The Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has criticised the Presidency for making public the petition seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.
According to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislator, the decision to publicise such a sensitive matter was inappropriate and could undermine confidence in the judiciary.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, March 29, Baffour Awuah argued that the petition should have been handled with discretion to prevent unnecessary political controversy.
“We need to tread cautiously. It shouldn’t be easy for the President or anyone to go after the Chief Justice,” he stated.
His comments come after President John Dramani Mahama formally responded to Chief Justice Torkonoo’s request for copies of the petitions filed against her.
The President has granted her 10 days to review and respond to the allegations, marking the next stage in the constitutional process governing her potential removal.
Mr Baffour Awuah further cautioned that the situation, if not carefully managed, could set a troubling precedent for future administrations.
He urged the government to ensure that due process is followed without political interference.
“The integrity of our judiciary is at stake. We must be careful not to create a perception that judges can be targeted based on political considerations,” he warned.
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A member of the communications team of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ellen Ama Daaku, has said Dr Dominic Ayine will go down as one of the under-performed Attorney Generals in Ghana’s history.
According to the outspoken communicator, the Attorney General has begun his work on the wrong footing and has resorted to being biased against the opposition NPP in the cases he decides to prosecute in court.
Speaking in an interview on Wontumi Radio, Ellen Ama Daaku said if Dr Ayine does not check his way of handling affairs, he would have achieved nothing by the end of his four-year tenure as the government’s chief legal advisor.
“Dr. Ayine cannot tell me—a law student who wants to become like him—that since he became the Attorney General and knowing how the law works, he has decided that a total of 52 persons who have embezzled over $3.7 billion of state funds can go home free by discontinuing the criminal cases against them in court. He did that because these are known NDC members. He then decides to haul Kwabena Adu Boahene, who has allegedly embezzled $7 million, to court. Can you imagine?”
Ellen Ama Daaku added, “Dr. Ayine has dropped the cloak of an astute and fair-minded lawyer that we have known him to be in the past and has put on his NDC attire. You can’t tell me that you have dropped the criminal prosecution of these known NDC members so they can go and enjoy the funds they embezzled. Dr. Ayine has started on the wrong footing. At the end of his four-year tenure, he would have destroyed the reputation he has built over the years with politics. He will go down as one of the worst Attorney Generals in Ghana’s history.”
Meanwhile, the AG has provided detailed justifications for his decision to drop criminal charges in several high-profile cases, including those involving former government officials from the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Speaking at a press conference Dr Ayine emphasized that his decisions were guided by ethical considerations, legal principles, and a commitment to fairness and transparency.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Legacy Crop Improvement Centre, Mr. Amos Rutherford Azinu, has called on the government to focus on the efficient implementation of agricultural policies to revitalize Ghana’s farming sector.
He expressed concern that while the country has numerous policy documents, many remain unimplemented, gathering dust while the agriculture sector faces persistent challenges.
Speaking at the 4th Food Security Lecture organized by the FESF Foundation, themed “Resetting Agriculture in Ghana,” Mr. Azinu criticized the politicization of agricultural programs, stating that such initiatives are often seen as avenues for financial gain rather than genuine reform.
He cited the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program as an example, noting that despite GH₵2.8 billion spent on its first phase over six years under the previous government, Ghana still imports significant quantities of maize.
He stressed that this situation raises questions of accountability, as taxpayers’ funds have been used without producing the intended outcomes.
According to Mr. Azinu, a fundamental mindset change is needed to transform the agricultural sector, but more importantly, existing policies must be actively implemented rather than merely formulated.
The event, which brought together key stakeholders and government officials within the food value chain, aimed to address the challenges facing Ghana’s agriculture sector and identify innovative solutions to enhance food security.
Dr. Peter Boamah Otukonor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness at the Presidency, who chaired the event, outlined critical areas of focus to improve the sector’s performance.
Dr. Richard Bani, Founder of the FESF Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to tackling food security challenges and pledged that recommendations from the event would be documented, analyzed, and forwarded to relevant authorities for implementation.
Award-winning Ghanaian artist Denning Edem Hotor, widely recognized as Edem, has openly discussed his friendship with fellow musician Sarkodie.
In a recent interview with media personality and influencer Felicia Osei on Onua FM, Edem, who leads the Volta Regime Music Group (VRMG) record label, recounted their initial meeting in 2006 during his frequent visits to the studio of the esteemed music producer Hammer of The Last Two.
China reportedly uses ‘mobile death vans’ to speed up their execution process in a ‘conveyor belt’ with so many people being callously put to death in the country
China is said to execute more prisoners every year than the rest of the world combined
China reportedly uses ‘mobile death vans’ to speed up their execution process in a ‘conveyor belt’ with so many people being put to death in the country.
The country has been put in the spotlight for its conveyor belt process where “mobile death vans” are said to be used to deal with the high numbers being killed. Canada was furious that four of its citizens had been executed under China’s death penalty in recent months, with Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly saying she and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had asked for leniency in the drug-related accusations involving the dual citizens.
Beijing’s embassy in Ottawa said the executions were due to drug crimes and that China does not recognise dual citizenship.
Beijing’s embassy in Ottawa said the executions were due to drug crime
China is said to execute more prisoners every year than the rest of the world combined, reports Mirror.
Executions are usually carried out by gunshot but lethal injections have been introduced over the past few years.
Chinese courts have used the death penalty for non-violent crimes like corruption, and the country reportedly uses “mobile death vans” to speed up the process with a haunting similarity to Nazi Germany.
Chinese courts have used the death penalty for non-violent crimes like corruption
Convicts are believed to be strapped to beds in the vans before they are given lethal injections by police officials, and the whole process is recorded.
Amnesty International condemned the executions and noted that China executed thousands of people in 2023.
China does not disclose how many people it executes, whether it be by firing squad, lethal injections or in “death” vans.
The vans are used so that prisoners don’t need to be moved to specific execution centres.
A Minghui study into the persecution of the Falun Gong, a religious movement in China, says they have been used since 2004, and that said body parts are harvested.
It said: “In the eyes of CCP officials, the biggest advantage of the execution vehicle is the convenience of taking organs from criminals for profit: their eyes, kidneys, livers, pancreas, lung and all other useful body parts, are harvested.”
The vans are used so that prisoners don’t need to be moved to specific execution centres
Human rights groups have criticised Chinese courts for their 99.9% conviction rate.
A report published in 2021 said China’s Penal Code of 1997, which is still in force today, has 46 crimes punishable by death, including 24 violent crimes and 22 non-violent crimes.
The families of the executed Canadians have asked for the four individuals’ identities not to be revealed, said Joly.
Global Affairs spokeswoman Charlotte MacLeod said they are continuing to provide consular assistance to families and requested that the media respect their privacy.
She said Canada continues to advocate for leniency for Robert Schellenberg, a Canadian sentenced to death for drug smuggling.
A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy said: “China always imposes severe penalties on drug-related crimes.
“The facts of the crimes committed by the Canadian nationals involved in the cases are clear, and the evidence is solid and sufficient.”
They said Beijing “fully guaranteed the rights and interests of the Canadian nationals concerned,” and urged Canada’s government to “stop making irresponsible remarks.”
The families of the executed Canadians have asked for the four individuals’ identities not to be revealed
Canada and China have a tense relationship, and China imposed retaliatory tariffs on some Canadian farm and food imports earlier this month, after Canada imposed duties in October on Chinese-made electric vehicles and steel and aluminium products.
Former Canadian ambassador to China, Guy Saint-Jacques, said: “China is sending us a message that we have to take steps if we want to see an improvement in the relationship.”
Ian Brodie, a former chief of staff to ex-Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, posted on social media to say: “Agricultural tariffs weren’t the worst part of the PRC response to EV tariffs.”
