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I don’t miss Parliament; my last term was disappointing – Nii Lante Vanderpuye

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Former Odododiodio MP, Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has expressed deep disappointment with his final term in Ghana’s Parliament, stating bluntly that he does not miss being a legislator.

In an interview with GHOne TV, the three-term Member of Parliament revealed that his last four years in office, spanning from 2020 to 2024, were the most unfulfilling of his 12-year political career.

GRIDCo assures Obuasi of swift power restoration following substation fire

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The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) has assured residents of Obuasi and neighbouring communities in the Ashanti Region that work is actively underway to restore power to the area.

This assurance comes in the wake of a major power outage caused by a fire outbreak at a GRIDCo substation, which led to the explosion of a transformer supplying electricity to the affected communities.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, May 21. Although firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control, the electricity supply remains disrupted in Obuasi and its surrounding areas.

In a press release, GRIDCo indicated that its engineers are currently assessing the extent of the damage and working to restore power as quickly as possible.

“Our team of Engineers are carrying out checks to confirm the integrity of equipment at the station before restoration of supply to customers. GRIDCo sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused by the incident and assures that efforts are being made to fix the challenge and restore supply as soon as possible,” GRIDCo wrote.

We’ll regulate shipping lines despite their resistance – Gyampo

If you’ve never been sick before, then go ahead and insult people — Yaw Baafi fires at Sam George

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Yaw Adomako Baafi, a former Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticized Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, for what he described as a lack of humility and spiritual discipline in his political conduct.

Speaking during a program on Movement TV, monitored by GhanaWeb, Baafi voiced his concerns about the perceived inaction of Archbishop Charles Agyin-Asare, founder of Perez Chapel International, in addressing the behavior of Sam George, who is reportedly a senior member of the church.

Baafi expressed surprise that someone holding such a position within a religious institution would not exhibit greater modesty and restraint, suggesting that the church leadership had a role to play in guiding its members, especially those in the public eye.

He compared this to his own experience, stating that his actions are closely observed by his church leaders, family, and even his children, implying that such accountability fosters better conduct.

“If you are a politician and you’ve never been sick before, then go ahead and insult people. But if you’ve ever had a headache, that alone should teach you a lesson,” he said.

Extending his criticism beyond Sam George, Baafi lamented what he sees as a general lack of compassion among some politicians.

He argued that personal experiences with illness, bereavement, or even walking past a cemetery should inspire empathy and humility in public servic

Baafi added that arrogance has significantly damaged the MP’s public persona.

Here is how much Hajia4Reall is expected to ‘cough up’ after release from prison

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Ghanaian socialite, Hajia4Reall Ghanaian socialite, Hajia4Reall

Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Reall or Mona 4Reall is expected to be released from the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia as of May 22, 2025.

She had been sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiring to receive stolen money and admitting to her role in the fraudulent scheme that targeted vulnerable individuals through deceptive romantic relationships.

However, despite her release, it appears Hajia4Reall’s woes are far from over. She is expected to pay restitution totalling $1,387,458 to victims of the romance scam.

This amount reflects the funds she personally received from approximately 40 victims between 2013 and 2019.

The fraudulent activities included false claims such as transporting gold to the U.S., resolving fabricated FBI investigations, and assisting a fictitious U.S. Army officer in accessing funds from Afghanistan.

Initially, during her guilty plea in February 2024, she agreed to a higher restitution and forfeiture amount of $2,164,758.41.

However, the final sentencing in June 2024 adjusted these figures to $1,387,458.

In addition to the restitution, Hajia4Reall will face “three years of supervised release.”

She will also forfeit $216,475, representing the proceeds she directly benefited from through the scam.

ID/EB

Cedi’s Performance Is Sustainable – BoG Governor

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Dr. Johnson Asiama

 

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Bank of Ghana (BoG) has assured the public that the outlook of the cedi will be sustainable, hence no need for the public to panic about its stability in the long term.

The Governor made this known when he addressed members at the 124th Monetary policy Committee meeting (MPC) at the Bank of Ghana yesterday in Accra to review macroeconomic developments in the country.

Dr. Asiama said the Cedi’s appreciation is based on current monetary policy measures taken by the Central Bank to check inflation and continue to strengthen the cedi.

He stated that the appreciation of the cedi reflects a combination of factors, including prudent monetary policy, improved market sentiment, and external sector gains.

He said there are also encouraging signs of macroeconomic progress as a result of the Staff-Level Agreement with the IMF on the fourth Review although some prior actions remain outstanding.

Dr. Asiama added that the current geopolitical tensions and evolving global trade dynamics, including the recent US-led tariff disputes could affect commodity prices, exchange rates, and financial flows in emerging markets like Ghana.

He said the BoG is also transitioning from reliance on the unremunerated Cash Reserve Ratio to a more active Open Market Operations regime, including the use of longer-tenor BoG instruments.

That he explained is intended to enhance policy transmission, improve liquidity management, and allow greater room for credit expansion to the private sector.

According to the Governor, the country’s external reserves have improved, including, “the trade balance which has improved, as consumer and business confidence indices are rising steadily”.

The committee is expected to deliberate on measures to maintain the gains while working to reduce inflation, which slowed marginally to 21.2 percent in April 2025 from 22.4 percent in March, 2025.

 By Ebenezer K. Amponsah

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senior Staff of public universities begin indefinite strike over failed govt promises

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The Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association, and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association have announced an indefinite industrial action.

The strike took effect on Wednesday, May 21. Addressing the media yesterday was National Chairman of the Senior Staff Association George Ansong.

Navigating Ghana’s economic horizon – Monetary Policy in a sea of positive signals

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The upcoming Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting occurs against a backdrop of encouraging developments for the Ghanaian economy.

The recent appreciation of the Ghana Cedi against the major currencies especially the US Dollar, the notable dip in inflation from 22.4% in March to 21.2% in April, and the positive upgrade from rating agencies paint a picture of cautious optimism.

Juxtaposing these domestic improvements with the insights from the IMF’s World Economic Outlook (WEO) released in April 2025, a nuanced perspective on the future monetary policy rate and its broader implications emerges.

Expectations of the Monetary Policy Rate

Considering the confluence of factors, the MPC faces a delicate balancing act. The decline in inflation provides a strong argument for easing monetary policy to further stimulate economic activity. A lower policy rate would reduce borrowing costs across the economy.

Furthermore, the strengthening Cedi mitigates some of the imported inflation pressures, offering additional room for a rate cut.

However, the MPC will likely remain cautious. While inflation is trending downwards, it remains significantly above the central bank’s target band. The WEO (April 2025) emphasises a critical juncture amid policy shifts globally, suggesting potential external volatilities that could impact Ghana’s economy.

A premature aggressive rate cut could risk a reversal of the Cedi’s gains and reignite inflationary pressures, especially if global conditions become less favourable.

My expectation is that the MPC will likely opt for a modest reduction in the monetary policy rate, in the range of 100 to 200 basis points. This cautious approach would acknowledge the positive trends while signaling a commitment to sustained disinflation and macroeconomic stability.

A larger cut might be perceived as overly aggressive and could trigger concerns about future inflation and currency stability.

What are the possible implications?

Implications for the banking industry

A reduction in the monetary policy rate will have multifaceted implications for the banking industry:

  • Reduced Lending Rates: Banks will likely lower their lending rates in response to a lower policy rate, potentially boosting loan demand from businesses and individuals. This could lead to increased credit growth.
  • Impact on Net Interest Margins (NIMs): Lower lending rates, coupled with potentially slower adjustments in deposit rates, could compress banks’ net interest margins, a key measure of profitability. Banks may need to explore alternative revenue streams or improve operational efficiencies to mitigate this impact.
  • Increased Loan Volumes: The lower cost of borrowing could stimulate demand for loans across various sectors, potentially increasing the overall loan portfolio of banks. However, banks will need to carefully manage credit risk in this environment to curtail non-performing loans (NPL).
  • Valuation of Fixed-Income Assets: Banks holding government securities and other fixed-income assets might see a short-term appreciation in the value of these holdings as yields fall in response to the policy rate cut.
  • Liquidity Management: A lower policy rate could ease liquidity conditions in the banking system, making it cheaper for banks to access funds.

Implications for private sector businesses

A lower monetary policy rate is generally positive for private-sector businesses:

  • Reduced Borrowing Costs: Lower interest rates translate to cheaper financing for working capital, expansion projects, and investments in new technologies. This can improve profitability and encourage business growth.
  • Increased Investment: As the cost of capital decreases, businesses may find it more attractive to invest in expanding their operations, leading to job creation and increased economic activity.
  • Enhanced Competitiveness: Lower borrowing costs can improve the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses, both domestically and internationally.
  • Potential for Increased Demand: Lower interest rates can stimulate aggregate demand in the economy, benefiting businesses through increased sales and revenue.

Implications for International Investors

The implications for international investors are more nuanced and depend on the overall global economic context and Ghana’s risk profile:

  • Attractiveness of Cedi-Denominated Assets: A stable and appreciating Cedi, coupled with relatively attractive (albeit potentially lower) interest rates, could still make Cedi-denominated assets appealing to international investors seeking higher yields than those available in developed economies.
  • Impact on Portfolio Flows: A cautious rate cut, signaling prudent monetary policy, could be viewed favourably by international investors, potentially leading to increased portfolio inflows into Ghanaian bonds and equities. However, an aggressive rate cut could raise concerns about future inflation and currency stability, potentially deterring investment.
  • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Lower borrowing costs for local businesses could indirectly attract FDI as international companies may find it more attractive to partner with or invest in a growing and financially sound domestic private sector.
  • Sovereign Risk Perception: The recent sovereign rating upgrade is a significant positive. A well-managed monetary policy response that supports economic stability will reinforce this positive perception among international investors.

Impact on the general economy

The anticipated modest reduction in the monetary policy rate is likely to have the following effects on the general economy:

  • Stimulated Economic Growth: Lower borrowing costs should encourage investment and consumption, leading to a gradual acceleration in economic growth.
  • Controlled Inflation: The cautious approach to rate reduction aims to balance growth with maintaining downward pressure on inflation. The recent appreciation of the Cedi will also contribute to mitigating imported inflation.
  • Potential for Job Creation: Increased business investment and economic activity are likely to lead to the creation of new job opportunities.
  • Impact on Savings: Lower interest rates on savings accounts might reduce the incentive to save, potentially encouraging more consumption and investment.
  • Overall Stability: A well-calibrated monetary policy response, in conjunction with fiscal discipline and structural reforms, can contribute to overall macroeconomic stability and build confidence in the Ghanaian economy. The WEO (April 2025) highlights the importance of structural reforms to enhance growth potential, which will be crucial in amplifying the positive effects of monetary policy easing.

Sustaining the economic gains

To maintain the current positive economic momentum, a multi-pronged approach is essential:

  • Prudent Monetary Policy: The MPC should continue to adopt a data-driven and cautious approach to monetary policy, ensuring that any further easing is well-calibrated to anchor inflation expectations and maintain currency stability. Clear communication of policy decisions and rationale is crucial.
  • Fiscal Consolidation: The government must remain committed to fiscal discipline to reduce the debt burden and create fiscal space for growth-enhancing expenditures. This will complement the efforts of monetary policy in fostering macroeconomic stability.
  • Structural Reforms: As emphasized in the WEO (April 2025), sustained economic growth requires addressing structural bottlenecks. This includes improving the ease of doing business, investing in infrastructure, strengthening institutions, and promoting diversification of the economy.
  • Attracting Long-Term Investment: Efforts should be intensified to attract both domestic and foreign long-term investments in key sectors of the economy. A stable macroeconomic environment and a conducive business climate are critical for this.
  • Effective Management of External Shocks: Given the interconnectedness of the global economy, proactive measures should be taken to build resilience against potential external shocks, including commodity price volatility and changes in global financial conditions. International cooperation, as highlighted in the WEO, remains vital in this regard.

