The leadership of St. Peter’s Methodist Church in Odorkor has strongly condemned the acts of violence that occurred on its premises during the parliamentary rerun in the Ablekuma North constituency on Friday, July 11, 2025.
Speaking to Citi News on Saturday July 12, Rev. Ebenezer Kofi, Overseer of the church, recounted distressing scenes from the day and described how the violence affected both church property and the safety of individuals, including clergy members.
“I had a lot of messages and calls from members and some church leaders asking what was happening,” Rev. Kofi said. “I had to call my minister to check if he was safe. The information I got was very pathetic — some of the victims had to run into his personal bedroom for safety and stayed there for hours.”
The church, which has served as a collation centre in previous elections, witnessed chaotic scenes during the rerun as unidentified individuals disrupted the voting process and assaulted political figures, including NPP parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie and former Fisheries Minister, Hawa Koomson.
In response to these events, Rev. Kofi revealed that the church leadership would have to consider disassociating from future electoral processes held on its grounds.
“A decision has been taken by the leadership of the church — we will no longer serve as a collation centre, and by extension, we are also asking for the removal of the police post from our premises,” he said. “It is better to prevent future occurrences.”
Rev. Kofi also highlighted that this is not the first time the church has suffered damage due to political activities. He cited the 2024 general elections, during which assets belonging to the church were vandalised.
“Even yesterday, I was told that part of the minister’s residence was destroyed. Up till now, the Electoral Commission has not offered any form of compensation.”
Incidents involving the use of force in public spaces often raise questions about criminal liability, self-defence, and the limits of public retaliation. A hypothetical scenario involving Ghanaian politician Hawa Koomson allegedly using pepper spray in a crowd, followed by the crowd’s retaliatory attack and beating, presents an opportunity to explore how Ghanaian criminal law would treat such events.
The Head of Department of Animal Science of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof. K. Adomako, has called for urgent regulatory measures to sanitise Ghana’s poultry industry and protect farmers from avoidable losses.
According to him, the absence of enforceable hatchery regulations and breeding standards has allowed uncertified day-old chicks to flood the market, posing biosecurity and economic risks to commercial poultry farmers.
He made the remarks at the opening of a five-day annual capacity-building programme themed “Bridging the Technology Transfer Gap for Poultry Experts and Consultants in Ghana.”
“The poultry industry in Ghana has largely been driven by private enterprise, yet since independence, we have not had a single established breeding company. This is a significant gap in our value chain,” Prof. Adomako stated.
He explained that the breeding of poultry—where genetically selected birds were raised to produce high-quality chicks—required heavy capital investment and a business model that could reach global markets to be profitable.
“This is why most private investors have shied away from it. But government can step in. In other countries, governments have made the necessary investments. Ghanaian investors can also venture into it, but they must be prepared for the cost and long-term nature of breeding,” he added.
According to Prof. Adomako, regulation is essential not only for market order but also for safeguarding public and animal health.
“It’s time for academia, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and all stakeholders to unite and advocate for government to play a neutral role as a referee in ensuring standards are upheld.”
He cited ongoing efforts led by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), supported by the Ghana Poultry Project and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which developed a hatchery regulation framework. Though completed, the policy has yet to be fully implemented.
“We’re working with the Ghana National Association of Poultry Farmers to re-engage the GSA and push for enforcement of the hatchery regulations,” he said.
The current situation, where uncertified chicks are boxed and sold to unsuspecting farmers, he warned, leads to poor flock performance, higher mortality rates, and financial loss.
“Investing in the wrong chicks is one of the biggest losses poultry farmers face. Proper regulation will protect them and improve confidence in the sector,” he stressed.
Prof. Adomako also highlighted the department’s expertise in developing poultry breeds that are well-suited to Ghana’s tropical conditions. He urged government and private investors to support the development and commercial production of such breeds for local and international markets.
“We have the science, we have the knowledge. What we need now is the investment and the regulatory framework to make our poultry industry globally competitive,” he concluded.
The Vice President of the Poultry Farmers Association, Francis Nsiah, complained bitterly about government’s inability to contact them in line with the “akoko nkitinkiti” project.
He mentioned that they had written letters to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to discuss how they could contribute to the project but yet to receive any feedback adding “We are the ones who can really help to boost this laudable project.”
Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor is the MP for South Dayi
Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has criticised the former Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Mavis Hawa Koomson, for what he describes as vigilante conduct during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.
Speaking on The Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, July 12, 2025, the lawmaker claimed that Hawa Koomson entered a polling station with pepper spray in her bag, an act he said was both provocative and unlawful.
“Hawa Koomson came to Ablekuma North as a vigilante. If you enter a polling station in Ablekuma North during elections with pepper spray in your bag, who are you? Are you not a vigilante?” he questioned.
According to him, pepper spray qualifies as a weapon under the law and should not be brought into a designated voting area.
“That’s a weapon. Check the definition of a weapon. Pepper spray is part of it. So why did the police not detect it?” he asked.
Dafeamekpor cited legal provisions, including Act 29 and Constitutional Instrument (CI) 127, to support his argument that individuals are not allowed to enter polling stations with weapons.
He also argued that Koomson’s actions could be viewed as provocation, which has implications under Ghana’s criminal law.
The Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun was marred by reports of violence and alleged misconduct by political actors. Dafeamekpor’s remarks add to the growing calls for accountability and professionalism in the conduct of elections.
MRA/EB
Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:
A young lady is seeking advice after she said her biological father came back to continue with what he stopped doing to her 4 years ago.
She narrated that her father started sleeping with her on three occasions and it happened at that time when she was in her first year at the university.
The young lady stated that, after her father had slept with her a few times, he stopped all of a sudden and never tried and never spoke about it again. She said her father pretended as if nothing had happened and just did his
Beijing, July 12 (Xinhua/GNA) – Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on people working in the country’s film industry to create more fine cinematic works that reflect the spirit of the times and express the people’s aspirations.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a recent reply letter to eight veteran Chinese film artists, including 97-year-old famed actress Tian Hua.
In his reply, Xi said that reading the letter from the artists reminded him of the classic films they had participated, which are widely known and cherished by the public.
Xi expressed the hope that the artists would continue to set an example in upholding virtue and pursuing artistic excellence.
He encouraged them to inspire the broader film community to strengthen cultural confidence, stay rooted in real life, and make new contributions to the prosperity of arts and the building of a culturally strong nation.
A Ghanaian woman has come forward with serious allegations, claiming that renowned comic actor and television presenter, Akrobeto, was involved in a sexual relationship with her.
In a self-recorded video that has since gone viral across various social media platforms, the woman—whose identity remains unknown—reiterated her claims, stating emphatically that this is not the first time she has spoken out about the alleged affair.
She appeared visibly emotional and resolute in the footage, accusing the actor of not only engaging in an intimate relationship with her but also failing to take responsibility for the consequences that followed.
According to her, after making her initial claims public, she became the target of harsh criticism, mockery, and verbal abuse from many Ghanaians. She said she was labeled a liar and accused of seeking attention or clout at the expense of a respected public figure.
Frustrated by the public’s reaction and what she perceives as a collective refusal to accept the truth, the woman responded by calling down spiritual curses on those who doubted her account.
She insisted that her allegations were not made out of malice or for publicity but were rooted in real experiences that she believes have been unfairly dismissed.
She also expressed disappointment in what she described as a hypocritical society—one that, according to her, knows the truth about certain celebrities’ private conduct but chooses to stay silent or vilify the victim when such matters are brought to light.
In her view, many Ghanaians are well aware of her alleged past with Akrobeto but have chosen to insult and shame her instead of confronting the situation honestly.
As the video continues to gain attention online, public opinion remains divided. While some viewers have called for a more thorough investigation into her claims, others continue to question her motives and credibility. Akrobeto has not yet issued a public response to the renewed allegations.
The situation adds to the ongoing conversation around celebrity accountability, victim-blaming, and the power dynamics involved in relationships between public figures and private individuals.
There are no off-seasons in Nigerian politics. Every handshake, every silence, and every absence means something. As the country pushes through economic hardship and escalating security tensions, the political elite have already turned their eyes to one date: February 2027. Not because the current government has failed, nor because a coup is brewing, but because power never rests.
Meet the Father of Sammy Gyamfi and What He is Known For in Ghana
News Hub Creator1d
Sammy Gyamfi, a leading voice in Ghana’s political and corporate spheres, currently holds the position of Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), following his appointment by President John Mahama in January 2025. One of his primary responsibilities is to oversee the creation of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), an ambitious plan to revamp the country’s gold industry. Yet, behind his public achievements lies the influence of a relatively unknown figure—his father, Nana Kofi Genfi.
