play videoThomas Partey is a midfielder of Arsenal
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey gave fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at life inside the Gunners camp during a quick and entertaining TikTok interview, answering rapid-fire questions about his teammates and sparking plenty of laughs online.
Asked who he believes is the most underrated player at Arsenal, Partey didn’t hesitate to mention the name of Kai Havertz.
When it comes to the locker room DJ, Partey gave props to club captain Martin Ødegaard and added that Declan Rice occasionally takes over.
Pressed on the fastest player in the squad, Partey had no doubts about Gabriel Martinelli and when asked who is toughest to defend against in training, he gave the same name.
In a more lighthearted moment, Partey revealed that the first to fall asleep when the team is traveling is none other than Raheem Sterling.
“He can sleep anywhere, anytime,” Partey said with a laugh.
Partey also revealed that if he ever needed a teammate to cook him a good meal, he was going to pick Jurrien Timber.
The short clip, shared on the official TikTok account of FuboTV Canada, has since gone viral, with fans enjoying Partey’s honest and humorous take on his teammates.
It’s another reminder of the strong camaraderie and light-hearted culture within the Arsenal dressing room, even as they chase silverware on the pitch.
Watch the interview below:
@fubotvcanada Who’s the most UNDERRATED player on Aresenal 👀 Arsenal squad superlatives with Thomas Partey Follow @The Footy Culture for more! #fyp #arsenal #football #thomaspartey ♬ original sound – FuboTV Canada
FKA/MA
Watch full report on the day one of the Sekondi Inter-Schools athletics
Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah has stated that the inquiry into suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo will proceed as planned, despite a fresh Supreme Court application seeking to halt the process.
Responding to Justice Torkornoo’s legal attempt to disqualify two Supreme Court justices from the investigative committee, Jantuah argued that the move would not impact the committee’s work or alter its eventual outcome.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, May 22, she described the application as unnecessary and ineffective, emphasizing that the inquiry remains grounded in due process.
“How can those two people influence the outcome? They cannot, because there are also two other members of the committee who I know are very credible. They are following the law, and I don’t believe anyone on the committee can act outside of it,” she said.
Justice Torkornoo, who was suspended by President John Mahama under Article 146 of the Constitution, filed the application through former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame. She is asking the Supreme Court to disqualify Justices Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu from the inquiry, citing alleged private meetings with a lawyer involved in the matter.
The application also seeks to restrain the entire committee—including the two justices, former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah—from continuing with proceedings.
Despite this, Jantuah maintains that the committee remains legitimate and that the process should be allowed to run its course.
Justice Torkornoo is facing three separate petitions for her removal from office. The committee is expected to investigate the allegations and present findings that will determine her future as Chief Justice.
The Suame District Court has adjourned to June 5, 2025, the case involving seven military personnel—comprising senior officers and a driver—accused of assaulting three civilians, two of whom later died at Danyame, a suburb of Kumasi.
The victims, identified as Kwame Adu (also known as Ogee), Kwabena Sarfo, and Christian Obiri Yeboah (popularly called Kofi Yesu), were arrested by uniformed military officers on March 28, 2025.
They were allegedly taken to the 4th Infantry Battalion (4BN) barracks in Kumasi, where they were reportedly subjected to severe beatings following accusations of stealing an iPhone belonging to a civilian.
Two of the victims later died from the alleged abuse.
Police subsequently received information about the location of the bodies and retrieved them.
The case has faced delays as the presiding judge has been on leave since April 2025.
(L-R) A photo collage of Samuel Atta Akyea, Kwabena Adu-Boahene and Dr Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah
Governance analyst and lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School, Dr Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, has urged the state to continue the prosecution of former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene, despite the threats by his lawyer that doing so might lead to the leaking of national security secrets.
Speaking in an interview with GhanaWeb on May 22, 2025, Dr Otchere-Ankrah asserted that the threat of leakage of national security secrets by Adu-Boahene’s lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, does not make sense.
The governance expert pointed out that the threat to leak national security secrets should not be an excuse not to hold public officers who misuse the resources of the state accountable.
He went on to call the bluff of the lawyer, saying that they should leak all the secrets they have, but Adu-Boahene must be prosecuted and all of his assets, together with those of his accomplices, confiscated.
“He should be prosecuted irrespective of the information he leaked. If he has gone to misuse state money, he should be prosecuted, and nobody should think of stopping it(sic). Even American information is leaked. Did you not hear recently that one of the national security heads mistakenly added a journalist to their page, and information was leaked? Has America collapsed? Certainly not.
“He can leak whatever information, but he should be prosecuted… He should be prosecuted, and we should not just be in a hurry to put him in jail. They should seize all his assets and those of all the people who were involved,” he said.
“It is so demeaning and heartbreaking that we don’t have money to fix our roads leading to flooding, to keep our lights on, and people are misusing state funds in this manner, and for him to come threaten that if you prosecute me, I will leak information. They should prosecute him,” he added.
The lecturer went on to criticise the leakage of the letter Adu-Boahene wrote to the National Security.
He wondered why the state would allow an accused person in such an important case to be writing letters and having access to the media.
“You know this cannot happen in an Arabic country, where you are in a cell and still have access to the media and be saying all kinds of nonsense,” he said.
“If he wrote to the national security, how was it leaked? Even that alone should be a subject of an investigation. Did he leak it himself, or was it the office (the national security) that leaked it?” he asked.
Background:
The Attorney General, Dr Dominic Ayine, has filed 11 charges against Kwabena Adu-Boahene, who has been accused of transferring GH¢49 million (approximately $7 million) from the bureau’s account to his personal account, among other offences.
A letter from Atta Akyea to the National Security Coordinator, in which Atta Akyea warned that prosecuting Adu-Boahene could have national security implications.
He also claimed the charges violated provisions of Ghana’s laws, including Act 1030 and Act 1040.
“Our client has instructed us that a cursory look at the case from the documents you inherited underscores the fact that the pith of the Hon. Attorney-General’s case are matters bothering on national security.
Besides, the intended prosecution violates the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2020 (Act 1030) and the National Signals Bureau Act, 2020 (Act 1040),” part of Atta Akyea’s letter read.
In a separate letter to the National Security Coordinator, Adu-Boahene denied stealing from the state.
He submitted a list of individuals and organisations he claimed to have paid the contested funds to, – among them were MPs who asserted that these payments were for national security purposes.
BAI/VPO
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In ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities and protect Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies, the government has achieved another significant milestone with the successful reclamation of the Asenayo Forest Reserve.
This feat has once again been achieved through coordinated operations led by the Forestry Commission and Security agencies, under the auspices of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. This marks the eighth out of nine high-priority “red-zoned” reserves restored from armed illegal miners, reinforcing the state’s zero-tolerance stance on galamsey.
The announcement was made by the Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh Brown, during a just-ended inter-agency retreat organised by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, hailing it as a testament to the effectiveness of interagency collaboration.
The Asenayo reserve, previously overrun by destructive mining operations, has now been fully secured and placed under state protection.
This development highlights the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting Ghana’s vital forest resources, and earlier successes under the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who confirmed the recovery of seven other reserves through joint military-police-Forestry Commission task force operations.
The systematic reclamation strategy—combining intelligence-led enforcement, community engagement, and ecological restoration—has become a model for sustainable natural resource governance.
With only one reserve remaining under illegal occupation, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to total recovery, stating, “No forest land will be ceded to criminals. We are mobilizing all resources to reclaim the final target and ensure lasting protection for these critical ecosystems.
Manasseh Azure Awuni an award-winning investigative journalist has fired shots at the former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Godfred Dame over his calls for the good men of Ghana to stand up for what is right.
Speaking on JOY FM, Godfred Dame stated, “It is about time that good men in this country speak for what is righteous and what is right.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA), in collaboration with the KGL Foundation, has officially launched the 5th edition of the Inter-Regional Under-17 Colts Championship. The event took place on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the KGL House in Labone, Accra.
The launch reaffirms both organisations’ commitment to grassroots football development in Ghana. GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku praised the KGL Foundation for its sustained support since 2021.
“For five consecutive years, the KGL Foundation has fueled this tournament and brought countless young dreams to life,” he said. He added that the Championship has helped identify key talent now playing at national and club levels.
KGL Foundation CEO Elliot Dadey emphasised the tournament’s broader impact: “This is more than a tournament. It’s a movement that reflects Ghanaian determination and the power of sport to transform lives.”
Each regional team will receive equipment and kits to support participation. Young referees will officiate under the GFA’s Catch Them Young policy, reinforcing the developmental vision of the Championship.
Past editions have unearthed stars for Ghana’s national Under-17 team, including recent WAFU Zone B standouts. Western Region enters the 2025 edition as defending champions, having defeated Eastern Region 2-1 in last year’s final.
Prominent Ghanaian media personality and playwright, George Quaye, has called out a certain awards scheme for demanding payment in exchange for receiving recognition.
In a post on Facebook on May 21, 2025, George Quaye recounted the experience, stating how he rejected the award because organisers insisted he pays for a table to receive it.
“You say I’ve won an award, so I should come and pay for a table. I ask if I can get my award without paying for a table, and you say no. I say thank you… Take your award. You bore… Mboasem!” he wrote.
He further expressed frustration at what he sees as a growing trend among awards show organisers.
George Quaye followed the rant with a direct notice to all award schemes, stating, “Notice to all awards show organisers! Please if there will be any form of payment, either for a chair, table, spoon, food or drink, the plaque itself, the music, the venue or any other thing, please do not nominate me! Twa!”
His post echoed concerns shared by other creatives about “pay-to-win” award schemes, where awards are used as revenue-generating tools rather than as genuine forms of recognition.
Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has reacted to the empaneling of the five-member committee established by President John Dramani Mahama to investigate the petitions filed seeking her removal as Chief Justice.
