White smoke has been detected from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, signalling the election of a new Pope by the Catholice church.
The new Pope will replace the late Pope Francis who died last month at the age of 88.
However, the identity of the new pope was not immediately made known as the pontiff’s name has yet to be announced.
Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye
Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, has criticised the John Dramani Mahama-led government over its handling of petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking in a snippet of an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse, scheduled to be aired on Wednesday, 8 May, 2025, Professor Oquaye stated that the ongoing process does not align with the laid-down procedure for the removal of a Chief Justice as outlined in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.
He pointed out that one key element being ignored is the constitutional requirement for in camera (private) hearings of such petitions.
He added that the current process lacks transparency and is depriving Ghanaians of their right to be informed about the proceedings.
“A number of the things that are happening are so political that when it comes to these matters, I like to put on the hat of a constitutional student. I study the Constitution. I am concerned about certain issues that I consider vital, particularly the trial in camera provision.
“You ask yourself: What is the rationale for that provision in our Constitution? It is there in black and white. What is its purpose? And if we were to give it a purposive interpretation, where shall we end up? Is the purpose to benefit the people of Ghana as a whole, that the Chief Justice might be tried in camera?
“Because, you see, even before you get to the in camera provision, from the very beginning, the Constitution tells us that justice belongs to the people. It emanates from the people. Justice belongs to all of us as a people,” he said.
He continued, “The people are the owners of that issue, that process, whatever happens with regard to the Chief Justice. Why should the people be barred from knowing what is going on? If the people have the right, as owners of the very process of adjudication, then of course, they should be able to visit the farm that is theirs.”
BAI/MA
Explosive outburst over suspension of Chief Justice as former Speaker of Parliament slams government, raising major concerns over what he describes as the secret trial of the Chief Justice.
Tune in to the full interview on the #ThePulse at 3:00pm on JoyNews. pic.twitter.com/HNihqgbxB8
— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) May 8, 2025
Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempts a third term
Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, has sharply criticised the Mahama administration over what he described as the mishandling of the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.
His comments follow the Chief Justice’s suspension on Tuesday, April 22, after a prima facie case was established in connection with three petitions submitted by private citizen Daniel Ofori, senior police officer Ayamga Akolgo, and the civic group Shining Stars of Ghana.
President Mahama, acting under Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution and in consultation with the Council of State, formed a five-member committee to investigate the matter.
The decision has drawn widespread criticism, including from the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), which has called for the suspension to be revoked.
Prof. Oquaye voiced particular concern over the constitutional requirement for the Chief Justice’s hearing to be conducted in camera (behind closed doors), questioning the transparency and intent behind such a provision.
Speaking in an interview with Joy News, Prof. Oquaye stated, “I am concerned about certain issues that I consider vital, particularly the trial in camera provision. You will ask yourself what the rationale is for that provision in our constitution, what is its purpose, and if we are to give it a purposeful interpretation, where shall we go? The purpose is to benefit the people of Ghana as a whole, so that the Chief Justice must be tried in camera.”
The former Speaker argued that while the Constitution stresses that justice emanates from the people, conducting such a high-profile case in secrecy may not serve the broader interest of transparency.
“From the very beginning, the constitution tells us justice belongs to the people, it emanates from the people, justice belongs to all of us. One may say that this provision could be an advantage to the one who says the trial must be done in camera,” he stated.
I’ll punish appointees who will flout Code of Conduct – Mahama
…..
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The President of Ghana Athletics, Bawa Fuseini, has admitted that the country has not supported the preparations of Ghana’s contingent for the 2025 World Relays in China.
But he claims they do not lack motivation knowing what is at stake for them, including qualifying for this year’s World Championships.
“The athletes themselves want to qualify for the World Championship. Once they’ve gotten into the first eight, there’s prize money at stake,” Fuseini told Joy Sports.
“Even though we’ve not given them the best preparation we could have given them, they are still also in school, training with the school team, and getting support from the school team.
“It’s difficult to say, but in terms of preparatory support, it has been minimal. What we do is get them [Team Ghana] tickets and accommodation that will make them comfortable at the competition.”
Barnabas Aggerh, Ibrahim Fuseini, Joseph Paul Amoah, Sean Sarfo Antwi and Mustapha Bokpin, with Benjamin Azamati sitting out to prepare for the World Championships.
The World Relays is scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday in Guangzhou, China.
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.
2025 BET Awards Best International Act nominee, Black Sherif
Ghanaian music sensation Black Sherif has been nominated for the prestigious Best International Act category at the 2025 BET Awards, making him the sole Ghanaian contender this year.
The nomination follows the release of his acclaimed second studio album, ‘Iron Boy, and a successful North American tour. He is currently performing across Europe, with recent shows in cities like Antwerp, Belgium.
Black Sherif, born Mohammed Ismail Sharrif, will compete against a diverse group of global artists, including Ayra Starr and Rema (Nigeria), Tyla (South Africa), Any Gabrielly and MC Luanna (Brazil), Joé Dwèt Filé and SDM (France), Bashy and Ezra Collective (UK), and Uncle Waffles (Eswatini).
This marks Black Sherif’s first nomination at the main BET Awards, following a nomination at the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards.
His nomination is particularly significant as he becomes the first Ghanaian artist to be recognised in this category since its rebranding in 2018.
The 2025 BET Awards, celebrating its 25th anniversary, will be broadcast live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 9 at 8 p.m. ET/PT .
Black Sherif’s nomination adds to Ghana’s growing presence on the international music scene, following in the footsteps of artists like Sarkodie and Stonebwoy who have previously secured nominations in the category.
See the posts below:
Black sherif has been nominated as the Best international Act of the year 2025. He’s coming home with it #betawards pic.twitter.com/OM0vNxfKKr
— Black (@Blaqboe11) May 8, 2025
BRAVO 👏🏾 Tyla, Uncle Waffles, Maglera Doe Boy, Dlala Thukzin, TxC, Burna Boy, Tems, Ayra Starr, Rema, Black Sherif, Shallipopi nominated at the #BETAwards 2025 pic.twitter.com/HeSbYihF7D
— 🔌 (@lamagafrica) May 8, 2025
ID/MA
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope in the history of the Catholic Church and will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
Originally from Chicago, the 69-year-old becomes the first American to hold the papacy. A missionary who spent much of his career ministering in Peru, Prevost was most recently the head of the Vatican’s powerful office of bishops.
His election marks a historic milestone in the Church’s 2,000-year history.
The conclave of over 130 cardinal electors selected Pope Leo XIV on the second day of voting, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88.
In keeping with tradition, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first blessing and greet the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
His selection marks a significant new chapter in Church leadership, not only for his nationality but also for his global and pastoral experience.
According to a Vatican City report, Prevost had long been considered a leading candidate, though his American background posed a challenge:
“There had long been a taboo against a U.S. pope, given the geopolitical power already wielded by the United States in the secular sphere. But Prevost, a Chicago native, was seemingly eligible also because he is a Peruvian citizen and lived for years in Peru, first as a missionary and then as an archbishop,” the report noted.
Brief Profile: Pope Leo XIV
• Full Name: Robert Francis Prevost
• Birth: 1956, Chicago, USA
• Religious Order: Augustinian
• Ordained: 1981
Pope Leo XIV was raised in a devout Catholic family and felt a religious calling early in life. He joined the Augustinian seminary and was ordained a priest in 1981. After ordination, he engaged in teaching and pastoral work in various communities.
In 1992, he was appointed Provincial Prior of the Augustinians in the United States, where he significantly improved the organisation and international missions of the order.
In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru. There, he became known for his commitment to education, human rights, and the fight against poverty.
In 2020, he was elevated to the cardinalate.
JKB/MA
Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempt a third term
Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil
Senior Vice President of policy think tank IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, has attributed the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi to a combination of strategic government actions, both past and present, while singling out former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for initiating a key policy that laid the foundation for the current gains.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, 8 May, Bentil emphasised that the cedi’s strengthening is partly due to global factors but largely influenced by prudent domestic strategies such as the gold purchase programme pioneered by Dr Bawumia during the previous administration.
“The cedi is appreciating because the US government is acting in ways that is devaluing the dollar… but there is more,” Bentil wrote.
“We have gold reserves that were accumulated since the last government. This government has also added to the gold reserves, BUT a check of the numbers will reveal that most of what was purchased by this government has been sold for forex… and it’s shoring up the cedi,” he added.
He noted that while the current government, led by President John Mahama (JM) has continued the gold strategy, credit must also go to its originator.
According to figures from the Bank of Ghana and PMMC, the Mahama-led government inherited 30.53 tonnes of gold reserves and, as of April 2025, increased it slightly to 31.37 tonnes.
However, gold sales in 2025 alone amounted to over $2.7 billion, with revenues from January to April totalling $506 million, $579 million, $742 million and $897 million respectively.
