Renowned armed robber Adinan Mahmoud, also known as “Okra,” has been found guilty and sentenced to 18 years in prison with hard labor, marking a significant victory for the Upper West Regional Police Command in its fight against armed robbery.
The Ghana Police Service’s Public Affairs Unit in Wa announced in a statement that Okra, 25, was apprehended on Saturday, May 31, 2025, during a high-risk, intelligence-led operation at his hideout in the Sandemuni area of the Wa Municipality.
His involvement in a string of violent robberies across the region had kept him on the police’s wanted list for a long time.
Upon his arraignment in the Wa Circuit Court on Monday, June 2, 2025, Okra pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and robbery. He was sentenced to 18 years in prison with hard labor by His Honor Jonathan Avogo.
Two suspected accomplices, Abdulai Ibrahim, also known as “Baba,” and Abdulai Kipo, pleaded not guilty and were remanded into police and prison custody, respectively. Their next court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
According to police, the conviction marks a major step forward in restoring public confidence and enhancing regional security.
“The removal of Okra from the streets brings significant relief to residents, who can now feel more secure in their communities,” said ASP Michael Toya, the Regional Public Affairs Officer.
The Command called on the public to support ongoing efforts to dismantle armed robbery syndicates and maintain lasting peace, reaffirming its commitment to rooting out criminal elements.
“The Command remains resolute in its efforts to track down and bring to justice all individuals who pose a threat to peace and security in the region,” the statement added.
play videoParliament is considering the Energy Sector Levy Amendment Bill 2025 under a Certifcate of Urgency
Parliament is set to approve an increment in the Energy Sector Levy, raising it to GH₵1 per liter of petroleum products.
The Energy Sector Levy Amendment Bill 2025, according to the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is aimed at bolstering revenue for energy sector reforms.
The proposed hike, part of the government’s fiscal strategy, seeks to address funding gaps in power generation and distribution.
The minister presenting the bill on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, argued that it will stabilize the sector.
The bill introduced under a Certificate of Urgency is expected to pass following debates.
Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a GHS1 increase in the levy on petroleum products.
The measure is expected to generate an additional 5.7 billion Ghana Cedis in revenue to help reduce energy sector debts and support stable power supply.
According to Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the energy sector debt currently stands at 3.1 billion dollars, and a minimum of 3.7 billion dollars is required to fully clear it.
He further stated that the government needs an additional 1.2 billion dollars to procure fuel for thermal power generation for the year 2025.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday June 3, Dr. Forson noted that the increase in the levy will not result in a rise in the ex-pump price of fuel.
Meanwhile, the Minority Caucus expressed its opposition to the levy, describing it as inappropriate and staged a walkout during the approval process, arguing that the Majority lacked the required numbers to take a binding decision on the bill.
Read the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2025 here
Read also
Govt seeks GH¢1 fuel levy hike to save energy sector
US President Donald Trump has signed an order doubling tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from 25% to 50%.
The move hikes import taxes on the metals – key inputs in everything from cars to canned food – for the second time since March.
Trump has said the measures, which come into effect on Wednesday, are intended to secure the future of the American steel industry.
However, critics say the protections could wreak havoc on steel producers outside the US, spark retaliation from trade partners, and come at a punishing cost for American users of the metals.
Hours before he hiked the duties, many firms directly affected could scarcely believe the plan was moving forward, hoping it would turn out to be temporary or some kind of negotiating ploy.
Even as Trump moved forward with the deal, the UK was granted a carve-out from the measures, leaving duties on its steel and aluminium at 25%, a move Trump said reflected its ongoing trade discussions with the US.
“Always the question with Mr Trump is, is this a tactic or is this a long-term plan?” said Rick Huether, chief executive of Independent Can Co, a Maryland-based business which brings in steel from Europe and turns it into decorative cookie tins, popcorn boxes, and other products.
He said he had put investments on hold and feared the abrupt changes and price increases would lead his customers to turn to alternatives such as plastic or paper boxes.
“There’s a lot of chaos,” he said.
The US is the biggest importer of steel in the world, after the European Union, getting most of the metal from Canada, Brazil, Mexico and South Korea, according to the US government.
During his first term, Trump imposed tariffs of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminium, citing a law that gives him the authority to protect industries considered vital to national security.
But many imports ultimately escaped the duties after the US struck trade deals with allies and granted exemptions to certain imports at the request of firms.
Trump ended those carve-outs in March, saying he was unhappy with the way the protections had been weakened.
At Friday’s rally at the US Steel factory, he said he wanted to make tariffs so high that US businesses would have no alternative but to buy from American suppliers.
“Nobody’s going to get around that,” he said of the 50% rate. “That means that nobody’s going to be able to steal your industry. It’s at 25% – they can get over that fence. At 50%, they can no longer get over the fence.”
Reaction in the UK and Europe
As of May, imports and the rate of raw steel production in the US had changed little since last year before Trump raised tariffs, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute.
But steel imports fell 17% in April, compared to March. And businesses selling the metals into the US said they expected Trump’s latest announcement to lead to an even more dramatic drop.
Trump’s moves in March had already prompted Canada and the European Union to prepare to hit back with tariffs on their own American products.
On Tuesday, Olof Gill, spokesperson for economic security and trade for the European Commission, told the BBC the two sides were engaged in intense talks to try to make progress toward an agreement.
“We’re negotiating hard to try and make good deals,” he said.
“We really hope that the Americans will roll back on this latest tariff threat, as they have done on others, but that remains to be seen.”
In the UK, Trump’s announcement put new pressure on the government to pin down the trade deal in the works with the US, which had been expected to provide some protection from the March metals tariffs.
Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Paris on Wednesday.
His office said it was “pleased” that the trade talks had protected UK steel from the latest duties.
“We will continue to work with the US to implement our agreement, which will see the 25% US tariffs on steel removed,” he said.
Gareth Stace, director general of UK Steel, which represents steelmakers, told the BBC that his members had already seen orders cancelled and delayed as a result of the 25% tariffs put in place in March.
He warned that a 50% tariff would be “catastrophic” for UK exports to the US, about 7% of overall exports.
“The introduction of 50% tariffs immediately puts the shutters up,” he said. “Most of our orders, if not all of them, will now be cancelled.”
Economists said the US economy is also facing damage, as prices rise as a result of the new measures.
A 2020 analysis estimated that Trump’s first term tariffs created roughly 1,000 jobs in the steel industry, but cost the economy 75,000 jobs in other sectors, such as manufacturing and construction.
Erica York, vice president of federal tax policy at the Tax Foundation, said that she expected to see even more extreme job losses this time.
“Some of the strongest evidence is against tariffs on intermediate inputs like steel and aluminium, finding they are much more harmful because they increase the cost of production in the United States,” she said. “It’s just very foolish to double down on this type of tariff in particular.”
Chad Bartusek is director of supply chain management at Drill Rod & Tool Steels, a small, family-owned manufacturing business in Illinois, which brings in about 800,000 pounds of Austrian-made steel each year, at specifications he says are not produced in the US.
Mr Bartusek said he was currently waiting on three containers worth of steel rod, which would have entered the US without duties at the start of the year.
As of last week, he had expected to pay tariff costs about $72,000. Instead, he is looking at a tariff bill of almost $145,000.
“I woke up Saturday morning, looked at the news and my jaw dropped,” he said of Trump’s announcement.
Mr Bartusek said business had been steady until a few weeks ago.
But his firm raised prices earlier this year by 8% to 14% to help cover the new cost of the tariffs. Now customers have been ordering more cautiously and he has had to cut back hours for workers.
“It’s one punch after the other,” he said. “Hopefully, this settles down quickly.”
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.
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his unwavering support for the autonomy of Ghana’s anti-corruption organizations, promising not to meddle in existing investigations or pressure the dismissal of any cases.
During a meeting with the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption at Jubilee House on Tuesday, May 3, the President expressed his respect for prosecutorial independence and the rule of law.
“I have told the public and assured my Attorney General and Minister of Justice that I am not going to interfere in their work.
“If the anti-corruption agencies go after anybody, I am not going to try and influence them to drop any investigation against anybody, including those who served in the previous regime, many cases of whom we are currently investigating,” President Mahama said.
IMANI Africa’s Vice President, Bright Simons, has filed an application in the High Court, requesting that Ibrahim Mahama and his company, Engineers & Planners, admit to 38 specific facts in connection with an ongoing defamation lawsuit against him.
The application, filed in the High Court with universal jurisdiction, seeks to obtain crucial background information regarding Mahama’s financial interests, political exposure, and economic affiliations—particularly in Ghana’s mining sector.
Simons’ legal team has given the plaintiffs 14 days to respond to the list of claims. These claims cover a wide range of topics, including Ibrahim Mahama’s classification as a politically exposed person (PEP), and the detailed financial and contractual arrangements between Engineers & Planners and Abosso Goldfields Limited.
The motion emphasizes Mahama’s close ties to political power as the brother of former President John Dramani Mahama and asserts that he is the sole shareholder of Engineers & Planners.
It also cites a 2013 transaction involving Red Sky Aviation’s registration in the Isle of Man, in which offshore law firm Appleby allegedly categorized Mahama as a politically exposed high-risk individual.
Additionally, Simons is asking the court to confirm that Engineers & Planners’ agreements with Abosso Goldfields—amounting to $117 million from 2015 to 2019, and $300 million from 2020 to 2025—have represented some of the company’s most significant revenue streams both in Ghana and internationally.
