Ghana outstanding contracts on cocoa roads hit GH¢21b in 2024
Ghana outstanding contracts on cocoa roads hits GH¢21b in 2024
Mahama Ayariga apologises to Ken Ofori-Atta over security raid at his residence
The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has issued an apology to the former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, following a raid by armed men in military uniforms at his residence at Cantonments.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, February 13, 2025, the Member of Parliament of Bawku Central gave further details on the incident, describing it as an unfortunate occurrence that should not have taken place.
“So, Speaker, it is true that the private residence of the former Minister of Finance was entered into by operatives of the military and the police, led by somebody who we believe works at the National Security Coordinator’s office. Mr. Speaker, his name is Richard Jakpa…
“I personally extend my apologies to the former Minister of Finance, and I believe that this should suffice,” he apologised.
According to Ayariga, the security agencies, along with the ministries of interior and defence, have assured that such an illegal incident will not be allowed to happen again.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to its resetting agenda, emphasising the goal of building a country with properly functioning institutions, law-abiding citizens, and officials dedicated to safeguarding the rights of all.
“Mr. Speaker, I have spoken to the Minister of Interior, who has spoken with his IGP and Minister of Defence and all of them give their assurance to this House that a thing like that will not happen again. Let me indicate to my colleagues on the other side [Minority] that this side of the House remains committed to ensuring the country is reset, its institutions function properly, its officials act in accordance with the law and the rights and liberties of every citizen are upheld and protected under the regime of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama,” he said.
Reports emerged on February 11, 2025, regarding a raid by armed men in military uniforms at the Cantonments residence of former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta.
Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has disclosed that the widely reported raid by alleged military personnel in uniform at the residence of former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta was staged by dubious individuals.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, to declare Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted fugitive, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that the reported raid was orchestrated with the intent to create disaffection for the OSP and obstruct the ongoing investigations into him.
Kissi Agyebeng further emphasised that such attempts would not deter his office, assuring the public that the investigations would proceed as required by law.
“Our intelligence indicates that the purported raid on Ofori-Atta’s residence was staged or, at best, an impostor action intended to discredit the OSP and derail the investigation. The OSP will not be deterred by such occurrences, and the investigations will continue as prescribed by law,” he said.
Watch the video below:
MAG/AE
You can also watch what an NPP MP said after OSP’s declaration of Ofori-Atta wanted below:
President Mahama reassigns Edward Bawa from GNPC to GOIL as Group CEO
Edward Bawa has been reassigned as Group CEO of GOIL
Edward Bawa has been reassigned to the state oil marketing company, GOIL, as Group CEO.
According to him, the move forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader energy sector strategy.
He made the announcement on his personal Facebook page on February 13, 2025, and wrote, “I have been reassigned to GOIL as Group CEO, effective immediately, as part of the president’s broader energy sector strategy.”
On January 17, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama appointed Edward Abambire Bawa as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC).
His appointment took effect on January 17, 2025, and was contained in a letter signed by the Executive Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama.
The letter stated, “His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, in accordance with Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 10(2) of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation Act, 1983 (P.N.D.C.L. 64), has appointed you as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation pending receipt of the required advice of the Honourable Minister for Energy, in consultation with the Public Services Commission.”
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SSD/AE
Govt’s revocation of ‘last minute’ appointments justified
Labour consultant Austin Gamey has endorsed the government’s decision to revoke public sector appointments made after December 7, 2024, describing it as a fair and necessary measure to safeguard the country’s financial stability.
This follows a directive issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah on behalf of the government, canceling all last-minute public sector employments made after the specified date.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Thursday, February 13, 2025, Gamey argued that the previous administration failed to ensure transparency during the transition process.
“As an HR practitioner and a labour consultant, I can say they didn’t do the right thing. The transition period was vital. The former president and the new president sent their team to meet, but they were not honest enough to put on the table all the things they have as a concern—that they have employed this large number of people and that it will become part of the fiscal burden of the government,” he stated.
Gamey stressed that the country’s financial health is already fragile, and the addition of unjustified employees to the public sector payroll would only worsen the situation.
“The financial health of this country is already bleeding, and they further created more problems for the financial health of the nation. I think this is most unfair. So I think that is a fair step being taken by the government to ensure that all of them are first withdrawn,” he said.
He further asserted that only those who genuinely qualify for employment should be reappointed through a proper process.
“Those who genuinely merit the employment and not through partisan means can be recruited at the appropriate time. It is an unfair act to be done against this government and shouldn’t be done in the first place,” he added.
Kremlin rejects Zelensky’s land swap proposal
Moscow, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – The Kremlin has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksy’s proposal, to exchange the part of the western Russian region of Kursk captured by Kiev, for territory held by Russia in Ukraine.
“This is impossible,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov in Moscow on Wednesday. Russia has never discussed the subject of an exchange of territory and never will, he said, and insisted that the Ukrainian units that invaded Kursk would be destroyed or driven out.
Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimea region in 2014, and launched a large-scale invasion of its neighbour three years ago. A fifth of Ukraine is currently occupied, which corresponds to a little more than 110,000 square kilometres.
The conquests made in the Kursk area during a Ukrainian counterattack, have now shrunk to around 400 square kilometres.
Nevertheless, Kiev sees it as a bargaining chip for negotiations, to get at least a small part of its own territories back.
In an interview with the British newspaper The Guardian, Zelensky said if US President Donald Trump managed to bring Moscow and Kiev to the table, he would propose an exchange of territory. “We will swap one territory for another,” he said.
He did not specify which Ukrainian regions he wants back. Experts consider an exchange of land in the north-eastern Ukrainian region of Kharkiv to be most likely, because Moscow has not officially claimed these parts of the country – in contrast to the regions of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhya.
Earlier, Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, had also sharply rejected the proposal.
The Ukrainian soldiers in Kursk are entitled to an area of two square metres and one and a half metres in depth without any exchange, she said – implying that the Ukrainians would be buried there.
GNA
Every cedi spent on the National Cathedral project is worth it – Akwasi Acquah
Alexander Akwasi Acquah, the Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda, has defended the funds allocated to the National Cathedral project, insisting that every cedi spent is justified and worthwhile.
Speaking on the Angel Morning Show with Saddick Adams on Thursday, February 13, 2025, Acquah addressed ongoing criticisms, particularly from members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have questioned the financial commitment to the project.
Ofori-Atta has caused Ghanaians a lot of harm
Anti-corruption campaigner Vitus Azeem has criticized former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, attributing significant economic hardship to policies implemented during his tenure.
Azeem’s remarks follow the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) ongoing investigations, in which Ofori-Atta has been named as a suspect.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, on Thursday, February 13, Azeem asserted that the former minister’s policies had far-reaching negative consequences.
“This former finance minister did a lot of harm not only to Ghana as a nation but also to individuals. The haircuts and the banking sector cleanups actually negatively affected people,” he said.
He highlighted the suffering of pensioners and individuals whose finances were severely impacted.
“People have lost their lives, pensioners have gotten their money locked up and cannot use it for anything, and when you hear that these monies were wrongly taken, it is very painful,” he noted.
Azeem further emphasized the distress pensioners faced due to financial measures under Ofori-Atta’s leadership.
“Pensioners have gotten their money locked up, they cannot use it for anything,” he reiterated.
While expressing support for the Special Prosecutor’s probe, Azeem criticized the delay in taking action.
“For me, I think the Special Prosecutor has moved in the right direction because he’s taken too long, although I will say that he delayed a bit by allowing him to leave the country,” he remarked.
Read also…
Power crisis looms as Karpower threatens shutdown over $370m debt
GFA to Hold ‘Emergency’ Elections as Gifty Oware-Mensah Leaves Ghana Over NSS Ghost Names Scandal
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Mercy360 Blog of Thursday, 13 February 2025
Source: Mercy Mensah
Following the unexpected departure of former Executive Committee member Gifty Oware-Mensah, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced the holding of emergency elections, sending shockwaves through the Ghanaian sports world. Her abrupt departure coincides with an expanding scandal concerning ghost identities in the National Service Scheme (NSS), generating serious concerns about governance and accountability in GFA.
Oware-Mensah, who has long been a divisive character in the GFA, reportedly left the nation on short notice, leaving stakeholders and football fans perplexed and concerned. The NSS phantom names affair, in which multiple persons were accused in a scheme that reportedly stole funds through bogus names, degrading the integrity of several governmental programs, including GFA’s financing sources, has sparked speculation about its influence.
The NSS issue, which has been brewing for months, has sparked public outrage. Allegations include widespread use of fictitious names for service allowances, resulting in tax-payer money being misused. As scrutiny of the system grew, many people wondered what role personalities like Oware-Mensah played in this complicated web of corruption, considering her powerful position within the GFA and sports management in general.