Her response, outlined in a writ filed at the Supreme Court through her legal team, asserts that the Chairman of the committee, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, and Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu are not qualified to serve as members of the committee investigating the petitions.
In her writ, Torkornoo argued that, based on a true and proper interpretation of specific provisions of the 1992 Constitution, namely Articles 23, 146(6) and (7), and 296(a) and (b), Justice Pwamang, who is named as the second defendant in the suit, is not qualified to chair the committee.
She justified this position by citing a conflict of interest, noting that Justice Pwamang had previously adjudicated and delivered rulings in favor of one of the petitioners seeking her removal from office.
“A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 23, 146(6) and (7) and 296(a) and (b) of the Constitution, the 2nd defendant, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, is not qualified to be a chairman or member of the committee set up by the President to inquire into the petitions against the Plaintiff on account of having adjudicated and given various rulings in favour of one of the petitioners, Daniel Ofori in actions filed in the Supreme Court,” portions of her writ filed on May 21, 2025 read.
Regarding Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, the third defendant in the case, Torkornoo further argued, citing Articles 23, 7(1) and (2), 146(6) and (7), and 296(a) and (b) of the Constitution, that his appointment to the committee probing the petitions violates the principle of judicial independence.
In her writ, Torkornoo stated that at the time of Justice Adibu-Asiedu’s appointment to the committee, he had already been empanelled as a member of a Supreme Court panel to hear an application for an interlocutory injunction challenging proceedings under Article 146.
“A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 23, 7(1) and (2), 146(6) and (7) and 296(a) and (b) of the Constitution, the appointment of the 3rd defendant, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, as a member of the committee set up by the President to inquire into the petitions against the Plaintiff, at a time when he had already sat as a member of a panel of the Supreme Court constituted under article 128(2) of the Constitution to hear an application for interlocutory injunction filed by a Ghanaian citizen challenging the “article 146 proceedings” initiated against the Plaintiff, violates the independence of the Judiciary,” her writ indicated.
Based on this, Torkornoo maintains that Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu are not qualified to serve on the committee and is therefore seeking their removal.
Justice Torkornoo’s main argument was based on Articles 23, 7(1) and (2), 146(6) and (7), and 296(a) and (b). Here is what the constitution says;
Article 23
Under the 1992 Constitution, Article 23 which highlights administrative justice says, “Administrative bodies and administrative officials shall act fairly and reasonably and comply with the requirements imposed on them by law and persons aggrieved by the exercise of such acts and decisions shall have the right to seek redress before a court or other tribunal.”
Article 7 clause (1) and (2)
Article 7 addresses the issue of persons entitled to be registered as citizens, which says in clause (1) that, “A woman married to a man who is a citizen of Ghana or a man married to a woman who is a citizen of Ghana may, upon making an application in the manner prescribed by Parliament, be registered as a citizen of Ghana.”
Article 7(2) also states, “Clause (1) of this article applies also to a person who was married to a person who, but for his or her death, would have continued to be a citizen of Ghana under clause (1) of article 6 of this Constitution.”
Article 146 clause (6) and (7)
Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution outlines the process of the removal of Justices of Superior Courts and Chairmen of Regional Tribunals.
Under Article 146 (6), it states that, “Where the petition is for the removal of the Chief Justice, the President shall, acting in consultation with the Council of State, appoint a committee consisting of two Justices of the Supreme Court, one of whom shall be appointed chairman by the President, and three other persons who are not members of the Council of State, nor members of Parliament, nor lawyers.”
Article 146 (7) also states that, “The committee appointed under clause (6) of this article shall inquire into the petition and recommend to the President whether the Chief Justice ought to be removed from office.”
Article 296 clause (a) and (b)
Article 296 of the Constitution focuses on the exercise of discretionary powers.
Under 296, it says that where in this Constitution or in any other law discretionary power is vested in any person or authority;
(a) That discretionary power shall be deemed to imply a duty to be fair and candid;
(b) The exercise of the discretionary power shall not be arbitrary, capricious or biased either by resentment, prejudice, or personal dislike and shall be in accordance with due process of law.
Based on these provisions as explicitly enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, does the embattled CJ have a case?
MAG/MA
After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:
Abena Amoah is the Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange
The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) has been named the best-performing securities market in West Africa after recording an impressive gain of over 30% in its main index during the first quarter of 2025.
This remarkable growth has been attributed to renewed investor confidence and a surge in trading activity on the equities market.
Speaking during a ‘Facts Behind the Figures’ session organised for Kasapreko Plc as they listed on the GSE on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Managing Director Abena Amoah said the improved macroeconomic landscape has been the key factor fueling the stock market’s momentum.
“The rebound in the economy is clearly being reflected in market activity. We are optimistic that this trend will continue and potentially place Ghana among the top-performing markets on the continent by the end of the year,” she stated.
The GSE’s strong start to 2025 positions it as a beacon of resilience and opportunity in a region still grappling with economic headwinds.
She added, “As of May 18, the GSE equities market has recorded a very impressive performance. Our index was up over 30 percent, the best in West Africa. Our financial stock index was also up by about 33 percent, signaling robust investor interest and market activity.”
On market capitalisation and liquidity, Abena Amoah disclosed that the market capitalisation stood at over GH¢143 billion as of mid-May 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of more than 70%, although she acknowledged that it remains low relative to Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Market analysts suggest that sustained policy stability and increased corporate disclosures could further strengthen the exchange’s performance in the months ahead.
SP/MA
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Andre Onana is a goalkeeper of Cameroon and Manchester United
Former Cameroon international Fabrice Olinga has publicly accused Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana of engaging in dark spiritual practices and betraying those who once supported him.
The bizarre and fiery message, which has since gone viral across Cameroonian social media circles, has reignited tensions within the national team and stirred up conversations around ritualism and alleged occultism in African football.
The controversy comes after Manchester United’s crushing 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
Onana came under heavy criticism from United fans for his role in Spurs’ winning goal, with many blaming the Cameroonian shot-stopper for poor positioning and a late reaction.
Olinga’s Snapchat tirade appears to link Onana’s recent struggles directly to what he claims are the goalkeeper’s involvement in spiritual rituals and a betrayal of those who once stood by him.
“You’re hurting people in the dark that opened their doors for you, and you think you’re triumphing in the light.
“Onana, I told you last time to pray a lot. You’ll tell your parents what’s happening to you. I warned, but you didn’t listen.
“Your cult stories, where you take the energies of others, will stop. You chose the wrong enemy, Andrew.
“When someone wants to attack my family, I am capable of the worst and a pity for you,” the post read.
Onana has not responded publicly to the accusations.
The final, held in Bilbao, was a bitter end to a turbulent season for the Red Devils, and for Onana, it added yet another layer of scrutiny to an already contentious year.
FKA/MA
Meanwhile, watch as ADISEC win the 4×200 Boys finals at the 23rd Annual Inter schools and colleges
Singer Stonebwoy has received aMaster of International Relations and Diplomacy (MIRD) degree from the Ghana Institute of Management & Public Administration (GIMPA), Accra.
Gerrard Israel, a communications team member of Stonebwoy’s Burniton Music Group (BMG) said on Facebook that the Reggae/Dancehall superstar graduated on Friday, May 16, 2025.
The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has officially commissioned a newly completed four-storey, 24-unit apartment block for the Ghana Immigration Service in Savelugu, located in the Northern Region. Constructed by the State Housing Company, the facility is part of a broader initiative to enhance the welfare and living standards of security personnel in the region.
I’ve lost count of the number of known voices and familiar faces that have been given roles in this NDC government.
Interestingly, some of these appointees — many of them academics — were previously thought to lean towards the NPP. And yet, here they are, serving under the current government.
You can make all the noise about hypocrisy and claim they were never truly neutral — that they were only advocating from the sidelines to serve their own interest within the NDC.
But here’s the thing: politics is about numbers and strategy. Nation-building, however, is about tapping into quality human resources to achieve national goals. And if that talent happens to come from among so-called neutrals, so be it.
The Constitution does not require a party card to serve in public office. If individuals can contribute meaningful ideas from the sidelines, then it’s only right that they’re brought into the system to help implement those ideas.
Let’s not forget — the other party also had the opportunity to engage these same individuals. Perhaps they didn’t have space for everyone or didn’t find them suitable. But if someone else now finds them worthy, must they decline the offer simply because of what partisan Ghanaians might say?
Every skill and talent in this country should be seen as a national asset, not one reserved for party loyalists. A floating voter’s ballot is valuable to win an election, but their intellect isn’t useful for national development? Is that really where the debate is headed?
Yes, politicians may clandestinely use these strategic appointments to silence some critical voices, but are all the appointments always about that? Don’t be surprised when the NPP returns to power and uses the same strategy to its advantage.
The truth is, our politics stopped being about ideological convictions a long time ago. Today, many choose political alignments based on practical considerations, not dogma.
What’s unfolding also points to a deliberate rebranding by the NDC — one aimed at attracting middle-class Ghanaians, academics, and technocrats. The sooner the opposition NPP sees through this and counters it, the better for them.
There are always new voices emerging and contributing meaningfully to national conversations from the sidelines. So, the assumption that when such critical voices take up roles in government, whether temporary or permanent, there will be no others left to speak is simply erroneous.
At every point, the cycle continues. New voices rise because there are many more individuals who, for one reason or another, haven’t yet had the opportunity or haven’t challenged themselves to step into the national spotlight.
Many of those leading Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) today weren’t the same people active in the 2000s. Some of the older figures have since retired or taken up roles in past governments, and others have picked up the baton and carried the cause forward.
There can never be a shortage of knowledge simply because a few critical voices have taken on official responsibilities. The national conversation is far bigger than any individual, and fresh voices will always emerge to keep it alive.