The motion further claims that, since mining activities ceased at Damang in 2023, Engineers & Planners has not received payments from Abosso Goldfields.
The company has reportedly entered discussions with banks, including Stanbic Ghana, regarding concerns over loan servicing. Simons also notes that the company holds a $230 million equipment financing deal with Caterpillar via the Mansour Group and has borrowed over $50 million from Stanbic.
The agreement paves the way for Ghana to host the 2025 International Ministerial Health Summit
In a significant step toward enhancing healthcare investment across Africa, Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam led a delegation from WHX Informa, including the Vice President and Corporate Director, to meet with Ghana’s Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
The meeting culminated in the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Health and WHX Informa Markets, one of the world’s leading organizers of international health summits.
The agreement paves the way for Ghana to host the 2025 International Ministerial Health Summit, scheduled for December 8–10, 2025, under the theme “Financing Healthcare for Africa.”
The summit is set to become a major platform for African nations and global stakeholders to explore sustainable strategies for transforming the continent’s healthcare systems.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Health in Accra and brought together several high-level officials and partners.
“This is a major opportunity for Ghana and the continent to lead a transformative conversation about healthcare investment,” said the Minister of Health.
The delegation, led by Ambassador Nancy Q. Sam—President of Women in Tourism Ghana, Vice President of the ECOWAS Tourism Private Sector Confederation, and Tourism Ambassador for Miami—included David Sam, Thomas Coleman (Corporate Director, Informa Markets), and Madam Solenne Singer (Vice President, Informa Markets), along with other senior officials from the Ministry of Health and the Presidency.
The 2025 summit is expected to attract global leaders, policymakers, healthcare innovators, and investors from both the public and private sectors.
Key discussions will focus on healthcare financing, public-private partnerships, medical infrastructure, and innovations aimed at improving health outcomes across Africa.
Informa Markets, renowned for organizing high-profile international events across various sectors, expressed strong confidence in Ghana’s capacity to host a world-class summit.
The summit is expected to draw major global healthcare giants, including Siemens, Roche, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and many others.
Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed
Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has called for bold and coordinated efforts to bridge the gap between research and commercialization in Ghana’s innovation ecosystem.
Speaking on the theme “Bridging the Gap to Improve Ghana’s Innovation and Research Commercialization Ecosystem for Economic Development” at the National Partners’ Dialogue held in Accra on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, Dr. Murtala emphasized that while Ghana possesses a wealth of research talent and innovation potential, the nation has yet to fully convert scientific ideas into market-ready solutions that generate jobs and drive economic growth.
“Ghana is blessed with brilliant minds in our universities and research institutions. Yet, too often, their groundbreaking work remains confined to academic papers and laboratory walls,” he said.
“We must propel our innovations into the marketplace, where they can create jobs, stimulate growth, and improve the quality of life for all Ghanaians.”
Citing recent findings, Dr. Murtala noted that although Ghana ranked among the top ten countries in Africa for scientific research output—according to a 2021 Collnet Journal publication—the country still placed 101st out of 133 economies in the 2024 Global Innovation Index.
He described the gap between research and commercialization as a major barrier hindering national progress.
The Minister pointed to success stories such as Project Maji, a Ghanaian startup that developed a solar-powered water purification system, as a shining example of research delivering real-world impact.
He urged stakeholders to replicate and scale such innovations through stronger collaboration between academia, industry, and investors.
Dr. Murtala highlighted several initiatives by the Ministry to foster an enabling environment for innovation. These include the establishment of the Ghana Innovation and Research Commercialization Centre (GIRC Centre), which is expected to evolve into a full-fledged Ghana Innovation Agency.
The Centre is envisioned as a strategic hub for Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), linking research, innovation, and commercialization efforts under one roof.
He also underscored the Ministry’s role in the development of the upcoming Ghana Innovation and Startups Bill, which aims to provide incentives and a regulatory framework for startups.
Additionally, policy reforms such as the revised STI Policy, the Nuclear Radiation Safety Policy, and a proposed bill for a Ghana Space Agency are part of the broader strategy to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks in the sector.
As part of efforts to promote a culture of innovation, Dr. Murtala also announced the launch of the Biannual Environment, Science and Technology (BEST) Forum, which will serve as a marketplace for showcasing Ghanaian innovations and connecting researchers with investors, policymakers, and potential business partners.
“We have groundbreaking technologies, processes, and inventions that are yet to be known and commercialized. I encourage all partners to take advantage of the BEST Forum to collectively transform our nation through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” he said.
The corporation behind Oreo has filed a lawsuit in the US against the budget supermarket Aldi, accusing it of “blatantly” copying the packaging of its famous snacks.
Court documents showed that Mondelēz International said Aldi uses similar packaging likely to “deceive” consumers and “ride the coattails” of the company’s “attraction, fame and prestige”.
The snack giant also is behind Wheat Thins, Nutter Butter, Chips Ahoy!, and Ritz – all products the company accuses Aldi of copying with its “discount” versions.
Aldi US didn’t respond to the BBC’s request for comment, but its British counterpart stressed that it is not involved in the lawsuit.
A spokesperson for Aldi UK told the BBC, that they are “under the same ownership but operate as completely separate businesses”.
Mondelēz, which submitted the lawsuit in May, said it had reached out to Aldi several times about the “confusingly similar packaging”.
Although Aldi did discontinue or alter the packaging of some products, the supermarket has continued making “unacceptable copies”, the lawsuit stated.
The company claimed that if Aldi is allowed to continued with its product lines, it will “irreparably harm” the Mondelēz brand.
The lawsuit included side-by-side pictures comparing the appearances of Mondelēz’ product with Aldi’s.
In the lawsuit, Aldi is accused of trademark infringement, unfair competition and unjust enrichment. Mondelēz said it is seeking damages.
Mondelēz described Aldi’s business model as hinging on “low-priced private label products that resemble the look and feel of well-known brands”.
Aldi, which has its headquarters in Germany, is known as a discount supermarket offering affordable alternatives to well-known brands.
There are over 2,500 Aldi shops in the US.
This is not the first time Aldi has been embroiled in a trademark battle. Earlier this year, it lost a battle with Cider producers Thatchers, which accused the supermarket of copying its drink in “taste and appearance”.
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.
This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.
Unique Trendz Blog of Tuesday, 3 June 2025
Source: The Blogger Dangote
Accra, Ghana — June 2, 2025 — Gospel music has a new home on the airwaves! On Sunday, June 1st, radio host SOG Precious officially launched his new radio show, Church Xtra, airing on Starr 103.5 FM.
Church Xtra is a unique extension of Sunday church service on the radio, featuring soothing gospel songs and inspiring conversations with Christian creatives and gospel personalities. The show had a beautiful and memorable debut, with numerous gospel figures gracing the Starr 103.5 FM studios.
As the host, SOG Precious treated listeners to a fine selection of gospel music alongside engaging chats with his guests. Among those in attendance were Parrot Mouth, Nii Noi, Rose Adjei, Philip Adzale, Dan Lartey, Mavis Asante, Gabby Mckeon, Kwame Gyan, Prophet Joseph Atarah, Kwame Olympio, Glover, De Picture Guy, CEO of Ghana Gospel Songs, Minister Frankie, K Anani, Jayana, Queendalyn,Taller Dee, David Boahini, KobbySalm, Steve Owusu shishiishi, Manuel Lomotey, Afia Sika, Mister PRYZ and many other gospel stalwarts.
“Church Xtra on Starr 103.5 FM is a space where faith and creativity come together to inspire and uplift listeners every Sunday,” said SOG Precious.
Church Xtra airs every Sunday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Starr 103.5 FM.
Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has announced the formation of a committee to develop a roadmap for implementing the Free Tertiary Education initiative for persons with disabilities. The committee will be co-chaired by Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak.
He made this announcement while addressing members of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations during their visit to the Ministry of Education on Monday.
“Accordingly, I am happy to announce that Mr. John Atsu Homadzi and Honourable John Madzesi will represent you from the Federation, along with one of the ladies to be nominated by you. They will work with Deputy Minister Dr. Clement Apaak and the Chief Executive of the Students’ Loans Trust, Dr. Saajida Shiraz,” he said.
“We have defined a roadmap—three of you will work with three of our representatives—so that we can develop a blueprint that is agreeable to all parties for the implementation of the Free Tertiary Education Policy. There will be no walk-back on the President’s pledge.
“So, just constitute your team,” he added, noting that the Deputy Minister will co-chair the committee with Mr. Homadzi.
“We will do our utmost to enhance the provision of equitable, quality education in Ghana,” he affirmed.
Mr. Iddrisu also indicated that the Ministry is gathering data on persons with disabilities through the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission to ensure effective implementation of the inclusive policy.
“The Ministry is firmly committed to promoting accessible and equitable education for all, in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s resetting agenda.
“The best of John Dramani Mahama is ahead of us, not behind us. To measure him, let’s evaluate him based on today and what lies ahead,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
Daniel Adjei is a Private Legal Practitioner and Advocate for Progressive Legal Education
The legal community is once again abuzz with criticism about the preparedness of newly trained lawyers. Recent comments from Mr. Kwaku Ansa-Asare, former Director of the Ghana School of Law, suggest that fresh graduates lack the practical skills to function effectively in court. While his concerns highlight genuine gaps in legal training, his sweeping generalisations overlook critical nuances in the development of legal professionals.
