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Mar – 17 – 2025 , 16:33

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has raised urgent concerns about the security situation within the parliamentary enclave, stating that the safety of both members and staff remains a significant issue.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Parliamentary Service Board for the ninth Parliament, Bagbin highlighted the growing insecurity, revealing that attacks on parliamentarians and their staff have become a worrying threat.

“One of the challenges that need to be addressed is to secure the parliamentary enclave to ensure the safety of members and staff,” Bagbin stated.

He added, “This has been a worrying matter for Parliament for some time now, we are actually insecure here.”

The Speaker went on to explain that there have been instances where individuals have managed to breach the parliamentary grounds, posing a danger to those within the compound.

“We are not safe. Sometimes people can come in and attack us or staff and anytime there is an attempt to apprehend them, they scale over the wall and escape into the forest,” he said, expressing deep concern about the ease with which security breaches are taking place.

Bagbin stressed that securing the parliamentary enclave is vital for the proper functioning of Parliament, as it directly affects the ability of lawmakers to carry out their duties without fear for their personal safety.

“This is vital for the functioning of parliament,” he emphasised.

In light of the issue, the Speaker expressed confidence that the Ninth Board of Parliament would work diligently to address the matter. “I believe the ninth board will work assiduously to make this a reality,” he said, underlining the importance of resolving the security concerns swiftly.

Bagbin called on the leaders of the house to take immediate action in following up on the security matter.

“I will call on the leaders of the house to follow up on this matter,” he concluded.

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File photo: The visit to the regions revealed shortages of diesel and RON 95 in some retail outlets

An Imminent shortage of Diesel and RON 95 at some pumps in the Bono and Bono East Region has been detected by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies.

This was detected through its unannounced mystery shopping exercise, which is conducted periodically in retail outlets across the country.

The visit seeks to evaluate operational efficiency, compliance with company and overall quality standards.

A visit to the Bono and Bono East Regions reveals diesel and RON 95 shortages in some retail outlets.

According to the chamber, stock deficiency disrupts service delivery and may negatively impact customer trust and station reputation.

They are, therefore, calling on the National Petroleum Authority to swiftly address concerns to enhance service delivery.

Here are full details of their report

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) conducted an unannounced mystery shopping exercise across retail outlets in the Bono and Bono East Regions. The purpose of this mystery shopping was to evaluate operational efficiency, compliance with company standards, and overall customer service quality.

The exercise revealed several areas of concern that require urgent attention to maintain operational integrity and customer satisfaction. This report outlines the key findings and provides recommendations for improvement.

Key Findings

ATG Issues:

The exercise identified multiple issues with the Automatic Tank Gauging system (ATG) at various retail outlets. Inconsistent readings and potential calibration errors were observed, which could compromise inventory tracking and operational efficiency. Immediate technical assessments and repairs are recommended to address these discrepancies.

Shortage of Diesel and RON 95:

A notable shortage of diesel and RON 95 was observed at several retail outlets. This stock deficiency disrupts service delivery and may negatively impact customer trust and station reputation. A robust supply chain optimization strategy should be explored to prevent future shortages.

Non-Display of RON Stickers by Some Retail Outlets:

During the exercise, it was noted that some retail outlets failed to display their RON stickers as required. RON stickers indicate the kind of product the retail outlet sells, as some vehicles have specific fuel specifications. RON stickers should be affixed to dispensers to help customers easily identification and choose the type of fuel they wish to purchase.

Need for Safety Awareness Training

The exercise highlighted a lack of adequate safety awareness among staff at multiple retail outlets. Instances of unsafe practices were observed, posing risks to employees and customers alike. We recommend the implementation of mandatory safety awareness training to reinforce protocols and enhance workplace safety.

Sample Check of Pump Verifications and 10-litre can sampling

Sample checks were conducted on fuel pump verifications with 10-litre cans to assess dispensing accuracy. While some pumps performed within acceptable limits, others exhibited minor deviations that could undermine customer confidence and regulatory compliance. In some cases, pumps were shown to be over-delivering, which could affect sales of retail outlets. A comprehensive review and recalibration of affected pumps at various retail outlets in the Bono and Bono East regions are necessary to ensure uniformity, reliability and compliance.

Conclusion

The mystery shopping exercise conducted by the COMAC team has highlighted critical operational and compliance issues at filling stations in the Bono and Bono East regions. Addressing these concerns promptly will enhance service delivery, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain customer satisfaction. COMAC remains available to support the implementation of these recommendations and further assist in improving station performance.

