridge the dam; if you do, everybody downstream will go, and you will not save anybody. That is, if the water overflows. 2023 was an unusual year,” he explained.

    The flood, which lasted over six weeks, displaced approximately 38,624 residents and wreaked havoc on properties, schools, health centres and farmlands in communities such as North, Central and South Tongu, Ada, and Kpong.

    Nearly 1,247 homes, 94 schools, and 17 health facilities were destroyed, while agricultural losses were estimated at $78 million.




  • Breakdown of foreign nationals detained, repatriated for street begging

    Breakdown of foreign nationals detained, repatriated for street begging

    The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has provided a breakdown of foreign nationals detained and repatriated for street begging in the country.

    A statement from the GIS issued on Monday, May 19, revealed that 925 undocumented migrants have been repatriated from the country.

    The nationalities are currently being held at the designated holding center, including 2,241 individuals.

    They consist of 2,073 Nigeriens, 138 Nigerians, 28 Burkinabes, 1 Guinean, and 1 Malian.

    A total of 925 have been repatriated. A breakdown of the repatriated foreigners indicates 819 Nigeriens and 106 Nigerians.

    All affected immigrants had to undergo profiling and security screening in line with standard operating procedures.

    Repatriation could not commence on Friday, 16th May, because the above processes continued into the late hours of the day.

    Repatriation was initiated in the morning of Saturday, 17th May. According to the GIS, processes are underway to repatriate the foreign nationals.

    On Friday, May 16, the GIS removed street children and their guardians from the streets of the country’s capital, Accra, particularly at Kaneshie and Abossey Okai.

    The initiative was aimed at decongesting the streets as well as curbing child exploitation as part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility.

    The victims, who usually solicit for alms and are believed to be foreign nationals, were packed in immigration vehicles.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has revealed that the exercise to rid the streets of foreign nationals will soon be extended to other regions beyond Accra.

    “I have seen the public reactions and calls for similar actions in places like Kumasi, Tamale, and other communities. Please be assured that this is a nationwide exercise that began in Accra and will be extended to other regions soon.”

    The minister has urged all Ghanaians to remain calm and support this exercise.

    “Let us cooperate with the security teams as they work to protect our streets and uphold national safety,” he wrote in a Facebook post.


  • Akosombo Dam spillage was inevitable – Ex VRA CEO

    Akosombo Dam spillage was inevitable – Ex VRA CEO

    Former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Kirk Koffi, has noted that the devastating effects of the Akosombo Dam spillage cannot be blamed on any individual or group.

    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, May 21, he stated that the spillage was necessary to prevent disaster and not as a result of negligence.

    “No, no, it all depends… direct rainfall can impact what it comes from anywhere. It’s just a result of the inflow. You cannot hold them responsible because they would have died anyway.”

    According to him, the Volta River Authority (VRA) had to spill excess water to prevent damage to the Dam as well as ensure safety.

    “By September 2023, when we were to see a downward trend in the inflow, it picked up, which was an indication, and they had to spill a little bit more. Those who run the facility don’t bridge the dam; if you do, everybody downstream will go, and you will not save anybody. That is, if the water overflows. 2023 was an unusual year,” he explained.

    The flood, caused the spillage, which began mid-September 2023 and lasted over six weeks, displaced approximately 38,624 residents and wreaked havoc on properties, schools, health centres and farmlands in communities such as North, Central and South Tongu, Ada, and Kpong.

    Nearly 1,247 homes, 94 schools, and 17 health facilities were destroyed, while agricultural losses were estimated at $78 million.

    The five-member committee, inaugurated by President John Dramani Mahama, spent two months investigating the causes and response to the spillage and submitted its 110-page report to the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, on May 7.

    While the committee acknowledged that the primary cause of the spillage was to protect the dam from destruction, it strongly criticized the weak emergency response mechanisms that followed.

    It noted that the VRA’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP), though technical and shared with stakeholders, suffered setbacks.

    “While VRA had socialised the document with all stakeholders and conducted a simulation exercise for some selected communities before the spill, high turnout and divisions amongst some District Chief Executives (DCEs)/Metropolitan Chief Executives (MCEs) and Members of Parliament (MPs) could have derailed clear communication lines for implementing the plan and distribution of relief items,” the report noted.

    Central to the committee’s findings was the failure of effective coordination among key agencies. Moreover, the response from government institutions revealed worrying gaps.

    “While there were efforts to provide immediate assistance, gaps in communication, resource allocation, and community engagement were identified,” the committee reported. It added that “operational challenges, such as a lack of local disaster preparedness plans and inadequate evacuation resources, hampered the emergency response process.”

    According to the report, other challenges included failed resettlement attempts, cultural resistance, and lack of consultation. 

    “The people lament that their opinions were not sought in selecting the sites for the resettlement, and therefore, have refused to relocate and are requesting that the resettlement project be halted as the objective is not served,” the report said.



  • Prisoners to receive goods seized from street traders – Accra Mayor

    Prisoners to receive goods seized from street traders – Accra Mayor

    The Mayor of Accra, Michael Allotey, has stated that the Ghana Prisons Service will receive items seized from traders selling beyond boundaries in the ongoing decongestion exercise in the Central Business District of Accra.

    “Tomorrow, you are not going to have it this way. I will pack all these things for the prison when I come tomorrow. Today is your lucky day,” he stated.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, May 20, he noted that this is part of the measures to prevent vendors from trading on the streets.

    According to the Mayor of Accra, the 3-day decongestion exercise carried out by the Accra Municipal Assembly will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.

    He acknowledged that the ongoing activity is not a short-term measure but one that will remain in place.

    “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.

    Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.

    “Thank you for the exercise. God bless you. These people are killing business. We rent expensive stores and pay AMA bills,” a trader stated.Meanwhile, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned the traders against returning to the streets. Speaking to the media after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.

    “We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    The first phase of the exercise launched on Tuesday, targeting areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.

    Prior to the decongestion exercise yesterday, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.

    The issues of congestion compelled the transport operators to threaten a strike action against the government and the Ghana Police Service.

    They gave authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. However, the strike action was not executed.

    According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    They are demanding the immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

  • AMA’s decongestion exercise in Accra continues today

    AMA’s decongestion exercise in Accra continues today

    The 3-day decongestion exercise targeting street traders in the country’s capital, Accra, will resume today, Wednesday, May 21.

    Today, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly has shifted its focus to Circle Neoplan.

    Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, while addressing the press on Tuesday, May 20, assured that the operation will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.

    He acknowledged that the ongoing activity is not a short-term measure but one that will remain in place. 

    “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.

    Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.

    “Thank you for the exercise. God bless you. These people are killing business. We rent expensive stores and pay AMA bills,” a trader stated.

    Meanwhile, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned the traders against returning to the streets. Speaking to the media after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.

    “We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    The initiative, a collaboration between the AMA and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, forms part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility and ease congestion in the city.

    The first phase of the exercise launched on Tuesday, targeting areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.

    Prior to the decongestion exercise yesterday, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.