A native of Wamfie in the Bono Region, Nana Kofi Genfi is a businessman whose quiet lifestyle belies his profound impact on his son’s personal and professional development. Known for his strong values and dedication to education, Genfi instilled in Sammy a sense of purpose and direction from an early age.
Those close to the family often point to Genfi’s values—hard work, integrity, and perseverance—as core traits that Sammy Gyamfi has embodied in his public career. Before taking the reins at PMMC, Gyamfi gained national recognition as the National Communications Officer for the NDC, where his bold and articulate presence became a hallmark of the party’s messaging.
As he leads reforms in Ghana’s gold sector, Gyamfi draws not only on his legal training and political experience but also on the quiet strength and moral compass passed down by his father. His story is one of steady ascent, grounded in mentorship and a shared vision of excellence.
A democracy advocacy group, Community Focus Foundation Ghana (CFF-Ghana), has condemned the acts of violence witnessed during the rerun at 19 polling stations at Ablekuma North Constituency on Friday, 11th July 2025.
The rerun recorded one of the blizzard moments in Ghana’s democratic space, where journalists and politicians were attacked unprovoked by unidentified individuals and security officers.
“We strongly protest the violent attacks in which some citizens, including Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson, former Member of Parliament for Ewutu Senya East and Deputy National Organiser of the NPP, and Chris Lloyd Nii Kwei Asamoah, were brutally beaten at Ablekuma North,” said Director of Community Focus Foundation Ghana, Richard Kasu.
He further indicated that “the unprovoked assault on Kwabena Agyekum Banahene, a journalist with GHOne TV (a subsidiary of the EIB Network), by a supposed police officer is equally condemned.”
JOYNEWS digital journalist Sally Martey was also not spared, as she was assaulted during violent scenes at the Ablekuma North constituency parliamentary rerun.
He expressed worry at the “unresponsive” conduct of the police, who were detailed without riot control tools, during the disturbing occurrences.
Mr. Kasu entreated the police to take immediate steps to arrest persons identified to have participated in the unacceptable acts and ensure they face the law duly.
He recounted similar electoral violence, mostly as a result of political disagreements, questioning the country’s commitment to democratic principles and its bid to protect the country’s peace and coexistence.
Mr. Kasu, therefore, advocated for the strict enforcement of the Anti-Vigilantism law to prevent future electoral violent clashes and ensure that persons who flout the law are arrested and prosecuted.
“We further call on the government to support the review of the 2024 general elections by the relevant institutions, including Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), with the view of identifying electoral gaps, including violent concerns and putting in place robust mitigation measures to prevent the same so far as future elections are concerned,” he concluded.
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.
Ghana’s chances of walking out of Group C of the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations got tighter on Friday after playing out a 1-1 draw against fellow West African rivals Mali at Stade Municipal de Berkane on Friday.
The Black Queens lost their group opener 2-0 against reigning champions South Africa, and must win their last group match against Tanzania and hope for favourable results elsewhere.
For Mali, the result puts them on four points and keeps them firmly in contention for a quarter-final berth, with their destiny in their own hands.
Read also: WAFCON 2025: Super Falcons coach plans squad changes for Algeria clash
In a match billed as a must-win for both sides, it ended in frustration and uncertainty, but also showcased the grit and competitiveness that define WAFCON’s Group of Death.
A goal in each half from Alice Kusi and Aïssata Traoré meant both sides walked away with a point in a match that neither could afford to lose, but will feel they might have won.
The Black Queens’ early dominance was rewarded in the sixth minute when Kusi capitalised on sustained pressure to fire home from close range after Doris Boaduwaa’s header had narrowly missed seconds earlier.
Mali, who had edged Tanzania in their opener, looked rattled but gradually grew into the game, with their attacking trio of Saratou Traoré, Aïssata Traoré and Agueissa Diarra posing constant threats on the break.
Ghana missed a flurry of chances to extend their lead before half-time. Boaduwaa, Kusi and Evelyn Badu all came close, only to be denied by a combination of poor finishing and excellent goalkeeping from Fatoumata Karentao.
Read also: 2025 WAFCON: New era dawns for African women’s football with record prize money
Mali came out of the break with renewed purpose and found the equaliser in the 52nd minute when Saratou Traoré’s incisive through ball split the Ghana defence and was coolly slotted home by Aïssata Traoré.
From there, the match opened up, with Ghana pushing forward in waves. Princella Adubea, Grace Asantewaa and Jennifer Cudjoe all went close as the Black Queens hunted a winner, but Karentao stood firm.
Despite dominating possession and chances—particularly in the final 20 minutes—Kim Björkegren’s side were unable to find a breakthrough and now sit on one point heading into a do-or-die final group match.
Private Solomon Asare Teye-Tsu, the young soldier who was recently honoured by a private security firm for rejecting a bribe from illegal miners (galamsey operators), has been promoted by the Ghana Armed Forces.
At an all-rank durbar held at the Burma Hall, Burma Camp in Accra, on Friday, July 11, 2025, Private Teye-Tsu, currently with the Department of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces, was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal with immediate effect by the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS).
July 12 (BBC/GNA) – A federal California judge has ordered the Trump administration to stop “indiscriminately” detaining people thought to be in the US illegally.
The decision came down in a temporary restraining order issued against the government on Friday, which also bars immigration officials from denying individuals access to lawyers.
The case was brought in a lawsuit filed by three immigrants, arrested at a Pasadena bus stop while looking for work, and two US citizens who were held, one of whom had reportedly shown an ID.
The Department of Homeland Security responded to the judge’s order in a social media post, accusing her of “undermining the will of the American people”.
US District Judge Maame Frimpong’s emergency orders are a temporary measure while the lawsuit continues.
In her order, Judge Frimpong said there was a “mountain of evidence” to support that officials have been performing “roving patrols”, defined as “indiscriminately rounding up individuals without reasonable suspicion”. This would violate the US Constitution, she said.
The government cannot base its immigration arrests “solely” on factors including “race or ethnicity”, “speaking Spanish or speaking English with an accent”, or “presence at a particular location” such as a bus stop or car wash, Judge Frimpong said.
Judge Frimpong’s decision comes as the Trump administration has ramped up its efforts to crackdown on illegal immigration, particularly in California, a Democratic stronghold that has long held the ire of President Donald Trump.
Raids in Los Angeles, in particular, were met with widespread protests over immigration enforcement in the region.
An immigration raid at a marijuana farm in California on Thursday led to violent protests and the arrests of more than 200 people, including 10 minors.
Some farm workers were critically injured during the “chaotic” Ventura County raids, the United Farm Workers said in a statement.
Popular media personality, Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, has issued a stern warning to the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency, Malik Basintale, urging him not to be carried away by political power and to act more responsibly.
Mr. Basintale is known for his ability to mobilize party youth — often in the hundreds — on motorbikes to campaign for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He frequently boasts of his “army of youth,” whom he commands across the country to carry out various operations in the party’s interest.
He led hundreds of such youth on motorbikes to Ablekuma North a day before the parliamentary rerun held in the constituency on July 11, 2025.
However, some political observers believe he is allowing power to get to his head, which they say has influenced his conduct and led to statements considered by some as unacceptable.
Speaking on his “For the Records” show, Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah reminded Basintale of their earlier encounters, emphasizing that he had known him since his formative years in politics.
“You are a young man. I saw you when you were coming up,” Afrifa-Mensah recounted. “Whenever I finished a radio show, I used to go with you to buy food, and we would sit down and eat. You are blessed to have the grassroots of your party listening to you.”
While acknowledging Basintale’s growing influence within the NDC, Afrifa-Mensah did not mince words in cautioning him against what he described as reckless behavior.
“You are a young man, and you must stop fooling,” he warned. “Otherwise, power will change hands, and you will be so sorry. When you have political power, you behave as if the whole world belongs to you.”
Streamer, Peller replies the Nigerian lady who dragged him over his manner of conducting his job interview.
It would be recalled that a lady identified as Nkese had taken to social media to share her experience after attending the cameraman position Peller had put up.
She made mention of how the streamer had body-shamed her and even remarked that her tribe, Efik, doesn’t exist.
The quest to reduce the high cost of doing business is facing a significant hurdle, as the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) points fingers at international shipping lines for allegedly imposing arbitrary exchange rates and actively resisting regulatory oversight.
Professor Ransford Gyampo, CEO of the GSA, revealed that his organisation has completed extensive investigations into these practices and has presented its findings to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) for action.
