Edward Abambire Bawa, the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), has been reassigned as the Group CEO of GOIL, effective immediately.
Mr. Bawa confirmed the development in a Facebook post earlier today February 12, 2025, stating, “I have been reassigned to GOIL as Group CEO, effective immediately, as part of the President’s broader energy sector strategy.”
This reassignment comes just weeks after Mr Bawa was appointed Acting CEO of GNPC on January 17, 2025.
His initial appointment followed Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 10(2) of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation Act.
At the time, the President’s office indicated that the final appointment would be confirmed after consultations between the Energy Minister and the Public Services Commission.
Mr Bawa, a former Member of Parliament for the Bongo Constituency (2017–2024), brings extensive experience to his new role at GOIL.
He previously served as Head of Communication for the World Bank’s oil and gas capacity-building project at the Ministry of Petroleum in Accra.
He holds an MBA in Business Finance from the University of Liverpool and has completed postgraduate studies at the Harvard School of Public Health.
Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) President, Ben Nunoo Mensah, has highlighted the importance of weightlifting in Ghana’s sports landscape.
He added that the sport has significant potential for winning more medals for Ghana and deserves greater attention and investment in his speech delivered at the unveiling of the renovated National Weightlifting Training Centre. (Click highlighted text to read full story)
The former chairman of the Ghana Weightlifting Federation also emphasized that it is often the lesser-financed sports that have put Ghana on the global stage.
“Weightlifting has the potential to bring home multiple medals. A weightlifter can win as many as 13 medals in one competition and it is these so-called least-financed sports that have consistently raised Ghana’s flag at international competitions.”
“All that these lesser-known sports need is just one percent of what we invest in our national football team-the Black Stars-, and they deserve it, so if we focus solely on developing football at the expense of talents in other sports, we are essentially telling young boys and girls that if their talent isn’t in football, they have no place in Ghana,”
In a world where cultural cuisine transcends borders, it’s no wonder that Ghanaian actor Eddie Nartey, known for his engaging roles in film and television, captured the attention of many when he recently shared his frustration about the cost of a traditional Ghanaian dish upon relocating to Canada. The story has sparked conversations about the true value of cultural identity and the sometimes shocking realities of living abroad.
Eddie Nartey, a household name in Ghana, is known not only for his stellar performances but also for his deep connection to his roots. After establishing a successful acting career, he made the bold decision to relocate to Canada, seeking new opportunities and experiences. However, it seems that the shift to a new country has come with unexpected challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining a connection with his Ghanaian culture through its food.
Recently, Eddie shared a humorous yet relatable incident on social media that has since gone viral. In a video filled with animated expressions, he recounted buying a small portion of Ga Kenkey—a beloved Ghanaian delicacy made from fermented corn dough—for a staggering GH₵50 (approximately CAD 6.50). His incredulous reaction to the price was a mix of disbelief and frustration, as he recalled how this dish is often enjoyed back home at a fraction of the cost.
For many Ghanaians, Kenkey is more than just food; it evokes memories of home, family gatherings, and shared traditions. Eddie’s plight resonated widely, as many understood how the appreciation for these precious dishes could be tainted by the exorbitant prices once living abroad. His video brought laughter, but it also sparked discussions about the challenges faced by expatriates in maintaining their cultural identity while adapting to new surroundings.
The incident has also shed light on the broader issue of food prices and the challenges faced by immigrants when searching for a taste of home. As global citizens, many are willing to pay a premium for cultural cuisine that reminds them of their roots, yet the reality can be disheartening. Eddie’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of shared culinary heritage and the potential distance one feels when living away from home.
Despite the comedic tone of his frustration, Eddie Nartey’s message is clear: the cost of connecting with one’s culture in a foreign land can sometimes feel overwhelming. Nonetheless.
African print outfits, often crafted from vibrant fabrics like Ankara, kente, and batik, have become a global fashion trend. Known for their bold colors, intricate patterns, and cultural significance, African prints are now embraced worldwide, transcending borders and influencing mainstream fashion. Whether you’re looking for a chic everyday outfit or something more extravagant for a special occasion, African print outfits offer a unique blend of tradition and modern style. Here are some standout African print outfits that are perfect for any wardrobe.
1. Ankara Dresses
Ankara dresses are one of the most popular choices when it comes to African print outfits. Available in a variety of styles, from flowy maxi dresses to more structured bodycon designs, these dresses offer endless versatility. The rich, colorful patterns of Ankara fabric make these dresses perfect for both casual and formal events. Whether it’s a simple shift dress or a high-low hemline design, Ankara dresses are perfect for expressing individuality while staying stylish.
2. Kente Tops and Blouses
Kente, a traditional fabric from West Africa, is renowned for its intricate, symbolic patterns and bold colors. Kente tops and blouses, often paired with jeans, skirts, or trousers, offer a modern take on this classic fabric. A Kente blouse can instantly elevate any outfit with its intricate patterns and luxurious feel. Pair a Kente top with slim-fit jeans or a high-waisted skirt for a chic, contemporary look.
3. African Print Skirts
African print skirts, from pencil skirts to voluminous A-line designs, are a fantastic way to incorporate traditional fabrics into a modern wardrobe. These skirts are often worn with a simple top or a matching blouse to create a striking and balanced outfit. Whether you’re opting for a knee-length pencil skirt or a full-length maxi, the vibrant prints can be styled to suit both casual and formal occasions.
4. African Print Jumpsuits
For a bold, statement-making look, an African print jumpsuit is a must-try. These one-piece outfits, often designed with a fitted bodice and wide-legged trousers, offer a sleek and stylish silhouette. The fusion of vibrant prints with the modern cut of a jumpsuit creates a unique fashion-forward look, perfect for parties, events, or evening outings. Add some heels and statement accessories, and you’re ready to turn heads.
5. African Print Blazers and Jackets
Incorporating African prints into outerwear is a trend that has gained significant popularity. African print blazers and jackets can instantly add character and personality to an outfit. Pair a colorful Ankara print blazer with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt for a powerful office look, or wear it over a casual ensemble for an added pop of style. These blazers often feature bold, geometric patterns or florals that transform a classic silhouette into something extraordinary.
6. African Print Pants and Trousers
African print pants are perfect for a laid-back, yet stylish look. Whether you prefer wide-leg trousers, fitted pants, or palazzo styles, the vivid patterns of African prints bring any pair of pants to life. These pants can be paired with a simple solid-colored top to balance the boldness of the print, making them perfect for casual weekends, brunches, or even work attire.
7. African Print Headwraps and Accessories
No African print outfit is complete without the right accessories. Headwraps made from colorful Ankara or kente fabric are a stylish and cultural way to finish off your look. These accessories, along with other statement pieces like beaded jewelry or printed scarves, help tie the outfit together and make a bold fashion statement.
Conclusion
African print outfits are the perfect fusion of culture, tradition, and modern fashion. With their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and versatility, these outfits offer a unique and stylish way to embrace cultural heritage. Whether you’re wearing a sleek Ankara dress, a bold kente top, or stylish African print pants, there’s an African print outfit for every occasion. So, why not step into a world of color and creativity and check out these stunning African print styles for your next fashion adventure?
Legendary Nigerian musician, 2Face Idibia, has announced a marriage plan with Edo State lawmaker, Natasha Osawaru.
He made his plan known a few days after announcing his divorce from Annie, his wife.
Earlier reports indicated that 2Face appeared during a plenary session at the Edo State House of Assembly on Monday, created scenes amid his ongoing divorce saga.
The speculations suggested that Natasha might have been the reason for his separation from his wife.
However, addressing the rumours of his romantic relationship with Natasha on Wednesday morning, the musician declared his love for her.
2Face in a now trending video shared on his Instagram page, clarified that his love for Natasha has nothing to do with his divorce from Annie.
“Honourable Natasha has been dragged, called all sorts of names and has been labelled as a home breaker. She is a young, brilliant and amazing woman.
“She has nothing to do with what’s happening between me and Annie. But everybody trying to allegedly want to rope her into everything. Yes, I love her. I want to marry her,” he said.
The Ashanti Caucus in Parliament has condemned the violent actions that took place on February 11, 2025 at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council during the vote counting for the Ashanti Region’s representative to the Council of State.
Addressing the media in Parliament, the caucus, led by Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, expressed his outrage over what he called a “lawless and disgraceful” act.
He revealed that a group of thugs, allegedly affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and led by Ofori Boadu, also known as Zuba—rumoured to be the NDC’s nominee for the Kumasi Mayor position—stormed the vote counting centre.
According to the Ashanti Caucus, in a brazen act of violence, they forcefully seized the ballot box, attempting to disrupt the election in progress.
The caucus said at the time of the attack, Nana Nkansah Boadu, one of the contenders, was in the lead with 49 votes out of 86.
Mr. Ampratwum-Sarpong, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Mampong, suggested that the interruption occurred as a result of Boadu’s commanding lead, with the assailants seeking to manipulate the process in favour of their preferred candidate.
The MP questioned the NDC’s commitment to democracy, asking, “Is this the democracy that the Mahama-led government claims to uphold? Is this what the NDC stands for in governance?”
He indicated that the Ashanti caucus would not tolerate such actions that undermine the democratic process, pledging to fight against the subversion of the people’s will through violence and intimidation.
The Ashanti caucus called for the immediate arrest of those responsible for the disruption, including Zuba, and demanded they face the full force of the law.
“Ghana is governed by laws, not by thugs,” Mr. Ampratwum-Sarpong declared.
The Ashanti caucus also urged for the prompt resumption of the electoral process, ensuring that the election could continue fairly and without further interference.
Standard Chartered Bank’s recent Market Outlook event has received resounding praise from clients, with many hailing it as the best-in-class wealth and investment forum in Ghana.
The event, held at Kempinski Hotel in Accra, brought together clients, senior executives and experts from the bank to engage on its Market Outlook Report.
The report is a comprehensive publication that provides in-depth analysis of global and local economic trends, financial markets and investment strategies for the year ahead. It serves as a guide for clients, investors and businesses to make informed decisions based on expert forecasts and data-driven insights.
Clients described the forum as “exceptional,” emphasising its relevance in the wake of renewed investor confidence. The sessions covered a wide range of topics, including emerging market opportunities, wealth growth and protection strategies, currency outlooks and strategic asset allocation, all tailored to meet the evolving needs of affluent and high-net-worth individuals.
“Standard Chartered’s Market Outlook wasn’t just another event; it was a masterclass in wealth management. The resources shared were timely, practical and incredibly beneficial,” said a participant at the forum.
The event’s interactive format allowed clients to engage directly with financial experts, ask critical questions and explore investment strategies aligned with the current economic landscape.
According to another client, “In a time when clarity is key, Standard Chartered has set the gold standard. The depth of analysis and the quality of insights provided were unmatched. This is exactly what anyone looking to grow and protect their wealth in Ghana needs.”
Standard Chartered’s commitment to delivering value-added services through thought leadership continues to position the bank as a trusted partner in wealth creation and preservation.
