IMF Mission Chief for Ghana, Stéphane Roudet

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has thrown its weight behind Ghana’s Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, supporting his assertion that persistent inefficiencies in Ghana’s energy sector represent the most significant threat to its economic stability.

Speaking to Ghanaian journalists during the IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, DC, the IMF Mission Chief for Ghana, Stéphane Roudet, reiterated the fund’s longstanding concerns over financial imbalances within the sector.

He emphasised that reforming the energy sector remains a central pillar of the IMF-supported economic program with Ghana.

Roudet highlighted a key issue undermining stability, citing the persistent gap between the amount of money collected by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the actual cost of generating electricity.

“We knew from the beginning of the program that there were challenges related to the energy sector. The main challenge is the large difference between what ECG collects in terms of bills and the costs incurred in the sector. This is what we refer to as the energy sector shortfall,” Roudet said.

Despite these challenges, Roudet expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to meeting the program’s reform targets, describing their efforts as forward-looking and essential to ensuring long-term economic resilience.

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Ibrahim Mahama, Business mogul

A former Director-General of the Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Service, David Prah, has warned President John Dramani Mahama and his government to desist from attacking the businesses of opposition leaders.

According to him, Mahama should take a cue from his brother, Ibrahim Mahama, who is also a businessman.

He cautioned that if Mahama continues with such actions, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), when in power, may retaliate by attacking the businesses of Ibrahim Mahama.

“I have realized that Financial Intelligence has frozen Chairman Wontumi’s accounts and revoked Akonta Mining’s license. I plead with John Mahama to stop what he is doing because power is transferable,” Prah stated.

He further warned, “We are recording everything that is happening. If you think you are the president and can do all this, remember your brother, Ibrahim Mahama, is also a businessman.

“If you don’t take care and we come to power and destroy Ibrahim Mahama’s business, nobody should come forward saying he is President Kufuor’s relative or anything like that. Chairman Wontumi is also someone’s relative.”

Speaking in an interview on Movement TV on April 25, 2025, Prah emphasized that power is transferable.

His comments follow the revocation of the mining license of the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, and the freezing of all his bank accounts, including those of Akonta Mining Limited.

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Nana Moses, former Vice Chair of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) China branch, has thrown his weight behind Robert Sarfo-Mensah, popularly known as Booba, to lead the Ahafo regional NPP as chairman.

Mr Sarfo-Mensah served as the Member of Parliament for Asunafo North Constituency on three consecutive terms from 2005 to 2017, where he spearheaded massive infrastructural and socio-economic development in the area.

He holds an Executive Master’s in General Paralegal Studies (EMGPS) and an Executive Master’s in Alternative Dispute Resolution (EMADR) from the Institute of Paralegal Training and Leadership Studies (IPLS).

In an interview with Myjoyonline in Goaso, Nana Moses eulogised Sarfo-Mensah’s political journey, citing his longstanding service and commitment to party unity and growth, and reputation in community development.

The NPP in the Ahafo region, after the 2024 elections, lost three of its four parliamentary seats to the NDC, with Gideon Boako winning the only seat for the NPP, Tano North Constituency.

The party also performed abysmally in the presidential polls with candidate John Dramani Mahama garnering 128,986, totalling 52.46%, while Dr Bawumia had 113,262, registering 46.07%.
Nana Moses said from the early days as a polling agent at Mim L/A JHS to being an active member of the University of Ghana branch of Friends of John Agyekum Kufuor (1993-2000), Booba’s loyalty to the NPP has been consistent.

In 2021, Booba was the secretary to the vetting Committee of Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) in Ahafo Region, Regional Coordinator for the NPP’s 2020 Election and a member of the Regional Campaign Team.

From 2013 to 2016, Sarfo-Mensah chaired the then Brong-Ahafo Caucus in Parliament, was a member of the NPP National Council, and part of the NPP Manifesto Committee on Employment and Labour.

According to the former NPP China branch officer, the strategic role Booba played as Brong-Ahafo Campaign Coordinator for then-presidential candidate Nana Akufo-Addo in 2012 showed his deep grassroots engagement and organizational strength.

Between 2009 and 2012, he was the Caucus Secretary for Brong-Ahafo NPP MPs and consistently served on regional campaign teams between 2004 and 2012.

