Observers within legal circles and civil society began questioning whether the Chief Justice was using her knowledge of judicial procedure not to ensure fairness—but to escape accountability.
Introduction
The ongoing proceedings against Ghana’s Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, have sparked national debate, not just over the merit of the petitions themselves, but over the Chief Justice’s unorthodox and politically charged response to them.
Philip Ayesu and Leticia Amponsah Mensah emerged overall winners in the Men’s and Women’s Category A respectively at the maiden edition of the Johnnie Walker Annual Ghana Golf Championship, held over the weekend at the Achimota Golf Club.
The two-day championship, powered by Johnnie Walker Blue Label, attracted over 120 golfers alongside key figures from the corporate, diplomatic, and industrial sectors—signalling a bold addition to Ghana’s elite golf calendar.
Ayesu and Mensah were met with thunderous applause at the awards ceremony, where they received their prizes from Guinness Ghana Board Chairman, Felix Addo, and Marketing & Innovations Director, Estella Muzito.
Mensah, also a Director at Pamicor Ltd and Secretary to the Nsoromma Board of Directors, was widely lauded for her composed and steady play throughout the competition.
The exclusive event teed off on Friday with a warm reception for participants and guests, ushering in a weekend of intense sporting action and luxury hospitality. Guests were treated to premium grooming sessions—featuring haircuts, manicures, pedicures, and massages—ushering a new level of experience rarely seen at Ghanaian golf tournaments.
Later that day, Guinness Ghana Managing Director, Felicite Nson, addressed attendees at the first Johnnie Walker Blue Label tasting session.
“This championship is a bold new chapter in how we connect with our consumers in a meaningful and memorable way,” she said. “As we mark 65 years of Guinness Ghana, this event reflects the spirit that has brought us this far—and the one that will carry us into the future.”
The tasting, which quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights, led into the vibrant Mirror Ball party—an evening of dancing and networking.
Saturday’s final round saw golfers return to the course in search of glory. The Honey Groove Band kept spirits high as guests enjoyed grilled delicacies, signature cocktails, and immersive brand experiences.
By the time the final putts dropped, excitement had reached a crescendo ahead of the prize presentations.
In addition to the top winners, trophies were awarded in multiple categories—Category B, Seniors, Longest Drive, Nearest to the Pin, and Most Promising Player—recognising excellence across the board.
Closing the ceremony, Estella Muzito reiterated the championship’s core philosophy: “With Johnnie Walker, it’s always about progress—bringing people together, celebrating bold characters, and creating meaningful connections. We’re proud of what we’ve started and excited about the journey ahead.”
President of the Achimota Golf Club, Dr Frank Adu Jnr, thanked Guinness Ghana for choosing the club as host venue.
He expressed hope that the partnership will be maintained in subsequent editions, though he acknowledged that other clubs may soon compete to host due to the tournament’s prestige.
The championship ended on a high note with music, fine dining, and the camaraderie that defines a great sporting event. Beyond the trophies and cheers, the 2025 Johnnie Walker Ghana Golf Championship has set a new benchmark for corporate-sponsored sport in Ghana—establishing what many believe will become a cherished annual tradition.
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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The man who was assaulted by one of Cheddar’s bodyguards has decided against filing a complaint against the security guard.
According to him, the security guard has learned from his mistakes and has apologized for assaulting him.
He made this known when he addressed the press on the matter after he was checked by the doctors of the 2024 presidential candidate, Nana Kwame Bediako.
The event will be graced by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama
Ghana is set to bloom again!
From June 11-13, 2025, the Accra International Conference Center will come alive as over 200 exhibitors and 3,000 trade visitors from across the globe converge for the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025, under the transformative theme: “Innovate, Transform, sustain: Driving Growth in Ghana’s Horticultural Sector.”
Jointly powered by the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), this flagship Expo is more than just a trade fair-it is a rallying call to reposition Ghana’s horticulture industry as a strategic pillar of the national economy, capable of thriving in a 24-hour export-driven economy.
The event will be graced by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, who will be the keynote speaker.
His presence underscores government’s renewed commitment to supporting agribusiness transformation, job creation, climate resilience, and youth participation in export-led value chains.
Speaking ahead of the Expo, Davies Narh Korboe, President of FAGE, emphasized the urgency of the moment:
“The Ghana Horticulture Expo is not just an event-it is a vision materialized. It reflects our deep resolve to transition Ghana from a raw produce exporter into a value-added, globally competitive horticulture powerhouse.”
He added:
“We are not only showcasing our fruits, vegetables, tubers, and herbs. We are showcasing the future of Ghana’s economy- one that is inclusive, sustainable, and export-ready, operating around the clock.”
This year’s Expo goes beyond displays, it is a strategic convergence of policy, innovation, trade, and investment. Expect:
B2B matchmaking with international buyers
High-level policy roundtables and expert panels
Export readiness training sessions
A spotlight on women and youth-led agribusinesses and climate-smart technologies.
But at the heart of the Expo is a story of resilience and hope. It tells the story of a nation that is farming its way out of poverty, creating new jobs for the youth, and transforming women-led agri-enterprises into global brands.
Join the Movement!
Whether you are an exporter, buyer, investor, policymaker, academic, or tech innovator, the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025 is your front-row seat to the future of Africa’s green economy.
Kwaku Boateng
Vice-President- Coconut Federation-Ghana
Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, UG lecturer
A Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr Kwame Asah-Asante has criticized the growing trend of politicians, rallying party supporters at security agencies following arrests of political actors.
Describing the stunt as unnecessary, the academic observed that laws were frequently disregarded when such charged meetings happen at the premises.
Dr Asah-Asante, who was speaking with Naa Dedei on Morning Starr on Tuesday, said the occurences created anxiety in the public domain.
“If you look at the mass-up, it has been a common feature in this republic. NDC or NPP, whenever there’s an issue like that, they mobilize their supporters to go and mess up at whatever place there is. And then it creates all manner of, you know, uneasiness for everybody.
“Because sometimes you see rules are blocked. Sometimes the human traffic and all that isn’t necessary. It’s obviously not necessary,” the academic said on the morning show.
He said it was important for politicians to use the legal procedures “to its logical conclusion” in challenging any form of abuse by state actors.
“If somebody is not happy with a process which he feels or thinks there has been a breach, or the process has been what? A shortchange. Obviously, you know what to do. So, you can use the same legal process to seek redress. But the mass up is becoming a feature and I’m sure as a growing democracy, we don’t need this,” he remarked.
He warned that if the practice persisted it could lead to unintended consequences for the country.
During the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chair, Mr. Benard Antwi Boasiako’s detention at the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) last week, party supporters amassed at the agency’s premises, calling for his immediate release.
He has subsequently been released after meeting bail conditions.
Chief Osei Bonsu, popularly referred to as Tulenkey
Chief Osei Bonsu, popularly referred to as Tulenkey in the showbiz industry, has said he was confident of winning an award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA).
Tulenkey who won the ‘Best Hiplife Song’ with his song ‘Bad Feelings’ said he was so confident as if he was given a hint by event organisers, Charterhouse.
“I was very confident of winning the Best Hiplife Song at the TGMA because I attract good things in whatever I’m doing,” he revealed as MyNewsGh.com listened.
He explained during an interview on Property FM in Cape Coast that his confidence was inspired by his positive mindset in whatever he’s involved with.
“I believe that I had won the award already before going to the event because if you think positively the universe works for you.
“These are things which are not taught in schools about our mindset and the more you’re negative you push good things away from you.
He added “I was so confident that you might think someone working at Charter House or TGMA has given me a hint already but that’s not it”.
Dr S K Nuamah, a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Kwadaso on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has made explosive allegations detailing how he was forced out of his seat in what he describes as a politically orchestrated scheme spearheaded by party leadership in the Ashanti Region.
Dr Nuamah accused the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, of masterminding his removal.
According to the former MP, Chairman Wontumi explicitly told him he was under instructions to ensure he [Nuamah] was removed as parliamentary candidate.
“Our chairman Wontumi told me, right in front of me, that they said he should unseat me, so he will make sure he does,” Dr Nuamah stated in an interview on Oyerepa TV on June 3, 2025.
He recounted how he was instructed to apologise to then Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, without being told the reason for the apology.
“He was like I should go and apologise to Afriyie Akoto, and I didn’t even know my offence,” Nuamah said, suggesting that his refusal to comply may have contributed to his political downfall.
Dr Nuamah further alleged irregularities in the electoral process leading up to the NPP’s parliamentary primary in Kwadaso.
He said the delegates album used to elect constituency executives was changed just before the parliamentary primary a move he opposed but could not stop.
“They used the album for the constituency executives’ election but said they would change it for the parliamentary election. I did all I could, but they said no and changed it,” he explained.
The former MP revealed that he pursued the matter in court but claimed the sitting judge was intimidated and coerced into ruling against him.
“They called the judge to warn him, so he was under coercion to deliver the verdict without looking at the issue at hand,” Dr Nuamah alleged.
He admitted the party had made serious internal mistakes, stating, “That was how badly, people abused power during our tenure. You see, we are NPP and will die as NPP but let us talk about our sins.”
AM/KA
Renowned Ghanaian statesman and business leader, Sir Sam Jonah
Renowned Ghanaian statesman and business leader Sir Sam Jonah has issued a powerful call to action, urging the next generation of leaders to prioritise character above all else.
Addressing the graduating class of Academic City University on June 7, 2025, Jonah argued that Africa’s greatest need is not more degrees, wealth, or influence — but individuals grounded in integrity.
“What does the future need most from our leaders?” he asked the graduating students. His answer was swift and sharp: “Not degrees — you already have those. But without character, they are mere documents from an educational institution.”
Sir Sam didn’t stop there. He challenged conventional measures of success by dismantling the perceived power of social capital and wealth.
“Not connections — they help, but without character, you will corrupt or be corrupted by them,” he warned. “Not money — it is a reward for honest mental and physical investment. But without character, it will make you selfish, greedy, plunderous, and arrogant.”
In a world increasingly driven by status, Jonah’s message served as both a moral anchor and a wake-up call. “Character is the currency that never loses its value,” he declared.
“When you are known for honesty, for fairness, for keeping your word — people will follow you, trust you, and invest in you.”
He made it clear that the continent’s progress hinges not on technocrats or tycoons, but on principled individuals.
“Africa does not need more people with power, money, or fame. It needs more people with character,” he concluded, to resounding applause.
Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara
Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara was full of praise for his players on Sunday afternoon after their 1-0 win against FC Samartex in the final day of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.
Speaking to journalists after the game at the Accra Sports Stadium, the coach acknowledged the quality of the opponent’s team, indicating that it was not easy for his side to amass all three points against last season’s champions.
“This is one of the nicest and best teams in the Premier League. Don’t forget they are the champions from last season. We managed to get the three points, but it was not easy. We even had injured players, but we forced them to play. We got the three points and next season we go again,” Coach Aboubakar Ouattara said.
Despite the win against FC Samartex on the final day, Hearts of Oak finished fifth in the Ghana Premier League standings with 58 points, the same as rivals Asante Kotoko, who finished fourth.
The Porcupine Warriors lost to Vision FC in their final game of the season but secured the top-four spot due to their head-to-head advantage over the Phobians.
News Hub Creator40min
A leading voice in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), PK Sarpong, has strongly criticized Fadda Dickson and the producers of United Showbiz for allegedly using the entertainment platform to target the NPP unfairly.
Reacting to the discussion of Chairman Wontumi’s recent arrest on the show, PK Sarpong expressed shock that an entertainment program would focus on such a political matter. He questioned why Wontumi’s legal issues were made a topic of discussion when more serious national issues like the new Dumsor levy on fuel were ignored.
According to PK Sarpong, this is not the first time United Showbiz has shown bias against the NPP. He claimed that during the Akufo-Addo administration, the show regularly hosted guests who openly attacked the government, while hardly mentioning anything negative about the NDC.
He recalled that producers often defended their focus on the NPP by saying the party was in power and responsible for public funds. However, now that the NPP is in opposition, PK Sarpong wonders why the show still gives attention to NPP-related issues.
He believes this is part of a continued agenda led by Fadda Dickson to paint the NPP in a bad light, even when they are no longer in government. He said using the United Showbiz platform to drag Chairman Wontumi is unnecessary and unfair.
PK Sarpong further warned Fadda Dickson and the show’s producers to stop using their platform to push a political agenda against the NPP. He insisted that legal matters involving Wontumi should be left to the courts, not turned into entertainment content.
The Elections Committee of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Saturday announced the full list of nominations received for the national and regional executive positions in its upcoming election.
The list shows a total of 13 candidates for various positions at the national level, while 50 others have filed to contest positions at the regional level.
When Ayva Peña got a phone at age 10, her interest in skin care skyrocketed.
At first, she bonded over it with her mother, Giselle Peña. Together, they would have spa days with face masks and take occasional shopping trips to try out new products. But when the Rhode Island mother found a $300 anti-aging face cream in Ayva’s medicine drawer, it gave her pause.
“I got very upset. … She’s 15 years old,” Peña said. “It says it makes your skin ageless, improves fine lines, wrinkles and firmness. I was like, ‘This is not for you, girl.’”
Peña is among a growing number of parents concerned about how content on social media platforms is influencing children and teens into trying out elaborate, often age-inappropriate skin care products. Now, a study published Monday in the journal Pediatrics may confirm those parents’ worries.
After analysing beauty routines from 100 TikTok videos by content creators ages 7 through 18, researchers found an average of 11 potentially irritating active ingredients among their regimens, many of which carry a risk of developing skin allergies and increased sun sensitivity. Only a quarter of the lengthy product lists contained sunscreens, however.
“The majority of (children) featured in these videos didn’t have any visible acne. They had perfect, clear skin,” said Dr. Molly Hales, the first study author and a board-certified dermatologist in the department of dermatology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “For many of them, the harms probably outweigh any potential benefits.”
Between the dozens of daily serums, moisturizers, toners, and cleansers featured in the videos, the average routine was six steps long, costing about $168 — with some more than $500 — for one month’s worth of product, according to the study.
“When you have kids waking up at 5:30 in the morning on a school day to have enough time to layer on these complicated regimens, I think it becomes less about health and more (about) pursuing an idea of beauty that is unrealistic and problematic,” said Hales, who is also a postdoctoral research fellow at Feinberg. The findings raise serious ethical questions about how social media content influences young people in their everyday lives, she added
A TikTok spokesperson, noting that this type of content is “common across all media,” said the platform is only for users ages 13 and older, and any creators suspected to be under 13 are removed. Additionally, they said that TikTok works with third-party doctors and experts in adolescent development to implement safeguarding policies.
Red flags in teen skin care
Most of the studied skin care routines lacked a form of sunscreen but contained products that could increase sun sensitivity and risk of skin cancer, the authors found.
Common active ingredients found in recommended skin products were alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs, mild chemical exfoliants that help remove top layers of skin cells, Hales said. While they have the intended effect of evening skin tone and creating a more youthful appearance, they are known to make the skin more vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
“I would recommend daily sunscreen use for all ages and regimens, but especially for those using these (AHAs),” Hales said. “It’s a necessary step to prevent permanent skin damage.”
Those AHAs, as well as vitamin-based ingredients such as niacinamide, are also considered potential irritants, carrying side effects such as redness and dryness, especially with overuse.
“In many cases, the girls may not have realized they were applying the same active ingredient again and again, which just increases the risk of irritation,” said Dr. Tara Lagu, senior study author and adjunct lecturer of medicine and medical social sciences at Feinberg.
More than half the products contained fragrance — a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis — and 20 other inactive ingredients that are known allergens, according to the study.
“Misinformation is a big issue on social media, but especially for these content creators younger than 18,” said Dr. Sonal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist in Cleveland and director of pediatric dermatology at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital. Shah was not involved in the study.
“These are sources that perhaps don’t have a scientific background and are not well read in the science behind a lot of these products, how they work, or what risks they carry,” Shah said, adding that there are board-certified dermatologists on TikTok that could offer more credible advice.
Other concerning trends Shah has seen in her practice, but were not mentioned in the study, include mechanical exfoliants, such as scrubbing wands or cleansers containing plastic microbeads, which are often too rough for facial skin.
The study also noted that many of the creators were offering tips relevant to those with lighter complexions, which may exclude the unique skin care considerations of darker complexions while perpetuating harmful ideals of “brighter” skin associated with whiteness.
What skin care should teens use?
Both Shah and Hales recommend children under 18 who are not dealing with acne use a gentle cleanser with no active ingredients, paired with a fragrance-free moisturizer and a daily mineral sunscreen.
In general, children will not benefit from anti-aging products that promise to boost skin elasticity or eliminate fine lines, Shah said. At these young ages, collagen production is at the highest it will ever be.
As children reach puberty, however, they may produce more acne-causing hormones. In those cases, Shah recommends adding an over-the-counter product with salicylic acid or a low percentage of benzoyl peroxide.
“Their skin care does not have to be complicated and does not have to be very expensive,” Shah said. Parents “can talk to a board-certified dermatologist or pediatric dermatologist if there are skin concerns that are significant or don’t respond to over-the-counter treatment.”
The bigger picture
Ultimately, if parents are concerned about their child’s skin care regimen, they should talk about it, said Jennifer Harriger, a professor of psychology at Pepperdine University who studies childhood development, in a statement.
“I think that it is always best to have open conversations with children about the messages they see on social media as well as their own intentions behind purchasing particular skincare products,” said Harriger, who was not involved in the study.
It’s also important to keep an open mind, and understand the social dimension of youth beauty and wellness content, Hales said.
“These videos show a kind of playful self-expression that’s very appealing to this age group,” Hales said. “These are girls who are just starting to develop their own sense of independent identity, how they present (themselves) in the world, their gender identity, and in many cases what it means to be a girl in our society.”
Source: CNN.com
Ghana’s Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has publicly confirmed the death of Mr. Bernard Olu Sawyerr, the husband of Hon. Maame Pokua Sawyerr, Member of Parliament for Agona East. The news has stirred widespread grief among political circles and within the local community.
Dr. Forson personally visited Hon. Pokua Sawyerr at her residence to offer condolences and emotional support. During the visit, he consoled the grieving MP, who was visibly distraught by the sudden loss. The Finance Minister also signed the book of condolences and took a moment to speak with close family members, emphasizing the depth of the loss and offering solidarity on behalf of the political fraternity.
“It is with profound sorrow that I confirm the passing of Mr. Bernard Olu Sawyerr,” Dr. Forson stated. “This is not just a personal tragedy for our colleague, but a time of mourning for us all.”
Tributes have since poured in from across the country, with fellow lawmakers, party officials, and members of the public sharing memories and condolences. Social media platforms have also seen an outpouring of messages, reflecting the high regard in which Mr. Sawyerr was held.
In a brief statement, the bereaved family expressed appreciation for the many messages of sympathy and support. They announced that no one-week observance would be held, but assured the public that funeral and burial details would be communicated in due course. The family continues to welcome condolence visits in the interim.
Prominent members of Parliament from the Majority Caucus also visited Hon. Pokua Sawyerr to show their support. Their gesture, especially on a public holiday, was seen as a recognition of the Agona East MP’s long-standing service—she remains the only woman to have served four consecutive terms in the Central Region.
The loss of Mr. Sawyerr has been felt deeply across political and regional lines, highlighting the strong bonds and mutual respect that often transcend partisan divides.
The Special Prosecutor (SP), Kissi Agyebeng, has described the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) as “our best bet in tackling corruption.”
He emphasised the unique legal framework of the model, its operational independence and broadened mandate as critical strengths in the country’s fight against corruption.
Speaking at the African Union high-level Conference on Ghana’s Anti-Corruption Architecture in Accra last Friday, Mr Agyebeng said the model was a “unique and unprecedented remedy”, designed to correct the inadequacies of traditional approaches that lacked real legal and enforcement powers and operational independence.
He lauded the passage of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), which established the OSP in 2018, as a flagship anti-corruption institution of the country.
Mr Agyebeng said the OSP was set up with a unique fourfold mandate of investigating corruption and corruption-related cases, prosecuting suspected offenders, recovering , managing assets, and taking steps to prevent corruption.
“The model gives the OSP full control over the initiation and conduct of investigations, as well as the institution of criminal proceedings. It is politically neutral and non-selective in its operations,” he said.
The SP stressed that, for the first time in Ghana’s history, the fight against corruption had been extended beyond public office holders to include politically exposed persons (PEPs) and individuals in the private sector.
The conference was organised by the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC), a specialised organ of the African Union established in 2009 to promote and enhance the implementation of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC).