The bank continues to help clients identify sustainable investment approaches that best match their personal values and risk appetites. As clients look ahead into this year, many have expressed confidence in leveraging the insights gained from the Market Outlook to navigate new opportunities.
Omoni Oboli and her husband Nnamdi Oboli opened up about their marriage.
In a recent episode of Pulse Fun Facts, they shared their experiences since getting married, discussing the challenges they encountered and the keys to their enduring relationship.
Nigerian actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli and her husband Nnamdi Oboli opened up about their marriage.
Ken Ofori Atta
Isaac Adongo, the Bolgatanga Central Member of Parliament (MP) has boldly stated that the former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta was the biggest enemy of Ghana’s economy.
According to Isaac Adongo, Ken Ofori-Atta robbed the people of Ghana of their peace and happiness.
He noted that Ken Ofori Atta was the one who embarrassed Ghana globally with a debt restructuring.
The OSP Kissi Agyabeng declared Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive for failing to appear for interrogation into corruption-related investigations.
A project dubbed Women’s Innovation for Sustainable Enterprises (WISE) which benefitted 14,123 women directly has come to an end.
Implemented by Plan International Ghana, as one of four projects under the Global Affairs Canada’s Innovation for Women’s Economic Empowerment in Ghana (IWEEG) initiative, the project was implemented in the Northern, Bono, Bono East and Ahafo regions and was aimed at increased realisation of rights to economic empowerment, well-being and inclusive economic growth for women.
The five-year project directly targeted 12,641 women aged 19 to 55 with 4,046 women to receive agricultural and green business support and indirectly targeted 156,609 people of which 86 per cent were females.
The project had two local partners, Urbanet GH and the Women Integrated Development Organisation (WIDO), as well as other partners from the private and government sectors and 11 Women Rights Organisations (WROs).
The prject was among other things also aimed at strengthening women’s participation in savings groups that provide gender equality, life skills, and business management support in addition to access to financial resources
It was also to build a supportive family and community environment that reinforces women’s role in economic activities, linking women entrepreneurs with women’s rights organisations that can offer peer support and networking and promote women’s economic empowerment through advocacy and influencing
The project also helped to establish women-friendly business hubs including solar-powered hubs to provide a “one-stop-shop” for women entrepreneurs to access gender-responsive business services to start and grow small enterprises as well as provide skills and start-up capital to support women in agribusiness and green business.
The project helped in positioning women-owned businesses to attract and assess credit facilities; as well as improve data sharing, market information and linkages between service providers and stakeholders, including through innovative digital platforms.
Close-out ceremony
At a close-out ceremony in Accra, the Country Director, Plan International Ghana, Constant Tchona said the WISE project asserts that the realisation of economic rights for women was a foundational key contributing to observed improvements in well-being, livelihoods, and healthy family relationships among women, their families, and their communities.
The project he said was another convincing example of the transformation that takes place at the household level when women are supported with an enabling environment to fully participate in economic activities.
Citing a World Bank article “Breaking the ‘Grass Ceiling’: Empowering Women Farmers,” published in March 2018, it said women make up almost half of the agricultural labor force in developing countries, but their productivity was limited by barriers to finance, access to inputs, extension services, and land rights.
He said women’s equal access to land, affordable financial services, and the realisation of their economic rights must be prioritised to achieve economic justice and equality for women adding that investing in women’s economic empowerment sets a direct path toward gender equality, poverty eradication, and inclusive economic growth.
Mr Tchona said the project used Plan International’s life-cycle approach to women’s economic empowerment, which was a holistic methodology aimed at creating an enabling environment for women’s full participation in economic activities explaining that using this approach, WISE worked with partners to implement interventions that sought to reduce barriers for women by addressing social norms, gender inequality, and their links to economic empowerment, provide market-relevant education, training, and skills development, increase access to productive resources, financial inclusion, and digital inclusion among girls and young women, reduce female unpaid care and domestic work among others.
Gender equality matters
The Director, Ghana Programme, High Commission of Canada to Ghana, , Kathleen Flynn Dapaah, in a remark, said the project was successfully implemented due to Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) as it was the fundamental underpinning all of Canada’s development work worldwide.
“We believe that gender equality matters, and that the empowerment of women are central to ending poverty, promoting prosperity and ensuring peace”.
The Chief Executive Officer, Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Seth Twum-Akwaboah in a remark also said at the heart of sustainable development lied a fundamental truth which was that “when rights are realised, growth is inevitable” saying that the WISE initiative had been a testament to this principle, proving that when women have access to opportunities, resources, and an enabling environment, they thrive—and when they thrive, entire communities benefit.
The AGI he said played a crucial role in mentoring 51 selected women, by guiding them through business development strategies, and providing them with the necessary industry insights and networking opportunities.
“At AGI, we believe that empowering women entrepreneurs is key to strengthening Ghana’s economy. Through our mentorship programmes, advocacy efforts, and industry partnerships, we have worked to ensure that these women receive the support, visibility, and resources needed to scale their businesses and create sustainable enterprises.
At the close-out programme some of the women who benefited from the project testified of how WISE has transformed their lives while others also brought some of their products to sale at an exhibition.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has provided explanations regarding the discontinuation of criminal proceedings against more than 10 individuals who were being prosecuted under the erstwhile Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.
Almost all of these cases involved former appointees from President John Dramani Mahama’s first term.
He has withdrawn the case against Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who was being prosecuted for causing financial loss to the state, as well as cases involving Mahama’s former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama; former COCOBOD CEO, Dr. Stephen Opuni; and former Minister for Works and Housing, Alhaji Collins Dauda, among others.
Read his full text below:
Press Conference by Honourable Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, Attorney General and Minister of Justice on Justifications for Decision to Drop Charges in Certain Criminal Prosecutions
Accra, February 12, 2025
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
Upon assumption of office as the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, I have taken decisions on certain prosecutions that were instituted by my predecessors, the Honourable Gloria Akuffo and the Honourable Godfred Yeboah Dame.
Specifically, I decided to drop the criminal charges laid against certain persons including those who served in the Government of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that left office in January 2017. I did so mindful of the fact that I am serving in a government that came to power on the back of promises of exacting accountability from everyone who has served or is serving in public office. I am here today to account to my fellow citizens for the decisions I have taken so far.
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 articles 296 of the Constitution.
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.
In addition, the Constitution requires that my decision to prosecute should not be “capricious or biased whether by resentment, prejudice or personal dislike”.
Before taking any of the decisions I am about to explain, I consulted widely:
1. I had several briefings from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on each of the cases. Where I disagreed with her, I made my disagreement known to her with reasons.
2. I spoke to the defense lawyers in each case and, again, where there were disagreements, as for instance in the banking clean-up cases which I shall deal with shortly, I made my views known to the lawyers.
3. I spoke to some of the investigators involved in the cases at hand to get a sense of what they found during their investigations of the cases.
4. Finally, I met with and discussed the banking sector cases with at least one of the receivers involved in these cases. I have scheduled a meeting with the second receiver.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
The traditional view within the legal profession has always been that the Attorney General owes nobody an explanation for his decision to enter a nolle prosequi (Latin for “there shall be no prosecution”) or terminate a prosecution. But that view does not comport with the architecture of our Constitution, and I absolutely disagree with it. As ably articulated by Pwamang JSC in his concurring opinion in Gregory Afoko vrs Attorney General, Suit No. J1/8/2019, Supreme Court, 19th June 2019, at p. 20:
“The decisions to prosecute and to terminate prosecution of suspected offenders is a matter of immense public interest. Furthermore, it affects the rights of the suspected offenders who may be compelled to suffer the indignation of prosecution when there is seriously no point in mounting prosecution on the facts of the case. It is because of these considerations that the modern trend in democracies is for prosecutorial authorities to be open about the factors on which they take the decisions to initiate or terminate prosecutions.”
Therefore, my decision to be open and transparent about the factors animating the entry of nolle prosequi in some cases and withdrawal of others is not only because I wish to avoid accusations of partiality and or capitulation to political pressure but also to comply with the constitutional requirements stated in article 296 of the Constitution. Moreso, in the best ethics of the legal profession, every lawyer is mandated to act in the best interest of his client and no lawyer worth his or her salt will purport to act in the best interest of the client by doing so on the blindside of the client.
As Attorney General, my only client is the Republic of Ghana represented by its sovereign people. And as stated above, I intend to provide the reasons for my decisions in the cases in which I have either entered a nolle prosequi or withdrawn the charges laid against the accused persons involved to my fellow citizens who have entrusted this power to me through the President of the Republic.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
Before I proceed to assign the reasons for my decision in each of the cases, I wish to crave your indulgence to provide a brief explanation of the technical difference between the entry of a nolle prosequi and the withdrawal of charges. The power to enter a nolle prosequi is contained in section 54 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30). Pursuant to this provision, the Attorney General may enter a nolle prosequi at any stage of a criminal trial.
The statute does not itself require the Attorney General to provide any reasons for his decision to abate proceedings by entering the nolle prosequi. However, as I have made clear above, the constitutional principles in article 296 impose an obligation on the Attorney General to be candid in the exercise of discretionary power and I cannot fathom how one can be candid without explaining one’s actions.
When a nolle prosequi is used by the Attorney General to terminate proceedings in a criminal trial, he reserves the right to bring fresh charges against the accused person in the future. In contrast, the Attorney General may terminate criminal proceedings by withdrawing the charges against an accused person pursuant to section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30).
Where the charges are withdrawn after the prosecution has closed its case, then the legal effect of the withdrawal is that the accused is deemed to have been acquitted and discharged. So, in all the cases in which I have withdrawn the charges against the accused persons, and the prosecution has closed its case, those accused persons are considered to have been acquitted and discharged.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
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. 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.
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.
Also, it is important to highlight the fact that in most of the cases in which I have terminated proceedings, the conduct of some of the individual judges left much to be desired. I will deal with the issue of judicial conduct in my concluding remarks. Suffice it to say that it raises the specter of lack of fairness in criminal proceedings where a judge is seen to be overly hostile to the accused and unreservedly deferential to the prosecution.
Now to my first substantive reason for dropping charges in some of the cases. As noted above, for purely ethical and professional reasons, I could not in good conscience continue to exercise my prosecutorial authority under article 88(3) in some of the cases. These cases were the Republic v. Cassiel Ato Forson & Another and Republic v. Ofosu Ampofo & Another.
This is because I was deeply involved as counsel in these two cases. In the case of Republic v. Ato Forson, I was not counsel of record but my junior partner, Godwin Kudzo Tameklo was. As a team, we discussed our case strategy in chambers, and I was involved in reviewing legal arguments and in some instances authoring some of the arguments that we filed. I believed then and still believe now that the Honourable Ato Forson was the victim of a political witch-hunt and that he had no case to answer in that trial.
That position was vindicated by the erudite judgment of the Court of Appeal which ruled that the trial court erred in calling upon the accused persons to mount their defence. When the then Attorney General vowed to file an appeal and actually went ahead to do so, I took the view that it was done to save face and that there was not a scintilla of merit to his appeal. Indeed, the appeal was, to say the least, incompetent.