“The current JM government did not add much to the reserves but sold gold and has pumped the dollars received into the economy,” Mr Bentil stated, concluding that “the cumulative effect of these actions is why the cedi is strengthening.”
While praising the Mahama administration for its effective management of the currency, Bentil stressed the importance of continuity and collaboration between successive governments.
“There’s something about the passion of an originator which no one else can emulate… we get nothing by spurning them, and gain everything by co-opting them,” he said.
“No government will develop Ghana alone… it is a baton relay and that is what is helping the cedi today. May this good work started by DMB and continued by JM go on.”
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Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, has pledged to prioritise the recruitment of persons who aid in the arrest of drug addicts into the security services.
This, according to him, forms part of a broader strategy by the government to tackle the growing menace of drug trafficking and abuse, especially in Zongo communities.
Addressing a gathering during a sensitisation programme at Sabon Zongo in Accra, on Thursday, May 8, the Interior Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to develop the capacities of the Zongo youth through socioeconomic-centred initiatives.
“Once we live in the community, we know them, and it is when we rise and say no, we’re going to allow them to do it, that is when we can succeed. With the help of the police and the Narcotics Control Commission, we’re assuring you that we will give you this support.
“And to show you goodwill, the youth who rose to this, I’m assuring you, give me 10 to 15 names, Insha Allah, I’m assuring you before the end of this month, I will make sure that you are absolved to be able to do the work that you’re doing.
“I’m assuring you all those who will join them when an opportunity comes for us to recruit people into the security services, all those who are helping and are qualified and are interested in the security services, I’m assuring you I will give them priority to join,” he pledged.
Muntaka also threatened to ensure the transfer of police officers who refuse to respond swiftly to complaints of drug peddling in their respective divisions in the Zongo communities.
“Don’t go about destroying properties. Don’t take the laws into your hands. Make sure that if you arrest them, you hand them over to the police. I have also instructed the police that any commander you call who doesn’t respond swiftly will be removed.
“They must respond swiftly when you call them, so that it makes the work easier, you cannot sacrifice your day, energy, night, and when you round them up, and the police are supposed to take them up, they refuse or delay,” he stated.
…..
Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), has indicated that his priority was to further enhance the capacity of the hospital to fully meet the expectations of clients and not to pursue any personal agenda.
“I have not come to inherit anybody’s friends or enemies, but I have assumed this position with a clear mind and a clean heart and prepared to work with all stakeholders to make the sole tertiary facility in the Ashanti Region fully achieve its mandate for the benefit of the country”, he stressed.
Dr. Baidoo was speaking at his inception meeting with his management team on Wednesday, after assuming duty following his nomination by the President and subsequent appointment by the Board of the hospital on Monday.
Dr. Baidoo stressed the importance of teamwork, emphasising that he was ready and prepared to run an open-door administration for the purposes of strengthening the operational capacity of the hospital in the discharge of its mandate of providing tertiary healthcare services, training, and research.
“As the sole tertiary hospital of its kind in this part of the country, we owe it a duty to work collectively to advance the hospital’s mission as a centre of excellence in specialist medical, training, and research”, he concluded.
Dr. Baidoo was warmly welcomed by members of his management team with the directors taking turns to pledge their full support to ensure the success of his tenure.
A special presentation was put together to brief the Ag CEO about the current state of the hospital and the outstanding challenges that needed to be addressed to further enhance its capacity to provide quality specialist services to the public.
The Ag. CEO later had an introductory meeting with staff of the General Administration Unit who constituted the immediate support group to the central management of the hospital. The meeting was also aimed at fostering a strong working relationship between the new CEO and the administrative personnel.
In his address, Dr. Baidoo expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded him by the staff since his assumption of office and underscored the importance of teamwork in the delivery of quality healthcare services.
He stressed that his doors were always open and the staff members were free to submit suggestions and proposals aimed at improving the operations of the hospital anywhere they meet him.
Mr. Atta Tweneboah Jnr., the head of the unit, welcomed the new CEO on behalf of the staff and pledged their full support to him. “We look forward to a fruitful collaboration as we are committed to supporting your vision for KATH,” he stated.
Staff members of the unit who were given the opportunity to introduce themselves expressed optimism about the future of the hospital under the new leadership of Dr. (Med) Baidoo given his approachable demeanour and openness to dialogue.
Until his appointment, Dr. (Med) Baidoo, a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and a Fellow of the West Africa College of Surgeons and Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons, was the head of the Trauma and Orthopaedics Directorate of the hospital and the chairman of the Ashanti Regional division of the Ghana Medical Association.
He took over from Prof. Otchere Addai-Mensah who served as the CEO of KATH from December 1, 2022, to April 2025, marking the beginning of a new leadership era at the hospital.
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Veteran actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has publicly challenged a long-standing Vatican tradition — the use of black smoke to signify a failed papal election.
In a video posted to his page, Kanayo pointed out the global implications of associating “black” with failure.
“When they fail, it’s black smoke. When they succeed, it’s white smoke… This has been ingrained in the minds of the world that black is failure.”
He referenced the ongoing conclave of cardinals and how the black smoke on a recent day signaled their inability to elect a new pope.
He’s calling for a change:
“Let blue smoke mean a new Pope has not been elected and let white smoke mean he has. Remove the black. It’s not good for us.”
Watch video below…
Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, has pledged his full commitment to prioritize the enhancement of the hospital’s capacity to meet the expectations of clients.
He says he has not occupied the position to pursue any personal agenda but the general well-being of both clients and staff of the hospital.
“I have not come to inherit anybody’s friends or enemies but has assumed this position with a clear mind and a clean heart and prepared to work with all stakeholders to make the sole tertiary facility in the Ashanti Region fully achieve its mandate for the benefit of the country,” he stressed.
Dr. Baidoo was speaking at his inception meeting with his management team after assuming duty following his nomination by President Mahama and subsequent appointment by the hospital’s Board on Monday.
He stressed the importance of teamwork, emphasizing that he was ready and prepared to run an open-door administration to strengthen the operational capacity of the hospital in the discharge of its mandate in providing tertiary healthcare services, training and research.
“As the sole tertiary hospital of its kind in this part of the country, we owe it a duty to work collectively to advance the hospital’s mission as a centre of excellence in specialist medical, training and research,” he concluded.
Dr. Baidoo was warmly welcomed by members of his management team with the directors taking turns to pledge their full support to ensure the success of his tenure.
He was also briefed on the current state of the hospital and the outstanding challenges that needed to be addressed to further enhance its capacity to provide quality specialist services to the public.
He later had an introductory meeting with staff of the General Administration Unit who constituted the immediate support group to the central management of the hospital.
The meeting was also aimed at fostering a strong working relationship between the new CEO and the administrative personnel.
In his address, Dr. Baidoo expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded him by the staff since his assumption of office and underscored the importance of teamwork in the delivery of quality healthcare services.
He stressed that his doors were always open and the staff members were free to submit suggestions and proposals aimed at improving the operations of the hospital anywhere they met him.
The head of the unit, Atta Tweneboah Jnr. welcomed the new CEO on behalf of the staff and pledged their full support to him.
“We look forward to a fruitful collaboration as we are committed to supporting your vision for KATH,” he stated.
Dr. Baidoo is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and a Fellow of the West Africa College of Surgeons and Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons. Until his appointment, he was the head of the Trauma and Orthopaedics Directorate of the hospital and the Chairman of the Ashanti Regional division of the Ghana Medical Association.
He took over from Prof. Otchere Addai-Mensah who served as the CEO of KATH from 1st December, 2022 to April, 2025, marking the beginning of a new leadership era at the hospital.
New York police have arrested dozens of pro-Palestinian protesters after they occupied part of the main library at Columbia University on Wednesday.
Two university security officers were injured when protesters forced their way into Butler Library on Wednesday, according to a statement from the university president, who called activists’ actions “outrageous”.
Video posted on social media showed chanting protesters entering the library, many wearing keffiyeh headscarves and masks, defying a ban from the Trump administration that was imposed after widespread campus demonstrations last year.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the visa statuses of those involved would be reviewed.
More than 70 protesters were reportedly arrested. No one has yet been charged, and authorities have not given details about who is being held and whether they are in the US on visas.
In a post on social media, the protesters accused the university of “violent repression” and said that they had refused to show their IDs to police and campus public safety officers.
Rubio described the group as “trespassers and vandals”. He added that “pro-Hamas thugs are no longer welcome in our great nation”, echoing Trump’s justification for his recent crackdown on pro-Palestinian campus protests.
As well as targeting prominent individuals – by revoking hundreds of international student visas and threatening deportations – Trump’s team has also taken direct aim at top-tier US universities, such as Columbia, which he accuses of failing to fight antisemitism on campus.