Experience Takes Time: Why New Lawyers Aren’t Instant Experts
Claiming that young lawyers “don’t know how to move a court” is an oversimplification. Like any skilled profession, law requires time and practice to master. First-day jitters, unfamiliarity with courtroom dynamics, and the pressure of live advocacy are not signs of incompetence—they are part of the learning process.
Seasoned lawyers today were once novices themselves. The difference between a newly called lawyer and a veteran is not just training but years of hands-on experience. To expect flawless courtroom performance immediately after law school is unrealistic, not just in Ghana but in legal systems worldwide.
The Myth of the “Golden Age” of Lawyers
Nostalgia often distorts reality. The suggestion that past generations of lawyers were uniformly exceptional ignores history. Every era has produced both brilliant advocates and those who struggled. The key difference now is that heightened scrutiny in today’s legal environment demands transparency and accountability like never before.
If we examine the past objectively, we’ll find that the challenges facing young lawyers are not new. What has changed is the recognition that legal education must evolve to meet modern demands.
Reform Requires Collaboration, Not Just Criticism
Mr. Ansa-Asare rightly calls for an integrated legal education system. However, reform is a gradual process, and the proposed Legal Education Bill, though imperfect, represents progress. Rather than dismissing it outright, stakeholders should work to refine it.
Additionally, if practical training was insufficient during his tenure at the Ghana School of Law, one must ask: What proactive steps were taken to address it? Meaningful reform requires accountability from all parties—educators, law firms, and senior lawyers alike.
The Missing Link: Mentorship and Law Firm Responsibility
Legal education does not end at graduation. In many jurisdictions, young lawyers undergo rigorous apprenticeships under experienced mentors. Yet in Ghana, many law firms prioritise billable hours over training, leaving new lawyers to navigate the complex legal terrain alone.
If we truly want to improve the quality of legal practice, senior lawyers must commit to structured mentorship. The burden cannot fall solely on law schools.
Ghana’s System in Global Context
Comparisons to the US Juris Doctor (JD) model often overlook a key fact: even in advanced legal systems, new graduates require practical training before they excel. Internships, clerkships, and junior associate roles exist precisely because classroom learning alone is insufficient.
Moreover, legal practice today extends beyond courtroom theatrics. Skills in arbitration, corporate compliance, and legal tech are equally valuable, yet rarely discussed in these critiques.
A Balanced Path Forward
Instead of drastic overhauls, incremental improvements can bridge the gap:
Enhanced simulations and mandatory internships – Law schools should integrate more practical exercises.
Structured pupillage programs – The General Legal Council and Ghana Bar Association must enforce robust training frameworks.
Continuing professional development – Senior lawyers should actively mentor the next generation.
Conclusion: Progress Over Perfection
Labelling all new lawyers as incompetent is not just unfair, it’s counterproductive. The legal profession is evolving, and while improvements are needed, we must acknowledge the strides already made.
Rather than fixating on perceived shortcomings, let’s focus on collaborative solutions. Great lawyers are not born in lecture halls; they are shaped through experience, guidance, and time. It’s time for all stakeholders, educators, practitioners, and policymakers to work together in building a stronger legal future for Ghana.
*******
Daniel Adjei is a Private Legal Practitioner and Advocate for Progressive Legal Education
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.
play videoParliament is considering the Energy Sector Levy Amendment Bill 2025 under a Certifcate of Urgency
Parliament is set to approve an increment in the Energy Sector Levy, raising it to GH₵1 per liter of petroleum products.
The Energy Sector Levy Amendment Bill 2025, according to the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is aimed at bolstering revenue for energy sector reforms.
The proposed hike, part of the government’s fiscal strategy, seeks to address funding gaps in power generation and distribution.
The minister presenting the bill on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, argued that it will stabilize the sector.
The bill introduced under a Certificate of Urgency is expected to pass following debates.
The Black Queens suffered defeat in their final friendly on the Abidjan tour on Tuesday evening.
Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s side were undone by a second half time by their hosts as they lost 1-0 at the end of the game.
Ghana came into the fixture hoping to take a win in the game having thrown away a two-goal lead in the first encounter to draw 3-3 last week.
The Swede boss made two changes to the starting lineup with Jennifer Cudjoe and Alice Kusi all coming into the team.
The Black Queens enjoyed a good spell of possession in the opening minutes of the game before the Ivorians took command thereafter.
Les Elephants took the game to the Ghanaians as they possessed and threatened every time they surged forward.
Goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan came to the rescue of the team several occasions in the game.
However, she was unable to stop Habibou Ouedraogo’s strike in the 56th minute as Ghana conceded their fourth goal in two games against Côte d’Ivoire.
The Black Queens were unable to get back on level terms as the Ivorians picked up the win.
The result leaves Ghana with just one win in their last five games under Bjorkegren, scoring four and conceding six goals in that run.
The game was part of the team’s preparations for the delayed 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament to be staged in Morocco next month.
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.
Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has entered an appearance in the high-profile GH¢10 million defamation lawsuit filed against him by businessman Ibrahim Mahama at the Accra High Court, setting the scene for a real battle.
In a strategic legal manoeuvre, Mr Simons has filed a comprehensive motion demanding that Mr Mahama and his company, Engineers & Planners (E&P), formally admit to 38 distinct factscentral to their ongoing legal dispute.
The detailed motion filed at the High Court aims to establish critical background on Mr. Mahama’s extensive business operations, his significant political connections, and intricate financial interests, particularly within Ghana’s lucrative mining sector.
Mr Simons’ legal team has granted the plaintiffs a 14-day window to respond to these assertions, which span a wide array of topics from Mr. Mahama’s designation as a politically exposed person (PEP) to highly specific financial and contractual relationships involving E&P.
Among the key admissions sought by Mr Simons is the acknowledgement that Ibrahim Mahama serves as the sole shareholder of Engineers & Planners.
The motion also highlights his direct familial link to the highest office, identifying him as the brother of President John Dramani Mahama.
Furthermore, it points to his classification as a “high-risk politically exposed person”by the offshore legal firm Appleby in a 2013 transaction concerning the registration of Red Sky Aviation in the Isle of Man, a detail that could carry weight in the court’s assessment of his public standing.
A significant portion of the motion focuses on E&P’s contracts with Abosso Goldfields Limited.
Mr Simons is pressing the court to compel an admission that these contracts, valued at an estimated $117 million between 2015 and 2019, and a staggering $300 million from 2020 to 2025, represent some of E&P’s largest revenue streams both domestically and globally.
The motion specifically claims that income derived solely from the Damang Gold Mine is projected to constitute at least 25% of the company’s total mining revenue over the past decade.
The legal document further alleges that E&P has ceased receiving payments from Abosso Goldfields since mining operations at Damang were suspended in 2023.
Consequently, Mr Simons posits that E&P has engaged in critical discussions with various financial institutions, including Stanbic Ghana, regarding loan servicing challenges.
The motion asserts that E&P has secured loans exceeding $50 million from Stanbic and entered into a $230 million equipment financing agreement with the Mansour Group, primarily for Caterpillar machinery.
Other crucial admissions being sought include E&P’s unsuccessful bid to acquire Cardinal Namdini Mines in Bolgatanga, the company’s current efforts to secure financing for additional mining assets, and the notable employment of former E&P personnel in senior leadership roles within the Minerals Commission, Ghana’s primary mining regulatory body.
This extensive demand for admissions forms part of Mr Simons’ defence against the defamation suit initiated by Ibrahim Mahama.
The businessman alleges that a series of “false and malicious” publications by the IMANI Africa Vice President have severely damaged both his personal reputation and the corporate image of Engineers & Planners.
The outcome of this motion could significantly shape the trajectory and ultimate verdict of this high-profile legal battle.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for all the breaking stories: tinyurl.com/JoyNews-WhatsApp-channel
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Former MP Samuel Atta Akyea has called on President John Dramani Mahama to curb what he describes as rising acts of “security thuggery” under the current administration, warning that heavy-handed law enforcement tactics risk undermining public trust in the rule of law.
In an interview on Channel One TV’s Face to Face, the former Abuakwa South legislator acknowledged Mahama’s unique return to power as an advantage, but cautioned that recent developments — including aggressive arrests and politically charged investigations — were casting a “gangster-like” shadow over his renewed mandate.
“If you look at the political history of Ghana since 1957, President Mahama is the most blessed person ever, because President Mahama is the first individual who has come back, and therefore he has the hindsight of a previous presidency. And he has been sitting on the sidelines for 8 years, looking at all that former President Akufo-Addo did.”
He praised Mahama’s renewed leadership, calling him “vintage,” and expressed hope that his second term would be marked by wisdom and success.
“My serious prayer is that he’s now vintage, there’s no dispute about it. And I expect him to succeed. My prayer is that because of his huge experience and the grace of coming back, he should be the best person around. He’s soldiering on. I hold a humble view that it’s too early to make any serious assessment of what he has done so far,” Atta Akyea added.
However, he raised concerns over recent developments related to law enforcement and political investigations, which he said were casting a shadow over the administration.
“My only problem is that it seems to me that the nation is dragging on security tuggery. Which I believe he should rein people in. I don’t believe the kind of matters in the space which is poisoning the atmosphere, some kind of gangsterism, masquerading as investigation, should be part of his government,” he stated.
He further criticised the methods employed in some arrests and investigations, citing the need for dignity and adherence to due process.