Opposition Conservative lawmaker Michael Chong said: “executing a number of Canadians in short order is unprecedented, and is clearly a sign that Beijing has no intention of improving relations with Canada.”
China is Canada’s second largest trading partner, but relations have been tense since Canadian authorities in 2018 arrested a former Huawei executive who the US had charged with fraud.
China jailed another two Canadians shortly after Canada arrested Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of the company’s founder, on a U.S. extradition request.
They were sent back to Canada in 2021, the same day Meng returned to China after reaching a deal with U.S. authorities in her case.
Many other countries called China’s decision “hostage politics,” while China described the charges against Huawei and Meng as a politically motivated attempt to hold back China’s economic and technological developments.
The Upper East Region has discovered mineral resources, especially gold, in several regional communities.
About seven districts have discovered gold minerals out of the 15 District Assemblies and Municipalities.
This was disclosed by the Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga in an interaction with journalists at the proposed Bolgatanga airport site on Saturday, March 29.
The minister stated that the construction of the Bolgatanga Airport will aid miners and gold buyers in transporting their mineral products to other parts of the country with ease.
He, however, called on stakeholders to assist the region in establishing the airport.
“This region, all of a sudden, we have discovered minerals around. Out of the 15 municipal district assemblies, we have about seven of them that have this deposit. And if they are having this deposit, it means that there’s business to do.
“And then, when they do the mining, they will need faster means to be able to send their gold to the national level without being disturbed by armed robberies.
“There’s a need for us to quicken things to improve upon things. Upper East is a gateway to Burkiana Faso and Togo. Our airport will be more lucrative.”
…..
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I used to sleep with 10 to 15 men daily for 3 weeks, I escaped after doing 3 days dry fasting—Victim
News Hub Creator2d
Olaonipekun Temitope has shared her painful experience of being trafficked to Libya by a trusted friend of her mother and how she escaped.During an exclusive interview with Nollywood actress and movie producer, Biola Adebayo Ent, Temitope disclosed that in Libya, she was forced into sleeping with multiple men daily to make money for her traffickers. She mentioned that on some days, she had to sleep with up to 15 men, while on days with fewer customers, she was forced to sleep with at least 10. She said, “If I could flash back, we used to sleep with 10 to 15 men in a day”.
Temitope stated that she was forced to sleep with men for three weeks before she found a way to escape. She revealed that she fasted for 3 days before found a way to escape. She said that her parents had been praying for her back in Nigeria, and she believed their prayers, along with her mother’s tears, gave her the strength to act. She recalled that on the day she escaped, she jumped over a fence and ran to the Nigerian embassy in Libya. She said the embassy officials helped her return to Nigeria
Executive Director of the Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation, Peter Bismark Kwofie, has voiced concerns over the establishment of the Gold Board and its exclusive authority as the sole body permitted to purchase gold.
He stated that the decision to make the board the only entity allowed to purchase gold from exporters, particularly small-scale miners, would create a monopoly.
Mr. Bismark Kwofie argued that gold dealers would earn less under the new arrangement than they would if they were able to sell the gold themselves.
Parliament has passed the Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025, which establishes the Gold Board to regulate the gold industry, enhance transparency and traceability, and boost foreign exchange earnings.
According to the government, the Gold Board will revolutionize the gold industry by regulating operations, stabilizing the cedi, and maximizing revenue from gold exports. It will oversee the purchase, sale, and export of gold, generating revenue to help stabilize the cedi.
Mr. Bismark Kwofie, in his opinion, likened the situation to the Ghana Cocoa Board, stating that private gold dealers could lose more than 60% of their income to the government under this system.
In a Facebook post, he wrote: “This is another monopoly. The gold exporters in the private sector will now have to sell to the government. The government will have the monopoly to decide prices and control gold exports from Ghana. Gold dealers will earn less than what they could have earned if they exported the gold themselves. Taking a cue from the cocoa industry, private gold dealers will lose at least 60% of their income to the government. I am sure gold dealers have not yet realized the bleak outlook of their trade.”
John Dumelo, the renowned Ghanaian actor, entrepreneur, and politician, is not only celebrated for his career but also for his beautiful and accomplished family. His wife, Gifty Mawunya Nkornu, and their two children form a close-knit and inspiring unit.
Gifty Mawunya Nkornu – The Woman Behind the Man
Gifty Mawunya Nkornu is a highly accomplished Ghanaian lawyer and social advocate. She was called to the Ghana Bar in May 2023, marking a significant milestone in her legal career. In addition to her professional achievements, she is passionate about women’s empowerment and child welfare, using her platform to support initiatives that uplift these causes.
On May 12, 2018, Gifty and John Dumelo exchanged vows in a grand wedding ceremony at the Royal Senchi Resort in Akosombo, Ghana. The event was graced by distinguished personalities, including former President John Dramani Mahama and renowned Nollywood actor Ramsey Nouah.
Their Beautiful Children
John Dumelo and Gifty are proud parents to two children:
John Dumelo Jnr., their firstborn son, arrived on October 16, 2018.
In 2022, they welcomed their second child, a daughter.
Their children remain a source of joy and inspiration for the couple, who prioritize family values alongside their professional and political commitments.
While John Dumelo continues to make strides in politics and business, Gifty provides unwavering support, not only as a wife but as an independent and accomplished woman. Despite their public presence, the couple values privacy and strives to maintain a strong, family-oriented lifestyle.
Together, the Dumelo family exemplifies love, ambition, and dedication—serving as a true inspiration to many.
NPP Deputy Communications Director, Ernest Owusu-Bempah
Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ernest Owusu-Bempah, has claimed that no presidential candidate of the party can become President of Ghana without his involvement in the candidate’s election strategy.
Speaking in an interview on Asaasepa Radio, monitored by GhanaWeb, Owusu-Bempah stated that his vast political experience and dealings with key figures of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including its founder, the late President Jerry John Rawlings, have exposed him to all the secrets of the NPP’s fiercest political opponent.
“I am the only youth in the NPP at the moment who can face the NDC squarely. Nobody in the NPP can confront the NDC better than I can. And I say this not out of arrogance. If anyone wants to be a presidential candidate in the NPP and I am not involved, they should forget it. I know all the secrets in this country.
I have been around former President Rawlings, who governed this country for 19 years. I have been around President Akufo-Addo, and I have been around former President J.A. Kufuor. I know what I am talking about. I know the secrets of this country. I know the NDC’s secrets. What is the point of fighting an enemy if you do not know their strengths and weaknesses?”
Owusu-Bempah added “I once presented a petition to President Mahama at his residence, and the entire NDC rank and file became jittery. If any other youth in the NDC had petitioned Mahama, it would not have carried such weight. That should tell you that I know how to hit the nerves of the NDC. I know everything about them—their strengths and weaknesses.”
“No NPP presidential candidate can become president without me because I know the secrets of the NDC, and I am the only youth in the NPP at the moment who can face the NDC squarely.” – Deputy National Communication Director for the NPP, Ernest Owusu Bempah pic.twitter.com/GlQfmtpKgf
The founder and leader of the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP), Akua Donkor, has been laid to rest today, March 29, 2025.
The final funeral rites took place in her hometown, Ejuratia, in the Ashanti Region.
Politicians from all divides, traditional and religious leaders showed up in their numbers to pay their last respects.
A thanksgiving service will be held in her honour at the St. Francis Roman Catholic Church on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
Until her demise on Tuesday, October 28, 2024, at the Ridge Hospital in Accra, Akua Donkor was the presidential candidate of the GFP.
She will be remembered for her efforts in championing the causes of farmers and women, as well as for being a fearless and spirited voice in Ghana’s political landscape.
Akua Donkor became a figure of both admiration and controversy, known for her unwavering stance on issues that mattered most to the ordinary Ghanaian.
