The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, is set to officially assume the position of Majority Leader in Parliament today, January 23, following the appointment of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as Minister of Finance.
The elevation of Dr. Ato Forson to the Finance Ministry created a vacancy in the Majority leadership, paving way for Ayariga’s appointment.
Known for his legal expertise and extensive parliamentary experience, Ayariga is expected to bring a fresh and pragmatic approach to leading the Majority Caucus.
Over the years, Ayariga has established himself as a vocal advocate for his constituents and an active participant in legislative debates.
His leadership style is expected to focus on fostering unity within the Majority Caucus while advancing the legislative agenda of government.
The reshuffle also includes significant changes to other key parliamentary roles.
Governs Kwame Agbodza, who previously served as Majority Chief Whip, has transitioned to the executive as the Minister of Roads and Highways designate.
His nomination also opens up that leadership opportunity on the majority front bench.
Cape Coast South MP, Kweku Ricketts-Hagan, is set to assume the role of Deputy Majority Leader, succeeding Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah who has been the Minister designate for Lands and Natural Resources.
Ricketts-Hagan, recognised for his strategic insights and leadership acumen, is expected to work closely with Ayariga to ensure seamless coordination of parliamentary business.
Additionally, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the MP for South Dayi, is tipped to take over as Majority Chief Whip.
Known for his assertive contributions to parliamentary debates, Dafeamekpor will be expected to adopt a firm yet collaborative approach to maintaining party discipline and aligning MPs with the government’s legislative priorities.
Speculation is also rife about a potential elevation for Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, the MP for Ada and current Second Deputy Whip. Reports suggest she may be promoted to First Deputy Whip.
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NDC condemns destruction at Ho Central party office
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President John Dramani Mahama’s nomination of Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle Constituency, as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources is expected to significantly expand local content opportunities within Ghana’s extractive industry.
Mr Buah brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in creating sustainable and decent opportunities for local participation in the extractive sector.
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Anthony K. Sarpong as acting GRA boss
A group named NDC Loyalists Against Injustice has expressed its displeasure over President John Mahama’s appointment of Anthony K. Sarpong as Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
According to the group, the GRA boss is a known sympathizer of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and may not effectively serve the government’s interests in the discharge of his duties.
The group stated that it hoped the people who worked tirelessly for the NDC to secure victory in the 2024 general election would be adequately rewarded, and not overlooked or sidelined for any reason.
In a statement, it noted that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has failed to live up to the confidence placed in him, specifically in relation to his appointment at the helm of the GRA.
“His appointment of Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong is shocking and disappointing because this is a man who has direct ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). In fact, Sarpong was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo to serve on the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) in September 2020,” it said.
“What makes this more troubling is the fact that such a person, who served alongside other known NPP-aligned personalities like Mrs. Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah-who also became the boss at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO)-would be given such a distinguished political appointment ahead of the wealth of other experienced NDC figures. These individuals have committed their time and efforts to this great party, helping it win a decisive election in 2024, as has also been emphatically represented in the Parliament of Ghana,” it added.
The group warned the president to revoke the appointment or face their wrath.
“We are, by this release, serving notice to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama that we are appalled and completely disgusted by this appointment to the GRA and demand that he, as a matter of urgency, recalls this appointment or risk facing very unpalatable protests from us.”
STATEMENT BY NDC LOYALISTS AGAINST INJUSTICE AGAINST THE APPOINTMENT OF ANTHONY K. SARPONG AS GRA COMMISSIONER-GENERAL BY H. E. JOHN MAHAMA
It has become pressingly necessary for us to issue this press statement in the utter disappointment of the appointment of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong for the role of Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
His Excellency has proven beyond doubt that he is a man who is poised to work in the interests of Ghanaians and to ensure that there is an equal distribution of his selection of appointees or nominations for critical offices of public service. And we commend him for the tough job he has been able to execute in the last 14 Days, in fulfilment of his promise to Ghanaians.
In all, the President has made some of the best choices for all the sectors and as he continues to do, for several corporations and institutions of state, with queues of National Democratic Congress (NDC) loyalists, who have put in their sweats and blood, literally, to give the party the magnanimous victory it recorded in the 2024 Election, still inexhausted. The hopes are that the people who got our Great NDC Party to this junction of our political journey, will be adequately rewarded, and not overlooked or sidestepped for whatever reasons.
But it has appeared that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has failed to live up to the confidence that we have all placed in him, specifically in relation to his appointment at the helm of the GRA. His appointment of Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong is shocking and disappointing because this is a man who has direct ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). In fact, Sarpong was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo to serve on the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG), in September 2020.
What makes this the more troubling is the fact that such a person, who served together with other known NPP-aligned personalities like Mrs. Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah – who also became the boss at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), would be given such a distinguished political appointment ahead of the wealth of other experienced NDC figures who have committed their sweat to this great party, helping it win such a decisive election in 2024, as has been emphatically also represented in the Parliament of Ghana.
We are, by this release, serving notice to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama that we are appalled and completely disgusted by this appointment to the GRA and demand that he, as a matter of urgency, recalls this appointment or risk facing very unpalatable protests from us.
We must state that the confidence, high expectations and nationwide trust that Ghanaians have reposed in him and in this NDC administration is something we are all happy about, and would not intentionally wish to mar that, but if such moves, as what has happened at the GRA persist, we will be pushed to the wall to do so.
The hardworking NDC members who were in the field and in the background, solidly working to get the party back to power cannot sit and allow this and Mr President, respectfully, please do the needful. There are other people more deserving of this than this NPP-stained person known as Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong.
KA
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Entrepreneur, John Dumelo, in January 2022 accused workers who are dishonest of the downfall of Ghanaian businesses.
He said, “the downfall of many Ghanaian businesses are the dishonest workers. I pray 2022, all dishonest workers will be caught in Jesus’s name.”
Read the full story originally published on January 10, 2022.
All dishonest workers will be caught in 2022 – John Dumelo
Ghanaian businesses hindered by envy and jealousy -Businessman
Ghanaians do not manage emotions properly – Entrepreneur
Entrepreneur, cum actor John Dumelo has attributed the collapse and unsustainability of businesses in Ghana to some negative attitudes by employees.
According to the farmer, the dishonesty of workers can be attributed to the non-performance of businesses, not in the country. He thus prays for all such people to be unveiled in this new year.
In a tweet sighted by GhanaWeb on January 8, John Dumelo said, “the downfall of many Ghanaian businesses are the dishonest workers. I pray 2022, all dishonest workers will be caught in Jesus’s name”.
Earlier, Founder of the Kama Group of Companies, Dr Michael Agyekum Addo, said Ghanaian businesses have been hindered by envy and jealousy.
He attributed the non-performance of indigenous businesses and their inability to last to this canker.
Speaking with Kwaku Nhyira-Addo on The Asaase Breakfast Show on Wednesday (5 January), Dr Agyekum Addo said, “At the age of 60 to 65, I was still confronted with the question: why do companies collapse in spite of all the training that we give to staff, all the incentives, improvements in working conditions?”
He lamented how important it is for Ghana to address the issue “because it is affecting our politics, our businesses and the country.”
The downfall of many Ghanaian businesses are the Dishonest workers. I pray 2022, all dishonest workers will be caught in Jesus name.
— MrDumelo (@johndumelo) January 8, 2022
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Kwesi Pratt, the Managing Editor of The Insight Newspaper, has admonished President John Dramani Mahama to adhere to his promise of keeping only 60 ministers in his administration.
According to him, it is time for the Ghanaian people to hold statesmen accountable for their promises during an election period.
“I have heard some NDC members saying even though the president promised 60 ministers, if he gets an excess of maybe 2 or 1, making it 62 or 61, it is okay. It is never okay, and nobody is going to take that. He promised that he would give us 60 ministers and we are looking at only 60 ministers,” he said.
Speaking in an interview on a panel discussion on Peace FM on January 22, 2025, he stated that should the president keep his promise, Ghanaians will commend him highly.
“Even for me, I will be glad if the number is 58 and I will commend him, but if the number passes 60, we will never agree to that.
“For the ministers, not even 1 should be in excess. 60 is 60. If the number is 61, no, we won’t agree, but 58 we will agree,” he added.
The president has so far appointed 42 ministers and is awaiting the appointment of their deputies.
However, during his campaign period, President Mahama promised to trim his government to a lean administration and would work with only 60 ministers.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
A group named NDC Loyalists Against Injustice has expressed its displeasure over President John Mahama’s appointment of Anthony K. Sarpong as Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
According to the group, the GRA boss is a known sympathizer of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and may not serve the interests of the government effectively in the discharge of his duties.
The group stated that it hoped the people who worked tirelessly for the NDC Party to secure victory in the 2024 general election would be adequately rewarded, and not overlooked or sidelined for any reasons.
In a statement, it noted that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has failed to live up to the confidence placed in him, specifically in relation to his appointment at the helm of the GRA.
“His appointment of Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong is shocking and disappointing because this is a man who has direct ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). In fact, Sarpong was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo to serve on the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) in September 2020.”
“What makes this more troubling is the fact that such a person, who served alongside other known NPP-aligned personalities like Mrs. Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah-who also became the boss at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO)-would be given such a distinguished political appointment ahead of the wealth of other experienced NDC figures. These individuals have committed their time and efforts to this great party, helping it win a decisive election in 2024, as has also been emphatically represented in the Parliament of Ghana.”
The group warned the president to revoke the appointment or face their wrath.
“We are, by this release, serving notice to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama that we are appalled and completed disgusted by this appointment to the GRA and demand that he, as a matter of urgency, recalls this appointment or risk facing very unpalatable protests from us.”
STATEMENT BY NDC LOYALISTS AGAINST INJUSTICE AGAINST THE APPOINTMENT OF ANTHONY K. SARPONG AS GRA COMMISSIONER-GENERAL BY H. E. JOHN MAHAMA
It has become pressingly necessary for us to issue this press statement in utter disappointment of the appointment of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong for the role of Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
His Excellency has proven beyond doubts that he is a man who is poised to work in the interests of Ghanaians and to ensure that there is an equal distribution of his selection of appointees or nominations for critical offices of public service. And we commend him for the tough job he has been able to execute in the last 14 Days, in fulfilment of his promise to Ghanaians.
In all, the President has made some of the best choices for all the sectors and as he continues to do, for several corporations and institutions of state, with queues of National Democratic Congress (NDC) loyalists, who have put in their sweats and blood, literally, to give the party the magnanimous victory it recorded in the 2024 Election, still inexhausted. The hopes are that the people who got our Great NDC Party to this junction of our political journey, will be adequately rewarded, and not overlooked or sidestepped for whatever reasons.