King Paluta, King Promise and Kweku Smoke are in contention for the Artiste of the Year title

The 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards nominations are out, and artistes, along with industry stakeholders, are gearing up to secure prestigious awards at the main event.

As with previous editions, this year’s TGMA comes with some additions, subtractions, and notable changes that will stir up excitement.

As preparations are underway, here are four key things to note before this year’s TGMA

1. New Category Added

Earlier this year, the TGMA board introduced a new category: ‘Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song’.

This category aims to recognise the most popular gospel song that blends contemporary genres like R&B, hip-hop, and pop with traditional gospel elements.

It’s an exciting addition that showcases the evolution of gospel music in Ghana.

2. Group of the Year excluded again

The ‘Group of the Year’ category, which had been a staple at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards for many years, saw groups like Keche (2021), DopeNation (2020), Bethel Revival Choir (2019), Wutah (2018), and VVIP (2017) take home the award, was scrapped in 2022.

This was due to what was termed “a lack of competitiveness.”

In 2024, a petition spearheaded by fresh music sensation LalixLola, with support from industry players, called for the category’s revival.

However, despite the call, the category has yet to make a return.

3. ‘First and second timers’

After a stellar 2024 performance, popular rapper Kweku Smoke earned his first-ever ‘Artiste of the Year’ nomination, much to the excitement of his loyal fanbase.

Also, gospel music group, Team Eternity, which made waves in 2024 with their hit song “Defe Defe,” received a nomination in the ‘Artiste of the Year’ category.

In addition, they have secured seven other nominations in various categories, including Best Gospel Song, Best Collaboration, Best Group Performance, and Best New Artiste, among others.

4. A ‘back for round two’

After a tight race in 2024, which saw him lose to Stonebwoy, Afrobeats sensation King Promise is back and determined to win the coveted ‘Artiste of the Year’ award.

This category is keenly contested by King Paluta following an impressive 2024 that saw his hit songs dominate the charts.

In conclusion, as the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these changes shape the awards scheme.

ID/EB

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You can also watch videos from the unveiling of the 2025 TGMA nominees on GhanaWeb TV below:

A joint operation by regulatory and intelligence agencies at Tema Port has led to the interception of opioid drugs worth an estimated GH₵20 million, which were purportedly in transit to Niger.

The shipment was seized following a coordinated inspection involving the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), National Security, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA).

The consignment included a large quantity of opioid pharmaceuticals, laced with other drugs, raising concerns over illicit drug trafficking through Ghana’s ports.

Among the intercepted opioids were 26 cartons of Tapentadol 250mg, 160 cartons of Tafradol 120mg, and 40 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol 120mg. The consignment also contained 190 cartons of Chlorpheniramine Maleate and 320 cartons of Diazole Loperamide.

Ongoing investigation

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, together with Commissioner of Customs, Brig Gen Zibrim Ayorrogo, and CEO of the FDA, Dr Delese Mimi Darko, visited Tema Port on Monday, March 17, 2025, to assess the situation. They confirmed that investigations were ongoing to uncover the full details of the shipment, including its intended recipients.

Mr Akandoh stated that authorities were working to determine the identities, operational methods, and motives of those behind the consignment. He noted that Ghana has recently been flagged as a major transit hub for opioids in West Africa, while Nigeria has been praised for its robust measures in preventing the movement of such controlled substances.

He emphasised that while Ghana remains committed to facilitating trade, the country will not allow itself to become a haven for illegal opioids. He assured the public that President John Dramani Mahama is personally committed to addressing the issue and preventing the proliferation of such substances.

Regulatory measures and enforcement

Mr Akandoh reaffirmed that under Ghana’s regulations, only Tema Port and Kotoka International Airport (KIA) are designated for the import and export of pharmaceutical products. He warned that no medication is permitted to enter or exit the country via land borders, and urged security agencies to confiscate any unauthorised drugs, even common ones like paracetamol, if found being transported through illegal routes.

He also disclosed that the government is engaging with Niger’s authorities to verify whether the consignment was officially sanctioned by the country, stressing that even if approval had been granted, Ghana would not allow its ports to be used as a transit point for illegal or unauthorised drugs.

The government is moving swiftly to court to obtain an order for the proper disposal of the seized items.

Appeal for public support

The Minister of Health commended the regulatory and security agencies for their vigilance and called on the public, particularly importers and exporters, to volunteer information that could help combat illicit trade in pharmaceuticals.

“I have asked for an update on the whereabouts of the exporters and importers, and very soon, I will be briefed on their current status,” he said.

Customs violation

The CEO of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Delese Mimi Darko stated that the shipment had not been properly declared to Customs, thereby constituting a customs offence and warranting its seizure by the state.