NPP Deputy Communications Director, Ernest Owusu-Bempah
Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ernest Owusu-Bempah, has claimed that no presidential candidate of the party can become President of Ghana without his involvement in the candidate’s election strategy.
Speaking in an interview on Asaasepa Radio, monitored by GhanaWeb, Owusu-Bempah stated that his vast political experience and dealings with key figures of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including its founder, the late President Jerry John Rawlings, have exposed him to all the secrets of the NPP’s fiercest political opponent.
“I am the only youth in the NPP at the moment who can face the NDC squarely. Nobody in the NPP can confront the NDC better than I can. And I say this not out of arrogance. If anyone wants to be a presidential candidate in the NPP and I am not involved, they should forget it. I know all the secrets in this country.
I have been around former President Rawlings, who governed this country for 19 years. I have been around President Akufo-Addo, and I have been around former President J.A. Kufuor. I know what I am talking about. I know the secrets of this country. I know the NDC’s secrets. What is the point of fighting an enemy if you do not know their strengths and weaknesses?”
Owusu-Bempah added “I once presented a petition to President Mahama at his residence, and the entire NDC rank and file became jittery. If any other youth in the NDC had petitioned Mahama, it would not have carried such weight. That should tell you that I know how to hit the nerves of the NDC. I know everything about them—their strengths and weaknesses.”
“No NPP presidential candidate can become president without me because I know the secrets of the NDC, and I am the only youth in the NPP at the moment who can face the NDC squarely.” – Deputy National Communication Director for the NPP, Ernest Owusu Bempah pic.twitter.com/GlQfmtpKgf
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, has said he has no intention of leaving social media anytime soon.
Critics of the young regional minister have accused him of being obsessed with social media and spending too much time on the platform, even after his appointment.
However, addressing members of the Tertiary Education Institution Network (TEIN), the student wing of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi, the regional minister said those who expect him to leave should forget it.
“Now, they come in with another one: ‘He is a social media minister.’ I have a question—who are the people on social media? Is it not you? And is it a sin for a minister to be on social media? I am not leaving that space because I was there with you during the campaign. So now, should I become a minister and abandon you on that platform, without anyone getting to hear your voice and what you think should be the development direction of this country? No. So, I will be there with you and encourage you.”
Dr Amoakohene further responded to being labeled a “small boy.”
“When I came in, they started tagging me as a small boy. Leadership is service, is it not? So if you are old and you want to send someone, it is the young that you send. We are here to serve. If nothing else, the youth have the energy to serve, which is why we are serving—and serving well.”
Dr. Amoakohene, in the run-up to the 2024 general elections, waged a strong and effective campaign on social media platforms to push the agenda of the NDC.
His efforts yielded positive results, as many young people became attracted to the party and voted for it, ensuring the party’s eventual victory.
I won’t leave this Space – Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene claps back at “social media minister” “small boy” critics.#JoyNewspic.twitter.com/TQmRQRl7JF
ACCRA, March 29 (Reuters) – Three Chinese nationals are missing from Ghanaian waters and believed to have been kidnapped after a “suspected pirate attack” on Thursday on their Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel, the West African nation’s military said in a statement Saturday.
Seven armed people boarded the ship and fired warning shots shortly before 6 p.m. (1800 GMT) on Thursday, the statement said, adding that they stayed on board for about three hours while some crew members hid.
After the suspected pirates left and the crew came out of hiding, they discovered that the ship’s captain, chief mate and chief engineer were missing, according to the armed forces.
The vessel, MENGXIN 1, is now docked at Tema Fishing Harbour, the statement said.
It said Ghana’s navy is investigating a “suspected pirate attack.”
The Chinese embassy in Accra declined to comment.
(Reporting by Christian Akorlie; Writing by Portia Crowe; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
(c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2025.
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The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Julius Neequaye Kotey, has expressed concern over the substantial debts inherited from his predecessor, Kwasi Agyemang Busia.
Speaking on Class 91.3 FM’s morning show, hosted by Kwame Dwomoh Agyemang, on Friday, March 28, 2024, Kotey revealed that upon assuming office, he discovered significant financial liabilities left by Mr. Busia.
“I don’t want to slander my predecessor, but the only thing he left me with is debt,” he remarked.
According to Kotey, the DVLA’s dollar account has an outstanding debt of approximately $150 million, while the cedi account holds a debt of about GH₵300 million.
He attributed the financial challenges to prior commitments made by the former CEO, which the authority currently lacks the funds to settle.
One of the most pressing issues resulting from the debt is the lack of license printing for nearly a year and a half, as suppliers have not been paid.
However, Kotey offered a glimmer of hope, announcing that he has successfully negotiated with the suppliers to resume supplies so that the printing of licenses can begin next week.
“After I humbly engaged the suppliers, they willingly agreed to supply without any advance payment from the DVLA,” he stated.
He assured the public that he would leverage Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to address many of the DVLA’s major challenges.
The CEO highlighted the financial difficulties facing the DVLA as he works to resolve the debt crisis and restore essential services, including the issuance of driver’s licenses.
The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has assured the public that the budget for the Black Stars’ upcoming matches against Chad and Madagascar will be provided.
As Ghana prepared for Matchday 5 and 6 of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, expectations were high for Adams to disclose the budget, especially after President John Mahama emphasized in his State of the Nation address that financial details for national teams should be made public.
However, in an interview, the Buem constituency MP explained why the budget had not yet been revealed.
He argued that making it public before the games could create unnecessary distractions that might affect the team’s performance.
“People were asking me to disclose the budget for the games, but I kept asking myself what will the budget do for the team ahead of the games?
“Sometimes, some situations create distraction for the team, so we should weigh every situation before making a decision.”
Despite the initial secrecy, Adams reassured Ghanaians that transparency would be maintained.
“The budget for the team will be made available. There is nothing to hide from the public, but we must know it is expensive to take care of the national team because most of the players are coming from Europe but apart from that, everything will be made available.”
The Black Stars will be hoping for a strong performance in their upcoming fixtures as they push for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Assin Talks Blog of Sunday, 30 March 2025
Source: Yahaya Abdul Fattah
Justice Arthur, popularly known as TMT-Bhadman, is a rising talented Ghanaian Dancehall and Afrobeats sensation broken into the music scene. Born on March 14, 1998, in Elmina, Central Region of Ghana, TMT-Bhadman is determined to leave an indelible mark on the global music scene with his unique style and infectious energy.
His musical journey began in 2015, driven by a passion for creating powerful and relatable songs that resonate with audiences across the world. With a deep love for Reggae, Dancehall and Afrobeats, he blends vibrant rhythms with compelling lyrics, setting himself apart from others as a versatile artist.
TMT-Bhadman draws inspiration from some of the biggest names in the industry, including Stonebwoy, Beenie Man, Epixodemusic, Shatta Wale, and Popcaan. These legends have influenced his sound, performance style, and dedication to the craft, fueling his ambition to reach the highest levels of success.
With an unrelenting drive, TMT-Bhadman continues to push his dream forward, working tirelessly to refine his artistry and connect with a broader audience. His music embodies a rich blend of Ghanaian and Caribbean influences, creating a fresh and dynamic sound that appeals to both local and international fans.
As he continues to grow in the industry, TMT-Bhadman envisions himself conquering the world with his music. His goal is to break barriers, dominate global charts, and establish himself as one of the leading voices in Dancehall and Afrobeats. With hard work, dedication, and an undeniable talent, he is on the path to greatness, ready to take the world by storm.
Executive Director of the Institute for Liberty and Policy Innovation, Peter Bismark Kwofie, has voiced concerns over the establishment of the Gold Board and its exclusive authority as the sole body permitted to purchase gold.
He stated that the decision to make the board the only entity allowed to purchase gold from exporters, particularly small-scale miners, would create a monopoly.
