TIG Post

Tag: John Dramani Mahama

  • $2bn needed to salvage Agenda 111 projects – SIF Boss reveals

    $2bn needed to salvage Agenda 111 projects – SIF Boss reveals

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Social Investment Fund, Abass-Adams Nurudeen, has disclosed that the administration of President John Dramani Mahama needs about $2 billion to complete the Agenda 111 projects initiated by the previous government.

    Speaking to the media, he indicated that the current administration has no plans of abandoning the projects; however, significant funding is required to ensure their completion. According to him, the Agenda 111 project was a corruption machinery of the then Akufo-Addo-led government. 

    “The NPP never considered establishing Agenda 111 hospitals. It was the COVID-19 pandemic that drew their attention to such projects. If you look at their 2016 manifesto, there was nothing indicating they would construct these hospitals,” he told host Barima Kofi Dawson. Many of the facilities they commissioned cannot be operational because they lack essential amenities like electricity, making it difficult to employ health professionals,” he said.

    On Tuesday, March 10, Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem disclosed that thirty (35) contractors under the then Akufo-Addo government’s Agenda 111 initiative received US$7.9 million in mobilisation funds but failed to start work on the projects.

    He made the revelation in Parliament on Tuesday, March 10, while presenting the Report of the Auditor-General on Arrears and Payables as at the end of 2024.

    The Deputy Finance Minister indicated that the contractors received an advance payment US$7.9m “but these contractors have either failed to mobilise to the site or the work done is not commensurate with the amount paid.”

    “Mr Speaker, the audit of Agenda 111 projects also revealed that a total amount of US$7.9 million was paid to 35 contractors as advance mobilisation under the programme, but these contractors have either failed to mobilise to the site or the work done is not commensurate with the amount paid,” he said.

    Reacting to the report, Mr Kwakye Ofosu, has assured a thorough investigation into the matter, adding, “The crimes have been identified, and people will be taken to court to punish them for these offences immediately”.

    These developments have intensified concerns surrounding the administration of the Agenda 111 project, widely regarded as one of the largest healthcare infrastructure programmes initiated during the tenure of former President Nana Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Party government.

    Introduced in 2021, the project aimed to build 111 district and regional hospitals nationwide to expand healthcare access, particularly in communities lacking adequate medical facilities.

    Despite its objectives, the programme has repeatedly come under scrutiny due to construction delays, escalating costs, and concerns about monitoring and accountability.

    Mr Ampem also revealed that the advance payment guarantees associated with the 35 contracts have all lapsed, leaving the government with limited contractual safeguards to recover the money should the contractors fail to honour the surcharge directives.

    The Ministry of Finance did not specify whether further legal action or recovery strategies would be pursued beyond the measures already initiated by the Ghana Audit Service.

    It also remains uncertain how many of the proposed 111 hospitals have been completed or have reached significant stages of construction.

    The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has attributed the decision by President John Mahama to order an audit into the Agenda 111 project to the lack of clarity and transparency surrounding its implementation under the previous administration.

    Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Akandoh revealed that none of the hospitals promised under the initiative is currently operational.

    “None of the Agenda 111 hospitals is operational as we speak, which is why President Mahama has directed that an audit be conducted to understand the true status of the project,” he stated.

    He criticised the former Akufo-Addo administration for what he described as poor planning and mismanagement of the health infrastructure project.

    “We all know how Agenda 111 started. The way the project was handled wasn’t the best. Even if you intend to build 111 hospitals, you could stagger the project and complete them in phases,” the Minister said.

    He pointed out that the Akufo-Addo government had assured the public that some of the hospitals would be completed and handed over before the end of their term. However, none of these facilities are in use.

    “He mentioned that they had completed three hospitals and even commissioned some on December 5. But when President Mahama gave his first State of the Nation Address and referenced it, I went to verify, and unfortunately, none of those hospitals was operational,” Mr. Akandoh noted.

    Highlighting inconsistencies in the project’s financing, the Minister disclosed that about $400 million had already been spent out of the estimated $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion budgeted for the entire project.

    “The interesting part is, if they had staggered the project as they should have, by now we could have completed more than 20 hospitals with that amount. But that wasn’t the case,” he lamented.

    With the Agenda 111 initiative now under the purview of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Akandoh said steps are being taken to assess its feasibility and ensure proper execution moving forward.

    “President Mahama has directed us to audit the Agenda 111 project and present him with a clear blueprint for the way forward, and we’ve been given timelines,” he added.

    The Ministry of Health has dismissed statements made by former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, who claimed that three hospitals under the Agenda 111 initiative were completed, furnished with medical equipment, and inaugurated before the previous administration left office.

    During a press briefing on Monday, Dr. Adam asserted that three hospitals had been fully completed and that $1.3 billion had been allocated to finish the remaining Agenda 111 projects.

    However, in a statement released on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Health Ministry denied these assertions and urged the public to disregard them.

    The Ministry reported that on March 3, officials visited the Trede and Kokoben hospital sites in the Ashanti Region to evaluate progress. Their assessment found that essential medical infrastructure, including imaging devices, medical gas systems, and mortuary equipment, was yet to be installed.

    Despite the previous government investing $400 million in the initiative, the Ministry emphasized that none of the Agenda 111 hospitals had been completed and made operational. Although the facilities at Trede, Kokoben, and Ahanta had been inaugurated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, construction was still in progress, with an estimated completion rate of 95 percent. Some laboratory sections remained unfinished, and no medical devices had been put in place.

    Furthermore, the Ministry clarified that these hospitals had not been handed over to the Ghana Health Service for use. It is estimated that an additional $8.03 million would be required to make each of the three hospitals fully functional. The overall cost to complete all pending Agenda 111 hospital projects had now risen to $1.589 billion.

  • President Mahama orders immediate cuts in fuel taxes after cabinet meeting

    President Mahama orders immediate cuts in fuel taxes after cabinet meeting

    Certain taxes and levies on petroleum products are expected to be scrapped in the coming days following the intervention of President John Dramani Mahama.

    During an emergency Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, April 9, President Mahama instructed the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, and the Minister for Energy to immediately begin the process of reviewing and removing the affected taxes.

    President John Dramani Mahama said the decision is aimed at cushioning Ghanaians from rising fuel prices, which have been driven by global supply disruptions linked to tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The ongoing tension has led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.

    The ongoing tensions between Iran, the U.S., and Israel have been linked to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.


    Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in strikes by the United States (U.S.) and Israel. This development is significantly impacting travelers from Ghana to Asia, Europe, and North America, as Dubai is a major transit hub connecting travelers through the United Arab Emirates.

    Meanwhile, petrol and diesel are selling at GH¢13.30 and GH¢17.10 per litre, respectively, at the pumps. In a social media post on Tuesday, March 31, GOIL announced that petrol is now selling at GH¢13.30 per litre from GH¢12.24 and diese from GH¢15.69 to GH¢17.10 per litre.


    Star Oil, has increased from GH¢12.19 to GH¢13.49 per litre. It has also increased the price of Diesel from GH¢14.25 to GH¢17.97. The adjustment follows a new price floor announced by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) on March 30, directing Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to implement the changes from Wednesday, April 1.


    On Monday, March 16 petroleum products at the pumps saw an increase following adjustment by the NPAfor the second pricing window for the month.


    As a result, petrol priced at GHȼ10.46 per litre will now be sold at GHȼ11.57. The price floor for diesel has jumped from GH¢11.42 to GH¢14.35 per litre, and LPG has risen from GH¢9.38 to GH¢10.67 per kilogramme. Meanwhile, Ghana’s petroleum sector recorded a decline in the second half of 2025.


    The data from the Bank of Ghana (BoG), contained in the Central Bank’s Semi-Annual Report on the Petroleum Holding Fund (PHF) and shared on Tuesday, February 3, shows total receipts of US$399.65 million, significantly lower than returns recorded during the same period in 2024.


    The report explains that the amount represents combined inflows from crude oil liftings and petroleum-related taxes. However, it fell below the US$369.25 million realised from crude oil liftings alone in the second half of 2024, pointing to weaker overall performance in the sector.


    “The total amount received into the PHF account for H2 2025 was US$399.65 million (crude oil lifting total of US$198.25 million and other total income of US$201.40 million),” the report indicated.


    The report further indicates that revenue between July 1 and December 31, 2025, was drawn from two main sources. Crude oil liftings from the Jubilee and Sankofa Gye Nyame (SGN) fields generated US$198.25 million, following the lifting of two Jubilee cargoes and one SGN cargo by the Ghana Group, represented by the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).


    Ghana earned US$201.40 million from petroleum-related taxes and interest during the period. The bulk of this amount, US$198.09 million, came from corporate income taxes, while US$3.31 million was earned as interest on the Petroleum Holding Fund.


    The BoG also explained that revenue from the 25th cargo from the TEN field, valued at US$60.79 million, was not included in the report because the funds had not been received by the end of 2025, even though they were expected in November.


    Even though Ghana received less new money from oil during the period, it still spent and distributed a total of US$493.40 million. The spending was cushioned by savings accumulated by the government from previous years to cover the shortfall.


    According to the report, the government used about 57.8% of the total US$493.40 million, amounting to US$285.06 million, to fund its projects and programmes through the national budget.

    About 23.5%, representing US$115.99 million, was saved to stabilise the economy during difficult times, while US$49.71 million was saved for future generations. Another US$42.63 million was given to the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation to help cover its operational and investment costs.


    The report further showed positive investment performance for Ghana’s petroleum savings. The Ghana Petroleum Funds recorded a net realised income of US$28.11 million, with returns of 2.28 per cent for the Heritage Fund and 2.51 per cent for the Stabilisation Fund.


    As of December 31, 2025, total petroleum reserves stood at US$1.55 billion, with the Heritage Fund accounting for US$1.38 billion.
    Looking ahead, the Bank of Ghana adopted a cautious outlook for 2026, noting that Brent crude prices declined from US$66.61 to US$60.81 per barrel by the end of 2025.


    While the International Monetary Fund projects global growth of 3.3 per cent, the report warned that Ghana’s petroleum revenues remain exposed to geopolitical developments in the Middle East and OPEC+ production decisions, with oil prices expected to average about US$62.13 per barrel in 2026.


    Meanwhile, in a related development, motorists have started the New Year on a good note, with less pressure on their pockets, as several Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have effected a reduction in fuel prices at their respective pumps across the country in the January pricing window.


    The price cuts, which took effect in the early hours of the New Year, signify a continued downward trend in petroleum costs, offering much-needed breathing room for both commercial and private transport users.
    Among the first OMCs to effect the reduction was market leader Star Oil.

    It set the pace and a benchmark for other OMCs as it adjusted its digital displays, reflecting a marginal dip from previous prices.
    Petrol is now selling at GH¢10.86 per litre, diesel is priced at GH¢11.96 per litre, and RON 95 is selling at GH¢13.56 per litre.


    According to Star Oil management, the reduction in oil prices is a result of a “favourable domestic and external cost environment,” citing the cedi’s appreciation and a dip in international refined product prices.


    It said the current reductions may only be the tip of the iceberg for January. The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) projected a robust outlook for the month, suggesting that competitive pressures will force more OMCs to follow suit in the coming days.


    In its January pricing outlook, COMAC provided a breakdown of the expected percentage declines. It projected that petrol would fall by up to 4.80 per cent, while diesel was also estimated to drop by approximately 3.77 per cent. LPG, on the other hand, was expected to see a reduction of roughly 2.19 per cent.


    Industry analysts believe that if the cedi maintains its current trajectory and international crude prices remain below US$80 per barrel, Ghanaians could see even more substantial relief by the second pricing window in mid-January.


    While fuel prices are dropping, Ghanaians have had to brace themselves for an increase in utility tariffs, which took effect on January 1, 2026.
    Following the announcement, there was widespread disapproval, particularly from stakeholders and the general public.


    On December 2, 2025, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced an imminent increase in tariffs, with the new rates set to take effect from January 1, 2026.

    The Commission said the increases—9.86 per cent for electricity and 15.92 per cent for water—had become necessary to meet utility investment needs, respond to macroeconomic pressures, and ensure the long-term stability of the sector.

  • Parliament adopts motion after concluding debate on 2026 SONA

    Parliament adopts motion after concluding debate on 2026 SONA

    Parliament has adopted the motion on the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered by John Dramani Mahama after days of intense debate.

    The House adopted the motion of the SONA, which was moved by the MP for Bolgatanga Central, Hon. Isaac Adongo and seconded by the MP for Assin South, Hon. John Ntim Fordjour.

    During the Parliamentary session on Wednesday, March 11, both the Majority and Minority caucuses made their final remarks to conclude the debate.

    The Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, opposed the government’s decision to buy a Presidential Jet, arguing that the country has other priorities to address, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

    He mentioned that President Mahama has failed in creating jobs for the youth, stressing that many youths were denied the opportunity to take part in the recent security recruitment because they could not access the internet.

    Additionally, he noted that the government has worsened the plight of Ghanaian cocoa farmers by reducing the cocoa producer price, despite the sector already being in crisis.

    But in making his counterargument, the Majority Leader, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, noted that the producer price has been increased to unprecedented heights under President Mahama, ensuring that when the world pays more for a bar of chocolate, the farmer in Sefwi, Enchi, and Tepa finally sees a reflection of that value in his pocket.

    “This is not mere commerce; it is the restoration of the dignity of the Ghanaian soil. We are moving from being exporters of raw toil to masters of our own industrial destiny, investing in local processing so that “Made in Ghana” becomes a global standard of excellence, not a colonial footnote,” he stated.

    On Friday, February 27, President John Dramani Mahama addressed the nation, providing an update on the state of the country and the progress made since he assumed office.

    During his second State of the Nation Address of his second term, the president outlined his administration’s vision and priorities under the ambitious Resetting Ghana agenda.

    He also called on Ghanaians to unite and support his administration as it rolls out key initiatives aimed at improving the country’s development and overall well-being.

    According to him, “ the resetting agenda is working, the Accra reset is gaining momentum, and together we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient and more prosperous Ghana. Mr Speaker, our nation is on a runaway, it will take off now, and you are all advised to fasten your seat belts”.

    He added, ” Mr Speaker, the journey continues as the direction is set and the hope is real, our theme today of building prosperity and restoring hope is not mainly aspirational. It reflects the tangible transformation we have delivered for the Ghanaian people”.

    President John Mahama also announced fresh progress toward the re-establishment of a national airline, stating that concrete steps have been taken to ensure the initiative becomes a reality.

    The President revealed that a ten-member task force set up to oversee the process has completed its work and submitted a detailed business model together with an operational framework.

    The documents, he explained, will guide the government in selecting a credible strategic partner to run the new national carrier.

    “In fulfilment of my pledge to re-establish a national airline, a ten-member taskforce established to oversee this initiative has submitted a business model and operational framework to guide the selection of a strategic partner for the new national airline. And this new national airline will take off soon. Isha Allah,” President Mahama stated.

    He indicated that the creation of a new national airline forms part of a broader plan to strengthen Ghana’s aviation sector, boost tourism, create jobs, and position the country as a key aviation hub in West Africa.

    The President also highlighted growth in air travel, pointing to increased passenger numbers handled by the Ghana Airports Company Limited. According to him, passenger traffic rose to 3.625 million in 2025, up from 3.4 million recorded in 2024.

    “Mr Speaker, passenger traffic handled by the Ghana Airport Company increased to 3.625 million passengers in 2025 from 3.4 million in 2024,” he added.

    The rise in passenger movement, he noted, demonstrates renewed confidence in Ghana’s aviation industry and underscores the importance of establishing a national airline to meet growing demand.

    He expressed optimism that once operational, the airline would enhance connectivity, facilitate trade and investment, and contribute significantly to national development.

  • Ghana is on a runaway, fasten your seat belts – President Mahama

    Ghana is on a runaway, fasten your seat belts – President Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to unite and support his administration as it rolls out key initiatives aimed at improving the country’s development and overall well-being.

    He made this comment during the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA)held in Parliament on Friday, February 27.


    According to him, “ the resetting agenda is working, the Accra reset is gaining momentum, and together we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient and more prosperous Ghana. Mr Speaker, our nation is on a runaway, it will take off now, and you are all advised to fasten your seat belts”.

    He added, ” Mr Speaker, the journey continues as the direction is set and the hope is real, our theme today of building prosperity and restoring hope is not mainly aspirational. It reflects the tangible transformation we have delivered for the Ghanaian people”.

    The President applauded the country’s current economic state, adding that “in 2025, Ghana’s GDP was expected to reach $113bn, an increase of $83bn at the end of 2024. This has placed Ghana among the top 10 largest economies in Africa.

    The delivery of SONA by the president aligns with the constitutional mandate stated in Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution.

    Watch the livestream here:

    According to a report issued by the Office of the President, president Mahama is required to present the SONA at the beginning of each session of Parliament and may also deliver a supplementary SONA at the end of the session to update the nation on the state of the country.

    In his second term under the 9th Parliament, President Mahama is expected to outline Ghana’s current state and his administration’s strategy for navigating the country through this challenging period, especially as Ghana remains under an International Monetary Fund (IMF) support program.

    With Ghana’s ongoing economic challenges and recent warnings from the World Bank regarding the government’s fiscal decisions, many expect key issues to be addressed in the upcoming speech.