By carefully navigating the current economic landscape with prudent policies and a focus on long-term structural reforms, Ghana can solidify the recent gains and pave the way for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. The upcoming MPC meeting presents a crucial opportunity to signal a commitment to this path.

By Emmanuel DANKWAH

The writer is a Financial Economist and Data Analyst. His areas of interest include financial market, Ethics, Sustainability, Financial Literacy, AI and data analytics. He can be reached via [email protected]

‘It symbolized how men suffer in silence’ – Tulenkey on why he taped his lips at TGMAs

Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey at the 2025 TGMA Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey at the 2025 TGMA

Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey has finally revealed the reason behind his symbolic gesture of sealing his lips with tape at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs).

One would recall that at the event on May 10, 2025, Tulenkey, dressed in an all-black outfit with a piece of tape covering his mouth, drew attention from both attendees and social media users.

His silence throughout the event, including his decision not to deliver an acceptance speech after receiving an award, left many puzzled and curious.

But addressing the issue, the rapper explained that the gesture was a powerful statement meant to highlight the often-overlooked issue of men’s mental health and emotional struggles.

According to him, the tape symbolized the societal pressure that discourages men from expressing their feelings, speaking about their pain, or seeking help.

Speaking in an interview with 3FM on May 21, 2025, Tulenkey explained, “It’s a message. It speaks of what men go through, the inner battles we fight. Because being a man, when you are vulnerable, when you talk about your emotions, you are seen as weak. So they would rather die inside than let it out.”

According to Tulenkey, “The tape symbolised suffering in silence,” he explained.

The ‘Bad Feeling’ rapper also spoke about how he personally takes care of his mental health.

He said he usually practices meditation and makes an effort to speak with people who are emotionally mature and can understand what he is going through.

“I meditate and speak to emotionally mature people,” he said.

Also watch as Robert Klah addresses Felicia Osei’s ticket incident at TGMAs

AK/EB

Prof Azar breaks down CJ Torkornoo’s case in her suit challenging her removal

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Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reinforced her legal battle on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, by filing a suit at the Supreme Court in an attempt to halt the ongoing hearing targeted at her removal from office.

The action directly challenges her suspension and the ongoing proceedings related to three petitions for her removal.

Justice Torkornoo’s extensive suit seeks 16 reliefs from the nation’s highest court.

Her legal challenge is directed against the Attorney General, who acts as counsel for President John Dramani Mahama, and the members of the five-member panel constituted by the President to investigate the petitions as mandated by the 1992 Constitution.

On the back of this development, US-based Ghanaian legal luminary, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, widely known as Kwaku Azar, provided a comprehensive analysis of the Chief Justice’s case.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Azar delineated Justice Torkornoo’s application as consisting of three distinct writs, two injunction requests, and 16 specific reliefs.

Azar elaborated on these reliefs, noting that the first three pivotal requests from Justice Torkornoo are for a public hearing of the petitions.

This particular demand, Azar pointed out, stands in direct opposition to the constitutional provision that dictates such investigative hearings be conducted in secret.

“The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.

“GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146 says such proceedings shall be held in camera.’ It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command,” Azar wrote.

The legal luminary said that the CJ’s relief numbers 4, 5 and 6 basically say that the determination of the prima facie case against her by the Council of State was wrong.

“She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.

“GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment; it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial,” he added.

“Reliefs 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Chief Justice’s application, raise issues of conflict of interest against the two justices on the five-member committee hearing the probe, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, who is chairman of the committee, and Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, the other judge on the case,” he said.

Kwaku Azar also indicated that the 14th relief of the Chief Justice wants the three other members of the committee—former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, Ghana Armed Forces’ Major Fora Bazaanura Dalugo, and University of Ghana academic, Professor James Sefah Dzisah—all disqualified from a committee set up by President Mahama.

“Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well. On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog,” he stated.

He added that the 15th relief, which he said was ‘the heart of the matter,’ wants the court to stop the committee from doing its work.

“Relief 16: And anything else the court may deem fit. Ah, yes, the always convenient ‘catch-all’ prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored,” Prof Azar added.

Read his write-up below:

GOGO has obtained and reviewed the latest writ filed by the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo.

The writ lists 16 reliefs and orders, some bold, some novel, some familiar and seeks, in essence, to halt the work of the committee set up under Article 146 to investigate her conduct.

We do not judge. But we do observe. And here’s what we see:

Reliefs 1–3: Public Hearing, Please?

The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.

GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146(😎 says such proceedings “shall be held in camera.” It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command.

Reliefs 4–6: Prima Facie, Sir?

She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.

GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment, it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial.

Reliefs 7–9: Suspend the Suspension?

She wants her suspension reversed, arguing that it’s unconstitutional and an assault on judicial independence.

GOGO sees it differently. Article 146(10) makes the suspension an option once a prima facie case is found. The President is entirely within his powers to suspend her, as he did with the former CHRAJ Commissioner, Ms. Lamptey.

Reliefs 10–13: Disqualify the Judges?

She wants Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu off the committee, citing bias. One ruled in favor of a petitioner in the past. Another sat on a related injunction panel.

GOGO gently points out: Ghanaian judges are often on multiple cases involving similar names. That’s not bias. That’s the job. In fact, the CJ herself has been very harsh on lawyers who tried to raise potential bias by Justice Gaewu, admonishing them “not to go there.”

Relief 14: Disqualify the Lay Members Too?

Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well.

On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog.

Relief 15: Stop the Committee Altogether

This is the heart of the matter. She wants the committee stopped cold. GOGO has seen this request twice before; both times dismissed by the Supreme Court. Third time lucky?

Relief 16: And Anything Else the Court May Deem Fit

Ah yes, the always convenient “catch-all” prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored.

GOGO’S BOTTOM LINE:

We do not judge. We just observe.

Three writs. Two injunctions. Sixteen reliefs. Timing that always coincides with scheduled committee sittings. A familiar pattern?

GOGO says:

The Constitution must not be turned into a maze for evasion. The court must protect its time. The process must be allowed to work.

If this continues unchecked, GOGO fears Article 146 could go from a tool of oversight to a treadmill of obstruction; moving all the time, but going nowhere.

BAI/VPO

You can also watch the latest news on GhanaWeb TV below:

AMA uncovers ‘Lucifer’s Village’ built on storm drain at Circle

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The storm bridge anchoring 'Lucifer's Village' play videoThe storm bridge anchoring ‘Lucifer’s Village’

As part of its ongoing decongestion campaign, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has uncovered a makeshift settlement known as Lucifer’s Village, located within the Circle enclave of the capital.

The community, home to over 100 wooden structures, is precariously built atop a stormwater bridge, with timber serving as the primary construction material.

The settlement sits dangerously close to critical drainage infrastructure, raising significant concerns about safety, sanitation, and flooding risks, especially with the onset of the rainy season.

Sanitary conditions in the area are described as extremely poor, yet residents appear unfazed.

AMA officials, who visited the site during a routine operation, warned of an impending evacuation as part of efforts to restore order and public safety in Accra’s Central Business District (CBD).

Despite its squalid nature and structural hazards, AMA authorities acknowledged that residents of Lucifer’s Village are not currently involved in any illegal commercial activities that would warrant immediate forceful eviction.

However, officials emphasised that the settlement’s location on a vital storm drain and its unsanitary state pose public health and safety risks that cannot be ignored for long. They noted that the necessary steps will be taken in due course.

Interestingly, AMA also disclosed that they have not been able to identify the individual or group responsible for renting out the spaces to the residents, raising questions about oversight and accountability in the management of informal urban spaces.

The discovery highlights the broader challenges facing Accra’s urban governance, particularly the tension between rapid urbanization, informal settlements, and the city’s struggle with infrastructure maintenance and planning enforcement.

Watch the AMA’s tour of the ‘Lucifers village’ below:

SSD/MA

‘I regret not accepting Christ earlier’ – Kofi Asare Brako opens up on battle with stroke

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Kofi Asare Brako Abatey is a legendary sports broadcaster Kofi Asare Brako Abatey is a legendary sports broadcaster

Prominent sports broadcaster Kofi Asare Brako Abatey has disclosed that he went through a harrowing ordeal while battling a stroke until God’s intervention.

According to his narration, he was struck down by a stroke, which severely affected his body and restricted his movement significantly.

The former Asempa FM sports presenter noted that his absence from the media space was due to the life-threatening ailment that had taken a toll on his personality.

“I couldn’t talk, walk, or do anything; people had to lift me to sit in a wheelchair. I’ve been battling with stroke, hence my recent public absence,” he said in Twi during an interview with Peace FM.

Abatey, while shedding tears, indicated that his encounter with God during the troubling period rescued him from losing his life to the illness, and he has now fully recovered.

Expressing regret over not accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal savior earlier, Abatey urged individuals to rely on God in all their endeavors and share the gospel with others.

“God saved me, and I know He exists. While lying down hopeless, I called upon Him for abandoning me, and I heard a voice that said, ‘Kofi, relax and let me prepare you. I brought you into this to see my greatness, and I will redeem you.’

“Now that I’m healed, I fully believe in Him. I want to testify about God’s goodness to everyone worldwide. I regret not accepting Christ earlier in life,” he added, still crying.

Watch Kofi Asare Brako’s remarks below:

@peace104.3fm1 I Had A Long Battle With Stroke – Renowned Radio Broadcaster Kofi Asare Brako Abatey Narrates Ordeal #workingTime ♬ original sound – PeaceFm
@peace104.3fm1 #workingTime ♬ original sound – PeaceFm

Watch full report on the day one of the Sekondi Inter-Schools athletics

SB/EB

Hajia4Reall expected to be released from US prison today after fraud conviction

Ghanaian socialite Hajia4Reall is expected to be released today from a US prison after serving a sentence for conspiracy to receive stolen money from romance scams, with plans to return to Ghana.

Ghanaian socialite and musician Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Reall, is expected to be released today, May 22, 2025, from the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia.

It is about time good men of this country stood up for what is right – Dame on CJ’s removal process

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Godfred Yeboah Dame, the former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice has stated it is about time good men of this country stood up for what is right.

The former AG asserted that representing suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo is not a sign of NPP alignment.

According to Godfred Dame, his action is in line with his long-standing commitment to defending the Judiciary a stance he says has defined his career from the beginning.

Must-Have Long Dress Styles Every Woman Needs

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Long dresses, also known as maxi dresses, are a timeless wardrobe essential. Their elegance, versatility, and comfort make them a go-to choice for various occasions—from casual outings to formal events. Here are the must-have long dress styles every woman should consider adding to her closet:

This universally flattering style features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out, creating a graceful silhouette. Perfect for weddings, dinners, or work functions, an A-line dress in a solid color or soft print can be styled up or down effortlessly.