It was held on the theme: Revitalising the Anti-corruption Architecture in Africa: Ghana’s Accountability Journey”.
It was also to commemorate two decades of AUCPCC.
Present at the conference were the Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Commissioner of Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Joseph Whittal, the Chairperson of AUABC, Seynabou Ndiaye Diakhaté, a board member for AUABC, Yvonne Mutepuka Chibiya; the Chief of Staff at the Office of the Vice-President, Alex Segbefia, ministers of state, a lawyer and antigraft campaigner, Oliver Barker-Vormawor; representatives from the security services, members of the diplomatic corps, among others.
Mr Agyebeng said that although the OSP was initially born out of a campaign promise during the 2016 elections, it had since evolved into a legal embodiment of the country’s international obligations under both the United Nations and African Union anti-corruption treaties.
“The legal foundation of the OSP is not based solely on domestic law but also on international principles such as the Jakarta Statement on Principles for Anti-Corruption Agencies, which advocates independence, clear mandates and adequate resources for such bodies,” he added.
“While the establishment of the OSP fulfilled a political promise, it is, more importantly, a fulfilment of Ghana’s treaty obligations.
Its creation aligns with Article 6 and Article 36 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption and Article 5(3) of the AU Convention,” the SP said.
Acknowledging the strengths and limitations, Mr Agyebeng urged that the OSP model be strengthened during the ongoing constitutional review process to match the complexity of modern financial crimes.
“The model is not without shortcomings — such is the nature of any human construct.
Yet, we have a golden opportunity to reshape it during the ongoing constitutional review process to better serve our national objectives.
In doing so, we must remember that the fight against corruption is multifaceted,” the SP added.
He highlighted four challenges undermining the fight against corruption, saying that the law often lagged behind criminal innovation, and that truth was usually the first casualty in any criminal inquiry.
“Those who engage in grand corruption tend to be wealthy and well-connected.
Corrupt activities are among the most difficult to prove.
These acts are often cloaked in secrecy,” the SP stated.
Mr Agyebeng emphasised the need to establish a clear legal basis for lifestyle audits and non-conviction-based asset recovery as permanent features of the country’s anti-corruption arsenal.
“We must develop a system that, even if not infallible, is robust enough to withstand serious threats.
One of the most important elements of this system should be a lifestyle audit regime and non-conviction-based asset recovery,” he said.
Mr Agyebeng said these mechanisms would help detect and confiscate wealth acquired through dubious means—even without a criminal conviction—while ensuring fairness and due process.
Mr Agyebeng also proposed the inclusion of a “reverse onus clause”, where a person in possession of wealth disproportionate to their known income would be presumed to have acquired it corruptly unless they could satisfactorily explain the source.
The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, in a speech read on his behalf by his deputy, Dr Justice Srem-Sai, said the country’s commitment to combatting corruption was not performative, but rooted in the foundational values of the Fourth Republican Constitution, in our evolving legal reforms, and in the strengthening of independent institutions.
“We are confident that the ideas, recommendations and partnerships that emerge from the conference will move Africa closer to make integrity institutionalised, public office scared trust, not a personal privilege,” he added.
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RoyalNews360 Blog of Monday, 9 June 2025
Source: Boateng Kakape Nana
Accra, Ghana – Dr. John Apea, a Ghanaian business executive and international diplomat, continues to attract widespread attention for his dynamic leadership across multiple sectors including technology, finance, politics, diplomacy, and global trade.
Dr. Apea currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of eTranzact Ghana, one of the country’s leading electronic payment platforms. In addition to his role in the fintech industry, he also holds a significant diplomatic position as the Head of Mission for Ghana, Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Cameroon at the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC). The CWEIC is a prestigious organization established by the 54 Heads of Government of the Commonwealth to promote trade and investment among member countries.
With an extensive background in strategic communications and data technologies, Dr. Apea previously worked as a Senior Strategist for SCL Group and Cambridge Analytica, two globally recognized firms known for their influence in data analytics and political consulting. He also served as the Africa Regional Director for the Royal Commonwealth Office, where he oversaw programs across 19 African countries. In this role, he collaborated with British High Commissions to coordinate royal and Commonwealth-related events while championing business development across the continent.
In addition to his executive responsibilities, Dr. Apea is the Chairman of Interstandard Group, a respected advisory firm that consults for international governments, major corporations, and high-profile CEOs on key political and economic issues across Africa.
He is also known for his academic achievements. A proud alumnus of Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC), Dr. Apea holds a Doctorate in Business and Leadership from the European International University in Paris. He also pursued graduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the University of York in the United Kingdom.
Dr. Apea is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (UK) and a Member of the Institute of Directors, underscoring his influence in both the corporate and public sectors.
Many industry watchers and diplomatic observers regard Dr. John Apea as one of Africa’s rising global voices in business and policy, whose multidimensional expertise is helping to shape the continent’s position in international trade and diplomacy.
The 2025 edition of the Citi Business Festival has entered its second week with a strategic spotlight on agribusiness.
The discussions this week will focus on priority areas to unlock value across Ghana’s agricultural sector.
This leg of the festival will explore high-impact themes in the agriculture value chain including – Basic opportunities in the agric sector, agribusiness financing, understanding the seed and agri-input economy as well as agric technology and innovation.
There will be on-air series running throughout the week on Citi FM and Channel One TV from Monday through to Thursday at 9 a.m. on Citi FM and 10 a.m. on Channel One TV.
The sessions feature seasoned industry players and policy analysts providing knowledge and information on the various topics.
On June 19, there will be a Forum on Agribusiness. From June 20 to 22, an AgriFair will also be held at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park.
The AgriFair will assemble producers of various farm produce including crops, livestock and agro-processed products to connect with consumers, retailers and other business prospects.
Later on in the week, Citi FM and Channel One TV will organise a special forum on tariffs and global trade under the theme: “The global tariffs dispute: Navigating Ghana’s Recovery Strategy.”
The forum will bring together a panel of renowned trade, policy and finance experts to dissect Ghana’s positioning in a volatile global trade environment and explore strategic recovery pathways aligned with Africa’s continental trade integration agenda.
Confirmed panelists include, Dr. Ekow Spio-Garbrah, Former Minister of Trade and Industry, Emmanuel Mensah, Head of Trade and Working Capital, Absa Bank Ghana, Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi, CEO, African Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET) and Michael Kottoh, Managing Partner, Konfidants
It will be held at the Venue: Alisa Hotel, Accra at 8:30am on Thursday June 12, 2025.
The forum is expected to produce actionable proposals on enhancing economic resilience amid tariff shifts and contribute to Ghana’s economic recovery agenda.
The 2025 Citi Business Festival, powered by Citi FM and Channel One TV, is a month-long initiative dedicated to driving business growth and economic transformation.
It is held in partnership with Absa Bank Ghana and MTN, with sponsorship from Zonda Tec Ghana.
Ghana’s currency has shown significant appreciation against major trading currencies, prompting cautious optimism among citizens and businesses.
As of late May, the cedi traded between 10.29 and 10.3 per U.S. dollar, a sharp recovery from 15.3 cedis to the dollar at the start of 2025, according to Bank of Ghana data.
Lord Appiah-Dankwa, head of a trader association in Accra, noted the stronger cedi reduces business costs: “We need fewer cedis to trade internationally, lowering prices for imports and petroleum products.” He cautioned that short-term losses may occur for holders of old stock but emphasized the need for “stability and sustainability” in exchange rates.
Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama attributed the rally to tight monetary policy, fiscal consolidation, record foreign reserves ($10.1 billion), and stricter forex market oversight. Year-to-date, the cedi gained 24.1% against the dollar, 16.2% against the pound, and 14.1% against the euro, contributing to a 2.6-percentage-point decline in inflation.
President John Mahama linked the currency’s strength to reduced debt burdens, citing a ₵150 billion debt decrease over five months. He projected Ghana could lower its public debt-to-GDP ratio to below 55% by year-end—three years ahead of schedule—if trends continue. Government measures include spending cuts, tax reforms, and regulated gold trade to bolster reserves.
Currency appreciation can ease inflation and debt servicing costs in import-dependent economies but requires sustained stability to benefit businesses long-term.
The event will be graced by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama
Ghana is set to bloom again!
From June 11-13, 2025, the Accra International Conference Center will come alive as over 200 exhibitors and 3,000 trade visitors from across the globe converge for the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025, under the transformative theme: “Innovate, Transform, sustain: Driving Growth in Ghana’s Horticultural Sector.”
Jointly powered by the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE) and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), this flagship Expo is more than just a trade fair-it is a rallying call to reposition Ghana’s horticulture industry as a strategic pillar of the national economy, capable of thriving in a 24-hour export-driven economy.
The event will be graced by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, who will be the keynote speaker.
His presence underscores government’s renewed commitment to supporting agribusiness transformation, job creation, climate resilience, and youth participation in export-led value chains.
Speaking ahead of the Expo, Davies Narh Korboe, President of FAGE, emphasized the urgency of the moment:
“The Ghana Horticulture Expo is not just an event-it is a vision materialized. It reflects our deep resolve to transition Ghana from a raw produce exporter into a value-added, globally competitive horticulture powerhouse.”
He added:
“We are not only showcasing our fruits, vegetables, tubers, and herbs. We are showcasing the future of Ghana’s economy- one that is inclusive, sustainable, and export-ready, operating around the clock.”
This year’s Expo goes beyond displays, it is a strategic convergence of policy, innovation, trade, and investment. Expect:
B2B matchmaking with international buyers
High-level policy roundtables and expert panels
Export readiness training sessions
A spotlight on women and youth-led agribusinesses and climate-smart technologies.
But at the heart of the Expo is a story of resilience and hope. It tells the story of a nation that is farming its way out of poverty, creating new jobs for the youth, and transforming women-led agri-enterprises into global brands.
Join the Movement!
Whether you are an exporter, buyer, investor, policymaker, academic, or tech innovator, the Ghana Horticulture Expo 2025 is your front-row seat to the future of Africa’s green economy.
Kwaku Boateng
Vice-President- Coconut Federation-Ghana
A photo collage of Kennedy Agyapong and Bernard Antwi Boasiako
George Oduro, a former Member of Parliament for New Edubiase, has revealed why a property owned by Kennedy Agyapong valued at $20 million failed to meet the bail requirements for the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, when he was in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
According to him, Kennedy Agyapong’s property had previously been accepted as surety to bail Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, a former Board Chairperson of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), in his ongoing trial.
