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Asantes Love NPP More than Development – Content Creator Urges Frank Amoakohene Not to Develop the Region

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Dr Frank Amoakehene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has been urged not to bother developing the Ashanti Region by a content creator, claiming the residents will never appreciate his good works.

In a video sighted by GhanaCelebrities.Com, the unidentified content creator alleged that residents of the Ashanti Region are more in love with their party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), than they are with development.

Parliament passes legislation establishing Goldboard  

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By Godwill Arthur-Mensah   

Accra, March 29, GNA – Ghana’s Parliament has passed the Act establishing the Ghana Goldboard to monitor the buying and selling of gold and accumulate sufficient forex to stabilise the Cedi.  

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson while justifying the objectives for establishing the Goldboard on the floor of Parliament, in Accra, said the Goldboard would be able to buy three tonnes of gold per week and bring in foreign exchange worth $250 million per week.  

“Ghana will be able to accrue up to $12 billion worth of foreign exchange to enable the Central Bank to build up forex reserves to cover the necessary imports,” Dr Forson stated.  

Government has allocated GHS4.6 billion in this year’s budget as a seed capital for smooth take off of the Goldboard.  

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2024 electioneering campaign promised to set up the Goldboard to aid in stabilising the local currency and accumulate foreign exchange to fortify the economy against potential external shocks.  

The Finance Minister indicated that the establishment of the Goldboard would enable the nation to build sustainable forex, stabilise the Cedis and create jobs for the teeming Ghanaian youth.  

Dr Forson noted that Ghana was not the first country in the world to set up the Goldboard as Guyana in South America established its Goldboard in 1971.  

Mr Isaac Adongo, the Chairman of Parliament’s Finance Committee, on his part, said the Goldboard would formalise government’s involvement in the purchase of gold from small-scale miners and increase Ghana’s gold export.  

Ghana is the leading producer of gold in Africa and sixth in the world.  

GNA  

CA

Plot to oust CJ part of a scheme to remove EC Chairperson

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The Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has claimed that petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo are part of a larger plan to replace her with a nominee aligned with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

His remarks follow petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama by individuals calling for the Chief Justice’s removal over alleged misconduct.

In response, President Mahama referred the petitions to the Council of State for advice and granted the Chief Justice a 10-day period to submit her response.

Reacting to the development on social media platform X, Ahiagbah described the move as a deliberate attempt to undermine judicial independence and pave the way for the removal of key electoral officials, including Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa.

According to him, this scheme threatens democratic governance and institutional independence, urging Ghanaians to take a stand against it.

“A grand scheme is underway to remove the Chief Justice and replace her with a preferred NDC-Mahama Chief Justice, who will implement the agenda of ousting the electoral commissioners (Jean Mensa and others).

“This is a premeditated attack on institutional independence and, ultimately, on our democracy.

“We must find the courage as citizens, regardless of where we belong, to speak out unequivocally against the politics of the John Mahama Administration.

“Silence would be a disservice to our posterity….”

Parliament passes 2025 Appropriation Bill, paving way for government spending 

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By Elsie Appiah-Osei

Accra, March 29, GNA – Parliament has passed the Appropriation Bill of more than GH¢293.11 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, which ended with a vote in the early hours of Saturday morning. 

An Appropriation Bill is a proposed law that specifies the exact amount of government money that could be spent on various programmes, services, and activities. 

It is a crucial step in the budgeting process, as it allocates funds to different government departments and agencies, allowing them to carry out their authorized programmes and services. 

The amount will be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds and for related matters.  

The objective of the Bill is to provide for appropriation for the year 2025. 

This is per the constitutional requirement under paragraph (a) of clause (2) of Article 179 of the Constitution that estimates of expenditure of public offices shall be included in an Appropriation Bill to be introduced in Parliament to provide for the issue of funds from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds to meet government expenditure. 

In Ghana’s Parliament, an Appropriation Bill is approved through a multi-step process, that is the First Reading. The Minister for Finance presents the bill to Parliament, outlining the government’s spending plans and budget allocations; Second Reading, the Bill is debated by Members of Parliament (MPs) with MPs discussing its merits and potential impacts on the country’s economy and development; Consideration, after the Second Reading, the Bill goes through a Consideration stage, where Parliament examines the Bill clause by clause, making any necessary amendments; Third Reading, once the Bill has been thoroughly examined and amended, it is presented for a Third Reading, where MPs votes on its approval.  

At the Passage Stage, if the bill is approved, it is sent to the President for assent, after which it becomes an Act of Parliament, authorizing the government to spend funds as allocated. 

Throughout this process, Parliament ensures that the government’s spending plans align with the country’s development priorities and fiscal policies. 

GNA 

CA

Citi FM/Channel One TV’s Food Festival underway [Photos]

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The 2025 Channel One TV/Citi FM “Back to Your Village” Food Festival is in full swing at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, offering attendees an immersive experience of Ghana’s rich culinary heritage.

