A staunch supporter of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) has broken down in tears, accusing party leadership of neglecting him after the 2024 elections.
The middle-aged man, identified as Ex-Doe, a commercial driver at Madina Zongo Junction, said he has not received any form of acknowledgement despite his sacrifices for the party.
Laughter echoed across the park as kids bounced, jumped, and played during the Joy FM Party at the Park, with the bouncing castles quickly becoming the main attraction for the young ones.
Children lined up excitedly for their turn on the colourful inflatable castles, where they leapt into the air, tumbled with friends, and burned off energy under the watchful eyes of parents and volunteers.
The bounce area stayed busy throughout the event, filled with smiles and nonstop motion.
It spilt into laughter on grass-stained clothes, tired legs and faces lit with unfiltered excitement.
As families streamed into the gardens for Joy FM’s Family Party in the Park, children quickly claimed the space in ways only they can, running freely, chasing games, tugging at parents’ hands and turning the wide green landscape into a playground of their own making.
Away from the wrapped gifts and indoor routines of Christmas Day, the park offered something simpler: room to move.
Children darted between activity points, queued impatiently for games, and ate with their families.
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.
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.
Kafui Danku (L) says Dr Omane Boamah’s birthday alarm woke her up on December 26
Kafui Danku-Pitcher, the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Secretary of the Ghana National Film Authority, has shared an emotional birthday tribute to the late Dr Edward Omane Boamah, who would have turned 50 on December 26, 2025.
In a Facebook post on December 26, the day meant to mark the late Minister of Defence’s birthday, Kafui Danku disclosed that a birthday reminder alarm for Dr Omane Boamah was what woke her up that morning.
According to the NFA CEO, the moment brought back memories of their shared experiences and left her feeling emotional about his absence.
While she admits that his passing still upsets her, she said she trusts that God knows best and believes Dr Omane Boamah is in heaven watching over his loved ones.
Helicopter Crash: Entertainment personalities spotted at the final funeral rites
“Dorrrrc, your birthday reminder alarm woke me up this morning and it reminded me of all the good times.
I went to my drawer to look at the little, thoughtful gift I’ve had ready for you since January. I still remember when I told you l’d write an entire article about you on your next birthday and your response was just ‘Kafui!’ with that smile.
“Sometimes, I feel upset that you’re no longer here with us, but I trust that God knows best.
Somethings will never be the same! I believe you’re in Heaven, watching over us. You will always be deeply missed!” she wrote.
Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah was among eight people who lost their lives in a military helicopter crash in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region on August 6, 2025. All eight occupants of the aircraft died at the scene.
The Ghana Air Force Z9 helicopter had taken off from Accra at about 9:12am en route to Obuasi when it lost radar contact shortly after departure, according to the Ghana Armed Forces.
Those on board included three crew members and five passengers. The deceased were Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister of Environment; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Amaning Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
#TrendingGH: Mixed reactions greet church members on 2025 Christmas celebration
AK/EB
Nyame Somafo Yaw is the Founder and Leader of Asomdwee Ntonton Som
The Founder and Leader of Asomdwee Ntonton Som, Nyame Somafo Yaw, has claimed that over 30 percent of Ghanaian prisoners are innocent and called on the government to grant a mass amnesty to ease the hardship in the country.
Addressing attendees at the 2025 Asomdwee Ntonton Som convention, Nyame Somafo Yaw stressed that many prisoners have been jailed for crimes they did not commit, saying their “souls are haunting the country.”
He further alleged that some judges were influenced by complaints when sentencing innocent individuals and emphasized that this issue needs urgent attention.
The leader urged the government to review minor cases that have resulted in imprisonment and consider granting amnesty to free those wrongly jailed.
He added that such a move would also help reduce congestion in prisons across the country, creating more space and improving conditions for those incarcerated.
A policy group has called on the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to withdraw its draft guidelines on non-interest banking, warning that the proposed framework is “not fit for implementation” due to legal, regulatory and prudential weaknesses.
In a formal submission to the central bank, Advocates for Christ Ghana – Economy, Business and Finance Gate (A4CG) said the draft guidelines contain internal contradictions and structural flaws that could undermine regulatory credibility, consumer protection, and market confidence if implemented.
“The exposure draft, in its current form, is not fit for implementation,” the group stated, adding that proceeding with the guidelines “poses material risks to the integrity of the regulatory framework and the stability of the financial system.”
The submission, dated December 23, 2025, was made in response to the Bank of Ghana’s call for public comments on the draft regulatory and supervisory framework for non-interest banking.
According to A4CG, the guidelines raise serious legal concerns, particularly around constitutional neutrality and equal treatment under the law, while also presenting supervisory and prudential challenges that could complicate enforcement.
“The draft guidelines suffer from internal inconsistencies and legal vulnerabilities that expose the Bank of Ghana to regulatory and constitutional risk,” the group said.
A4CG stressed that its position was not rooted in opposition to faith-based or alternative banking models, but in concerns over governance, consumer safeguards, and policy coherence.
“We are not opposed to innovation in financial services,” the group noted, “but such innovation must be grounded in clear legal authority, prudential soundness, and strong consumer protection.”
The group urged the central bank to withdraw the draft and re-issue a revised framework after a comprehensive technical review and broader stakeholder engagement.
“The safest and most responsible course of action is to withdraw the draft guidelines and re-issue them only after the identified defects have been fully addressed,” the submission said.
The Bank of Ghana has not yet publicly responded to the concerns raised.
Tamale: Police arrest 28-year-old with 98 parcels of suspected cannabis
Alfred Kotey Ashie, Member of Parliament (MP) for Odododiodoo Constituency, has instituted an annual amateur and juvenile boxing event aimed at discovering talents for Ghana’s national boxing teams. The inaugural showdown, dubbed “The MPs Punch,” takes place Thursday evening at Bukom Square Park.
The event, organised in collaboration with the United Coaches Association of Ghana, celebrates Boxing Day and begins at 7pm. It is open to the public and targets young boxers seeking to showcase their abilities before scouts and coaches.
In an exclusive interview, Hon. Kotey Ashie described his constituency as a major producer of Ghanaian boxing champions. However, he emphasised that talent exists nationwide and urged Ghanaians to avoid injecting politics or tribalism into sports.
“Though the Greater Accra Region has produced most of the world champions for Ghana, we see ourselves as Ghanaians first,” the lawmaker stated. He referenced the recent bout between Freezy Macbones and Jonathan Tetteh, saying it should unite rather than divide the nation.
The MP observed that both fighters appeared tired and lacked stamina, suggesting inadequate training. He praised promoters for raising organisational standards in boxing shows. Boxers who deliver exciting performances at “The MPs Punch” will receive Christmas presents as rewards.
Hon. Ashie advised young participants to arrive punctually and maintain discipline throughout the competition. He stressed that such values remain crucial for success in professional boxing.
The Odododiodoo legislator also extended greetings to the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) ahead of its elections scheduled for Saturday, December 28. He expressed hope that winning candidates would advance the sport as Africa prepares to host the Youth Olympic Games in Senegal and eyes the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Hon. Ashie congratulated four young Ghanaian boxers who recently competed at the African Youth Games in Angola, where all returned with medals. Their achievement demonstrates the potential within Ghana’s youth boxing programme.
Bukom Square Park, located in the heart of Accra’s boxing community, has historically served as a training ground for numerous national and world champions. The venue’s selection for “The MPs Punch” reflects its significance in Ghana’s boxing heritage.
The event represents part of broader efforts to identify and nurture athletic talent at grassroots level. With proper support and training, organisers believe many young boxers can progress to represent Ghana at continental and global competitions.
Aspiring boxers and boxing enthusiasts are encouraged to attend the evening showdown, which promises competitive bouts and an opportunity to witness emerging talent in Ghanaian amateur boxing.
Hackers reportedly stole over $100,000 from a Ghanaian financial institution
INTERPOL has disclosed that a ransomware attack on a Ghanaian financial institution led to the theft of about US$120,000, highlighting the growing financial toll cybercrime is taking on banks and other financial institutions across the continent.
The incident came to light during Operation Sentinel, a coordinated cybercrime operation carried out in 19 African countries.
According to INTERPOL, the attackers encrypted an estimated 100 terabytes of data, severely disrupting operations and cutting off access to critical systems.
Although Ghanaian authorities later managed to recover nearly 30 terabytes of data through advanced malware analysis, the financial loss underscored how lucrative such attacks have become for cybercriminals.
Promoted female police officer recounts going undercover as club girl to arrest suspect
The Ghana case formed part of a wider crackdown that revealed the scale of losses suffered by financial institutions and businesses across Africa.
INTERPOL said total losses linked to the investigated cases exceeded US$21 million, with hackers exploiting ransomware, business email compromise, and digital extortion schemes.
INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime, Neal Jetton, warned that attackers are increasingly targeting sectors that hold large volumes of sensitive data and financial assets.
He said the outcomes of Operation Sentinel demonstrate both the scale of the threat and the importance of coordinated responses.
“The scale and sophistication of cyberattacks across Africa are accelerating, especially against critical sectors like finance and energy. The outcomes from Operation Sentinel reflect the commitment of African law enforcement agencies, working in close coordination with international partners,” he said.
According to the report, 574 arrests have been made, and about US$3 million has been recovered.
FKA/MA
#TrendingGH: Mixed reactions greet church members on 2025 Christmas celebration
Engineers and Planners Corporate Ltd has donated food items to the Disabled Christian Fellowship International and the Accra Rehabilitation Centre as part of Christmas outreach efforts. The presentation took place on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
The company, led by Ibrahim Mahama, provided 100 bags of rice, 20 cartons of corned beef, 20 cartons of mackerel, and 20 cartons of cooking oil to support persons with disabilities during the festive season.
Francis Adjetey Sowah, Executive Director of the Disabled Christian Fellowship International and immediate past President of the Amputee Football Federation of Africa (AFFA), received the items on behalf of beneficiaries. He expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, particularly highlighting Ibrahim Mahama’s consistent generosity.
“For him to remember persons with disabilities at this crucial period of joy and merriment is commendable and should be emulated, more so because of their vulnerability,” Sowah stated. He noted that many persons with disabilities struggle to access essential commodities during festive celebrations.
Sowah described the donation as providing hope and reinforcing a sense of inclusivity for the disability community. He said the gesture would remain memorable for beneficiaries who often feel overlooked during holiday celebrations.
Rafiq Mahama, representing Engineers and Planners, presented the items on behalf of his brother and the company. He expressed enthusiasm about the timing of the donation and revealed that the organisation is planning capacity building initiatives and innovative programmes for the disability community in the near future.
The ceremony drew attendance from key figures in Ghana’s disability advocacy sector. Seth Dzidzornu, Centre Manager of the Accra Rehabilitation Centre, attended alongside his management team. Elvis Alipui and James Borteye of the Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled also participated, along with other members of the disability community.
Engineers and Planners Corporate Ltd has maintained a reputation for supporting vulnerable groups across Ghana. The company’s Christmas donation reflects ongoing efforts to include persons with disabilities in national development and social welfare initiatives.
The Disabled Christian Fellowship International works to promote the rights and welfare of Christians with disabilities, while the Accra Rehabilitation Centre provides essential services to persons requiring physical rehabilitation and support.
Both organisations serve critical roles in supporting Ghana’s disability community, which continues to face accessibility challenges and limited access to resources. Corporate donations like this help bridge gaps in support systems, particularly during periods when household expenses increase.