In response to rising concerns over governance, stakeholders in Ghanaian football convened for an emergency meeting, which resulted in the decision to schedule elections to address the imminent leadership vacancy. The interim president of the GFA remarked, “We believe that a transparent and accountable leadership structure must be restored.” “Our dedication to the ethical management of Ghanaian football cannot be compromised.”
The GFA’s impending national and international tournaments highlight the gravity of the situation. Many people are concerned that instability at the top may affect teams’ performance on the field, damaging Ghana’s historic football history. Fans, players, and sponsors alike call for immediate action and reform to restore trust in Ghanaian football government.
As the call for emergency elections grows, new candidates emerge, each promising transparency, ethics, and a plan to revitalize the sport. Conversations abound about Ghanaian football’s future and how officials might repair the immense harm caused by scandals while also restoring the country’s pride on the world stage.
The public discourse is infused with the enthusiasm of potential candidates like as former players, well-known coaches, and impassioned reformers.
Ghana Faces Imminent Power Crisis As Karpower Threatens Shutdown Over $ 370 Million Debt
By Dominic Hlordzi
The operators of Karpowership Plant located at Aboadze in the Western Region have notified the Government that it will not be able to continue with the supply of power if the debt owed to the company is not settled immediately.
This was made known at a meeting between the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr. John Jinapor, and officials of the Karpowership barge at the Ministry.
The Electricity Company of Ghana owes the company a staggering $379 million dollars.
In response, Mr. Jinapor appealed to the operators of the plant to exercise restraint while the new administration explored alternatives to settle the bills.
Ghana’s energy sector is facing a critical challenge with its debt burden escalating to over $3 billion as of January 12, 2025.
The IMF has raised several red flags cautioning that the Government needed to undertake far-reaching reforms to save the sector from imminent collapse.
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NAM1 reacts to Ken Ofori-Atta's fugitive status, draws parallels to his own experience
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Minority slams NIB for summoning Annoh-Dompreh
The Minority in Parliament has criticized the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) for summoning Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh over alleged inciteful remarks.
Annoh-Dompreh had urged New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters in Ablekuma North to stand by their fellow party members in confrontations with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The Minority argues that the NIB’s actions reflect double standards, citing the agency’s failure to summon NDC Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande after he allegedly threatened the life of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin on February 7, 2025.
Addressing journalists, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei condemned the NIB’s approach, calling it an unfair application of justice.
“If the NIB is truly committed to upholding law and order, they must explain why the Minority Chief Whip was swiftly summoned for interrogation over his comment while the deputy director of operations at the presidency, who openly threatened the Minority Leader’s life, was allowed to walk free without consequences.”
“This double standard raises serious concerns about the selective application of justice and the use of state institutions to police certain political figures while others are allowed to act with impunity.
“If public remarks are to be scrutinized, all individuals, regardless of their political affiliations, must be held to the same standard,” she added.
……
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Nana Obiri Boahen’s baseless attack on JB Danquah’s widow must be condemned
The recent statements by Nana Obiri Boahen, a lawyer, former Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and former deputy minister, attacking the moral right of Mrs Boakye Danquah Adu, the widow of the late J.B. Danquah-Adu, to express her concerns about her husband’s murder trial, are not only reckless but also deeply insensitive.
Maybe, I was just innocent
This is not a story I tell often, but after hearing of a group of armed soldiers forcibly entering the home of a former Finance Minister, Kenneth Ofori-Atta and searching it thoroughly, I think I should tell this story, for what it is worth.
It is May 15, 1979 and Ghana has woken up to an announcement on the radio that a military coup d’etat is in progress to overthrow the Supreme Military Council, verse 2. Those who are conversant with the political history of Ghana would know that I am referring to what became popularly known as the May 15 Uprising and the precursor to the June 4 coup d’etat.
In narrating my story today, I am not going into the whys of the coup attempt, nor am I trying to justify or condemn the events of that day. I am only telling part of what happened that day and my role with reference to the May 15 events.
At the time, I was working at the Daily Graphic and I believe the title I had was Literary Editor, even though in practice, I did whatever needed doing.
A few days earlier, I had “used my position” to convince my colleagues at the editorial meeting to send a duty cameraman to take a photo of the Guard of Honour seeing off General F.W.K. Akuffo as he went to Senegal and the Gambia to brief them about the political events taking place in Ghana and the transition to civil rule programme.
As a result of that intervention on my part to get the Graphic to cover that event, when it emerged that the person responsible for the military uprising on May 15 was a certain, at the time, mostly unknown Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the Daily Graphic had a photo of him we could use with the story.
Flt-Lt Rawlings it was, who had commanded the Guard of Honour at the airport that saw off General Akuffo and a cameraman had been assigned to cover the event at my instigation. On May 15, we at the Graphic felt very smug that we had a photo when no other media outlet had a photo of the man at the centre of the uprising.
I left work that day early, as soon as we finished with the afternoon editorial conference, on the plea that I had a personal problem.
From the office, I went straight to see how Mrs Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was doing, with her husband, Flt-Lt Rawlings in the news as trying to stage a coup d’etat. (She and her husband were friends of mine).
When I got to their home, she was there alone with her almost one-year-old baby. I stayed with her and we tried to make sense of the situation facing her.
Then, a knock came at the door and I went to see to it. I half opened the door and stuck my head out and saw a man wearing a smock standing on the doorstep. He gave me his name, with a military title rank, showed me an ID and added that he was there with his colleagues to search the house.
At that stage, I noticed there were two other men standing some short distance away.
I took a deep breath, took in the situation and came outside wholly and closed the door behind me, instead of standing in the halfway-opened door.
I asked the officer if he had a search warrant and if I could see it, before I let him into the house.
The officer looked a bit startled, started to say something, changed his mind, turned his face to look at his two colleagues and then said to me he didn’t have a search warrant.
I told him he couldn’t come in to search the place without a warrant.
He took a deep breath and asked me if I knew what had been happening in the country that day.
I said yes, I knew.
“And you know that the person responsible, lives here”, he said.
I nodded and said to him: “please, officer, don’t let us use illegal means to fight illegal activities. You must be on the straight and narrow if you represent the law”.
He stared at me silently, turned around and walked to his colleagues and they went into their car and drove off.
I went back into the room and narrated what had occurred to my friend. I told her I was certain they would be back.
About an hour and some 15 minutes later, there was a knock at the door and, as I had expected, the officer was there with his two colleagues, this time, armed with a search warrant which he gave to me to read.
I let him and his colleagues in and they conducted their search and left.
There was no drama, and I don’t think even the people in the next apartment noticed that there had been any visit from the security services.
The search was meticulous, but very civilised, and I am not certain about this, but, I think when they were about to leave, the officer muttered a “thank you”.
Later on that evening, something even more dramatic happened to end my events of May 15 1979, but that is a story for another day.
For the moment, I have just been wondering about what kind of world we lived in during those times.
There was no Constitution. We were under a military regime.
A uniformed man, a Flight-Lieutenant had tried to stage a coup and failed and been arrested.
A military officer, (he called his name and showed me his ID) tried to enter the home of the person who had staged the unsuccessful coup d’etat and I ask him to show me a search warrant.
He did not laugh out loud with incredulity and push me aside to enter the house. He answered me and we had a polite conversation.
He leaves the house and goes to get a search warrant and comes back to knock at the door to gain entry. This is in May, 1979, under a military regime.
In the year of our Lord, 2025, 33 years into the longest stretch of constitutional rule we have ever had, armed soldiers are led by a man of no publicly determined official status, into the home of a former Finance Minister.
They rudely brush aside the staff, enter the house and proceed to conduct a hostile and illegal search.
They go through kitchen and cutlery drawers, fridges, freezers, cupboards, closets, underneath beds, books, documents, plates, pots and pans, clothes, linen. They take the car keys and thoroughly ransack the cars and leave the people in the house thoroughly shaken and traumatised.
Back in 1979, I said on a GTV programme to Mike Eghan that where we were as a country at that time, there was nowhere else to go but up, we couldn’t sink any lower.
I wonder where we are today.
Raid on Ofori-Atta’s house is ‘most regrettable, unfortunate’ – Mahama Ayariga quotes Nat’l Security Coordinator
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has said he has spoken to all the relevant stakeholders in the security sector including the Defence and Interior Ministers as well as the National Security Coordinator on the raid of the private residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
He stated that all the stakeholders have assured that this “regrettable and unfortunate’” incident will not recur.
Mr Ayariga said this after apologising to Mr Ofori-Atta following the raid of his private residence by men in military
Ghana Selects China And U.S Vendors For Nuclear Power, Amidst Civil Society Concerns
Story by: Mabel Adorkor Annang
Ghana has officially selected China National Nuclear Corporation, CNNC and U.S. based NuScale Regnum Technology as vendors to support the country’s nuclear energy ambitions.
