The World Bank has revealed that Ghana is losing an estimated 3.9% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to tax exemptions on Value Added Tax (VAT), Personal Income Tax (PIT), and import duties.
According to the report, these exemptions offer some fiscal relief while it warns they also create “leakages, complexity and distortions” in the economy.
The report highlights that the largest source of foregone VAT revenue comes from exemptions on the supply of dwellings and land, accounting for 33% of the overall cost.
However, in terms of Personal Income Tax, the exemption for cocoa farmers has the deepest impact on revenue; representing 0.42% of GDP, followed by deductions for pension and social security contributions at 0.37% of GDP.
While Ghana’s Tax Exemptions Act of 2022 sets out clear criteria and guidelines, the World Bank notes that other legislation introduces further tax incentives that deviate from the “notional tax benchmark.”
The World Bank emphasizes the need for rationalizing tax expenditures, calling for a balance between offering fiscal relief and mitigating the negative impacts of exemptions.
“Ghana’s tax exemptions from VAT, PIT, and import duties are estimated to generate a loss in revenue of 3.9 percent of GDP: while offering fiscal relief, they create leakages, complexity and
distortions”.
“The Tax Exemptions Act, 2022, sets out clear criteria and guidelines, but other legislations introduce further tax incentives that deviate from the notional tax benchmark.”
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
The revocation of public service appointments and recruitments made after December 7, 2024, by President John Dramani Mahama, has faced strong opposition from some notable personalities of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
According letter issued on February 10, 2025, by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and sent to all heads of government institutions, they have been instructed to revoke all such appointments and recruitments.
“Consistent with government procurement in relation to near end of tenure appointments and recruitments, I wish to bring to your attention that all appointments and recruitments made in the Public Services of Ghana after 7th December, 2024, are not in compliance with established good governance practices and principles.
“Accordingly, all Head of Government Institutions are hereby requested to take the necessary steps to annul any such appointments or recruitments and submit a comprehensive report on the actions taken to this Office by 11th February 2025,” the letter said.
The letter further instructed heads of institutions to provide the full names, designations or job titles, employee identification numbers (if applicable), dates of appointment, and the dates employees were added to the payroll. It emphasised the importance of this exercise in ensuring accountability in the management of public funds.
However, since the announcement, several key NPP members have condemned the action, demanding the legal basis for such revocations. Some have even threatened legal action against the government.
Here are some of the NPP personalities who have called for the withdrawal of the new directive
1. Richard Ahiagbah
The NPP Director of Communications expressed concerns over the precedent set by President Mahama’s directive, warning that it could pose a threat to the country’s democratic stability.
In an X post on February 11, 2025, he wrote, “The John Mahama Administration is a potluck of confusion. They propagandized that the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia Administration failed to order fuel for IPPs after December 7th to ensure power generation and supply during the planned WAPCo pigging.
“But now, by this statement, they are repudiating and claiming that the appointments and recruitments after 7 December are at variance with good governance practice and principle. This is a poor precedent that threatens the stability of our democracy. The COS, Mr Julius Debrah, must rescind this directive and honor the decision of the preceding government. Governance is a continuum…”
2. Henry Nana Boakye
The National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye, did not mince words in strongly condemning the revocations. He argued that the appointments of all affected individuals were made legitimately, highlighting that the workers had followed the proper legal procedures and processes to secure their positions.
“It has been more than a month since President John Mahama took the Presidential oath to “at all times preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of Ghana”; and so, where from this attempt to terminate legitimate and lawful appointments of hard-working Ghanaian Youth who have complied with due process of law to secure their appointments. Has the President so soon forgotten that he also swore to submit himself to the laws of Ghana? The president should know, that there is no legal ground for terminating any appointment known as “good governance practices and principles,” he posted on X on February 12, 2025.
3. Vincent Ekow Assafuah
The Member of Parliament for Old Tafo has threatened legal action against the government, describing the move as ‘insensitive.’
He has accused the government of abusing its powers, asserting that the revocation violates Public Service rules.
“The insensitive JMs government is not only illegally dismissing hardworking Ghanaians in blatant violation of Public Service rules, but is also on a ruthless mission reversing lawful transfers. This shameful abuse of power must be condemned!” he wrote on X on February 12, 2025.
4. Sammi Awuku
In response to the development, the Akuapem North lawmaker argued that the affected individuals were not second-class citizens, emphasising that they had followed the legal procedures before being employed under the former government.
He referenced January 2017, when the Akufo-Addo government assumed office, noting that the former president did not revoke the appointments of officials such as those at CHRAJ and the Auditor-General, as he considered it unconstitutional.
“In January 2017, when Hon. Osafo-Marfo during his vetting suggested a revocation of appointments made after the 2016 December elections, the Akufo-Addo government rejected that pronouncement as it considered it unconstitutional. The NPP respected the fact that President Mahama’s mandate ran until January 6, 2017. For that matter, Osafo Marfo’s prescription was not implemented. So, why is it different today?
“In line with that, the Akufo-Addo government did not revoke the appointments of CHRAJ, the Auditor-General, or the NCCE heads, all because we believed in continuity and respect for due process. Why is that principle being abandoned now?
“Ghanaians who received appointments after December 7, 2024, are not second-class citizens. They have a right to work, just like everyone else. They went through a rigorous process before gaining employment with the Government. Denying them access to employment is a flagrant violation of their economic rights under Article 24 of the 1992 Constitution and SDG 8 which aims to promote full and productive employment and decent work for all,” parts of his Facebook post read.
5. Kwasi Kwarteng
The former spokesperson of the Ministry of Education, describing the termination of appointments as ‘unlawful,’ questioned the silence of stakeholders and pressure groups.
He specifically pointed out how organized labor had threatened a nationwide strike over the SSNIT sale issue under the former Akufo-Addo government but has yet to condemn the termination of appointments.
“Isn’t it interesting that organized labor threatened a nationwide strike over the proposed sale of 60% of SSNIT’s hotel shares between two Ghanaian companies, yet remains unconcerned about the unlawful termination of ordinary Ghanaians’ employment?” he posted on X on February 12, 2025.
MAG/EK
You can also watch as John Boadu reveals how NPP blocked Afenyo-Markin from contesting Effutu seat
Ghanaian businessman and founder of the defunct Heritage Bank, Seidu Agongo
Ghanaian businessman and founder of the defunct Heritage Bank, Seidu Agongo, has criticized the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) decision to revoke his financial institution’s operating license.
“You shut down my bank just because I had a case in court, not because a verdict had been given against me. Does that make sense?” he questioned.
He alleges that the move was part of a broader political scheme orchestrated by the immediate past Governor of the BoG, Dr. Ernest Addison, to weaken him.
Speaking in an interview on Accra-based TV3, Agongo, who owned a 70 percent stake in Heritage Bank, asserted that the central bank, which is supposed to operate independently, was instead influenced by the government.
“The structure of appointments in this country makes it easy for appointees to be controlled by the government of the day. That allows individuals with ill intentions to be used to fulfill political objectives.”
According to Agongo, Dr. Addison acted under the directives of those who appointed him, further questioning the independence of the BoG.
“Whoever appoints you holds the key to your actions. How can I appoint you, and you claim to be independent? You will always do as you are instructed,” he emphasized.
The businessman strongly believes that the closure of Heritage Bank was not based on sound financial reasoning but was a targeted attack against him.
The Bank of Ghana revoked Heritage Bank’s license in 2019 as part of a broader financial sector clean-up, citing concerns over the source of its capital and governance issues. However, Agongo has consistently maintained that the move was politically motivated.
In a recent development, the businessman was cleared by the State after the Attorney General’s office announced that his prosecution had been discontinued.
AM/MA
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
The Minority in Parliament has called for the immediate summoning of the National Security Coordinator following a raid on the residence of former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when a group of individuals, including some in military and police uniforms, stormed Ofori-Atta’s residence in Cantonments.
Reports indicate that Mr. Ofori-Atta, who is reportedly out of the country, was not present during the raid.
First Deputy Minority Whip, Habib Iddrisu raised the issue on the floor of Parliament, strongly condemning the raid as a direct threat to Ghana’s democratic values.
“Mr. Speaker, Ghana has been noted for the democracy that we have been enjoying, and yesterday, the former Minister responsible for Finance, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s house was raided by National Security operatives allegedly,” Mr. Iddrisu stated, expressing concern over the growing misuse of state power.
Mr. Iddrisu pointed out that Mr. Ofori-Atta had formally informed the Chief of Staff of his absence from the country and received approval for his travel.
He questioned the reasoning behind the raid, given that prior notice had been provided.
“Mr. Speaker, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta has officially written to the Chief of Staff that he will not be in the country, and he was given that opportunity, and he left. It is not acceptable,” Mr. Iddrisu emphasised.
The Minority also raised concerns over a similar incident involving former Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul, who was allegedly pursued by security operatives while driving to Parliament just two weeks ago.
“Two weeks ago, the former Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul, was stopped, and his car was chased to Parliament to be seized. Mr. Speaker, this is not the democracy that we are all enjoying, and for former ministers’ houses to be raided, I think the National Security needs to come around and explain,” the NPP MP said.
DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe has been named the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander.
He replaces DCOP Frank Abrokwa, who has been transferred to the Police Headquarters in Accra by Police administration.
His transfer was triggered by his poor management of security during the Ashanti Regional Council of State election, held at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) in Kumasi on Tuesday, February 11.
The election, which began peacefully, turned chaotic after machomen, allegedly affiliated with the NDC from Obuasi, disrupted the process while the sorting of ballot papers was underway.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command, who led the police team to oversee the election, failed to manage the chaotic situation properly as expected as police resulting in his transfer to Accra.
His transfer letter was sent to him immediately after the incident.
DCOP Teye Cudjoe was the Central North Regional Commander before taking over from COP Frank Abrokwa.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene welcomed the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander and stated that he looks forward to a strong collaboration in maintaining stability and fostering a secure environment for all within the Region and the country at large.
Read also
Ofori-Atta receiving medical treatment abroad – Lawyers to OSP
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has taken full responsibility for the high-profile cases dropped that have been dropped, insisting that he was not directed by the President John Dramani Mahama to do so.
Speaking at a news conference on Wednesday, February 12, to explain the dropping of the seven cases, Dr Ayine explained that the office of the Attorney General came to those conclusions after a thorough professional examination of all the cases.
The Attorney-General’s recent
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.
Despite being a young politician who may not have witnessed the successive military takeovers in the country from 1966, I must say I have had the opportunity to witness bit by bit how our 1992 Republican Constitution has strived despite numerous attempts, whether known or unknown, to relinquish it and subject Ghana to a state of confusion.
I must admit that, even though there are excessive powers vested in the Executive arm of Government, and fewer amendments in state policy directions that need to be done, our Constitution remains one of the best constitutions ever in the history of Ghana since independence.
However, I have observed with ‘eagle eyes’ that, from 1993 to date, political parties, political activists, and most importantly, the behaviour of the NDC as a revolutionary cum democratic organisation has always tried severally to undermine the very fibre of our institutions that uphold our democracy.