But it has appeared that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has failed to live up to the confidence that we have all placed in him, specifically in relation to his appointment at the helm of the GRA. His appointment of Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong is shocking and disappointing because this is a man who has direct ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). In fact, Sarpong was appointed by President Nana Akufo-Addo to serve on the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG), in September 2020.
What makes this the more troubling is the fact that such a person, who served together with other known NPP-aligned personalities like Mrs. Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah – who also became the boss at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), would be given such a distinguished political appointment ahead of the wealth of other experienced NDC figures who have committed their sweat to this great party, helping it win such a decisive election in 2024, as has been emphatically also represented in the Parliament of Ghana.
We are, by this release, serving notice to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama that we are appalled and completed disgusted by this appointment to the GRA and demand that he, as a matter of urgency, recalls this appointment or risk facing very unpalatable protests from us.
We must state that the confidence, high expectations and nationwide trust that Ghanaians have reposed in him and in this NDC administration is something we are all happy about, and would not intentionally wish to mar that, but if such moves, as what has happened at the GRA persist, we will be pushed to the wall to do so.
The hardworking NDC members who were in the field and in the background, solidly working to get the party back to power cannot sit and allow this and Mr President, respectfully, please do the needful. There are other people more deserving of this than this NPP-stained person known as Mr. Anthony K. Sarpong.
KA
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Ghana international, Thomas Partey was in action for Arsenal on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, helping the side to secure a delightful 3-0 win against Dinamo Zagreb in the Uefa Champions League.
The midfielder missed out on a starting role in the match played at Emirates Stadium but was introduced in the 59th minute to replace defender Jurrien Timber at right-back.
In the defensive role, Thomas Partey provided the needed cover, ensuring his team kept a clean sheet en route to the emphatic victory.
On the matchday, Arsenal needed just two minutes to take the lead. German attacker Kai Havertz set up Declan Rice to give the hosts the lead.
That goal separated the two teams at halftime before second-half goals from Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz sealed the impressive win.
Ghana’s Thomas Partey earned a rating of 7.0 for his contributions to Arsenal’s victory against Dinamo Zagreb.
Hopeson Adorye has extended heartfelt gratitude to Sammi Awuku for his remarkable show of support and compassion.
In a Facebook post on January 21, 2025, Adorye shared how the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North offered condolences during a challenging time for his family, despite the criticisms Adorye had previously directed at him.
He recounted how Sammi Awuku went out of his way to attend the funeral of his late mother-in-law, balancing his busy schedule with this act of kindness.
“Sammi Awuku won my admiration despite my earlier criticisms. As the funeral of my late mother-in-law approached, he reached out to console my wife and me. On the day itself, he arrived as early as 8 am, stayed until around 11 am, and then returned to his constituency for other obligations. What an exceptional man,” Adorye wrote.
Deeply touched by this gesture, Adorye reflected on his past comments and vowed to never speak ill of Sammi Awuku again. He expressed his resolve to support Awuku as a friend and brother moving forward.
“To Sammi, I make a promise: I will never say anything negative about you again. From this day, you are a brother and a friend. And to everyone, please do not bring me any negative news about him because I won’t entertain it. Sammi, you have truly moved me, and I am forever grateful. Friends and brothers for life. May God bless you richly,” Adorye concluded.
The funeral for Hopeson Adorye’s mother-in-law, who recently passed away, was held on January 18, 2025, in Tema. Sammi Awuku’s presence and support during this time left a lasting impression on Adorye, strengthening their bond.
Professor Ransford Gyampo, a political scientist and commentator, has expressed satisfaction with the recent vetting process of President Mahama’s appointees, particularly highlighting the impressive performance of Kwame Agbodza during his vetting. Gyampo’s comments, made during a recent interview on Joy FM, have stirred significant discussion about leadership and appointments in the current administration.
In his remarks, Gyampo noted that while he was initially unaware of Agbodza’s depth of knowledge in his appointed area, he was pleased with the responses Agbodza provided during the vetting session. “I didn’t know that he was knowledgeable in that area like that, and I was pleased with the kind of responses that he gave,” Gyampo said, commending the thoroughness of Agbodza’s responses.
However, Gyampo emphasized that while he respected the President’s decisions, he believed there was room for fresh faces in government. “I’m looking for some new faces who will wow me,” he said, acknowledging the competence of those already appointed but expressing a desire for more dynamic appointments. Gyampo suggested that there are individuals outside the current political circles who could bring valuable expertise to the table, particularly from the diaspora. “Not all the people who can help in the Government of Ghana are located within the NDC. Some may be abroad; let us bring all of them on board,” he advocated.
Gyampo also acknowledged that, despite the low bar for entry into Parliament, the vetting process revealed that many of the appointees had strong capabilities. “So far, those President Mahama has appointed, I have no problem with them. I don’t think I have issues with them,” he stated, also referencing the broader issue of the composition of the appointment committee.
The comments from Gyampo come at a time when public discussions surrounding governance and political appointments are high. While some have applauded his call for greater inclusivity, others have questioned whether the appointments truly reflect the diverse capabilities needed to drive Ghana forward.
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your look, and for African-American women, the season brings a plethora of stylish hairstyle options that embrace texture, volume, and creativity. Whether you’re looking for something low-maintenance or a bold statement style, there are endless ways to rock your natural hair this spring. Here are some of the trendiest spring hairstyles that are sure to inspire.
1. Tapered Cut
The tapered cut is a timeless and versatile style that works wonderfully for spring. Short on the sides and longer on the top, this hairstyle offers a fresh, clean look with a lot of personality. It’s perfect for showcasing natural curls or waves, and it requires minimal maintenance, making it a great choice for women on the go.
2. Box Braids
Box braids are a classic choice for many African-American women, and for good reason. They’re protective, low-maintenance, and can be styled in countless ways. This spring, opt for longer braids for a more dramatic look, or keep it short and chic for ease. You can even add color or accessories like beads for a fun and unique twist.
3. Natural Curls with Defined Texture
Spring is all about embracing your natural texture, and what better way to showcase your curls than by using products that define and enhance their natural pattern? A wash-and-go style works beautifully with a curl cream or gel to give volume and bounce. You can add a side part for added dimension or experiment with updos for a more polished vibe.
4. Twist-Out or Bantu Knots
A twist-out or Bantu knot-out is a fantastic way to achieve defined, bouncy curls with minimal effort. The twist-out provides volume and texture, while the Bantu knots create defined curls that pop. Both styles are ideal for spring as they allow you to wear your natural hair in a beautifully shaped and controlled way.
5. The Afro
The afro is a bold, iconic hairstyle that’s always in style, but it’s particularly fitting for spring. Flaunting your full, natural hair with volume and freedom, the afro makes a statement of confidence and authenticity. For added flair, accessorize with colorful headbands, flowers, or pins to embrace the seasonal vibe.
6. High Puff
For a quick, stylish look, the high puff is a go-to. It’s easy to create and can be adjusted to any level of volume, depending on the look you want. The high puff is perfect for busy days, but it’s also a great way to show off your natural curls with a bit of height and definition.
7. Cornrows or Feed-In Braids
Cornrows and feed-in braids are classic protective styles that can be tailored to any occasion. From intricate geometric patterns to simple straight-back braids, these styles are perfect for spring and help keep your hair safe from the elements. They also offer versatility with the option to add accessories like colorful thread or charms.
In conclusion, spring is the ideal time to experiment with new hairstyles while embracing your natural beauty. From bold afros to sleek box braids, the options for African-American women are endless. These trendy hairstyles offer a mix of creativity, ease, and versatility, ensuring you can step into the season with confidence and style. Whether you’re looking for something playful, polished, or protective, these styles will elevate your look and keep you feeling fresh all season long.
In a highly charged interview on UTV, Edward Ennin, the former Member of Parliament for Obuasi East and a former member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has made serious accusations of embezzlement involving significant sums of state funds during the presidency of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Ennin claims to possess evidence of these illicit financial activities, which he alleges were secretly moved both within Ghana and internationally.
Ennin, who held a prominent position in the NPP before his departure, pointed the finger at top government officials and diplomats. According to Ennin, some Ghanaian ambassadors and high commissioners are aware of the movement of these misappropriated funds. He suggests that these diplomats were complicit in the illegal transfer of state money, allegedly routed to foreign destinations. “The ambassadors know about all the stolen funds that have been sent abroad. We will soon see what happens,” Ennin remarked, hinting at a network of international connections facilitating the illicit transactions.
Moreover, Ennin went on to suggest that some of the stolen funds may have been invested in ventures abroad, with a particular focus on oil exploration in Guyana. He raised concerns that investments in Guyana’s oil blocks might be linked to the misappropriated Ghanaian state funds, pointing to suspicious activities in the region. These claims, if true, could have far-reaching implications for both Ghana’s economic interests and the global networks of corruption.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Ennin expressed his willingness to cooperate with any investigation into the matter. “I’m ready to go before any committee to present my evidence because Ghana’s interest comes first,” Ennin declared, emphasizing his commitment to the country’s development. His readiness to provide the evidence he claims to have could set the stage for a major investigation into the allegations.
In addition to the embezzlement claims, Ennin also accused certain government officials, including District Chief Executives (DCEs) and members of parliament, of involvement in illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as “galamsey.” He suggested that these activities were being conducted with the knowledge or involvement of high-ranking government figures, further complicating the situation.
Ennin’s accusations have already sparked public outcry, with many concerned citizens and anti-corruption advocates calling for immediate action from law enforcement agencies. The Special Prosecutor’s office, along with other relevant bodies, has been urged to take swift and decisive steps to investigate these allegations. Some have warned that failing to address the claims could undermine the government’s anti-corruption efforts and erode public trust.
Dr. Kwame Asiedu, a well-known governance expert, weighed in on the allegations, describing them as a critical moment for Ghana’s anti-corruption movement. “This is an opportunity to demonstrate that corruption will not be tolerated, no matter who is involved,” he said. His comments highlight the importance of holding both high-ranking officials and public servants accountable for their actions, regardless of their political affiliation or position.
As the story continues to develop, these claims have ignited intense debate regarding the state of governance, accountability, and transparency within the Akufo-Addo administration. Should investigations confirm Ennin’s allegations, the consequences could reverberate throughout Ghana’s political landscape, sparking further calls for systemic reforms to combat corruption and ensure that public funds are used to benefit the people of Ghana.
