Parliament is currently in session as lawmakers convene to discuss government business on the floor.
The Minority have dressed in black to protest the declaration of the Kpandai seat as vacant.
This follows a formal notification by the House to the Electoral Commission (EC) on Monday, December 8, 2025, after a High Court in Tamale directed a rerun of the 2024 parliamentary election
In a letter dated December 4, 2025, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, informed EC Chairperson Jean Mensa that the seat was officially vacant in line with the court’s ruling.
Emma Wenani (L) receiving the award from Prof. Effah Afua Kaufmann
The country’s leading integrated marketing and communications agency, Global Media Alliance, has been adjudged Outstanding Media Agency of the Year at the recently held Women’s Choice Awards.
The agency’s Chief Director, Emma Wenani, was also honoured as the Outstanding Woman in PR.
Global Media Alliance earned the prestigious recognition for its leadership in delivering innovative communications solutions across diverse sectors. The awards reinforced the agency’s long-standing impact on Ghana’s media and communications landscape.
The Women’s Choice Awards celebrates exceptional women and organisations across the continent, recognising excellence, leadership and positive influence.
Ms. Wenani’s individual win further highlighted the agency’s achievements. Over the years, she has become a powerhouse in public relations, delivering integrated, multi-sector communications strategies while championing ethical standards, transparency and greater recognition for the PR profession in Ghana.
Speaking on the double win, Ms. Wenani expressed gratitude and described the recognition as a motivation to pursue even greater excellence.
“It is such an honour to be recognised as one who is making an impact in a profession I love. This award will spur me on to do more, stay committed and continue striving for excellence,” she said.
She also thanked her team for their collective effort, which contributed to winning Media Agency of the Year.
The Chief Executive Officer of Global Media Alliance congratulated Ms. Wenani and the team, noting that her leadership and expertise in PR made the recognition well deserved.
“As Chief Director of Global Media Alliance, Emma Wenani lives and breathes excellence. Her expertise and leadership truly set her apart, and this award is no surprise,” he said.
This year’s Women’s Choice Awards, organised by Global Ovations, attracted several high-profile personalities, including Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration) Nana Oye Bampoe Addo and Ghana National Fire Service’s Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong.
The event also honoured outstanding women such as Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann and Akosua Dentaa Amoateng MBE for their contributions to national development.
Jennifer Lopez looked incredible in stunning pictures taken at an Indian tech billionaire’s wedding where the singer performed over the weekend.
But JLo, 56, risked stealing the show in a plunging crystal-covered saree and 168-carat emerald necklace in unseen photographs.
The jaw-dropping piece of jewellery was created by Indian designer Manish Malhotra and also included matching drop earrings and a traditional tikka for her hair.
The necklace, named the Maharani Necklace, took over 1,800 hours to craft.
Posing on a balcony in the pale pink number, Jennifer smouldered for the camera in the breathtaking shots from the lavish affair.
Jennifer’s hair was slicked back into a chic half up, half down style and her pretty features were accentuated with a face of glamorous make-up.
Jennifer Lopez looked incredible in stunning pictures taken at an Indian tech billionaire’s wedding where she performed over the weekend
The singer and actress, 56, risked stealing the show in a plunging crystal-covered saree and 168-carat emerald necklace in unseen photographs
The jaw-dropping piece of jewellery was created by Indian designer Manish Malhotra and also included matching drop earrings and a traditional tikka in her hair
Jennifer was paid £2million to perform a the wedding and after the occasion wrapped up, her stylist , Mariel Haenn, shared some official photos of one of her looks.
The traditional dress was also designed by Manish, and was strapless in style while being covered in a crystal lattice beading.
The ensemble also included a sheer, embellished shawl which was draped around her shoulders.
The spectacular wedding of billionaire heir Netra Mantena was hosted at a palace featured in a James Bond film and has left jaws dropping around the world.
Netra, the daughter of Indian pharmaceutical bigwig Rama Raju Mantena, married tech entrepreneur Vamsi Gadiraju in an opulent wedding near the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur this week, which featured in the 1983 James Bond film Octopussy.
JLo served as both a guest and performer at the lavish nuptials – believed to cost close to $6.7 million – while Donald Jr and his socialite squeeze Bettina Anderson also attended. It featured a 15ft wedding cake in the shape of a mini palace.
Other celebrity guests included a host of Bollywood A-listers, such as actor Ram Charan, British singer and actress Sophie Choudry, and Nora Fatehi.
Throughout the event, Jennifer left little to the imagination as she took to the stage in a variety of skimpy ensembles to perform her many hits, including Waiting for Tonight and On The Floor, while revellers were seen dancing to her chart-topping songs.
Bride Netra Mantena and groom, Vamsi Gadiraju, whose massive wedding event was attended by notables including Donald Trump Jr and performances by Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez delivered a sizzling performance at the wedding of Indian billionaire heir Netra Mantena on Sunday
The wedding featured a lavish cake shaped like a palace
At one point, she almost spilled out of her plunging flesh-toned leotard during a rigorous dance routine.
She also slipped into a skintight semi-sheer black bodysuit with a G-string backside that gave guests an ample view of her famous curves.
Before taking to the stage, the American singer was photographed with the newlyweds wearing an embellished saree and emerald jewels.
The couple’s cake-cutting ceremony featured an all-white multi-tiered cake that appeared to resemble a mini palace, and was even sculpted with elephants, tigers and cascading flowers.
The custom-made cake was made by Paris-based luxury cake designer and pastry chef Bastien Blanc-Tailleu, Indian media reports.
Footage of the cake circulated on social media, with Internet users marvelling at its craftsmanship.
Despite sustained efforts by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to crack down on illegal mining activities, recalcitrant miners continue to wreak havoc on the country’s land, forest, and water resources with impunity.
Since the secretariat was set up in July this year, it has conducted many intelligence-led operations across mining communities in the country, leading to the destruction of illegal mining enclaves and disruption of networks perpetrating the act.
As of November 30, 1,486 illegal miners had been arrested by the NAIMOS team, who also confiscated 443 excavators and other mining equipment.
However, pervasive illegal mining in the belly of water bodies and designated buffers has left the country’s major rivers, such as the Pra, Ankobra, Bia, Offin, Ayensu, and Birim, heavily polluted.
Forest reserves, which provide essential ecological services, are also being pillaged with impunity by the illegal miners, even as NAIMOS works on its mandate to clamp down on the menace.
Recent onslaught
In the latest intelligence-led operations by the NAIMOS taskforce in the Western, Western-North, and Eastern regions between Thursday, December 4 and Saturday, December 6, it was discovered that in their unorthodox means of searching for gold, the illegal miners had blocked the Bia and Ayensu rivers that serve as a source of water for residents in those regions.
Some makeshift structures at galamsey sites set ablaze by NAIMOS task force
NAIMOS also discovered that the Atewa Forest, which is noted for its rich ecological wealth and a globally significant biodiversity area (GSBA), is under siege by illegal miners on a scale never imagined.
The illegal miners have expanded their operations deep into the forest reserve, leaving behind numerous uncovered pits filled with water.
Also, vast tracts of farmland continue to be stripped bare as illegal miners carve them into deep pits filled with murky water used for washing gold.
There was also worrying evidence of child labour in the illegal mining sites, particularly in the Eastern Region, where the NAIMOS team rescued many children working with adult illegal miners who had escaped arrest.
Western enclave clampdown
A 30-member team of NAIMOS officers undertook swoops at notorious illegal mining enclaves at Dadieso in the Suaman District in the Western-North District on December 6, and arrested nine Chinese illegal miners after many others had escaped.
Seized excavators being conveyed by NAIMOS for safe keeping
The NAIMOS team destroyed Changfang machines, heavy-duty pumping machines and make-shift structures that the illegal miners used for their operations.
The task force also entered the Kwabena Lantey and Suibo operational zones and uncovered a huge illegal mining concession hidden within dense vegetation close to the Bia River.
Operators of the illegal site escaped upon a tip-off and concealed some excavators in the bush in an attempt to prevent their seizure.
Through intensified intelligence-led operations at a suburb of Dadieso known locally as Niger, the NAIMOS team recovered a mobile phone with communications linked to a contact on a WhatsApp platform.
The messages on the WhatsApp platform pointed to direct coordination by foreign nationals in the galamsey operations.
Acting on that critical lead, the NAIMOS operatives tracked and apprehended nine Asian men and escorted them to multiple sites to corroborate their involvement in the galamsey activities on the ground.
Anonymous caller
Meanwhile, NAIMOS officers disclosed that an anonymous caller attempted to bribe the team with GH¢2.7 million in exchange for the release of the detained foreign nationals.
The offer was reportedly “immediately rejected,” although the Daily Graphic could not confirm the identity of the alleged caller.
The Director of Operations of NAIMOS, Col. Dominic Buah, stressed that he was in control of strategic swoops and would ensure that the officers on the field acted within their mandate and adhered to national security priorities.
Eastern Region operations
Similarly, NAIMOS carried out a two-day operation in the Atewa area and the Fanteakwa District in the Eastern Region during which it disrupted the activities of illegal miners and destroyed many heavy-duty machines.
The task force stormed the Bunso and Nsutem enclaves, where there were noticeable scars of uncontrolled mining.
Across both sites, the illegal miners abandoned their work and disappeared into the bush upon seeing the NAIMOS team, leaving behind their mining equipment.
Atewa Forest
The NAIMOS team shifted focus to the Atewa Forest in pursuit of persistent illegal mining networks.
The team was greeted with the stark reality of the large-scale destruction of the reserve.
For instance, at Pimpong, deep pits left behind by illegal miners spanned several hectares of land.
It was observed that the galamsey operators had cut channels to divert the Ayensu River at Fante Ebuorho directly onto their site.
Here, minors between 13 and 15 years were found working in the pits, handling tools and assisting adults who fled into the bush at the approach of the security team.
The NAIMOS officers secured the children and removed them from the area before continuing their work.
Birim River enclave
The task force also swept through Akwadum, Ayigbe Town and Ankaase Osino in the Abuakwa South and Fanteakwa districts, dismantling active galamsey sites and disabling heavy machinery used in the destruction of forest reserves and vital water sources.
At Akwadum, the team seized five excavators used to destroy the Birim River. At Ayigbe Town, NAIMOS officers encountered another active illegal operation and seized two more excavators.
No retreat
The Director of Communications at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Mawusi Ama Mawuenyefia, told the Daily Graphic in an interview that the latest swoops by NAIMOS were a demonstration that the task force was at the forefront of the fight against illegal mining.
