Pope Leo XIV appealed for “no more war” in a message to world powers during his first Sunday, May 11, address at the Vatican.

Reflecting on current conflicts, the newly selected pontiff called for a “lasting peace” in the war in Ukraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and welcomed Saturday’s agreement to end recent hostilities between India and Pakistan.

He said he was “deeply hurt” by events in Gaza, expressed hope for a “lasting accord” between India and Pakistan, and wished for a “authentic, true and lasting peace” in Ukraine.

The Pope also recited the Regina Caeli prayer, in honour of the Virgin Mary, to the crowd in St Peter’s Square.

Pope Leo was chosen as the new leader of the Catholic Church on Thursday, following a two-day conclave in Vatican City and the death of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

On Saturday, he visited a shrine outside Rome and then prayed before Francis’ tomb inside the basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.

Pope Leo will be formally inaugurated at a mass in St Peter’s Square next week on 18 May.

Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, he said: “The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago… now we’re facing the tragedy of a third world war in pieces.

“I would also like to address the powerful people of the world, repeating the always-current call: ‘no more war’.”

The pontiff continued: “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people.

“May whatever is possible be done to reach an authentic, true and lasting peace as quickly as possible. May all the prisoners be freed. May children return to their families.

“And I am deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip.

“May a ceasefire immediately come into effect. May humanitarian aid be allowed into the civilian population, and may all hostages be freed.

He went on: “I was happy to hear, on the other hand, that there was a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and I hope that through the coming negotiations we might soon come to a lasting accord.”

His remarks come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, set out competing plans for a peace process to bring the three-year invasion of Ukraine to an end.

In the Middle East, Israel has cut off all humanitarian aid entering Gaza and resumed its military offensive in the Palestinian territory following the collapse of a two-month ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement.

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan agreed to a tentative ceasefire on Saturday after days of cross-border military strikes that followed an attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir on 22 April.

It has been a busy week for the pontiff, who held his first Mass as Pope in the Sistine Chapel on Friday before speaking to cardinals on Saturday.

During this meeting, he described himself as an unworthy choice for Pope and vowed to continue the “precious legacy” of his predecessor.

He highlighted the importance of missionary work and discussion, as well as care for those he called the “least and the rejected”.

He explained he had chosen the name Leo after a 19th-century Pope known for his teaching on social justice.

The new Pope also suggested that the development of artificial intelligence and other advances meant the church was necessary today for the defence of human dignity and justice.

“Peace be with you all,” Pope Leo XIV says in his first speech

He is due to hold an audience with the media on Monday ahead of his inauguration next Sunday.

As part of that mass, he will deliver a homily in the presence of numerous heads of state and dignitaries.

The 69-year-old is the 267th occupant of the throne of St Peter, and the first American to become a pontiff. He will lead members of the Catholic Church’s global community of 1.4bn people.

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he worked for many years as a missionary in Peru before being made an archbishop there. He also has Peruvian nationality.

Although Leo was born in the US, the Vatican described him as the second pope from the Americas. Pope Francis, from Argentina, was the first.

Pope Leo is widely seen as a moderate who can offer “continuity” and “unity” following the death of his predecessor last month.

The new pontiff is believed to have shared Francis’ views on migrants, the poor and the environment.

In his first speech, he told the crowds he wanted “to walk together with you as a united Church searching all together for peace and justice”.

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President John Dramani Mahama has extended heartfelt Mother’s Day wishes to mothers across Ghana, with a special mention of his Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, May 10, President Mahama shared that he visited Professor Opoku-Agyemang earlier in the day, describing the encounter as a meaningful gesture.

“A special Mother’s Day greeting to my Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman, whom I had the pleasure of visiting earlier this morning,” he wrote.

According to the President, the Vice President is currently taking a well-earned rest following a recent illness and is expected to return to her official duties soon.

“To her and all Ghanaian mothers, I say Happy Mother’s Day,” he concluded.

The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has issued a public apology following widespread backlash over a cash donation he made to former fetish priestess-turned-evangelist, Patricia Oduro Koranteng, popularly known as Nana Agradaa.

The apology comes after a video surfaced on social media showing Mr. Gyamfi handing over dollars to Nana Agradaa during an event. The gesture sparked criticism from members of the public and political supporters, many of whom expressed disappointment over his association with the controversial figure.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, May 11, Mr. Gyamfi described the donation as a “private act of kindness” and admitted he had not anticipated it becoming public. He called the situation “unfortunate and regrettable” and extended a heartfelt apology to those offended by his actions.

“I sincerely thought that I was doing this act of kindness in private, and never imagined that same could find its way into the public space,” he wrote.

“To all such comrades, I am sincerely sorry for this unfortunate act of indiscretion. I respect and appreciate your views.”

Mr. Gyamfi also clarified that the gesture was not politically motivated but rather in line with his personal values of helping those in need.

He reaffirmed his commitment to public service, stating, “My view of public office as a privilege to serve society, solve problems, and help others has not changed. I remain focused on the task entrusted to me by His Excellency, the President, for the development of our country.”

He thanked those who had offered counsel and support, and wished all mothers a happy Mother’s Day.

Read below the full statement by Sammy Gyamfi

Folks, I have taken notice of the wave of criticisms against my person in the last 24 hours.

To clarify, this was simply a kind gesture to a fellow human being, in line with my daily and life-long custom of lending a helping hand to people in need.

I sincerely thought that I was doing this act of kindness in private, and never imagined that same could find its way into the public space. That is unfortunate and regrettable.