“I hold the view that you can invite a man to appear before the investigative apparatus without razzmatazz. I don’t believe somebody should be handcuffed at the Airport before they come to EOCO. I don’t believe anybody should be cornered by the streetside before they go to the CID headquarters.
“I don’t believe anybody should come to a point where we have stormed your house. When you are supposed to respect due process in your work of investigations, there’s decency about due process,” he said.
His comments follow the arrest and subsequent detention of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Read also……
Where is Ofori-Atta? – Ayariga questions Afenyo-Markin
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
The Ashanti Regional Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Yandoh, has made a passionate appeal to the party’s grassroots and sympathisers to reignite their loyalty and support, amid signs of declining enthusiasm within the party’s traditional strongholds.
His comments come in the wake of what he described as a visibly low turnout of party members at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) during the recent detention of the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Chairman Wontumi was granted bail after meeting conditions including a GHS50 million bond with two sureties. However, his release drew less support from the party base than expected, a situation Yandoh said reflects wider concerns at the grassroots level following the party’s performance in the 2024 general elections.
Speaking on Channel One Newsroom on Tuesday, June 3, Yandoh admitted the party had fallen short in addressing internal grievances and urged members to give the NPP another chance.
“Indeed, there are grassroots challenges. You saw it in the 2024 polls. We had a low turnout by the NPP members, and we continue to plead with them. NPP is the only party that can help Ghana, and so whatever has transpired, we are sorry; they should forgive us and forgive the party,” he said.
Yandoh acknowledged the disappointment and disaffection among the party’s support base but maintained that the NPP remains Ghana’s best hope for economic recovery and governance.
“The turnout was low, which is expected. We just came out of the elections, and there are issues to deal with. Until those issues are dealt with, we will continue to have that,” he added.
His remarks signal growing concern within the NPP over waning enthusiasm in the party’s base, particularly in the Ashanti Region, which has long been regarded as the party’s electoral heartbeat.
Govt seeks GH¢1 fuel levy hike to save energy sector
Chairman Wontumi is currently the scrutiny of both and international and local enforcement agencies
From the visit by officials from the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to his Kumasi mansion, his voluntary appearance at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service, and his subsequent arrest by the task force of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, alias Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and self-proclaimed “Governor of Kumasi,” has seen his once-formidable influence significantly diminished by state authorities due to his alleged involvement in a spectrum of illicit activities.
The Wontumi saga, as it has become, has captivated national attention due to a confluence of factors, including the unusual protest march by members of the minority caucus in Parliament, followed by their sit-in at the entrance of EOCO’s headquarters.
This article aims to explore the multifaceted dimensions of the Wontumi saga with details from sources involved.
Wontumi and the money laundering allegations
In February, news emerged that the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), led by the esteemed Ing. Kwadwo Twum Boafo, had frozen the accounts of Chairman Wontumi and his Akonta Mining Company. Initial suspicions pointed to alleged illegal mining activities of Akonta Mining as the basis for the freeze, but while these suspicions were not wrong, they were just the tip of the iceberg.
According to sources within the FIC, Wontumi has been the subject of a joint investigation by authorities from the United States, Canada, and Ghana, focusing on allegations of money laundering and car theft.
The decision to freeze his accounts was not made unilaterally by the FIC, Ghana’s premier anti-money laundering agency, but in collaboration with Canadian and American investigators.
EOCO sources indicate that the Canadian government is even ready to initiate extradition processes for Wontumi to face charges as the alleged ringleader of a car theft syndicate.
Wontumi and the EXIM Bank loan
Another strand of the investigation centers on a $10 million maize farming loan that Wontumi secured from the Ghana EXIM Bank under the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative.
Investigations reveal that the funds were diverted, with no evidence of plantations or harvests to substantiate the investment.
When EXIM Bank officials sought clarification, they were reportedly directed to warehouses of the National Food Buffer Stock Company, where they were shown sacks of maize lacking any traceability records.
A source recounted an incident where Wontumi, during one such meeting, became irate, directing profanities and threats at senior EXIM Bank officials.
Additionally, Wontumi is implicated in securing multiple road contracts under the COCOBOD road projects in the Ashanti, Western, and Western North regions, with no verifiable evidence of completed work.
Wontumi’s Akonta Mining and the Galamsey Controversy
The activities of Wontumi’s Akonta Mining Company in the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region constitute another critical strand of the saga.
Following the closure of the mining company, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), acting on directives from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, launched a probe that reportedly uncovered startling revelations.
From the above, the Wontumi saga despite attempts of political spins, encapsulates a complex web of alleged criminal activities, ranging from money laundering and car theft to the misappropriation of public funds and illegal mining.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, currently faces intense scrutiny from both domestic and international authorities, with the Financial Intelligence Centre, EOCO, and foreign investigators collaborating to unravel the extent of his alleged misconduct.
The unfolding saga goes beyond the political influence to also highlight systemic issues in governance, resource management, and accountability in Ghana.
The Ashanti Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Yandoh, has alleged that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) subjected party chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, to harsh and inhumane treatment during his detention.
Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Mr. Yandoh claimed Wontumi was left visibly traumatised after spending six days in EOCO custody.
“He was shaking and shivering. He couldn’t even sit properly when he was released. Chairman Wontumi has not even shared the full trauma he went through, but so many things have changed about him,” Yandoh said.
He further alleged that Wontumi went without food during his detention because he feared for his life.
“For six days, he didn’t eat. He told me he couldn’t eat because the person who brought him food had covered his face,” Yandoh added.
Mr. Yandoh claimed that EOCO officers kept the NPP regional chairman in a cramped space and treated him poorly, describing their conduct as “mafia tactics.”
“They wanted to kill him. They treated him like a criminal. But Chairman Wontumi is a genuine person, and he told them everything they wanted to know because he has nothing to hide,” he claimed.
According to Yandoh, despite the smiles Wontumi wore after his release, he was still suffering and forced himself to appear strong for the cameras.
“People thought he was okay because he smiled and waved. But I was close to him after his release, and I know what he was going through. He even raised one of his legs to show he was fine, but in truth, he was limping,” he recounted.
Chairman Wontumi was released from EOCO custody on bail after meeting conditions set at GH₵50 million with two sureties to be justified.
His arrest sparked strong criticism from within the NPP, with several party members describing the bail conditions as excessive and politically motivated.
Despite the ordeal, Yandoh said Wontumi remains ready to cooperate with any investigations. “He is innocent and has nothing to fear,” he said.
The Black Queens of Ghana face Ivory Coast in an international friendly on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, as part of their build-up to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The game is set to be played at the Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.
Head coach Kim Lars Björkegren is leading the team’s preparations for the continental tournament, set to take place in Morocco later this year.
The game forms part of a strategic series of friendlies that began in March, which is aimed at sharpening the squad.
The Upper West Regional Police Command has secured a major breakthrough in its anti-robbery operations with the conviction of a notorious armed robber, Adinan Mahmoud, alias “Okra”, who has been sentenced to 18 years in prison with hard labour.
A statement from the Public Affairs Unit of the Ghana Police Service in Wa confirmed that Okra, 25, was arrested on Saturday, May 31, 2025, during a high-risk, intelligence-led operation at his hideout in Sandemuni, a suburb of the Wa Municipality.
He had long been on the police’s wanted list for his involvement in a series of violent robberies across the region.
Okra was arraigned before the Wa Circuit Court on Monday, June 2, 2025, where he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit crime and robbery. His Honour Jonathan Avogo sentenced him to 18 years imprisonment with hard labour.
Two alleged accomplices—Abdulai Ibrahim, alias “Baba”, and Abdulai Kipo—pleaded not guilty and have been remanded in police and prison custody, respectively. Their trial continues on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.
Police say the conviction is a key milestone in restoring public trust and improving security in the region.
“The removal of Okra from the streets brings significant relief to residents, who can now feel more secure in their communities,” said ASP Michael Toya, the Regional Public Affairs Officer.
The Command reiterated its commitment to hunting down criminal elements and urged the public to support efforts to dismantle armed robbery syndicates and safeguard long-term peace.
“The Command remains resolute in its efforts to track down and bring to justice all individuals who pose a threat to peace and security in the region,” the statement added.
Read also……
Where is Ofori-Atta? – Ayariga questions Afenyo-Markin
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
The Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has laid before Parliament a bill seeking to amend the Energy Sector Levies Act, 2025.
The bill, titled the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposes an upward adjustment in the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy to raise additional revenue to support the payment of energy sector arrears, reduce legacy debt, and ensure stable power supply across the country.
The bill was formally read for the first time in the House and has since been referred to the Finance Committee for consideration and report. It was laid under a certificate of urgency.
Explaining the rationale behind the bill, Dr Forson told Parliament that the energy sector currently posed the greatest economic and fiscal threat to the country, warning that failure to address its mounting challenges could result in a full-blown crisis.
“The total energy sector debt as at the end of March 2025 stands at $3.1 billion. This amount includes debts owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), fuel suppliers, and other stakeholders,” he said.
Energy situation
Dr Forson emphasised that the nation’s inability to honour its financial obligations to key players such as ENI and Karpowership resulted in the complete drawdown of two critical guarantees in 2024: a $512 million IDA guarantee from the World Bank and a $120 million guarantee from the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
The government, he said, would now need $632 million to restore those guarantees.
He further stated that a minimum of $3.7 billion is required to clean up the energy sector’s overall indebtedness and reset the sector on a more stable path.
Highlighting the shift in the country’s electricity generation mix, Dr Forson said the country now heavily relies on thermal power to supplement hydroelectric sources.