    The issues of congestion compelled the transport operators to threaten a strike action against the government and the Ghana Police Service

    They gave authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. However, the strike action was not executed.

    According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    They are demanding the immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

  • 3,949 tertiary students receive loans from SLTF for 2024/2025 academic year

    3,949 tertiary students receive loans from SLTF for 2024/2025 academic year

    An additional 3,949 tertiary students have received financial support from the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) for the 2024/2025 academic year.

    The recent disbursement raises the total number of beneficiaries to 35,608 across 130 public and private institutions nationwide.

    According to SLTF management, the latest disbursement reflects the John Mahama-led administration’s pledge to ensure inclusive access to education, regardless of students’ backgrounds.

    The SLTF, conversely, has reiterated its resolve to release funds on time in order to allow students to gain admission into their preferred tertiary institutions without financial hindrance.

    Earlier this year, the Fund approved financial aid for 9,433 students enrolled in 62 public and private tertiary institutions nationwide.

    The Ministry of Education has made accessible a registration portal to help first-year students at public tertiary institutions in Ghana apply for financial assistance under the government’s new No-Fees-Stress Policy.

    Launching the portal on Monday, April 29, Education Minister Hon. Haruna Iddrisu described the policy as a bold and strategic move by the government to improve access to tertiary education and invest in the country’s future workforce.

    The SLTF explained that the new system will make it easier for eligible students to register, submit their details, and be assessed for financial support.

    The portal is now live and can be accessed via https://www.nofeestress.sltf.gov.gh or https://www.sltf.gov.gh.

    For additional assistance, students are encouraged to call 0302751020 or visit any SLTF zonal office across the country.

    Meanwhile, the government has clarified that first-year public university students who have already paid their academic fees for the current academic year will not receive cash refunds.

    Instead, the government will apply the equivalent amount as credit toward the students’ second-year fees.

    Earlier, the Trust Fund announced a refund for first-year students at public tertiary institutions who have paid their academic user fees for the 2024/2025 academic year.

    The refund is expected to take place in June this year, under the “No-Fee Stress” initiative.

    The Trust Fund has emphasized that applications submitted will undergo thorough checks.

    Dr. Shiraz added, “We urge all first-year students to apply promptly to secure their reimbursement.”

    Students have been admonished to channel inquiries via the SLTF’s official website.

    The “No-Fee Stress” initiative was a major campaign promise by then-presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama, who pledged to absorb academic fees for all Level 100 students within the first 120 days of his administration.

    In response, the government has allocated GH¢499.8 million under the 2025 national budget to support the policy.

    The SLTF, established in December 2005 under the Trustee Incorporation Act 1962 (Act 106), is dedicated to managing financial resources efficiently to support students while upholding national principles.

  • Traders cleared from streets; 3-day decongestion exercise continues unabated

    Traders cleared from streets; 3-day decongestion exercise continues unabated

    The 3-day decongestion exercise carried out by the Accra Municipal Assembly, targeting street traders in the country’s capital, Accra, is set to resume tomorrow, Wednesday, May 21, following a successful Day 1.

    Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, while addressing the press on Tuesday, May 20, assured that the operation will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.

    He acknowledged that the ongoing activity is not a short-term measure but one that will remain in place. 

    “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.

    Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.

    “Thank you for the exercise. God bless you. These people are killing business. We rent expensive stores and pay AMA bills,” a trader stated.

    Meanwhile, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned the traders against returning to the streets. Speaking to the media after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.

    “We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    The initiative, a collaboration between the AMA and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, forms part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility and ease congestion in the city.

    The first phase of the exercise launched on Tuesday, targeting areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.

    Prior to the decongestion exercise yesterday, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.

    The issues of congestion compelled the transport operators to threaten a strike action against the government and the Ghana Police Service

    They gave authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. However, the strike action was not executed.

    According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    They are demanding the immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

    https://x.com/JoyNewsOnTV/status/1924828784257085927







  • 12,000 youth to be employed as community police assistants after YEA MoU

    12,000 youth to be employed as community police assistants after YEA MoU

    The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) and the Ghana Police Service have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to recruit 12,000 young individuals across the country to serve as Community Police Assistants (CPAs).

    The initiative forms part of YEA’s broader strategy to provide sustainable job opportunities to Ghanaian youth across the country, concurrently supporting the police service in delivering effective security services at the grassroots level.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony on Monday, May 19, at the Ministry of Interior, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YEA, Malik Basintale, noted that the government’s priority is not solely about creating job opportunities but “involving our youth in building safer communities.”

    “We are here today because we have found some 12,000 jobs within the Ghana Police Service. Every day and anytime I wake up, the first thing that comes to mind is where I can find jobs for young people out there.

    ” His Excellency the President is always willing to hear the number of jobs that have been found and delivered to young people. Today, we have found 12,000 more jobs for young people out there, and we are ready to exhibit in the coming days,” he added.

    The Ghana Police, on the other hand, has pledged to fulfill its part of the bargain, emphasizing its commitment to foster a sense of shared responsibility as well as promoting peace and order in both urban and rural areas.

    High-profile dignitaries who were present at the ceremony included the Minister of Interior, Hon Muntaka Mohammed, the Inspector General of the Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare-Addo.


    This is not the first initiative being taken by YEA; in April this year, the Agency entered a one-year agreement with SoccaBet Ghana to create 500 job placements.

    Also, the Agency, in partnership with the Ghana Fire Service, will recruit 5,000 young Ghanaians as Fire Assistants across the country.

    Unemployment in Ghana has been on the rise despite numerous government interventions.

    A report from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reports that youth unemployment rose to 14.7 percent in the first three quarters of 2023.

    But according to a UK-based firm, Fitch Solutions, “Over 2024, we forecast unemployment to hold at 4.0%, and if accompanied by easing inflation, will see a rise in real wages for many households”.

    The YEA’s initiative is expected to grant young Ghanaian skilled workers and graduates who have been left without job opportunities.


  • It is impossible to reduce prices now – Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers

    It is impossible to reduce prices now – Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers

    A section of spare parts dealers at Abossey Okai has insisted on not reducing the prices of their items, despite the Ghanaian cedi gaining strength against the U.S dollar.

    Over the weekend, the Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association in the Greater Accra Region directed its members to reduce prices of spare parts owing to the reduction of prices of goods due to the appreciation of the cedi.

    “We pledge our full collaboration with the government to sustain this positive trend and ensure further appreciation of the Cedi, bringing much-needed economic relief to Ghanaians,” said the Chairman of the Association, Mr Henry Okyere Jnr.

    However, according to the vendors, they are yet to sell off old stock that was bought at higher prices when the depreciation of the cedi had worsened.

    Speaking to Citi News, a dealer, Francis Appiagyei, noted, “For now, maybe it can’t be possible because we ordered the goods at a certain rate, which is higher than what we are seeing now.

    With that price we have to sell, and when the goods finish and you are ordering another one with a reduced [exchange] rate, then definitely the prices will come down.