Known for its adjustable fit and waist-defining shape, the wrap dress complements most body types. It’s a great pick for both casual and semi-formal settings. Choose floral patterns or lightweight fabrics for a breezy, feminine look.

Boho dresses bring a relaxed, artistic vibe to your wardrobe. Often featuring flowy fabrics, ethnic prints, or lace details, they are perfect for summer festivals, beach days, or weekend brunches. Pair with sandals and a floppy hat for the ultimate boho-chic ensemble.

Every woman needs at least one stunning floor-length gown for special occasions. Opt for luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet in classic colors such as black, navy, or burgundy. Embellishments like sequins or beading can add extra glamour.

Combining structure with comfort, the shirt dress offers a more tailored look. Ideal for work or casual events, it balances sophistication and ease. Belt it at the waist for added shape.

Having a variety of long dress styles allows women to express their personal style while being prepared for any occasion. Investing in these staples ensures elegance, confidence, and versatility all year round.

Ras Appiah Commended For Reviving Pan-African Spirit

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 Ras Appiah

 

Mukhsin Alhassan Kadir, a member of the technical team of PanAfrican-Ghana (PAG) initiative, has praised renowned reggae artiste Ras Caleb Appiah for his efforts in reviving the Pan-African spirit through his music.

According to him, Appiah’s work embodies the values of unity, solidarity, and cultural exchange that define the Pan-African movement.

He commended Ras Appiah for using his platform to promote African identity, cultural heritage, and cooperation, inspiring a new generation of Africans to connect with their roots and work towards a brighter future for the continent.

By celebrating African culture and promoting unity, Appiah’s music serves as a powerful tool for fostering a sense of Pan-Africanism and solidarity among Africans worldwide.

He is an emerging revolutionary force, reigniting the spirit of African unity with unmatched passion and purpose.

Known for his powerful presence in reggae music and his unwavering advocacy, Ras Caleb is breathing new life into a movement once championed by legends like Kwame Nkrumah, Marcus Garvey, and Emperor Haile Selassie.

But unlike many who merely echo the slogans of the past, Ras Caleb is putting Pan-Africanism into action.

He is creating platforms that empower African voices and foster continental solidarity. His mission is clear: to make Pan-Africanism not just a political ideology, but a living movement rooted in the everyday lives of Africans.

Ras Caleb is currently leading several initiatives aimed at integrating Pan-African thought into education, the arts, and local governance. Through community forums, youth programmes, and cultural festivals, he is reviving a sense of African pride and agency, especially among the continent’s younger generation.

At the centre of his approach is the belief that Africans must shape Africa’s destiny. He advocates for economic cooperation, cultural self-determination, and an end to neo-colonial dependencies, calling on African nations to reclaim control over their resources, narratives, and policies.

Rooted in rastafarian wisdom and a deep reverence for African heritage, Ras Caleb brings a unique spiritual and cultural lens to his work. His music echoes his message, serving as both a rallying cry and a tool for enlightenment.

Africa faces development, identity, and global relevance challenges, and Ras Caleb’s message is urgent: Africa must unite or perish.

NPP National Executives must take responsibility for election defeat – Chairman Butey

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The first National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dankwa Smith Butey, has said the national executives cannot absolve themselves from responsibility for their defeat in the 2024 election.

In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Chairman Butey stated that the executives must take responsibility for the outcome, even though it was unpleasant.

He argued that if the party had won, the executives would have claimed the glory, so they must equally accept responsibility for the defeat.

“I admit we must take responsibility because if there was a win, we would have said we made it happen. So we must accept the defeat and apologise,” he said.

Chairman Butey believes there should have been more effective collaboration between the national, regional, and other executive levels to drive the election campaign successfully.

“The national level should have pushed the regions, then it trickles down to the constituencies and other levels, but our performance was not the best, and all we can do is apologise,” he added.

The NPP was poised to break the eight-year cycle with its presidential candidate and then Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

However, the party suffered significant losses in both the presidential and parliamentary contests.

John Mahama, on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was elected and declared winner by the Electoral Commission (EC) after polling 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55%, while Dr. Bawumia secured 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.

In Parliament, there was also a historic shift in power as the NDC obtained 183 seats, leaving the NPP with just 88 seats.

ALSO READ:

 

925 Migrant Beggars Repatriated –

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CGI Samuel Amadu Basintale

 

Nine hundred and twenty-five (925) migrant beggars have so far been repatriated to their home countries by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), repatriation which took place in the morning of Saturday, May 17, 2025.

A GIS release authored by the Head of Public Affairs, ACI Michael Amoako-Atta, stated that “at the time of this release, 925 persons have been successfully repatriated, and processes are underway to remove the rest.”

The release, which contained an update on the recent exercise, states that 2,241 migrant beggars from various countries are being held at designated Holding Centres.

Nigeriens top the list of those being held at 2,073; Nigerians, 138; Burkinabes, 28; 1 Guinean and 1 Malian.

All affected immigrants had to undergo profiling and security screening in line with Standard Operating Procedures, the GIS stated, adding that “immigrants were also segregated based on their gender and age, in line with international best practices.”

Repatriation could not commence on Friday, May 16, 2025, because the above processes continued into the late hours of the day, the GIS release explained.

Meals, among other needs of persons in detention, have been provided for by the Service, and the GIS Clinic is on standby to provide medical services where necessary, the release went on.

To avoid congestion at the Holding Centre at the National Headquarters, there has been a temporary hold on arrests, according to the GIS.

GIS Management has given the assurance that “the Special Operation is being conducted humanely in cognisance of the rights of all migrants.

“The GIS remains committed to its core values of Professionalism and Respect for Human Rights, and assures the general public of humane handling of affected immigrants.”

While expressing gratitude to stakeholders in the exercise, the GIS as Ghana’s lead agency in migration management and border security, stressed that, “the GIS assures the general public of its commitment to operating fair and firm immigration systems and contributing to national security and development.”

The Special Operation will resume and continue in due course, in the effort to rid the streets of beggars and clamp down on criminal networks.

 

Agile working in Ghana– hype or game changer?

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Agile working has become one of the most talked-about approaches in today’s modern workplaces—from startups in East Legon to corporate offices in Ridge and Tema.

But the big question remains: is it really worth adopting? The short answer is yes. But it only works if you do it properly. Half-committing to Agile is like training half-heartedly for a marathon—you’ll burn out early and be left dragging yourself to the finish line.

Agile working requires intention, structure, and full buy-in from everyone involved. When done right, it transforms teams and projects. When done poorly, it creates confusion.

What is Agile, really?

At its core, agile working is a project management methodology that simplifies processes, promotes real-time communication, and reduces unnecessary paperwork. Unlike traditional models that rely on rigid structures and top-down decision-making, agile empowers teams to make decisions, adapt to change quickly, and measure success by working results, not just plans or reports.

It’s about being flexible, responsive, and laser-focused on outcomes. Instead of spending weeks preparing documents no one reads, agile teams spend that time building and improving. Face-to-face communication, whether in person or virtual, is prioritised to ensure clarity, speed, and mutual accountability.

Agile strips away the noise and helps people actually get work done.

A culture shift, not just a process

Agile working isn’t just about tools or team structures—it’s a cultural shift. Everyone on the team must understand their role and how their work feeds into the broader goal. Agile thrives on transparency, collaboration, and shared ownership.

Projects are measured by progress, not paperwork. Teams regularly reflect on their performance and adjust their approach, creating a culture of continuous improvement. Feedback isn’t left until the end of a project—it’s built into the workflow, giving teams the chance to learn and pivot in real time.

When agile is done right, team morale often improves, because people feel involved, heard, and essential to the mission. It fosters a spirit of camaraderie and forward motion.

Who’s involved—and why structure still matters

Contrary to popular belief, agile isn’t structureless. Agile teams typically consist of a few defined roles: the development team, the product owner, and the scrum master. The development team does the technical legwork, while the product owner represents the business or client side, ensuring priorities stay clear. The scrum master facilitates processes and removes blockers—acting as a servant-leader rather than a traditional manager.

This structure, although simple, is powerful. It creates a tight communication loop that replaces lengthy approval chains with fast decisions and clear responsibilities. The goal is not to remove structure but to create a better one—one that supports momentum instead of slowing it down.

Addressing the misconceptions

There are common myths about agile that hold some organisations back. One is the belief that agile descends into chaos due to the lack of rigid rules. In reality, agile has structure—it’s just not the traditional kind. It’s people-focused, not paperwork-heavy. Teams are small by design—typically between three to nine people—ensuring that no voice is lost and no person dominates.

Another misconception is that agile suffers from a lack of documentation. Agile teams do create documentation, but it’s lean, useful, and focused. Instead of endless reports and meeting notes, agile documentation—often called artifacts—offers concise updates that show progress and highlight challenges in real-time. It’s about “show, don’t tell.”

Why Agile makes sense for Ghanaian businesses

Ghana’s economy is increasingly digital. Businesses across Accra, Kumasi, and beyond are being forced to innovate faster, adapt to shifting demands, and deliver quicker results. Agile working gives organisations the flexibility to respond quickly, while still maintaining structure and discipline.

For startups building new products, agile can help launch MVPs faster and refine them based on customer feedback. For larger organisations managing multiple teams and projects, it ensures alignment without sacrificing autonomy. And for remote or hybrid teams, agile provides a framework that encourages connection, consistency, and accountability.

The bottom line? Agile working offers real, measurable benefits—but only for those willing to embrace it fully. There are no shortcuts, but the rewards are worth the effort. So, is agile worth it in Ghana’s business environment? Absolutely. But like anything meaningful, it only works if you commit to doing it right from the start.

>>>the writer is a seasoned cloud architect and systems administrator with expertise in leading technical teams to create innovative platforms. As CTO of eSolutions Consulting, he has spearheaded major projects like the Office 365 rollout for Ghana’s government and infrastructure deployment for the Ghana Revenue Authority.

Recognized for his strategic use of emerging technologies, Allen has led his team to multiple Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, solidifying his role as a key leader in tech-driven business transformation. If you’d like to explore how these strategies can help your organisation thrive, reach out to discuss tailored solutions for your business growth journey. He can be reached via [email protected] and or 0540123034

Ghana slashes visa processing time from six weeks to five days

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Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a drastic reduction in the processing time for visa acquisition, slashing it from an average of four to six weeks to just five working days.

The new directive announced by the minister as part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and investment, takes immediate effect.

Ablakwa announced the update on his official Facebook page on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, stating that the move gives real and practical meaning to President John Dramani Mahama’s inaugural address on January 7, 2025, where he declared that Ghana is open for business.

“We at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are determined to offer practical meaning through expedited consular facilitation and policy coherence to fully achieve the President’s vision,” he said.

He confirmed that adequate measures have been implemented at Ghana’s diplomatic missions worldwide to achieve this drastic reduction.

Ablakwa emphasised that while the new policy promises faster service, it does not guarantee automatic approval.

“A decision will be made within five (5) working days as to whether one is eligible for a Ghanaian visa or not,” he clarified.

This expedited process is expected to enhance Ghana’s competitiveness in the global travel and business landscape, where efficient visa procedures are crucial to attracting visitors and investors.

“Ghana is truly open for business. Come enjoy the Black Star experience,” the minister added.