The NDCs boldly use thugs to undermine state institutions and break all state-laid-down procedures, which ensure fairness, equity, and justice.
Often, the NDCs sing their revolutionary songs and charge their thugs to unleash whatever venom they have been asked to on citizens, including the state security apparatus.
What baffles me is that state security has been reduced to the gutters, and their thugs’ supremacy sometimes makes the security seem ineffective. In the recently concluded universal adult suffrage elections in December, the NDC strategically briefed their thugs (Green Army) to attack collation centers and subject the Electoral Commission, observers, including party agents, to severe beatings and destruction of public property.
We can all bear witness that the general elections were peaceful. However, attacks from NDC thugs across the country did not make the elections successful. Today, almost one month and some days after the election, the Ablekuma North Constituency still does not have a representative in Parliament.
Far from that, the recent Council of State elections held yesterday have also confirmed that the NDC thugs know no boundary and that, even as long as they exist, they have the power to quash or unleash violence on anyone, whether there is a security presence or not.
What makes the matter more dangerous and intriguing is that, having witnessed the series of attacks on some of us in full view of both the military and the police, I am advocating that my party gets internal security on board for our next elections. If possible, I have to think about getting a pistol or pump-action gun for my personal security. If I get myself a protected gun because I don’t trust state security and another person also buys or we all find ways of getting pistols or guns for self-defense, what would become of this nation?
Currently, I am thinking about EC. Whether it will get the required number of staff to work freely for our nation, given what their colleagues went through in the 2024 general elections?
The 1992 Republican Constitution is well-crafted, making it difficult for a military or state security takeover, but I am concerned about internal insurrection from civilians, which might one day befall us if we don’t curb this growing threat from thugs who can destroy state properties and attack anyone with impunity. Today, thugs in uniform, without any search warrant from the court, can invade people’s private residential homes and begin to loot whatever they find.
The current Mahama administration is running Ghana like a banana republic where nothing works. Anyone can do whatever he likes, provided he is from the ruling party.
Today, we have seen the president’s directive calling on all state institutions to nullify all appointments made after 7th December. So where should those Ghanaians go?
We are setting a dangerous path in this country, which has the propensity for internal insurrection. If we do not curb these growing threats to our democracy, one day we might overstep on the toes of the youth, and they will arise.
DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe appointed new Ashanti Regional Police Commander
The Ghana Police Service has appointed DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe as the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander.
He takes over from DCOP Frank Abrokwa, who has been transferred to the Police Headquarters in Accra following his poor handling of security during the Ashanti Regional Council of State election on Tuesday, February 11.
Minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has condemned the raid on former Finance Minister, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta’s residence maintaining the action was unlawful.
Reacting to the development in the House on Wednesday, February 12, the Effutu MP and Minority leader questioned the legal basis for the raid undertaken by some persons believed to be security personnel.
“There was no such law supporting the actions. The contention here was that the man’s home was raided unlawfully. That conduct was unconstitutional…we’re not sending the right signals to the electorates,” the Minority leader argued.
However, his other colleague on the other side of the aisle, Mahama Ayariga, who’s the Majority Leader cautioned against wrongfully choosing the chamber of parliament to address a legal matter.
“You go to court for the court to declare that your property and dignity has been violated. In court the two sides will be there…” he noted.
Meanwhile, the Majority leader said he will apprise the House on the full facts on the raid on the residence of the former Minister.
Details of the Raid
Eyewitness accounts and security footage indicate that approximately 12 individuals were involved in the operation. Among them, five were dressed in military uniforms, one in a police uniform, and the rest in plain clothes. It remains unclear whether any items were taken or what the motive behind the raid was.
Initial speculation suggested that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) was behind the operation.
However, during a press conference on Wednesday, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng categorically denied any involvement, stating that the OSP had not authorized or conducted any such raid.
He further suggested that the incident might have been staged to discredit his office and derail ongoing investigations into Ofori-Atta.
CCTV Image Challenges “Staged” Raid Claims
Shortly after the press conference, images from CCTV footage inside Ofori-Atta’s residence emerged, allegedly identifying the leader of the group responsible for the raid.
The individual in the image is a well-known businessman who was recently facing trial but was acquitted by the court. He is also a recognized member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The emergence of this footage challenges claims that Ofori-Atta staged the raid to divert attention from the ongoing investigation against him. Instead, it raises further questions about the identity and motivations of those behind the operation.
Security agencies are yet to comment on the authenticity of the image or whether the individuals involved will face questioning. Meanwhile, the OSP has reiterated its commitment to pursuing its investigations without interference.
The Attorney-General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine, has stated that he has decided not to review the criminal case against the Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson.
Speaking at a press conference today, Dr. Ayine explained that his decision was influenced by the stance taken by Mr. Quayson’s lawyer, Tsatsu Tsikata, who expressed his client’s willingness to fight the case and prove his innocence.
“Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata told me that he wants to soldier on and prove the innocence of his client. I respect that decision,” he said.
Not guilty plea
Mr. Quayson is currently standing trial on charges of forgery and perjury, accused of misrepresenting his Canadian citizenship status in the run-up to the 2020 elections.
He has pleaded not guilty to five counts, including forgery of passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration for office.
Addressing political allegations
Dr. Ayine held the press conference to refute claims that political motivations influenced his decision to terminate certain criminal cases initiated by the previous government.
According to the Attorney-General, his actions were based solely on legal, ethical, and professional considerations rather than partisan interests.
“For ethical and professional reasons, I could not in good conscience continue to prosecute some of the cases,” he said.
He further explained that some of the cases lacked sufficient evidence, while others had defective charges, making prosecution unsustainable.
With Mr. Quayson’s case proceeding to trial, the legal battle over his alleged misrepresentation is set to continue in the courts.
Ghana’s former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared a fugitive by prosecutors over his alleged involvement in multiple corruption cases when he was in government.
Ofori-Atta had left Ghana to evade investigations, and all necessary steps would be taken to bring him back, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyabeng said.
Ofori-Atta has been accused of causing financial losses to the state, including over a controversial national cathedral, which remains a hole in the ground despite the alleged spending of $58m (£46.6m) of government money.
Ofori-Atta has not commented on the allegations. According to Agyabeng, the ex-minister’s lawyers said he was out of the country for medical reasons.
Agyabeng told a press conference that Ofori-Atta, 66, failed to attend an interview with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), despite being told he was a suspect.
Ofori-Atta left Ghana in early January, and had no intention of “willingly” returning, Agyabeng said.
The OSP was, therefore, declaring him a “wanted person”.
“He is a fugitive from justice,” the special prosecutor added.
Ofori-Atta was finance minister from January 2017 to February 2024, when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was in power.
It lost elections in December to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
President John Mahama, who was inaugurated in January, went on to establish an investigative committee known as Operation Recover All Loot.
The committee has received over 200 complaints of corruption, amounting to more than $20bn in recoverable funds.
Mahama has directed the attorney general and minister of justice to launch investigations into these allegations, stating that Ghana will no longer be a safe haven for corruption.
However, some Ghanaians have criticised him for discontinuing cases against his former allies on trial.
Ghanaian highlife musician Kwabena Kwabena has raised concerns about the growing spread of false information and fake news targeting celebrities in the media.
During an interview with Giovanni Caleb on TV3, the renowned highlife musician, while discussing some of his biggest challenges in the industry, pointed out the harmful effects of such misinformation on the reputations and livelihoods of public figures.
“People say things they have no idea of just to trend. It’s not good. Sometimes when you put something out there about somebody, ask yourself, if this person was a family member, how would I handle it?” he stated.
He further explained that celebrities, like everyone else, have families, loved ones, and reputations that would be affected by such false narratives.
“We as celebrities have families and loved ones. So sometimes when you spew falsehood out there, it’s really not good because in this job we do, we use our reputations.
“If a brand wants to associate itself with you, they dig into your reputation and whatever is put on the internet about you,” he added.
Kwabena Kwabena also urged the media and public to be more responsible, adding that their quest for clicks and trends often comes at the expense of someone’s life and career.
“At the end of the day, you get clicks, but you’re destroying someone’s life,” he cautioned.
ID/EB
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Entertainment News WhatsApp channel
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to heads of basic schools following reports of alleged unauthorised registration fees charged for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
In a statement issued on February 12, 2025, GES noted that it had taken notice of complaints circulating on social media about the illegal practice.
“The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken notice of allegations on social media that some Heads of Basic schools are imposing unauthorized BECE registration fees on final-year students,” the statement indicated.
The service emphasised that such fees are not approved and instructed all school heads to halt the practice immediately.
“Management wishes to emphasise that these fees are unauthorized, and all Heads are advised to cease this practice immediately,” it stated.
To ensure compliance, GES has directed regional directors to inform district directors to closely monitor the situation and caution all heads of basic schools against charging unauthorised fees.
Any head found to have collected such fees must refund the monies immediately and failure to do so, the GES warned, will attract sanctions.
Additionally, GES reminded school heads that late registration of candidates will not be permitted under any circumstances.
As such, all eligible students must be registered within the official registration period set by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
The general public has been urged to take note of these directives, and parents or guardians who have been asked to pay such fees are encouraged to report the issue to the appropriate authorities.
Read full statement below:
RAD/AE
Meanwhile, watch as Special Prosecutor denies alleged raid on Ken Ofori-Atta’s residence below:
President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) to conduct immediate investigations into the operations of the National Service Authority (NSS) under the previous government following the discovery of up to 81,885 suspected ghost names on the Authority’s payroll.
The ghost names were detected following a headcount of active National Service personnel, conducted at the behest of the Minister for Finance as a prerequisite for clearing allowance arrears dating back to August 2024.
According to a letter signed by the Acting Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Ministry of Finance released GH¢226,019,224 to cover allowance payment arrears for 98,145 actual National Service personnel upon completing the headcount.
“This figure is 81,885 less than the 180,030 names presented by the previous management of the Authority for allowance payments in 2024,” parts of the release read.
“President Mahama has also tasked the new management of the Authority to carry out urgent reforms to establish adequate controls and prevent a recurrence of the ghost names phenomenon,” the letter added.
See the statement below
SSD/MA
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to conduct an immediate investigation into the operations of the National Service Authority (NSA) under the previous government.
This follows the discovery of 81885 suspected ghost names on the scheme.
In a release, dated February 12, 2025, the ghost names were detected following a head count of active National Service Personnel at the behest of the minister for finance as a prerequisite for the clearance of allowance arrears dating back to August 2024.
According to the release, figure 81885 is less than the 180030 names presented by the previous management of the authority for payment of allowance in 2024.
“The ministry of finance has upon completion of the headcount released an amount of GSH 226,019,224 covering allowance payments arrears for 98145 actual National Service Personnel,” it stated.
The President has therefore tasked the new management of the authority to conduct urgent reforms and establish controls to prevent the recurrence of the phenomenon of ghost names on the scheme.
The Accra High Court has set March 3 to determine whether the prosecution has made the substantial case against MP for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson for him to open his defence.