My involvement in the case of Republic v. Ofosu Ampofo & Another is a matter of public record. At the initial stages of the trial, I was on record as counsel with the venerable Tony Lithur and my former boss, the Honourable Marietta Brew. It was our position as a team that the charges against the Honourable Ofosu Ampofo were trumped up and motivated purely by politics. I still stand by that view.
Ethically, a prosecutor should and must have the courage of his convictions and must remain fearless to stand by those convictions even in the face of a severe storm of public criticism. Strident criticism should not be reason why a self-respecting prosecutor must abandon his professional convictions in favor of political praise.
So, I am owning up to stand by the professional decision I took that in my current position as Attorney General, and the prosecutor for that matter, I was not going to suddenly recant my position and continue to prosecute the accused persons in the two cases. No new evidence has been presented to me upon assumption of office as Attorney General to cause me to abandon my professional convictions.
As an aside, in any decent constitutional democracy, the disgraceful and unethical conduct of the former Attorney General in interfering with a key witness who also happened to be the second accused in the Ato Forson case should have resulted automatically in a mistrial. But let us leave that for another day.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
The second reason why I dropped the charges in some of the cases, as I stated above, is that the charges were defective and, upon careful scrutiny, were filed against the promptings of plain commonsense. In the case of the Republic v. Collins Dauda & Others, for instance, the first accused was charged with misapplying public property (funds) in the sum of Two Hundred Million United States Dollars (USD200million).
In laying the charges, the prosecution failed and or neglected to take account of the basic fact that it was part of that US$200m that was used to construct the houses at Saglemi. 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 Honourable Collins Dauda. Discounting the value of the built environment renders the charge defective.
The prosecution in this case also failed and or neglected to take account of payments that were made by other Ministers who took office after the Honourable Collins Dauda. For instance, the Honourable Atta Akyea as Minister of Works and Housing approved a payment to the tune of US$5million in 2017. That ought to have been considered in determining the value of state funds that the Honourable Collins Dauda had misapplied.
In criminal law, an accused is entitled to know with precision the crime that he has committed and the burden that he must discharge in order to prove his innocence. This is basic criminal jurisprudence and the charges in this case failed to meet the standard of precision required to put an accused person on notice of his criminal liability.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
The third reason why I dropped the charges in some of the cases was that the evidence adduced so far fell significantly short of what was required to convict the accused and yet the state pressed on with the prosecution. I consider that to be a total waste of state resources. As noted by Pwamang JSC in Afoko v. Attorney General, the prosecution may enter a nolle prosequi in situations where upon review of the proceedings, the Attorney General detects fatal flaws in the case which may lead to the acquittal of an accused person. In other words, a nolle prosequi may be entered to avoid a possible verdict against the prosecution.
My review of some of the cases certainly revealed fatal flaws in the case of the prosecution. A few examples are in order. In two of the banking trials still on-going, I took the decision to withdraw the charges against Johnson Pundit Asiama for the simple reason that in the course of my review of the cases, my attention was drawn to an internal memo prepared by the Prosecutions Division of the Department for the attention of the former Attorney General which recommended that the charges against him be dropped.
Note that Johnson Pundit Asiama was charged with contravention of the Bank of Ghana Act for granting a facility of Ghs300million to Universal Merchant Bank and for causing financial loss to the state in the sum of Ghs150million. The internal memo concluded as follows:
“A study of the facts of the case indicates that the initial facility of Ghs300 million has been recovered, leaving GHS150 million outstanding. The Office has confirmed from the Bank of Ghana (through Mr. Alexander Taah, PW2), that the interest from the outstanding amount is presently being serviced by UMB Bank. Mr. Taah also indicated that UMB has an amount of GHS150 million locked up with CBG. It is expected that when the said sum is released to UMB, the loan amount for which A3 [Johnson Pundit Asiama] was charged with causing financial loss will be repaid to the Bank of Ghana. This therefore may render the charges proffered against A3 moot, leading to his discharge.”
Obviously, the former Attorney General failed to act on these recommendations which were made to him by the Prosecutions Division. If he disagreed with the recommendations, I am unable to say but I agree with them. Based upon these recommendations, I dropped the charges against Johnson Pundit Asiama in both the Unibank and UT Bank cases. In coming to this decision, I am fortified by the Rule 40(2)(a) of the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules, 2020 (L.I. 2423) which provides that, in a criminal case, a prosecutor shall refrain from prosecuting a charge that the prosecutor knows is not supported by the facts.
But note that I have not yet dropped the charges against the remaining accused persons because I am currently in discussions with the receivers in order to understand the financial implications of any decision I may take in these cases.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media:
My third reason for dropping the charges 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, as stated earlier, the ethics of the legal profession mandate that a prosecutor should not continue to pursue a case in the face of overwhelming doubt regarding the guilt of the accused. In other words, where a charge is not supported by the facts and evidence, a prosecutor is ethically enjoined to drop the charges.
In the case of Republic v. Stephen Opuni & Another, the entire case was built around the fact that an untested liquid fertilizer, Lithovit fertilizer, was purchased by COCOBOD and further that this fertilizer was not efficacious. In the event, according to the case of the state, all sums of money spent by COCOBOD to purchase this fertilizer caused a financial loss to the state.
Rather strangely, not a single farmer was called by the Prosecution to prove this fact. On the contrary, officials at COCOCBOD 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 this Lithovit fertilizer to the granular fertilizer. More importantly, in the course of the investigation, COCOBOD took statements from two farmers. Whiles 1 (one) stated that he did not see any significant change on his farm, the second farmer stated that after using Lithovit fertilizer, he saw a significant increase in yield, and that Lithovit fertilizer is a very good fertilizer.
Again, in the course of the trial, the defence tended an official report from COCOBOD which covered field visits by COCOBOD officials. The report, which was tendered, is to the effect that Lithovit fertilizer is a very good fertilizer and that farmers actually preferred Lithovit fertilizer to other fertilizers and was the fertilizer of choice in areas in which Lithovit fertilizer was supplied. This is clear evidence that contrary to the case of the Prosecution, the use of Lithovit fertilizer rather increased yield. The farmers who used Lithovit fertilizer, including the then national best farmer, in their evidence testified that Lithovit fertilizer use increased their yield and that Lithovit fertilizer is a good fertilizer.
During the course of their investigations, the investigators had two reports from Ghana Standards Authority on Lithovit fertilizer. The first report, which was later confirmed to have been done at the cosmetics department (the department which doesn’t have the mandate to test lithovit) of the Ghana Standards Authority, indicated that the sample of Lithovit fertilizer submitted for testing did not have any fertilizer ingredient in it.
This finding was challenged by the accused persons and the investigators, together with representatives of COCOBOD, and the suppliers of Lithovit fertilizer took a second sample from the warehouse of COCOBOD. This sample which was again tested by the same Ghana Standard Authority, but this time, by the proper department with the mandate to test fertilizers, concluded that the samples taken was the fertilizer and that the fertilizer was efficacious.
Furthermore, it is interesting to note that in this case, the complainant Dr. Adu Ampomah who was the 3rd prosecuting witness, PW3, lied under oath, to implicate the accused persons for which reason a perjury application was filed by Dr. Stephen Kwabena Opuni against him. The then trial judge, Justice Honyenuga, for reasons which are totally unacceptable, did not hear the application, but rather stated that hearing the application would prejudice hearing of the main case. He therefore adjourned the application until the conclusion of the case. This is most unacceptable because in a criminal trial it is important to hold the scale of justice evenly and any doubt raised must inure to the benefit of the accused.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media and my fellow country men and women:
The judiciary in our country is independent under the Constitution. In the context of criminal justice, judges demonstrate their independence by remaining neutral and impartial arbiters in disputes between the state and individual citizens. The scales of justice must be held in a delicate balance between the obligation of the state to prosecute crime and the right of the accused to a fair trial. Conduct by judges that undermines the fair trial rights of citizens should be concerning to the prosecution.
Without meaning to impugn the integrity of any of the judges who were involved in the cases in respect of which I have either entered a nolle prosequi or withdrawn the charges, I am deeply concerned not only about the conduct of some of the judges but also concerned about the fact that the executive branch took certain actions that could be reasonably interpreted as inducements to convict the accused persons. An ethical prosecutor must endeavor to protect the innocent and convict the guilty and one cannot do so if the judiciary is not impartial.
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 their submission of no-case, he was far from portraying a vraisemblance of neutrality. Indeed, he directly undermined the fair trial rights of the accused persons. Again, when, in accordance with law and practice, Justice Anokye Gyimah decided he was going to hold a de novo trial in the same Opuni case, he was instantly transferred to Kumasi and the case was allocated to a new judge who then proceeded to adopt the proceedings.
Also, the decisions by the executive branch of government to promote some judges who were sitting on some of the cases is very concerning. The perception whether true or not is that the promotion may be an inducement to convict the accused persons.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media and my fellow country men and women:
In conclusion, I wish to make it clear that I did not take these decisions lightly. As I indicated above, I consulted widely and reviewed the files diligently before coming to a decision on each of the cases. You would note that in some cases, such as the SSNIT case and the banking cases, I withdrew charges against some of the accused persons while others are under consideration. I am keenly aware of the need to balance the public interest against the interests and rights of the accused persons.
Also, as Attorney General, I take absolute responsibility for all the decisions taken so far. I am not under any instructions or pressure to discontinue any case or to bring charges against one. Those who are in a haste to tag 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. Moreover, with the exception of one charge of bribery in the Opuni matter in respect of which no evidence was led, none of the persons affected by my decisions so far has looted state resources.
There is a gulf of difference between the offense of causing financial loss to the state and the offenses of bribery, corruption or that of using public office for private gain. In the latter offenses, the individual charged can be accurately labelled as looters; in the former it would be thoroughly unfair and defamatory to label the accused as persons who have looted state resources.
Thank you and God bless you.
MAG/MA
You can also watch what an NPP MP said after OSP’s declaration of Ofori-Atta wanted below:
Germany-based Ghanaian socialite, Turey, has detailed how she had three abortions before attaining the age of seventeen.
In a discussion on Angel TV on February 12, 2025, Turey explained that she had her first abortion at the age of fourteen while in a boarding school in Ghana.
She also detailed how she aborted two different pregnancies while in senior high school.
“In secondary school, I got pregnant twice. During my third pregnancy, my mother got fed up and wanted me to abort it. So, I told her if I would, then she should allow me to stay with her in Germany. She agreed right after aborting the baby, which was twins,” she added.
Turey explained that her mother also connived with a doctor to abort a pregnancy without her knowledge.
“I didn’t complete secondary school in Ghana because I got pregnant at the age of 14 while in a boarding school. The person who impregnated me was also 16 years old.
“My mother was aware of the pregnancy, so she spoke with a doctor, and they aborted it. The doctor told me I had an infection, and it was through that he aborted it.”