Videos of the latest action at the prestigious New York institution showed protesters vandalising bookshelves by writing “free Palestine”.
Another clip showed public safety officers blocking the library door’s exit and asking those inside to show their Columbia IDs or face arrest, which led to an hours- long standoff.
Claire Shipman, the Columbia president, said she had asked the New York Police Department (NYPD) for assistance on Wednesday, adding that many of the protesters involved in the latest action were not students.
“At the direct request of Columbia University, the NYPD is responding to an ongoing situation on campus where individuals have occupied a library and are trespassing,” police confirmed in a post on X.
Ms Shipman said that while the protest was isolated to one room in the library, “it is completely unacceptable that some individuals are choosing to disrupt academic activities as our students are studying and preparing for final exams”.
The Columbia president, who took over the role in March after her predecessor resigned, asked students to stay away from the library.
“We will not tolerate hate or violence in any form in our city,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a post on X.
It marks the first time that Columbia University has called the NYPD for an on-campus protest since April 2024, when protesters occupied Hamilton Hall for nearly 24 hours.
Columbia has drawn particular ire from Trump, who claims many universities have tolerated antisemitism and harassment of Jewish students.
The president has already threatened to withhold some $400m (£309m) in federal funding for Columbia, as his administration continues to threaten those involved in previous campus protests with deportation.
In March, Columbia agreed to several demands from the Trump administration, including a ban on face masks at protests and a change in oversight of some academic programmes, after the administration said it planned to withhold millions in federal funds.
It is unclear whether the funds will be reinstated, though a lawsuit was filed by some of the faculty members over the cuts.
Columbia was the epicentre of last year’s protests against the war in Gaza and US support for Israel. But it is not the only institution that the US government has targeted.
The administration has warned 60 universities that funding may be cancelled if allegations of antisemitism on campuses are not addressed.
On Tuesday, Trump also terminated $2.2 billion in taxpayer funds to Harvard University after ordering a review of its federal financing. The university has refused to bend to Trump’s demands.
Pro-Palestinian protest activity appears to be increasing at US colleges again, as graduation ceremonies begin and heightened attention is drawn towards campuses.
On Monday, over two dozen protesters were arrested by police in armoured gear at the University of Washington for occupying an engineering building.
Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong
Women in Sustainability Africa (WiSA), has officially been launched to accelerate the closure of gender inequality gap.
Speaking at the launch, the convenor for Women in Sustainability Africa, Nana Yaa Serwaa Sarpong, said when God created the earth, He urged both men and women to be fruitful, take dominion and multiply.
“Gender inequality gap could not be closed given commandment by God for man to be fruitful and take dominion on earth during creation,” she stated.
She said to help close gender inequality gap, there should be deliberate efforts by society, especially women, to achieve that goal.
She, therefore, highlighted the need for women and men to unite and support gender empowerment in all sectors of the country.
She said, “This is the new beginning of gender empowerment and the new wave which must be propagated across Africa without any antagonism.”
“It is an African agenda we need to stand together, there is strength in numbers. The door of success we seek to enter as women, the men are holding the keys to the room; if you fight with them how do we enter the room?” she quizzed.
She also called on governments to invest in women, to enable them become more productive given how they could achieve more when supported.
Madam Sarpong added that the organisation will also work with civil society organisations (CSOs), corporate bodies, local and international development organisations among others to support women groups, aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, for her part, said to help recognise the proportionate impact of climate change on women, the ministry has developed a roadmap to strengthen the gender responsiveness of social protection programmes.
According to her, the initiatives are aimed at ensuring that their interventions are inclusive, equitable and effective in building resilience among vulnerable populations.
She disclosed that in partnership with WiSA and other stakeholders, the ministry will work towards using the campaign to recognise women as sources of labour and agents of sustainability.
His call follows explosive claims by Kwabena Adu-Boahene, the former head of the National Signals Bureau, that millions of cedis were diverted to political campaigns and parliamentary committees
Ranking Member on Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, is calling for a full-scale investigation into what he describes as “shocking, scary and a major national security scandal” following the emergence of a leaked document outlining Special Operations expenditures allegedly sanctioned by the National Security Secretariat.
President John Dramani Mahama has nominated 40 individuals for appointment as Metropolitan Municipal District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) for various districts in the Ashanti Region.
This is in accordance with the 1992 Constitution and Ghana’s local governance laws.
A statement from the Presidency copied to The Ghanaian Times on Tuesday, confirmed that the nominations were made in line with Article 243 of the Constitution and the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), as amended by the Local Governance (Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act 940).
These legal provisions of the statement said empowered the President to appoint MMDCEs, subject to the approval of the respective assemblies.
The nominees are Akwasi Adusei, Ahafo Ano North; Ibrahim Yamba Nelson Issaka, Ahafo Ano South East; Abubakar Sedik, Ahafo Ano South West; Mba Zechariah Alenbilla, Atwima Nwabiagya North and Wisdom Osei Boamah, Atwima Nwabiagya South.
Others include: Benjamin Marfo, Amansie South; Manu Prince Morris, Amansie West; Salifu Issaka, Bekwai; Frank Owusu Amoah, Offinso South; and Caesar Acheampong Ofosu, Offinso North.
Also nominated are Rafiu Adam Seidu for Ejura Sekyedumase; Evans Amoh Twumasi for Sekyere South; Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo for Asante Akim Central; Kwasi Amankwaa for Kumawu; Samuel Somuah for Sekyere Central; and Abubakar Issaka for Sekyere Afram Plains. Ibrahim Adams; Sekyere East; Joseph Amankwa, Kwabre East; Eunice Ohenewaa Ansu, Juaben; and Jerryne Asante Ejisu.
Furthermore, Emmanuel Obeng Agyemang, Odotobri; Sarah Amoakoaa, Asante Akim North; Maame Sarfoah Appiah, Asante Akim South; Abdullah Hamidu, Bosomtwe; Emmanuel Jackson Agumah, Afigya Kwabre North; and Pearl Patricia Ankrah, Afigya Kwabre South.
Charles Koff Ogbeh, Adansi North; Oheneba Kobena Andoh, Adansi South; Albert Dakurah, Adansi Asokwa; Charles Appiah-Kubi, Bosome Freho; Faustilove Appiah Kannin, Obuasi West; and Adzowu Kofi William, Obuasi East.
Other nominees include Grace Agyemang Asamoah, Atwima Kwanwoma; Amoh Kemel, Asokwa; Gariba Mohammed Mustapha, Adansi Akrofuom; Eric Asibey for Kwadaso; Owusu Ansah Frank, Suame; Abubakar Sidiq, Tafo; Anwel Sadat Ahmed for Oforikrom; and Ben Abdallah Alhassan, Asokore Mampong.
According to the statement, the nominated individuals are expected to assume office following approval by their respective district assemblies. Their appointments formed part of the President’s commitment to enhancing decentralisation, improving local governance, and accelerating development throughout the Ashanti Region.
The Presidency expressed confidence in the competence and leadership of the nominees and urged the assemblies to support the process for effective governance at the local level.
BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG
Alfredos Nii Anyetei polled only 5 votes out of 14
There was drama at the La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LADMA) in Accra on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, as Assembly Members overwhelmingly rejected President John Dramani Mahama’s nominee for Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Alfredos Nii Anyetei.
The rejection has sparked renewed calls for long-serving party stalwart and current Chief Whip of the Assembly, Aaron Akrong, to be nominated for the top job.
The event, attended by the Member of Parliament for the area and Deputy Minister of Local Government, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, and the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, ended in disappointment for the President’s nominee.
Anyetei polled only 5 votes out of 14—representing just 36 percent—falling well short of the two-thirds majority required for confirmation. With 9 Assembly Members voting “No,” the outcome leaves no room for a mandatory second vote, effectively disqualifying the nominee from being re-nominated.
The low turnout in favour of Anyetei, believed to include only the five government appointees, highlights strong internal resistance to his candidacy.
The announcement of the results by the Electoral Commission was met with jubilation from party faithful and community members, who sang revolutionary songs and hailed the verdict as a win for grassroots democracy.
Assembly Members and supporters accused key party figures of attempting to impose a candidate perceived to be out of touch with the constituency.
Criticisms were directed at the MP, Odoley Sowah, for alleged arrogance, and at former MP Amasa Namoale—believed to be the nominee’s sponsor—who was accused of undermining the popular favourite, Aaron Akrong.
Some Assembly Members suggested that Anyetei’s nomination was a political favour intended to honour his late father, Magnus Anyetei Sowah, a former party chairman who was once tipped for the MCE role but never appointed.
They argued that the younger Anyetei lacked the maturity and experience required for the position and insisted that loyalty and long service should be rewarded.
Unconfirmed reports of financial inducement further inflamed tensions, with speculation that members were promised GH¢50,000 each to endorse the nominee but only received GH¢13,000, allegedly contributing to the backlash.