The legislator is facing charges including deceit of public officer, forgery of passport or travel certificates, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, and perjury and false declaration for office.
Accra, Feb. 12, GNA – Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Wednesday inaugurated an 18-member technical committee chaired by Professor Martin Oteng-Ababio to develop a blueprint to reform and sanitise the mining sub-sector.
The Committee is tasked to review the current state of the mining sector and provide recommendations to reform the sector towards ensuring sustainable national development.
It has a two-week ultimatum (February 27,2025) to present its final report to the lands minister to enable the government to implement recommendations for reforms in the mining sector.
Mr Buah inaugurated the committee together with Mr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) at the Ministry’s premises in Accra.
The committee comprised experts from the offices of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, Forestry Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, Minerals Commission, Centre for Extractive Development – Africa representing Civil Society.
The rest are the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, Water Resources Commission, Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, National House of Chiefs, Lands Commission, Ghana Geological Survey Authority, and Technical Directors of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources – Mines, Forestry and Lands.
The terms of reference for the Committee include reviewing the licensing regime and processes within the mining sector; review operations of mining in forest reserves and identify best-practices for sustainable mining operations.
Also, it is expected to propose approaches to halting mining in water and river bodies, and make recommendations for the development of a comprehensive strategy to addressing mining challenges.
The Minister expressed confidence in the members of the committee to sacrifice their time and resources to deliver an efficient blueprint that would help save Ghana from the destructive effects of galamsey.
“I want to assure you that between me and the Ministry of Environment and Lands and Natural Resources, we will coordinate and provide every information that is required for you to be successful.”
“We will make sure that every official that might be present to guide your work is available. And we will support you with all the coordination that you need to be successful,” Mr Buah assured the Committee.
He said the mining sector was a critical component of Ghana’s economic development, hence all the efforts must be geared towards ridding the sector of excesses to ensure maximum benefit.
Professor Martin Oteng-Ababio, Chair of the Committee, in his remarks, said members of the Committee would consult extensively to develop effective strategies to combat illegal mining.
He said the fighting illegal mining could be achieved if the chiefs, community members and legal small-scale miners were involved to serve as watchdogs and supervisors in their communities.
Professor Oteng-Ababio, who is also the Acting Provost of the College of Education, thanked the Ministers for the confidence reposed in them and assured them of quality work, and promised to deliver according to the ultimatum given.
A photo collage of Dr. Stephen Amoah (L) and Kissi Agyebeng
The Member of Parliament of Nhyiaeso, Dr. Stephen Amoah, has refuted claims that former Minister of Finance, Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, has fled the country to evade investigations by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
Speaking on the Floor of Parliament on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, he criticised the political culture that has led to the vilification of public officials, stressing that Parliament’s actions and omissions over the years have shaped how external stakeholders and the public perceive them.
“Ken Ofori-Atta hasn’t run away. I would like to advise this august House that I think our actions and omissions over the years have actually defined us and we have given the public, the external stakeholders to always see us in different lenses. It is time we put an end to what we are doing to each other,” he stated.
He also condemned some of the narratives surrounding Ofori-Atta’s tenure.
“Some of the descriptions they give… I cannot repeat those evil words they use in this House,” he noted.
Dr. Amoah warned that such political attacks do not only affect individuals, but also damage Ghana’s international reputation.
“Very soon, your ministers will be leaving Ghana for international assignments, and this is what they will read from your own lips,” he indicated.
He strongly opposed what he termed ‘outmoded, colloquial, primitive politics,’ but after an objection from the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, he withdrew the term “primitive politics,” while maintaining his position that Parliament must do better.
“We have been doing this to ourselves for far too long. Every Tom, Dick, and Harry out there, even if you are driving a Land Cruiser, they think you are a politician. Whether NDC or NPP, they don’t respect us,” he lamented.
He urged Parliament to move past political propaganda and focus on maintaining the integrity of the House.
“Ken Ofori-Atta, until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction, cannot be described and defined as somebody who is criminal,” he asserted.
At a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, announced that all indications point out that Ken Ofori-Atta has absconded from Ghana in an attempt to escape investigation into the alleged corruption cases.
“OSP declares Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori Atta a wanted fugitive. Ken Ofori-Atta, you have two choices, you can return to the jurisdiction voluntarily or face the consequences,” he stated.
JKB/AE
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
Fifteen years ago, MTN Ghana introduced an unforgettable financial service relief, called Mobile Money, to the Ghanaian public.
The landscape of financial transactions took a digital transformation, following mobile progress, with Tigo and Airtel, now AirtelTigo launching a similar operation in 2012, and Vodafone, now Telecel, in 2015.
This digital innovation has since become a foundation, on which Ghana’s digital economic set-up has been built.
From traders to students, how Ghanaians interact with money has been altered forever.
Before MoMo: A Dark Time of Traditional Banking and Physical Cash
Before the Mobile Money era, financial transactions and management in Ghana were predominantly handled through traditional banks and cash in hand.
Afia Nkrumah, a middle-aged trader in Oforikrom, vividly recalls the pre-MoMo dispensation and the inefficiencies of the time.
“At first we used to physically give money to people to give to others. Then MoMo came and I didn’t have it, so I used the same method. Sometimes the money doesn’t get to the intended receiver. Sometimes too, not the full amount is received,” she said.
This system was not only fraught with risks and inefficiencies, but a burdensome inconvenient situation.
Sammy who is now a Mobile Money vendor, recounts his experience as a mobile money vendor for over a decade.
“Of course, in the past, when one wanted to do a transaction, unless you went to the bank, you had to take your ID cards. They will be asking a whole lot of questions about it before they give you money or transact. Your own money too, all the stress. Sometimes you’d get there and they’ve closed or there is a challenge with their system, you can’t treat emergency situations,” he said.
The beginning of Mobile Money
Currently, an electronic way to send, receive, and save money securely through one’s mobile device is what is being offered as Mobile money.
Sammy, with over a decade of experience, says the experience has been filled with conveniences.
“I have operated for almost 13 years now. The journey has been normal. Mobile has helped Ghana a lot. But now, when you have your phone, it’s very convenient. The person just sends them, you go to any momo agent, you do the transaction and you are free to go,” he said.
The adoption rate of mobile money has been phenomenal.
Up from 350,000 subscribers in 2012, 4 million in 2017, registered users of mobile money stand at 73 million at the end of 2024, after a steady climb from 65.6 million in December 2023.
According to the Bank of Ghana’s 2023 Payment Systems oversight Annual Report, total volume of Mobile Money (MoMo) transactions recorded in 2023 peaked at 6.81 billion from 5.07 billion in 2022.
This growth signifies not just an increase in transactions but a cultural shift towards a cashless society, enhancing financial inclusion dramatically among diverse levels of societies.
Successes and Transformations
MoMo has been pivotal in reducing the unbanked population from nearly 60% in 2014 to 32% in 2021.
On the back of an enhanced interoperability between networks, increased transaction volumes, and public finance service integration, constant users like Afia, say MoMo has become a convenient savings tool.
“It has really helped that I send money to my mom easily. We used to save money in our bedrooms, dig holes and put the money there. But with momo, you just cash in and it remains there, and can be used as a savings account. I think I have been able to save money because of that. I spend money unnecessarily when I hold cash, but that has changed now,” she said.
For tertiary students like Josephine, MoMo is a time-saver and a tool for financial management that allows her to handle her finances with ease and security.
The transaction between her and her guardians, she says, has been bridged.
“Momo saved me a lot of time, provided me with convenient ways to send and receive money, especially receiving money from my parents. When you are asked to buy books, or pay dues, mobile money has always been there.
“It has impacted my life and helped me to stay organized in handling money. Not every day, but in a day I can do like two or three transactions, with the money not exceeding 300 Cedis with ease,” she said.
Challenges in the Mobile Money System
Despite these success stories, new visible and inflicting challenges are breaking positive blocks of the financial inclusion set up.
Ella Baby’s experience with mobile money was marred with a mobile money scam.
Fraudsters utilized the reliance on electronic financial services to skew users off their fortunes.
“I got a message that read that I had received GHS780. Within minutes, I received 3 calls from an unknown number. I wanted to confirm this so I checked my MoMo account balance which apparently was empty. If I was not smart, he would have defrauded me,” Ella recounts.
MoMo agent Sammy recounts how fraudsters have been undermining his momo business.
He decries the failure of telecommunication providers to further secure users.
“Fraudsters are ruining our business. They have devised so many means of tracking people and defrauding them. And even though the SIM is linked with a Ghana card, the telcos can’t even track the person to retrieve the money for you. So our customers are losing their funds to that,” he said.
Mobile money fraud is just one issue. Regulatory hurdles, like e-levy and financial literacy gaps, block mobile money growth.
The Way Forward: Policy, Sustainability, and Inclusion
Economist and financial analyst, Dr. Evans Nunoo, discusses public and private policy directions that can enhance the adoption and equitable use of mobile money for underserved populations.
Dr. Nunoo says mobile money reach and effectiveness will be achieved with economic policies that tailored services specifically for mobile money agents, users, underprivileged populations.
“We could have subsidized transaction costs for low-income users to encourage usage in rural areas especially farming communities. That way, vulnerable people are given lower fees and the rich will pay more. Also with proper interoperability, transfers across networks will come with no difficulty and no extra charges.
“In many rural areas, agents can’t even withdraw 500gh for you. Agent networks should be supported with local banking institutions providing liquidity support to them and through subsidies, and incentives for agents.
“We can also look at digital literacy programs to empower and whip up the unaware population. There can be heightened interest for women, rural populations, and elderly. And also with eased systems retrieve monies and strengthen consumer protection laws to address issues like fraud, data privacy and dispute resolution,” he said.
In quest to reach the last population and widen financial inclusion, the sustainability of mobile money services comes into discussion.
Dr. Evans is emphasizing the need for telecommunication outfits to diversify their mobile money platform services to incorporate financial support schemes.
“We can attempt to diversify mobile services by strengthening their microloans, and have a savings account with interest, like we do for treasury bills. This is a very good monetary policy that if rural folks and unbanked endorse it, will allow the government to stabilize prices and other macroeconomics indicators. We can enhance the insurance bit. So people don’t go to offices just to renew their insurance. Collaborations between government and fintech companies can create innovative financial products to serve the needs of underserved communities. We can also expand mobile network coverage including internet access in rural areas,” he said.
The potential impact of an effective and efficient mobile money services and coverage cannot be overemphasized.
The higher the penetration levels, the higher financial services are accessible and peak inclusion is achieved.
Economist, Dr. Evans Nunoo is stressing the advantages of macroeconomic impacts of increasing mobile money adoption in Ghana.
He explains the state of a reliable cashless financial regime could boost GDP, employment, and reduce poverty.
“When we are able to streamline financial transactions it has a positive relationship with economic growth because of increased economic activities and output in general. From mobile money agents to fintech developers are presented with direct and indirect opportunities such as entrepreneurs leveraging mobile money for business.
“Once users can borrow money on your wallet if that is done properly and petty traders are provided microloans, access to credit and savings will solidify an enabling environment for small-scale entrepreneurship. Again, financial inclusion has formalized the informal sector in Ghana through Momo,” he said.