MRA/VPO

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:

Maxi Sway, Ras Kuuku, Others Collaborate On New Song

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Maxi Sway

 

Ghana’s sensation, Alex Bonsu, known in showbiz circles as Maxi Sway, has teamed up with two of the country’s heavyweights on a new song dubbed ‘Legalize’.

The song features dancehall act, Ras Kuuku and celebrated rapper, Ponobiom.

According to him, the two artistes have what it takes to make the music reach the masses, adding that he believes in the creativity of both artistes and thought it wise putting them on the song.

Maxi Sway believes that with the inclusion of Ponobiom and Ras Kuuku, the message could reach many music lovers.

Speaking to a section of the media about why he collaborated with these two giants on the song, he said, “I put Yaa Pono and Ras Kuuku on this single ‘Legalize’ because of the sound and the message it carries.”

According to him, “Legalising the use of Marijuana would create more farming opportunities coupled with industrial use, leading to economic development.”

He said, the message is clear, but unfortunately, people think legalising marijuana means more smoking, but rather more income through export and other purposes.

He charged the youth not to focus on the abuse but rather position themselves to tap into job opportunities which come with legalisation.

According to Maxi Sway, this is what would change their fortunes for a better future.

The song, produced by KlasicBeatz, is available on all digital streaming platforms.

 

 

 

OPK Denies Ethnocentric Remark –

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Davis Ansah Opoku

 

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, aka OPK, has denied passing an ethnocentric remark against former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

The alleged remark, he said, was a misrepresentation of what he said during a private conversation.

In a reaction to the allegation which drew a public backlash, he said that the allegation was a screenshot from a WhatsApp group.

In his reaction, he said “the publication is not only false but also a gross misrepresentation of a private conversation.”

“The suggestion that I objected to a Northerner becoming a flagbearer is completely untrue,” he pointed out.

According to OPK, his original comment was in direct response to a post made on a WhatsApp group by a certain Tamimu, a Northerner who questioned the viability of Bryan Acheampong as a presidential candidate on the basis of regional succession.

OPK referenced President John Mahama, a Northerner, to challenge what he interpreted as Tamimu’s flawed argument and not to attack any ethnic group.

“It was never an attack on Northerners but a rebuttal of a divisive and regionalistic claim made by one of their own,” he explained.

He pointed out that he has high regards for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia just as he does all the other qualified contenders within the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He concluded that every Ghanaian, irrespective of ethnicity or background, deserves the opportunity to serve. He also called for “focus on merit, unity, and competence rather than ethnocentric rhetoric.”

 

NLC orders striking university staff unions to resume work immediately

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The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed three university staff unions to immediately call off their strike action, citing violations of Ghana’s Labour Act.

In a letter dated May 21, 2025, the Commission invoked Section 139(1)(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), ordering the Senior Staff Association – Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG) to end their industrial action.

The directive follows a notice of intention to strike, served on the Commission on May 12, over alleged non-implementation of agreed conditions of service.

An agreement between the unions and the government was signed on November 12, 2024.

The NLC summoned the parties for a hearing on May 21, 2025. While FUSSAG and TUAAG appeared at the session, SSA-UoG was absent. The respondents included representatives from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), and the Ministry of Finance.

Despite the Commission’s intervention and directive to stay on the strike, the unions defied the order and proceeded with industrial action.

The NLC cited a press release by the unions, also dated May 21, announcing an indefinite strike in protest of what they described as the government’s continued breach of the agreement.

As a result, the Commission has declined to hear the matter further, invoking Section 161 of the Labour Act, which states that a matter cannot be entertained if parties are engaged in illegal strike actions.

The NLC has advised the unions to call off the strike and formally notify the Commission before any further steps can be taken.

University Senior Staff declare indefinite strike over unfulfilled govt agreement

FTTH Will Enhance Internet Access – MTN CEO

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Stephen Blewett

 

The Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has assured that the company’s Fiber To The Home (FTTH) services will significantly enhance internet access for households in various communities across the country.

Addressing journalists at a media and stakeholder forum in Tamale, Mr. Blewett disclosed that the FTTH solution was designed to address the increasing dependence of Ghanaian households on internet connectivity.

“We have customised our FTTH solutions to cater to the diverse needs of our customers. Our service provides high-speed internet access, reliable and stable connections, low latency for uninterrupted online experiences, and flexible plans to accommodate different requirements and budgets,” he said.

According to him, the initiative is part of MTN’s broader digital agenda, which aims to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals, businesses, and communities throughout the country.

Mr. Blewett noted the importance of network expansion and capital investment in driving MTN’s business growth and enhancing customer experience adding that it was necessary to expand the company’s digital infrastructure to improve connectivity and stimulate economic development.

“To ensure future-proof connectivity, MTN is enhancing its 4G capacity by upgrading its infrastructure and investing in the foundations of digital communication. By 2025, about 130 kilometers of fiber infrastructure will be relocated to bolster network resilience and significantly increase capacity, paving the way for next-generation services and applications that will empower individuals and businesses nationwide,” he added.

The MTN Ghana CEO as part of his tour of the Northern region engaged with various stakeholder groups and paid a courtesy call on the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John.

He also met with MTN staff, toured the Tamale market, and interacted with the company’s trade partners, accompanied by several executives and management team members.

The Media and Stakeholder Forum in Tamale brought together media representatives from the Upper East, North East, Savannah, and Northern regions.

 

FROM Eric Kombat, Tamale

‘Someone once said I win awards out of pity because I’m an orphan’ – Lyrical Joe

Ghanaian rapper and songwriter, Lyrical Joe Ghanaian rapper and songwriter, Lyrical Joe

Ghanaian rapper and songwriter, Joseph Gamor, popularly known as Lyrical Joe, has revealed that someone once claimed he wins awards out of pity because he is an orphan.

In an interview with Adom TV at his album launch on May 16, 2025, Lyrical Joe who said he didn’t know the person who made the claim, stated that the individual was simply upset because he was thriving.

He added, “I don’t even know who that person is or where they’re coming from. It’s clear they’re just angry because something is going well for me. And if you think I’m getting pity from fans, then yes, I am.”

Speaking about his new album, ‘I AM’, Lyrical Joe explained that the project consists of 16 tracks, featuring collaborations with well-known Ghanaian artistes like E.L, Medikal, and Andy Dosty.

When asked whether he focuses more on lyrical bars or melodic elements, Lyrical Joe emphasised that his goal was to connect with people’s souls through his music.

“Some people act like bars are separate from music, but bars are just part of the music. My main intention is to speak to your soul. If some bars touch you along the way, great. But ultimately, I want to connect with people on a deeper level,” he said.

He also shared his thoughts on what an album represents to him. “An album is something that should stay with you, something you can sleep with. It’s about making the right pieces, and everything you feel goes into it,” he added.

FG/EB

Meanwhile watch as King Promise wins Artiste of the Year at 2025 TGMAs:

Azar breaks down CJ Torkornoo case in her suit challenging her removal

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Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo reinforced her legal battle on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, by filing a suit at the Supreme Court in an attempt to halt the ongoing hearing targeted at her removal from office.

The action directly challenges her suspension and the ongoing proceedings related to three petitions for her removal.

Justice Torkornoo’s extensive suit seeks 16 reliefs from the nation’s highest court.

Her legal challenge is directed against the Attorney General, who acts as counsel for President John Dramani Mahama, and the members of the five-member panel constituted by the President to investigate the petitions as mandated by the 1992 Constitution.

On the back of this development, US-based Ghanaian legal luminary, Professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, widely known as Kwaku Azar, provided a comprehensive analysis of the Chief Justice’s case.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, Azar delineated Justice Torkornoo’s application as consisting of three distinct writs, two injunction requests, and 16 specific reliefs.

Azar elaborated on these reliefs, noting that the first three pivotal requests from Justice Torkornoo are for a public hearing of the petitions.

This particular demand, Azar pointed out, stands in direct opposition to the constitutional provision that dictates such investigative hearings be conducted in secret.

“The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.

“GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146 says such proceedings shall be held in camera.’ It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command,” Azar wrote.

The legal luminary said that the CJ’s relief numbers 4, 5 and 6 basically say that the determination of the prima facie case against her by the Council of State was wrong.

“She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.

“GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment; it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial,” he added.

“Reliefs 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Chief Justice’s application, raise issues of conflict of interest against the two justices on the five-member committee hearing the probe, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, who is chairman of the committee, and Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, the other judge on the case,” he said.

Kwaku Azar also indicated that the 14th relief of the Chief Justice wants the three other members of the committee—former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, Ghana Armed Forces’ Major Fora Bazaanura Dalugo, and University of Ghana academic, Professor James Sefah Dzisah—all disqualified from a committee set up by President Mahama.

“Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well. On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog,” he stated.

He added that the 15th relief, which he said was ‘the heart of the matter,’ wants the court to stop the committee from doing its work.

“Relief 16: And anything else the court may deem fit. Ah, yes, the always convenient ‘catch-all’ prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored,” Prof Azar added.

Read his write-up below:

GOGO has obtained and reviewed the latest writ filed by the suspended Chief Justice, Gertrude Araba Sackey Torkornoo.

The writ lists 16 reliefs and orders, some bold, some novel, some familiar and seeks, in essence, to halt the work of the committee set up under Article 146 to investigate her conduct.

We do not judge. But we do observe. And here’s what we see:

Reliefs 1–3: Public Hearing, Please?

The Chief Justice wants a declaration that she’s entitled to a public hearing and can waive in camera proceedings.

GOGO raises an eyebrow. But Article 146(😎 says such proceedings “shall be held in camera.” It’s not optional. It’s not a privilege. It’s a command.

Reliefs 4–6: Prima Facie, Sir?

She says the prima facie determination was flawed, lacked reasoning, and violated her rights.

GOGO humbly notes that this stage is not a judgment, it’s a threshold filter. Not every constitutional process mimics a full trial.

Reliefs 7–9: Suspend the Suspension?

She wants her suspension reversed, arguing that it’s unconstitutional and an assault on judicial independence.

GOGO sees it differently. Article 146(10) makes the suspension an option once a prima facie case is found. The President is entirely within his powers to suspend her, as he did with the former CHRAJ Commissioner, Ms. Lamptey.

Reliefs 10–13: Disqualify the Judges?

She wants Justices Pwamang and Adibu-Asiedu off the committee, citing bias. One ruled in favor of a petitioner in the past. Another sat on a related injunction panel.

GOGO gently points out: Ghanaian judges are often on multiple cases involving similar names. That’s not bias. That’s the job. In fact, the CJ herself has been very harsh on lawyers who tried to raise potential bias by Justice Gaewu, admonishing them “not to go there.”

Relief 14: Disqualify the Lay Members Too?

Now she wants to disqualify the non-judicial members as well.

On what basis? GOGO looks closely and finds little. No conflict. No misconduct. Just more procedural fog.

Relief 15: Stop the Committee Altogether

This is the heart of the matter. She wants the committee stopped cold. GOGO has seen this request twice before; both times dismissed by the Supreme Court. Third time lucky?

Relief 16: And Anything Else the Court May Deem Fit

Ah yes, the always convenient “catch-all” prayer. Open-ended. Undefined. Unmoored.

GOGO’S BOTTOM LINE:

We do not judge. We just observe.

Three writs. Two injunctions. Sixteen reliefs. Timing that always coincides with scheduled committee sittings. A familiar pattern?