    The IMF’s recent discussions with the government, including talks on scrapping certain taxes and recommendations to tackle the country’s growing debt crisis, are also crucial topics.

    Additionally, President Mahama is expected to address important sectors such as education, health, and energy. On January 3, 2024, the immediate past president, Nana Akufo-Addo, outlined the state of the economy, which has now been handed over to the Mahama-led administration.

    Former President Akufo-Addo highlighted the resilience of Ghana’s economy, which faced significant hurdles, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the IMF-supported Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG), his administration stabilized the economy.

    “Economic growth has also returned to the pre-COVID trajectory, with an impressive growth rate, rising from 4.8 percent in the first quarter of 2024, 7 percent in the second quarter, and 7.2 percent in the third quarter. It is projected that this year’s growth rate will be 6.3 percent, significantly higher than the 3.4 percent my administration inherited in 2017,” he said.

    President Akufo-Addo also emphasized strides in healthcare, including the Agenda 111 project to expand access to medical facilities and the revitalization of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

    Coverage now includes critical treatments for childhood cancers and sickle cell disease, reflecting a commitment to enhancing health equity.

  • Yaw Dabo, Oboy Siki settle GHS1m defamation dispute after Dr Frank Amoakohene’s intervention

    Yaw Dabo, Oboy Siki settle GHS1m defamation dispute after Dr Frank Amoakohene’s intervention

    Kumawood figures Yaw Dabo and Oboy Siki, also known as Dada Santo, have settled their defamation disagreement without continuing the court process.

    The legal battle began after Yaw Dabo sued Oboy Siki, accusing him of making damaging remarks about him. However, fewer than two days after their initial appearance in court, Dabo chose to withdraw the case following mediation efforts led by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene.

    A video released after their meeting with the minister showed both men announcing their decision to end the dispute outside the courtroom.

    As part of the resolution, Oboy Siki retracted the statements in question and rendered an unreserved apology to Dabo for any distress caused.

    He explained that his comments were intended to generate social media attention, but since Dabo was displeased, he opted to take them back.

    Yaw Dabo demands GH¢1m from Oboy Siki over alleged defamatory comments

    “I have already apologised to Dabo before Frank [Dr Amoakohene], but let me state it here that all I said was not true and was said out of anger,” Oboy Siki told the media.

    After addressing bloggers, Oboy Siki approached Dabo, extended a handshake, and publicly requested confirmation that he had been forgiven.

    Dabo responded by confirming that he had accepted the apology. He indicated that the matter had been resolved through the involvement of the regional minister and other influential personalities who had intervened.

    Background

    The dispute traces back to remarks Oboy Siki allegedly made during an interview with Ghpage, where he criticised Dabo’s role in football administration and commented on aspects of his personal life, including allegations relating to infertility.

    He further claimed that Dabo had made insulting comments about President John Dramani Mahama.

    Believing the statements had harmed his public image, Dabo proceeded to file a defamation lawsuit against Oboy Siki, demanding GH₵1 million in compensation.

    On February 23, 2026, both actors made their first appearance at the High Court in Kumasi. Footage shared online captured them at the courthouse with several Kumawood colleagues, among them Sumsum Ahuofe, while the case was called.

    Subsequently, it emerged that the court had postponed proceedings to give the parties room to consider an amicable settlement — a process that has now been concluded.

    Also in the world of music, veteran music producer Fred Kyei Mensah, popularly known as Fredyma, and Highlife musician Ofori Amponsah settled their age-old dispute over how the latter first met the late Daddy Lumba.

    Fredyma took to Facebook on November 5 to announce that he had finally smoked the peace pipe with Ofori Amponsah during an appearance on Joy Prime TV, where Andy Dosty was the host. 

    “This evening on Joy Prime TV hosted by the venerable Andy Dosty, Ofori Amponsah and I settled the seemingly conflict about who introduced him to the late Daddy Lumba.”

    “We both agreed that I did his demo songs, which ushered him to be accepted and to be part of Daddy Lumba’s music kingdom and his subsequent success in the music industry,” Fredyma stated.” 

    The veteran music producer further clarifed; “Apparently, Ofori Amponsah had visited Lumba’s house and made him listen to the demo I did and signed agreements without my knowledge before inviting me to accompany him later to officially present his demo. This was where the whole confusion erupted.”

    Fredyma added that, he knew the late Daddy Lumba for over four decades, but never indulged Ofori Amponsah and his dealings with the late legend.

    “I didn’t ever partake in any of his music dealings through the signing of agreements with the late Daddy Lumba,” he wrote.

    However, in June 1993, he took Ofori for an audition at the National Museums and Monuments Board, a move that eventually opened the door for him to perform at the National Theatre.

    “I took Ofori Amponsah for an audition at the National Museums and Monuments Board in June 1993 for onward performance at the National Theatre,” he recounted.

    According to Fredyma, Ofori Amponsah gained fame at the mainstream with Daddy Lumba after recording two albums in his studio.

    But one of the albums, a Highlife project recorded with Dada Ahuofe in 1995, was never released.

    A Gospel album recorded in 1996 came out before Ofori’s 1999 hit collaboration “Odo Mmra Fie” with Lumba.

    The veteran producer said he had not worked with Ofori Amponsah since 1997 but remains grateful that the long-standing misunderstanding has finally been resolved.

    “Officially, this has been Ofori Amponsah’s moment and journey in my life. I have never worked on any music project with him since 1997 to date. I am grateful that this uncalled-for impasse has been laid to rest. Thanks for your understanding. No malice intended. We move. Daddy Lumba koraa, wa wu so why the fuss?” he concluded.

  • John Dramani Mahama visits victims of Burkina Faso terror attack receiving care at 37 Military Hospital

    John Dramani Mahama visits victims of Burkina Faso terror attack receiving care at 37 Military Hospital

    President John Dramani Mahama has visited two survivors of the terrorist attack in Burkina Faso who are currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital.

    The visit took place on Wednesday, February 18. The victims were among Ghanaian tomato traders travelling in a truck that was ambushed by armed assailants. The attackers reportedly separated the men on board, killed them, and later set the vehicle on fire.

    The President, accompanied by Julius Debrah, sympathised with the injured traders and assured them that the government would settle their medical bills.

    The President, who had earlier undertaken an official assignment in Takoradi, proceeded directly to the hospital upon arrival to interact with the victims and obtain first-hand accounts of the incident.

    Seven Ghanaians who lost their lives in the attack have since been laid to rest, while the survivors were safely evacuated and brought back home by the Ghana Armed Forces.

    All of them are receiving counselling and the required psychological support, while those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical care.

    A truck carrying Ghanaian tomato traders was attacked by terrorists in Titao, Burkina Faso on Sunday, February 15. This was contained in a press release issued to media houses and signed by the Minister for the Interior and National Security, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.

    “The Government of Ghana has received disturbing information from Burkina Faso of a truck carrying tomato traders from Ghana, which was caught in a terrorist attack in Titao,” the release said.

    According to the Ministry, Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso has already launched an investigation into the unfortunate incident.

    “The Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso is liaising with officials of Burkina Faso to visit the attack site for details and identification of Ghanaians caught in the attack,” the statement added. Parts of the Sahel region have recently experienced heightened terrorist attacks.

    Meanwhile, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have formally broke away from the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) due to diplomatic tensions after military takeovers and due to economic and social failures by past governments.

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

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

    In response to these claims, ECOWAS revealed that it did not receive formal notice before their withdrawal; therefore, it called for a dialogue to address their concerns.

    “The ECOWAS Commission remains seized with the development and shall make further pronouncements as the situation evolves,” it added.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Citizens from the affected countries will also retain their right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment across ECOWAS states, ensuring that travel and cross-border activities remain unhindered.

    Furthermore, officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger working within ECOWAS will be given full support and cooperation in carrying out their assignments.

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

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

  • IEA poll shows 68% approval for President Mahama amid economic concerns

    IEA poll shows 68% approval for President Mahama amid economic concerns

    A countrywide public opinion survey by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) indicates that President John Dramani Mahama continues to receive notable backing from citizens one year after returning to office, with 68% of Ghanaians expressing satisfaction with his performance.

    The poll, conducted in December 2025 and involving more than 1,000 respondents from every region in the country, found that 22% of participants were dissatisfied with the President’s performance, while 10% said they had no view.

    In a press statement issued on February 11, 2026, the IEA explained that the approval rating points to sustained public confidence in President Mahama’s leadership, even as the country grapples with several economic and social difficulties.

    “Public support for President John Mahama is high, with a 68% job approval rating,” the report stated.

    The findings also revealed strong public anxiety over the escalating cost of living. About 71% of respondents said they are highly worried about the prices of food and other essential goods, while 20% indicated moderate concern.

    In total, 91% of those surveyed acknowledged some degree of worry about increasing prices, underscoring the financial strain many households continue to experience.

    The survey ranked unemployment as the country’s most urgent challenge, with 46% of respondents identifying it as their primary concern. Illegal mining, widely referred to as galamsey, followed with 30%, signalling persistent public unease about environmental destruction and contamination of water bodies.

    Meanwhile, corruption and the overall economic situation were cited by 9% and 8% of respondents, respectively, as the nation’s most critical issues.

    President Mahama was sworn into office on January 7, 2025, at a time when citizens held strong expectations after the country endured economic difficulties marked by heavy debt, a weakening currency, rising inflation, and job losses.

    The IEA observed that although several major economic indicators are showing signs of improvement, the country still faces considerable social and economic hurdles.

    The institute added that while many Ghanaians remain optimistic about President Mahama’s leadership, they are also mindful of the urgent economic and structural challenges that demand attention.

    Senior Presidential Advisor and Special Aide to President John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, has applauded government’s performance to date.

    In a Facebook post on Monday, May 5, she wrote “so far, so great” expressing her optimism over the positive developments under President Mahama’s administration.

    Reflecting on the government’s initial progress, Mogtari pointed to the President’s 57% popular vote and the ongoing approval ratings as strong indicators of the administration’s success.

    “I have been closely following the approval ratings of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, and like many Ghanaians, I am confident that we are on the right track,” she wrote, highlighting the tangible progress made during the first 120 days of Mahama’s second term.

    Central to her post was an announcement about the forthcoming launch of a new Code of Conduct and Ethics.

    “Today, President Mahama takes a bold step forward. He will formally launch the Code of Conduct and Ethics, which is a framework that will be binding on all public office holders, government officials, politically exposed persons, and their close associates,” Mogtari said.

    She emphasized that the framework, which applies to all public office holders, government officials, politically exposed persons, and their close associates, is specifically designed to eliminate conflicts of interest and strengthen accountability in governance.

    She also explained that one of the central provisions of the new policy is a ban on political appointees and their associates acquiring state assets.

    “At the heart of this policy is a ban on political appointees and their close associates from acquiring state assets,” she emphasized.

    According to Mogtari, the launch of the Code of Conduct sends a clear and powerful message, reinforcing the government’s zero-tolerance stance on conflicts of interest.

    President John Dramani Mahama, in a national address marking the completion of his government’s first 120 days, reaffirmed his commitment to the pledges made under his 120-day contract with Ghanaians.

    He assured citizens that his administration is taking urgent and sincere steps to deliver meaningful reforms.He emphasized the seriousness with which he approaches his promises: “I take my promises seriously. My word is my bond!”

    He highlighted a range of bold measures already underway, describing them as essential building blocks for a national transformation agenda he calls “Resetting Ghana.”

    “From forming a lean government and establishing a robust code of conduct to taking decisive steps to scrap burdensome taxes, initiating inquiries into past wrongdoings, launching major job creation programmes, tackling illegal mining, reviving our environment, promoting our tourism and export sectors, streamlining scholarships, supporting vulnerable populations, and holding our security agencies accountable – the foundation for ‘Resetting Ghana’ and ‘Building the Ghana we want together’ is being laid with speed and determination,” he said.

    Mahama made it clear that these interventions are not for show or political gain, but signal a real departure from business as usual in governance.

    “These actions are not merely checkboxes on a list; they signify a fundamental shift in how government operates – with transparency, accountability, efficiency, and a profound sense of urgency for the well-being of every Ghanaian,” he stated.

  • I will support Mahama at the peril of my life – Nero X

    I will support Mahama at the peril of my life – Nero X

    Ghanaian artiste, Nero X, has made a bold stands to support President John Dramani Mahama in his governance to make Ghana a better place for citizen.

    According to him efforts being made by President Mahama to reset the country nd commendable and deserving of every support to keep him going.

    “If there is a hypothetical situation where I am to sacrifice my life for President Mahama, I will. Because it is for Ghana, he is helping Ghana and I am willing to help Ghana with my life,” he said in an interview on Okay Fm

    Adding that he will also not hesitate to perform freely for him.

    “If I am to sacrifice anything. I am willing to perform for him for free as a musician,” Nero X said.

    Ahead of the 2024 presidential elections, Nero released a campaign song in support of President Mahama’s campaign.

    He praised Mahama’s governance and track record, stating, “I love everything about him, his personality, his work ethic, everything. We have seen how he’s been performing.”

    The ‘Osey’ hitmaker shared the he deeply admires President Mahama, his leadership and legacy.

    For him, Mahama deserves a nod to lead Ghana far beyond the standard four-year presidential term, citing the progress he claims to have seen under Mahama’s leadership.

    “I wish he could rule for 30 years before he goes. Even the opposition is aware that he is doing good and should even rule for longer. Even the Nigerians want him as their president because they are seeing his good works,” he said.

    Renowned Kumawood actor Kwaku Manu also expressed excitement over the appreciation of the cedi, which was trading at GHS10.40 to a dollar.

    According to the actor, it affected several travelers, including himself; however, the strengthening of the Ghana cedi was ultimately good news for Ghanaian traders.

    He praised President John Mahama for his hard work in less than a year since he came into power.

    “One thing I want to say is that if we put politics aside, President John Mahama is really working since he came back to power. He is really working hard. Whenever I travel abroad, I normally return to Ghana to change some dollars I get over here. Since I came here, I have always checked the dollar”.

    “I know it will affect me when I come back home, but I am happy. I am happy because if you are in Ghana and if you want to buy a ticket to China, the USA, or other countries, you will struggle. Since the dollar has come down, it will help many travelers, especially the traders,” he said in a video he shared on Instagram.

    Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, continues its upward momentum on the interbank market, registering notable gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.

    As of Friday, May 26, the average interbank rates used by commercial banks for transactions at the close of business showed the US dollar buying at GH₵10.39 and selling at GH₵10.40.

    The British pound is buying at GH₵14.09 and selling at GH₵14.11. The euro is currently being bought at GH₵11.82 and sold at GH₵11.83.

    Meanwhile, Kwaku Manu has appealed to President John Mahama to pass a law that prohibits citizens from hurling insults at prominent persons such as the president, Asantehene, and others in the country.

    He asserts that such individuals at least deserve a one-year jail term to serve as a deterrent to others who exhibit such bad manners online.

    Kwaku Manu is a renowned Ghanaian actor, comedian, musician, and television presenter widely recognized for his contributions to the Kumawood film industry.

    He used to be a supporter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the year 2016, however, in subsequent years, the actor has adopted a more neutral stance.

    While celebrities were publicly endorsing political parties, Kwaku Manu made his stance clear, indicating that “I will not endorse a political party, but I don’t have any problem with a celebrity doing so because they need to survive. Most of them don’t have side jobs and with the coronavirus affecting everything this is the right time for celebs to make money from the politicians especially as we approach elections.”

  • Probe Telecel takeover of AT deal – Minorty tells govt

    Probe Telecel takeover of AT deal – Minorty tells govt

    The Minority in Parliament has urged President John Mahama to step in and stop the ongoing takeover of AT (formerly AirtelTigo) by Telecel, describing the deal as opaque, inconsistent, and harmful to Ghana’s national interest.

    At a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, October 15, the caucus accused the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Samuel George, of “hastily trying to dispose of” a key national asset without proper procedure, accountability, or parliamentary input.

    “We ask President John Dramani Mahama to rein in his Minister for Communication to focus on making AT work rather than hastily trying to dispose of it. A comprehensive and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the proposed acquisition of AT by Telecel is imperative.”

    According to the group, the Minister is overseeing what they termed a “worse process” than those he previously condemned, alleging that the ongoing transaction is being conducted in secrecy and without sufficient consultation.

    “It’s troubling that Hon. Samuel George, who was once an outspoken critic of his predecessor for how state assets were handled, is now presiding over a worse process that appears to be taking place without scrutiny,” they said.

    The Minority further expressed worry over recent actions by Telecel Group CEO Moh Damush, whom they claimed has been in Ghana “making concerted efforts to finalise what many view as a questionable deal.” They alleged that Telecel has been collaborating with government institutions on donation programmes designed to build public and political goodwill ahead of the acquisition.

    “Telecel just last week collaborated with the Ministry of Health to support the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, through which they donated cervical cancer screening equipment to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital,” the group revealed. “Similar donation ceremonies are scheduled to take place in Tamale and at the Sefwi Wiawso Government Hospital.”

    Issuing a stern warning, the Minority cautioned that any attempt by Telecel to take over AT through “unlawful, non-transparent, or irregular means” would be considered invalid and subject to reversal under a future administration.