The efforts of addressing the challenges of mobile money services are a transformative way to harness MoMo’s potential. The largest responsibility falls on service providers and public authorities to provide equitable economic growth and inclusion.
This report is produced under the DPI Africa Journalism Fellowship Programme of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Co-Develop.
Fifteen years ago, MTN Ghana introduced an unforgettable financial service relief, called Mobile Money, to the Ghanaian public.The landscape of financial transactions took a digital transformation, following mobile progress, with Tigo and Airtel, now AirtelTigo launching a similar operation in 2012, and Vodafone, now Telecel, in 2015.This digital innovation has since become a foundation, on which Ghana’s digital economic set-up has been built.From traders to students, how Ghanaians interact with money has been altered forever. Before MoMo: A Dark Time of Traditional Banking and Physical CashBefore the Mobile Money era, financial transactions and management in Ghana were predominantly handled through traditional banks and cash in hand.Afia Nkrumah, a middle-aged trader in Oforikrom, vividly recalls the pre-MoMo dispensation and the inefficiencies of the time.“At first we used to physically give money to people to give to others. Then MoMo came and I didn’t have it, so I used the same method. Sometimes the money doesn’t get to the intended receiver. Sometimes too, not the full amount is received,” she said.This system was not only fraught with risks and inefficiencies, but a burdensome inconvenient situation.Sammy who is now a Mobile Money vendor, recounts his experience as a mobile money vendor for over a decade. “Of course, in the past, when one wanted to do a transaction, unless you went to the bank, you had to take your ID cards. They will be asking a whole lot of questions about it before they give you money or transact. Your own money too, all the stress. Sometimes you’d get there and they’ve closed or there is a challenge with their system, you can’t treat emergency situations,” he said.The beginning of Mobile MoneyCurrently, an electronic way to send, receive, and save money securely through one’s mobile device is what is being offered as Mobile money.Sammy, with over a decade of experience, says the experience has been filled with conveniences.“I have operated for almost 13 years now. The journey has been normal. Mobile has helped Ghana a lot. But now, when you have your phone, it’s very convenient. The person just sends them, you go to any momo agent, you do the transaction and you are free to go,” he said.The adoption rate of mobile money has been phenomenal.Up from 350,000 subscribers in 2012, 4 million in 2017, registered users of mobile money stand at 73 million at the end of 2024, after a steady climb from 65.6 million in December 2023.According to the Bank of Ghana’s 2023 Payment Systems oversight Annual Report, total volume of Mobile Money (MoMo) transactions recorded in 2023 peaked at 6.81 billion from 5.07 billion in 2022.This growth signifies not just an increase in transactions but a cultural shift towards a cashless society, enhancing financial inclusion dramatically among diverse levels of societies.Successes and TransformationsMoMo has been pivotal in reducing the unbanked population from nearly 60% in 2014 to 32% in 2021.On the back of an enhanced interoperability between networks, increased transaction volumes, and public finance service integration, constant users like Afia, say MoMo has become a convenient savings tool.“It has really helped that I send money to my mom easily. We used to save money in our bedrooms, dig holes and put the money there. But with momo, you just cash in and it remains there, and can be used as a savings account. I think I have been able to save money because of that. I spend money unnecessarily when I hold cash, but that has changed now,” she said.For tertiary students like Josephine, MoMo is a time-saver and a tool for financial management that allows her to handle her finances with ease and security.The transaction between her and her guardians, she says, has been bridged.“Momo saved me a lot of time, provided me with convenient ways to send and receive money, especially receiving money from my parents. When you are asked to buy books, or pay dues, mobile money has always been there.“It has impacted my life and helped me to stay organized in handling money. Not every day, but in a day I can do like two or three transactions, with the money not exceeding 300 Cedis with ease,” she said.Challenges in the Mobile Money SystemDespite these success stories, new visible and inflicting challenges are breaking positive blocks of the financial inclusion set up.Ella Baby’s experience with mobile money was marred with a mobile money scam.Fraudsters utilized the reliance on electronic financial services to skew users off their fortunes.“I got a message that read that I had received GHS780. Within minutes, I received 3 calls from an unknown number. I wanted to confirm this so I checked my MoMo account balance which apparently was empty. If I was not smart, he would have defrauded me,” Ella recounts.MoMo agent Sammy recounts how fraudsters have been undermining his momo business.He decries the failure of telecommunication providers to further secure users.“Fraudsters are ruining our business. They have devised so many means of tracking people and defrauding them. And even though the SIM is linked with a Ghana card, the telcos can’t even track the person to retrieve the money for you. So our customers are losing their funds to that,” he said.Mobile money fraud is just one issue. Regulatory hurdles, like e-levy and financial literacy gaps, block mobile money growth.The Way Forward: Policy, Sustainability, and InclusionEconomist and financial analyst, Dr. Evans Nunoo, discusses public and private policy directions that can enhance the adoption and equitable use of mobile money for underserved populations.Dr. Nunoo says mobile money reach and effectiveness will be achieved with economic policies that tailored services specifically for mobile money agents, users, underprivileged populations.“We could have subsidized transaction costs for low-income users to encourage usage in rural areas especially farming communities. That way, vulnerable people are given lower fees and the rich will pay more. Also with proper interoperability, transfers across networks will come with no difficulty and no extra charges.“In many rural areas, agents can’t even withdraw 500gh for you. Agent networks should be supported with local banking institutions providing liquidity support to them and through subsidies, and incentives for agents.“We can also look at digital literacy programs to empower and whip up the unaware population. There can be heightened interest for women, rural populations, and elderly. And also with eased systems retrieve monies and strengthen consumer protection laws to address issues like fraud, data privacy and dispute resolution,” he said.In quest to reach the last population and widen financial inclusion, the sustainability of mobile money services comes into discussion.Dr. Evans is emphasizing the need for telecommunication outfits to diversify their mobile money platform services to incorporate financial support schemes.“We can attempt to diversify mobile services by strengthening their microloans, and have a savings account with interest, like we do for treasury bills. This is a very good monetary policy that if rural folks and unbanked endorse it, will allow the government to stabilize prices and other macroeconomics indicators. We can enhance the insurance bit. So people don’t go to offices just to renew their insurance.Collaborations between government and fintech companies can create innovative financial products to serve the needs of underserved communities. We can also expand mobile network coverage including internet access in rural areas,” he said.The potential impact of an effective and efficient mobile money services and coverage cannot be overemphasized.The higher the penetration levels, the higher financial services are accessible and peak inclusion is achieved.Economist, Dr. Evans Nunoo is stressing the advantages of macroeconomic impacts of increasing mobile money adoption in Ghana.He explains the state of a reliable cashless financial regime could boost GDP, employment, and reduce poverty.“When we are able to streamline financial transactions it has a positive relationship with economic growth because of increased economic activities and output in general. From mobile money agents to fintech developers are presented with direct and indirect opportunities such as entrepreneurs leveraging mobile money for business.“Once users can borrow money on your wallet if that is done properly and petty traders are provided microloans, access to credit and savings will solidify an enabling environment for small-scale entrepreneurship. Again, financial inclusion has formalized the informal sector in Ghana through Momo,” he said.The efforts of addressing the challenges of mobile money services are a transformative way to harness MoMo’s potential. The largest responsibility falls on service providers and public authorities to provide equitable economic growth and inclusion.This report is produced under the DPI Africa Journalism Fellowship Programme of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Co-Develop.
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.
Controversial Ghanaian media personality, Captain Smart, has sparked controversy with his recent remarks about singer Becca, claiming that excessive skin bleaching has affected her talent and vocal abilities.
During his morning show on Onua TV, Captain Smart openly criticised Becca’s transformation, questioning why she, once known for her dark complexion, has become significantly lighter.
“I don’t understand why Becca, who was dark-skinned, would bleach her skin to this extent. It has even affected her talent—she can’t sing anymore,” he stated.
Beyond Becca, Captain Smart also took the opportunity to caution women who undergo Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgeries, warning that men do not marry such women but only date them temporarily before moving on. He advised young women to embrace their natural beauty instead of altering their bodies to fit societal trends.
His statements have drawn mixed reactions, with some agreeing that excessive cosmetic alterations can have unintended consequences, while others have called him out for body-shaming and making unsubstantiated claims about Becca’s vocal abilities.
Becca, known for her hit songs and remarkable music career, has yet to respond to these comments. For a long time, Becca has consistently denied allegations of bleaching her skin. Whenever confronted on the matter, she maintains that her lighter complexion is merely the result of filters used when taking pictures with her phone.
By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The Women’s Organiser of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Hannah Louisa Bissiw, has been appointed as the Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) by President John Dramani Mahama.
Dr. Bissiw is a former Member of Parliament for Tano South in the Brong Ahafo Region and currently serves as the NDC’s National Women’s Organiser.
Born in Techimantia in the Brong Ahafo Region, Dr. Bissiw attended Kumasi Girls’ Senior High School before earning a scholarship
The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that the Council of State elections in the North East and Ashanti Regions will be re-run on Monday, February17, 2025.
According to a statement issued by Deputy Chairman of Operations,Samuel Tettey, the decision to conduct a re-run in these regions stems from two key issues.
In the North East Region, the election ended in a tie, with the top two candidates each securing six votes, making a re-run necessary to determine the winner. Meanwhile, in the Ashanti Region, the election was disrupted by thugs, preventing it from being concluded.
To ensure a smooth electoral process, the Electoral Commission has requested heightened security at the election venues. The Ghana Police Service and the National Election Security Taskforce have been officially notified to take necessary measures to prevent any further disruptions.
The Electoral Commission has assured the public of its commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, and urged voters in both regions to participate in the upcoming re-run to ensure a successful outcome.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has announced plans to take legal action against the government over what he describes as the autocratic dismissals of individuals appointed into the public service after December 7, 2024.
Mr. Assafuah asserts that approximately 60 complaints have been filed by individuals affected by the government’s directive.
In an interaction with journalists, he noted that these appointments were legally made by the previous administration and that the dismissals constitute political victimization.
He called on all affected persons to come forward as he prepared to challenge the dismissals in court.
Vincent Ekow Assafuah’s decision to take legal action against the government follows the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah’s directive to annul all appointments and recruitments made into the Public Services after December 7, 2024.
According to the Chief of Staff, the appointments did not comply with established good governance practices and principles.
He further instructed all heads of government institutions to take immediate steps to nullify such appointments and recruitments and submit a comprehensive report on the actions taken by February 17, 2025.
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
It’s an impossible task to expect a documentary to solve one of the most enduring, complicated and seemingly intractable conflicts in the world. Confronting the frustration and pain of the Israeli-Palestinian situation head-on, the film “No Other Land” has become the most acclaimed documentary of the year, winning two prizes when it premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2024, sweeping major critics groups and earning an Academy Award nomination.
The mere existence of the film itself — made by a collaborative effort between people on both sides of the conflict — somehow feels as if a solution rooted in understanding and common humanity is possible. The film is written, produced, edited and directed by the four-person team of Palestinians Basel Adra and Hamdan Ballal and Israelis Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor.