However, he revealed that the cost of liquid fuel for thermal generation was not currently factored into electricity tariffs, resulting in revenue shortfalls.
He further stated that including fuel costs in the current electricity pricing structure could lead to a 50 per cent hike in tariffs, which would significantly burden households and businesses.
No extra cost
Therefore, the proposed levy increase, he explained was a more balanced alternative that would avoid passing costs directly onto consumers.
“This levy will serve as a dedicated source of funding to the power sector, and the proceeds will be earmarked for the procurement of essential fuel for power generation,” he said. Dr Forson assured the House that the impact of the new levy on petroleum prices would be neutralised by the strong performance of the Ghana cedi, ensuring that ensuring that consumers would not pay extra for petrol or diesel beginning today.
“Mr Speaker, I repeat, the impact will be absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana cedi, and this will mean that consumers will not have to pay extra for the price of petrol and diesel beginning today. Our simulations suggest that there will be no increase in the ex-pump price of petrol and diesel in the next window, beginning today, if the levy is imposed,” he stated categorically.
Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, with members of the Ghana Federation of Disability
Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has reassured members of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations that they will be included in the government’s free tertiary education policy through the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF).
Addressing members of the Federation during their visit to the Ministry of Education, the Minister disclosed that the Ministry is gathering data on persons with disabilities through the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission to ensure the effective implementation of the inclusive policy.
“The Ministry is firmly committed to promoting accessible and equitable education for all, in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s resetting agenda.
“The best of John Dramani Mahama is ahead of us, not behind us. To measure him, let’s measure him by today and what lies ahead,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
The Minister further disclosed the formation of a committee to develop a roadmap for implementing the free tertiary education initiative for persons with disabilities.
“Accordingly, I am happy to announce that Mr. John Atsu Homadzi and Honourable John Madzesi will represent you from the Federation, together with one of your ladies to be nominated by you, to work with Deputy Minister Dr. Clement Apaak and the Chief Executive of the Students Loan Trust Fund, Dr. Saajida Shiraz.
“We have defined a roadmap—three of your representatives will work with three from our side—so that we have a blueprint agreed upon by all of us for the implementation of the Free Tertiary Education Policy. There is no going back on the President’s pledge.
“So just constitute your team,” he said, adding that the Deputy Minister will co-chair the Committee with Mr. Homadzi.
“We will do our utmost to enhance the provision of equitable, quality education in Ghana,” he added.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has visited former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia after his release from the Economic and Organised Office (EOCO) custody.
Wontumi was arrested on May 27, 2025, by EOCO over allegations of fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state.
He was released on Monday June 2, 2025, after meeting his GHS50 bail with two sureties conditions.
Following his release, Wontumi stopped at the NPP headquarters in Accra on Tuesday June 3, where he was warmly received by party executives and supporters.
Later in the day, he visited Dr. Bawumia.
Read also
Chairman Wontumi visits NPP leadership after EOCO release
The Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), Duncan Amoah, has cautioned the government against introducing new levies on petroleum products, warning that such a move could derail the economic stabilisation efforts currently underway.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Tuesday, June 3, in response to the Energy Sector Levy Amendment Bill laid before Parliament by the Finance Minister, Mr. Amoah described the proposed GH¢1 increase in fuel levies as potentially counterproductive.
“But to say that we should go and collect new taxes on petroleum products at this point, when the same government seems to have done everything right, I think it will be shooting itself in the foot and will be adding unnecessary pressure. So clearly, further thinking should go into this,” he said.
Duncan Amoah cautioned that introducing new taxes at this point could worsen the burden on Ghanaians, especially when deeper issues affecting the energy sector remain unresolved.
“For me, whatever we need to do to stop the bleeding of the power sector, I think that should be our key focus at this point. You cannot continue to pour water in a leaking bucket, so we need to resolve the issues crippling the power sector,” he said.
Amoah emphasised that addressing the root causes of inefficiencies in the energy sector is critical before raising funds from consumers.
“The earlier we put a stop to the bleeding of that sector, the better. I think the government should go and think through this appropriately because it could create a whole mess for the country itself,” he warned.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, while laying the bill before Parliament, explained that a minimum of $3.7 billion is required to clear energy sector debts, which currently stand at GHS3.1 billion. An additional $1.2 billion is needed to procure fuel for thermal power generation throughout 2025.
He assured Parliament that the proposed levy’s impact would be mitigated by the recent gains made by the local currency. —–
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah
Vincent Ekow Assafuah, a member of Parliament for Old Tafo has warned the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that should the New Patriotic Party (NPP) return to the government they will also set a GH¢1 billion bail.
According to Vincent Assafuah, even if it takes the NPP 20 years to return to power, they will do the same.
He emphasised that they are still young people and they are closely observing everything happening to Chairman Wontumi.
The lawmaker who is also a lawyer,
Elon Musk’s criticisms are reflective over wider tensions within the Republican Party over Trump’s ‘big, beautiful’ bill.
Elon Musk hit out at President Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful” tax and spending bill, posting on X that he “can’t stand” the legislation and describing it as a “disgusting abomination”.
The bill – which includes multi-trillion dollar tax breaks and increased defence spending while also allowing the US government to borrow more money – was passed by the House of Representatives in May.
On X, Musk said those who voted for to pass the bill are “wrong”.
Musk had previously said the bill, one of Trump’s signature policies, was “disappointing” because he believed it undermined the cost-cutting work of the team he headed until recently, known as Doge.
Doge stands for Department of Government Efficiency, even though the team is not a cabinet-level agency.
The South African-born tech billionaire’s time in the Trump administration came to an end on 31 May, although Trump said that “he will, always, be with us, helping all the way”.
The bill in its current form has been estimated to increase the budget deficit – the difference between what the government spends and the revenue it receives – by approximately $600bn (£444bn) in the next fiscal year.
In a series of posts on X on Tuesday, Musk said that the “outrageous, pork-filled” spending bill will “massively increase the already gigantic budget deficit to $2.5 trillion (!!!) and burden America [sic] citizens with crushingly unsustainable debt.”
In American politics “pork” refers to spending measures that lawmakers tack onto legislation to narrowly benefit their constituencies.
Asked about Musk’s comments soon after the first post, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that “the President already knows where Elon Musk stood on this bill”.
“This is one, big, beautiful bill,” she added. “And he’s sticking to it.”
The legislation also pledges to extend soon-to-expire tax cuts passed during the first Trump administration in 2017, as well as an influx of funds for defence spending and to fund the administration’s mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.
Additionally, it proposes lifting the limit on the amount of money the government can borrow, known as the debt ceiling, to $4tn.
The comments from Musk reflect wider tensions among Republicans over the plan, which faced stiff opposition from different wings of the party as it worked its way through the House. The Senate has now taken it up, and divisions already emerging in the Republican-controlled chamber.
Senator Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, over the last few days has said he will not support the bill if it includes the provision to raise the debt ceiling.
“”The GOP [the Republican Party] will own the debt once they vote for this,” he told CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, over the weekend.
Trump responded to Sen Paul with a series of angry social media posts, accusing him of having “very little understanding of the bill” and saying that the “people of Kentucky can’t stand him”.
“His ideas are actually crazy,” Trump wrote.
Trump and Republicans in Congress have set a deadline of 4 July to get the “big, beautiful bill” passed and signed into law.
Musk’s posts on the platform he owns also suggest he shares a rift with Trump, whom he helped get elected in last year’s November election with donations of more than $250m.
To make peace with spending hawks, Trump is also asking Congress to pass a plan that would reduce current spending by $9bn and which is reportedly based on Doge’s work.
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.
Nigerian singer Tems has clapped back at body shamers
Nigerian singer, Tems, has directly responded to body-shaming comments targeted at her after her recent performance at the Roots Picnic in Philadelphia.
After a short video from her stage performance at the Roots Picnic went viral on social media, several social media commentaries emerged, many of which focused on her body rather than her performance.
Some social media users made unsolicited remarks, particularly about her backside.
One user commented, “Real one knows she just has big laps, not an actual ass.”
But Tems, the “Love Me Jeje” hitmaker, took to her X page to call out the public obsession with her body.
She expressed her frustration at being constantly judged based on her appearance and criticised the pressure to prove anything to online audiences.
“Okay 7 years in. It’s time to pack it up. I never thought I’d need to say it but you are all weird. ‘It’s small, it’s flat, it’s fat.’ Dog ITS MINE. ‘Show us your bum bum’ lol so me too I will turn and say ‘See’ Nah show ME yours first?? See how that feels?
“It’s just a body I will add and lose weight. I never once hid my body, I just didn’t feel the need to prove or disprove anyone. The more you don’t like my body the better for me. But it’s enough now. Move on from my bum,” Tems wrote.
Read the post below
Okay 7 years in. It’s time to pack it up.
I never thought I’d need to say it but you are all weird. “It’s small, it’s flat, it’s fat.”
Dog ITS MINE. “Show us your bumbum” lol so me too I will turn and say “see🥰”
Nah show ME yours first?? See how that feels? It’s just a body I… https://t.co/Zv4R5B9hRk
play videoFront view of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Head Office at Dzorwulu
The Office of the Special Prosecutor, led by Kissi Agyebeng, has shared details of how high-ranking officials of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) allegedly acquired apartments, suites, houses both locally and abroad, as well as twenty-two fuel haulage trucks, among other assets, using proceeds from an alleged GH¢280 million corruption scandal.