“Their continued presence is reshaping the calculations of galamsey operators, discouraging entrenched networks and proving that swift, coordinated, and persistent enforcement can reverse the damage done across affected regions,” she said.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin says Ghana must prioritize technological investment over political retribution or risk irrelevance in the Fourth Industrial Revolution while other nations advance.
In statements released today marking one year since the 2024 elections, the Effutu MP criticized government focus on political removals while competing economies invest heavily in artificial intelligence, infrastructure and human resource development. He pointed to the United States, China, the UAE and Saudi Arabia as countries positioning themselves for future global dominance through strategic technology adoption.
Afenyo Markin argued that Ghana cannot build a technology driven economy when priorities center on settling political scores rather than creating new industries. He noted that farmers in advanced nations now use AI powered tools, security agencies deploy predictive systems and industries undergo automation driven transformation across multiple sectors.
The Minority Leader questioned Ghana’s preparedness for technological shifts, asking what investments government is making to ensure young Ghanaians can compete globally. He warned that Ghana faces being left behind while other countries make transformative investments determining global leadership for coming decades.
In a letter titled One Year After Ghana’s Democracy at a Crossroads, Afenyo Markin addressed President John Dramani Mahama directly, urging him to resist advice from individuals focused solely on retribution. He described such advisers as hawks whose horizons extend only to the next arrest, removal or demonstration of power.
According to Afenyo Markin, these individuals are stealing time and energy from transformative nation building.
The Minority Leader emphasized that Mahama’s December 2024 electoral victory represented a rare political achievement, returning to power after eight years through democratic means. He urged the President to use this second chance for meaningful transformation rather than actions history will remember as removals and arrests.
Afenyo Markin called for moderate voices within the governing party to be empowered, insisting Ghana needs development oriented leadership. He cited examples including President Kufuor’s National Health Insurance Scheme and President Akufo Addo’s Free Senior High School policy as enduring legacies, suggesting transformative reforms outlast political vendettas.
The statements also addressed growing youth disillusionment across party lines. Afenyo Markin stated both the NPP and NDC must accept responsibility for abandoning young supporters after elections, noting that while senior party members receive appointments, young campaigners face continued unemployment and hopelessness.
He cautioned that treating youth as expendable campaign tools poses serious threats to national stability. The warning emphasized that social frustration transcends party affiliation, with unemployed youth caring about jobs and opportunity rather than party colors.
Afenyo Markin further emphasized that democracy functions effectively only when institutions remain independent and credible. He argued that weakening democratic structures fuels public frustration similar to movements witnessed from Paris to Antananarivo, where citizens grow weary of leaders promising transformation but delivering partisan conflict.
While condemning undemocratic takeovers across West Africa, he urged political leaders to address underlying reasons why citizens sometimes welcome such disruptions. He stressed that constitutional governance loses appeal when elected officials treat foundational documents as inconveniences.
The Minority Leader noted that democracy remains the best form of government because it contains within itself the mechanism for its own correction. However, he warned this mechanism only works if institutions remain independent and credible, cautioning that Ghana is not immune to pressures causing political upheaval elsewhere.
Afenyo Markin also directed criticism inward, acknowledging that NPP arrogance and detachment contributed to electoral defeat. He warned that when people’s anger is unleashed, it makes no distinction between NPP and NDC, emphasizing that youth care about employment opportunities regardless of political affiliation.
The statements reflect mounting concern about Ghana’s competitive positioning as global economies accelerate digital transformation initiatives. With artificial intelligence reshaping agriculture, security and manufacturing sectors worldwide, questions about Ghana’s strategic response grow more urgent amid limited visible progress.
His intervention highlights broader tensions between immediate political objectives and long term national development goals. The call for bipartisan recognition of youth frustration suggests that failure to address economic opportunities could destabilize democratic institutions regardless of which party holds power.
The Minority Leader’s warnings come as the new administration settles into office with various political appointees taking up positions across ministries and agencies. Whether government will pivot toward technology investment and youth employment remains uncertain as political transitions continue.
Afenyo Markin’s letter underscores concerns that excessive focus on political settlements undermines Ghana’s ability to compete in an era requiring massive investments in emerging technologies. His appeal to President Mahama represents an attempt to shift national conversation from retribution toward development oriented governance priorities.
John Abdulai Jinapor is the Minister of Energy and Green Transition
The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has revealed that Ghana is seeking to position itself on the continent as a driver of regional power supply.
According to him, the country aims to increase its solar energy capacity by 30 percent.
Speaking on a panel at the West African Energy Cooperation Summit (WA-ECS), Jinapor expressed confidence in achieving this target.
He emphasized that such progress cannot rely solely on private investment, noting that future power projects will be awarded through competitive procurement to ensure the best value.
“But one of the problems is that we can’t leave this to the private sector alone. The President has announced an ambitious programme to deploy 1,200 megawatts of solar plants to serve as base load. We want to add about 500 megawatts of solar to complement our power supply.
“Our ultimate aim is to push our solar mix to about 30%. And from what we’re doing, I’m very confident that we’ll achieve that. For most of us, that is sustainable,” he said.
John Jinapor rallies regional peers for integrated energy systems
He disclosed that Burkina Faso recently sought an emergency supply of 200 megawatts from Ghana to stabilize its grid.
Jinapor also announced an ongoing collaboration between Ghana and its neighboring countries to synchronize electricity development plans.
“We’ll do it through competitive planning so that we get the best deal possible. We’re working with our colleagues from neighboring countries—Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Togo, Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire, so that we also know what they are doing. Because if I want to build 1,000 megawatts and I’m thinking of exporting 500 to Burkina Faso, while Burkina is also building another 500 megawatts, we might end up with more than 1,200 megawatts,” he added.
SP/EB
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:
Arianna Naomi Mackey had alleged she was kidnapped in Ghana
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has shared details of its investigations into a viral video in which an American citizen accused some police officers of alleged kidnapping and extortion.
The American national, identified as Arianna Naomi Mackey, claimed in the video that she had been kidnapped by three masked policemen.
Police arrest individual from viral video of giving child a cigarette
She said the officers had covered the license plate of their vehicle and wore no name badges for identification.
Mackey also alleged that the masked officers seized their phones and camera and extorted an amount of US$400 from her.
“Last night, I was kidnapped and robbed by the police in Ghana. I was kidnapped by three masked police officers. They covered their license plate; they didn’t have name badges on. They completely covered their face and as soon as they decided they wanted to take us, they took our phones and my camera, so I couldn’t record. I couldn’t contact anyone. I couldn’t even look up what was legal for the police to do,” she earlier alleged in the video.
She further said that, “… So at the ATM, I told them obviously, they couldn’t go with me into the ATM. I went to tell the bank people that I was not good, but they still had my phone and my camera and the person that I was with. So I took some money out, I took out $150, and I went back to the car and I gave it to them. I’m thinking it’s over, no, of course, it’s not over. They’re still trying to extort more money out of the other guy. So eventually, they got about $400.”
The CID, however, stated in their findings that they had contacted the victim to assist with the investigations, and she informed them that she was no longer in Ghana.
Police confirmed that she had left the country on December 5, 2025, a fact also verified by airport checks.
“The Police subsequently contacted the alleged victim to assist the investigation. She indicated to Police that she was out of the country and she could not get the names of the alleged officers nor the number plate of the vehicle they were using,” the police statement on December 9, 2025 stated.
Additionally, the CID added that attempts to reach Mackey’s friend, who is in Ghana, proved futile, with the friend claiming that she did not want any involvement in the investigation.
“Police further requested for the contact details of her friend in Ghana, who she said was with her during the time of the incident. She, however, stated that her friend does not want to be involved in the investigation,” it continued.
Police added that the video has since been deleted by the alleged victim, Mackey, and that she has reportedly blocked the investigators’ contact numbers on WhatsApp after declining to respond to their messages.
“She has since deleted the video on her page and further efforts by the Investigators to contact her through WhatsApp calls and messages have proved unsuccessful, as she has declined to respond and later blocked the team,” the CID said.
Police arrest 10 men over viral video of brutal assault on two women
Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has affirmed its commitment to see the matter through, stating that efforts are underway to secure the cooperation of the woman in the investigation through diplomatic channels.
“Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to secure her cooperation through appropriate diplomatic channels. The Ghana Police Service treats such allegations very seriously and remains committed to uncovering the facts in this case,” it added.
“Last night I was robbed and kidnapped by the police in Ghana.” – An American lady visiting for Detty December claimed, alleging that individuals in uniform took about $400 from her and one other guy . pic.twitter.com/pcquthyen2
Parliament is currently in session as lawmakers convene to discuss government business on the floor.
The Minority have dressed in black to protest the declaration of the Kpandai seat as vacant.
This follows a formal notification by the House to the Electoral Commission (EC) on Monday, December 8, 2025, after a High Court in Tamale directed a rerun of the 2024 parliamentary election
In a letter dated December 4, 2025, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, informed EC Chairperson Jean Mensa that the seat was officially vacant in line with the court’s ruling.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has declared a state of emergency in the region following a recent wave of coups and failed military mutinies.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, by ECOWAS Commission President Omar Touray during the 55th session of the Mediation and Security Council, held at the ministerial level in Abuja.
Touray said the recent events underscore the “urgent need to reflect on the future of our democracy and to strengthen the security of our community.”
The emergency declaration comes as West African nations grapple with political instability, raising concerns about the resilience of democratic governance in the sub-region.
The Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has criticised Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin for what he describes as inconsistent and partisan handling of the Kpandai parliamentary re-run issue.
Speaking on Joy Midday News, the MP questioned why the Speaker allowed the Clerk to notify the Electoral Commission (EC) of a vacancy despite a pending motion for stay of execution filed at the court.
According to him, the Speaker’s position contradicts previous practice where legal processes were allowed to conclude before a vacancy was declared in similar cases.
“It’s a clear case of a lack of principle. It’s a clear case of institutional contradiction,” he said. He argued that the only explanation for the Speaker’s stance was “partisanship,” calling the situation “very unfortunate.”
Mr Awuah referenced the case of Assin North MP James Gyakye Quayson, who he said was permitted to remain in Parliament until the Supreme Court delivered its ruling, despite legal processes pending at the time.
He stressed that the current situation mirrors that earlier case, as “there’s also a motion for stay of execution pending,” insisting the Speaker should have applied the same standard.
His comments follow the Parliamentary Service’s formal notification to the EC declaring a vacancy in the Kpandai Constituency after a court ordered a re-run of the 2024 Parliamentary Elections.
The Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, issued the letter on December 4, 2025, acting under Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates the Clerk to inform the EC when a parliamentary seat becomes vacant.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
A section of MTN officials and UG lecturers at the facility
MTN Ghana, in partnership with the University of Ghana and Defarmacist, has officially opened the Vegetable Hub of Excellence, a modern agricultural training and production facility designed to transform how young people engage in farming.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, described the project as “an amazing initiative” that merges classroom learning with hands-on experience.
“What is really encouraging is seeing young people embrace farming. As the President has stated, we must be able to stand on our own feet, not only producing enough food for Ghana, but also for the rest of Africa and the world. When you add technology to farming, it becomes attractive to the younger generation,” he said.
He emphasised that protecting and supporting farmers is essential for national food security and noted that initiatives like the Vegetable Hub of Excellence play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of agripreneurs.
Blewett also highlighted the importance of agritech partnerships, explaining that technology helps reduce the uncertainties traditionally associated with farming.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Office of Research, Innovation and Development (ORID), Prof. Felix Ankomah Asante, described the hub as a powerful testament to what strategic partnerships can achieve.
Prof. Asante stressed that the hub presents a promising future for young people who often struggle to see agriculture as a viable career path.
He noted that many farmers, especially women, still lack access to modern technologies, skills, and market opportunities that could significantly improve their livelihoods.
The Co-founder of Defarmacist Group Limited, Charles Agyemang, explained that the hub provides a practical environment where students can learn hands-on cultivation techniques and modern farming methods that prepare them for commercial agriculture.
“It’s not easy for an agriculture graduate to apply for a conventional job. So we want to ensure they come out with real skills that enable them to start production immediately,” he said.
He added that the facility is not only for University of Ghana students but is open to others seeking practical agricultural training.
Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, will embark on a three-day campaign tour of the North East Region from December 10 to 11, and December 14, 2025, ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) upcoming presidential primaries.
This tour forms part of Dr. Bawumia’s ongoing nationwide tour aimed at reaching out to the delegates to give him another mandate as flagbearer of the party for the 2028 general election.
A statement by the North East Regional Secretary, Sulley Sambian, indicated that as part of the strategic regional engagement, Dr. Bawumia will tour the Chereponi and Bunkpurugu constituencies on December 10, 2025 and Yunyoo, Nalerigu/Gambaga and Walewale constituencies on December 11, 2025.
According to him, Dr. Bawumia will proceed to the Upper East Region from December 12, 2025 and later travel to Yagaba-Kubore constituency on December 14, 2025 to conclude his tour of the North East Region.
“Whilst in the region, Dr. Bawumia will interact with all delegates across the constituencies,” he said.
Lawyer Sambian urged all party delegates to come out in their numbers to welcome Dr. Bawumia and participate actively in all scheduled engagements.
President John Dramani Mahama is appealing to international vaccine manufacturers to partner with government in establishing a Ghana Vaccine Manufacturing Hub, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting the country’s and Africa’s health security.
Speaking at an engagement with pharmaceutical industry players at the WHX Leaders Conference, Mr. Mahama said the continent’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed deep vulnerabilities, especially Africa’s dependence on imported vaccines.
According to him, the proposed hub will not only enhance Ghana’s capacity to produce vaccines locally, but will also strengthen the region’s preparedness for future health emergencies.
“We cannot continue to depend entirely on imports for vaccines that determine our survival. We are calling on manufacturers and investors to collaborate with government to make this hub a reality,” he said.
He added that Ghana’s existing pharmaceutical capacity, coupled with its strategic position within West Africa, places the country in a strong position to lead vaccine development and distribution on the continent.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare revealed that the ministry is engaging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat to ensure seamless intra-African trade, particularly for pharmaceutical products once local vaccine production begins.
She explained that removing trade barriers and improving market access under AfCFTA would enable Ghana-made vaccines and health products to compete effectively across the continent.
“We are working closely with the AfCFTA to create smooth access for our manufacturers across Africa. This is essential if we want to build strong, competitive industries,” she said.
Additionally, Peter Hall, President for the Middle East, India, Turkey and Africa at Informa Markets, highlighted the importance of platforms like the WHX Leaders Conference. He noted that such gatherings foster collaboration, drive innovation, and create opportunities for governments, investors, and industry stakeholders to build resilient health and industrial systems across regions.
The WHX Leaders Conference brought together policymakers, global health experts, investors, and pharmaceutical companies to discuss innovations in health systems, industrial transformation, and Africa’s preparedness for future global shocks.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
President Trump and Nvidia boss Jensen Huang at a White House event this year
US President Donald Trump has announced that he will allow AI chip giant Nvidia to sell its advanced H200 chips to “approved customers” in China.
“We will protect National Security, create American Jobs, and keep America’s lead in AI,” Trump said on social media on Monday.
The decision will apply to other US chip companies like AMD and comes after extensive lobbying by Nvidia boss Jensen Huang, who visited Washington last week to drum up support.
Nvidia – both the world’s leading chip firm and most valuable company – has found itself at the centre of a geopolitical tug-of-war between the US and China in recent months, and had been banned from selling its most advanced chips to Beijing.
Trump reversed the chip-selling ban in July, but demanded that Nvidia pay 15% of its Chinese revenues to the US government.
Beijing then reportedly ordered its tech companies to stop buying Nvidia chips manufactured for use in the Chinese market.
“We applaud President Trump’s decision to allow America’s chip industry to compete to support high paying jobs and manufacturing in America,” Nvidia said in a statement provided to BBC News.
Nvidia’s H200 is a generation behind its Blackwell chip, which is considered to be the world’s most advanced AI semiconductor.
Mr Huang told the BBC in September that the US needed “to make sure that people can access this technology from all over the world, including China.”
He has also repeatedly warned that China, which has cultivated a chip production ecosystem of its own, was close behind the US in chip development.
Nvidia hailed Trump’s announcement on Monday.
“Offering H200 to approved commercial customers, vetted by the Department of Commerce, strikes a thoughtful balance that is great for America,” Nvidia said in its statement.
The companies shares rose slightly on the news.
Trump said “$25% [sic] will be paid to the United States of America” in his post.
The BBC has reached out to the White House for clarification on the arrangement, which will likely face opposition from national security hawks in Congress.
The sale of H200 chips to some Chinese customers “buys time” for the US to negotiate a deal with Beijing over rare earths and prevent major disruptions to global supply chains, Alex Capri from the National University of Singapore said.
China holds a near-monopoly on the processing of rare earth minerals, which are essential for the production of most electronics.
Although access to H200 chips is likely to benefit China’s technology sector, Beijing is still expected to work towards reducing dependence on the US, Mr Capri said.
Beijing had previously directed local tech firms to reject Nvidia’s older H20 chips and encouraged them to buy domestically produced semiconductors, he noted.
Researchers at Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) said China’s People’s Liberation Army is using advanced chips designed by US companies to develop AI-enabled military capabilities.
“By making it easier for the Chinese to access these high-quality AI chips, you enable China to more easily use and deploy AI systems for military applications,” said Cole McFaul, senior research analyst at CSET. “They want to harness advanced chips for battlefield advantage.”
The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has cautioned the Black Stars to be wary of Croatia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The team will kick off their Group L matches on June 17, 2026, against Panama in Toronto before traveling to face England in Boston, United States, on June 23.
Ghana will play their final group game in Philadelphia on June 27 to conclude their group matches and determine their fate depending on the results.
Jamie Carragher drops the hammer on Mohammed Salah, calls him Chelsea reject
Reacting to the draw, the minister noted that the team he fears most in the group is Croatia, due to their experience in the Mundial and their ability to go far in the competition.
The Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency said that head coach Zlatko Dalić’s team’s dynamism in terms of tactics and adaptability is a threat the Black Stars should be prepared to face.
“Everybody knows how dangerous Croatia have been in previous World Cups. They have had different strategies. It doesn’t necessarily mean we should go and read their previous strategies as part of our preparation. They are a team that can change their style about three times within 90 minutes of play,” he told Sporty FM.
Meanwhile, head coach Otto Addo has said that even though England are the favorites in the group, he is confident the Black Stars will sail through to the next stage and avoid a group-stage exit.
SB/JE
Former President Kufuor shares how he became a Catholic and a Freemason
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, has called on health professionals across the country to embrace innovation and strengthen strategic collaboration with the private sector and development partners to accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage.
Salako also stressed the need for strong political will at all levels of government, backed by improved and sustainable health financing, to ensure that every Nigerian has access to quality healthcare without financial hardship.
He made this known on Monday while delivering a keynote address titled “Bridging the Gap: Advancing Universal Health Coverage in Ogun State for Healthy Beginnings and a Hopeful Future” at the 36th Annual General Meeting of the Association of Resident Doctors, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State.
He was represented by Paul Agboola, Medical Director of the Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta.
According to the minister, Universal Health Coverage is not just a policy direction but “a moral commitment” to guarantee equitable, affordable, and accessible healthcare for all Nigerians, irrespective of location, income, gender, or social class.
He noted that although Nigeria has recorded progress in several aspects of the health sector, many families still struggle to pay for essential care, while rural and underserved communities face shortages of skilled health workers, poorly equipped facilities, and limited access to essential medicines.
He added that maternal and child health outcomes remain uneven nationwide.
Salako highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said is addressing these challenges through policies targeted at improving maternal and child health services, including skilled birth attendance, better antenatal and postnatal care, strengthened immunisation coverage, and improved nutrition.
He said the Federal Government is placing renewed emphasis on primary healthcare as the foundation of Nigeria’s health system, adding that efforts are ongoing to revitalise PHC facilities, deploy skilled personnel, strengthen medicine supply chains, and implement community-based health interventions.
He also disclosed that 774 young Nigerians were recently trained and deployed as “Healthcare Champions” to all local government areas across the country.
The minister commended Ogun State for expanding its Health Insurance Scheme to cover vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children under five, older persons, and people living with disabilities, saying the achievement demonstrates what is possible when leadership is driven by compassion and evidence-based decision-making.
However, he emphasised that the government alone cannot achieve UHC.
“Achieving UHC requires political will, strategic financing, community engagement, and strong partnerships.
“Our success depends on robust collaboration among the private sector, development partners, NGOs, traditional institutions, community leaders, and professional bodies,” he said.
Salako also underscored the need to fully embrace innovation, including digital health tools for telemedicine, disease surveillance, data-driven planning, and improved patient follow-up.
He urged policymakers to prioritise health financing and encouraged health workers to maintain ethical standards and serve with compassion.
On her part, Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, said achieving UHC is a shared responsibility.
Coker noted that while the government drives reforms, resident doctors provide frontline insights that influence practical health solutions.
She called for stronger collaboration between the ministry and resident doctors to further expand access to quality healthcare in the state.