The move has been met with opposition from some African Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, expressing concerns about the inherent risks and potential consequences associated with nuclear power plant operation, citing past accidents in other countries.
The adoption of Nuclear Power to Ghana’s generation mix comes as part of Ghana’s strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with nuclear energy expected to provide a stable and reliable source of power.
The selection of a Vendor marks a significant milestone in Phase Two of Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme, aimed at integrating nuclear energy into the national electricity mix.
However, the decision sparked criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs) comprising 360 Human Rights, SYND Ghana, Centre for Justice, Governance and Environmental Action, Earthlife Africa, SAFCEI, The Young African Activist Network, and the Russian Environmental Group Ecodefense argue that Africa does not need nuclear energy as it is neither safe, affordable, nor climate-smart.
Despite these concerns, several African nations such as Egypt, Rwanda, Sudan, Kenya, Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso are also exploring nuclear energy as a means of ensuring accessible, reliable, and cost-effective electricity supply.
Deputy Director of Power, Renewable, and Nuclear Energy at the Ministry of Energy, Dr. Robert Sogbadji, argued that Ghana’s nuclear power programme is designed with the highest safety standards under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA and poses no risk to the population.
He further highlighted that modern nuclear technology includes advanced safety features capable of detecting and recalibrating risks in real-time.
“Nuclear has come a long way since the 1960s when it was conventionally available. And just like any other new technology, it suffered a bad childbirth. The first time it was utilized or its energy was harnessed was in the world war and now it’s converted into a commercial power plant and started using it just like the generation one, generation two and those generation plants have their issues. They didn’t have what they call a containment building. So, when the Chernobyl happened, those pylons and all those things went up. But fast forward to this modern time when we are in generation three plus, the nuclear power plants that we have now have what we call passive safety inherent features which means that without human intervention, they can shut down by themselves safely without any human intervention. Anything which is going wrong and the system senses danger, everything shuts down so it is not like the old first-generation nuclear power plant”. Dr. Sogbadji explained.
Dr. Robert Sogbadji, defended the government’s decision, stating that while nuclear power plants require significant initial investment, their costs are comparable to hydroelectric plants. He emphasized that Ghana has exhausted its hydro resources, making nuclear a necessary addition to diversify the country’s energy mix.
“The initial cost is where to find the money to build the power plant but once built, the power generation is cheap because the nuclear fuel is changed over an eighteen months cycle, that is one and a half year and if you have a power plant that operates over such a long time before you do a fuel change for about three to four weeks and then it comes on again. That guarantees power supply and that will give you the vision to also become the next exporter of electricity to our neighbours, reducing energy poverty in the region”. He intimated.
Dr. Sogbadji, also cited financial flexibility and political considerations as key factors in Ghana’s selection of nuclear technology vendors. He explained that while several countries were shortlisted, the United States and China were better options due to their financing models.
These models, he noted, facilitate nuclear integration without placing a heavy financial burden on Ghana’s economy.
As Ghana progresses with its nuclear energy plans, the debate over its safety and necessity is expected to continue, with government advocating for its benefits while CSOs caution against potential risks.
More Stories Here
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Maybe I was just Innocent – Elizabeth Ohene writes
This is not a story I tell often, but after hearing of a group of armed soldiers forcibly entering the home of a former Finance Minister, Kenneth Ofori-Atta and searching it thoroughly, I think I should tell this story, for what it is worth.
It is May 15, 1979 and Ghana has woken up to an announcement on the radio that a military coup d’etat is in progress to overthrow the Supreme Military Council, verse 2. Those who are conversant with the political history of Ghana would know that I am referring to what became popularly known as the May 15 Uprising and the precursor to the June 4 coup d’etat.
In narrating my story today, I am not going into the whys of the coup attempt, nor am I trying to justify or condemn the events of that day. I am only telling part of what happened that day and my role with reference to the May 15 events.
At the time, I was working at the Daily Graphic and I believe the title I had was Literary Editor, even though in practice, I did whatever needed doing.
A few days earlier, I had “used my position” to convince my colleagues at the editorial meeting to send a duty cameraman to take a photo of the Guard of Honour seeing off General F.W.K. Akuffo as he went to Senegal and the Gambia to brief them about the political events taking place in Ghana and the transition to civil rule programme.
As a result of that intervention on my part to get the Graphic to cover that event, when it emerged that the person responsible for the military uprising on May 15 was a certain, at the time, mostly unknown Flight-Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the Daily Graphic had a photo of him we could use with the story.
Flt-Lt Rawlings it was, who had commanded the Guard of Honour at the airport that saw off General Akuffo and a cameraman had been assigned to cover the event at my instigation. On May 15, we at the Graphic felt very smug that we had a photo when no other media outlet had a photo of the man at the centre of the uprising.
I left work that day early, as soon as we finished with the afternoon editorial conference, on the plea that I had a personal problem.
From the office, I went straight to see how Mrs Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was doing, with her husband, Flt-Lt Rawlings in the news as trying to stage a coup d’etat. (She and her husband were friends of mine).
When I got to their home, she was there alone with her almost one-year-old baby. I stayed with her and we tried to make sense of the situation facing her.
Then, a knock came at the door and I went to see to it. I half opened the door and stuck my head out and saw a man wearing a smock standing on the doorstep. He gave me his name, with a military title rank, showed me an ID and added that he was there with his colleagues to search the house.
At that stage, I noticed there were two other men standing some short distance away.
I took a deep breath, took in the situation and came outside wholly and closed the door behind me, instead of standing in the halfway-opened door.
I asked the officer if he had a search warrant and if I could see it, before I let him into the house.
The officer looked a bit startled, started to say something, changed his mind, turned his face to look at his two colleagues and then said to me he didn’t have a search warrant.
I told him he couldn’t come in to search the place without a warrant.
He took a deep breath and asked me if I knew what had been happening in the country that day.
I said yes, I knew.
“And you know that the person responsible, lives here”, he said.
I nodded and said to him: “please, officer, don’t let us use illegal means to fight illegal activities. You must be on the straight and narrow if you represent the law”.
He stared at me silently, turned around and walked to his colleagues and they went into their car and drove off.
I went back into the room and narrated what had occurred to my friend. I told her I was certain they would be back.
About an hour and some 15 minutes later, there was a knock at the door and, as I had expected, the officer was there with his two colleagues, this time, armed with a search warrant which he gave to me to read.
I let him and his colleagues in and they conducted their search and left.
There was no drama, and I don’t think even the people in the next apartment noticed that there had been any visit from the security services.
The search was meticulous, but very civilised, and I am not certain about this, but, I think when they were about to leave, the officer muttered a “thank you”.
Later on that evening, something even more dramatic happened to end my events of May 15 1979, but that is a story for another day.
For the moment, I have just been wondering about what kind of world we lived in during those times.
There was no Constitution. We were under a military regime.
A uniformed man, a Flight-Lieutenant had tried to stage a coup and failed and been arrested.
A military officer, (he called his name and showed me his ID) tried to enter the home of the person who had staged the unsuccessful coup d’etat and I ask him to show me a search warrant.
He did not laugh out loud with incredulity and push me aside to enter the house. He answered me and we had a polite conversation.
He leaves the house and goes to get a search warrant and comes back to knock at the door to gain entry. This is in May, 1979, under a military regime.
In the year of our Lord, 2025, 33 years into the longest stretch of constitutional rule we have ever had, armed soldiers are led by a man of no publicly determined official status, into the home of a former Finance Minister.
They rudely brush aside the staff, enter the house and proceed to conduct a hostile and illegal search.
They go through kitchen and cutlery drawers, fridges, freezers, cupboards, closets, underneath beds, books, documents, plates, pots and pans, clothes, linen. They take the car keys and thoroughly ransack the cars and leave the people in the house thoroughly shaken and traumatised.
Back in 1979, I said on a GTV programme to Mike Eghan that where we were as a country at that time, there was nowhere else to go but up, we couldn’t sink any lower.
I wonder where we are today.
“Ofori-Atta can never be a fugitive, OSP got it wrong” – NPP
Ken
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has denied claims from the Special Prosecutor that former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta is a “fugitive”.
The party held a press conference on Thursday, February 13, 2025 to address the claim of the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng.
Addressing the press, National Organiser of the party, Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) described the description of the OSP as “unreasonable.”
“Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta can never be a fugitive. He is not a fugitive, and he will never be a fugitive.
Trump and Zelensky discuss peace efforts in Ukraine
Kiev, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – US President Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, said they spoke by phone about efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Zelensky, writing on X, called the conversation “meaningful” and said they discussed “opportunities to achieve peace,” as well as Trump’s earlier telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“No one wants peace more than Ukraine. Together with the US, we are charting our next steps to stop Russian aggression, and ensure a lasting, reliable peace. As President Trump said, let’s get it done.”
Trump, writing on his Truth Social platform, said the talk went “very well” and that Zelensky “wants to make peace.”