Watch the video below:
You can also watch what an NPP MP said after OSP’s declaration of Ofori-Atta wanted below:
Former minister Ken Ofori-Atta and Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, on February 12, 2025, declared former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive, who is wanted for corruption and corruption-related offences.
Kissi Agyebeng, at a press conference in Accra, explained that he had to declare Ofori-Atta, who is currently outside Ghana, a fugitive because his actions showed that he never intended to return to the country to present himself to investigators of his office after several invitations.
Details of correspondence between the lawyers of the former Minister of Finance and the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) have now emerged.
The content of a letter from Ofori-Atta’s lawyers to the OSP, shared by 3news.com, shows that the former minister told the Special Prosecutor’s office he could not present himself in person because he was out of the country.
“We write as Solicitors for Kenneth Ofori-Atta in respect of the above subject and refer to your letter dated 24th January 2025. We are informed by our client that a letter dated the 24th day of January 2025 was left at our client’s security post for his attention. Our client had been out of the country and therefore not in his home in Ghana at the time.
“The said letter has been brought to our attention on the instructions of our client, who is still out of Ghana. The said letter is inviting our client to attend in person at your offices on Monday, 10th February 2025, at 10 a.m.,” part of the letter is quoted.
The lawyers also indicated that Ofori-Atta was out of the country to seek medical attention, after which he could determine when he would be returning to Ghana.
It added that the former minister did inform the former Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, and the current Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, of his medical travel.
“Our client gave notice to the former Chief of Staff in early January and, more recently, to the current Chief of Staff of his trip outside the country on medical grounds. Our client is currently undergoing medical observation and tests, culminating in medical decisions to be taken in due course as to the way forward with treatment. After that, he will have a better idea of when he is able to proceed to Ghana,” the statement reads.
The lawyers then wrote that they would inform the OSP when he would be returning to the country so they could schedule a meeting.
“We are therefore humbly bringing to your attention that we shall give you notice of his arrival in the country so as to reschedule your invitation to him for the purposes as stated in the heading of your letter under reference.”
They concluded the letter by saying that they would be assisting the OSP with its investigation until Ofori-Atta returns.
“We are, however, able and willing to provide you with any information you may require to aid in your investigations until our client is back in the country for any in-person investigations outlined in the said letter.”
At the press conference on Wednesday, the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, said the medical excuse given by the lawyers was just to ensure that he did not return to the country.
“The OSP is unconvinced that the purported medical letter transmitted by Mr. Ofori-Atta through his lawyers to the OSP represents a medical report to the effect that Mr. Ofori-Atta is incapacitated or is so sickly an invalid to the extent that he is physically unable to return to the jurisdiction without imperilling his life.
“No serious law enforcement agency would be convinced that the purported medical letter estops it from demanding the physical appearance of Mr. Ofori-Atta before it in the described circumstances. And certainly not the OSP. We are of the firm conviction that it is only a ruse employed by Mr. Ofori-Atta in aid of his intention to avoid his return to the jurisdiction and to personally answer questions in respect of the investigations,” he said.
BAI/EK
You can also watch as John Jinapor narrates how National Security took his phone and laptop to the UK in 2017
The Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) has strongly refuted allegations published by The Herald, an Accra-based newspaper, describing the claims as false and misleading.
The allegations, centered on the Fund’s financial transactions and governance practices, have prompted MIIF to issue a detailed response to set the record straight.
In a press statement issued on February 13, 2025, the state-owned Fund categorically denied the newspaper’s claim of a GH¢1.5 billion transfer within its accounts.
The Fund also emphasized that all its financial transactions are conducted under strict regulatory approval and oversight.
“All financial transactions undertaken by MIIF are conducted with full regulatory approval and oversight,” the statement read.
The newspaper publication also revisited the ongoing audit of MIIF’s financials, an issue the Fund had previously addressed.
However, MIIF expressed surprise at the renewed focus, especially given that the audit is being conducted by the Ghana Audit Service, a constitutionally mandated body responsible for auditing public institutions.
The Fund reiterated that the audit process remains transparent and accountable.
“The Ghana Audit Service is an independent institution tasked with ensuring financial integrity, and MIIF is fully cooperating with the audit process,” the statement mentioned.
The Herald further alleged that MIIF had made unauthorized payments to a mysterious company, specifically mentioning an alleged US$10 million disbursement to BH Minerals but the MIIF dismissed this assertion unequivocally.
“There have been no illegal disbursements of funds to any company, including the alleged US$10 million payments to BH Minerals,” MIIF clarified.
The Fund reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to adhering to the Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) and sound corporate governance principles.
“MIIF remains committed to due process and ensures that all financial transactions align with the Public Financial Management Act and other governing regulations,” the release stated.
Providing additional context, MIIF highlighted its core mandate which include maximizing Ghana’s mineral wealth to support national development.
Since its inception, the Fund has facilitated significant investments in the mining sector, contributing to job creation, infrastructure development, and increased state revenue.
Recent initiatives by MIIF include strategic investments in critical minerals like lithium and bauxite, which are expected to play a pivotal role in Ghana’s industrialization agenda.
The Fund has also supported community development projects in mining areas, ensuring that the benefits of mineral wealth reach local communities.
MIIF reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and its intention to continue engaging with stakeholders through periodic updates on its financial reviews and strategic initiatives.
“Our focus remains on maximizing Ghana’s mineral wealth for national development while upholding the highest standards of corporate governance,” the statement concluded.
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has raised concerns over the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) decision to retain Otto Addo as Black Stars manager despite his poor results.
The minister argued that, based on performance data, the head coach should not have been kept in the role.
He also questioned the rationale behind making changes to the backroom staff while maintaining the head coach.
“The data is very poor—terrible. If we were looking at just the data, there’s no way this decision would have been made. That’s why the GFA chose to remove the entire backroom staff. It was surprising, however, that the head coach was retained while the rest were let go. Looking at the numbers alone, it’s a clear no,” he told Metro TV.
However, Adams acknowledged that there might be underlying reasons for the GFA’s decision and stated that the Ministry will engage with the FA to assess the rationale behind it.
“Something must have influenced that decision, perhaps financial considerations or enhancements to the technical team. An engagement with the GFA will help clarify what led to this choice.”
Despite the criticism, the GFA have reaffirmed its confidence in Otto Addo and tasked him with securing Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Black Stars management committee chairman Dr. Randy Abbey confirmed the decision, emphasizing the need to shift focus towards upcoming qualifiers.
“We believe the GFA have already made its decision,” Abbey told Original FM.
“The GFA is keeping Otto Addo. Right now, our priority is the World Cup qualifiers starting in March. We must reverse the poor results that led to our failure to qualify for AFCON and put the Black Stars back on the winning path.”
Otto Addo will look to redeem himself when Ghana faces Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
The Sports Minister has no clue why Otto Addo kept his job. He should ask questions since he will be the man paying Otto’s salary? 😡 pic.twitter.com/umc6qLLLVu
Dzodze (V/R), Feb. 13, GNA – The Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Mr. Eric Edem Agbana, has expressed his willingness to collaborate with individuals, businesses, and NGOs to implement aggressive STEM programmes in the constituency.
Speaking on the occasion of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on February 11, Mr. Agbana highlighted the urgent need to bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.
“I have been reflecting deeply on the lack of opportunities and limited access to STEM education for many young girls in my beloved Ketu North constituency. The reality is stark, and the gap is undeniable,” he stated.
Mr. Agbana emphasised his commitment to expanding access to STEM education, ensuring that more young girls were equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to pursue careers in science and technology.
Through initiatives such as the ‘Computer for All Schools Project’ and the ‘Edem Agbana Scholarship Scheme’, the MP and his team are taking concrete steps to bridge this gap.
He noted that on Saturday, February 15, 141 young women will be among 280 beneficiaries of the ‘Edem Agbana Scholarship Scheme’. However, he expressed concern that only a small number of them were enrolled in STEM-related programmes.
“There is still so much more to do. The challenge before us may seem daunting, but leadership is about rising to the occasion and providing solutions where others see obstacles,” he remarked.
Reaffirming his openness to partnerships, Mr. Agbana invited individuals, companies, and NGOs to work with him in promoting STEM education in Ketu North.
“I am very open to partnering with individuals, companies, and NGOs to run aggressive STEM programmes in Ketu North,” he declared.
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an annual observance adopted by the United Nations General Assembly to promote equal access and participation of women in STEM fields.
It seeks to empower young girls and women to pursue careers in science, breaking barriers that have historically limited their involvement.
With Mr. Agbana’s dedication and call for collaboration, Ketu North is poised to make significant strides in STEM education, particularly for young girls.
A High Court in Accra has set March 3, 2025, to decide whether or not the Office of the Attorney General has made a sufficient case against the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, who is standing trial for forgery among others, to mount a defence.
This was after the prosecution closed its case, having called six (6) witnesses in a bid to establish the guilt of the MP who is accused of deceit in the process of acquiring a Ghanaian passport.
Mr. Quayson has been charged with five counts of deceit of public officer, forgery of passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory statement, perjury and false declaration of office.
The offences relate to the MP’s activities in the run up to the 2020 parliamentary election, where he allegedly acquired a Ghanaian passport without renouncing his Canadian citizenship as well as making a statutory declaration on his nomination form that he owed allegiance to no country other than Ghana.
The prosecution had recalled its fifth witness yesterday to tender in the original and the full compliments of certain documents but was unable to do so because the documents were yet to be made available by the Passport Office and the Electoral Commission.
He, however, tendered in evidence the Parliamentary Nomination of the MP and was briefly cross-examined by Tsatsu Tsikata, counsel for the accused.
The witness insisted that the MP, at the time he was filing his nomination, had both Ghanaian and Canadian citizenship.
“I say so because a copy his Canadian passport which came to my custody during investigation was authenticated by the Canadian High Commission in Ghana,” he added.
Esi Dentaa Yankah, a Principal State Attorney, after the witness was discharged, told the court the prosecution was closing its case.
Justice Mary Yanzuh, the trial judge, therefore, directed both the accused and the prosecution to file the submission of no case and a response to same simultaneously within two weeks.
The court adjourned the case to March 3, 2025, to rule on whether the embattled MP needs to mount a defence.
Meanwhile, the prosecution says it will still take steps to furnish the accused person with certain documents he requested during the prosecution’s case.
Madam Yankah told the court that “with respect to the disclosure of further documents, we keep in mind that the duty to disclose is ongoing and continues, and we are making efforts to obtain those originals and make them available once received, regardless of the close of our case.”
The government is exploring the possibility of increasing the National Service Scheme (NSS) allowance as part of efforts to ease the financial burden on personnel, Acting Director of the Ghana National Service Authority (NSA), Felix Gyamfi, has revealed.
Speaking on Joy FM’s PM Express on Wednesday, February 12, Gyamfi assured that President John Mahama is prioritizing the welfare of service personnel and actively considering an increment.
Alhaji Kassim presenting the money to the directorate
The Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has donated GHS100,000 to the Effutu Health Directorate to support their effort in combating the cholera outbreak.