The coming weeks will likely bring more developments as authorities examine the evidence and consider the broader implications of Ennin’s explosive accusations. The unfolding situation may very well serve as a turning point in Ghana’s ongoing fight against corruption, a fight that could ultimately shape the future of the nation’s leadership and its commitment to national development.
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned that he may withhold several federal disaster aid meant for wildfire-ravaged Los Angeles as he seeks California leaders to change the state’s water management approach. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said that the Democrats are responsible for Los Angeles’ struggles to control the deadly fires. Trump, who is set to embark on his first presidential trip of his second term, also called for reform of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as he claimed that the agency is “getting in the way of everything.
Trump will visit Southern California along with western North Carolina, which is recovering after Hurricane Helene pummelled the area more than three months ago.
Wildfires update: More than 50,000 people under evacuation orders
As per the latest updates, over 50,000 people are under evacuation orders or warnings after a huge and fast-moving wildfire swept through rugged mountains north of Los Angeles.
The Hughes Fire broke out in the late morning and within hours charred more than 39 square km of trees and brush, sending up plumes of dark smoke near Lake Castaic, a popular recreation area about 64 km from the devastating Eaton and Palisades fires that are burning for a third week.
More than 31,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, and another 23,000 are under evacuation warnings, LA County Sheriff Robert Luna said.
Here’s what officials say
LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said the fire remains difficult to contain but firefighters are getting the upper hand. Parts of Interstate 5 that had been closed will shortly be reopened, Luna said.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass warned that winds could carry ash and advised Angelenos to visit the city’s website to learn how to protect themselves from toxic air during the latest Santa Ana wind event.
LA County public health director Barbara Ferrer cautioned that the ash could contain heavy metals, arsenic and other harmful materials.
“Even a brief exposure can potentially cause skin irritation and lead to more serious problems,” Ferrer said on Wednesday, asking people to wear protective gear while cleaning up.
The low humidity, bone-dry vegetation and strong winds came as firefighters continued battling the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have killed at least 28 people and destroyed more than 14,000 structures since they broke out January 7.
Twenty-two (22) Ghanaian referees have received FIFA badges for the 2025 football season at a brief ceremony on Tuesday.
Historically, FIFA gives Referees’ badges for the calendar year to the top ranked referees from the previous year.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, congratulated the officials on the milestone chalked and urged them to be great ambassadors for the Football Association.
“On the whole, every member of this group has done a good job. I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Daniel Laryea for all that you have done for your good self and for Ghana: And to all of you who have been officiating on the continent, I have not had any negative reportage on your performances,” President Kurt E.S Okraku noted.
“Your performances have justified the trust and the belief CAF and FIFA have in your good selves. I think that you should be encouraged to do much, much better than you have done so far. In times past, we have had good officials representing our country.”
The President acknowledged the challenges faced by match officials but urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence.
“But when you are very motivated and your eyes are fixed on excellence, you continue to invest in yourself and to challenge yourself towards being much better at every given opportunity. That’s why I’m so happy about the performances you guys have put up on the African continent, especially. We will continue to push and to ask for more opportunities for you. And I hope that when such opportunities come, you will not disappoint us.”
The General Secretary of the FA, Mr Prosper Harrison Addo,. said ‘We are happy with your progress and confident you will continue to make the profession worthy of emulation. This badge is for the year 2025 and will be reviewed by FIFA after the end of the calendar year. We wish you well.’
FIFA, in a recent statement, unveiled the official list of Ghana referees approved to officiate international matches for the 2025 calendar year.
The list comprises 10 Centre Referees, 10 Assistant Referees, a Futsal Referee, Beach Soccer Referee, and Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
In all, 12 male Referees and Assistants received badges while eight female Referees and Assistants were named in the list sent by FIFA.
It is important to note that the FIFA badge remains the exclusive property of FIFA and it is for the period of one year.
The GFA will entreat the selected Referees to maintain high standards in officiating, as the Referees will represent Ghana on the global stage. –Ghanafa.org.
President John Dramani Mahama has sworn-in six of his ministers
President John Dramani Mahama has sworn-in six of his ministers following their approval by Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
The six ministers of state, who underwent thorough vetting and debates, were part of the first batch of appointments submitted for parliamentary consideration.
The president urged the ministers to work tirelessly to lift the country out of its current economic crisis.
“I encourage the ministers, as you assume office, to tell the nation about the state of affairs in your sectors. While even you work tirelessly to lift us out of the current situation. On the part of the Attorney General, as I said, you will be expected to spearhead the much-needed reforms in our judicial system to make it more accessible and beneficial to all.
“Irrespective of their backgrounds, the people of Ghana are desirous of a system that guarantees equal justice for all and nothing more or nothing less. It is quite clear that so much needs to be done in so short a time and I assure the people of Ghana that this government will rise to the challenge and will reset our country. As I pointed out through during my inaugural speech, Ghanaians have, through their votes, declared their intention to demand the highest standards of governance and we cannot afford to fail them,” he noted.
He further charged them to serve the country in humility.
“I, therefore, charge you to serve in humility, and candor, always remembering that we serve at the pleasure of the Ghanaian people and that the authority we exercise emanates from them. We must exhibit tolerance for their views and work to meet their aspirations. This government will not tolerate arrogance or disrespect for the people who elected us into office.
“Modesty and prudence must be the guiding principles upon which you, myself and our vice president fashion our governance. The people of Ghana will hold us accountable for the trust that they have placed in our hands. It cannot be business as usual”, he noted.
They ministers who were sworn in by the president were Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine; Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor; Haruna Iddrisu as Minister of Education; Eric Opoku, Minister of Food and Agriculture; Kwame Governs Agbodza, as Minister of Roads and Highways.
JKB/AE
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
For more than 50 years, one family has dedicated itself to caring for the biggest graveyard in Nigeria’s northern city of Kaduna – much to the gratitude of other residents who do not fancy the job of dealing with the dead.
Until a few weeks ago, they did it for no formal pay – digging graves, washing corpses, and tending to the vast cemetery, receiving only small donations from mourners for their labour.
The vast Tudun Wada Cemetery was set aside for the Muslim residents of the city by the authorities a century ago.
The Abdullahi family became involved in the 1970s when two brothers – Ibrahim and Adamu – began working there.
The two siblings now lie beneath the soil in the graveyard, and their sons have become the cemetery’s main custodians.
“Their teachings to us, their children, was that God loves the service and would reward us for it even if we don’t get any worldly gains,” Ibrahim Abdullahi’s oldest son Magaji told the BBC when asked why they had chosen to continue as unpaid undertakers.
The 58-year-old is now in charge at Tudun Wada – shepherding operations and the 18 members of staff or until recently – volunteers.
He and his two younger cousins – Abdullahi, 50, and Aliyu, 40, (Adamu Abdullahi’s sons) – are the three full-time workers, all reporting in by 07:00 for a 12-hour shift, seven days a week.
They always need to be on call because, according to Muslim rites, a burial must be organised within a few hours of someone’s death.
Magaji tends to get the call on his mobile, either directly from a relative or an imam – all religious clerics in the city have his number.
“A lot of people have our numbers and as soon as someone dies, we get a call and immediately we get to work,” he says.
One of the trios goes to tend to the corpse, which may include washing it and wrapping it in a shroud.
The body is measured, and those details are texted back to the others so that a grave can be dug.
This can take around an hour – with two people taking it in turns to dig down 6ft (1.8m) into the earth – sometimes longer when it is in a stony area of the graveyard.
They can dig around a dozen graves in a day – hard work in the Kaduna heat.
“Today alone we have dug eight graves and it’s not even noon, some days are like that,” says Abdullahi, who began work at the cemetery when he was aged 20.
The cousins have experienced very stressful times – especially during religious violence when tensions flare between the city’s Christian and Muslim residents. The two communities tend to live on opposite sides of the Kaduna River.
“We have had a couple of religious clashes in Kaduna but the one that sticks the most for me was one in the early 1990s. A lot of people were killed,” says Magaji.
“We went round gathering the corpses and taking them off the streets.”
Muslims were taken to Tudun Wada in the north of the city and Christians to graveyards in the southern suburbs.
“It was such a troubling time personally and I wasn’t long in the job then but that helped enhance my resolve to continue,” he says.
Usually, while the team digs a grave, at the local mosque the imam announces during one of the five daily prayers that a funeral will be taking place.
Many of the worshippers then go to where the body has been prepared for prayers – it is then transported to the graveyard for burial, often thronged by the mourners.
Once by the graveside, the shrouded body is lowered – it is covered with a layer of sticks and broken clay pots as a mark of respect. The grave is then filled to form a slightly raised bed.
After the rituals are complete and before the mourners leave, the graveyard keepers appeal for donations.
This is usually done by 72-year-old Inuwa Mohammed, the oldest worker at the cemetery, who explains the importance of Abdullahi family to the community.
He used to work with the cousins’ fathers: “They were amazing people who loved what they did and have imbibed their children with this altruistic behaviour.”
The little money collected will sometimes buy lunch for the crew – but is never enough for anything else. In order to survive, the family also has a small farm where they grow food.
The graves are recycled after 40 years, meaning land is not a big issue – but maintenance is.
“There is a lot that is lacking at the moment – we don’t have enough equipment to work with, or good security,” says Aliyu, the youngest of the cousins and who has worked there for 10 years.
He explains how part of the wall has collapsed, allowing those on the look-out for scrap metal to steal the grave markers.
Some of the graves have metal plates inscribed with a name and date of birth and death – though many do not as Islamic clerics do not encourage ostentation. Most are just outlined by stones and bricks or with a stick.
Either way, the cousins remember the location of everyone buried at the cemetery and can direct people if they have forgotten the location of a relative’s grave.
Following the BBC’s recent visit to the graveyard, they have seen a dramatic change in fortune.
The new local council chairman, whose office oversees the site, has decided to put them on the payroll.
“They deserve it, given the massive work they do every day,” Rayyan Hussain tells the BBC.
“Graves are the final homes for us all and people who do this kind of hard work deserve to be paid, so my office would pay them as long as I am chairman.”
Magaji confirms that the staff have started receiving a monthly salary for the first time:
the five oldest, including himself, are getting 43,000 naira ($28; £22.50)
the others, including Abdullahi and Aliyu, are receiving 20,000 naira ($13; £10.50).
This is well below the national minimum wage of $45 a month, but Mr Hussain says he hopes to increase their allowance “with time”.
He says it is regrettable that the graveyard was abandoned for years by previous local council heads.
He has plans to repair parts of the fencing, install solar lights, and add security, the chairman adds.