The guest speaker and immediate past Commissioner for Health, Babatunde Ipaye, advocated increased investment in the health sector, fair remuneration for medical professionals, and expanded health insurance coverage to close existing gaps in UHC.
In his welcome address, President of the OOUTH ARD, Olusola Monehin, a gynaecologist, noted that UHC goes beyond financing and touches on equity, access, and the dignity of human life, stressing that no Nigerian should be denied healthcare due to inability to pay.
Monehin highlighted efforts by his administration to improve the welfare, training and professional relevance of resident doctors in the state.
He encouraged his colleagues to recommit themselves to service, unity, excellence, and innovation as the nation works toward strengthening its healthcare system.
Nigeria continues to make steady progress toward UHC through reforms such as the National Health Insurance Authority Act and increased allocations to the Basic Health Care Provision Fund.
However, overall insurance coverage remains low—at about nine per cent as of 2024—while roughly 70 per cent of total health spending still comes out-of-pocket.
Youth members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Nanton Constituency have taken to the streets to protest against the District Chief Executive (DCE), Abdul-Rahaman Rosina Zenabu.
The demonstration follows a petition by NDC constituency executives to President John Dramani Mahama, urging the immediate removal of the DCE.
The petition cited alleged conduct by the DCE that they claim is detrimental to party unity and could negatively affect the party’s electoral prospects in the area.
During the protest, demonstrators carried placards with inscrptions: “Enough of your husband takeover of Nanton DCE,” “Regional minister, help us save Nanton, or we’ll help you collapse Nanton, “Tampion and Nyoligu are the backbone of NDC, and DCE stop disrespecting our chiefs,” among others.
The protesters are demanding urgent intervention from party leadership and regional authorities to address their grievances and restore harmony within the NDC at the constituency level.
Nanton: NDC executives petition Mahama to sack DCE
Regina Daniels has responded to questions and criticisms about her failed marriage to older politician Ned Nwoko.
The actress is currently in London following a traumatizing month where she cried out online multiple times, accusing her estranged husband of domestic violence, intimidation, and arresting her brother just to make her come back to him.
While in London, she shared a video of herself dancing to Tim Godfrey’s Big God.
Nigerians reacted, some with criticism and others with questions.
Some pointed out that she has now remembered that she is a Christian following her marriage to a Muslim man.
Regina responded, telling them that God is her “guy”.
Another asked if she will consider getting married again and Regina said the institution of married left her “traumatized”.
Someone made reference to a supposed “ritual” Regina engaged in during her wedding to Ned that means no other man can be with her s3xually.
Regina responded, stating that it is “nonsense” and “there is nothing like that”.
Another asked why she chose to like “old people” when she knows she enjoys living life fully and Regina responded that what she likes is “mature” people, not necessarily old people.
Ho, Dec 9, GNA-The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) and partners have graduated the first cohort of 30 participants in the Oncology Nurse Leadership Programme (ONLET) in Africa.
The participants comprising, 19 women and 11 men, were from The Gambia, South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi, Nigeria, and Ghana.
The six-month hybrid postgraduate certificate programme offered training in Oncology nurse leadership development, health services organization, financial management and quality assurance, psycho-oncology, stress and change management, networking and collaboration, research and evidence-based practice and policy and nurture advocacy to impact on cancer care delivery and patient outcomes.
The programme co-developed by the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care (ISNCC), City Cancer Challenge (C/Can), Faciliso (Australia), and Julia Downing (UK), and AMGEN, a global biotech company and founding sponsor of the programme, a first of a kind in Africa, seeks to address the gap of inadequate investment in healthcare professionals delivering cancer care.
There were face-to-face and online sessions involving lectures, group discussions, student-led presentations and role plays leading to the award of certificates.
Professor Lydia Aziato, Vice-Chancellor of UHAS, emphasized the ONLEP programme aimed to build leadership capacity among oncology nurses across the continent with the programme expected over the next five years to train at least 240 oncology nurses with demonstrated leadership potentials in Africa.
“Participants are expected to replicate or showcase the leadership and clinical skills acquired to leverage quality outcomes and positive impact,” she noted at a farewell dinner for participants, where certificates were given.
The Vice Chancellor thanked the major actors, facilitators, sponsors, announcing that 60 participants were earmarked for the 2026 uptake and urged them to reposition for the task ahead.
Professor Lydia Aziato, also a Project Lead, said, “UHAS is poised to lead this partnership and aims to be the hub for leadership training for nurses and midwives and other health professionals in Africa and beyond.”
Prof Julia Downing, Board Member and Prof Winnie So, President of the International Society of Nurses in Cancer Care, who were facilitators, said the ONLET had come at the most opportune time to implement solutions that directly impacted cancer prevention, treatment, survivorship and palliative care outcomes across diverse settings.
They said acquiring the basic skills was a challenge to excel and activate that urgent difference.
Prof Downing said, “Stay focused, make mistakes but know that that is a stage. Continue doing your best and contribute to cancer care, generally.”
Deans of the various schools offered their exhortations, urging the graduands to stay within the ethics and laws of operations, mainstream screening for early detection of cancers and be selfless at their profession.
Some participants described the session as deeply impactful and timely, especially in their journey toward becoming transformative leaders in cancer care across Africa.
Ejiaku Tochukwu Chiamaka, Cohort 1 Lead, Abuja, Nigeria said, “This programme is more than just a learning experience, it’s a bridge connecting nurses from diverse backgrounds and countries, empowering us to share our stories and learn from each other.”
In order to maintain and increase quality cancer care in Africa, training programmes in oncology nursing and leadership to advance the capacity of local healthcare professionals as well as strengthen leadership mindsets, is a necessary investment for the future.
Ghanaian comedian, Jeneral Nta Tia, has advised his colleagues in the entertainment industry to be cautious about how they mix politics with their careers.
In an interview with GhanaWeb’s Isaac Dadzie at the just-ended “Jacinta the 4runner” concert, held on December 7, 2025, Jeneral Nta Tia emphasised that comedians should avoid using insults when expressing their political opinions.
“I got to know that supporting a political party is not bad, but how you carry yourself is the most important thing. Don’t go and insult your opponent because you belong to a political party. It’s a democracy. You tell people your mind, what you feel the person you are supporting can do, and that’s all.
I don’t regret supporting NPP – Jeneral Ntatia
“Don’t go and attack. If you attack, you provoke people, and they will also come after you. So far, I don’t have any beef with anyone. My brothers and their friends in the NDC come around, we vibe, we share ideas. And I’m the type that if something is not good, I will say it,” he said.
The comedian also appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to construct more theatres to support the growth of the comedy industry.
He explained that although Ghana has many talented individuals, the lack of adequate theatre infrastructure makes it difficult to discover and nurture such talent.
Speak up even when your political party is in power – Jeneral Ntatia tells youth
“My government promised, but they couldn’t deliver. I hope that the NDC will consider building more theatres across the regions, so that when we put up a play, we don’t stage it only in Accra. We can go to Kumasi, Tamale, the Central Region, and every other region, so theatre and performances can thrive there as well.
“Trust me, there are thousands of talents who are even better than me, but they are not getting opportunities. So I feel that if these facilities come up, it will really help us. It will help the comedy industry grow,” he added.
Watch the video below:
JHM/EB
Watch Lekzy De Comic lament the neglect of the entertainment industry
Matthew Nyindam, the candidate at the centre of the Kpandai election challenge, says he will consult his party leadership and constituents before deciding whether to contest the court-ordered parliamentary re-run in the constituency.
Speaking on the AM Show, Nyindam stressed that the final decision will reflect the wishes of the people and the party.
“I will listen to the party. I will listen to the parliamentary leadership. I’m sure this is an issue that came up yesterday, and then I will listen to my constituents. The best decision will be taken at the end of the day,” he said.
He added that engaging directly with the people of Kpandai is important for transparency and accountability. “It is my right to come and explain to the people the challenges I have found on the seat. I need to go back and explain to them. If today they say we should go and re-run, and at the end of the day the people of Kpandai say, ‘Matthew, it is you we want to represent us,’ they will renew my mandate,” he noted.
The comments follow the Parliamentary Service’s formal notification to the Electoral Commission (EC) of a vacancy in the Kpandai seat, after a High Court order mandated a re-run of the 2024 parliamentary election in the area.
The notification, dated 4th December 2025, signals the start of administrative processes required to organise the re-run.
The letter, signed by the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, was addressed to EC Chairperson Jean Mensa.
According to the Clerk, the action was taken “in exercise of the power conferred and the duty imposed on the Clerk to Parliament by Article 112(5), as amended, of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.”
The outcome of the re-run will be crucial in determining representation for the people of Kpandai, and Nyindam’s comments suggest he is weighing both party guidance and constituent opinion before confirming his participation.
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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) has dismissed reports claiming its Chief Executive Officer, Margaret Ansei, has sacked staff following the circulation of an internal memorandum dated December 3, 2025.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 8, the Agency described the media reports as “misleading” and “entirely inaccurate,” stressing that no employee of the organisation has been dismissed.
According to the GEA, the memo in question has been misinterpreted, leading to the false impression that permanent staff had been asked to leave.
Clarifying the content of the memo, the agency explained that the individuals referenced were District Coordinators engaged under a project-based contract with a defined lifespan—not mainstream GEA employees.
Their one-year renewable contracts officially ended on August 31, 2025, but management extended their tenure by two additional months to ensure continuity of ongoing work.
“Under the terms of their contract, renewal is not automatic,” the statement reads. “It is subject to performance, attendance, funding, project needs, and other management considerations.”
The Agency said the internal directive merely instructed contract staff with expired agreements—and national service personnel who have completed their service—not to report to work until renewal processes or new arrangements are finalised.
GEA noted that this is standard administrative practice to maintain accountability and ensure proper management of agency resources.
The statement emphasised that no permanent or mainstream GEA staff were affected.
“The narrative circulating in sections of the media is misleading and should be disregarded,” management said, urging the public and media to seek clarification before publishing information.
GEA reaffirmed its commitment to due process, transparency, and fair treatment of all categories of staff, including those on project-based contracts and national service personnel whose tenure has legally ended.
Sam Okudzeto: Corruption still rife, OSP has failed its mission
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s daughter Ava has seemingly confirmed her relationship with fellow WWE star Tatyanna Dumas.
Ava — real name: Simone Garcia Johnson — shared a sweet video to her Instagram Stories on Sunday in which she and Tatyanna, 26, showed off plenty of PDA, including a passionate kiss.
‘Crying screaming throwing up,’ Ava captioned the since-expired video. ‘I am so lucky.’
The two women were seen frolicking in a swimming pool and holding hands as they traveled together.