    Another vendor, Yaw Ansong, echoed “Unless I sell the one which I already ordered and finish before I can reduce the [price] of the goods. I haven’t ordered new one so I can’t reduce the price. If I reduce the price I am going to lose my job,” he stated.


    Eric Osei Danso also explained “For others, price reductions may come—but only if the cedi’s performance remains stable over time.

    “We have come to understand that the dollar is down and the cedi is also going up so we are going to do what they say but not now. We will go down on prices when we see the dollar is still stable at where it is”.

    The dealers’ stance comes amid growing calls to reduce prices as a result of the local currency’s stability in recent.

    But the change is yet to reflect on goods, prompting calls for stakeholders to take action.

    The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has revealed that Ghanaian importers have expressed willingness to adjust prices on their items, following the stability of the cedi.

    However, she added that the reduction would be a gradual process.

    She clarified that price adjustments for goods and services are determined by traders and not the government, but the power to liaise between consumers, traders, and manufacturers.

    The Minister made this known while engaging with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), and the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG) on Wednesday, May 14.

    As of May 13, the Ghana cedi appreciated by 16.7% against the US dollar, making it the world’s best-performing currency so far this year.

    However, Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has cited stringent monetary policy, complemented by aggressive liquidity sterilization, and disciplined fiscal stance anchored around prudent public finance management.

    “In fact, our foreign exchange reserves at the Bank of Ghana reached a record high in April 2025, surpassing targets set under the IMF-supported programme ahead of schedule,” he added.

    Bolstering these efforts, he said, included “enhanced foreign exchange inflows from gold, cocoa, and remittances, alongside a softening US dollar amid global uncertainties.”

    According to Forbes, the dollar has depreciated by 8% in 2025, whereas gold prices have hiked by 23%.

    This has been reported as investors seek safe-haven assets.

    They “have significantly driven the strength of the Ghana cedi,” the sector minister confirmed.

  • Transport fares to decrease by 15% from Saturday

    Transport fares to decrease by 15% from Saturday

    Commuters are to expect a 15% drop in transport fares, effective Saturday, May 24.

    This was made known by the Industrial Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Abass Imoro, while speaking to the media.

    “We have finally agreed to reduce lorry fares by 15%, but it will take effect from Saturday. Although currently spare parts sellers have promised to reduce some of their prices for now, which hasn’t taken effect, and none of the lubricants that went up have been reduced currently, but we decided to peg the reduction at 15%,” he added.

    The reduction follows successful deliberations between the Ministry of Transport and transport operators.

    Other factors include the recent macroeconomic developments, specifically the Ghanaian cedi experiencing sustained appreciation against the US dollar.

    As of May 13, the Ghana cedi appreciated by 16.7% against the US dollar, making it the world’s best-performing currency so far this year.

    However, Minister for Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has cited stringent monetary policy, complemented by aggressive liquidity sterilization, and disciplined fiscal stance anchored around prudent public finance management.

    “In fact, our foreign exchange reserves at the Bank of Ghana reached a record high in April 2025, surpassing targets set under the IMF-supported programme ahead of schedule,” he added.

    Bolstering these efforts, he said, included “enhanced foreign exchange inflows from gold, cocoa, and remittances, alongside a softening US dollar amid global uncertainties.”

    According to Forbes, the dollar has depreciated by 8% in 2025, whereas gold prices have hiked by 23%.

    This has been reported as investors seek safe-haven assets.

    They “have significantly driven the strength of the Ghana cedi,” the sector minister confirmed.






  • AMA’s decongestion exercise in Accra begins today

    AMA’s decongestion exercise in Accra begins today

    The Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) major decongestion in Accra will begin today, Tuesday, May 20.

    The initiative, a collaboration between the AMA and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, will target areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.

    Speaking to the media, the Mayor of Accra, Mr. Allotey, stated that the exercise forms part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility and decongest the city.


    “There’s no time for empty promises. From the day I took office, I made a commitment to myself: ‘I’ll make sure my car is clean.’ It’s a personal promise, but today, I am making that promise to all of us. The streets are not for selling. They are places for cars, not for trade.”

    “The pavements have become overcrowded, and now they occupy almost half of the streets. If I wait for something bad to happen, they might even turn against the mayor of this city,” he added.

    On Monday, May 19, Michael Kpakpo Allotey met with street hawkers in the Central Business District (CBD) ahead of the exercise.

    The engagement was aimed at restoring orderliness during the anticipated exercise.

    “I am pleading with you to assist us in cleaning up the city and restoring order. We all want a better and more organised environment, and cooperation is vital in achieving that goal,” Michael Kpakpo Allotey noted during the meeting.

    The Mayor of Accra has warned that the AMA will sanction individuals who flout the directive.

    “As the mayor of Accra, I cannot allow this to continue. Starting on Tuesday, we will begin the exercise. Please understand, we are not targeting anyone personally.” The decongestion exercise will begin from Okaishie through Circle and Kaneshie.

    Also, in some parts of the country, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) embarked on a decongestion exercise in the Central Business District (CBD) in April this year.

    Meanwhile, transport operators in Ghana have issued a stern warning to the government and the Ghana Police Service, demanding immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.

    They gave authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.









  • SA set to appeal acquittal of Nigerian pastor accused of rape

    SA set to appeal acquittal of Nigerian pastor accused of rape

    Authorities in South Africa (SA) have pledged to continue legal proceedings against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso.

    The Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, who is currently not in the country, was acquitted of rape charges in April this year.

    Per reports, Timothy Omotoso sexually assaulted young women who were members of his church located in Port Elizabeth.

    In a statement, South African prosecutors had declared, “There are no legal grounds to prevent Mr Omotoso from leaving the country following his acquittal.”

    But the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in SA has disclosed that it will file an appeal despite a court declaring the televangelist not guilty.

    One of the alleged victims claimed that she was raped by Mr Omotoso at 14.

    Timothy Omotoso was arrested in 2017 while attempting to flee South Africa.

    According to South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, Mr Omotoso was captured in a video wearing a hoodie and dark sunglasses while relocating to Nigeria.

    Following his acquittal in April, the Department of Home Affairs alleged that Mr Omotoso entered South Africa through illegal means.

    Earlier this month, the department, in a statement, classified Mr Omotoso as an “undesirable person,” banning him from returning to South Africa in the next five years.

    Timothy Omotoso heads the Jesus Dominion International Church in South Africa and its environs.

    The church has branches in several countries, including UK, Nigeria, France, and Israel.












  • Kenya’s fmr Minister for Justice ‘deported’ from Tanzania

    Kenya’s fmr Minister for Justice ‘deported’ from Tanzania

    Martha Karua of Kenya, who served as justice minister from 2005 to 2009, was held at Dar es Salaam airport in Tanzania and put back on a return flight to Nairobi, together with her entourage.

    Other prominent rights activists, including the former Kenyan chief justice Willy Mutunga, who had also wanted to witness Tundu Lissu’s trial, were also prevented from attending the treason trial of Tanzania’s main opposition leader, Tundu Lissu.