He said Booba, in his public life, served as the Director-General of the National Sports Authority between 2017 and 2018 and was an Assistant Revenue Officer at the Value Added Tax Service from 2001 to 2004, a teacher at Mim Secondary School from 1997 to 2001.

He was part of Ghana’s delegation to various International Labour Organisation (ILO) conferences in Geneva and attended study tours and seminars across Canada, China, Belgium, the UK, Togo, and Namibia, gaining invaluable governance and leadership experience.

Born on April 1, 1970, Sarfo-Mensah is a result-oriented politician and an enterprising agriculturist which drive his passion for public service beyond personal ambition, which is rooted in his vision to see the NPP grow stronger and recapture power in 2028.

He noted that Mr Sarfo-Mensah has served the NPP faithfully across all levels, has vast leadership experience, unmatched grassroots connection, and a powerful vision for unity and victory, urging party delegates and stakeholders to rally behind him.

“His track record of hard work, dedication, and loyalty makes him the best candidate to lead Ahafo NPP to reclaim its lost parliamentary seats, and solve the party’s reduction of vote margins in the presidential polls”, he added.

“As a leading member of the party in the Ahafo region, Booba believes that politics must unite rather than divide, bringing people together under a common umbrella for societal advancement”, he affirms.

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GFA President, Kurt Okraku

The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has stepped down from his role as West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B President.

The decision was taken following his election as the Second Vice-President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

CAF President Patrice Motsepe announced that Kurt Okraku was elected as the Second Vice-President of the body during an Executive Council meeting held in Accra on April 26, 2025.

The appointment was necessary as Motsepe seeks to restructure leadership after four of CAF’s five previous vice-presidents resigned from their roles.

Okraku intends to focus on his roles as GFA President and CAF to enable him to deliver his utmost best in discharging his duties.

During his tenure as WAFU Zone B president, he ensured the relocation of the association’s headquarters and enhanced collaboration among member countries to excel in tournaments.

Okraku expressed his appreciation to his fellow executives, the entire leadership, and member countries for giving him the opportunity to serve and cooperating to make his tenure a success.

New individuals are expected to contest for the role and fill the vacancy to continue steering the affairs of WAFU following the resignation.

Watch as Ghana U-15 girls defeat South Africa 3-2 to reach finals

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Michael Abbey, CEO of Venture Capital Trust Fund

Venture Capital Trust Fund (VCTF) is set to play a central role in the nation’s economic transformation by launching a new fund aimed at supporting businesses aligned with government’s 24-hour economy policy, Michael Abbey, VCTF’s Chief Executive Officer, has said.

The newly appointed CEO announced plans for the upcoming SME-focused facility during Ghana Venture Capital Trust Association’s (GVCA) Annual Conference in Accra. The fund, currently in early-stage discussions with the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat at the Office of the President, will target existing businesses seeking to scale and boost productivity.

“We are looking at establishing the 24-hour economic SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) fund and this is to support businesses that are already in existence but want to scale up. Of course, we are already having conversations with the secretariat to see how we bring this to fruition,” Mr. Abbey said.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy by VCTF to deepen Ghana’s venture capital and private equity ecosystem, targetting improved access to alternative financing for SMEs. Mr. Abbey, who assumed office five weeks ago, stressed the Trust Fund’s commitment to working with stakeholders on driving job creation and economic growth.

Over the past two decades, VCTF has backed 14 fund managers who, in turn, have invested in about 80 businesses – creating nearly 30,000 jobs. VCTF aims to increase the fund performance of its investee funds and help them raise capital from other investors.

“Our investor contribution is to increase fund managers’ ESG, risk management and value-adding practices,” the CEO stated.

VCTF’s anchor investments, including first-loss positions where needed, helped raise GH¢2 billion across 58 deals. Eight funds have closed, five are still fundraising, and two managers have raised follow-on funds. VCTF also mobilised local financing from banks, pension funds, and insurers, while supporting all 13 funds to enhance operations and risk management.

The CEO noted that several of these companies have since exited the fund’s portfolio and many have become tax contributors to the state, aligning with Ghana’s development goals.

“We are doing all this with the hope and anticipation that we help build Ghana’s venture capital and private equity ecosystem in order to help finance small businesses, create jobs and help develop Ghana’s economy,” he said.

Mr. Abbey also revealed plans to roll out two additional funds including the proposed Ejumera Fund – which will support businesses in the tech space, agritech and those that are women-owned or led. These efforts are in response to government directives to channel investment into the real sector, moving away from an overdependence on government securities.