    “Any deal shrouded in secrecy, executed without parliamentary scrutiny, or in violation of procurement and regulatory standards will be subject to review and possible legal action,” they said. “Telecel should be prepared for reputational damage and potential nullification of any agreement entered under such circumstances.”

    The caucus underscored that their objection to the deal is not simply about the transfer of ownership but about safeguarding a critical national asset that underpins Ghana’s digital economy.

    “This is not merely about the sale of a company; it is about protecting a national institution that has served Ghana diligently,” they said. “AT must remain in Ghanaian hands and continue to serve as a cornerstone for our digital and economic future.”

    Concluding their statement, the Minority demanded an immediate suspension of the merger discussions and called for a thorough parliamentary investigation into the matter. They also requested full disclosure of all documents, agreements, and communications tied to the Rektron/Afritel and Telecel negotiations, as well as a review of AT’s financial commitments to the American Tower Company (ATC).

    “We will not sit idly by and allow a single minister to unilaterally dispose of a critical national asset such as AT. The strategic importance of this company to our digital sovereignty and economic development cannot be overstated.”

    Airtel Tigo’s merger with Telecel Ghana has been necessitated due to the former’s current financial crisis. In April this year, the Communications Minister revealed the huge financial losses AT Ghana was incurring and the need for swift action to be carried out to save the dwindling state entity.

    He called out the erstwhile government for being “ill-informed, reckless, and unpatriotic” following its symbolic purchasing of Airtel Tigo when it was wallowing in a $400 million debt, which was later downed following the Domestic Debt Restrusturing Programme (DDEP). Sam George lamented the firm’s monthly losses of GH₵20 million, describing it as “ …..is failing and obsolete; its systems haven’t been upgraded in five years and are no longer fit for purpose.”

    Consequently, having recorded losses of $10 million in just eight months, Sam George stressed that,

    “These losses are funded by taxpayers. That is money that should be building roads, water systems, and schools. We cannot keep pouring public funds into unsustainable operations”.

    According to the Minister, the consolidation with Telecel would help reduce costs, eliminate duplication, and build a stronger competitor in Ghana’s highly competitive telecom market. “It makes no sense for two networks to operate separately on the same tower, both paying twice while both struggle. A merger is the smart and sustainable choice,” he added.

    Already, more than 3.2 million AT Ghana subscribers are being seamlessly migrated onto Telecel’s network through a national roaming arrangement, a process the Minister described as “98% smooth.” Sam George explained that the integration process will be carried out in three phases: Technical migration, which is near completion, with roaming already operational. Human resource alignment, which ensures all staff are absorbed by the end of September.

    Commercial restructuring, expected within 120 days, setting the framework for the merged operator. On financing, Sam George was frank about the capital demands of the venture, pegging it at $600 million over the next four years.

    He confirmed that the government will contribute resources, including proceeds from spectrum sales, while encouraging Telecel and other partners to co-invest. Meanwhile, the AT staff’s concerns about their job security are quite valid due to the history of potential job losses associated with company mergers in Ghana.

  • Why President should appoint substantive Minister for Defence

    Why President should appoint substantive Minister for Defence

    It has been a month and some weeks since the demise of former Minister for Defence Dr Edward Omane Boamah, on August 6, 2025, in the helicopter crash as of the time of writing this piece.

    The country has still not heard the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, giving a hint of any appointment with regard to a substantive Minister for Defence (MOD).

    Although security agencies such as the National Security, National Intelligence Bureau, Ghana Police, and Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) are executing their mandate, it is essential to have a substantive MOD as soon as possible for some reasons enumerated.

    The Defence sector is the top-most among every sector in any country, hence requires continuity by replacing officials as soon as possible to fill in the gap. This ensures continuity in dealing with threats and being abreast with the changing dynamics of threats.

    The Ministry of Defence requires a substantive minister for direction and purpose. The Ministry of Defence is currently having an Acting MOD in the person of Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson. In an acting capacity, one is temporarily ‘holding the forth’ until someone is appointed permanently. Dr. Cassiel is also Ghana’s Finance Minister and at the same time Chairman of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development’s Board of Governors as at the time of this piece. This signals the quantum of workload he has. The Defence ministry is a very sensitive agency established to ensure Ghana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty through the formulation of essential policies and ideas aimed at combat readiness of the GAF.

    A substantive Minister of Defence provides leadership with regard to the security space. Defence as a concept in itself is a very essential pillar when it comes to national security. A substantive minister would ensure clear and swift decision-making. Decision makers should not forget that, the Defence Minister is part of Cabinet hence a very important figure when it comes to decision making that bothers on not only security but also human rights, justice, and peace.

    Reference to my article on January 10, 2025 regarding “Imminent changes within some key security agencies, state institutions, and its implications”, I stated that “… [t]he incoming Defense Minister must have the experience and knowledge not only on internal security issues and apparatus of the country but also the professionalism to collaborate with defence counterparts in neighboring states”. It is not a doubt that the late Defence Minister was very intelligent and abreast with security issues including having a very good rapport with the Service Chiefs. The new Defense Minister should be someone who commands respect from the various heads of the security agencies, Service Chiefs, and should be abreast with current security dynamics not only in Ghana but also within the sub-region.

    Inter-agency coordination and collaboration is essential in the face of many threats we face. Leadership is paramount in this regard for the purposes of strategic policy planning and execution. The other most important aspect of coordination is in line with inter-state Defense collaborations in the sub-region and on the international front. A newly appointed Defence Minister will perform functions, which includes strengthening military ties with other states, sub-regional blocks and international institutions aimed at military collaboration, aid, joint training exercises, and capacity building. This gives the Armed Forces new dynamics to defence and security mechanisms. Effective collaboration also promotes coordination among the various arms of the Armed Forces. Lately, our men in uniform have come under severe criticism regarding their way of handling issues in the civilian space. When coordination is effective with state security agencies, it will result to an improved civil-military oversight. An appointed Minister of Defence will ensure an enhanced coordination between the President, various security agencies, service chiefs, and the civilian populace. What we have to know is that, any one acting in a capacity of Defence Minister may lack the authority and zeal to push for major defense agendas including the general welfare of the personnel’s in the sector.

    What are some the threats in the country that warrants a substantive Minister of Defence?

    Ghana faces rising threats such as terrorism & violent extremism close to our borders, illegal mining, communal clashes, inter-ethnic conflicts, and chieftaincy conflicts causing internally and externally displaced persons.

    Furthermore, youth unrest, youth radicalization, political vigilantism, high unemployment, illicit drug usage, misinformation and disinformation, armed robbery, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, organized crime on the high seas and inland, and cybersecurity threats all add to the threats.

    These are just some of the many threats that continue to test our security architecture, emergency preparedness, and operational capacity.

    A substantive minister can mobilize resources and lead responses effectively, working closely with the Interior Minister and Service Chiefs.

    Others may argue that these are for the Interior Minister to focus on or see them as internal security matters; hence, they do not necessarily call for the Defence Minister to be involved.

    However, I am talking about the defense of the country in general (dealing with threats internal and external) and not one aspect of internal security. All these calls for the attention of a substantive Defence Minister, together with the Interior Minister to formulate ideas and address these pressing issues.

    Let me just make a few points on what I consider essential areas to focus on regarding the threats the country faces. With regard to terrorism & violent extremism, the situation in Burkina Faso and Mali poses challenges, especially in the Northern part of Ghana, looking at the inter-ethnic conflicts and proliferation of weapons.

    These conflicts notably the Bawku conflict, which I have reiterated before, could be a conduit for some armed and criminal elements to continue taking advantage.

    On illegal mining, there are calls for the central government to declare a state of emergency to deal decisively with the menace. Instead, the government has rather opted for the declaration of security zones.

    Declaring a geographical area a security zone in itself entails a lot; I may share insights regarding that in another write-up. I do not intend to sound pessimistic, but the fight against galamsey will be a lost cause if we do not implement the needful.

    We have not seen anything yet; the real conflict has not started, and if it does, we may not be able to address it. The conflicts we are currently grappling with centers on chieftaincy and land-related factors.

    The interior minister has attempted by setting up a committee to come up with a roadmap towards addressing the Gbenyiri conflict.

    The Nkwanta conflict is also staring at us; this is just to name a few. Our approaches have been mostly direct prevention (curfews), which focuses on dealing with imminent threats without much attention to the structural approaches. Proliferation of weapons has been a challenge to not only security agencies but also the commission in charge of Small Arms and Light Weapons.

    Do we have a way forward regarding the porous borders where these weapons come through? What is the state agency on weapons doing? How are we dealing with the politicization of conflicts? Have we identified stakeholders who profit from conflicts hence fund them?

    The Council of State should call on the President to consider appointing a substantive Minister for Defence as a matter of urgency.

    The Council of State should advise the president to appoint someone who will command respect from the Defence sector due to its sensitive nature.

    The Parliamentary Select Committee on Defence and Interior should wade into this issue and call on the President to appoint someone. The defence sector is an essential one; hence, the need to have its Minister promptly.

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

  • Galamsey fight: President Mahama to meet CSOs tomorrow for deliberations

    Galamsey fight: President Mahama to meet CSOs tomorrow for deliberations

    President John Dramani Mahama is expected to hold a crucial meeting with major civil society organisations (CSOs) to find lasting solutions to illegal mining activities locally known as galamsey tomorrow Friday, October 3, at the Jubilee House.

    The meeting scheduled for 12:00 pm, will bring together government officials and civil society leaders. This information was contained in a letter issued by the Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama.

    “This engagement aims to provide a platform for frank and constructive dialogue between the Government and civil society on the menace of illegal mining, with a view to harnessing collective expertise, perspectives, and solutions to address this national challenge,” the letter stated.

    The engagement comes at a time when there is mounting pressure on the Mahama-led administration, declaring a state of emergency regarding the issue, due to its adverse effects on the environment.Galamsey activities have caused and continue to destroy water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves.

    For years, the country’s efforts to nip the canker in the bud have not yielded the needed results. Among the recent measures taken to protect water bodies from illegal miners is the deployment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).

    The Secretariat includes the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Narcotics Control Commission, and the National Security Secretariat.

    Addressing the security forces, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Amarh Kofi-Buah, directed the team to ruthlessly counter the activities of galamsey operators as they are the enemies of the state.

    “Any recalcitrant entering into these zones is not merely a trespasser. They are an enemy of the state. You are to be firm. You are to be resolute. You are to be ruthless.

    “And please, take it from me, you will take no obstructionist instruction from any big man. Remember, the biggest man in Ghana is the President of the Republic, and he’s the one who has sent you,” Mr Kofi-Buah charged.

    Earlier this month, the government announced plans to deploy soldiers to permanently guard 44 galamsey hotspots, including waterbodies and areas threatened by galamsey activities.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 16, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, noted, “All the 44 areas that are threatened by galamsey, there is going to be a permanent military presence,” he added.

    According to statistics from the Lands Minister, 1,400 persons have been arrested from January to August this year in the government’s efforts to crack down on galamsey.

    According to him, the achievement was attained through the government’s renewed efforts. He noted that the government has seized 440 excavators and more than 800 changfans.

    “We have seized 440 excavators and more than 800 changfans. We have mobilised Blue Water Guards in key regions, and they are making a difference,” Mr. Buah stated.

    The government’s recent move is a response to mounting calls for the declaration of a state of emergency on galamsey. Illegal mining activities continue to regress the country’s development, as they lead to the loss of lives, destruction of properties and the environment, and water bodies, among others.

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

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

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

    A statement issued by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday, July 15, states that the state will proceed with confiscating unregistered mining equipment after the deadline.

    “The Government, as part of efforts to reform the mining sector in the country, requires that all machinery used in mining activities must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by 1st August 2025. Equipment that remains unregistered after this deadline will be confiscated by the State,” the Ministry stated on its website.

    Mr Mubarak has empowered the Ghana Police Service and DVLA to begin strict enforcement of the new rule from August 2. “The Ghana Police Service and DVLA have been directed to enforce this directive from 2nd August 2025 onward rigorously. The general public, especially those who use mining machinery, is advised to take note and comply with the directive,” he wrote.

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

    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, issued the directive in Accra, warning that effective June 1, any excavator not registered with the DVLA will be confiscated.

    Speaking at a press briefing, Mr. Kotey announced that the Ghana Police Service and the DVLA’s operational team commenced a nationwide enforcement after the deadline, arresting and impounding excavators being used at mining sites or for commercial purposes without proper documentation.

    “This exercise will help identify every excavator that enters the country and trace how it is being used. The goal is to ensure we can monitor and hold people accountable,” Mr. Kotey said.

    The directive fell in line with Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers, including farm and heavy-duty equipment.

    Despite the law, the DVLA found many unregistered excavators operating in mining areas, some of which have been used in illegal activities.Mr Kotey emphasised that the DVLA, with its 34 offices nationwide, could register all excavators and farm machinery within two weeks and was ready to strictly enforce the directive.

    “Excavators in the hands of illegal miners have worsened the destruction of our environment. This is why we must act,” Mr Kotey said.To further control the situation, the DVLA, in collaboration with key agencies like the Minerals Commission, National Security, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), commenced tagging all newly imported excavators.

    In addition to tagging new imports, the Minerals Commission was tasked with leading a team to tag all excavators already in the country. Legal small-scale mining sites have also been geo-fenced, with their site coordinates integrated into the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking software for better oversight.The move is part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining.

    Three months ago, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah announced the rollout of a system to monitor excavator imports and usage, involving port tagging and digital tracking in partnership with several state agencies.

    According to the sector minister. The third most valuable item imported into this country is excavators, and it is worth GHC6.2 billion. In April, a total of 47 individuals were arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forests in the Western Region.

    This followed a special four-day intelligence-led operation that commenced on April 17, within the Samreboi enclave.According to the Ghana Police Service, the suspects include 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals. The Police indicated that a significant amount of equipment and materials believed to have been used for the mining operations were retrieved.

    These include seventeen excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barreled gun, fifty-four live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.Prosecution began for the arrested suspects.

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

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

    The operations were executed by the Ghana Police Service through its Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force. The task force proceeded to a mining site at Nikanika. Although no operators were found at the scene, the team retrieved a single-barrel shotgun loaded with a cartridge and three water-pumping machines.

    The task force extended its operation to Adeade, where three suspects, Prosper Quansah, Chrispin Nartey, and Owusu Gambra, were arrested with an excavator on a lowbed trailer. One SANY excavator, four unregistered Haojin motorbikes, and one lowbed vehicle with registration number GN 2136-24 were seized from the scene.

    All exhibits were secured in police custody. Some 12 accused persons standing trial for engaging in illegal mining activities at Tumetu near Princess Town in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region have been remanded into prison custody.

    While 10 of the accused persons were arrested at a palm plantation, two were arrested at the Elluabo Chavene Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) plantation.This was due to a coordinated police intelligence-led operation within the Ahanta West Municipality.

    The accused persons are Lord Yankey, Caleb Adu Kwaw, Stephen Agyei, Ebenezer Barnes, Mathew Somagevi, Paa Grant, Bashiru Kaviru, Joseph Borney, Aminu Issah, Kofi Sogah, Albert Normah, and Robert Mensah.Four water pumping machines, one tricycle with registration number M-20-WR 1045, and two motorbikes were retrieved from the sites, according to the police.

    All twelve accused persons admitted to the offence during police interrogations. They were subsequently put before the Takoradi Harbour Area Circuit Court ‘A’, and were remanded into prison custody at Sekondi and reappeared before the court on Tuesday, July 8.Also, fifteen individuals are in police custody for engaging in illegal mining activities at Manso Adubia.

    They were arrested following a special intelligence-led operation at Watreso and Preacher Krom.The suspects include Tahiru Ibrahim (24), Shaibu Idrissu, (23), Boateng Emmanuel (27), Jamon Kwaku Samuel (21), Yaro Patrick (29), Kofi Boakye (21), Gubong Mathew (45), Fatawu Zackari Seidu (26), and Abdul Malik Seidu (22).The others are Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), and Kwame Adutwum (24).

    Two excavator control boards, two automatic pump-action guns, two Musler 12 firearms, 59 BB cartridges, three AA cartridges, one water pumping machine, two power generators, one vulcanizing machine, and one Apsonic motorbike were seized from the site.

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

    Govt declares today a holiday to mark Founder’s Day

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


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


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

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


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

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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

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


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


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


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


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

  • Ghana’s drop in global ranking tied to assaults on journalists – President Mahama

    Ghana’s drop in global ranking tied to assaults on journalists – President Mahama

    President John Dramani Mahama has attributed the country’s decline in global rankings to issues related to assaults on journalists, including the murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale.

    He made this known while addressing members of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) during a courtesy call at the Jubilee House on Friday, September 5, 2025.

    “… We’ve seen a consistent decline in our international rankings, and that is an issue of concern for us. And part of it is because of issues to do with harassment of journalists and even the unfortunate murder of Ahmed Suale which caught international attention and I think that since then, other incidents that have occurred have diminished our ranking,” he said.

    He believes that these issues continues to persist due to the lack of legal sanctions against perpetrators.

    Acknowledging the role of journalists in the country, the President advocated for an environment that permits them to perform their duties freely and without fear of assault.