Mr. Bismark Kwofie argued that gold dealers would earn less under the new arrangement than they would if they were able to sell the gold themselves.
Parliament has passed the Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025, which establishes the Gold Board to regulate the gold industry, enhance transparency and traceability, and boost foreign exchange earnings.
According to the government, the Gold Board will revolutionize the gold industry by regulating operations, stabilizing the cedi, and maximizing revenue from gold exports. It will oversee the purchase, sale, and export of gold, generating revenue to help stabilize the cedi.
Mr. Bismark Kwofie, in his opinion, likened the situation to the Ghana Cocoa Board, stating that private gold dealers could lose more than 60% of their income to the government under this system.
In a Facebook post, he wrote: “This is another monopoly. The gold exporters in the private sector will now have to sell to the government. The government will have the monopoly to decide prices and control gold exports from Ghana. Gold dealers will earn less than what they could have earned if they exported the gold themselves. Taking a cue from the cocoa industry, private gold dealers will lose at least 60% of their income to the government. I am sure gold dealers have not yet realized the bleak outlook of their trade.”
The Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has questioned whether the establishment of the Gold Board aligns with the country’s economic needs.
“Instead of investing in agriculture, women’s banking, and the 24-hour economy, they are channeling GH₵4.6 billion into galamsey operations,” the Minority Leader asked on the floor of the parliament on Friday, March 28, 2025.
The recent passage of the Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025 has placed a spotlight on the country’s gold industry, not just for its potential to regulate the sector but also for the staggering GH₵4.6 billion earmarked for its operations.
While the government insists that this move will enhance transparency and traceability in gold trading, a critical question remains—who truly stands to benefit?
Beyond the debate over illegal mining, the allocation of such a massive sum raises concerns about Ghana’s economic priorities.
With inflation squeezing households, youth unemployment rising, and small businesses struggling for access to credit, some argue that this money could have been used to directly address these pressing challenges.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Legacy Crop Improvement Centre, Mr. Amos Rutherford Azinu, has called on the government to focus on the efficient implementation of agricultural policies to revitalize Ghana’s farming sector.
He expressed concern that while the country has numerous policy documents, many remain unimplemented, gathering dust while the agriculture sector faces persistent challenges.
Speaking at the 4th Food Security Lecture organized by the FESF Foundation, themed “Resetting Agriculture in Ghana,” Mr. Azinu criticized the politicization of agricultural programs, stating that such initiatives are often seen as avenues for financial gain rather than genuine reform.
He cited the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program as an example, noting that despite GH₵2.8 billion spent on its first phase over six years under the previous government, Ghana still imports significant quantities of maize.
He stressed that this situation raises questions of accountability, as taxpayers’ funds have been used without producing the intended outcomes.
According to Mr. Azinu, a fundamental mindset change is needed to transform the agricultural sector, but more importantly, existing policies must be actively implemented rather than merely formulated.
The event, which brought together key stakeholders and government officials within the food value chain, aimed to address the challenges facing Ghana’s agriculture sector and identify innovative solutions to enhance food security.
Dr. Peter Boamah Otukonor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness at the Presidency, who chaired the event, outlined critical areas of focus to improve the sector’s performance.
Dr. Richard Bani, Founder of the FESF Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to tackling food security challenges and pledged that recommendations from the event would be documented, analyzed, and forwarded to relevant authorities for implementation.
The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has advised road users to exercise caution and responsibility during the upcoming Eid ul-Fitr celebrations.
This is aimed at preventing road crashes and ensuring an incident-free festive period.
A statement issued by the authority congratulated the Muslim community in Ghana for their dedication and perseverance throughout the 30-day fasting period.
“As we approach the joyous occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, the Authority joins in the celebrations with prayers for peace, good health, and the desired attitude to deliver safety during the festive time,” the statement read.
It also urged pedestrians to avoid jaywalking and to use designated crossing points, such as zebra crossings and pedestrian footbridges, to prevent accidents.
Governance analyst Professor Baffour Agyemang-Duah
Governance analyst Professor Baffour Agyemang-Duah has cautioned against the potential political implications of petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, warning that such actions could undermine the independence of constitutional bodies.
Speaking in an interview on Citi FM, Professor Agyemang-Duah noted that some members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), though unofficially, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Chief Justice’s actions during the election campaign, which could fuel perceptions that the petitions are politically motivated.
“Because some NDC members, though not officially, have expressed dissatisfaction with the Chief Justice’s actions during the campaign, this could easily be viewed as a political witch hunt,” he said.
He further compared the current situation to a past instance where former President Nana Akufo-Addo oversaw the removal of the then-Electoral Commission chairperson, a move that sparked controversy at the time.
“Former President Akufo-Addo did something similar with the removal of the previous Electoral Commission chairperson. If this becomes a norm, it sets a dangerous precedent where every new government feels the need to replace key figures in constitutional bodies,” he cautioned.
Professor Agyemang-Duah stressed that constant political interference in independent institutions would erode public trust and create instability in governance.
“If every newly elected government seeks to remove certain individuals from independent bodies, it will create instability and mistrust in these institutions,” he warned.
Meanwhile, watch this concluding part of our sit-down with the 100-year-old World War II veteran, who was also present at the 28th February Shooting, below:
The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga has said the the government’s flagship proramme, the 24-hour economy has commenced after Parliament officially passed the Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025.
The move is set to reshape the country’s gold industry by establishing a regulatory body to oversee gold purchases, sales, and exports.
Defending the bill, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga praised Parliament’s efforts in pushing the legislation through, calling it a landmark moment in Ghana’s legislative history.
“Mr. Speaker, this is a historic piece of legislation. Those of us who worked through the night to see this through should be proud.
“We have justified the trust Ghanaians have placed in us. Indeed, the 24-hour economy has started right here in this chamber.”
The government has touted the bill as a critical step toward improving transparency, enhancing traceability, and boosting foreign exchange earnings to stabilize the cedi.
The bill was approved by a majority decision after an intense debate, with the Minority strongly opposing it. Critics argue that the establishment of the Gold Board could legitimize illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, instead of curbing it.
Ayariga’s statement has sparked discussions beyond the bill itself, as it echoes the broader political debate about introducing a 24-hour economy in Ghana.
“The government’s push for extended economic activity across industries has been a divisive topic, with some questioning whether it is feasible given the country’s current economic challenges.
Meanwhile, watch this concluding part of our sit-down with the 100-year-old World War II veteran, who was also present at the 28th February Shooting, below:
play videoMember of Parliament for Kade, Alexander Agyare
The Member of Parliament for Kade, Alexander Agyare, has raised concerns about the 2025 budget, questioning the government’s spending priorities.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb’s George Ayisu, he stressed the need for a thorough scrutiny of the budget statement to understand its full implications.
*”All I want Ghanaians to know is that GH¢2.7 billion has been allocated to government machinery in the 2025 budget, whereas our colleagues fought us over GH¢320 million.
“It’s up to them to explain it to Ghanaians because Ghanaians didn’t vote for them to allocate the monies to themselves. Look at the nature of our roads—they are very bad,”* he stated.
According to him, a deeper analysis of the budget would reveal new taxes.
“The COVID levy has been taken out. Yes, it was good, but other new taxes have been introduced that people didn’t pay attention to because the most familiar and popular ones were taken out,” he noted.
Watch the interview below:
JKB/KA
Watch as Ras Mubarak, Alan’s running mate, engage in ‘dirty’ social media feud over Ama Pratt’s appointment
The Member of Parliament for Asene Akroso Manso in the Eastern Region, George Kwame Aboagye, has called for stricter penalties to curb the theft of Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) containers at Ghana’s ports.
He believes that harsher consequences for businesses or individuals caught stealing or mishandling these containers would serve as a deterrent and promote responsible conduct.