The latest revelation about the couple comes after both Ava and Tatyanna posed with Dwayne at the London premiere of his biopic The Smashing Machine, in which he plays the MMA fighter Mark Kerr.
Although the 24-year-old wrestler and general manager seemed to finally be going official with Tatyanna in her latest post, the two have been hinting at their relationship for weeks on social media.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s daughter Ava has seemingly confirmed her relationship with fellow WWE star Tatyanna Dumas, after both posed with Dwayne at the London premiere of his film The Smashing Machine in September (pictured)
Ava shared a sweet video to her Instagram Stories on Sunday in which she and Tatyanna, 26, showed off plenty of PDA, including a passionate kiss, but she previously gave Tatyanna a kiss on the cheek in a post from November 30 (pictured)
On November 30, Ava shared a post-Thanksgiving round-up that included one photo of her leaning in to plant a kiss on Tatyanna’s cheek while affectionately resting her hand on her girlfriend’s stomach.
Following their trip to London for the Smashing Machine premiere, Dwayne commented on an Instagram video Ava and Tatyanna posted from the premiere: ‘Break out the Teremana ladies.’
Tatyanna also hinted at a romantic entanglement back in September when she commented ‘Loved every second of it — By Your Side’ on Ava’s post from the premiere.
‘🤍 i’m so lucky,’ Ava replied.
Tatyanna had also been seen in some of Ava’s flirty Instagram posts in recent months, though she didn’t make their connection explicit until this weekend.
Ava has followed in her footsteps as a wrestler after signing with WWE in 2020.
More recently, she has taken on a role outside the ring as the on-screen general manager for the NXT brand.
NXT serves as a training group for wrestlers to see if they are ready to perform at WWE’s flagship shows.
Tatyanna also hinted at a romantic entanglement back in September when she commented ‘Loved every second of it — By Your Side’ on Ava’s post from the premiere. ‘i’m so lucky,’ Ava replied
Following their trip to London for the Smashing Machine premiere, Dwayne commented on an Instagram video Ava and Tatyanna posted from the premiere: ‘Break out the Teremana ladies’
Ava’s father Dwayne shares her with his ex-wife Dany Garcia, whom he was married to from 1997 to 2008. Despite their split, the two have remained good friends, and Garcia has produced Johnson’s films for years after their split; Ava and Dwayne pictured in 2018 in NYC
Notably, Tatyanna is a wrestler in the NXT program, though it’s unclear if that’s how she and Ava met each other.
Ava’s father Dwayne shares her with his ex-wife Dany Garcia, whom he was married to from 1997 to 2008.
Despite their split, the two have remained good friends, and Garcia has produced Johnson’s films for years after their split.
The 53-year-old wrestler-turned-actor later tied the knot with Lauren Hashian in 2019, and they share two younger daughters, nine-year-old Jasmine and six-year-old Tiana.
On Monday 8 December, the NAIMOS task force conducted an intelligence led operation to flush out galamseyers who had invaded several cocoa plantations in the Adanse Anomabo village of the Bosome Freho District in the Ashanti Region.
The Taskforce which deployed following petitions by the cocoa farmers association, observed at an illegal mining site called Kakra site, that the galamseyers had caused massive devastation to the cocoa plantations, causing serious anger and despair among the farmers.
On Monday 8 December, the NAIMOS task force conducted an intelligence led operation to flush out galamseyers who had invaded several cocoa plantations in the Adanse Anomabo village of the Bosome Freho District in the Ashanti Region.
The Taskforce which deployed following petitions by the cocoa farmers association, observed at an illegal mining site called Kakra site, that the galamseyers had caused massive devastation to the cocoa plantations, causing serious anger and despair among the farmers.
AratheJay’s debut album, “The Odyssey”, has been officially declared one of the “Most Streamed Albums in Ghana” for 2025 by Spotify Wrapped, gaining the No. 10 spot, an astounding tribute to its enormous popularity and critical success. This extraordinary achievement comes less than two months after the album’s release on October 24, underscoring its immediate and lasting impact on the Ghanaian music scene.
The album’s success is driven by its compelling narrative and high-impact tracks. The lead single, “Jesus Christ 2,” featuring fellow Ghanaian global star Black Sherif, stands out as one of the year’s biggest hits, ranking as the 9th Most Streamed Song in Ghana for 2025.
What makes “The Odyssey’s” performance particularly noteworthy is its status as a debut. While other albums in the top 10 benefited from established artist followings and full-year streaming windows, AratheJay’s project entered the conversation late yet still managed to accumulate enough streams to outpace releases from more established artists.
“The Odyssey”, the central project in AratheJay’s conceptual “Finding Nimo Series,” features 17 tracks, including other major collaborations with Stonebwoy, Bella Shmurda, Savara (Sauti Sol), and Joshua Baraka. The LP’s ability to compete with and surpass veteran artists and established global releases in such a short timeframe solidifies AratheJay’s status as a generational artist.
The album’s listing in the Spotify Wrapped 2025 chart validates the immense buzz surrounding its release, which previously saw the project break records for a Ghanaian male debut on Spotify and achieve a historic number of simultaneous debuts on the Ghana Apple Music chart.
With “The Odyssey” continuing to gain momentum across the continent and globally, AratheJay’s rapid entry into the year-end charts signals a dominant new force in African music.
ABOUT ARATHEJAY
“Ara,” as his dedicated fan base affectionately refers to him, released his debut project, “Finding Nimo Series: The Capsule,” on July 28, 2024. The nine-track EP has made him a household name in the Ghanaian music scene. It has currently been streamed over 10 million times across DSPs.
“The Capsule” invites listeners to delve into Arathejay’s everyday adventures. Adopting the persona of “Nimo Constantine” (a play on the name of Ghanaian HighLife Legend Koo Nimo and Emperor Constantine), Ara guides the audience on an authentic musical journey, showcasing his diverse talents across various genres. The EP’s cover art, shot by visual artist Andy Madjitey, also appeared in Vogue, proving that the project was appealing both sonically and visually.
Following the success of “The Capsule”, AratheJay, now a staple in Ghana’s music scene, is primed for his next adventure, “The Odyssey”, which includes his smash hits “Jesus Christ II” featuring BLack Sherif and “Fire” Nigerian star Bella Shmurda, among other collaborations across borders and experiments with new sonic territories. Ara seeks to challenge himself with more diverse genres as he takes the listener on a journey to experience his sound. For Ara, music is both a mission and a message.
A new video circulating on social media shows Kofi Owusu, the family head of the late Highlife legend Daddy Lumba, reaffirming that the musician’s final funeral rites will be held on December 13, 2025.
The affirmation came just after a meeting with members of the Ekuona Royal Family of Nsuta and Parkoso at the family residence in Kumasi.
According to the Family head, preparations for December 13 funeral are underway and extended an open invitation to Ghanaians to attend the ceremony, scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
In the video, Mr. Owusu apologised to the public for the confusion and tension that have accompanied arrangements since Daddy Lumba’s passing.
He expressed gratitude to all who supported the one-week celebration, including those who attended, those who offered prayers, and those who contributed financially.
“We thank everyone who attended the one-week celebration. We also thank those who couldn’t make it but supported with prayers and those who made money donations. We want everyone to come and support the funeral on December 13 so everything goes well,” he said.
He further called on the people of Kumasi to show love to the late musician, adding that chiefs and the public are all welcome.
“Kumasi, it is time to show Daddy Lumba love. We are inviting all the chiefs and the public. Please come so we can give Daddy Lumba a befitting funeral. On December 13, the funeral will come on live,” he stated.
Kofi Owusu’s reaffirmation comes amid widespread reports that some family members have taken legal action to place an injunction on Daddy Lumba’s body, raising uncertainty about whether the funeral will proceed as planned.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful and former Assin Central Member of Parliament, Ken Ohene Agyapong, has reiterated his commitment to tackling unemployment as a top priority should he be given the mandate to lead the party, and eventually the nation.
Speaking during a campaign tour of the Central Region, the maverick politician made a bold promise to delegates, assuring them that empowering him would translate into real opportunities for the youth.
Addressing enthusiastic party supporters and delegates, Mr. Agyapong declared: “Give me power and I will give you jobs.”
He stressed that the country’s biggest challenge is unemployment, especially among the youth, and insisted that his experience as a job creator in the private sector places him ahead of other contenders.
According to him, political leadership should not be about delivering flowery speeches but demonstrating the capacity to transform lives through practical economic solutions. He noted that over the years, he has personally established businesses that employ thousands of Ghanaians, and he intends to replicate this effort on a national scale.
Mr. Agyapong also highlighted the need for visionary leadership that prioritises industrialisation, entrepreneurship, and skills development.
He told delegates that with strategic investments in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, the country could drastically reduce its unemployment rate.
The delegates, many of whom expressed admiration for his frankness and track record, listened attentively as he outlined his vision. He encouraged them to choose a leader with proven capacity to generate wealth rather than one who makes promises without evidence of delivery.
Mr. Agyapong’s message in the Central Region forms part of his ongoing campaign to win the confidence of party delegates ahead of the upcoming primaries. His promise to create jobs continues to resonate strongly, particularly in communities where unemployment remains a major concern.
As the campaign intensifies, all eyes are on how his message will influence delegate decisions and shape the broader political conversation on economic empowerment.
, the popular Nollywood actress cum filmmaker has emerged as the new national vice president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) following the guild’s national election held in Benin City, Edo State.
eelive.ng understands that Amusa alongside Abubakar Yakubu, the current National Secretary, emerged the winner of the election which held on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
IMANI has filed a Right to Information request seeking full transparency on the legal, technical, and privacy aspects of Ghana’s upcoming 2026 SIM registration exercise.
IMANI has formally submitted a Right to Information (RTI) request to the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology & Innovations, seeking detailed information on the government’s planned nationwide SIM registration exercise slated for early 2026.
South Africa’s national team will wrap up their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a friendly against Ghana on 16 December in Gauteng, but emerging information suggests the Black Stars will not be fielding their full-strength side.
According to sources, Bafana Bafana are aware that Ghana will be unable to present their “A” team for the fixture due to the timing of the match, which falls in the middle of the club football season. With the Black Stars having missed out on AFCON qualification, the Ghana FA is expected to deploy the CHAN (local-based) squad for the encounter.
Despite the change in expected opposition strength, the fixture remains an important test for South Africa as they fine-tune tactics ahead of their departure for the tournament.
The match offers Ghana’s CHAN team a valuable opportunity to gain international exposure, while providing Bafana Bafana with a competitive runout in front of their home fans.
Former Black Stars forward Augustine Arhinful has revealed he wished for Ghana to face England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup even before the official draw was conducted.