GOGO says:

The Constitution must not be turned into a maze for evasion. The court must protect its time. The process must be allowed to work.

If this continues unchecked, GOGO fears Article 146 could go from a tool of oversight to a treadmill of obstruction; moving all the time, but going nowhere.

BAI/VPO

You can also watch the latest news on GhanaWeb TV below:

Cedi moves to sell at GH¢11.85 on the interbank market

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File photo of Cedi and US Dollar notes File photo of Cedi and US Dollar notes

Ghana’s local currency, the cedi, continues to appreciate on the interbank market against major trading currencies, particularly the US dollar.

In its daily update, the Bank of Ghana noted that the cedi is trading at a buying price of GH¢11.84 and a selling price of GH¢11.85 to the dollar.

The British pound is being bought at GH¢15.83 and sold at GH¢15.84, while the euro is trading at a buying price of GH¢13.33 and a selling price of GH¢13.34.

Checks by GhanaWeb Business on May 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM indicate that the cedi is trading at GH¢12.80, while the pound is selling at GH¢17.30 at some forex bureaus across the country.

Additionally, the euro is trading at GH¢14.80 on the retail market.

SP/MA

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Netizens react as Shatta Wale criticizes Kwadwo Sheldon in ‘diss’ song ‘Fame’

Dancehall musician Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has intensified his online feud with Kwadwo Sheldon by releasing a fresh attack at the content creator in a ‘diss’ track titled ‘Fame.’

The online trade of words began after Kwadwo Sheldon posted a video showing his apartment flooded due to the heavy downpour on May 18, 2025.

Osei-Kyei Mensah proposes changes to NPP Constitution to prevent automatic forfeiture of membership

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Veteran politician Osei-Kyei Mensah Bonsu, has proposed an amendment to Clause 6, Subclause 3 of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constitution to prevent automatic forfeiture of membership following a breach of the constitution.

He noted that in cases where a member holds an official position within the party, they should only be required to vacate their position without losing their membership rights upon breaching the constitution.

Latest Gorgeous Ways to Rock Skirt and Blouse Outfits You Should See

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Skirt and blouse outfits are timeless, offering versatility and elegance for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a day out, the right combination of skirts and blouses can make a statement. The latest trends bring a fresh spin on this classic pairing, allowing women to experiment with different cuts, fabrics, and styles. Here are some gorgeous ways to rock skirt and blouse outfits that are guaranteed to turn heads.

One of the most flattering and popular styles this season is the high-waisted skirt paired with a fitted blouse. This combination accentuates the waist, creating a sleek and elongated silhouette. Whether you opt for a pencil skirt or a flowy A-line, pairing it with a fitted blouse, such as a button-down shirt or a tucked-in blouse, adds sophistication to your look. You can also add a statement belt for extra flair and structure.

For a chic and feminine ensemble, a peplum blouse combined with a midi skirt is a winning combo. Peplum tops, with their flare at the waist, pair beautifully with pencil or pleated midi skirts, balancing the proportions and creating a flattering hourglass figure. This look works well for both office settings and evening events. Pair it with heels to elevate the look or opt for flats for a more relaxed vibe.

For a laid-back yet stylish appearance, combine a flowing, bohemian-style skirt with a loose-fitting blouse. Opt for skirts in natural fabrics like linen or cotton, and pair them with blouses featuring ruffles, lace details, or embroidered elements. This look is perfect for summer outings, casual dates, or festivals. You can add accessories such as chunky necklaces or wide-brimmed hats to complete the boho aesthetic.

Cropped blouses have been a major trend, and they pair perfectly with high-low skirts. A high-low skirt features a longer hem in the back, creating a dramatic flair, while the cropped blouse adds a modern touch to the outfit. This combination is great for more adventurous fashion lovers who want to show off their legs while maintaining a modest yet stylish appeal. Choose a bright, bold-colored blouse or one with eye-catching patterns to stand out.

For a feminine and flirty look, an off-shoulder blouse paired with a flared skirt is a great option. This combination brings attention to the collarbones and shoulders, adding a touch of sensuality while remaining elegant. Opt for a solid color blouse in light, airy fabrics like cotton or chiffon, and pair it with a flared skirt to add movement and texture. This look is perfect for date nights, evening gatherings, or semi-formal events.

One of the most polished ways to wear a skirt and blouse combination is by choosing a coordinated set. Matching skirts and blouses in the same fabric or pattern create a sleek, uniform look. These sets are available in various styles, from floral prints to solid colors, and can be dressed up with heels or kept casual with sandals. A coordinated set makes it easy to put together a stylish outfit without much effort.

For a sophisticated yet trendy look, try pairing a tailored blouse with a pleated skirt. The sharp lines of a tailored blouse combined with the soft folds of a pleated skirt create an elegant and balanced look. This outfit is perfect for professional settings, but it can also be worn for dinner parties or evening events. A pair of pointed-toe heels or ankle boots would enhance this elegant ensemble.

Conclusion: Skirt and blouse outfits are a timeless and chic choice that can be customized to fit any occasion. Whether you prefer a structured, polished look or something more relaxed and bohemian, the latest styles offer endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. From high-waisted skirts paired with fitted blouses to flowing skirts combined with loose tops, there is a skirt and blouse outfit that suits every personality and event. Keep experimenting with colors, patterns, and accessories to create a look that is uniquely yours!

Empress Gifty Sues Nana Agradaa For GH¢20m

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Empress Gifty

 

Gospel musician, Empress Gifty, has filed a GH₵20 million defamation lawsuit against Evangelist Patricia Asiedu, known as Nana Agradaa, over offensive statements made during a recent live social media broadcast.

According to a writ of summons in circulation online, the suit stems from a live video posted by Nana Agradaa on May 13, 2025, across Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

In the broadcast, Nana Agradaa launched a verbal attack on Empress Gifty’s husband, politician Hopeson Adorye, and went on to make highly defamatory remarks about the gospel singer.

The statements, originally made in Twi and later translated in court documents, include some unprintable words, which were clearly defamatory and falsely portrayed Empress Gifty.

The suit further alleges that the video quickly spread across various social media platforms and news portals, fueling public backlash and damaging the reputation of the singer both personally and professionally.

Empress Gifty also claims the public scrutiny has affected her family—particularly her children, who have become targets of ridicule among their peers—and jeopardized a major international programme she was scheduled to headline in August 2025.

Her legal team argues that Nana Agradaa’s actions have led to severe personal and commercial harm, noting that Empress Gifty’s status as a public figure and brand ambassador has been compromised.

As part of the suit, Empress Gifty is seeking GH₵20 million in damages for slander and libel, a perpetual injunction to prevent Nana Agradaa from repeating the defamatory remarks and a court order directing Nana Agradaa to remove all related videos and content from her social media platforms.

Torkornoo’s injunction won’t derail removal process – Nana Yaa Jantuah

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Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah has stated that the inquiry into suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo will proceed as planned, despite a fresh Supreme Court application seeking to halt the process.

Responding to Justice Torkornoo’s legal attempt to disqualify two Supreme Court justices from the investigative committee, Jantuah argued that the move would not impact the committee’s work or alter its eventual outcome.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, May 22, she described the application as unnecessary and ineffective, emphasizing that the inquiry remains grounded in due process.

“How can those two people influence the outcome? They cannot, because there are also two other members of the committee who I know are very credible. They are following the law, and I don’t believe anyone on the committee can act outside of it,” she said.

Justice Torkornoo, who was suspended by President John Mahama under Article 146 of the Constitution, filed the application through former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame. She is asking the Supreme Court to disqualify Justices Gabriel Scott Pwamang and Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu from the inquiry, citing alleged private meetings with a lawyer involved in the matter.

The application also seeks to restrain the entire committee—including the two justices, former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah—from continuing with proceedings.

Despite this, Jantuah maintains that the committee remains legitimate and that the process should be allowed to run its course.

Justice Torkornoo is facing three separate petitions for her removal from office. The committee is expected to investigate the allegations and present findings that will determine her future as Chief Justice.

Justice Torkornoo on why Domelevo, Major Dalugo and Prof Sefah Dzifah are not qualified to be part of CJ impeachment committee in line with Oaths Act

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The Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court challenging her suspension by President John Dramani Mahama.

In a writ filed yesterday by her lawyer, Godfred Yeboah Dame, a former Attorney-General, the Chief Justice is seeking declarations from the Supreme Court that her suspension as well as the impeachment process against her are unconstitutional and, therefore, null and void.

She is also seeking an order from the apex court setting aside her suspension by President Mahama and for the court to allow the petition proceedings against her to be heard in public and not in camera.

Additionally, Justice Torkornoo has filed an application for interlocutory injunction asking the court to halt the entire impeachment process against her pending the final determination of her lawsuit.

She is seeking a declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 23, 146 (6)  and (7) and 296 (a) and (b) of the Constitution, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang is not qualified to be a chairman or member of the committtee set up by President Mahama to inquire the petitions against Justice Torkornoo on account of having adjudicated and given various rulings in favour of one of the petitioners, Daniel Ofori in actions filed in the Supreme Court

  • An order prohibiting Justice Pwamang from presiding as chairman of the committee or participating in the proceedings of the committee set up to inquire into the petitions against the plaintiff
  • A declaration that upong a true and proper interpretation of articles 23, 127 (1) and (2), 146 (6) and (7) and 296 (a) and (b) of the Constitution, the appointment of Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu, as a member of the committee set up by President Mahama to inquire into the petitions against the plaintiff, at a time he had already sat as a member of a panel of the Supreme Court constituted under article 128(2) of the Constitution to hear an application for the interlocutory injunction filed by a Ghanaian citizen challenging the “article 146 proceedings” initiated against the plaintiff , violates the independence of the Judiciary
  • An order prohibiting Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu from sitting as a member of or participating in the proceedings of the committee set up to inquire into the petitions against the plaintiff
  • A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of articles 146 (1), (2), (4), 23 and 296 of the Constitution and sections 1. 2 and 4 of the Oaths Act, 1972, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo and Professor James Sefah Dzisah are not qualified to undertake the functions entrusted on them as members of the committee set up by the President to inquire into the petitions against the plaintiff
  • An order restraining the committee set up by the President to inquire into the three petitions against the Chief Justice composed of Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura Dalugo and Professor James Sefah Dzisah from proceeding to carry out the terms of reference of the committee set up under article 146(6) as laid out in the letter datec 22nd April, 2025.

The legal action by the Chief Justice came a few hours after the Supreme Court had dismissed two interlocutory injunction applications seeking an order to put on hold the suspension and the impeachment.

The two interlocutory injunction applications filed by a civil society organisation, Centre for Citizenship, Constitutional and Electoral Systems (CenCES), and an individual, Theodore Kofi Atta-Quartey, who also wanted the court to halt the impeachment process of the Chief Justice pending the final determinations of their lawsuits challenging its constitutionality.

In a 4-1 majority decision yesterday, a five-member panel of the Supreme Court, presided over by the Acting Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, dismissed the two applications as lacking merit.

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Justices Baffoe-Bonnie, Issifu Omoro Tanko Amadu, Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi and Henry Anthony Kwofie were on the majority side, while Justice Yaw Darko Asare dissented.

The Supreme Court has so far dismissed three applications challenging President Mahama’s decision to suspend Justice Torkornoo after the President in consultation with the Council of State established a prima facie case against her with regard to three petitions seeking her removal.