It’s time to rethink what neutrality, competence, and national service truly mean.
–
The writer, Ebenezer Afanyi Dadzie, is an Assistant News Editor at Myjoyonline.com.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely mine and do not represent the organisation.
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.
The AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation (AfYEF) is poised to host a significant side event during the 2025 Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
The event will focus on youth and women empowerment within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The objective of the event is to highlight the potential of AfCFTA in driving economic transformation, provide practical guidance to emerging entrepreneurs, promote equitable participation in continental trade, and unveil a user-friendly guidebook tailored for Africa’s new generation of business leaders.
Under the theme “Empowering Women and Youth through AfCFTA”, the event is expected to draw a distinguished audience of policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners.
Participants will witness the official launch of the AfCFTA Guide Book, a groundbreaking resource designed to assist African entrepreneurs in navigating AfCFTA trade protocols, market entry strategies, and export-readiness tools.
Taking place at the Sofitel Abidjan Hotel, in Salle Bouaké, the session will feature keynote addresses from Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Wamkele Mene, and Director of the Regional Integration Coordination Office at the AfDB, Dr. Joy Kategekwa.
Their speeches will emphasise how AfCFTA can act as a catalyst for inclusive growth by providing youth and women with vital trade opportunities.
Siita Sofo Hissan, the Founding President of AfYEF, told DAILY GUIDE that his keynote address would advocate for targeted investments in youth-led innovation and capacity building.
According to him, he will call for inclusive financing models that address the unique challenges faced by youth and women entrepreneurs, as well as for youth representation in the governance of new financial institutions, particularly the Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB), an AfDB initiative being piloted in 13 countries.
The event will also feature a panel discussion on various trade topics, showcasing prominent voices including Mr. Siita Sofo Hissan, President of AfYEF; Fredrick Nonde Jr., AfYEF Vice President for Administration; George Opare-Addo, Ghana’s Minister for Youth Development; and Governors from Nigeria, among others.
The event is expected to receive over 200 participants from various African countries, which will be conducted in English with simultaneous French interpretation, and will be available via livestream to reach broader audiences across the continent.
Accra, May 22, GNA – Former US National Football League (NFL) player, Isaiah Stanback, is in Ghana to explore the possibility of setting up a sports academy in the country.
The sports academy when established would not only train Ghanaian youth in soccer but other sporting activities including American football and basketball.
Speaking to journalists in Accra as part of his four-day visit to Ghana, Mr Stanback said there was so much talent in Ghana that it was imperative to harness them and showcase them to the world.
The former NFL player said his visit was to enable him to learn more about the sports community and how he could use his expertise to assist the youth in that direction.
“There are a lot kids and talents here and we have to bring things that will add value and development to them”, Mr Stanback said.
He said there are millions of kids in the country who already understood soccer, adding that the same skills could be transferred into American football other sporting disciplines.
Mr Stanback said the leadership of the country, from his engagements, was ready to support the development of sporting activities and he is determined to draw up a game plan to establish a sports academy and bring in top level expertise to develop Ghanaians talents in sports.
Mr Stanback is a Super Bowl champion (XLVI).
He played in the NFL for the Cowboys, New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars.
(L-R) A photo collage of Samuel Atta Akyea, Kwabena Adu-Boahene and Dr Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah
Governance analyst and lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School, Dr Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, has urged the state to continue the prosecution of former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene, despite the threats by his lawyer that doing so might lead to the leaking of national security secrets.
Speaking in an interview with GhanaWeb on May 22, 2025, Dr Otchere-Ankrah asserted that the threat of leakage of national security secrets by Adu-Boahene’s lawyer, Samuel Atta Akyea, does not make sense.
The governance expert pointed out that the threat to leak national security secrets should not be an excuse not to hold public officers who misuse the resources of the state accountable.
He went on to call the bluff of the lawyer, saying that they should leak all the secrets they have, but Adu-Boahene must be prosecuted and all of his assets, together with those of his accomplices, confiscated.
“He should be prosecuted irrespective of the information he leaked. If he has gone to misuse state money, he should be prosecuted, and nobody should think of stopping it(sic). Even American information is leaked. Did you not hear recently that one of the national security heads mistakenly added a journalist to their page, and information was leaked? Has America collapsed? Certainly not.
“He can leak whatever information, but he should be prosecuted… He should be prosecuted, and we should not just be in a hurry to put him in jail. They should seize all his assets and those of all the people who were involved,” he said.
“It is so demeaning and heartbreaking that we don’t have money to fix our roads leading to flooding, to keep our lights on, and people are misusing state funds in this manner, and for him to come threaten that if you prosecute me, I will leak information. They should prosecute him,” he added.
The lecturer went on to criticise the leakage of the letter Adu-Boahene wrote to the National Security.
He wondered why the state would allow an accused person in such an important case to be writing letters and having access to the media.
“You know this cannot happen in an Arabic country, where you are in a cell and still have access to the media and be saying all kinds of nonsense,” he said.
“If he wrote to the national security, how was it leaked? Even that alone should be a subject of an investigation. Did he leak it himself, or was it the office (the national security) that leaked it?” he asked.
Background:
The Attorney General, Dr Dominic Ayine, has filed 11 charges against Kwabena Adu-Boahene, who has been accused of transferring GH¢49 million (approximately $7 million) from the bureau’s account to his personal account, among other offences.
A letter from Atta Akyea to the National Security Coordinator, in which Atta Akyea warned that prosecuting Adu-Boahene could have national security implications.
He also claimed the charges violated provisions of Ghana’s laws, including Act 1030 and Act 1040.
“Our client has instructed us that a cursory look at the case from the documents you inherited underscores the fact that the pith of the Hon. Attorney-General’s case are matters bothering on national security.
Besides, the intended prosecution violates the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2020 (Act 1030) and the National Signals Bureau Act, 2020 (Act 1040),” part of Atta Akyea’s letter read.
In a separate letter to the National Security Coordinator, Adu-Boahene denied stealing from the state.
He submitted a list of individuals and organisations he claimed to have paid the contested funds to, – among them were MPs who asserted that these payments were for national security purposes.
BAI/VPO
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A Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Joshua Jebuntie Zaato, has expressed strong doubts about the sustainability of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) latest decongestion drive, describing it as another short-term effort likely to fail without a comprehensive, long-term strategy.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, May 22, Dr. Zaato expressed scepticism about the long-term impact of the operation, arguing that it is yet another short-lived attempt to address a recurring urban management problem.
“If you are decongesting Makola or Accra Central, these traders, especially those on the street, are very mobile. They can move to another market and take over another street. That is why I am saying we need a very holistic policy that takes an ‘all-of-the-above’ approach.”
Dr. Zaato further questioned the political will behind the initiative, warning that without sustained commitment, the efforts would fizzle out like similar campaigns in the past.
“I hope that this is not a nine-day wonder. I hope this thing doesn’t end with one mayor. But so far, nothing shows me that it is not a nine-day wonder. Everything shows me that it is going to end spectacularly, just like it did in the past years,” he stated.
His comments follow the AMA’s renewed efforts to clear unauthorised traders from streets and pavements in a bid to restore order and improve sanitation in the city centre. On Tuesday, May 20, a task force from the Assembly, supported by the Ghana Police Service, dismantled makeshift stalls and removed hawkers occupying key parts of the Central Business District.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive of the AMA, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has assured that trading spaces will be created within the next two months to accommodate hawkers affected by the exercise. This, he said, is to ensure a more structured and humane approach to urban space management.
Despite these promises, Dr. Zaato believes that without a well-planned, city-wide policy framework backed by consistent enforcement, the decongestion efforts will remain temporary.
Dennis Boateng, the CEO of Ghana Comedy Awards, has urged the government to pay more attention to comedy in an interview.
According to Dennis Boateng, comedy has the potential to be a major driver of growth and tourism in Ghana.
“I think the government should go beyond looking at creative in a certain way. When it comes to comedy, comedy is big. Trust me, if you pay attention to it, the music that is selling Ghana, the tourism that is selling Ghana, it will blow up. The comedy will blow up Ghana,” Dennis Boateng said on Daybreak Hitz in an interview with DJ Slim.
He also highlighted the absence of a comedy festival under the Black Star Experience, suggesting that it could be a valuable platform for showcasing Ghana’s comedy talent.
“I did a little check. I need to highlight this on the Black Star Experience. I saw Black Star Movie Festival, I saw Black Star Theatre, I didn’t see Black Star Comedy Festival. I think that is a platform where we can actually do something nice for a weekend,” he said.
Dennis Boateng also proposed a three-day Black Star Comedy Festival that would bring together various aspects of the comedy industry, including comedy theatres, skits, movies, stand-up comedy, jugglers, and magicians.
“We can have three days. We have comedy theatres, we have comedy skits, we have comedy movies, we have stand-up comedy, we have these jugglers. We have magicians and all of them. Let’s put them together at one place for a weekend and say we are doing a Black Star Comedy Festival. Look at what will happen, it will be mind-blowing. And this will put Ghana on another pedestal when it comes to the world market. So, it’s a big deal. Anyone listening can look at it. The government should also pay attention to it,” he concluded.
The proposal for a Black Star Comedy Festival highlights the potential for comedy to contribute to Ghana’s cultural and economic development.
With the right support and investment, the comedy industry could become a significant driver of growth and tourism in Ghana.
In the meantime, this year’s Ghana Comedy Awards has been slated for May 24, 2025 at the LaPalm Royal Beach Hotel.
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.
Faiz Montrage is scheduled to be released from the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia
Ghanaian socialite and musician, Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Real, is scheduled to be released today, Thursday, May 22, 2025, from the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia, United States.