The festival grounds are abuzz with activity as food vendors prepare and serve a diverse array of traditional dishes to eager patrons.​

Visitors can indulge in a variety of local delicacies, including Tuo Zaafi, banku, and fufu accompanied by assorted soups.

Pork grills are also active, with vendors roasting succulent cuts to perfection. An assortment of local beverages, such as Sobolo, Asaana, Pito, and fresh coconut juice, are available to complement the meals.​

The festival features numerous vendors, including Bob Vicky Grills, B.B Nectar Fruit Juice, Afro Brew, Luna Ice, The Juis Guy, 1957 Bar, and Snack IT Catering Services, among others.

Each brings a unique flavor to the event, showcasing the depth and diversity of Ghanaian cuisine.​

In addition to the culinary delights, the festival offers a vibrant cultural experience with traditional drumming, dancing, and live music performances.

Attendees can enjoy acts from groups such as the Adaha Dance Band, Kwan Pa, Naa Dromo, Just Groove Band, the National Dance Ensemble, and Edzordzinam Fafafli Borborbor. These performances encompass various musical genres, including reggae, high-life, soul music, ragga, traditional songs, and hiplife.​

The “Back to Your Village” Food Festival is a highlight of Heritage Month 2025, celebrating Ghana’s cultural identity through food, music, and community engagement. The event continues through Sunday, March 30, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM each day, and is open to the public.

Attendees are encouraged to come hungry and curious, ready to partake in an unforgettable cultural and gastronomic experience.​

 

Parliament passes Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025

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Chief Justice’s removal must not be politically motivated – Prof. Agyemang-Duah

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Professor Baffour Agyemang-Duah, a governance analyst, has raised concerns over the political ramifications of the petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.

He cautioned that if the process is not handled with transparency, it could be perceived as a politically motivated action, potentially undermining public trust in Ghana’s democratic institutions.

His comments follow petitions submitted to President John Mahama, calling for the removal of the Chief Justice.

Speaking in an interview with Citi FM on Friday, 28th March, Professor Agyemang-Duah warned that the situation could escalate into a political controversy if due process is not strictly followed.

He highlighted the risk of a recurring pattern where newly elected governments are seen to be targeting key figures in independent state institutions.

“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 noted.

Drawing a parallel, he added, “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.”

Professor Agyemang-Duah further stressed the long-term risks of such a trend, warning that it could erode institutional stability and public confidence.

“If every newly elected government seeks to remove certain individuals from independent bodies, it will create instability and mistrust in these institutions,” he cautioned.

Meanwhile, President Mahama has formally responded to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo’s request for copies of the petitions.

He has granted her 10 days to review and respond to the allegations, marking the next step in the constitutional process governing her potential removal.

Society for AIDS in Africa urges action on domestic health funding

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The Society for AIDS in Africa has emphasized the urgent action to secure domestic financing for health systems in the wake of funding threats to HIV/AIDS programs across the continent.

This call was made during the International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) 2025 Steering Committee meeting in Accra, where participants stressed the critical need for African nations to reduce reliance on external donors and take ownership of their HIV/AIDS response.

Speaking during the meeting, President of the Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA) Dr. David Pagweses indicated that the recent decision by the Trump administration to freeze and redirect U.S. aid support has cast uncertainty over funding for HIV/AIDS programs in Africa.

In light of this development, Dr. David Pagweses urged the three ICASA 2025 sub-committees to reassess their plenary topics to include discussions on domestic health financing and the long-term sustainability of Africa’s HIV/AIDS response.

“If we do not think innovatively about the sustainability of our health systems and domestic financing, Africa will risk returning to the dark days of the 1980s and 1990s, when people were dying of AIDS due to lack of medicine,” Dr. Pagweses warned.

The meeting was attended by development partners, board members of the Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA), and Ghanaian government officials.

However, despite the challenges, the society revealed a groundbreaking research emerging from South Africa’s HIV Cure Trial, which has provided renewed hope for a cure. The committee called on the African Union and national governments to take ownership of such scientific advancements to reduce the continent’s reliance on external support.

The meeting concluded with a rallying call for African nations and the diaspora to take decisive steps toward strengthening health systems with a focus on accountability, transparency, and universal access to care.

As ICASA 2025 approaches, stakeholders have also pledged to work collaboratively to ensure the conference serves as a defining moment for Africa’s healthcare future.

Kwakye Ofosu denies government-ordered probe into Akufo-Addo’s travels

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Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has refuted reports alleging an ongoing investigation into former President Akufo-Addo’s foreign travels.

According to a report by Accra-based Asaase Radio, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) was conducting the probe as part of broader efforts to ensure accountability in the use of state resources.

Abandoned baby found behind Shops at Zebilla market

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An abandoned baby was discovered at the Zebilla Market in the Bawku West District of the Upper East Region after an unidentified mother reportedly left her behind some commercial shops.

According to eyewitness accounts, a customer shopping for groceries heard the baby crying behind one of the shops. Alarmed, the customer quickly alerted others, leading to the baby’s retrieval.

The infant was taken to the Zebilla District Police Station, where a formal report was filed. Officers from the Social Welfare Department of the Bawku West District were called in to assist.