    “And so, we need to find a way of ensuring that when people do that kind of thing, they face sanctions or are punished because once there’s no deterrent, they continue to do it. Aside from that, educate and create awareness that Journalists are not enemies. They are reporting something that is happening, and so they must be given a free leverage to be able to do their reporting,” he said.

    Assaults on journalists in the country remain a troubling issue, often making headlines, with the most recent incidents drawing widespread concern.

    President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) Albert  Kwabena  Dwumfuor condemned the attack on journalists during the Ablekuma North rerun election in July.

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

    A journalist with GH One Television, Banahene Agyekum, was also slapped by a police officer.

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

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

    The officer concerned was withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North.

    The Police assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter and further updates will be communicated.

    It is unknown what exactly transpired between the reporter and a group of police officers that led to him being slapped.

    The Police officer’s action has been condemned by all, including the mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who witnessed the unfortunate incident.

    Engaging the media after the assault, Banahene Agyekum expressed distress and pain.

    “Yes, (I won’t be able to continue work today) because my right eye is shaking and I don’t know what happened to my forehead. I have to go for a medical checkup,” he stated.

    Former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East Constituency, Hawa Koomson, was also assaulted by a group of men at the Ablekuma North rerun election.

    Per reports, the former legislator received treatment at a health facility.

    Due to the chaos that erupted, Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno visited some polling stations in the constituency.

    Minister of State for Government Communications and spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, for President John Dramani Mahama, rejected allegations that the government is behind the recent attacks on journalists.

    On February 18, Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) President Kwabena Dwumfour sharply criticized the Mahama administration, citing a surge in assaults on media professionals.

    He noted that seven of such incidents had been recorded since Mahama took office, describing the situation as unprecedented. Dwumfour also accused the government of failing to ensure justice for the victims.

    Addressing the press in Accra on February 19, Kwakye Ofosu dismissed the claims as unfounded, arguing that they unfairly tarnish the government’s reputation.

    The Minister stated that he had contacted the GJA President to discuss the matter and gain insight into the reasons behind the press conference.

    “It was claimed that seven journalists had been attacked and statements were made that sought to create the impression that there is some design by Mahama and his government to attack journalists. It is a most regrettable narrative. We do not think that it is fair to President Mahama, it is fair to the government, it is even fair to the GJA or even to the journalists who are reported to have been attacked,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.

    Following their discussion, they scheduled a direct engagement between his office and the GJA early next week to resolve any issues affecting journalists.

    “I sought to find out exactly what informed that press conference and why other alternative approaches were not adopted to discuss the matters with the view to seeking redress for those who might have been affected. After the conversation, we agreed that early next week there should be a direct interaction between my office and the GJA,” he explained.

    Kwakye Ofosu challenged the way the issue was framed, arguing that it unfairly misrepresented both the government and President Mahama.

    He highlighted Mahama’s approachable and amiable personality, emphasizing his long-standing association with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

    According to him, it was inconceivable that the President would preside over an administration that permits attacks on journalists.

    “All of you are aware that President Mahama is an easy-going, down-to-earth, affable individual who relates well with all manner of people. He is a member of the GJA in good standing. Essentially, he is one of you and therefore he will be the last person to supervise a dispensation where journalists are attacked,” he stressed.

    He further dismissed suggestions that the government was retaliating against certain journalists, describing such claims as completely unfounded.

    “The way that the press conference was addressed and the way that the matters were couched created the impression that some journalists had perhaps said or written something that the government was unhappy about and therefore the government was carrying out reprisals against them.

    “But that is completely incorrect. It is not true and nothing of the sort has happened,” he affirmed.

  • 6,000 youth to be recruited as community medical first responders

    6,000 youth to be recruited as community medical first responders

    6,000 young Ghanaians will be recruited as community medical first responders across the country to support the operations of the National Ambulance Service (NAS).

    Their recruitment has become possible due to a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between NAS and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) on Friday, July 18.

    Speaking during the ceremony in Accra, acting YEA Chief Executive Officer, Malik Basintale, noted that the move aligns with President John Mahama’s efforts in ensuring every Ghanaian has access to healthcare services.

    He acknowledged the medical challenges many Ghanaians, particularly rural dwellers, adding that the recruits will serve as frontline responders, providing essential first aid before patients are referred to health facilities.

    “Looking through, we realized that people still die from snake bites, and there are people who still die from heart attacks immediately, simply because they were unable to get to the hospital early enough as a result of something, or first aid.

    “And the solution to this is by putting in place a method where we will have first aid to some of these people. Within the zonal areas anytime there is a critical medical situation the first person the community will call upon is usually the assemblyman man.

    “And so we felt that we should create an opportunity where we attach the first medical to these assembly members so that when there is an attack this person will go there, salvage the situation before we call for backup,” he noted.

    While lauding the government’s initiative, the acting CEO of NAS, Dr. George Kojo Owusu, indicated that measures have been put in place to ensure a successful rollout of the programme.

    He revealed that the medical first responders will undergo a training programme that “will feature 10 modules, including Introduction to Emergency Medical Services, Airway Management and Breathing, Circulation and Bleeding Control, and Mass Casualty Incidents and Triage”.

    Meanwhile, Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has assured that the backlog of unemployed health professionals across the country has come to an end, as the government seeks to recruit 70,000 qualified health workers.

    “We recognise the challenge of over 70,000 qualified health workers currently awaiting employment, but I want to assure you that we are working tirelessly to clear this backlog,” he said.

    Mr. Akandoh further revealed the government’s recent achievement in recruiting 10,000 nurses and midwives nationwide.

    He added that the government has already begun the process to ensure the payment of salary arrears owed to 321 Pharmacist House Officers who completed training in 2024.

    “While 1,621 qualified pharmacists await permanent employment, we are prioritising their recruitment as part of strengthening our health workforce.

    “This is just one example of our broader commitment to clearing the backlog across all health worker cadres, ensuring every qualified professional has the chance to serve and strengthen Ghana’s health system,” he said.

    The government has disbursed an amount of GHS 462 million to settle training allowances owed to 120,000 nursing students nationwide.

    The six-month payment is part of the government’s wider effort to assist students in Nursing Training Colleges financially.

    In 2024, President Mahama encouraged trainee nurses to prioritize securing stable employment over relying on allowances. He highlighted the need for sustainable job opportunities in Ghana’s healthcare sector.

    Speaking to trainee nurses, Mahama acknowledged their financial difficulties but emphasized that long-term job security is more beneficial than temporary financial support.

    He assured them that his administration would focus on job creation within the healthcare industry, ensuring stable and rewarding careers for nurses and other health professionals.

    “We know the problems with trainee nurses and that is why when we were in government, we said we were going to substitute your allowance with the students’ loan because we wanted to create more employment for you. What is important for you is not the allowance it is to get a job when you finish school,” he stated.

    Adding that “But somebody came and said he will pay the allowances. Unfortunately, it was 419…Come and pay the nurses you owe them almost 30 months of arrears. Some of them have left school without receiving their allowances and some of them are going to leave school again without receiving their allowances.

    “…I make you a commitment when I come to the hospitals, we were building that have been abandoned by this government we will continue them.

    “When I come to the agenda 111 hospitals, they are building I will continue and finish them so that we can create more space to be able to absorb all of you when you finish school. This election is between Ghana and NPP.”



  • The consequential issues on CJ’s removal will be dealt with after committee’s findings – President Mahama

    The consequential issues on CJ’s removal will be dealt with after committee’s findings – President Mahama

    His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, has reaffirmed his commitment to due process in the matter concerning the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, stating that any actions will be based solely on the findings of the five-member committee tasked with investigating the matter.

    Describing the case as one of the most challenging governance issues in his administration so far, the president noted that the committee, chaired by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, now has full responsibility to deliver its report.

    “Based on that (the findings), whatever the consequential issues are will be dealt with,” he stated, assuring that the government will not interfere with the work of the committee.

    He mentioned that the council has played its role in the matter and awaits the findings of the 5-member committee hearing the petitions, which is chaired by Supreme Court judge, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang.

    “On the issue of governance, we have had a difficult issue with regard the suspension of the Chief Justice. Of course, the Council of State was involved in a part of that process.

    “And so, we have done our part. The rest is left with the committee that was set up to come out with whatever its findings are,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, has in her fact of case noted that her suspension by President Mahama was carried out arbitrarily and capriciously.

    Justice Torkornoo was suspended on Tuesday, April 22, by President John Dramani Mahama following the establishment of a prima facie case based on separate petitions calling for her removal.

    The action was in accordance with Article 146(6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution and comes after consultations with the Council of State.

    However, the Chief Justice in her fact of case noted that the president’s purported prima facie determination contained no reasons or justification and was entirely devoid of the elements of judicial or quasi-judicial reasoning expected under the Constitution.

    “It failed to meet the standard of a judicious and objective assessment and, as such, is arbitrary, capricious, and constitutionally infirm,” the statement added.

    The Chief Justice seeks several reliefs in her statement of case.

    They are “a declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 17(1) and (2), 19(13) and (14), 146(7) and (8), 281(1) and 295(1) of the Constitution, a Chief Justice has the right to a public hearing in proceedings before a committee appointed by the President to inquire into a petition presented for the removal of the Chief Justice.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 17(1) and (2), 19[13) and (14),23, 146(7) and (8), 281(1) and 295(1) of the Constitution, the right of a Chief Justice to a public hearing and allthe incidents of a fair hearing may only be excluded in the interest of public morality, public safety, or public order.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 17(1) and (2), 19(13) and (14), 23, 146(7) and (8), 281(1) and 295(1) of the Constitution, a Chief Justice who is called upon to participate in a hearing conducted by a committee constituted under article 146(6) tom inquire into the merits of a petition seeking the removal from office of the Chief Justice can waive the privilege of “in camera proceedings.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 19(13), 23, 146(1), (2), (4) and (6) a and 296 of the Constitution, a determination of prima facie case in respect of a petition for the removal of a Chief Justice or a Justice of the Superior Court of Judicature is a quasi-judicial process requiring a judicious evaluation, culminating in a reasoned decision.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 19(13), 23, 146/1), (2), (4)and(6) and 296 ofthe Constitution, the purported prima facie finding in respect of three petitions presented for the removal of the Chief Justice and served on the Plaintiff by a letter dated 22nd April, 2025, does not amount to a proper determination of a prima facie case and is therefore null, void and of noeffect;

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 19(13), 23, 146(1),(2),(4) and (6) and 296 ofthe Constitution, the purported prima facie finding in respect of three petitions presented for the removal of the Chief Justice and served on the Plaintiff by a letter dated 22ad April, 2025, does not amount to a proper determination of a prima facie case and is therefore nul, void and of no effect;

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 19(13), 23, 146(1), (2), (4) and (6) and 296 of the Constitution, the purported finding by the President that a prima facie case has been made against the Plaintiffand served on the President by a letter dated 22nd April, 2025, was arbitrary, capricious, in violation of the right of the Plaintiff to a fair trial, and therefore unconstitutional, void and of no effect;

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 146(1), (2), (4), 125(3) and (4), 127(1) and (2) and 296 of the Constitution, the purported determination by the President that a prima facie case has been established against the Plaintiff as conveyed in the letter dated 22nd April 2025, together with the warrant of suspension of the Plaintif, constitute an unjustified attempt to remove the Plaintiff as Head of Ghana’s Judiciary and thus, an undue infringement on the independence of the Judiciary;

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of article 146(6) and (7) of the Constitution,the failure to serve the Plaintiffwith a judicious determination of a prima facie case before appointing a committee to purportedly inquire into the petitions for the removal of the Plaintiff as Chief Justice constitutes a violation of the Plaintiffs right to substantive administrative justice and fair hearing, rendering the entire proceedings initiated null and void;

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of article 146(6) and (7) and 296(a) and (b) of the Constitution, the 2nd defendant, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, is not qualified to be a chairman or member of the committee set up by the President to inquire into the petions against the Plaintif on account of having adjudicated and given various rulings in favour of one of the petitioners, Daniel Ofori in actions fled in the Supreme Court.

    “An order prohibiting the 2nd defendant, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, from presiding as Chairman of the commitee or participating in the proceedings of the committee set up to inquire into the petitions against the Plaintiff,

    “An order prohibiting the 3rd defendant, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, from siting as a member of or participating in the proceedings of the committee set up to inquire into the petitions against the Plaintif.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 23, 127(1) and (2), 146/(6) and (7) and 296(a) and (b) of the Constitution, the appointment of the 3rd defendant, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, as a member of the commitee set up by the President to inquire into the petitions against the Plaintiff, at a time when he had already sat as a member of a panel of the Supreme Court constituted uander article 128(2) of the Constitution to hear an application for interlocutory injunction fled by a Ghanaian citizen challenging the “article 146 proceedings” initiated against the Plaintif, violates the independence of the Judiciary;

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 146(1), (2), (4), 23 and 296 of the Constitution and sections 1, 2, and 4 of the Oaths Act, 1972,the 4h, 5th and 6ih defendants are not qualified to undertake the functions entrusted on them as members of the committee set up by the President to inquire into the petitions against the Plaintiff.

    “An order restraining the commite set up by the President to inquire into the three petitions against the Chief Justice composed of the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th defendants from proceeding to carry out the terms of reference of the commitee set up under article 146(6) as laid out in the letter dated 22nd April, 2025 and any other order(s) as to this Honourable Court may seem meet”.

    CJ TORKORNOO V. AG -STATEMENT OF CASEDownload

    The suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, has refuted the claims outlined in petitions calling for her removal. She has described them as baseless and untrue, adding that she has evidence to prove her innocence.

    Addressing the press on Wednesday, June 25, she noted that the ongoing proceedings set a dangerous precedent for judges in the country, adding that it violates CI 47.

    “The clear danger is that in light of flagrant violation of CI 47, the very rules the Committee claims to be using, and the darkness of the current proceedings being held in camera, my lawyers and I can come to the end of proceedings; the evidence will show that every allegation in the Petitions that were given to me by the President on 27th March 2025 is unfounded and untrue.”

    She raised concerns about transparency concerning the venue for the hearings being conducted.

    “It is clear that the choice of venue, against the background of the secrecy of proceedings, was intended to intimidate me and to prevent any citizen of Ghana from knowing how the proceedings are being conducted,” she added.

    Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reiterated allegations of unconstitutionality with regard to the process of her removal, as well as infringement of her rights during the hearing by the committee set up by the president.

    She expressed her displeasure over the use of the Adu Lodge during hearings as well as the alleged refusal of the committee to give her copies of the petitions presented to them by the President.

    “There has never been a hearing for the removal of the Chief Justice. One would have therefore hoped that if such a process becomes necessary, it will provide good guidance and precedent for nation building.

    Unfortunately, every step of the removal process being undertaken against me is being done in a manner that breaks every rule on how justice is delivered in our country

    This is why I find the need to draw the nation’s attention to the serious violations of the constitution and law in the process and the danger it holds for the development of the nation’s democracy.”

    Background

    On May 21, Justice Torkornoo filed an injunction application, which, among other things, questioned the constitutionality of the committee’s formation and the legality of her suspension announced in April.

    The five-member committee includes Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang—Supreme Court Justice (Chairman), Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu—Supreme Court Justice, Daniel Yaw Domelevo—Former Auditor-General Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, Ghana Armed Forces Representative Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, and Associate Professor at the University of Ghana.Justice Torkornoo requested the apex court to bar Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Adib-Asiedu from sitting on the case, citing a conflict of interest.

    She again argued that Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu also served as a Supreme Court panel member who presided over a related injunction application.

    The suspended Chief Justice also raised questions about the eligibility of the three remaining committee members, Daniel Yao Domelovo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Prof. James Sefah Dzisah, under Articles 146 (1), (2), (4), 23, and 296 of the Constitution and sections of the Oaths Act, 1972.Article 23—This article guarantees administrative justice, stating that all administrative bodies and officials must act fairly and reasonably and comply with the law.

    Article 296—This provision regulates the exercise of discretionary power by public officials, requiring them to act fairly, transparently, and without bias. It prevents arbitrary decision-making and ensures that discretion is exercised within legal limits.

    Oaths Act, 1972—This law governs the oaths of office taken by public officials, ensuring they uphold their duties with integrity.

    The Attorney-General, in response to Madam Torkonoo’s interlocutory injunction, also filed an affidavit on May 26, stating that there is no basis in law for the two Supreme Court judges to be restrained from participating in the petition probe.

    The Supreme Court on May 28 dismissed a supplementary affidavit filed on May 26, where the suspended Chief Justice made allegations of rights abuse by the committee.

    Justice Torkonoo alleged she was subjected to mental torture at the hearing. According to her, upon her arrival at the venue set for her hearing, she was made to go through a body search, her phones and laptops were collected, and her spouse and children were denied access to the room.

    According to the apex court, the events referenced happened before the committee investigated the petitions for her removal — proceedings that, by law, are expected to be held in camera.

    Making a case for the chair of the committee, Justice Pwamang, argued that his participation in cases put before the courts by one of the petitioners cannot constitute evidence of bias.

    Regarding Justice Samuel Adibu Asiedu, the Attorney-General indicated that he did not participate in the injunction hearing and can therefore not be barred.

    The Attorney-General further noted that members of the committee have all taken the necessary oath of office, contrary to claims by the Chief Justice.

    So far, the Supreme Court has dismissed four suits filed against the petitions seeking the removal of the Chief Justice.