Calls for Aaron Akrong, affectionately known as “Ice Tee”—to be nominated have intensified. Widely regarded as a unifier and a workhorse within the party, Akrong has served the Assembly for nearly two decades and held the role of Chief Whip for over 12 years.
“This is the gentleman who worked tirelessly to bring the party to power. Why should he be sidelined? He has dedicated his entire political life to this constituency,” Daily Graphic quoted a supporter as having stated.
Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, visibly dismayed by the outcome, expressed her disappointment. “It’s sad to see Assembly Members jubilating over the nominee’s rejection. This delays development,” she said.
Despite the setback, she indicated that the government might re-present the nominee for a second attempt, though that path now appears politically untenable.
President Mahama now faces a tough decision of whether to re-nominate Alfredos Anyetei or bow to the popular demand for Aaron Akrong to lead the La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly.
Renowned Ghanaian journalist Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii
Renowned Ghanaian journalist Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii has shared a cryptic message on his Facebook page after undergoing a series of surgeries following a recent gunshot injury.
It may be recalled that on February 25, 2025, Kofi Adomah posted a video on Facebook showing him undergoing an eye examination.
In a recent update, the media personality shared another video, this time of his wife, Miracle Adomah, thanking her for her unwavering support during his darkest moments.
He expressed his joy at seeing her happy, saying, “I finally see you happy, and it gives me joy, my love.”
On December 21, 2024, Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii and his team from Angel FM/TV traveled to Dormaa Ahenkro in the Bono Region of Ghana to cover a festival and the 25th anniversary of the enstoolment of Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II.
While covering the event, Kofi was shot in the face by a gunman wielding a musket. The incident caused severe damage to his eyes, requiring multiple urgent surgeries.
Following the attack, Kofi Adomah received support from several prominent individuals, including businessman Ibrahim Mahama, Dr Kweku Oteng, and gospel artistes such as Nacee, among others.
Read the post below:
JHM/MA
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye
Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, has criticised the John Dramani Mahama-led government over its handling of petitions seeking the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking in a snippet of an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse, scheduled to be aired on Wednesday, 8 May, 2025, Professor Oquaye stated that the ongoing process does not align with the laid-down procedure for the removal of a Chief Justice as outlined in Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.
He pointed out that one key element being ignored is the constitutional requirement for in camera (private) hearings of such petitions.
He added that the current process lacks transparency and is depriving Ghanaians of their right to be informed about the proceedings.
“A number of the things that are happening are so political that when it comes to these matters, I like to put on the hat of a constitutional student. I study the Constitution. I am concerned about certain issues that I consider vital, particularly the trial in camera provision.
“You ask yourself: What is the rationale for that provision in our Constitution? It is there in black and white. What is its purpose? And if we were to give it a purposive interpretation, where shall we end up? Is the purpose to benefit the people of Ghana as a whole, that the Chief Justice might be tried in camera?
“Because, you see, even before you get to the in camera provision, from the very beginning, the Constitution tells us that justice belongs to the people. It emanates from the people. Justice belongs to all of us as a people,” he said.
He continued, “The people are the owners of that issue, that process, whatever happens with regard to the Chief Justice. Why should the people be barred from knowing what is going on? If the people have the right, as owners of the very process of adjudication, then of course, they should be able to visit the farm that is theirs.”
BAI/MA
Explosive outburst over suspension of Chief Justice as former Speaker of Parliament slams government, raising major concerns over what he describes as the secret trial of the Chief Justice.
Tune in to the full interview on the #ThePulse at 3:00pm on JoyNews. pic.twitter.com/HNihqgbxB8
— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) May 8, 2025
Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempts a third term
Benjamin Asare is the goalkeeper of Hearts of Oak
Former Hearts of Oak midfielder Joe Tagoe has praised goalkeeper Benjamin Asare for his remarkable transformation, describing him as a confident and commanding presence between the posts.
Once battling relegation with Great Olympics just a season ago, Asare has quickly risen to become Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper.
His back-to-back clean sheets against Chad and Madagascar in March not only stunned fans but also secured the trust of national coach Otto Addo, who confirmed him as the Black Stars’ new number one.
Tagoe, speaking to Happy FM, highlighted Asare’s maturity and leadership qualities as key to his recent success.
“The way his confidence has reached now, everyone will testify that he is very superb. Sometimes I tell a lot of people that, as a goalkeeper, it is not a show like diving here and there. You can see that from the way he communicates. The way he talks to defenders, the way he organises them, seriously, if you look at that aspect, it is very commendable,” he said.
At 33, the Hearts of Oak shot-stopper is enjoying arguably the best spell of his career. His club form mirrors his national rise, he has kept 15 clean sheets in 24 matches, ranking third in the Ghana Premier League for shutouts this season.
His performances have earned plaudits and recognition beyond the pitch. Businessman Alhaji Seidu Adongo recently rewarded Asare with a brand-new car, a gesture seen as both encouragement and a symbol of belief in local talent.
FKA/MA
Watch a tour of the Kenpong Football Academy below
The Minority in Parliament has launched a scathing attack on President John Dramani Mahama’s 120-day performance report, accusing him of abandoning his campaign’s reformist zeal in favour of political convenience and recycled promises.
At a press conference on Thursday, May 8, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin described the President’s national address as an “empty parade of self-congratulation” that ignores the harsh economic and social realities facing Ghanaians.
Ghana’s Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti has been named one of the top 10 finalists for the fourth edition of the prestigious Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award, selected from over 100,000 applications across 199 countries.
This year’s finalists were chosen through a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation process conducted by an expert jury and Grand Jury panel, and independently moderated by Ernst & Young LLP.
The award recognises exceptional contributions to global healthcare by nurses.
Naomi, a trailblasing oncology nurse leader, is widely acclaimed for her transformative work in cancer care, research, and education across Africa. She was instrumental in launching Ghana’s formal oncology nurse training program, which has so far produced over 60 oncology specialists and 10 breast care nurses.
As a member of the Education and Training Committee for the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) and a co-investigator on the Global Bridges Oncology Grant, Naomi has influenced nursing standards and policies across the continent. Her mentorship has shaped the careers of more than 48 nurses from various African countries.
Her groundbreaking work in nurse-led education and research is helping to position nursing as a central pillar in Africa’s cancer response efforts.
Former General Secretary of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Atik Mohammed, has laid blame for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the 2024 general elections squarely at the feet of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, 8 May, Atik claimed that the former president’s actions and decisions significantly contributed to the party’s electoral misfortunes.
Referencing a recent memo by Kwabena Adu Boabenhene, Atik suggested that the former president may have prioritised national stability over party loyalty by indirectly empowering the opposition.
“If Kwabena Adu Boabenhene’s memo is any indication, it implies Nana Addo was superintending over the empowerment of the opposition ostensibly to ensure stability,” he wrote.
He also criticised the former president for allegedly shifting blame onto party candidates, particularly through religious insinuations.
“And yet, [he] turns around to accuse candidates of losing because of religion,” Atik lamented, implying that such commentary was not only divisive but hypocritical given the president’s own influence over the election’s outcome.
Concluding his post, Atik Mohammed urged Ghanaians to critically assess the role of leadership in political outcomes.
“Like I always say, Nana Addo is the main reason for the defeat of the NPP. If you are looking for what caused the NPP’s humiliation in 2024, look no further than Nana Addo. We read, we watch and we judge,” he stated.
Accra, May 8, GNA – Delta Air Lines is set to introduce a new seasonal daily nonstop service between Accra and Atlanta, United States, from December 1, 2025.
The announcement was contained in a press release issued by Kingdom Concepts Consult on behalf of the airline, and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra.
According to the statement, the new route is expected to improve travel options for Ghanaians heading to the United States by reducing layovers and enhancing convenience.
It said the Atlanta – Accra service would be operated with the Airbus A330-900neo, a modern aircraft offering Delta One Suites, Premium Select, Comfort+, and Main Cabin seating.
The new route would serve as Delta’s second direct connection between Ghana and the U.S., signalling the airline’s continued investment in the Ghanaian aviation market, it said.
It explained that Atlanta, as Delta’s largest hub and the world’s busiest airport by passenger numbers, offeredtravellers seamless onward connections to more than 215 destinations in the U.S. and beyond, including cities such as Miami, Dallas, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and Honolulu.
The release noted that the route would be particularly beneficial to Ghanaians traveling for business, family visits, or seasonal festivities such as “Detty December.”
Delta was also reported as saying that passengers on the route would benefit from complimentary high-speed Delta Sync Wi-Fi throughout the flight.
The service, available to SkyMiles Members, would allow passengers to stream content, access real-time travel updates, and shop online while airborne.