The bail conditions in that case required two sureties to be justified with landed properties situated in Accra worth GH₵10m.
He explained that despite the fact that the property’s value exceeds the GH₵50 million bail condition set for Wontumi and the GH₵10m for Prof Ekumfi, it was still rejected for legal reasons.
He stated that lawyer for Wontumi, Andy Appiah Kubi, indicated the property documents were already in the custody of the court due to the previous case involving Prof Ameyaw-Akumfi.
Therefore, they could not be used again to secure bail for Wontumi.
“Some people accused Kennedy Agyapong of being behind Wontumi’s arrest because one of his boys, Alex, made certain statements to that effect but I was there when Kennedy Agyapong brought a huge property to bail Wontumi. It was only because of land title issues that he couldn’t.”
“He was genuinely worried that he couldn’t secure bail for him. He made about three calls to the Tema Development Corporation to assess some of his properties,” he said.
He disclosed this in an interview on Movement TV on June 4, 2025.
Expatiating on how Kennedy Agyapong made every effort to secure bail for Wontumi, George Oduro explained that most of the properties that Kennedy presented lacked the necessary land titles, rendering them unusable for the bail process.
“He told Andy that he had used some property to bail Professor Ameyaw-Akumfi, and since Wontumi’s bail condition was GH₵50 million, the same property should suffice because it is worth $20m. But Andy explained that the documents were already in court custody due to legal proceedings and, therefore, EOCO would not accept them.”
Chairman Wontumi was released by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) on Monday, June 2, 2025, after being arrested on multiple charges.
His release came after meeting bail conditions with assistance from Bryan Acheampong, the former Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi, who stood as one of his sureties.
A motion to appeal the GH¢50 million bail condition was withdrawn by his legal team on Monday, June 2.
The motion, initially filed on May 30, and scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, June 3, was retracted a day earlier.
On Wednesday, May 28, two additional sureties were added to fulfill the bail conditions.
His legal team, led by lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi, confirmed that the full bail requirements were met on Friday, May 30.
However, his release was delayed because the bail review application had been filed without his express authorization.
On Thursday, May 29, members of the minority party demonstrated at EOCO headquarters and staged a walkout from Parliament, demanding Wontumi’s immediate release.
They argued that, given his public reputation and low flight risk, he should have been released on his own recognizance.
AM/AME
File photo of a fuel station
Ghana’s Oil Marketing Companies say they won’t comply with the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) directive to implement the new Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) starting Monday, June 9,2025.
In a strongly worded letter to the GRA, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) slammed the sudden rollout—announced over a long weekend with less than 48 hours’ notice—as “neither lawful nor operationally feasible.”
The group likened the directive to “institutional ambush” and accused the government of using “coercion” reminiscent of a military regime.
“This Rambo-style approach to tax implementation is unacceptable,” the letter stated.
COMAC revealed that it had met with the Minister for Energy and Green Transition on June 5 and proposed a phased rollout, but its input was ignored.
The chamber warned that the new levy, which raises the total tax load at the pump to 26%, threatens the survival of fuel businesses and could hurt consumers.
Given the short notice, especially for cash-based operators, COMAC says its members won’t implement the levy and are demanding at least two weeks to transition—proposing a new start date of June 16.
This standoff adds fuel to an already heated debate over the rising cost of fuel and government fiscal policies.
Ghanaian musician, Tulenkey born Chief Osei Bonsu
Ghanaian musician, Tulenkey born Chief Osei Bonsu has stated that a lot of men are dying in silence for fear of being perceived as weak when they speak.
Explaining the message behind his new song ‘B33ma’ in an interview with Amansan Krakye, he said society doesn’t respect men who are weak and vulnerable.
He revealed “He My new song B33ma goes out to all men who are going through tough times but can’t speak out because it is said that men don’t cry.
“Men are really suffering in silence, and it is perceived that whatever that happens to a man he’s not supposed to voice out.
“A lot of men are going through a lot and hoarding things in them but can’t speak because society sees those who speak as weak men and vulnerable.
“Most men want to be respected in the society but most men who are vulnerable and weak easily lose their respect in our communities,” he opined as MyNewsGh.com observed.
File photo of a fuel station
Ghana’s Oil Marketing Companies say they won’t comply with the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) directive to implement the new Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) starting Monday, June 9,2025.
In a strongly worded letter to the GRA, the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) slammed the sudden rollout—announced over a long weekend with less than 48 hours’ notice—as “neither lawful nor operationally feasible.”
The group likened the directive to “institutional ambush” and accused the government of using “coercion” reminiscent of a military regime.
“This Rambo-style approach to tax implementation is unacceptable,” the letter stated.
COMAC revealed that it had met with the Minister for Energy and Green Transition on June 5 and proposed a phased rollout, but its input was ignored.
The chamber warned that the new levy, which raises the total tax load at the pump to 26%, threatens the survival of fuel businesses and could hurt consumers.
Given the short notice, especially for cash-based operators, COMAC says its members won’t implement the levy and are demanding at least two weeks to transition—proposing a new start date of June 16.
This standoff adds fuel to an already heated debate over the rising cost of fuel and government fiscal policies.
Minister for Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei
The Tema Development Company (TDC) Limited has officially launched an innovative suite of client services, including a 24-hour call centre alongside newly introduced Prestige and Premium Service platforms, aimed at redefining public real estate service delivery and aligning with the national “resetting agenda” championed by the government.
The landmark event, held in Tema—the country’s foremost planned city and a historic hub for industrial and urban development—was graced by high-profile dignitaries, including the President of the Republic, ministers of state, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders and a broad spectrum of stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister for Works and Housing, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, lauded the initiative as a strategic and people-centred transformation that reinforces government’s digitalisation and public service reforms.
“Establishing a fully operational 24-hour call centre and first-class service tiers reflects a new standard in public housing delivery—professional, timely and responsive,” he stated.
He emphasised that housing must not only serve structural needs but foster equity, dignity, and opportunity in Ghana’s fast-urbanising landscape.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Managing Director of TDC Ghana Ltd, Courage Kweku Makafui Nunekpeku, described the initiative as a national response to the call for a 24-hour economy.
“We are launching not just a new set of services, but a new mindset—an unrelenting commitment to client accessibility, reliability and excellence,” she said.
The Managing Director outlined the service package, which includes round-the-clock client support via phone, email, and chat; Prestige services with doorstep delivery and bespoke relationship management; and Premium services offering expedited, VIP walk-in experiences.
Additional offerings include a dedicated despatch service for same-day delivery within Accra and Tema, with options for global courier coordination for international clients.
The services are designed for high-net-worth individuals, investors, executives and the Ghanaian diaspora.
The initiative, stakeholders believe, will create new employment avenues, boost investor confidence and position TDC Ghana Ltd as a flagship institution for client-centric innovation in the public sector.
In closing, the minister reaffirmed government’s full backing, urging residents and investors to embrace the new platforms as a shared opportunity to build resilient and inclusive communities.
TDC Ghana Ltd’s transition into 24-hour operations marks a pivotal moment in the urban development trajectory—one that blends heritage with forward-thinking solutions to meet the aspirations of a modern Ghana.
Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara
Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara was full of praise for his players on Sunday afternoon after their 1-0 win against FC Samartex in the final day of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.
Speaking to journalists after the game at the Accra Sports Stadium, the coach acknowledged the quality of the opponent’s team, indicating that it was not easy for his side to amass all three points against last season’s champions.
“This is one of the nicest and best teams in the Premier League. Don’t forget they are the champions from last season. We managed to get the three points, but it was not easy. We even had injured players, but we forced them to play. We got the three points and next season we go again,” Coach Aboubakar Ouattara said.
Despite the win against FC Samartex on the final day, Hearts of Oak finished fifth in the Ghana Premier League standings with 58 points, the same as rivals Asante Kotoko, who finished fourth.
The Porcupine Warriors lost to Vision FC in their final game of the season but secured the top-four spot due to their head-to-head advantage over the Phobians.
When you hear the name Rawlings in Ghana, images of political power and national leadership come to mind. The late former President Jerry John Rawlings and former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings are among the most iconic figures in Ghana’s history.
Their children naturally inherited a place in the public eye but not all of them embraced it. Meet the little known son of Rawlings, Kimathi Agyeman-Rawlings, a man who quietly carved his own path away from politics and fame.
Born in 1980 in Accra, Ghana, Kimathi is the youngest child and the only son of the Rawlings family. His name itself carries the spirit of African resistance and freedom, as his father named him after Dedan Kimathi, the celebrated Kenyan freedom fighter. From the very beginning, the young Kimathi was surrounded by powerful ideas of leadership, revolution, and service to the African people.
Yet, unlike his elder sister, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, who embraced public service and entered the political arena, Kimathi chose a different direction. He always maintained a calm and private presence, preferring to build his life away from the political limelight that follows the Rawlings name.
Kimathi started his educational journey at North Ridge Lyceum and Morning Star School in Accra. As he matured, he followed his passion for business and pursued further studies abroad. He graduated from Aston University in Birmingham, United Kingdom, with a Bachelor of Science degree in International Business.
Instead of returning to Ghana to enter politics or public life, Kimathi opted for the corporate world. He is now a Commercial and Portfolio Advisor at Eni, a global oil and gas company, working in London. In this role, he contributes to international energy projects, helping shape a critical industry without ever needing to step onto a political stage.
What makes Kimathi’s story so fascinating is the contrast it presents within his own family. In a household where leadership and public service were daily conversations, he followed a quieter path. While his father stood at the forefront of Ghana’s revolution and democracy, and his sister campaigns for national progress, Kimathi represents a different kind of legacy — one grounded in professionalism, humility, and a deliberate choice to live outside the media spotlight.
In an era where many children of famous leaders use their family name for public recognition, Kimathi’s modest approach is refreshing. His success in the corporate world shows that leadership can take many forms. It’s not always about holding office or appearing on television; sometimes, it’s about quietly excelling in your field and letting your work speak for itself.
Though curiosity often surrounds the Rawlings family, Kimathi remains grounded. His story is a powerful reminder that even those born into fame have the freedom to choose their own path. And sometimes, the most impactful leaders are those who lead by example, away from the public gaze.