“I am also building a room in the graveyard where corpses could be washed and prepared for burials, before now all of this had to be done from homes.”
For the Abdullahi family, it is all welcome investment – and Magaji hopes it will ensure that one of his 23 children will one day become a custodian of the cemetery.
Africa’s biggest crude producer Nigeria has emerged from a years-long output slump due to improved security, creating a quandary for the government.
Stretched public finances badly need the extra revenue that would come from higher oil exports, but the country is also under pressure to adhere to OPEC+ production limits that have helped keep global crude prices above $70 a barrel.
Analysts predict further growth in Nigeria’s output this year, and a possible showdown with OPEC+ over the country’s quota.
Nigeria is “occupied with increasing production first to meet its budget aspiration, and then will engage with OPEC to raise the nation’s quota,” Gbenga Komolafe, chief executive officer of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, said in an interview.
Crude output reached 1.48 million barrels a day last month, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission reported. That’s just a fraction below the country’s 1.5 million barrel-a-day OPEC+ output quota, and major turnaround from a low of 1.1 million barrels a day reached in 2022, when oil majors were selling assets and pipelines ran dry due to theft and vandalism.
Steps taken by the government to improve security and attract investment have reversed that trend, and the Nigerian state anticipates production reaching 2 million barrels a day, the most in a decade, although most analysts predict a more modest increase.
Nigeria owes a large part of its recovery to security initiatives put in place several years ago to deal with theft and vandalism, mainly targeting the network of pipelines that thread their way through the Niger River delta.
In 2022, security had deteriorated to such an extent that the Trans-Niger Pipeline, capable of transporting 180,000 barrels a day, had been illegally tapped in about 150 places, meaning producers only received a small fraction of the volumes they pumped through the system.
State-run Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. has set up a production monitoring command center that tracks activity from all operators in real time, complementing measures on the ground to reduce crime and increase community engagement, according to Mansur Mohammed, head of West Africa upstream research for Wood Mackenzie Ltd.
These measures “are starting to bear fruit,” though at a significant cost, said Ifeanyi Onyegiri, a senior analyst for Welligence. Nigeria “should be able to negotiate an increased quota with OPEC if they can demonstrate they can sustain production.”
Nigeria has grappled with the problem of oil theft and vandalism for decades, so there’s reason to be cautious about whether the recent improvements will last.
Until the security measures are proven throughout the Niger Delta’s vast pipeline network, average production for any given month is forecast to be around 1.4 million barrels a day, according to Pranav Joshi, an analyst at Rystad Energy A/S.
“The main bottleneck is: Can they fix the vandalism issue in a sustained way?” he said.
Homegrown Producers
While the recent output gain “is largely attributable to the improved security situation” there has also been a notable impact from “significant investment by operators,” said Dipo Ogunbiyi, an energy analyst at Renaissance Capital Africa.
After international companies such as Exxon Mobil Corp. and Equinor ASA sold many of their assets in the West African nation, more production has been put in the hands of companies owned and operated by Nigerians. Drilling has more than tripled in four years, said the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission’s Komolafe.
Seplat Energy Plc, formed through a merger of two companies owned by local businessmen Ambrosie Bryant Orjiako and Austin Avuru in 2009, plans to more than double its output to 120,000 barrels a day in the next six months after completing the purchase of Exxon’s onshore oil and gas assets. There is an opportunity to top 200,000 barrels a day, Chief Executive Officer Roger Brown said last month.
“There are significant opportunities for smaller, more efficient and focused companies, like Seplat, to safely extract increased value and production,” the company said in response to questions.
Oando Plc, a producer headed by Nigerian businessman Wale Tinubu that’s picked up assets from multiple oil majors, expects to boost crude production to 100,000 barrels a day from 40,000 barrels a day “over the next few years,” Alex Irune, managing director of Oando Energy Resources, said in a reply to questions.
“Nigeria has both the spare capacity and resources to achieve and even surpass, the 2 million barrels-per-day mark,” he said.
It remains to be seen whether these ambitions could cause a rupture with OPEC+. Fellow African producer Angola was forced to quit the cartel in December 2023 after rejecting tighter limits on its output. Yet six months later, the United Arab Emirates was granted a more generous quota reflecting an expansion in its productive capacity.
For Nigeria, as with several other quota-busting members of the group such as Iraq and Kazakhstan, the short-term financial benefits of higher production may have a stronger appeal than achieving perfect OPEC+ compliance.
“Given the country’s current fiscal situation, there’s a lot of incentive to produce in excess of the OPEC quota, as any incremental revenue has a direct impact on budget deficit,” Ogunbiyi said. He predicted that Nigeria will attempt to renegotiate its output limit if the capability is there.
Ghanaian football giants Asante Kotoko have completed the signing of defender Michael Sefah from Division One League side Port City FC.
The transfer, finalized on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, marks another strategic addition to the Porcupine Warriors’ squad as they aim to solidify their backline for the ongoing season.
Sefah, a towering and commanding presence in defence, has been instrumental for Port City.
His performances in the second tier caught the attention of Kotoko’s technical team, prompting swift negotiations between the two clubs.
Port City confirmed the transfer on social media, wishing Sefah success in his new challenge.
The acquisition of Sefah takes Kotoko’s tally of new signings this transfers window to six. He joins Sampson Eduku, Kwame Opoku, Kwasi Asante, Daniel Adrian Adjetey, and Isaac Mintah in what has been a busy recruitment period for the Kumasi-based club.
Speaking on his move, Sefah expressed gratitude for the opportunity to don the red jersey and vowed to meet the high expectations of the club’s loyal supporters.
The 29-year-old has top-flight experience, having previously played for Liberty Professionals and Medeama SC in the Ghana Premier League.
He also had a spell at Indian club BSS Sporting before returning to Ghana to sign for Port City.
Lil Win’s 80-Year-Old Mother and Wife Maame Serwaa Dance Energetically in Viral Video
News Hub Creator1d
A heartwarming video of popular Ghanaian actor and comedian Lil Win’s 80-year-old mother dancing energetically alongside his wife, Maame Serwaa, has taken social media by storm. The video captures the joyous moment as the two women showcase their lively dance moves, spreading smiles and positivity.
In the clip, Lil Win’s mother, despite her age, displays remarkable energy and rhythm, matching Maame Serwaa’s vibrant performance. The duo’s spirited dance has garnered widespread admiration, with many praising the elderly woman’s youthful spirit and the bond shared between her and her daughter-in-law.
Fans and followers of Lil Win have flooded the comments section with messages of love and encouragement, celebrating the infectious happiness radiating from the video. The heartening scene serves as a reminder of the power of music and dance to bring people together, regardless of age.
Lil Win’s family moment has not only entertained but also inspired many, showing that age is no barrier to enjoying life and creating cherished memories with loved ones.
A startling development has emerged following the tragic deaths of several youths in Obuasi. Ghanaian media personality Afia Schwarzenegger has released a leaked video purportedly exposing a secret meeting involving Sammy Gyamfi, National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and some galamsey operators.
According to Afia, the meeting, which allegedly took place on October 20, 2024, at Mawuli Hotel in Obuasi, was attended by key individuals, including the NDC Women’s Organizer for the Obuasi Constituency. The video also reportedly features Zack, a young man said to be a leader among the local illegal miners, who later clashed with military forces in an incident that resulted in his death and the loss of other lives.
In the video, Sammy Gyamfi is accused of promising the miners that an NDC government would permit them to resume their operations without interference. Afia Schwarzenegger, who has been vocal about the matter, stated, “Sammy Gyamfi arrived at the meeting around 8:00 p.m. and assured the galamsey operators that they could take their tools and return to their mining activities once the NDC assumes power.”
However, following the NDC’s electoral victory, Afia alleges that military forces were deployed to crack down on these same individuals, leading to violent confrontations and fatalities. “The NDC betrayed their promise to the miners,” Afia claimed. “Innocent people who believed in their word were killed. I believe Sammy Gyamfi has a hand in the death of these youths, and I urge the families of the victims to use this video as evidence in court to seek justice.”
The revelations have sparked outrage among the families of the deceased and raised questions about the promises made to vulnerable groups during the election period. Calls for accountability have intensified, with activists and community leaders urging a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Sammy Gyamfi and the NDC are yet to issue an official response to these claims. Meanwhile, the leaked video has reignited conversations about the role of political leaders in the galamsey menace and the need for transparency and justice.
The community of Obuasi remains in mourning, and many are hopeful that this new evidence will bring some clarity and closure to the grieving families.
You can also watch the video through the link below:
Ghanaian Man Tragically Stabbed to Death by Co-Worker in Canada
News Hub Creator23h
Saskatoon, Canada – A 53-year-old man has been charged with first-degree murder following the brutal stabbing of a 23-year-old Ghanaian man on Monday night in Saskatoon. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the Ghanaian community in Canada, occurred around 7 p.m. at a business located in the 3900 block of Millar Avenue.
The victim, identified by close friends as Alfred, also known as Joe, hailed from Kumasi-Afrancho in Ghana. He had recently moved to Canada in September 2024 in search of better opportunities. According to Maame Pokuah, a Ghanaian resident in Toronto who spoke about the tragedy, Alfred was known to be hardworking and had formed a close bond with the suspect, who was both a friend and a co-worker.
Shockingly, it was during a routine break at work that the tragedy unfolded. Witnesses reported that without provocation, the 53-year-old suspect suddenly pulled out a knife and stabbed Alfred 17 times. The motive for the gruesome attack remains unclear.
Saskatoon Police revealed in a statement that officers arrived at the scene to find Alfred suffering from multiple stab wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack but was apprehended by law enforcement near 2nd Avenue South and Spadina Crescent East.
Members of the Major Crime Section and Forensic Identification Section are currently investigating the incident to determine what led to this horrifying act of violence. The suspect is in custody and will face court proceedings in the coming days.
The Ghanaian community in Saskatoon and across Canada has expressed their grief and called for justice for Alfred. Friends and family describe him as a kind-hearted individual with a bright future ahead.
The Supreme Court is set to hear a case brought by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) today, Thursday, 23 January, challenging a High Court ruling that directed the Electoral Commission (EC) to finalise and declare parliamentary results in four constituencies.
The High Court, presided over by Justice Forson Baah Agyapong, on Saturday, 4 January, granted a mandamus application filed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The ruling instructed the EC to complete the collation of results for Okaikwei Central, Tema Central, Techiman South, and Ablekuma North constituencies and announce the winners.
In compliance with the ruling, the EC has since re-collated the results for three of the constituencies—Okaikwei Central, Tema Central, and Techiman South—leaving Ablekuma North outstanding.