The release this development formed part of Delta’s broader effort to equip its fleet with next-generation connectivity, including the installation of dual-network systems on regional and newly delivered aircraft.
With the rising demand for travel between Ghana and the United States, Delta remained committed to providing efficient, comfortable, and digitally connected travel experiences, it assured.
Delta has been operating in Ghana for more than a decade.
It deems the new route an important step in deepening the ties between the two countries through air travel.
GNA
BAS
Bernard Okoe-Boye is the former Minister of Health
The former Minister of Health, Bernard Okoe-Boye, has expressed confidence and optimism that the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) can regain its appeal and secure victory in the 2028 presidential elections.
He, however, emphasised that this can only be achieved if the party is willing to learn a few lessons from their opponents, the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), and is prepared to acknowledge its mistakes, admit to errors made during its time in governance, and subsequently reform its behavior.
Speaking on Peace FM on Thursday, May 8, 2025, Okoe-Boye referenced the NDC’s experience in 2016, noting how, after suffering a major defeat, many Ghanaians had written the party off, with some even vowing it would never return to power.
However, he acknowledged that the NDC managed to reorganise, rebuild its image, and ultimately regain power, a lesson he believes the NPP should learn from.
“The way they (NDC) changed their behavior, it’s the same way if NPP we admit and accept our mistakes, change our behavior and adapt like Mahama did, Ghanaians will vote us back into power,” he stated.
Okoe-Boye, in assessing the ruling government, stated that some of the promises made by the NDC during the electioneering period were politically motivated and not grounded in realistic plans.
He specifically pointed to the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, predicting that the situation could either worsen or fail to produce any meaningful results.
“Some of the promises were just for politics. I’m not a prophet of doom but I’m predicting that some of the promises Mahama made, in just four years, its either they will remain the same or even become worse,” he continued.
Okoe-Boye condemned the portrayal of illegal mining activities as being predominantly associated with members of the NPP, which he added wasn’t so.
“Why did Ghanaians sit and allow people to create an impression that the illegal mining menace were being done by only NPP members.”
MAG/MA
Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempt a third term
Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has described revelations made by former National Signals Bureau (NSB) boss, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, as “shocking, scary, and a major national security scandal,” calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into the matter.
In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Rev. Fordjour expressed alarm over Adu-Boahene’s claims that over GH¢49 million was disbursed for various political and operational activities, including payments to Members of Parliament, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), and aides of President-elect John Dramani Mahama.
“This is shocking, scary and a major National Security scandal!!! GH¢8.3 million support for NDC at the peak of 2024 election campaign? GH¢960,000 for Defence & Interior Committee in 2020/21 for passing legislation? GH¢309,000 for Subsidiary Legislation Committee in 2024 for passing LI? GH¢5.135 million expended on President Mahama’s (President-Elect) Special Aides in Dec 2024?” Fordjour posted.
He added: “The taxpayer deserves a thorough and transparently conducted probe into the above financial impropriety. This must not be politics as usual.”
This is shocking, scary and a major National Security scandal!!!
8.3 million cedis support for NDC at the peak of 2024 election campaign?
960,000 cedis for Defence & Interior Committee in 2020/21 for passing legislation?
309,000 cedis for Subsidiary Legislation Committee in 2024… pic.twitter.com/CYGumUoJWZ— John Ntim Fordjour MP (@NtimFordjour) May 7, 2025
The controversy stems from a letter by Adu-Boahene, addressed to the National Security Coordinator and sighted by Citi News, in which he seeks to defend himself against allegations of financial impropriety. In the letter, Adu-Boahene claimed that the GH¢49.1 million in question was disbursed through two national security accounts—one of which was alleged to be co-owned by him and his wife—used to fund “sensitive transactions.”
Among the most explosive of the former NSB boss’s disclosures were:
GH¢8.3 million allegedly allocated to an opposition party (reportedly the NDC) for the procurement of communications equipment ahead of the 2024 elections.
GH¢5.135 million reportedly paid to a special aide of President Mahama in December 2024 for the purchase of luxury vehicles.
GH¢960,000 and GH¢309,000 paid as allowances to MPs on the Defence & Interior and Subsidiary Legislation Committees, respectively, during the passage of the NSB Act and its Legislative Instrument.
Other amounts, including GH¢9.5 million to ISC Holdings for surveillance systems and GH¢6.9 million to personnel involved in national security operations.
While Adu-Boahene maintains the funds were used for legitimate national security operations and that he was merely the facilitator, his explanations have ignited bipartisan outrage and calls for deeper scrutiny.
Read also
GH¢49m Saga: Ex-NSB Boss reveals funds went to MPs, Opposition and Mahama’s aide
The lawyer for the embattled former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB) Kwabena Adu-Boahene has stated the intended prosecution of their client has national security implications.
Lawyer for Adu Boahene a former Member of Parliament for Akim Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea in a letter to the National Security Council Secretariat warned that the prosecution of Adu Boahene could lead to potential threats to Ghana’s national security.
A new pope has been chosen, signaled by the iconic white smoke billowing from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. The name of the new pontiff is expected to be announced shortly when he appears on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The decision was made by 133 red-robed cardinals from across the globe, who gathered in secrecy for the papal conclave.
During the highly guarded process, the cardinals were completely cut off from the outside world as they cast their ballots to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church, which serves more than 1.4 billion faithful worldwide.
News of the white smoke sent waves of jubilation across St. Peter’s Square, where thousands had been holding vigil in anticipation. Applause, cheers, and tears erupted as the signal continued to rise, confirming that a two-thirds majority had been reached.
“I’m so happy, it’s so incredible to be here at this moment,” said 42-year-old Roseleia Cordeiro from Brazil, overcome with emotion as she hugged her friends. “I don’t know how to express myself but I am grateful to God for this moment.”
Each new puff of white smoke drew louder cheers from the crowd, as worshippers celebrated the historic moment with prayers, songs, and joyful tears, awaiting the first glimpse of their new spiritual leader.
Solomon Owusu is a member of Movement for Change
A leading member of the Movement for Change, Solomon Owusu, has surprisingly voiced a differing view on President John Dramani Mahama’s donation of his six-month salary to the Mahama Cares medical fund.
Acc1ording to him, the president’s gesture is not something he is happy about, as he believes that while such acts may seem commendable, they often expose ulterior motives.
He made reference to Ken Ofori-Atta’s gesture of reportedly not receiving a salary, only for it to later emerge that he allegedly amassed wealth belonging to the state through his bank, Databank.
“The gesture by President Mahama donating his six months’ salary into the Mahama Cares medical fund is something I don’t want to hear. The last time we heard such a claim, it was said that Ken Ofori-Atta, a government appointee did not receive a salary, yet he had amassed wealth through his bank, Databank, by securing loans for the country,” he said in an interview with Onua FM on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Acknowledging the president’s initiative with the medical fund and his promise to uncap the National Health Insurance, the politician advised the president to continue receiving his salary.
However, he recommended that the president implements an approach that would encourage corporate institutions to contribute to the cause, cautioning him not to rely on his own salary for such donations.
He maintained that, personally, he does not take individuals who donate their salaries to national causes seriously, as he believes such gestures could be driven by ulterior motives and cost the state.
“… He should take his salary and ensure he governs the country well for citizens to benefit from state resources. He says he will uncap NHIS and so he should find ways corporate institutions can donate but he shouldn’t tell us he is using his salaries. I don’t take people who donate their salaries to the state serious because it means they have other means of amassing wealth,” he added.
President John Dramani Mahama pledged six months of his salary to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as ‘Mahama Cares’ initiative during the launch of the fund at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Announcing the donation, President Mahama commended Ghanaians who have already contributed to the fund, emphasising that as its founder, he must also play his part in ensuring its success.
“Prof Ayetey, a retired doctor, has donated $1,000 to the Ghana Medical Trust. That should encourage all of us and, especially corporate institutions, to do even more. As the initiator of this laudable programme, I must also contribute.
“And so, I’ve pledged six months of my salary to Mahama Cares. I haven’t started receiving a salary yet, they say the Accountant General is still processing it, but once that’s completed, six months of whatever I’m entitled to will go into Mahama Cares,” he added.
Watch video of Solomon Owusu’s submissions below:
MAG/AE
Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempt a third term
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White smoke has risen above the Sistine Chapel, signaling that a new pope has been elected on the second day of the conclave.
The identity of the new pontiff, along with the name he has chosen, will be announced shortly.
The selection process took two days, consistent with the timeline of the previous two papal elections, indicating that one candidate may have quickly gained the support and confidence of his fellow cardinals during the confidential proceedings.
Both Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI were introduced to the world on the evening of the conclave’s second day, as was Pope John Paul.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is a defender of DR Congo
West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka has received his first-ever senior call-up to the DR Congo national team ahead of their June 2025 international friendlies against Madagascar and Mali in France.