His comments come after Ghana were placed in Group L alongside England, Croatia and Panama, setting up a tough but exciting path for the Black Stars.
Speaking to Citi Sports, Arhinful expressed confidence in Ghana’s ability to compete with the top sides.
Before the draw was conducted, I granted an interview and I said I wanted Ghana to meet England. I was even speaking to the UK High Commissioner and told him I wanted us to meet England. He said no, because if they lose to us, his people won’t be happy
Photo Courtesy: Citi Sports X
Despite the strength of the English side, Arhinful believes Ghana can go toe-to-toe with them.
It’s football. I’ve always felt we can match the English team boot for boot. At the end of the day, if you prepare well, your strategy works and a little luck comes your way, you can win any game
Arhinful’s comments reflect growing belief among Ghanaians that the Black Stars can rise to the challenge in a demanding World Cup group.
The Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, has confirmed the arrest of four students in connection with the violent disturbances at the Wa Technical Institute in November this year.
He characterised the incident as a serious breach of conduct that resulted in considerable damage to school property.
The Institute in the Upper West Region was temporarily closed following the violent student riot on Wednesday, 19 November 2025.
The unrest broke out during prep time as students were returning from classes, causing damage to school property, including administration offices and school buses.
Saaka Adams, acting Regional Director of Ghana TVET and Principal of the Wa Technical Institute, stated that the students had been traumatised by the incident.
He explained that the school would remain closed for a week to allow them time to rest and recover.
In the aftermath of the disturbances, Deputy Minister of Education Dr Clement Apaak visited the campus on Saturday, 22nd November, expressing disappointment at the scale of the damage.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Tuesday, December 9, DCOP Francis Yiribaare disclosed that the chaos began when some students resisted internal disciplinary measures. What should have been a routine enforcement of school regulations escalated after students ignored repeated warnings against the use of unauthorised uniforms and mobile phones.
Entrance of the Institute
He also revealed that the police are investigating the school’s domestic bursar after several food items belonging to the institution were reportedly found in her possession. The case, he noted, would be sent to court if she is found culpable.
The National Chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Samson Awingobit Asaki, has called on the government to extend invitations to all political parties for Thursday’s presentation of the Bawku Mediation Report to President John Dramani Mahama. The presentation, scheduled for December 11, will be led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who has chaired a months-long national mediation process aimed at restoring lasting peace to Bawku and neighbouring communities.
According to confirmed information, several key institutions and dignitaries including the National House of Chiefs, National Peace Council, Christian Council of Ghana, Office of the Chief Imam, Catholic Secretariat, UNDP, British High Commission, elected Regional Ministers and the National Security Coordinator have been invited to the crucial meeting. However, the list remains silent on political parties, a situation Mr. Asaki believes is a major omission that undermines national inclusiveness.
“The Bawku conflict has national implications, and political parties are essential stakeholders in peacebuilding and governance,” the PNC Chairman stated. “If this presentation is to carry full national legitimacy, then all political traditions big or small must be present. Government should correct this immediately and give the process a genuinely national character.”
Mr. Asaki argued that political parties have historically played critical roles in supporting peace efforts, especially in conflicts with ethnic, security and governance dimensions. For this reason, he stressed that no mediation outcome can be truly comprehensive without political input. “We cannot claim to seek lasting peace while excluding major actors whose cooperation is needed to sustain that peace,” he added.
The upcoming report presentation marks a major milestone in the high-level peace initiative led by the Asantehene, which has involved multiple mediation committees and national institutions. The Bawku conflict rooted in a long-standing chieftaincy and ethnic dispute between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities has over the years attracted efforts from successive governments, traditional leaders, security agencies and civil society organisations.
The PNC Chairman commended Otumfuo Osei Tutu II for his leadership but insisted that government must ensure the widest possible participation as the nation approaches this decisive moment. “Peace is a collective responsibility,” he said, “and if we are truly committed to ending the Bawku conflict once and for all, then every political party must be allowed a seat at the table.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has rallied first-time Members of Parliament (MPs) to embrace a culture of transparency, accountability, and cooperation in the nation’s legislative body.
Speaking at an informal engagement session with new MPs, the Speaker emphasised that partisanship should not be a threat to democracy but rather a means to strengthen it.
He said, “Ghana has consciously chosen a multiparty system, and differing viewpoints are essential to its strength.”
Mr Bagbin urged MPs to specialise in legislative areas, including committee work, to deliver meaningful representation to their constituents.
He also stressed that committee business was the engine of Parliament and that diligent research, preparation, and participation were crucial to effective lawmaking.
Mr Bagbin also clarified misconceptions surrounding parliamentary privileges and immunities, saying, “They are not personal favors but safeguards for the people’s voice.”
He expressed concern over neglected constitutional provisions regarding local assembly members’ welfare and pledged to revitalize structures that strengthened decentralization.
The Speaker’s vision for a people-centered Parliament includes televised sessions with senior MPs, the media, and the public, promoting transparency and accountability.
Mr Bagbin also responded to criticisms about his attire, saying Ghana’s parliamentary dress reflects cultural pride and tradition.
He commended MPs for their contributions and assured them of his support as they grow in leadership, ethics, and legislative excellence.”
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the alleged two assassination attempts on the Special Prosecutor (SP), Kissi Agyebeng.
The Ministry, in a statement, indicated that preliminary findings have revealed that the alleged assassination attempts on the Special Prosecutor, if any, took place before this year.
“There is no record or report of such threats against his life at any police station or at any of the state security agencies in the country,” the statement further pointed out.
That notwithstanding, the Ministry has directed an immediate investigation into the allegation on the premise that “crime does not expire.” “The Ministry has also ordered an investigation into the claim by Mr. Samuel Appiah Darko that he was handcuffed and beaten by 17 police personnel,” the statement added.
The statement reiterated the Ministry’s “commitment to protecting all lives and properties to ensure that all Ghanaians can conduct all their lawful affairs without any fear for their safety.”
The statement comes in the wake of allegations made by the Director of Strategy, Research, and Communications at the Office of the Special Prosecutor, Samuel Appiah Darko, over the weekend that Kissi Agyebeng has survived two assassination attempts.
Mr. Darko also claimed that he himself was handcuffed and beaten by 17 police officers, although he did not indicate when, where or why the alleged assault occurred.
“The Special Prosecutor has survived two assassination attempts. Myself, I have been dragged out of my official vehicle and beaten by 17 policemen,” Sammy Darko said on JoyNews programme Newsfile over the weekend while pointing to the risks involved in working at the OSP.
“People need to understand the gravity of what we are doing. This is not an office that works behind a desk; we face real threats every day in the course of our duties,” he added.
The Ministry of the Interior, in a statement yesterday, said beyond the security implications of these claims, such dangers to personnel of accountability institutions, if true, can undermine the government’s efforts to combat corruption, which has intensified since it took office.
The Ministry added that it will update the public on the outcome of these investigations and the actions to be taken.
Political analyst Dr Bernard Tutu-Boahene has described Ghana’s journey one year after the December 7, 2024, general elections as largely positive, citing key economic gains under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration while calling for reforms in the electoral system.
Speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Dr Tutu-Boahene said the past year has been “a journey from the conduct of the election itself through to economic stability, economic improvement.”
He noted that while the 2024 elections, which brought President John Dramani Mahama to power, were generally peaceful, there is still room for improvement in Ghana’s electoral process.
“When it comes to the general conduct of the elections in 2024… we would still need some level of improvement in our electoral system going forward,” he said.
Assessing the performance of the NDC government nearly a year into office, Dr. Tutu-Boahene pointed to reductions in taxes, declining inflation and improved foreign reserves as signs of progress.
“We have seen some drop in taxes, which again has led to saving money in people’s pockets. We have seen reduced inflation, up I think below 7% in recent times,” he stated.
He added that Ghana’s foreign reserves have increased significantly, “moving from 6.8 billion to about 11 billion dollars in recent times, and again, we have seen some increases in our GDP.”
“These are good indicators to show that the economy is doing well,” he added.
However, Dr Tutu-Boahene cautioned against excessive dependence on commodity exports such as cocoa and gold, urging the government to diversify and add value to exports.
“If the right decisions are going to be taken, and if we are not going to over-rely on the world market crisis of cocoa and gold… I think that Ghana will be a better place,” he said.
Former Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC), Nana Akomea, has dismissed allegations that he sold lands belonging to the company during his tenure, describing the claims as politically motivated and baseless.
Speaking on Point Blank on Eyewitness News on Monday, December 8, 2025, Mr. Akomea categorically denied any involvement in the sale of STC assets.
President John Dramani Mahama is tracing the failure recorded in this year’s West Africa Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to the neglect of basic education in the last couple of years.
He said the state’s inability to promptly pay the capitation grant and ensure quality teachers were deployed to the basic level affected teaching and learning at that level, hence impacted the preparedness of pupils for higher studies.
“It is that level that prepares the child for secondary and tertiary education. Our focus must be on foundational learning,” President Mahama stated.
He made this diagnosis in Accra yesterday when he launched the STEM Box, an initiative to distribute a set of tools kit for students in basic four, five, and six.
Data released by the West Africa Examination Council shows that nearly half of the 446,352 candidates who sat for the examination failed the core subjects of mathematics, general science, and social studies.
According to him, the results should serve as an eye-opener on the need to equally prioritise basic education in preparing pupils for the future.
“Once you don’t get that level right, you’ll just send the child through a conveyor belt like a factory and when it comes out at the end, it will be picked up by quality control and it’ll be noted that this one does not meet the standards,” he inferred.
He explained that if the country took foundational learning seriously, by the time a child reaches primary school, he should be able to read properly, write properly, and do basic arithmetic by the time he leaves primary school.
“If we are able to get our children to get these three things right, then they have the foundation to continue into secondary education; otherwise, it will be like a factory that we are just pushing them through and at the end of it, you’ll have the situation where a child finishes basic school and sometimes still finds it difficult to write his name.”
Vigilance and invigoration, President Mahama said, will not go away and so “we must make sure that the children are well prepared to on their own be able to study and pass the exams.”
He said government and all stakeholders were concerned about the outcome of the examination and steps would be taken to unearth what may have caused it.
“I have asked the minister of education to do an analysis of the examiners’ report to try to decipher what could have gone so disastrously wrong. It is mind-boggling that with the same teachers and same factors in play, just from one batch to the other, one batch does so disastrously. We need to get to the bottom of it,” he emphasised.
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, said regrettable as the results may be, the wrongs that may have caused the failure would be righted.
Mr Iddrisu, MP, Tamale South, said his outfit’s commitment to quality education would remain unparalleled.