Trump noted that his vice president and secretary of state, will meet Zelensky at the Munich Security Conference on Friday. “I am hopeful that the results of that meeting will be positive,” he wrote.
GNA
Ken Ofori Atta Was The Worst Finance Minister In The History Of Ghana, He Used Bible Quotes To Hide His W!cked Deeds – Nana Aba Anamoah
Following allegations of a military-style raid on former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s Cantonments mansion, Nana Aba Anamoah has fired shots at the former minister for setting a bad record during his reign.
Nana Aba Anamoah called Ofori-Atta “the worst finance minister the country has ever had” in a post on X (previously Twitter), implying that he is being held accountable for his conduct.
According to reports, the February 11, 2025, raid was executed by people wearing military uniforms when Ofori-Atta was abroad. Although the operation’s motivation is yet unknown, the occurrence as generated a lot of discussion and conjecture.
In her post, Anamoah did not mince words, stating, “I render no apologies when I say that this man is receiving his comeuppance. The worst finance minister, who hid his true colours behind Bible quotes and white outfits.”
She further mocked Ofori-Atta’s frequent use of scripture, adding, “Whatever he experiences now is fine. I’m certain he will find a quote for it in the good book, as usual.”
Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has declared Ken Ofori-Atta wanted in four high-profile corruption investigations, including cases related to the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), and two other cases.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that Ofori-Atta is now a wanted person and must return to Ghana immediately to face questioning.
See Nana Aba’s post below;
Source:Ghanacelebrities.com
Why didn’t you interview Ofori-Atta in the US as you did for Mahama’s brother? – NPP quizzes OSP
The National Organiser of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has criticised the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng for failing to go the extra mile to interview former Finance Minister Kenneth Ofori-Atta, as he did in the Airbus scandal case. “Kissi Agyebeng told us in August last year that he travelled all the way to the UK to interview Sam Mahama, John Mahama’s brother, in the Airbus scandal case.
Kumasi Law School: I don’t downplay Lawyers’ concerns
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has emphasised his unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns of the legal fraternity.
He made this statement while reflecting on the establishment of the Kumasi Law School, a significant milestone in the Ashanti Region’s educational landscape when management of the Law School visited him to express their gratitude to him on helping them secure a land for the school in the region.
Expressing his gratitude, the Asantehene stated, “I am grateful to them for seeing to it that this is done. I don’t downplay lawyers’ concerns. When I came, only Accra had a law school, so I called them and asked why there was none in Kumasi.
“We thought that when it was brought here, we wouldn’t get teachers for it. So I called lawyers to come and teach for free, and they all did so.”
Highlighting the collective effort that went into the school’s establishment, he added, “But all my grandchildren who went there taught very well. It was during this process that Justice Annim Yeboah spoke to me about getting land for the school close to the court. So I called the Lands Commission, and they said the land was expensive. I told them money was nothing; they should just make sure they got the land for the school.”
The Asantehene underscored the importance of the Kumasi Law School in the studies and training of lawyers, stating, “This will help with the studies and training of lawyers because governance is built on laws and depends on lawyers. It will help propel Ghana forward. Now everyone wants to study law; even doctors want to study law in addition. So, I will do whatever I can to support the school.”
Read also
Court discharges Kwesi Nyantakyi over number 12 exposé
Comedian Bovi loses father
Nigerian stand-up comedian and actor Bovi Ugboma has announced the passing of his father, Dr. Edward Ugboma.
Bovi shared the news in a statement on his social media handles on Thursday.
He wrote, “We, the Ugboma family, wish to announce the peaceful passing of our father, grandfather and uncle, Dr. Edward Sagini Ugboma (PhD) on this day, the 13th of February 2025.
“He is survived by his children; Judy, Edna, Bovi, Zino, Tano, Tome and Jiji, many grand children and loving relatives.
“We are grateful for all the calls and messages in this period of mourning and gratitude. Funeral rites will be announced soon.
“I keep wondering, what is inside these MPs?” – Speaker Bagbin reveals
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has revealed he keeps wondering what is inside the members of parliament.
According to Alban Bagbin, the members of parliament in private meetings conduct themselves well but in parliament, they often conduct themselves disorderly.
He added that there is order when he is in the chair, but the situation changes when his deputies take over.
The affordable flagship smartphone now in Ghana
Itel, a global leader in affordable smart technology, proudly unveils its latest flagship smartphone series, the itel S25 Ultra, positioning itself as a strong competitor in Ghana’s smartphone market. Known for delivering value-driven devices, itel’s newest release brings premium flagship display quality at an affordable price, offering Ghanaians a cost-effective alternative to high-end models like the Samsung S24.
Premium Design & Stunning AMOLED Display
The itel S25 Ultra is designed to last five years and above, making it an ideal investment for users who want durability and performance. It features a 6.78-inch 3D-curved AMOLED display with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, providing a flagship-level viewing experience with a 92% screen-to-body ratio, 2436×1080 resolution, and FHD+ clarity with 1400 nits peak brightness. This ensures deeper blacks, vivid colors, and crystal-clear visuals, even under bright sunlight.
The 120Hz refresh rate guarantees smooth scrolling, while the In-Display Fingerprint Sensor enhances convenience and security. Plus, the screen remains responsive even with wet hands, perfect for Ghana’s humid conditions. For added peace of mind, itel offers a 100-day free screen replacement for accidental damage.
Professional-Quality Camera for Stunning Photos
Ghanaian photography enthusiasts will love the 50MP rear camera, which delivers outstanding HDR, Backlight Shooting, and Super Night Mode for clear images in any lighting condition. The advanced image processing ensures vibrant colors and sharp details, making it perfect for professional photography and social media content creation.
The 32MP AI-enhanced front camera guarantees flawless selfies with beauty enhancements and wide-angle capabilities—ideal for group photos and social media influencers.
Seamless Multitasking & Powerful Performance
Powered by the T620 octa-core processor (Cortex-A75, up to 2.2GHz), the itel S25 Ultra supports Super Wi-Fi wall-penetrating technology, ensuring ultra-low latency for gaming and streaming, and automatically switches to the best network.
With 16GB RAM (8GB+8GB virtual), users can run up to 18 apps simultaneously without lag. The 128GB internal storage provides ample space for over 30,000 photos, making it ideal for content creators, professionals, and students who need storage without compromise.Additionally, itel Atom Storage Tech guarantees 60 months of smooth performance, while the Graphite Cooling System keeps the device running efficiently without overheating.
Long-Lasting Battery with Fast Charging
The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage without interruptions. Plus, with 18W fast charging, users can recharge quickly and get back to their activities in no time—perfect for busy professionals and students.
Latest Software & AI Features
Running on itel OS 14.5 and upgradeable to Android 15, the itel S25 Ultra keeps users updated with the latest features and security enhancements. Pre-installed with GPT AI Assistant, the phone offers:
✅ Call Noise Cancellation for crystal-clear conversations
✅ AI Wallpaper & ASK AI for a smart and personalized experience
Robust Security Features & Theft Protection
Ghanaians can enjoy the latest Google Security Updates, including:
🔒 Theft Detection Lock – Automatically locks if theft is detected
🔒 Offline Device Lock – Keeps data secure even when disconnected
🔒 Remote Lock – Users can lock their device remotely if lost or stolen
These features ensure that your device and personal information remain secure and inaccessible to unauthorized users.
Exclusive Free Data Offer with Telecel
itel S25 Ultra users in Ghana will enjoy 5GB of monthly data for six months when using Telecel, allowing seamless browsing, YouTube streaming, and social media access.
Affordable Flagship Experience
itel continues its mission of making premium technology accessible. The itel S25 Ultra is priced significantly lower than flagship competitors, starting at GHS 2650.
Durability & Premium Aesthetics
Designed with platinum finish, a sturdy frame, and an IP54 rating, the itel S25 Ultra is resistant to dust, water, and daily wear and tear. Featuring DTS sound optimization and NFC support, it provides a well-rounded premium experience for Ghanaians looking for a high-quality yet affordable smartphone.
Availability & Exclusive Launch Offers
The itel S25 Ultra is now available at leading retail stores and online platforms across Ghana. Early buyers can enjoy special discounts and free accessories while stocks last.
According to the marketing manager of itel, Mr. Michael Tuekpe, With the launch of the itel S25 Ultra, itel reaffirms its commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to emerging markets, offering top-tier design, powerful functionality, and affordability backed by excellent after-sales support. This makes the itel S25 Ultra the best AMOLED smartphone in its price range and a strong competitor to premium brands.
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Gun-wielding NPP supporters invaded my home in 2017- James Agyenim-Boateng
Acting Managing Director of SIC Insurance PLC, James Agyenim-Boateng
The Acting Managing Director of SIC Insurance PLC, James Agyenim-Boateng, has stated that his private residence was raided by some gun-wielding New Patriotic Party supporters following the party’s assumption of power in 2017.