Source: Modern Ghana
Nollywood actress, Doris Ogala, has warned her former best friend, Tonto Dikeh, for allegedly recruiting people to attack her online.
Naija News reports that Doris claimed that a supposed friend of Tonto, ‘Sheddy of Lagos’, in a post via Instagram, accused her of being ungrateful after the former friend gifted her a Bentley.
Here are some foods and beverages to avoid or limit after 40 for optimal health:
1. Sugary Drinks and Sodas
Sugary beverages are loaded with empty calories and can lead to rapid blood sugar spikes. As metabolism slows with age, the body becomes less efficient at processing sugar, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, weight gain, and fatty liver.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has revised the implementation of the controversial Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy following stiff resistance from oil marketing companies.
Originally scheduled to take effect on Monday June 9, the new GHC1-per-litre levy faced rejection from the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), who raised concerns over its timing and potential impact on fuel prices and consumer burden.
In an interaction with Citi News, the GRA confirmed that after discussions “in the spirit of cordiality and partnership,” a new implementation date of June 16 has been agreed upon.
“The Association has concerns with the 9 June implementation date. We have discussed with their leadership in the spirit of cordiality and partnership and have agreed a new start date of 16 June,” the GRA stated.
The levy is part of government measures to settle mounting debts in the energy sector, but industry players argue that they were not adequately consulted and that the rollout risks further destabilising the already volatile downstream petroleum market.
Under the new directive:
The new rates apply to all petroleum products not lifted before June 9, 2025.
However, transitional arrangements have been put in place:
Commissioner-General of the GRA, Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, signed the directive and urged all ports and fuel stations to strictly comply.
A Colombian presidential candidate remains in intensive care after he was shot three times – twice in the head – at a campaign event in the capital, Bogotá.
Miguel Uribe Turbay, a 39-year-old senator, was attacked while addressing supporters in a park on Saturday. Police arrested a 15-year-old suspect at the scene, the attorney general’s office said.
Uribe’s wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, called on the nation to pray for his survival, saying: “Miguel is currently fighting for his life. Let us ask God to guide the hands of the doctors who are treating him.”
Uribe’s Centro Democratico party condemned the attack, calling it a threat to “democracy and freedom in Colombia”.
Footage shared online appears to show the moment when he was shot in the head mid-speech, prompting those gathered to flee in panic.
He was airlifted to the Santa Fe Foundation hospital where supporters gathered to hold a vigil.
Uribe was rushed into surgery while in a critical condition, Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán said late on Saturday night.
The hospital said on Sunday morning that Uribe had undergone procedures to his head and left thigh, before being taken to be stabilised in intensive care.
He remains in an extremely serious condition, it added.
The 15-year-old suspect was shot in the leg as police and security officers pursued him following the attack, according to local media.
He was arrested carrying a “9mm Glock-type firearm”, a statement from the attorney general’s office said. An investigation is under way.
The government of left-wing President Gustavo Petro said it “categorically” condemned the attack as an “act of violence not only against his person, but also against democracy”.
Defence Minister Pedro Sanchez deplored the “vile attack” and offered a 3bn peso ($730,000; £540,000) reward for information about who may have been behind it.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the shooting as a “direct threat to democracy”.
He blamed the attack, without providing examples, on “violent leftist rhetoric coming from the highest levels of the Colombian government”. The suspect’s motivation remains unclear.
Many Colombians have condemned the hostile rhetoric increasingly used by the government and opposition parties alike.
The week before the shooting was particularly tense, with Petro seeking popular backing for his reforms in a move that opposition leaders – including Uribe – dubbed unconstitutional.
Petro urged Colombians to wish Uribe well, on what he described as a “day of pain” in a video address to the nation.
There was a “political difference” between Uribe and the government, but it was “only political”, he said.
“What matters most today is that all Colombians focus with the energy of our hearts, with our will to live… on ensuring that Dr Miguel Uribe stays alive,” the president added.
Uribe, a right-wing critic of Petro, announced his candidacy for next year’s presidential election in October. He has been a senator since 2022.
He is from a prominent political family in Colombia, with links to the country’s Liberal Party. His father was a union leader and businessman.
His mother was Diana Turbay, a journalist who was killed in 1991 in a rescue attempt after she had been kidnapped by the Medellin drugs cartel run at the time by Pablo Escobar.
For many, Saturday’s shooting harked back to Colombia’s violent history, when figures like Escobar attacked politicians to pressure the government.
“We cannot return to situations of political violence, nor to times when violence was used to eliminate those who thought differently,” Bogotá Mayor Galán said shortly after the attack.
Petro had been elected on a promise to bring “total peace” to the country.
He made early progress in talks with gangs and rebel groups, but his interior minister recently acknowledged that the strategy was “not going well”.
Dozens of soldiers and police officers were killed over a two-week span in April, in attacks the Colombian government blamed on armed groups.
Earlier in the year, more than 32,000 people fled their homes in the northern Catatumbo region, where to rival rebel groups engaged in bloody fighting despite a peace treaty.
Source: BBC
National Organizer for Friends of Bawumia (FOB’08) Rev George Opoku Acheampong has denounce his support for the New Patriotic Party’s, NPP 2024 presidential candidate Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, mybrytfmonline can confirm.
The experienced organizer has now confirmed his die hard support to the Abetifi lawmaker Bryan Acheampong to lead the party in the 2028 general elections.
A 27-year-old Satellite Installer has been remanded into police custody by the Asante Akropong Circuit court in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District for defiling three girls at Atwima Agogo.
Emmanuel Bonsu pleaded not guilty to the charge of defilement and will reappear before the court on June 17, this year.
Police Chief Inspector Evans Ayimbisah, prosecuting, told the court presided over by Mrs. Gloria Mensah Bonsu that the cases happened at Atwima Agogo.
He said, on November 29, 2024, the first victim, a 14-year-old form two pupil, was washing her clothes outside the house while her mother had gone to town.
He said the accused who was passing by lured her into an uncompleted building, pulled out a screwdriver, pointed it at her and ordered her to touch his nipples, for which she complied.
The accused person forcibly had sexual intercourse with her, took to his heels after the act, and left the victim bleeding from her vagina.
Prosecution said on February 2, this year at about 1500 hours, the second victim, a 15-year-old second year senior high school student visited her friend after classes and when returning home met the accused person who held her hand, dragged her into an uncompleted building.
This time, he pulled out a knife and instructed her to obey his instructions to avoid any harm.
He undressed her, inserted his penis into her vagina and forcibly had sexual intercourse with her, cleaned the victim’s vagina with a rag after which he ordered her to leave.
On April 28, the third victim, an 11-year-old junior high school pupil, was home with her other siblings when a witness in the case sent her on an errand, the prosecution told the court.
On her way, she met the accused who sexually abused her by spitting on his penis before inserting it into her vagina.
Chief Inspector Ayimbisah explained that the complainants who were mothers of the victims reported the cases to the Abuakwa police leading to the arrest of the accused on May 16 at Atwima Agogo.
An identification parade was conducted, and the victims identified the accused person as the one who defiled them.
In his caution statement, he denied the offence but after further investigations he was charged and brought before the court.
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.
Kenya’s independent police oversight body has launched an investigation into the death of a man who had been detained “for false publication”, police have said.
Albert Ojwang was arrested for a post on X in the western town of Homa Bay and then driven 350km (220 miles) to the capital, Nairobi, his father Meshack Opiyo told journalists.
“While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall,” a police statement said. He was rushed to hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The director of rights group Amnesty International’s Kenya branch told the BBC that the death of Mr Ojwang, described as a teacher and blogger, was “very suspicious”.
Amnesty said in a statement that his death “raises serious questions that must be urgently, thoroughly, and independently investigated”.
Senior police officer Stephen Okal is quoted by the Star newspaper as saying what happened in the cell was “an attempted suicide”.
It is not clear what the charge of “false publication” referred to, but Mr Opiyo told online news site Citizen Digital that the arresting police officer said “Albert had insulted a senior person on X”, the social media platform.
Referring to the circumstances of his arrest, Amnesty International Kenya director Irungu Houghton said it was “quite shocking” that Mr Ojwang was not booked in at the local police station after being detained, but was instead taken on a long journey.
He called on the independent investigators to secure what he described as “the crime scene” at the police station in Nairobi.
The police said that Mr Ojwang was “lawfully arrested”.
His detention and death comes at a time of rising concern about how some government critics are being treated.
Last week, software developer Rose Njeri – who created a tool to help people oppose a government finance bill – was charged with violating a cybercrime law.
President John Dramani Mahama has announced the government’s plan to ban the importation, manufacturing, and use of Styrofoam plastic takeaway packs in the country.
The President made the announcement when he formally launched the One Tree Per Child Initiative at the Kwabenya Community Senior High School in Accra, as part of activities marking World Environment Day.
The impending ban of styrofoam, a non-biodegradable material, is in response to the growing problem of waste accumulation, especially in urban areas such as Accra.
He said the fight against illegal mining, the wanton destruction of the nation’s forest, and pollution was important in order that they could hand over a good environment to their younger brothers and sisters and their children who were yet unborn.
He reiterated that one of the other things they intended to do was to ban styrofoam as a food packaging material.
“One of the most pernicious polluters is styrofoam plastic. When you go to buy your food and they put it in that white plastic something, and then you finish eating, you just dump it, that is one of the biggest polluters,” he said.
“And so, we are going to ban the importation of styrofoam plastics.
“We have to use paper packaging or aluminum foil for packaging our food.”
The President said he was informing the manufacturers and importers of styrofoam of their decision, stating that in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, they were going to ban the importation of styrofoam and production of styrofoam in Ghana.
President Mahama said food packaging in the country would be made from paper and from aluminum material.
Source: GNA
Member of Parliament for Assin Central Constituency, Kennedy Agyapong.
Businessman and failed New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer aspirant, Kennedy Agyapong, has come under fire on social media for comments he made in a viral video, deemed a religious stereotype against former Vice President and 2024 NPP presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The video, which has been widely circulated on social media, has the former MP averring that he should be elected NPP’s flagbearer for the 2028 elections because Christians did not vote for Bawumia in 2024, adding that he is the one who can bring the party back to power.
You have heard it, Ghanaians say if you bring Ken Agyapong in your search for power, they will vote for you. Do you want to wait for another 4 years or 8 years? Are you ready for that? Are you ready for that? Are you ready for that? Let us listen to what the grassroots are saying, let us listen to what Ghanaians are saying, Kennedy Agyapong said.