    Justice Torkornoo was appointed as Ghana’s 15th Chief Justice in June 2023, succeeding Justice Kwasi Anin-Yeboah. Her appointment marked her as the third woman to serve in the role in Ghana’s history.

  • I used GHC 5.1m to purchase vehicles for then President-elect Mahama – Adu Boahene in leaked memo

    I used GHC 5.1m to purchase vehicles for then President-elect Mahama – Adu Boahene in leaked memo

    The former head of the now-defunct National Security Bureau (NSB),Kwabena Adu-Boahene, has defended the use of GH¢5.1 million currently under investigation, stating that the funds were used to purchase vehicles for then President-elect John Dramani Mahama.

    In a statement written from EOCO custody, where he remains on remand, Adu-Boahene outlined what he called a summary of expenditures under “Special Operations” during the critical post-election transition period.

    The former intelligence chief, who faces multiple charges from the Attorney-General—including stealing and wilfully causing financial loss to the state—has strongly denied any wrongdoing and insists the expenditures were legitimate.

    He insisted that every disbursement made under his leadership at the NSB was authorised, and directly related to national security operations. “I am not a thief,” he wrote.

    “All funds were expended in good faith and in service to the Republic.”

    In his letter, Adu-Boahene stated that the vehicles in question were essential for the logistical needs of the incoming President and his team, and that procurement was carried out under urgent and classified directives.

  • Great Ampong composes apology song dedicated to John Mahama

    Great Ampong composes apology song dedicated to John Mahama

    Renowned gospel musician Isaac Kwadwo Ampong, popularly known as Great Ampong, has expressed his willingness to personally apologize to former President John Dramani Mahama.

    Speaking in an interview on Property FM, Ampong revealed that although he recently released a song titled Apology, he is prepared to take an extra step by seeking Mahama’s forgiveness in person if the opportunity presents itself.

    “I know President Mahama would hear my apology song, but if there is an opportunity to meet him and ask for forgiveness, I would do so,” he stated, as reported by MyNewsGh.com.

    Ampong acknowledged that gaining access to the former president requires protocol, emphasizing that one cannot simply walk into the Jubilee House unannounced.

    “To go to him at the Jubilee House, you’ll need someone to lead you before you can be allowed. Otherwise, if you rush there, it wouldn’t be a wise thing to do,” he noted.

    He also recalled how dancehall artiste Shatta Wale publicly apologized to Mahama before the 2024 elections and stated that he would not hesitate to do the same if given the chance.

    “If the Lord permits and there is a chance, I won’t have a problem apologizing to Mahama one-on-one because Shatta Wale also did the same,” he added.

    “Even if it means kneeling down to beg President Mahama, I would do it because I won’t be the first person to ask him for forgiveness.”

    Ampong’s statement suggests a shift in his stance, signaling his readiness to mend any past misunderstandings with the former president.


  • “The Chronicle and Daily Guide”fabricated stories – Asiedu Nketia on feud with Mahama

    “The Chronicle and Daily Guide”fabricated stories – Asiedu Nketia on feud with Mahama

    National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has strongly denied rumors of a disagreement with President John Dramani Mahama regarding the appointment of ministers in the current administration.

    Asiedu Nketiah emphasized that he remains deeply engaged in party activities and has been busy with his official responsibilities.

    He labeled the rumors as baseless and urged the public to ignore such unfounded claims.

    Speaking in an interview on Otec FM, which was shared on a YouTube channel, he clarified, “I have been busy with party matters. My offices have been full, and I attend to people every day because of the appointments.

    “I saw a publication claiming that the General and President Mahama are fighting and that this is why I have not been seen in public. You know, The Chronicle and Daily Guide, I don’t even grant them interviews.

    “So, if they don’t see you in public for a while, they fabricate stories and put them out there.”

    According to The Chronicle, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is reportedly unhappy with President John Dramani Mahama for allegedly ignoring his recommended candidates for government positions.

    Sources within the party’s Functional Executive Committee (FEC) revealed that President Mahama declined a list of candidates proposed by Asiedu Nketiah, which has purportedly caused tensions within the party. Several constituency executives have visited Asiedu Nketiah’s office to express their dissatisfaction with the president’s appointments.

    A source within the FEC informed The Chronicle that General Mosquito, as Asiedu Nketiah is affectionately known, has formally lodged a complaint with the party’s elders regarding the matter. In response, the Council of Elders, which includes the Speaker of Parliament, has scheduled an emergency meeting to address his concerns.

    The report further noted that concerned party supporters are calling for swift action to resolve the emerging rift between the president and the chairman to prevent further divisions within the party.

    They argue that Asiedu Nketiah played a crucial role in the NDC’s 2024 election campaign, visiting nearly every community across the country to garner support and secure the party’s victory.

  • ORAL Committee to submit final reports to Mahama today

    ORAL Committee to submit final reports to Mahama today

    The Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee will today, February 10, present its final report to President John Dramani Mahama, marking a critical step in the government’s efforts to investigate individuals suspected of misappropriating state resources.

    During the swearing-in of 17 ministerial appointees on February 7, President Mahama underscored the significance of the committee’s findings, stating, “On Monday, I will receive the report of the committee I set up to prepare the way for the implementation of Operation Recover All Loot.

    Upon receipt of this report, appropriate action will be taken against those deemed to have acted against the economic and financial interests of this country through corruption and related acts.”

    The president further assured Ghanaians that the findings would be forwarded to the appropriate investigative agencies for necessary action. Speaking during his ‘Thank You’ tour in the Central Region on February 6, he emphasized that accountability would not be limited to past officials but would also extend to those currently in office.

    “Even as we investigate those who have just left office and carry out Operation Recover All Loot, those who are currently in office should know that they will be held to the same standard as the past regime,” he stated.

    Mahama also outlined plans to implement a comprehensive accountability framework and a strict code of conduct for public officials to strengthen governance and transparency.

    The ORAL Committee, established on December 18, 2024, is tasked with recovering state properties and assets unlawfully acquired, particularly under previous administrations.

    The five-member team, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, is expected to ensure accountability and restore public confidence in the management of state resources.

    Defending the constitutionality of the initiative following concerns from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Attorney General and Minister for Justice Dr. Dominic Ayine described ORAL as a crucial mechanism for promoting accountability and recovering stolen state assets.

    In January, the committee revealed that it had received 700 petitions from the public, detailing alleged cases of corruption and mismanagement. With the report now set for submission, attention will turn to the government’s next steps in implementing its recommendations.

  • He doesn’t seem too competent for the position – Dan Kwaku Yeboah on Kofi Adams’ nomination

    He doesn’t seem too competent for the position – Dan Kwaku Yeboah on Kofi Adams’ nomination

    Sports journalist Dan Kwaku Yeboah has said he does not see Kofi Adams, the Minister-designate for Sports and Recreation, as someone with deep knowledge of sports.

    He explained that he has known Adams since their university days when Adams was a teacher at Adisadel College and an active member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    However, Kwaku Yeboah pointed out that Adams is mainly known for his political career, not for his involvement in sports.

    Speaking on Peace FM, he admitted that Adams’ nomination for the role took him by surprise.

    “While I was working at ATL Radio, he [Kofi Adams] was also teaching chemistry at Adisadel College, while working for the NDC. He was a spokesperson for President Rawlings before rising to become an MP.

    “However, I cannot vouch for his knowledge and expertise in sports, even though he is a competent person in what he does,” he said in Twi.

    The Peace FM journalist noted that he expected former MP for Odododiodio constituency, Nii Lante Vanderpuye, to get the nod to run the sports ministry due to his experience as a sports broadcaster and administrator.

    “In all honesty, my expectation was Nii Lante Vanderpuye, because he has done it before as an accomplished sports broadcaster. Since we don’t have the power to appoint, we only share our opinions.

    We wish Adams the best,” he added.

    President John Dramani Mahama has chosen Kofi Adams as the Minister-designate for Sports and Recreation.

    A statement issued on January 21, 2024, confirmed that Adams will be in charge of sports and recreational activities if approved.

    His appointment will be finalized after he goes through a vetting process by the Parliamentary Appointment Committee and is deemed fit for the position.

  • Mahama has cleared the waste from the system – Bullgod on dissolved ministries by president

    Mahama has cleared the waste from the system – Bullgod on dissolved ministries by president

    Entertainment pundit and artiste manager Lawrence Asiamah Hanson, popularly known as Bullgod, has praised President John Dramani Mahama for reducing the number of ministries from 30 to 23.

    According to Bullgod, this decision is a well-thought-out move by Mahama’s team, designed to enhance government efficiency and help avert economic challenges.

    Bullgod described Mahama as the most experienced president in Ghana’s history, expressing confidence in his ability to make decisions that will benefit the nation.

    Speaking on the United Showbiz programme, aired on January 11, 2024, Bullgod commended Mahama for eliminating unnecessary ministries and encouraged him to continue implementing prudent measures.

    “I always say that there has never been an experienced president in Ghana before; this is the first one, and it’s a fact. Mahama is the most experienced president Ghana has ever had, and he has proven it among all the presidents that came before him.

    “There is efficiency in the list he has released [list of ministries]. It tells you that he has removed waste from the system. It was well-planned and crafted; he has really done well,” he said in Twi.

    His comments came after President Mahama announced the reduction of ministries from 30 to 23 to streamline governance and improve efficiency.

  • “Bow your head in shame” – DJ Slim slams Sarkodie over ‘back to gari soakings’ comment

    “Bow your head in shame” – DJ Slim slams Sarkodie over ‘back to gari soakings’ comment

    Entertainment personality DJ Slim has voiced his displeasure over a recent post by Sarkodie on Instagram.

    On January 8, 2025, Sarkodie shared the message, “Back to gari soakings like we never left,” which sparked debate online.

    Many social media users interpreted the post as a subtle comment on President John Dramani Mahama’s return to power on January 7, following his win in the 2024 elections.

    But speaking on this development during a discussion on his “The Street Is Watching” podcast on January 9, 2025, DJ Slim sternly criticised the Sark Nation boss.

    He said if the comment had a political undertone, then Sarkodie should be ashamed.

    “If this has a political undertone, Sarkodie, you should bow your head in shame wherever you find yourself. You have disappointed us so much,” he said.

    DJ Slim also criticised the timing of Sarkodie’s post, stating that it was poorly timed for the message it conveyed.

    “I think this is the wrong statement for him based on the time. The post could mean different things, but the timing suggests he has publicly declared himself as a member of the New Patriotic Party,” he added.

    Background

    In the past, Sarkodie openly criticized former President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

    Between 2013 and 2016, the rapper used his music to express his concerns, with his 2014 song “Inflation” standing out as a clear critique of Mahama’s leadership.

    However, during President Akufo-Addo’s time in office, Sarkodie remained unusually quiet, even though his fans repeatedly urged him to speak out.

  • Prince David Osei denies Mahama’s ‘drunkard’ post, says he left his phones with friends and cousins

    Prince David Osei denies Mahama’s ‘drunkard’ post, says he left his phones with friends and cousins

    Ghanaian actor Prince David Osei has addressed backlash over a deleted post from his X account (formerly Twitter), which referred to President-Elect John Dramani Mahama as a “drunkard.”

    The post was reportedly a reply to a user who had made an unpleasant comment about the actor. Speaking with Andy Dosty on Hitz FM, Prince denied responsibility for the offensive remark, stating that he was not the one who made the post.

    Prince has since apologised to the President-Elect and expressed regret over the incident.

    “After the election, we were all pained and sort of depressed because we were surprised at the outcome, but all the same, I came out to congratulate the NDC and the President-Elect. I even posted him, and I said what I had to say: elections are over, and we should all learn to live in peace. Then I started getting a lot of attacks on Twitter,” he said.

    He said due to the pain from the disappointment, he did not carry his phones with him.

    “So I even left the phone. I wasn’t by my phone. Normally when they start bullying and doing all that stuff, I just leave the phones to my cousins or some of my friends,” Prince said on Daybreak Hitz on Hitz FM.

    He said he was surprised when he woke up to see reports that he had insulted the president.

    “I went on my Twitter feed to check where that was coming from. I noticed there was nothing like that, but I saw people tagging me in something written by me on my page. Then I said no, I didn’t write this. I started asking my cousins and friends, and then they said, Oh, people were annoying them, so they were replying to them. Then I asked if anybody tagged them in any of those tweets, and they said no. But I could see people sharing it on Facebook from Prince David Osei’s Twitter feed.

    Because it was coming from my page, I came out to apologise and said I was sorry because people were calling my phone consistently with death threats,” he said.

    Prince David Osei explained that although his cousins and friends have denied posting the comment referring to John Mahama as a “drunkard,” he suspects they might have made the posts in reaction to provocations from X users who were attacking him online.

    “I think when they responded to the person, they deleted it,” he noted.

  • The battle has ended; the great elephant has been slaughtered! – Asiedu Nketia teases NPP

    The battle has ended; the great elephant has been slaughtered! – Asiedu Nketia teases NPP

    National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has expressed great joy over the victory of President-elect John Dramani Mahama.

    His excitement was evident during his speech on December 9, after the Electoral Commission announced the results of the 2024 general election.

    Known as General Mosquito, he described the NDC’s hard-fought win against the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a historic achievement for the party.

    “I believe that the party has never seen this level of total mobilization of its rank and file to fight and achieve a purpose. At long last, the battle has ended, and the great elephant has been slaughtered mercilessly,” he declared.

    He extended special commendations to the technical team at the NDC headquarters, acknowledging their pivotal role in managing the election campaign.

    “I want to specially commend the technical staff of our headquarters, who managed this election very, very successfully. I mean the directors of elections, directors of IT, and all other persons who played roles in this success,” he said.

    While celebrating the victory, Mr Asiedu Nketia urged party members to exercise modesty in their celebrations and focus on the enormous responsibility ahead.

    “Let me advise that we should be modest in our celebrations because I can almost feel the weight of responsibility on our shoulders. Ghanaians have given us this mandate to accomplish the task of national reconstruction,” he reiterated.

    He reminded the NDC leadership and supporters of the high expectations of Ghanaians, adding, “We cannot afford to disappoint them.”

  • Mahama promises to build a second National Theatre in Kumasi if he wins power

    Mahama promises to build a second National Theatre in Kumasi if he wins power

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama has noted that when voted into power in the December 7 elections, he would build a second National Theatre in Kumasi.

    In a video shared by GHOne TV on November 12, 2024, Mahama indicated that the Kumasi theatre is in a poor state, hence his decision to build a new one because it is part of their campaign manifesto.

    “Since the Chinese built the national film theatre during the Rawlings administration, there has not been a major facelift, so you can clearly see that the place is in a poor state. Even when people want to make use of the place, the poor stature of the film theatre makes it difficult for them,” he said.

    Mahama further described Kumasi as the centre of arts and culture in Ghana.

    “If you look at our 2020 manifesto, we promised to build a theatre when voted into power, and we included it in our 2024 manifesto as well because Kumasi is the centre of our arts and culture in this country,” he added.

  • If you vote for Mahama as a resident in Kumasi, then you have put a curse on yourself – NAPO

    If you vote for Mahama as a resident in Kumasi, then you have put a curse on yourself – NAPO

    New Patriotic Party’s running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has warned that anyone in the Ashanti Region who supports the campaign of opposition leader John Dramani Mahama could be inviting misfortune upon themselves.

    While speaking to party supporters in Bantama at a rally, Dr. Opoku Prempeh emphasised that during Mahama’s presidency, he demonstrated bias against the Ashanti Region by dismissing individuals from that area within his administration.

    “President John Dramani Mahama, if you live in the Ashanti Region and he comes to campaign for votes and you follow him, you have cursed yourself because he is the only president who ended up sacking every person from Ashanti in his government.

    He sacked Kwabena Duffuor, who was the finance minister; he sacked Oteng-Agyei, who was the energy minister.

    Did he sack Duffuor or not? He sacked Betty Mould Iddrisu, who is from Agona. Who in the Ashanti Region was he able to work with? It was right here that he stood and said he won’t listen to anyone,” he stated.

    Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, a former Energy Minister, has been named the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in support of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential campaign.

    As a native of the Ashanti Region, he is anticipated to strengthen the party’s position in this area, which is traditionally viewed as the NPP’s stronghold.

  • I’ll deal with you ‘ruthlessly’ – Mahama warns galamseyers

    I’ll deal with you ‘ruthlessly’ – Mahama warns galamseyers

    Former President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the upcoming 2024 elections, has pledged to take decisive action against illegal mining, known as galamsey, if re-elected on December 7, 2024.

    In a recent meeting with religious leaders in Accra on October 1, 2024, Mahama unveiled his strategy for tackling the environmental damage caused by illegal small-scale mining. His proposal includes conducting a thorough audit of all mining concessions to pinpoint beneficial owners, who would be held accountable for any illegal activities in their areas.

    Mahama emphasized that his administration would prohibit new mining leases in forest reserves and strengthen regulations surrounding mining operations near water bodies, advocating for stricter penalties for violations through amendments to the Minerals and Mining Law.

    “We will compel small-scale miners to undertake skills training in modern responsible methods and land reclamation techniques as part of their operations to minimize environmental harm,” Mahama noted.

