The Minister for Energy, John Abdulai Jinapor, has attributed the country’s current energy challenges to the weak state of the sector inherited by the government.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on Thursday, 20th February, he assured Ghanaians that the government is working tirelessly to resolve the issues.

According to Mr Jinapor, the erratic power supply being experienced in various parts of the country is a result of deep-rooted structural problems within the energy sector.

He urged the public to remain patient while the government implements long-term solutions to stabilise the situation.

“We inherited a very weak energy sector. Ghanaians should bear with us as we work to fix the problems permanently.”

“The current erratic supply situation should be stable in two weeks’ time,” he stated.

His comments were aimed at addressing growing concerns over frequent power outages.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply across the country.

He expressed confidence that the measures being put in place would not only restore stability but also prevent future disruptions.

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.

In an era when political accountability often seems more like a catchphrase than a genuine commitment, the recent statements by the NPP’s Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagbah, provide a much-needed dose of clarity and integrity. His declaration on Joy News’ PM Express—that former President Nana Akufo-Addo has instructed his ex-appointees to remain available for any accountability processes after his administration—resonates as both a principled stand and a call for genuine transparency.

A Bold Stand in Uncertain Times

As our nation stands on the cusp of a political transition, the need for clear accountability has never been more pressing. Too often, we witness officials disappearing from the public eye when controversies arise, leaving the citizenry with unanswered questions and a lingering sense of mistrust. In contrast, Mr. Ahiagbah’s emphatic remark, “We [the NPP] have no record of running away; we’ll be here,” is not just a statement of intent—it is a pledge. It reassures the public that, regardless of shifting political tides, the commitment to transparency will remain unwavering.

Accountability as a Cornerstone of Democratic Governance

At its core, accountability is essential to the health of any democracy. It is the mechanism through which power is balanced, and public trust is maintained. When leaders openly accept the scrutiny that accompanies their service, they reinforce the notion that no one is above the law. This approach stands in stark contrast to practices seen elsewhere, where a lack of accountability can erode the very foundations of public confidence. The NPP’s recent stance is a powerful reminder that genuine leadership is measured not only by the policies enacted during a term but also by the readiness to address past actions with transparency and responsibility.

Setting a Benchmark Against Evasion

Recent controversies have cast a shadow over political figures who have been quick to evade accountability. Consider, for instance, the case of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who was recently declared a fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. In the midst of such developments, Mr. Ahiagbah’s clear and assertive comments shine brightly. By emphasizing that accountability is not a matter of convenience but an ongoing duty, the NPP sets a high standard for political conduct. It is a standard that, in our view, should serve as a benchmark for all political parties and public figures.

Accountability Beyond Political Expediency

What makes this commitment particularly laudable is its long-term perspective. Accountability should not be seen as a temporary measure linked solely to the tenure of a political leader. Rather, it is an enduring principle that must persist even after an administration has concluded. The notion that accountability ends with an election is not only short-sighted—it undermines the very principles of responsible governance. In insisting that former appointees remain available for accountability processes, the NPP is affirming that political service comes with lifelong responsibility.

Reflections on Past Missteps

The accountability imperative takes on an even sharper focus when contrasted with the actions of political rivals. Mr. Ahiagbah’s pointed reference to instances where members of the opposition, including those who have fled or faced trial in absentia, serves as a sobering reminder. It underscores that accountability is not a selective practice to be applied only when convenient. The NPP’s track record of standing by its officials—ensuring that they face questions and address concerns openly—is both commendable and necessary. Such an approach not only builds trust among supporters but also elevates the overall standard of political discourse in our country.

Why This Matters for the Future

Transparency and accountability are the bedrock of progress. When citizens see that their leaders are willing to stand by their actions and address any concerns head-on, it fosters a culture of trust and engagement. This, in turn, encourages a more informed electorate and a political environment where policies and actions are scrutinized for the common good. The NPP’s commitment sends a clear message: true leadership involves accepting responsibility, regardless of the challenges that may follow in the wake of governance.

Moreover, as calls for accountability grow louder from all quarters, such a steadfast stance from a major political party is both timely and necessary. It challenges the cynicism that often surrounds political transitions and promises that accountability will not be a casualty of political change. Instead, it offers a pathway to rebuilding public trust, ensuring that governance remains grounded in integrity and a deep respect for the democratic process.

In a political landscape that is too often marred by evasiveness and half-measures, the NPP’s clear commitment to accountability stands as a beacon of hope. By insisting that former appointees remain accessible for any necessary scrutiny, the party is not only defending its own legacy but also reinforcing the very principles upon which our democracy is built. It is a stance that we wholeheartedly agree with—one that should inspire all political actors to embrace accountability as an ongoing, non-negotiable commitment to the people they serve.