The NDC, however, has petitioned the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the High Court’s decision.
They contend that the ruling should be quashed, raising questions about its implications for the electoral process.
The apex court’s decision on this matter is expected to have significant political and legal ramifications.
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The former Defence Minister says Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa will come to regret some of his past comments on former President Akufo-Addo’s foreign travels once he experiences the realities of diplomacy.
Dominic Nitiwul speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, January 22, said the North Tongu MP’s criticisms of the ex-president’s use of chartered flights were made without a full understanding of the demands of high-level diplomacy and national security considerations.
Bright Bansah, a Ghanaian PhD candidate in International Conflict Management
Bright Bansah, a Ghanaian PhD candidate in International Conflict Management at Kennesaw State University in the United States, has emphasized the need for a comprehensive framework to address the recurring conflicts between mining companies and local communities in Ghana.
In an interview with GHOne TV on January 22, 2025, Bansah discussed the recent attacks on AngloGold Ashanti’s operations in Obuasi by illegal miners, resulting in the loss of life and property.
Bright Bansah noted that the conflict in Obuasi is not an isolated incident, but rather a symptom of a broader issue affecting many mining communities in Ghana. He cited economic, ecological, and cultural factors as contributing to these conflicts.
To address these challenges, Bright Bansah advocated for a stakeholder engagement approach that brings together mining companies, local communities, and government agencies to develop a workable framework for conflict resolution.
“We must find lasting solutions to these conflicts, instead of merely tackling their symptoms,” Bright Bansah emphasized.
“A comprehensive framework would help to prevent such conflicts from arising in the future and provide a clear mechanism for resolving them when they do occur.”
He also emphasized the importance of restoring peace in the affected areas and urged the government to take concrete steps to implement a lasting solution.
The expert’s call for a comprehensive framework comes at a time when the government has instructed the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to investigate the Obuasi incident and provide recommendations.
Drawing on his experience as a miner in both Ghana and the United States, Bright Bansah has offered his expertise to help the country navigate and resolve the recurring conflicts between multinational corporations and host communities.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Founder and Leader of the United Front Party (UFP), Nana Agyenim Boateng, popularly known as Gyataba, has condemned the recent clash between some youth and military personnel at the AngloGold Ashanti mining site in Obuasi.
Speaking in an interview on Oyerepa TV on January 22, 2025, he criticized the behaviour of the youth involved, describing their actions as “resembling terrorists prepared to face the military.”
“The actions of the youth in Obuasi were extraordinary and reckless. They behaved like terrorists, ready to confront armed military personnel without fear. This kind of approach only escalates tensions and invites the unfortunate outcomes we are now grappling with.”
He called for community leaders to take a more active role in guiding the youth toward peaceful and constructive ways of addressing grievances.
On January 18, 2025, some illegal miners entered the concession of AGA in Obuasi, where a confrontation ensued between the illegal miners and some soldiers stationed at the mines.
According to a release signed by the Director General of Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at about 2300 hours (11:00 PM), illegal miners numbering about 60 breached the AngloGold Ashanti mines security fence and intruded at Cote D’or Ramp.
He noted that the illegal miners aimed to enter the Deep Decline of the mines, and as a result, officers on the ground reacted, leading to shootings since the illegal miners were wielding various weapons.
“The military patrol deployed on Operation HALT II duties at the mentioned location were fired upon by the illegal miners when the soldiers tried to stop them from accessing the Deep Decline.
“The illegal miners were wielding locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, gas cylinders, knives, heavy-duty industrial bolt cutters, axes, and machetes,” he added.
However, the shootout became fatal as the soldiers resorted to self-defence.
The shootout led to the death of seven illegal miners, with one seriously injured. Meanwhile, the president has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.
In a letter signed by the president’s spokesperson, Felix Ofosu-Kwakye, he said, “The government wishes to express deep regret over the tragic loss of up to eight (8) lives, said to be illegal miners, following a violent clash at a mining site in Obuasi.”
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Renowned academic Professor Dumor has publicly expressed his support for Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the nominee for Ghana’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. Gomashie, a celebrated actress and former Deputy Minister, has earned a reputation for her dedication to promoting Ghanaian culture and her significant contributions to the creative arts industry.
Professor Dumor’s presence at an event honoring Gomashie’s nomination underscores the broad support she enjoys from influential figures within the creative and academic communities. The event served as a platform to highlight Gomashie’s achievements and her vision for advancing Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and creative potential.
With her extensive experience in the arts and governance, Gomashie is seen as a strong candidate to lead the ministry. Her nomination is expected to receive approval following parliamentary vetting. If confirmed, she will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that elevate Ghana’s tourism and creative industries, fostering economic growth and cultural pride.
Gomashie’s supporters, including Professor Dumor, emphasized her ability to champion initiatives that celebrate Ghana’s traditions while integrating modern creative strategies to attract global attention. This backing reflects confidence in her leadership and the potential for positive transformation under her tenure.
The nomination has sparked enthusiasm among stakeholders in tourism, culture, and the arts, who anticipate collaborative efforts to amplify Ghana’s global cultural footprint. Prominent individuals and organizations in the sector have lauded the decision, viewing Gomashie as the ideal figure to steer the ministry toward impactful change.
For further details, including highlights from the event, view the Twitter post.
The Member of Parliament for Suame, John Darko, has expressed concerns about Ghana’s economic future following the swearing-in of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as Finance Minister.
John Darko said the Finance Minister’s employment history does not reflect the necessary credentials to manage the country’s economic affairs.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, January 22, John Darko questioned Dr. Forson’s ability to effectively fulfill his mandate when there are unanswered questioned about his employment history.
“You and I will have to watch this space for the next 24 months, I believe in the next two years, this country, if care is not taken, we are going to face some difficulties. The Finance Minister, his record as a Member of Parliament looks impeccable but his record as somebody who can manage the Finance Ministry, I believe is next to nothing.
“Because his employment history tells it all. The only company he has worked in and said he was a director, is this company in the UK and it turns out that the information he provided is wrong. It turns out that that company has actually been liquidated and you are going to get this person to run your Ministry of Finance. It is a big issue and Ghanaians must ask questions.”
Ato Forson and five others were sworn-in by President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday and was tasked to fight to curb inflation, the Cedi depreciation, rising debt levels and a host of other macroeconomic challenges confronting Ghana.
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Mahama swears in Ato Forson, Haruna Iddrisu, four other Ministers
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Police in Kenya have arrested a man carrying a mutilated corpse in his backpack, which he reportedly said belonged to his 19-year-old wife.
Officers came across 29-year-old John Kiama Wambua while patrolling Huruma, a district east of Nairobi, just before dawn.
Suspecting Wambua was carrying something illegal, they searched his backpack and “to their shock” found the body parts, said a statement from Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
This is far from an isolated case – Kenya has one of the highest rates of femicide, or killings with a gender-related motivation, in Africa.
After police officers interrogated Mr Wambua, he told them that the body parts belonged to his wife, Joy Fridah Munani, according to the DCI statement.
He appeared “unperturbed” by the officers’ discovery, it said.
After the interrogation, Mr Wambua led the officers to his home, where they discovered a knife, blood-soaked clothes and more body parts under a bed.
The DCI described the act as “heinous”, adding that the suspect will be formally charged with murder during an upcoming court hearing.
Between August and October last year, at least 97 women were murdered, Kenya’s National Police Service said.
In December, hundreds of women protesting against a recent wave of femicides took to the streets of the capital, Nairobi. They were reportedly met by police firing teargas.
Kenya has seen several high-profile murders of women. In September 2024, Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei was killed by her former partner.
The 33-year-old died days after being doused in petrol and set alight at her home in western Kenya.
In July, police arrested Collins Jumaisi Khalusha, who they described as a “serial killer”, after the mutilated bodies of nine women were found in a disused quarry.
Mr Khalusha escaped from custody a month later and appears to still be on the run.
Earlier that year, in a case that sparked widespread outrage, a young woman named Rita Waeni was brutally murdered at a short-term rental apartment. The police said she was dismembered and stuffed into a plastic bag.
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Alidu Seidu, a former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asokore Mampong
Alidu Seidu, a former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asokore Mampong in the Ashanti region, has condemned the recent violent incidents in the country, particularly the clash between the Ghana Armed Forces and some youth of Obuasi, which led to several deaths.
He stated that such incidents pose a significant threat to the country’s democracy. In an interview on Oyerepa TV on January 22, 2025, Seidu accused the ruling government of allowing its members to perpetuate violence in the country. He explained that, given the current situation, many Ghanaians regret voting President John Dramani Mahama into power due to his inability to maintain order in the country.
“There was nothing significant that the NDC did to maximize their vote. It was our own people that did not vote, which is why we didn’t win the election. But wait, Ghanaians did not vote for what is happening now… people had the perception that John Mahama had been president before, and that is why they voted for him. But as I speak today, if we were to vote today, things would be different. The government itself is dead on arrival because of the current situation in the country. People have regretted voting for Mahama. There is nothing more important than peace.”
He also emphasized that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) would never engage in such acts of violence, referring to instances of coalition centers being invaded or goods being stolen.
The violent clash occurred on January 18, 2025, when some illegal miners entered the concession of AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) in Obuasi. A confrontation ensued between the illegal miners and soldiers stationed at the site. According to a statement by the Director General of Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, at around 11:00 PM on January 18, a group of approximately 60 illegal miners breached the security fence of the AngloGold Ashanti mine and attempted to access the Deep Decline area.
The soldiers, who were on a mission under Operation HALT II, responded when they were fired upon by the illegal miners, who were armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, gas cylinders, knives, heavy-duty industrial bolt cutters, axes, and machetes. The situation escalated, and the soldiers were forced to act in self-defense. The shootout resulted in the deaths of seven illegal miners, with one person seriously injured.
The President has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident. In a letter signed by the President’s spokesperson, Felix Ofosu-Kwakye, the government expressed deep regret over the tragic loss of up to eight lives, said to be illegal miners, following the violent clash at the Obuasi mining site.
AM/KA
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
The Chamber of Cannabis Industry has urged government to invest in the cannabis industry as part of its policies to diversify Ghana’s cash crops and generate revenue to support the economy.
The Chamber said Ghana had one of the best climates in the world to cultivate cannabis and that the country had the potential to generate about $1 billion from the $50bn global cannabis market.
Dr Mark Darko, CEO, of the Chamber of Cannabis Industry, made the call at the launch of the Chamber of Cannabis Training Centre and Sky Bridge Pharmaceuticals in Accra.