Filmed over a number of years and largely completed before the Hamas attacks of Oct. 7, 2023, the film captures Adra as he documents the precarious struggles of daily life in his hometown, the area of the West Bank known as Masafer Yata, where Israeli soldiers and settlers attempt to force the local people from their dwellings with bulldozers and intimidation. Abraham, an Israeli journalist, also wants to cover what is happening there and the two form a complex bond of partnership and friendship on screen and off.
The title “No Other Land” comes from the cry of an unidentified Palestinian woman who asks where else is there for them to go. When no American distributors stepped up to put out the documentary, the filmmaking team found themselves forced to release it themselves. After opening in New York and Los Angeles, “No Other Land” is beginning to play in other cities around the country as well.
Still, even seemingly simple duties of promoting their film are fraught with difficulty. When Abraham and Adra were last together in Paris, Abraham took a taxi to the airport in Jerusalem and was there within a few hours. Adra, meanwhile, had to endure countless checkpoints in making his way to the nearest airport available to him in Jordan. The overall journey took him nearly 30 hours.
The two recently got on a Zoom call — Adra, 28, from Masafer Yata and Abraham, 29, from Jerusalem — to discuss their collaboration and shared goals for the project.
“I think the film talks a lot about the differences between myself and Basel and the inequality that exists,” Abraham said. “It’s everywhere. It’s when we travel, it’s where we meet. It’s the language that we can talk in. It’s everything.”
Yuval Abraham in the documentary “No Other Land.”
Do you care to comment about President Trump’s recent statements that he plans for the United States to control Gaza? What is the response to that from your community?
Basel Adra: I mean, it’s insane what he’s saying. I think Trump is talking from a perspective of power — that he has the power and he can openly be talking about violating international law and ethnic cleansing to the millions of Palestinians and to occupy their land. It’s a scary situation because Trump doesn’t seem to care about the Palestinians. He has all the power in the world and he can do whatever he wants. And the Israelis will take the advantage more and more for their interests, to occupy more land and to expand settlements and outposts and to destroy more and more of the Palestinian communities in the West Bank.
Yuval Abraham: It’s quite easy to oppose what Trump is saying because he’s so blatant and openly racist and and really clear. He’s talking about displacing — ethnically cleansing — 1.8, 1.9 million people. But I think what the more liberal U.S. folks should ask themselves is not what is happening under Trump, but what has happened under Democratic administrations? [President] Biden did not use his leverage to end it, did not use his leverage to get a cease-fire deal, to release the hostages, nothing. For decades, U.S. Democrats have blocked Palestinian statehood at the U.N. Security Council, have actively conducted a foreign policy which I, as an Israeli, think has been horrendous, first and foremost, for the Palestinians.
At the end of the day, I believe if the Palestinian people are not free and secure, my people will not be secure. And Trump is signifying the most extreme position and the most extreme rhetoric, but we do not want to have a Democratic administration in four years that will just go back to this status quo, where they might be saying nice things about the political solution and democracy, but the actions, on the other hand, are taking us in the complete opposite direction. We need a change in the actions, in the foreign policy. And I know it’ll not happen under Trump, but I think the Democrats who are hopefully seeking to replace him in four years have to get a new foreign policy in order. And I think it’s really important because, because it’s quite easy to oppose Trump. It was much harder to oppose what Biden was doing. And I think that’s where much of the problem lies today in the United States.
Do the two of you feel like you’ve become diplomats and political advisors? In some ways you’re just two filmmakers who made this documentary about your experiences together, but people like me are asking you for big solutions.
Abraham: I feel it’s OK because we were activists before we made the film. And we will continue. We are very political people and we want to see a political change. So we could talk about the film and the artistic decisions that we made, but I think it makes sense, due to the urgency and the severity of the situation, that we are focused on the more political side. So I’m OK with that, actually.
Basel, do you see yourself as more of an activist or a filmmaker?
Adra: Honestly, I wish that we lived in a different situation, and I didn’t need to do any of this, including the movie or all the activism, and we’ll be busy in better things in our life and not speaking at all, not trying to explain it to the world through the movie or through other things. But unfortunately, it is what it is. And we hope it will stop. To be honest, I would speak about myself more as an activist and started this movie from a perspective of activism. And I think it’s a tool as part of our activism, because it’s not a documentary about something ended in the past. It’s something in the present and we’re trying through it to mobilize and explain, to show to the world what the reality looks like and the daily life under the occupation.
Basel Adra, left, and Yuval Abraham in the documentary “No Other Land.”
Considering the struggles you’ve had to get the movie seen here in the U.S., are the two of you surprised by the reach the film has had?
Abraham: I had a lot of belief in the film, but I was always afraid that at the end, we will release it and it’ll be seen by a few people, maybe our family, our parents and that’s it. We didn’t know exactly what to expect. And on the one hand, I’m very happy that the film has quite a high profile now and people are talking about it and writing about it. But I am a little bit disappointed about the fact that we have not managed to find a big distributor or some big streamer that will take the film and really make it accessible to U.S. audiences. Because sometimes I have this feeling that the people who really need to see the film in the United States are those who maybe have a different political opinion than me and Basel. And I think these are the people who are not necessarily the ones going to the film festivals. We want to reach those people specifically.
I am still hopeful that, despite the political situation, despite the U.S. obviously moving much further into this populist right-wing ideology, there will still be a distributor that takes on the film, which we believe is important. Obviously it’s political, the reason that it didn’t happen. And maybe the Oscars can change that. This is maybe another positive thing that could come out of the film being nominated and now having a very high profile, that we will actually manage to get it seen by millions in the U.S. and to make it accessible to anybody who wants to watch it.
When did you realize that you were going to have to just release it yourselves?
Abraham: I think we just waited for a long time because we always said after we won Berlin, we were like, OK, now we might find a big distributor. And then it didn’t happen and then we said, OK, maybe when we get another recognition and we win another award, and the film’s profile just kept getting bigger and bigger, critics began writing about it, really nice things. And then we began to find distribution all over the world, like in almost every place. But in the U.S, no. And at a certain point we just said, we can’t continue to just wait indefinitely and we decided to do it in an independent way because it’s pretty much the only way we had.
And it’s been going really well so far. Maybe I’m being too hopeful, but I think that it’s very clear that people want to see it because they’re going to the cinemas to watch it. And I’ve still not given up hope that some bigger streamer or TV network will look at that and will have the minimal amount of courage to take on a film that can spark really important conversations in the United States. And people don’t have to agree, you don’t have to like every film that you watch. Films can challenge you. Some films are escapist and you watch it and you forget about reality. But some films, like our film, takes you closer to reality. And when you look at what is happening in the occupied West Bank, it’s very hard to justify it.
A scene from the documentary “No Other Land.”
Are you planning to attend the Oscars?
Abraham: Yes. We wanted to make the film to make as many people in the world aware about what is happening in Masafer Yata, to the community which is being erased. And nothing will be stronger than to say the name of the community on one of the biggest stages in the world, to enforce its existence while the Israeli military occupation is attempting for decades to erase it. We want to be there. I hope we will manage, because we are four people. It’s me and Basel, also Rachel and Hamdan — and Hamdan doesn’t have a visa. This again goes back to the question of Donald Trump and will they allow an Oscar nominee to travel, to get a visa? I don’t know what will happen. We have to see, we are very nervous about it.
Has the Academy Award nominationbrought more attention to the situation in Masafer Yata?
Abraham: The Oscars are obviously very important and I’m quite shocked that we managed to go so far with a film that, five years ago, started as an idea. We edited in a cave in Masafer Yata, really with the most difficult conditions that we could have. The electricity kept cutting out every few hours and soldiers invaded Basel’s house and took cameras, and to think that this thing that we were working on for so many years is now going to be on one of the biggest stages in the world is remarkable. I guess if somebody is reading and they’re faced with an injustice and they want to tell their story, this kind of thing happened to us and now millions of people will watch the film.
Adra: The Academy Awards is a very famous ceremony. It’s great that it’ll open the eyes of more audiences around the world and in the U.S. to watch this documentary. And at the end of the day, to be honest, we want people to watch this movie, because it tells about the reality and the daily life of the Palestinians in this community. “No Other Land” is a symbol of many Palestinians’ reality and life. This can bring people to understand and to learn of what’s going on.
Abraham: I also remember that the Oscars are just one night, and that people will move on to the next film and we are going to continue the work that we are doing years into the future until there is a political solution. And so I try to keep my feet on the ground. We are going to continue, whether it’s filmmaking or journalism or activism. The Oscar is just a moment in this journey. And we will continue to do the work that we are doing.
Nana Aba Anamoah and Ken Ofori Atta
Ace broadcast Journalist Nana Aba Anamoah has jabbed the former finance minister Ken Ofori Atta after his home was raided by the military and police.
According to Nana Aba Anamoah, she is certain Ken Ofori Atta will find a quote in the good book as usual.
Nana Aba Anamoah asserted that Ken Ofori Atta is the worst finance minister who hid his true colours behind bible quotes and white outfits and is now receiving his comeuppance.
She wrote on X, “ I render no apologies when
Dr. Dominic Ayine, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, has defended his decision to drop the criminal case against former National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo.
He criticized the charges against Ofosu Ampofo, calling them “politically motivated.”
Addressing journalists on February 12, Dr Ayine stated, “My involvement in the case of the Republic versus Ofosu Ampofo and another, is a matter of public record. At the initial stages of the trial, I was on record as a counsel with the vulnerable Tony Lithur and my former boss Hon. Marietta Brew, it was our position as a team that, the charges against Hon. Ofosu Ampofo were trumped up charges and motivated purely by politics, I still stand by that view.”
The Attorney General has faced heavy criticism for dropping criminal charges against several individuals linked to the previous Mahama administration. These include former Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) CEO, businessman Seidu Agongo, former Minister of Works and Housing Collins Dauda, Democracy Hub, former NDC National Chairman Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, and NDC Communications Officer Anthony Kwaku Boahen, among others.
Attorney General Dominic Ayine officially announced the withdrawal of Ofosu Ampofo’s case, ending legal proceedings that began in December 2019.
The two NDC officials had been facing trial over a leaked audio recording in which Ofosu Ampofo was allegedly heard plotting to instigate crimes and create unrest in the country, to blame the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The recording allegedly discussed plans such as kidnappings, arson, and verbal assaults on key public figures, including the Chairman of the National Peace Council, Prof. Emmanuel Asante, and Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa.
Ayine: Some dropped cases were defective and lacked common sense
……
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
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has assumed full responsibility for the decision to discontinue several high-profile cases initiated under the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, he emphasised that President John Dramani Mahama had no hand in the decision and did not direct him to drop any of the cases.
He stated that all actions taken were based on his own judgment, balancing public interest with the rights of the accused persons.
“I am keenly aware of the need to balance the public interest in this case against the interests and rights of the accused persons. As Attorney General, I take absolute responsibility for all decisions made so far. I am not under any instructions or pressure to discontinue any case or to bring charges against anyone.
