Presley Chweneyagae has died.
A statement shared by his agency MLA on Tuesday revealed the veteran actor died on Tuesday at the age of 40 but did not disclose the cause of his death.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him. While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course,” read the statement.
Renowned Ghanaian satirist and broadcaster Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM), has publicly criticised commercial bus drivers who are defying the Ghana Private Road Transport Union’s (GPRTU) directive to reduce transport fares by 15%.
The fare reduction, which took effect on May 24, 2025, was implemented in response to a significant drop in fuel prices.
However, some trotro drivers have refused to comply with the directive, citing the costs of spare parts and other vehicle accessories as reasons.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, KSM expressed his frustration, stating that while many drivers are adhering to the new fares, a few “Die Hard ones” continue to resist, acting “stupidly.”
“All those drivers who say they won’t comply. They don’t know what they are talking about. See, this is where we keep our focus to build our nation. This is where we make sure that nobody distracts us with any acts of lawlessness like this one.
“So, to all the Trotro drivers, plenty are complying. Now they are thinking. But there are still a few Die Hard ones talking about they won’t comply, and who are acting stupidly, let me tell you, Wo’boa!” he said.
KSM concluded his remarks by acknowledging the drivers who are complying with the directive, stating, “All those trotro drivers, to me, are just making noise, but at the end of the day, they will comply.
“We have seen some positive people who are willing to comply. And those people are more than the stubborn ones.”
In response to the non-compliance, some commuters have called on police officers to enforce the new fares.
Meanwhile, the GPRTU and local authorities continue to urge all commercial drivers to adhere to the fare reduction to alleviate the financial burden on commuters.
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Former Minister of Tourism and member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Catherine Afeku, says her loyalty to the party has remained intact despite once supporting Alan Kyerematen, who withdrew from the party ahead of the 2024 elections.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Women, Power & Politics, Afeku acknowledged her past alignment with Kyerematen, but emphasized that she ultimately chose to return to the NPP because of her principles, particularly loyalty.
“He withdrew from the party. He is still a good friend and a nice gentleman, but then again, you set your standards and my value is loyalty.”
Mad. Afeku explained that while she respects Kyerematen as a friend and admires his work, her political identity has always been shaped by the party and by key figures who first brought her into politics.
“Remember Mrs Oboshie Sai Cofie is with the NPP, Jake Obetsebi Lamptey is with the NPP, Nana Akufo-Addo is with the NPP. My loyalty is to the party but I have no qualms. Mr Kyerematen is a fine gentleman.”
She noted that Oboshie Sai Cofie, herself a stalwart of the NPP, introduced her to politics and remains an important influence in her career.
Reflecting on her earlier relationship with Kyerematen, Afeku recalled inviting him to a cultural event she organised during his time as Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States.
“When he was the ambassador in Washington, I was in Atlanta and we invited him to the festivities I organised, so I respect him but my loyalty is to the NPP and he respects that.”
She added that being honest about her political stance has earned her respect, even from those who took different paths.
“I told him that I’m not for shifting to the person, I’m for the party and when you are upfront with people you deal with, they tend to respect you. Whether good or bad, I’m NPP.”
Alan Kyerematen resigned from the NPP in 2023 after years of attempting to lead the party. He cited a lack of fairness in the internal presidential primaries and what he called a “hijacking” of the party by a select group of individuals. His departure led to the formation of the Movement for Change, under which he contested the 2024 general elections as an independent presidential candidate.
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Distinguished veteran journalist and renowned media trainer Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng is reported dead after months of ill health.
He died in London on Monday, May 26, where he had been seeking treatment since February.
A close friend and colleague, Media and Communication expert, Prof. Kwame Karikari, confirmed his death to MyJoyOnline.
Nana Gyan-Apenteng, a former editor and columnist of The Mirror weekly newspaper, was the Apagyahene of Tafo Eti in the Eastern Region.
He was deputy editor of the erstwhile London-based West Africa magazine in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Returning to Ghana in the 1990s, Nana Gyan-Apenteng worked with the Third World Network as head of the non-governmental organisation’s communication unit and editor of its monthly magazine, Africa Agenda.
He served as media trainer and communication consultant for several corporate, intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations including the telecoms giant MTN, some UN agencies, the Media Foundation for West Africa, and STAR Ghana.
He was a graduate of Apam Secondary School and the University of Ghana, Legon.
Nana Kwasi Gyan-Apenteng was a member and chairman of the National Media Commission from 2013 to 2018. He also served as president of the Ghana Association of Writers. He spent a part of his secondary schooling at Okuapeman.
He is survived by six children.
Burial and funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
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Stocks open week low as market capitalisation sheds GH¢156 Million
Equities opened the week on a low note, with the benchmark Ghana Stock Exchange Composite Index (GSE-CI) falling by 9.31 points to close at 6,344.23 on Monday, May 27, 2025, slightly reducing the index’s year-to-date return to 29.78%.
The pullback comes despite a surge in trade volumes and heightened activity across several counters.
Losses in heavyweights such as MTN Ghana (MTNGH), CAL Bank, and the gold-backed ETF GLD weighed on the broader market, pushing the GSE’s market capitalisation down by GH¢155.82 million to GH¢139.14 billion.
The market’s downward momentum came even as the GSE Financial Stock Index (GSE-FSI) climbed 16.88 points to 3,192.14, extending its year-to-date gain to a robust 34.08%.
Trade volumes more than doubled from the previous session, rising 104% to 425,087 shares, while turnover surged by nearly 208% to GH¢1.25 million.
The volume spike was driven primarily by MTNGH, which led trading with 271,112 shares worth GH¢864,402.10 changing hands.
ETI, CAL, ACCESS, and ALLGH rounded out the top five most actively traded stocks by volume.
MTNGH fell by 2 pesewas to GH¢3.18, extending its year-to-date decline to 27.2%, while CAL Bank edged lower by 1 pesewa to GH¢0.59.
GLD saw the steepest drop of the session, shedding GH¢13.90 to close at GH¢359.72.
ACCESS Bank Ghana emerged as the sole gainer, rallying 10% to GH¢10.12 and pushing its year-to-date gain to an impressive 94.62%, underscoring its standout performance in what has otherwise been a mixed earnings and trading environment.
SP/MA
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Former Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Catherine Afeku, has described politics as a game of strategy and survival, one that can be murky, but not without room for dignity and personal values.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Women, Power & Politics programme, Mad. Afeku did not shy away from acknowledging the darker sides of political life, but stressed that how one navigates it comes down to individual choices and boundaries.
“It depends on how murky you want it to be. If you set your standards, if you set the values and you create your own barriers, you have to give permission to people to make you feel bad but it’s murky.”
Mad Afeku, known for her bold persona and firm stance on leadership, referenced her favourite book, Niccolò Machiavelli’s The Prince, to illustrate how backstabbing and betrayal are not just political realities, but part of life in general.
“My favourite book, by the way, is Prince Nicolo Marchaviali, The Prince. You have to read The Prince. There is backstabbing, there is backbiting, there is denigrating, there and it is everywhere, even at church.”
Despite acknowledging the darker aspects of political life, Afeku maintained that resilience, self-awareness, and strategy are key to rising above the noise.
“You just have to know how to set your boundaries and you have to be one step ahead of the game, so it is murky but you can be a victim or you can choose to be a hero. It’s just how you handle it.”
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The Office of the Attorney General has opposed a motion filed by Justice Gertrude Torkonoo seeking to halt the ongoing proceedings aimed at removing the Chief Justice.
The Chief Justice filed the injunction application after applying to the Supreme Court to interprete relevant portions of the constitution to mean she can waive her right to privacy under the proceedings, that the prima facie determination without reasoned ruling served on her was unconstitutional and seeking orders for the members of the committee to be barred from hearing the petitions.
In her application for injunction of the proceedings and members of the committee, Justice Torkornoo alleged that the proceedings are mockery of Justice and a ruse to unjustifiably remove her.
But the state in an affidavit in opposition to the injunction application, the Attorney General’s Office rejected claims made by the suspended Chief Justice that she was not informed of the reasons behind the prima facie determination.
According to the affidavit, the relevant documents have been made available to the appropriate parties.
However, the Attorney General’s Office argued that Justice Torkonoo followed an improper procedure in her attempt to obtain those documents by filing an injunction application.
The office also objected to her request to have members of the committee barred from hearing the applications related to her removal.
The office of the Attorney General thus prayed to the apex court to dismiss the application.