Her release follows a June 28, 2024 sentencing, where she received one year and one day in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to receive stolen money in connection with a romance scam operation. The scheme, which involved multiple victims across the U.S., resulted in over $2 million in fraudulent gains.
The inclusion of the extra day in her sentence makes her eligible for “good time” credit, a federal provision that allows inmates to earn reduced sentences for good behavior while incarcerated.
Return to Ghana approved
Following her release, a U.S. court has approved Hajia4Real’s request for voluntary self-deportation to Ghana, effectively allowing her to avoid being detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which typically processes the removal of non-citizens after serving criminal sentences.
This legal arrangement streamlines her return to Ghana without further complications related to immigration detention, though she will likely face intense public scrutiny and potential legal follow-ups depending on Ghanaian authorities’ stance.
Background
Hajia4Real was extradited from the United Kingdom to the United States in 2023 and was charged with participating in a transnational romance fraud ring that targeted vulnerable individuals, often elderly, through fake online relationships.
As part of her plea deal, she admitted to knowingly receiving proceeds from the scam and agreed to forfeit substantial assets.
Her sentencing marked a significant fall from grace for the social media influencer, who had built a glamorous public image and music career before the charges surfaced.
Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sapong with other fire personnel at Tema Flour Mills
Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sapong Wednesday joined adept firefighters from the Tema Regional Fire Command to douse completely fire that swept through eight floors of the production unit of Flour Mills Ghana Limited at 1239 hours.
One worker, affected by smoke inhalation, was swiftly rushed to the GPHA Clinic and said to be stable and out of danger.
A news brief from the National Fire Service said the blaze severely damaged armoured cables, some electrical panels, and parts of the production machinery.
It said the swift response from the firemen saved other production equipment, flour warehouse and offices.
The Chief Fire Officer commended staff of Flour Mills Ghana Limited for the timely manner they alerted emergency services.
She advised the public to be very vigilant at all times and report fire outbreaks at their early stages.
The Chief Fire Officer congratulated the firefighters for their bravery, dedication, and efforts at extinguishing the fire in record time.
Other officers at the scene were the Tema Regional Fire Officer; ACFOII Patrict Sallah, Greater Accra Regional Fire Officer; ACFOI Nissau and Deputy Director Operations at GNFS Headquarters; ACFOII Osmon Annum.
The Chief Fire Officer thanked the GPHA Fire / Fire Department for supporting the exercise.
Investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has extended the deadline for the transition to the new gold trading license regime from May 21, 2025, to June 21, 2025.
The Board said the decision follows the consideration of several petitions from stakeholders.
With this extension, any person who holds a license issued by the defunct PMMC and/or the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources can continue to purchase and deal in gold with the said licenses until June 21, 2025.
The statement, dated May 22, 2025, and sighted by GhanaWeb Business, said, “It must be emphasised that even though a person may apply for a GoldBod license beyond the new non-extendable deadline of 21st June, 2025, only holders of a GoldBod license will be allowed to purchase, sell or deal in gold after this date.”
After the deadline, it noted, the use of a license issued by the defunct PMMC and/or the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to deal in gold will be prohibited.
GoldBod therefore stated that any breach of this directive shall constitute a punishable offence under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (ACT 1140).
Despite the extension of the transition deadline, GoldBod clarified that all persons who hold a license to purchase and deal in gold, issued by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, can no longer export gold, as the export function of their licenses ceased to be valid as of today, May 22, 2025.
“Accordingly, no person other than GoldBod as a corporate entity can export small-scale gold from Ghana, effective immediately. The GoldBod wishes to encourage all persons desirous of trading or dealing in gold in Ghana to apply for a license via www.goldbod.gov.gh,” it added.
The license application process, according to the Board, is ongoing and will continue even after the new non-extendable deadline of June 21, 2025, except that any person without a GoldBod license cannot trade or deal in gold in Ghana after this date.
“The GoldBod counts on the cooperation of all stakeholders and the general public as we work to optimise national benefits from Ghana’s gold resources in line with the vision of President John Dramani Mahama,” the statement concluded.
SSD/MA
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One protestor with a placard / photo credit: Reuters
A British High Court judge has temporarily blocked the government from transferring sovereignty over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.
The last-minute injunction on Thursday morning came hours before the agreement was expected to be signed at a virtual ceremony with representatives from the Mauritian government.
The High Court decision was granted after action was taken by Bernadette Dugasse and Bertrice Pompe, two British nationals who were born at the Diego Garcia military base on Chagos and claimed that the islands should remain under British control.
High Court judge Julian Goose temporarily blocked the British government from taking any “conclusive or legally binding step to conclude its negotiations concerning the possible transfer of the British Indian Ocean Territory, also known as the Chagos Archipelago, to a foreign government”.
“The defendant is to maintain the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom over the British Indian Ocean Territory until further order,” he said.
Another court hearing is set for 10.3 AM (09:30 GMT).
Earlier this year, the lawyer for the two nationals, Michael Polak, said on his chambers website that the government’s attempt to “give away” the islands without formal consultation with its residents is a “continuation of their terrible treatment by the authorities in the past”.
“They remain the people with the closest connection to the islands, but their needs and wishes are being ignored,” Polak said.
The UK, which has controlled the region since 1814, separated the Chagos Islands in 1965 from Mauritius to create the British Indian Ocean Territory.
In the early 1970s, the government evicted about 1,500 residents to Mauritius and Seychelles to make way for the Diego Garcia airbase on the largest island.
In October, the government announced a draft agreement to hand the islands to Mauritius and allow Britain and the United States to continue using the Diego Garcia base under a 99-year lease.
US President Donald Trump’s administration, which was consulted on the deal, gave its approval. However, finalising the agreement was delayed by a change in government in Mauritius and reported last-minute negotiations over costs.
American-based Ghanaian filmmaker and director, Leila Jewel Djansi has bemoaned the trend where churches reward pastors with gifts, salaries and cars while church members are expected to be rewarded in heaven.
In a post on her Facebook on May 20, 2025, Leila Djansi described this situation as the monetization of Christianity and the exploitation of church workers.
Former Odododiodio MP, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has expressed deep disappointment with his final term in Ghana’s Parliament, stating bluntly that he does not miss being a legislator.
In an interview with GHOne TV, the three-term Member of Parliament revealed that his last four years in office, spanning from 2020 to 2024, were the most unfulfilling of his 12-year political career.
The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has assured residents of Obuasi and neighbouring communities in the Ashanti Region that work is actively underway to restore power to the area.
This assurance comes in the wake of a major power outage caused by a fire outbreak at a GRIDCo substation, which led to the explosion of a transformer supplying electricity to the affected communities.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, May 21. Although firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control, the electricity supply remains disrupted in Obuasi and its surrounding areas.
In a press release, GRIDCo indicated that its engineers are currently assessing the extent of the damage and working to restore power as quickly as possible.
“Our team of Engineers are carrying out checks to confirm the integrity of equipment at the station before restoration of supply to customers. GRIDCo sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused by the incident and assures that efforts are being made to fix the challenge and restore supply as soon as possible,” GRIDCo wrote.
We’ll regulate shipping lines despite their resistance – Gyampo
Yaw Adomako Baafi, a former Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticized Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, for what he described as a lack of humility and spiritual discipline in his political conduct.
Speaking during a program on Movement TV, monitored by GhanaWeb, Baafi voiced his concerns about the perceived inaction of Archbishop Charles Agyin-Asare, founder of Perez Chapel International, in addressing the behavior of Sam George, who is reportedly a senior member of the church.
Baafi expressed surprise that someone holding such a position within a religious institution would not exhibit greater modesty and restraint, suggesting that the church leadership had a role to play in guiding its members, especially those in the public eye.
He compared this to his own experience, stating that his actions are closely observed by his church leaders, family, and even his children, implying that such accountability fosters better conduct.
“If you are a politician and you’ve never been sick before, then go ahead and insult people. But if you’ve ever had a headache, that alone should teach you a lesson,” he said.
Extending his criticism beyond Sam George, Baafi lamented what he sees as a general lack of compassion among some politicians.
He argued that personal experiences with illness, bereavement, or even walking past a cemetery should inspire empathy and humility in public servic
Baafi added that arrogance has significantly damaged the MP’s public persona.
Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Reall or Mona 4Reall is expected to be released from the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia as of May 22, 2025.
She had been sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiring to receive stolen money and admitting to her role in the fraudulent scheme that targeted vulnerable individuals through deceptive romantic relationships.
However, despite her release, it appears Hajia4Reall’s woes are far from over. She is expected to pay restitution totalling $1,387,458 to victims of the romance scam.
This amount reflects the funds she personally received from approximately 40 victims between 2013 and 2019.
The fraudulent activities included false claims such as transporting gold to the U.S., resolving fabricated FBI investigations, and assisting a fictitious U.S. Army officer in accessing funds from Afghanistan.
Initially, during her guilty plea in February 2024, she agreed to a higher restitution and forfeiture amount of $2,164,758.41.
However, the final sentencing in June 2024 adjusted these figures to $1,387,458.
In addition to the restitution, Hajia4Reall will face “three years of supervised release.”
She will also forfeit $216,475, representing the proceeds she directly benefited from through the scam.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has assured the public that the outlook of the cedi will be sustainable, hence no need for the public to panic about its stability in the long term.
The Governor made this known when he addressed members at the 124th Monetary policy Committee meeting (MPC) at the Bank of Ghana yesterday in Accra to review macroeconomic developments in the country.
Dr. Asiama said the Cedi’s appreciation is based on current monetary policy measures taken by the Central Bank to check inflation and continue to strengthen the cedi.
He stated that the appreciation of the cedi reflects a combination of factors, including prudent monetary policy, improved market sentiment, and external sector gains.