Speaking to MyNewsGh.com reporter Hajia Asana Gordon, Mr. Aboagye described the disappearance of ECG containers at the ports as a serious issue requiring immediate intervention and long-term structural reforms to prevent recurrence.
“A combination of better security, stronger internal controls, collaboration with law enforcement, and greater transparency can go a long way in addressing the root causes of the problem,” he stated.
He further urged Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin to ensure accountability if ongoing investigations uncover negligence, fraud, or criminal activity.
According to him, “Responsible parties, whether individuals within ECG, port officials, or businesses, should be held accountable.”
Aboagye also called for enhanced coordination between port authorities and law enforcement agencies to tackle the criminal elements behind the missing containers. He proposed the establishment of an ad hoc parliamentary committee to investigate the matter and make recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
“The disappearance of 1,328 ECG containers is a major regulatory and security concern. It signals a failure of the security departments and government agencies responsible for ensuring efficiency and accountability at the ports,” he observed.
To address the situation, he stressed the need for both immediate corrective measures and long-term strategies to strengthen oversight and security at Ghana’s ports.
Watch as Ras Mubarak, Alan’s running mate, engage in ‘dirty’ social media feud over Ama Pratt’s appointment below:
Deaconess Salomey Armah of the Kwabenya Old Town District of The Church of Pentecost in the Haatso Area, Accra, and her husband, Jacob Armah, have been blessed with a set of triplets after 19 years of marriage.
The couple endured years of agony, distress, and pain, undergoing several medical procedures in their quest to have a child, according to a report by Faith News Ghana.
Their prayers were finally answered, and they welcomed three baby girls, who were christened and dedicated on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the Kwabenya Old Town Central church building.
The joyful ceremony drew an enthusiastic crowd of ministers, church members, family, and friends.
Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe, the International Missions Director (IMD) of The Church of Pentecost, officiated the dedication and prayed for the triplets to excel in their chosen fields.
JKB/KA
Watch as Ras Mubarak, Alan’s running mate, engage in ‘dirty’ social media feud over Ama Pratt’s appointment
Former Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Ayikoi Otoo, has voiced concerns over the spread of misinformation regarding the ongoing process that could lead to the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile programme, he questioned the reliability of certain reports circulating in the public domain.
“I’m not surprised because, were we not in this country when we heard that Zanetor Rawlings had been given a post, only for us to realize that nothing of that existed?
And these were all on letterhead from the Office of the President, yet it turned out not to be true,” he remarked, highlighting past instances where false information had been widely shared.
His comments come amid heightened public interest in petitions filed against the Chief Justice, a development that has sparked intense debate within legal and political circles.
While the specifics of the petitions remain undisclosed, speculation and conflicting reports have fueled concerns over misinformation.
Furthermore, a private legal practitioner, Kwame Adofo, has raised concerns over what he describes as flaws in Ghana’s constitutional framework for removing a Chief Justice.
Speaking on The Forum on Asaase Radio, he argued that the current system leaves the head of the judiciary vulnerable to political influence.
“The question of making a prima facie case is not left to a politician or an ordinary person; it is left to a judge, who happens to be the Chief Justice,” he explained.
“But when it comes to the Chief Justice, that determination rests in the hands of the President, and that is dangerous.”
He pointed out a difference in how the Constitution treats the removal of other Superior Court judges versus the Chief Justice.
Manhyia South MP, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has raised concerns over the decision to publicize the petition seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
He believes that making the petition public could compromise the integrity of the judiciary and cast doubt on its impartiality.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislator criticized the Presidency for handling the matter in a way that could lead to political interference.
“This constitutional process requires a level of confidentiality, at least in its early stages. Making it public at this point risks politicizing the matter and casting doubt on the impartiality of the judiciary,” he stated.
Expressing further concerns, he warned that exposing such a process to the public too soon could set a dangerous precedent.
“The integrity of our judiciary is at stake. We must be careful not to create a perception that judges can be targeted based on political considerations,” he cautioned.
The Saturday, March 29, 2025, edition of UTV’s United Showbiz programme is live, with Empress Gifty discharging her duties as host.
Today’s edition of the entertainment show is live, featuring panelists discussing the major entertainment issues of the week.
MC Yaa Yeboah, Kwaku Manu, and Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo have been billed as pundits for the show.
Artiste manager Bullgod Actress, Nana Frimpong Zigah and Halifax Ansah-Addo are also on the bill to bring some nuance to the conversations about the respective issues.
A private legal practitioner, Kwame Adofo, has raised concerns over what he describes as flaws in Ghana’s constitutional framework for removing a Chief Justice.
Speaking on The Forum on Asaase Radio, he argued that the current system leaves the head of the judiciary vulnerable to political influence.
“The question of making a prima facie case is not left to a politician or an ordinary person; it is left to a judge, who happens to be the Chief Justice,” he explained.
“But when it comes to the Chief Justice, that determination rests in the hands of the President, and that is dangerous.”
He pointed out a difference in how the Constitution treats the removal of other Superior Court judges versus the Chief Justice.
“For an ordinary Superior Court judge, the Constitution requires three Justices of the Superior Court to sit on the committee. But for a Chief Justice, only two Justices are needed.
Did the framers of the Constitution intentionally make the Chief Justice more vulnerable?” Adofo warned that this system could lead to frequent changes in the Chief Justice position, influenced by political shifts.
“[And] so, every four years, we may have to change a Chief Justice, and judges will be looking over their shoulders for political favours.”
He further suggested that political interests may now determine who is appointed to lead the judiciary. “Anybody that wins is coming with his own Chief Justice in mind.”
While Ghana’s military is considered one of West Africa’s more stable and disciplined armed forces, some soldiers’ repeated actions are giving the army a bad name.
In mid-March, women, children, and the elderly in Bawku town said soldiers from the 11th Mechanized Battalion beat them up.
The battalion is stationed in the northern frontier town, located 744 kilometers (462 miles) from the capital, Accra, to monitor and deter a long-simmering chieftaincy and land ownership problem.
Local media reported that the incident occurred after a military officer was shot and killed by unknown gunmen.
‘Beating everybody is not justice’
“Men were attacked, women were attacked, old men were attacked and even their limbs broken, properties were destroyed,” Dr. Thomas Anaba, a local MP told DW.
“If a military officer is killed and you don’t have any idea who killed him, you don’t have to go around beating everybody, that is not justice,” he added.
Ghana’s President, John Mahama, has called for restraint among military personnel and condemned the killing of the soldier amid growing demands for an investigation.
However, retaliatory attacks by the military are not new in Ghana.
“Since the eruption of this conflict in Bawku, the military has had some negative encounters with the people,” Ibrahim Abode, a local reporter, told DW.
Analysts warn that if some soldiers continue attacks on civilians with impunity, there could be retributionImage: Ibrahim Abode/DW
Growing number of attacks on civilians
In October 2023, the military brutalized some civilians in Bugri, Tempani and Garu, all in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Such attacks are not limited to remote rural regions.
Earlier, on March 7, 2023, the military conducted a raid in Ashaiman-Taifa, a suburb of Accra, according to the Ghana Armed Forces. But in the process, dozens were injured, and the widely publicized incident drew criticism.
Two years prior, on June 29, 2021, six Ghanaians were shot at Ejura in the Ashanti region after soldiers opened fire on protesters who were demonstrating against the killing of a youth activist.
Two days later, soldiers whipped residents of Wa in the Upper West Region with sticks and metal rods over the theft of a soldier’s mobile phone.
Security analyst Adib Sanni says perpetrators are rarely held accountable for their actions.
“When you look deeper, you realize a lot of the soldiers believe the uniform gives them immunity,” Sani told DW.
Ghanaians tricked into leaving Africa to fight Russia’s war
Calls for discipline and investigations
In most cases, the military unit retaliates when a civilian attacks a soldier.