The beneficiaries expressed hope that more corporate entities and individuals would follow Engineers and Planners’ example by extending support to marginalised groups, especially during festive seasons when the cost of living rises significantly.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Ghana’s economy, employing a significant portion of the population and contributing meaningfully to GDP, exports, and food security. Yet, Ghana’s agribusiness landscape is undergoing a profound transformation—one driven by climate pressures, rising food demand, youth participation, technology adoption, and global market access.
The High Street Business have examined Ghana’s agribusiness ecosystem through multiple lenses: production, processing, value addition, exports, sustainability, and disease management. This consolidated editorial brings together twelve critical agribusiness themes into one comprehensive narrative—offering farmers, investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs a panoramic view of where Ghana’s agribusiness sector stands today and where it is heading.
Ghana’s agribusiness potential goes far beyond subsistence farming. Today, agriculture is increasingly viewed as a commercial value chain, linking production to processing, logistics, exports, and retail markets.
Key drivers of agribusiness growth include:
These forces cut across every subsector discussed in this editorial.
Protein consumption in Ghana continues to rise, making poultry farming, aquaculture, and livestock trading central to food security and income generation.
While feed costs and disease remain challenges, efficient management and local feed alternatives continue to improve profitability.
Vegetable production has emerged as one of Ghana’s most resilient agribusiness segments.
Greenhouse agriculture, in particular, represents the future of commercial vegetable farming—allowing farmers to manage climate risks while targeting premium buyers such as supermarkets, hotels, and export markets.
Rice has become a staple food across Ghana, yet rice and milling local production continues to lag behind consumption.
Opportunities exist across the value chain:
Challenges such as inconsistent quality, high production costs, and limited irrigation persist. However, value-added milling and packaging have significantly improved the competitiveness of Ghanaian rice in recent years.
Cocoa remains Ghana’s most important export crop, but productivity is under constant threat from disease.
Key cocoa disease challenges include:
Solutions lie in:
Long-term sustainability depends on rejuvenating old farms and strengthening farmer education.
Soil degradation and rising fertiliser costs have accelerated demand for organic fertilisers.
Organic fertiliser production offers:
Compost, poultry manure processing, and vermicomposting are becoming profitable agribusiness niches while supporting environmental sustainability.
Beekeeping stands out as one of Ghana’s most underutilised agribusiness opportunities.
Advantages include:
With rising demand for natural honey and cosmetic-grade beeswax, apiculture offers strong opportunities for youth and small-scale entrepreneurs.
Youth participation is reshaping Ghana’s agribusiness future.
Low-capital agribusiness opportunities include:
These models emphasise skills, discipline, and market access rather than large landholdings.
Processing is where agribusiness margins expand.
Key processing opportunities include:
Value addition reduces post-harvest losses and improves income stability.
Ghana’s agro-export sector extends beyond cocoa.
High-potential export products include:
Export success depends on quality control, certification, packaging, and logistics. Agro-exports represent Ghana’s strongest pathway to foreign exchange earnings outside minerals.
Despite the opportunities, systemic challenges remain:
Addressing these challenges requires private investment, policy consistency, and farmer–market linkages.
Technology is reshaping agriculture through:
Adoption remains uneven, but technology-driven agribusinesses will dominate the next decade.
At The High Street Business, agribusiness is viewed not merely as farming, but as a multi-billion-cedi economic system linking food, trade, technology, employment, and sustainability.
Ghana’s agribusiness future belongs to:
The opportunity is real—and the time is now.
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The head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Election Observation Mission (EOM), Abdoulie Janneh, participated in a briefing session on December 25, 2025 for observers deployed ahead of Guinea’s presidential election scheduled for December 28.
The session, held in the Guinean capital Conakry, brought together 133 short-term observers dispatched by the regional body to monitor the electoral process. Senior ECOWAS officials attended the briefing, including Deputy Head of the EOM Senator Lawan Gana Guba, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Guinea Louis Blaise Aka Brou, and Director of Cabinet to the President of the ECOWAS Commission Abdou Kolley.
The briefing also drew representatives from the ECOWAS Parliament, the ECOWAS Court of Justice, and the Committee of Permanent Representatives of Member States, reflecting the significance attached to the election by the 15-member regional bloc.
Following the session, the ECOWAS delegation paid a courtesy visit to the General Directorate of Elections to evaluate readiness for the poll. Director General of Elections Djenabou Touré Camara assured the delegation that all preparations would be completed ahead of election day on December 28.
Speaking during earlier engagements this week, Janneh emphasized the regional body’s commitment, stating that ECOWAS was there to offer full support and solidarity to Guinea for peaceful, free and transparent presidential elections. He commended Guinean authorities for their commitment to organizing successful elections and their efforts to fully reintegrate into the ECOWAS community.
About 10,000 election observers from ECOWAS, the European Union, the United Nations, the International Organisation of the Francophonie and several other organizations are expected to monitor the vote. The substantial international presence underscores the weight of this electoral moment for Guinea’s political trajectory.
The election marks a crucial milestone for the West African nation as it moves to conclude a transition period that began following the September 2021 military coup led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who deposed then-president Alpha Condé. Doumbouya initially promised to return the country to civilian rule but later declared himself a candidate under a new constitution that permits military leaders to contest for office.
Nine candidates are running in Sunday’s vote, though Doumbouya is widely considered the clear favorite, with key opposition figures barred from participating. Former Prime Minister Cellou Dalein Diallo, once viewed as Doumbouya’s most formidable challenger, was excluded from the race and has since gone into exile.
Guinea’s relationship with ECOWAS has been tested since the 2021 coup. Following the military takeover, ECOWAS suspended Guinea from the bloc’s decision-making bodies while maintaining sustained diplomatic engagement with authorities in Conakry. The regional organization has pressured Doumbouya to present a swift transition timeline, though he missed two deadlines.
Unlike the military rulers in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, who left ECOWAS earlier this year to form a rival alliance, Doumbouya has remained engaged with the bloc. The election was formally scheduled for December 28, 2025 by a decree read by Doumbouya on national television on September 27, 2025.
The deployment of ECOWAS observers is being carried out in compliance with the ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which mandates the Commission to provide technical assistance and observation support to Member States during major electoral exercises.
The 133 short-term observers join a 15-member medium-term technical team that arrived in Conakry on December 18, 2025. The medium-term mission, approved by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray and led by Serigne Mamadou Ka, Acting Head of the ECOWAS Electoral Assistance Division, includes specialists in electoral administration, constitutional affairs, conflict prevention, gender mainstreaming, and media monitoring.
About 6.7 million eligible voters are registered for the elections across the resource-rich nation, which holds some of the world’s largest deposits of iron ore and is the leading exporter of bauxite. Polling stations nationwide will open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on December 28.
The election is being held under a new constitution that extends the presidential mandate from five to seven years. Opposition parties and activists have criticized the vote, describing it as a power grab by Doumbouya to legitimize his continued rule. Campaign activities officially ended at midnight on December 25, two days before the poll.
ECOWAS’ engagement in Guinea’s electoral process reflects the regional body’s broader commitment to supporting member states through democratic transitions and reinforcing confidence in electoral procedures across West Africa.
Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts
Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts has announced she is pregnant with her first child.
The star said in a social media post that she is five months’ pregnant and that she and her partner, footballer Mitch Hahn, “can’t wait” to meet their baby in spring.
Roberts, 40, could be seen cradling her baby bump in front of a Christmas tree in a photo gallery shared on Instagram.
“Mitch and I have had the most magical Christmas Day sharing the most precious news with our families,” the post read.
She added the pair had been “keeping a secret” before revealing the happy news.
Fellow celebrities congratulated the couple in the comments on the Instagram post, with bandmate Kimberley Walsh saying it was the “best news ever”.
Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards – who is expecting her second child – wrote: “The best news. Congratulations beautiful!”
Comedian and Celebrity Traitors winner Alan Carr also commented: “Amazing news!! Sending you much love!”
Girls Aloud members Cheryl, Nadine Coyle, Walsh and Roberts reunited for an arena tour of UK and Ireland in 2024 – their first tour in more than 11 years.
They dedicated the new shows to bandmate Sarah Harding, who died from cancer in 2021, aged 39.
Last year marked 21 years since they won TV talent show Popstars: The Rivals and formed the band.
Roberts has released her own music and also starred in musicals.
She is currently starring in the West End production of hit musical Hadestown, which tells a version of ancient Greek myth Orpheus, and is due to end her run as goddess Persephone in January.
A photo of the late news anchor, Akwasi Owusu Achiaw
The Ashanti Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Akwasi Owusu Achiaw, a respected news anchor with OTEC 102.9 FM in Kumasi.
He passed away in the early hours of Friday, December 26, 2025, after a short illness.
In a statement signed by the Ashanti Regional GJA Chairman, Kofi Adu Domfeh, the association extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues at OTEC FM, and the entire media fraternity.
The GJA described his passing as a great loss to journalism in the region.
Akwasi Owusu Achiaw was known for his professionalism, dedication, and calm delivery on air, earning the admiration of both colleagues and listeners alike.
His death has left a significant void in the media space.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant comfort and strength to all who mourn his loss,” the statement concluded.
Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales
The Mamprugu Traditional Council has strongly condemned what it describes as the unlawful arrest and removal of the Bawku Naaba, Naa Sheriga Alhaji Seidu Abagre, from Bawku, warning that the actions of the Government could further inflame tensions in the long-standing chieftaincy dispute.
In a statement issued and signed by the Nayiri, Naa Bohugu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, Overlord of Mamprugu on Friday, December 26, the Council expressed “grave alarm” over what it termed indiscriminate arrests, intimidation, and harassment of law-abiding Mamprusis by state security agencies.
Highlife star Kwabena Kwabena has mounted the stage at Joy FM’s Party in the Park, sending waves of excitement through the crowd gathered at the Aburi Botanical Gardens.
The celebrated musician, known for his soulful voice and timeless highlife hits, was met with loud cheers as he made his appearance, instantly lifting the energy of the event.
From the opening notes of his performance, patrons sang along and danced enthusiastically, drawn in by his captivating stage presence and rich musical delivery.
Kwabena Kwabena’s set featured a blend of classic favourites and well-loved melodies that have earned him a loyal following over the years.
Despite earlier drizzles, the crowd remained fully engaged, dancing and waving as the music echoed through the scenic surroundings of the botanical gardens.
The live performance further cemented the festive mood that has characterised this year’s edition of the event.
Joy FM’s Party in the Park is an annual family-oriented outdoor celebration that brings together music lovers, families and revellers in a relaxed and refreshing environment.
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The Ote Dollar Foundation marked the 2025 Christmas season with a compassionate humanitarian gesture, bringing care, hope, and encouragement to elderly members of society through a house-to-house gift donation exercise in Cape Coast.
On Wednesday, 25th December 2025, the Foundation reached hundreds of elderly men and women across selected communities, including Abura, Esuekyir, Kawanopaado, and Enyitsewdo.
The initiative specifically targeted very old and immobile elderly persons, many of whom are confined to their rooms and unable to move freely, ensuring that the most vulnerable were not left behind during the festive season.
Members of the Ote Dollar Foundation team visited homes directly to deliver Christmas care packages, offering not only material support but also companionship and reassurance.
The personalized, house-to-house approach reflected the Foundation’s deep commitment to compassion and inclusivity, particularly for elderly individuals who are often overlooked due to age and physical limitations.
This Christmas outreach also served as a significant milestone, marking the fourth humanitarian activity undertaken by the Foundation in 2025, under the leadership and vision of the Executive Director of the Ote Dollar Foundation, Mr. Rockson Arthur, whose guidance continues to drive the organization’s mission of community-centered service.