Ghana and Qatar have signed and ratified a bilateral labour mobility agreement that will create more employment opportunities for Ghanaians in Qatar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced.
The agreement allows both governments to jointly oversee the recruitment of Ghanaian workers for critical sectors in Qatar, including hospitality, transport and health. Speaking to the Daily Graphic on the sidelines of the Doha Forum yesterday (Sunday, December 7, 2025), Mr Ablakwa said the pact is designed to boost job creation while ensuring that Ghanaians working in Qatar receive improved treatment and better working conditions.
“Ghanaian workers are going to be earning more because of this. It will deal with issues of exploitation, abuse and human rights violations, which have sometimes been reported, particularly from the Gulf region, even though, to be fair to the State of Qatar, we haven’t had a lot of negative reports from the State of Qatar as compared to others,” he said.
“This agreement has safeguards where the workers will have insurance, medical allowance, accommodation and other allowances to make sure that their rights and their welfare are all well catered for and protected.”
He added that the government has identified licensed recruitment agencies to handle the process in order to safeguard the rights and welfare of beneficiaries.
Increased quota for Ghana
Mr Ablakwa disclosed that the Qatari government has agreed to increase the quota for Ghanaian workers, enabling more citizens to secure employment there. This is expected to raise the number of Ghanaian workers, currently about 13,000, and position Ghana to compete with Kenya’s 77,000 and Uganda’s 40,000 workers in Qatar.
He further revealed that Ghana has formally submitted a bid to host the West African Centre for the Recruitment of Workers into Qatar.
As part of the agreement, a joint technical committee will be established to supervise its implementation and ensure full compliance with the provisions of the ratified pact. Ghana has been selected to host the committee’s first meeting in February next year.
The Minister added that the government is working to secure more such agreements, having already negotiated labour mobility arrangements with Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, with ongoing negotiations involving Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Opportunity
Mr Ablakwa stressed that labour mobility presents an opportunity to tackle unemployment, while providing young Ghanaians with international exposure and the ability to build financial stability through remittances.
“This is a short-term agreement. You can work for three or four years and then return to Ghana with more resources to start your own business. So, this is not brain drain; it is brain gain.
“Other countries like Cuba, the Philippines, Thailand and others have done this so well, and it has helped their economy. We must also take full advantage of this opportunity,” he added.
The Minister said the labour mobility agreements signed this year form part of the government’s broader vision to complement key interventions such as the 24-hour economy initiative, the Big Push Agenda, the Feed Ghana Programme and the National Apprenticeship Programme in addressing unemployment.
Accra, Dec. 9, GNA – Ivory Coast’s incumbent President Alassane Ouattara was sworn in on Monday, December 8, for a new five-year term.
The 83-year-old, was reelected with 89.77 per cent of the total valid votes cast in the October 25, 2025 election, in which many leading opposition figures were disqualified from contesting.
The inaugural ceremony, which was held at the Ivorian Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana.
Also in attendance was Ghana’s former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
President Ouattara, who has led the Ivory Coast since a violently disputed election in 2010, in his inaugural speech, pledged to “loyally defend the constitution”.
He reiterated that his new term would be one of a generational transmission.
“This term will be one of generational transmission; it will be, for our nation and me, an act of responsibility and political maturity,” President Ouattara said.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service has launched a probe into a viral video in which an American national, Arianna Naomi Mackey, alleges that she was kidnapped and robbed by five masked men claiming to be police officers on snap-check duty in Accra.
According to the CID, preliminary investigations indicate that the video was recorded at a hotel in Accra where Mackey and two companions were staying.
The department confirmed that the group checked out of the hotel on December 5, 2025, and Mackey left Ghana via Kotoka International Airport on the same day.
Efforts to gather details from the alleged victim have so far proved challenging. Mackey reportedly told police she could not provide the names of the alleged officers or the number plate of the vehicle involved.
She also declined to share the contact information of a friend who was reportedly with her at the time, citing her friend’s unwillingness to participate in the investigation.
The CID further disclosed that the video has since been deleted from Mackey’s social media page, and repeated attempts to reach her via WhatsApp calls and messages have been unsuccessful. Investigators are now seeking to secure her cooperation through appropriate diplomatic channels.
Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer of the CID, said the Ghana Police Service treats such allegations very seriously and remains committed to uncovering the facts surrounding the incident.
Augustus Nana Kwasi Andrews, the Ashanti Regional leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has revealed he is under a lot of pressure, as the party’s grassroots are demanding jobs.
According to the Ashanti Regional NDC Chairman, the NDC grassroots are calling for more, demanding their own share of appointments and employment opportunities.
Sunyani Dec.9, ( GNA) The Bono Regional police command has arrested seven suspected armed robbers in separate operations for their involvement in robbery and firearm offences in the Region.
All the suspects have been arraigned for their alleged involvement in armed robbery and firearms offences.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Joshuah Coppson, the Bono Regional police commander, made this known at a press briefing in Sunyani about the command’s efforts to combat armed robbery and organized crime in the Region.
He said several members of criminal gangs involved in a string of robbery and other criminal activities were arrested following a series of intelligence-led operations in the Region.
DCOP Coppson mentioned that on December 2, 2025, Johnson Amponsah Kwame Diawuo, Shadrach Owusu, and Kwafo Samuel were arraigned at the Fiapre Circuit Court presided over by madam Akuah Adomah Addae on charges of conspiracy to commit crime to wit robbery and attempt to commit crime to wit robbery.
They were remanded into police custody and will return to court on December 22, 2025, for hearing.
On the same day, Latif Mustapha also known as Star Boy and Mosby Owusu were separately arraigned at the Sunyani District Court B presided over by Mr. Eric Daning on charges of illicit trafficking of firearms without lawful authority, possession of firearms without lawful authority, and possession of military uniforms without lawful authority.
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The were also remanded into police custody and will come back to court on December 15, 2025.
Kofi Iddrisa and Baba Kumi Foster, who are being investigated for dishonestly receiving, had been granted police enquiry bail pending further investigation.
According to police investigations, on November 18, 2025, some of the gang members attempted to rob some persons on the Berekum-Drobo Road. However, due to the timely intervention of the Police Patrol Team, the robbery was foiled.
Further police investigations revealed that the attempted robbery, which was carried out by a five-member robbery gang led by Johnson Amponsah Kwame Diawuo, was just one of several such attacks perpetrated by the group.
During separate interrogations, suspects Kwafo Samuel and Shadrach Owusu confessed to their involvement in the attack and identified Johnson Amponsah Kwame Diawuo as their leader and mastermind.
They further admitted involvement in several other robbery attacks, particularly in the Nkaseim area within the Ahafo Region, he said
DCOP Coppson said the police had recovered quantities of Indian hemp, two motorcycle helmets, two machetes, one full set of military camouflage uniform, one black Cruxnut Glock toy gun, two live and three spent soft foam bullets, a Taser, one pair of military boots, pepper spray, one kitchen knife, three jack knives, several talismans and war regalia, five pairs of scissors, one spanner, fourteen pieces of toffee suspected to be laced with Indian hemp, one HP laptop, one NEC laptop, one swimming goggle, and one long screwdriver.
One Parabellum Model R-9 Hungarian pistol loaded with two rounds of 9mm ammunition was also recovered from suspect Mosby Owusu.
Three motorcycles and one tricycle were retrieved from suspects Kofi Iddrisa and Baba Kumi Foster, he stated.
The Regional police Commander assured the public that efforts were ongoing to identify and arrest the remaining accomplices who are currently at large and to recover other illicit weapons used in the commission of these crimes.
He called on the public to assist the police with credible information that would lead to the arrest of all persons connected to the criminal activities.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to enhance safety and security across the region,” he said and expressed the Command’s gratitude to the public for their support and cooperation in the fight against crime.
He commended the efforts of the police officers involved in the operations, saying their dedication and professionalism had led to the successful arrest of suspects.
DCOP Coppson assured the public that this year’s yuletide would be free from criminal activities as measures were in place to protect the citizenry.
Not even the presence of top FIFA gurus as well the movers and shakers of World Football could deny Otto Addo his prize in Washington, where the 2026 World Cup Draw was held last weekend.
With delegations from qualified countries arriving after 9.00am,media outlets assembled at the entrance of Capital Hilton which housed dignitaries from various countries. But it was not until after 5.00pm when the place came into real life with the arrival of an entourage from England ,Colombia and Ghana .
Thomas Tuchel had arrived earlier with an entourage of about 5,followed by the team from Colombia, before Otto Addo arrived unaccompanied through the entrance to the reception.
His bosses including Ghana’s FA President Kurt Okraku, General Secretary Prosper Harisson Addo, his deputy Alex Asante, Executive members Randy Abbey, Frederick Acheampong and spokesperson Henry Asante Twum had already checked into their various rooms.
But that did not stop the few Ghanaians around, joined later by journalists as the coach had to push through the crowd while acknowledging cheers and songs in his name by the Ghana Supporters Union, clad in their Ghanaian flags.
Though he spoke a few words after acknowledging how he was made to feel at home, the short incident has left a great mark on the minds of journalists and staff of the hotel especially.
The Capital Hilton staff kept clapping after Otto left ,with a key member remarking that “we are glad to see these things, it’s our loss the Ghanaian team will not be based here but who knows, they may choose our hotel for the pre World Cup camping”. Lots of people are around but the few minutes of singing and hailing the Ghanaian coach was a big shake, he won the most sought after and popular personality here”.
Ghana were later to be drawn in the same group with England, Croatia and Panama and www.ghanasportspage.com observed how England and Ghana officials especially tried to avoid each other, with the English press however doing everything possible to talk to the Ghanaian delegation .
Veteran lawyer and former President of the Ghana Bar Association, Sam Okudzeto, has questioned the continued relevance of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), arguing that the institution has failed to achieve its core purpose and suffers from a duplication of roles.
His comments come amid renewed public debate over whether the OSP should continue to exist.
The discussion intensified after the Majority in Parliament claimed that the office receives substantial budgetary allocations yet has little to show for it.
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has even suggested that the OSP be scrapped and its authority transferred to the Attorney General.
Speaking on Joy News on Monday, December 8, Mr Okudzeto said the key issue is whether the OSP has met the purpose for which it was created.
“Sometimes someone says it is not what you think you are entitled to, but it is what you can give. But it should be. So you’re asking me this question. The question is simply this: why was the institution set up? Has it achieved its purpose?” he said.
He argued that the answer is no, pointing to what he described as rampant corruption that the OSP has failed to curb.
“I don’t think so. That is exactly the issue that I’m trying to drive here. He hasn’t achieved his purpose because the corruption is still on. I see it every day. Everywhere you turn in every institution, you see it openly. They are not even afraid. You go there, and they demand money from you when you’ve already paid,” he stressed.