As he repeatedly asked his listeners whether they are ready for a supposed long wait for power, they responded ‘no’ each time.
He told his audience that he was being proverbial, and that the NPP is where it is now because when Christians spoke and were ignored, they voted to make their point.
The churches spoke. In this church where we are, they spoke. I am speaking in proverbially. The church spoke, but we did not listen, and that is what has landed us where we are today.
The former MP, known for his eccentric comments, has been accused of fanning divisive sentiments within the NPP, with his religious sentiments.
A number of social media users have expressed disappointment in him for his approach, which they say is inimical to party unity.
“Your attitude is what I hate. You couldn’t deliver your constituency. Tell us if Bawumia is the reason we lost most parliamentary seats,” a supporter of NPP, Lambon Augustina reported.
Another, Addo Frank, accused Kennedy Agyapong of shifting the attention of Ghanaians from the new D-levy the government has introduced to the internal NPP contest.
Many others also accused Kennedy Agyapong of hypocrisy, and reminded him of how he campaigned against his own party and how the National Democratic Congress used his own voice against the NPP.
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.
Rumours about Netflix removing Christian movies have stirred debate, but this isn’t true. Christian films are still available on the platform, with new faith-based content occasionally added. Netflix regularly updates its library based on licensing and viewer interest, meaning some titles may go while others remain.
Despite the persistent rumour, Netflix is not deliberately removing Christian movies. The platform reviews licensing agreements, analyses viewership trends, and adjusts its content library to align with strategic priorities, occasionally scrapping some shows in the process.
According to Looper, the rumour that Netflix was removing Christian movies originated in 2016 from a satirical article published by News Thump. The article falsely claimed that Netflix was eliminating Christian content due to complaints, but some readers took it seriously, spreading misinformation on social media.
The rumour resurfaced in 2021, prompting USA Today to conduct a fact-checking investigation. Their research confirmed that the claim was false, as Netflix had not deliberately removed Christian movies. Faith-based content remained available on the platform’s “faith and spirituality” section.
While not deliberate, some Christian films may leave due to expired contracts or low engagement, but Netflix continues to offer faith-based content. The platform regularly updates its library, and Christian films with lower engagement may not have their contracts renewed.
Additionally, Netflix is focusing more on original content, reducing reliance on third-party films, including faith-based titles. While some Christian movies leave, new ones are occasionally added to maintain a diverse selection.
Netflix offers a variety of Christian movies in its catalogue under the “faith and spirituality” genre. The platform features faith-based films, including titles like The Chosen, The Prince of Egypt, I Still Believe, and Testament: The Story of Moses. Other notable titles include Stories of a Generation – with Pope Francis, Mary Mother of Jesus, and The Forge.
As of this writing, there is no evidence to suggest Jesus Revolution is leaving Netflix soon, as it is not part of “what’s leaving Netflix in June 2025”. The film remains available on the platform alongside other faith-based titles.
Jesus Revolution is a 2023 Christian drama based on true events. It follows Greg Laurie, a searching teenager, Lonnie Frisbee, a hippie preacher, and Pastor Chuck Smith, who welcome young seekers into their church. Together, they ignite a spiritual awakening that transforms lives across America.
These are the latest Christian movies currently streaming on Netflix in June 2025:
| Movie title | Release date |
| Journey to Grace: The Hansie Cronje Story | 2008 |
| Not Easily Broken | 2009 |
| War Room | 28 August 2015 |
| Miracles from Heaven | 16 March 2016 |
| Same Kind of Different as Me | 20 October 2017 |
| Stories of a Generation – with Pope Francis | 25 December 2021 |
| Blue Miracle | 27 May 2021 |
| Voices of Fire | 20 November 2020 |
| Tarung Sarung | 31 December 2020 |
| Our Lady of San Juan, Four Centuries of Miracles | 2 February 2021 |
| I Heard the Bells | 2 December 2022 |
| The Blind | 28 September 2023 |
| Mysteries of the Faith | 1 November 2023 |
| A Taste of Sin | 20 March 2024 |
| Testament: The Story of Moses | 27 March 2024 |
| Unsung Hero | 26 April 2024 (Digital: 11 June 2024) |
| The Forge | 23 August 2024 (Netflix: 21 December 2024) |
| The Wait | 20 September 2024 |
| Mary Mother of Jesus | 6 December 2024 |
| Sampung Utos Kay Josh | 29 January 2025 |
| Christmas Love | 2022 |
| The Remaining | 5 September 2014 |
| Deive Leonardo: The Answer | 2023 |
One of the best Christian movies currently available is The King of Kings, an animated retelling of Jesus’ life. With a solid rating on IMDb (7.0/10), the film brings biblical events to life through stunning animation and heartfelt storytelling.
Narrated by a father sharing Christ’s journey with his son, the animated movie beautifully captures Jesus’ miracles, sacrifices, and teachings.
According to Ranker, The Passion of the Christ (2004) is the biggest Christian movie ever. It was a massive box office success, grossing over $600 million worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing R-rated films of all time.
As of now, Netflix hasn’t released a new Christian show. Its most recent release is Testament: The Story of Moses, which aired in March 2024. This three-part docudrama vividly portrays Moses’ journey from exile to prophet and liberator, featuring expert interviews and compelling storytelling.
The best Christian movie platform depends on individual preferences and accessibility. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video offer faith-based films alongside mainstream content, while Disney+ includes animated classics like The Prince of Egypt. Hulu, Apple TV+, and HBO Max occasionally feature Christian-themed titles.
For a dedicated faith-based experience, PureFlix and Dove Channel specialise in Christian movies and series, providing an extensive library of uplifting and spiritually enriching content.
Netflix isn’t specifically removing Christian films from its platform, but its content changes due to licensing and audience preferences. Some faith-based films may leave, but others remain available. The idea that Netflix is deliberately removing Christian movies as part of an agenda is a false, persistent rumour.
Yen.com.gh published an informative article about the best Christian movies based on true stories. Some movies draw from biblical tales, while many portray real stories of individuals overcoming challenges, experiencing life-changing transitions, and navigating passionate romances.
Christian films based on true stories are impactful because they demonstrate God’s greatness. They depict true tales of individuals overcoming impossible odds and transition stories. Discover some of the best-rated real-life Christian movies in the article.
Proofreading by Samuel Gitonga, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Last week’s primary auction saw another undersubscription by the Treasury, with investor demand weakening against a target of GHS 6.67 billion.
The government accepted GHS 4.37 billion from a total offer of GHS 5.47 billion.
According to the Central Bank’s auction results, the Treasury rejected bids worth GHS 1.09 billion, despite falling short of its target by 34.39%.
Out of the GHS 3.50 billion issued for the 91-day bill, GHS 2.65 billion was accepted.
For the 182-day bill, GHS 1.67 billion was accepted from an offer of GHS 1.81 billion, while the 364-day bill saw GHS 48 million in bids accepted out of GHS 157 million.
The selective acceptance continued to anchor a decline in interest rates across tenors, with yields averaging between 14% and 15%.
The 91-day yield was maintained at 14.79%. The 182-day rate eased by 3 basis points to 15.46%, while the 364-day bill declined by 11 basis points to 15.80%.
Looking ahead, the government is targeting GHS 7.58 billion in the next auction.
Since its rollout in January 2023, the Bank of Ghana has disclosed that it incurred losses of GH¢317 million in 2023 and GH¢1.82 billion in 2024 under the Gold for Oil (G4O) programme.
That brings total losses to GH¢2.137 billion over two years.
The central bank injected GH¢4.69 billion into the programme, effectively losing 45% of the capital it deployed in an effort to stabilise fuel prices and support the cedi.
On March 13, 2025, the Bank officially ended the Gold for Oil initiative, citing the heavy financial losses sustained as the primary reason for shutting it down.
Gold for Oil (G4O) was introduced in December 2022 in response to surging fuel prices, with diesel retailing as high as GH¢23 per litre and petrol around GH¢17 at GOIL stations in November 2022.
A sharp cedi depreciation and the rapid depletion of foreign reserves forced the government and the Bank of Ghana to try an alternative strategy: use gold, not dollars, to purchase petroleum products from the international market.
The logic behind the programme was straightforward. Ghana needed a workaround to its dollar shortage that wouldn’t further drain the Bank of Ghana’s reserves or worsen currency depreciation.
The goal was to ease pressure on the cedi by preserving scarce foreign exchange reserves.
Ghana spends about $400 million each month importing fuel, making it a major driver of dollar demand.
Reducing that pressure, even partially, was central to the programme’s logic.
The Bank had already launched a domestic gold purchase programme in June 2021, partnering with the then Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC), now rebranded as GoldBOD, to buy gold dore from local miners in cedis and refine it abroad for Ghana’s official reserves.
The aim at the time was to double Ghana’s gold reserves within five years, then standing at 8.74 tonnes.
That gold stockpile now exceeds 32 tonnes, nearly quadrupling in under four years, according to central bank data.
The domestic gold purchase programme was later expanded to include the Gold for Oil framework
The Bank, via PMMC, bought dore in cedis from miners, handed it to a “gold broker”, and had it sold internationally.
The broker sold the gold for U.S. dollars and deposited the proceeds directly into the Bank’s offshore (nostro) accounts. These funds were used to purchase petroleum products.
The fuel was delivered to Ghana, but the dollars used to buy it remained overseas. As a result, the local economy saw no direct injection of foreign currency.
Notably, the entire arrangement was never subjected to parliamentary oversight. The ruling government argued at the time that the Gold for Oil programme was not an executive policy but a central bank initiative, and therefore did not require parliamentary approval.
The criteria for selecting these gold brokers, the fees paid, and the number of intermediaries involved have not been publicly disclosed.
The cedi did stabilise in the months after G4O’s launch, and fuel prices fell.
While it’s hard to isolate the programme’s direct impact from that of the IMF deal signed in May 2023, the reduced dollar demand from oil importers likely contributed to easing exchange rate pressure.
By November 2023 (nine months in) then-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta told Parliament during the 2024 budget presentation that G4O accounted for around 30% of petroleum imports.
No major updates followed until the release of the Bank’s 2024 financial report.
The Bank attributes most of the GH¢2.1 billion loss to foreign exchange losses.
But key details remain missing: the volume of gold acquired, the fuel supplied, the commissions paid, the intermediaries involved, and the broader impact of the programme.