The responses from beneficiaries, expressed through smiles, gratitude, and heartfelt words, highlighted the importance of caring for the elderly and reaffirmed the vital role of community support in promoting dignity, care, and well-being.
As the year draws to a close, the Ote Dollar Foundation calls on individuals, organizations, and stakeholders across society to add their voices and actions to the growing global effort to protect, respect, and support the elderly. Collective compassion and shared responsibility remain essential in building inclusive communities where no one is forgotten.
In a message to the public, the Executive Director, Mr. Rockson Arthur, extended warm seasonal greetings, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year, and reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to continuing its humanitarian work in the coming year for the betterment of society.
Ghanaian authorities have dismantled a major cyber-fraud network operating across Ghana and Nigeria that defrauded more than 200 victims of over $400,000, as part of a continent-wide cybercrime operation coordinated by INTERPOL.
The network was uncovered during Operation Sentinel, which focused on business email compromise, digital extortion and ransomware activities identified as growing threats in INTERPOL’s 2025 Africa Cyber Threat Assessment Report.
Investigators said the syndicate used professionally designed websites and mobile applications to impersonate well-known fast-food brands, collecting online payments from unsuspecting customers but failing to deliver any orders.
INTERPOL confirmed that ten suspects were arrested in Ghana in connection with the fraud, while more than 100 digital devices were seized during coordinated raids. Authorities also took down 30 fraudulent servers used to facilitate the scam.
The Ghana-Nigeria network was among several high-impact cases uncovered during the operation, which resulted in 574 arrests across Africa, the takedown of over 6,000 malicious links and the decryption of six ransomware variants.
The crackdown revealed how cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting consumer trust in familiar brands to carry out large-scale fraud across borders, making detection and enforcement more complex.
Neal Jetton, INTERPOL’s Director of Cybercrime, said the operation demonstrated the value of international cooperation in tackling cyber-enabled crime.
“The scale and sophistication of cyberattacks across Africa are accelerating, especially against critical sectors like finance and energy. The outcomes from Operation Sentinel reflect the commitment of African law enforcement agencies, working in close coordination with international partners. Their actions have successfully protected livelihoods, secured sensitive personal data and preserved critical infrastructure,” he said.
INTERPOL said partnerships with private sector organisations played a critical role in tracing IP addresses, disrupting criminal infrastructure and assisting authorities to freeze illicit financial assets linked to the fraud.
Operation Sentinel was conducted under the African Joint Operation against Cybercrime and supported by funding from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, as well as the European Union and the Council of Europe through the GLACY-e project.
The arrests come amid growing concern about cyber-related offences in Africa, with INTERPOL reporting that two-thirds of surveyed African countries now classify cybercrime as a medium to high proportion of all criminal activity.
Bibiani Gold Stars coach, Fritz Markus
Swiss tactician, Fritz Markus Schmid has emphasised that he is excited with his new role as head coach of Ghana Premier League side Bibiani Gold Stars.
The former assistant coach of Tottenham Hotspur was confirmed as head coach of the defending Ghana Premier League champions on Monday, December 22, 2025.
Speaking to Gold Stars TV ahead of the team’s match against Dreams FC, Fritz Markus Schmid described the opportunity to lead the Bibiani-based side as a huge honour.
“I’m very excited to be here. Bibiani Gold Stars gives me the opportunity to coach in the highest league in Ghana football.”
“To take over the defending champions in the Ghana Premier League is a big honour and also a very exciting challenge and responsibility. I’m excited and looking forward to working with the team,” Fritz Markus Schmid said.
In his first match against Dreams FC in the Ghana Premier League, Fritz Markus Schmid will be hoping to secure a victory to get off to a bright start.
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A Ghanaian delegation, made up of friends, family, and staff of Sentuo Group, was recently in China, precisely at Changle, Fuzhou, in the Fujian Province, to support the Executive Chairman and President of the Sentuo Group in Ghana, Xu Ningquan, for his daughter’s wedding.
Members of the delegation included business associates, staff, and personal friends of Mr Ningquan.
Also at the wedding were members from the Association of Chinese Businesspeople in Ghana, known as the Fu Jian.
Their presence at the wedding helped to showcase Ghana’s culture at the ceremony, to signify Mr Ningquan’s decision to call Ghana his second home.
The wedding ceremony was considered as one of the high-class society events in Changle.
The trip also served as a two-week vacation for the delegation and saw them touring some of the popular places in China.
Dr Mohamed Raii, a close friend and business associate, described the gesture by Mr Ningquan to sponsor his Ghanaian family and friends to China for his daughter’s wedding as not only thoughtful, but giving true meaning to his decision to call Ghana his second home.
“Mr Ningquan has made Ghana his home and he acknowledges that he owes much of the success of his business to the support he has received from staff, friends and business associates in Ghana who he now calls family.”
“His decision to travel with some of them so he can share his joy and pride of such an important event as the marriage of his daughter only emphasises how deep-rooted his love for Ghana is.”
“Again by that gesture, Mr Ningquan has demonstrated his love for Ghana which is not a mere feeling, but a deep-seated belonging that has translated into actions aimed at advancement and progress.”
He congratulated Mr Ningquan for the successful marriage ceremony of his daughter, saying he deserved all the joy and pride that came with such an important family event.
Abeiku Santana is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority
The previous government, led by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, did a fantastic job with the launch of the Year of Return and Beyond the Return initiatives, Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Abeiku Santana, has commended.
In an interview on YFM, Abeiku Santana said the initiative has positioned Ghana as a major tourist destination in recent years, attracting several international events including Afro Nation and others.
Ghana is now a leading and competitive tourism destination – Abeiku Santana
“The previous government did a great job, a fantastic job with the launch of the Year of Return and Beyond the Return, which became a major international marketing promotion for Ghana as a destination. It was launched in America and that brought in a lot of event organisers, including Afro Nation, to host their events here. That launch significantly amplified global awareness about Ghana as a destination,” he said.
According to the Deputy CEO of the GTA, the current administration has maintained the initiative by building on the foundation laid by the previous government, rather than changing its core approach.
He explained that the focus has been on expanding the reach of the initiative by activating cities and destinations that were not previously included.
“What are we doing after the previous government? We are amplifying it because you don’t change a winning formula. The approach hasn’t changed. We are simply building on it by activating cities and destinations that were not previously touched,” he stated.
The Year of Return, launched in 2019, marked a milestone in Ghana’s historical and cultural journey.
It served as a global invitation to people of African descent, particularly African Americans, to reconnect with their roots by visiting Ghana and exploring their ancestral heritage.
Following its success, the initiative evolved into the Beyond the Return programme in 2020, aimed at sustaining the momentum and encouraging long-term engagement with the African diaspora.
Watch the video below:
We are amplifying #TheYearOfReturn and #BeyondTheReturn initiatives launched by the previous government – @AbeikuSantana , Deputy CEO (Marketing/Special Duties), @ghanatourismGTA
Full video on YouTube: https://t.co/WI6F6baqPA#MMRS #YHolidayHavoc #YHolidayHavoc25… pic.twitter.com/VDFm172sag
— YFM ACCRA (@Y1079FM) December 25, 2025
Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales
AK/EB
Haruna Iddrisu is the Minister of Education
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has blamed the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led government for what he described as long-term damage to Ghana’s economy.
According to him, Ghana’s economic challenges worsened significantly from 2022, pushing the country into what he termed a period of serious structural imbalance.
He noted that the economic downturn would take time to reverse.
Haruna Iddrisu raises alarm as students watch pornography on school tablets
“The Akufo-Addo government did long-term damage to the economy. If you want to do an assessment from 2022, the economy of Ghana went into an abyss. It will take some time to redress the structural imbalance and some of the problems visited on the Ghanaian economy,” he stated in a recent interview on Channel One TV.
Haruna Iddrisu lauded President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, for their efforts to stabilise the economy.
Haruna Iddrisu opens up on his appointment as Education Minister
He, however, noted that one year is not enough to address the structural challenges caused by the previous government.
“President Mahama, through his minister, has done well in resetting the economy, but it is not enough. You do not set out within a year to resolve all the problems,” he added.
Watch the video below :
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu explains how decisions taken under the erstwhile NPP administration caused long-term damage to Ghana’s economy.
Watch here: https://t.co/cgVery8Ym5#PointofView #ChannelOneTV #ChannelOneNews #GhanaNews #GhanaEconomy #EducationInGhana pic.twitter.com/cNFRJofXij
— ChannelOne TV (@Channel1TVGHA) December 24, 2025
JKB/MA
Christmas Festivities: Avenor traders, buyers speak on livestock sales
Ghana’s National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) says the Greater Accra Region is leading in the number of firearms retrieved under the ongoing Gun Amnesty Programme.
The programme, which began on December 1, allows individuals to voluntarily register or surrender unregistered or illicit firearms without fear of arrest, prosecution, or interrogation.
The Executive Secretary of NACSA, Dr Adam Bonaa, disclosed this to the media on Friday, December 26, 2025, after a visit to the National Mosque in Accra, where he met with the National Chief Imam to sensitise the Muslim community on the initiative, which ends on January 15, 2026.
“The Greater Accra Region is one of the areas where most of the weapons we have collected are coming from. It is currently leading in terms of arms surrendered under the amnesty programme, with the support of the security commanders,” Dr Bonaa said.
He explained that the engagement with the Muslim community was driven by the influence of the National Chief Imam, whom he described as a key figure in promoting peace and social cohesion. He said the Chief Imam had agreed to serve as an ambassador for the Gun Amnesty Programme.
“The Chief Imam is one of the pillars of peace in this country. He does not preach violence or disturbance. Even in difficult moments when people wanted to react violently on his behalf, he consistently called for restraint. That tells you the kind of authority and moral influence he has,” Dr Bonaa said.
He noted that the Chief Imam welcomed the initiative and pledged his support to encourage voluntary surrender of illegal firearms within the Muslim community.
The Greater Accra Regional Police Commander, DCOP Duuti Tuaruka, who was part of the delegation, assured the public that the police would not arrest individuals who surrendered their weapons under the programme.
He urged persons in possession of illegal firearms to take advantage of the amnesty and hand them over to the security agencies before the deadline.
Tamale: Police arrest 28-year-old with 98 parcels of suspected cannabis
To:
The Inspector–General of Police – Ghana Police Service
The Criminal Investigations Department – Ghana Police Service
The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice
The Speaker of Parliament and Honourable Members of the Republic of Ghana
All constitutionally mandated institutions tasked with law enforcement, justice, and public accountability
CC:
[email protected] (Ghana Police Service – General Support)
[email protected] (CID / Interpol sector inquiries)
[email protected] (Parliament Clerk / oversight)
[email protected] (CHRAJ – Human Rights & Administrative Justice)
[email protected] (EOCO – Economic & Organised Crime Office)
[email protected] (Office of the Special Prosecutor – independent investigations
We, the citizens of Ghana, write this open letter with profound urgency and national concern regarding the untimely passing of Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba. His death has left a deep cultural and emotional void across the nation. Millions of Ghanaians mourn a life that shaped generations, yet the circumstances surrounding his passing remain unclear, prolonging grief, intensifying speculation, and undermining public confidence in the institutions tasked with safeguarding justice. Daddy Lumba was not merely a musician; he was a cultural icon, a voice for generations, and a chronicler of the joys and struggles of Ghanaian life. His artistry connected communities, inspired youth, and enriched the nation’s cultural heritage. The loss of such a figure is not merely a private matter; it is a national concern that demands clarity, transparency, and accountability. The Ghanaian people, who regard his music and legacy as part of the national fabric, are entitled to answers regarding the circumstances of his death.