    He also plans to introduce initiatives like “Tree for Life and Blue Water” aimed at restoring polluted waterways and rehabilitating degraded lands.

    Additionally, he asserted that all public officials, including politicians, would be barred from engaging in any form of mining, whether legal or illegal. Mahama proposed that small-scale miners undergo training in modern, responsible mining techniques and land reclamation practices to reduce environmental impacts.

    Beyond addressing mining issues, Mahama discussed enhancing the implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) program. He suggested establishing a dedicated funding source, eliminating the double-track system, and decentralizing food procurement to ensure quality education for all students.

  • 2024 elections: Bawumia takes lead over Mahama in latest polls by Outcomes International

    2024 elections: Bawumia takes lead over Mahama in latest polls by Outcomes International

    Recent polls conducted by Outcomes International indicate that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate, is positioned to win the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) coming in second.

    According to the data, Dr. Bawumia is projected to secure 49.4% of the vote, while Mahama is expected to receive 45.1%.

    Other candidates are predicted to collectively account for just 0.3% of the total votes, with 5.2% of voters remaining undecided.

    The survey, which spanned August to September 2024, gathered insights from thousands of registered voters across Ghana’s regions.

    “Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will win in 11 out of 16 regions while Mr. Mahama will win in 5 regions. The overall findings show a very close contest between Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (49.4%) and Mr. Mahama (45.1%).

    However, 5.2% of the respondents were undecided, while 0.3% of the respondents said they would vote for other candidates,” the report said.

    The upcoming December 2024 presidential election is shaping up to be a close contest between former President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Several reputable polls have alternated in placing one ahead of the other in the race.

    The most recent poll gives Dr. Bawumia a narrow lead over Mahama, who has been attempting to make a political comeback since his defeat in 2016 and his unsuccessful bid in the 2020 election.

  • We will restore Founder’s Day to recognize Kwame Nkrumah – Mahama

    We will restore Founder’s Day to recognize Kwame Nkrumah – Mahama

    Former President and flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to restore Founder’s Day to honor Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s pivotal role in Ghana’s independence.

    Speaking during a celebration of Nkrumah’s 115th birthday in Nzemaland, Mahama urged citizens to resist efforts to misrepresent Nkrumah’s legacy.

    He remarked on the persistence of animosity towards Nkrumah, referencing the recent backlash over a derogatory comment made about the late leader.

    “The hatred and bitterness harboured by those who disliked and hated Nkrumah still erupt from time to time, as exemplified in the recent outrage that was expressed by the whole nation by the description of Kwame Nkrumah in the derogatory term of ‘that your Kwame Nkrumah,’” Mahama stated.

    Mahama emphasised the need to acknowledge Nkrumah’s contributions, insisting, “History cannot be revised, no matter how you feel about our children’s textbook with different versions of your history. Founder’s Day must be a day that recognises Nkrumah, the leader who delivered independence to Ghana and whose vision was continental in scope.”

    He assured that if the NDC assumes power in 2025, they will address historical inaccuracies and reinstate Nkrumah’s legacy.

    “The next NDC government, Inshallah in January 2025, would seek to remove the distortions in our history and restore Kwame Nkrumah to his rightful place in the history of Ghana,” he said.

    Founder’s Day was traditionally celebrated on September 21—Dr. Nkrumah’s birthday—to recognize his significant contributions to Ghana and his broader impact across Africa.

    However, the celebration was altered by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who proposed a change in both the date and the spelling—Founders’ Day on August 4, to include other key figures in Ghana’s independence.


    In 2019, the public holiday amendment bill was passed, officially changing Founder’s Day to acknowledge the contributions of all six founding fathers: Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Edward Akufo-Addo, Joseph Boakye Danquah, Emmanuel Obetsebi-Lamptey, William Ofori Atta, and Ebenezer Ako-Adjei.


    The new date, August 4, marks two important historical events: the formation of the Gold Coast Aborigines’ Rights Protection Society in 1897 and the establishment of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) in 1947.

    This change aimed to honor all members of the Big Six involved in Ghana’s independence.

  • Bawumia’s number-one spot on the ballot gives him an advantage over Mahama – Kofi Adoma

    Bawumia’s number-one spot on the ballot gives him an advantage over Mahama – Kofi Adoma

    Media personality Kofi Adoma Nwanwani has raised concerns regarding John Dramani Mahama‘s placement on the ballot for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

    He pointed out that Mahama’s position at number eight could pose challenges for him, as some voters may have difficulty locating his name, potentially affecting his overall vote count.

    In contrast, Adoma highlighted that Dr. Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) benefits from his top position on the ballot, which could provide him with a significant edge over Mahama.

    He stated, “Dr. Bawumia is in a safe position for the 2024 elections, but John Mahama is not. After the balloting, Bawumia is number one, followed by Augustus, Akua Donkor, Osofo Kyiri Abosom, Kofi Akpaloo, and others, before you get to Mahama at number eight.

    “I have seen NDC supporters promoting the number eight with various slogans, while NPP supporters claim Bawumia’s number one position signifies his victory. I can confidently say that Dr. Bawumia is in a safe position, while Mahama is not,” he said in Twi during an Instagram live session.

    The recent balloting, organized by the Electoral Commission of Ghana, determined these placements, with Bawumia securing the first spot, followed by other candidates before reaching Mahama at eighth.

    Reactions to these results have been mixed, with some expressing optimism about their implications for the elections, while others remain doubtful.

  • Let the number 8 stand as a symbol of hope and transformation – Mahama

    Let the number 8 stand as a symbol of hope and transformation – Mahama

    Former President John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), expressed his excitement after his party secured the number 8 position on the ballot for the upcoming December 7 presidential election.

    Mahama described the number 8 as symbolic of hope and change, urging his supporters to rally behind it.

    At the Electoral Commission’s balloting event, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, secured the top spot on the ballot, with several other parties also determining their positions.

    Among them, the Great Consolidated People’s Party (GCPP) took number 2, followed by the Ghana National Party (GNP) in the third slot.

    Other notable placements include the Ghana Union Movement at number 4, the Liberal Party of Ghana at 5, and the National Democratic Party (NDP) at 6.

    The Convention People’s Party (CPP) secured the 7th position. Meanwhile, the All People’s Congress (APC) took the 9th spot.

    Among independent candidates, Alan Kyerematen will appear as number 13 on the ballot, Nana Kwame Bediako at 12, Kofi Koranteng at 10, and George Twum Barimah at 11. Despite some disagreements during the process, the balloting concluded successfully.

    See post below:

  • I have lost a friend – Mahama mourns death of Herman Chinery-Hesse

    I have lost a friend – Mahama mourns death of Herman Chinery-Hesse

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of distinguished tech entrepreneur Herman Kojo Chinery-Hesse, who died on Monday, September 16, 2024, due to a cardiac arrest.

    Known as “the Bill Gates of Africa,” Chinery-Hesse was a pioneering force in the tech industry and made a lasting impact on Ghana’s technological advancement.

    Born in 1963 in Dublin, Ireland, he founded theSOFTtribe in 1991, which became Ghana’s oldest and largest software company.

    Chinery-Hesse’s leadership at theSOFTtribe brought about revolutionary innovations that significantly advanced various sectors in Ghana, profoundly influencing the country’s digital transformation.

    In a tribute posted on social media [X], Mahama paid homage to Chinery-Hesse, acknowledging his immense contributions to the tech industry.

    Mahama stated, “We’ve lost a good man. I’ve lost a friend. This is a great blow to Ghana and our IT fraternity. We must be inspired to produce a million more Herman’s. Rest in peace, Herman.”

  • CAF’s stadium ban on Ghana a big disgrace! – Mahama

    CAF’s stadium ban on Ghana a big disgrace! – Mahama

    Former President and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has strongly condemned the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to ban the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, calling it a national disgrace. 

    The ban has left Ghana’s Black Stars unable to host matches at home due to poor pitch conditions.

    Mahama expressed his frustration over the government’s failure to maintain the stadium, which he believes led to the ban. He described the situation as unprecedented in Ghana’s history, highlighting the humiliation of the national team being forced to play at neutral venues.

    “CAF says the national team won’t play a match in Ghana again. This is a big disgrace to Ghana. The first time in the history of Ghana that CAF is saying there is no certified stadium we can play a match on,” Mahama remarked.

    The former president also criticised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government for alleged mismanagement of funds allocated for sports infrastructure. He pointed to a specific instance involving $85 million, which was meant for the rehabilitation of stadiums for the All African Games, suggesting the money had been squandered.

    “Athletes came in for the All African Games and stayed in Ghana for only 15 days. They used $15 million just to prepare food for them. So, they mean every day they spent one million dollars to feed the athletes? No, some things, if you hear, it’s sad,” Mahama stated.

    His comments reflect a broader concern over the government’s handling of national sports resources and the impact on Ghana’s reputation on the international stage.

    CAF’s decision to ban the Baba Yara Stadium was based on several factors, including poor drainage, uneven pitch, and inadequate grass cover. Following the Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier between Ghana and Angola, CAF withdrew approval for the stadium.

    In response, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has tasked the Ghana Football Association (GFA) with inviting CAF officials to inspect other potential venues, including the Accra Sports Stadium and Legon Stadium, to see if they meet the necessary standards to host future Black Stars matches.

    Watch video below:

  • Not a single standard stadium and they want to be commended – Mahama jabs over stadium ban

    Not a single standard stadium and they want to be commended – Mahama jabs over stadium ban

    NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has criticised the government’s failure to maintain the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, leading to its ban by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

    He described the situation as a national disgrace, pointing out that it is unprecedented for the Black Stars to play their home games at neutral venues due to poor pitch conditions.

    Mahama used this incident to argue that the current administration has failed in its responsibilities and should not be re-elected in the 2024 elections.

    “Recently, FIFA said the national team cannot play matches in Ghana. This is a huge embarrassment for us. It is the first time in Ghana’s history that we have been told there is no suitable stadium to host Black Stars games.

    Despite this, they expect us to applaud them for their performance,” he said in Twi, as reported by GhOne TV on X.

    It is important to note that Mahama mistakenly mentioned FIFA, but it was actually CAF that made the decision.

    About the Baba Yara Stadium ban

    CAF withdrew approval for the Baba Yara Stadium due to issues such as an uneven playing field, poor drainage, and inadequate grass cover.

    This decision followed the Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying match between Ghana and Angola on September 5, 2024.

    In response, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has directed the Ghana Football Association to invite CAF officials to inspect the Accra Sports Stadium and the Legon Stadium to determine if they meet the requirements to host Black Stars games.

    Watch the video below:

  • Cedi depreciation unacceptable, you should have resigned from office – Mahama to Akufo-Addo

    Cedi depreciation unacceptable, you should have resigned from office – Mahama to Akufo-Addo

    John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress‘s (NDC) flagbearer, has sharply criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo over the Ghanaian cedi’s steep depreciation.

    Speaking at a rally in Nkwabeng, Nkwanta South District, during his tour of Bono East Region, Mahama expressed his dissatisfaction with the current exchange rate, which has surpassed 15 cedis per dollar.

    Mahama questioned President Akufo-Addo’s assertion that the economic conditions are better now than under the previous NDC government, which experienced single-digit inflation.

    He pointed out that during the Atta Mills administration, the exchange rate was GH¢2 per dollar. Under Akufo-Addo, it rose from GH¢4 to GH¢16 per dollar over nearly eight years in office.

    Mahama argued that the President should have resigned when the cedi depreciated to GH¢16 per dollar, criticizing the justification of the current economic situation.

    He highlighted the difficulty in comparing GH¢16 to a dollar with GH¢4 to a dollar and noted the sharp increase in the cost of basic goods like cement.

    “It is hard to see how GH¢16 to a dollar can be considered better than GH¢4 to a dollar, even the prices of basic goods like cement have skyrocketed,” Mahama stated.

  • I didn’t disrespect Dromankese Chiefs – Mahama

    I didn’t disrespect Dromankese Chiefs – Mahama

    John Dramani Mahama, the flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has addressed recent criticisms regarding his campaign’s interaction with the chiefs of Dromankese.

    Some local chiefs had expressed their displeasure, accusing Mahama’s campaign of disrespect during his recent visit to the Bono East Region.

    In a social media video, the chiefs were seen expressing their grievances, with some even resorting to curses.

    Mahama responded by clarifying that his team had communicated the change in plans in advance to avoid any misunderstandings.

    He explained that an advance team had notified the chiefs that, due to scheduling delays, Mahama would not be able to visit the palace as initially planned.

    Instead, the campaign suggested that the chiefs join him at the rally grounds.

    “An advanced team had gone because we knew that looking at that day’s program, we were going to get there late. And we didn’t want the situation where chiefs will sit and you’ll come late and they tell you, you did not respect them because we came late. And so the day before we had sent to tell the chiefs that we would not be visiting the palace but said that if they were willing, they should come and join us at the rally grounds.

    “And so when we got to Dromankese, there was nothing like going to the palace. It was just going straight to the rally grounds so I was surprised to see a chief invoking curses against us at that place,” Mr. Mahama said on the matter.

    Mahama was taken aback by the negative reaction, especially since the chief of the area later admitted that the outburst was a mistake.

    Mahama referred to the situation as an “occupational hazard” and assured that his campaign is committed to respecting and including traditional leaders in their activities whenever feasible.

    “I just want to tell our chiefs that we respect them and as much as possible, we will incorporate them into our program. Where it is possible to visit them in their palaces we will do so,” the former president assured.

    “But do not want to inconvenience them late in the night when we know our programs are running late,” he added.

    He emphasized the importance of avoiding any inconvenience to the chiefs, particularly when schedules run late.

  • Victims of Techiman South shooting deserve more than GHS270K – Mahama

    Victims of Techiman South shooting deserve more than GHS270K – Mahama

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has voiced disappointment over the compensation awarded to victims of the Techiman South shooting, expressing his wish for a higher amount.

    The High Court in Wenchi had directed the state to compensate six individuals injured during the 2020 election-related shooting at the Techiman South collation centre with GH¢270,000.

    Addressing a mini rally in Twimia Nkwanta, Bono East Region, Mahama condemned the incident and vowed to offer further compensation if elected.

    He also reaffirmed his commitment to thoroughly investigate the matter and hold those responsible accountable.

    He said, “The compensation given to the victims, I was thinking it would be more than the 275,000 cedis but I acknowledge the court’s decision. However, when the NDC comes to power, we’ll ensure to provide necessary assistance to the victims.

    “Also, we would investigate the matter and ensure the perpetrators are brought to book and face the law. Also, those who lost their lives, we’ll compensate their families.”

    The incident occurred after the 2020 parliamentary election, when unrest broke out at the collation centre prior to the declaration of Martin Adjei Mensah Korsah as the elected Member of Parliament. In an attempt to manage the situation, security forces fired shots, killing two people and injuring several others.

    The injured parties filed a lawsuit at the High Court, citing a violation of their right to life under Article 13 of the 1992 Constitution and international law.

    The Attorney General’s office, representing the state, acknowledged the shooting but argued that security officers had only fired warning shots to disperse a crowd that was allegedly attempting to disrupt the collation process and harm election officials.

    The state claimed the officers’ actions were justified, arguing that some injuries might have resulted from gunfire within the crowd, not from the officers themselves. However, the court rejected these arguments, concluding that security personnel had fired directly into the crowd indiscriminately, with no constitutional basis for such action.

    The court also found no evidence to support the claim of additional gunfire from the crowd and ruled that the security officers’ actions violated the plaintiffs’ right to life. Though the plaintiffs initially sought GH¢5 million in compensation for the first applicant and GH¢2 million each for the others, the court determined that there was insufficient evidence to justify those amounts.

    As a result, the court awarded GH¢45,000 to each of the six applicants.

  • Election 2024: Mahama promises to establish tractor stations in all farming communities

    Election 2024: Mahama promises to establish tractor stations in all farming communities

    Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to establish tractor stations in farming communities across Ghana if elected in the upcoming December 7 elections.

    According to Mahama, these tractor stations will provide farmers with easier access to mechanized farming equipment and other vital resources, alleviating the challenges they face in acquiring necessary tools to enhance their agricultural activities.

    He made this commitment during a campaign stop at Kwame Danso, located in the Sene West District of the Bono East Region, where he addressed a crowd of supporters and local farmers as part of his 2024 campaign tour.

    “When the NDC comes to power, all farming communities will receive their share of tractor stations.

    Sene West will have its own centre, equipped with 10 tractors, and everything you need to make farming easier will be available for you to access.

    “Farmers will need to form cooperatives and register their names, after which their farmlands will be measured to determine what each has.

    Once registered, you can go to the tractor stations and receive the assistance you need.”

  • Second-hand vehicles have proven quality, experience than brand new ones – Mahama replies Bawumia

    Second-hand vehicles have proven quality, experience than brand new ones – Mahama replies Bawumia

    Former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) recently responded to remarks made by New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Bawumia had labeled Mahama as a “second-hand vehicle” in comparison to his own image as a “brand-new tear rubber President,” suggesting that Mahama’s leadership experience is outdated.

    Mahama, however, embraced Bawumia’s analogy, arguing that second-hand vehicles often prove to be more reliable and enduring than brand new ones.

    In a speech at Nyankwoantre in the Sene East constituency, Mahama suggested that his experience and proven track record make him a robust and dependable choice.