He said there are also encouraging signs of macroeconomic progress as a result of the Staff-Level Agreement with the IMF on the fourth Review although some prior actions remain outstanding.
Dr. Asiama added that the current geopolitical tensions and evolving global trade dynamics, including the recent US-led tariff disputes could affect commodity prices, exchange rates, and financial flows in emerging markets like Ghana.
He said the BoG is also transitioning from reliance on the unremunerated Cash Reserve Ratio to a more active Open Market Operations regime, including the use of longer-tenor BoG instruments.
That he explained is intended to enhance policy transmission, improve liquidity management, and allow greater room for credit expansion to the private sector.
According to the Governor, the country’s external reserves have improved, including, “the trade balance which has improved, as consumer and business confidence indices are rising steadily”.
The committee is expected to deliberate on measures to maintain the gains while working to reduce inflation, which slowed marginally to 21.2 percent in April 2025 from 22.4 percent in March, 2025.
The Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association, and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association have announced an indefinite industrial action.
The strike took effect on Wednesday, May 21. Addressing the media yesterday was National Chairman of the Senior Staff Association George Ansong.
The upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting occurs against a backdrop of encouraging developments for the Ghanaian economy.
The recent appreciation of the Ghana Cedi against the major currencies especially the US Dollar, the notable dip in inflation from 22.4% in March to 21.2% in April, and the positive upgrade from rating agencies paint a picture of cautious optimism.
Juxtaposing these domestic improvements with the insights from the IMF’s World Economic Outlook (WEO) released in April 2025, a nuanced perspective on the future monetary policy rate and its broader implications emerges.
Expectations of the Monetary Policy Rate
Considering the confluence of factors, the MPC faces a delicate balancing act. The decline in inflation provides a strong argument for easing monetary policy to further stimulate economic activity. A lower policy rate would reduce borrowing costs across the economy.
Furthermore, the strengthening Cedi mitigates some of the imported inflation pressures, offering additional room for a rate cut.
However, the MPC will likely remain cautious. While inflation is trending downwards, it remains significantly above the central bank’s target band. The WEO (April 2025) emphasises a critical juncture amid policy shifts globally, suggesting potential external volatilities that could impact Ghana’s economy.
A premature aggressive rate cut could risk a reversal of the Cedi’s gains and reignite inflationary pressures, especially if global conditions become less favourable.
My expectation is that the MPC will likely opt for a modest reduction in the monetary policy rate, in the range of 100 to 200 basis points. This cautious approach would acknowledge the positive trends while signaling a commitment to sustained disinflation and macroeconomic stability.
A larger cut might be perceived as overly aggressive and could trigger concerns about future inflation and currency stability.
What are the possible implications?
Implications for the banking industry
A reduction in the monetary policy rate will have multifaceted implications for the banking industry:
Reduced Lending Rates: Banks will likely lower their lending rates in response to a lower policy rate, potentially boosting loan demand from businesses and individuals. This could lead to increased credit growth.
Impact on Net Interest Margins (NIMs): Lower lending rates, coupled with potentially slower adjustments in deposit rates, could compress banks’ net interest margins, a key measure of profitability. Banks may need to explore alternative revenue streams or improve operational efficiencies to mitigate this impact.
Increased Loan Volumes: The lower cost of borrowing could stimulate demand for loans across various sectors, potentially increasing the overall loan portfolio of banks. However, banks will need to carefully manage credit risk in this environment to curtail non-performing loans (NPL).
Valuation of Fixed-Income Assets: Banks holding government securities and other fixed-income assets might see a short-term appreciation in the value of these holdings as yields fall in response to the policy rate cut.
Liquidity Management: A lower policy rate could ease liquidity conditions in the banking system, making it cheaper for banks to access funds.
Implications for private sector businesses
A lower monetary policy rate is generally positive for private-sector businesses:
Reduced Borrowing Costs: Lower interest rates translate to cheaper financing for working capital, expansion projects, and investments in new technologies. This can improve profitability and encourage business growth.
Increased Investment: As the cost of capital decreases, businesses may find it more attractive to invest in expanding their operations, leading to job creation and increased economic activity.
Enhanced Competitiveness: Lower borrowing costs can improve the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses, both domestically and internationally.
Potential for Increased Demand: Lower interest rates can stimulate aggregate demand in the economy, benefiting businesses through increased sales and revenue.
Implications for International Investors
The implications for international investors are more nuanced and depend on the overall global economic context and Ghana’s risk profile:
Attractiveness of Cedi-Denominated Assets: A stable and appreciating Cedi, coupled with relatively attractive (albeit potentially lower) interest rates, could still make Cedi-denominated assets appealing to international investors seeking higher yields than those available in developed economies.
Impact on Portfolio Flows: A cautious rate cut, signaling prudent monetary policy, could be viewed favourably by international investors, potentially leading to increased portfolio inflows into Ghanaian bonds and equities. However, an aggressive rate cut could raise concerns about future inflation and currency stability, potentially deterring investment.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Lower borrowing costs for local businesses could indirectly attract FDI as international companies may find it more attractive to partner with or invest in a growing and financially sound domestic private sector.
Sovereign Risk Perception: The recent sovereign rating upgrade is a significant positive. A well-managed monetary policy response that supports economic stability will reinforce this positive perception among international investors.
Impact on the general economy
The anticipated modest reduction in the monetary policy rate is likely to have the following effects on the general economy:
Stimulated Economic Growth: Lower borrowing costs should encourage investment and consumption, leading to a gradual acceleration in economic growth.
Controlled Inflation: The cautious approach to rate reduction aims to balance growth with maintaining downward pressure on inflation. The recent appreciation of the Cedi will also contribute to mitigating imported inflation.
Potential for Job Creation: Increased business investment and economic activity are likely to lead to the creation of new job opportunities.
Impact on Savings: Lower interest rates on savings accounts might reduce the incentive to save, potentially encouraging more consumption and investment.
Overall Stability: A well-calibrated monetary policy response, in conjunction with fiscal discipline and structural reforms, can contribute to overall macroeconomic stability and build confidence in the Ghanaian economy. The WEO (April 2025) highlights the importance of structural reforms to enhance growth potential, which will be crucial in amplifying the positive effects of monetary policy easing.
Sustaining the economic gains
To maintain the current positive economic momentum, a multi-pronged approach is essential:
Prudent Monetary Policy: The MPC should continue to adopt a data-driven and cautious approach to monetary policy, ensuring that any further easing is well-calibrated to anchor inflation expectations and maintain currency stability. Clear communication of policy decisions and rationale is crucial.
Fiscal Consolidation: The government must remain committed to fiscal discipline to reduce the debt burden and create fiscal space for growth-enhancing expenditures. This will complement the efforts of monetary policy in fostering macroeconomic stability.
Structural Reforms: As emphasized in the WEO (April 2025), sustained economic growth requires addressing structural bottlenecks. This includes improving the ease of doing business, investing in infrastructure, strengthening institutions, and promoting diversification of the economy.
Attracting Long-Term Investment: Efforts should be intensified to attract both domestic and foreign long-term investments in key sectors of the economy. A stable macroeconomic environment and a conducive business climate are critical for this.
Effective Management of External Shocks: Given the interconnectedness of the global economy, proactive measures should be taken to build resilience against potential external shocks, including commodity price volatility and changes in global financial conditions. International cooperation, as highlighted in the WEO, remains vital in this regard.
By carefully navigating the current economic landscape with prudent policies and a focus on long-term structural reforms, Ghana can solidify the recent gains and pave the way for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. The upcoming MPC meeting presents a crucial opportunity to signal a commitment to this path.
By Emmanuel DANKWAH
The writer is a Financial Economist and Data Analyst. His areas of interest include financial market, Ethics, Sustainability, Financial Literacy, AI and data analytics. He can be reached via [email protected]
Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey has finally revealed the reason behind his symbolic gesture of sealing his lips with tape at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).
One would recall that at the event on May 10, 2025, Tulenkey, dressed in an all-black outfit with a piece of tape covering his mouth, drew attention from both attendees and social media users.
His silence throughout the event, including his decision not to deliver an acceptance speech after receiving an award, left many puzzled and curious.
But addressing the issue, the rapper explained that the gesture was a powerful statement meant to highlight the often-overlooked issue of men’s mental health and emotional struggles.
According to him, the tape symbolized the societal pressure that discourages men from expressing their feelings, speaking about their pain, or seeking help.
Speaking in an interview with 3FM on May 21, 2025, Tulenkey explained, “It’s a message. It speaks of what men go through, the inner battles we fight. Because being a man, when you are vulnerable, when you talk about your emotions, you are seen as weak. So they would rather die inside than let it out.”
According to Tulenkey, “The tape symbolised suffering in silence,” he explained.
The ‘Bad Feeling’ rapper also spoke about how he personally takes care of his mental health.
He said he usually practices meditation and makes an effort to speak with people who are emotionally mature and can understand what he is going through.
“I meditate and speak to emotionally mature people,” he said.
Also watch as Robert Klah addresses Felicia Osei’s ticket incident at TGMAs
Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reinforced her legal battle on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, by filing a suit at the Supreme Court in an attempt to halt the ongoing hearing targeted at her removal from office.
The action directly challenges her suspension and the ongoing proceedings related to three petitions for her removal.
Justice Torkornoo’s extensive suit seeks 16 reliefs from the nation’s highest court.
Her legal challenge is directed against the Attorney General, who acts as counsel for President John Dramani Mahama, and the members of the five-member panel constituted by the President to investigate the petitions as mandated by the 1992 Constitution.
On the back of this development, US-based Ghanaian legal luminary, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, widely known as Kwaku Azar, provided a comprehensive analysis of the Chief Justice’s case.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Azar delineated Justice Torkornoo’s application as consisting of three distinct writs, two injunction requests, and 16 specific reliefs.