The 1992 Constitution of Ghana provides the legal and moral foundation for this appeal. Article 13(1) guarantees the right to life, while Article 15(1) affirms the inviolability of human dignity. These provisions impose a non-delegable duty on the State to ensure that deaths of public significance are thoroughly, transparently, and lawfully investigated. Article 200(3) of the Constitution and the Police Service Act, 1970 (Act 350) empower the Ghana Police Service to prevent and detect crime, apprehend offenders, and investigate matters that threaten public trust. Articles 88(1) and (3) empower the Attorney-General to prosecute without fear or favor where culpability is established, and Article 17(1) guarantees equality before the law, ensuring no individual is insulated from accountability regardless of influence or status.
The nation has witnessed a number of high-profile deaths under suspicious or controversial circumstances where the pursuit of truth and justice remains unresolved. Among these are Ahmed Hussein-Suale, an investigative journalist assassinated in 2019 whose main suspect was discharged by the Attorney-General after prosecution was discontinued in 2025; George Abanga, a radio journalist murdered in 2015 with unresolved motives; Joseph Boakye Danquah Adu, a Member of Parliament stabbed to death in 2016 whose case remains incomplete in public records; and Professor Emmanuel Yaw Benneh, a senior law lecturer murdered in 2020, whose investigation stalled and whose case remains unresolved. Other public figures, particularly in entertainment and civic life, have similarly had their deaths investigated without clear public outcomes, leaving families and citizens with unanswered questions. These cases reflect systemic gaps in investigative follow-through, public communication, and accountability.
As a dedicated fan of Daddy Lumba, I express this not merely as a citizen but as someone deeply invested in his legacy. I would not wish his case to follow the pattern of unresolved or abandoned investigations that we have witnessed in the examples above. His life and contribution to Ghanaian culture demand the highest standards of legal scrutiny, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that no detail is ignored, no evidence overlooked, and no responsible party left unexamined
We demand an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into Daddy Lumba’s death. This investigation must include forensic, medical, and eyewitness review, with findings disclosed publicly and comprehensively. It must adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards. Any party found negligent or culpable must be held accountable under the law. The Ghanaian people, the bereaved family, and admirers nationwide deserve clarity, closure, and justice.
This appeal is not motivated by vengeance but by the urgent need for truth, justice, and national healing. Prolonged uncertainty amplifies sorrow and threatens social cohesion. Clear, lawful, and transparent findings will allow the nation to mourn collectively, reconcile sorrow with reason, and honor Daddy Lumba’s legacy. Moreover, his passing underscores the importance of foresight and responsibility. Citizens, particularly those with dependents or influence, are reminded to arrange legal, familial, and personal affairs to protect loved ones from unnecessary distress. Legacy is preserved not solely through achievement or talent, but through foresight, responsibility, and lawful preparation.
We therefore urge the Ghana Police Service, the Attorney-General, and Parliament to recognize this as a defining moment for national conscience and institutional integrity. By acting decisively and transparently, these institutions can restore public confidence, uphold the rule of law, honor the dignity of a national icon, and facilitate collective grieving and reconciliation. We further call upon traditional authorities, faith leaders, and civil society to support this process, guiding public sentiment, promoting calm, and ensuring dignified mourning. Failure to act decisively will constitute a breach of constitutional duty, erode public trust, and deny the nation closure. History and conscience demand accountability, and the eyes of the nation are upon you.
Ghana deserves the truth. The bereaved deserve peace. Daddy Lumba deserves dignity. The nation deserves justice executed transparently, impartially, and swiftly. The moment to honor Daddy Lumba’s life, restore public confidence, and allow the nation to heal is now.
Respectfully submitted,
Serwaah Bonsu
Concerned Individual Advocate
Email: [email protected]
© 2025 Serwaah Bonsu. All rights reserved.
Georgi Minoungou is blind in his left eye
AFCON has always been a stage for miracles, and few stories capture its spirit better than that of Georgi Minoungou.
On a night when Burkina Faso refused to surrender, it was the 23-year-old winger who rose in stoppage time to score a dramatic equaliser against Equatorial Guinea, igniting a last-second comeback that sent fans into raptures.
The moment was powerful on its own. Knowing what Minoungou has survived makes it extraordinary.
Minoungou has been kicking a ball since he was two years old. Football carried him from local pitches through the youth ranks and into Europe, where he joined Czech second-tier side MFK Vyškov in 2021.
Inside Morocco’s AFCON Pitches: How stadiums stay perfect despite heavy rain
His pace, bravery on the ball, and relentless attacking mindset soon earned him a move to the United States with Seattle Sounders and now Tacoma Defiance.
Everything was falling into place. Coaches were impressed, goals were coming, and a permanent first-team contract was within reach.
He even scored against Swedish side Hammarby IF during a pre-season friendly in Spain.
Then disaster struck in 2023.
During a training camp in Marbella, what began as minor itching and swelling in his eye quickly turned terrifying.
His left eye filled with blood and changed colour within days. Surgery confirmed the worst: the nerves were completely dead.
Minoungou was effectively blind in his left eye. Doctors told him he would never play football again.
It should have been the end. Instead, it became the beginning of his defiance.
Six months later, Minoungou was back on the pitch. In May 2024, he made his MLS debut against LA Galaxy.
By November, he had scored his first league goal against Vancouver. Step by step, he reclaimed his career.
Now, under the bright lights of AFCON, Minoungou has written his name into tournament folklore.
❤️ The beautiful story of the AFCON 🇧🇫
👀 Georgi Minoungou, Burkina Faso winger, is almost blind in his left eye following a serious infection in 2023.
😮 Doctors told him he would never play football again…
🤩 In the end, he scored the equalizer in stoppage time against… pic.twitter.com/XlW5PICBm6
— beIN SPORTS USA (@beINSPORTSUSA) December 25, 2025
FKA/JE
Sudanese in a camp for displaced people in Nyala
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group says the country’s army struck a fuel market in the city of Nyala, the RSF’s administrative capital, as part of an intensified aerial campaign against its positions in South Darfur.
For three consecutive days ending Thursday, military drones and warplanes pounded strategic RSF sites across Nyala, including the international airport, military positions and training facilities.
The strike on the fuel market triggered a huge blaze as barrels of fuel exploded, according to footage circulated on social media, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the air.
Youssef Idris Youssef, who heads the RSF’s civil administration in South Darfur, accused the army of deliberately targeting civilians. He described the attack as part of “a systematic policy” to punish Darfur residents for not resisting the RSF presence in their communities.
The Sudanese military has not issued any statement regarding the strikes.
Casualties were reported among both civilians and RSF members involved in the fuel trade.
In the aftermath, RSF intelligence services conducted mass arrests near the targeted site and Nyala’s main market, detaining civilians and military personnel on accusations of providing coordinates to the army, according to local sources.
Nyala holds particular strategic importance as the seat of the RSF’s parallel government, known as TASIS, which the group declared in July. Led by RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo, the alternative administration has been widely condemned as possibly fracturing Sudan, but controls significant territory across Darfur.
The city was struck by the army in October when it targeted the RSF and Nyala airport, which has been reportedly used by the RSF as a logistics hub for its forces.
Fighting continues across Darfur
Fighting has raged across Darfur since the RSF captured el-Fasher in October, an offensive marked by atrocities documented by rights groups.
The United States has said the RSF has committed genocide in Darfur.
This week, the RSF announced it had seized the Abu Qumra region in North Darfur and claimed advances towards Um Buru, though joint forces allied with the army disputed RSF assertions that they had also taken the town of Karnoi.
The attack on Nyala came just two days after Sudan’s prime minister, Kamil Idris, presented a peace proposal to the United Nations Security Council calling for RSF withdrawal from captured areas, disarmament in camps, and eventual elections.
The RSF rejected the plan, with spokesman Alaa el-Din Naqd telling Sudanese outlet Radio Dabanga it amounted to “wishful thinking”.
Sudan’s de facto leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, was in Ankara for talks on Thursday with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, at which Erdogan expressed his support for peace efforts and his opposition to dividing Sudan.
Hours earlier, a senior official in Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council ruled out any negotiations, declaring there could be “no truce and no negotiation with an occupier”.
The war, which erupted in April 2023, has killed more than 100,000 people and displaced nearly 14 million, in what the UN describes as one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Since the RSF seized el-Fasher – the last major army stronghold in Darfur – the conflict has shifted to Central Kordofan, splitting Sudan between territories controlled by the military and the RSF.
Laboma Beach came alive on Christmas Eve as reggae and dancehall icon Samini hosted the 2025 edition of his annual Samini Xperience concert, drawing hundreds of music lovers for a night of music and celebration.
The show once again cemented its place as a key highlight on Ghana’s Detty December calendar, with patrons thronging the beachfront venue to enjoy live performances from some of the country’s biggest and rising music stars.
The night featured back-to-back performances from Manifest, Epixode, Jzyno, Kojo Blakk, Kwaw Kese, Ras Kuuku, Praye, Amerado, Kofi Kinaata and Shatta Wale, each delivering high-energy sets that kept the crowd on its feet.
Speaking to JoyNews after his performance, Epixode praised Samini for his longevity and consistency in the music industry. “Samini is one of the artistes who really paved the way for Afrodancehall in Ghana, and he’s still doing it at the highest level,” he said.
Liberian musician Jzyno, who performed alongside some Ghanaian acts, described the experience as special, noting that Samini’s influence goes beyond Ghana. “Being here shows how far Samini’s impact reaches. This is bigger than one country; it’s African music,” he explained.
Rising artiste Kojo Blakk said performing at the Samini Xperience marked an important moment in his career. “To be on this stage with legends and big names is a blessing. Samini has created a platform that gives young artistes like us hope,” he noted.
Veteran rapper Kwaw Kese also hailed Samini as a trailblazer in the industry. “Samini has opened doors for a lot of us. His contribution to reggae and dancehall in Ghana cannot be ignored,” he said.
For Ras Kuuku, the concert was about legacy and unity within the music space. “This is not just a show; it’s a celebration of Samini’s journey and the culture he represents,” he stressed.
Patrons at the event were equally full of praise, commending Samini for his ability to stay relevant and connect with audiences across generations. Many described the concert as the perfect way to spend Christmas Eve.
For Samini, the night was another opportunity to reaffirm his place in Ghana’s music history. With decades in the industry, the reggae and dancehall icon has remained a consistent force, using the Samini Xperience to spotlight both established and emerging artistes while celebrating the growth of Afrodancehall in Ghana.
The 2025 Samini Xperience ended on a high note, reaffirming Samini’s place as one of Ghana’s most influential reggae and dancehall artistes.
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.
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.
Sydney Sweeney wants to make films that will “impact and hopefully save people’s lives”, she has told the BBC.
The 28-year-old US actor has this year appeared in psychological thriller The Housemaid and boxing biopic Christy, which both address issues around domestic violence.
Sweeney calls the topic “prevalent” and says she takes a “lot of care” when playing these types of roles.
“Being able to have a film that’s on a more commercial level talk about a very difficult topic is important,” she adds.
Sweeney is currently starring as Millie Calloway in The Housemaid, which is based on the 2022 novel of the same name by Freida McFadden.
The novel is an international bestseller and has generated a large following, especially among the reading community on TikTok.
Sweeney says she is “a huge fan of the book” and that she “loved all the characters”.
“I love complex, juicy, crazy, twisted stories. This is a dream project,” she adds.