The baby was later transferred to the Bawku West District Hospital in Zebilla for medical care and monitoring.

 

Parliament passes Ghana Gold Board Bill 2025

 

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“Everybody Danced On His Grave” – M.I Abaga Reacts To Drake’s Hip-Hop Rivalry With Kendrick

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Nigerian rap legend Jude Abaga, widely known as M.I Abaga, has shared his thoughts on the ongoing hip-hop rivalry between American rapper Kendrick Lamar and Canadian superstar Drake.

Reflecting on the industry’s harsh criticism of Drake, M.I revealed that he relates to the situation, recalling how the Nigerian rap community once dismissed his music as “boring.”

EPA issues alert on imminent flooding as rainy season nears

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Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has raised concerns about the risk of severe flooding in multiple regions as the rainy season approaches.
Acting CEO Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse has called for an immediate stop to the encroachment of wetlands, emphasizing that such actions are crucial in mitigating the potential devastation caused by floods.
Addressing the media following her inaugural lecture at the University of Ghana on Thursday, March 27, 2025, Prof. Klutse underscored the urgent need to halt construction

Presidency erred in publicising petition on CJ removal – NPP MP

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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.

“This constitutional process requires a level of confidentiality, at least in its early stages. Making it public at this point risks politicising the matter and casting doubt on the impartiality of the judiciary,” 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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Funeral service of traditional singer Naa Amanua Dodoo underway at State House

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Naa Amanua Dodoo, laid in state here, died on December 17, 2024 play videoNaa Amanua Dodoo, laid in state here, died on December 17, 2024

The burial service of Ghanaian traditional singer Naa Amanua Dodoo, popularly known as Naa Amanua, is underway at the forecourt of the State House in Accra.

Families, friends, and loved ones, clad in black and red, are seated under their respective canopies, with their eyes fixed on the microphone-shaped coffin carrying the mortal remains of the legendary singer.

Others were seen crying and filing past the body.

Before her passing on December 17, 2024, Naa Amanua was a member of the legendary Wulomei band and a cultural ambassador who played a significant role in preserving and promoting Ghanaian traditional music.

The thanksgiving service will be held on Sunday, March 30, at the Believers Sanctuary International, Jehovah Nissi Church, La.

Watch the video below:

SA/AE

Read JB Danquah’s last letter to Nkrumah before his death

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Following his contributions to Ghana’s independence struggles, JB Danquah was arrested and detained under the Preventive Detention Act on the grounds of involvement with alleged plans to overthrow the CPP government on October 3, 1961.

He was, however, released on June 22, 1962. After his release, two years along the line, JB Danquah was again arrested on January 8, 1964, for allegedly plotting against President Kwame Nkrumah. 

While in prison, the former member of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) wrote a letter to Kwame Nkrumah, calling for his release based on health grounds.

In a video shared on YouTube by Nana Kollynx, it contained the detailed letter from JB Danquah to Kwame Nkrumah before his demise.

Below are details of his last letter to Kwame Nkrumah:

In JB Danquah’s letter dated May 9, 1964, to Kwame Nkrumah, he spoke about his deteriorating health condition and how he had not been allowed to communicate with his family.

“Here at Nsawam, for the four months of my detention up to date (January 8 to Mary 9 1964), I have not been allowed access to my books and papers, except the Bible, and although I was told in January that my application to write to my wife, Elizabeth Danquah, could be considered if I addressed a letter to the Minister of Interior, through the Director of Prisons.

“I have not, for over three months, since I wrote to the minister as directed on January 31, 1964, received any reply, not even a common acknowledgment from the minister as to whether I should be allowed to write to my wife or not,” he said. He further talked about how he was detained without access to a judge.

“Since I was arrested four months ago, I have not been asked to appear before any judge, committee, or commission, and up to now, all I have been told is contained in a sheet of paper entitled Grounds for Detention in which I am accused that I have been actively engaged in a plan to overthrow the government of Ghana by unlawful means,” he wrote. 

The former lawyer also detailed the trauma he was going through in his time of detention. 

According to JB Danquah, he was kept like a “galley slave” without proper access to a bed. 

“I find myself locked up at Nsawam prison in a cell about six by nine feet without a writing or reading desk, a dining table, a bed or a chair or any form of seat and compelled to eat my food squatting on the same floor where two blankets and a cover are spread for me on the hard cement to sleep. 

“Also a latrine pan without a closet, and a water jug, a cup without a locker are all assembled in that narrow space for my use like a galley slave,” he noted. JB Danquah included how he had not been given the opportunity to provide financially for his children’s education. 

“I had no opportunity to make any financial provision for my wife and children at the time of my arrest, this delay in the minister’s reply had made it impossible for me to contribute to the progress and maintenance of my wife and also for the education of my children as is my duty to the nation,” he added. 

He died on February 4, 1965, 12 days after he sent the letter to Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. 

According to reports, JB Danquah suffered a heart attack while in detention. 

Read excerpts of the letter below:

Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Fort Victoria and the Cape Coast Lighthouse below:

JHM/AE