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GHS confirms 10 new Mpox cases, total rises to 19
Parliament resumes sitting today, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, marking the beginning of the Second Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament following the Easter recess.
The resumption was officially announced by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, in a notice dated May 12, in accordance with Order 58 of the Standing Orders of Parliament.
Black Stars held their first training session in London
The Black Stars have officially kicked off preparations for their highly anticipated clash with Nigeria in the 2025 Unity Cup, holding their first training session in London on Monday, May 26, 2025.
The team opened camp on Sunday, with several foreign-based players linking up with the home-based contingent that departed Accra on Friday, May 23, 2025.
A total of 16 players took part in the initial session, with Barcelona youngster Abdul Aziz Issah joining the squad later in the evening to bolster the group.
The session featured key names such as goalkeepers Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Benjamin Asare, and Joseph Tetteh Anang, as well as defenders Gideon Mensah and Stephan Ambrosius.
Midfielders Abdul Salis Samed, Majeed Ashimeru, and Christopher Baah Bonsu were also present, alongside forwards Jordan Ayew, Brandon Thomas-Asante, and Kwame Opoku.
Ghana will face arch-rivals Nigeria on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the GTech Community Stadium in Brentford.
The winner of that encounter will advance to the Unity Cup final, where they will meet the victor of the other semifinal between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, set for Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Watch footage from the Black Stars’ opening training session below:
FKA/MA
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Rufftown Records CEO, Bullet and OgeeTheMC
Rufftown Records CEO and talent manager, Bullet has stated that OgeeTheMC played no official hypeman role in Ebony Reigns’ career.
Speaking in an interview with 3Music TV, Bullet explained that the first and only time OgeeTheMC worked with Ebony was during a one-time stage performance at an awards show.
“He called me and said he wanted to hype for Ebony on stage. It was the Golden Movie Award, and that was the first time Ogee told me he wanted to hype Ebony,” Bullet revealed.
Bullet said he agreed to give OgeeTheMC the opportunity, but after watching how he performed on stage, he was disappointed with his approach.
According to him, Ogee tried to take over the show and push himself into the spotlight instead of supporting Ebony.
“But after the show, I was like, no, this guy, never, because if you’re a hype man, you need to stand behind the artiste but Ogee was like the main front man and Ebony was behind him. And he messed up the show,” Bullet said.
He added that following that incident, he called OgeeTheMC to tell him never to attempt hyping for Ebony again.
“After that, I called Ogee, and I said, ‘Don’t ever try to hype for Ebony,’” Bullet stated.
Bullet also denied recent claims made by OgeeTheMC that he had to quit his radio and TV shows to support Ebony’s career.
According to the Rufftown Records boss, those claims are false. He noted that OgeeTheMC was not involved in the singer’s career in any official or consistent way.
“So, he was around, you know, he comes around, but it wasn’t like he is saying he was working for Ebony as he’s claiming,” Bullet said.
AK/EB
Also watch as Robert Klah addresses Felicia Osei’s ticket incident at TGMAs
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Foreign Affairs minister
Managing Editor of The Herald newspaper, Larry Dogbey, has chastised Foreign Affairs minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for using his personal Facebook to announce the temporary closure of Ghana’s embassy in Washington, DC, rather than issuing an official government statement.
Reacting to the development on Channel One on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Dogbey stated that an issue of such magnitude requires a formal communication channel to break the news.
He cautioned that relying on social media for high-profile communications could erode public trust and weaken government credibility.
“This is a very damning thing. You just do not go on your Facebook page and put a thing like that there. Issue an official statement and sign it, or use your PR office and explain what you found and that it is being investigated further. Then it becomes a government statement. But putting it on your Facebook makes you open yourself up for some of this attack,” he stated.
The minister’s announcement, posted on Monday, May 26, revealed that the embassy had been temporarily shut down following the findings of a special audit. The audit uncovered a fraudulent scheme involving abuse of office and financial misconduct at the mission.
According to Ablakwa, the closure is part of a broader effort “to finalise the ongoing restructuring and systems overhaul” within the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s operations abroad.
He described the decision as regrettable but necessary to protect integrity and restore public confidence in Ghana’s foreign service.
While applauding the minister for the probe and subsequent sack of the staff at the centre of the scandal, Fred Kwarteng, Dogbey insisted that the channel of communication was inappropriate.
“This isn’t a personal issue, it’s a national crisis involving an international mission. The appropriate channel would have been an official press release, backed by the Ministry, to show leadership, transparency, and seriousness,” he said.
VPO
After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:
Daniel Kwadwo Owusu is the Country Managing Partner, Deloitte
The Country Managing Partner of Deloitte Ghana, Daniel Kwadwo Owusu, has urged the government to assure business leaders that the recent appreciation of the cedi is not temporary.
According to him, some businesses remain uncertain about the future of the cedi.
“There are also issues with high utility tariffs, high transportation costs, and the general cost of doing business,” he stated at the 9th Ghana CEO Summit and Expo on May 26, 2025.
Speaking on the topic “Transforming Business and Governance for Ghana’s Economic Reset”, Owusu advised the government to avoid short-term measures that fail to create lasting stability in the absence of fundamental reforms.
He noted that a strong currency is beneficial, but it does not automatically lead to lower prices if domestic cost pressures, such as transportation and energy, are not addressed.
He also called for diversification of the economy, noting that Ghana remains overly reliant on gold and cocoa.
“Diversification will make our economy less vulnerable to those big global price swings,” he said.
“Looking back at 2017, after the IMF bailout programme, the cedi recovered for a time and inflation fell to about 11.8%. Interestingly, just as is happening now, consumer prices didn’t drop significantly,” he added.
“They stayed relatively high because of the deeper structural issues in the economy that have not been addressed,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, Owusu urged businesses to respond proactively to changes in the economy.
He expressed concern about certain companies quoting foreign exchange rates that differ from those of the Bank of Ghana, stating that this is not reflective of a true economic reset.
“I am speaking to CEOs because there cannot be an economic reset unless we transform as a people,” he concluded.
SSD/MA
Removal of E-Levy will boost financial inclusion – BoG
Images of the newly built Marchal Idriss Derby Itno Olympic Stadium in Chad
China has built a 30,000-capacity Olympic Stadium and donated it to Chad as a result of their diplomatic relations and efforts to strengthen them.
The stadium, named the Marchal Idriss Derby Itno Olympic Stadium, was inaugurated on May 23, 2025, and has been praised by sporting personalities across the continent.
Chadian President, Mahamat Idriss, commended China for making such a kind gesture, blessing them with an ultra-modern stadium to aid their sporting activities.
He emphasised the importance of “mutual interest, reciprocal respect, and a shared vision.”
Afterwards, China’s Ambassador to Chad, Wang Xining, noted that the stadium showcases the level of diplomatic relations between both countries.
The diplomat said that they would continue to enhance their cooperation through similar projects to help unearth talents that can compete at the international level.
“We are convinced that Chad will have a promising future. China intends to move forward hand in hand with Chad and strengthen our win-win cooperation with the international community to help Chad realise its dreams and together build a brighter future,” the Chinese Ambassador said, as reported by China.org.cn.
The Olympic Stadium is the largest in Chad and will host major sporting events.
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See the stadium below:
The move is aimed at boosting revenue for the state broadcaster, the authorities say
Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed into law a contentious bill that requires all motorists to buy a radio licence before acquiring vehicle insurance.
There has been an outcry from some motorists as they will now have to pay $92 (£68) annually in order to listen to the radio in their vehicles.
The introduction of the measure is part of a plan to widen revenue sources for the state broadcaster but critics say the licence fee is too high, especially given the difficult economic situation.
Responding to motorists’ concerns on social media, Nick Mangwana, a senior official in the ministry of information, said the new law was “necessary” and “fair”.
There are about 1.2 million registered cars in the country but only 800,000 of them pay insurance, according to local media.
The loss-making Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) relies for income on the licence fee as well as government grants, It also generates some revenue through advertising.
But the broadcaster is struggling to make people pay for their TV and radio licences.
Critics have been calling for the scrapping of the fee, accusing ZBC of biased coverage in favour of the governing Zanu-PF.
The opposition has complained of unfair coverage by the broadcaster, especially during elections. ZBC has denied the accusation.
Under the new Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, all motorists must now pay the radio licence fee before they can renew their vehicle insurance or obtain a licence from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara).
The changes, which were recently approved by parliament, pegs the fee at $23 per quarter, amounting to $92 per year.