The film also features Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar, as Nina and Andrew Winchester, who employ Sweeney’s character in their home.
Seyfried and Sweeney were chosen to play the two female leads in The Housemaid because of their physical resemblances, but Seyfried says the similarities do not end there.
“There’s a similarity between us that is uncanny, and it’s really fun to work with people [who] are doing life in a similar way, have similar ideals about the job and life,” she tells the BBC.
Sweeney also says the pair have developed a “dynamic” where they “can enjoy being around” each other – and their relationship means they can “go to these crazy places and discover so much more within your character”.
‘Getting the tone right’
Seyfried’s character Nina grapples with complex mental health issues throughout the film, which at times make it a difficult watch.
“You have to play it as realistic as possible because it needs to reflect real life,” she says.
The Housemaid has been compared to domestic thrillers of the 1990s, like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Fatal Attraction and Basic Instinct. But it has a markedly modern twist with the physical and mental abuse plot lines in the film.
Seyfried, who is known for her roles in Mamma Mia! and Mean Girls, believes the cast “nailed getting the tone right” and hopes that despite the movie being entertainment, that people “come out with a better understanding of domestic violence” and “broaden their horizons”.
She adds that this is “especially” true for “people who haven’t thankfully had to deal with it”.
This is echoed by director Paul Feig, who admits he was “nervous” about handling the subject sensitively.
“I made sure there wasn’t any physical abuse, that it was more psychological abuse,” he says.
Domestic abuse in film has become a hot topic for Hollywood, sparked by the promotional tour for 2024 film It Ends With Us, which was criticised by some for packaging it as a romantic story rather than one of abuse.
Sklenar, who appears in both The Housemaid and It Ends With Us, says it is “challenging” to take on the role of an abuser.
He describes his characters – Andrew Winchester in The Housemaid and Atlas Corrigan in It Ends With Us – as “polar opposites”.
“When it comes to acting, you can try all you want, but ultimately sometimes it just affects you,” he says.
“It’s intense and it’s ultimately going to affect you in certain ways.”
The film has received mostly positive reviews, including four stars from the Guardian, which said Feig and his cast “deliver with terrific gusto; this is an innocent holiday treat”.
The reception will be welcome for Sweeney after being at the centre of much drama and discussion in 2025.
Her American Eagle jeans ads drew criticism for raising issues over race and beauty standards. Sweeney told People Magazine earlier this month she was “against hate and divisiveness” and had been surprised by reaction to the campaign.
And her career was under scrutiny after a string of box office flops – but The Housemaid opened with a healthy $19m (£14m) in North America last weekend.
That’s no surprise given that the original novel was a huge hit, selling more than 1.6 million copies worldwide.
Two sequels have also been published, meaning further film adaptations could be on the cards.
Feig, whose previous films include Bridesmaids and The Heat, believes novels will become an even more fertile source of material for Hollywood because “studios always want something that is a known quality” to “justify their ability to put a lot of money” into the project.
But he says he tries not to let books with a huge audience and fanbase dictate what projects he makes, because “there are plenty of books that are really popular that just don’t work as movies”.
Feig adds that it has been “fun” to work with Rebecca Sonnenshine’s adapted screenplay for The Housemaid, but that he has “restored” some parts of the book that “readers really would miss if they weren’t in there”.
There is also an “extra ending that’s not in the book”, he says, “so readers can get something new that they didn’t expect”.
COP Lydia Yaako Donkor is the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department
The Ghana Police Service has arrested a Nigerian national in connection with a dawn robbery at Spintex in Accra, during which large sums of cash, gold jewelry, and other valuables were taken from a 35-year-old man.
According to the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, the robbery occurred in the early hours of September 14, 2025.
Police Arrest Matron Bennedicta Nyamadi and Cook Rahel Kyeremateng Over Theft of Sefwi Bekwai STEM SHS Food Supplies
“On 14th September 2025, the Ghana Police Service received a report of a robbery at the residence of a 35-year-old man at Spintex in Accra. At about 3:25 a.m., the suspects broke into the house and robbed the complainant of gold jewelry, a laptop, wristwatches, handbags, clothing, and cash. The amount taken included $5,000 and GH¢21,645,” she said.
COP Donkor noted that police officers recovered several items believed to have been used or left behind by the suspects during a visit to the crime scene.
“Police officers visited the scene, where a machete, a metal cutter, and a T-shirt believed to have been left behind by the suspects were retrieved for evidential purposes,” she disclosed.
The suspect, identified as Jennifer Nweke, was reportedly arrested at Adenta in Accra. A search conducted at the time of her arrest led to the recovery of some of the stolen property.
Police said the items retrieved included jewelry, mobile phones, and large sums of cash believed to have been taken during the robbery.
“The crime scene was documented, and investigations commenced immediately. On 18 September 2025, acting on reliable intelligence, the police arrested a suspect, a Nigerian national named Jennifer Nweke, at Adenta.
“A search conducted revealed some of the stolen items, including jewelry, mobile phones, and large sums of cash. The suspect later led investigators to a hideout at Agbogba, where additional stolen items belonging to the complainant were retrieved,” COP Donkor added.
She said the suspect further cooperated with investigators and led them to other locations where more items were hidden.
“During interrogations, the suspect later led the police to Glefe, a suburb near Dansoman Last Stop, where a bag containing one Philippine passport and two ladies’ purses with business and ATM cards was retrieved,” she indicated.
She added that “a wrapped black polythene bag containing travelling documents was also found near a rubbish dump close to a second place of abode.”
Police say efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects linked to the robbery.
“Strenuous efforts are currently underway to trace and arrest other suspects who are on the run to face justice,” the CID Director-General said.
Police arrest three suspects in connection with baby theft in Tamale
She confirmed that suspects currently in custody, including the Nigerian woman, are assisting with investigations and “will be put before the courts upon completion of the processes.”
CID Director General: A Nigerian called Jennifer Oweke Arrested in Connection With Spintex Robbery. pic.twitter.com/u4NzLHbuhW
— Mawunanunyam (@i_am_nunya) December 26, 2025
MAG/MA
#TrendingGH: Mixed reactions greet church members on 2025 Christmas celebration
Accra Hearts of Oak welcome FC Samartex 1996 on matchday 16 of the ongoing 2025/2026 Ghana Premier League.
The Phobians will host the 2023/2024 Ghana Premier League champions at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium on Friday, December 26, 2025.
Accra Hearts of Oak are going into the game on the back of a goalless drawn game on matchday 15 against league leaders Aduana Stars at the Agyeman Badu Stadium in Dormaa Ahenkro.
FC Samartex on the other hand managed a slim 1-0 victory against Kpando Hearts of Lions on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Samartex Park Tarkwa on matchday 15 in the ongoing league campaign.
A victory for Accra Hearts of Oak will take them to the second position on the Ghana Premier League table with 28 points.
FC Samartex on the other hand will move to the third position with 27 points after 16 games.
Watch the livestreaming below:
Former Black Stars assistant coach, George Boateng
Former Black Stars assistant coach, George Boateng, has revealed that it was an honour to work for the country.
The former Aston Villa U-23 head coach was named as part of Black Stars’ technical set-up headed by Otto Addo ahead of the 2022 World Cup playoff against Nigeria.
Following the qualification of the team, Boateng, together with Didi Dramani, were all retained ahead of the Mundial in Qatar.
Born in Ghana but represented the Dutch national team at the international level, Boateng said it was a huge honour for him to serve the country.
“I always feel I owe Ghana something because I could not play for them, and so when I had the opportunity to work as an assistant coach, I was honoured,” he told Premier League Production.
Boateng, however, expressed his disappointment after failing to qualify from the group phase of the World Cup and the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
“I worked with Otto Addo and Chris Hughton, but it was disappointing that we could not qualify from the group phase of the World Cup and the AFCON. Working for Ghana was an honour,” Boateng added.
George Boateng left his role after the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast.
 "Pulse List: Top 10 Controversial Political Moments in Ghana in 2025")
Ghana’s political scene in 2025 was dominated by high-profile controversies, public uproar, and events that tested the country’s democratic institutions.
From parliamentary chaos and judicial suspensions to arrests of prominent political figures and alleged politically motivated actions, the year saw politicians, civil servants, and the public at the centre of heated debates. Social media amplified these incidents, fueling discussion about accountability, governance, and the rule of law.
This article chronicles the top ten controversial political moments of 2025, highlighting key events, actors, and the reactions that shaped public discourse.
ALSO READ: Pulse List: Top 7 National Tragedies that Shook Ghana in 2025
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Chaos erupts at Appointment Committee sitting
A parliamentary vetting session by the Appointments Committee of Parliament descended into chaos as lawmakers engaged in physical altercations, destroying furniture and microphones. The disagreement arose over the number of nominees to vet, with the minority accusing the majority of extending proceedings without consensus. The vetting committee chairman, Benard Ahiafor called the event “totally unacceptable,” and a special committee was later formed to investigate.
ALSO READ: Pulse List: Top 10 Policies and Initiatives Implemented by Ghana’s Government in 2025
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Concerned Citizens petition US Embassy to help extradite Ken Ofori-Atta to Ghana as online signatures surge
Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was declared a fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor after failing to appear for questioning in multiple corruption probes. The cases involved the National Cathedral project, ECG contract termination, and GRA-SML revenue contracts. An Interpol Red Notice was issued, and extradition proceedings from the US were initiated, though delayed by legal challenges.
ALSO READ: Pulse List: Top 7 High-Profile Corruption Cases Prosecuted in Ghana in 2025
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Akuffo Dampare
President Mahama removed Inspector-General of Police George Akuffo Dampare, appointing COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno as his replacement. Analysts noted concerns over political influence in policing, while Dampare moved on to educational and civic roles.
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Raid
National Security operatives raided former Bank of Ghana Governor Ernest Addison’s residence, allegedly searching for vaults and seizing vehicles and CCTV systems. Addison denied holding vaults or cash. Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin criticised the operation as politically motivated, while authorities insisted it followed legal procedures.
ALSO READ: President Mahama recounts temporary homelessness after 2016 election defeat
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Former Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkonoo.
President Mahama suspended the Chief Justice following petitions alleging misconduct. A five-member committee investigated, while Torkornoo challenged the suspension in court. She addressed the nation amid controversy, marking the first suspension of a sitting Chief Justice in Ghana. She was ultimately dismissed on September 1.
ALSO READ: ‘We are committed to the #ResettingGhana Agenda’ – Pres. Mahama in X’Mass message
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Agradaa and Sammy Gyamfi
A video surfaced showing Sammy Gyamfi handing US dollar notes to evangelist Patricia Oduro. The incident sparked outrage over public conduct and potential breaches of the Currency Act. Gyamfi apologised, claiming the gesture was private. Opposition parties called for his interdiction.
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Chairman Wontumi
NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Wontumi) was detained by EOCO over financial irregularities. Minority MPs staged a walkout and sit-in at EOCO headquarters, criticising bail conditions as excessive and politically motivated.
ALSO READ: Here are 10 key recommendations from the Constitutional Review Committee report
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Ablekuma North chaos
Violence disrupted the parliamentary rerun across 19 polling stations, with assaults on former MP Hawa Koomson and journalists. The Ghana Journalists Association condemned the attacks, and eight individuals were later sentenced.
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A man claiming to be a worker at the warehouse
Security operatives demolished a warehouse owned by businessman Daniel McKorley (McDan) without notice. Workers were denied access to retrieve belongings. Analysts and traditional leaders criticised the action as potentially politically motivated.