Azar elaborated on these reliefs, noting that the first three pivotal requests from Justice Torkornoo are for a public hearing of the petitions.
This particular demand, Azar pointed out, stands in direct opposition to the constitutional provision that dictates such investigative hearings be conducted in secret.
“The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.
“GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146 says such proceedings shall be held in camera.’ It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command,” Azar wrote.
The legal luminary said that the CJ’s relief numbers 4, 5 and 6 basically say that the determination of the prima facie case against her by the Council of State was wrong.
“She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.
“GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment; it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial,” he added.
“Reliefs 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Chief Justice’s application, raise issues of conflict of interest against the two justices on the five-member committee hearing the probe, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, who is chairman of the committee, and Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, the other judge on the case,” he said.
Kwaku Azar also indicated that the 14th relief of the Chief Justice wants the three other members of the committee—former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, Ghana Armed Forces’ Major Fora Bazaanura Dalugo, and University of Ghana academic, Professor James Sefah Dzisah—all disqualified from a committee set up by President Mahama.
“Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well. On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog,” he stated.
He added that the 15th relief, which he said was ‘the heart of the matter,’ wants the court to stop the committee from doing its work.
“Relief 16: And anything else the court may deem fit. Ah, yes, the always convenient ‘catch-all’ prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored,” Prof Azar added.
Read his write-up below:
GOGO has obtained and reviewed the latest writ filed by the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo.
The writ lists 16 reliefs and orders, some bold, some novel, some familiar and seeks, in essence, to halt the work of the committee set up under Article 146 to investigate her conduct.
We do not judge. But we do observe. And here’s what we see:
Reliefs 1–3: Public Hearing, Please?
The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.
GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146(😎 says such proceedings “shall be held in camera.” It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command.
Reliefs 4–6: Prima Facie, Sir?
She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.
GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment, it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial.
Reliefs 7–9: Suspend the Suspension?
She wants her suspension reversed, arguing that it’s unconstitutional and an assault on judicial independence.
GOGO sees it differently. Article 146(10) makes the suspension an option once a prima facie case is found. The President is entirely within his powers to suspend her, as he did with the former CHRAJ Commissioner, Ms. Lamptey.
Reliefs 10–13: Disqualify the Judges?
She wants Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu off the committee, citing bias. One ruled in favor of a petitioner in the past. Another sat on a related injunction panel.
GOGO gently points out: Ghanaian judges are often on multiple cases involving similar names. That’s not bias. That’s the job. In fact, the CJ herself has been very harsh on lawyers who tried to raise potential bias by Justice Gaewu, admonishing them “not to go there.”
Relief 14: Disqualify the Lay Members Too?
Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well.
On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog.
Relief 15: Stop the Committee Altogether
This is the heart of the matter. She wants the committee stopped cold. GOGO has seen this request twice before; both times dismissed by the Supreme Court. Third time lucky?
Relief 16: And Anything Else the Court May Deem Fit
Ah yes, the always convenient “catch-all” prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored.
GOGO’S BOTTOM LINE:
We do not judge. We just observe.
Three writs. Two injunctions. Sixteen reliefs. Timing that always coincides with scheduled committee sittings. A familiar pattern?
GOGO says:
The Constitution must not be turned into a maze for evasion. The court must protect its time. The process must be allowed to work.
If this continues unchecked, GOGO fears Article 146 could go from a tool of oversight to a treadmill of obstruction; moving all the time, but going nowhere.
BAI/VPO
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play videoThe storm bridge anchoring ‘Lucifer’s Village’
As part of its ongoing decongestion campaign, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has uncovered a makeshift settlement known as Lucifer’s Village, located within the Circle enclave of the capital.
The community, home to over 100 wooden structures, is precariously built atop a stormwater bridge, with timber serving as the primary construction material.
The settlement sits dangerously close to critical drainage infrastructure, raising significant concerns about safety, sanitation, and flooding risks, especially with the onset of the rainy season.
Sanitary conditions in the area are described as extremely poor, yet residents appear unfazed.
AMA officials, who visited the site during a routine operation, warned of an impending evacuation as part of efforts to restore order and public safety in Accra’s Central Business District (CBD).
Despite its squalid nature and structural hazards, AMA authorities acknowledged that residents of Lucifer’s Village are not currently involved in any illegal commercial activities that would warrant immediate forceful eviction.
However, officials emphasised that the settlement’s location on a vital storm drain and its unsanitary state pose public health and safety risks that cannot be ignored for long. They noted that the necessary steps will be taken in due course.
Interestingly, AMA also disclosed that they have not been able to identify the individual or group responsible for renting out the spaces to the residents, raising questions about oversight and accountability in the management of informal urban spaces.
The discovery highlights the broader challenges facing Accra’s urban governance, particularly the tension between rapid urbanization, informal settlements, and the city’s struggle with infrastructure maintenance and planning enforcement.
Watch the AMA’s tour of the ‘Lucifers village’ below:
Kofi Asare Brako Abatey is a legendary sports broadcaster
Prominent sports broadcaster Kofi Asare Brako Abatey has disclosed that he went through a harrowing ordeal while battling a stroke until God’s intervention.
According to his narration, he was struck down by a stroke, which severely affected his body and restricted his movement significantly.
The former Asempa FM sports presenter noted that his absence from the media space was due to the life-threatening ailment that had taken a toll on his personality.
“I couldn’t talk, walk, or do anything; people had to lift me to sit in a wheelchair. I’ve been battling with stroke, hence my recent public absence,” he said in Twi during an interview with Peace FM.
Abatey, while shedding tears, indicated that his encounter with God during the troubling period rescued him from losing his life to the illness, and he has now fully recovered.
Expressing regret over not accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal savior earlier, Abatey urged individuals to rely on God in all their endeavors and share the gospel with others.
“God saved me, and I know He exists. While lying down hopeless, I called upon Him for abandoning me, and I heard a voice that said, ‘Kofi, relax and let me prepare you. I brought you into this to see my greatness, and I will redeem you.’
“Now that I’m healed, I fully believe in Him. I want to testify about God’s goodness to everyone worldwide. I regret not accepting Christ earlier in life,” he added, still crying.
Watch Kofi Asare Brako’s remarks below:
@peace104.3fm1 I Had A Long Battle With Stroke – Renowned Radio Broadcaster Kofi Asare Brako Abatey Narrates Ordeal #workingTime ♬ original sound – PeaceFm
@peace104.3fm1 #workingTime ♬ original sound – PeaceFm
Watch full report on the day one of the Sekondi Inter-Schools athletics
Ghanaian socialite Hajia4Reall is expected to be released today from a US prison after serving a sentence for conspiracy to receive stolen money from romance scams, with plans to return to Ghana.
Ghanaian socialite and musician Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Reall, is expected to be released today, May 22, 2025, from the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia.
Godfred Yeboah Dame, the former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has stated it is about time good men of this country stood up for what is right.
The former AG asserted that representing suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo is not a sign of NPP alignment.
According to Godfred Dame, his action is in line with his long-standing commitment to defending the Judiciary a stance he says has defined his career from the beginning.
Long dresses, also known as maxi dresses, are a timeless wardrobe essential. Their elegance, versatility, and comfort make them a go-to choice for various occasions—from casual outings to formal events. Here are the must-have long dress styles every woman should consider adding to her closet:
This universally flattering style features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out, creating a graceful silhouette. Perfect for weddings, dinners, or work functions, an A-line dress in a solid color or soft print can be styled up or down effortlessly.
Known for its adjustable fit and waist-defining shape, the wrap dress complements most body types. It’s a great pick for both casual and semi-formal settings. Choose floral patterns or lightweight fabrics for a breezy, feminine look.
Boho dresses bring a relaxed, artistic vibe to your wardrobe. Often featuring flowy fabrics, ethnic prints, or lace details, they are perfect for summer festivals, beach days, or weekend brunches. Pair with sandals and a floppy hat for the ultimate boho-chic ensemble.
Every woman needs at least one stunning floor-length gown for special occasions. Opt for luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet in classic colors such as black, navy, or burgundy. Embellishments like sequins or beading can add extra glamour.
Combining structure with comfort, the shirt dress offers a more tailored look. Ideal for work or casual events, it balances sophistication and ease. Belt it at the waist for added shape.
Having a variety of long dress styles allows women to express their personal style while being prepared for any occasion. Investing in these staples ensures elegance, confidence, and versatility all year round.
Mukhsin Alhassan Kadir, a member of the technical team of PanAfrican-Ghana (PAG) initiative, has praised renowned reggae artiste Ras Caleb Appiah for his efforts in reviving the Pan-African spirit through his music.
According to him, Appiah’s work embodies the values of unity, solidarity, and cultural exchange that define the Pan-African movement.
He commended Ras Appiah for using his platform to promote African identity, cultural heritage, and cooperation, inspiring a new generation of Africans to connect with their roots and work towards a brighter future for the continent.
By celebrating African culture and promoting unity, Appiah’s music serves as a powerful tool for fostering a sense of Pan-Africanism and solidarity among Africans worldwide.
He is an emerging revolutionary force, reigniting the spirit of African unity with unmatched passion and purpose.
Known for his powerful presence in reggae music and his unwavering advocacy, Ras Caleb is breathing new life into a movement once championed by legends like Kwame Nkrumah, Marcus Garvey, and Emperor Haile Selassie.
But unlike many who merely echo the slogans of the past, Ras Caleb is putting Pan-Africanism into action.
He is creating platforms that empower African voices and foster continental solidarity. His mission is clear: to make Pan-Africanism not just a political ideology, but a living movement rooted in the everyday lives of Africans.
Ras Caleb is currently leading several initiatives aimed at integrating Pan-African thought into education, the arts, and local governance. Through community forums, youth programmes, and cultural festivals, he is reviving a sense of African pride and agency, especially among the continent’s younger generation.