However, ZBC can grant exemptions to those who qualify, including tourists visiting the country.
But the new amendment aims to eliminate loopholes and boost compliance with the requirement to have a licence.
It prohibits all motor insurance companies from selling their products to motorists who do not hold a valid ZBC radio licence, unless they have a ZBC exemption certificate or the vehicle being insured does not have a radio receiver.
But the law has drawn sharp criticism from motorists and opposition groups, terming it a burden on taxpayers.
“Citizens are being pauperised left, right, and centre. Why does the citizenry of this country deserve so uncaring and heartless leadership?” Chamisa posted on X.
Another X user described the measure as an “unjust assault on motorists”.
Renowned Ghanaian radio and television host, Peter Osei-Kesse, widely known as Mr. Bonez, won the Television Male Entertainment Show Host of the Year at the 14th CityHills Foklex Media Awards held at the National Theatre in Accra, Ghana, on Saturday, 10 May 2025.
The prestigious media awards night hosted by Kyeamehemaa Patty and Roman Fada saw many notable media personalities and specially invited guests from different parts of the country in attendance.
Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has stated the Committee’s investigating petitions for her removal is a mockery of justice, a ruse to unjustifiably remove her from office.
According to a supplementary affidavit filed with the Supreme Court as part of her legal challenge Chief Justice Torkornoo alleges violations of her fundamental rights in the ongoing impeachment proceedings against her.
(From L-R) A photo collage of Mutawakilu Adam, Samuel Atta Akyea and Kwabena Adu-Boahene
Samuel Atta Akyea, the lawyer for embattled former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene, has given contradictory details on the alleged fraudulent GH¢1.3 million per month Ghana Water Limited (GWL) deal his client has been implicated in.
The state has claimed that the GH¢1.3 million monthly payment, which was the proceeds of an agreement for the National Security to provide internet service to Ghana Water Limited (GWL), was diverted to Adu-Boahene’s personal account.
The Acting Director of the GWL, Mutawakilu Adam, claimed in an interview on TV3 that the National Security approached the GWL to provide it with internet service at all of its offices.
However, speaking to the media after court proceedings on Monday, May 26, 2025, Samuel Atta Akyea, counsel for the embattled NSB boss , indicated it was the GWL that approached the National Security to help monitor its water distribution system.
He said the company asked the National Security to help it monitor it with a system to police the supply of water, and not mere internet services, as asserted.
“It’s also got to do with Ghana Water Limited seeking help from National Security to give them all the surveillance and mechanisms so that we could police the sanctity of water in the realm.
“So that’s another National Security matter,” the former legislator said.
He further stated that there is more to this issue than has been asserted, adding that so far, his client has done no wrong.
“Well, at the moment, he’s very innocent by the terms of the Constitution until proven otherwise, and to prove it otherwise – but what is happening now? I’m afraid people don’t understand the issue deeper than what is being presented,” he said.
What the GWL boss said
The Acting Director of the GWL, Adam Mutawakilu, said that the payment of the GH¢1.3 million started in 2018 and was done in two instalments every month till the contract was suspended in April 2025.
Mutawakilu Adam indicated that the payment was deducted from the GWL accounts automatically every month.
“They (the Ghana Water Limited) used to go private to be able to connect internet to the head office and all these regions and then the districts. So, when government under Nana Addo secured this internet and fibre optic installation at that time, they decided that okay, why don’t we extend not only to Ghana Water but also to other government agencies. So, they will provide us with the internet and cybersecurity to all, but at the end of the month, Ghana Water is required to pay some amount for maintenance.
“So, this agreement was entered into in 2018, and it (the 1.3 million) is in two instalments. So, you pay within the month 650 (650,000) and another 650 (650,000), and it is by standing orders – it’s like LCs. Ghana Water Company instructed that this amount should be deducted… it was paid every month from 2018. It was stopped in April 2025,” he said.
He added that it was the Director-General of National Security who spearheaded the agreement and gave out the bank account details the payments should be made into.
However, it turned out that the account details, even though they looked like those of the National Security, were not.
“We had an agreement with National Security, and we have a liaison officer to National Security.
“So, to the best of the knowledge of Ghana Water Company, we were paying the money to National Security… not knowing, a similar account was opened, just like National Security in terms of name, and this money, this account was given to Ghana Water Limited to pay,” he said.
The GWL boss also disclosed that the said agreement – that is, the supposed agreement that was signed by the Ghana Water Company and the National Security – is nowhere to be found.
“I’ve looked for the agreement up to now. I haven’t got the agreement… Somebody offered to give me the agreement. I asked the NIB, they don’t have it,” he said.
BAI/VPO
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The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has underscored the importance of maintaining a respectful and balanced partnership between Ghana and the United States.
She stressed that despite differences in economic scale and historical timelines, the two nations must continue working together as equals.
“I think we are equals. Your economy is smaller than mine, and you have been independent for less time than the U.S., but I think we must work together as equals. That is number one,” Ambassador Palmer said during an interview on Channel One.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One, she clarified changes regarding the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), noting that its functions would now be overseen by the U.S. State Department.
This transition, she explained, is consistent with her long-standing view that U.S. development assistance, funded by taxpayers, should serve as a foreign policy instrument and be administered accordingly.
“The functions of USAID will now be run by the State Department, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and that is something, to be honest, I have advocated for decades,” she stated. “I don’t think that will cause any difference in focus or in effect.”
Ambassador Palmer reassured that the U.S. remains firmly committed to its development partnership with Ghana. She emphasised that the change in administrative oversight will not impact the effectiveness or direction of American assistance.
In closing, she reaffirmed Ghana’s continued significance in U.S. foreign policy, highlighting the enduring relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation.
Former Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso Boakye, has disagreed with claims that President John Mahama’s plan to reintroduce road tolls via a digital system is an innovative initiative. He asserts that the foundation for such a system was laid by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
At the 9th Ghana CEO Summit and Awards Expo on May 26, President Mahama announced plans to reintroduce road tolls in a modernized, cashless format, eliminating physical toll booths. The system aims to leverage digital tools, including linking vehicle ownership data to the Ghana Card, enabling automatic billing and mobile money payments.
While the Mahama administration presents this initiative as part of its broader digital transformation agenda, Mr. Asenso Boakye clarified his position on the matter in a Facebook post on May 27.
He stated that during his tenure as Roads Minister, the NPP government had already developed a comprehensive strategy for the digitalization of toll collection before Mahama took office in January 2025.
“In 2021, the NPP administration made the bold decision to suspend manual toll collection,” he wrote.
“That decision was based on four critical issues: low revenue yield, severe congestion, high vehicle operating costs, and revenue leakages.”
He added that the Cabinet had approved the reintroduction of road tolls via a digital platform, planned for implementation in 2024. The Ministry of Roads and Highways intended to adopt a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under Act 1039.
An indigenous Ghanaian company was selected as the concessionaire after a competitive process and feasibility studies. A Concessions Agreement was drafted and submitted to Parliament but was not passed before the end of the legislative term.
Mr. Asenso Boakye lamented that the previous administration abandoned this process.
“While every administration has the right to adopt its preferred procurement strategy, it is misleading to portray the digital toll initiative as a fresh idea,” he stated.
“The digitisation of toll collection was conceived, structured, and launched under the NPP government.”
He urged the Mahama administration to prioritize policy continuity and avoid what he described as “political repackaging” of prior initiatives.
“Ghanaians deserve leadership that builds on progress, not one that repurposes the work of others as their own,” he added.
The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has urged Ghanaians—particularly women—to prioritize their health and the wellbeing of their children.
Mr. Emmanuel Mettle, NCCE Director at the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, made the call during the launch of the Annual African Vaccination and Child Health Promotion Week held at the Salvation Apostolic Church in La.
He emphasized the importance of embracing all forms of vaccination as a proven means of protecting people of all ages from preventable diseases.
Mr. Mettle encouraged members of the congregation to take full advantage of the essential child health services provided by the Ghana Health Service to enhance their health and survival.
He further urged the public to actively participate in vaccination campaigns, which are designed to safeguard the population against various illnesses.
The Child Health Promotion Week and African Vaccination Week, celebrated annually in April and May respectively, were introduced in 2004 and 2010 to raise awareness about critical child health services available to the public.
Among the services highlighted by Mr. Mettle were immunization, growth monitoring and promotion, vitamin A supplementation, health education, counselling on infant and young child nutrition, as well as birth registration and family planning.