Ultimately, this approach is a testament to the enduring power of transparency in fostering a vibrant, trustworthy, and resilient democratic society.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has disclosed that 44 of the country’s forest reserves are under severe threat from heavily armed illegal small-scale miners, commonly known as galamsey operators.

He explained that forest guards and the Forestry Commissions rapid response team are unable to confront these miners effectively because they lack the advanced weaponry the galamsey operators possess.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, February 20, the minister highlighted the growing crisis, stating, “Ghana’s forests are facing serious threats of deforestation and degradation due to well-known factors.

“The country is experiencing an unprecedented assault on its forest resources and water bodies, largely driven by illegal mining activities.”

He warned that the situation has escalated into a national emergency with severe security and public health implications, requiring urgent intervention.

“Mr Speaker, it will interest you to know that out of the 288 forest reserves, a whopping 44 of these forest reserves are under serious attack by illegal miners.

“They are heavily armed with sophisticated weapons and very violent with a large number of excavators making it extremely difficult for a forest guard and rapid response to control them since they have no such sophisticated weapons to control them,” he stated.

The minister further revealed that in more than nine of these affected reserves, illegal miners have completely taken over, preventing Forestry Commission officials from accessing the areas.

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.

By Iddi Yire

Accra, Feb/ 20, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday in conformity with Article 76 (1) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, constituted his 19-Member cabinet. 

The 1992 Constitution enjoins the President to have a Cabinet of no fewer than 10 and not more than 19 ministers. 

Article 76 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana defines the Cabinet as a group of people that includes the President, Vice-President, and not more than 19 Ministers of State. 

The list of Cabinet Members was announced after their first meeting with the President at the seat of Government in Accra, by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications. 

They include Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Finance Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, Minister for the Interior, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Defence Minister, and Dr Dominic Akurutinga Ayine, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, and Mr kwabena Minta Akandoh, Minister of Health. 

Others are Mr John Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, Madam Elizabeth Ofosu Agyare, Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Eric Opoku, Minister of Food and Agriculture, and Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. 

The rest are Mr Governs Kwame Agbodza, the Minister for Roads, and Highways, Mr  

Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology,  

Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister of Transport and Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, Minister of Labour, Jobs, and Employment. 

Mr Ofosu said these were the 19 ministers who formed Cabinet together with the President and the Vice President. 

He said apart from these 19 ministers; other ministers were made to attend the Cabinet meeting. 

The Ministers who were in attendance at Thursday’s Cabinet meeting include Mr Iddie Kofi Adams, Minister of Sports and Recreation, Mr George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, Madam Emelia Arthur, the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Madam Dzifa Abla Gomashie. 

Others are Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mr Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, Minister of State in-charge of Special Initiatives, Mr Baba Issifu Seidu, the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Madam Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, Minister of State Public Sector Reforms and Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for State Responsible for Government Communications,  

Mr Ofosu said the maiden cabinet meeting objective was primarily to introduce cabinet and ensure that people had a handle on what exactly the expectation was of them in cabinet. 

He said the ground rules were set out and important briefings on matters relating to governance took place.  

He said there were a number of briefings; such as the state of security in the country and the  

He said the Minister for the Interior and the Minister of Defence and Mr Prosper Douglas Bani, the National Security Coordinator took turns to brief cabinet on the security situation in the country; adding that the general view emanating from the briefing was that Ghana’s security was strong. 

“We are a safe country and people are free to go about their normal activities without fear…” 

He said Mr Goosie Tanoh, the Presidential Advisor on the 24-hour Economy and Accelerated Export Developments, briefed cabinet on preparations so far towards a full rollout of the 24-hour Economy. 

Mr Ofosu said they were left with the impression that tremendous work had gone into what was arguably President Mahama’s foremost transformation plan, which aims to convert the Ghanaian economy from its present state into one that never sleeps and works around the clock.  

GNA 

Strengthening Monitoring and Enforcement

The Devastating Impact of Illegal Mining

Water Pollution and Public Health Concerns

Health Risks and Environmental Damage

The Way Forward

The Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako says tax reforms implemented during the Akufo-Addo administration were remarkable, and that they constitute the most by any Ghanaian administration.

Recalling the pivotal moment on March 3, 2017, when former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s first budget abolished 17 taxes, Dr Boako said the decision significantly eased the financial pressures on citizens and businesses alike.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show, Dr Boako noted that the tax cuts during the Akufo-Addo administration are unparalleled in Ghana’s history, with the removal of upwards of 25 taxes over an eight-year period.

This, he stressed, was a clear indication of the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for economic growth and development.

“The previous government abolished the most taxes in this country. If you could remember, on March 3, 2017, former President Akufo-Addo’s first budget abolished 17 different taxes in Ghana,” Dr. Boako remarked.

According to Dr Boako, while the government’s tax policies under Akufo-Addo were instrumental in promoting business expansion and stimulating economic activities, there has been a critical balance that needed to be maintained.

Addressing the controversial Electronic Levy (E-Levy), which faced backlash from the public, Dr Boako reaffirmed what he said was his and the former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s stance from 2020.

He reiterated that the E-Levy was not too popular and that other avenues could have been explored to meet the government’s revenue needs.

“The E-levy was unpopular, and my stance on its implementation remains the same, just as that of Dr Bawumia right from the year 2020. For me, it was needless,” he stated, also referencing other unpopular tax initiatives like the betting tax.

Despite the challenges of navigating complex fiscal policies, Dr Boako emphasised that the Akufo-Addo administration’s tax cuts demonstrated a forward-thinking approach, laying the foundation for Ghana’s long-term economic stability.

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.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has unveiled plans to introduce a 24-hour passport service as part of an ambitious overhaul of Ghana’s passport system, which is currently struggling with a backlog of applications.

During a tour of the passport head and regional office in Accra, Ablakwa announced the new initiative.

“You’ve also heard about our major reform. We want the passport administration in our country to operate 24 hours a day. This year, you need to be prepared as we will be running three shifts. We aim to reduce the waiting time for passport applications,” he stated.

The Minister outlined five key action plans designed to revamp the passport office and streamline the application process.

He emphasized that specific measures would be put in place to meet clear targets promptly.

In addition to the service extension, Ablakwa hinted at a possible reduction in the passport application fee.

Currently, a standard 32-page passport costs GH₵500.00, and any adjustments will be made to ensure that fees are equitable, with contributions from wealthier citizens helping to subsidize the costs for those in need.

The announcement reflects Ablakwa’s commitment not only to improving efficiency in passport processing but also to enhancing the welfare of the service staff.

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below

play videoStella Dziedzorm Sogli hosts the President of GHANET on Health Focus on GhanaWeb TV

The President of the Ghana HIV/AIDS Network, Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, has reiterated the importance of strictly adhering to HIV treatment.

According to him, following the prescribed treatment has numerous benefits, including reducing the viral load and minimizing the risk of transmission.

He emphasized that treatment protects both the patient and their partners, as well as the people they interact with.

Speaking to Stella Dziedzorm Sogli on the Health Focus show, he noted, “As part of our campaign, we have something we call U=U, which means undetectable equals untransmissible. What this means is that when someone starts treatment, stays on treatment, and takes their medication consistently without mixing it with other substances within a period of six months to a maximum of one year, they will achieve viral suppression.”

Ortsin further explained, “This means that at a certain point, the amount of virus in the person’s body becomes extremely low, and even the few remaining viruses are inactive. At that stage, the person cannot pass the virus to another person.”

“HIV treatment is recognized as a key public health strategy for preventing transmission,” he stressed.

He also added that the surest way to detect the virus is through testing. However, HIV can be transmitted through breast milk, semen, vaginal fluid, and blood.

Watch the full interview below

SSD/MA

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Okraku, has clarified that his recent conspicuous absence from high profile meetings involving the GFA and Ghanaian football stakeholders was to address medical concerns outside Ghana and not to campaign for a CAF executive position.

Speaking to the media in Kumasi during his visit to Kumasi Asante Kotoko and the family of the late Francis Yaw “Pooley” Frimpong, the GFA President debunked speculations that his trip was related to his bid for a spot on the CAF Executive Committee.

Kotoko fan Pooley was stabbed multiple times when Kotoko played a Ghana Premier League game against Nsoatreman FC and died from the stab wounds signaling problems with hooliganism in Ghana football.

The clarification comes after Kurt Okraku faced criticism for his absence following the tragic death of Pooley in the violent altercation during a match in Nsoatre.

“I was out of the country for medical needs, not to campaign for a CAF executive position. It’s a sorrowful moment. We will continue in this journey of change. The journey that started in 2019. It will be rough and smooth like our current situation but we will keep working hard to make things better” Kurt Okraku said.

The GFA President commended football stakeholders swift response to the violent incident and the close working relationship between key parties including Kotoko, the Ghana Police Service and the media.

I want to use this opportunity to say thank you to all of you, the entire media in Ghana, for the big role you have played on this important journey.

By Towfik Mohammed

Economist, Professor Lord Mensah

Finance Lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School, Professor Lord Mensah, has stated that holding former Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta accountable for his actions during his tenure is a step in the right direction.

The economist emphasized that this move would send a positive signal to the investor community.

Speaking in an interview with Citi Business News, Professor Mensah stressed that any minister who acted irresponsibly while in office should be held accountable.

He explained that investments will not thrive if individuals are not punished for financial misappropriation and other malfeasance.

“Gone are the days when it seemed like people could walk around freely and do as they pleased. It sends a good signal to the investor community… Any minister who holds a portfolio and does not manage it well, making decisions on their own without considering the public interest, should be held responsible,” Professor Mensah said.

“Finance, law, and economics go together. In any environment where laws don’t work, and where people are not punished for financial misappropriation, investments don’t thrive,” he stated.

The economist added, “Once he [Ken Ofori-Atta] is able to account for his actions and we all understand what really transpired regarding his decisions, it opens up the market. The market thrives on openness.”

This statement follows the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) declaration of Ken Ofori-Atta as a fugitive from justice on February 12, 2025.

The former minister was being investigated for alleged corruption and corruption-related offences.

At a press conference, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng stated that the offences under investigation included contractual arrangements between Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited and the Ghana Revenue Authority.

Other offences included the termination of a Distribution, Loss Reduction, and Associated Network Improvement Project contract between the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited and Beijing Xiao Cheng Technology (BXC), as well as issues surrounding the procurement of contractors and materials.

Additional offences involved activities and payments related to the National Cathedral project and a contract awarded by the Ministry of Health (initially initiated by the Ministry for Special Development Initiatives) to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for the purchase and after-sales service and maintenance of 307 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 305 CDI ambulances for the National Ambulance Service.

Providing further details, the Special Prosecutor said Ofori-Atta left the country on or around January 2, 2025. On January 24, 2025, the OSP communicated to him that he was considered a suspect in connection with four of the cases mentioned above.

The Special Prosecutor directed him to appear in person at the OSP on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM for an interview.

By a letter dated January 31, 2025, Ken Ofori-Atta instructed his lawyers to inform the OSP that he was out of the country indefinitely on medical grounds and that they would notify the OSP upon his return to reschedule his attendance.

Additionally, the legal firm expressed its willingness to provide the OSP with any required information for the investigation until Ofori-Atta’s return.

However, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, the OSP removed the former finance minister’s name from the wanted list.

This decision followed a communication from his legal team informing the OSP that Ofori-Atta would return to Ghana in May 2025.

SA/MA

Watch the latest edition of BizTech below:

Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Business WhatsApp channel

Second Deputy Minority Whip, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has strongly criticized the legal actions taken against Akwatia MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi, warning that they pose a serious threat to Ghana’s democracy.

His remarks follow a ruling by the Koforidua High Court on Wednesday, February 19, which found Kumi guilty of contempt for defying an interim injunction that barred him from being sworn in as a legislator.

Presiding Judge, Justice Senyo Amedahe, subsequently issued a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest after he failed to appear before the court for sentencing.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Thursday, February 19, Shaib decried the move as an infringement on Kumi’s rights and a danger to the nation’s democratic framework.

“Ghana’s democracy thrives on fairness, the rule of law, and the principles of justice. The actions taken against Hon Ernest Yaw Kumi threaten not only his rights but also the very foundations of our democratic processes and principles,” he stated.

He further urged the judiciary to remain impartial and resist any attempts to use the legal system for political gains.

“The judicial system must not be weaponized to serve partisan interests or undermine the will of the people of Akwatia. We call on all well-meaning Ghanaians to ensure that justice prevails,” Shaib added.

Read also…

Ghana’s economy was ‘criminally mishandled’ under Akufo-Addo – Mahama

The MTN FA Cup Round of 16 takes center stage this weekend with thrilling encounters across the country.

The action begins on Friday, February 21, 2025, as Attram de Visser hosts Premier League side Gold Stars FC at the Tuba Astro Turf.

On Saturday, February 22, Medeama SC faces PAC Academy at the TnA Stadium in Tarkwa at 6PM, while record holders Accra Hearts of Oak take on Golden Kick FC at the Tuba Astro Turf.

Sunday, February 23, sees four more clashes: Berekum Chelsea vs. Northern City at Golden City Park, Karela United vs. Young Apostles in Tamale, Techiman Liberty Youth vs. Bechem United at Wenchi, and True Democracy vs. Nania FC at Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex.

The Asante Kotoko vs. Eleven Wise match has been postponed, with a new date to be announced later.

By Wletsu Ransford