At the centre of his approach is the belief that Africans must shape Africa’s destiny. He advocates for economic cooperation, cultural self-determination, and an end to neo-colonial dependencies, calling on African nations to reclaim control over their resources, narratives, and policies.
Rooted in rastafarian wisdom and a deep reverence for African heritage, Ras Caleb brings a unique spiritual and cultural lens to his work. His music echoes his message, serving as both a rallying cry and a tool for enlightenment.
Africa faces development, identity, and global relevance challenges, and Ras Caleb’s message is urgent: Africa must unite or perish.
The first National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dankwa Smith Butey, has said the national executives cannot absolve themselves from responsibility for their defeat in the 2024 election.
In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Chairman Butey stated that the executives must take responsibility for the outcome, even though it was unpleasant.
He argued that if the party had won, the executives would have claimed the glory, so they must equally accept responsibility for the defeat.
“I admit we must take responsibility because if there was a win, we would have said we made it happen. So we must accept the defeat and apologise,” he said.
Chairman Butey believes there should have been more effective collaboration between the national, regional, and other executive levels to drive the election campaign successfully.
“The national level should have pushed the regions, then it trickles down to the constituencies and other levels, but our performance was not the best, and all we can do is apologise,” he added.
The NPP was poised to break the eight-year cycle with its presidential candidate and then Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
However, the party suffered significant losses in both the presidential and parliamentary contests.
John Mahama, on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was elected and declared winner by the Electoral Commission (EC) after polling 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55%, while Dr. Bawumia secured 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.
In Parliament, there was also a historic shift in power as the NDC obtained 183 seats, leaving the NPP with just 88 seats.
Nine hundred and twenty-five (925) migrant beggars have so far been repatriated to their home countries by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), repatriation which took place in the morning of Saturday, May 17, 2025.
A GIS release authored by the Head of Public Affairs, ACI Michael Amoako-Atta, stated that “at the time of this release, 925 persons have been successfully repatriated, and processes are underway to remove the rest.”
The release, which contained an update on the recent exercise, states that 2,241 migrant beggars from various countries are being held at designated Holding Centres.
Nigeriens top the list of those being held at 2,073; Nigerians, 138; Burkinabes, 28; 1 Guinean and 1 Malian.
All affected immigrants had to undergo profiling and security screening in line with Standard Operating Procedures, the GIS stated, adding that “immigrants were also segregated based on their gender and age, in line with international best practices.”
Repatriation could not commence on Friday, May 16, 2025, because the above processes continued into the late hours of the day, the GIS release explained.
Meals, among other needs of persons in detention, have been provided for by the Service, and the GIS Clinic is on standby to provide medical services where necessary, the release went on.
To avoid congestion at the Holding Centre at the National Headquarters, there has been a temporary hold on arrests, according to the GIS.
GIS Management has given the assurance that “the Special Operation is being conducted humanely in cognisance of the rights of all migrants.
“The GIS remains committed to its core values of Professionalism and Respect for Human Rights, and assures the general public of humane handling of affected immigrants.”
While expressing gratitude to stakeholders in the exercise, the GIS as Ghana’s lead agency in migration management and border security, stressed that, “the GIS assures the general public of its commitment to operating fair and firm immigration systems and contributing to national security and development.”
The Special Operation will resume and continue in due course, in the effort to rid the streets of beggars and clamp down on criminal networks.
Agile working has become one of the most talked-about approaches in today’s modern workplaces—from startups in East Legon to corporate offices in Ridge and Tema.
But the big question remains: is it really worth adopting? The short answer is yes. But it only works if you do it properly. Half-committing to Agile is like training half-heartedly for a marathon—you’ll burn out early and be left dragging yourself to the finish line.
Agile working requires intention, structure, and full buy-in from everyone involved. When done right, it transforms teams and projects. When done poorly, it creates confusion.
What is Agile, really?
At its core, agile working is a project management methodology that simplifies processes, promotes real-time communication, and reduces unnecessary paperwork. Unlike traditional models that rely on rigid structures and top-down decision-making, agile empowers teams to make decisions, adapt to change quickly, and measure success by working results, not just plans or reports.
It’s about being flexible, responsive, and laser-focused on outcomes. Instead of spending weeks preparing documents no one reads, agile teams spend that time building and improving. Face-to-face communication, whether in person or virtual, is prioritised to ensure clarity, speed, and mutual accountability.
Agile strips away the noise and helps people actually get work done.
A culture shift, not just a process
Agile working isn’t just about tools or team structures—it’s a cultural shift. Everyone on the team must understand their role and how their work feeds into the broader goal. Agile thrives on transparency, collaboration, and shared ownership.
Projects are measured by progress, not paperwork. Teams regularly reflect on their performance and adjust their approach, creating a culture of continuous improvement. Feedback isn’t left until the end of a project—it’s built into the workflow, giving teams the chance to learn and pivot in real time.
When agile is done right, team morale often improves, because people feel involved, heard, and essential to the mission. It fosters a spirit of camaraderie and forward motion.
Who’s involved—and why structure still matters
Contrary to popular belief, agile isn’t structureless. Agile teams typically consist of a few defined roles: the development team, the product owner, and the scrum master. The development team does the technical legwork, while the product owner represents the business or client side, ensuring priorities stay clear. The scrum master facilitates processes and removes blockers—acting as a servant-leader rather than a traditional manager.
This structure, although simple, is powerful. It creates a tight communication loop that replaces lengthy approval chains with fast decisions and clear responsibilities. The goal is not to remove structure but to create a better one—one that supports momentum instead of slowing it down.
Addressing the misconceptions
There are common myths about agile that hold some organisations back. One is the belief that agile descends into chaos due to the lack of rigid rules. In reality, agile has structure—it’s just not the traditional kind. It’s people-focused, not paperwork-heavy. Teams are small by design—typically between three to nine people—ensuring that no voice is lost and no person dominates.
Another misconception is that agile suffers from a lack of documentation. Agile teams do create documentation, but it’s lean, useful, and focused. Instead of endless reports and meeting notes, agile documentation—often called artifacts—offers concise updates that show progress and highlight challenges in real-time. It’s about “show, don’t tell.”
Why Agile makes sense for Ghanaian businesses
Ghana’s economy is increasingly digital. Businesses across Accra, Kumasi, and beyond are being forced to innovate faster, adapt to shifting demands, and deliver quicker results. Agile working gives organisations the flexibility to respond quickly, while still maintaining structure and discipline.
For startups building new products, agile can help launch MVPs faster and refine them based on customer feedback. For larger organisations managing multiple teams and projects, it ensures alignment without sacrificing autonomy. And for remote or hybrid teams, agile provides a framework that encourages connection, consistency, and accountability.
The bottom line? Agile working offers real, measurable benefits—but only for those willing to embrace it fully. There are no shortcuts, but the rewards are worth the effort. So, is agile worth it in Ghana’s business environment? Absolutely. But like anything meaningful, it only works if you commit to doing it right from the start.
>>>the writer is a seasoned cloud architect and systems administrator with expertise in leading technical teams to create innovative platforms. As CTO of eSolutions Consulting, he has spearheaded major projects like the Office 365 rollout for Ghana’s government and infrastructure deployment for the Ghana Revenue Authority.
Recognized for his strategic use of emerging technologies, Allen has led his team to multiple Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, solidifying his role as a key leader in tech-driven business transformation. If you’d like to explore how these strategies can help your organisation thrive, reach out to discuss tailored solutions for your business growth journey. He can be reached via [email protected] and or 0540123034
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a drastic reduction in the processing time for visa acquisition, slashing it from an average of four to six weeks to just five working days.
The new directive announced by the minister as part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and investment, takes immediate effect.
Ablakwa announced the update on his official Facebook page on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, stating that the move gives real and practical meaning to President John Dramani Mahama’s inaugural address on January 7, 2025, where he declared that Ghana is open for business.
“We at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are determined to offer practical meaning through expedited consular facilitation and policy coherence to fully achieve the President’s vision,” he said.
He confirmed that adequate measures have been implemented at Ghana’s diplomatic missions worldwide to achieve this drastic reduction.
Ablakwa emphasised that while the new policy promises faster service, it does not guarantee automatic approval.
“A decision will be made within five (5) working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he clarified.
This expedited process is expected to enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in the global travel and business landscape, where efficient visa procedures are crucial to attracting visitors and investors.
“Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience,” the minister added.
MRA/VPO
After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:
Ghana’s sensation, Alex Bonsu, known in showbiz circles as Maxi Sway, has teamed up with two of the country’s heavyweights on a new song dubbed ‘Legalize’.
The song features dancehall act, Ras Kuuku and celebrated rapper, Ponobiom.
According to him, the two artistes have what it takes to make the music reach the masses, adding that he believes in the creativity of both artistes and thought it wise putting them on the song.
Maxi Sway believes that with the inclusion of Ponobiom and Ras Kuuku, the message could reach many music lovers.
Speaking to a section of the media about why he collaborated with these two giants on the song, he said, “I put Yaa Pono and Ras Kuuku on this single ‘Legalize’ because of the sound and the message it carries.”
According to him, “Legalising the use of Marijuana would create more farming opportunities coupled with industrial use, leading to economic development.”
He said, the message is clear, but unfortunately, people think legalising marijuana means more smoking, but rather more income through export and other purposes.
He charged the youth not to focus on the abuse but rather position themselves to tap into job opportunities which come with legalisation.
According to Maxi Sway, this is what would change their fortunes for a better future.
The song, produced by KlasicBeatz, is available on all digital streaming platforms.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, aka OPK, has denied passing an ethnocentric remark against former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The alleged remark, he said, was a misrepresentation of what he said during a private conversation.