ALSO READ: Pulse List: Top 5 Bills Passed by Ghana’s Parliament in 2025
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Abronye DC
Bono Regional NPP Chairman Kwame Baffoe (Abronye DC) was arrested for offensive conduct, with bail repeatedly denied. Minority MPs condemned the arrest, alleging political persecution, while Abronye recounted questioning over properties and companies during detention.
The political controversies of 2025 underscored the fragility of institutional independence and the intensity of Ghana’s partisan environment. From parliamentary chaos and judicial suspensions to high-profile arrests and public scandals, each incident sparked debate about accountability, governance, and the rule of law. As the nation moves forward, these events will continue to shape expectations for transparency, fairness, and institutional integrity in Ghanaian politics.
Japhet Festus Gbede is an NDC communications member
A communication team member of the ruling National Democratic Congress, Japhet Festus Gbede has strongly condemned the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) recent criticisms of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Communications Director, who doubles as the CEO of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, describing them as a display of “economic amnesia, intellectual bankruptcy, and political desperation.”
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Gbede dismissed the NPP’s claims regarding the alleged $214 million GoldBod loss as “laughably incompetent, flagrantly misleading, and absurdly shallow.”
According to him, the opposition party’s characterisation of valuation adjustments as a “loss” shows a fundamental misunderstanding of sovereign financial management.
“Calling valuation adjustments a ‘loss’ is clueless, reckless, and embarrassingly misinformed, a spectacle that insults the intelligence of every Ghanaian,” the statement reads.
Gbede added that the attacks on Sammy Gyamfi are politically motivated and rooted in envy and desperation rather than fact or principle.
He did not spare the NPP from criticism, highlighting what he called the party’s disastrous economic record.
“This is the same NPP that supervised the most catastrophic economic mismanagement in Ghana’s history, ballooned public debt to obscene levels, collapsed the cedi, strangled businesses, destroyed livelihoods, and finally dragged a proud nation to the IMF in humiliation,” Gbede stated.
The NDC communicator further argued that the NPP lacks moral authority and credibility to lecture anyone on governance, accountability, or economic management.
He described their sudden focus on fiscal prudence as “convenient, insincere, and utterly fraudulent,” pointing out that the party had previously presided over failed programs, reckless borrowing, and policy confusion.
Gbede concluded by asserting that Ghanaians deserve serious opposition that values intelligence, integrity, and honesty, rather than “recycled propaganda from those who nearly wrecked the republic.”
Japhet Festus Gbede is an NDC communications member
A communication team member of the ruling National Democratic Congress, Japhet Festus Gbede has strongly condemned the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) recent criticisms of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Communications Director, who doubles as the CEO of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, describing them as a display of “economic amnesia, intellectual bankruptcy, and political desperation.”
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Gbede dismissed the NPP’s claims regarding the alleged $214 million GoldBod loss as “laughably incompetent, flagrantly misleading, and absurdly shallow.”
According to him, the opposition party’s characterisation of valuation adjustments as a “loss” shows a fundamental misunderstanding of sovereign financial management.
“Calling valuation adjustments a ‘loss’ is clueless, reckless, and embarrassingly misinformed, a spectacle that insults the intelligence of every Ghanaian,” the statement reads.
Gbede added that the attacks on Sammy Gyamfi are politically motivated and rooted in envy and desperation rather than fact or principle.
He did not spare the NPP from criticism, highlighting what he called the party’s disastrous economic record.
“This is the same NPP that supervised the most catastrophic economic mismanagement in Ghana’s history, ballooned public debt to obscene levels, collapsed the cedi, strangled businesses, destroyed livelihoods, and finally dragged a proud nation to the IMF in humiliation,” Gbede stated.
The NDC communicator further argued that the NPP lacks moral authority and credibility to lecture anyone on governance, accountability, or economic management.
He described their sudden focus on fiscal prudence as “convenient, insincere, and utterly fraudulent,” pointing out that the party had previously presided over failed programs, reckless borrowing, and policy confusion.
Gbede concluded by asserting that Ghanaians deserve serious opposition that values intelligence, integrity, and honesty, rather than “recycled propaganda from those who nearly wrecked the republic.”
The event will be held on December, 29, 2025
In an unprecedented move aimed at rehabilitation and societal reintegration, the Kumasi Central Prison will host a first-of-its-kind “Prisons Runway Fashion Show” on the 29th of December, 2025 inside the prison premises.
The initiative, spearheaded by the facility’s leadership and aligned with the forward-thinking Think Prisons 360 Degrees initiative and Creative Arts policy seeks to showcase the untapped talents and creative potential of inmates.
The event is under the able leadership and vision of the Officer-In-Charge, Deputy Director of Prisons (DDP) James B Mwinyelle (Ing.), who has been instrumental in driving transformative programs within the prison service.
DDP Mwinyelle emphasized that the show is more than a spectacle; it is a core component of holistic offender management and reformation.“This fashion show is a bold statement that every individual possesses a gift that can be harnessed for good,” stated DDP Mwinyelle.
“By connecting our inmates with renowned fashion designers and providing this platform, we are not just building skills; we are rebuilding self-worth, fostering hope, and preparing them for constructive lives post-incarceration. This is the essence of the Think Prisons 360 Degrees philosophy.”
The Think Prisons 360 Degrees initiative advocates for a comprehensive approach to imprisonment, focusing on education, skills training, mental health, and societal reconnection as pivotal to reducing recidivism.
The runway will feature a unique cohort of models drawn directly from the inmate population. Participants will include models from the Kumasi Female Prison and six inmates each from the Central Prison’s A, B, and D Convict Blocks, as well as the Remand Block.
This diverse representation highlights the inclusive nature of the program. Adding professional prestige and creative direction to the event are several acclaimed Ghanaian fashion brands. The participating designers are:
· Starladin
· Rash Tailor
· JuJu Clothings
· LOD creations
· Manuel Clothings and Textiles
· House of Kotobre
· Golden Ohemaa’s Collection
· Horseman Shoes
These designers have collaborated with the inmates, creating collections that will be modelled by them, in a powerful synergy between the prison community and the creative industry.
The Creative Director for the show, ASP Rashid Ennin revealed that preparations have been underway for weeks, with selected inmates undergoing training in grooming, posture, and runway etiquette. The atmosphere in the involved blocks is reported to be one of focused anticipation and boosted morale.
The show is expected to be attended by stakeholders from the Ghana Prisons Service, representatives from the Ministry of the Interior, civil society organizations, members of the fashion industry, and select media. Organizers hope the event will challenge public perceptions about inmates and open discussions on innovative rehabilitation methods.
About Think Prisons 360 Degrees: Think Prisons 360 Degrees is a reform-oriented initiative that promotes a holistic ecosystem for offender management, focusing on skill development, psychological support, and community engagement to ensure successful reintegration.
The Savannah Regional Police Command has arrested 27 people for drug-related offences following a special Christmas operation across the region.
The arrests were carried out in Salaga, Damongo, Buipe and Bole as part of heightened security and crime-prevention measures during the festive season.
A statement posted on the Ghana Police Service’s official Facebook page on December 26 said the suspects, including women, were found in possession of various narcotic substances and dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
The suspects are currently in police custody to assist with ongoing investigations.
Hearts of Oak is hosting former Ghana Premier League champions, FC Samartex 1996 in the 2025 Premier League match day 16 fixture this afternoon at the University of Ghana Stadium on Boxing Day.
The Phobians host the Timber giants in confident mood after grinding out a valuable goalless draw away to Aduana FC in Dormaa, traditionally one of the most difficult venues in the league. That result kept Mas-Ud Didi Dramani’s side firmly in the top four and underlined their reputation as one of the league’s most resilient outfits.
The Ghana Police Service’s Special Operation Team has arrested a 28-year-old man, Mohammed Alhassan, for possessing narcotic drugs without lawful authority in Tamale.
According to a statement signed by the Northern Regional Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Alhassan Luckman Niendow, the arrest was carried out on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at Kpalsi, a suburb of Tamale.
He said officers seized 98 parcels of compressed dried leaves suspected to be cannabis during the operation. The arrest followed a distress call from the Tamale Taskforce, which had earlier apprehended another individual, identified as Hashim, in possession of the exhibits.
Hashim reportedly implicated Mohammed Alhassan, leading to his arrest. Alhassan was subsequently handed over to the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (DLEU) for further investigations.
Chief Inspector Niendow said preliminary investigations revealed that Hashim, now on the run, was the one controlling the narcotics.
“Strenuous efforts are underway to arrest suspect Hashim, as he is currently at large, to assist in investigations,” he said.
The Police PRO added that Mohammed Alhassan is expected to be arraigned before court on Monday, December 29, 2025, on charges of possessing narcotic drugs without lawful authority.
RBS Promotions launches its inaugural boxing card December 30 at Laboma Beach Resort in La, Accra, as the final week of 2025 brings multiple fight nights while Ghana’s boxing oversight body prepares to transition from interim management to elected leadership.
Dr. Albert Tetteh Botchway, chief executive officer of RBS Promotions, announced the maiden event will feature multiple contests including a super lightweight bout between Derrick Quaye, fighting under the nickname Show Love, and David Lamptey. Botchway characterized his organization’s entry into boxing promotion as focused on impact rather than simply increasing the number of promoters operating in Ghana. He stated the company aims to expose local boxers who can eventually compete internationally.
The December 30 card represents RBS Promotions’ first event in Ghana’s competitive boxing promotion landscape. Additional bouts include Derrick Mensah facing Emmanuel Aryee, and Habib Lartey meeting Thomas Quansah. Botchway confirmed that boxers Aziz Quartey, Thomas Okaidja, Godwin Tetteh, Haruna Oku, Dwamena Kesse and James Lamptey will also appear on the card, though specific matchups for these fighters had not been announced at press time.
Laboma Beach Resort sits along the Atlantic coastline in La, approximately 40 minutes from Kotoka International Airport. The beachfront venue features multiple dining establishments, private cabanas and recreational facilities. Boxing events at beach locations remain relatively uncommon in Ghana’s boxing scene, which traditionally centers on indoor arenas like Bukom Boxing Arena and the Accra Sports Stadium.
The December 30 card arrives during an active period for Ghanaian boxing. SEM Promotions presents “The Night Of Reset, Entertainment / December To Remember Gh 2025” at Bukom Boxing Arena on December 28, featuring Olympic bronze medalist Samuel Takyi and national champions. That event, promoted by Edward Coleman, serves as a memorial to cruiserweight Ernest Akushey, who died September 23 following injuries from a September bout.
The concentration of fight cards reflects renewed activity after Ghana’s boxing underwent significant regulatory restructuring earlier in 2025. The National Sports Authority (NSA) dissolved the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) board in September following the deaths of two boxers after sanctioned bouts. Nigerian fighter Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju died March 29 after competing at Bukom Boxing Arena, and Akushey’s subsequent death intensified concerns over medical safety standards and regulatory oversight.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams inaugurated the Ghana Boxing Interim Management Committee (GBIMC) on September 29 to oversee professional boxing during a transition period. The nine member committee, chaired by former GBA President Samir Captan with boxing legend Azumah Nelson serving as Vice Chairman and Special Technical Advisor, implemented reforms addressing athlete welfare, medical protocols and governance standards.
The interim committee’s mandate includes restructuring the Professional Boxing Association of Ghana and facilitating elections for a new executive board. Botchway referenced these ongoing changes, noting that the final week of December 2025 provides substantial boxing content for fans while the GBIMC prepares to transfer authority to an elected, fully represented body.