He shared this in a recent post on his Facebook page.
“A reminder that my home was violently invaded by gun-wielding NPP military personnel and an unkempt guy in civilian clothing on February 9, 2017, when NPP came to power. Nana Akufo-Addo and Dr. Bawumia were President and Vice President respectively,” he recounted.
He further alleged that the invaders seized his two cars.
“The invaders took away two cars and kept them at the Police CID Headquarters. After many months, the police returned the cars because they did not belong to the state,” he added.
He then questioned why NPP MPs are suddenly questioning home invasions, as some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) suffered similar fates when the NPP took office in 2017, with their homes allegedly raided and properties seized under various pretexts.
“It’s interesting how suddenly, NPP MPs are concerned about home invasions and are falling over themselves to quote laws against the very things that their government did to many appointees of the then former Mahama government,” he added.
Boateng’s comments come in the wake of emerging CCTV footage showing individuals raiding the private residence of Ken Ofori-Atta.
The incident, which reportedly took place on February 11, 2025, at his Cantonments residence while he was out of the country for medical care, allegedly involved about 12 individuals.
Eyewitnesses claim that five of the men were in military uniforms, one in a police uniform, and the rest in plain clothes.
The allegations have reignited discussions on the legal and ethical implications of such actions under different political administrations.
Meanwhile, Ken Ofori-Atta has been declared wanted by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12,2025, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng declared him a fugitive on the grounds of causing financial loss to the state in several dealings including the construction of the famous National Cathedral and Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA’s) – Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).
Read his post below:
JKB/AE
In the meantime, watch the story of the Ghanaian team that rode motorbikes from Accra to Dakar and back in 17 days, below:
Removing betting tax will be suicidal! – Dr John Kwakye cautions President Mahama
Dr John Kwakye is the Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA)
The Director of Research at the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), Dr. John Kwakye, has advised President John Dramani Mahama against scrapping the betting tax.
He explained that the betting industry is expected to continue growing, generating substantial revenue for the economy if the tax is maintained.
The economist asserted that the government should focus on addressing loopholes and strengthening the tax net, rather than eliminating key revenue-generating taxes.
Dr. Kwakye cautioned President Mahama that abolishing the betting tax would be suicidal for his administration, urging him to reconsider the decision.
“Betting will become an increasing part of the economy with huge tax revenue potential. Leaving betting untaxed would be fiscally ill-advised and, indeed, suicidal!
“Planned tax abolitions should be compensated by measures to plug tax loopholes, broaden the tax net, strengthen tax administration, and stem tax evasion. Natural resource receipts should also be fully exploited,” he wrote on X.
Reports indicate that Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is working to ensure the betting tax is removed during the 2025 budget reading.
It remains to be seen whether the betting tax will be abolished as President Mahama promised during his 2024 election campaign.
Read Dr. John Kwakye’s tweets below:
Betting will become an increasing part of the economy with a huge tax revenue potential. Leaving betting untaxed would, therefore, be fiscally ill-advised and, indeed, suicidal!
— J. K. Kwakye (@JohnKwabenaKwa1) February 11, 2025
Planned tax abolitions should be compensated by measures to plug tax loopholes, broaden the tax net, strengthen tax administration and stem tax evasion. Also, natural resource receipts should be fully exploited.
— J. K. Kwakye (@JohnKwabenaKwa1) February 11, 2025
SB/EK
Bet on the top matches of the European weekend!
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Leverkusen v Bayern, February 15
As coach, Xabi Alonso hasn’t lost any of his 5 matches against Bayern, but only a win will leave Leverkusen in the title race – their gap to Munich is 8 points. Leverkusen, like Bayern, have lost only one Bundesliga game. The reigning champion draws too often and has conceded three times shortly before the final whistle, thus losing vital points. This is a regression compared to last season, when Bayer was the king of the final minutes.
Bayern will play a UCL away match against Celtic before their visit to Leverkusen, which could affect the players’ form. But this season’s leaders also have another problem – a top match complex. Even in the Bundesliga, Bayern failed to win the away games against Dortmund and Eintracht. As for the matches against Leverkusen, even the Munich fans failed to help Bayern win: 1-1 in the Bundesliga and 0-1 in the German Cup.
Odds: W1 – 3.215, X – 3.93, W2 – 2.223
Tottenham v Manchester United, February 16
The Europa League title contenders are next to each other in the Premier League standings, and, what’s interesting, in the bottom half. In the EPL, the Spurs and the Red Devils are no longer fighting for anything big.
Tottenham’s failure this season is caused by a large number of injuries. But Postecoglou has excellent statistics against Man United: 3 wins and 1 draw. The Australian has already beaten the Red Devils’ new coach Amorim: 4-3 in the EFL Cup quarterfinals.
Man United have won 4 of their last 5 games in all competitions, but in the last 8 EPL matches, the Red Devils have only gained 7 points. The team can sometimes produce results thanks to the character and skill of some players, but it’s all too erratic. Man Utd are used to playing with a different formation, while Amorim has no intention of abandoning his 3-4-2-1.
Odds: W1 – 2.517, X – 3.85, W2 – 2.711
Juventus v Inter, February 16
Juventus have bored their fans with too many draws, but they haven’t lost at home in this Serie A season. The Old Lady is now focused on the battle against PSV in the UCL, and, thanks to the winter newcomers, Motta can now rotate the squad more often. In the first half of the season, the match against Inter ended 4-4, but this time, the Bianconeri are likely to be more cautious.
The reigning champion has the best quality and depth of squad in the Serie A. However, Inter are behind Napoli, and they perform poorly in away matches against the participants of European competitions: among these teams, the Nerazzurri have only defeated Lazio and Roma. If Marcus Thuram’s injury turns out to be serious, Inter’s problems with overcoming a packed defense in top matches will only get worse.
Odds: W1 – 3.395, X – 3.52, W2 – 2.289
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Declaring Ofori-Atta wanted ‘unreasonable’ – NPP to OSP
Henry Nana Boakye, the National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has strongly criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for declaring former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a wanted person.
Describing the OSP’s actions as “unreasonable,” Boakye pointed to ongoing communication between Ofori-Atta and the OSP, as well as a treatment letter from Mayo Clinic, as evidence that the former minister is not in hiding.
“The OSP is being unreasonable considering the ongoing communication between Ken Ofori-Atta and the OSP office concerning his status. Additionally, the treatment letter from Mayo Clinic should demonstrate that he is indeed receiving care,” Boakye stated.
He argued that, by legal definition, a fugitive is someone who cannot be located, emphasizing that due diligence must be done before such a declaration is made.
“My little knowledge in law reveals that if somebody is declared a fugitive, it means that that person cannot be reached, cannot be traced, you don’t even know where the person is, and at least you give yourself some time after a reasonable search,” he explained.
Boakye further asserted that the OSP does not have the legal mandate to declare individuals wanted, as that authority lies solely with the courts.
“In any case, the OSP lacked that power to declare anybody wanted. It is only the court that can do so,” he added.
Read also
Ofori-Atta is not a fugitive, OSP got it wrong – NPP
Ghana Is A Sick Country: Berla Mundi Explains Why
This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.
Mercy360 Blog of Thursday, 13 February 2025
Source: Mercy Mensah
Berla Mundi started a social media topic recently by voicing her dissatisfaction with the country’s noise pollution.
In a now-viral article, she bemoaned the excessive noise made by trucks selling items in residential neighborhoods as early as 6 a.m.
The well-known Ghanaian media figure questioned why merchants, particularly those selling ‘nkura duro’ (a local herbal medicine), blast loud music and announcements in the early hours of the morning, disturbing the quiet of others still sleeping or preparing for work. She referred to this as “noise pollution” and called for immediate response to such disturbances in metropolitan areas.
Her comments have elicited conflicting reactions, with some admitting that noise pollution is a big problem in Ghana and others arguing that street sellers are simply trying to make a living. Some have encouraged Berla to relocate to a quieter neighbourhood if the noise pollution is constantly bothering her.
She wrote on x. “To be honest, Ghana is a sick country! Why is there a truck selling ‘nkura duro’ with loud music and announcements on the streets at 6 a.m., when people are sleeping or getting ready for work?”That is noise pollution…”
She has now received harsh criticism for seeking to disparage hardworking individuals striving to make ends meet.
https://x.com/berlamundi/status/1889989726037569576
Juliet Ibrahim flaunts stunning mother to mark her 60th birthday
A standout moment of the night was the soulful performances by gospel musicians Joe Mettle and Moses Bliss, who added a spiritual touch to the joyous occasion.
Following the release of the photos, fans flooded Juliet Ibrahim’s timeline with admiration, praising her mother’s ageless beauty and celebrating the special bond between mother and daughter.