    The leader of Tanzania’s main opposition Chadema party, Tundu Lissu, was charged with treason in April this year.

    Tundu Lissu reportedly incited Tanzanians to rebel and disrupt the country’s upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections.

    He appeared in court today, Monday, May 19. If found guilty, he could be sentenced.

    Tundu Lissu has been prohibited from contesting in Tanzania’s presidential election in October after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct.

    Human rights activists, on the other hand, have criticized Tanzania’s ruling government for exerting oppressive methods against opposition leaders.

    Meanwhile, Tundu Lissu has pledged to defend himself in an open court and not virtually.

    He turned down a virtual hearing session that was conducted by the authorities.

    Lissu’s legal team leader, Rugemeleza Nshala, noted, “It is the right of our client to be brought to court,” adding that the rules of criminal cases are that whenever you are summoned, you must physically appear in court.

    ”In a criminal case, you cannot be tried at your home or elsewhere. Our client, since he knows the law, has refused to participate online.”













  • Abide by Ghana’s immigration laws – Fmr Secretary at Presidency to foreign nationals

    Abide by Ghana’s immigration laws – Fmr Secretary at Presidency to foreign nationals

    Former Assistant Secretary at the Presidency, Ibrahim Adjei, has advised foreign nationals to make use of the legal and appropriate channels to enter Ghana.

    During an interview on Channel One TV, Ibrahim Adjei noted that unauthorized entry into the country should attract immediate sanctions – an initiative he believes will serve as a deterrent.

    “When they come back and they are arrested and sent back immediately, eventually, they will get the message. No one is saying Nigerians or any other nationals cannot come to Ghana. But please, come legally, so you can enjoy the hospitality that we are known for,” he stated.

    His remark comes in reaction to the recent swoop undertaken by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS).

    A total of 2,241 foreign nationals were removed from the principal streets of Accra by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) after an intelligence-led operation on Friday, 16th May.

    Nine hundred and nine (909) adults and 1,322 children were taken from the streets. Out of the total, 961 were males and 1,280 were females, according to the GIS in a statement.

    The initiative was aimed at decongesting the streets as well as curbing child exploitation as part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility.

    The victims, who usually solicit for alms and are believed to be foreign nationals, were packed in immigration vehicles.

    The editor of Newscenta Newspaper, Elvis Darko, has cast doubt on the lasting impact of the recent decongesting exercise.

    According to him, the 2,000 foreign beggars who were removed from the streets of Accra will return to their spots in three months.

    “If the Immigration Service carries these people out of the country, I give you three months they will be back. The borders are porous. Nothing strategic is being done to properly secure them,” he warned.

    He mentioned the unofficial entry points that individuals target to Ghana and the lack of a strategic approach governing the country’s borders.

    “The issue should be focused on the state of Ghana’s borders. How do people enter this country without documentation? What do we need to do to fix our borders to ensure people enter rightfully?” he queried.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has revealed that the exercise to rid the streets of foreign nationals will soon be extended to other regions beyond Accra.

    “I have seen the public reactions and calls for similar actions in places like Kumasi, Tamale, and other communities. Please be assured that this is a nationwide exercise that began in Accra and will be extended to other regions soon.”

    The minister has urged all Ghanaians to remain calm and support this exercise.

    “Let us cooperate with the security teams as they work to protect our streets and uphold national safety,” he wrote in a Facebook post.

  • Ghana has no strict policy to prevent return of street beggars – Elvis Darko

    Ghana has no strict policy to prevent return of street beggars – Elvis Darko

    Editor of Newscenta Newspaper, Elvis Darko, has asserted that the 2,000 foreign beggars who were removed by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) from the streets of Accra will be back to their spots in three months.

    Speaking to Citi News on Monday, May 19, Elvis Darko cast doubt on the lasting impact of the recent decongesting exercise.

    “If the Immigration Service carries these people out of the country, I give you three months they will be back. The borders are porous. Nothing strategic is being done to properly secure them,” he warned.

    He mentioned the unofficial entry points that individuals target in Ghana and the lack of a strategic approach governing the country’s borders.

    “The issue should be focused on the state of Ghana’s borders. How do people enter this country without documentation? What do we need to do to fix our borders to ensure people enter rightfully?” he queried.

    On Friday, May 16, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) removed street children and their guardians from the streets of the country’s capital, Accra, particularly at Kaneshie and Abossey Okai.

    The initiative was aimed at decongesting the streets as well as curbing child exploitation as part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility.

    The victims, who usually solicit for alms and are believed to be foreign nationals, were packed in immigration vehicles.

    Meanwhile, the Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, has revealed that the exercise to rid the streets of foreign nationals will soon be extended to other regions beyond Accra.

    “I have seen the public reactions and calls for similar actions in places like Kumasi, Tamale, and other communities. Please be assured that this is a nationwide exercise that began in Accra and will be extended to other regions soon.”

    The minister has urged all Ghanaians to remain calm and support this exercise.

    “Let us cooperate with the security teams as they work to protect our streets and uphold national safety,” he wrote in a Facebook post.

    A total of 2,241 foreign nationals were removed from the principal streets of Accra by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) after an intelligence-led operation on Friday, 16th May.

    Nine hundred and nine (909) adults and 1,322 children were taken from the streets. Out of the total, 961 were males and 1,280 were females, according to the GIS in a statement.

  • Downpour on Sunday leaves three dead in Adentan – MCE

    Downpour on Sunday leaves three dead in Adentan – MCE

    Three residents, including a four-year-old girl, lost their lives during the heavy rains on Sunday, May 18.

    In an interaction with the media, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Adentan Municipal Assembly, Ella Esiman Nongo, named Lakeside, Nanakrom, and New Legon as areas where the fatalities occurred.

    “In Lakeside, we lost two people, including a four-year-old girl at Nanakrom and a gentleman around New Legon,” she stated.

    Sunday’s rainfall, which started around 3:00 p.m., lasted for almost three hours.

    The downpour disrupted traffic and daily activities. Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Tema, and Adentan-Dodowa are a few of the areas that have been affected by the rains.

    The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), on the other hand, has indicated that the organization has yet to record fatalities following the heavy rains.

    Over the years, the country has been battling severe flooding whenever there are heavy rains, particularly in Accra.

    According to NADMO, the canker results from poor hygiene practices and poor drainage infrastructure.

    “Most of the problems we have observed are that there is a lack of drainage in some communities, some of the areas are filled with filth…In some of the areas, we also have engineering defects,” he explained.

    Gov’t’s move to end perennial flooding

    President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling Ghana’s persistent flooding challenges by ordering the demolition of illegally constructed buildings blocking waterways.

    Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, he blamed the increasing flood disasters on poor urban planning and unauthorized developments in wetlands, waterways, and Ramsar sites.

    The President made it clear that his administration would take drastic action against encroachers, stressing that all structures obstructing natural drainage systems would be removed to prevent further destruction.