According to the GHS report, three persons have been confirmed dead with 29 positive cases being managed.
Former Municipal Chief Executive for the Effutu Municipality, Alhaji Zubairu Kassim, presented the cash on behalf of the MP and appealed to residents to participate in an upcoming clean-up exercise to ensure the eradication of cholera in Winneba.
Residents of Effutu have commended Afenyo-Markin for his continuous support of the health needs of the people in the Municipality.
This donation is just one example of his commitment to improving the lives of his constituents.
Afenyo-Markin has also urged the Health Ministry to release resources immediately to the Effutu Municipal Health Directorate to prevent further escalation of the outbreak.
In a letter dated February 11, 2025, Afenyo-Markin highlighted the alarming rise in suspected cholera cases, which have now reached 412, with three reported deaths. Cases have been recorded at key health facilities, including the Winneba Municipal Hospital, Winneba Health Centre, and the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Clinic.
According to the Minority Leader, the outbreak has placed severe strain on local health facilities and personnel, particularly in coastal areas where infections are rapidly increasing.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin has called on the Minister of Health to provide immediate support to combat the outbreak, emphasizing the need for financial and logistical support to facilitate sanitation efforts, fuel costs, medical supplies, and public health education campaigns.
He expressed hope for a swift response to safeguard public health in the affected communities.
Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, Dr. Daniel McKorley
Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, Dr. Daniel McKorley, i February last year asserted that the local economy was largely controlled by foreigners.
Speaking at the 2023 Annual New Year School and Conference at the University of Ghana, Legon, Dr Daniel McKorley said, “Ghanaian businessmen, don’t control any sector of this country, rather, we contribute, in fact, all sectors in Ghana are controlled by foreigners.”
Read the full story originally published on February 12, 2024 by www.ghanaweb.com.
Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies, Dr. Daniel McKorley, has expressed concern about the disparity in Ghana’s economy and lack of control by indigenes.
According to him, the economy, has over the years, been largely controlled by foreigners while Ghanaians only play a contributory role.
Speaking at the 2023 Annual New Year School and Conference at the University of Ghana, Legon, Dr Daniel McKorley said, “Ghanaian businessmen, don’t control any sector of this country, rather, we contribute, in fact, all sectors in Ghana are controlled by foreigners.”
“Banking is controlled by Nigerians and South Africans, retail is controlled by Lebanese and Indians, manufacturing is controlled by Indians and Lebanese, telecoms sector is controlled by British and South Africans, oil and gas, mining, trading, you name it, they are controlled by foreigners,” Dr McKorley pointed out.
Touching on how foreign dominance in Ghana’s economy can be addressed, McDan urged for competent Ghanaian companies to be given first-right opportunities in growth industries.
He also called for the participation of Ghanaian businesses to participate in key sectors of the economy.
“We must know this, small businesses don’t build nations, big businesses do. When the big businesses lead the way, they build small businesses around and push growth and become the true engine of growth,” he stressed.
The 2023 Annual New Year School and Conference is ‘Positioning the African market for sustainable economic development through African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)’.
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An X user, Peace Ighodaro, has reacted to the engagement of 2Face and his lover, Natasha Osawuru, stating that she is making a mistake.
She stated this on Thursday, ina tweet via her verified handle on X.
Note that the singer has been making rounds on the social media since announcing his separation from his wife, Annie and revealing that he is in a relationship with Natasha Osawuru, majority leader of the Edo state House of Assembly.
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and for ladies, it’s the perfect occasion to showcase style, elegance, and a touch of romance. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner date, attending a fancy event, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, choosing the right outfit can help you feel confident, beautiful, and ready to embrace the day. Here are some outfit ideas to inspire your Valentine’s look.
Romantic Dresses: The Ultimate Choice
When it comes to Valentine’s Day, a romantic dress is always a safe and stunning choice. Opt for soft hues like red, pink, or even classic black, which exude romance and sophistication. A red midi or maxi dress, whether it’s flowy or form-fitting, can be perfect for an elegant evening. Lace, satin, or silk fabrics can add a touch of luxury, while intricate details like ruffles, bows, or floral patterns can make the outfit feel even more feminine and special.
If you’re looking for something more playful, a pink or blush-colored dress with a flattering silhouette—such as a fit-and-flare or wrap dress—adds a modern yet romantic vibe. For a chic yet cozy option, a sweater dress paired with over-the-knee boots can give off both warmth and style.
Chic Jumpsuits or Rompers
For those who want to break away from traditional dresses, jumpsuits or rompers can be a stylish alternative. Opt for a form-fitting design with statement sleeves or a deep V-neckline to add sophistication. A jumpsuit in red or deep burgundy can bring a fresh twist to your Valentine’s Day ensemble, offering both comfort and a fashionable edge.
Accessorizing for the Perfect Look
The key to completing any Valentine’s outfit is the right accessories. Delicate jewelry, such as a pair of sparkling earrings, a dainty necklace, or a charm bracelet, can elevate your outfit without overpowering it. A stylish handbag in a complementary color and a pair of classic heels, whether in nude or metallic shades, can tie everything together.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, and your outfit should make you feel just as special. Whether you choose a romantic dress, a chic jumpsuit, or a cozy yet fashionable ensemble, make sure to choose something that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident. With the right outfit, you’ll be ready to embrace the day and create lasting memories.
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has declared former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta wanted for allegations of corruption and corruption-related offences, including the release of state funds for the construction of the National Cathedral project.
The Office says it is investigating the former minister in four high-profile cases, including the contractual arrangements between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for the stated objective of the enhancement of revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector, upstream petroleum production and minerals and metals resources value chain.
It is also investigating him for the termination of a distribution loss reduction and associated network improvement project contract between Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Beijing Technology (BXC).
Again, the OSP says it is investigating Mr. Ofori-Atta for the procurement of contractors and materials and activities, as well as payments in respect of the National Cathedral project.
The fourth case has to do with “activities and payments in respect of a contract awarded by the Ministry of Health initially commenced by the Ministry of Special Developments Initiatives to service Ghana Auto Group Limited for purchases and after sales service and maintenance of 307 Mercedes Benz sprinter ambulances for the National Ambulance Service.”
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, speaking at a press conference where he declared the former minister a fugitive, indicated that Mr. Ofori-Atta was asked to appear at the OSP in person on February 10, 2025 at 10GMT for an interview, but he chose to instruct his lawyers to inform the OSP that he was out of the jurisdiction indefinitely on medical grounds.
“A few minutes ago, I signed a directive declaring a high-profile person a fugitive from justice. The person is wanted by the OSP to answer charges in respect of several cases… the fugitive’s name is Ken Ofori-Atta,” the Special Prosecutor announced.
The OSP further indicated that it is clear that Mr. Ofori-Atta has no intention of willingly returning to the jurisdiction, hence the OSP would take all necessary legal steps to secure his return to the jurisdiction and attendance at the OSP.
“Mr. Ofori-Atta, you have two choices. You can either return to the jurisdiction voluntarily or the OSP will enforce your return,” he added.
Home Raid
Meanwhile, the OSP has denied any involvement with the armed individuals who allegedly raided the home of the former minister.
“That could not have been the OSP, and that is not our style. If the OSP enters your premises, you will not be in doubt as to where the OSP had come from, and your lawyers will not have cause to inquire as to whether it was the OSP,” Mr. Agyebeng said at the press conference.
According to him, information gathered by the Office suggests that the raid was either staged or at best perpetrated by certain individuals to discredit the OSP.
Ken’s Lawyers
Mr. Ofori-Atta’s lawyers had written to the OSP indicating that the former minister was out of the country on health grounds – undergoing observation and tests culminating in medical decisions to be taken in due course as to the way forward with treatment.
The lawyers however, indicated that they are “able and willing to provide you with any information you may require to aid in your investigations until our client is back in the country for any in-person investigations outlined in the said letter.”
OSP Disagrees
But Kissi Agyebeng, in response to the letter, indicated that the “OSP is unconvinced that the purported medical letter transmitted by Mr. Ofori-Atta through his lawyers to the OSP represents a medical report to the effect that Mr. Ofori-Atta is incapacitated or is so sickly an invalid to the extent that he is physically unable to return to the jurisdiction without imperiling his life.”
He said no serious law enforcement agency would be convinced that the purported medical letter stops it from demanding the physical appearance of Mr. Ofori-Atta before it in the described circumstances. And certainly not the OSP.
“We are of the firm conviction that it is only a ruse employed by Mr. Ofori-Atta in aid of his intention to avoid his return to the jurisdiction and to personally answer questions in respect of the investigations,” he added.
Ghanaian Afrobeats singer Olivetheboy has received a plaque from Audiomack after achieving a significant milestone by surpassing 100 million streams on the streaming platform.
This accomplishment underscores his rapid ascent in the music industry and the widespread appeal of his sound.
Born Joel Ofori Bonsu on October 19th, 2002, in Konongo, Ghana, Olivetheboy embarked on his musical journey in 2020 after completing his education at Opoku Ware Senior High School.
His debut EP, AVANA released in May 2023, features the standout track GOODSIN, which played a pivotal role in propelling him to prominence. The song became the most streamed in Ghana in the first half of 2023.
In recognition of his burgeoning talent and growing influence, Olivetheboy secured a deal with Sony Music’s Columbia Records through its subsidiary Bu Vision Entertainment in August 2023.
This partnership aims to amplify his presence on the global stage.
As Olivetheboy continues to break barriers and set new records, the global music community keenly anticipates his future projects and contributions to the Afrobeats genre.
The Nigerian American writer and director Julius Onah has joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Onah, whose credits include “Luce” and the sci-fi thriller “The Cloverfield Paradox,” is the director of Marvel’s latest offering “Captain America: Brave New World.”
Legal practitioner and host of JoyNews’ Newsfile, Samson Lardy Anyenini, has lauded Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine for his decision to explain why several high-profile court cases were discontinued.
In a social media post, Anyenini pointed out that while the Supreme Court has ruled that an Attorney General is not legally bound to justify a nolle prosequi or case withdrawal, Dr. Ayine has chosen to break from tradition by offering public explanations for such decisions, especially in cases of national interest.
The North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tia, has reaffirmed his commitment to combating insecurity, including armed robbery, by implementing effective measures designed to safeguard lives and property.
He emphasised the importance of a coordinated approach involving law enforcement agencies, community engagement and preventive strategies to enhance security in the region.
The Regional Minister gave the assurance during an interaction with security personnel and residents at Naliregu, as part of measures in response to rising concerns about safety and the need to protect citizens.
Mr Tia acknowledged the concerns of commuters who often face attacks on major highways.
He assured the people that his administration would collaborate with the Upper East Regional Minister and security agencies to ensure an effective response to increasing security threats.
“The safety of our citizens is our top priority. We will enhance security operations in high-crime areas, boost police patrols, and set up emergency response teams to address any threats promptly,” Mr Tia stated.
He appealed to the police and other security agencies to beef up security to clamp down on the high rate of indiscipline.