Frederick Amissah, a technical advisor at the Ministry of Finance, echoed government’s support for the trust fund – noting its evolving role in channeling capital toward high-impact sectors. He said Ghana’s financial architecture is being repositioned to back productive enterprises rather than merely absorbing public debt.

“We are trying to use fiscal policy to direct investment managers away from government securities and into the economy’s real sector,” Mr. Amissah said.

“That includes partnering with institutions like yours to support businesses, create the jobs we need and deliver the growth we are all looking for,”he added.

The move aligns with the ministry’s broader policy of leveraging alternative investment channels such as pensions and private capital to diversify funding sources for businesses.

Mr. Amissah acknowledged the traditional limitations SMEs face in accessing bank financing and said venture capital must be prioritised to address the gap.

“The mantra has been if we do not make the money, we won’t own the money. We see this initiative as key to unlocking productivity,” he further remarked.

VCTF also plans to strengthen its internal operations, expand fund manager capacity and launch its Fund Management Development Programme. This includes recruitment and training under the Venture Capital Analyst Programme, which recently graduated 20 analysts as part of a human capital development agenda.

The trust fund’s newly released impact report, marking its 20-year milestone, outlines achievements and next steps. It reflects on VCTF’s dual mandate – to provide patient capital through fund managers and help build the venture capital ecosystem in Ghana.

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The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has sworn-in the new governing council of the University of Ghana (UG) in Accra.

The new governing council, mandated to steer the affairs of the university, is made up of 20 distinguished academicians, government representatives, non-teaching staff of the university and representative of the student body.

The council, chaired by the Presidential Advisor on Legal Matters, Marietta Brew, has the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah-Amfo, as its Vice-Chair.

Other members of the council are Naa Dr Alhassan Andani, Dr Kwasi Amakye-Boateng, Precious Kyei Bonsu, Dr Abdul Karim Hatsu, Doris Kisiwa Ansah, Prof. Nana Akua Anyidoho, Michael Owusu Ansah, John Dadzie Mensah, Prof. Folasade Tolulope and Rev. Fr. Stephen Owusu Sekyere.

The rest are George Agyekum Donkor, Tina Sackeyfio, Major Daniel Ablorh-Quarcoo (rtd), Yvette Adounvo, Maradona Adjei Yeboah(the SRC President), Bright Amansiah and Benjamin Nkumsah. 

Responsibility

In his opening remarks, the minister expressed gratitude to the newly sworn-in members and tasked them on behalf of the President to work assiduously to make UG a modern academic university.

“The President is not particularly excited that today UG is rated the seventh best in Africa. Probably in the world, the university is struggling to get space even among the world’s first 600 universities.

“He thinks that you can work to improve the standing of the university.

That is not to say that you have not lived up to your calling. UG still remains an institution of excellence and pride,” he said.

Mr Iddrisu assured the council and the academic community that,  “the President and the Ministry does not intend to micromanage the universities. Adding that, though with absolute and utmost respect for academic freedom in Ghana, he will hold true to what the constitutional guarantees of academic freedom are.”

Expectations

Mr Iddrisu said it was expected of the council  to use its freedom guaranteed to train men and women who could stand the competitiveness of the fast-changing, complex global world and world of work.

He indicated that the government intended to operationalise the National Research Fund, and accordingly an amount of GH¢50 million had been allocated for the takeoff of the Fund.

He urged the university to also seek appropriate, legitimate, public-private partnership to expand its infrastructure, both academic and residential, in order to grow and improve the student population.

He advised the representative of the Students Representative Council (SRC) to take full advantage of his membership and presence in the council and persuade them to accept some of their legitimate concerns.

Appreciation

In her acceptance speech, the Chairperson of the Council expressed gratitude to the President and the Minister for the confidence reposed in them and the opportunity to serve the university.

Mrs Brew affirmed that despite the challenges UG  remained the bedrock of academic excellence in the country and the continent at large.

She highlighted that as members of the Council, they would stand on the shoulders of many who had served before on the Council and pledged to continue in the spirit of integrity, commitment and visionary leadership.

“You have given us your marching orders.

We should turn UG into a modern university. We should expand the numbers in the university.

We should make it a university that features in the top universities in the country. 

“We have accepted the challenge and we will do it.