The accusations come amidst long-standing complaints from Ghanaian businesses and freight forwarders about exorbitant charges and opaque practices within the shipping industry, which they argue inflate import and export costs and threaten to drive businesses to more competitive ports in the West African sub-region, such as those in Togo or Côte d’Ivoire.
Speaking on the Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, July 12, Professor Gyampo minced no words, stating, “Some shipping lines are using their own arbitrary exchange rate; we have done all the investigations and given our findings to the Bank of Ghana.” He expressed optimism for a resolution, adding, “Hopefully, we will all meet and look at this.”
This allegation of arbitrary exchange rates is a critical concern, as the Bank of Ghana (BoG) is the sole authority for setting the official reference exchange rate for the Ghanaian Cedi.
Any deviation from the BoG rate by commercial entities for official transactions could lead to distorted pricing, unfair competition, and a lack of transparency for shippers.
While shipping lines may argue for the use of interbank rates or rates locked in at the port of origin, the GSA insists that these practices must align with Ghana’s regulatory framework to protect local businesses.
Professor Gyampo’s latest comments echo earlier sentiments, where he highlighted the broader issue of the high cost of doing business in Ghana.
He explicitly accused some international shipping lines of “being deliberately incompetent just to cause people to pay demurrage.”
Demurrage, a charge levied by shipping lines when containers are not cleared and returned within a stipulated “free time” period at the port, has become a significant financial burden for importers.
Data from the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) recently revealed that Ghanaian importers collectively pay an estimated GH¢30 million weekly in demurrage to shipping lines due to regulatory delays in document processing at the ports.
This translates to an annual burden of over GH¢1.5 billion in avoidable costs for businesses. In 2022 alone, the GSA reported that shippers paid a staggering $24 million in demurrage charges, an increase from $19 million in 2021, driven by factors including exchange rate differentials and systemic delays.
In response to the perceived resistance from these international players, Professor Gyampo affirmed the government’s determination to bring them under a clearer regulatory framework through a new Legislative Instrument (LI).
“Some of the international shipping lines don’t want to be regulated. We are bringing an LI that will regulate the sector…we have a right to make our laws…we will not do that to antagonise anybody,” he stated firmly.
This new LI is anticipated to strengthen the Ghana Shippers Authority Act, 2012 (Act 818) and its accompanying regulations (L.I. 2190).
The GSA’s mandate already includes negotiating charges and setting service standards with shipping service providers.
However, the proposed new LI, which follows the passage of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Bill in 2024 (now Act 1122), aims to introduce more robust sanctions and empower the GSA to make binding pronouncements on disputes and approve or reject charges that do not conform to international best practices.
This legal strengthening is intended to curb the imposition of arbitrary fees and streamline operations in Ghana’s ports, which include Tema and Takoradi – the primary gateways for the country’s international trade.
The conflict highlights the ongoing tension between the need for an open, competitive global shipping environment and the imperative for national regulators to protect local businesses from practices that might be deemed exploitative or non-compliant with domestic financial regulations.
The outcome of the GSA’s engagement with the Bank of Ghana and the implementation of the new LI will be closely watched by the entire trade and logistics community, as it directly impacts Ghana’s ambition to become a major shipping hub in West Africa and reduce the overall cost of doing business for its importers and exporters.
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.
I vividly recall my encounter with the immediate past Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, in the press room he created for December 7 election reporting.
He remarked, “You press men are our mouthpieces. If you are not informing the good people of Ghana about the good works we do, who will?” Under IGP Dampare’s leadership, I felt a genuine concern for the welfare of journalists; I believed that no police officer would dare lay a finger on a civilian, let alone a journalist, regardless of the circumstances.
However, over the years, journalists have often found themselves as punching bags, particularly at the hands of politicians who, in their arrogance, feel entitled to attack us whenever it suits them. During election periods like the just ended Ablekuma North re-run one, reports of assaults against journalists become alarmingly frequent. We often seek refuge in our police allies, who are typically ready to assist us.
But what transpired this time? A video that has since gone viral captured a police officer assaulting a GHONE TV journalist at the Church of Pentecost, North Odorkor Polling 2 Station during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun. The most distressing aspect of the footage was that, despite onlookers attempting to calm him down, the officer—identified as Adentan Divisional Commander Lumor—suddenly slapped the journalist.
The journalist, Agyekum Banahene, recounted his experience: “The officer approached me and told me to leave the premises, even though other media personnel were present. He didn’t ask anyone else to leave; he just singled me out. I refused to go because I thought, what if something happened? How would I report it?” he continued, “He started pushing me and then slapped me in the face for no reason. I hadn’t done anything wrong.”
Given his years of service, this officer’s conduct was not only barbaric and unprofessional but also a blatant violation of press freedoms. Such an assault on those who are supposed to protect us sends a troubling message: if police officers can act with impunity, what stops ordinary citizens from doing the same? How much more dangerous does this become for journalists who expose wrongdoing by politicians and businessmen?
As is customary, the police command issued a press statement condemning the incident. It read: “The officer concerned has been withdrawn from ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North and has been interdicted in line with internal disciplinary procedures. He has also been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation. We assure the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter.”
I sincerely hope that the police command does not merely sweep this unprofessional conduct under the rug but instead heeds the call from Ghana Journalist Association President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, for a comprehensive investigation. If this trend continues, we may soon reach a point where there will be no journalists left to cover election events. It’s only a matter of time.
The unprecedented decision by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo to challenge her removal proceedings at the ECOWAS Court of Justice has sharply divided legal opinion in Ghana.
This has sparked a heated debate over judicial jurisdiction, national sovereignty, and procedural propriety.
While some legal experts contend that the move is misguided and unlikely to succeed, others firmly assert the regional court’s right to hear the case, even amid ongoing domestic legal battles.
The Chief Justice, suspended by President John Dramani Mahama under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution following three separate removal petitions, filed her case in Abuja, Nigeria, arguing that her human rights have been violated by her suspension and the processes initiated against her.
This marks the first time in Ghana’s history that a sitting Chief Justice has faced such a process, making every legal manoeuvre a subject of intense scrutiny.
The sceptics: “Shooting herself in the foot”
Former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare
Leading the charge of scepticism is Kwaku Ansa-Asare, former Director of the Ghana School of Law. Ansa-Asare views the Chief Justice’s move as a “misguided attempt to override Ghana’s well-established legal processes”, arguing that Ghana’s legal framework is distinct and sovereign.
“Our procedures are firmly embedded in the High Court rules and the Evidence Act of 1975,” Ansa-Asare stated, emphasising the deeply entrenched nature of Ghana’s procedural laws.
He contends that the ECOWAS Court does not possess a “sub-regional procedure that we are violating”, suggesting there’s no basis for the ECOWAS Court to intervene on procedural grounds specific to Ghanaian law.
Ansa-Asare is convinced that the Chief Justice’s gamble will not yield the desired outcome. “Taking the matter out of the purview of our courts to the ECOWAS Court is not going to achieve the desired purpose. It will be defeated,” he predicted.
He did not hold back in his assessment of the Chief Justice’s strategy, lamenting that she is “shooting herself in the foot” and “worsening her own predicament through missteps.”
He added, emotionally, “She’s making her bed and lying in it. It saddens and pains me that she is adding insult to injury.”
Ansa-Asare concluded that while legal battles are an inherent part of due process, self-inflicted procedural blunders, especially by someone of her legal standing, are difficult to justify.
The proponents: ECOWAS Court’s established jurisdiction
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu
Conversely, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu offers a robust counter-argument, asserting the ECOWAS Court of Justice’s legitimate jurisdiction to hear the Chief Justice’s case, regardless of ongoing domestic proceedings in Ghana.
Speaking on TV3’s KeyPoints on July 12, Kpebu directly addressed the confusion surrounding whether local court cases could preclude access to regional human rights courts.
“Under ECOWAS jurisprudence, having a case before a domestic court is not a bar to filing before the ECOWAS Court,” Kpebu clarified.
He backed his claim by citing established precedents from the ECOWAS Court’s own jurisprudence, specifically referencing cases such as Registered Trustees of HEDA Resource Centre vs Republic of Nigeria (2021) and SERAP vs Nigeria (2016).
In these and numerous other rulings, the ECOWAS Court has consistently maintained that citizens of ECOWAS member states can seek regional remedies for alleged human rights violations even while parallel cases are ongoing within their domestic legal systems, unless the matter is before another international court, like the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
“Unless a case is being heard by another international court like the African Court, it is not a problem. Lawyers, journalists, everyone needs to understand this clearly,” Kpebu emphasised, advocating for greater public and professional awareness of the regional human rights protection framework.