The GBIMC has demonstrated enforcement capacity during its tenure. In November, the committee sanctioned three license holders for unauthorized participation in a Lagos boxing event October 1. Boxer Elvis Ahorgah received an indefinite suspension and a 5,000 cedi fine, while trainer Daniel Ayiquaye and matchmaker Daniel Donkor received suspensions of two and three months respectively, each with 1,000 cedi fines.
Legacy Rise Sports Promotions, backed by Matchroom Boxing, staged a major international card December 20 at University of Ghana Sports Stadium featuring British light heavyweight contenders Craig Richards and Dan Azeez. Jonathan Tetteh defeated Seth Gyimah, known as Freezy Macbones, by unanimous decision for the WBA Africa light heavyweight title in the co-main event. The successful execution of that event, which attracted significant attendance and international attention, demonstrated Ghana’s capacity to host high quality professional boxing under reformed medical and safety protocols.
The transition from interim management to elected leadership represents the culmination of reforms triggered by the March and September tragedies. The GBIMC established comprehensive medical and safety protocols, including requirements for ringside neurosurgical presence, updated boxer health records and enhanced insurance coverage. The committee also conducted stakeholder workshops with promoters, coaches, managers, referees and medical personnel to clarify roles and responsibilities within Ghana’s boxing ecosystem.
RBS Promotions enters this restructured environment as boxing activity increases following months of regulatory uncertainty. Multiple promoters, including SEM Promotions, Legacy Rise Sports and now RBS Promotions, are scheduling events as the sport regains momentum under clearer governance standards. The proliferation of fight cards during the final days of 2025 suggests confidence among promoters that Ghana’s boxing infrastructure has stabilized sufficiently to support regular professional competition.
Botchway’s stated ambition to develop boxers capable of international success aligns with Ghana’s historical boxing legacy. The country has produced multiple world champions including Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, Joshua Clottey and Joseph Agbeko. However, recent years have seen fewer Ghanaian fighters competing at the highest international levels, a trend promoters and the GBIMC aim to reverse through improved training standards, better medical support and more consistent competitive opportunities.
The December 30 card at Laboma Beach Resort provides RBS Promotions an opportunity to establish its promotional identity while contributing to the competitive schedule that helps maintain boxer activity levels. Ghana’s boxing scene traditionally experiences periods of intense activity followed by lulls, a pattern the reformed governance structure aims to smooth through more consistent regulatory oversight and better coordination among stakeholders.
At least 10 people have sustained gunshot and other injuries, with two reported to be in critical condition, after armed assailants stormed the Ho Central Mosque in the Volta Region on Friday, December 26.
According to preliminary information, about five masked men reportedly opened fire at the mosque, triggering panic and chaos among worshippers. While the exact motive for the attack has not been officially confirmed, the incident is widely believed to be connected to a protracted Imamship dispute within the mosque.
In the immediate aftermath, police moved swiftly to the scene and have arrested some suspected individuals in connection with the attack. The military has also been deployed to Ho to reinforce security, restore calm, and prevent any further escalation.
Several victims who sustained gunshot wounds recounted their ordeal to Citi News, describing scenes of fear as the sporadic gunfire rang out and people scrambled for safety.
Reacting to the incident, Mohammed Kidzah, a Youth Leader at the mosque, called for urgent intervention to resolve the underlying issues. He warned that failure to address the long-running dispute could lead to further violence and instability.
”The incident occurred just seconds after the Regional Chief Imam had left the area. The person who directed the shooting urged the attackers on, telling them that the Chief Imam was the target and must be shot. Acting on his instructions, they opened fire. When the Imam ran into a house, the attackers shot his son in the leg,” he recounted.
James Kwasi Appiah is the head coach of the Sudan national team
Sudan’s participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) is “bringing hope” to the nation’s people amid its civil war, forward Abobaker Eisa says.
The country has been in the grip of what the United Nations calls the world’s largest humanitarian crisis since April 2023, when a power struggle between the army and a paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Force (RSF), led to conflict.
More than 150,000 people have been killed and over 12 million forced to flee their homes, with widespread famine and reports of genocide in the western Darfur region.
The conflict forced Sudan to play all their qualifying matches away from home, but they came through to book their Afcon spot for only the fourth time since 1976.
The 1970 champions face Algeria (24 December), Equatorial Guinea (28 December), and Burkino Faso (31 December) in the group stage, and Eisa says every match is a “big deal” and a potential distraction for those in Sudan.
“There’s a lot of bad things going on in Sudan. As players, we know how much of a big deal football can be to our nation,” Eisa told BBC World Service.
“There’s not a lot of smiles at the minute, so we’re trying to use football as a way to get their minds off [the war].
“Even qualifying for the Afcon and having fans there to cheer us on – the fact that we’re there is already bringing hope.”
Eisa, who has represented a number of English Football League clubs including Scunthorpe United, Bradford City and Grimsby Town, currently plays for Thai side Chonburi.
Even his team-mates who represent Sudanese teams Al-Hilal and Al-Merrikh are now playing abroad, with the political instability forcing the clubs to relocate first to Mauritania and now Rwanda.
But despite being away from Sudan, the squad’s minds are never far from the war, which Eisa says can be both “disheartening” and a source of “strength”.
“It’s difficult to block [the war] out. Some people’s families are still there, a lot of people’s families have been affected by this,” said Eisa.
“Obviously, you speak together [about] what’s going on, and how we could help, and donating wherever we can.
“Knowing that we could do something for them, it gives us strength. At the same time, it’s disheartening at times – you can only do so much.”
He added: “As long as we go out there and fight for what’s ours, I think everyone will be happy.”
Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare has dismissed claims that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori Atta is being politically persecuted, arguing that the case against him is being pursued by a Special Prosecutor appointed by the previous government rather than a new administration seeking revenge.
In a strongly worded Facebook post on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, Professor Asare, popularly known as Kwaku Azar, described the political persecution narrative as hollow, theatrical and detached from legal reality. He was responding to comments made by Enayat Qasimi, Ofori Atta’s international legal practitioner, who told the BBC that his client was being unfairly targeted by Ghanaian authorities in the ongoing Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) revenue assurance case.
Professor Asare questioned how Ofori Atta could claim to be fully committed to complying with Ghana’s laws while remaining outside the country and beyond the reach of local jurisdiction. “On Christmas Eve, we are being told that Oga is fully committed to complying with the laws of Ghana while remaining outside the jurisdiction, sidestepping lawful processes, and subcontracting accountability to BBC interviews. It requires presence, process, and submission to jurisdiction,” he wrote.
The legal scholar argued that the claim of political motivation collapses under basic scrutiny. “The case is not being driven by an opposition Attorney General or a new government seeking revenge. It is being pursued by a Special Prosecutor appointed by the previous government,” Professor Asare stated.
He emphasized that Ofori Atta is charged together with several others, including private individuals and entities, on allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and violations of public revenue and procurement procedures. “That is the textbook opposite of a political witch hunt. Political prosecutions isolate political opponents; they do not bundle politicians and private actors into the same factual matrix of alleged wrongdoing,” he argued.
Professor Asare added that several former high ranking officials from the same administration, including former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo and former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, remain in Ghana without alleging persecution, making Ofori Atta’s claims appear hollow.
“You cannot be selectively absent, cry foul from overseas, and still demand the moral high ground,” he said, concluding that the story belongs where it fits best as comedy.
Ofori Atta is facing 78 counts of corruption alongside seven others over the SML revenue assurance contract with the GRA. The charges include alleged breaches of Section 23(1) of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) and Section 92(2)(b) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663).
Enayat Qasimi, partner and co chair of the International Practice at Washington DC based law firm Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, has maintained that his client is not evading justice and that the case is politically motivated. In an interview with the BBC shared on December 24, he said Ofori Atta remains willing to cooperate with Ghana’s legal process.
“He is fully committed to complying with the laws of Ghana, and he is fully committed to answering for anything that he did when he was the finance minister. There is absolutely no question about that,” Qasimi stated.
However, he questioned whether Ofori Atta’s constitutional rights are being respected. “The question is, is he being given the rights that he is guaranteed under Ghanaian law? He is not, and he has never been,” Qasimi added.
The lawyer argued that investigative authorities, particularly the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), were fully aware that Ofori Atta was receiving medical treatment in the United States and therefore had no basis to issue a Red Notice against him. “Mr Ofori Atta was receiving treatment. He was in the US, and they knew all along. There was no purpose for issuing the Red Notice, but they went ahead and issued it,” he said.
Attorney General and Minister for Justice Dr Dominic Ayine announced on December 18, 2025 that Ghana has formally submitted an extradition request to the United States for Ken Ofori Atta and an alleged accomplice, Ernest Akore, as investigations into the case continue.
Speaking during the Government Accountability Series, Dr Ayine described Ofori Atta’s legal team as very experienced and top notch, acknowledging the complexity of the extradition battle ahead.
Qasimi is a seasoned international legal practitioner whose career spans high level government service, global finance and cross border dispute resolution. Before joining Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, he served as Senior Vice President and General Counsel of a Saudi based investment banking firm in Riyadh.
His background also includes significant public sector experience, having worked with the Government of Afghanistan, serving in several senior roles including Minister of Civil Aviation and Transport, Senior Foreign Affairs Adviser, and Senior Legal Adviser to the President during the enactment of Afghanistan’s Constitution.
Qasimi holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Maryland School of Law, an MBA from the University of Baltimore, and a Bachelor of Arts from Bard College. He is admitted to practice law in the District of Columbia and Maryland.
The extradition case represents a significant test of Ghana’s anti corruption efforts and its ability to secure accountability from high ranking former officials who are abroad. The outcome will be closely watched by civil society organizations and the public, particularly as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government pursues its Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative aimed at retrieving allegedly misappropriated state assets.
Professor Asare’s intervention adds to growing public debate about how corruption cases against former officials should be pursued while respecting due process and constitutional rights. The legal scholar has been a prominent voice on governance and constitutional matters in Ghana for many years.
Armed military personnel from the 66 Artillery Regiment in Ho have been deployed to the Zongo community.
At least seven Muslims are battling for their lives at various hospitals in Ho, the Volta regional capital, following a shooting incident that disrupted Jummah prayers on Friday, December 26.
Eyewitnesses say the incident occurred at about 9:00 a.m. when a newly installed Chief Imam arrived at the Ho Central Mosque to lead the day’s prayers.
MyJoyOnline understands that the violence erupted when supporters of Alhaji Alfa Anas clashed with some armed men, who allegedly provided security for the newly installed Chief Imam to the mosque.
For more than a decade, two factions, led by Alhaji Alfa Anas and the newly installed Imam, have been locked in a dispute over who the legitimate regional chief Imam is.
Friday’s clashes add to a series of violent incidents that have occurred in recent times.
Meanwhile, heavy joint security personnel have been deployed to the mosque and surrounding the Zongo community to restore calm as of the time of filing this report.
The media has been restricted from accessing the regional hospital where most of the victims of the clash are receiving medical attention.
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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.
Police officers across the country have actively participated in nationwide security outreach activities as part of the annual inter-agency security operational outreach campaigns, contributing significantly to crime prevention and public safety.
High morale among personnel of the Ghana Police Service was evident during the period, reflected in several successful crime detection operations and numerous arrests made nationwide.
Some members of the East Legon Executive Fitness Club spotted on the dance floor
Members of the East Legon Executive Fitness Club gathered in Accra on December 26, 2025, for their annual end-of-year thanksgiving service.
The club organizes the thanksgiving service each year to celebrate and thank God for His mercies and goodness throughout the year.