  • NADMO reports no casualties from Sunday rains

    NADMO reports no casualties from Sunday rains

    The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has revealed that the country is yet to record fatalities following the heavy rains on Sunday, May 18.

    The downpour, which lasted for almost three hours, disrupted traffic and daily activities.

    Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, parts of Tema, Adentan-Dodowa are a few of the areas that have been affected.

    Article image 4

    Over the years, the country has been battling severe flooding whenever there are heavy rains, particularly in Accra.

    According to NADMO, the canker results from poor hygiene practices and poor drainage infrastructure.

    “Most of the problems we have observed are that there is a lack of drainage in some communities, some of the areas are filled with filth…In some of the areas, we also have engineering defects,” he explained.

  • Accra Mayor engages street hawkers ahead of decongestion exercise on Tuesday

    Accra Mayor engages street hawkers ahead of decongestion exercise on Tuesday

    The Chief Executive of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has met with street hawkers in the Central Business District (CBD).

    The engagement was aimed at restoring orderliness ahead of a major decongestion exercise scheduled for Tuesday, May 20.

    During the meeting, Michael Kpakpo Allotey noted, “I am pleading with you to assist us in cleaning up the city and restoring order. We all want a better and more organised environment, and cooperation is vital in achieving that goal.

    “Our upcoming 24-hour economy policy will create new opportunities for you to sell your goods overnight. But for now, I plead that we stay off the pavement as we carry out this important cleanup”.

    Traders selling on the streets and pavements in Accra have until Tuesday, May 20, to vacate.

    The Mayor of Accra has warned that individuals who flout the directive will be sanctioned by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).

    “As the mayor of Accra, I cannot allow this to continue. Starting on Tuesday, we will begin the exercise. Please understand, we are not targeting anyone personally.”

    The decongestion exercise will begin from Okaishie through Circle and Kaneshie.

  • Accra hit by floods after Sunday downpour

    Accra hit by floods after Sunday downpour

    Some parts of the country’s capital, Accra, were flooded following a four-hour heavy rainfall on Sunday, May 18.

    The downpour disrupted traffic and daily activities. Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Tema, and Adentan-Dodowa are a few of the areas that have been affected.


    Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has noted that although it has received calls from affected residents, there have been no reports of fatalities.

    “So far, we have received many distress calls—residents in Adenta, Tema, and around Kaneshie calling for help—so that is why we have dispatched teams. But no casualty as I am talking to you now,” Mr Jafaro said.

    Over the years, the country has been battling severe flooding whenever there are heavy rains, particularly in Accra.

    According to NADMO, the canker results from poor hygiene practices and poor drainage infrastructure.

    “Most of the problems we have observed are that there is a lack of drainage in some communities, some of the areas are filled with filth…In some of the areas, we also have engineering defects,” he explained.

    Gov’t’s move to end perennial flooding

    President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling Ghana’s persistent flooding challenges by ordering the demolition of illegally constructed buildings blocking waterways.

    Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, he blamed the increasing flood disasters on poor urban planning and unauthorized developments in wetlands, waterways, and Ramsar sites.

    The President made it clear that his administration would take drastic action against encroachers, stressing that all structures obstructing natural drainage systems would be removed to prevent further destruction.

  • Ghana records two new cases of Mpox; toll at 4

    Ghana records two new cases of Mpox; toll at 4

    Ghana has recorded two additional Mpox cases, according to the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

    The cases were identified in the Greater Accra and Western regions. This brings the total number of cases to four.



    To prevent further spread of the virus, the GHS, in a statement on Sunday, May 18, noted that it has initiated contact tracing as well as public measures.



    Ghana recorded the first Mpox case in June 2022, with five cases, and by November 2023, health authorities had confirmed a total of 34 cases.



    Despite the increase in cases, Ghana has not recorded any Mpox-related deaths.

    The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service has called on all media houses to support public education efforts by using their platforms to raise awareness and provide accurate information on Mpox.

    “The Government of Ghana remains committed to safeguarding public health. Drawing on our experience in managing similar outbreaks, we will continue to implement appropriate measures to protect the health and well-being of all residents,” said in its statement dated May 18.

    Mpox is a viral illness similar to smallpox. It typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash.

    The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s skin or bodily fluids, including through sexual contact.

    Symptoms may include fever, rash or lesions, tiredness, headaches, muscle and back pain, and swollen glands.

    Across Africa, the disease remains a major concern. As of March 2025, more than 24,200 cases and around 260 deaths have been recorded in 22 countries.

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been hardest hit, accounting for a large share of both the cases and the fatalities.



  • Police arrest 16-year-old OKESS student for possessing firearm

    Police arrest 16-year-old OKESS student for possessing firearm

    A 16-year-old form two student of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) has been arrested by the Tafo Pankrono Divisional Police Command for illegally possessing a locally manufactured firearm.

    The police arrested the suspect following a routine dormitory search by school authorities on Wednesday, May 14.

    According to the accused, the weapon belonged to his stepfather, Mr. Daniel Owusu Baafi, who has been apprehended.

    This was disclosed by the Deputy Superintendent of Police Godwin Ahianyo, Head of Public Affairs for the Ashanti Regional Police Command, on Sunday, May 18.

    Following their arrest, both individuals were granted bail and are to report to the police on Monday, May 19, as investigations continue.

    The illegal possession of guns has become a common trend in Ghana. Experts have called for stricter punishments for culprits.

    Speaking to The Independent Ghana, the Deputy Director of Policy, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PPME) at the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), Gyebi Asante, highlighted the urgent need to review existing laws governing firearms possession to better align with current security challenges.

    “We are advocating for the law to be reviewed to suit the current situation and also be able to align with our current dispensation. It is something we have taken steps to do.”

    “Already we have a proposed bill, National Arms Bill, at the Ministry of Interior to look at the document and endorse it. For example, the penal sanction: when you have a law that regulates the possession of arms that can kill, you must have a strong penal sanction that can deter people from going behind the law to buy these weapons, so the law as it is now is not deterrent enough,” he added.

  • ECG blames crow activities for power outages in Ashanti Region

    ECG blames crow activities for power outages in Ashanti Region

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has attributed the recent disruption of power supply in the Ashanti Region to crow activities in the area.

    Speaking to the media, the Head of Public Relations for the Ashanti Sub-Transmission, Collins Manu, explained that the birds’ attack on installations is impeding the company’s mandate to provide a stable electricity supply to its consumers.

    Most affected feeders in the region include New Edubiase and Manso Nkwanta in Amansie East, Akyawkrom in Ejisu, Effiduase, and Kumawu in Sekyere East. The rest are Sekyere Kumawu, as well as Bekwai, Barekese in Atwima Nwabiagya North, Adansi South, and Amansie West.

    Crows are large birds that belong to the bird family called corvids. According to a recent report, about 92 nests were discovered on the Akyawkrom-Kuntenase-Bekwai ECG transmission.

    The report has revealed that the crows often make their nests from metal materials, which causes fluctuations in electrical systems.

    During humid conditions, their waste includes power, which ruins electrical insulation, hence costly and risky to the power transmission system.