Mr Okudzeto maintained that scrapping the OSP would not be out of place, insisting the fundamental problem is the duplication of responsibilities that already fall under the Attorney General’s Department.
“You have an Attorney General’s Department. In that department, they have a civil section and a prosecutorial section. The prosecutorial section is headed by the Director of Public Prosecutions. What is the DPP supposed to do?
“He is supposed to prosecute criminal offences, including corruption. There is nothing that makes corruption any different from any other crime. So why create another institution to do the same job? That’s the whole issue,” he said.
Nana Akomea: I didn’t sell a single foot of STC land
Ghanaian politician and award-winning actor John Dumelo has distributed thousands of chickens to residents in his constituency
This Christmas initiative and other philanthropic projects have urged some Ghanaians to relocate to the Ayawaso
Some social media users have applauded the member of parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogun for thinking about the needs of his constituents
The Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, John Dumelo, has put smiles on the faces of his constituents.
The outstanding politician and father of three has yet again shared goodies with all families in his constituency.
John Dumelo gives out chickens to Ayawaso West Wuogon residents for Christmas. Photo credit: @johndumelo. Source: Instagram
John Dumelo shares fowls with his constituents
The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has stated on social media that he has been sharing eggs with members of the constituency for over two weeks.
In a trending video, the award-winning actor was spotted in a black smock and denim jeans while distributing the well-fed fowls to his people.
John Dumelo poses with his wife, Gifty Dumelo, after his ministering vetting before he shared chicken with his constituents. Photo credit: @johndumelo. Source: Instagram
He disclosed that the live fowls were from his farm harvest, and he began the distribution from American House to Westland, then to Dzorwulu and Tesano, among other places.
Ghanaians applaud John Dumelo for sharing chickens
Some social media users have commended John Dumelo for always supporting families in his constituency with good items and other products. YEN.com.gh has compiled some reactions below:
Roger Gbedawo stated:
“Good one there.Workaholic farmer; the nation feeder. John Dumelo I dey for YOU.”
Leramoh Charles Oluwaseun Gold stated:
“He’s been working tirelessly for the community and it’s great to see the harvest paying off for the constituents of Ayawaso West.”
Dorcas Taylor stated:
“This is what we call Hon not those that will switch off their phones immediately after they won…God bless you.”
Shivani Edem Ami stated:
“Why am I tearing? This is humanity.”
Sammy Basten Adobah commented:
This is a great gesture, honourable.
“God richly bless you, Sir.”
Ibrahim Nweinyimbu Musah stated:
“True kind gesture. May the good lord continue to bless you Johny.”
Benedicta Akurigo stated:
“As if elections were tomorrow. Eiii, do we have politicians like this one?.”
Mensah K Mensah commented:
“You’re raising the bar.”
JohnBosco Akortia stated:
“Is Maa Lydia still in Ghana?”
Aduko Clement stated:
“You really dey for them ampa.”
Adwoa Adepa stated:
“I’m moving to Ayawaso west soon. Kai Asofa dierr pin kora we won’t get.”
John Dumelo Chairs a Programme in Ho
The Ghanaian politician and a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has inspired many young people with his passion and dedication to serving the people of Ghana.
In a viral post, John Dumelo disclosed that he was the chairperson at the Innovation, Research and Development Presentation Session, as part of the 41st Farmers’ Day week-long celebration.
At the event, students from different universities pursuing agriculture showcased their creative projects and research findings.
In his post, John Dumelo stated that he would ensure the innovations are well-funded to boost the agricultural sector.
He expressed his gratitude to the Volta Regional Minister for being such a good host and also took time to visit companies exhibiting at the Volta Fair.
John Dumelo shares food items
Earlier, YEN.com.gh wrote about the MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, John Dumelo, who gave several food items to local school feeding caterers.
According to the Deputy Agricultural Minister, this is how he ensures the kids in his constituency have wholesome school meals.
Social media users flocked to the comment area to praise John Dumelo for his generosity towards his constituents.
Ghana Water Ltd. (GWL) in the Eastern Region has begun a large-scale legal campaign to recover more than GHC32 million owed by long-term defaulters, a debt the company said is undermining its ability to operate effectively and improve water service delivery.
In the first phase of the exercise, 15 customers have been processed for court and are expected to appear before a judge in the coming days.
GWL’s legal team said more names will be added as the campaign intensifies, targeting customers who have ignored repeated reminders, accumulated long-term arrears, or continued to refuse payment even after disconnection.
The action also covers individuals and businesses that have opted to rely on alternative water sources, such as boreholes and wells, without settling their outstanding bills.
Regional Chief Manager, Ing. Paul C. Akpanya, said the company is prepared to take all lawful steps necessary to retrieve the debts.
“We will go the extra mile within the remit of the law to recover every arrear owed the company. This is essential for sustaining our operations and improving service delivery to the public,” he said.
The first batch of cases filed includes a mix of commercial and residential customers:
Jilcom (Suhum roundabout Shell Station)
Petroleum & Construction Ltd.
Constance Baafi
Ebenezer Larbi Opare
Yomboi EA Adu
Dora James Okyere
KAMA Group of Companies (Regional Director of Health)
Paulina Donkor
Richard Boadu
Felicia Okyere Darko
F. A. Mpare
Taylor Posiah & Oduro
Patrick Ernest Obeng
Kwame
GWL noted that recovering these outstanding funds is vital to maintaining operations, expanding infrastructure, and ensuring a consistent water supply across the Eastern Region.
The company is urging all customers in arrears to visit the nearest district office or use available electronic payment channels to settle their debt promptly.
GTEC introduces policy to curb abuse of Honorary Degrees in Ghana
Lawyer Maurice Ampaw has criticised fellow legal practitioner Martin Kpebu over what he describes as an attack on the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng.
According to Ampaw, the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government is seeking to remove the Special Prosecutor and Martin Kpebu is allegedly being used to facilitate that agenda.
He claims Kpebu has shown gross disrespect toward the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and its head, Kissi Agyebeng, because President John Dramani Mahama appointed him as a member of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) task force, an appointment Ampaw believes places Kpebu “in the pocket” of the president.
Ampaw alleged that Kpebu has repeatedly made unfounded accusations against the OSP and reacts inappropriately whenever he is asked to provide evidence, often disrupting proceedings.
He insisted that because of Kpebu’s ties to the presidency and his perceived alignment with the ruling government, he has become emboldened.
“The NDC want to remove the Special Prosecutor, and Martin Kpebu is being used.
Martin Kpebu released after hours in OSP custody
“He has made several allegations against the OSP without any evidence. He should have been arrested by the OSP. What he engaged in was cyberbullying. And when the OSP called him to provide evidence of his allegations, he started misbehaving because he is an ORAL member appointed by President John Dramani Mahama and he is in his pocket,” Ampaw claimed.
“So, he went to the office with a disrespectful attitude. He didn’t respect the office or the Special Prosecutor. He approached them arrogantly because his government is in power.”
Ampaw further accused Kpebu of staging media attention to insult Kissi Agyebeng before honouring an invitation to the OSP.
“Because he doesn’t respect anybody and because of his arrogance, he organised the media to follow him and insult Kissi Agyebeng ahead of his meeting. He granted interviews on the premises and insulted the Office even before he went in, just to provoke the workers. What he did could have warranted an arrest for offensive conduct,” he added.
Martin Kpebu was released after spending nearly five hours in the custody of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
He was detained on allegations of obstructing an officer of the OSP.
Speaking to TV3 shortly after his release, Kpebu described the detention as unwarranted, insisting he had committed no offence.
“I know I have not done anything wrong, so I knew I would be released,” he stated.
Kpebu explained that the incident leading to his arrest stemmed from a verbal confrontation with a military officer stationed at the OSP.
According to him, the officer verbally abused him, prompting a heated exchange.
“Then the next thing, the soldier said I am stupid, so I also turned and said he is also stupid and so we exchanged words,” he recounted.
In recent weeks, Martin Kpebu has intensified his criticism of the Special Prosecutor, accusing him of contradicting himself in matters involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
On TV3’s The KeyPoints on November 29, 2025, he insisted that the OSP’s claim that the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) refused to help arrest Ofori-Atta had been exposed as untrue.
“The head of an anti-corruption agency cannot lie to citizens, run down state institutions without evidence, and still expect to hold office. If this was a slip, he should have admitted it. The fact that he keeps defending it shows it was deliberate,” he argued.
Kpebu said he independently verified the OSP’s assertions by speaking to current and former NIB officials, and none confirmed receiving any request for assistance.
He also referenced a written response from the NIB dated November 27, 2025, which stated clearly that the Bureau “did not receive any formal request for assistance to arrest Ofori-Atta.”
AM
#TrendingGH: Extension of IGP’s contract draws praise and criticism
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The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has introduced a comprehensive national policy aimed at ending the growing abuse, commercialisation, and improper conferment of honorary degrees by some tertiary institutions across the country.
The policy, signed by the Director-General of GTEC, Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai and issued on December 8, 2025, warns that the uncontrolled proliferation of honorary awards — often facilitated through unaccredited bodies and questionable collaborations — is undermining academic integrity and damaging Ghana’s international reputation.
GTEC said the new framework, backed by the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), establishes strict national standards that all public and chartered private universities must follow. It also affirms the Commission’s full legal authority to investigate, query or sanction any institution that breaches the rules.
Under the policy, unaccredited institutions, mentored colleges, and external bodies without approval are completely barred from conferring honorary degrees in Ghana.
Any such awards, GTEC stressed, will not be recognised.
The Commission also emphasised that institutions cannot grant honorary degrees in exchange for donations, political considerations, or material influence. GTEC further cautioned that universities that appear to confer honorary degrees excessively or without merit will be queried and may have their right to award such degrees suspended.
A major highlight of the directive is a firm stance on misuse of honorary titles. The policy states clearly that recipients of honorary degrees cannot use the title “Dr.”, adding that institutions must issue guidance to prevent misrepresentation. Any recipient who misuses the title risks having the award withdrawn.
To ensure transparency, institutions must document all nomination and vetting processes, conduct due diligence — including integrity checks — and maintain formal registers of all honorary degrees conferred.
GTEC reserves the right to withdraw awards that were improperly granted or based on fraudulent information.
Describing the policy as a necessary intervention, GTEC said it aims to “protect the integrity of Ghana’s higher education system,” prevent commercialisation of honorary awards, and rebuild public confidence in academic honours.
The Commission said the policy takes effect immediately.
Upper West: Police arrest four students over Wa Technical Institute riots