He said Ghana must leverage its cannabis resource for medicinal and industrial purposes following the passage of the Narcotics Control Commission Bill, 2023 that grants permission for the cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes.
“One can make not less than $10,000 from just one hectare of cannabis. This is a $50bn industry. If Ghana is able to make at least $1 billion annually from cannabis, you can imagine what that can do for our country. Cannabis will reset Ghana’s economy,” he said.
Dr Darko said the medicinal cannabis sector was a cornerstone to the growth of the sector due to its usefulness in chronic pain management, and epilepsy treatments, among other benefits.
“The United States recorded over $11 billion in medicinal cannabis revenue in 2021, and that’s set to more than double by 2025. Europe, projected to be the largest medicinal cannabis market in the world, is expected to reach $45 billion within the next five years,” he said.
Dr Darko said the Chamber’s Training Centre with support from the Sky Bridge Pharmaceuticals would equip farmers and processors with the tools and techniques to cultivate and process cannabis and hemp sustainably.
He said the Centre would also foster research and innovation to develop products that cater to global markets as well as promote ethical practices.
Dr Samuel Twumasi, Group CEO of Sky Bridge Group, said the company’s decision to invest in the cannabis sector, was intended to produce world-class cannabis-based medicines that met the highest global standards.
He appealed to the Government to expedite the passage of fees for the acquisition of licenses for the cultivation of cannabis to facilitate investments in the sector.
Cannabis, popularly known as marijuana, is a herbal medication made from plants in the Cannabis species that is used to treat a variety of symptoms and diseases, including cancer, chronic pain, and mental disorders.
According to Allied Market Research, the global cannabis market size was valued at $25.7 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $148.9 billion by 2031.
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General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Koduah, believes that there was a spiritual dimension to the party’s heavy defeat in the December 2024 general elections.
He based his point on the low voter turnout among the party’s members across the country, which he believes was not normal.
The lawyer and politician in an interview on a radio station also stated that some pastors and others who should have stood by the party to pray and support it spiritually pulled back because they were angry.
“I will use this medium to appeal to pastors who intercede for the NPP… This is because a lot of spiritual machinations went on ahead of the 2024 general elections. Things really happened in the spiritual realm; that is what I see and believe. Spiritually, we lost the elections. Some pastors who should have stood in the gap and interceded for us, some women of prayer who should have gone on their knees and prayed for us, refused to do so because there was a lot of anger. It is not usual. Out of sixteen regions… it is as though the NPP members rung themselves and told each other that they will not go and cast their vote. It just cannot happen like that, that we vote on a Saturday and yet a huge number of party supporters refused to go and vote for the party.”
Ahead of the election, Rev. Owusu Bempah, a prophet known to be a supporter of the NPP who had fallen out with the party, prophesied that the NPP would suffer a heavy defeat in the 2024 general election.
He stated that he would resort to spiritual machinations to ensure that the party loses the elections.
The Electoral Commission (EC) on Monday, December 9, confirmed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, as the winner of the 2024 election with 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast. He defeated his primary rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who garnered 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.
The NDC also won a huge majority in parliament, sweeping 183 seats against the NPP’s 88 seats.
NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Koduah has disclosed that the party’s defeat in the December elections was not physical but spiritual, basing his point on the low voter turnout among the party’s members across the country.
President John Mahama has disclosed that there is a proposal to use the Ho Airport in the Volta Region as a first-class pilot training school for West Africa.
According to the president, this move will allow young people who are interested in training as pilots to go to Ho and train at the Ho Airport.
President Mahama revealed this when he was addressing the clergy from the Volta Region when they paid a courtesy call on him at the Jubilee House.
He explained why flights to the Ho Airport was suspended.
“We built the Ho Airport with a lot of expectations that it will become a major commercial route for our domestic airlines and indeed one of the airlines started, that is Passion Air. Unfortunately, the traffic did not build up quickly as they expected and so they had to hold back and reappraise their strategy for the Volta Region. I actually tried to find out why and they were using two aircrafts, one is 70 passengers and one is I think 50 passengers or so.
“So, my advice to them was to start with a smaller aircraft and once the route develops then you can bring in a larger aircraft. So, I think they are reappraising their strategy and once they do that they might start flights to Ho again.”
He added that his government has plans to utilize the airport more as quickly as possible.
“But there is the proposition to use the Ho Airport as a pilot training school, a first-class pilot training school for West Africa, so that young people who are interested in training as pilots will come to Ho and train at the Ho Airport. That will help us to utilize the airport more. W are going to work on that so that we can utilize it as quickly as possible.”
“There is the proposition to use the Ho Airport as a pilot training school, a first-class pilot training school for West Africa, so that young people who are interested in training as pilots will come to Ho and train at the Ho Airport.” – Mahama#GraphicOnlinepic.twitter.com/pH574ajenK
The Civil Society Alliance has called on President John Dramani Mahama to issue a directive to immediately halt illegal mining activities across the country, stressing the detrimental effects these activities have on the environment.
Speaking at a press conference, the Executive Director of the Institute for Energy Security, Nana Amoasi VII, strongly urged John Mahama to take swift and decisive action.
“We urge you to issue a bold directive to halt all illegal mining activities immediately to deter those who defy the law,” he said.
He also recommended the repeal of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulation 2022 (L.I. 2462) and called for enhanced enforcement of existing mining laws to address the issue more effectively.
Dr. Steve Manteaw, Chairman of the Civil Society Alliance, joined the call, urging the President to tackle the issue of corruption that fuels the illegal mining crisis.
“We want John Mahama to issue a bold statement in terms of how he intends to fight corruption in general, including corruption in the allocation of mining licences,” he stated.
The group’s demand highlights the growing concern over the environmental impact of illegal mining and the need for urgent, comprehensive action to restore integrity to the country’s mining sector.
People who lost thousands of pounds after the collapse of a pre-paid funeral firm have hit out at the “tiny” sums they are set to be repaid after three years of waiting.
Some 46,000 people invested in a fund to cover the future cost of their funerals with Safe Hands Plans Ltd before the company fell into administration in 2022.
The administrator for Safe Hands, FRP Advisory, has said planholders could receive initial repayments – of between 8.5p and 12.5p for every pound they lost – by the end of June.
“Getting some money back is better than nothing – but it’s a slap in the face,” Denise Hudson, who shelled out nearly £2,500, said.
The 58-year-old, from Derby, paid for a Safe Hands plan in 2017 after seeing the firm advertised on television, and said she thought her investment was “foolproof”.
She is among planholders who are owed an estimated £70.6m in total.
A major fraud investigation into the dealings of Safe Hands, and its parent company, SHP Capital Holdings Ltd, was launched in October 2023.
In October last year, in an update to creditors, FRP Advisory said there would be repayments.
Then, on 3 January, administrators confirmed plan holders will get some money back – adding what people will get back is above the rate of 1p to 10p per pound lost in typical administration cases.
But Ms Hudson said: “We paid in full. We need the full money back.
“We put our trust in people and we have all been let down.
“Everyone will still lose an awful lot.”
‘Just anger is left’
Ms Hudson said she had to deal with the death of her mother Daisy and brother Rupert in 2024 as she was trying to get her money back.
“[Mum] had a brilliant funeral plan and that saved us a lot of time, everything was set out,” she said.
“I thought that is what would happen to me.
“Nobody would have had to go to any trouble, everything would have been sorted out – but that wasn’t to be.”
She accused Safe Hands’s bosses of doing “an underhanded, ruthless thing”.
“It’s appalling they could take people’s hard-earned savings,” she added.
“I did think I had done everything right. I did do my homework.
“I felt embarrassed more than anything else – that I’d handed my money over and lost it. Now just anger is left.”
David and Sandie Beatty said they wanted justice for planholders
Since July 2022, pre-paid funeral providers have required approval to operate from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Safe Hands was one of dozens of companies operating in the previously unregulated sector, and collapsed four months before the measures came in.
In 2017, Sandie and David Beatty, from Bingham in Nottinghamshire, paid Safe Hands £3,395 to cover the funeral costs for the first of them to die.
Mrs Beatty, 73, said they felt “angry, disappointed, sick” when the firm collapsed.
“Compared to what we put in, what we’ll get back is a tiny amount,” she said.
“When we get it, it might be enough to buy a pizza, and we’ll have a little party.
“For us, it’s not about the money now. We just want someone to be held to account.
“Our money went somewhere.”
Mr Beatty, 80, said: “There’s nothing we can do about it. We want justice but realistically we won’t get our money back.
“People have been taken for a ride and that stings.”
Aimee Geary said she doubted she would get any of her £3,000 back
Aimee Geary, 50, from Anstey in Leicestershire, paid £3,000 to Safe Hands in 2017.
The NHS worker said she took out the plan because she thought funeral costs would rise in the future.
“I felt quite happy,” Ms Geary said. “Other people thought I was young [to be planning my funeral].
“They thought I was mad. I’m very organised, and I didn’t want anyone else to have a job when I’m not here.
“It’s sad that you try to plan something and it has been taken away from you.”
She was told, in 2022, she would probably get £1 out of every £100 back.
“I’m disappointed,” she added. “Somebody else has to now find the money and arrange my funeral when I’m not here because I would never buy another [funeral plan].”
Heather Mould said her funeral arrangements had been dashed by Safe Hands’s collapse
Heather Mould, 77, and her partner Mike took out Safe Hands plans in 2017 – each paying £3,500.
Mrs Mould, from Allington in Lincolnshire, said: “It was quite a loss when you are on a pension.
“We were told we might get back 10p in the pound. It’s something, but it’s not a lot.
“I felt let down but we were pleased to find out before either of us had died so we could arrange something else.”
FRP told the BBC the Safe Hands administration case had been “complex” and had required extensive legal action both in the UK and abroad – including in the Cayman Islands – to trace funds that are due to creditors.
‘Significant loss’
It said it had so far recovered £11.4m for planholders and was focused on getting the best return for them.
FRP said it was “working towards” making an initial distribution to planholders before the end of the second financial quarter in June 2025, and had ringfenced a minimum of £1.6m to that end.
“While we understand the current estimated return of 8.5p to 12.5p in the pound still represents a significant loss to plan holders, it’s important to note this exceeds the typical returns in administration cases, where unsecured creditors usually receive between 1p to 10p in the pound,” a spokesperson said.
The administrator said its continuing efforts were running parallel to the ongoing Serious Fraud Office (SFO) investigation.
The Serious Fraud Office said there was “significant public interest” in the case
The spokesperson added: “We fully understand and deeply sympathise with the distress Safe Hands planholders are experiencing.