This year’s celebration is themed: “Every Child Deserves a Healthy Future; Invest in Your Child. Attend Weighing Regularly.”
Source: Emmanuel Mettle
Francis Tetteh Nutakor, a celebrated Ghanaian theatre director and producer, was named Comic Director of the Year at this year’s Ghana Comedy Awards.
This award recognises his exceptional contributions to comedy in 2024.
In the year under review, he directed a number of successful stage plays, including One Gallon, a socially relevant piece that skillfully blended humor with critical reflection; Our Day, a heartfelt production that struck an emotional chord with audiences; and Kavod UK, a culturally rich collaboration that showcased Ghanaian artistry on an international stage, for Nacee.
In addition to his theatrical work, Nutakor produced and directed several high-profile stand-up comedy specials in 2024. Sugar Mummy of Accra, a special for comedian Jacinta, humorously explored modern relationships in Ghana’s urban setting, while Standing Strong, a special for comedian Okokobioko, offered a powerful mix of comedy and motivation showcasing Nutakor’s ability to inspire as well as entertain through direction and production. He also directed Romanus Incomplete VI, the latest installment in a popular comedy series by Foster Romanus that remains a favorite among local audiences.
His influence extended even further with the organisation of Ghana’s first stand-up comedy festival, Comic and Comedy, held in July 2023 at the National Theatre. This groundbreaking event brought together veteran comedians like Fritz Baffour and Mikki Osei Berko with younger talents such as Foster Romanus, Clemento Suarez, Jacinta, OB Amponsah, Lekzy Decomic, Jeneral Ntatia, Afia Barcelona, Putogo, and Yaa Anima. The festival was designed to bridge generational gaps in comedy, celebrate the genre’s evolution, and spotlight emerging voices in the industry.
Nutakor is also an outspoken advocate for the development of Ghana’s theatre and creative sectors. He has consistently called for greater government support, citing challenges such as high taxation and insufficient infrastructure as major obstacles facing theatre practitioners.
His advocacy, along with his creative work, has positioned him as a key figure in shaping the future of Ghanaian entertainment. With his continued commitment to quality storytelling and cultural preservation, Francis Tetteh Nutakor stands out as a driving force in both comedy and the broader performing arts landscape.
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.
File photo for prison inmates
The meager allocation for feeding prisoners in Ghana has sparked public outcry with many people calling on the government to urgently review the budget.
In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb on May 27, 2025, a retired prison officer who requested anonymity shared heartbreaking insights into the dire conditions inmates face daily.
“This issue has persisted for years despite numerous appeals for change. At times, we have had to buy kenkey for some inmates ourselves because the funds allocated for their meals are simply inadequate,” she lamented.
According to the former officer, the budget does not even account for the cost of gas needed to prepare hot meals.
She acknowledged the crucial role faith-based organisations and philanthropists play in supplementing prisoner meals, stressing that without their support, inmates would starve.
“Right now, three cedis can’t even buy porridge and bread for a child, yet prisoners are expected to survive on just 60 pesewas per meal. This amount can barely buy sachet water,” the retired officer explained.
Appealing for a review, the ex-officer emphasised the fact that not all prisoners are guilty of serious crimes.
Some inmates, she noted, were jailed over minor infractions or unfortunate accidents.
“Anyone can end up in prison, even politicians. That’s why it’s crucial to remember that incarceration is meant for correction-not starvation. Please, help us,” she pleaded.
Her remarks follow a similar appeal made by a prison officer in a media engagement with Kumasi-based Mercury FM shared on X on May 25, 2025.
In the video which has since gone viral, the officer revealed that prisoners receive just GH¢1.80 per day for three meals with each costing a mere 60 pesewas.
“We feed them on GH¢1.80 daily. Breakfast costs 60 pesewas, and the same goes for lunch and dinner,” he explained.
Highlighting the scale of the crisis, she pointed out that feeding 1,006 inmates at this rate barely amounts to GH¢1,000 in total.
“Imagine the people behind bars, what kind of meal can 60 pesewas realistically provide?” he questioned.
Watch video below
“Prisoners are fed with 60 pesewas per meal, totaling GH¢1.80 per prisoner for a day”
—Ghanaian prison officer reveals government’s budget allocation for incarcerated persons. pic.twitter.com/DhRe1YSyek
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) May 24, 2025
VPO
After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:
Featured
Jemima Okang Addae
2 minutes read
The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has expressed satisfaction with President John Dramani Mahama’s renewed focus on improving the country’s business environment.
She described the move as essential for Ghana’s economic recovery and a positive signal to both local and foreign investors.
Speaking on Channel One’s The Point of View on Monday, May 26, Ambassador Palmer noted that strengthening the business climate would support Ghanaian exporters and companies while attracting more U.S. investment.
She said she has consistently engaged with the government on the need to create a more investor-friendly environment and was pleased to see the issue take centre stage in President Mahama’s inaugural address.
“Improvement to the business climate in general helps Ghanaian exporters, Ghanaian companies that are here and help encourage US investment in Ghana, and I have been talking with the government of Ghana about that my entire tenure, and I am very pleased to see President Mahama make that his number one priority, I think.
“He talked in his inaugural address about improving the business climate as being essential to Ghana’s economic recovery,” she stated.
She highlighted specific issues such as the need for reforms at the Ghana Revenue Authority, better access to credit, timely payment of government arrears, and the enforcement of contract agreements. According to her, these are key areas that can help businesses thrive.
“There are some things that can happen to the Ghana Revenue Authority, with access to credit, with a number of things like contract sancity and payment of government arrears that will help make this more attractive place to invest for American and Ghanaian companies,” she added.
Ambassador Palmer emphasised that when small businesses are paid on time, they are more likely to succeed, but delays in payments could cause them to collapse. She reiterated that creating a reliable and transparent system would benefit both Ghanaian and American businesses looking to invest in the country.
“If small Ghanaian businesses are paid on time, they will thrive and if they are not paid on time, they can’t survive,” she said.
Ghana head coach Otto Addo has explained his decision to include young striker Felix Afena-Gyan in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming Unity Cup, expressing confidence in the forward’s potential despite recent career setbacks.
Speaking on the striker’s call-up, Addo highlighted Afena-Gyan’s promise and emphasized the importance of giving young players opportunities to grow and rediscover their form.
“There are a lot of young players, and he’s also young… he did well, and that’s why we want to give him another chance; he’s still young,” Addo said.
Afena-Gyan, who burst onto the scene with a strong start in Italy, has seen a dip in form and consistency in recent seasons. However, Addo believes the Unity Cup provides a crucial platform for the 21-year-old to reignite his progress.
“His career hasn’t been like he expected it to be, but this is normal in football. Sometimes you have ups and sometimes you have downs, and for him, it’s another opportunity for him to show himself,” he added.
The Black Stars will face Nigeria in the Unity Cup as part of preparations for upcoming international competitions, and Afena-Gyan will be hoping to make the most of his return to the national team setup.
Tulenkey has stated that he feels overlooked in the music industry
Ghanaian rapper, Tulenkey, has stated that he feels overlooked in the music industry despite the work he puts into his music.
In an interview with Headless YouTuber, the “Bad Feeling” rapper said he believes he is not getting the recognition he deserves for the kind of music he makes.
According to him, the level of attention and praise he receives does not match the quality of his work.
“As a rapper, I’m underrated and underappreciated. The type of music I put out and the type of ratings I get is not at par,” Tulenkey stated.
He talked about the amount of work he put into his Doomsday EP, explaining that he took an entire month to carefully work on the lyrics, with the goal of making a statement through the project.
According to him, the feedback he received after releasing the EP was not what he expected.
“I remember the Doomsday EP, let’s be realistic, I sat down one full month, I wanted to make a statement, I took my time to pay attention to every bar and I put it out there, but that thing where you were expecting some kind of reception so when I didn’t get that reception I felt…at the end of the day you can do something normal and they would like,” he shared.
Tulenkey added that even though he didn’t get the reception he had hoped for, he has come to the realisation that he needs to stay focused and have confidence in his own path without waiting for external approval.
“I just have to believe in what I’m doing and I don’t have to wait for anyone’s validation,” he said.
AK/EB
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
The woman pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful entry and stealing a TV valued at GH¢8,900
An Accra Circuit Court has sentenced a 24-year-old woman to 12 months imprisonment for stealing a 50-inch Television (TV) at Teshie Military Barracks in Accra.