As a Council, we will work to deepen the university’s contributions to national development while ensuring our academic programmes, research agendas and institutional policies remain aligned with the broader aspirations of Ghana,” she said.

The Chairperson added that they would work with the relevant authorities to support the qualities that enhance access and affordability of tertiary education, and in particular, support efforts to eliminate the academic fees for first-year students; thereby reducing financial barriers for the next generation of learners. 

The Member of Parliament for Savelugu in the Northern region, Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz has raised some red flags about the recently launched Free Sanitary Pads initiative by President John Dramani Mahama aimed at keeping the girl-child in school.

According to her, the intention behind the initiative was good but cautioned that the implementation of the policy may pave the way for what she described as “bitter disappointment” if not carefully implemented.

“The Intentions behind this policy are noble. No girl should be forced to miss school or resort to rags, leaves, or bits of mattress foam during her period. But good intentions, without careful execution, often pave the way to bitter disappointment. Unless urgent corrections are made, this initiative risks becoming a national symbol of mismanagement, lost opportunity, and broken promises”, she said.

The Savelugu lawmaker who is also the Deputy Ranking Member on the Gender, Children and Social Welfare Committee of Parliament gave the caution in an article she wrote on the subject matter.

She proposed a targeted approach to the initiative by first tackling the five regions in northern Ghana, which are mostly deprived and poverty stricken whilst providing improved places of convenience in the various schools across the country to help achieve the objectives of the initiatives.

The MP noted that while the unveiling marks a significant policy shift and positions Ghana among countries that have prioritized menstrual equity, the program faces serious scrutiny over its planning, execution, and sustainability.

Speaking from a dual vantage point as a woman, mother and lawmaker, Hajia Fatahiya Abdul Aziz expressed not celebration but anxiety. “My heart should be brimming with pride,” she noted, “Instead, it aches with worry.”

The MP said, her concerns are rooted in the poor planning and misaligned priorities of government on the initiative.

The government has budgeted GH¢292.4 million to serve two million girls, roughly GH¢146 per student annually. However, with quality sanitary pads costing GH¢15 to GH¢40 per month, simple calculations reveal a troubling funding gap. “Is this a genuine intervention,” she questioned, “or a political gimmick dressed in the cloth of compassion?”

Another concern of the legislator is the geographic inequity, stating that Girls in Ghana’s five northern regions, where poverty levels are highest remain underserved.

This uneven rollout she said raises doubts about the program’s commitment to equity and inclusion and observed that girls in rural districts like Zebilla and Bunkpurugu continue to wait for their turn.

The MP also mentioned infrastructure challenge in schools as a major challenge to the initiative. According to a 2024 report by SEND Ghana, 63% of basic schools lack access to adequate toilet and hygiene facilities.

Without proper water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, merely handing out pads can be counterproductive exposing girls to embarrassment and risk, rather than delivering empowerment.

Concerns such as delayed supply deliveries, substandard product quality, corruption in procurement and distribution, a model that promotes dependency rather than long-term resilience and sustainable financing framework for the project were raised by the MP.

Abdul Aziz urged government to prioritize local production by reviving the cotton industry and establishing pad manufacturing hubs in regions like Tumu and Tamale, offer tax exemptions on sanitary products, and target the most vulnerable girls through data-backed strategies.

Other recommendations includes improving school infrastructure, investment in gender-friendly toilets with water and disposal facilities by 2026 to avoid rendering the sanitary pad initiative a hollow gesture.

She further proposed dedicating 1% of VAT revenue to menstrual health, using blockchain technology to ensure transparency in procurement and distribution, and publishing real-time performance reports to foster public trust.

The Savelugu MP appealed to President John Mahama, to ensure a detailed, costed implementation plan with pilot phases of the project launched in the northern regions before any national rollout.

She also urged the need for civil society, traditional leaders, and local assemblies, participation as active collaborators in the process.

The MP encouraged all Ghanaians to demand accountability, support local manufacturing, and to confront the stigma that continues to surround menstruation.

“This initiative is bold, visionary, and filled with hope,” she concluded. “But hope alone is not enough. Our girls deserve more than promises.They deserve dignity. Not just pads, but protection. Not just applause, but action”, she said.

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, has recorded marginal gains against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar, at some forex bureaus.