He further encouraged widespread research into these pivotal rulings to foster a clearer understanding, particularly given the politically sensitive nature of Chief Justice Torkornoo’s case.
Context and implications
The Chief Justice’s legal challenges within Ghana have already faced setbacks.
While she has filed cases before both the Supreme Court and the High Court contesting her suspension and the constitutionality of the removal process, her initial injunction application against the Committee of Inquiry was dismissed by the Supreme Court on grounds of admissibility in May 2025.
This means the substantive constitutional arguments are still to be fully heard domestically.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice, established in 1991, has a broad mandate but gained significant prominence with the adoption of its 2005 Protocol, which allowed individuals direct access to the court for human rights violations.
It has since delivered hundreds of judgements against member states, often awarding damages and ordering states to rectify violations.
However, enforcement of its judgements remains a challenge, with compliance varying among member states.
For instance, Ghana itself has a mixed record of compliance with ECOWAS Court judgements, although it has generally shown a willingness to engage with the court’s processes.
The ongoing legal saga highlights the intricate balance between national sovereignty, judicial independence, and regional human rights mechanisms.
As Ghana navigates this unprecedented constitutional challenge, the arguments presented by Ansa-Asare and Kpebu illuminate the complexities and differing interpretations of legal pathways available to high-ranking state officials in such predicaments.
The ECOWAS Court’s eventual decision on the admissibility and merits of Chief Justice Torkornoo’s case will undoubtedly set a significant precedent for judicial accountability and human rights jurisprudence across West Africa.
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.
Self-acclaimed Chairman of Delta Force in the Ashanti Region
A self-proclaimed leader of the disbanded vigilante group, Delta Force, affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has openly celebrated the party’s recent misfortunes, particularly the violent disruptions during the Ablekuma North Parliamentary rerun.
Identifying himself as the Chairman of the Ashanti Regional branch of the Delta Force, the middle-aged man, in a viral video posted on social media, declared that the party is reaping the consequences of what he described as “betrayal and ungratefulness” shown towards the group following the 2016 elections.
“We sacrificed our lives to secure power for the NPP in 2016,” he stated. “But when the party won, they turned on us. We were arrested, prosecuted, and remanded just because we asked for employment. Then they went on to pass a law to disband us.”
He referred to the attacks on NPP officials during the rerun as just the beginning, suggesting that both the Delta Force and Invisible Force, a sister vigilante group within the party, should find satisfaction in the chaos that unfolded. “What happened in Ablekuma North is small. The NPP has not seen anything yet,” he warned.
The former vigilante leader claimed he still wields influence over the group members, who remain dormant only on his command. “When I speak, the boys listen. When I command them to move, they do. When I order them to sleep, they sleep—and they are sleeping now,” he declared ominously.
Perhaps most disturbingly, he issued a grim prediction regarding the upcoming Akwatia parliamentary by-election. “This is a prophecy,” he claimed. “A leader of the NPP will die during the Akwatia by-election. The thugs will kill one bigwig to show you that you were not wise in the way you dealt with us.”
He further urged all former vigilante members not to provide any form of security for the party during the by-election. “Let the NPP leadership bring their mothers, wives, and children to protect them. You fooled us once—it won’t happen again,” he said.
Delta Force, along with the Invisible Force, was among several party-aligned vigilante groups that were disbanded under the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, passed in 2019 following several incidents of political violence.
A former member of the NPP’s Delta Force has expressed excitement following the party’s defeat in the Ablekuma North parliamentary elections, stating that the NPP leadership was ungrateful to them despite their sacrifices in helping the party win power in 2016.
Godwin Nickleson Amarh, General Secretary, Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has clarified that Kojo Peprah, who was arrested by the Special Anti-Galamsey Taskforce for attempting to interfere with an operation targeting illegal mining activities within the Desiri Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region, has never been the Chairman or a member of the Association.
According to GNASSM, it has a well-defined leadership structure comprising a national President, national executive members, regional executives, and district executives—emphasizing that Mr. Peprah holds no role or affiliation within the organization.
The Association reiterated its steadfast support for responsible and sustainable small-scale mining practices.
“As an association, GNASSM remains firmly committed to responsible and sustainable small-scale mining. We have consistently partnered with the government and security agencies in the ongoing fight against illegal mining (galamsey) across the country,” a statement issued by its Secretary, Godwin Nickleson Armah, said.
“We urge the general public and the media to verify information before dissemination and to support government-led initiatives to eliminate illegal mining. Combating galamsey is a shared national responsibility,” it added.
Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has condemned violent incidents that occurred during the Ablekuma North constituency elections, calling for a more peaceful and orderly democratic process.
In a statement shared on her official Facebook page, the Vice President expressed concern over clashes that marred parts of the election, emphasising that political passion should never translate into physical harm or intimidation.
“While it is good to be interested in the direction our country is taking, we should not allow our passion to devolve into violence. Human life is precious,” she stressed.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang further urged political stakeholders and the public to work toward making Ghana’s elections peaceful and routine democratic exercises.
“Let us get to a place where elections are, by default, orderly and even ordinary events,” she added. Despite the challenges, the Vice President congratulated Ewurabena Aubynn, MP-elect, for her “decisive victory” in the contest. She commended Aubynn’s courage and focus throughout the process.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang concluded her message by wishing Ghanaians a peaceful weekend and invoking blessings for the nation.
‘It’s a good feeling’ – Aubynn celebrates victory in Ablekuma North
Ghana’s healthcare sector is grappling with a critical shortage of healthcare services in many areas, while an overwhelming surplus of trained health professionals remains unemployed.
The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed the true scale of this crisis in Parliament, disclosing that the number of trained health professionals currently seeking employment far exceeds earlier estimates, now totalling over 70,000 across various disciplines.
This figure shatters the previously widely cited approximation of 30,000 unemployed health workers, painting a far grimmer picture of human resource challenges in a sector vital to national development and well-being.
Ghana’s doctor-to-patient ratio stands at roughly 1:8,000, significantly below the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended 1:1,000.
Similarly, the nurse-to-patient ratio often falls short of optimal levels, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Delivering further details in Parliament, Mr. Akandoh provided a granular breakdown of the staggering figures:
Nurses: The largest cohort of unemployed professionals, numbering 48,878. This includes:
15,947 from the 2021 batch
17,176 from the 2022 batch
15,755 from the 2023 batch . The Minister acknowledged that approximately 15,000 nurses were granted financial clearance in December 2024, signalling an effort to address the backlog. However, he cautioned that these individuals are still in the process of being formally placed on the government payroll, indicating delays in actual deployment.
Allied Health Professionals: A staggering 21,570 allied health professionals remain unemployed. Mr. Akandoh revealed a dire situation for this critical group, which includes laboratory technicians, physiotherapists, radiographers, nutritionists, and others, stating that “no financial clearance has been granted for allied health professionals since 2019.” This five-year recruitment freeze has led to an enormous backlog and a significant brain drain in these specialized fields.
Pharmacists: The situation for pharmacists is equally bleak, with 1,621 currently jobless. Like allied health professionals, no recruitment has occurred for pharmacists since 2019, exacerbating the shortage of pharmaceutical services, particularly in remote areas. Ghana has approximately 4,500 licensed pharmacists, translating to a ratio of about 1 pharmacist per 7,500 people, far below the optimal standards.
Medical Doctors: Despite the often-cited shortage of doctors in Ghana, over 900 qualified medical doctors remain unemployed and are awaiting placement. The Minister confirmed that the Ministry has recently begun efforts to recruit these doctors, offering a glimmer of hope for this highly trained group. Ghana trains roughly 500-600 doctors annually from its public medical schools.
“The problem is, therefore, enormous,” Mr. Akandoh admitted, acknowledging the gravity of the situation that leaves thousands of skilled professionals idle while many Ghanaians lack access to quality healthcare services. “But we are committed to finding solutions to it,” he assured Parliament.
As part of broader efforts to tackle this colossal unemployment challenge, Minister Akandoh disclosed that the government is exploring “managed migration” as a temporary strategy to ease the burden.
This approach seeks to facilitate the ethical and organized movement of Ghanaian health professionals to countries with demand for their services, ensuring that their skills are utilized while potentially generating remittances and building international experience.
He revealed that “over 13 countries have formally expressed interest in recruiting Ghanaian nurses and other qualified health professionals,” indicating a significant international demand for Ghana’s healthcare workforce.
Countries like the UK, Canada, and Germany have increasingly looked to African nations to fill their own healthcare staff shortages.
Mr. Akandoh reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to securing both local and international opportunities.