“The loss of funeral plan savings has created significant worry for many families, and we take our responsibility to recover funds for planholders extremely seriously.”
The SFO confirmed it was progressing an active criminal investigation into alleged fraud by Safe Hands Plans Limited and its parent company SHP Capital Holdings Limited.
A spokesperson said: “We recognise there is significant public interest in this case and are committed to sharing further information as soon as possible.”
Both former owners of Safe Hands – David Milson and Richard Philip Wells – were contacted for comment by the BBC but have not responded.
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The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has called for a thorough validation of data concerning the number of beneficiaries of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.
During his first official visit to the Ministry on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, following his swearing-in by President John Dramani Mahama, Iddrisu emphasized the need for accurate figures to guide policy discussions and reforms.
“One of the very first major issues the country must interrogate is the statistical validity of how many Ghanaians have benefited from Free Senior High School,” he stated.
The Minister noted discrepancies between reported figures, citing his research, which suggests that around 3.9 million students have benefited from the programme. This figure, however, contrasts with public records, including parliamentary reports, which place the number as high as 5.1 million.
“I am not saying mine is right, but 5.1 million was misleading because I have looked at the numbers from 2017 to 2023, and I am convinced that the number of students who have benefited from the Free SHS policy stands at not more than 3.9 million. But I need a validation of that data to begin with,” he explained.
Iddrisu clarified that his intention is not to discredit existing records but to establish a credible baseline for future policy decisions.
He also announced plans to convene a National Education Conference to assess the state of education in Ghana and develop actionable reforms. The validation of Free SHS data, he said, will be a critical starting point for these discussions.
The Minister’s focus on data integrity underscores his commitment to evidence-based policymaking as Ghana seeks to strengthen its education sector.
Attorney General to meet ORAL committee over looted assets recovery
Minister-designate for Youth Development, George Opare Addo, has reiterated the importance of addressing poverty as a fundamental step toward ending illegal mining practices in Ghana.
Speaking during his vetting on Wednesday, January 22, he shared his vision for a sustainable and environmentally friendly mining industry.
Opare Addo highlighted plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to promote sustainable mining methods emphasised that addressing poverty in mining communities is critical to curbing illegal activities.
“I have maintained that wherever there is gold and there is poverty, people will find a way of getting under the ground to find the gold. We must eradicate poverty from the areas we find ourselves, and if we can do that effectively by giving them alternative livelihoods, we may bring an end to illegal mining,” he said.
The minister-designate underscored the importance of creating alternative income-generating opportunities for communities in mining areas.
He believes this approach will reduce dependence on illegal mining while fostering sustainable development.
“There is a Ghana we all want. I want a Ghana where illegal mining is not a part of it, but we do mining in a manner that is sustainable and won’t degrade the environment in any way. I believe that is also the vision of John Dramani Mahama,” Opare Addo stated.
The minister-designate stressed the need to reorient young people involved in mining, urging a shift away from harmful and illegal practices.
“For young people who want to go into mining, we have to reset their minds. There is an old way that they have done things, and we must re-engage them to change from that old way,” he noted.
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Minister-designate of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo
Minister-designate of Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, has confidently confirmed his membership in the Freemasons.
This revelation came during the vetting of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Youth Organiser by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 22.
The trained lawyer and politician made this disclosure when he was directly questioned by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, himself a Freemason, about his affiliation with the secret society.
The exchange unfolded as follows:
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin: Are you a Freemason?
Youth Minister-nominee: Yes, I’m a Mason.
Minority Leader: Who is your mother?
Youth Minister-nominee: Amity.
Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin: In all difficulties and dangers, in whom do you place your trust?
Youth Minister-nominee: The Grand Architect of the Universe.
Emphasizing George Opare Addo’s suitability for the position, Afenyo-Markin sought further clarification on how the nominee intended to inspire confidence among Ghanaian youth in the newly established Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment.
The nominee underscored his commitment to inclusivity and effective leadership.
“I began by stating that the day His Excellency nominated me, I issued a statement urging every Ghanaian youth to believe in the type of leadership I bring on board. I will not be discriminatory. I am here to serve the Ghanaian youth and no one else,” Mr. Opare Addo affirmed.
Afenyo-Markin: “You have indicated membership in bodies and associations. Are you a Freemason?”
Former Minister for Youth and Sports and MP for Yagaba-Kubori, Mustapha Ussif
Former minister for Youth and Sports and Member of Parliament for Yagaba-Kubori, Mustapha Ussif, has expressed grave concerns over the increasing spate of violence and lawlessness allegedly being perpetrated by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) since their electoral victory in December 2024.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, Ussif called on President Mahama to take urgent steps to restore order and maintain the peace that was handed over by his predecessor, former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
“Mr. Speaker, His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo handed over a peaceful country to President John Dramani Mahama,” Ussif stated. “It is his responsibility to ensure that if he cannot improve the security situation, he should at least maintain what His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo handed over to him.”
Ussif cited a series of violent activities that have erupted in several parts of the country in the aftermath of the elections, describing incidents where NDC supporters allegedly attacked public institutions and disrupted the operations of security and sports facilities.
“Mr. Speaker, in my own constituency, Yagaba-Kubori, some miscreants attacked the district assembly office, locked up the place, and sacked all the staff. Just yesterday, some violent individuals invaded my house simply because I purchased wooden electricity poles to support some communities in my constituency,” he revealed.
He also cited the sacking of staff at the National Sports Authority offices located at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, describing these violent acts as a serious threat to the peace and stability of the country.
“The staff were all sacked in the full glare of the security agencies, with the Ghana Police watching on without making any arrests,” Ussif added.
“The NDC has not been able to restrain their supporters from these acts of violence across the country,” he remarked.
He urged President Mahama to rein in his party’s supporters to prevent further disruptions and to prioritize national security and ensure that peace prevails.
“The security situation is worrying, and I want to call on His Excellency the President to take action over the increasing violence and lawlessness being displayed by his party members,” he emphasized.
AM/KA
You can also watch as roads and highways minister-designate says there was no contract for the e-gates at the airport
Dr. Dominic Ayine, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, is set to meet with the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee next week to evaluate the committee’s progress and review the data collected on looted public assets.
The ORAL Committee, tasked with investigating suspected corruption and validating information on stolen public resources, is currently processing over 700 petitions from the public.
This marks a significant milestone in its mission to combat corruption and recover stolen assets.
Dr. Ayine confirmed the scheduled meeting, stating that it will focus on assessing the information gathered and planning the next steps in the recovery process.
He promised to take over the findings provided by the committee for further action,” he noted.
The upcoming meeting is expected to be instrumental in advancing the government’s anti-corruption agenda, ensuring accountability and transparency in the effort to reclaim public assets.
“The ORAL committee and I will be meeting somewhere early next week most likely on Monday and I will be briefed by them in respect of what they have gathered so far and of course I will take over the information that they have gathered.”
Serve with humility and candour – Mahama to New Ministers
A 21-year-old barber accused of stealing GH¢6,000.00 at Apatrapa in the Kwadaso Municipality has been granted bail of GH¢6,000.00 with one surety to be justified by the court.
Gerrard Dwomo, who pleaded not guilty, is scheduled to reappear before the Asante Akropong Circuit Court in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District on January 29, 2025.
Before the bail bond can be executed, the police are required to inspect the address he provided, AP13-Apatrapa, to confirm its existence and verify if he resides there.
Police Chief Inspector Ruth Gborson, presenting the facts of the case, identified Juliana Owusu Gyamfi, a resident of Apatrapa, as the complainant.
Chief Inspector Gborson explained that on January 11, 2025, at approximately 7:00 a.m., the complainant discovered that GH¢6,000.00 in cash had been stolen from her handbag, which was in front of her dressing mirror.
Upon reviewing footage from her doorbell camera, she saw the accused stealing the money. She subsequently reported the incident to the Abuakwa police.
During the police investigation, items seen on the accused in the camera footage-namely a bracelet, a waist bag, and a ring-were found in his room.
In his caution statement, the accused denied the theft. However, after further investigation, he was charged and brought before the court.
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
According to the Chamber of Cannabis Industry CEO Mark Darko, the sale of cannabis, a products expected to make a around $21.04 billion in 2025, globally, according to independent research firm Statista, could potentially generate up to $1 billion in revenue for the West African country.
Mark Darko relayed that this can be achived only with the intervention of the government, at the the opening of the Chamber of Cannabis Training Center in Accra, which will train farmers how to cultivate and process cannabis.
“One can make not less than $10,000 from just one hectare of cannabis. This is a $50 billion industry. If Ghana is able to make at least $1 billion annually from cannabis. Cannabis will reset Ghana’s economy,” local media quoted Darko as saying.
Following the adoption of the Narcotics Control Commission Bill, 2023, which authorizes the growing of cannabis for industrial uses, the CEO stated that Ghana must utilize its cannabis resource for both therapeutic and industrial purposes.
“One can make not less than $10,000 from just one hectare of cannabis. This is a $50bn industry. If Ghana is able to make at least $1 billion annually from cannabis, you can imagine what that can do for our country. Cannabis will reset Ghana’s economy,” he said.
“The United States recorded over $11 billion in medicinal cannabis revenue in 2021, and that’s set to more than double by 2025. Europe, projected to be the largest medicinal cannabis market in the world, is expected to reach $45 billion within the next five years,” he added.
According to Darko, the Chamber’s Training Center will provide farmers and processors with the assets and expertise to grow and manage cannabis and hemp in a way that’s sustainable with assistance from Sky Bridge Pharmaceuticals.
He also noted that the center is going to encourage ethical behavior, research and innovation to create goods that serve international markets.
According to Samuel Twumasi, Group CEO of Sky Bridge Group, the company intended to participate in the cannabis industry in order to manufacture unparalleled cannabis-based medications that adhere to the tightest regulations globally.
To encourage investment in the industry, he urged the government to impose taxes and levies for cannabis growing permits as soon as possible.
Mahama Ayariga is tipped to be appointed Majority Leader
A leadership reshuffle within the majority caucus in Parliament is set to commence on Thursday, January 23, 2025, following the appointment of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson as Finance Minister and Kwame Governs Agbodza as Minister for Roads and Highways.
Announcing the upcoming changes on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the outgoing Majority Leader stated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would finalize decisions regarding the party’s front bench leadership Thursday.
He clarified that until he is officially sworn into his ministerial role, he remains the Majority Leader.
Sources within the caucus indicate that Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga, is favoured to succeed Dr. Ato Forson as Majority Leader.