Members of the club, led by Osei Kwame Despite and Ofori Sarpong, were seen dancing joyfully to Gospel songs during the service.
Also spotted on the dance floor was Kennedy Osei Asante, son of businessman Osei Kwame Despite and a member of the Young East Legon Executive Fitness Club.
Watch as East Legon execs pull up in style for Richard Nii-Armah Quaye’s birthday celebration
Gospel musician Piesie Esther thrilled attendees with uplifting Gospel praise songs and Christmas tunes.
The East Legon Executive Fitness Club, which brings together affluent and senior residents from one of Accra’s prime neighborhoods, counts among its members notable personalities such as businessman Osei Kwame Despite, Ofori-Atta Sarpong, George Afriyie, and former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah.
The club also boasts several other prominent and well-established members of Ghanaian society.
The thanksgiving service was attended by a number of distinguished guests, including Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West, John Dumelo, Apostle Opoku Onyina, businesswoman Betty Agyapong, who is a sister to politician Kennedy Agyapong, Director of Security Operations at the Presidency Kofi Boakye, John Boadu, millionaire Twum Barima, and several others.
Watch the videos below:
AK/EB
Dr Johnson Asiam is the Governor of the Bank of Ghana
The Bank of Ghana has disclosed that its international reserves could cross $13 billion by the end of 2025.
This, according to the bank’s projection, is based on its data as of mid-December 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Central Bank, the development is expected to increase investor and donor confidence.
According to its November Economic and Financial Data, as of the end of October 2025, Ghana’s international reserves stood at $11.4 billion, up from $7.4 billion in October 2024.
However, market watchers have attributed the strong growth in BoG’s reserves to the bank’s reserve accumulation programme and the domestic gold purchasing programme.
BoG dismisses gold loss claims, cites IMF-backed macroeconomic gains
The 2025 development indicates that the Bank of Ghana added $4 billion to its international reserves this year, marking another record achievement in the country’s reserves build-up.
In 2025, the Central Bank auctioned approximately $10 billion to cover obligations to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), bondholders, dividend payments, and other essential commitments.
Read BoG’s full statement below:
SP/EB
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates | BizTech:
Famous Nigerian musician Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has set the record straight about impregnating different women.
The veteran musician, who is known for having children with multiple baby mamas outside his marriage, stated that he has changed his ways and no longer gets women pregnant as he pleases.
Famous Nigerian musician Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has set the record straight about impregnating different women.
The veteran musician, who is known for having children with multiple baby mamas outside his marriage, stated that he has changed his ways and no longer gets women pregnant as he pleases.
AFCON 2025’s atmosphere is extending well beyond stadium walls, with immersive fan zones and pop-up experiences transforming public spaces in Morocco into vibrant hubs of football culture
As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 gets underway, the tournament atmosphere is extending well beyond stadium walls, with immersive fan zones and pop-up experiences brought by Tecno transforming public spaces in Casablanca and Rabat into vibrant hubs of football culture.
Located near key match venues and popular urban parks, these fan-focused activations have been designed to complement the live action on the pitch by offering supporters places to gather, interact, and celebrate the tournament together. Across the two cities, four experiential venues, combining pop-up spaces and open-access fan zones, are operating throughout the competition, ensuring that the AFCON experience is woven into daily city life.
Following the opening ceremony, the public spaces were opened to fans, shifting attention from formal kickoff events to hands-on engagement. The result has been a series of environments that prioritise participation, creativity and shared enjoyment, rather than one-off spectacles.
Technology Meets Football Culture
Rather than functioning as traditional retail outlets, the pop-up spaces near Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca and Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat have been designed as interactive environments. Visitors are invited to explore digital experiences tied to photography, gaming, content creation and everyday smartphone use, with large screens and interactive stations translating abstract technology concepts into practical, real-world scenarios.
Fans are welcomed with guided experiences, light challenges and small giveaways, encouraging exploration and social interaction. The emphasis is on accessibility, allowing visitors to engage at their own pace and share moments organically with friends and online communities.
Adding a creative twist to the experience, a clothing-swap installation featuring jerseys representing all 24 AFCON teams allows supporters to showcase national allegiances while participating in a playful, fashion-inspired activity. Nearby, a prediction wall invites fans to map out tournament outcomes, sparking conversation, debate and photo-sharing around upcoming fixtures.
Community Spaces Beyond Match Days
In parallel, open fan zones at Anfa Park in Casablanca and OLM Souissi in Rabat are operating as inclusive community spaces throughout match days. Open to the public without tickets or registration, the zones cater to both dedicated supporters and casual passersby, reinforcing AFCON’s role as a shared cultural moment.
These areas feature relaxed activity zones, football skill challenges such as juggling and heading, and casual photo stations where fans can capture and print memories of the tournament. Performances blending African music, dance and freestyle football have added to the festive atmosphere, with scheduled activations on key dates during the competition.
By running simultaneously in Morocco’s two major cities and remaining active throughout the tournament, the fan zones and pop-up experiences offer continuity, giving supporters multiple touchpoints to engage with AFCON beyond the stadium experience.
As the competition progresses, these public activations continue to reflect how major sporting events are increasingly about more than the matches themselves. In Morocco, AFCON 2025 is unfolding not only on the pitch, but also across city streets, parks and gathering spaces—bringing football, culture and community together in everyday urban life.
Veteran boxing coach Kwatelai Quartey has been recognized with a Special Award for his decades-long contribution to Bukom and Ghana boxing, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the sport’s history.
No account of Ghana’s boxing history is complete without mention of Quartey, affectionately known as Wutor, the long serving head coach of the Bukom Boxing Club. A towering figure in the sport, his influence spans generations and has shaped the very identity of Bukom as Ghana’s boxing heartbeat.
In 1976, Quartey played a pivotal role in the reconstruction of the Bukom Boxing Club with the support of Hon Amarkai Amarteifio, then Secretary for Youth and Sports. The gym, which dates back to the 1950s under the management of Nii Nai Sackeyfio, has produced some of Ghana’s finest fighters, including the country’s first Olympic medallist Clement Ike Quartey Snr and the celebrated Floyd Quartey.
The gym has been in existence since the 1950s and still needs government support because the new crop of boxers need better facilities and equipment, even roofing so they can train round the clock on rainy days, according to Quartey.
He is the elder brother of Ike Bazooka Quartey and, together with the late Alfred Cobra Kotey, was among the early pioneers who trained at the club from a very young age. Widely regarded as a naturally gifted trainer, Quartey is credited with nurturing some of Ghana’s most accomplished fighters, including Ike Quartey, Alfred Kotey, Joshua Clottey, Emmanuel Clottey, Steve Dotse, James Bukom Fire Armah and Abraham Osei Bonsu, guiding them onto the international stage.
One of his most notable achievements came in 1988, when he helped several of his protégés earn places in the Black Bombers squad for the Seoul Olympic Games, before supporting their transition into the professional ranks. Under his guidance, Alfred Kotey went on to become WBO Bantamweight Champion in 1994.
While others may be credited as head coaches for some fighters, Quartey laid the foundation for many of their careers and continues to train young and juvenile boxers to this day. Though Oko Odamten is credited as coach of Ike Quartey during his professional career, the foundation came from Wutor.
A long list of Bukom’s finest also passed through his hands, including Bukom Banku (Braimah Kamoko), Joshua Bukom Tsatsu Okine, Bukom Jah Lartei Lartey, Alfred The Stinging Bee Tetteh, Malik Bukom Onufu Jabir, Michael Pappoe and many others.
Though advancing in age, Quartey remains passionate about teaching. Equipment shortages are no barrier to him. I can even use a football to train boxers how to punch, he said in an exclusive interview with BoxingGhana.
For him, discipline is non-negotiable, insisting there is no excuse for skipping training. The gym is a boxer’s classroom, he often reminds his trainees. That’s where you learn about life. To him, there is no excuse for not turning up for training because as a boxer, the gym is your classroom to learn about life.
Beyond producing fighters, Quartey has mentored several young trainers, further extending his legacy. His recognition at the 2025 Boxing Ghana Awards has therefore been widely welcomed as both fitting and overdue.
Coach Quartey, often called The Father of Bukom Boxers, believes Ghana boxing has declined because there is no leading contender in world ratings. He advised the government to invest in amateur boxing by taking boxers out for training tours in Eastern Europe and Asia, regions known for strong boxing programmes.
He acknowledged that raw talent abounds in Bukom but emphasized that talent needs management and exposure as well as opportunity to develop into world class fighters. The coach has consistently called for better support and investment in amateur boxing infrastructure to ensure Ghana continues producing world champions.
The boxing fraternity and BoxingGhana have congratulated Coach Quartey for his unwavering dedication to the sport and his lifelong service to the youth of Bukom. He will receive a Special Award at this year’s Boxing Ghana Awards, scheduled for January 3, 2026 at the Idrowhyt Events Centre in Dansoman.
Bukom, located in the Jamestown district of Accra, has produced eight world champion boxers despite being a working class neighborhood with limited resources. The area’s network of gyms has been responsible for most of Ghana’s boxing success over the decades.
The Bukom Boxing Club remains one of the most important gyms in the community, alongside other notable facilities like the Attoh Quarshie Gym, which groomed former IBF welterweight champion Joshua Clottey, and the Bronx Boxing Club, which shaped Richard Oblitey Commey, who captured the IBF lightweight title in 2019.
Ghana Boxing Authority President Peter Zwennes has previously stated that poverty and deprivation are major factors that contribute to Bukom producing so many champions, noting that the hunger for success, fortune and fame motivate boys in Bukom to take boxing as their education and business.
The award comes at a time when Ghana boxing faces challenges in maintaining its competitive edge on the international stage. While the country boasts a rich boxing heritage with multiple world champions, current participation in global rankings has diminished compared to previous decades.
Coach Quartey’s recognition serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a reminder of the ongoing need for investment in boxing infrastructure, training facilities and development programmes to ensure future generations can follow in the footsteps of Ghana’s boxing legends.
Deontay Wilder is a former WBC heavyweight champion
Former WBC heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder has opened up about a deeply personal chapter in his family life, one that went far beyond the boxing ring.
During a recent podcast appearance, Wilder shared how he once included his ex-partner Telli Swift and her son in his multi-million-dollar will as a sign of the commitment he felt during their relationship, only to be confronted with a heartbreaking rejection from the boy. 
Wilder and Swift first became a couple around 2015, forming part of the public eye through social appearances and Swift’s reality TV presence.
Together they share a daughter, but Swift also had a son from a previous relationship.
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During their time together, Wilder said he embraced the role of father figure to her son. 
In his heartfelt recounting, Wilder explained that he took his role seriously, even discussing with his own children about adjusting his will to include Swift’s son.
“I took the role of being your son’s father, not just a daddy but a father,” he said. 
He further revealed how during a candid conversation with the teen, he told him he ain’t his father.
“One time her son said you ain’t my daddy. That’s one thing you don’t say to a man that ain’t your daddy. Don’t remind him he ain’t your daddy,” he added.
Watch the interview below:
Deontay Wilder says he put his ex, Telli Swift, and her son in his multimillion-dollar will—
only for the son to tell him, “You ain’t my daddy.” 👀
pic.twitter.com/HeUAjl0eYE— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) December 26, 2025
Deontay Wilder says he put his ex, Telli Swift, and her son in his multimillion-dollar will—
only for the son to tell him, “You ain’t my daddy.” 👀
pic.twitter.com/HeUAjl0eYE— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) December 26, 2025
FKA/JE
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