The dual strategy aims to reduce the daunting backlog of unemployed professionals and simultaneously improve health service delivery across the country by strategically deploying available personnel where they are most needed.
The Minister’s disclosure highlights the urgent need for a long-term, comprehensive human resource plan for Ghana’s health sector that aligns training output with recruitment capacity and national health needs.
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 Adentan Divisional Commander, Lumor, has been identified as the culprit involved in the attack on GHOne Television journalist, Banabene.
Banabene was captured in a video receiving a heavy slap from Divisional Commander Lumor during the Ablekuma North re-run polls in the morning. The journalist was reportedly covering the event when the officer approached and asked him to vacate his spot.
After the reporter explained his assignment, the officer became agitated and slapped him. The video of the assault quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread condemnation from the public and media fraternity.
In response, the Ghana Police Service announced that the officer has been withdrawn from the ongoing electoral exercise in accordance with disciplinary procedures.
The Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Haruna Mohammed, has stated that the party did not officially participate in the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun held on Friday, July 11, 2025, distancing the party from the outcome of the controversial contest.
Mohammed made the remarks following the rerun that led to the declaration of Ewurabena Aubynn of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the winner — a significant upset in a constituency historically dominated by the NPP.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, July 12, he noted that the NPP’s decision not to contest the rerun was based on principle, citing concerns about how the Electoral Commission (EC) handled the issues that led to the rerun in the first place.
The NPP had earlier announced a boycott of the rerun following a High Court order for the EC to conduct fresh polls in 19 polling stations. The directive came after months of disputes and missing endorsements on pink sheets from the December 2024 general election.
Despite the party’s official position, its 2024 parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, defied the boycott and re-entered the race, reportedly backed by some grassroots supporters and local party figures.
The rerun saw a tightly contested race between Ewurabena Aubynn and Akua Afriyie, with the NDC candidate securing 34,090 votes to Afriyie’s 33,881.
The election was marred by incidents of violence, including an attack on Nana Akua Afriyie and former Fisheries Minister Hawa Koomson. One police officer was later interdicted for assaulting a journalist covering the chaos.
Jeffrey Dasebre is NPP Youth Organiser, Manchester Chapter
The Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Manchester Chapter, Jeffrey Dasebre, has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to ensure that those responsible for the violence that marred the Ablekuma North rerun election on July 11, 2025, are swiftly brought to justice.
“We must uphold the rule of law, ensuring that those who perpetrate violence, especially against women, are swiftly brought to justice,” he said in a statement issued on July 12, 2025.
He stressed that the protection of women’s rights and safety during elections is of paramount importance and urged law enforcement agencies to act impartially and effectively to prevent and prosecute such crimes.
“Law enforcement agencies must act impartially and effectively to prevent and prosecute crimes, sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated,” he added.
Dasebre also commended Hawa Koomson, a former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, who was assaulted during the election, for standing up for what he described as “the right thing.”
He further praised all the women, youth, and polling station executives who risked their lives to participate in the electoral process.
“Let us continue to build our party with a united front and a disciplined spirit,” he said, expressing hope for the NPP’s return to power in 2028.
The violence surrounding the Ablekuma North rerun elections has sparked widespread concern and condemnation.
Attacks on journalists, voters, and party supporters have been described as a direct threat to the democratic process and a serious undermining of the rule of law.
JKB/EB
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Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. Eric Opoku, has unveiled a bold initiative to establish farms in every Senior High School across the country. The programme aims to promote agricultural education, enhance food security, and foster self-sufficiency among students.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, the Minister explained that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to integrate practical agriculture into the education system and encourage young people to see farming as a viable and rewarding career path.
According to Mr. Opoku, the school farms will enable institutions to produce their own food, significantly reducing dependence on external suppliers while improving both the quality and quantity of meals served to students.
“Students will take ownership of their schools’ food production, gaining a sense of responsibility and self-sufficiency,” he said, adding that the hands-on farming experience will not only provide practical knowledge but also help reshape negative perceptions about agriculture.
The Minister further highlighted that the steady supply of fresh produce from the farms would help address frequent food shortages and enhance the nutritional value of meals served in schools.
“This initiative is a sustainable solution to food insecurity in our schools and a meaningful contribution to the long-term growth of the agricultural sector,” Mr. Opoku noted.
The government expects the programme to instil in students a deep appreciation for agriculture, while equipping them with valuable skills that could lead to future employment or entrepreneurship in the agribusiness sector.
St. Peter’s Methodist Church in Odorkor is considering withdrawing as a collation centre in future elections, following violent incidents during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun on Friday, July 11.
The church’s overseer, Rev. Ebenezer Kofi, announced the decision, citing safety concerns and damage to property caused by political tensions.
This follows Friday’s chaotic scenes when a group of unidentified macho men stormed the polling station at St. Peter’s, disrupting the process and violently assaulting key political figures, including New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate Nana Akua Afriyie and former Fisheries Minister Hawa Koomson.
The attack caused panic among voters and led to a temporary suspension of voting, with police struggling to restore order despite heightened security in the area. Eyewitnesses described the incident as “well-coordinated and deliberate.”
Speaking in an interview with Citi News on Saturday, July 12, Rev. Kofi confirmed that the church leadership had reached a consensus to formally request the Electoral Commission (EC) and security agencies to relocate both the collation centre and the nearby police post from the church premises.
“A decision has to be taken by the leadership of the church where we will take the collation centre from here, and by extension, we will take the polling station from here to prevent further incidents,” he said.
Rev. Kofi disclosed that the 2024 general elections also left a trail of damage at the church, yet the EC has not offered any form of compensation. “Most of our assets were vandalised and destroyed because of the collation… even yesterday I was told that the residence of one of the ministers was also damaged,” he lamented.
The violence, part of broader tensions during the Ablekuma North rerun, has raised renewed concerns about the safety of public and private institutions used as electoral centres. The rerun, which took place across 19 polling stations, was organised to resolve a protracted electoral dispute stemming from irregularities in the December 7, 2024, elections.
Though the NPP officially boycotted the rerun, its candidate Nana Akua Afriyie defied the directive and contested the election, ultimately losing by a narrow margin to Ewurabena Aubynn of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The unprecedented legal challenge launched by suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo at the ECOWAS Court of Justice has ignited a debate about judicial accountability and the independence of the judiciary.
Her decision to seek redress at the regional court in Abuja, Nigeria, over her suspension and ongoing removal proceedings has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts and former public officials, who warn of potential implications for Ghana’s constitutional order.
The development, confirmed by Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem-Sai, reveals that Chief Justice Torkornoo’s filing at the ECOWAS Court alleges that her suspension and the efforts to remove her from office violate her fundamental human rights, specifically asserting that she was “removed from her official capacity without a final determination, impairing her right to function and serve in a position she was constitutionally [appointed to].”
Among the prominent critics is Inusah Fuseini, a former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and a seasoned legal practitioner.
Speaking on “The Big Issue” on Channel One TV on Saturday, July 12, 2025, Mr. Fuseini minced no words, stating that the Chief Justice’s actions raise profound concerns about judicial accountability.
“The Chief Justice has created the impression that she has the right not to be removed from office. She has created the impression that she has the right not to be held judicially accountable for her stewardship in the judicial service,” Mr. Fuseini asserted, implying that such a move could set a dangerous precedent for judicial oversight.
Chief Justice Torkornoo’s suspension by President John Dramani Mahama in April 2025 came under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, which outlines the procedure for the removal of Justices of the Superior Courts.
This action by the President followed the submission of three separate petitions seeking her removal, which were then referred to the Council of State.
The Council, after deliberation, determined a prima facie case, leading to the President’s warrant of suspension and the establishment of a Committee of Inquiry to investigate the merits of the petitions.
This marks the first time in Ghana’s 68-year history that a Chief Justice has faced removal proceedings, making the process highly scrutinized.
The Chief Justice has, however, challenged the legitimacy of her suspension and the constitutionality of the proceedings against her at various levels within Ghana’s legal system, including cases before the Supreme Court and the High Court. On May 21, she filed an injunction application with the Accra Supreme Court against Justice Pwamang and the Committee of Inquiry, arguing her suspension was unconstitutional due to a lack of a valid prima facie determination.
While the Supreme Court dismissed her injunction application, it did so on grounds of admissibility, meaning the substantive case regarding the constitutionality of the process remains to be heard within Ghana’s domestic courts.
Mr. Fuseini expressed significant concern about the implications of these multiple legal challenges, particularly now that they extend beyond Ghana’s jurisdiction to a regional court.