In its daily update, the Central Bank noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢14.37 and a selling price of GH¢14.38 to a dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢19.27 and sold at GH¢19.29, while the euro trades at a buying price of GH¢16.38 and a selling price of GH¢16.40.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on April 29, 2025, at 08:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢15.60 to the dollar, while the pound is trading at GH¢20.60 at some major forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢17.65 on the retail market.

To curb the cedi’s depreciation, the Bank of Ghana sold over $200 million in the last quarter of 2024.

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Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe and Kurt Okraku

Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Chairman Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe has said that Second Vice-President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Kurt Okraku, will occupy a higher position if he works diligently in his new role.

According to him, the GFA boss should be resilient and work assiduously as the Second Vice-President of CAF to gain the trust of his colleagues and the people on the continent.

The outspoken football administrator indicated that he is optimistic about Okraku thriving in his new role, considering his leadership skills and experience he has garnered in football management.

Speaking in an interview with Graphic Sports, Dr Tamakloe noted that Kurt Okraku could earn a spot on the FIFA Council if he performs well and remains firm in decision-making.

“I believe if Kurt really works hard, he might even become the CAF President. I pray that Kurt does everything properly – be firm and fair and ensure that football is served not only in Africa but around the world. Integrity and hard work will determine whether he can reach the CAF seat and eventually the FIFA level,” he said.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe announced that Kurt Okraku was elected as the Second Vice-President of the body during an Executive Council meeting held in Accra on April 26, 2025.

The appointment was necessary as Motsepe seeks to restructure leadership after four of CAF’s five previous vice-presidents resigned from their roles.

Watch as Ghana U-15 girls defeat South Africa 3-2 to reach finals

SB/BB

 The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has dismissed reports circulating on social media that the Chief of the Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetamu, was attacked during his visit to Bawku last week.

The GAF said instead of the false reports, the Chief of the Army Staff rather had a fruitful engagement with the security and civilians in Bawku, insisting that no attack was visited on him.

A news released and signed by

the Director General in charge of Public Relations at the GAF, Brig­adier General E. Aggrey-Quarshie, copied the Ghanaian Times, said “the attention of the GAF has been drawn to two videos that have gone viral on social media al­leging the Chief of the Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetamu, has been attacked in Bawku.”

The statement added that, “GAF wishes to state that the con­tents of the said videos are false and should be treated with the contempt that they deserve.”

The GAF also stressed that no awful incident of that nature oc­curred during the operational visit of the Chief of the Army Staff to Bawku, and disclosed that plans were underway to track the origina­tors of the videos in question and make them face the law.

However, the statement warned bloggers, content creators, and the media in general to be circumspect and guarded in their reportage on GAF operations, particularly in Bawku, since any deliberate mis­information and disinformation of the populace had a potential to worsen the volatile security situa­tion in the area.

The GAF pleaded with all stakeholders in Ghana to step up efforts to help restore peace to Bawku and its environs

FROM FRANCIS DABRE DABANG, BOLGATANGA

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) logo

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is reminding all businesses and individuals to file their tax returns by April 30, 2025 to avoid heavy penalties and interest charges.

According to Mr. Victor Akogo, Chief Revenue Officer-Domestic Tax Revenue Division, GRA, defaulters will pay a penalty of GH¢500 for late filing and an additional GH¢10 for each day the delay continues.

Mr. Akogo made these remarks while speaking to the Eye on Port programme, where he explained the importance of GRA’s ongoing ‘Tax and Good Governance Month‘ initiative.

He said April was chosen for this campaign because it is a crucial month when, by law, all individuals and entities that have earned income must submit their tax returns.

“We encourage everyone to file their tax returns by April 30th this year. Filing on time helps you avoid penalties and unnecessary interest,” he stressed.

According to him, the company is not only seeking to enforce the law but also help taxpayers enjoy the many benefits of proper tax filing.

Some of these benefits include access to personal reliefs such as marriage relief and child education reliefs.

He however said that individuals who do not file their tax returns on time miss out on these benefits.

“It is a taxpayer’s duty under Article 41J of the 1992 Constitution to honestly disclose their income to the appropriate authority, which is the GRA, and pay the taxes due,” he added.

On the challenge taxpayers face, Mr. Akogo mentioned that many people misunderstand the filing deadlines… especially when due dates fall on weekends or holidays. He advised that they should always file before these dates.

He also indicated that the company has moved to an online self-service system via the www.taxpayerportal.com platform, allowing people to file their returns from anywhere without visiting its offices physically.