Mawuena Tamakloe was convicted and sentenced after she pleaded guilty to charges of unlawful entry and stealing a TV valued at GH¢8,900.
The court sentenced Mawuena to 12 months ‘ imprisonment each on charges of unlawful entry and theft.
Prosecution led by Chief Inspector Clemence Takyi told the court that the request by the court for a pregnancy test to be conducted on Mawuena was negative.
The prosecution and the case investigator narrated to the court how Mawuena escaped after they had run the test and were returning to the Police station.
The case investigator told the court Mawuena crossed the main road close to the Police and hopped into a commercial vehicle and a taxi.
According to the female case investigator, Mawuena was nabbed after a Rider offered to assist her by chasing two vehicles that Mawuena hid in.
The relieving Judge then advised Mawuena to go and reform in prison.
Earlier, Chief Inspector Takyi prayed the court to withdraw the charge of causing unlawful damage to the TV, a property of the Church of Pentecost (COP) Whistler Barracks Worship Centre.
The court had earlier entered a plea of not guilty on the charge of causing unlawful damage, after the convict had offered some explanation.
Handing down the sentence, the court presided over by Mrs Susan Edufful said she took into consideration the age of the accused, the fact that the accused was a first offender, her plea for leniency and the value of the item.
Prosecution earlier told the court that the complainant Ebenezer Oppong Aboagye was an Elder of COP, Whistler Barracks Worship Centre located within the Teshie Military Academy, while Mawuena, unemployed, was a resident of Tema Community 2.
Inspector Takyi said on May 15, 2025 at about 8:30 am, Mawuena was spotted by some Military officers who were witnesses in the case, carrying a 50 -inch Hisense UHD 4K flat screen TV out of the Military Academy Barrack, specifically from the COP, Whistler Barrack Worship Centre direction with the church’s inscription on the TV box.
Prosecution told the court that when the convict was interrogated by the officers, her explanation did not go down well, so she was handed over to the Military Police for further questioning.
During the questioning, Mawuena confessed to having stolen the TV from one of the offices within the church auditorium.
Prosecution said the complainant was informed and Mawuena was handed over to the Police together with the TV for action.
The prosecutor told the court that the police personnel in the company of the complainant and the convict visited the church and detected that the inner wooden door to the head pastor’s office had been damaged.
The court was told that Mawuena admitted the offence in her caution statement.
Cedi selling at GH¢10.40 to $1 on May 27
Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, continues to appreciate on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.
In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢10.39 and a selling price of GH¢10.40 to the dollar.
The British pound is being bought at GH¢14.09 and sold at GH¢14.11, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢11.82 and a selling price of GH¢11.83
However, checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 27, 2025, at 8:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢11.60, while the pound is selling at GH¢15.80 at some forex bureaus across the country.
Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢13.30 on the retail market.
SP/MA
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L-R: Kudus, Partey, Dede Ayew and Semenyo miss Black Stars squad for Nigeria game
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has explained that injuries were a major factor behind the absence of several key players from the Black Stars squad for the 2025 Unity Cup.
The players exempted from the squad include Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Ernest Nuamah, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Alexander Djiku, among others.
Speaking on this, the GFA indicated that some players were unable to join the team because their clubs’ seasons had not ended, while others had conversations with head coach Otto Addo to excuse themselves for personal reasons.
Read the GFA’s statement on absentees in the squad below:
Jerome Opoku, Kingsley Schindler, Alexander Djiku (Not released, Turkish season has not ended)
Joseph Paintsil and Osman Buakri (MLS ongoing)
Jonas Adjetey has Swiss Cup final on June 1, 2025, with FC Basel
Injuries: Abdul Manaf Nurudeen, Abdul Mumin, Tariq Lamptey, Alidu Seidu, Ernest Nuamah, Daniel Kofi Kyereh, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Inaki Williams.
Minor knocks: Mohammed Kudus, Antoine Semenyo, Elisha Owusu, Ransford Yeboah Konigsdorfer.
Thomas Partey and Michael Baidoo have been given a break by the head coach.
However, the statement was silent on the absence of André Dede Ayew, whom Otto Addo had said is a profile he does not prefer in his team since his second return.
The Black Stars will compete in a four-nation tournament with a high-profile semi-final clash against longtime West African rivals Nigeria, scheduled for May 28, 2025, at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, with a kick-off time of 19:00 GMT.
SB/EB
Meanwhile, watch as ADISEC win the 4×200 Boys finals at the 23rd Annual Inter schools and colleges
Ghanaian singer and 2025 TGMA Unsung Artiste of the Year, Yaw Darling, has explained why he asked to be compared to Kuami Eugene instead of Patapaa in an apology to the musician.
Speaking to Andy Dosty on Showbiz Review Xtra, Yaw Darling clarified that he is a singer, whereas Patapaa is not.
“I am a singer; Patapaa is not a singer, and we all know that. I meant I’d like to be likened to Kuami Eugene, who is one of the greatest singers in Ghana. I’d be happy to be compared to a singer and not an artist performing another genre.”
When asked why he didn’t mention other artists in different genres, he explained that Patapaa is a good musician and was simply the first name that came to mind.
“Patapaa is a good musician, and he came to mind, but I think people took it differently. If I didn’t express myself well, I want to use this opportunity to apologize,” he said.
Yaw Darling also responded to media personality Sammy Flex’s advice that he apologize to Patapaa. He revealed that apologizing has been his initial plan and that he intends to do so publicly on X (formerly Twitter), even while on tour in the Central Region.
“I didn’t say it in a nice way, but I didn’t mean what I said in a negative way. I meant that I would be glad to be compared to Kuami Eugene, who is one of the greatest singers in Ghana, rather than to Patapaa. However, Patapaa’s talent and craft are super great.”
When asked how Patapaa’s name came into the conversation, he said, “We have some who make music and others who simply sing. Patapaa’s music is different, trendy, and just jams. But with my kind of music, I take my time to write it, and that can be compared to Kuami Eugene and not Patapaa.”
He added, “I’m not saying Patapaa’s music isn’t good, but it’s different from my style. I mentioned his name because I love his music and we’re both from the Central Region.”
The issue began when Yaw Darling shared his thoughts on being compared to other artists in the music industry.
According to the 2025 TGMA Unsung Artiste of the Year, he considers it a compliment when people compare him to Kuami Eugene rather than Patapaa.
This comment sparked an uproar online, with some fans believing it was an insult to Patapaa’s craft.
By Yussif Ibrahim
Kumasi, May 27, GNA – The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) is taking steps to ensure commercial drivers in the metropolis adhere to new transport fares following a 15 per cent reduction by transport unions.
A statement issued by the public affairs directorate of the assembly and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Kumasi, said it had come to its notice that some commercial drivers have refused to comply with the newly approved fares.
“It is important to note that any commercial driver who refuses to charge the approved reduced fare commits a criminal offence punishable by law,” the statement cautioned.
It said officers will be deployed on major roads within the city to enforce compliance following a meeting between the leadership of KMA and the Regional Head of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD).
The statement entreated the public to cooperate with officers who would be deployed on the roads as the KMA strived to restore order and sanity on the roads.
GNA
Yussif Ibrahim/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Former Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso Boakye, has rejected claims that President John Dramani Mahama’s plan to reintroduce road tolls via a digital system is a novel initiative, arguing that the foundation was laid by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
Speaking at the 9th Ghana CEO Summit and Awards Expo on May 26, President Mahama announced that his administration would reintroduce road tolls in a modernised, cashless format that eliminates the need for physical toll booths.
The proposed system is expected to leverage digital tools, including Ghana Card-linked vehicle ownership data, to enable automatic billing and mobile money payments.
While the Mahama government has framed the plan as part of its broader digital transformation agenda, Mr. Asenso Boakye took to Facebook on Tuesday, May 27, to “set the record straight.”
He stated that the NPP government, under which he served as Roads Minister, had already laid out a comprehensive strategy to digitise toll collection before Mahama assumed office in January 2025.
“In 2021, the NPP administration made the bold decision to suspend manual toll collection,” he wrote.
“That decision was based on four critical issues: low revenue yield, severe congestion, high vehicle operating costs, and revenue leakages.”
Asenso Boakye noted that the NPP government had already begun developing a tech-driven alternative by leveraging existing digital infrastructure such as the Ghana Card and the Digital Address System.
He said Cabinet approved the reintroduction of road tolls through a digital platform in 2024, with the Ministry of Roads and Highways adopting a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under Act 1039.