    “I accept that I am a second-hand vehicle, second-hand vehicles have shown quality and experience than brand new ones,” John Mahama said while speaking in Nyankwoantre of Sene East constituency

    Meanwhile, Dr. Bawumia, speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Kasoa, asserted that his tenure as Vice President has been marked by significant achievements, citing 33 policies he implemented.

    He argued that these accomplishments set him apart from Mahama, who, according to Bawumia, lacks similar achievements from his time as Vice President.

    Bawumia urged voters to choose him for a fresh start, contrasting his newness with Mahama’s seasoned experience.

    “Vote for me and get a brand-new tear rubber President ” Bawumia to Ghanaians.

  • Nightclubs run 24 hours – Mahama on 24-hour economy

    Nightclubs run 24 hours – Mahama on 24-hour economy

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has for the umpteenth time defended the National Democratic Congress’ 24-hour economy policy that seeks to revitalise the Ghanaian economy.

    Speaking at the University of Education Winneba on August 24, Mahama emphasized the feasibility of his economic policy which the ruling party’s flagbearer, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, believes is not a novel policy as some sectors of the economy already run a 24-hour shift.

    Ghanaian investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni, has expressed pessimism about the opposition National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) proposal to create a conducive environment for a 24-hour economy.

    Manasseh Azure says he does not buy into the idea since the policy cannot operate without an efficient economy. According to him, the current productivity level does not compel companies to go beyond the 8-hour shift to hire more individuals since there is less demand for their goods or services.

    In response to these concerns, Mr Mahama pointed out that certain sectors in Ghana are viable to benefit from the 24-hour economy policy that will be voluntary, citing entertainment venues such as discotheques and nightclubs as examples.

    Mahama encouraged his party supporters to disregard critics and back his policy as a means of revitalizing the economy.

    A 24-hour economy refers to an economic system where businesses, services, and activities operate continuously throughout the day and night, without interruption.

    In such an economy, various sectors, including retail, transportation, entertainment, hospitality, and public services, remain open and accessible around the clock, catering to the needs of consumers at any time.

    Mahama has stressed that the 24-hour economy policy is a game-changer.

    Watch below video:

  • 6 ways Mahama hopes to alleviate hardships in Ghana if elected

    6 ways Mahama hopes to alleviate hardships in Ghana if elected

    Ghana has for the past 4 years been facing heightened economic difficulties marked by high living costs and inflation but the former President John Dramani Mahama and leading opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) appears unwavering in tackling the crisis head on. 

    For the NDC, alleviating the hardship many Ghanaians are faced with is key among their priorities, if the top most. 

    The former President and the NDC unveiled six significant interventions to be deployed if elected into office in the  December 2024 election. 

    This announcement comes as the country approaches the 2024 elections, with the two leading political parties presenting their solutions to the ongoing economic challenges.

    In a tweet on August 27, Mahama outlined his party’s proposed measures aimed at alleviating the financial strain on Ghanaians and improving social welfare. Here are the key proposals:

    1. No-Fees-Stress Policy: New students at public universities, colleges of education, and nursing training institutions will not be required to pay academic fees.
    2. Reintroduction of Students Loan Trust Plus: This programme will assist continuing students in public educational institutions with their fees.
    3. Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities: Tertiary education will be provided at no cost for individuals with disabilities.
    4. Ghana Medical Care Trust [MahamaCares]: This fund will cover healthcare costs for chronic diseases, including kidney failure, cancers, sickle cell disease, diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases.
    5. Free Sanitary Pads: Female students in basic and secondary schools will receive free sanitary pads.
    6. Free Primary Healthcare: From CHPS clinics to polyclinics, primary healthcare will be provided at no cost.

    The NDC’s manifesto, launched on August 24, 2024, in Winneba, also includes commitments to removing certain taxes, such as the betting tax and COVID levy, investing $10 billion in public housing, and enhancing education. 

    The party also pledged to investigate corruption under the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration and focus on economic revitalisation to address current hardships.

  • Mahama’s return to power is like an insult to Ghanaians – Prince David Osei

    Mahama’s return to power is like an insult to Ghanaians – Prince David Osei

    Ghanaian actor and NPP supporter, Prince David Osei, has voiced strong opposition to the potential return of John Dramani Mahama as president.

    Speaking in an interview on GhOne TV on August 23, 2024, Osei argued that bringing Mahama back into office would be “like an insult” to Ghanaians.

    He pointed out Mahama’s extensive political history, including his roles as an assemblyman, minister of information, parliamentarian, vice president, and president, questioning the need for his return when Ghana has a population of over 30 million people.

    “Why must it be that one man becomes a president, goes through all the runs and comes back again? It looks like an insult to the whole of Ghana. Are we saying that in the whole country, there’s nobody else that can command the affairs of Ghana? Do we have to bring an ex-president?” he asked.

    Osei expressed concern that relying on Mahama again suggests a lack of capable leaders in the country, asking why the nation must turn to a former president to lead once more.

    He also criticized Mahama’s contributions to the creative arts sector, stating that he could not recall any significant achievements during his tenure.

    In contrast, Osei praised the NPP’s initiatives, such as the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return,” for their positive impact on the industry, emphasizing that these efforts have had a more tangible influence on the creative sector.

  • Mahama promises a national dialogue on the economy in his first 120 days in office

    Mahama promises a national dialogue on the economy in his first 120 days in office

    NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to initiate a National Economic Dialogue within his first 120 days if elected.

    This forum, Mahama explained, will be crucial in crafting a comprehensive four-year fiscal consolidation plan aimed at stabilizing the economy.

    He emphasized that the proposed program would serve as a cornerstone of his broader economic recovery strategy.

    Mahama made these commitments during his address at the NDC’s 2024 Manifesto Launch, held at the University of Education, Winneba, on August 24, 2024.

    Economic policies

    • Implement a 24-hour economy strategy with three (3) shifts of eight (8) hours each to maximize productivity and efficiency, transform Ghana into an import substitution and export-led economy, enhance access to public services, and create more well-paying jobs for unemployed Ghanaians.
    • Stop the economic decline and restore stability and inclusive growth to the economy.
    • Provide opportunities for experienced banking professionals who lost their jobs after the collapse of banks to secure their careers once more and move from the menial jobs they were forced into.
    • Abolish the obnoxious e-levy and review the levy imposed on bet winnings. With improved revenues from the savings made from a reduced size of government, an anti-corruption fight, fast-tracked operationalization of new oil and gas wells, increased investment in the mining sector, and a revamped cocoa sector, we can ease the heavy tax burden that has been placed on Ghanaian households and businesses.
    • Actively attract viable and serious private sector investors to partner with the government to invest in productive sectors for job creation.
    • Relocate some ministries out of the central business area to decongest the city of Accra. This will involve an emphasis on agriculture and agribusiness and will have a strong focus on making Ghanaians own their micro-enterprises.
    • Lead a process to set a standardized limit for borrowing and ensure that Ghana never suffers such a deadly debt management program that threatens to send elderly people holding government bonds to their early graves and wipe out the investments of the Ghanaian middle class.
    • Transform the economy, diversify our exports, and ensure value addition to create more jobs from January 2025.
    • Add value to our cocoa by increasing domestic processing, refining our gold before export, and pursuing the dream of an integrated bauxite and alumina industry.
    • Bring VALCO, TOR, and other strategic industries that can serve as extra pillars for our economy onstream.
    • Build a modernized agricultural economy driven by technology and digitalization and establish agribusiness as one of the key anchors of our economic transformation plan.
    • Introduce a new budget in April 2025 to support small and medium-scale businesses and adjust some taxes.
  • I’ll ensure Ghanaian businesses are registered with AfCFTA – Mahama 

    I’ll ensure Ghanaian businesses are registered with AfCFTA – Mahama 

    John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has announced a significant initiative aimed at boosting Ghana’s exports.

    As part of his broader 24-hour economy policy, Mahama revealed plans to register Ghanaian businesses with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), enabling them to trade their goods more effectively across the continent.

    In support of this, he pledged to establish an accelerated development council, which he will personally chair, to oversee the growth of these businesses.

    This council will monitor their progress, providing necessary support to enhance their production and sales.

    “The accelerated 2024 development council, I am going to chair that personally. We want to accelerate our exports. We are going to register more Ghanaian goods on the African Continental Free Trade Area so that we can export to other countries, and I am going to chair that personally.

    “We are going to meet every month and appraise where we are at in terms of encouraging Ghanaian businesses to export. This accelerated development council will promote export under the 24-hour economy,” he said.

    Meeting monthly, the council’s primary goal will be to encourage and facilitate the export of Ghanaian goods, thereby strengthening the country’s position in the AfCFTA.

    The AfCFTA, which began in January 2021, is a landmark agreement under the African Union’s Agenda 2063, aimed at eliminating trade barriers across Africa.

    Covering 55 countries and over 1.3 billion people, the agreement seeks to enhance intra-African trade, particularly in value-added sectors, and bolster the resilience of African economies against external shocks.

  • I’ll set up a commission of enquiry to investigate looting of state lands – Mahama

    I’ll set up a commission of enquiry to investigate looting of state lands – Mahama

    John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has vowed to establish a Commission of Enquiry to investigate alleged misappropriation of state lands and to address the longstanding grievances related to expropriated Ga-Dangbe lands.

    This commitment was made during the launch of the NDC manifesto in Winneba, Central Region, on August 24, 2024.

    Mahama’s pledge is a response to rising concerns and accusations that officials within the Akufo-Addo administration have been involved in the unlawful sale of state lands to favored individuals.

    Despite strong denials from the government and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Mahama insists that, if elected in the upcoming December 7 polls, his administration will thoroughly investigate these claims.

    The proposed Commission of Enquiry will focus on uncovering the truth behind these allegations and making recommendations to resolve the issues, with particular attention to the Ga-Dangbe lands, which have been a source of dispute for many years.

    Mahama emphasized his commitment to safeguarding the integrity of public lands and ensuring that any unlawful transactions are rectified.

  • NDC 2024 manifesto launch: Mahama’s FULL SPEECH

    NDC 2024 manifesto launch: Mahama’s FULL SPEECH

    Resetting Ghana_ Jobs | Accountability | Prosperity
    Remarks by HE John Dramani Mahama
    NDC Manifesto in Winneba

    3ye Zu

    3y3 Za

    • My dear comrades, members, supporters, sympathisers, and followers of the National Democratic Congress.
    • The good people of Ghana, watching and listening from across the country and the world, and those who have joined us here in Winneba.
    • My beloved wife, Lordina.
    • Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, my running mate for 2024.
    • National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah
    • General Secretary Fifi Kwetey
    • Ladies and gentlemen.

    Today, we gather with hope as one people, united in victory, and as one nation – Ghana – with a common, interwoven, indivisible destiny.

    Today, we also gather to re-ignite and re-affirm the dreams of our forebears, led by Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, the founder of our great nation—a nation with one destiny.

    A destiny that cannot afford to endure one additional day beyond January 7, 2025, of the maladministration, mismanagement, and state capture this nation has been subjected to over the last almost 8 years.

    For the sake of God’s children and in the name of God, the people of Ghana will wake up from this nightmare and envision a bright new dawn of opportunities for all its people.

    My brothers and sisters, Ghana is bleeding. Ghana’s soul is crying for change! Mother Ghana is crying for its true and genuine patriotic citizens to rise to reset our beloved nation.

    Ghanaians can take no more of the hardship, impunity, state capture, hypocrisy, lies, and bad governance inflicted over the two terms of this outgoing administration.

    We cannot fail Mother Ghana. Therefore, I urge you to vote for CHANGE on December 7.

    We, the members of the National Democratic Congress, gather to express our utmost belief in democratic governance and to proclaim right here in Simpa (Winneba) that the time is up for this administration.

    They have decimated our democracy beyond recognition, destroyed livelihoods and families, and pushed millions of Ghanaians below the poverty line.

    Your vote on December 7 will end tyranny, cronyism, corruption, and hardship. It will also pave the way for the vision, experience, and trustworthiness I, John Dramani Mahama, will restore to the Flagstaff House.

    As I have said before, this government must begin writing their handing-over notes if they have not done so already. This NPP administration has been the biggest political scam pulled on Ghanaians since our independence in 1957.

    And I will explain why! Repackaged with ribbons and sweetly scented with enticing promises, most Ghanaians will agree that Nana Akufo-Addo is indeed the President Ghana never got.

    Indeed, I daresay, his much-touted economic whizz kid Dr. Mahamoud Bawumia is also the economic messiah Ghana never got.

    This NPP government took over from my administration on January 7, 2017. They inherited an energy sector we had stabilised with the fastest mobilisation of emergency power of almost 800 megawatts.

    Along with this came a new Energy Sector Levy Act (ESLA) with potential revenues of GH¢3 billion per annum to pay off legacy energy sector debts.

    They inherited an ongoing Millennium Challenge Compact of $547 million aimed at making Ghana’s energy sector the most efficient in Africa.

    The family’s quarrel over shares in the PDS company led to the US pulling back $190 million, which was meant for the most critical component of the compact, private sector participation and improvement in collections at the distribution end of the electricity value chain.

    They inherited more than $450 million of the IMF Extended Credit Facility initiated by my administration. Most of our state-owned enterprises were breaking even or making a profit.

    They inherited a cocoa production of 964,000 metric tons, with a COCOBOD that was making profit and owed only GH¢1.5 billion to the central bank in cocoa bills.

    We handed over two new oil-producing fields, TEN and ENI, which increased Ghana’s oil production by more than 100,000 barrels per day with additional gas of more than 200 million scf per day. This increased Ghana’s revenue from petroleum by more than half a billion dollars.

    They took over from my administration a stabilisation fund in which we had accrued $277 million; a Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund with seed money of $270 million, and a sinking fund account at the BOG with a balance of over $200 million.

    They inherited a budget that ran a deficit of 6.1% with zero borrowing from the Central Bank. A stable currency that traded at about GH¢4 to USD1.

    Inflation was at 15.4%. Unemployment was at 8.4%. When we handed over to the Akufo Addo/Bawumia government, Ghana’s debt as a percentage of GDP was 57%.

    As a result of rapid fiscal consolidation, we handed over an economy that was set to grow at above 8% as predicted by the World Bank, IMF, and all the credit rating agencies.

    Private businesses had an enabling environment to thrive, and foreign investors were queuing to make investments in our economy.

    This NPP government also took off with a stabilised economy and significant buffers and with enormous domestic and international goodwill. Indeed, this has been the most favoured government in our history. But, alas, the Ghanaian people’s favour has been repaid with pain and anguish.

    This government has received more revenue than all governments combined in the history of Ghana. And as the saying goes, to whom much is given, much is expected. Unfortunately, the people of Ghana have been severely short-changed by this administration.

    The scorecard of this administration has been abysmal. An inflation rate that went as high as 54% and is currently hovering above 20%. Ghana has one of the highest food inflation rates in Africa.

    We have a currency that has depreciated to almost GH¢ 16 to USD 1; and borrowed more the GH¢70 billion from the BOG causing a serious upsurge in inflation; a debt to GDP rate that went as high as 104% and an unemployment rate at almost 15%.

    Ghana has defaulted on her debts and engaged in a debt exchange that has resulted in painful haircuts and deferred tenure on bonds at lower interest rates.

    Cocoa production has plummeted and for the first time in history, COCOBOD’s annual syndication, which was sought after by international banks, has no takers. Production volumes are down and COCOBOD is seeking to delay delivery of almost 350,000 tons to next year. COCOBOD has defaulted on almost GH¢13 billion in cocoa bonds.

    Oil and gas production has declined by 32% and debt to independent power producers has increased astronomically. The majority of SOEs are posting massive losses.

    The COVID pandemic rather than being an adversity turned out to be a blessing, with a windfall for this government of almost GH¢ 25 billion of inflows most of which was doled out to companies owned by family and relatives.

    The majority of our citizens are convinced our country Ghana is going in the wrong direction. Faith in our democracy is at its lowest, and many of our youth do not believe that constitutional governance is working for them.

    Faith in our democratic institution, and the political leadership is at the lowest ebb. Corruption is at its highest and Ghanaians are numb to the scandals that are exposed almost every week.

    And when you have a President who says he does not understand the hullaballoo about the sale of SSNIT hotels to a minister in his government, then clearly, he is on a completely different wavelength than the rest of the country.

    This is a President who doesn’t get it!

    Many domestic and foreign investors have adopted a wait-and-see attitude. Many I have met told me they are waiting for a signal from the Ghanaian people that the political and business environment is going to change. That we are going to effect a change of course.

    Matthew 25:14-30 – tells one of the parables of Jesus Christ – “The Parable of the Talents”.

    This parable teaches us to invest whatever is put in our care wisely for the benefit of our master. The master in this case is the people of Ghana. This administration is akin to the last servant, who buried the talent that was given to him and returned the same talent to his master upon his return.

    In the case of Akufo Addo/Bawumia and their cabal, they did not bury the talents given to them by the people of Ghana and return them to us. They gambled with the talents we gave them and landed the people of Ghana in a huge debt.

    We cannot continue this path! Lessons must be learned from the experience of these last almost eight years.

    A vote for the NPP will be an expression of satisfaction with the impunity of the last 8 years. A vote for the NPP is a vote for a third term for Nana Akufo-Addo.