“Indiscipline is gradually rearing its ugly head in our once peaceful and morally respected region. It’s unfortunate our township is drifting away from the way for which it was established by our forefathers. It’s time we stamp authority on this anti-social canker,” Mr Tia added.
He then appealed to residents to be vigilant and report crimes and violence to the police.
Minister Tia cautioned that any person or group of persons caught engaging in criminal activities would be dealt with severely to deter others.
He again indicated that “the days of criminal gangs tormenting residents of the region are over, and the security agencies would deal with any crime swiftly.”
Mr Tia lamented that recently, a number of lives had been lost through robberies, and called on the residents to volunteer information to the security agencies in order to apprehend persons who were perpetrating various crimes in the region.
Dr. Johnson Asiama has been nominated as Bank of Ghana Governor
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has disclosed information regarding how the former Attorney General, Godfred Dame, disregarded recommendations from state prosecutors in the case involving the newly appointed Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama.
He stated during a press conference on February 12, 2025, that a communique was sent to Godfred Dame’s office by the state prosecutors, advising against prosecuting Dr. Asiama on the criminal charges brought against him in the trial over the closure of some banks, recommending that the charges be dropped. The communique emphasised the lack of credible and crucial evidence to substantiate the case.
“… my attention was drawn to an internal memo prepared by the Prosecutions Division of the Department for the attention of the former Attorney General which recommended that the charges against him be dropped.”
The Bolgatanga East lawmaker further noted that Dame failed to act on the recommendations and, as a result, chose to proceed with the case.
The memo reads, “A study of the facts of the case indicates that the initial facility of GH¢300 million has been recovered, leaving GH¢150 million outstanding. The Office has confirmed from the Bank of Ghana (through Mr. Alexander Taah, PW2), that the interest from the outstanding amount is presently being serviced by UMB Bank. Mr. Taah also indicated that UMB has an amount of GH¢150 million locked up with CBG. It is expected that when the said sum is released to UMB, the loan amount for which A3 [Johnson Pundit Asiama] was charged with causing financial loss will be repaid to the Bank of Ghana. This therefore may render the charges proffered against A3 moot, leading to his discharge.”
Ayine defended his decision to drop the charges against Dr. Asiama, explaining that there were “fatal flaws” in the case, including a lack of sufficient evidence to prosecute and convict the accused.
He argued that Dame’s insistence on continuing with the case, despite the advice, resulted in a waste of state resources.
“The third reason why I dropped the charges in some of the cases was that the evidence adduced so far fell significantly short of what was required to convict the accused and yet the state pressed on with the prosecution. I consider that to be a total waste of state resources.
“Obviously, the former Attorney General failed to act on these recommendations which were made to him by the Prosecutions Division. If he disagreed with the recommendations, I am unable to say but I agree with them. Based on these recommendations, I dropped the charges against Johnson Pundit Asiama in both the Unibank and UT Bank cases,” he indicated.
He further emphasised that his decision was in line with the legal principles of their profession, which instruct prosecutors not to pursue charges that are not supported by facts or substantial evidence in a criminal case.
“In coming to this decision, I am fortified by the Rule 40(2)(a) of the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules, 2020 (L.I. 2423) which provides that, in a criminal case, a prosecutor shall refrain from prosecuting a charge that the prosecutor knows is not supported by the facts.”
Dr. Asiama was being prosecuted by the former government for allegedly causing a GH¢150 million financial loss to the state during his tenure as the 2nd Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana from 2012 to 2016.
He faced charges of violating the Bank of Ghana Act for approving a GH¢300 million facility to Universal Merchant Bank.
Black Queens manager, Kim Lars Bjorkegren, has arrived in Ghana to begin official duties following his appointment.
The Swedish manager arrived in the country in the late hours of Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
The experienced gaffer was appointed in January, replacing Swiss coach Nora Huptle who refused to extend her contract.
Bjorkegren has eighteen years of experience and holds a UEFA License A. He has managed various teams in Sweden and other countries.
Some of his notable achievements include winning the Cyprus top Women’s league with Apollon Ladies and leading Linkopings FC to victory in the Damallsvenskan (Swedish Women’s top league). In the 2020-2021 season, he was named Coach of the Season in Cyprus.
Bjorkegren shares a record with renowned coach Sven-Göran Eriksson as the second Swedish manager to win two domestic titles in two different countries.
His first assignment as Black Queens manager would be in a friendly against Morocco on February 17, 2025.
Kim Lars Bjorkegren is expected to name his first squad in the coming days ahead of the friendly as he prepares the team for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Diana Hamilton exchanging pleasantries with Chief of Staff
Gospel Sensation, Diana Antwi Hamilton has paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Staff Julius Debrah to extend an invitation to him ahead of the 2025 edition of the Awake Experience.
Diana Hamilton in his interaction with the Chief of Staff expressed gratitude for his attendance during the 2024 edition, urging him that this year’s event under the theme MOVE will elevate the experience as God awaits to bless his people.
Julius Debrah on his part, eulogies Diana Hamilton for her impact through the Diana Hamilton ministry which is touching lives and supporting the needy in society.
He also seized the opportunity to assure Diana Hamilton that he would attend this year’s edition alongside some big political names in government.
This year’s event is scheduled to take place in Accra, Kumasi, and Sunyani.
The Accra edition will take place on 16th February 2025 at the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) Christ Tempel East in Teshie. Artists who will join Diana Hamilton for the Accra edition include Pastor Joe Beecham, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Kweku Teye, and Team Eternity.
The Kumasi edition which takes place on Sunday 23rd February 2025, at the Church of Pentecost, Bantama will feature acts like Uncle Ato, Cindy Thompson, Mabel Okyere, and Quame Gyedu.
The lineup gospel stars for the Sunyani edition which takes place on Sunday, March 2nd, 2025 at the Eusbett Hotel include ACP Kofi Sarpong, Emmanuel Awortwe, Sandy Asare, and Quame Gyedu.
President John Dramani Mahama has officially inaugurated a 19-member task force dedicated to fulfilling his 120-day Social contract.
The task force will oversee the implementation of the promises made by President Mahama, as outlined in the 26-page contract.
These promises include key economic reforms, governance standards, and social interventions.
Among the prominent initiatives are the scrapping of controversial taxes such as the E-Levy and betting tax, conducting audits into high-profile corruption scandals, and the constitution of the leanest and most efficient government under the Fourth Republic within the first 120 days of his administration.
The task force is chaired by Dr. Valerie Sawyerr, Senior Presidential Adviser.
The remaining members are Dr Cassiel Ato Forson – Minister for Finance John Jinapor – Minister for Energy Elizabeth Ofosu Agyare – Minister for Trade, Agribusiness & Industry Dominic Ayine – Attorney General Haruna Iddrisu – Minister for Education, Dzifa Gomashie – Minister for Tourism, George Opare Addo- Minister for Youth Development, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey – Minister-Designate for Gender, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh – Minister for Health Rashid Pelpuo – Minister for Employment, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah – Minister for Lands & Mineral Resources, Samuel Nartey George – Minister for Communication, Digital Technology & Innovation, Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Goosie Tanoh – Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Prosper Bani – National Security Adviser, Kofi Boakye – Director of Operations, Francis Dodoo – Presidential Adviser Joyce Bawah Mogtari – Presidential Adviser & Special Aide to the President.
Accra, Feb. 13, GNA – The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has adopted enhanced matchday safety and security protocols at various match venues for the remainder of the season.
The death of Kotoko supporter Francis Nana Yaw Frimpong, a.k.a. Nana Pooley, at the Nana Koronmansah Park in Nsoatre prompted extensive consultations among football stakeholders and the Ghana Police Service.
According to the GFA, they received proposals from Asante Kotoko SC and Accra Hearts of Oak SC, as well as a meeting with the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, during which 33 action points were proposed.
According to a statement from the GFA, the IGP announced the establishment of a Sports Police Unit as well as the inclusion of Sports Security training in the Police Training Academy training manual.
Furthermore, the IGP announced the formation of Regional Sports Officers, who would act as principal contacts for sporting events.
“These officers will be tasked with overseeing all aspects of sports policing within their respective regions. The GFA will have direct access to collaborate with these officers to ensure safety and security during matches.
“Furthermore, any criminal activity occurring at a football match will be regarded as a serious offense by the police, and individuals responsible will be subjected to the Ghana Criminal Justice System. Additionally, when feasible, police personnel from other towns will be deployed to support the enforcement of law and order at these sporting events.
“The Association has since had engagements with other stakeholders including the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League clubs, all the clubs of the three zones of the Access Bank Division One League, and Supporters Groups of the Premier League clubs. The Association continues to engage all stakeholders,” the statement said.
Following further inputs into the draft work, the Executive Council has approved the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 to be used in addition to all the existing Regulations – the competitions regulations (Premier League Regulations, The Division One League Regulations, the Women’s Premier League Regulations, Regional Football Leagues Regulations), the Stadium Regulations, the Club Licensing Regulations, the Disciplinary Code, the Code of Ethics and the various Directives and Guidelines.
The Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 is a work of all the clubs and will be applied strictly and the sanctions therein enforced accordingly to ensure safety and security at our match venues for all stakeholders.
The promulgation of the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 is only a first step in the quest for the clubs and the Association to ensure safe security at matches and that the sad incident of losing our brother Francis Yaw Frimpong at a match does not reoccur.
Other steps include education of all stakeholders on the Protocols, the strict adherence to the Protocols and all other regulations, and the strict and fair application of the sanction regime by the judicial bodies of the Association.
The GFA further reminded all participants, supporters, and stakeholders of football that a criminal act at any football match is a crime and shall be handled by the Ghana Police Service as such, through the Ghana criminal justice system and GFA and all its clubs have already given their commitment to the IGP and the Ghana Police Service to support this fully.
2baba, the Nigerian hit maker, has finally proposed to his new lover Natasha Igbinedion Osawaru
The clip has gone viral on social media after he claimed in a video that he loves her and would love to get married to her
Nonetheless, Nigerians had much to say about her mannerisms while the proposal was underway, as many of their thoughts
2baba is finally fulfilling his wish as he made the first step of proposing to his new girlfriend, Natasha Igbinedion Osawaru, the Edo State lawmaker.
Recall that the African Queen hitmaker had publicly dissociated himself from his wife of 13 years, Annie Idibia, without stating his reasons.
The legendary musician also recently confirmed the romance rumours with Edo state lawmaker Natasha, and has indeed declared his real intentions towards her. He affirmed his love for her and pleaded with the public to convince her to marry him.
2baba’s proposal to his new girlfriend Natasha goes viral, as many react. Credit: @official2babaSource: Instagram
In a new video that has taken over social media, 2baba was spotted slipping a ring into Natasha’s finger’s as she giggled like a 2-year-old with candy. The video has, however, raised concern online after the singer failed to go down on one knee.
Another point that netizens have raised was 31-year-old Natasha’s composure during her special moment. Many have said that she ‘twitches’ like Annie Idibia, 2baba’s ex-wife, adding that hers might even be worse off.