“Today, by the click of a button, you can file your tax return online. Whether you earned income from employment, business or investment, you must file,” Mr. Akogo said.

The Chief Revenue Officer explained that a tax return is simply a declaration of income earned, whether from employment, business or investment – and added that anyone who has received income is required to report it to the company.

Also, he encouraged those who have overpaid their taxes to apply for refunds.

“If you have overpaid, we will refund your money within 90 days after proper assessment; but you must first file your tax return,” he explained.

Talking about online businesses, Mr. Akogo said GRA now has an e-commerce department that monitors businesses operating online.

“The e-commerce department now tracks businesses selling online. Those who fail to register, file their returns, or pay taxes will face strict enforcement and penalties,” he warned.

Moreover, he said: “Those who have not filed their taxes in past years are encouraged to use the Special Voluntary Disclosure Programme to regularise their status and potentially have penalties waived. For the 2025 filing season, taxpayers are expected to file returns for the 2024 income year.

“Taxes are the lifeblood of the nation. By filing your tax returns honestly and on time, you are helping build a better Ghana for us all.”

GRA is running several activities across the country as part of the Tax and Good Governance Month. These include tax clinics, stakeholder engagements, webinars and education campaigns at regional offices, malls such as the Accra Mall and Teshie Mall, and other public places. These events aim to educate people about their tax obligations and assist them in filing correctly.

The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has called for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to be entrenched in Ghana’s constitution to strengthen its independence and effectiveness.

He argued that granting full constitutional recognition to the OSP would eliminate recurring questions about its legitimacy and allow it to carry out its anti-corruption mandate more decisively.

Making a presentation before the Constitutional Review Committee on Friday, April 25, Mr Agyebeng said, “Every now and then, there is a question on whether it is constitutional or otherwise,” he noted.

“Writing the OSP into the constitution, giving it that full prosecutorial independence — notwithstanding the formulation in Article 88 — allows the OSP to have its own prosecutorial power in respect of anti-corruption, kills the argument, and gives it the free range to be able to carry out its mandate and function.”

Mr. Agyebeng also criticised the current arrangement where aspects of the OSP’s prosecutorial powers are ceded from the Attorney-General’s Department, describing it as inadequate for an institution tasked with confronting corruption head-on.

He maintained that the OSP remains the only institution capable of tackling corruption independently, and a constitutional backing would further insulate it from political interference.

Galamsey: L.I 2462 must be completely repealed – Tony Aubynn

The Cape Coast High Court has ruled in favour of the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, in a defamation case brought against two individuals—Stephen Cobbah, popularly known as Adepa, and Yaw Korankye, also referred to as Ampong.

The case centred on alleged defamatory remarks made by the defendants on the “Assinman Politics Gh” WhatsApp platform in March 2024.

Rev. Fordjour, claiming the comments had severely tarnished his reputation, sought a declaration that the statements were defamatory, general damages of GH¢ 1 million, a perpetual injunction, an apology and retraction from the defendants, and legal costs.

In its judgement delivered on Monday, 28 April 2025, the court held that the comments in question were indeed defamatory.

It consequently awarded GH¢ 700,000 in damages against the defendants, to be paid jointly and severally, and imposed an additional cost of GH¢ 20,000 on each defendant.

Furthermore, the court issued a perpetual injunction restraining the pair from making further defamatory statements about Rev. Fordjour.

It also directed them to issue a retraction and publish an unreserved written apology with the same level of visibility as the original publication.

These apologies will be shared on the “Assinman Politics Gh” WhatsApp group and any other platforms where the defamatory content circulated.

This ruling brings closure to a matter that highlights the growing legal accountability for defamatory political discourse on digital platforms.

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File photo of real estate houses

Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Real Estate Agency Council (REAC), Emmanuel Jeffrey, has embarked on stakeholder engagements aimed at strengthening the country’s real estate sector.

In a meeting with the Ghana Association of Real Estate Brokers (GAREB) in Accra, Mr. Jeffrey outlined plans to introduce reforms, boost investor confidence and enhance compliance with industry standards.

Speaking in an interview with B&FT after the meeting, Mr. Jeffrey stressed the need for stronger and transformative regulation – noting that effective regulation cannot be achieved without active collaboration with stakeholders.