“She is telling the entire country — and even we lawyers are becoming more confused because of her actions,” he noted, highlighting the potential for jurisprudential chaos and public uncertainty regarding the judicial process.
Indeed, the ECOWAS Court of Justice, while having jurisdiction over human rights violations in member states, typically encourages the exhaustion of domestic remedies before its intervention.
Legal analysts widely suggest that the Chief Justice’s substantive case still pending before Ghana’s Supreme Court could lead to the ECOWAS Court dismissing her application on admissibility grounds, as she has not yet exhausted all avenues within the Ghanaian legal system.
Mr. Fuseini further warned that Chief Justice Torkornoo’s continued resistance could politicise the judiciary, an institution meant to be above partisan fray, and erode public trust in the legal system.
Public confidence in Ghana’s judiciary has been a recurring concern, with a 2021/23 Afrobarometer survey indicating that 62% of Ghanaians have little or no trust in the courts, a significant increase from 30% in 2005/6. Allegations of corruption and political influence, particularly in high-profile cases, have contributed to this decline.
“She has staged her actions in politics, which is clouding the law. So, I will advise that we stay the matter and wait for the ECOWAS court. It is an advisory court,” Mr. Fuseini concluded, suggesting a pause in the domestic proceedings while awaiting the ECOWAS Court’s stance, though stressing the ECOWAS Court’s advisory rather than definitive role in such internal constitutional matters. The unfolding saga is set to be a defining moment for judicial independence and accountability in Ghana.
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 President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has registered his displeasure following the assault on journalists in the ongoing re-run of the Ablekuma North Parliamentary polls.
Addressing journalists at the International Press Center in Accra, Mr. Dwumfour lamented the increasing number of journalists being assaulted in the country.
“The safety of journalists is paramount, and any threat to them is a direct threat to our collective freedom of expression and to the integrity of our democratic processes,” he said.
The GJA President called for an intense investigation into the assault, stating that it would not tolerate any further assaults in future events. “We demand an immediate, thorough, and transparent criminal investigation into this matter since it is a case of assault, which is a second-degree felony. We call on the IGP, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to ensure that swift and decisive disciplinary action is taken to serve as a deterrent to others. We want the police to be bold and punish one of their own officers…this time, in the full glare of the public and on camera,” he said.
Meanwhile, following the viral video that captured the assault of the GHOne journalist by a police officer, the Ghana Police Service, in a statement, said the officer concerned has been withdrawn from the ongoing election duty at Ablekuma North and, in line with internal disciplinary procedures, has been interdicted and referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation.
“We would like to assure the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted into the matter, and further updates will be communicated,” the statement added.
Using clothes pegs can significantly damage your clothes (Image: Connect Images via Getty Images)
Hanging your laundry outdoors is undoubtedly one of the best things about summer and the warmer climate. It’s cheap, faster than indoor drying, and leaves your garments, bedding and towels with a delightful fresh scent.
However, there’s a widespread error that many people commit during this process. According to clothing specialists at Superdry, this mistake could end up ruining your beloved items. The team has put together some useful advice on better garment care to extend their lifespan, whilst highlighting unexpected factors that might be damaging them.
Clothes pegs can stretch out delicate fabrics and ruin your clothes (Image: Getty)
When it comes to clothes drying, one key method is to ‘harness the power of nature’ by taking them outdoors – though perhaps ditch the clothes pegs and put your drying rack outside instead.
The specialists explained: “This helps extend the lifespan of your clothing by minimizing wear and tear caused by heat exposure. Sunlight offers natural antimicrobial properties and acts as a gentle whitening agent for fabrics.
“Take caution when using clothes pegs, as they can leave unsightly and potentially permanent pressure marks on delicate fabrics.
“To protect delicate items, avoid using clothes pegs altogether, and be careful not to leave items outside in the wind, as they could be blown away.
Hanging your washing a certain way could ruin your clothes (Image: Getty)
“Additionally, you can enhance the whitening effect further by lightly spritzing clothes with white vinegar before hanging them outdoors, helping the sun to keep your whites looking fresh.
“However, some fabrics will become stiff if dried in this way, especially those made from natural fibres like cotton. To avoid this, trying partly drying outside and finish off with a few minutes in the tumble dryer.”
You can also gently pull garments into shape to remove creases before hanging out or placing on the drying rack – and you’ll reduce the amount of ironing needed, which is always handy.
This advice was echoed by the laundry experts at Vileda, who have taken it a step further and shared exactly how to hang specific items of clothing so that they don’t get wrecked on the line
Trousers – The best way to hang trousers is to fold them over the clothesline at the waistband. This helps to reduce creasing.
Jumpers – Avoid hanging jumpers by the shoulders, as this can cause stretching and misshaping. Instead, fold your jumper lengthwise and drape both sides evenly over the line.
Dresses – You can fold the dress in half lengthwise and hang it over the line like a pair of trousers.
Sweatshirts – Treat sweaters the same way as jumpers, folding them in half lengthwise and draping them over the line.
Political analyst Dr. Abdul-Jalilu Ateku has called on the Ghana Police Service to swiftly arrest and prosecute all individuals involved in violent incidents during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun, including former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
His comments come after some thugs stormed the St Peter’s polling station during the parliamentary rerun in the Ablekuma North Constituency, assaulting several people, including former Fisheries Minister, Hawa Koomson, in the process.
The violence temporarily halted voting at the Polling station until the Police were able to restore calm.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue, Dr. Ateku expressed deep concern over the conduct of certain political actors during the election, describing their behaviour as a threat to Ghana’s democratic stability.
He emphasized that individuals captured on video committing criminal acts should have already been apprehended by the police.
“I think that especially the lady that was involved, we do know her history in Awutu Senya East where she said she discharged her gangs because of some safety issues. And here again she came to another electoral environment with a pepper spray, what was her motive. Is it the possibility of them having some weapons.
As we are saying that people should be arrested, when you have people on video clearly committing certain crime, I think the police should have picked them up by now including the lady in question if only she is stable because once she went to the polling station with a weapon, that should be of interest to the police to know why,” he stated.
Dr. Ateku’s remarks come amid growing public concern over electoral violence and impunity, especially involving high-profile political figures.
Ewurabena Aubynn of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) won the rerun with 34,090 votes, narrowly defeating the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Nana Akua Afriyie, who polled 33,881 votes.
Ablekuma North rerun: We’ll deal with all troublemakers – Police
The Paramount chief of the Anum Traditional Area, Akusiaku Brempong Kumi Sasraku VIII, has released 1000 acres of land located at Anum in the Eastern region to the Ghana Prisons Service.
The land was to be used as training School and farmland to expand the prisons agricultural activities.
Akusiaku Brempong Kumi Sasraku VIII made this announcement at a meeting with the Minister for the Interior Alhaji Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka (MP) and the Director-General of Prisons, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (ESQ) and some members of the Prisons Directorate and Anum Traditional Area.
The Minister, therefore directed that the necessary documentation in acquiring the land be made immediately.
He said the gesture by the Paramount Chief of Anum would not only benefit the Prisons but would also create jobs for the Anum Community.
The release of the Land comes at the right time to push the strategic direction of the Director-General in expanding Prisons agricultural activities to support the feed Ghana project.
Present at the meeting were the Deputy Director-General of Prisons in charge of Operations Dr. Francis Omane Addo, the Chief Director at the ministry of interior Mrs. Doreen P. Annan, the Director of Prisons in charge of Technical DOP Gloria Essando (ESQ), Apagyahene of Anum traditional area Nana Amoh Kotokro.
The rest were the Director of Prisons in charge of Agriculture Mr. Ali Kwaku Ababio, Director of Prisons in charge of Welfare DOP Millicent Owusu, Acheampemhene of Anum Dr. Berima Obeng Dompreh and the Ahenemmahene of Anum traditional area Berima Osei Kwadwo and some senior Prisons Officers.
Ranking Member on the Trade, Industry and Tourism Committee in Parliament, Michael Okyere Baafi, has called on the government to immediately introduce a transition plan for companies under the One District One Factory (1D1F) programme following the cancellation of the flagship industrial policy.
The New Juaben South MP criticised the government’s failure to clearly replace the 1D1F initiative in the 2025 Budget, despite public claims that the policy had ended.
Addressing the media in Parliament yesterday, Mr. Baafi said this has left hundreds of companies in limbo and threatens years of investment in the country’s industrialisation efforts.
“We have 322 1D1F companies at various stages of implementation. Out of these, 169 are fully completed and operational. These companies cannot simply be abandoned because a new government decides to cancel the policy,” he stressed.