The 27-year-old, who made a single appearance for DR Congo’s U20 side back in 2015 before representing England at various youth levels, has now officially switched allegiance to the country of his heritage.
After several years of interest and multiple approaches from the Congolese FA, Wan-Bissaka has finally agreed to join the Leopards, marking a major boost for coach Sébastien Desabre as the team begins preparations for upcoming competitive fixtures.
He is part of a strong 25-man squad that includes Premier League forward Yoane Wissa, experienced striker Cédric Bakambu, and former England youth international Axel Tuanzebe.
Also notable is the inclusion of Afimico Pululu, who had previously been called up by Angola but never featured due to injury. The forward has now committed to DR Congo and will be available for the matches in France.
The Leopards will face Madagascar and Mali in friendlies scheduled for June 2025, as they continue to build momentum ahead of key qualifiers later this year.
OFFICIAL: Aaron Wan Bissaka gets first call up to 🇨🇩 DRC national team, expected to be part of two June 2025 international friendlies vs Madagascar and Mali.
● The 27-year-old had one app for DRC U20s in 2015 and also represented England at youth level. pic.twitter.com/3K4Vngz2d7
— Gary Al-Smith (@garyalsmith) May 8, 2025
FKA/MA
Shocking! Watch why a young woman in the US questioned Alban Bagbin’s Ghanaian identity
President John Dramani Mahama has urged the National Peace Council to prioritise resolving the protracted Bawku conflict.
During the inauguration of the Council’s 13-member Governing Board at the Jubilee House in Accra, President Mahama charged the Council to proactively identify and address emerging conflicts nationwide.
The Board, chaired by Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, was tasked with working diligently to bring peace to the Bawku area, which has been plagued by violence and chieftaincy conflicts for years.
“As we speak, violence in Bawku has claimed numerous lives and displaced several households. Chiefaincy conflicts are also rife, and it calls on the National Peace Council assiduously if we are to maintain Ghana’s reputation as an oasis of peace in the sub-region.
“These measures are not optional but essential to building the inclusive Ghana we all desire. We must also be mindful that peace is not merely the absence of war. It is the presence of justice. It is the presence of fair access to fair opportunities for all,” he said.
Resolve Ablekuma North results or risk undermining democracy – IGP to EC
The Minister in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has revealed the government’s plans to operationalise the 24-hour economy initiative, confirming that a dedicated secretariat has been formed and preparatory work is underway.
Speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show, Kwakye Ofosu said the initiative is designed to expand Ghana’s economy and create additional employment opportunities.
The overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Yaa Naa Abukari II, has acknowledged the contributions of former Vice President and NPP 2024 Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to the development of the country, assuring him that his efforts will be rewarded soon.
Welcoming Dr. Bawumia to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, during the NPP’s Thank You Tour of the Northern Region, the Yaa Naa, told Dr. Bawumia, not to be discouraged by his defeat on his first attempt to be President, adding that his remarkable record as Vice President, will earn him the support of Ghanaians in the future.
“We recognise your contributions to Ghana’s development, particularly in digitalisation and economic modernisation initiatives during your tenure as Vice President,” the Yaa Naa told Dr. Bawumia.
“As a Vice President, you did your best and contributed more actively than most of your predecessors in the Fourth Republic.”
“With determined efforts, you spearheaded several transformative projects, including Ghana’s digital addressing system and mobile money interoperability. All these have not gone unnoticed and Ghanaians are grateful for your efforts,” the Ya Naa added, listing many other government interventions credited to the former Vice President.
The Yaa Naa encouraged Dr Bawumia not to despair, but be hopeful for the future, which he stressed, will be brighter for the former Vice President.
“Your electoral loss is a battle lost, but not the war to lead the development of our dear nation. So I entreat you to still have the interest of this country at heart and not despair prematurely.”
“This is only your first attempt, and there are several chances ahead. All that we need is to pray for a longer life and good health. May Allah continue to guide and guard you in all your endeavours.”
Dr Bawumia and the NPP have been embarking on a nationwide Thank You Tour for the past two weeks, to thank party faithful and Ghanaians for the support offered the party, regardless of the outcome of the 2024 elections.
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.
Solomon Owusu is a member of Movement for Change
A leading member of the Movement for Change, Solomon Owusu, has surprisingly voiced a differing view on President John Dramani Mahama’s donation of his six-month salary to the Mahama Cares medical fund.
Acc1ording to him, the president’s gesture is not something he is happy about, as he believes that while such acts may seem commendable, they often expose ulterior motives.
He made reference to Ken Ofori-Atta’s gesture of reportedly not receiving a salary, only for it to later emerge that he allegedly amassed wealth belonging to the state through his bank, Databank.
“The gesture by President Mahama donating his six months’ salary into the Mahama Cares medical fund is something I don’t want to hear. The last time we heard such a claim, it was said that Ken Ofori-Atta, a government appointee did not receive a salary, yet he had amassed wealth through his bank, Databank, by securing loans for the country,” he said in an interview with Onua FM on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
Acknowledging the president’s initiative with the medical fund and his promise to uncap the National Health Insurance, the politician advised the president to continue receiving his salary.
However, he recommended that the president implements an approach that would encourage corporate institutions to contribute to the cause, cautioning him not to rely on his own salary for such donations.
He maintained that, personally, he does not take individuals who donate their salaries to national causes seriously, as he believes such gestures could be driven by ulterior motives and cost the state.
“… He should take his salary and ensure he governs the country well for citizens to benefit from state resources. He says he will uncap NHIS and so he should find ways corporate institutions can donate but he shouldn’t tell us he is using his salaries. I don’t take people who donate their salaries to the state serious because it means they have other means of amassing wealth,” he added.
President John Dramani Mahama pledged six months of his salary to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as ‘Mahama Cares’ initiative during the launch of the fund at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Announcing the donation, President Mahama commended Ghanaians who have already contributed to the fund, emphasising that as its founder, he must also play his part in ensuring its success.
“Prof Ayetey, a retired doctor, has donated $1,000 to the Ghana Medical Trust. That should encourage all of us and, especially corporate institutions, to do even more. As the initiator of this laudable programme, I must also contribute.
“And so, I’ve pledged six months of my salary to Mahama Cares. I haven’t started receiving a salary yet, they say the Accountant General is still processing it, but once that’s completed, six months of whatever I’m entitled to will go into Mahama Cares,” he added.
Watch video of Solomon Owusu’s submissions below:
MAG/AE
Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempt a third term
Kobby Bentsi-Enchill
The Head of Investment Banking at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Kobby Bentsi-Enchill, has urged entrepreneurs and financiers to embrace patient capital and equity-led financing as key pathways to sustainable business growth in Ghana.
He made this call during a panel discussion on the topic, “Creating New Pathways Between Credit and Equity,” at the Ghana Venture Capital Association (GVCA) Conference 2025.
In his submission, Mr. Bentsi-Enchill highlighted the reality of the entrepreneurial journey, emphasising the value of starting small with personal or family support and scaling with long-term financing. “Every big idea starts as a dream, a desire to solve a real problem. But the first step is often self-funded. Entrepreneurs typically begin with their own resources or those of close friends and family to test the viability of their ideas. Once that proof of concept is clear, what’s needed next is patient capital – money that isn’t in a hurry for returns, but is aligned with long-term growth,” he said.
He noted that equity financing plays a critical role at this stage, allowing entrepreneurs to access capital without the pressure of immediate repayments. “Equity is foundational to a healthy capital structure. When entrepreneurs show they’ve invested their own money, what we call ‘skin in the game’, it signals commitment and builds investor confidence,” he added.
The Stanbic Bank executive further acknowledged the macroeconomic challenges facing both lenders and borrowers. “In many economies, we’ve seen distortions where governments borrow heavily, offering high returns on treasury instruments. This incentivizes banks to park funds there instead of lending to businesses, creating an imbalance,” he explained.
He also addressed the pressures of borrowing at high interest rates in local currency. “With debt rates around 35% in cedis, many entrepreneurs struggle with the idea of giving up a significant portion of their profits just to service loans. Some resort to borrowing in dollars, betting against forex depreciation — and while that can work short term, it also carries serious risks.”
Despite these challenges, Mr. Bentsi-Enchill expressed optimism about Ghana’s financial future. “This conference has been incredibly inspiring. We’re beginning to have the right conversations, about long-term investing, about the role of equity, and about building financing models that support innovation and resilience. It feels like we’re turning a corner,” he stated.
The GVCA Conference 2025 convened key stakeholders in Ghana’s investment ecosystem, including fund managers, institutional investors, policymakers, and development partners. The gathering served as a platform to explore innovative strategies for unlocking domestic capital to drive inclusive growth and private sector development.
Stanbic Bank Ghana remains committed to shaping the future of finance by supporting entrepreneurs through equity, structured finance, and investment advisory solutions designed to foster long-term business success.