CSOs sound alarm over Ghana’s rising debt, call for urgent fiscal reforms
The Economic Governance Platform has expressed concern over the country’s growing debt and financial mismanagement, calling for urgent reforms to strengthen accountability institutions and prevent wastage of public funds by the government and state agencies.
The civil society organizations (CSOs) urged Parliament to uphold its oversight responsibilities by thoroughly scrutinising fiscal policies and curbing excessive expenditures.
Speaking at the launch of the CSOs Online Public Debt Tracker and IMF Bailout Dashboard in Accra, the platform’s Coordinator, Abdul Karim Mohammed, highlighted the crucial role of CSOs in promoting transparency and accountability in public debt management through the need launch of the Public Debt Tracker provides real-time data on Ghana’s debt levels, while the IMF Bailout Dashboard offers updates on the country’s 17th IMF programme.
“In a number of serious democracies, the parliament has the budget office that does serious scrutiny of all fiscal policies, budgets that the government puts forth so that they are able to exercise strong mandate and restrain the government in being too excessive in the way they waste public resources.
“If you look at the conversation around that, it turns out to be very technical at a very high level and citizens often do not understand. It is not broken down for the public to understand.
“So, we all turn to be taken by surprise whenever the crisis hits. As a result, we the members of the Economic Governance Platform thought it wise to put together this platform that breaks down the information in a way that people can easily relate to.
“Also, it serves as a reliable source of data that people can work with and have a sense of where we are and where we are going as a nation.”
Ghana’s revenue-enhancing measures must expand tax base, rely on efficient taxes
The World Bank has emphasized the need for Ghana to adopt a more effective approach to revenue mobilization by broadening its tax base and implementing efficient tax policies.
The government of Ghana has announced its decision to abolish draconian taxes such as the Electronic Transfer Levy, betting tax, among others and focus on addressing the issue of tax compliance to increase tax revenue to 16% of GDP.
Senior Russian lawmaker welcomes US defence chief’s stance on Ukraine
Moscow, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s remarks about the war in Ukraine, was met with approval in Moscow on Wednesday.
“The statements of the Pentagon chief can be a cold shower for (Ukrainian President Volodymyr) Zelensky,” said the head of the foreign affairs committee in the Russian parliament, Leonid Slutsky, according to the state news agency TASS.
Hegseth had said earlier in Brussels that it was unrealistic, to expect Ukraine to return to the pre-2014 borders, and also dismissed the country’s post-war accession to NATO.
Hegseth’s assessment of the situation was “quite realistic,” said Slutsky, who is also the leader of the ultranationalist LDPR party.
The priorities of the new US administration, allowed for cautious optimism, he said. However, he rejected proposal being floated for a Western peacekeeping force to secure the front line, as part of a negotiated peace settlement.
Even if the US renounces participation in this force, this would only lead to a freezing of the conflict and a possible rearmament of Kiev for revenge, said the high-ranking Moscow politician.
The Kremlin is sticking to its maximum demands for a peace agreement. These include the surrender of further territory, in addition to the areas already captured, as well as a renunciation of NATO membership and the renewal of Moscow’s influence on politics in Kiev.
GNA
Kofi Adams criticizes Otto Addo’s retention as Black Stars head coach
Sports Minister Kofi Adams has expressed strong reservations about the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) decision to retain Otto Addo as the head coach of the Black Stars, despite dismissing the entire backroom staff.
Speaking to Metro TV, Adams pointed to poor statistical data as a major concern, arguing that by the numbers alone, Addo should not have been kept.
“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,” Adams stated.
“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.”
Meanwhile, according to Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member Oduro Sarfo, the FA is committed to long-term planning and will not rush to appoint a new coach just months before crucial international competitions.
“We gave this young man [Otto Addo] a job for AFCON and the World Cup. Now, who should come in and continue? How many months are left? Should we bring in a new coach who doesn’t know the players? That’s what we keep doing, and it’s why we aren’t getting results,” Sarfo stated.
Otto Addo’s future as the Black Stars’ coach has been a subject of debate after the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Watch the moment Asantehene cleared a man’s GH₵500 fine after realizing he couldn’t afford it
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, once again demonstrated his magnanimity by clearing a man’s GH₵500 fine.
This happened after the King realized that the accused was not in a position to afford it.
In a video shared on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, the accused was seen arraigned before the Asantehene at a public gathering.
When the accused’s charge was read out to him and his fine stated, the Asantehene swiftly responded, “He can’t afford that amount.” Otumfuo’s comment was met with laughter from those who had gathered.
The man was then released scot-free.
Hilarious moment when the Asantehene cleared a man’s GHS500 fine after realising he wouldn’t be able to afford it. pic.twitter.com/ip3uPOf9XN
— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) February 12, 2025
KA
Robert Lartey will lead Ghana Gas’ transformation with experience
The newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC), Ing. Robert Lartey, is ready to bring his wealth of experience to spearhead the transformation of the country’s premier gas infrastructure.
With over two decades of expertise in the oil and gas industry, Ing. Lartey is seen as a strong asset to the company’s operations and Ghana’s broader energy landscape.
In light of his appointment, some concerns have been raised in the media regarding his suitability for the position.
However, prominent members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have come out in support of the new CEO, emphasizing his commitment to the party’s vision and the nation’s development.
James Agbey, a well-known NDC operative, has rallied for solidarity around Ing. Lartey, stressing the importance of unity to achieve the party’s agenda of resetting Ghana’s economy.
He described Ing. Lartey as a consummate professional whose contributions to the NDC and the energy sector have been significant over the years.
“Ing. Robert Lartey has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the growth of the energy sector and the development of our country. His professional competence is beyond doubt, and he has always defended the core values of the NDC in various capacities,” Mr. Agbey stated.
He further noted that the party’s focus should remain on supporting President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of resetting the economy after years of economic challenges.
“We must not allow parochial interests to distract us from the task at hand. The resetting agenda is crucial, and Ing. Lartey has the expertise and dedication to make it a reality,” he urged.
Lartey’s appointment is seen as part of a broader strategic plan to optimize Ghana’s gas resources and contribute to the nation’s industrial growth.
Stakeholders within the energy sector have also expressed optimism about his leadership, citing his extensive experience and innovative mindset as key qualities needed to position Ghana Gas as a critical driver of energy security and economic transformation.
Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Frank Amoakohene visits family of late Nana Pooley
Dr. Frank Amoakohene is the Ashanti Regional Minister
Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has paid a visit to the family of the late Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley, in a gesture of solidarity and respect.
During the visit, he conveyed condolences and support for the bereaved family from President John Dramani Mahama.
Dr. Amoakohene’s visit follows the tragic death of the passionate Asante Kotoko fan, after he was fatally stabbed during the club’s clash against Nsoatreman FC on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
What began as an on-field altercation among players escalated into the stands, leading to the horrific incident.
His passing has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many fans demanding justice.
In response, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has suspended the Ghana Premier League, while Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak have petitioned the GFA, calling for reforms to curb hooliganism in the sport.
Addressing the bereaved family, the Ashanti Regional Minister acknowledged the gravity of the tragedy and urged unity, hoping that Nana Pooley’s death would lead to positive changes.
“Although this is a great tragedy that has befallen us, we must give thanks to God, as the Bible teaches. All we can do now is stay united and find comfort in each other. The president acknowledges Nana Pooley’s undeniable love for Ghanaian football and Asante Kotoko, but sadly, it did not bring the good news we had hoped for.
“We must learn from this so that whenever we mention his name, it inspires positive change for Asanteman, Asante Kotoko, and Ghana,” he said.
Dr. Amoakohene also assured the family of the government’s continued support, disclosing that President Mahama is committed to assisting them in times of need.
“We understand your pain, but we urge you to stay strong. The president has assured that if the family ever requires support from the government, do not hesitate to reach out, and we will do our best to assist,” he added.
Meanwhile, catch up on the latest Sports Check with weightlifter Marie Agbah-Hughes on GhanaWeb TV below:
FKA/AE
Kremlin: Putin and Trump plan to meet in person
Moscow, Feb 13, (dpa/GNA) – The Kremlin said Russian President, Vladimir Putin, and US President Donald Trump, spoke by phone and agreed to set up an in-person meeting.
Putin had declared his readiness to receive representatives of the White House in Russia, to discuss the war of Ukraine, spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
“Putin and Trump have also agreed to continue personal contacts, including organizing a personal meeting,” he said, adding that Putin invited Trump to Moscow.
GNA
Termination of post-December 7 appointments lacks legal basis
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned the Chief of Staff’s directive revoking all public sector employments made after December 7, 2024, describing the move as “unlawful termination” that exposes the government to potential lawsuits.
The directive, issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, instructs all heads of government institutions to annul appointments and recruitments made into the Public Service after the specified date.
A letter, sighted by Citi News and circulated to government agencies, stated: “Consistent with Government pronouncement in relation to near end-of-tenure appointments and recruitments, I wish to bring to your attention that all appointments and recruitments made in the Public Services of Ghana after 7th December 2024 are not in compliance with established good governance practices and principles.”