He noted that the only new policy mentioned in the 2025 Budget was the Feed Industry Policy, which he described as poorly funded and insufficient to absorb the scope and impact of the 1D1F initiative.
The MP explained that the 1D1F programme, which was launched under the Akufo-Addo administration, had attracted over $1.2 billion in investments, supporting both new (Greenfield) and existing (Brownfield) businesses.
According to him, many of these companies continue to rely on incentives such as tax waivers and import concessions to remain viable.
“In modern business, you can’t operate without government incentives. Even in advanced economies, industries receive support from the state,” Mr. Baafi emphasized and added, “To pull the plug now without a clear alternative is dangerous. Businesses are calling us, seeking clarity and comfort.”
He warned that the lack of a proper phase-out plan will cause severe disruptions, especially for multinational companies that have already budgeted for the year based on expected government support.
Mr. Baafi also called out what he termed the “rushed” nature of the government’s new 24-Hour Economy policy, saying it was not yet ready to provide a safety net for companies transitioning from 1D1F support.
“Let’s be honest, the 24-Hour Economy policy is dead on arrival. It is not what was promised during the elections, and it won’t take effect immediately. We need an interim solution,” he said.
The Minority Trade Committee members, he added, will escalate the matter on the floor of Parliament and may file a formal motion to force the issue if the government fails to respond.
Mr. Baafi urged the Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Ministry to work with stakeholders to implement a transition period, extending support until the end of the year or next, to allow affected businesses time to plan and adjust.
“This is not politics. This is about protecting Ghanaian industry, jobs, and investor confidence,” he intimated.
Liha Miller, the ex-wife of Ghanaian musician Patapaa, and her new husband, Ikem Casey
Liha Miller, the ex-wife of Ghanaian musician Patapaa, has officially remarried, tying the knot with her Nigerian partner, Ikem Casey.
The German-Turkish content creator confirmed her new status on her TikTok page, sharing joyful photos and videos from their recent court wedding.
The newlyweds were seen celebrating their union both at the courthouse and later by the beach, with Liha expressing her commitment in a heartfelt post: “Till Death Do Us Apart My Odogwu.”
Liha’s fresh start comes just weeks after her divorce from Patapaa was finalized. In an interview with blogger Bessa GH, she revealed that a Ghanaian court granted the divorce, handled by her lawyer in her absence due to her work schedule in Germany.
Liha and Patapaa’s marriage, once widely celebrated after their 2021 traditional ceremony in Agona Swedru, came to an end after years of separation.
Liha returned to Germany in 2022, leading to a three-year split before the official divorce.
Court hands bailiff four-year sentence for forging judge’s signature
An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced a 38-year-old bailiff, Kojo Budu Jackson, to four years in prison with hard labour for attempting to commit fraud using forged judicial documents.
Jackson was found guilty of falsifying a court order and a divorce certificate, allegedly issued by a retired magistrate of the Ejisu District Court in the Ashanti Region.
According to a report by graphiconline.com on July 12, 2025, Jackson initially pleaded not guilty to the charge of forging judicial service documents.
However, he changed his plea to guilty at the hearing last Tuesday, just as the prosecution was set to present its evidence.
In addition to the custodial sentence, the court fined him 200 penalty units, equivalent to GH₵2,400.
He has one month to pay the fine or face an additional year in prison.
According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Nyamekye, the case began in June 2024 when the Judicial Secretary complained to the Ghana Police Service, reporting that Jackson and some accomplices were forging official court documents, including marriage and divorce certificates and court orders.
At that time, Jackson was employed as a private bailiff at the Ejisu District Court in the Ashanti Region.
Following the complaint, police placed Jackson under surveillance and arrested him on August 13, 2024.
A search of his residence uncovered various documents, including divorce affidavits and a forged Certificate of Divorce.
MRA/EB
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The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah speaking at the launch
The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, on Thursday launched the Investment Opportunity Mapping Project (IOMP), a flagship initiative of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), aimed at transforming how investments are identified, promoted, and implemented across Ghana.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Accra, Mr. Debrah described the project as a groundbreaking step toward inclusive development.
“It aims to ensure that every Ghanaian, regardless of their location, has an equal opportunity to benefit from investment and economic growth,” he said.
He commended the GIPC for its proactive efforts in advancing local investment, supporting Ghanaian enterprises, and championing homegrown entrepreneurship.
Mr. Debrah also assured the Centre of President John Mahama’s full backing and called on all Regional Ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to actively drive the economic transformation of their respective jurisdictions.
The CEO of GIPC, Mr. Simon Madjie, explained that the IOMP was launched to bridge critical gaps in investment data and to encourage both local and foreign investment.
“Through this initiative, the government aims to increase Local Direct Investment (LDI) alongside Foreign Direct Investment (FDI),” he said.
Mr. Madjie emphasised that a consistent concern from both local and international investors—as well as from Ghana’s foreign missions and embassies—has been the lack of accessible and reliable data on viable investment opportunities.
He noted that the IOMP directly addresses this challenge by creating a comprehensive and easily accessible database of investment-ready projects.
Ghana International Investment Summit: A major platform that will bring together global investors, policymakers, and local businesses to explore strategic investment areas.
Flagship Projects: The IOMP will highlight priority projects such as the Volta Economic Corridor, the Legon Pharmaceutical Innovation Park, the Kumasi Machinery and Technology Park, and the Akosombo–Juapong Garments and Textiles Cluster.
In addition, Mr. Madjie announced that a nationwide series of high-level forums and regional roadshows will be held to raise awareness and build the capacity of local stakeholders—including traditional leaders and district assemblies—to attract and manage investments more effectively.
The Volta Regional Minister and Dean of Regional Ministers, Mr. James Gunu, welcomed the initiative and affirmed the regions’ readiness to support it.
He stated that the Volta Region was already aligning with the project through the Volta Economic Corridor, which forms a key part of the government’s 24-Hour Economy initiative.
“We are preparing our districts and local groups to ensure that investment opportunities in the region are well-packaged and attractively presented,” he said.
Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry (MOTAI) and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), the IOMP is expected to catalyse equitable development across the country.
Key expected outcomes include:
The creation of a national investment database covering all 261 districts;
The facilitation of new district-level investment projects and job creation;
Enhanced capacity of local leaders and foreign missions to advocate for investments;
And the launch of a new digital platform to provide real-time access to investment opportunities in Ghana.
Highly-rated defensive midfielder Lord Hilary Adabo
Asante Kotoko have reached a full agreement with FC Samartex for the signing of highly-rated defensive midfielder Lord Hilary Adabo in a deal worth GH¢200,000.
The 21-year-old, who was one of the standout performers in last season’s Ghana Premier League, has accepted personal terms with the Porcupine Warriors and will undergo his medical on Monday before putting pen to paper on a four-year contract.
Adabo joined Samartex from Real Tamale United ahead of the 2023/24 campaign and quickly became a midfield mainstay, making 33 appearances out of 34 league matches. His strong tackling, composure on the ball, and work rate earned him the nickname “Midfield Lord” among fans of the Timber Boys.
Samartex confirmed the transfer on Saturday, expressing gratitude for the player’s contributions:
“We have reached an agreement for the transfer of our midfielder, Lord Hillary Adabo to Asante Kotoko. We are grateful to the ‘Midfield Lord’ for his selfless service to FC Samartex and wish him well in his future endeavors.”
Kotoko are bolstering their squad ahead of their return to continental football in the CAF Confederation Cup, and Adabo’s acquisition is seen as a crucial addition to their midfield department.
The former flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has condemned attacks on individuals in the ongoing Ablekuma North constituency election rerun and called on President Mahama to deal with the perpetrators accordingly.
Dr. Bawumia in an interview with JoyNews following some attacks and disturbances in some polling stations at Ablekuma North said the actions potrayed by some individuals to resort to using violence during elections is a recipe for disaster.
He said, “This will be a recipe for disaster if each political party will raise its own army. I call on the President to take action to bring the perpetrators to book”.
He appealed to President Mahama not to gloss over such issues and deal with individuals who may be identified to have caused violence and disrupted the elecoral processes in some of the polling stations.
“We will not forget what has happened. This is not the democracy we want to see.” he added.
Former Fisheries Minister including her security guards were among some individuals who were attacked by some thugs at one of the polling stations at Odorkor during the election re-run in 19 polling stations.
Some Civil Society groups and individuals have also called on the President to immediately deal with people who may be found to have caused mayhem at the polling stations.
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communication team, Nuong Faalong has called for tighter security measures in future elections, following the disturbances recorded during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.
During a panel discussion on JoyNew’s Newfile on Saturday, July 12, Ms Faalong emphasised the need for stricter access control at polling centres and recommended pre-screening of individuals present at election grounds.