The Ghanaian cedi has taken the global spotlight as the best-performing currency in the world since the start of April 2025, according to a Bloomberg report. The local currency appreciated by 16% against the US dollar over the course of the month, outpacing several major international currencies and reflecting a renewed investor confidence in Ghana’s economy.
A Boost from Sound Economic Measures
The cedi’s impressive rally has been largely attributed to a combination of disciplined monetary policies, improved
Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei feels Ghanaians should be measured in their praise of Mahama
Renowned Ghanaian economist and former Director-General of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei, has cautioned Ghanaians against prematurely praising President John Dramani Mahama for his performance in the first 120 days of his administration.
Speaking in an interview on JoyNews on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Prof Adei urged citizens to adopt a measured perspective, citing the disappointing trajectory of the previous Akufo-Addo government as a lesson.
Prof Adei noted that while President Mahama’s early performance may appear commendable, particularly when contrasted with the Akufo-Addo administration’s second term, Ghanaians should remain cautious.
“I think that the Akufo-Addo government in the second term did so badly that we must be very careful overpraising John in 120 days because the first term of Akufo-Addo, he performed very well and then almost everybody’s hopes were dashed with every indicator, economic management, corruption, everything else almost going down the sink,” he said.
He emphasised that the sharp decline in economic management and governance during Akufo-Addo’s second term made it easy to view Mahama’s initial efforts favorably.
However, as a lifelong public servant, Prof Adei stressed the importance of objectivity, stating, “If you are a true Ghanaian, and some of us have been public servants all our lives, we can only wish John and the NDC well. Because their success will be our success.”
Prof Adei, who previously served as Chairperson of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and Board Chairman of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), called for patience in evaluating the Mahama administration’s long-term impact.
His comments come as President Mahama marked 120 days in office, highlighting progress on key campaign promises, including reopening investigations into unresolved criminal cases such as the 2020 Election violence and the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence of 2019.
According to President Mahama, his government has kept to its word by fulfilling some 25 core promises made to Ghanaian electorates ahead of the December 2024 election.
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The delivery was made by a Greek-operated Suezmax tanker, Nicolaos, which docked at the Sentuo Refinery following a six-month hiatus in operations.
According to vessel tracking data, the 165,000-deadweight-tonne Nicolaos, operated by Andriaki Shipping, loaded approximately 500,000 barrels of Palanca crude oil on 25 April. The vessel had been scheduled to discharge its cargo at Tema between 3 and 5 May.
The 120,000-barrel-per-day Sentuo facility had ceased imports after its initial commissioning last year. Industry consultancy Kpler attributed the pause to “financial and political constraints” that had delayed its ability to process further shipments.
Kpler noted, “The resumption of crude imports into Sentuo signals the refinery’s commencement of crude processing—an important milestone that could reduce Ghana’s dependence on refined fuel imports.”
Diversified crude sourcing in 2024-2025
Prior to this, Ghana had imported 500,000 barrels of Nigeria’s Brass River crude in February, which Kpler suggested was used for power generation due to a temporary shutdown of the West African Gas Pipeline.
Previous deliveries to the Sentuo Refinery included cargoes from Russia, as well as a single shipment from Ivory Coast’s Baleine offshore field.
Refinery activity and economic implications
In October 2024, reports indicated that Sentuo was operating below capacity at under 20,000 barrels per day, while the Tema Oil Refinery, with a capacity of 40,000 barrels per day, remained offline.
The recommencement of crude processing is expected to ease the country’s heavy reliance on imported petroleum products. In February, Ghana recorded its highest monthly import of petrol and diesel, reaching a combined total of 480,000 tonnes.
Kpler warned that any reduction in Ghana’s demand for imported oil products could lower regional clean tanker demand.
Tanker movements reflect strategic shifts
After discharging its cargo, the Nicolaos departed Tema and was reported heading towards Nigeria as of Tuesday, according to AIS data.
Last May, another Suezmax tanker, the Snow Lotus (159,100 dwt), had been anchored off the Sentuo refinery for months with a consignment of Russian Varandey crude. It had initially arrived in February, loaded from Lukoil’s Kola floating storage and offloading unit in the Arctic, signalling earlier logistical challenges.
The renewed activity at Sentuo suggests a broader effort by Ghana to diversify its energy sources and boost domestic refining capacity amid global price pressures and import dependency.
Ghanaian artiste, Olivetheboy
Ghanaian artiste Olivetheboy has admitted that his music sounds Nigerian.
According to him, it is a deliberate move to reach a wider audience and help project Ghanaian music beyond the country’s borders.
Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM, the ‘Goodsin’ hitmaker admitted that his music carries a Nigerian flair and he is not ashamed of it.
According to Olivetheboy, musical evolution is natural, and tapping into other cultures, sounds, and languages is necessary.
He explained that genres like Afrobeats have roots in earlier sounds like highlife, showing how interconnected African music has always been.
“I think now people accept change. When you look at most of the songs and most of the genres that have come, there was some tapping from somewhere. That’s how come there was that conversation about afrobeats coming or growing from highlife,” he said.
Olivetheboy noted that, intentionally drawing from other influences including language is a strategy to make Ghanaian music more accessible and relatable to a broader audience beyond Ghana.
“To me, it is all about accepting that there has to be some tapping from somewhere. It wasn’t even intentional before, but now it’s very intentional. Because you’re not trying to only do music, yes, we want to project Ghana but we’re not only doing that by making music for people down here alone. You’re trying to intentionally do something that, in a way, projects Ghana beyond Ghana,” he explained.
He further clarified that using elements like Nigerian languages in his music isn’t a form of imitation but rather a deliberate move to communicate with more listeners.
“That is why I’m not afraid of tapping into that market and using their language. I am not afraid of doing that, because in a way they will understand it,” Olivetheboy added.
You can also watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
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Martin Kpebu is a legal practitioner
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has expressed concern over how the revelations made by former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu Boahene, cast a negative light on the ruling government.
Kwabena Adu Boahene, who is currently on remand in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), revealed confidential information contained in a memo suggesting that allocation and utilisation of funds he is accused of embezzling during his tenure as Director-General of the National Signals Bureau went into some sectors of government.
The memo, which provides a detailed breakdown of the fund allocations, indicates that over GH¢8 million was allegedly used to finance an opposition political party, while an additional GH¢960,000 was reportedly paid to Members of Parliament as allowances to facilitate the passage of the National Signals Bureau (NSB) Act, among other payments made for some special operations.
Additionally, the memo revealed that an amount of GH¢5.1 million was allocated for the purchase of vehicles intended for a special aide to the president-elect.
Responding to the claims, Kpebu stated that the allegations made by the former NSB boss, which appear to implicate elements of the ruling government, raise serious questions about the government’s own involvement, especially given its strong stance on accountability and its commitment to corruption fight and the prosecution of former appointees for similar offenses.
“It’s also the case that with these revelations, it paints the government black because that is like, ‘why did you take money as opposition party for election monitoring and then the vehicles and all those things?’ I mean, it does color the case,” he said on TV3 on May 8, 2025.
The lawyer, however, clarified that the revelations made by Adu-Boahene do not serve as a defense against the charges he is currently facing in court.
Providing further insight, Kpebu referenced a statement by the Attorney General, Dr Dominic Ayine, who asserted that there is concrete evidence showing a money trail from the National Signals Bureau’s official account into Adu Boahene’s private account, as well as the acquisition of another property linked to the funds.
“Of course, the ultimate thing is that what he’s saying is not a defence to the charges because Dr Ayine has been clear that the evidence he has is that the money left the NSB account and went into Adu Boahene’s private company account and then to Mayfair Properties. So, they have been able to trace the money. Dr Ayine’s following of the money leads him to Adu-Boahene’s private company and then to Mayfair Property so, this cannot be an answer to the charges,” he explained.
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Meanwhile, watch as Kwesi Pratt ‘threatens’ to fight Mahama if he ever attempt a third term
These countries together account for 75% of Africa’s tropical forests
Representatives from ten West and Central African nations have convened in Accra for the 9th Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative (ASCI), reaffirming their joint commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural production that safeguards forests, supports rural livelihoods, and drives economic growth.
These countries together account for 75% of Africa’s tropical forests and 25% of tropical forests globally, making their cooperation critical to the continent’s climate and development agenda.
In his keynote address, Ghana’s Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, underscored Ghana’s leadership in climate-smart agriculture and sustainable commodity development.
“Ghana has taken bold steps, particularly in the tree crop sector, through the establishment of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), which plays a pivotal role in regulating and supporting the sustainable growth of priority crops such as oil palm, rubber, coconut, mango, cashew, and shea,” he said.
The minister continued, “These steps are reshaping the future of our non-cocoa agricultural landscape.”