In a reaction to the allegation which drew a public backlash, he said that the allegation was a screenshot from a WhatsApp group.
In his reaction, he said “the publication is not only false but also a gross misrepresentation of a private conversation.”
“The suggestion that I objected to a Northerner becoming a flagbearer is completely untrue,” he pointed out.
According to OPK, his original comment was in direct response to a post made on a WhatsApp group by a certain Tamimu, a Northerner who questioned the viability of Bryan Acheampong as a presidential candidate on the basis of regional succession.
OPK referenced President John Mahama, a Northerner, to challenge what he interpreted as Tamimu’s flawed argument and not to attack any ethnic group.
“It was never an attack on Northerners but a rebuttal of a divisive and regionalistic claim made by one of their own,” he explained.
He pointed out that he has high regards for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia just as he does all the other qualified contenders within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He concluded that every Ghanaian, irrespective of ethnicity or background, deserves the opportunity to serve. He also called for “focus on merit, unity, and competence rather than ethnocentric rhetoric.”
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed three university staff unions to immediately call off their strike action, citing violations of Ghana’s Labour Act.
In a letter dated May 21, 2025, the Commission invoked Section 139(1)(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), ordering the Senior Staff Association – Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG) to end their industrial action.
The directive follows a notice of intention to strike, served on the Commission on May 12, over alleged non-implementation of agreed conditions of service.
An agreement between the unions and the government was signed on November 12, 2024.
The NLC summoned the parties for a hearing on May 21, 2025. While FUSSAG and TUAAG appeared at the session, SSA-UoG was absent. The respondents included representatives from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), and the Ministry of Finance.
Despite the Commission’s intervention and directive to stay on the strike, the unions defied the order and proceeded with industrial action.
The NLC cited a press release by the unions, also dated May 21, announcing an indefinite strike in protest of what they described as the government’s continued breach of the agreement.
As a result, the Commission has declined to hear the matter further, invoking Section 161 of the Labour Act, which states that a matter cannot be entertained if parties are engaged in illegal strike actions.
The NLC has advised the unions to call off the strike and formally notify the Commission before any further steps can be taken.
University Senior Staff declare indefinite strike over unfulfilled govt agreement
The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has assured that the company’s Fiber To The Home (FTTH) services will significantly enhance internet access for households in various communities across the country.
Addressing journalists at a media and stakeholder forum in Tamale, Mr. Blewett disclosed that the FTTH solution was designed to address the increasing dependence of Ghanaian households on internet connectivity.
“We have customised our FTTH solutions to cater to the diverse needs of our customers. Our service provides high-speed internet access, reliable and stable connections, low latency for uninterrupted online experiences, and flexible plans to accommodate different requirements and budgets,” he said.
According to him, the initiative is part of MTN’s broader digital agenda, which aims to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals, businesses, and communities throughout the country.
Mr. Blewett noted the importance of network expansion and capital investment in driving MTN’s business growth and enhancing customer experience adding that it was necessary to expand the company’s digital infrastructure to improve connectivity and stimulate economic development.
“To ensure future-proof connectivity, MTN is enhancing its 4G capacity by upgrading its infrastructure and investing in the foundations of digital communication. By 2025, about 130 kilometers of fiber infrastructure will be relocated to bolster network resilience and significantly increase capacity, paving the way for next-generation services and applications that will empower individuals and businesses nationwide,” he added.
The MTN Ghana CEO as part of his tour of the Northern region engaged with various stakeholder groups and paid a courtesy call on the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John.
He also met with MTN staff, toured the Tamale market, and interacted with the company’s trade partners, accompanied by several executives and management team members.
The Media and Stakeholder Forum in Tamale brought together media representatives from the Upper East, North East, Savannah, and Northern regions.
Ghanaian rapper and songwriter, Joseph Gamor, popularly known as Lyrical Joe, has revealed that someone once claimed he wins awards out of pity because he is an orphan.
In an interview with Adom TV at his album launch on May 16, 2025, Lyrical Joe who said he didn’t know the person who made the claim, stated that the individual was simply upset because he was thriving.
He added, “I don’t even know who that person is or where they’re coming from. It’s clear they’re just angry because something is going well for me. And if you think I’m getting pity from fans, then yes, I am.”
Speaking about his new album, ‘I AM’, Lyrical Joe explained that the project consists of 16 tracks, featuring collaborations with well-known Ghanaian artistes like E.L, Medikal, and Andy Dosty.
When asked whether he focuses more on lyrical bars or melodic elements, Lyrical Joe emphasised that his goal was to connect with people’s souls through his music.
“Some people act like bars are separate from music, but bars are just part of the music. My main intention is to speak to your soul. If some bars touch you along the way, great. But ultimately, I want to connect with people on a deeper level,” he said.
He also shared his thoughts on what an album represents to him. “An album is something that should stay with you, something you can sleep with. It’s about making the right pieces, and everything you feel goes into it,” he added.
FG/EB
Meanwhile watch as King Promise wins Artiste of the Year at 2025 TGMAs:
Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reinforced her legal battle on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, by filing a suit at the Supreme Court in an attempt to halt the ongoing hearing targeted at her removal from office.
The action directly challenges her suspension and the ongoing proceedings related to three petitions for her removal.
Justice Torkornoo’s extensive suit seeks 16 reliefs from the nation’s highest court.
Her legal challenge is directed against the Attorney General, who acts as counsel for President John Dramani Mahama, and the members of the five-member panel constituted by the President to investigate the petitions as mandated by the 1992 Constitution.
On the back of this development, US-based Ghanaian legal luminary, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, widely known as Kwaku Azar, provided a comprehensive analysis of the Chief Justice’s case.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Azar delineated Justice Torkornoo’s application as consisting of three distinct writs, two injunction requests, and 16 specific reliefs.
Azar elaborated on these reliefs, noting that the first three pivotal requests from Justice Torkornoo are for a public hearing of the petitions.
This particular demand, Azar pointed out, stands in direct opposition to the constitutional provision that dictates such investigative hearings be conducted in secret.
“The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.
“GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146 says such proceedings shall be held in camera.’ It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command,” Azar wrote.
The legal luminary said that the CJ’s relief numbers 4, 5 and 6 basically say that the determination of the prima facie case against her by the Council of State was wrong.
“She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.
“GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment; it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial,” he added.
“Reliefs 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Chief Justice’s application, raise issues of conflict of interest against the two justices on the five-member committee hearing the probe, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, who is chairman of the committee, and Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, the other judge on the case,” he said.
Kwaku Azar also indicated that the 14th relief of the Chief Justice wants the three other members of the committee—former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, Ghana Armed Forces’ Major Fora Bazaanura Dalugo, and University of Ghana academic, Professor James Sefah Dzisah—all disqualified from a committee set up by President Mahama.
“Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well. On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog,” he stated.
He added that the 15th relief, which he said was ‘the heart of the matter,’ wants the court to stop the committee from doing its work.
“Relief 16: And anything else the court may deem fit. Ah, yes, the always convenient ‘catch-all’ prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored,” Prof Azar added.
Read his write-up below:
GOGO has obtained and reviewed the latest writ filed by the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo.
The writ lists 16 reliefs and orders, some bold, some novel, some familiar and seeks, in essence, to halt the work of the committee set up under Article 146 to investigate her conduct.
We do not judge. But we do observe. And here’s what we see:
Reliefs 1–3: Public Hearing, Please?
The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.
GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146(😎 says such proceedings “shall be held in camera.” It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command.
Reliefs 4–6: Prima Facie, Sir?
She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.
GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment, it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial.
Reliefs 7–9: Suspend the Suspension?
She wants her suspension reversed, arguing that it’s unconstitutional and an assault on judicial independence.
GOGO sees it differently. Article 146(10) makes the suspension an option once a prima facie case is found. The President is entirely within his powers to suspend her, as he did with the former CHRAJ Commissioner, Ms. Lamptey.
Reliefs 10–13: Disqualify the Judges?
She wants Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu off the committee, citing bias. One ruled in favor of a petitioner in the past. Another sat on a related injunction panel.
GOGO gently points out: Ghanaian judges are often on multiple cases involving similar names. That’s not bias. That’s the job. In fact, the CJ herself has been very harsh on lawyers who tried to raise potential bias by Justice Gaewu, admonishing them “not to go there.”
Relief 14: Disqualify the Lay Members Too?
Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well.
On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog.
Relief 15: Stop the Committee Altogether
This is the heart of the matter. She wants the committee stopped cold. GOGO has seen this request twice before; both times dismissed by the Supreme Court. Third time lucky?
Relief 16: And Anything Else the Court May Deem Fit
Ah yes, the always convenient “catch-all” prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored.
GOGO’S BOTTOM LINE:
We do not judge. We just observe.
Three writs. Two injunctions. Sixteen reliefs. Timing that always coincides with scheduled committee sittings. A familiar pattern?
GOGO says:
The Constitution must not be turned into a maze for evasion. The court must protect its time. The process must be allowed to work.
If this continues unchecked, GOGO fears Article 146 could go from a tool of oversight to a treadmill of obstruction; moving all the time, but going nowhere.
BAI/VPO
You can also watch the latest news on GhanaWeb TV below:
Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, continues to appreciate on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.
In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢11.84 and a selling price of GH¢11.85 to the dollar.
The British pound is being bought at GH¢15.83 and sold at GH¢15.84, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢13.33 and a selling price of GH¢13.34.
Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢12.80, while the pound is selling at GH¢17.30 at some forex bureaus across the country.
Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢14.80 on the retail market.
SP/MA
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Thomas Partey is a midfielder of Arsenal
Yaw Adomako Baafi, a former Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticized Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, for what he described as a lack of humility and spiritual discipline in his political conduct.