Additionally, South Dayi MP, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, is expected to replace Governs Agbodza as Majority Chief Whip.
Other anticipated changes include:
Cape Coast South MP, Kweku Ricketts-Hagan, is projected to assume the role of Deputy Majority Leader, replacing Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
Second Deputy Whip, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah, is likely to be elevated to First Deputy Whip.
The reshuffle aims to strengthen leadership within the Majority Caucus as the NDC-led government embarks on its governance agenda.
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Defence minister-designate
Here’s a corrected version of your text:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah was, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, nominated by President John Dramani Mahama as the Defence Minister.
Dr. Omane Boamah is a prominent Ghanaian politician, medical doctor, and Health Policy Planning and Financing Analyst, with a rich background in strategic negotiation, solution-oriented leadership, environmental security, and Information and Communication Technology, including cybersecurity.
He is a product of the University of Ghana Medical School, the London School of Economics and Political Science, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and Harvard University.
His diverse educational background empowers him to merge his medical expertise with a deep understanding of financial planning and strategic analysis to solve complex challenges.
Dr. Omane Boamah has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in various key roles.
He served as the Minister of Communications and Spokesperson for President Mahama during his first administration, where he championed several vital cybersecurity initiatives, including Child Online Protection.
He also led the rollout of the Government of Ghana’s 4G LTE network (GOTA), which provides enhanced communication capabilities for security agencies.
As a former Civilian Employee of the Ministry of Defence, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to national and human security.
His excellent negotiation skills and innovative thinking position him as a forward-thinking leader, ready to address the complexities of modern security challenges. He is also a strong advocate for the institution’s dignity and the well-being of servicewomen and men.
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
The Minority Caucus in Parliament on Wednesday January 22, 2025, urged President John Dramani Mahama to use Ghana’s presidential jet instead of using private flights for international duties abroad.
The minority said it was “embarrassing” for the president to travel on commercial flights while the Presidential Jet was in good condition.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, Dominic Nitiwul, the former Minister of Defence, said the Presidential Jet was in good condition after undergoing servicing in Paris, France, about eight months ago.
“The difference today is that the Presidential Jet is serviceable. It can move, it is working and so, it’s wrong for the President of the Republic to be going on commercial jets while the jet Ghana uses her money to pay for and working, is ignored,” he said.
His remarks follow a communication read by the Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah Amoakoh, informing the House that President Mahama would travel to the United Arab Emirates.
Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Member of Parliament for Adaklu and the Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, while contributing to the issue, explained that President Mahama had been using commercial flight for his journey since he assumed office on January 7, 2025.
He said President Mahama had been “moderate” by using commercial flights, unlike former President Nana Akufo-Addo who had the taste for “expensive and luxurious flights” expending so much money on that.
Agbodza’s comments sparked heated debate between the NDC Majority Caucus and their Minority counterparts, forcing the Speaker to temporarily suspend sitting for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Dr. Randy Anertey Abbey, Acting Chief Executive of the Ghana Cocoa Board
The rank and file of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Dadekotopon Constituency have expressed excitement over the appointment of Dr. Randy Anertey Abbey as the Acting Chief Executive of the Ghana Cocoa Board.
“Dr. Abbey has been one of the most reliable sources of support for party activities whenever the constituency calls on him,” said Dzifa Gunu, the Constituency Secretary in a statement.
The leadership of the Dadekotopon Constituency expressed confidence in Dr. Abbey’s ability to transform the fortunes of the Ghana Cocoa Board, describing him as a source of pride for the constituency.
“We in Dadekotopon pride ourselves on his membership of the constituency and look forward to him steering the affairs of the struggling golden bean organization back to its roots for the economic growth of the country,” the statement added.
The constituency also extended gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for recognizing Dr. Abbey’s capabilities and honouring the constituency with this appointment.
“On behalf of the Member of Parliament, the Constituency Chairman, the entire constituency executives, branch executives, and the grassroots of the NDC in Dadekotopon, we say a big congratulations to Dr. Abbey. We wish him success in his new role.”
AM/KA
You can also watch as roads and highways minister-designate says there was no contract for the e-gates at the airport
A 21-year-old barber, who was said to have stolen someone’s GH¢6,000 at Apatrapa in the Kwadaso Municipality, has been granted GH¢6,000 bail with one surety to be justified, by the same court.
Gerrard Dwomo pleaded not guilty and will reappear before the Asante Akropong Circuit Court in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District on January 29, 2025.
Before the bail bond could be executed, the police will inspect the address, AP13-Apatrapa that he gave as his place of abode to confirm if that place existed or if he really lived there.
Police Chief Inspector Ruth Gborson giving the facts of the case, mentioned Juliana Owusu Gyamfi as the complainant and a resident of Apatrapa.
Chief Gborson explained that on January 11, this year, at about 7 am, the complainant detected the theft of her GH¢6,000 cash from her handbag in front of her dressing mirror.
She watched her doorbell camera and found that the camera had captured the accused stealing the money and made a report to the Abuakwa police.
During police investigations, the bracelet, waist bag and ring that were captured on the accused person in the camera were found in his room.
In his caution statement, he denied but after further investigations, he was charged and brought before the court.
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.
President John Mahama has asked all ministers to declare their assets.
The move he noted forms part of efforts to curb corruption.
He gave the directive at the swearing-in ceremony of the first six appointed ministers at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
The President said it should no longer be business as usual, and the Ghanaian people are demanding accountability and transparency.
“I expect all of you to begin the process of declaring your assets,” he said, adding that the Chief of Staff would soon announce a cut-off date by which all eligible appointees must submit their asset declaration forms to the Auditor-General.
He reiterated his commitment in dealing with acts of corruption, pledging to empower the various anti-corruption agencies to deal with all forms of corruption by any of his appointees.
He stressed that it cannot be “business as usual” in his government.
He advised his appointees to deliver their duties in humility and candour since arrogance will not be tolerated under his government.
“As I pointed out during my inaugural speech, Ghanaians have, through their votes, declared their intention to demand the highest standards of governance, and we cannot afford to fail them,” President Mahama stated.
“This naturally puts a burden of responsibility on us, which we must prove equal to. Ghanaians have shown that the days of tolerance for disrespectful gaslighting by government officials are well and truly over.”
“We must exhibit tolerance for their views and work to meet their aspirations. This government will not tolerate arrogance or disrespect for the people who elected us into office. Modesty and prudence must be the guiding principles upon which you, myself, and our vice president fashion our governance.”
“The people of Ghana will hold us accountable for the trust they have placed in our hands. It cannot be business as usual. We must be transparent and fair in all our dealings,” he added.
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Member of Parliament for Old Tafo in the Ashanti Region, Vicent Ekow Assafuah has questioned the decision to allow only women to work at the Women’s Development Bank.
Minister-Designate Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, during her vetting, disclosed that only women will be employed at the Women’s Development Bank, a key initiative promised by President John Mahama in his manifesto.
“There will be a dedicated policy on women at the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry. The focus is to promote women and help them scale up their efforts in the industry, so we can see more women in leadership roles,” she stated.
She further elaborated on the women’s bank, saying, “The women’s bank is specifically designed to support women. What’s unique about the bank is that only women will work there. Its implementation will create opportunities for women to thrive.”
But reacting to the decision to employ only women, Vicent Ekow Assafuah believes the policy is discriminatory and needs to be reviewed to make it more inclusive like policies and programmes introduced in the past by the New Patriotic Party.
“Our party believes that women’s progress is not a zero-sum game—we do not need to suppress one group to uplift another. If the NDC truly believes in empowerment, they should focus on creating opportunities rather than closing doors on capable Ghanaian men who may also contribute positively to the institution,” he said in a statement.
He proposed that “Instead of making the Women’s Development Bank an exclusionary institution, the government should:
✔ Ensure it is women-led and women-focused, but open to qualified professionals of all genders who can contribute meaningfully.
✔ Provide clear hiring criteria based on merit, not gender, to guarantee competence and efficiency.
✔ Adopt policies that foster mentorship and training for women, rather than simply locking men out”.
Read his statement below:
STATEMENT ON THE WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT BANK POLICY
Empowerment Must Be Inclusive: Building a Stronger Ghana Together
I acknowledge the efforts of Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare and the NDC government in recognizing the need to empower women economically. Indeed, women have long faced challenges in accessing financial resources, and targeted interventions such as the Women’s Development Bank can play a role in addressing these disparities.
However, as a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has a proven track record of advancing inclusive development, I must emphasize that true empowerment does not come from exclusionary policies. The statement that “only women will work at the Women’s Development Bank” is not only concerning but also fundamentally flawed and divisive. National development must be built on inclusivity, not discrimination.
The NPP’s Legacy of True Gender Empowerment
Unlike the NDC’s approach, which seeks to politicize empowerment by shutting out capable Ghanaians based on gender, the NPP has always championed inclusive policies that empower women without excluding men. Under NPP governments, we have seen:
1. The MASLOC Initiative, which provided direct financial support to thousands of female entrepreneurs.
2. The Free SHS Policy, which ensured equal access to education for girls and boys, setting a foundation for long-term empowerment.
3. The Affirmative Action Bill, which our administration worked on to increase women’s participation in governance while maintaining inclusivity.
Our party believes that women’s progress is not a zero-sum game—we do not need to suppress one group to uplift another. If the NDC truly believes in empowerment, they should focus on creating opportunities rather than closing doors on capable Ghanaian men who may also contribute positively to the institution.
A Better Way Forward
Instead of making the Women’s Development Bank an exclusionary institution, the government should:
1. Ensure it is women-led and women-focused, but open to qualified professionals of all genders who can contribute meaningfully.
2. Provide clear hiring criteria based on merit, not gender, to guarantee competence and efficiency.
3. Adopt policies that foster mentorship and training for women, rather than simply locking men out.
We in the NPP remain committed to real empowerment—one that uplifts Ghanaian women while ensuring that no capable individual is left behind. If the NDC government insists on enforcing gender-based restrictions in employment, we will not hesitate to challenge such a discriminatory policy in Parliament and through every democratic avenue available.
Let us build a Ghana where empowerment means opportunity, not exclusion. We must rise above partisan, short-sighted policies and focus on what truly benefits our nation.
The NPP will always stand for inclusive development, economic prosperity, and policies that bring Ghanaians together—not divide them.
In service to Ghana,
Hon.Vincent Ekow Assafuah,Esq
MP, Old Tafo Constituency
Meanwhile, watch as NDC supporters vandalise Ho Central office over government appointment
Stack of newspapers | File photo