“It is very worrying because gradually we are accepting this as a norm. It is very distressing because the practice is inconsistent with our [Ghanaian] laws,” Sanni added.
Lawmakers from six constituencies in the Upper East Region have called for an investigation and sanctions against the soldiers involved.
Neither the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Security Coordinator, nor the Defense and Interior Ministers had commented on the cases at the time of publication.
For security analyst Mutaru Mumuni Muqthar, authorities must take immediate action to reverse the trend.
“We need to take new approach to dealing with incidents when they happen,” he told DW.
“There must be a transparent, standardized approach in dealing with such brutalities. We need to have a situation where soldiers are punished, and people sanctioned.”
Ghana’s President-elect John Mahama speaks with DW
Ghana’s fashion scene is always buzzing with fresh styles and trends. When it comes to hairstyles, Ghanaian women are known for their boldness and creativity in experimenting with different looks. This season is no exception, with several trendy hairstyles dominating the scene.
Braids and Twists: Timeless Favorites
Braids and twists continue to be a staple in Ghanaian hairstyles. According to a survey conducted by the Ghanaian fashion website, Fashion Ghana, braids and twists account for over 50% of the hairstyles worn by Ghanaian women (Fashion Ghana). This season, we’re seeing a resurgence of traditional braiding techniques, such as cornrows, box braids, and Senegalese twists.
Natural Hairstyles: Embracing Afro Pride
Natural hairstyles have become increasingly popular in Ghana, as women proudly showcase their Afro-textured hair. Research by the African American Hair and Scalp Disorders research group found that 70% of Ghanaian women prefer to wear their hair in its natural state (African American Hair and Scalp Disorders). This season, we’re seeing a rise in popularity of natural hairstyles, such as afro-puffs, bantu knots, and goddess braids.
Weaves and Wigs: Versatility at Its Best
Weaves and wigs remain a popular choice among Ghanaian women, offering versatility and convenience. A study by the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education found that 40% of Ghanaian women wear weaves and wigs as a way to express themselves and enhance their beauty (International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education). This season, we’re seeing a trend towards more natural-looking weaves and wigs, with a focus on subtle colors and textures.
Celebrity Influences
Ghanaian celebrities are often trendsetters when it comes to hairstyles. This season, we’re seeing inspiration from celebrities like Nana Ama McBrown, who has been rocking a stunning braided look, and Jackie Appiah, who has been spotted wearing a chic natural hairstyle.
Conclusion
This season’s trending hairstyles in Ghana are all about embracing individuality and expressing oneself through fashion. Whether it’s braids, twists, natural hairstyles, or weaves and wigs, Ghanaian women are pushing the boundaries of beauty and style. With inspiration from celebrities and a focus on versatility and self-expression, these hairstyles are sure to dominate the fashion scene in Ghana for the rest of the season.
Ghana’s army has announced the suspected hijacking of a fishing vessel in its waters on Thursday by unknown pirates.
Three Chinese nationals are reported missing and believed to have been kidnapped after the attack, a statement Saturday from the army said.
According to the Ghanaian army command, seven armed persons boarded the ship and fired warning shots on Thursday.
During the incident which lasted about three hours, some crew members hid only to come out of hiding to detect that three Chinese crew members were missing.
The crew members suspected to have been kidnapped are the ship’s captain, chief mate and chief engineer were missing, according to the armed forces statement.
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The vessel, MENGXIN 1, is now docked at Tema Fishing Harbour with the Ghana’s navy now investigating the incident.
Ghana’s Armed Forces command reports of a suspected hijacking of a fishing vessel in its waters and the kidnapping of some crew members all believed to be Chinese nationals. #Ghana#China#hijack#vesselpic.twitter.com/plpeUsSUBo
President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku and vice chairman of the Black Stars management committee, Stephen Appiah, travelled to France to meet veteran midfielder Andre Ayew.
Ayew has not been part of the Black Stars for a year despite his decent run of form in the Ligue 1 with Le Havre.
His absence has left Ghanaians with divided opinions, with some calling for his return while others claim his time with the Black Stars is over.
Black Stars coach Otto Addo disclosed that the decision to not invite Ayew to the Black Stars has to do with his preference of other players over the ex-Swansea star.
A decision that attracted a response from the Ayew family’s spokesperson, Fiifi Tackie, who described Addo’s position as disrespectful.
In the FA’s attempt to quench the unexpected tension between Andre’s camp and the Black Stars coach, Mr Okraku and Appiah met the forward in France for talks over his future with the national team.
Meanwhile, Ayew is having a good season with Le Havre and hopes to steer the club away from the drop zone.
Ayew will lead Le Havre on Sunday in their Ligue 1 game against FC Nantes.
Former Tamale Central MP, Inusah Fuseini, has dismissed claims that the petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo are politically motivated.
He emphasized the importance of judicial independence, stating that the current government is upholding this principle.
His remarks follow petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama by individuals alleging misconduct by the Chief Justice. In response, the president referred the petitions to the Council of State for advice and granted the Chief Justice 10 days to respond.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV in March, Fuseini warned against any actions that could be perceived as executive interference in the judiciary.
Addressing concerns that the petitions were politically driven, he refuted claims of premeditation.
“You must not be seen as a government that, having come into office through elections, interferes in the affairs of an arm of government that is meant to be insulated from such influence. Respecting the limits of your authority when dealing with other branches of government is a fundamental principle of good governance.
“So, I do not see the political argument. I have heard these claims, and some have even referenced past events to suggest that the current actions within the judiciary are premeditated.
“But regardless of people’s sentiments or the government’s commitment to resetting the country and upholding liberty, this process is not premeditated,” he asserted.
The Ankara long sleeve shirt, for both men and women, has emerged as a staple in modern fashion, blending the vibrant heritage of African fabric with contemporary style. Ankara, a colorful cotton fabric known for its striking patterns, has roots in West Africa but has since gained international recognition. This fabric, with its bold prints and eye-catching designs, has become more than just a cultural symbol; it is now a statement piece in global fashion. The Ankara long sleeve shirt, a versatile garment that suits both genders, represents a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity.
Design and Appeal
Ankara long sleeve shirts are typically crafted with tailored cuts and sharp details that elevate their visual appeal. For men, these shirts may feature classic styles such as button-down collars, cuffed sleeves, and structured fits. For women, Ankara long sleeve shirts are often designed with more fluid cuts, sometimes with peplum waistlines or flowing silhouettes, which provide both comfort and style. The rich patterns range from geometric designs to floral motifs and abstract prints, allowing wearers to express their unique personalities and tastes.
Ankara shirts for both men and women are incredibly versatile. They can be dressed up with tailored trousers or skirts for formal occasions or worn casually with jeans or leggings for a more relaxed look. The fabric’s bright colors and bold patterns bring an element of fun and creativity to any outfit, making it a perfect choice for celebrations, weddings, cultural events, or even professional settings.
A Celebration of Culture and Identity
Wearing Ankara is not just about style; it’s also about celebrating African culture and craftsmanship. The fabric has historical significance and is often used in various forms of traditional attire across Africa. By wearing Ankara, both men and women can honor this heritage, while also showcasing their pride in African artistry. Skilled artisans handcraft the prints, often embedding meaning into the patterns themselves, making each Ankara piece unique.
Global Fashion Statement
Over the years, the Ankara long sleeve shirt has transcended its regional origins and found popularity across the globe. Fashion influencers, celebrities, and designers have embraced this vibrant fabric, pushing it into the global fashion spotlight. The unisex appeal of the Ankara shirt ensures that it remains a versatile wardrobe item for everyone, regardless of gender. Its mix of cultural pride and fashionable design makes it a favorite among people who appreciate the beauty of African textiles and contemporary fashion trends.