    In response, the ECG plans to use bird spikes, adjust how electrical lines are spaced, regularly remove nests, use scare tactics, and regularly check power lines to keep crows away from power lines.

    “As a division responsible for restoring the system to its original state, we will continue to improve our efforts to ensure uninterrupted service,” he noted.

    Meanwhile, the ECG has announced that some parts of the Greater Accra Region will experience a blackout from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, May 18.

    In a press statement dated Wednesday, May 14, the ECG explained that the electricity disruption has become necessary as the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) will undergo planned maintenance work at the Mallam Bulk Supply Point.

    Areas to be affected during the planned maintenance are Odorkor, Awoshie, Sakaman, Mallam, Darkuman,Santamaria, Kwashieman, Sowutuom, Ablekuma, Abora, Joma, Manhian, Gbawe, Weija.

    The rest are West Hills Mall, Obligo, Anyaa, Bortianor, McCarthy Hills, Mandela, Sunda Industries, Tuba Dunkonaa and Dandoman.

  • List of areas to be affected by ECG’s planned maintenance on Sunday, May 18

    List of areas to be affected by ECG’s planned maintenance on Sunday, May 18

    Some parts of the Greater Accra Region will experience a blackout from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sunday, May 18, according to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

    In a press statement dated Wednesday, May 14, the ECG explained that the electricity disruption has become necessary as the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) will undergo planned maintenance work at the Mallam Bulk Supply Point.

    Areas to be affected during the planned maintenance are Odorkor, Awoshie, Sakaman, Mallam, Darkuman,Santamaria, Kwashieman, Sowutuom, Ablekuma, Abora, Joma, Manhian, Gbawe, Weija.

    The rest are West Hills Mall, Obligo, Anyaa, Bortianor, McCarthy Hills, Mandela, Sunda Industries, Tuba Dunkonaa and Dandoman.


    The energy-distributing company has extended apologies to residents in the affected areas, emphasizing that the temporary power cut will aid in improving the quality of electricity supply in the country.

    In recent times, major parts of the country have been experiencing intermittent power outages. This has prompted calls by members of the general public for immediate fixing by the government.

  • Recruitment for medical officers and dentists begins today

    Recruitment for medical officers and dentists begins today

    Effective Friday, May 16, medical officers who have undergone their house jobs and have been officially approved by the Medical and Dental Council are due for recruitment.

    The Ministry of Health made this known in a press release dated Tuesday, May 13. According to the ministry, the recruitment is solely for individuals who have been listed on the 34th and 35th lists of the Medical and Dental Council.

    The ministry has directed the eligible candidates to submit their applications through https://hr.moh.gov.gh.

    It cautioned that applications that will be filed after Monday, May 26, will be rejected. It noted that the turning in of an application is free of charge and cautioned the public against fraudulent individuals who might capitalize on the recruitment process for personal gain.

    “All applicants are strongly advised not to make any form of payment as part of this recruitment process. Anyone who pays money does so at his or her own risk,” the ministry warned.

    Last year, 498 newly qualified medical doctors and dental practitioners were inducted by the Medical and Dental Council (MDC).

    The inductees consist of graduates from the University of Ghana, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the University of Development Studies (UDS), the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), and private medical schools—Family Health Medical School and the Accra College of Medicine.

    The inductees were put on a provisional register in order to conclude a one-year housemanship mandatory with accredited health facilities.

    MINISTRY OF HEALTH ON MEDICAL OFFICERS
  • Parliament’s Energy Committee to meet ECG today over dumsor

    Parliament’s Energy Committee to meet ECG today over dumsor

    The Energy Committee of Parliament today, May 16, is expected to have an interaction with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) over the recent fluctuation of power and the company’s financial challenges.

    This was revealed by the Chairman of the Energy Committee of Parliament, Emmanuel Bedzrah, during an interview on Citi News on Friday.

    According to him, the meeting will serve as an avenue for both parties to collaborate, strategize, and set a clear vision for the energy sector.

    Meanwhile, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, revealed that the energy sector loses GHS2 billion monthly due to ECG’s inability to retrieve money owed by its customers.

    “We will be looking at their work, plan, and vision for the sector. They are the distributors of power. Currently, we are meeting with the generators, and we met with the transmitters yesterday. Everybody knows it is ECG that brings power into their homes. So, they should come and tell us, why we are not getting power in our homes.

    “The generators say they have enough generating capacity and that the problem will have to do with financing, ECG is the final distributor who receives finance from customers and pays it to the others so they should come and tell us what their problem is,” he stated.

    The ECG is expected to provide explanations for the missing containers scandal.

    In recent times, major parts of the country have been experiencing intermittent power outages. This has prompted calls by members of the general public for immediate fixing by the government.





  • Deplorable Tema Harbour road undergoes repairs

    Deplorable Tema Harbour road undergoes repairs

    The 300-metre stretch of road, which forms part of the Tema Harbour Road, also known as the Akosombo Road, is undergoing renovations.

    The repairs will focus on the most broken part of the road. The rehabilitation of the road has become possible due to the efforts of the newly confirmed Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Ebi Bright.

    A few days in office, Ebi Bright led a team of engineers from the Tema Metropolitan Assembly and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority to the site.

    According to the MCE, once the project is completed, immediate relief will be provided to drivers and commuters who ply the road on a daily basis.

    She noted that the government will soon improve water drainage by desilting the drains along the remaining two-kilometre stretch, which leads to the Tema Motorway Interchange.

    Tema Harbour Road has been in a poor state, and the important stretch that aids in the transportation of goods from and to the Tema Port has become a dangerous one.

    Due to its damaged sections, haulage trucks and motorists are unable to drive properly. The road has been a hot spot for accidents.

    In 2021, a 28-year-old man lost his life after his Nissan Versa Saloon car, with registration number GR 9685-21, crashed into a moving construction vehicle.



  • Four MDCEs in Accra renominated by President Mahama

    Four MDCEs in Accra renominated by President Mahama


    President John Dramani Mahama has re-appointed four Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) in Accra.

    This was revealed in a press statement dated Thursday, May 15, by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs.

    The nominees; Ignatius Godfred Dordoe will serve Shai Osudoku District Assembly, Rudolph Collingwoode-Williams for Ayawaso Central Municipal Assembly, Michael Mensah will oversee the Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly, and Alfredos Nii Anyetei for La Dadekotopon Municipal Assembly.

    The appointment is under Article 243(1) of the 1992 Constitution and Section 20(1) of the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936).



    The appointees are expected to assume office once approved by their respective Assemblies.

    In January this year, President Mahama revoked the appointments of MDCEs and Chief Executives for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).


    A letter from the presidency directed the respective Coordinating Directors of the various MMDAs to act as Chief Executives in the interim.








  • Poor road network in Upper West Region to be fixed soon – President Mahama

    Poor road network in Upper West Region to be fixed soon – President Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to fix the deplorable roads in the Upper West Region without delay.