“Accordingly, all Heads of Government Institutions are hereby requested to take the necessary steps to annul any such appointments or recruitments and submit a comprehensive report on the actions taken to this Office by 17th February 2025.”
The decision affects individuals who secured various public sector roles after the 2024 general elections.
However, addressing a press conference in Accra on Thursday, February 13, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B) criticized the directive, arguing that it would lead to mass unemployment and hardship for affected individuals.
“Thousands of Ghanaians will suddenly find themselves jobless because of political expediency,” he told journalists, adding, “Just as Akufo-Addo took responsibility for Mahama’s last-minute appointments in 2016, he [Mahama] must also take responsibility for the appointments made legitimately.”
Nana Boakye warned that the NPP would explore legal options to challenge the directive, arguing that such actions discourage young professionals from seeking public sector employment.
“We will leave no stone unturned in challenging this decision in court,” he emphasized.
The directive has sparked concerns among affected workers, with labor groups and legal experts weighing in on its implications.
NPP gives details of US hospital Ofori-Atta is receiving treatment at
Former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has shared details of the hospital taking care of former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, following the accusation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor that the former minister is claiming to be seeking medical care to escape justice.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Thursday, February 13, 2025, the National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B), slammed Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng for claiming that Ofori-Atta is telling lies about receiving medical treatment in the US.
He indicated that the lawyers of Ofori-Atta gave details of the hospital where Ofori-Atta is receiving treatment, which could be easily verified.
“On February 7, 2025, in a reply to the Special Prosecutor’s letter of February 5, Mr Ofori-Atta’s lawyer stated, ‘Please find the attached document indicating that our client is receiving attention at the Mayo Clinic in the US. It outlines his appointment and suggests a date after March when our client may be able to return to Ghana.’
“A date after March? March is just next month. The letter from Mayo Clinic stated that Mr Ofori-Atta was undergoing further testing and management, including possible surgical intervention in March 2025,” he said.
He added, “The hospital’s letter provided reliable contact information, a doctor’s name, the department name, a phone number, and a reliable email address. It was also stamped ‘Mayo Clinic Authentic Document,’ with a signature and a date.”
Background:
The Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, on February 12, 2025, declared former Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, a fugitive 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.
Kissi Agyebeng said the medical excuse given to his office 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/AE
You can also watch as John Jinapor narrates how National Security took his phone and laptop to the UK in 2017
AG exposes how Godfred Dame ignored expert advice to ‘target’ BoG Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama
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.
MAG/EK
GFA will not leave any stakeholder dissatisfied with enhanced matchday protocols
GFA General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo
Prosper Harrison Addo, General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has pledged that no stakeholder will be left dissatisfied with the newly enhanced matchday protocols in a bid to restore confidence and ensure safety in Ghana football.
As the GFA prepares for the resumption of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League, which was suspended following the tragic death of Asante Kotoko supporter Francis Frimpong Pooley, Addo is focused on creating a secure environment for fans and participants alike.
However, the protocols didn’t not address many of the proposals outlined by Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak in their joint statement.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, Addo assured that the GFA is making significant progress for the league to continue.
“We are going progressively and as fast as we can. We are moving together and we want to bring everybody along. We will make that engagement and announce a date for the resumption of the league.
“We will plead with the supporters to be patient, [announcement] will be done soon. Matches will not come off this weekend but we are moving as fast as we can,” he aid.
The GFA has introduced stringent safety measures, including the appointment of Club Safety and Security Officers and the installation of CCTV cameras at match venues.
Non-compliance with these protocols will result in stiff penalties, including fines of GH¢20,000 and venue bans, reinforcing the GFA’s commitment to a safer football experience for all stakeholders.
Ghana’s Early Childhood Education: What is quality, and what does it look like?
As Ghana approached its presidential and parliamentary elections on December 7, 2024, the then-presidential candidate (now president-elect), H.E. John Dramani Mahama, released a document titled Mahama’s First 120 Days Social Contract with the People of Ghana. This document followed the publication of The Resetting Ghana: Jobs, Prosperity, and Accountability Manifesto of the NDC (2024).
The ninth item in the twenty-six-point document focuses on education. It proposes convening a national consultative conference to build consensus on the necessary improvements to the sector. While this plan to engage in a national dialogue about education is refreshing, it is crucial to acknowledge that education encompasses several levels: Early Childhood Education (ECE), Primary Education (PE), Junior High School (JHS), Free Senior High School (SHS), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and Tertiary Education (undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional education). Thus, the national conversation must address each phase of education in its unique context rather than treating education as a monolithic sector.
In this context, I resonate with provision 5.1.1 of the NDC’s 2024 Manifesto, which promises to introduce the Bright Beginnings Initiative to revive and repurpose early childhood education (ECE) for the well-being of Ghanaian children, facilitating seamless integration into continuous schooling and lifelong learning. The manifesto outlines an eleven key targets for achieving this initiative:
- Initiate a policy to integrate early childhood education into basic education with appropriate infrastructure support.
- Establish a Department for Early Childhood Development under the Ministry of Education to promote ECE.
- Launch a National Edu-Care Programme (NEP) to create early learning facilities in workplaces for working parents.
- Create Ghana Pre-schools Online (GPO) to enhance literacy and numeracy for nursery and kindergarten children using multimedia tools.
- Review early childhood curricula to develop a value-based curriculum emphasizing psychomotor skills and basic life skills.
- Significantly improve the pupil-to-textbook ratio.Invest in comprehensive professional development programs for early childhood educators.
- Institutionalize and promote the use of first languages (L1) as the medium of instruction in early education.
- Incorporate indigenous knowledge, traditions, and stories into teaching materials to make learning meaningful.
- Promote digital content for supplementary early childhood learning materials.
- Introduce courses in tertiary institutions to train early childhood facilitators.
- While I may not have full access to the data or rationale underpinning these targets, I urge the Consultative Conference on Education to explore and build consensus on what constitutes “quality” in early childhood education and other phases of education. The definition of “quality” will serve as the foundation for the initiative’s success.Defining ‘Quality’ in ECE
- ‘Quality’ in early childhood education can vary significantly depending on stakeholders—children, parents, teachers, government, and researchers. It is imperative for the government to lead by defining its vision of ‘quality’ in ECE and its practical implementation.
Without a clear purpose and desired outcomes for the Bright Beginnings Initiative, the program risks failure.
Perspectives on Quality
- School Readiness:
This perspective focuses on ensuring children acquire specific knowledge, understanding and skills before entering Primary One. Currently, the Ghana Education Service’s vision for school readiness lacks alignment with implementation strategies. If this vision is to anchor the Bright Beginnings Initiative, drastic changes in strategy are needed. For instance, UNESCO’s 2022 report highlighted that 80% of Ghanaian children fail to acquire basic literacy and numeracy skills by the end of primary school. Addressing school readiness is crucial to reversing this trend.
2. Structural Quality:
Structural quality involves measurable factors such as class size, teacher qualifications, teacher-to-child ratios, government funding, and curriculum design. Legislation should cap the number of children per teacher and guarantee minimum attendance hours for all children. Funding should extend to private ECE settings for families that opt for private education. Attendance compliance must also be enforced through legislation.
3. Process Quality:
This focuses on children’s everyday experiences, including social, emotional, physical, and instructional interactions. Ghana must develop culturally specific tools to measure teaching effectiveness and learning environments. Globally, tools like the Environmental Rating Scale (ERS) and Sustained Shared Thinking and Emotional Well-being Scale (SSTEW) assess these aspects. Ghana’s Bright Beginnings Initiative should include the development of such tools.
4. Reflexivity Quality:
Reflexivity quality emphasizes continuous reflection and improvement by practitioners. Teachers’ ongoing dialogue about theory and practice enhances learning experiences. National policies must include robust induction programs for ECE teachers and continuous professional development. Field-based ECE coordinators should visit settings to demonstrate best practices.
5. Regulatory Regime:
Regulatory regimes set quality standards for ECE settings. Ghana’s current regulatory framework excludes ECE settings from oversight. Reforming the National School Inspectorate Authority (NaSIA) to include ECE and ensuring qualified coordinators manage the sector are critical steps.
Conclusion
Quality in ECE has many facets. Ghana must reflect on these perspectives in its national policies to maximize the benefits of early childhood education for children and the country’s future. I look forward to the Consultative Conference on Education and the implementation of the Bright Beginnings Initiative under the leadership of the new government.
By: Komla Zafa Dartey (EYP, England)
SE25 South London, England.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Revamped Weightlifting Center Ushers in a New Era for Ghanaian Sport
Jerry Ahmed Shaib, President of the Ghana Weightlifting Federation and MP for Weija-Gbawe, on Wednesday officially commissioned the newly renovated National Weightlifting Training Center at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The facility, which had been non-operational for nearly a year, underwent extensive upgrades to modernize its equipment and create a conducive training environment.