Conclusion
The Ankara long sleeve shirt for men and women is more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a vibrant symbol of cultural pride, creativity, and global fashion influence. Its adaptability to both formal and casual styles, combined with its rich cultural significance, ensures that the Ankara long sleeve shirt will continue to be a timeless and cherished garment in wardrobes around the world. Whether for a special event or everyday wear, it offers a bold, stylish, and meaningful way to express one’s individuality.
Crystal Palace stunned Fulham at Craven Cottage as they won their fifth match in a row to reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
Fulham were on top for the first 30 minutes but could not take advantage of the dominance, with Rodrigo Muniz going closest for the home side.
The Eagles could barely get out of their half, before Eberechi Eze gave the visitors the lead against the run of play with an excellent strike in the 34th minute.
The England international cut in from the left and curled a beautiful low shot around Leno and in off the far post.
Eze, who scored his first England goal against Latvia in the recent international break, then had a huge part to play in the second goal when his cross was headed in at the near post by Ismaila Sarr.
Willian forced Dean Henderson into a good save but Marco Silva’s side couldn’t find a way back into the match, before Eddie Nketiah added a third, slotting the ball through Leno’s legs.
The win means Palace have won their last five matches in a row in all competitions and are in the last four of the FA Cup for the first time since 2022.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Ghana Navy has commenced investigation into a suspected pirate attack on a Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel, MENGXIN 1, that took place in its waters on the evening of Thursday, 27 March 2025.
At approximately 1753 hours, preliminary reports indicated that seven armed individuals boarded the ship and fired warning shots, prompting several crew members to seek cover in a safe area.
The pirates stayed on board for about three hours after assembling everyone on deck and confiscating their mobile phones.
Following their departure, the crew came out of hiding to find the Captain, Chief Mate, and Chief Engineer, all Chinese nationals, missing, who are suspected of being kidnapped by the attackers.
The crew had to sail closer to land before reporting the event because there was no mobile network coverage at sea.
The rest of the crew is safe, and the ship has now safely docked at Tema Fishing Harbour. The Marine Police and the Eastern Naval Command’s Naval Intelligence personnel have conducted initial interrogations, confirming the incident and the suspected abduction.
A statement signed by Brigadier General, E AGGREY-QUASHIE, Director General, Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces said the neigbbouring countries have been alerted about the incident.
“Information of the incident has been shared with neighbouring countries through the ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone F in Accra, under the Yaounde Architecture for maritime security. This was to alert our neighbours to also look out for the kidnappers.
Meanwhile, all efforts are being made by intelligence agencies to locate and free the crew of the ship.”
KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
play videoNana Oppong, Frema, Akufo-Addo and Kan-Dapaah
Nana Odeneho Oppong, a former Transport and Logistics Director at Jubilee House, has detailed what he describes as maltreatment during the tenure of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
According to Nana Oppong, despite his unwavering support for Akufo-Addo during his campaign, he faced harsh and unfair treatment at the Jubilee House while working as Transport and Logistics Director.
Speaking in an interview on Okay FM on March 26, 2025, he claimed that some of the president’s appointees subjected him to unjustified hardships, and the president failed to intervene on his behalf.
Nana Oppong specifically accused the former Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Opare, of making his tenure at the presidency difficult.
He alleged that he was suspended on baseless accusations driven by hatred.
He further criticized President Akufo-Addo, labeling him as ungrateful for failing to stand by him during his difficult times at the presidency, despite the support he had provided during the campaign.
“When I was given an appointment, I didn’t even have a place to sit. So, I told the president, and he asked Abu Jinapor to give me a place. And when I finally settled, the kind of maltreatment that the Chief of Staff made me go through, if I say it, I will cry,” he lamented.
“It is very sad. I was removed from the office that had been assigned to me by the Chief of Staff and Kan Dapaah. Despite everything that was happening, I realized that if you follow Akufo-Addo, he cannot defend you in times of trouble. When I decided to support him, I was warned, but I didn’t listen. After wasting all my money and resources to support him…do you believe that if I were Ken Ofori-Atta, this is the kind of treatment I would have received?”
Nana Oppong further claimed that many individuals within the government were bitter about similar experiences.
He recounted an incident where the Chief of Staff accused him of attempting to remove Albert Kan-Dapaah as National Security Minister in favour of Bryan Acheampong, leading to a heated argument.
“I was in the office when the Chief of Staff called me and told me that Kan-Dapaah had accused me of trying to remove him as National Security Minister and replace him with Bryan Acheampong. We had a series of arguments, and it ended there. Later, I was accused of supplying cars to illegal miners.”
He explained that an NPP member had approached him for a number plate to use for campaign purposes. However, the vehicle was later found at an illegal mining site, leading to further accusations against him.
“The Chief of Staff accused me of supplying cars to illegal miners and suspended me despite my innocence and explanations,” he added.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:
Brighton & Hove Albion manager Fabian Hürzeler has hinted that Tariq Lamptey could return before the end of the season.
The Ghana international missed the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar after sustaining an injury.
He also missed the 2-2 draw against Manchester City, having sat out the previous game against Fulham due to suspension.
Speaking ahead of the Seagulls’ FA Cup quarterfinal game against Nottingham Forest, the German manager said Lamptey could return to action before the season concludes.
“Tariq will be out for a longer time—he has an ankle injury,” Hürzeler said.
“I think there’s a chance that we will see him back before the end of the season. He is a good healer, I have great trust in my medical staff and in Tariq’s mindset to be back on the pitch as quickly as possible.
“There’s a chance that he will be back in several weeks,” he added.
Despite his absence, the Black Stars beat Chad 5-0 and Madagascar 3-0, putting themselves in pole position to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup from Group I.
Energy Minister, John Jinapor recently addressed the men of the press and while speaking, he revealed that the ECG awarded 142 contracts under the NPP government but zero went to the board for approval.
“In his Words”
“In 2022, If you look at their procurement, single source was 33, board approval was zero, what it means was that the whole of 2022, and you can check from page 12, you will see the table. The table explained the excessive use of procurement as opposed to more competitive methods, of the 142 contracts awarded, zero went to the board for approval, but when it goes to the board, they
have a nine member team that would evaluate it. Then in 2023, 703 contracts were awarded but only 21 went to the board, then 2024, 601 contracts were awarded, only 7 went to the board, 425 single source so you can clearly see that, that’s where the problem is coming from”.
“It’s the MD who awards the contract you know, they are two ways, you take the contract to the board for approval, before you even execute it, or you execute it based on the limit, and like I said, he has a limit of one million dollars so he can choose to sign 10 or 5 contracts everyday within that threshold, so by the end of the year you have a lot of contracts, but all these contracts will not go to the board”, John Jinapor said.
TV3 Ghana shared the video on their official instagram page today being Saturday the 29th day of March, 2025 and it stirred massive reactions from the general public. Click on the link below to watch the video.
The Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU) has called on the Bank of Ghana to reduce the 25 percent corporate tax imposed on rural and community banks across the country.
According to ICU, this has affected the operational cost of those banks resulting in poor service delivery.
General Secretary of ICU, Morgan Ayawine made the call when he addressed members of ICU at Tamale in the Northern Region ahead of its National Quadrennial Delegates Conference slated for August this year.
“Some of the fiscal policies seem to create and work against the growth and sustainability of the rural and community banks. A classic example of such fiscal policy that militate against the ability of the rural and community banks to continue to effectively operate, is the imposition of the 25 percent corporate tax on their returns which undoubtedly affects their growth, development and their sustainability.”
“We therefore call on the Bank of Ghana to take a second look at the 25 percent corporate tax and reduce it so as to minimize its impact on the operations of the rural and community banks,” he urged.
Mr Ayawine expressed concern about the locked-up funds of the rural and community banks in some investments.