Nigerians react to 2baba’s proposal to Natasha
TheTalk.NG compiled some reactions below:
@am_glorysunshine:
“Dis one even dey stagger pass Annie.”
@_kingfreya:
“Drug love.”
@ogechukwu_.:
“Hmmm this one wey dey shake pass Annie. IYKYK.”
@maynelson_01:
“Same committee of friends that used to hype Annie are the same people here…….Human beings.”
@tlou_survived:
“Perfect example of they “don’t change their character, they change their victims “…man like this are very scar.”
@xola_tikana:
“Whatever he put Annie on I can see she’s on it too 😭 I know that head tilt and nod when I see it 😩.”
@major_girl1:
“lol…she’ll think she’s special 😂 the chosen one.”
@moti_se_rere:
“So this means you’ve been dating this woman while you were still married. And one month after announcing is divorce he’s moving ahead with another woman, meaning he never really loved Annie. Now that girl is shaking the way Annie is, seems like this one’s own is even worse. The common factor between Annie and this girl is Tuface which means Tuface is the culprit here. I see some Dunbo writing leave Tuface you don’t know what he has been through with Annie. It was Annie that went through a lot with Tuface. Come and think of it. Tuface used Annie to clear himself over a cheating scandal on that reality show YR&A.”
@therealnigel.t:
“He keeps making the same mistake on his choices. I’m sure that one take drugs😂.”
Isaac Fayose supports 2baba
According to a previous report by TheTalk.NG, Isaac Fayose joined in the conversation concerning 2baba and his decision to take in another wife.
Recall that the singer publicly announced his relationship with 31-year-old Hon. Natasha Irobosa Osawaru Igbinedion.
Speaking on the matter, Isaac shared his thoughts about 2baba’s new actions following his separation from Annie Idibia.
Source: TheTalk.NG
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Tems Announces Co-ownership of San Diego FC After Winning Grammy Award, Fans Drool: “Smartest Deal.”
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Portable’s Wife, Bewaji Begs For Forgiveness Over Assault of Officials: “Nothing Concern us”
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Mahama Ayariga sends a strong message to Ken Ofori-Atta that got the Attention of many Ghanaians
News Hub Creator3h
Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, has advised individuals who feel their privacy has been violated to seek legal redress in court. His remarks come in response to reports of an alleged raid on the residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
If Anybody Thinks Their Privacy Has Been Violated, They Should Go to Court – Mahama Ayariga on Alleged Raid on Ken Ofori-Atta’s Residence
Speaking on the issue, Ayariga emphasized that privacy rights are protected by law, and any perceived violations should be challenged through legal means. He maintained that institutions responsible for law enforcement and security must operate within the confines of the law, ensuring that citizens’ rights are respected at all times.
“If anybody thinks their privacy has been violated, they should go to court. That is the proper way to seek justice,” Ayariga stated. He pointed out that the judiciary exists to adjudicate such matters and offer remedies where necessary.
Reports of the alleged raid have sparked controversy, with some questioning the legality of the security operation. While details remain unclear, concerns have been raised about potential breaches of privacy and due process. Ayariga’s stance underscores the importance of legal channels in addressing such concerns rather than resorting to political rhetoric or speculation.
This development adds to the ongoing discussions about the rule of law and accountability in Ghana’s governance structure. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether Ken Ofori-Atta or any affected parties will take legal action in response to the alleged incident.
When it comes to making a statement in the world of fashion, nothing speaks louder than a chic and elegant designer dress. Designer dresses exude sophistication, offering impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail that elevate any wardrobe. These dresses are not just about looking good; they are a reflection of personal style, confidence, and the ability to choose pieces that stand out in a crowd. Whether you’re attending a gala, wedding, or any special occasion, a well-chosen designer dress can be the perfect way to leave a lasting impression.
A chic designer dress is characterized by sleek, clean lines and a modern silhouette. These dresses often embrace minimalist designs with subtle yet striking details like asymmetrical cuts, high-low hems, or innovative necklines. Fabrics like silk, satin, and velvet are commonly used, offering a luxurious feel and a flattering drape. A simple, well-tailored dress in a classic color—like black, navy, or white—can work wonders for creating a polished, effortlessly chic look. Accessories can elevate such a dress further, with bold jewelry, a clutch, and high heels adding just the right amount of flair.
On the other hand, elegant designer dresses tend to focus more on ornate detailing and the use of luxurious materials. These dresses often feature intricate embellishments, such as lace, beadwork, or embroidery, which add texture and depth to the outfit. An elegant dress may also come with a dramatic train, a floor-length design, or a deep V-neck, allowing the wearer to turn heads without compromising grace and sophistication. Elegant designer dresses are often seen at high-profile events, where their beauty can truly shine, and their intricate design can be fully appreciated.
Designer dresses also cater to different tastes and body types, offering a wide range of options from ball gowns to figure-hugging sheaths. A statement designer dress is one that perfectly reflects the wearer’s personality, whether it’s bold and colorful or soft and romantic. The right designer dress can boost self-confidence, ensuring that you not only look incredible but also feel empowered and comfortable.
In conclusion, chic and elegant designer dresses are timeless pieces that offer a combination of style, craftsmanship, and sophistication. They are more than just clothing—they are an investment in fashion and self-expression. Whether you’re dressing for a special occasion or making an everyday outfit feel extraordinary, a designer dress has the power to transform your look and make a lasting impression.
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has reassured residents of the Upper West Region that the government is actively working to contain the Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) outbreak.
During his visit on Wednesday, February 12, the Minister confirmed that medical supplies, including antibiotics, had been delivered to support treatment efforts.
He urged persons experiencing symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or neck stiffness to seek immediate medical attention, stressing that treatment is free.
“We are going to provide whatever it takes to be able to contain this disease. For now, we have brought some number of items. The antibiotics they are using, we have brought enough. And the directive is that, anybody who suspects whether you are sneezing, coughing, you have neck stiffness, you must rush quickly to the nearest health facility and that person will be taken care of free of charge.
“So you should not sit at home for the situation to get worse before you go to the health facilities. This is free of charge and we are bringing enough assistance to the region to be able to carry out that exercise.”
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Mr Kofi Benstil, Senior Vice President and Policy Analyst of IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, has argued that anyone charged with criminal offences and tried is not fit to be the Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
His comment comes after President John Dramani Mahama nominated Dr Johnson Asiamah as the next Governor of the Bank of Ghana, pending approval by the Council of State. His appointment follows the dropping of the criminal case against him.
He was nominated after President John Dramani Mahama accepted a formal request by the current Governor, Dr Ernest Addison, to proceed on leave ahead of his retirement on 31st March 2025.
Kofi Benstil argued that dropping the charges raises serious concerns about governance and accountability.
He stressed that halting the prosecution does not equate to clearing Dr Asiamah of wrongdoing and that a future government could still reinstate the charges, potentially undermining confidence in his decisions as BoG Governor.
He further noted that a high office like that of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana should not be occupied by someone with questionable track records, emphasizing that the country must have standards in appointing people to sensitive positions.
‘By definition, a person charged with criminal offences and tried is not a fit and proper person to hold the high office of Governor!! If he was not acquitted but his trial stopped, he remains unfit and not proper!! We either have standards or we don’t!! He posted.
Dr Johnson Asiamah has faced criticism from sections of the public, including members of the New Patriotic Party, since his appointment.
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Apostle Solomon Oduro and his estranged wife, Rev. Charlotte Oduro
Following the divorce announcement between Apostle Solomon Oduro and Counsellor Charlotte Oduro, new details have emerged regarding the reasons behind their split.
Reports indicate that Apostle Solomon Oduro first filed for divorce in April 2024.
After his wife responded, he resubmitted an amended petition on November 29, 2024.
In his petition, Apostle Oduro stated that the traditional marriage had been annulled and that the ordinance marriage should also be dissolved.
A closer look at the divorce petition discloses the reasons behind his claim that the marriage had broken down beyond repair.
Here’s a breakdown of some of his claims, as reported by Gossips24TV:
In the petition, Apostle Oduro disclosed that his wife no longer found him attractive, no longer relates to him as a wife, and even failed several times to involve him in important decisions.
He alleged that there has been huge disrespect, poor communication, and ill-treatment, to the point where his wife allegedly turned their children against him.
Apostle Oduro also claimed that they had engaged in sexual relations only 12 times throughout their 16-year marriage.
He further stated that there were instances when the children would even lock him out of the house, claiming it was at their mother’s request.
In another part of the petition, he noted that since January 2024, his wife refused to eat meals prepared by their chef, and in March, she instructed the children to do the same.
He said she then began cooking her meals in the master bedroom.
“The respondent has since 2024 refused to eat from the pot of the chef the petitioner employed in the matrimonial home. She cooks from the master bedroom,” the petition states.
Apostle Oduro also claimed that things escalated and he was subjected to physical and emotional abuse.
He also explained that he suffered intense distress and anxiety due to the respondent’s behaviour.
“The respondent is abusive both emotionally and physically towards the petitioner. She removed her ring and packed out of their matrimonial home at least twenty times over the slightest provocation,” he alleged.
He also alleged that their children informed him about her relationships with other men, including her ex.
He also claimed that despite running several businesses, his wife failed to contribute to the household or care for their children.
Apostle Oduro stated that his wife began her business ventures using proceeds from the naming ceremony for their second child.
He said she sold items such as oil, communion, clothes and many more at the church and kept the money for herself.
Despite all these, Apostle Oduro said he purchased a Suzuki 4×4, a Toyota Camry, and later a brand-new Mercedes Benz for his wife.
However, she later sold the Mercedes Benz and currently owns a Range Rover and a Jetour 4×4.
He said she also purchased a piece of land in Katapor, near Kwabenya.
In addition to that, she owns a diaper brand and a wholesale and retail business.
Apostle Oduro expressed that all these signs indicate that his wife was financially capable of contributing to the home but chose not to.
Demands from the Petitioner
Apostle Oduro has therefore made the following demands in his petition:
Dissolution of the ordinance marriage celebrated between the parties on May 30, 2008, at the Anointed Pentecost Miracle Church.
Joint custody of their children.
A lump sum of GH¢550,000 to be paid by the respondent.
Both parties should retain their respective properties.
A three-bedroom house for the respondent and children until the youngest child completes tertiary education.
The petitioner to pay the school fees of all three children and provide a monthly allowance of GH¢3,000 until the youngest child completes tertiary education.
Also watch Miki Osei Berko’s interview on Talkertainment below:
Deputy Chief of Staff, Stanislav Dogbe has been appointed chairman of a special committee set up to plan the upcoming 68th Independence Day celebrations come Thursday, March 6 2025.
The news of his appointment was revealed by the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu while speaking in a live press conference held on February 12.
Stan Dogbe together with his team, according to the Presidential Spokesperson will be given a well-structured marketing and public relations plan from the government’s communication office to promote the national event.