“Those who are in a hurry to label the president as a clearing agent should hasten slowly because he is not responsible for prosecutions and has not directed me to drop any case. Furthermore, with the exception of one bribery charge in the opening matter, for which no evidence was laid, none of the individuals affected by my decision have looted state resources. There is a clear distinction between causing financial loss to the state or misapplying public funds and offenses such as bribery, corruption, or abusing public office for private gain,” he noted.
Among the cases discontinued is that of the former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, now Acting Governor, Johnson Asiamah, who was implicated in the collapse of some banks.
The Attorney General also withdrew charges against former Minority Leader and current Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, along with Richard Jakpa, in the ambulance procurement case.
JKB/AE
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
Alhaji Seidu Agongo has been cleared by the Attorney General
Alhaji Seidu Agongo, the majority shareholder of the now-defunct Heritage Bank, has expressed confidence that his bank could have transformed Ghana’s banking industry with unmatched competition.
“Heritage Bank would have given the entire banking industry in Ghana competition they could never match. Have you visited any of our branches before? Our success was in the planning, not just what you saw,” Seidu Agongo asserted.
The renowned business mogul and philanthropist detailed his experience with Heritage Bank and the challenges that led to its collapse in a media interview.
Agongo lamented that the central bank’s actions crushed his dream of building a Ghanaian bank that could compete internationally.
“Look at Nigerian banks – they are almost everywhere. Can you count any Ghanaian bank outside Ghana? I wanted to change that. I put together a strong board, including ex-BoG Governor Alex Ashiagbor, Dr. Kwesi Botchwey, and Benson Nutsukpui. Would they be part of a fraudulent bank?”
Despite facing what he described as politically motivated persecution, he remains convinced of the bank’s potential.
Why ask me to merge if I wasn’t ‘fit and proper’?
A major point of contention for Agongo is the justification the Bank of Ghana (BoG) used to revoke Heritage Bank’s license. He questioned why he was initially asked to merge with other banks if he was deemed “not fit and proper.”
“If I wasn’t fit and proper, why did they ask me to merge with other banks? The same banks that were allegedly not fit and proper. Where is the consistency?” Alhaji Agongo queried.
He criticized the BoG’s decision, arguing that they had already conducted thorough due diligence before granting him a banking license.
“BoG has a forensic unit that checks everything before giving a banking license. So how do I suddenly become unfit and improper within a year?” he questioned.
His frustration stems from the Central Bank’s actions, which he claims were politically motivated rather than based on sound regulatory grounds.
Despite his grievances, Agongo made a surprising remark regarding former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.
When asked what he would say if he met Addison face-to-face, Agongo responded, “I’ll thank him so much.”
He believes the Central Bank acted under political influence, arguing that in reality, the BoG is not independent despite being mandated to be so.
“Whoever appoints you holds the key to your actions. How do I appoint you and you say you’ll be independent? You’ll do whatever I ask you to do,” he explained.
Agongo maintains that there was a larger scheme to target and weaken him. He questioned why the bank was shut down simply because of an ongoing court case against him, despite the absence of any conviction.
“You collapse a private institution employing Ghanaians because the owner has a case in court? Does that sound fair?” he asked.
Seidu Agongo disclosed that at one point, he feared being jailed due to the pressure and accusations against him.
“There came a time when even relatives and people I trusted told me I was going to jail,” he shared candidly.
However, following the Attorney General’s recent decision to discontinue charges against him, Seidu Agongo believes his ordeal highlights the inconsistencies in the regulatory framework that led to the revocation of Heritage Bank’s license.
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
The lawyers of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta have stated that he is undergoing medical observation and tests, with treatment plans yet to be finalized.
This was in response to the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) directive for Mr. Ofori-Atta to appear in person on February 10, 2025. After an earlier letter dated January 24, 2025, informing Ofori-Atta to appear at the OSP.
According to the lawyers, Mr. Ofori-Atta was unaware of the OSP’s initial letter, as it was left at his security post while he was out of the country.
They further clarified that he had informed both former Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare and current Chief of Staff Julius Debrah about his medical trip earlier in January.
In a letter dated January 31, the lawyers cited this as the reason for his absence on January 24, 2025, and requested that the OSP reschedule his in-person appearance upon his return to Ghana.
The lawyers also expressed their willingness to provide any necessary information to support the investigation.
The letter surfaced shortly after the OSP held a press conference on February 12, 2025, where Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng declared Mr. Ofori-Atta a fugitive. The declaration was based on allegations of financial loss to the state in several dealings.
The OSP has launched an investigation into suspected corruption and related offences involving multiple contracts, including:
Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority
The National Cathedral project
The Ministry of Health’s procurement of ambulances
The Electricity Company of Ghana and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC)
Before the press conference, security personnel raided Mr. Ofori-Atta’s home in Accra. However, the Special Prosecutor denied any involvement, stating that the raid was staged.
Raid on Ofori-Atta’s house was staged – OSP
……
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
Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Asiedu Nketia, believes that the current crop of Members of Parliament for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is detached from the political party’s history.
According to him, if they are aware of their history, they will not refer to Zenator Rawlings as a Daughter of a Murderer just because her father led a coup in the country.
The UAE’s Zayed Sustainability Prize, a portfolio entity of Erth Zayed Philanthropies which has impacted 400 million lives worldwide by advancing innovative solutions to pressing global challenges, has officially announced its call for submissions for 2026. Marking 17 years of continued support and empowerment for the next generation of sustainability champions, the Prize invites small to medium enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organisations, and high schools to submit their projects in six distinct categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools.
In 2024, the Prize received 5,980 submissions from 156 countries, reflecting a growing international commitment to sustainable development. As the 2026 submission cycle begins, the Prize aims to build on this momentum and seize the unique opportunity at the Nexus of Next, a dynamic convergence of technological innovation, human ingenuity, and strategic vision to accelerate progress worldwide.
Commenting on the launch, H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize said: “The Zayed Sustainability Prize honours Sheikh Zayed’s vision of advancing inclusive sustainable and humanitarian development. By supporting projects that harness new technologies to improve lives and drive prosperity in local communities, the Prize places people at the heart of progress, and demonstrates the role of the Nexus of Next in accelerating socio-economic growth worldwide.”
The Prize will reward US $1 million to the winners of each organisational category, while those in the Global High Schools category – split into six world regions – can claim up to US $150,000 to deploy or further expand their project. This funding has already enabled tangible progress and improved living conditions in vulnerable areas around the world, from expanding healthcare access in Southeast Asia to reducing food poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The most recent Zayed Sustainability Prize winners were recognised at an Awards Ceremony in Abu Dhabi in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, President of the United Arab Emirates, alongside 11 Heads of State and several Ministers and business leaders. These distinguished guests witnessed the promise and impact of each winner, as well as the UAE’s firm commitment to providing a platform for such solutions to grow.
For the 2026 cycle, applicants in the Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action categories must prove that their solution is improving access to essential services in their communities, and that they can implement a long-term vision for better living and working conditions. For the Global High Schools category, projects should be led by students and must demonstrate innovative approaches to address sustainability challenges.
To encourage a broader range of organisations and high schools to participate, the Prize accepts submissions in multiple languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese.
The evaluation of each submission to the Prize consists of a rigorous, three-stage process. First, due diligence is conducted on all submissions to ensure that they meet the Prize’s evaluation criteria of Impact, Innovation, and Inspiration. This identifies the qualified entries and results in the selection of eligible candidates. Following this, evaluations are undertaken by a Selection Committee consisting of category-specific panels of independent international experts. From this shortlist of candidates, the finalists are chosen and then sent to the Prize Jury who unanimously elect the winners across all six categories.
Winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize will be announced at an Awards Ceremony in 2026.
For more details and to submit your application, please click here.
About the Zayed Sustainability Prize
The Zayed Sustainability Prize, a portfolio entity of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, is the UAE’s pioneering award for innovative solutions to global challenges. A tribute to the legacy and vision of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Prize aims to drive sustainable development worldwide.
Each year, across the Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools categories, the Prize rewards organisations and high schools for their ground-breaking solutions to the planet’s most pressing needs.
Through its 128 winners, in 17 years, the Prize has positively impacted over 400 million lives across the globe, inspiring innovators to amplify their impact, and chart a sustainable future for all.
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 Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member, Wilfred Osei Kweku, has backed the appointment of Winfried Schafer to the Black Stars technical team.
Speaking to Sporty FM, Osei Kweku acknowledged the German coach’s experience and revealed that the idea of bringing him on board had been considered during his tenure at the GFA.
“The technical direction of the team has changed, but Winfried Schäfer is a good coach. Even during our time, we had plans to bring him on board,” he stated.
Schafer, a former Cameroon and Jamaica national team coach is expected to bring his vast knowledge and expertise to Ghana’s technical setup as the Black Stars aim to rebuild following their disappointing AFCON 2024 campaign.
With his wealth of experience in African football, many believe his appointment could play a crucial role in reshaping the team’s fortunes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
His first assignment will be in March when Ghana face Chad and Madagascar in the World Cup qualifiers.
Ghanaian businesswoman, Mimi Adani, has questioned the right some people have to chastise Counsellor Charlotte Oduro following reports that her marriage with Apostle Solomon Oduro has collapsed.
Sharing her view in a video sighted by Zionfelix.net, she stated that those who tolerate abuse and disrespectfulness in their marriages have no right to chastise Charlotte Oduro.
Accra, Ghana – The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has officially written to the Attorney General (AG) to seek a legal opinion on a number of contracts signed by his predecessor, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful.
The move, which comes just weeks after Sam George assumed office, has sparked speculation about potential irregularities in contracts awarded during Ursula Owusu’s tenure. According to him, “There are contracts signed under the previous administration that need proper scrutiny to ensure they were in the best interest of Ghanaians.”
Possible Corruption Allegations?
Sam George, who is also the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram on the ticket of the NDC, has made it clear that his request for legal opinion is not a personal attack, but rather an effort to ensure transparency and accountability in Ghana’s communication and digital sector.
Sources close to the ministry indicate that some of the contracts under scrutiny involve major telecommunications deals, technology infrastructure projects, and digital transformation initiatives that were signed under Ursula Owusu’s leadership.
While no official allegations of corruption have been made, many believe this move could unearth financial mismanagement or questionable procurement practices.
Reactions from Ghanaians
The news has sparked mixed reactions among the public and political analysts. Some Ghanaians support Sam George’s decision, arguing that past government contracts should always be reviewed for potential corruption or financial loss to the state.
A social media user commented, “We need more of such accountability! If Ursula did everything right, she has nothing to fear.”
Others, however, believe this could be a political witch hunt targeted at discrediting the former minister, who served under the NPP government.
“Every new government comes and investigates the previous one, but nothing ever happens. Is this just politics or real accountability?” another user questioned.
What Happens Next?
Now that Sam George has officially sought legal advice from the AG, all eyes are on the Attorney General’s office for a response. If the legal opinion suggests irregularities, a full-scale probe or criminal investigations could follow.
For now, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful is yet to publicly respond to the matter, but Ghanaians are keenly waiting to see how this high-profile contract review unfolds.