“The locked-up funds of the rural and community banks at Gold Coast Investment Company is a great concern as it is equally affecting the banks’ operations. We appeal to government to facilitate the release of the locked-up funds to help the rural and community banks prosecute their businesses and remain relevant in the banking sector of the economy,” he said.
The General Secretary of ICU also called on government to earmark funds to revive the operations of the Produce Buying Company.
” PBC PLC is one of the state-owned enterprises that is financially distressed and needs urgent resourcing and to make it once again viable and profitable as in times past to bring relief to farmers and the workers whose fate has been hanging in the balance for a long time now. It is not good for this once vibrant company set up with the nations scarce resources to collapse and pass into oblivion,” he said.
“In this light, we wish to use this platform to appeal to government to urgently bail out PBC PLC to enable it bounce back to business,” he pleaded.
According to Israeli media, several thousand people attended a number of rallies in just the coastal city of Tel Aviv.
Some protests were explicitly directed against the right-wing government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The organizers of one rally spoke of tens of thousands of participants.
Iair Horn, who was released from captivity in Gaza in mid-February, criticized the renewed military operations in the coastal territory in a speech.
The fighting endangered all hostages, Horn said: “I was there, I heard tanks pass overhead, I walked through tunnels during the bombardments.”
He also demanded the release of all persons still being held by Hamas, including his younger brother.
Footage from the Hostage and Missing Families Forum showed several former captives in the crowd at the protest in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square.
There were also demonstrations in other places in the country, including Haifa and Jerusalem, in favour of a Gaza agreement with Hamas.
According to media reports, more than 100,000 people gathered throughout Israel last Saturday for demonstrations, some of which were critical of the government.
Further large protests took place over the course of the week, particularly in Jerusalem.
Israel’s leadership is currently pushing ahead with another controversial reorganization of the country’s judiciary, angering many Israelis in the process
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has thrown its weight behind traders at Adum Market in Kumasi, who have expressed their desire to lead the reconstruction of their stalls following a devastating fire outbreak.
The party cautioned that relying solely on government intervention could lead to unnecessary delays.
Speaking after the NPP donated GHC 100,000 to the affected traders, the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, acknowledged the traders’ proactive stance and affirmed the NPP’s support for their efforts.
“The market women have agreed to come in and help rather than waiting for the government to lead the process, and we in the NPP support that cause,” he said.
Kodua further assured the traders and the people of Asanteman that the party remained committed to their welfare, regardless of whether it was in government or opposition.
“We know our flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia, and other dignitaries will be visiting, but we can assure the good people of this market and Asanteman that the NPP will never turn its back on them. Even in opposition, we have managed to raise funds to support them.”
He also used the opportunity to urge the government to take immediate steps to assist the traders financially, suggesting that a seed fund be set up to facilitate the rebuilding process.
“We are pleading with the government to do the same here by setting up seed money to support the market men and women.”
The Adum Market fire left several traders counting significant losses, with many struggling to resume business.
Meanwhile, watch as Adum traders hoot at interior minister, reject 1,500 bags of rice, boxes of cooking oil bolow:
Former Ghana coach Charles Kwabla Akonnor has praised the inclusion of Stephen Appiah and Asamoah Gyan in the Black Stars’ setup ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Appiah currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the team’s Management Committee and oversees player relations. Although Gyan holds no official role, he has been actively engaging with the squad before their recent matches against Chad and Madagascar.
Gyan was present as the Black Stars secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium. He then traveled with the team to Morocco, where they continued their impressive form with a 3-0 win against Madagascar.
Reflecting on their involvement, Akonnor emphasized the significant impact of the two former captains on the team’s performance.
“The inclusion of former players Stephen Appiah and Asamoah Gyan has positively impacted the team, boosting confidence with their experience and leadership,” he told Asempa FM.
The Black Stars will reconvene in June for a four-nation tournament in England before facing Chad and Mali in Matchday 7 and 8 of the qualifiers in September.
On the Wontumi Morning Show aired on Wontumi TV, Lawyer Adomako Baafi, a vocal spokesperson for the NPP, shared his strong opinions about the Mahama administration’s treatment of the Ashanti Region in the 2024 elections. Baafi argued that the Ashanti Region, which played a significant role in securing votes for the NDC, deserved more recognition, especially with a cabinet position.
Ghanaian fishing vessel attacked: Three Chinese crew members kidnapped
Featured
Joshua Bediako Koomson
2 minutes read
Three Chinese crew members have been kidnapped following a suspected pirate attack on the Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel Mengxin 1 in Ghanaian waters yesterday.
The missing crew members—the captain, chief mate, and chief engineer—were discovered to be absent after the attackers left the vessel.
Reports suggest that seven armed men stormed the ship around 5:53 p.m., firing warning shots and forcing several crew members to seek refuge in a secure area.
The attackers reportedly remained on board for nearly three hours, rounding up the crew on deck and confiscating their phones before departing.
“When the crew emerged, they discovered that the ship’s captain, chief mate, and chief engineer—all Chinese nationals—were missing and are believed to have been kidnapped. Due to poor signal coverage at sea, the crew had to sail closer to shore before they could report the incident,” a statement issued today (March 29, 2025) by the Director-General of Public Relations at the Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, said.
Investigations underway
The statement confirmed that the vessel had since arrived safely at Tema Fishing Harbour, where Marine Police and Naval Intelligence officers had begun questioning the crew.
It also stated that authorities had alerted neighbouring countries through the ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) in Accra, as part of broader regional efforts to combat maritime piracy under the Yaoundé security framework.
The statement assured that all necessary measures were being taken to track down the perpetrators and secure the safe return of the abducted officers.
According to MyNewsGH report, Former Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Ayikoi Otoo, has expressed serious concerns over the spread of misinformation surrounding the ongoing process that could potentially lead to the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile programme, Otoo questioned the accuracy and credibility of certain reports circulating in the media regarding the matter.
Otoo referred to past instances where false information had been widely disseminated, citing a particular case involving Zanetor Rawlings. He noted, “I’m not surprised because were we not in this country when we heard that Zanetor Rawlings had been given a post, only for us to realize that nothing of that existed?” Otoo pointed out that even official-looking documents, such as those bearing the letterhead of the Office of the President, turned out to be false, raising doubts about the veracity of reports surrounding the Chief Justice’s petition.
His comments come amid growing public interest and heated debate about the petitions filed against Chief Justice Torkornoo, though the specifics of these petitions remain undisclosed. The lack of clear information, combined with conflicting reports, has fueled widespread speculation and raised concerns over the dissemination of misinformation.
In addition to Otoo’s remarks, private legal practitioner Kwame Adofo has voiced his concerns about Ghana’s constitutional framework regarding the removal of a Chief Justice. During a discussion on The Forum on Asaase Radio, Adofo criticized the current system, which he believes leaves the head of the judiciary vulnerable to political influence. He highlighted the inconsistency in how the Constitution treats the removal of other Superior Court judges versus that of the Chief Justice.
Adofo argued, “The question of making a prima facie case is not left to a politician or an ordinary person; it is left to a judge, who happens to be the Chief Justice. But when it comes to the Chief Justice, that determination rests in the hands of the President, and that is dangerous.”
![Sad scenes as Akua Donkor goes home [Photos+Videos]](https://www.ghanamma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ec2d514d3fb6da60ad4e82e3517003a0.jpeg "Sad scenes as Akua Donkor goes home [Photos+Videos]")
![Kurt Okraku[L] Andre Ayew and Stephen Appiah](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/279/27934294.295.jpg "Kurt Okraku[L] Andre Ayew and Stephen Appiah")
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![Stephen Appiah [L] and Asamoah Gyan](https://cdn.ghanaweb.com/imagelib/pics/539/53999387.295.jpg "Stephen Appiah [L] and Asamoah Gyan")