With over GH₵2.1 billion in reported losses and little transparency about how it was run, Gold for Oil has ended as a costly intervention.
It may have brought temporary foreign exchange relief and cheaper fuel, but it ultimately left a deep hole in the Bank of Ghana’s books.
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The Acting CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board has revealed that for the 2024/25 cocoa season, COCOBOD did not secure a syndicated loan.
Dr. Randy Anerley Abbey said this effectively cuts off the traditional seed funding support to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), especially the indigenous ones.
“There was no syndicated loan, so no seed fund,” Dr. Abbey said in a blunt assessment of the current financial strain in Ghana’s cocoa sector.
“What we realise is that, although it is saving COCOBOD in terms of the financing cost… now the indigenous LBCs are unable to operate.”
Dr. Abbey explained that in previous years, COCOBOD would raise an annual syndicated loan with international banks to finance the purchase of cocoa beans.
A portion of that loan would then be used to create “seed money”, which was disbursed to LBCs to enable them to buy beans from farmers.
“Under the syndicated loan, COCOBOD creates what it calls the seed money. And this seed money is what is given to the LBCs to go and purchase the bean.”
But this year, that system has been disrupted.
“We are not doing the syndicated loan. We are not doing 2025/26. For 2026/27, I don’t know, okay, but for 2025/26 we are not,” he stated.
The COCOBOD boss also noted that the financing climate has become increasingly hostile.
He warned that if COCOBOD had proceeded with a loan this year, it would have had to borrow around GH¢3 billion or GH¢3.5 billion, with banks demanding high interest rates.
“Because of the nature of our finances, you even have banks asking for 8% to 10% on $1.”
As a result, many local LBCs have been left in limbo, struggling to mobilise funds to purchase cocoa, a situation Dr. Abbey described as dire.
“If we continue with this financing model, I fear that most of them might go extinct.”
In a bid to prevent a collapse, COCOBOD is engaging the Bank of Ghana with a bold proposal.
Dr. Abbey said he has asked the central bank to release a portion of the Cash Reserve Ratio—the mandatory deposit commercial banks keep with the Bank of Ghana—to support cocoa purchases.
“Look, you have the Cash Reserve Ratio, where all the banks put 25% of their deposits at the central bank. This is idle, not doing anything. Now we have a critical industry, the indigenous LBC, dying off. Can we look at apportioning 2% or 3%…to support indigenous LBCs?”
He added that any funding released through this channel could be ring-fenced strictly for cocoa purchases.
“We can restrict it to cocoa purchases, just to ensure that they also don’t go using it for oil, tin tomatoes and all those things.”
Dr. Abbey stated that the Bank of Ghana had requested a formal letter to consider the proposal, and COCOBOD has complied accordingly.
“I’ve done that. This is one of the discussions we had with the central bank. We believe that if there’s a positive response, it will be able to help.”
He further indicated that COCOBOD is maintaining a 60-40 buying structure with cocoa buyers as part of its revised operational approach.
“So it’s the reason why I went to Europe and North America to meet the buyers and all that. We’re still doing the 60-40 with the buyers.”
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When the moment came Cristiano Ronaldo hid his face and leant on his teammates. He scored the goal that put Portugal level in this final but had been withdrawn, exhausted, late in normal time and now, as the men left on the field lined up on the halfway line, he stood on the touchline where he could not watch but could hear the roar as Rúben Neves scored the penalty that took Portugal to the title, and then he slipped to his knees and the tears came. It had taken a shootout but they have their second Nations League, defeating Spain in Munich.
Goals from Martín Zubimendi, Nuno Mendes and then Mikel Oyarzabal had given Spain a 2-1 lead before Ronaldo made it 2-2 on the hour. Now, an hour after that, it all came down to two shots: Álvaro Morata missed Spain’s fourth spot kick and Neves scored Portugal’s fifth to win 5-3 on penalties, allowing Ronaldo to collect the 34th trophy of his career, aged 40. There was a smile, a joke about its weight and then he carried it to his teammates and lifted it into the sky.
It had been a long night, and if this was a battle of the generations between him and Lamine Yamal, as it had been billed, the elder man won it. In truth, though, while the focus was on the Portugal captain and the Spanish teenager, 23 years his junior, cameras following them even when both had been withdrawn and were sitting on the bench, this was about many more players. About Oyarzabal and Zubimendi, Mendes, Rafael Leão and, in the end, Diogo Costa, who dived to his right to save from Morata. Neves then smashed hard and low, turning to see red shirts running towards him.
When it all ended, Luis de la Fuente gathered his players. Nations League winners two years ago, European champions last summer, they had been unable to make it three trophies in a row but he was proud. Spain had started well too: in fact, both times Portugal had drawn level, it had been hard to grasp, although it was also true that Spain faded badly and that Roberto Martínez’s side had been closer to avoiding the shootout.
It hadn’t been long before Lamine Yamal had been taken down by the kind of tackle that said something about his threat, although with the teenager drawing them in on the right the real danger was on the left. There, a superb long diagonal from Dean Huijsen allowed Nico Williams to control brilliantly, dash into the area and pull back for Pedri to sidefoot just wide. From there too, Williams cut inside and whipped fractionally past the far post.
And yet it was through the middle that Spain scored the first when Oyarzabal’s lovely touch sent Zubimendi running through. He found Lamine whose chipped return wasn’t dealt with by Rúben Dias, Neves or Costa and Zubimendi put in the loose ball from close range. Portugal responded fast, Mendes stepping past opponents to hit a hard, clean low shot into the corner. But Spain reasserted themselves and Oyarzabal gave them the lead again on 45, Pedri slipping the pass through for him to turn into the net.
This was the 16th goal Oyarzabal has scored for Spain, his third in a final. His fourth if you include the 2020 Olympics. His was the winner against England last summer but he has lost the other three: the 2021 Nations League final to France, to Brazil at Tokyo 2020, and now here. Because then he appeared, which he tends to do; which he has done so, so many times.
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Kylian Mbappé scored his 50th goal for France to help them claim third place in the Nations League with a 2-0 victory over Germany in Stuttgart.
The hosts spurned several chances to take the lead, most notably when Florian Wirtz saw his effort come back off the frame of the goal, before Mbappé struck on the stroke of half-time to put France ahead.
Mbappé is now just one goal off Thierry Henry as France’s second all-time leading goalscorer, with Olivier Giroud in front on 57. The 26-year-old Real Madrid forward teed up the substitute Michael Olise late on to secure victory for the visitors.
Mike Maignan was just as important for France, who lost a nine-goal semi-final thriller to Spain on Thursday, in this third-place playoff as the goalkeeper made important saves throughout. PA Sport
It can seem that Ronaldo is not there at times, but he always is. When Mendes escaped Lamine Yamal and his cross took a deflection, looping up and dropping behind Marc Cucurella, there he was again to volley in from close range. It was his 134th international goal and off he went, pointing at his chest. Spain could hardly believe it. They were not dominating as they had before, not creating either, yet nor had they felt under threat. Now though, with Fabián Ruiz and Pedri departed, the control slipped away, even if Williams did then send a shot whistling wide.
Martínez’s side, meanwhile, were stepping up. The introduction of Leão changed the game. Unai Simón had to save Bruno Fernandes’s free-kick right on 90 minutes and extra time brought a different flow, a different Portugal. They should have had the lead immediately when Mendes, the greatest threat with Leão, set up Nélson Semedo for a startling miss from five yards. And with 20 seconds remaining Diogo Jota headed over, their moment instead waiting for them on the penalty spot.
Brazil is committed to promoting maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, a region of great relevance for international trade, regional stability and sustainable development, Brazilian Ambassador to Ghana, Mrs Mariana Gonçalves Madeira, has said.
She was speaking on Monday at a cocktail held in Tema Harbour, in honour of Brazilian Navy’s Guinex V Defender, a frigate-class warship, which was its second visit to Ghana as part of efforts to strengthen Maritime security between Ghana and Brazil.
She said through exercises such as Guinex V, Ghana and Brazil Navies could collaborate to tackle challenges such as piracy, illicit trafficking, and illegal fishing.
The Brazilian envoy noted that the exchange of experiences and knowledge were powerful instruments for strengthening mutual trust and for developing joint and innovative solutions.
In the field of defense, Mrs Madeira stated that the West African coast was part of the Brazilian strategic environment, as provided for in its National Defense Policy.
She said Brazil recognized the vital importance of this region for the security and prosperity of the countries bordering the South Atlantic.
She stated that the Brazilian Navy, GUINEX V represented a unique opportunity to strengthen operational capabilities, implement the exchange of knowledge and experiences and, above all, deepen ties of friendship with sister navies in West Africa, namely with Cape Verde, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Cameroon.
Mrs Madeira said the choice of Ghana as one of the docking ports had proven very successful and that it was the Brazilian government’s desire that Ghana would be a constant presence in future editions of GUINEX, further consolidating cooperation between the two navies.
She said Brazil, which is known to be the most African country outside Africa, gave special priority to the African continent, at a particularly dynamic moment in the relations between the two sides of the Atlantic.
Mrs Madeira said that she was optimistic that the presence of the Frigate Defensora in Ghana, in the context of GUINEX V, would “serve to renew our commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development.”
“May the Atlantic continue to unite us, inspiring new partnerships and cementing friendship between our peoples. And may we sail together, in calm seas and with favorable winds, towards a future of prosperity and lasting cooperation. Thank you very much,” Mrs Madeira added.
For his part, the Commander of the GUINEX V Task Group, Rear Admiral Antonio Braz, said his team was committed to sharing expertise and international best practices with its Ghanaian counterparts.
He said there was the need to beef up maritime security to facilitate trade on the Atlantic Ocean.
Rear Admiral Godwin Livinus Bessing, the Chief of Naval Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, proposed the training of Ghanaian Naval Cadet in Brazil.
He acknowledged that language remained a barrier for Ghanaian trainees but said Ghana Navy currently had four of its officers pursuing a four-year course in Germany.
Kennedy Agyapong (L) and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia who are aspiring to lead the NPP
Former Assin Central lawmaker and 2028 NPP flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, has been captured in a viral video recording making what some netizens have described as “religious rants” against former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Addressing a group of people, Kennedy Agyapong questioned the legitimacy of the return of Dr Bawumia to lead the New Patriotic Party.