An indigenous Ghanaian company was selected as the concessionaire following a competitive process that included feasibility studies and due diligence. A Concessions Agreement was subsequently drafted and submitted to Parliament, although it was not passed before the end of the legislative term.
He expressed disappointment that the Mahama administration abandoned the process rather than continuing it.
“While every administration has the right to adopt its preferred procurement strategy, it is misleading to portray the digital toll initiative as a fresh idea,” he stated.
“The digitisation of toll collection was conceived, structured, and launched under the NPP government.”
Asenso Boakye called on the Mahama administration to prioritise policy continuity and resist what he termed “political repackaging” of previous initiatives.
“Ghanaians deserve leadership that builds on progress, not one that repurposes the work of others as their own,” he added.
Mahama: Ghana card to be linked to vehicles for automated toll collection
French President Emmanuel Macron denies being slapped by wife in viral video
French President Emmanuel Macron has dismissed viral rumours that his wife, Brigitte Macron, physically assaulted him during their arrival in Vietnam, describing the speculation as a distortion of reality fuelled by disinformation campaigns.
The controversy erupted after footage circulated online showing Brigitte appearing to push her husband’s face as they disembarked from their presidential aircraft in Hanoi on Sunday.
The Ghacem Cement Foundation (GCF), in a continued show of commitment to national development, has donated 10,000 bags to selected Schools and Hospitals in the Northern Sector of the country.
This brings to a total of over 725,060 bags valued at GH¢58 million, as a support package to critical infrastructural projects in Ghana’s education and health sectors since its establishment in 2002.
At a ceremony held in Tamale on Monday, the Chairman of the Foundation, Ehunabobrim Prah Agyensaim VI, reflected on the motivation behind the foundation’s creation more than two decades ago.
“At the time companies came, paid their taxes, made their profits, and left there was no conscience behind corporate social responsibility, But GHACEM broke that jinx. In 2002, they decided that beyond paying taxes and royalties, they had to
give back to the very communities that support their business,” he said.
He however expressed concern over the regional disparities in donations, noting that while the southern regions kept applying for more cement, the Northern regions on the other hand bring in low request.
“It’s unacceptable that children are learning ABCs in sand, with no roof, in snake-infested structures we dare call classrooms,” he said passionately and appealed to district leaders and citizens alike to act as ambassadors for equity, urging them to apply for support and advocate for underserved communities,” he said.
On his part, Dr Frank Huber, Managing Director of GHACEM, commended the foundation’s Council members and all stakeholders whose role had ensured the sustainability of the GCF over the years and reiterated the company’s commitment to do more in adding its quota to Ghana’s development.
“Being a nation builder means more than just producing cement. It means treating workers fairly, producing responsibly, and giving back meaningfully. “Today’s employees and customers ask deeper questions about purpose, ethics, sustainability,” Dr Huber said.
“And GHACEM is proud to lead with values that show we care not just about cement quality, but about people and planet,” he said.
Prof. Audrey Gadzekpo, a Council Member of the Foundation, said “Education and health are the foundation of opportunity. A country with an educated, healthy population is a country with a future.”
Mr Frank Antwi Agyapong, Head of the GCF Secretariat, who doubles as the Lead Marketing & PR at Ghacem, stated “We’ve had a successful 2024/2025 with the GCF, ending this year on a very positive note. Looking ahead to 2025/2026, we encourage more institutions to apply.”
BY TIMES REPOTER
Evangelist Patricia Asiedu (L) and Gospel musician Empress Gifty (R)
The founder and leader of Heaven Way Ministries, Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, has made a bold statement following a recent video that went viral showing her husband discarding a court document.
It may be recalled that on May 26, 2025, Agradaa appeared before a Tema High Court due to a GH¢20 million defamation lawsuit filed against her by gospel musician, Empress Gifty.
In a viral video, Agradaa and her husband were seen exiting the court premises after their first court appearance, and were later captured discarding the writ of summons on the floor.
Speaking on this, Agradaa said her husband has the right to discard the court document because he is not the centre of the issue.
“If you want to serve me the court letter why would you give it to my husband? My husband has the right to throw the court letter away because he isn’t the right person you serve the document. I am sending this message to Empress Gifty and Hopeson Adorye. I will meet you in the court.
“When you were serving my husband, he told you people that he wasn’t the right person to be served because he has no hand in it,” she said.
Watch the video below:
JHM/EB
Meanwhile watch as Robert Klah given reasons why Charterhouse delayed TGMAs red carpet:
2,600 missing ECG containers traced at Tema Port
A joint investigative committee has uncovered 2,637 previously unaccounted-for containers consigned to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), more than doubling the initially reported figure of 1,300 containers.
In an interview with 3News, as monitored by GhanaWeb, on May 26, 2025 the Spokesperson and Head of Communications at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Richmond Rockson, confirmed that the containers were located at multiple terminals within the Tema Port, raising concerns.
The discovery was made by a special committee comprising representatives from National Security, the Ministry of Transport, the Ghana Ports and Harbors Authority (GPHA), and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.
As of April 30, 2025, the containers were found at the following locations:
860 at Meridian Port Services
1,237 at GPHA Terminals
272 already evacuated by National Security
194 at Amaris Terminal
20 at ATLAS Manufacturing Terminal
According to the committee, further investigations revealed that 2,437 of the containers had exceeded the 60-day clearance period, resulting in significant demurrage charges.
Authorities are continuing efforts to address the backlog and prevent future lapses in the importation and clearance process.
SP/VPO
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co-chair of the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), Steve Manteaw
Ghana risks falling short of its climate commitments unless it sets measurable baselines and allocates funding to track its energy transition (ET) targets, co-chair of the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), Dr Steve Manteaw, has said.
He argued that establishing a baseline is necessary to periodically assess the progress made in implementing all the targets set under the country’s ET framework.
“Then, on an annual basis through budget reviews, we can determine how much we are committing to the achievement of the target,” Dr. Manteaw said on the sidelines of a stakeholder engagement on ‘Assessment of Ghana’s ET Framework’ in Accra.
He cautioned that without a clear starting point and consistent financial commitment, it would be difficult to evaluate the real impact of the country’s ET efforts.
“If we set the framework without committing budgetary resources to its implementation and anything changes, we cannot attribute it to our interventions,” he said.
“That is why it is important, first and foremost, to get the baseline for the various targets established and ensure that the respective ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) budget for the various tasks or responsibilities assigned to them, such that we can assess the long-term impact of these investments and determine if the results match the progress observed.”
Ghana adopted its ET framework in 2022, setting a 2070 target to reach net-zero emissions. The transition is expected to require financing of approximately US$562billion.
Under the ET framework, the country also aims to, among others, achieve universal access to electricity of 99.8 percent by 2030; lower long-term cost of electricity generation, below 4.5 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh); and minimise energy-related indoor air pollution and its related illnesses – avoiding 48,218 premature deaths due to improvement in air quality and health.
It also seeks to ensure that 30.05 million productive hours are gained due to the upscaling of the adoption of clean cooking fuels. “This would have a significant impact on women and children who are the main gatherers of firewood.”
In line with these and others enumerated by the Deputy Director for Renewable and Green Transition at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Dr Robert B. M. Sogbadji, the GHEITI co-chair reckoned that there has been some progress in refining the ET framework.
However, he also reiterated the need for coordination. “Energy transition goes beyond power generation and use. It affects transport, industrial fuel use and more. That’s why coordination is critical,” Dr Manteaw said.
The stakeholder engagement was organised by the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI).
Dr Sogbadji, also speaking in an interview on the sidelines of the meeting, said the country is on course with the implementation of its ET framework.
“In terms of our energy access, we are more than 89 percent, our renewable energy target is more than 3.5 percent, we are building a second gas processing plant as well as concluding negotiations on our nuclear projects to make sure that the vendor starts its construction by 2027.”
Additionally, he said the country has developed a five-year rolling strategic implementation plan for the GETF. Against this backdrop, he insisted that Ghana is making meaningful progress to achieve its ET goals.
However, the Africa Director of NRGI, Nafi Chinery, while recognising the efforts made to make the ET framework more robust, flagged the lack of institutional coordination in the implementation of the ET framework.
“I worry that a lot of this work sits with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition. We need to see in the plan how they are collaborating and coordinating with the relevant agencies, such as the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources,” she said.