Meanwhile, the presidential communicator has shared that plans for the Independence celebrations are already underway with two highlights being the 28th February shooting which sets the spotlight on three Ghanaian heroes and their sacrifice for the nation and also the traditional Presidential Students’ Award to acknowledge and reward the efforts of brilliant Ghanaian students.
“So the famous 28th February crossroad shooting incident will be commemorated once again and then the perennial or traditional Presidential awards will also take place. Now it is the belief of government that these activities will be sufficient to uphold the significance of the day and yet enable government cut expenditure in areas that are non-essential.” he shared.
You can also watch what an NPP MP said after OSP’s declaration of Ofori-Atta wanted below:
Nana Appiah Mensah, CEO of defunct Menzgold Ghana and former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta
The Chief Executive Officer of the defunct Menzgold Ghana, Nana Appiah Mensah, popularly known as NAM1, has waded into the news of former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta being declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
The OSP, during a press briefing on February 12, 2025, declared Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive in connection with ongoing investigations into corruption and related offences.
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, indicated that efforts to reach Ofori-Atta, who is currently outside the country, have been unsuccessful, prompting the decision to declare him wanted.
The former minister has been implicated in several high-profile cases, including the National Cathedral project, the Ghana Revenue Authority’s revenue assurance deal with Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), and the cancellation of a contract with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
Reacting to the development, Nana Appiah Mensah, who is currently facing charges over the collapse of Menzgold Ghana, drew a striking parallel to his own experience with law enforcement in Ghana.
Taking to social media, NAM1 expressed his surprise and sense of irony regarding the situation.
“I left town to recover Menzgold gold-supplied payments to settle the company’s debt, after having informed EOCO and having met with the President later that night. Only to be declared wanted the next morning by you guys, claiming I had absconded. Today, you’re on a WANTED list. Life!” he posted.
NAM1’s reaction has since reignited conversations about the perceived ironies within Ghana’s justice system.
See NAM1’s post below:
I left town to recover Menzgold gold supplied payments to settle the Company’s debt, after having informed EOCO & having met with the President later that night. Only to be declared wanted next morning by you guys, claiming I have absconded. Today, you’re on a WANTED list. Life! pic.twitter.com/CmPpmKzZJX
In 2018, the gold dealership firm Menzgold Ghana Limited collapsed, leaving thousands of customers devastated with millions of Ghana cedis in unpaid investments.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Nana Appiah Mensah, popularly known as NAM1, was subsequently arrested and prosecuted.
Despite the charges, NAM1 consistently maintained that his departure from the country was solely to recover funds to repay customers.
The collapse of Menzgold exposed significant gaps in regulatory oversight and raised concerns about investment schemes in Ghana.
Following the company’s shutdown by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Attorney General launched investigations in 2019, accusing NAM1 of defrauding thousands of customers through the operations of his gold dealership business.
The legal proceedings were marred by numerous adjournments, causing frustration among aggrieved customers. The delays in prosecution also led many to question the efficiency of the judicial process and the prospects of retrieving their investments.
After years of stalled court sessions, the Attorney General filed fresh charges against NAM1 on August 30, 2023. The new charges came in the wake of an announcement by the Menzgold CEO regarding plans to unfreeze customers’ locked-up funds.
NAM1 proposed a verification process requiring customers to pay a fee of GH¢650 to confirm their eligibility for repayment.
The announcement sparked widespread public debate, with some customers hopeful of retrieving their investments, while others viewed the verification fee as another potential scam.
However, regulatory authorities and financial experts expressed skepticism about the viability and legality of the repayment scheme.
As of early 2025, the case continues to experience delays, although the court has indicated a renewed commitment to expedite the proceedings.
NAM1 currently remains on bail and has occasionally addressed the public, reiterating his intentions to repay affected customers.
Meanwhile, thousands of investors continue to demand justice and the retrieval of their funds.
Dutch international of Ghanaian descent, Memphis Depay, and Brazilian legend Neymar shared a wholesome moment in the Brazilian league after Corinthians’ game against Santos on Friday, February 13, 2025.
In a video sighted by GhanaWeb, Depay and Neymar, who appear to be great admirers of each other, briefly chatted on the sideline before swapping their boots.
The duo featured in the match, which ended in a 2-1 victory for Corinthians at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo.
Depay played the full 90 minutes and provided an assist, while Neymar played 65 minutes before being substituted.
The game marked Neymar’s third appearance since returning to his boyhood club, Santos, in January after bringing his European career to a close.
Watch the video below
Neymar and Depay swapped shirts & boots after the derby tonight!
The Minister of Defence, Dr. Omane Boamah, has stated that he is committed to support the government’s comprehensive roadmap aimed at restoring lasting peace in Bawku.
Since late December 2024, Bawku has been at the center of escalating tensions, with a resurgence of attacks that have led to casualties, displacement of residents, and a general state of fear and insecurity.
The conflict, which stems from a protracted chieftaincy dispute between factions of the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups, has resurfaced despite previous interventions by security forces and peace-building initiatives.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, President John Dramani Mahama personally visited Bawku on January 14, to assess conditions on the ground and engage with local leaders, security personnel, and affected communities.
His visit was part of a broader government effort to reinforce security measures while also exploring diplomatic and traditional conflict resolution mechanisms.
Following high-level discussions on Wednesday, February 12, Defence Minister Dr. Omane Boamah took to his official Facebook page to affirm the government’s commitment to de-escalating tensions and fostering reconciliation.
His post came after a crucial meeting with the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak; the Chief of the Defence Staff; Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga; and other key stakeholders at the Ministry of Defence.
“Today, I had the privilege of meeting with Interior Minister Hon. Muntaka Mubarak, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Majority Leader Hon. Mahama Ayariga, and other Members of Parliament at the Ministry of Defence. We reviewed the current security situation relating to the dispute in Bawku.” Dr. Boamah stated.
He emphasied that the government remains resolute in following the established peace roadmap, which involves a combination of military presence, community engagements, and dialogue with traditional authorities.
“As President John Dramani Mahama has assured the people, we will continue to follow the comprehensive roadmap to resolve this conflict through traditional means. We must restore peace and stability to Bawku and other communities, and I am determined to support that cause,” he added.
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The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress Johnson Asiedu Nketia popularly known as General Mosquito has joined the many requesting that the National Airport’s name be changed.
Over the last few years, some individuals and groups have come out to state that the name Kotoka International Airport should be changed since the name Kotoka was in the bad books of the country.
Showbiz investor, Baba Sadiq, has urged politicians to be cautious of how they wield power while in office.
In light of the shock and disappointment Ghanaians felt upon hearing that former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta had been declared a fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor, Baba Sadiq has reflected on Ofori-Atta’s ‘untouchable’ status during the Akufo-Addo administration.
Baba Sadiq recalled how even several Members of Parliament from Ofori-Atta’s own party attempted to remove him from office and lost their seats in the process.
He added that no one could have predicted that Ofori-Atta, once seen as untouchable, would eventually be declared a fugitive.
“Power is indeed transient. Who could have thought KOA would today be a fugitive in the same country where even 90 MPs of his party couldn’t even upstage him? Some even lost their seats for just daring to remove him a few months ago. Powerful lessons to guide us,” he said.
Baba Sadiq’s comments followed a press briefing by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), which on February 12, 2025, declared Ken Ofori-Atta wanted.
Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng emphasised that Ofori-Atta must return to Ghana immediately to face questioning over multiple corruption investigations, including cases linked to the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML), and other undisclosed matters.
Read the post below:
Power is indeed transient. Who could have thought KOA will today be a fugitive in the same country where even 90 MPS of his own party couldn’t even upstage him. With some even losing their seats for just daring to remove him some few months ago. Powerful lessons to guide us.
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA: Country music sensation Lainey Wilson has found her happily ever after, announcing her engagement to Devlin “Duck” Hodges on February 12.
The ‘Heart Like a Truck’ singer took to Instagram to share the joyous news, captioning the post with “4x4xU forever” alongside several photos and a video of the moment.
Lainey Wilson announces engagement to Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges
Country music star Wilson shared exciting news on Instagram, revealing that she and boyfriend Devlin “Duck” Hodges are engaged and will soon be walking down the aisle.
“4x4xU forever ❤️,” Wilson, 32, captioned a series of romantic photos and videos, referencing the song “4x4xU” from her latest album, ‘Whirlwind’.
The first image showed the couple holding hands in front of a stunning building with large windows. A close-up image followed, featuring five picture frames with photos of the couple, placed on the floor surrounded by candles and roses.
Devlin Hodges and Lainey Wilson attend the 2024 CMT Music Awards at Moody Center on April 07, 2024 in Austin, Texas (Taylor Hill/WireImage)
The post also included two black-and-white photos of the couple sharing a kiss, as well as an image of Hodges holding a small cowboy hat while Wilson proudly showed off her engagement ring.
To wrap up the announcement, Wilson shared a fun video of herself walking down the stairs, saying “boo” as she held her hand up to the camera, showcasing her new ring.
Lainey Wilson joked about proposing to Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges before their engagement
The couple’s journey to this engagement has been filled with playful banter and moments of anticipation. Just a month earlier, Wilson had joked during an interview that she might have to take matters into her own hands and propose to Hodges.
“I might have to propose to him. No pressure, brother. No pressure. I might have to propose to him. We waiting,” Wilson had told Bunnie Xo in January, during an interview for CMT.
Wilson had been dating the former NFL player for three years at that point, but their relationship had always been under the public radar, with Wilson keeping things lighthearted and fun when it came to their next steps.
Bunnie, who is married to singer Jelly Roll, teased Wilson about the situation, but Wilson remained hopeful, adding, “No, Duck’s gonna do it. I could feel it.” Bunnie’s prediction turned out to be right, as the couple is now officially engaged, Fox News reported.
Fans and followers flood Lainey Wilson’s Instagram post with congratulations
In the comments of Wilson’s Instagram post, numerous fans and folowers shared their congratulations and best wishes.
A user wrote, “CONGRATS!!! 💍💍🥂🥂 To you both for the promise of a wonderful life together full of L♥️VE and HAPPINESS!!! 💕💕💖💖”
Another added, “👏You sure did get the RING 😍 this time!! Congrats! ❤️ Does it come with a duck whistle? 😜 So happy for you both! ❤️❤️”
The third commentator remarked, “Congratulations on the engagement I pray for unconditional love and happiness and a healthy marriage.”
“CONGRATS… so damn authentic and cute!” said a fan.
A person asserted, “Congratulations on your engagement! I am so excited for you guys!! 🎉💍🍾❤️❤️❤️❤️”
Other chimed in, “Omg I’m sooooo happy for you two!!!! 💍🎉🍾 🦆”
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online
Former Minister of State, Prof. Kwesi Yankah, holds the opinion that the Attorney General and the Chairman of the ORAL Committee cannot be exempt in the search for who has really caused financial loss to the state.
He makes this point because the Attorney General has since taking over power discontinued some cases that he believes should have been left to be tried because they involved huge sums of money.
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