Speaking to what appeared to be a section of the NPP grassroots who have thrown their weight behind him, Kennedy Agyapong appealed to the party to elect him in their next internal election.
“If they want power, Ghanaians say it is only Kennedy Agyapong they will vote for.”
“Do you want to remain home for another 4 years or 8 years? Are you ready for that? Let us listen to what the people are saying. Let us listen to what Ghanaians are saying”, he said.
Kennedy Agyapong further exclaimed that “the churches spoke”, purporting Ghanaians are not ready for a non-Christian to lead them.
“In this church we are in, they spoke. I am speaking in parables . The church spoke but we did not listen and we have seen what has happened”, he emphasised.
Meanwhile, a number of social media users have reacted to Agyapong’s comments, finding it to be seditious and divisive.
“This man has nothing good to offer the NPP and Ghana. Anytime he opens his mouth to campaign, his message demonstrates division on religious and tribal lines. This stinks in a country like ours,” a concerned Ghanaian replied on X.
AME
Kennedy Agyapong (L) and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia who are aspiring to lead the NPP
Former Assin Central lawmaker and 2028 NPP flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, has been captured in a viral video recording making what some netizens have described as “religious rants” against former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Addressing a group of people, Kennedy Agyapong questioned the legitimacy of the return of Dr Bawumia to lead the New Patriotic Party.
Speaking to what appeared to be a section of the NPP grassroots who have thrown their weight behind him, Kennedy Agyapong appealed to the party to elect him in their next internal election.
“If they want power, Ghanaians say it is only Kennedy Agyapong they will vote for.”
“Do you want to remain home for another 4 years or 8 years? Are you ready for that? Let us listen to what the people are saying. Let us listen to what Ghanaians are saying”, he said.
Kennedy Agyapong further exclaimed that “the churches spoke”, purporting Ghanaians are not ready for a non-Christian to lead them.
“In this church we are in, they spoke. I am speaking in parables . The church spoke but we did not listen and we have seen what has happened”, he emphasised.
Meanwhile, a number of social media users have reacted to Agyapong’s comments, finding it to be seditious and divisive.
“This man has nothing good to offer the NPP and Ghana. Anytime he opens his mouth to campaign, his message demonstrates division on religious and tribal lines. This stinks in a country like ours,” a concerned Ghanaian replied on X.
AME
Kennedy Agyapong (L) and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia who are aspiring to lead the NPP
Former Assin Central lawmaker and 2028 NPP flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, has been captured in a viral video recording making what some netizens have described as “religious rants” against former Vice President of Ghana, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Addressing a group of people, Kennedy Agyapong questioned the legitimacy of the return of Dr Bawumia to lead the New Patriotic Party.
Speaking to what appeared to be a section of the NPP grassroots who have thrown their weight behind him, Kennedy Agyapong appealed to the party to elect him in their next internal election.
“If they want power, Ghanaians say it is only Kennedy Agyapong they will vote for.”
“Do you want to remain home for another 4 years or 8 years? Are you ready for that? Let us listen to what the people are saying. Let us listen to what Ghanaians are saying”, he said.
Kennedy Agyapong further exclaimed that “the churches spoke”, purporting Ghanaians are not ready for a non-Christian to lead them.
“In this church we are in, they spoke. I am speaking in parables . The church spoke but we did not listen and we have seen what has happened”, he emphasised.
Meanwhile, a number of social media users have reacted to Agyapong’s comments, finding it to be seditious and divisive.
“This man has nothing good to offer the NPP and Ghana. Anytime he opens his mouth to campaign, his message demonstrates division on religious and tribal lines. This stinks in a country like ours,” a concerned Ghanaian replied on X.
AME
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England captain Harry Kane says his side “got away with it” in their 1-0 win against Andorra in a performance that “wasn’t good enough”.
In a disappointing display against a team ranked 173rd in the world, England won courtesy of a solitary Kane goal after 50 minutes in Barcelona.
England were booed by some of their fans at half-time and full-time, while manager Thomas Tuchel said his side “lacked the seriousness and the urgency that is needed in a World Cup qualifier”.
“It wasn’t our greatest performance,” said Kane, whose goal took his tally to 72 for England.
“I don’t think it’s one many people are going to remember, that’s for sure, but it’s three points in the bag.
“But, yeah, for sure we know we can play better in all aspects, both with and without the ball.
“It’s down to us now to analyse it, look back and try and learn from it because condition-wise it’s going to be very similar to next summer – dry pitch, warm weather, humid.”
He added: “It [the goal] was probably our best move and we just didn’t have enough of that, both with probably the runs and also the quality – a lot of balls kind of overhit, out of play, and it just kind of killed our momentum, especially there in the second half.”
The 2026 World Cup will be held across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
England beat Latvia and Albania in their first two World Cup qualifiers in March before the win against Andorra.
They are top of Group K, with Albania second on four points, Latvia third with three points after two games, Serbia fourth with one point from one game and Andorra bottom.
Kane added: “We were just lacking quality [against Andorra], looked a bit fatigued both physically and mentally and, yeah, we got away with it because we’re a good team and they had a couple of half-chances where we didn’t get punished. But ultimately, it wasn’t good enough.”
England’s next game is a friendly against Senegal at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground on Tuesday (19:45 BST).
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.
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United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has ruled himself out of the running to replace Ange Postecoglou, saying a return to Tottenham at this point is “not realistic”.
Postecoglou, 59, was sacked on Friday, despite leading the club to their first piece of silverware in 17 years with victory in the Europa League.
Pochettino, whose five-year stay at the club came to an end in November 2019, has been linked with a return to Tottenham.
But the Argentine, who was appointed US manager in October 2024, says he is happy in his new role.
“Today it’s not realistic,” said Pochettino, 53. “Look where I am. Look where we (his backroom staff) are. The answer is so clear.
“I think, since I left in 2019, my name has always been on the list [of rumours].
“I’ve seen the rumours, we are 100 coaches on the list. Don’t be worried about that.
“If something happens [in the future], you for sure will see, but I am so happy in this moment and we cannot talk about this type of thing.”
Pochettino was speaking after the United States were beaten 2-1 by Turkey in Connecticut.
It was the side’s third straight defeat, leaving Pochettino with five wins and four losses from nine matches in charge.
The United States are hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
During his time in north London, Pochettino helped Spurs reach the final of the Champions League in 2019, as well as to a second-place finish in the Premier League in 2017.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank is a leading contender to replace Postecoglou, while there is interest in Fulham coach Marco Silva.
Meanwhile, Wales defender Ben Davies has extended his deal with the club until the summer of 2026.
The 32-year-old left-back is Spurs’ longest-serving senior player, making 358 appearances for the north London side in all competitions.
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A magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck Colombia on Sunday, the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) said.
The quake was at a depth of 10 km (6.21 miles), GPZ said.
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The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) is taking inventory of all stalled projects for repackaging and completion.
The objective is to ensure that all abandoned projects financed by the fund were completed before embarking on new ones.
It would ensure that the beneficiary institutions get the full benefits of the projects and reduce the challenges faced by these institutions.
The Deputy Administrator of the fund, Alhassan Sualihu Dandaawa, disclosed this when he toured some of the abandoned projects on the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in Wa in the Upper West Region.
The abandoned projects included a three-storey office complex, a central library and 600-female hostel facility.
Mr Dandaawa said all those projects, when completed, would bring a lot of relief to the student body and the university as a whole.
He was worried that all the abandoned projects were started by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) but left uncompleted by the previous government.
He assured the management of the university that the current government would ensure that all the abandoned projects were revived and completed before embarking on new ones.
Mr Dandaawa said if the previous government had undertaken to complete at least one project, it would have relieved the university of the infrastructural challenges it was currently facing.
He said he was in the region to inspect all the projects funded by the fund that had been abandoned and report on them to the administrator.
Mr Dandaawa said there were a number of abandoned projects dotted all over the country, adding that it would be prudent to complete those before embarking on new ones.
He asked the management of the university to submit the certificates of contractors that were due to the fund for consideration to enable them to move back to site.
The Vice- Chancellor of SDD-UBIDS, Prof Emmanuel K. Derbile, was grateful to the Deputy Administrator for visiting them to find at first hand the state of the project.
He said as a university, UBIDS “does not have a central administration block. Where we are currently was a residential facility that we converted into an office facility.”
Prof. Derbile said the university had intended to build a three-storey office complex as its central administration block and was hoping that it could be completed early to enable them to move in.
Due to lack of office space, he said, four faculties and a school were currently operating in rented premises in town and believed that when the complex was completed, some of the faculties could be moved to campus.
Again, Prof. Derbile said the auditorium used by the university for most of its programmes lacked furnishings and during programmes such as matriculation and congregation, chairs would have to be moved from the lecture halls to the auditorium.
This, according to him, posed challenges to management and the students and appealed for support to furnish the auditorium and also fix the electrical installations to make the place conducive for such programmes.
Kenya’s independent police oversight body has launched an investigation into the death of a man who had been detained “for false publication”, police have said.
Albert Ojwang was arrested for a post on X in the western town of Homa Bay and then driven 350km (220 miles) to the capital, Nairobi, his father Meshack Opiyo told journalists.
“While in custody, the suspect sustained head injuries after hitting his head against a cell wall,” a police statement said. He was rushed to the hospital, “where he was pronounced dead on arrival”.
The director of rights group Amnesty International’s Kenya branch told the BBC that the death of Mr Ojwang, described as a teacher and blogger, was “very suspicious”.
Amnesty said in a statement that his death “raises serious questions that must be urgently, thoroughly, and independently investigated”.
Senior police officer Stephen Okal is quoted by the Star newspaper as saying what happened in the cell was “an attempted suicide”.
It is not clear what the charge of “false publication” referred to, but Mr Opiyo told online news site Citizen Digital that the arresting police officer said “Albert had insulted a senior person on X”, the social media platform.
Referring to the circumstances of his arrest, Amnesty International Kenya director Irungu Houghton said it was “quite shocking” that Mr Ojwang was not booked in at the local police station after being detained, but was instead taken on a long journey.
He called on the independent investigators to secure what he described as “the crime scene” at the police station in Nairobi.
The police said that Mr Ojwang was “lawfully arrested”.
His detention and death come at a time of rising concern about how some government critics are being treated.
Last week, software developer Rose Njeri – who created a tool to help people oppose a government finance bill – was charged with violating a cybercrime law.
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