Miss Chinery wondered: “As we are looking to exploit the transition minerals, how are we going to leverage some of its revenues to support the country’s transition from fossil fuel base to green energy”.
She raised questions about the level of involvement of all the key institutions, including the National Oil Company (NOC) and Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), adding that further work is needed to tighten the framework and ensure better coordination.
Antony is now a target for top European teams following him performance for Real Betis
Brazilian footballer Antony has opened up on how he broke down emotionally while being sidelined at his former club Manchester United during the 2024/25 season.
The player was mocked by Manchester United fans when he was benched by ex-manager Erik Ten Hag for most matches due to his lack of productivity.
Subsequently in this season under a different coach, he made 14 appearances for the team.
Sharing his experiences, Antony noted that the lack of playing matches took a toll on him mentally and caused him to lose his desire to play football, which prompted his brother to comfort him.
“[Coming to Betis] changed a lot because I needed to find myself, due to everything I went through in my personal life. As I said, I wanted to do things, but they didn’t seem to work out because I wasn’t happy, I didn’t feel that desire to play football, and I needed to find myself and be happy again because playing football was always something I loved.
“I went through difficult times [at Manchester United] when I no longer felt that pleasure. I even told my brother that I couldn’t take it anymore,” he told TNT Sports Brazil.
While shedding tears, Antony disclosed that he was sad to the point where he had to lock himself up in his room for several days without eating.
“[My brother] told me to hold on a little longer, that things were going to change. It even made me emotional because those were very hard days for me.
“Only I know what it was like to be there at home, not having the strength to even play with my son, going days without eating, staying locked in my room,” Antony said, reduced to tears as he recounted the story.
However, the Brazilian’s story changed when he moved to Spanish side Real Betis, scoring nine goals and providing five assists while competing in the UEFA Conference League final.
SB/EB
Watch scenes from the opening ceremony of the 2025 Western Region Inter-Schools event
Ghanaian adult content creator, Jael, has set social media ablaze after revealing a bold message she received from a Nigerian admirer offering her a whopping ₦5 million (approximately GH₵30,000) for a weekend rendezvous in Abuja, Nigeria.
The online sensation, known for her controversial presence and bold content, shared a screenshot of the message via her social media platform, igniting widespread discussions across both Ghanaian and Nigerian social media spaces.
In the message, the unidentified admirer expressed intense admiration for Jael and proposed the significant cash offer in exchange for her company over a weekend in the Nigerian capital. The message read in part, “I’ll take care of everything, including your flights and accommodation. Just name your price. ₦5 million for a weekend in Abuja.”
While Jael did not indicate whether she intended to accept the offer, her decision to share it publicly has raised eyebrows and sparked mixed reactions among netizens. Some social media users criticized the nature of the proposal, while others argued it reflects the increasing monetization of social influence in the digital age.
“These offers are becoming too frequent. Just because a woman expresses herself online doesn’t mean she’s for sale,” one user commented.
Others, however, praised Jael for her transparency and noted that such offers highlight the influence content creators now wield across borders.
Jael, who has built a sizable following with her adult-themed content and bold personality, has often been at the center of public debate regarding morality, influence, and the evolving digital culture in West Africa.
As of now, Jael has not made any official statement regarding whether she intends to travel to Abuja or decline the offer. Nonetheless, this incident adds to the growing discourse surrounding online fame, boundaries, and the expectations placed on public figures.
Stay tuned to Opera News Hub for more updates on this developing story.
At least seven nationals from Ghana and Nigeria are set to face trial in India after allegedly defrauding over 350 victims of more than $94,000, according to the Punjab State Police.
The suspects, all men aged between 25 and 35, were arrested by the Mohali Cyber Cell of the Punjab Police in a sting operation that reportedly dismantled an international online fraud syndicate.
Indian newspaper The Indian Express reports that the accused had been operating out of a rented apartment in Noida, where they allegedly established a fake call centre to carry out their scams.
During the raid, police seized 79 smartphones, four laptops—including two Apple MacBooks—99 SIM cards (both Indian and foreign), and documents related to 31 fake bank accounts.
Authorities estimate the total value of the seized items at 30 lakh Rupee, while related bank transactions linked to the group reportedly total about 15 crore, equivalent to over $94,000.
Confirming the arrests, Senior Superintendent of Police Harmandeep Singh Hans said:
“The accused allegedly used fake social media profiles to befriend Indian and foreign nationals.
They would promise expensive gifts from abroad and later claim that customs had held the parcel, demanding money under the guise of clearance fees or taxes.
Using advanced cyber tools and covert strategies, our team managed to apprehend the culprits.”
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rupinderdeep Kaur Sohi, who led the operation, added:
“The house from which they operated was rented by a Nigerian woman, whose whereabouts are currently unknown.
The suspects also opened bank accounts in private banks, and we are investigating the names on the accounts and how they procured the SIM cards.”
She further revealed that the scam did not only target Indian citizens:
“The scammers also targeted fellow Nigerian citizens, deceiving them with fake job offers in India.”
The suspects have already appeared before a court in Mohali and have been remanded in police custody for two days to assist with further investigations.
This case comes shortly after the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau in India uncovered another scheme involving Nigerian nationals accused of drug trafficking.
Investigations revealed the use of fake identities, expired visas, and fraudulent marriages to facilitate their illegal operations.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Kasena-Nankana West, Stephen A-eke Akurugo, has strongly criticized the Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, saying it failed to continue vital rural electrification projects in the district during its 8 years in power.
According to him, the administration abandoned electricity extension efforts that were started under the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, leaving many communities still in darkness, which has negatively affected development and security in the area.
By Joyce Danso
Accra, May 27, GNA – Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has condemned the treatment she received from the Committee of Inquiry investigating her.
Her concerns were outlined in a three-page supplementary affidavit filed at the Supreme Court in support of her motion for an interlocutory injunction.
On May 21, 2025, she filed an application for injunction, seeking relief against her removal from office.
She urged the apex court to address what she described as “a complete desecration of my basic constitutional rights to a fair trial, violation of my dignity and subjection to inhuman and degrading treatment of a kind not meted out to even accused persons on trial for treason and other offences against the state.”
According to her counsel, Kwabena Adu-Kusi, proceedings of the Presidential Committee examining three petitions against her were adjourned to May 22, 2025.
On that date, Justice Torkornoo appeared before the committee with her lawyers regarding the case she had filed at the Supreme Court against the Attorney-General and committee members.
Despite the legal processes, she stated that on May 23, 2025, the committee proceeded with its inquiry.
She said that she had not been informed of the grounds for the prima facie case against her or the specific allegations, preventing her from properly preparing a defence.
Justice Torkornoo recalled that on May 15, 2025, the committee refused to recognise her counsel because she was not personally present, yet scheduled dates for further hearings.
“That the committee on the said 23rd May, 2025, contrary to known rules regulating proceedings of the committee/Commissions of inquiry, indicated that the petitioner shall not give evidence themselves but shall be calling other witnesses to give evidence to support their petition,” she stated.
She described this as “completely offensive to known rules of procedure,” arguing that petitioners or complainants, upon formal appearance, are merely witnesses subject to cross-examination.
The Chief Justice cited other irregularities, including denial of access to the hearing room for her husband and children, body searches, and restriction of access to phones and laptops for herself and her lawyers, while petitioners’ counsel retained their devices.
According to her, the venue of the hearing, a high-security facility at the Castle, Osu, was a deliberate attempt to subject her to mental torture and degrading treatment, violating her fundamental rights.
Justice Torkornoo argued that previous Article 146 proceedings had always been held in a judicial facility, specifically at the Courts Complex, and said the current location “boggles the mind.”
She insisted that the continuous violation of her constitutional rights made the entire inquiry a “mockery of justice and a ruse to unjustifiably remove me from office as the Chief Justice.”
She urged the Supreme Court to intervene by granting an injunction to prevent the assault on judicial independence and protect the tenure of the Chief Justice and Justices of the Superior Court of Judicature.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has confirmed 10 new cases of Monkeypox (Mpox), raising the country’s total to 19 recorded infections.
According to the GHS, five of the newly confirmed patients are currently hospitalised and receiving treatment. No fatalities have been reported in connection with the recent outbreak.
Mpox is a viral disease transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. Common symptoms include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, back pain, headaches, and fatigue.
In response, health authorities are urging the public to observe strict preventive measures. These include frequent handwashing, avoiding physical contact with symptomatic individuals—especially those with unexplained rashes—and reporting suspected cases to the nearest health facility without delay.