    A vote for NPP in this election is a vote to escape accountability. It is a vote to allow officials who have raped this country’s resources to escape accountability and to go laughing all the way to the bank.

    Their flagbearer and running mate who have been prominent actors in the horror movies Ghanaians have watched these last almost 8 years cannot be the ones to exact accountability from the government of which they have been an integral part.

    We are at a critical juncture in our democratic history. Choices we make in elections come with consequences. We cannot afford to fail this time. A restive youth does not have the luxury of trial and error.

    They do not have the luxury of trying a driver’s mate who has learned his driving from the same driver who crashed the vehicle of the Ghanaian people.

    Our nation needs a reset!

    Our democracy needs a reset!

    Our economy needs a reset!

    Our governance needs a reset

    Our attitudes need a reset!

    We need a government that will galvanize the effort of all Ghanaians irrespective of ethnicity, religion or partisan affiliation!

    We need a government that will allow all businesses to thrive, whether domestic or foreign no matter the ethnic, religious, or partisan colours of its owners.

    This may be our last chance to get it right. It cannot be business as usual. Ghana is a nation in a hurry.

    We need to make a change – A change that will usher in a government that is responsive and accountable.

    A leadership that will crack the whip when its appointees go down the wrong track.

    A responsive government that will respect the rights and freedoms of citizens including journalists and address the ongoing decay of state institutions and fight corruption by deploying the “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) Strategy.

    Today, we are presenting to you a manifesto that will help TAKE BACK YOUR FUTURE. THE FUTURE OF GHANA IS IN YOUR HANDS.

    I will at this point give you some highlights of the manifesto after which my running mate and the next Vice President of Ghana Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang – a prominent daughter of the Central Region – and other presenters will delve into other areas of the manifesto.

    HIGHLIGHTS.

    RESETTING THE ECONOMY FOR PROSPERITY

    • First 120 days in office: Hold a National Economic Dialogue to draw up a 4-year fiscal consolidation programme.
    • Rationalise taxes.
    • Abolishing among others E-levy, COVID levy, and 10% levy on bet winnings.
    • Review import duties and levies on vehicles and equipment meant for industry and agricultural purposes.
    • Rationalise ports fees and charges.
    • Implement emergency measures to stabilize the Ghana Cedi and the macro-economy.
    • Use Price Stabilization and Recovery Levy to cushion consumers.
    • Investigate NPP’s opaque Gold-for-Oil deal.
    • Review the Gold Purchase Programme of the Bank of Ghana.
    • Restore the licenses of wrongfully collapsed banks and financial institutions.
    • Increasing indigenous participation in the banking and financial sector.
    • Free statutory funds (GETFUND, NHIL, Road Fund…) for their mandated objects.

    ALLEVIATING THE CURRENT ECONOMIC HARDSHIPS.

    • No-academic-fee policy for first years in public tertiary institutions.
    • Free Tertiary Education for PWDs
    • Free Sanitary Pads for girls in school.

    QUALITY HEALTHCARE FOR ALL

    • Uncap the National Health Insurance Levy.
    • Re-prioritise the health sector by ensuring timely release of payments to service providers.
    • Establish the Ghana Medical Care Trust (MahamaCares) Fund to support persons with chronic diseases such as kidney failure (dialysis), cancers, Sickle Cell disease, diabetes, hypertension, and other heart diseases.
    • Implement Free Primary Healthcare services from the CHPS compound level to the district level in the medium term.
    • Expand health infrastructure to restore the automatic employment and timely deployment of health workers.
    • Construct a state of the art 500-bed Specialist Children’s Hospital and Fertility Centre in Accra.
    • Expand facilities at the Ho Teaching Hospital to provide comprehensive specialist services with the view to establishing a quaternary hospital in the Volta region to attract medical tourism.
    • Build a Specialist and Trauma Hospital in the Oti Region for emergencies on the eastern corridor.
    • Establish a modern dialysis centre in hospitals in regions that don’t have them.
    • Build modern hospitals in Bawku, Yendi and other underserved areas.

    24-HOUR ECONOMY

    Formula 1:3:3

    Same Job, Three Shifts, Three People

    • Extraordinary problems require extraordinary solutions for extraordinary results.
    • Businesses and public organizations to operate 24/7 in three shifts of eight hours.
    • Boost production, promote productivity, generate well-paying jobs.
    • Transform Ghana into an import substitution and export-led economy.
    • Increase employment opportunities and revenue.
    • Enhance access to public services.
    • Focus on selected public institutions with large customer traffic:
      • Ports and Harbours
      • Customs
      • Passport Office
      • DVLA etc.

    SUPPORT PACKAGE FOR 24-HOUR BUSINESSES

    • Stimulate demand for 24-hour economy goods & services.
    • Supported by strategic investments in infrastructure, security, energy etc.
    • Public and private security architecture.
    • Cheaper and reliable electricity (Time-of-Use tariff system)
    • Tax incentives for cost reduction.
    • Support from Ghana Exim Bank for agro-processing & manufacturing to boost exports.
    • Support SMEs operating below capacity with catalytic investments to grow & generate jobs.

    ACCELERATED EXPORT DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (AEDC)

    • Chaired by the President.
    • To promote exports under the 24-hour economy strategy.

    WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT BANK

    • Special-purpose bank
    • Low-interest loans
    • Tailored financial services on very flexible terms.
    • Empower ONE MILLION (1,000,000) Ghanaian women.
    • Support women-owned and women-led businesses

    NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME (NAP)

    • For self-employment

    FREE TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.

    • Trained apprentices graduated with certification.
    • Provide start-up capital & equipment.

    “ADWUMAWURA’’ PROGRAMME

    • Special business start-up policy with focus on the youth.
    • Create, track and mentor 10,000 businesses annually.

    BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

    • Exempt new small businesses from corporate and personal income tax for the first two years after their incorporation.
    • Review Customs (Amendment) Act, 2020 (Act 1014) to scrap the ban on importation of salvaged vehicles.
    • Save the local automotive industries—Suame Magazine, Kokompe, Abossey Okai.
    • Support the redevelopment of the Abossey Okai, Suame, Kokompe and Cape Coast Artisanal enclaves.
    • Implement a ‘Made in Ghana Agenda’ for production and consumption of Made-in-Ghana goods.
    • Launch an “Export Ghana Policy” (AfCFTA & other external trade programmes).
    • Enhance the role of Ghana EXIM Bank in financing non-traditional exports.
    • Mo-Ne-Yo Pension Scheme for informal sector workers.
    • Commercial drivers and motorcyclists (Okada).
    • Small scale miners, farmers, fishermen, traders, market women

    DIGITAL JOBS INITIATIVE

      • One Million Coders Programme: Coding, WebApp development, software engineering etc.
      • Stimulate demand for made in Ghana software.
      • Government using locally developed software will employ our coders and reduce foreign exchange payments for subscriptions to overseas vendors.
    • Establish Regional Digital Centers for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).
    • Invest $50million in a FinTech Growth Fund to promote digital entrepreneurs.
    • Set up Zonal ICT Parks to make Ghana the hub for innovation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity in Africa.
    • Re-develop the Dawa ICT park into a world-class centre of excellence.

    GHANA FIRST FLAGSHIP PROGRAMME FOR JOBS

    • Work with private sector to make Ghana the Pharma Hub of Africa.
    • Develop an integrated aluminium industry for industrialization.
    • Invest in the production of plastics, fertiliser and other synthetic materials.
    • Expansion of the automotive and vehicle assembly sector.
    • Promote light industrial manufacturing, especially of apparel and electronic products

    RAPID INDUSTRIALIZATION FOR JOBS

    • Promote value addition & diversification for domestic consumption and exports.
    • Establish strategic industries and revive defunct ones.
    • Revamp the textile and cotton-allied industry.
    • Set up Agro-Industrial Zones in all regions.
    • Establish mini-processing plants for cassava, tomatoes, fruits etc.
    • Set up cashew processing factories in the Bono, Bono East and Ahafo regions.
    • Establish cocoa processing factories in Western, Western North, Eastern, Central, Ashanti, Bono, Bono East, Ahafo, Volta and Oti regions.
    • Facilitate the construction of twenty (20) medium-scale animal feed processing plants and revamp the collapsing poultry industry.

    AGRICULTURE for JOBS.

    • Make agriculture attractive through modernisation to ensure food security and job creation.
    • Reduce food inflation to lower the high cost of living through our Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda.
    • Roll out a Feed Ghana Programme – to boost food production, guarantee food security and supply raw materials to industries.
    • Establish Farmer Service Centres to support farmers with modern agriculture equipment, technologies and inputs in all districts.
    • Create Farm Banks within agriculture zones to ease access to land, and irrigation facilities for agricultural purposes and encourage young people into farming.

    PROMOTING GOOD GOVERNANCE AND COMBATTING CORRUPTION

    • Remarkably reduce the size of government (sixty (60) Ministers)
    • Address the benefit disparities between Article 71 office holders and the wider public service.
    • Scrap payment of ex gratia.
    • Establish an Independent Emoluments Commission by merging the Presidential Commission on Emoluments and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.
    • Ruthless War Against Corruption: “Operation-Recover-All-Loot” (ORAL).
    • Prohibit political appointees, politically exposed persons and all serving public officials from purchasing state assets.
    • Reopen investigations into major unresolved cases including the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence, 2020 election killings, unresolved murder of Ahmed Hussein-Suale and Silas Wulochamey.

    TRANSFORMING EDUCATION

    • Dedicate equitable attention to all levels of education.
    • Improve Free SHS
    • Provide dedicated and sustainable source of funding for Free SHS
    • Decentralise the procurement of food for SHS to boost local economies.
    • Implement a ‘No-Academic-Fees’ policy.
    • Use 5G and Low-Earth Orbit systems to improve the quality of education across the country by extending course tutorials to students everywhere through on-demand learning platforms sanctioned by the GES.
    • Provide continuing students with financial assistance by re-introducing the Student Loan Trust Fund Plus (SLTF+) and a reformed scholarship regime.
    • Provide Free Tertiary Education for all Persons with disabilities (PWDs).
    • Implement a ‘Bed-for-All’ programme by building on-campus affordable students’ hostels & expanding accommodation facilities for tertiary students through PPPs.
    • Legislation to streamline and regulate the award of government scholarships.
    • End collateralisation of the GETFund.
    • Abolish the teacher licensure examination and integrate the licensing process into the final year examination.
    • Institute the “Teacher Dabr3” Project to provide accommodation facilities for teachers within their schools.
    • Implement a 20 percent (basic salary) special allowance for teachers & health workers who accept postings to rural and underserved communities.
    • Expand infrastructure to ensure prompt employment of nurses, health workers and teachers.
    • Assist teachers to own vehicles of their choice by offering flexible duty payment arrangements and employer guarantees in partnership with teacher unions and the banking sector.

    AGE OF MODERN RAILWAYS

    • Western and Eastern lines connected to land-locked countries under PPP including BOTs.
    • Construct Urban intracity railways and Bus Rapid Transits (BRT) for largest population centres.

    PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE MINING FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

    • Ban issuance of new mining leases and activities in forest reserves.
    • Amend the Mineral and Mining Law to impose stiffer punishment on mining in water bodies.
    • Decentralise regulatory and licensing processes for artisanal miners.
    • Establish Mining Cooperatives in all mining districts.
    • Set up a novel Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD) to regulate small-scale mining.
    • Implementing a ‘Tree for Life’ re-forestation policy with cocoa, palm and rubber.
    • Implement a Blue Water Initiative to heal and harness the environment by turning areas and water bodies degraded by illegal mining into hubs of economic and ecological recovery.

    THANK YOU

  • Ibrahim Mahama’s lawyers demand retraction and apology from Manasseh over claims in new book

    Ibrahim Mahama’s lawyers demand retraction and apology from Manasseh over claims in new book

    Lawyers for Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, a well-known Ghanaian businessman and the brother of former President John Dramani Mahama, have issued a formal request for investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni to retract and apologize for claims made in his recent book, “The President Ghana Never Got.”

    The book alleges that Mr. Mahama was a significant debtor to the former state-owned Merchant Bank, now known as Universal Merchant Bank (UMB).

    In their rebuttal, Mr. Mahama’s legal team firmly denies these accusations, stating that he has never been personally indebted to either Merchant Bank or UMB.

    They argue that the publication of these claims has damaged Mr. Mahama’s reputation, causing concern among his business associates, family, and friends.

    The lawyers clarify that while Engineers & Planners Company Limited (E&P), a company linked to Mr. Mahama, did secure a loan from Merchant Bank, this loan was fully repaid in February 2014.

    They stress that E&P is a distinct legal entity from Mr. Mahama and that he was not personally involved in securing or repaying the loan.

    The legal team also highlights that despite the loan being fully repaid, UMB’s new management failed to update Credit Bureau Agencies and the Bank of Ghana about the settlement, leading to continued misinformation about the company’s financial standing. This oversight, they argue, has contributed to the false claims made in Awuni’s book.

    In 2023, E&P filed a lawsuit against UMB Bank, seeking a declaration that the debt had been settled and that the bank’s contrary publications were inaccurate.

    The bank admitted in its defense that the debt had indeed been paid and that it had instructed the Credit Bureau Agencies to correct their records.

    Mr. Mahama’s lawyers have given Awuni a seven-day deadline to retract the statements and issue an unconditional apology. If Awuni fails to comply, they plan to take legal action.

    The situation has stirred significant public interest, with many eagerly anticipating Awuni’s response.

    The outcome could have far-reaching consequences, particularly in the ongoing debate surrounding the sale of Merchant Bank and the involvement of influential individuals in its financial difficulties.

    See below claims:

  • Free Tertiary: Mahama’s promise is an act of a desperate politician – Kwadwo Boateng Agyemang

    Free Tertiary: Mahama’s promise is an act of a desperate politician – Kwadwo Boateng Agyemang

    Mr. Kwadwo Boateng Agyemang, the former Constituency Chairman for New Juaben North representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Eastern Region, has strongly criticized Mr. John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 elections, over his commitment to provide free tertiary education.

    Agyeman labeled Mahama’s pledge as “whimsical” and indicative of a politician in a desperate bid for power.

    He argued that such a policy is unrealistic, pointing out that no country worldwide has successfully implemented free tertiary education on a large scale.

    He suggested that Mahama’s promise emerged from a reactive stance during his recent visit to the University of Ghana, aiming to counter the NPP’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program.

    Agyeman questioned the feasibility of this new proposal, recalling that Mahama had previously stated he would not prioritize free education even with substantial funds.

    Agyeman expressed concerns about the financial feasibility of Mahama’s plan, estimating that implementing free tertiary education would require approximately 4.4 billion Ghana Cedis in the first year.

    He emphasized the success of the Free SHS initiative, which has significantly improved literacy rates among 4.5 million students, and doubted Mahama’s capacity to fund his new promise.

    He accused Mahama of lacking a concrete agenda and suggested that the promise was more about rehabilitating his image than presenting a feasible policy.

    Agyeman also highlighted Mahama’s past administration, which had imposed user fees on university students, questioning the authenticity of his current promise.

    Concluding his remarks on Peace FM, Agyeman characterized Mahama’s proposal as a desperate move rather than a well-thought-out policy initiative.

    Watch below video:

  • Mahama parries Kwadwo Sheldon

    Mahama parries Kwadwo Sheldon

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has refuted claims that questions at the NDC’s Town Hall Meeting at the Bukom Arena were prearranged.

    The flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2024 general elections asserts that the event was conducted with genuine, spontaneous interaction.

    He clarified, “I was my own panellist and moderator. People in the arena got up and asked me any type of question, from archaeology to zoology.”

    His comments come after social media influencer Kwadwo Sheldon voiced on Twitter that he chose not to attend the meeting after an invitation from the opposition party because he believed the questions were predetermined to simplify responses for Mahama.

    Sheldon felt that this setup was too contrived and did not align with his expectations.

    In contrast, Mahama described the event as open and interactive, where attendees were free to ask questions on any topic.

    John Mahama added that he is not scared to answer any type of question thrown at him, adding, “Because we speak the truth always, we are not afraid. Any question that is being asked, I answer it from my heart.”

    Kwadwo Sheldon has publicly declared his support for the New Patriotic Party and his proud association.

  • ‘I’m not scared to answer any type of question’ – Mahama on Sheldon’s ‘predetermined questions’ claim

    ‘I’m not scared to answer any type of question’ – Mahama on Sheldon’s ‘predetermined questions’ claim

    Former President John Dramani Mahama has refuted claims that attendees at the NDC’s Town Hall Meeting at the Bukom Arena were given predetermined questions.

    Kwadwo Sheldon had alleged on Twitter that the NDC invited him to the event but he declined, citing that attendees were provided with pre-set questions to facilitate easier responses for Mahama.
    Sheldon expressed his reluctance to participate in what he described as a pre-planned question and answer session.

    However, Mahama, in video excerpts from the event, clarified that attendees were free to ask their own questions on a wide range of topics.

    He emphasized, “I was my own panelist and moderator. People in the arena got up and asked me any type of question, from archaeology to zoology.”

    Mahama further asserted his confidence in addressing any question, stating, “Because we speak the truth always, we are not afraid. Any question that is being asked, I answer it from my heart.”