    According to him, the assurance has become necessary due to the challenges he encountered while plying the roads during his campaign in 2024.

    “During the campaign, we travelled on a terrible road network that has become characteristic of the Upper West Region. Work will begin very soon. In a few months, you will see contractors on all these roads,” he committed while speaking at a durbar at the Wa Jubilee Park on Thursday, May 15.

    President Mahama noted that major bridges, such as the Dambai Bridge, the Kyeiamanfrom Bridge, the rehabilitated Buipe Bridge, Daboya Bridge, and Yapei Bridge, will be looked at.

    President Mahama’s visit to Wa forms part of his Thank-You Tour aimed at expressing gratification to traditional leaders in the area.

    The Upper West Region has since been the stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Electorates in the region voted massively for the governing party during the 2024 elections.

    Moving away from the Upper West Region, President Mahama revealed that the Big Push infrastructural program has been laid before Cabinet awaiting approval.

    President Mahama explained that once the government gets the nod, it will roll out priority projects, specifically in the road sector.

    He revealed the government’s plans to construct an expressway enabling travelers to get to the largest cities in the country, Accra and Kumasi, in less than two hours.

    “Cabinets will soon approve priority projects under the Big Push infrastructural program. Understandably, a significant number of these priority projects will be in the road sector. These works include the dualization of major highways, including the Accra-Kumasi, Accra-Takoradi, and Accra-Aflao roads,” he noted.

    “We’re also designing a new expressway between Accra and Kumasi, which will reduce the travel time between the two largest cities in Ghana to about 2 and half hours,” he added.










  • Street children, guardians evacuated in Immigration raid at Abossey Okai

    Street children, guardians evacuated in Immigration raid at Abossey Okai

    Street children and their guardians have been removed from the streets of the Capital, Accra, particularly at Kaneshie and Abossey Okai.

    The operation, which took place in the early hours of Friday, May 16, was led by the Ghana Immigration Service aimed at decongesting the streets as well as curbing child exploitation as part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility.

    The victims who usually solicit for alms, believed to be foreign nationals, were packed in immigration vehicles.

    In a related development, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) is expected to remove traders selling on the streets and pavements in Accra on Tuesday, May 20.

    Before the exercise, vehicular movement in the area was at a standstill, as some traders sold their items in the middle of the streets, preventing pedestrians and vehicles from barely moving freely.

    Meanwhile, transport operators in Ghana have issued a stern warning to the government and the Ghana Police Service, demanding immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements. 

    They have given authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement. 

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

    Under Regulation 117 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), it is an offence for any person to engage in trading activities in certain areas that pose a risk to public safety or obstruct the smooth flow of traffic.

    According to the law, a person shall not sell goods, display goods, offer goods for sale, or deliver goods as part of a sale on or alongside a road. A person shall also not sell or display goods on a pedestrian walkway. In addition, a person is prohibited from selling, displaying, offering for sale, or delivering goods within thirty metres of a railway level crossing.

    The law further prohibits such activities under a road traffic sign that indicates a blind corner or a rise. It is also an offence to engage in these trading activities within an intersection. Lastly, the law forbids trading on or alongside any road, including areas around a toll booth and a toll plaza.

    Any person who violates the above restrictions commits an offence. Upon summary conviction, the person is liable to pay a fine not exceeding fifty penalty units or serve a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months, or both.

    This regulation is designed to safeguard the safety of all road users and ensure that trading activities do not interfere with traffic or endanger lives.

  • GoldBod has no ties with SML – Sammy Gyamfi

    GoldBod has no ties with SML – Sammy Gyamfi

    The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has stated that there is no binding agreement between the organization and the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML).

    Recent reports suggest that the SML had commenced new operations in Ghana’s upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors despite its license being revoked.

    However, in a Facebook post on Thursday, May 15, GoldBod urged the public to disregard such claims as they are “false”.

    “Fake news alert: The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has no dealings, contract, partnership or relationship whatsoever with SML.

    “Any such claim is completely false and should be treated with utmost contempt,” he wrote.

    The GoldBod’s clarification comes a day after the country’s revenue arm, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), noted that it has not granted permission to expand its revenue to cover the country’s upstream petroleum and solid minerals sectors.

    The GRA emphasized that the SML is still under supervision, GRA in 2024, discontinued two contract transactions (the Audit and External Verification Service Contract (AEVS) with SML, as well as halting portions of the contract agreement.

    The GRA also suspended the SML’s Upstream Petroleum and Minerals Revenue Audit until further notice.

    The suspension comes after the then-President, Akufo-Addo received an audit report from KPMG against SML’s deals.

  • Over 2,000 ghost names deleted from NSA payroll

    Over 2,000 ghost names deleted from NSA payroll

    Over 2,000 ghost names have been deleted from the National Service Authority (NSA)payroll scheme as part of its cleanup exercise.

    The cleanup exercise, according to the Authority, will save Ghana over GH¢1 million.

    While addressing the media, the NSA’s Director-General, Felix Gyamfi, indicated that the Controller and Accountant General’s Department will verify the details of legitimate service personnel.

    “If you’re already on another payroll — whether as a police officer, immigration officer, or army officer — and you’re doing national service just to meet the requirement, do not submit your allowance form this month.

    “We are now working closely with the NIB and other security agencies, and anyone who attempts to defraud the system will be arrested,” Gyamfi warned.

    The Fourth Estate, released a report into the payroll records from 2017 to 2023 and the 2024 National Service Year.

    The finding revealed serious irregularities within the NSA, uncovering how a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, was wrongly listed as a beneficiary. Mr Donkor was enlisted in the payroll with a photo and not an official ID card, which is unusual.

    However, the photo belonged to Emmanuel Mutio, a Human Resource Manager at a private IT company in Kenya.

    A 72-year-old Kenyan had his name appear on the payroll 226 times as a registered beneficiary.

    The Fourth Estate initially uncovered the issue in November 2024, but the NSA obtained a court order preventing them from publishing the findings.

    After the court later lifted the injunction, the report was finally released. In response, President John Dramani Mahama ordered a probe into the matter.

    The NIB, upon the President’s directive, interrogated the former Deputy Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah and Kwaku Ohene Djan, who is also a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority.

    The payroll fraud reportedly cost Ghana GHȼ50 million monthly.


  • Traders issued 5-day ultimatum to vacate Accra pavements

    Traders issued 5-day ultimatum to vacate Accra pavements

    Traders selling on the streets and pavements in Accra have until Tuesday, May 20, to vacate, according to the Mayor of Accra, Michael Allotey.

    Addressing the media at the AMA City Hall, the Mayor of Accra warned that individuals who flout the directive will be sanctioned by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).

    “As the mayor of Accra, I cannot allow this to continue. Starting on Tuesday, we will begin the exercise. Please understand, we are not targeting anyone personally.

    “We ask you, please, to move before we arrive. This is a promise I intend to keep. If by Tuesday you have not moved, we will have no choice but to remove you,” the mayor added.

    According to Mr. Allotey, the exercise forms part of the Mahama-led administration’s agenda to improve urban mobility as well as decongest the City.