On May 6, this year, the Supreme Court, in a 3-2 majority decision, dismissed another application for interlocutory injunction filed by the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah.

Prima facie determination

The Chief Justice is making a case that the determination of the prima facie case against her by the President in consultation with the Council of State, which led to the establishment of the five-member committee to probe the petitions, and her subsequent suspension by the President were unconstitutional.

She is, therefore, seeking “a declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of Articles 19(13), 23, 146(1), (2), (4) and (6) and 296 of the Constitution, a determination of a prima facie case in respect of a petition for the removal of a Chief Justice or a Justice of the Superior Court of Judicature is a quasi-judicial process requiring a judicious evaluation, culminating in a reasoned decision”.

She is also seeking a declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of Articles 19(13), 23, 146(1), (2), (4) and (6) and 296 of the Constitution, the purported prima facie finding against her was not proper and, therefore, unconstitutional, null and void. 

Public hearing

Justice Torkornoo contends that upon a true and proper interpretation of Articles 17(1) and (2), 19(13) and (14), 146(7) and (8), 281(1) and 295(1) of the Constitution, she has the right to public hearing of the petition and is, therefore, seeking a declaration from the apex court to that effect.

She is further seeking a declaration that “the right of a Chief Justice to a public hearing and all the incidents of a fair hearing may only be excluded in the interest of public morality, public safety, or public order”.

The Chief Justice is seeking a further declaration that she had the right to waive the privilege of an in-camera hearing as stipulated by the Constitution.

Removal of committee members

Other reliefs sought by the Chief Justice are orders from the court prohibiting the Chairman of the five-member committee probing the petition, Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, and a member, Justice Samuel Adibu-Asiedu, from participating in the proceedings of the committee of inquiry into the petitions.

For Justice Pwamang, the Chief Justice is seeking a declaration that he is not qualified to be chairman of the committee owing to the fact that he had adjudicated on a number of cases and ruled in favour of one of the petitioners, Daniel Ofori.

With regard to Justice Asiedu, the Chief Justice is asking the court to declare that he is not qualified to be a member of the committee because he was already a member of a Supreme Court panel hearing an interlocutory injunction application against the impeachment.

Background

On April 22,  Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced that President Mahama had suspended Justice Torkornoo.

The suspension of the Chief Justice by President Mahama, under Article 146 (10) of the Constitution followed the determination of the prima facie case by the President, in consultation with the Council of State, and the subsequent establishment of a five-member committee to inquire into the petitions, in accordance with Article 146 (6) of the 1992 Constitution.

The committee established by President Mahama to probe the petitions is chaired by Justice Gabriel Pwamang, a Justice of the Supreme Court.

Members of the committee are a Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Samuel Kwame Adibu-Asiedu; a former Auditor-General, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, Major Flora Bazwaanura of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Professor James Sefah Dzisah of the University of Ghana.

Meanwhile, the committee began sitting on Thursday, May 15, this year and is expected to convene three times a week, hearing arguments from the petitioners, their lawyers and that of the suspended Chief Justice.

The whole process will be in camera as stipulated by Article 146 (8) of the Constitution.

After the hearing, the committee is expected to present its findings and recommendations to President Mahama and by virtue of Article 146 (9) of the Constitution, the President is bound to act, serving as a conveyer belt, in accordance with the recommendations.

GoldBod extends gold trading license deadline to June 21

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The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has officially extended the deadline for transitioning to its new gold trading license regime from May 21 to June 21, 2025.

The announcement, made in a statement released on Thursday, May 22, and signed by Prince Kwame Minkah, Media Relations Officer of GoldBod, follows multiple petitions from stakeholders within the gold trading industry.

Under the revised directive, all persons currently holding licenses previously issued by the now-defunct Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources are permitted to continue purchasing and dealing in gold using those licenses until the new deadline.

However, GoldBod has made it clear that this grace period is final and non-extendable.

“Only holders of a GoldBod license will be allowed to purchase, sell, or deal in gold after June 21, 2025. The use of licenses issued by the defunct PMMC or the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will be prohibited beyond this date. A breach of this directive will constitute a punishable offence under the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140).”

Despite the one-month extension for trading operations under old licenses, the export function tied to those licenses has been revoked effective immediately. As of May 22, only GoldBod, as a corporate entity, retains the authority to export small-scale gold from Ghana.

This marks a significant shift in gold export control, centralising the process under a single regulatory body.

GoldBod also encouraged all prospective traders and dealers to begin or complete their license applications via its official website, [www.goldbod.gov.gh](http://www.goldbod.gov.gh).

While the application process remains open beyond the June 21 deadline, the agency reiterated that no trading or dealing in gold will be allowed without a valid GoldBod license after that date.

GoldBod further called for continued cooperation from all stakeholders and members of the public as it implements these regulatory reforms aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and national interest in the gold sector.

Dada KD One-Week Observation Slated for June 21

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Nana Kwaku Duah

 

The one-week observation for late Ghanaian highlife legend, Nana Kwaku Duah, widely known as Dada KD, has been scheduled for Friday, June 21, 2025.

The ceremony will be held at the East Legon Executive Club House in Accra, where family, friends, fans, and industry colleagues are expected to gather to honour his memory.

Dada KD passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the age of 54, after reportedly complaining of ill health. His sudden death has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry, with many paying tribute to his musical legacy and unique contribution to highlife music.

Before his death, Dada KD was expected to perform in London on May 25, alongside fellow artists Obrafour, Slim Buster, and Kojo Blakk.

In a moment that many now describe as eerie, Dada KD made headlines in May 2020 when he publicly stated that he would soon “join his late colleagues,” referencing the late Kofi B and Bishop Bernard Nyarko.

The iconic musician is best remembered for timeless songs such as “Tekyere Ma,” “Ene Menye,” “Wosuro A Wondi,” and “Honey Love.” His music continues to resonate with generations of Ghanaians.

One dead, Three Police Officers injured in Dominase drug raid

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A police operation targeting illicit drug peddlers at Dominase in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region has turned violent, resulting in the death of a civilian and injuries to three police officers.

The incident occurred during a crackdown aimed at dismantling a suspected drug trafficking network in the area.

Officers from the Ghana Police Service encountered fierce resistance from the alleged drug peddlers, leading to a confrontation.

During the clash, a civilian — believed to be connected to the peddlers — was fatally wounded. The identities of the deceased and the injured officers have not yet been released.

Police sources confirm that three officers sustained various degrees of injury and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The Ghana Police Service is yet to issue a full statement, but residents report heightened security presence in the area as investigations continue.

Tree felling along Atomic-Kwabenya road necessary to protect lives — GAEC

Private company ‘seizes’ million-euro piggery project

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A Ghanaian food processing company, Akwaaba Feeds Limited, has been accused of seizing control of a public enterprise with which it partnered in a public-private partnership initiative funded by the European Union.

In early September 2022, the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly launched a million-euro piggery project to much fanfare and expectation of a “transformative initiative” to uplift lives, create jobs, and boost local economies.

In pursuit of these goals, the assembly immediately engaged the services of Akwaaba Feeds to manage the facility and create a thriving piggery value chain.

Abandoned and locked up feed mill, and power plant at the mercy of the weather

It was a big mistake.

Investigations by The Fourth Estate have unearthed a trail of corporate overreach, mismanagement, and bad corporate governance that appears to continue unchecked.

Akwaaba Feeds has turned out to be totally uncooperative, refusing to remit any revenue to the Assembly, according to two sources close to the developments and privy to the contract terms and conditions.

The sources say key financial and operational control – including the abattoir’s bank accounts, budgets, and board membership – rests solely with Akwaaba Feeds.

This suggests that every penny from services, like pig slaughtering, carcass preparation, the sale of pork, and holding pen rentals, goes directly into the company’s coffers. Receipts issued to customers bear the company’s name instead of the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly, violating the government’s Public Financial Management (PFM) Act.

Akwaaba Feeds denied any wrongdoing when contacted by The Fourth Estate.

“This isn’t collaboration; it’s seizure,” a source familiar with the project declared. “The entire project has been hijacked.”

Vision derailed
The Gbawe Pig Abattoir project was more than just a facility – it was a dream.

Funded under the EU’s Local Economic Development (LED) initiative, the abattoir was designed to support pig farmers, provide hygienic pork products, and create opportunities for over 350 youths, including those with disabilities.

It promised a 130% boost in municipal revenue and brighter futures for countless families. By September 2022, the dream had become a nightmare.

Despite interventions by Municipal Assembly officials, including a resolution in March 2024 led by the Municipal Chief Executive, Michael Danquah, and Coordinating Director, Vida Awuku, the Assembly has been unable to regain control.

According to two sources familiar with the proceedings, meetings with Akwaaba Feeds often devolve into heated arguments, with the company’s representatives openly challenging Assembly officials.

In a bid to reclaim some oversight and clip Akwaaba’s wings, the Assembly stationed staff at the abattoir in early 2024.

Within three months, these officers managed to collect GH₵40,000 in revenue – an amount that suggests the Assembly could have generated GH₵350,000 over the 35 months of Akwaaba’s management. This figure represents 10% of the Assembly’s internally generated funds in 2023, a substantial loss for a resource-strapped municipality.

Efforts by the Assembly to continue monitoring revenue at the abattoir were, however, met with hostility… and the Assembly inexplicably withdrew its staff, one of The Fourth Estate’s sources said.

“I don’t know how they manufactured the contract but the people (Akwaaba Feeds) have some power that the manager could talk to our Coordinating Director anyhow,” the source said angrily.

The Fourth Estate’s sources declined to be named over fears of being victimised, and because they were not authorised to speak to the media.

The price of failure
The EU-funded project was meant to include a modern abattoir, a breeding centre, and a feed mill. The project was also envisaged to improve the Assembly’s annual domestic revenue mobilisation by at least 200 per cent.

It also aimed to create job opportunities for pig farmers and the youth, including persons with disability running small and medium-scale enterprises. By 2022, these facilities should have been operational, uplifting farmers and promoting hygienic pork production. However, key components like the breeding centre and feed mill remain idle, their potential unrealised.

“It is quite unfortunate that the purpose has been defeated,” the source said. “The breeding centre didn’t work, the feed mill too didn’t work.”

Akwaaba Feeds, meanwhile, has failed to fulfil its end of the bargain. Instead of over GH₵600,000 capital investments as required in the contract, the company reportedly erected a single structure valued at GH₵20,000.

“This isn’t just about money,” the Assembly’s source shared. “The whole purpose of the project – to create jobs, empower farmers, and promote public health – has been defeated.”

The Assembly’s 2022 annual report revealed that it cost GH₵722,689.85 to construct the abattoir, which includes holding pens, offices, a processing room, and storage facilities.

Adding to the financial woes, the Assembly has also struggled to meet its revenue targets. Internal audit reports from early 2022 show a revenue shortfall of nearly GH₵49,000 compared to the same period in 2021. The auditors attribute this to challenges with billing, data management, and uncollected fees.

“…this underperformance was due to the problems with printing of bills and data management on the IRMS (Integrated Revenue Management System), revenue collections on billboards, signage and temporal structures which are yet to be collected as at the end of 1st Quarter, 2022,” the audit report noted.