At a press briefing on Monday, June 2, 2025, the OSP said that the monies, believed to be proceeds of crime, were also used by the suspects to acquire and operate Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
According to the OSP, the suspects used these OMCs to compete directly with the very companies they were mandated to regulate, an act allegedly carried out in collusion with complicit Oil Marketing Companies and their officials.
“As at close of day on May 30, 2025, the OSP had uncovered, through tracing and trailing, of an amount of GH¢280,516,127.19 being proceeds of the corrupt scheme, some of which has been used by the perpetrators to acquire identified and traced apartments, suites, houses in-country and abroad, twenty-two fuel haulage trucks, and the incorporation, acquisition, and operation of Oil Marketing Companies to compete with the oil marketing companies they were regulating,” the OSP shared.
He further stated that the investigations, conducted between 2022 and 2024, showed that the scheme was carried out using tactics such as threats, intimidation, coercion, subtle suggestions, bribery, and excessive regulatory pressure.
He added that this was done for the personal benefit of the individuals implicated.
“The OSP investigation has revealed that between 2022 and 2024, some high ranking and other officials of NPA devised and implemented a corrupt scheme of using public office for profit –through threats, intimidation, coercion, suggestions, bribery, and inordinate regulatory duress – to obtain, for their personal benefit, large sums of money from oil marketing companies and other entities under their statutory regulatory, licensing, oversight, and monitoring mandate in the petroleum downstream industry,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Kissi Agyebeng disclosed that criminal charges will be filed before the end of June 2025 against implicated NPA officials, executives of complicit OMCs, and their directors or senior managers.
“Upon filing of charges, we will provide full details including the identities of those involved, assets acquired, and items recovered,” he added.
The Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has presented the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025 to Parliament.
The proposed amendment seeks to increase the levy on petroleum products by GH¢1 as part of efforts to raise additional revenue to reduce energy sector debts and improve power supply.
Dr. Ato Forson indicated that at least $3.7 billion is needed to clear the current energy sector debt.
He further noted that an additional $1.2 billion will be required to procure fuel for thermal power generation to support power supply throughout 2025.
In a brief statement on the floor of Parliament on June 3, Dr. Forson stressed that the adjustment will not translate into higher prices for consumers due to the strength of the local currency.
“A minimum of $3.7 billion is needed to clean up the overall energy sector’s indebtedness for us to have a clean slate. In the year 2025, the government will require an additional $1.2 billion to procure essential fuel for thermal power generation alone. The power sector risks imminent collapse if these unsustainable debts are not resolved.
“The government is proposing an increase in the X pump price of diesel, petrol, and related products. The impact will be absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana cedi. And this will mean that consumers will not have to pay extra for the price of diesel and petrol, beginning today, June 3,” he said.
Ofori-Atta’s ‘media disclosure’ on ailment afterthought – Sammy Darko
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Armah-Kofi Buah has commended the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno and the Ghana Police Service for the immense efforts in the fight against illegal mining.
Speaking at the Global Mining Summit on Monday, June 2, 2025, the minister noted that the IGP and the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies have contributed immensely in pushing back on the activities of illegal miners and safeguarding our water bodies.
Over the past two months, the Ghana Police Service has waged a relentless war against illegal mining in the country.
In Samreboi and surrounding communities alone, a special Police Anti-galamsey Taskforce constituted by the IGP has retrieved over one hundred (100) excavators, some buldozers, weapons and Chanfang machines among several other exhibits.
Several arrests have been made and the suspects involved are being taken through the due process of law. Similar anti-galamsey operations have been carried out in other areas including the Ashanti, Eastern, Western, Central and the Upper West Region.
The Ghana Police Service in a recent released highlighted their commitment to intensify the fight against illegal mining as it works together with other stakeholders to ensure the protection of water bodies and other natural resources.
Dr Ato Forson after signing the grant agreement with Japan
Ghana and Japan have signed a grant agreement valued at ¥402 million (equivalent to GH¢28.619 million) under the Japanese Grant Aid for the Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) Programme.
The Ministry of Finance held the signing ceremony on June 3, 2025, as it marks the launch of the third batch of the fourth phase of the programme.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, noted that the programme aligns with Ghana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and build a resilient, knowledge-driven public sector.
Dr Forson also provided updates on Ghana’s economic outlook.
He stated that Ghana’s sovereign credit ratings are expected to improve soon, reflecting the country’s progress toward economic recovery.
Executive Senior Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Miyazaki Katsura, who led the Japanese delegation, acknowledged Ghana’s request and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to long-term development cooperation.
She emphasised the strategic importance of the JDS Programme in preparing Ghanaian professionals for leadership and institutional reform.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of the grant agreement, reinforcing the strong bilateral partnership between Ghana and Japan and paving the way for expanded cooperation in both human capital and infrastructure development.
Womba Africa Drumming and Dance, a traditional cultural troupe from Ghana—a country in West Africa—is set to embark on an exciting tour across the UK.
Renowned for their use of traditional instruments to create melodious, original compositions, the troupe never fails to get audiences on their feet with their high-energy performances.
“Womba” means “We are coming” in the local Ga dialect, and true to their name, the troupe makes a powerful impression wherever they go.
Their upcoming UK tour, scheduled for September and October 2025, promises an immersive cultural experience centered on drumming and dancing.
From September 18th to 20th, the troupe will host a workshop and training programme.
This event will delve into the history and origins of various dance styles, showcase traditional costumes and instruments, include storytelling sessions, and provide hands-on training in dance techniques, among other activities.
The workshop will take place at Lewsey Community Centre Landrace Road Luton LU4 OSW.
The tour will also feature two live concerts: · September 27th, 2025, at Lewsey Community Centre, Landrace Rd, Luton LU4 0SW — starting at 6:00 PM · October 4th, 2025, at The Plough, 74 West Street, Farnham GU9 7EH — also at 6:00 PM
In an interview with troupe manager Felix Nii Okai Nummello, he expressed anticipation for the world to know how hard working they are.
“A lot of preparation is ongoing and we surely going to make Africa proud on this tour,” he said.
This is a rare opportunity to witness the vibrant rhythms and rich traditions of Ghanaian culture live in the UK.
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, has filed a motion at the High Court demanding that businessman Ibrahim Mahama and his company, Engineers & Planners, admit to 38 specific facts as part of the ongoing defamation suit brought against him.
The motion, filed at the High Court, general jurisdiction, seeks to establish critical background information on Mahama’s business dealings, political exposure, and financial interests—particularly in Ghana’s mining sector.
Simons’ legal team is giving the plaintiffs 14 days to respond to the list of assertions, which range from Ibrahim Mahama’s classification as a politically exposed person to detailed financial and contractual relationships between Engineers & Planners and Abosso Goldfields Limited.
The motion states that Mahama is the sole shareholder of Engineers & Planners and highlights his connection to the presidency as the brother of President John Dramani Mahama. It adds that he was labelled a high-risk politically exposed person by offshore legal firm Appleby in a 2013 transaction involving the registration of Red Sky Aviation in the Isle of Man.
Simons is also asking the court to compel the plaintiffs to confirm that Engineers & Planners’ contracts with Abosso Goldfields—worth $117 million between 2015 and 2019, and $300 million from 2020 to 2025—have constituted some of the company’s largest revenue sources both in Ghana and globally. According to the motion, income from the Damang Gold Mine alone is projected to make up at least 25% of the company’s total mining revenue over the decade.
The motion further claims that Engineers & Planners has received no payments from Abosso Goldfields since mining was suspended at Damang in 2023, and has since engaged in talks with banks including Stanbic Ghana over loan servicing issues. Simons points out that the company has taken loans exceeding $50 million from Stanbic and signed a $230 million Caterpillar equipment financing agreement with the Mansour Group.
Other admissions sought include the company’s failed attempt to acquire Cardinal Namdini Mines in Bolgatanga, its ongoing efforts to raise financing for other mining assets, and the employment of former Engineers & Planners staff in senior positions at the Minerals Commission.
Businessman Ibrahim Mahama has sued Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, for defamation, alleging that a series of “false and malicious” publications have harmed both his personal reputation and that of his company, Engineers and Planners (E&P).
Read also…….
Ibrahim Mahama sues Bright Simons for defamation, demands GHS10m in damages
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has sparked controversy in Parliament with the introduction of the Energy Sector Levy Amendment Bill under a certificate of urgency to impose new taxes on petroleum products.
The bill, submitted under a certificate of urgency, if approved, will impose fresh taxes on all petroleum products, which Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson says is necessary to clear an alarming US$3.1 billion energy debt as of the end of March 2025.
Crucially, Dr Ato Forson assured Parliament today, June 3, that, despite the increment, consumers would not immediately feel the impact at the pumps, attributing this cushioning to the robust performance of the Ghana Cedi.
The Minister detailed the dire financial state of the energy sector, revealing that the US$3.1 billion debt includes significant arrears owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), various State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), and crucial fuel suppliers.
A major contributor to this crisis, he noted, was the non-payment of bills to key power providers like ENI and Karpowership.
This led to the complete drawdown of a US$512 million World Bank IDA guarantee and a US$120 million GNPC guarantee in 2024, leaving the government in urgent need of an additional US$632 million to restore these vital guarantees.
“To help raise additional revenue to fund the needs in the power sector, the government is proposing an increase in the ex-pump price of petrol, diesel and related products,” Dr. Forson stated before Parliament.
However, the Finance Minister moved swiftly to allay fears of immediate cost escalation for consumers.