The ASCI platform, established to empower African producer countries in setting sustainability principles for key commodities like cocoa, palm oil, rubber, and coffee, has become a driving force in aligning agriculture with forest conservation, global trade standards, and climate action.
Eric Amoako Agyare, Solidaridad’s Country Representative in Ghana, emphasised the importance of inclusive, climate-resilient innovations.
“We are pleased to co-host this 9th ASCI platform under our NISCOPS programme, which seeks to ensure oil palm landscapes are sustainably managed and smallholder farmers measurably benefit from their inclusion in the supply chain,” Agyare said.
He highlighted a recent pilot as an example of innovation in action, “Through the NISCOPS programme, we piloted two artisanal oil palm mills equipped with modern technology to reduce methane emissions and increase oil extraction rates, an initiative aligned with Ghana’s Article 6.2 commitments under the Paris Agreement.”
The ASCI’s achievements were recently recognised on the global stage when it received the Schwab Foundation Collective Social Innovators’ Award 2025 at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Abraham Baffoe, Africa and Global Director at Proforest, on his part emphasised the platform’s broader significance, “This platform has a track record of working regionally across ten countries, so we have much to contribute to the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda.”
“The lessons we’ve learned from producers and companies on the ground are critical to engaging all stakeholders in effectively implementing emerging regulations such as the EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR),” he concluded.
The two-day high-level summit, co-hosted by Proforest and Solidaridad, brought together ministers, senior government officials, civil society organisations, and private sector leaders from Cameroon, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, and Sierra Leone.
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StarTimes and the 2025 Club World Cup logos
Africa’s leading pay-TV service provider, StarTimes, has acquired the broadcast rights for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and will showcase all 63 matches in HD across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The all-new FIFA Club World Cup expanded format, featuring a host of star players, is set to kick off on Saturday, June 14, 2025 and conclude on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in the United States of America.
This global showpiece will be the first under an expanded format with 32 teams, including the winners of the four previous continental championships.
Twelve European giants will feature in the competition, including tournament holders Manchester City, Spanish giants and record five-time winners Real Madrid, 2021 winners Chelsea, two-time winners Bayern Munich, as well as Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan, and Porto.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are expected to host four great teams from Africa, including Al Ahly, Espérance de Tunis, Wydad AC, and Mamelodi Sundowns, who will battle the rest of the world, hoping to make Africa proud.
Watch a tour of the Kenpong Football Academy below
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Award-winning Ghanaian media personality Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as , has shared a new update on his future with Media General after announcing his break from Onua TV.
In a video, the veteran broadcaster spoke to his colleague, journalist and fashion influencer, Akua Sarpomaa, as he made his first public appearance after his surprise announcement.
Founding Member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has commended President Mahama for fulfilling some of his 120-day social contract promises to Ghanaians.
Before his assumption of office, then flagbearer of the NDC laid out 25 specific promises, boldly setting himself a 120-day deadline for full implementation if elected.
American-based Ghanaian fashion designer, Jude Dontoh, has expressed desire to style President John Dramani Mahama for the forthcoming Ghana Fashion Week in July.
Recently, President John Dramani Mahama during the launch of the Black Star Experience on May 1, 2025, announced that he will make a special appearance on the catwalk during the event.
According to Mahama, he would change outfits three times during the catwalk appearance to elevate the local designers behind each ensemble.
Reacting to the president’s decision, Jude Dontoh in an interview with GhanaWeb’s Joseph Henry Mensah on May 8, 2025, noted that he hopes President John Mahama gives him the privilege to style him.
“If I get the chance to style him, I would do it myself,” he said.
Jude further applauded John Dramani Mahama for his decision to catwalk during the fashion week.
“It is also a great idea to motivate people and also increase the income in that sector. If the president is doing it then who are you not to do it.
“It is a great sector, especially for the country as an emerging economy. So, if the president is going it, it is a great initiative because after that people can be introduced and projects can be done as well,” he added.
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Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
Six-year-old girl, Hidaya Mahmoud, was found dead in a parked vehicle at a mechanic shop in Suame, Ashanti Region, on May 7, 2025, three days after she was reported missing.
She had disappeared after accompanying her mother to Suame Market on Sunday, May 4. Despite extensive efforts by the family, including police involvement and local media outreach, she could not be located in time.
Her body was discovered by mechanics and has since been buried following Islamic customs.
Mahmoud Aboubakar, father of Hidaya, recounted how the body of his daughter was discovered.
“I was in the house when my wife came to me for money to get things for the child, as school is about to resume. But later in the day, she called me to inform me that our child was nowhere to be found, so I should come around, and indeed, when I got to her destination, the child was nowhere to be found.
“We roamed around the town, and she was nowhere to be found, so we reported the case to the police that day, but we were asked to come back after 24 hours. We went to the police station in the morning with the child’s picture. So it was just yesterday that someone told me that he had found a girl dead in a car,” he said.
Police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
The recent revelations by the former Director-General of the National Signal Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene paint the Mahama administration black, Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has said.
Kpebu says that although the revelations do not answer to the charge preferred against Adu Boahene by the Attorney-General, the pronouncement raises issues against the Mahama administration.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has described the first 120 days of President John Dramani Mahama’s government as an uninspiring one that is laced with failed promises and retardation across the various sectors.
Apart from being accused of what they referred to as “executive lawlessness”, the party also said President Mahama was superintending over a government that preached inclusiveness but was practicing divisiveness.
At a press conference held at the NPP headquarters in Accra on Thursday to respond to President Mahama’s national address in which he gave an account of his first 120 days in office, the NPP stressed that the reset agenda promised by the NDC had become a breakdown of governance system and businesses.
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, who addressed the press, accused the President of exercising “executive lawlessness” leading to the sacking of numerous civil servants and replacing them with persons affiliated with the NDC.
“We now have two Ghana – one for the NDC and one for other Ghanaians. This was not the reset President Mahama promised Ghanaians, he stressed.
Among the key issues he raised as constituting the basket of failed promises were failure to decisively deal with illegal mining; resurgence of power outages; failure to implement the 24-hour Economy policy; and failure to reduce import duties.
The Minority Leader expressed reservation about what he described as the gradual collapse of businesses, weakening of the private sector, attack on the judiciary, and fragile security in the country.
Galamsey
During the peak of the campaign for the December 7, 2024 elections, there was heightened call by environmentalists, CSOs, the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, and some labour unions for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to declare a state of emergency over the galamsey scourge.
Environmental activists and other stakeholders also mounted pressures on the NPP administration to revoke the law that permits mining in forest reserves (L.I 2462), but that did not happen.
In the heat of the campaign, the NDC presidential candidate (President Mahama) promised to repeal L.I 2462 when given the mandate.
He also promomised to ban mining in forest reserves and take steps to restore the country’s degraded landscape.
At the press conference, Mr Afenyo-Markin said it was worrying that after 120 days on office, President Mahama had failed to keep his promise on dealing with galamsey.
“Illegal mining has flourished in the full glare of the President; foreigners involved in galamsey are deported instead of being prosecuted; he criticised former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for not doing much about galamsey, but he is now giving excuses. He has failed to declare state of emergency,” he said.
Dumsor
Additionally, he said after inheriting stable power supply, President Mahama had plunged the country into darkness, although he promised to improve on the power sector.
“We have witnessed persistent power outages these 120 days of President Mahama, and we do not even know where our Minster of Energy and Green Transition is. We are using torchlights to search for our Energy Minister, but we cannot find him,” he said.
The Minority Leader said the erratic power supply situation in the country has forced some businesses to fold up while others were also suffocating.
Mr Afenyo-Markin also said the 24-hour Economy policy the President promised Ghanaians had become mirage.
He said instead of building up on the one district, one factory (1D1F) industrialisation policy the previous government had implemented, President Mahama had abandoned it and was also not implementing the 24-hour economy.
Education and social policy
The Minority Leader said although President Mahama made a plethora of promises in the education and social sector, not much had been done in redeeming those commitments.
He cited commitments such as no-academic fee for all first year tertiary students, free tertiary education for persons with disability, and distribution of free sanitary pads to school girls as some of the failed promises.
“These were headline-grabbing pledges intended to ease burdens on students and parents. But how many of these have been truly fulfilled? The reality is stark: not a single first-year university student has received a fee-free education under this policy so far,” he said.
Lean government
Mr Afenyo-Markins also alleged that despite the promise by President Mahama to run the leanest and most efficient government, more persons had been appointed to political positions than expected.
“This government has gone to great lengths to create the impression that it is cutting down on expenditure by appointing fewer ministers.
They parade this move as an act of prudence and fiscal discipline, but in reality, it is nothing more than political theatre designed to deceive the Ghanaian people,” he said.
He indicated that “the supposed reduction in ministerial appointments had little to no impact on the ballooning cost of government.”