“I think that going into future elections, there should be tightened security,” she said.
“Even certain individuals should not be allowed near polling stations. Maybe we can even screen certain people or everyone if that is feasible. If you are not a candidate and you are not a voter, what are you doing there?”
Ms Faalong also stressed the importance of a full-scale investigation into the events at Ablekuma North, urging authorities to approach the matter comprehensively.
“There has to be an investigation, and then the recommendations of that investigation our president John Dramani Mahama is a law-abiding president he will follow to the letter,” she stated.
She added “I believe that that is what should be done. We should be sure we are looking at the situation in its entirety.”
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.
Former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Inusah Fuseini, has criticised Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo for seeking redress at the ECOWAS Court of Justice regarding her suspension and the ongoing constitutional process for her potential removal from office.
His comments come in the wake of fresh legal action by Justice Torkornoo, who has filed a case at the regional court in Abuja, Nigeria, challenging the legitimacy of her suspension and the proceedings initiated against her.
The development was made public by Deputy Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, July 12, 2025, Mr. Fuseini said the Chief Justice’s actions raise serious concerns about judicial accountability.
“The Chief Justice has created the impression that she has the right not to be removed from office. She has created the impression that she has the right not to be held judicially accountable for her stewardship in the judicial service,” he stated.
Justice Torkornoo was suspended by President John Dramani Mahama under Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution and is currently facing three separate removal petitions in Ghanaian courts, including cases before the Supreme Court and the High Court.
Mr. Fuseini expressed concern about the implications of her multiple legal challenges—especially now that they extend beyond Ghana’s jurisdiction.
“She is telling the entire country — and even we lawyers are becoming more confused because of her actions,” he noted.
He further warned that her continued resistance could politicise the judiciary and erode public trust in the legal system.
“She has staged her actions in politics, which is clouding the law. So, I will advise that we stay the matter and wait for the ECOWAS court. It is an advisory court,” he concluded.
Suspended Chief Justice takes case to ECOWAS court
MP for Kwabre East, Akwasi Gyamfi Onyina-Acheampong, speaking in parliament
Member of Parliament for Kwabre East, Akwasi Gyamfi Onyina-Acheampong, has emphasised the importance of travel in gaining critical life experiences, discipline, and respect for human rights.
However, he also acknowledged the risks and challenges faced by some individuals, particularly those who travel through irregular means.
Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Onyina-Acheampong called on the government to take proactive measures to ensure citizens’ safety and well-being while abroad.
He then proposed the following key measures: regularise travel programmes, which he believes will prevent citizens from falling prey to unscrupulous individuals and ensure their safety.
He also called on the government to provide support and protection through embassies to assist citizens in distress and provide them with necessary support.
Again, he cited the need to track citizens’ activities and provide assistance to citizens in difficult circumstances.
By implementing these measures, Hon. Onyina-Acheampong believes the government can mitigate the negative consequences of travel and ensure that citizens are protected and supported while abroad.
The MP’s call to action aims to promote safe and responsible travel practices, ultimately benefiting Ghanaian citizens worldwide.
How social engineering hacks your mind and your bank account
Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Clement Apaak, has urged eligible students to seize the opportunity to register for the government’s ‘No Fees Stress’ policy before the July 31, 2025, deadline.
He emphasised its potential to transform tertiary education in Ghana by alleviating financial burdens.
Speaking at the 17th Congregation of Ola College of Education in Cape Coast, Dr Apaak highlighted the policy’s progress, including the disbursement of funds to first-year students in public universities and colleges registered with the Student Loan Trust Fund.
With the deadline extension in place, Dr Apaak encouraged potential beneficiaries to take advantage of this empowering opportunity.
“This policy aims to remove financial barriers that prevent qualified students from enrolling in public universities, technical universities, nursing training colleges, and colleges of education. Refunds have commenced, and validation is ongoing for remaining students. I urge those who have not yet applied to do so,” the deputy minister said.
The government’s direct payment of academic fees to first-year students in public universities and colleges is in fulfillment of a campaign pledge during the 2024 general election campaign.
While nearly all first-year students had paid their fees before the policy was launched earlier this year, the government’s refund is intended to defray the costs of the initial payments.
Dr Apaak also urged graduates to never underestimate the impact of one’s work, and to “be ethical, innovative, and compassionate”.
He emphasised that teachers play a critical role in shaping Ghana’s future and encouraged them to carry the legacy of knowledge and service with pride and humility.
The Deputy Minister commended the leadership of OLA College of Education, particularly the Principal, Dr Mrs Regina Okyere-Dankwah, for their tireless efforts in positioning the college as a centre of excellence for female teacher education.
On a related issue of financial intervention by the Mahama administration, Dr Apaak noted that the government had appropriated a lump sum of GH¢203m for the payment of teacher trainees’ allowances.
He said it was an indication of the government’s commitment to supporting teacher trainees in the country.
How social engineering hacks your mind and your bank account
The Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), have expressed worry over the escalating cost of demurrage paid by importers and businesses on weekly basis to shipping lines.
Data from the Institute, indicates that every week, importers pay an estimated GH¢30 million in demurrage to shipping lines at the ports.
GIFF’s president, Stephen Adjokatcher, who confirmed this to the B&FT, blamed the situation on delays by regulatory authorities in processing documents for expedited clearing.
He said documents could linger at the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), and others for weeks, whilst clients suffer demurrage and port rent charges.
“We are appealing to regulatory institutions to wake up and be proactive during clearing processes. We observed that when documents get to regulators for processing to enhance clearance at the ports, processing is delayed for days, thereby attracting huge demurrage. A process which should not take more than 24 hours to do,” Adjokatcher noted.
The Institute indicates that commencement of the government’s 24-hour economy policy is a surest way to prevent and curb demurrage, which has been major bane for businesses and importers.
The Institute said though movement of containers at the port from one terminal to another has seen some improvement recently – a great effort by the GPHA, it maintains that delivery of vessels and containers and their s arrival to the Inland Container Depots (ICDs) for clearance, still takes significant time within the seven-day free period for demurrage.
Appeal to Shippers’ Authority
With this phenomenon, Mr Adjokatcher appealed to the Ghana Shippers’ Authority to intervene in amending the number of days for demurrage.
“The seven days can be looked at in consultation with stakeholders so that the industry and importers may have some respite,” he said.
Freight forwarders are intermediaries between clients, shippers and customs. The Institute collects revenue on behalf of government and is a major stakeholder in government tax policies and decisions at the ports.
Dutch international of Ghanaian descent Memphis Depay has taken a drastic action against Brazil powerhouse Corinthians over his unpaid $1m debt, AfricaSoccer.com has reported.
Depay, 30, signed a two-year deal with Brazil powerhouse Corinthians in September 2024 after leaving Atletico Madrid, a move some saw as unexpected for a player of his calibre.
Establishing himself as a key cog at the club, Depay won his first prize with Corinthians in March after his outfit triumphed over arch-rivals Palmeiras to lift the Campeonato Paulista.
The former Barcelona star initially notified Corinthians over the unpaid debt while threatening not to fulfil his professional obligations if the situation is not resolved with an immediate effect.
As a sign of protest and dissatisfaction with the club’s failure to pay to settle his debt, the Dutch-Ghanaian star boycotted training last Wednesday. The recent gesture has sparked speculation about the future of the former Manchester United attacker at Corinthians.
Corinthians are currently in financial crisis, leading to the delay in payment of Depay’s wages. Following a meeting with club president, Augusto Melo, the forward has returned to training.
Depay would remain at Corinthians, but faces a fine under the team regulations for boycotting training.
Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign Team, Dennis Miracles Aboagye has raised concerns over what he describes as the alarming silence of government and the failure of law enforcement in the wake of violence that disrupted the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, July 12, Mr Aboagye condemned both the Ghana Police Service and senior government officials for failing to act decisively and for making what he called “reckless” public remarks in response to the events.
“There are things that I think should be done. There is a law that speaks against what transpired yesterday. The police had the responsibility to enforce that law they failed,” he said.
He further expressed disappointment in the government’s lack of response, stating, “There is a government who currently has the responsibility to ensure the safety of everybody. That government has not spoken.”
Highlighting what he sees as a dangerous dereliction of duty, Mr Aboagye warned that the situation has left many, including himself, feeling vulnerable.
“The government functionaries who have responsibilities of the state and are accountable to the state are making very reckless comments. I feel very unsafe,” he said.
“Until they come forward and give some comfort and assurance to the people of this country, nobody is safe including they themselves.”
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.