In his remarks, Hon. Ahmed Shaib emphasized that the reopening of the gym goes far beyond restoring a physical space. “Today, we are not just here to celebrate the reopening of a physical space, but to celebrate a vision—a vision of growth, progress, and success for the sport of weightlifting in Ghana,” he declared. He lauded the commitment of federation members who have worked tirelessly to bring the center up to modern standards.
The revamped center is designed not only to serve Ghana’s national weightlifters but also to welcome international athletes seeking top-notch training facilities. “The key objective of the training center is to provide better training facilities for Ghanaian weightlifters and also colleagues from other nationalities who might want to come into the country to train. We also want to nurture young talent, enhance our competitiveness on the international stage, and promote weightlifting as both a sport and a lifestyle,” he added.
The event was graced by prominent figures in Ghanaian sports. Ben Nunoo Mensah, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee, acknowledged Ghana’s strong position in African weightlifting—currently rated fifth—and urged the youth to consider weightlifting as a viable sporting career. In addition, the new Minister of Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, lent his support to the initiative, underscoring the government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure across the country.
Adding to the optimistic outlook, a former president of the Ghana Weightlifting Federation, also known as Nii Kojo Ashiefie Papanyira I, remarked on the discipline’s potential. He highlighted that weightlifting, where one athlete can win multiple medals, could be pivotal in boosting Ghana’s medal tally in international competitions.
With enhanced facilities and renewed enthusiasm, the renovated training center is expected to play a critical role in elevating Ghanaian weightlifting, nurturing young talent, and making the sport more accessible and competitive both locally and internationally.
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Appointments terminated in 2017 were all illegal appointments – Ekow Assafuah says to critics
Member of Parliament for Old Tafo constituency, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has defended his decision to take legal action against the NDC administration amid mass criticism for speaking against the recent revocation of all appointments made after December 7, 2024 by the Chief of Staff.
The NPP MP brought out an official statement on Wednesday to speak against the decision made by the government and also to rally all affected persons to engage a writ in the court of law against the government’s decision.
“My faith has been rewarded” – Actress Iyabo Ojo expresses gratitude over her daughter’s union with Tanzanian singer Juma Jux (IMAGES)
Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo expressed excitement over her daughter’s marital union with Tanzanian singer Juma Jux.
The actress shared pictures from their family dinner, where the singer proposed to her daughter for the second time, with the caption,
“Today, I’m proud to say that my faith has been rewarded.
Interior Minister inaugurates 7-member committee to review security service recruitment
To enhance transparency and professionalism in the recruitment processes of Ghana’s security services, Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak has inaugurated a seven-member committee.
The committee has been tasked with reviewing the recruitment procedures for the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Immigration Service, and other related agencies.
Addressing the gathering during the inauguration, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to building strong, professional, and accountable security agencies.
He noted that ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process is a critical component of achieving this vision, as it directly affects the credibility and effectiveness of the country’s security forces.
“The integrity of these processes directly impacts the credibility of our security agencies. The government is determined to ensure that recruitment practices align with our national security needs and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and fairness,” he stated.
The committee’s work comes in response to concerns raised regarding the fairness, efficiency, and transparency of the 2024 recruitment processes for these agencies.
The Ministry of the Interior, which oversees recruitment into key security institutions, aims to address these concerns through a comprehensive review to ensure alignment with best practices.
The committee will assess the transparency, fairness, and integrity of the recruitment procedures, evaluate compliance with due process, and propose measures to enhance accountability and efficiency in the recruitment system.
The final report, due within two weeks, will include findings, challenges, and recommendations for both procedural and institutional reforms.
The committee’s work will also guide future recruitment practices to ensure they are in line with the country’s security objectives.
The committee is made up of seasoned professionals in the fields of security administration, public service, and law, including Yaw Akrasi Sarpong as chairperson. Other distinguished members, such as former police and prison officers, legal experts, and public servants, include:
- Bright Oduro (COP Rtd.)
- Eric Afari (DCOI Rtd.)
- Ben Lartey (DDP Rtd.)
- Lawyer Elsie Appau
- Paa Kwesi Adutwum (DCFO Rtd.)
- Alexander Twum-Barimah Esq. — Secretary
The government has pledged its full support to the committee, offering the necessary logistical and financial resources, including office space, access to relevant documents, and funding for consultations and research.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
NPP lists recruitments Mahama made after losing 2016 Election
National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party, Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B)
The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called out President John Dramani Mahama over the revocation of all public sector recruitments done by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government after December 7, 2024.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, February 13, 2025, the National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye (Nana B), accused Mahama and his Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who issued the directive, of being hypocritical.
According to him, President Mahama, through a directive issued by the same Julius Debrah, issued appointment letters to several people after he lost the 2016 election.
He went ahead to list some of the appointments Mahama made as follows:
“On December 19, 2016, when the NDC lost, I recall the former President Mahama then, now President Mahama, through the same Chief of Staff, made key appointments. In fact, on December 16, 2016, that was when they appointed the former Auditor-General, Mr. Domelevo, who is part of the discredited ORAL.
“Key appointments were made: Mr. Joseph Whittall, Ms. Josephine Nkrumah, and Mr. Daniel Domelevo to lead CHRAG, the National Commission for Civic Education, and the Office of the Auditor-General, respectively,” he said.
He added that Mahama, when he was leaving office, increased the allowance given to National Service Personnel by about 50 percent.
“On December 20, 2016, President Mahama, through the finance ministry, also increased the National Service allowance from GH¢350 to GH¢549, effective January 2017,” he added.
The NPP National Organiser said that former President Akufo-Addo, after he took over from Mahama in 2017, did not revoke the appointments made.
“The NPP government under President Akufo-Addo did not cancel these appointments. We honoured them. Likewise, we did not dismiss John Mahama’s last-minute appointments or last-minute increase to the National Service allowance. We honoured all of this. This is how democratic governance should function.
“Therefore, President Mahama cannot revoke these recruitments. Just as President Akufo-Addo took responsibility for Mahama’s last-minute appointments in 2016, he must also take responsibility for the appointments made legitimately, whatever date within 2024,” he further said.
He continued to state that, “Now, because this directive lacked basis and was not well grounded in law, you realise that there have been a lot of abuses.”
About the revocation of appointments
Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, revoked all public service appointments and recruitments made after December 7, 2024.
According to a letter issued on February 10 and sent to all heads of government institutions, the Chief of Staff directed that all such appointments and recruitments be revoked.
“Consistent with government procurement in relation to near end-of-tenure appointments and recruitments, I wish to bring to your attention that all appointments and recruitments made in the Public Services of Ghana after December 7, 2024, are not in compliance with established good governance practices and principles.
“Accordingly, all Heads of Government Institutions are hereby requested to take the necessary steps to annul any such appointments or recruitments and submit a comprehensive report on the actions taken to this Office by February 11, 2025,” the letter said.
BAI/AE
You can also watch as John Jinapor narrates how National Security took his phone and laptop to the UK in 2017
CDM to petition IMF, others if Mahama fails to revoke Asiamah’s appointment as BoG boss
Dr. Johnson Asiamah is the Acting BoG Governor
The Centre for Democratic Movement has condemned President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Dr. Johnson Asiamah as Acting Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
According to the group, the appointment violates constitutional principles, weakens financial oversight, and undermines public confidence in Ghana’s banking system.
A press release by the movement noted unresolved allegations related to Dr. Asiamah’s role in Ghana’s financial sector crisis as a basis for its concerns about transparency and accountability.
Dr. Asiamah was charged alongside nine individuals in connection with the collapse of some banks, facing charges such as fraudulent breach of trust, money laundering, conspiracy to commit a crime, and violations of the Bank of Ghana Act.
“Ghana, as a member of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), is obligated to promote integrity and accountability in public office. Article 7 of UNCAC mandates state parties to establish merit-based and transparent selection processes for public officials in positions of financial responsibility,” parts of the release read.
The group asserted that by appointing Dr. Asiamah without fully addressing concerns about his past actions, Ghana is failing to meet these international obligations.
“Similarly, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog against financial crimes, emphasizes that leadership in central banks should be free from ethical controversies to ensure sound financial governance. Several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have clear guidelines prohibiting the appointment of officials with unresolved financial misconduct allegations to key economic institutions,” they added.
The group asserts that restoring trust in Ghana’s financial institutions requires merit-based appointments.
It added that, therefore, if the government fails to take urgent action, CDM “will have no choice but to petition key international bodies and donor institutions”, including:
• The European Union Representative in Ghana
• The International Monetary Fund (IMF)
• The World Bank
• The Chinese Embassy
• The U.S. Embassy
• Other major diplomatic missions and financial institutions.
SSD/AE
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