    “There’s no time for empty promises. From the day I took office, I made a commitment to myself: ‘I’ll make sure my car is clean.’ It’s a personal promise, but today, I am making that promise to all of us. The streets are not for selling. They are places for cars, not for trade.”

    “The pavements have become overcrowded, and now they occupy almost half of the streets. If I wait for something bad to happen, they might even turn against the mayor of this city,” he added.

    The Minister revealed that the decongestion exercise will begin from Okaishie through Circle and Kaneshie.

    “We are not removing traders simply because we have the power to do so. Our goal is to keep the city clean,” he said. “We have consulted with market women, the GPRTU, and the police. We are doing this to improve conditions for everyone,” he noted.

    Also, in some parts of the country, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) embarked on a decongestion exercise in the Central Business District (CBD) in April this year.

    The Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, issued a stern caution to traders operating on the pavements.

    “Kumasi should expect cooperation, discipline. There is a lot of indiscipline in our metropolis. In all humility, I am going to ensure strict compliance with the Assembly to the by-law that manages our city. If you are selling on the pavement, adjust yourself.”

    “If you are in the middle of any dual carriageway road, especially within the central business district, please get out of the place. Because from Wednesday, we will get on the street and make sure that we clear Kumasi from all the filth that we see.”

    “With the decongestion, we will not apply the forces of military men. Everybody wants to sell at Adum, so we will find some ingenious way to keep them in Adum and decongest Adum,” he said.

    Before the exercise, vehicular movement in the area was at a standstill, as some traders sold their items in the middle of the streets, preventing pedestrians and vehicles from barely moving freely.

    Meanwhile, transport operators in Ghana have issued a stern warning to the government and the Ghana Police Service, demanding immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements. 

    They have given authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement. 

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

    Under Regulation 117 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), it is an offence for any person to engage in trading activities in certain areas that pose a risk to public safety or obstruct the smooth flow of traffic.

    According to the law, a person shall not sell goods, display goods, offer goods for sale, or deliver goods as part of a sale on or alongside a road. A person shall also not sell or display goods on a pedestrian walkway. In addition, a person is prohibited from selling, displaying, offering for sale, or delivering goods within thirty metres of a railway level crossing.

    The law further prohibits such activities under a road traffic sign that indicates a blind corner or a rise. It is also an offence to engage in these trading activities within an intersection. Lastly, the law forbids trading on or alongside any road, including areas around a toll booth and a toll plaza.

    Any person who violates the above restrictions commits an offence. Upon summary conviction, the person is liable to pay a fine not exceeding fifty penalty units or serve a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months, or both.

    This regulation is designed to safeguard the safety of all road users and ensure that trading activities do not interfere with traffic or endanger lives.

  • Anyone who assaults firefighters will be prosecuted – Interior Ministry

    Anyone who assaults firefighters will be prosecuted – Interior Ministry

    The Minister of Interior, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, has warned that individuals caught attacking fire officers in the line of their duties will be arrested and prosecuted.

    He gave the cautionary notice while commissioning a new fire station at Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region.

    According to him, his outfit has put in place necessary measures to easily pick up individuals who will flout the warning.



    He noted that henceforth, firefighters will be accompanied to the field by the Ghana Police Service in order to take action against culprits.

    “We are going to enhance the safety of our staff from the national fire service. This is a collaboration with the Ghana Police Service. Anytime our fire fighters move to a fire site or move to a place for rescue, the police will be in their company for those who find it interesting to attack them, will be immediately arrested and prosecuted.

    For some time, Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has faced criticism over claims of slow response to emergencies.



    In 2024, the Service threatened to boycott its activities in certain areas over the incessant attacks on its personnel.


    On Saturday, February 10, in Konongo, angry residents alleged that fire officers responded late to a fire outbreak.

    This led to an attack on the officers and damage to a fire tender.

    Meanwhile, the Service has on several occasions contributed to response delays due to outdated equipment.

    The GNFS has called for an increase in fire stations nationwide as well as a supply of modern equipment.

  • Recruitment for medical officers begins Friday

    Recruitment for medical officers begins Friday

    Effective Friday, May 16, medical officers who have undergone their House Jobs and have been officially approved by the Medical and Dental Council are due for recruitment.

    The Ministry of Health made this known in a press release dated Tuesday, May 13.

    According to the Ministry, the recruitment is solely for individuals who have been listed on the 34th and 35th lists of the Medical and Dental Council.

    The Ministry has directed the eligible candidates to submit their applications through https://hr.moh.gov.gh.

    It cautioned that applications that will be filed after Monday, May 26, will be rejected.

    It noted that the turning in of an application is free of charge and cautioned the public against fraudulent individuals who might capitalize on the recruitment process for personal gain.

    “All applicants are strongly advised not to make any form of payment as part of this recruitment process. Anyone who pays money does so at his or her own risk,” the Ministry warned.


  • 2 NSA staff interdicted for manipulating allowance payment for over 70 NSS personnel

    2 NSA staff interdicted for manipulating allowance payment for over 70 NSS personnel

    The National Service Authority (NSA) has interdicted two of its officials in the Brim North District, Eastern Region.

    Per an official release by the NSA on Wednesday, May 14, the culprits were found guilty of their involvement in a “well-orchestrated act of systemic fraud” within the area.

    The NSA explained that the culprits falsified records to approve and process monthly allowances for 78 personnel: at least 29 in the 2024/2025 service year and 49 in the 2023/2024 service year.

    The Authority has noted that the suspension of the district manager and the MIS manager remains in effect pending the outcome of investigations.

    “The Management of the National Service Authority (NSA), through a collaboration with a whistleblower, has uncovered a well-orchestrated act of systemic fraud involving the District Manager and the MIS Manager in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.

    “During a meeting convened this morning, both individuals were presented with substantial evidence of their misconduct. In further discussions the two officers admitted to their direct involvement in the fraudulent activity. As a result, the Management of the Authority has interdicted the two officers, pending further investigations,” parts of the release read.

    Earlier this year, a non-profit investigative body, The Fourth Estate, released a report into the payroll records from 2017 to 2023 and the 2024 National Service Year.

    The finding revealed serious irregularities within the NSA, uncovering how a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, was wrongly listed as a beneficiary. Mr Donkor was enlisted in the payroll with a photo and not an official ID card, which is unusual.

    However, the photo belonged to Emmanuel Mutio, a Human Resource Manager at a private IT company in Kenya. 72-year-old Kenyan had his name appear on the payroll 226 times as a registered beneficiary.

    The Fourth Estate initially uncovered the issue in November 2024, but the NSA obtained a court order preventing them from publishing the findings.

    After the court later lifted the injunction, the report was finally released.

    In response, President John Dramani Mahama ordered a probe into the matter.

    The NIB, upon the President’s directive, interrogated the former Deputy Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah and Kwaku Ohene Djan who is also a former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority.

    The payroll fraud reportedly cost Ghana GHȼ50 million monthly.