Will this be another political drama or a bold step towards accountability? Time will tell.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to reassess the Ghana Premier League (GPL) venues to ensure they meet the required safety and security standards.
Mr. Adams stressed the importance of a collaborative approach between the Club Licensing Committee, the Safety and Security Committee, and the National Sports Authority (NSA) to enhance security at match venues during a meeting with GFA officials.
He emphasised that thorough inspections should be conducted to determine whether existing stadiums are adequately equipped to host high-profile games safely.
His call comes in response to increasing concerns over hooliganism and violence at league centres, which reached a crisis point following the tragic death of Asante Kotoko fan Francis Nana Yaw Frimpong (Pooley) in Nsoatre.
His killing led to widespread demands for tighter security measures, with clubs such as Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak backing the need for reforms.
The re-evaluation of venues is expected to focus on Security infrastructure, including CCTV installations and emergency exits, policing strategies and crowd control measures, compliance with international stadium safety regulations and improvements in fan engagement to reduce tensions on matchdays.
GFA General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo, confirmed that discussions are ongoing to address these concerns.
No Competent Lawyer Would Advise The Affected Individuals To Seek Redress
News Hub Creator3h
Atagliya Raphael Adigiyoke, a very vocal NDC member, has asserted that no competent lawyer will counsel the affected individuals whose appointments have been terminated by the current NDC government to seek legal redress.
Ataligya made this comment in a post shared on his Facebook page on 12th February, 2025. He wrote:
“I have not studied law yet, but with my modest common sense, no competent lawyer would advise the affected individuals to seek legal redress regarding the termination of appointments and recruitments made after December 7th. You can never win that case.”
According to Ataligya, the fact remains that those lawyers are a disgrace to the legal profession.
“Even a first year law student would know that the current government has every right to revoke any appointments and recruitments that do not follow due process.
If you want to be in the news without thinking properly, you will be disgrace in the news at the end.” He concluded.
Background
The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, ordered the revokement of appointments received after December 7, 2024. Following that , Old Tafo MP, Hon. Vincent Ekow Assafuah and Henry Nana Boakye, NPP National Organizer intend to seek legal redress regarding the termination of appointments and recruitment made after Dec. 7.
Eric Alagidede was the General Manager of Nsoatreman
Former General Manager of Nsoatreman FC, Eric Alagidede, has shared a unique approach he used to curb fan violence during his tenure at the club — one that involved building relationships with individuals considered most likely to cause trouble.
Nsoatreman have been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons over the past week after an Asante Kotoko fan was murdered on their home turf during a Ghana Premier League match between the two teams on February 2, 2025.
What began as an on-field altercation among players escalated into the stands, leading to violent clashes that tragically resulted in the death of Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Pooley.
Although Nsoatreman is not typically associated with such incidents, the shocking event has left many Ghanaian football fans in disbelief.
However, in an interview with Sporty FM, Alagidede explained why there were no records of violence during his time as general manager. His secret? Gaining the trust of the very individuals known for causing trouble on match days.
“One of the things I did so well at Nsoatre, that I can always credit myself is the fact that I got into town and became a friend to all the so called ‘bad boys’.
“This was my strategy, so you get so close to them, and they become your friends. At any point in time they want to start something, and you start talking to them, it becomes very easy,” Alagidede said.
He further explained how keeping these individuals in check played a crucial role in maintaining order at the club’s venue.
“So long as you’re able to control those people, then, of course, you can control every other person because if some chaos will erupt over there, normally it starts with them.
“So for the fact that you’re able to bring them under your control, then it becomes so easy for you to control them,” he added.
Ghanaian socialite, Turey, has disclosed that her greatest achievement was enduring over five hours of surgery in Turkey.
She made these statements while narrating the issues surrounding her procedure and what influenced her decision.
In a discussion on Angel TV on January 12, 2025, Turey explained that her decision to go under the knife was driven by a lack of confidence in her physique.
Narrating her entire experience of the procedure, she said, “I tried other methods, but I gave up early because I was looking for a fast response, which I was not getting. I contacted a clinic in Turkey, and I underwent gastric sleeve surgery, where they removed about 70 percent of my stomach, which made me lose weight.
“Afterwards, I didn’t like my body, so I went for another surgery called a mommy makeover, and that was how I transformed my breasts and belly. I wanted them to transfer some of the fat to my buttocks, but the doctor said the fat in my body was not enough for my buttocks. Having a BBL is my greatest achievement aside from giving birth. This is something I wanted to do, and I did it with joy.”
She added that after the breast surgery, she lost sensitivity in both of her breasts.
However, after some time, she regained sensitivity in one of her breasts, while the other is yet to recover.
“The surgery took five hours, and it was not an easy thing. You would start having feelings in the breast, but it didn’t happen overnight. It took me a while to start having feelings.
“Currently, I can feel sensations in one breast, but I am yet to regain feelings in the other breast,” she added.
Watch the video below:
You can also watch as John Boadu reveals how NPP blocked Afenyo-Markin from contesting Effutu seat
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has outlined reasons for discontinuing some high-profile cases initiated by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, he said that the decisions were based on defective charges, lack of evidence, and legal flaws that could have led to wrongful prosecutions or acquittals.
Dr. Ayine cited the case of, for instance, Republic vs. Collins Dauda and others, where the first accused was charged with misapplying public funds amounting to $200 million.
However, he argued that part of that amount was used to construct houses at Saglemi, making the charges flawed.
“In other words, the value of that built environment is, in my considered opinion, a key determinant of how much of the total sum was allegedly misapplied by the Honorable Collins Dauda. Discounting the value of the built environment renders those charges, in my considered opinion, defective,” he stated.
He also noted that subsequent payments made by other ministers after Dauda left office were not considered in the prosecution’s case.
“For instance, Atta Akyea, as Minister of Works and Housing, approved a payment of $5 million in 2017 that ought to have been considered in determining the value of state funds that Collins Dauda had misapplied. But that wasn’t done. And note, ladies and gentlemen of the media, that Atta Akyea was never charged, even though the Collins Dauda was,” he pointed out.
Dr. Ayine stressed that an accused person is entitled to know precisely the crime they are charged with and the burden they must discharge to prove their innocence. He argued that the charges in some cases failed to meet the legal standard of precision required for a fair trial.
“My review of some of the cases certainly revealed fatal flaws in the case of the prosecution,” he said.
He gave the example of two ongoing banking trials, where he withdrew charges against Johnson Asiamah, the current Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
He explained that an internal memo prepared by the Prosecutions Division of the Attorney General’s Department had recommended dropping the charges, but the former Attorney General failed to act on the recommendation.
“This is very significant. This is an internal memo prepared by professional prosecutors advising the Attorney General that the charges against our current Governor of the Bank of Ghana be dropped,” he said.
He further explained that the initial facility of GH¢300 million, which was the basis of the charges, had been recovered, except for GH¢150 million, which was being serviced.
The memo stated that once UMB Bank received locked-up funds from Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), the loan would be fully repaid, making the charge of financial loss unsustainable.
“The professional opinion of the Prosecution Division was very, very clear that the charges against the current Governor of the Bank of Ghana are unsustainable. In other words, factually and in terms of the evidence available, he could not be convicted of the offenses charged,” he said.
On the case involving the procurement of Lithovit foliar fertilizer scandal, by COCOBOD, he argued that the entire prosecution was flawed, as no evidence was presented to show that farmers suffered losses due to the fertilizer.
“Rather strangely, not a single farmer was called by the prosecution to prove this fact. On the contrary, officials at COCOBOD who were invited by the investigators gave statements to the effect that Lithovit fertilizer was one of the most effective fertilizers purchased by COCOBOD and that farmers preferred Lithovit fertilizer to the granular fertilizer,” he stated.
He also criticised the conduct of some judges in the cases, arguing that their actions compromised the fair trial rights of the accused.
He pointed out that Justice Clemence Honyenuga, who presided over the Opuni case, expunged exculpatory evidence before ruling that the accused had a case to answer.
“When Justice Honyenuga single-handedly expunged otherwise exculpatory evidence from the record in the Opuni case and then proceeded to rule that the accused had a case to answer, in his ruling on submission of no case, he was far from portraying any semblance of neutrality,” he said.
Dr. Ayine also raised concerns over the reassignment of judges and promotions of some judges handling high-profile cases, stating that such actions created perceptions of executive interference.
“This perception, whether true or not, is that the promotion may be an inducement to convict the accused persons,” he remarked.
He assured the public that his decisions were made after thorough legal scrutiny and were not influenced by any external pressure, including the president.
“I am not under any instructions or pressure to discontinue any case or to bring charges against anyone. Those who are in a haste to tag His Excellency the President of the Republic as a clearing agent should hasten slowly because he is not responsible for prosecutions and has not directed me to drop any case,” he emphasised.
He also differentiated between cases of causing financial loss and outright corruption, arguing that while some accused persons may have made questionable financial decisions, it did not mean they had looted state resources.
“There is a gulf of difference between the offense of causing financial loss to the state or misapplication of state funds and the offenses of bribery, corruption, or that of using public office for private gain,” he clarified.
Dr. Ayine reaffirmed his commitment to upholding justice and ensuring fair prosecutions, while protecting the public interest.
The discontinued cases include that of the former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, now acting Governor, Johnson Asiamah. The Attorney-General withdrew all charges against him after he was implicated in the collapse of some banks.
The AG also dropped the case brought against former Minority Leader and now Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and Richard Jakpa in the ambulance procurement deal.
The recent decision to discontinue the high-profile cases sparked intense debates in Ghana’s legal and political circles.
JKB/AE
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
play videoFormer CEO of Minerals Income Investment Fund, Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has launched an investigation into alleged financial irregularities involving officials of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), including its former Chief Executive Officer, Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng.
According to the OSP, the probe is part of a broader effort to uncover potential mismanagement and misconduct within state institutions.
This was disclosed at a press briefing on Wednesday February 12, 2025.
While details of the investigation remain undisclosed, the OSP stated that it is scrutinizing transactions and financial dealings within MIIF during Edward Koranteng’s tenure.
The Minerals Income Investment Fund, established to maximize Ghana’s mineral wealth for sustainable development, has faced increasing public scrutiny over its management of mineral royalties and investment decisions.
This latest development adds to a growing list of high-profile corruption cases under investigation by the OSP, reinforcing the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency in public office.
SA/MA
Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel
The Copa del Rey semifinal draw took place at the Spanish Football Federation headquarters on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, setting up two thrilling matchups.
Barcelona and Atlético Madrid will clash in the semifinals, potentially paving the way for a showdown with Real Madrid in the final.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid will face Real Sociedad in the other semifinal tie.
The semifinals will be played over two legs, with Barcelona hosting Atlético in late February before traveling to Madrid for the return leg in April.
This means the two sides will meet three times in just over a month, including their La Liga encounter on March 16, 2025.
Atlético has already beaten Barcelona once this season, securing a 2-1 victory in December thanks to a late goal from Alexander Sørloth.