“I believe that without stakeholders, the regulator cannot fully understand the market or enforce the rules properly. That is why I am personally visiting stakeholders to engage with them, listen to their concerns and outline my vision for the council,” he said.

He added that a robust regulatory environment will help boost investor confidence, curb fraudulent activities and position Ghana as a beacon of hope for real estate investment.

“We are coming with strong reforms and real-time transformations to ensure that market players do not operate just anyhow. Our goal is to become a model regulator that government and the country can be proud of,” he noted.

He disclosed that among the immediate plans is establishing a comprehensive and analytical property database to ensure real-time monitoring of real estate agents, developers and transactions.

According to him, the absence of such a system has contributed to regulatory gaps and money laundering risks in the sector.

“One of my key priorities is to build a transformational database where, from the comfort of your room, you can access real-time information on real estate transactions. This will help reduce fraud and ensure compliance with anti-money laundering laws,” he explained.

The acting CEO also acknowledged some lapses in the current Real Estate Agency Act, 2020 (Act 1047) – as highlighted by stakeholders – and assured that steps will be taken to engage the sector minister and parliament in addressing these concerns.

“When it comes to policies, I have to work in consultation with my minister and parliament. We will pursue the necessary reforms through consultation,” Mr. Jeffrey said.

Touching on governance, he noted that the council is awaiting the constitution of a governing board, which falls under the purview of the Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources.

He assured that once the board is in place, decisions on policy direction and operational priorities will be streamlined.

Mr. Jeffrey reiterated his commitment to operating an inclusive regulatory regime that listens, consults and works in the best interest of all stakeholders.

“I cannot do it alone. Together with stakeholders, parliament and government, we will build a regulatory framework that ensures discipline, transparency and growth in the real estate sector,” he said.

For his part, president of the Ghana Association of Real Estate Brokers, Jacob Ansong who led the GAREB delegation, described the meeting as timely and productive – saying the association is encouraged by the new CEO’s approach and willingness to work with stakeholders.

“This engagement was crucial. He shared his vision, including plans to expedite licencing processes, foster unity among associations and address lapses in the Act. If these are implemented, the sector will see significant improvement,” Mr. Ansong said.

On the challenges discussed, Mr. Ansong pointed out that while the Real Estate Agency Act covers brokers and agents, developers are not captured under its provisions… making regulation incomplete. He stressed the importance of amending the Act to ensure developers are also brought under regulatory oversight.

Another key concern raised was low level of public awareness about the regulator’s existence of laws governing the sector. Mr. Ansong noted that many practitioners operate outside the regulatory framework, creating unfair competition for those who are licenced and compliant.

“A lot of people do not even know a regulator exists and this is affecting us. The new CEO’s emphasis on awareness campaigns is very crucial. If the public knows the difference between dealing with a professional and an unregulated agent, it will sanitise the industry,” he explained.

He also urged the public to be cautious and ensure they deal only with certified brokers and agents to avoid falling victim to fraud and money laundering activities.

“With the regulator in place and increased awareness, the real estate sector can become more disciplined, trustworthy and attractive to investors,” Mr. Ansong added.

Both parties agreed on the need for continuous dialogue and collaboration to address emerging challenges and advance the sector’s growth.

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A heated verbal exchange between former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe Abronye, disrupted proceedings during Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s national thank-you tour in the Bono Region on Monday.

The tour, aimed at rallying support and healing internal wounds following the NPP’s flagbearer primaries, took a dramatic turn in Berekum when tensions flared between the two high-profile party figures.

The confrontation nearly overshadowed the purpose of the gathering and revealed deepening cracks within the NPP’s internal ranks.

Abronye, in his welcome address, fired veiled criticisms that Kennedy Agyapong later interpreted as direct attacks on his person. 

The Regional Chairman questioned the sincerity of those advocating unity within the party, suggesting that some had previously made divisive comments that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) capitalised on during the 2024 campaign. He cited findings from the post-election fact-finding committee chaired by Professor Mike Ocquaye as evidence.

The tension escalated when Abronye flatly rejected a proposal by Agyapong calling for amnesty to be granted to suspended or former party members. He argued that such a move would legitimise indiscipline and undermine the party’s rules.

He said the party needs discipline, and he does not support such a proposal, accusing those advocating reconciliation of having contributed to the party’s electoral losses through public criticism.

When it was his turn to speak, Kennedy Agyapong responded with equal force. Clearly infuriated, he warned that he could not be intimidated by anyone within the party. He launched both direct and indirect attacks on Abronye’s leadership, implying that those who contribute little financially to the party should not be the loudest in discussions about its direction. “Some people talk as if they own the party, but they don’t… Even you poor people want to speak your mind, how much more rich men like us. Who born dog?” he said, drawing murmurs from sections of the crowd.

Agyapong further attacked Abronye’s performance as regional chairman, pointing out that the NPP’s parliamentary presence in the Bono Region had dwindled to just one seat, despite the party’s national prominence.

In his defence, Abronye claimed that the region’s poor representation was the result of years of neglect from the central government.

He argued that despite the Bono Region voting overwhelmingly for the NPP in 2016 and 2020, key infrastructure requests, especially road projects, were ignored by the government between 2017 and 2024.

Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Atta Issah

The Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Atta Issah, has projected that countries around the world, including Ghana, may revise their economic targets following the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) global growth forecast of 3.3% for 2025, with a gradual decline to just above 3% over the next five years, well below historical averages.

According to the MP, who serves on Parliament’s Finance Committee, this projected slowdown is due to factors such as ageing populations, geopolitical tensions, and tighter financial conditions.

He noted that Ghana, currently under an IMF balance of payments support programme, could experience disruptions to its economic recovery. However, he emphasised that adopting homegrown solutions and implementing expenditure cuts, as demonstrated under the John Mahama administration, could help Ghana stay on a growth path.

Issah, who recently joined the Ghanaian delegation to the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., shared his insights via social media.

He described the experience as a valuable opportunity to learn from global participants and gain a deeper understanding of the Bretton Woods Institutions.

“As a member of the Finance Committee of the 9th Parliament of the Republic of Ghana, I needed to do myself some good by keeping an open mind, to learn, observe, and build strong relationships,” he stated.

On global debt concerns, the MP observed that the IMF is increasingly alarmed about rising public debt, projected to reach 100% of global GDP by 2030.

He stressed that emerging markets face rising borrowing costs and limited access to international capital markets, risks Ghana must address to maintain investor confidence.

Regarding trade tensions, Issah noted that the meetings highlighted uncertainties surrounding U.S. tariff policies, particularly from the Trump administration.

Despite multiple proposals, no trade agreements were concluded, raising concerns about the global economic outlook, particularly for countries like Ghana that maintain significant trade ties with the U.S.

On fiscal consolidation, he observed that Ghana has made notable progress, with the primary fiscal balance improving significantly. The government aims to achieve a primary surplus of 1.5% of GDP in 2025 through enhanced domestic revenue mobilisation and expenditure rationalisation.

He urged continued commitment to this target, which he described as essential for macroeconomic stability.

Commenting on debt restructuring, Issah expressed confidence in Ghana’s ongoing efforts, including agreements with official creditors and Eurobond holders.

He noted that Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio, currently at 61.8%, is projected to fall to 55% by the end of 2025 following the successful completion of the debt exchange programme, a significant improvement over 2024 levels.

On the energy front, he highlighted the launch of the Energy Sector Recovery Programme, aimed at achieving financial sustainability. Key efforts include renegotiating contracts with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to reduce costs and alleviate fiscal pressure.

He also expressed optimism that phase two of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant would reduce gas imports and result in significant fiscal savings.

Turning to monetary policy, the MP commended the Bank of Ghana for its prudent approach, which has helped contain inflation and maintain financial sector stability. He pointed to measures such as recapitalising state-owned banks and rebuilding international reserves as critical to achieving these objectives.

Issah called on emerging markets to prioritise structural reforms to boost fiscal resilience, improve governance, and attract private sector investment, all of which he deemed essential for long-term growth.

On international support, he noted a strong call during the meetings for enhanced assistance from financial institutions to tackle challenges like weak domestic revenue mobilisation and limited access to capital.

He advocated for tailored, intensified technical support to help achieve sustainable development goals.

Addressing debt management, he emphasised the importance of effective strategies, including timely restructuring and fiscal discipline, to avoid debt distress and ensure economic stability.

He praised a recent announcement by the Finance Minister to amend the Public Procurement Act, requiring a commencement certificate before a project can begin. He said this would prevent the state from paying for unexecuted projects.

Finally, Issah underscored the role of agricultural mechanisation in reducing the debt burden and called for increased investment in the sector to support inclusive economic growth.

KA