The absence of an effective and a binding contract prompted the Assembly to renegotiate the contract. “Managements of the Weija/Gbawe Municipal Assembly and the Gbawe Pig Abattoir refer the contract to their respective legal advisors to review and recommend the way forward,” a March 2024 directive said.

What was intended as a partnership has turned into a monopoly. The collaboration between the EU, the Assembly, and Akwaaba Feeds has not only failed but has left the municipal assembly scrambling to salvage what’s left of its vision. As it stands, this tale of mismanagement and broken promises serves as a stark reminder that transparency and accountability are as essential to public projects as the funding that fuels them.

Project defects defeat scheme
Dr Osei Agyeman Bonsu, manager of the Gbawe Pig Abattoir, expressed concern over numerous shortcomings in the facility’s design and operations.

In an interview with The Fourth Estate, he explained that serious mistakes during the planning phase led to all the equipment inside the abattoir malfunctioning, rendering operations impossible. Dr Bonsu said excessive electricity consumption was a major issue due to old equipment, with continuous breakdowns, which led to unbearable and costly maintenance.

The abattoir lacked a cold storage room, essential for preserving meat in top quality and safe condition. Its absence compromised the business’s sustainability and hygiene standards, he added.

Dr. Osei Agyeman Bonsu who spoke on behalf of Akwaaba Feeds is the manager of Gbawe Pig Abattoir

The electrical equipment within the plant was outdated and inefficient, contributing significantly to the high running costs, he said. Water heats within 20 minutes at more modern abattoirs, while their outdated system takes up to four hours, consuming more power.

The interview also shed light on the inhumane slaughter practices still prevalent at Gbawe Pig Abattoir. Despite having received an electric stunner in 2023 from the Netherlands-based animal-welfare organisation ‘Eyes on Animals’, the facility has yet to adopt this humane method.

Abattoir does not pay taxes
Financial records obtained by The Fourth Estate reveal that the facility reports an average monthly revenue of approximately GHS18,000, which indicates the slaughter of roughly 1,200 pigs each month. When asked whether the abattoir pays taxes, Dr Bonsu admitted that it does not, explaining that the monthly earnings are insufficient even to cover staff wages.

Dr Bonsu decried the fact that even as operational costs have risen sharply, the abattoir has maintained a service fee of GHS15 per pig – a stark contrast to what he sees as a more appropriate fee of GHS60, considering the expenses involved.

While lamenting the current poor state of the project, he said that with the right investor, the facility could be revitalised to create jobs in Weija-Gbawe. It would also transform the piggery value chain, which was initially envisioned to generate over 350 jobs and boost the local economy.

Unfortunately, the promise of the project has largely faltered. Many local farmers, who once sold their pigs to the abattoir, have since sold all their stock and reinvested their limited resources elsewhere. The community’s hopes for a thriving piggery industry, capable of promoting economic growth and employment, have been significantly undermined.

Some pigs at the holding pen at the Gbawe Pig Abattoir 2

‘No comment’
When approached for comment, the European Union delegation to Ghana declined to specify details about the project’s evaluation, stating that assessments were ongoing and they could not provide further insights at this time.

“The European Union evaluates and monitors all funding projects to assess progress and build evidence for improvements. However, specific details about a concluded assessment on this project is still in progress and we are not able to comment further,” its press and information officer, Abdul-Kudus Husein, said in an email.

The Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly did not respond to multiple interview requests since November 2024, leaving questions about whether the community’s future piggery ambitions would be realised.

The Fourth Estate also requested the contract for the management of the abattoir from the Assembly and Akwaaba Feeds but both entities failed to provide it.

The project received support from the Thomson Reuters Foundation as part of its global work aimed at strengthening free, fair and informed societies. Any financial assistance or support provided to the journalist has no editorial influence. The content of this article belongs solely to the author and is not endorsed by or associated with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, Thomson Reuters, Reuters, nor any other affiliates.

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.

‘20 years for 12 cedis?’ – Tulenkey slams Ghana’s music royalty system

Tulenkey has raised concerns about the state of Ghana’s music royalty system Tulenkey has raised concerns about the state of Ghana’s music royalty system

Ghanaian rapper Tulenkey has raised concerns about the state of the Ghana’s music royalty system, calling it one of the biggest issues facing the music industry.

In an interview with 3FM, the “Bad Feelings” hitmaker expressed his doubts about the level of support artistes receive in Ghana.

When asked if the Ghanaian music industry has the right structures in place to support musicians, he responded, “I don’t think so. But I think they are working on it.”

Tulenkey stressed that among all the challenges, the royalty system is the most critical. According to him, royalties are the true “bread and butter” of artistes, something that can benefit the musicians, and also generations after them.

“I think it’s the royalty section. Because that’s our bread and butter. I know people say shows and streaming, but royalty is a lifetime thing. Even your children’s children can eat off it,” he said.

He explained that while many artistes focus on collecting royalties from international platforms and organisations, there is a need to build a solid royalty system within Ghana.

“Royalty is a big thing, and everybody’s focused on the ones abroad. But the thing is, you need to start from your country before you even blow outside. And it’s quite difficult,” Tulenkey explained.

He further argued that if proper systems were in place, artistes wouldn’t have to rely only on shows or streaming income to survive. Royalties alone, he said, could take care of them.

“Because if structures were put in place properly for royalty collection, I think if you have a song, a good song that’s making waves, making numbers, you’re not even playing shows, so you’re not getting streams or anything, you can eat off that,” he added.

Tulenkey revealed that he currently receives royalty payments from international platforms every three months, but has not signed up with any royalty collection organisation in Ghana because of the discouraging stories he has heard from veteran musicians.

“I think it’s every three months. Yeah, it’s every three months. Not in Ghana. I’ve not, I’ll register, I’ve not done it yet. Because I heard, was it Obrafour, said that 20 years in the industry, and he had only, is it 12 cedis? I don’t know the figures. It was discouraging,” he said.

Also watch as Robert Klah addresses Felicia Osei’s ticket incident at TGMAs

AK/EB

‘We will publish a load shedding timetable when it becomes necessary’

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A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hamza Suhuyini Sayibu A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hamza Suhuyini Sayibu

A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hamza Suhuyini Sayibu, has assured Ghanaians that the Mahama-led government will not hesitate to publish a load shedding timetable when it becomes necessary.

He stated that in the spirit of transparency, the government will notify the public to brace themselves should the challenge of power distribution escalate.

He made these pronouncements during an interview with TV3 on May 20,2025.

In a subtle jab to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Suhuyini emphasised that the NDC, unlike NPP, operates with integrity and would not withhold information on national power issues from the public.

“Unlike the NPP, the NDC is a group of honest people. If at any point we feel there is a need to publish a load-shedding timetable, Ghanaians can rest assured that the government will do so without hesitation. However, we are not at that stage yet,” he said.

He attributed the current efforts to improve electricity reliability to the exemplary leadership of President John Mahama, describing him as ‘an honest leader’ committed to addressing the country’s power challenges.

He also highlighted recent initiatives by the Mahama administration aimed at reducing electricity costs, including an ongoing discussion between the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Finance to establish a second gas processing plant.

According to him, this project is designed to lower the cost of fuel used in power generation.

“All of these developments have occurred within just four or five months. That is what we call progress,” he said.

Suhuyini criticised the previous Akufo-Addo administration, accusing it of failing to address similar challenges during its eight-year tenure.

“They had eight good years to act, not eight days. Yet, we never saw such decisive conversations or concrete actions. It is time they stop with the holier-than-thou attitude,” he added.

MRA/VPO

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:

Producer Price Inflation drops to 18.5% in April 2025

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Producer Price Inflation drops to 18.5% from 24.4% in April 2025 Producer Price Inflation drops to 18.5% from 24.4% in April 2025

Producer Price Inflation (PPI) fell in April 2025, dropping to 18.5% from 24.4% in March, according to the latest data from the Ghana Statistical Service.

This marks the third consecutive monthly decline in producer inflation and signals a cooling in price pressures at the factory gate.

The fall in the year-on-year rate represents a significant 5.9 percentage point drop, driven largely by easing price growth in two key sectors; mining and quarrying, which contributed 10.6 points to April’s inflation, and manufacturing, which added 6.9 points.

Together, these sectors accounted for nearly 95% of the month’s inflation rate.

On a month-on-month basis, producers experienced deflation of 0.8%, indicating that average factory gate prices were lower in April than in March.

This is a reversal from the 0.6% rise recorded in March and suggests that producers are beginning to receive less revenue per unit of goods and services sold.

Across industries, mining and quarrying recorded the most notable decline in year-on-year inflation, falling from 35.4% in March to 24.3% in April.

The manufacturing sector also saw a drop from 22.8% to 19.6% over the same period. The transport and storage sector saw its inflation rate decline from 20.4% to 16.2%.

The decline in producer inflation offers a potential boost to the broader economy.

According to the Statistical Service, reduced input costs for producers could eventually translate to lower consumer prices if the reductions are passed along the supply chain.

However, the report also warns that while inflation is slowing, producers may face tighter profit margins.

SP/MA

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Onana, Ruben Amorim under fire after Manchester United lost Europa League final

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Ruben Amorim (L) and Onana (R) have been criticised by Manchester United fans Ruben Amorim (L) and Onana (R) have been criticised by Manchester United fans

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana and head coach Ruben Amorim have come under intense scrutiny following the club’s 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the 2025 Europa League final.

Tottenham’s continuous pressing paid off in the 42nd minute when Brennan Johnson latched onto a cross and flicked it past goalkeeper Andre Onana, giving his side the lead.

In the second half, Manchester United took control of the game, bombarding their opponents with shots and crosses, but were unsuccessful.

Reacting to the result, some Manchester United fans have called for the dismissal of head coach Amorim, citing his inability to effectively utilise the squad at his disposal.

They argue that the manager’s tactics and demeanor, which doesn’t seem to inspire the players when losing, show he is not up to the club’s standard, especially after the team’s worst season in over half a century.

Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana was heavily criticised for not saving Johnson’s shot, which ultimately hurt the club.

Fans have called on team officials to consider signing another goalkeeper for next season, warning that their woes would continue otherwise.

Manchester United ended the season trophyless after failing to win the Premier League, Europa League, and other league cups in the 2024/2025 season.

Amorim took over from Erik Ten Hag mid-season during the team’s struggles but unfortunately has not been able to turn things around.

Read some of the reactions below:

Watch as Shama SHS emerge overall champions at 2025 Sekondi Schools games

SB/EB

I’m Coming In As Me – Actress Peggy Ovire Finally Speaks Amid Divorce Rumours

Ovire shared a video of herself dressing for a wedding ceremony on Saturday, notably without her wedding band.

Nollywood actress Peggy Ovire has broken her silence following rumours of a divorce from her husband, actor Frederick Leonard.

Reacting, she shared a video of herself dressing for a wedding ceremony on Saturday, notably without her wedding band.

How Skirts Can Transform Your Professional Style

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Unlock Instant Confidence: How Skirts Can Transform Your Professional Style

News Hub Creator32min

In the ever-evolving world of professional fashion, skirts remain a timeless wardrobe staple that effortlessly combines elegance, versatility, and confidence. Whether you’re attending boardroom meetings, participating in virtual calls, or networking at events, the right skirt can significantly enhance your professional appearance and leave a lasting impression.