In the other semifinal, Real Sociedad will host Real Madrid in the first leg, with the return fixture taking place at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The first legs are scheduled for February 25 or 26, while the second legs will be played on April 1 or 2, 2025.
This season marks the first time since 2014 that La Liga’s top three clubs, Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, and Barcelona have all reached the Copa del Rey semifinals.
Coincidentally, Real Sociedad was also part of the final four that year.
Accra, Feb 12, GNA – The Minority Caucus in Parliament, Wednesday called for the immediate summoning of the National Security Coordinator to the House to explain the circumstances surrounding an alleged raid on the residence of former Minister of Finance, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta.
According to eyewitness accounts and security footage, a group of individuals, including some men in military and police uniforms, stormed Mr Ofori-Atta’s residence in Cantonments, Accra on Tuesday afternoon (February 11, 2025), while he was out of the country.
In a reaction, Mr Habib Iddrisu, the First Deputy Minority Whip, condemned the incident on the floor of Parliament, describing it as a threat to Ghana’s democratic values.
“Mr. Speaker, Ghana has been noted for the democracy that we have been enjoying, and yesterday, the former Minister responsible for Finance, Mr Ofori-Atta’s house was raided by National Security operatives allegedly,” he stated.
Mr Iddrisu questioned why the raid took place despite Mr Ofori-Atta having allegedly officially informed the Chief of Staff of his absence from the country and receiving approval to travel.
“… Mr. Speaker, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta has officially written to the Chief of Staff that he will not be in the country, and he was given that opportunity, and he left. It is not acceptable,” he said.
On his part, Minority leader, Mr Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin also condemned the raid, maintaining that the action was unlawful.
He said: “There was no such law supporting the actions. The contention here was that the man’s home was raided unlawfully. That conduct was unconstitutional…we are not sending the right signals to the electorates,” he argued.
However, Majority Leader Mr Mahama Ayariga, cautioned against using the chamber of Parliament to address a legal matter.
“… Mr Speaker, you go to court for the court to declare that your property and dignity have been violated. In court, the two sides will be there…” he noted.
The incident has raised questions about the identity and motivations of those behind the operation, with Special Prosecutor Mr Kissi Agyebeng denying any alleged involvement and suggesting that the incident might have been staged to discredit his office.
The Minority in Parliament is calling for the immediate summoning of the National Security Coordinator following a reported raid on the residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
On Tuesday afternoon, a group of individuals, including some in military and police uniforms, allegedly stormed Ofori-Atta’s residence in Cantonments while he was reportedly out of the country.
Raising concerns on the floor of Parliament, First Deputy Minority Whip Habib Iddrisu strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a threat to Ghana’s democratic values.
“Mr Speaker, Ghana has been noted for the democracy that we have been enjoying, and yesterday, the former Minister responsible for Finance, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s house was raided by National Security operatives allegedly,” he stated.
Iddrisu further noted that Ofori-Atta had officially informed the Chief of Staff of his absence from the country and had received approval to travel. He questioned why such a raid would take place despite this prior notice.
“Mr Speaker, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta has officially written to the Chief of Staff that he will not be in the country, and he was given that opportunity, and he left. It is not acceptable,” he said.
He also referenced a recent incident involving former Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul, who was allegedly pursued by security operatives while driving to Parliament.
“Two weeks ago, the former Defence Minister, Nitiwul, was stopped, and his car was chased to Parliament to be seized. Mr Speaker, this is not the democracy that we are all enjoying, and for former ministers’ houses to be raided, I think the National Security Minister needs to come around and explain,” he asserted.
The Minority is now demanding accountability from the National Security leadership to clarify the circumstances surrounding these incidents.
The Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has dismissed claims that President John Dramani Mahama influenced his decision to discontinue several high-profile criminal cases.
Since assuming office last month, Dr. Ayine has terminated cases involving key state officials, including Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, February 12, Dr. Ayine clarified that these decisions were made independently by his office after a thorough professional review of the cases. He emphasized that President Mahama played no role in the discontinuation of any case.
“Ladies and gentlemen, my decision to terminate the criminal trials was animated in the main by three factors. The first was that for ethical and professional reasons, I could not in good conscience continue to prosecute some of the cases,” he said.
“The second was that, for some of the cases, my own review and analysis of the charges showed clearly that the charges were defective, and some were filed against the promptings of plain commonsense.”
He continued: “The third reason was that, in some of the cases, the evidence led so far showed that there was reasonable doubt as to the guilt of the accused persons, and no prosecutor should continue to pursue a case in the face of overwhelming doubt regarding the guilt of the accused.”
Dr. Ayine explained that before reaching these decisions, he conducted extensive consultations, including multiple briefings with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and discussions with defense lawyers involved in the cases.
He further noted that in cases where disagreements arose—such as those related to the banking sector clean-up—he communicated his views directly to the lawyers involved.
“As Attorney General, I am keenly aware that the prosecutorial authority vested in me under Article 88 of the Constitution is discretionary in nature and is subject to the constitutional requirements set out in Article 296 of the Constitution.”
He added that the Constitution mandates him to act fairly, reasonably, and without bias, stating: “The import of these constitutional requirements is that, in the exercise of my prosecutorial power, I must not only act reasonably and fairly and comply with all the requirements imposed on me by law but also, I must be candid with those whose life and liberty depend on my decisions.”
Dropped cases
The Attorney-General’s decision affected seven major cases, including that of former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, now Acting Governor, Johnson Asiama, whose charges related to the collapse of UniBank and UT Bank were withdrawn.
The A-G also dropped charges against Finance Minister Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa in the controversial ambulance procurement case.
Additionally, the trial of former COCOBOD CEO, Dr. Stephen Kwabena Opuni, and businessman Seidu Agongo, accused of causing GH¢271 million in financial loss through the Lithovit foliar fertiliser scandal, was discontinued.
In another high-profile decision, the A-G withdrew charges against former SSNIT boss Dr. Ernest Thompson and three others accused of financial mismanagement, though he noted that some persons linked to SSNIT and the banking sector cases were still standing trial.
The financial misconduct trial of former Works and Housing Minister Collins Dauda and four others in the Saglemi Housing Project was also discontinued through a nolle prosequi.
Other notable cases dropped include those against activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Ama Governor, and others, reigniting debates on protest rights and political suppression. Additionally, former NDC Chairman Samuel Ofosu Ampofo and Communications Officer Anthony Kwaku Boahen were freed from charges related to a leaked recording allegedly plotting political violence.
Dr. Ayine maintains that his decisions were legally and ethically sound, reiterating that justice, not politics, guided his actions.
Renowned Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah has successfully earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Communication Studies from the prestigious University of Ghana.
A viral post circulating on social media on 12 February 2025 shows the actress radiating joy in her graduation gown as she proudly receives her certificate.
Sharing her excitement, she captioned the post: “Congratulations to Jackie Appiah, Master of Arts (MA) in Communication Studies, University of Ghana.”
Congratulations to Jackie Appiah, Master of Arts (MA) Communications, University of Ghana. pic.twitter.com/LuqmyWyBiW
This milestone follows her previous academic achievement in 2022, when she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Information Studies from the same institution.
Jackie Appiah is a Canadian-born Ghanaian actress. For her work as an actress, she has received several awards and nominations, including the awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2010 Africa Movie Academy Awards; and Best Actress in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2007. She received two nominations for Best Actress in a Leading Role and Best Upcoming Actress at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2008. She is a movie producer, fashion model and a humanitarian.
Appiah was already known to Nollywood through her many successful Ghanaian films including Beyoncé – The President Daughter, Princess Tyra, Passion of the Soul, Pretty Queen, The Prince’s Bride, The King is Mine and The Perfect Picture. Her notable Nollywood films include Black Soul and Bitter Blessing, alongside Nollywood actor Ramsey Nouah and My Last Wedding, alongside Nollywood actor Emeka Ike.
With this latest accomplishment, Jackie Appiah joins the ranks of several high-profile Ghanaian celebrities, including John Dumelo and A Plus, who have pursued higher education and obtained master’s degrees from esteemed institutions in Ghana.
A photo collage of Kwaku Ansah-Asare (L) and Kissi Agyebeng
A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansah-Asare, has criticized Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng for publicly declaring former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted person.
Speaking in an interview on TV3 on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, Ansah-Asare described the move as disgraceful and damaging to Ghana’s reputation.
“Declaring a former finance minister a wanted person is a very serious matter. It is an act of disgrace to the nation. Let us handle this in a more civilized manner. What has the former Finance Minister done? Where was the Special Prosecutor when Ghanaians angrily declared the National Cathedral one of the biggest financial losses to the nation?” he questioned.
Ansah-Asare argued that if anyone should be declared wanted, it should be the Special Prosecutor himself.
The former Director of the Ghana School of Law expressed concern over what he described as a selective approach to justice, highlighting cases where large sums of money were allegedly misappropriated without any action being taken.
“Somebody took $42 million. He did nothing. People have stolen millions, and he did not do anything. Why this high-profile drama every morning in a serious country like Ghana?” he added.
He further expressed frustration over what he called unnecessary media theatrics, stating that the situation should have been handled with more decorum.
“We don’t need this. We know where the former Finance Minister is. If you think he has a case to answer, summon him through the appropriate channels. This drama in the media is unnecessary,” he emphasised.
Ansah-Asare argued that the Special Prosecutor’s actions might do more harm than good, potentially setting a bad precedent for future administrations.
“That is not the way to go about it. We are a civilized nation, and we must handle things in a more responsible manner. This approach is doing more harm than good,” he warned.
He also questioned the Special Prosecutor’s priorities, suggesting that more pressing corruption cases had been overlooked.
“Where was the Special Prosecutor when the media reported that $50 million had been lost? Where was he when the National Cathedral issue was making headlines? This is just another theatrical display driven by political motives,” he asserted.
Additionally, he called for the removal of the Special Prosecutor, citing incompetence and dereliction of duty.
“The OSP Act lists incompetence and dereliction of duty as grounds for removal. Former ministers stole millions, and he did nothing. Now, he suddenly wakes up and declares the Finance Minister wanted? He should be removed,” he argued.
Ansah-Asare stressed that law enforcement should be impartial and free from political influence.
“We should not allow the Special Prosecutor to be used by the current administration to embarrass former government officials. If he is truly committed to justice, let him pursue all cases with equal vigor, not just those that serve a political agenda,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of a fair and just legal system that does not engage in selective prosecutions.
“Crime does not have an expiry date, but the approach to handling it must be civilized, responsible, and devoid of unnecessary drama. Former appointees must be held accountable, but it must be done in a manner that upholds the dignity of the nation,” he said.
The OSP has declared Ken Ofori-Atta wanted over allegations of causing financial loss to the state in dealings including the construction of the controversial National Cathedral and the Ghana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) contract with Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited (SML).
JKB/MA
You can also watch as John Boadu reveals how NPP blocked Afenyo-Markin from contesting Effutu seat
3.9% of GPD goes to tax exemptions
Atagliya Raphael Adigiyoke, a very vocal NDC member, has asserted that no competent lawyer will counsel the affected individuals whose appointments have been terminated by the current NDC government to seek legal redress.