“Mr. Speaker, I repeat,” he emphasised, “the impact will be absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana Cedi and this will mean that consumers will not have to pay extra for the price of petrol and diesel beginning today.”
He further added, “Our simulations suggest that there will be no increase in the ex-pump price of petrol and diesel in the next window beginning today if the levy is imposed. This is because of a strong Ghana Cedi.”
Dr. Forson clarified that the new levy is designed as a dedicated source of funding for the beleaguered power sector.
Proceeds from the levy will be specifically earmarked for the procurement of essential fuel necessary for consistent power generation.
This, he explained, is fundamental to ensuring Ghana enjoys a stable electricity supply, given that “the current electricity tariffs paid by consumers do not include the cost of fuel used for the power generation.”
The decision to implement this levy on petroleum prices, according to the Minister, represents a strategic balance between ensuring an uninterrupted and reliable power supply for the nation and promoting the long-term financial sustainability of Ghana’s energy sector.
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.
Ghanaian fashionista, Osebo the Zaraman has reacted to the new Kwame Despite project
A video of popular Ghanaian fashionista, Osebo the Zaraman, has gone viral on social media following the commissioning of business mogul, Osei Kwame Despite’s automobile museum.
In a video shared on X on June 2, 2025, Osebo the Zaraman expressed shock after touring the premises.
The fashionista, who couldn’t hide his excitement after touring the museum, debunked the notion that “money is the root of all evil.”
According to him, the narrative that money is the root of all evil is false, therefore, the youth should take inspiration from Despite’s luxurious vehicles.
“Who said money is the root of all evil? Money is not the root of all evil. You people are not okay. This type of car is not in heaven. There is nothing like heaven. The heaven you are talking about is the one we are standing on right now,” he said.
Meanwhile, the museum’s launch drew an impressive list of high-profile attendees from across Ghana, including business magnate Ibrahim Mahama, NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, actor and politician John Dumelo, and several entertainment figures such as Kwaku Manu, Efia Odo, KOD, and Sarkodie.
The Despite Automobile Museum captures a stunning collection of vintage classics, cutting-edge supercars, and includes an interactive driving simulator designed to offer visitors a fully immersive automotive experience.
Watch the video below:
“Money is not the root of all evil” – “Ghanaian businessman, Osebo The Zaraman was left in awe during his tour of the newly commissioned Despite Automobile Museum, owned by business mogul Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, located in East Legon, Accra. pic.twitter.com/K28irqI4TQ
Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo
The Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Hon. Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has issued a passionate call for intensified national efforts to eliminate child labour in Ghana.
Speaking at the national launch and colloquium to commemorate World Day Against Child Labour, held at the Kofi Annan ICT Centre in Ridge, the Minister highlighted the alarming scale of the problem and urged all stakeholders to renew their commitment.
Drawing on data from the 2021 National Population and Housing Census, Dr. Pelpuo revealed that approximately 2 million Ghanaian children — representing 28 percent — are engaged in child labour, often in hazardous sectors such as agriculture, fishing, domestic service, and informal employment.
“Child labour remains one of the most pressing developmental challenges confronting our nation,” the Minister said, stressing that while poverty is a root cause, Ghana already has the laws, policies, and programmes needed to tackle the issue.
Under this year’s global theme, “Progress is clear, but there is more to do. Let’s speed up,” Dr. Pelpuo outlined key interventions: implementing national action plans, strengthening legal enforcement, scaling up inspections and sanctions, and improving access to quality education.
He also cited vital social protection initiatives, including the Cocoa Enhancement Programme, Ghana Cocoa Board’s Child-Education Support, the Ghana School Feeding Programme, and the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme — all aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty that fuels child labour.
Dr. Pelpuo emphasized that achieving the global goal of eliminating child labour by 2030 will require deepened partnerships with international bodies such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, as well as active collaboration with traditional leaders, civil society, parents, the private sector, and local communities.
The Minister announced plans for intensified nationwide campaigns using media, schools, community forums, and digital platforms to raise public awareness about the harmful effects of child labour.
He praised the resilience of affected children and families and challenged stakeholders across all sectors to act boldly. “Together, we can build a Ghana where no child is forced to work — only to learn, grow, and dream,” Dr. Pelpuo concluded.
Fatou Wurie and her community gada $200,000 so she go fit go school for Harvard University
Fatou Wurie and her community gada $200,000 so she go fit go school for Harvard University for di United States and now wit only few months bifor she go graduate, evritin don dey hang for di Sierra Leonean student.
To get admission to Harvard University for di US na ogbonge tin for Ms Wurie.
Ms Wurie wey be Doctor of Public Health candidate for di university T.H. Chan School of Public Health, wey dey study di impact of uterine fibroids for women for Sierra Leone tok say, “na generational leap, for my family and community”.
But wit just few months bifor she go graduate, all dat hard work and sacrifice fit dey at risk.
President Donald Trump administration announce plans to pause US student visa appointments.
E dey part of bigger crackdown by Trump for some of di most elite universities for America wey e say dey too liberal.
State department tok-tok pesin Tammy Bruce tell tori pipo about di decision to pause all student visa appointments say, “we dey take am very seriously di process to cross check who dey enta di kontri, and we go continue to dey do dat.”
Dis move now don make Ms Wuroe dey fear about how she go fit to travel back go US to defend her thesis and gradudate for November dis year.
Ms Wurie tok say, “e create deep uncertainty, As a doctoral student and founder, my work dey depend on mobility and continuity. Delays no dey only disturb studies, e dey also scata movement”. She say she feel like she enta di school “wit di hopes and wisdom of a continent”.
Students like Ms Wurie fit extend dia programmes bicos of personal and academic reasons. Wen dat kain tin happun, dem go normally reapply for new I-20 wey be di official document wey confam say you get admission for full time educational programme and proof of sufficient money.
Ms Wurie don already collect her updated I-20 wey mean say she don meet all di institutional and financial requirements to go back to Harvard and complete her degree dis November.
But even wit dis, she no fit apply for visa appointment now. If dem implement dis decision fully and permanently, she tok say, “e go be painful blow. Research and di women wey e dey for no fit dey paused”.
Financial and emotional wahala
Ms. Wurie say to gada di money to pay for her Harvard school fees cause am and her family plenti of thousands of dollars.
She say, “I don take loans, work throughout my degree, and pay of plenti tins like visa, housing and healthcare. Even apart from di money, di be emotional palava to constantly navigate immigration systems, and to dey make sure say we remain compliant and honour di laws of di US. Evri delay dey cost pass dollars, e dey cost focus and peace of mind”.
And while e dey cost for Ms Wurie, she dey also worry for wetin dis tin go mean for di future of African scholars.
She say, “e dey pain, no be only for me but for wetin e fit mean. Doors to global education alreadi dey narrow for African students. Wen dem close am totally, e tell us say our presence dey conditional.”
Foreign students wey wan study for di US dey must to normally schedule interviews for di US embassy for dia home kontri bifor approval.
Ova 1.1 million international students from ova 210 kontris bin dey enrolled for US colleges for di 2023-24 school year, according to Open Doors, wey be organisation wey dey collect data for foreign students.
Ms Wurie tink say US need to put policies down wey “see global education as shared investment” as she add say di US “no dey just receive talent, dem dey grow through am”.
Ms Wurie reason say her message to President Trump go be, “your policies fit isolate or inspire. We come to learn, yes but also to lead, to build, to contribute. Make history remember you as pesin wey open doors, not as di pesin wey close dem.”
Regina Daniels has fired back at Angela Okorie with a fresh round of clapbacks — and this time, she’s spilling alleged secrets.
Responding to Angela’s earlier warnings and insults, Regina didn’t hold back. In a new statement, she wrote:
“Aunty werey I married my old man but he is certainly not your regular old man. He is everything your kind prays for but can’t attract. Don’t get me started to tell the world how you were chasing this same old man.”
She continued, throwing jabs at Angela’s relevance and career:
“Now let your age reflect your reasoning. Clearly you failed because a girl that once admired you when she was 6 sees you as nothing to write home about.”
Regina also made it clear she doesn’t want to be compared to Angela in any way:
“And for Christ sake stop comparing yourself to me!!! It will be a huge disrespect to me and everyone that supports my movement. You and I are not the same. Not even close. I am bigger than you and your entire music/movie career. Let’s not even mention my mama (Mercy Johnson) whose name rings the loudest bell. I don’t need scandals or shadows to shine.”
She ended her message on a deep note:
“Age? It’s just a number. What truly counts is how you’ve lived, what you’ve built, and who you’ve become. The roads I’ve walked, the milestones I’ve hit with grace, not disgrace are places your bitterness will never carry you.”
This reply is coming after Angela Okorie’s Instagram outburst, where she warned Regina to stop disrespecting her and accused her of marrying for money. Read here
Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has issued a scathing warning to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, urging them not to repeat what he calls the “callous” mistakes of the past in the ongoing pursuit of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who is currently abroad receiving medical treatment.
Accra, June 03, GNA- Mr. Ivan Bruce–Cudjoe, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cabic Promotions and Management has formally filed his nomination to contest the upcoming Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) Presidential election.
The GBA is set to hold its elective congress on July 12, 2025, where new leaders would be elected to spearhead the affairs of the authority for the next four years.
Mr. Bruce – Cudjoe was accompanied by Mr. Ellis Quaye, Director of Cabic Promotions who is contesting for Second Vice President position, Mr. Gideon K. Oyiadzo and Mr. Johnny Gordon also vying as Executive Board Members.