One of the greatest strengths of skirts is their adaptability. From sleek pencil skirts that convey power and precision to flattering A-line styles that offer comfort and flair, there is a silhouette for every body type and personal style. A high-waisted midi skirt paired with a tucked-in blouse and heels creates a polished, commanding look. For a more relaxed yet still professional outfit, a flowy pleated skirt combined with a structured blazer works well—perfect for creative offices or casual Fridays.

Fabric and color choices also contribute to a refined appearance. Neutral shades like black, navy, and beige are timeless and easy to coordinate, while bold prints or luxurious materials like tweed, satin, or jacquard can express individuality. In warmer months, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen offer comfort, while wool blends are ideal for cooler seasons.

Accessories further elevate your style. A sleek belt, elegant jewelry, or a standout handbag can complete your outfit and reflect your personal taste.

Incorporating skirts into your work wardrobe is more than a fashion choice—it’s a way to express confidence and authenticity in any professional setting.

First National Bank Appoints New Chief People Officer

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Adwoa Boateng-Addo

 

First National Bank has announced the appointment of Adwoa Boateng-Addo as the Chief People Officer. Prior to this appointment, Adwoa served as Senior Human Resource Business Partner at the bank, leading the implementation of several key human resource initiatives.

Adwoa takes over from Ernestina Danquah, who has proceeded to retirement on April 30, 2025 after serving the bank as Head of Human Resources for almost 10 years.

Chief Executive Officer of First National Bank, Warren Adams, explained that Adwoa’s appointment is a reflection of the bank’s philosophy of ‘growing its own timber’. “We are confident that under Adwoa’s leadership, our people strategy will continue to thrive and evolve”, he said.

Prior to this, Adwoa was the Senior Human Resource Business partner at First National Bank, where she’s known for building high-trust relationships, influencing at executive levels, and successfully leading projects such as performance enablement and its applicable platform transitions, development of the employee value proposition, among others.

“We have no doubt that she can deliver excellently in this elevated capacity”, Warren added.

In this new role, Adwoa will be responsible for the development and supervision of the bank’s strategic people initiatives, including talent development, performance enablement, and organisational design.

Adwoa is a results-driven and people-focused human resource executive with over fifteen years of experience in leading transformative human capital strategies across the banking, media, and public service sectors in Ghana and the United Kingdom.

Adwoa expressed her excitement for her appointment, indicating that she’s ready to work with the impressive talent at First National Bank to achieve the bank’s goals. “First National Bank has an amazing talent group, and I am confident that we can seamlessly align the human resources with the bank’s priorities, drive cultural change, and deliver strong commercial and people outcomes”.

 

Justice Torkornoo Sues AG, Pwamang & Others

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In a bold and unprecedented legal move, the Chief Justice of Ghana, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey has filed a motion at the Supreme Court, seeking to halt the operations of a presidential committee probing her alleged misconduct.

The suit, numbered J8/113/2025, was officially filed at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at the Supreme Court.

Ghanaians divided on legality of CJ’s challenge to her removal proceedings

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Gertrude Torkornoo has been suspended from office as the Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has been suspended from office as the Chief Justice

A lawsuit filed by embattled Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo has sparked public reaction and divided opinion in the country.

The suit, filed through her legal counsel, Godfred Yeboah Dame, seeks the removal of Justices Gabriel Pwamang and Samuel Adibu-Asiedu from the five-member committee established by President John Dramani Mahama to investigate petitions for her potential removal from office.

The suspended Chief Justice is requesting an interlocutory injunction to halt all committee proceedings until the case is resolved.

The development, which broke on Thursday, May 22, 2025, has dominated social media discussions in the public.

Supporters of Justice Torkornoo argue she is exercising her constitutional rights to ensure a fair and impartial investigative process, given the direct nature of the petition against her.

They assert her entitlement to challenge aspects she believes could compromise fairness.

On the other hand, critics contend that the legal challenge is unlawful and risks undermining Ghana’s constitutional framework.

A more neutral perspective suggests that Justice Torkornoo’s actions, while controversial, could lead to positive constitutional reforms and strengthen the country’s legal processes.

Meanwhile, Torkornoo’s legal action, filed by her legal team at Dame and Partners, comes in the wake of two failed attempts by other parties to challenge the same proceedings.

Read some of the posts below:

MAG/VPO

After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below:

Minister Directs Lands Commission To Decentralise Operations

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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

 

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has directed the leadership of the Lands Commission to decentralise the Commission’s operations within the next two months.

He said this is to help address the longstanding challenges of inaccessibility, bureaucratic delays, and land disputes plaguing the system.

“Land is a critical asset for our people, and it is unacceptable that citizens have to travel long distances to regional capitals to access basic land services,” the minister stated. “This decentralisation will not only enhance efficiency but also restore public trust in the Commission’s ability to manage land resources fairly and effectively.”

The minister charged the newly appointed Acting Executive Secretary, Prof. Anthony Owusu-Ansah, to spearhead the decentralisation process, ensuring that all district offices are fully operational and equipped to handle land registrations, title certifications, and dispute resolutions within the stipulated timeframe.

Prof. Owusu-Ansah pledged to uphold the minister’s vision, stating, “We will work to ensure that Ghanaians, no matter where they are, can access prompt and professional land services. This decentralisation is the first step in rebuilding the Commission’s reputation as a responsive and people-centered institution.”

With this decisive action, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources signals a new dawn in Ghana’s land administration sector—one defined by accessibility, efficiency, and accountability.

A Daily Guide Report

Address flooding in Adentan – NPP 2024 parliamentary candidate urges stakeholders

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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) 2024 parliamentary candidate for Adentan, Akosua Asaa Manu, has called on stakeholders to collaborate on a drainage improvement plan to address flooding in the constituency.

Ms Manu, popularly known as Kozie, stressed the need for the Municipal Assembly and Ministry of Works and Housing speaheard the improvement of drainage systems in the area.

She made the call during a visit to flood-affected communities in the constituency, including Nanakrom and Lakeside, which were severely affected by last Sunday’s (May 18, 2025) heavy downpour.

The flood is said to have claimed the lives of at least three people, including a four-year-old girl named Hajara, and caused significant damage to homes, shops, vehicles and public infrastructure.

Visit

Ms Manu, who visited the affected areas last Tuesday (May 21, 2025) to sympathise with residents and assess the extent of damage firsthand, also engaged with relevant agencies working on the ground.

She emphasised the need for a collective effort to correct the engineering and planning mistakes that have contributed to the tragedy.

“We need to act urgently to correct the mistakes that have contributed to this tragedy. The lives and livelihoods lost here cannot go in vain,” she said.

Ms Manu’s visit began at Nanakrom, where she met families whose homes were submerged by the floods, including the grieving family of young Hajara, a four-year-old girl who tragically lost her life during the rains.

LatexFoamPromo

“This is one of the hardest moments I’ve faced,” she said, adding: “No child should have to die because of poor planning and drainage.

As a mother, I feel this loss deeply, and I want to assure this family and the entire community that I will do everything within my power to fight for reforms.”

During her visit, Ms Manu interacted with residents and small-scale business owners, including the owner of Emills Bakery, Madam Linda, who expressed concern about the damage to her bakery equipment and supplies.

NADMO

During her interactions, Ms Manu came across the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) district officer who assured her that a project called “Free Waterways” had begun and its effective execution would bring relief to a lot of communities.

She commended the NADMO officials for taking that initiative and urged them to ensure its effective execution, emphasising the need for a fundamental rethink of drainage systems and enforcement of planning regulations. 

“This is my home too. I will continue to visit, listen and advocate.

Together, we can build a safer Adentan, one that is prepared for the future, not crippled by it,” she said.

Visa applications to Ghana will now be processed within a maximum of 5 days – Ablakwa

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Visa applications to Ghana will now be handled in five working days instead of the previous average of four to six weeks, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has said.

The new policy takes effect immediately as it forms part of President Mahama’s administration efforts to position Ghana as the top travel and investment destination.

“We have put in place adequate measures at our diplomatic missions to drastically cut down the visa processing time from the troubling average of 4 to 6 weeks to our new 5-day directive,” the Minister stated in a Facebook post on May 21, 2025.

“This new visa policy takes immediate effect.”

According to the Minister, systems have already been deployed across Ghana’s diplomatic missions worldwide to ensure smooth and efficient implementation of the expedited regime.

The move follows President John Dramani Mahama’s inaugural pledge on January 7, 2025, that “Ghana is open for business.”

The Foreign Minister noted that this policy offers practical meaning through expedited consular facilitation to fully achieve the President’s vision.

“As Foreign Minister, I am committed to positioning Ghana as the preferred destination for investors and tourists by making the country more competitive and eliminating red tape,” Mr. Ablakwa said.

However, Ablakwa quikly clarified that the expedited timeline does not guarantee visa approval within five working days.

“Ghana is truly open for business,” Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa declared, adding, “Come enjoy the Black Star experience.”

‘Sam George can’t just get up and reduce data prices because he is a minister’

Media personality Nana Aba Anamoah Media personality Nana Aba Anamoah

Media personality Nana Aba Anamoah has responded to critics attacking the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, over the rising cost of data in the country.

Since assuming office, the minister has come under intense backlash, with scores of netizens expressing frustration over what they describe as high data charges by telecommunication networks.

This public outrage is partly due to the fact that, while in opposition, Sam George was a vocal critic of his predecessor and had hinted at implementing reforms to make data more affordable once in power.

However, speaking on the issue, Nana Aba Anamoah has urged the public to be more patient and realistic with their expectations.

She has pointed out that reducing data prices is not an overnight process, as it requires multiple consultations, regulatory procedures, and collaboration with industry stakeholders.

She further stated that the criticisms should not solely be based on promises made while in opposition, as governing comes with complex challenges.

“It doesn’t work that way!! He can’t just get up and reduce data prices because he’s a minister. Don’t judge him based on opposition utterances. The reality in government is different,” she wrote on X.

Responding to a particular critic who pointed out how Sam George had repeatedly lambasted former minister Ursula Owusu over the same issue of high data charges, Nana Aba Anamoah said politicians often campaign based on what the masses want to hear.

Read the post below:

JHM/EB

Meanwhile watch as Robert Klah given reasons why Charterhouse delayed TGMAs red carpet

Ghana ‘bags’ $220m from Newmont’s Akyem Mine sale

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Dr Ato Forson receives $174 million capital gains tax payment from Newmont Corporation Dr Ato Forson receives $174 million capital gains tax payment from Newmont Corporation

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has stated that the government has received a $174 million capital gains tax payment from Newmont Corporation, following the mining giant’s sale of its Akyem Mine, which was valued at nearly $1 billion.

The amount constitutes a substantial portion of the estimated $220 million tax liability from the transaction.

Newmont also presented a $50 million cheque to the government representing Ghana’s carried interest in the deal.

At a brief ceremony in Accra, Dr Ato Forson received the payments and lauded Newmont for its tax compliance and transparency.

“I use this opportunity to remind you of the expectations of government under the Growth and Sustainability Levy, and urge you to continue in the spirit of transparency and partnership,” Dr Forson said.

He also gave assurances of government’s commitment to addressing long-standing infrastructure concerns in mining communities.

He made specific reference to the poor state of the Kumasi–Kenyasi road, a critical route serving areas affected by mining activities.

Dr Forson declared that formal discussions would begin immediately with the Ministry of Roads and Highways to rehabilitate the road, adding that the project is expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months.

SP/VPO

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