The GHS has heightened surveillance and public education efforts nationwide to contain the spread of the virus.
Energy Ministry traces 2,637 ECG containers after audit
Outgoing United States Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has expressed deep concern over the financial state of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), describing the situation as more dire than previously understood.
In a yet-to-be-aired interview on The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Channel One TV, Ambassador Palmer warned that the ECG’s ongoing losses pose a significant threat to Ghana’s economic stability and require urgent reform.
Managing Editor of The Herald newspaper, Larry Dogbey, has criticised Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa for using Facebook to announce the temporary closure of Ghana’s embassy in Washington, D.C., instead of issuing an official government statement.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Tuesday, May 27, Dogbey said a matter of such gravity demanded a formal communication approach. He cautioned that relying on social media for high-level decisions could erode public trust and weaken government credibility.
“This is a very damning thing. You just do not go on your Facebook page and put a thing like that there. Issue an official statement and sign it, or use your PR office and explain what you found and that it is being investigated further. Then it becomes a government statement. But putting it on your Facebook makes you open yourself up for some of this attack,” he stated.
The minister’s announcement, posted on Monday, May 26, revealed that the embassy had been temporarily shut down following the findings of a special audit. The audit uncovered a fraudulent scheme involving abuse of office and financial misconduct at the mission.
According to Ablakwa, the closure is part of a broader effort “to finalise the ongoing restructuring and systems overhaul” within the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s operations abroad.
He described the decision as regrettable but necessary to protect integrity and restore public confidence in Ghana’s foreign service.
However, Dogbey insisted that while the decision itself was laudable, the channel of communication was inappropriate.
“This isn’t a personal issue, it’s a national crisis involving an international mission. The appropriate channel would have been an official press release, backed by the Ministry, to show leadership, transparency, and seriousness,” he said.
Ablakwa’s Embassy shutdown sends strong anti-corruption message – Elikem Kotoko
President John Mahama has outlined a comprehensive strategy to sustain the recovery of the economy, focusing on fiscal discipline, private sector collaboration and innovative financing.
Speaking at the 2025 Ghana CEO Summit in Accra yesterday, the President emphasised the need to learn from past mistakes while charting a sustainable path forward.
The summit, which was on the theme: “Leading Ghana’s economic reset: Transforming business and governance for a sustainable futuristic economy,” brought together government officials, including the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr Johnson Asiama; Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, and Senior Economic Advisor to the President, Seth Emmanuel Terkper.
Others were captains of business and investors who discussed collaborative solutions for national development.
President Mahama highlighted the economic achievements of his previous administration (2013-2016), including the introduction of medium-term bonds, a sinking fund for debt repayment and responsible Eurobond issuances.
He, however, said that subsequent mismanagement had led to the country’s first-ever debt default, which the President said had eroded investor confidence and shrunk the private sector.
To help sustain a resilient economy, President Mahama detailed an eight-point plan to restore economic stability and growth.
First, the President said the government would ensure a disciplined completion of the IMF Extended Credit Facility programme, with plans to exit by 2026 and transition to a Policy Support Instrument for long-term fiscal responsibility.
He said they would also work to reopen access to domestic and international capital markets, and ensure future borrowing was tied to commercially viable projects that can self-finance repayments.
President Mahama said amendments to the Public Financial Management Act would make contributions to sovereign funds mandatory, while local governments would be empowered to issue infrastructure bonds for development projects.
Next, he said the government would clear verified arrears based on an upcoming Auditor-General’s report, and enforce stricter controls on new expenditures to prevent recurring debt.
The President said public financial management reforms would be accelerated, including the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and real-time budget monitoring systems to enhance transparency.
He said the Ghana Ex-Im Bank would be repositioned to support non-traditional exports, agro-processing, and SMEs to boost foreign exchange earnings and job creation.
Additionally, President Mahama said the government would pursue its ambition of becoming West Africa’s commercial and digital hub, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for expanded trade and investment.
He gave an assurance that critical infrastructure projects in roads, energy and housing would resume through public-private partnerships (PPPs) and innovative financing models rather than excessive borrowing.
President Mahama further announced the establishment of a National Business Consultative Platform, which will convene twice a year to align government policies with industry needs, adding, “We will borrow responsibly to avoid crowding out private sector credit”.
He commended businesses that had reduced prices following the cedi’s appreciation and urged others to follow suit to ease the burden on consumers.
“The time has come to lift the gloom, restore confidence and build again. Together, we can reset Ghana’s economy for a prosperous future.”
The BoG Governor highlighted improvement in economic indicators, saying headline inflation declined to 21.2 per cent in April 2025, down by 2.6 percentage points since the start of the year.
He projected that inflation would return to the BoG’s target band of 8±2% by early 2026, through disciplined monetary policy and foreign exchange market reforms.
The cedi has also appreciated by 24.1 per cent against the US dollar year-to-date, driven by enhanced remittance channels and stricter market surveillance rather than reserve depletion.
“Our growth prospects remain strong as our real sector indicators are all pointing to a pickup in economic activities, mainly driven by exports, credit to the private sector and construction activities,” Dr Asiama said.
The Governor also outlined structural reforms, including a new Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) policy requiring banks to hold reserves in the same currency as their liabilities, effective June 5, 2025.
He challenged CEOs to drive Ghana’s economic reset through a four-point “CEO Manifesto” of boosting productivity via innovation, investing in future-ready talent, expanding value-added exports and upholding strong governance.
To improve policy alignment, Dr Asiama said the BoG would launch a CEO Forum for structured engagement with industry leaders, inspired by global models such as the US Federal Reserve’s regional councils.
The bank has also begun inviting business representatives to observe Monetary Policy Committee meetings to ground decisions in real-time market insights.
The Governor also announced plans to regulate Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) by September 2025, to address the country’s growing crypto adoption.
Other initiatives include operationalising Open Banking guidelines, embedding climate risks into supervision, and reviving domestic capital markets through SOE listings and bond market reforms.
Asante Kotoko head coach Abdul Karim Zito has admitted that his ambitions of securing the Ghana Premier League title have not materialized as planned, and he is now fully focused on winning the MTN FA Cup.
Speaking in an interview aired on Peace FM, Zito reflected on missed opportunities during the campaign, particularly the draw against arch-rivals Hearts of Oak and Gold Stars, which dented the club’s title hopes.
“I will say it is going according to plan if I won all the games, yes. If you see, I missed against Hearts of Oak. Assuming I won that game, look at where I would be. Today too, assuming I won that game, look at where I would be,” he said.
Despite the disappointment in the league, Zito remains optimistic and determined to bring silverware to Asante Kotoko, pointing to the upcoming FA Cup final against Golden Kicks as a major objective.
“So for me, I will say yes, we are on course. The only thing I can hit my chest and say is I have an FA Cup final to play, and I will wish I win the cup for Asante Kotoko,” Zito added.
The MTN FA Cup final is scheduled for June 15, 2025, at the Legon Sports Stadium, with kickoff set for 3 PM.
Bank of Ghana’s new headquarters
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has raised GH¢2.23 billion through the issuance of 56-day bills in its latest open market operation (OMO), as the central bank sustains efforts to absorb excess liquidity and reinforce its monetary policy stance.
The auction, conducted on Monday, May 26, 2025, cleared at an interest rate of 28%, aligning with recent monetary policy rate levels as the BoG seeks to anchor inflation expectations and support the cedi amid ongoing macroeconomic adjustments.
The central bank did not disclose the total amount of bids received from participating banks, nor did it indicate a target size for the operation.
BoG bill, which is a short-term debt instrument issued under the central bank’s liquidity management framework, is a key monetary policy tool deployed to sterilise liquidity in the banking sector and steer short-term interest rates.
While not classified as traditional government debt, proceeds from such issuances are often used to provide short-term financing to the Treasury.
Market participants in the May 26, OMO viewed the outcome as consistent with the BoG’s current tightening bias, with the 28% yield on the bills broadly in line with the bank’s policy rate.
The central bank, which maintained its policy rate at 28% at its most recent MPC meeting, has reiterated its focus on stabilising prices while supporting economic recovery under an IMF-supported programme.
SP/MA
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Johannesburg, South Africa – Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for a suspect known only as “John,” in connection with the tragic murder of Olorato Mongale, who was found dead just two hours after going on a date with him.
According to authorities, the suspect was last seen driving a white Volkswagen Polo with a cloned number plate (LT57JGGP) originally registered to a Toyota Hilux.