I must say that, I understand the uproar that this gesture has generated, particularly from comrades who are sincerely hurt by same. To all such comrades, I AM SINCERELY SORRY for this unfortunate act of indiscretion. I respect and appreciate your views.

My profound appreciation goes to all those who have reached out to counsel and encourage me. I’m most grateful for your solidarity.

Let me state however, that my view of public office as a privilege to serve society, solve problems and help others, has not changed.

I remain focused on the task entrusted to me by His Excellency, the President for the development of our country.

Stay blessed and have a blissful Sunday. Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers out here.

Mother’s Day: We’re pillars of our homes and heartbeat of our nation – Lordina

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Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has paid tribute to mothers across Ghana in a heartfelt message to mark this year’s Mother’s Day celebration.

In a statement released on Sunday, May 11, the Vice President expressed profound appreciation for the strength, love, and sacrifices of mothers, grandmothers, caregivers, and all mother figures who, she said, form the foundation of families and communities.

“Today, we honour the women whose strength, love, and everyday sacrifices build the foundation of our families and communities,” she stated.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also extended her gratitude on behalf of the nation, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of women to the country’s progress.

“To every mother, grandmother, caregiver, and mother figure: thank you. May you feel the deep gratitude of a nation that thrives because of you,” she said.

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The First Lady of Ghana, Lordina Mahama, has extended warm wishes and heartfelt appreciation to all mothers across the country in celebration of Mother’s Day.

In a statement released on Sunday, May 11, by the Office of the First Lady, she commended mothers for their strength, resilience, and daily sacrifices, describing them as pillars of society and the heartbeat of the nation.

Lordina Mahama acknowledged the vital role women play in nurturing families and supporting their spouses, emphasizing that mothers are central to building strong communities and a compassionate nation.

“My dear mothers and remarkable women of Ghana, on this beautiful occasion of Mother’s Day, my heart is filled with profound gratitude and admiration for each of you.

“We are the pillars of our homes and the heartbeat of our nation. Mothers nurture the future. Our nurturing hands, wise counsel, and unconditional assistance foster strong families and communities, laying the groundwork for a compassionate society,” she remarked.

First Lady of Ghana reaffirmed her commitment to supporting women and vulnerable groups across the country.

She praised mothers for their vital role in nation-building and acknowledged the daily sacrifices they make for the well-being of their families and communities.

“My dear mothers, I know your daily efforts and challenges as you strive to build better lives for yourselves and your families. The well-being of our homes and children is intrinsically linked to the progress and stability of our nation.

“My commitment to supporting women and vulnerable groups in Ghana remains as strong as ever. Ensuring that mothers receive the best possible care during pregnancy and childbirth and that our children have access to quality health services is a cause very close to my heart, and I will continue to champion it,” the First Lady assured.

Click here to read the statement by Lordina Mahama

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President John Dramani Mahama has extended heartfelt wishes to all mothers in Ghana and around the world, celebrating their unwavering resilience, strength, and dedication to their families and communities.

In a statement released on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, President Mahama praised mothers for their tireless efforts in shaping the future, often in the face of significant challenges.

“Happy Mother’s Day to all the tireless mothers working to build a better future for their children,” he said. “Many of you encounter various challenges, yet your resilience inspires your children and others in the community.”

He used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to policies that will improve the lives of mothers and children across the country, pledging to prioritize access to quality healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.

“As we celebrate our mothers today, let us renew our commitment to building a Ghana where every mother and child has the opportunity to thrive,” President Mahama stated.

He encouraged all Ghanaians to take a moment to reflect and express gratitude to the women who nurtured and shaped them, saying, “Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the incredible women who nurtured us.”

Masked raids marred Mahama’s promise to Ghanaians – Kojo Asante

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Dr. Kojo Asante, Director for Advocacy and Policy Engagement at the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has called for a thorough investigation into the explosive claims made by former National Security official, Kwabena Adu-Boahene—but only if they are backed by credible evidence.

His comments follow the emergence of a memo written by Adu-Boahene to the National Security Coordinator, in which he alleged that over GH¢8 million was disbursed to opposition parties to support logistics for the 2024 general elections.

The memo also claims that GH¢49 million—currently the focus of a criminal case against Adu-Boahene—was used for covert national security operations. Additionally, GH¢5.1 million was reportedly spent on luxury vehicles for the office of the then president-elect.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Dr. Asante cautioned that allegations suggesting inducements to state institutions—including Parliament—must be taken seriously, but only after verifying the facts.

“If this claim is substantiated, that payments were made to other state bodies, including Parliament, for the passing of legislation, as some sought a bribe or facilitation, those things have to be investigated.

“It has to be established that this is true, then we take the next step. Rather than the invitation to start going off on a tangent of investigations when the processes themselves to establish the facts have not been exhausted,” he said.

Dr. Asante also commented on the recent protests by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and affiliated groups in response to President John Dramani Mahama’s suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo. He noted that the political tension surrounding the judiciary stems from longstanding governance issues.

“What started all these, you can go as far back as 2013, is a governance problem. It is the governance arrangement around the discretion that the Chief Justice has when it comes to paneling on cases, for not having a cap on the number of justices and how those functions and power have been exercised, and the discussions these have generated among the political class, particularly around the position of bias around petitions.

“The history is very clear, once we started going to court to challenge the validity of elections, the Supreme Court became even more politicised. If we don’t find other non-legal ways of addressing this, it will become a real issue,” he added.

Adu-Boahene had no choice but to speak out – Manso Nkwanta MP