They handed their forms, paid their filing fees and other relevant requirements to the Acting Secretary, Madam Mimi Brown at the GBA office, Trust Sports Emporium in Accra.
Mr. Bruce – Cudjoe expressed confidence in his bid to win the Presidential race but was however disappointed with delay in release of the voters list.
He urged the GBA to make available the voter list to candidates who have filed for various positions ahead of the crucial elections on July 12, 2025.
The positions to be contested are President, First Vice President, Second Vice President, Treasurer and Executive Members.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, has announced that GoldBod has purchased and exported gold from the Artisanal Small-Scale Mining (ASM) sector to the tune of GH¢40 billion, with an export value of approximately $4 billion.
According to him, this is the first time gold exports from the ASM sector have exceeded those from the large-scale sector.
He stated that this occurred from February to May 2025, following the transformation of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) into GoldBod.
Speaking at the Mining in Motion Summit in Accra on Tuesday, June 2, 2025, Sammy Gyamfi said that regulatory measures instituted by GoldBod have contributed to the fight against gold smuggling, enabling the recovery of some gold for the sector.
“From February 2025 to May 2025, PMMC, now GoldBod, on its own, has purchased and exported gold for the Bank of Ghana from the Artisanal Small-Scale Mining sector to the tune of GH¢40 billion, with an export value of approximately $4 billion. Indeed, the total gross weight of ASM gold exported either by or through PMMC, now GoldBod, from January to May 2025, stands at a whopping 41.5 tonnes,” he stated.
To further strengthen regulatory oversight of the sector’s activities, Gyamfi disclosed that GoldBod has begun licensing players in the gold trading sector to promote sourcing and traceability.
“GoldBod is committed to tapping into and maximizing the full potential of the Artisanal Small-Scale Mining sector by supporting sustainable artisanal mining and promoting responsible sourcing by all gold traders in the ASM sector. Our license categories range from aggregation licenses to buying licenses, refining licenses, smelting licenses, transportation licenses, export partnership licenses, among others.
“Before the end of this year, GoldBod will roll out a digital traceability technology for its entire supply chain. This traceability system will enhance market access and the value of the country’s ASM gold. In the medium to long term, it will ensure that every gram of gold purchased by GoldBod is traceable throughout its various custody points, all the way to the mine where it was produced,” he added.
SP/AE
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
The Black Queens of Ghana face Ivory Coast in an international friendly on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, as part of their build-up to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The game is set to be played at the Stade Félix-Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan.
Head coach Kim Lars Björkegren is leading the team’s preparations for the continental tournament, set to take place in Morocco later this year.
The game forms part of a strategic series of friendlies that began in March, which is aimed at sharpening the squad.
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has launched a scathing critique of Effutu MP and Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, over what he described as a clear failure to honour his promise of bringing former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta into the country to aid in investigations by the Office of Special Prosecutor in May.
His comments come in response to an earlier assurance made by Afenyo-Markin on February 18, where he stated that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was expected to return to Ghana in May 2025 following a medical assessment abroad.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, he asked: “Mr. Speaker, if I may say — referring to Afenyo-Markin — he promised this House that he would bring Ken Ofori-Atta in May. We are now in June. Where is Ken Ofori-Atta? Where is Ken? Where is Ken?”
He went further, questioning the Minority Leader’s credibility: “You promised us that you would bring Ken to this House. You came here and made a promise. You stood on this floor and assured us that he would return in May. Now we are in June — where is Ken Ofori-Atta?”
He did not hold back, demanding accountability saying “Mr. Speaker, he should no longer be heard in this House. When he makes promises, he does not fulfill them. He comes here, makes statements, and never follows through — and yet he questions the promises of others.”
He concluded with a call for consistency and integrity in leadership: “When you made a promise, did you fulfill it? If we, as Members of Parliament, make promises, we must keep them.”
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for all the breaking stories: tinyurl.com/JoyNews-WhatsApp-channel
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.
NATIONS FC is seriously considering withdrawing from the Ghana Premier League following a chaotic and controversial Matchday Day 33 encounter against Basake Holy Stars at the Ampain AAK II Arena.
The match took a dramatic turn after the referee awarded a second contentious penalty to the home side, prompting outrage from Nations FC officials and players, who walked off the pitch in protest.
Brands Manager Kennedy Boakye Ansah voiced strong dissatisfaction over the officiating and the broader treatment of the club, hinting at a possible disbandment of the team.
“Maybe we might disband Nations FC and forget about running football in this country because it’s not worth it,” he said. “Whatever we saw today and what we were subjected to, it’s not worth it. We might have to advise ourselves.”
Boakye Ansah revealed that the club will wait for the official match report but also intends to file a formal complaint with the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Meanwhile, Nations FC owner and financier, Dr. Kwame Kyei, has strongly condemned the violent scenes, stating that no football title is worth human lives.
Both Dr. Kyei and club president Divine Kyei Boadu were reportedly assaulted by supporters of Basake Holy Stars, sparking outrage and safety concerns from the Nations FC camp.
“I was not happy with what happened. I have followed football for long, but yesterday’s incident was unacceptable,” he said. “To win the league at the cost of losing lives — I prefer to lose it” Dr. Kyei noted.
The police have arrested a taxi driver in the Greater Accra Region after discovering large quantities of suspected cannabis concealed in fertilizer sacks.
The arrest occurred on Monday, June 2, 2025, during a special intelligence operation by the National Highway Patrol Unit of the Ghana Police Service.
The suspect, identified as Ernest Mohammed Adjiri, was driving a Hyundai i10 taxi with registration number GW 9832-22 when officers stopped him.
A search of the vehicle revealed three fertiliser sacks containing 120 slabs of compressed dried leaves believed to be cannabis.
According to the police, Mr Adjiri admitted during interrogation that the items belonged to him.
He is currently in police custody and is expected to be put before the court.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Ghanaian rap heavyweight, M.anifest, made waves during a recent appearance on London’s Capital XTRA radio, where he confidently staked his claim as Africa’s top MC.
When questioned about the continent’s hip-hop landscape, the award-winning lyricist replied sharply, “Only two rappers in Africa; me and nobody in particular,” he stated with a grin.
The remark, however, has sparked debates across social media.
While some fans celebrated it as playful hip-hop bragging, others recognised it as a justified claim from an artiste.
The Guardian recently crowned “Africa’s foremost rapper” in their 2025 global music review, highlighting M.anifest’s album “The Gamble” as “a masterclass in pan-African storytelling through rap.”
Renowned for his intricate wordplay, intellectual depth, and seamless fusion of African rhythms with global hip-hop, M.anifest has spent over a decade building an unimpeachable reputation.
His discography bridges Accra’s streets with international stages, earning collaborations with Damon Albarn, Burna Boy, and Vic Mensa.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has disclosed that the government has fulfilled all its statutory obligations by releasing payments to key development funds for 2025.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, Dr Forson emphasised that the timely disbursement of these funds reflects the government’s dedication to fiscal decentralization and the revitalization of the local economy.
District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF)
Dr Forson announced that a total of GH¢987,965,073 had been transferred from the Consolidated Fund to the District Assemblies Common Fund as the first quarter allocation for 2025.
“As of yesterday, we have transferred the sum of GH¢987,965,073 from the Consolidated Fund to the District Assemblies Common Fund. This is the first quarter amount due, and the Administrator of the DACF is required to ensure that 80% of this amount is transferred directly to the Assemblies without fail,” he noted.
According to him, each district assembly is expected to receive a minimum of GH¢25 million this year. The funds will be directed towards model markets, health facilities, school infrastructure, potable water, school furniture, administrative support, and the completion of abandoned projects.
“25% of the amount is to be used to construct a model market in each district, 10% for health facilities including two CHPS compounds in rural assemblies, and another 10% for educational facilities such as a KG block, primary school block, and JHS block,” Dr Forson explained.
He continued, “A further 10% will go toward potable water with at least 10 boreholes in rural areas, and 10% for school furniture. The running cost for the assemblies will not exceed 5%, while 20% is dedicated to completing abandoned legacy projects.”
National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF)
On the health front, he reported that GH¢2,033,469,607 had been disbursed to the National Health Insurance Fund, covering the first quarter of 2025.
“This disbursement has enabled the National Health Insurance Scheme to settle arrears owed to healthcare providers,” he said. “It has also made it possible to begin implementation of the Free Primary Health Care initiative and the Ghana Medical Care Trust Program, also known as Mahama CARES,” he indicated.
Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund)
In the education sector, the finance minister announced that GH¢2,710,227,947 had been transferred to the GETFund covering January to April 2025.
“As earlier announced in the 2025 Budget, funding for the Free Senior High School programme is now fully under the GETFund,” he noted.
“As a result, the challenges, including feeding, which previously impeded the smooth implementation of the programme, have been resolved through this release,” he added.
Dr Forson urged his fellow lawmakers to monitor the utilization of these funds in their respective districts to ensure that they are used in accordance with the Cabinet guidelines approved by President Mahama.
“Honourable Members are encouraged to monitor the utilization of this amount sent to their respective Assemblies in line with the approved guidelines,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and inclusive development.
“These payments clearly reflect our commitment to meet all statutory obligations in priority sectors of the economy,” he added.
JKB/MA
You can also catch the latest news in Twi on GhanaWeb TV below:
Jailed armed robber, Adinan Mahmoud