She further noted that the products lacked key manufacturing details, with the only marking on the strips indicating that they were “Made in India”.

Authorities have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to clamp down on illegal drug trafficking and protect the country’s public health and security.

President of GUTA, Dr. Joseph Obeng

The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) is urging the government to properly restructure the Value Added Tax (VAT) system, highlighting its potential as a goldmine for the government.

According to president of the Union, Dr. Joseph Obeng, a well-restructured VAT system would significantly play a major role in increasing Ghana’s Tax-to-GDP beyond 20 percent.

Ghana’s current tax-to-GDP ratio lags behind many middle-income economies. However, experts believe that the country can increase its tax-to-GDP ratio to more than 20% with the right structural adjustments.

Speaking to GhanaWeb Business on the sidelines of the 2025 Deloitte Economic Dialogue on the 2025 budget on March 17 2025, the GUTA president said a more simplified VAT system would go a long way to help the business community.

“For the VAT reforms, we are waiting for it. We have a lot to say. If you are able to restructure the VAT, it is a goldmine for the government. Our problem has been the structure. If you are able to make it more affordable and simplified, government would be able to do its work, and our tax-to-GDP can go beyond 20 percent,” he stated

Dr. Obeng also praised the government for the 3 percent increase in the Growth and Sustainability levy on mining companies.

He said the government must pay attention to the extractive sector as it also serves as a revenue hub for the country.

SP/MA

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Kwabena Mintah Akandoh is the Minister of Health

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has vowed to prevent the country from being used as a hub for the peddling of various drugs.

Addressing the media on Monday, March 17, 2025, Akandoh expressed concerns about the dangers associated with the influx and illicit trade of opioids in the country, adding that the president is equally committed to addressing the issue.

He stated that the country’s efforts to facilitate trade with neighbouring countries would not be exploited by unscrupulous individuals to import harmful drugs into the country.

“In as much as we are interested in facilitating trade in this country, we will not allow Ghana to be a safe haven for opioids. And let me tell you that the president is personally interested in this matter. On my way here, he called me twice, and it tells you how critical this particular issue is,” he said.

The minister, who is also a lawmaker, stated that the country’s laws designate two specific routes—the Tema Port and Kotoka International Airport— for the legal transportation of drugs to help streamline the process and ensure the quality of the substances.

In a bid to enforce strict compliance with these laws, the minister issued a directive to security agencies to confiscate any drugs transported through land borders, as these are not designated routes for legal drug transportation.

“By our laws, there are only two designated areas for the import and export of medication or drugs, Tema Port and the Kotoka International Airport. Drugs are not imported through our land borders, and therefore, I encourage all the stakeholders, all our security agencies, to confiscate any drugs, even if it is paracetamol and it’s going through our land bodies,” he continued.

The Member of Parliament for Juaboso restated the danger posed by the influx of opioids into the country, emphasising that his office, with the full support of the government, is committed to combating the drug problem and taking strong action.

He added that most illegal drugs enter the country through transit goods, noting that they are working to tighten regulations governing the transit of goods to close any gaps or loopholes that could contribute to this issue.

“The president has also committed that he is going to provide all the logistics necessary for us to effectively fight the influx of opioids in this country. So, the law is clear: we are not going to reinvent the wheel. In fact, we are also looking at tightening our regulations regarding transit goods because they usually hide behind transit goods.

“This is believed to be going to Niger, and last night, I was in talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs. We are contacting the Niger government to know whether or not they have okayed such a consignment. Even if they have, we will not allow our ports to be a transit point for illegal or unauthorised drugs.”

The minister made this announcement following the interception of a 40-foot container of undeclared opioids bound for Niger, which was seized at Tema Port.

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) reportedly seized a 40-foot container filled with pharmaceutical opioids at the Tema Port that was destined for Niger.

According to a report by graphic.com.gh, the consignment, lacking proper labelling, did not include the details of the manufacturer, except for a “Made in India” inscription on the strips.

Further details from the report indicate that the consignment had not been properly declared to customs, an act that constitutes a customs offence, thus warranting the seizure.

The container, upon inspection, was found to contain Tapentadol 120mg, 40 cartons of Diazole Loperamide 3mg, and 190 cartons of Chlorpheniramine Maleate, along with 320 cartons of other pharmaceuticals.

MAG/EK

Meanwhile, watch as Otumfuo urges the government to cancel or review Free SHS if students cannot be fed or accommodated

You can also watch videos from the unveiling of the 2025 TGMA nominees on GhanaWeb TV below: