A photo collage of Alexander Afenyo-Markin (L) and Ernest Yaw Kumi
The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Koforidua High Court’s decision to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, after convicting him of contempt of court.
Addressing journalists in Parliament on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Afenyo-Markin stated that the Minority caucus was in the process of obtaining the court ruling and orders.
“Meanwhile, I am sure all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that our colleague remains law-abiding and that the right thing is done. However, we must express our dissatisfaction with the approach taken, as we believe he has been treated unfairly. We will present our full position once we receive a complete briefing from the lawyers,” he stated.
The Koforidua High Court issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Ernest Yaw Kumi after convicting him of contempt of court.
Reports indicate that the warrant was issued due to Kumi’s failure to appear before the court.
The MP was found to have disobeyed an interim injunction issued against him on January 7, 2025, which barred him from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament-elect for the Akwatia constituency due to an ongoing legal battle over the election.
However, despite the court order, Kumi proceeded to present himself in Parliament and was sworn-in.
Presiding Judge Justice Senyo Amedahe ruled that the MP had consistently failed to attend court proceedings in the contempt case.
He also dismissed a letter from the Minority caucus, which claimed that Kumi’s parliamentary duties prevented him from appearing in court.
The judge rejected the letter, arguing that accepting it would contradict his own ruling.
JKB/MA
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
Mary Awelana Adatah is the Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII)
Mary Awelana Adatah, the Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), has emphasized the critical importance of transparency in governance.
Speaking at a workshop on the Infrastructure Transparency Index, Adatah asserted that transparency should not be regarded merely as an ideal but as a necessity.
She pointed out that Ghana is currently facing numerous challenges due to a lack of transparency in the country’s affairs.
She believes that embracing transparency will greatly benefit the nation.
“Unfortunately, the governance of public infrastructure in Ghana faces serious challenges, including cost overruns, delays, abandoned projects, and cases of mismanagement. Transparency, therefore, is not just an ideal; it is a necessity. It is a powerful tool that promotes accountability, efficiency, and public trust in infrastructure delivery,” she said.
The Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) was established in 1999. It is a non-partisan, non-profit civil organization focused on addressing corruption.
GII is the Ghana Chapter of Transparency International (TI), the global non-governmental, non-profit civil society organization leading the fight against corruption through more than 90 chapters and over 30 individual members worldwide, with an international secretariat in Berlin, Germany.
VKB/MA
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced plans to transform the passport office into a 24-hour operation.
According to him, this initiative aims to drastically reduce passport processing times to just one week, addressing long-standing frustrations among applicants.
During a visit to the passport office in Accra on February 19, 2025, Ablakwa emphasized the government’s commitment to improving service delivery.
“We want to cut down the waiting time for passports. While processing times have improved to three to four weeks, we believe it should be possible to get a Ghanaian passport within a week,” he stated.
The 24-hour operation, which will run in three shifts, is expected to streamline the process and enhance efficiency.
“We want passport administration in our country to become a 24-hour operation. So, this year, you need to stand by, get ready, and prepare yourselves. We are going to run three shifts. We want to reduce the waiting time for passports,” he said.
To support this initiative, the government will expand storage facilities, data centers, and public amenities such as conference rooms at the passport headquarters.
These upgrades aim to ensure a comfortable experience for both staff and applicants while they await service.
In addition to the headquarters overhaul, Okudzeto Ablakwa revealed plans to decentralize passport services by establishing modern application centers in every region of Ghana.
“We are also rolling out a program to ensure that every region in Ghana has a decent passport application center. It should no longer be the case that if you need to undergo physical vetting, you have to travel all the way to Accra. We want to end that. It should be a thing of the past,” he declared.
This move is designed to make passport services more accessible to Ghanaians nationwide, ensuring that no one is left behind.
The announcement aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy, which seeks to create jobs and improve public service efficiency.
The expanded operations are expected to triple the workforce at the passport office, providing employment opportunities while addressing backlogs and uncollected passports.
Okudzeto Ablakwa’s reforms also include the full digitalization of passport services, the integration of biometric databases, and the use of courier services to deliver passports directly to applicants.
These measures aim to eliminate redundancies and ensure a seamless experience for Ghanaians.
Watch the video below:
“We’re introducing a three-shift system to reduce passport wait times” – Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announces new measures to streamline services. #ChannelOneNews#CitiVerifypic.twitter.com/sl8jxWSGOE
The Paramount Chief and President of the Gbi Traditional Council, Togbega Gabusu VII, has commended President John Dramani Mahama for appointing Dr Johnson Pandid Kwesi Asiama as the new Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
In a press release issued on behalf of the Gbi Traditional Council in Hohoe, Togbega Gabusu VII described Dr Asiamah’s appointment as “timely and strategic,” particularly in light of the current economic challenges facing the country.
The council praised the new governor’s extensive experience in financial management, highlighting his competence, affability, and ethical leadership as crucial assets for Ghana’s economic stability and growth.
“In these challenging economic times, the selection of a capable and knowledgeable leader at the helm of our central bank is crucial for the stability and growth of our nation’s economy. We believe that Dr Asiamah brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in financial management, which is essential for navigating the complexities of our economic landscape,” the statement read.
The Traditional Council also acknowledged President Mahama’s commitment to fostering economic resilience, innovation, and prosperity for all Ghanaians. It expressed confidence that under Dr. Asiamah’s leadership, the Bank of Ghana will implement policies to promote financial inclusion, ensure monetary stability, and support sustainable development across the country.
The council called on all stakeholders to support the new governor in his role, emphasising that Ghana’s economic challenges require a collective effort.
“The challenges ahead require unity and collaboration from all, and we believe in the capability and competence of the new Governor to turn the corner for the economy,” the statement added.
As custodians of the land on which a branch of the Bank of Ghana is established, the Gbi Traditional Council reaffirmed its full support for Dr Asiamah’s leadership and the President’s broader vision for a robust, dynamic, and resilient economy.
xr:d:DAFb1xCPE6k:494,j:705020311,t:23031309
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 5 cl boiled purified water
– 1 drop eucalyptus essential oil
– 1 sealable container
– 1 funnel
– 1 mixing bowl
– Step 1: In your mixing bowl, combine the baking soda and salt.
– Step 2: Carefully add the boiled purified water.
– Step 3: Introduce the drop of eucalyptus essential oil.
– Step 4: Stir the mixture until all components are well combined.
– Step 5: Position the funnel over the sealable
The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has pledged to ensure that every vote cast in the 2028 general elections is properly counted and declared.
He expressed his determination to protect the integrity of the ballot, emphasizing that any future attempts to undermine the election process will be met with lawful actions.
Speaking on JoyNews‘ The Pulse on Wednesday, February 19, Mr Afenyo-Markin condemned the use of vigilante groups and foot soldiers to intimidate and coerce election officials into making unfair declarations.
He made it clear that the NPP will not allow such actions to go unchecked in 2028.
“We will go with all the determination to protect our ballot,” he said.
“All these vigilante attacks on us where people will carry foot soldiers to force a declaration. I don’t think that God willing 2028, we will sit and allow ourselves to be beaten and cheated,” he noted
Afenyo-Markin stressed that the party has learned important lessons from past experiences and will come fully prepared to protect its votes, ensuring that when the NPP secures 100 votes, they will be counted and declared without fear or interference.
“We will act lawfully within the bounds of the law to protect our ballot,” he affirmed, reinforcing the party’s dedication to upholding democratic values.
He added “We have learned our lessons, and we will ensure that every vote is counted fairly and accurately”
He urged party members and supporters to put aside past challenges and focus on the future as they work toward victory in the upcoming 2028 general elections.
The Minority Leader emphasised the importance of teamwork and a positive outlook, expressing strong confidence in the party’s success in the next election.
“Let’s look at the way forward, forget about whatever has happened. So let’s not give up, let’s work together as a team. For me, I see victory come 2028,” he remarked.
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.
Some illegal chainsaw operators believed to be supporters of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Juaboso District of the Western North Region have stormed a forest reserve in the area and are cutting down trees indiscriminately.
The illegal chainsaw operators, who are mostly foot soldiers of the ruling party and claiming their government is in power, are currently operating in the Krokoasue Forest Reserve in the Sefwi Agyemandiem-Dome enclave in the Sefwi Juaboso District of the region.
According to some of the residents, within a period of about a month that the NDC came to power, the foot soldiers are depleting the Krokoasue Forest Reserve into a desert.
The residents claimed that those engaged in the illegal acts are mostly from Sankore, Akrodie, Sefwi Asawinso, Sefwi Boako and Sefwi Dome.
“The activities of these illegal chainsaw operators are not only destroying the forest reserve, but also adversely affecting the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana in the area.
“This is because some of the trees which are cut fall on high tension poles and electricity cables that serves most of the communities in the area,” the residents disclosed.
According to sources, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) spends over GH¢10,000 to replace the high tension poles and cables.
DAILY GUIDE learnt that even though several complaints and reports had been lodged with the appropriate authorities, the situation remains the same.
The Chief of Sefwi Agyemandiem, Nana Kwaku Donkor II, in an interview, disclosed that “Now these illegal chainsaw operators are destroying our forest reserves and there is no action being taken by the Juaboso Forestry Commission.”
“If the Forestry Commission fails to adhere to our plight and stop the illegal activities, we know the forest more than the illegal chainsaw operators, and we will soon confront them,” he indicated.
Meanwhile, the Juaboso District Forestry Manager, Mr. Kwabena Adu Bonnah, in an interview confirmed that the Krokoasue Forest Reserve has been invaded by illegal chainsaw operators.
He said his outfit has tried to stop them several times but to no avail.
“These guys have weapons but we do not have. Besides, my men are not enough for such operation, so we need a full military support for this operation,” he stated.
“But it should be urgent before these illegal chainsaw operators could raid the rest of the forest,” he pointed out.
Accra, Feb. 19, GNA – Mr Rashid-Abdul Pelpuo, the Minister of Employment, Labour, Jobs and Employment, has highlighted the crucial role of the Ghana Labour Market Information System (GLMIS) in connecting job seekers with available vacancies.
He said the GLMIS platform would facilitate interaction between job seekers and employers, ensuring the efficient placement of skilled workers into existing job opportunities.
The Minister said this in a speech read on his behalf at a two-day sensitisation workshop for private employers held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra.
The workshop, attended by employers from various sectors, featured presentations by experts from the Ministry of Employment on the GLMIS platform and related labour issues, including pensions.
Mr Pelpuo explained that the platform was developed to serve as a repository of labour market data, enabling job seekers, employers and training providers to make informed decisions.
The main challenge contributing to unemployment in Ghana was not the lack of jobs, but the absence of information on where specific skills were needed, he said.
“In many cases, people are unemployed not because there are no jobs, but because they have no information as to where their skills are required,” Mr Pelpuo noted.
He said the effective utilisation of the platform would allow tertiary institutions and training programmes to redesign their curricula to meet industry demands.
The Minister acknowledged the challenge faced by employers in finding qualified workers to fill skills gaps, which contributed to skills mismatches and labour market inefficiencies.
The GLMIS, launched last year, is a centralised digital platform that serves as a repository for career and skills development.
It features six portals including employers, skills, statistics, knowledge and private agencies.
Some of the employers, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, gave their impression on the GLMIS and vast opportunities it comes with.
Mr Raymond Larbi, Human Resource Manager, Multimedia Group, expressed optimism about the platform’s potential to address the skills mismatch in the industry.
“If we get all stakeholders, especially the companies, to feed the system with information, it will enable employers to have access to information to meet emerging needs,” Mr Larbi said.
He highlighted the difficulty in sourcing workers with specialised skills, particularly those with artisanal abilities.
“There are certain categories of workers that it is very difficult to source, especially those with artisanal skills. If we have such a platform, and they are aware of that platform, and they feed it with their information, it means that if we are looking for cameramen, video editors, and the like, it will be very easy to get that information,” he added.
Mr Larbi suggested that beyond providing information, employers could use the platform to identify skills gaps and develop targeted training programmes.
“Sometimes we will even undertake programmes within our sector to train more people to fill the gap. Training is not only by the schools. We can also do training within the work system, like internship,” he explained.
Mr Samuel Jyandoh, a film producer, described the GLMIS as “a good platform” that would benefit both employees and employers if properly implemented and marketed.
“There are a lot of things that I didn’t know earlier, but I’ve come to know now. I didn’t know that there are some of the things out there that we in the private sector can take advantage of and boost our works,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of promoting awareness about the platform to maximise its impact on the labour market.
The South African Council of Elders Chair for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Benjamin Kofi Quashie, has shared his perspectives on the recent violence marring the Council of State elections, describing it as very unfortunate.
Speaking on Joy Prime’s Newspaper Review on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, the SA NDC Council Chair condemned the political nature of the elections.
He noted that the elections of the Council of State ought not to be political, but unfortunately, “we’ve had situations where the NDC or the NPP have claimed victory in such elections.”
He pointed out that it’s incumbent on the citizenry to look at their roles, and their selection, and maybe amend our Constitution to reflect the governance structure.
According to him, the current procedure of electing its members affronts the rationale the framers of our Constitution had for the body. It’s a body that advises the president on key issues, and tainting that body with partisanship is abhorrent to our Constitution and needs to be changed. “We need to revisit the Council of State issues to ascertain how we can remove the politics to focus on national issues,” he stressed.
Touching on the NDC being blamed for the violence associated with the Council of State elections, he disagreed, labeling the NPP’s behaviour as double standards. He pointed out that when wrong things happen, it is constructive to condemn them, not blame the NDC.
He also stated that it is unacceptable for the NDC to be blamed for every wrongdoing since a similar home invasion incident happened under the NPP administration.
Mr Quashie observed, in unison with the NPP, that they should condemn all acts that offend our Constitution, and that is how a country ought to be built and developed.
“To pick and choose which actions to condemn just because it suits you cannot be encouraged moving forward. The NPP needs to stop that posturing”, he underscored.
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.
General Manager of Citi FM and Channel One TV, Bernard Avle, has voiced strong concerns over the failure of successive governments to recognize the vital role of journalists in addressing national issues, particularly in the fight against corruption.
Speaking as a guest speaker at an active citizenship dialogue in honor of the late legal luminary Akoto Ampaw on Wednesday, February 19, Avle highlighted the critical contributions of investigative journalism.
He cited the Fourth Estate’s exposé on the controversial revenue mobilization deal between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilization Ghana Limited (SML), as well as a recent report on payment infractions within the National Service Scheme.
He underscored the media’s unwavering commitment to fostering national development.
“The [former] president’s statement asking KPMG to investigate didn’t even acknowledge the work of the journalist, in an attempt to delegitimize civic advocacy, that is wrong. Even if you want KPMG to investigate, you have to acknowledge that it was a journalist who brought the issue to your light,” he revealed.
Avle also emphasized the importance of using creative arts, including theatre, as a medium for activism and social change.
“I argue that there are creatives who are cultural activists, and until we own our stories and we do it in a way that is both entertaining but enlightening, we can never be free. So the purpose of reclaiming our cultural spaces is that everybody wants to be entertained, but nobody wants to be lectured about how to improve their life, so you enlighten through entertainment,”he noted.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has assured that the caucus will take necessary steps to ensure Akwatia MP Ernest Yaw Kumi complies with the law.
His statement follows the Koforidua High Court’s conviction of Kumi for contempt after he defied an interim injunction barring him from being sworn in as a legislator.
Presiding Judge Justice Senyo Amedahe also issued a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest after he failed to appear for sentencing.
The court had previously restrained Kumi from presenting himself for swearing-in, pending the resolution of a legal dispute. However, he proceeded to take the oath of office in Parliament despite the directive.
Citing overwhelming evidence of willful defiance, the court ruled that Kumi had acted in contempt.
An official letter from the Minority Caucus attempting to justify his absence from the hearing was dismissed by the judge, who maintained that Kumi had disregarded the court’s authority.
With the bench warrant in effect, authorities are expected to enforce his arrest.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, February 19, Afenyo-Markin described the court’s directive as unfair and unsatisfactory to the Minority Caucus.
“But we have to say that we are dissatisfied with the approach and we think that he has been treated unfairly. We will come out fully with our position when we receive full briefing from our lawyers,” He said.
Tema, Feb. 19, GNA – Some residents of Tema Community One have raised concerns over the frequent spillage of liquid waste in their communities especially in the market, fearing a potential rise in cholera cases in the metropolis.
They complained the situation had deteriorated in recent months, with some areas experiencing overflowing gutters filled with human waste, thereby creating unbearable stench and the health risks posed by the constant leakage of faeces onto the streets and into open drains.
They added that there had not been any permanent solution to the challenge despite several complaints.
They told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview that there was a need for a complete change of the sewer system, insisting that temporary fixes were not enough.
“We cannot continue to react only when an outbreak occurs; preventive measures must be put in place to ensure proper sanitation and protect our health. Look at the number of cholera cases in the country; we need a complete overhaul of the sewer system, not just repairs,” Mr. Isaac Forson, a teacher, said.
Ms. Georgina Teye, a tomato seller, stated that “We are living in fear because the sewers keep spilling. This month, almost all the areas in Tema Community One had been spilled. In the market, when it spills, it affects business a lot because nobody will come and buy.”
She stated, “our only luck is that we are in the dry season, if the rain starts, the waste will spread all over, and children play and walk around, and we cannot always stop them from coming into contact with the dirty water.”
Mr. Kwabena Mensah, a shoe dealer, said, “The authorities have not been proactive.
How can sewer lines that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah did not upgrade till now? The temporal measures will not help because the population of Tema continues to grow.”
“Normally when it spills, you must buy a face mask and wear it because you cannot breathe, and now that cholera cases are high and the government is trying to reduce the cases, see what is happening. The authorities must take sanitation seriously before it turns into a disaster.”
Mr. Ofori Laryea, Sewer Manager, Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), acknowledged the problem and said the Waste Management Department was working to repair damaged pipelines and unclog blocked drainage systems.
He, however, urged the residents to refrain from dumping solid waste into gutters and sewers, as such actions contribute to severe blockages, particularly during the rainy seasons.
The GNA observed that the sewer lines and chambers have been overflowing and gushing out liquid waste in the Community One Business Area for days despite efforts by the department to contain the situation.
The faeces running through the market has left many vendors with no option other than to close their shops, while others resort to using nose masks and pouring antiseptic around the place, they sell to avoid the stench and prevent the invasion of houseflies.
Berlin-based Ghanaian dancer and artiste, Prince ‘M.I.K.’ Ofori, has been recognised for his meaningful contributions to the dance industry.
This acknowledgement took place at the prestigious Ghana Dance Industry Awards (GHADI Awards) held at the National Theatre in Accra on 8 February 2025.
Moving to Berlin as a teenager, Prince M.I.K. navigated cultural barriers through his passion for dance and music. Over the years, he has become an important figure in the German cultural scene as an event organiser, DJ, artistic director, and dancer.
As the founder of the M.I.K Family, he has helped shape the street dance scene in Germany, especially when it comes to Krump.
Besides his personal career, Prince has a strong bond with his community. He is the chairman of MINCE e.V., an NGO that focuses on anti-discriminatory youth work through Black dance cultures. He is also the co-organiser of the CDC Festival – Europe’s most conscious festival for Black Dance Culture over the past 10 years – which has become a meeting point for African and Caribbean dance artistes.
This year’s edition, the 11th CDC Festival, is scheduled to take place in Berlin from 28 May to 1 June 2025. Through these activities, he has made a lasting impact on the Black street dance industry.
Prince M.I.K. was a standout presence at this year’s GHADI Awards in BOYEDOE clothing – a nod to his commitment to promoting Ghanaian talent in all forms. Winning the Street Dance Culture Ambassador Award marks a special moment for him, further validating the importance of street dance culture as a powerful tool for artistic and social expression and empowerment.
With this latest recognition, Prince M.I.K. continues to solidify his legacy as a cultural bridge-builder in the global dance scene.
He is currently planning to enter a partnership deal with Dancetera, organisers of the Ghana Dance Festival, to create a meritorious system that selects the best talent year-on-year to participate in the CDC Festival in Europe.
This project, which will be led by Robert Klah, a seasoned dance promoter with footprints across Africa, is expected to take place in 2026.
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
The lengthy and often frustrating process of acquiring a passport in Ghana, marred with activities of ‘Goro Boys’, which currently takes an average of six months, may soon become a thing of the past due to the integration of the Ghana National Identification System (Ghana Card) into the passport application process.
The Ghana Card, with its robust biometric data footprint, has been identified as a key solution to reducing bureaucratic delays and streamlining passport acquisition.
Currently, the passport application process involves several steps, including purchasing a passport form online, completing it either online or manually, and submitting it.
Applicants must then book an appointment online for biometric data capture, followed by a waiting period of one to six months, depending on whether they opt for express or normal processing.
This process is often plagued by challenges such as difficulty securing appointment dates and long queues at passport offices, which sometimes take days to navigate.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during his vetting before the ad-hoc parliamentary ‘Appointments Committee’ on Friday, January 31 2025, mentioned that the Ghana Card, which serves as the country’s national identification card, is secure to make far-reaching changes in the passport application process.
He stressed that with biometric capture posing as a significant delay in the scheme of things; by leveraging the biometric data already captured in the National Identification System, the Passport Office can significantly reduce the time and effort required for passport issuance.
“I would like to use technology to reform our passport services, and I do not think that in this age, Ghanaians with Ghana Card should be queuing to register for passports,” he stated.
Governments in the past have introduced several reforms into the passport acquisition process but to date, passport acquisition in Ghana could be likened to squeezing water out of a rock unless one is willing to pay more than the stipulated amount to some Goro boy (illegal middleman).
With the anticipated integration of the Ghana Card, the Minister was optimistic that passport acquisition would be shortened to a few days irrespective of the point of application. This will eliminate Goro boys significantly if not completely.
As Ghana continues to embrace digital transformation, the integration of the Ghana Card into various data systems such as healthcare, banking and finance, and business registration, among other digital payment platforms has increased coverage and easy access significantly.
Albeit its synchronisation with the passport process could mark another milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize its identification and data security system. This initiative promises to make passport acquisition faster, easier, and more accessible for all Ghanaians irrespective of urban-rural settlement status.
Challenges
An expert, Former Executive Director, of Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT), Kwesi Atuahene, elaborated that the Ghana Card is indeed a good identification infrastructure with a robust biometric data source but has some challenges that need attention before it can be used for passport acquisition effectively.
The former director of the policy think tank, mentioned that the Ghana Card is not progressive at the moment, posing a challenge to its integration for passport processing. He argued that while the Ghana Card serves as a foundational digital identity tool, its effectiveness relies heavily on the timeliness and accuracy of the data it holds.
However, the data captured during the initial issuance of the Ghana Card in 2018/2019 has not been updated for most people after six years.
“The data of individual citizens on the Ghana Card, as issued in 2018/2019, remains unchanged even after almost six years. At the time of registration, some individuals were students, and the system captured them as such.
However, many of these individuals have since upgraded their status with some becoming military officers, lawyers, doctors, or even PhD holders. Yet, this updated information has not been reflected in the ID card database. As a result, transferring such outdated data to the passport system renders it inaccurate,” he said.
The failure to update the Ghana Card database means that critical details about individuals, such as their occupation, educational qualifications, residential address and other personal data, remain static. This undermines the card’s reliability as a comprehensive identification tool.
Hence, if its data is directly used for passport issuance, the inaccuracies could lead to inconsistencies in official documents. For example, a person’s profession or educational status on their passport may not reflect their current reality, which could cause issues during international travel or official transactions.
Mr. Atuahene highlighted the need for a data updating mechanism feature to be inculcated into the Ghana Card data operating system to enable it to play the proposed role efficiently.
“Aside from my fingerprints which haven’t changed, almost any other thing about my status has changed, but the fingerprint alone is not enough to confirm the current status of someone and a reason to use the Ghana Card when all the other information needs to be recaptured or updated. And so, we need a regular medium for data upgrades such as name change, social, tax status update and business details,” he added.
The Ghana Card serves as a crucial component of Ghana’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Thus, a network of digital systems and services that allow governments to deliver public services efficiently and securely to citizens, essentially acting as a foundational digital infrastructure for a country, enabling access to services like digital identity, payments, data sharing, and government records.
The Ghana Card acts as a single form of identification, replacing multiple documents previously needed for various services. This simplifies processes like opening bank accounts, registering for health insurance, mobile sim card and now the passport as well as verifying identity for other purposes.
As the country strives to achieve inclusivity in all aspects of public service delivery, the Ghana Card ensures identification and enhances efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement in accessing public services.
Former Brentford manager Martin Allen has questioned Ghanaian attacker Mohammed Kudus’ role in the West Ham United team following his poor performances in the 2024/2025 Premier League season.
The manager stated that Kudus playing 20 games without making substantial impact warrants a review of his status in the team.
He emphasized that the fact that the Black Stars forward has been one of West Ham’s key players does not mean he should start every game, even when his performance has dipped.
“As a manager, you always have to work out and look at the stats. How many games has Kudus played? How many goals and assists has he made? If he goes 20 games without scoring a goal or winning any points for West Ham, you’ve got to question why he’s in the team,” he said while speaking in an interview with West Ham Zone.
Allen suggested that it would be prudent for West Ham coach Graham Potter to bench Kudus and play Summerville when he recovers from injury.
“I think Summerville is going to be fit soon and will play ahead of him. At the moment, Kudus is falling short of what’s needed for a winning team,” he added.
Kudus’ last goal came in December 2024 during West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Brighton at the London Stadium, leaving his Premier League tally at just three goals in 20 appearances.
Since then, he has failed to contribute significantly to the team’s attack, going nine consecutive games without a goal or an assist.
For West Ham and Potter, the struggles continue. The Hammers have amassed just 27 points from 25 games, sitting 16th in the table.
Court don find Rapper A$AP Rocky not guilty of firing one gun at im former friend.
One jury for Los Angeles free di musician, wey im legal name na Rakim Mayers, on two felony assault charges wey carry up to 24 years in prison.
Terell Ephron claim say di Grammy-nominated hip-hop star open fire give am during one argument for one Hollywood street on 6 November 2021, e say one of di shots injure im knuckles.
Mr Mayers, wey also be fashion mogul and di longtime partner of pop star Rihanna, deny di charges, e bin argue say di weapon na prop gun and say im former friend, wey call imself A$AP Relli, only dey after money.
As dem read di first not-guilty verdict on Tuesday, pipo shout and clap for court. Mr Mayers rush towards im family and partner Rihanna, wey bin siddon behind am. E dive over one wooden barrier to hug dem.
E hug im lawyers and e bin be like say tears dey im eyes as dem read di second not-guilty verdict.
“Thank God for saving my life,” Mr Mayers tok loud. E thank members of di 12-person jury.
Dem arrest di rapper on di two felony assault charges after one strong argument with im former friend for di heart of Hollywood.
Mr Mayers and Mr Ephron bin don know each other since high school for New York and bin dey part of di A$AP Mob hip-hop collective.
Dia friendship cool off as A$AP Rocky career take off.
Authorities say Mr Ephron meet Mr Mayers on 6 November 2021, one day after dem two get palava, outside one hotel, wey no far from di ogbone Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Fight burst as yawa gas.
Mr Mayers bin also dey alleged say e bring out gun from im waistband and point am give Mr Ephron, as e tell am say: “I go kill you right now.”
“E look me for my eyes and point di gun give me,” Mr Ephron testify.
Mr Ephron say e tell di rapper to fire di weapon, but Mr Mayers start to dey waka go.
As e comot, Mr Ephron follow, as e dey shout give am.
Prosecutors allege say na at dat point, Mr Mayers again pull out di gun and fire multiple shots, with one bullet wey dem sat touch Mr Ephron knuckles.
Most of di trial based on weda di firearm in question na harmless prop gun, as Mr Mayers defence tok, or weda na real weapon wey dey capable of causing harm, as Mr Ephron and prosecutors allege.
Di weapon never dey recovered by authorities.
Jurors bin watch some footage of di fight because some parts bin dey captured on surveillance video, including audio of gunfire, but no video evidence directly show any shooting.
Mr Ephron take two days before reporting di incident to authorities and e bring shell casings e say e pick from di scene.
But police wey respond to reports of one shooting for di area no locate any shell casings. Mr Ephron, wey say e go back with im girlfriend hours later, say e bin know wia exactly to look, but no surveillance footage support im account.
E bin no dey admitted to any hospital in Los Angeles and instead e go for medical treatment after e fly back to New York.
Attorneys for Mr Mayers suggest say Mr Ephron bin plant di shell casings to frame di rapper.
Di trial get emotional moments and times wey e be like fight go burst, particularly wen Mr Ephron – di trial star witness – take di stand.
At one point, Mr Ephron call Mr Tacopina – a defence attorney for Mr Mayers – “annoying”, wey make di judge warn am.
Anoda witness, A$AP Twelvyy, dey asked by prosecutors about one photograph wey show Mr Mayers bed with di letters “AWGE” wey dem write on di furniture.
Wen dem ask am wetin e stand for, Mr Mayers unexpectedly interrupt di proceedings as e shout say, “Don’t say!” Twelvyy come refuse to elaborate.
Outbursts from defendants during trials no common, especially in front of jury.
However, for a criminal suspect on trial to cut in and instruct witness not to answer prosecutor question during cross-examination na something wey dey nearly unheard of inside court.
Rihanna make appearance for di trial and siddon with di rapper family
Di rapper dey set to release im first solo album in nearly one decade and e dey scheduled to co-headline Los Angeles Rolling Loud festival for March 2025.
For May, e dey set to co-chair di 2025 Met Gala alongside big names like Anna Wintour, British race car driver Lewis Hamilton, singer Pharrell Williams and basketball superstar LeBron James.
Additionally, im togeda with Denzel Washington dey for Spike Lee upcoming film “Highest 2 Lowest,” wey dey due for a summer release.
Im longtime partner, singer Rihanna, attend court once in a while. She dey courtroom on Tuesday as dem read di verdict.
Ghanaian musician, Samini, has recognized Black Sherif’s dominance in the music industry, crediting the artiste’s hard work and dedication to his craft.
Black Sherif, known for his unique sound that blends highlife, hip-hop, and afrobeat, has been making waves and creating a sensational musical experience since his rise to fame.
In a recent video circulating online on February 19, 2025, Samini, who has been following Black Sherif’s success story, has stated that his rise is a result of his persistence and commitment to music.
“Currently, this is the Blacko era, unless a new artist comes with a fresh sound. Blacko came with his own style, and now we have about 5 or 6 people trying to mimic him. That shows how much people are looking at his sound as the standard, unless someone is bold enough to bring something completely different. I think it’s a Blacko era,” Samini said.
He went on to emphasize that while other artistes like Fameye, Lasmid, Olivetheboy, and King Paluta are doing well, Black Sherif’s unique blend of melodies and authenticity stands out.
Samini also praised Black Sherif for finding his ‘music identity’ and for his undeniable impact on the industry.
“No disrespect to other artistes, I’m loving Fameye’s, Lasmid’s, Olivetheboy’s, and King Paluta’s music, but Blacko’s music has reached a level that shows why he’s in the position he is now.
“With a label like Blacko’s, these boys could have achieved the same or even more. The way his music resonates with people, it’s clear why it’s Blacko’s time. He has created a space for himself that others are striving to reach,” Samini added.
Samini also highlighted Black Sherif’s influence on Ghanaian youth culture, adding that he has become a powerful voice for the younger generation.
FG/EB
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
The Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Evalue-Gwira-Ajomoro constituency, Emmanuel Ennor Kofi, has denied alleged involvement in illegal mining activities, describing them as “a complete falsehood without an iota of truth.”
This was stated in a press release issued on February 18, 2025, and signed by Gideon Ansah Mensah, Director of Operations of Annomanuel Company Limited, which he owns.
According to the statement, Mr. Ennor is a legitimate businessman who operates within areas authorized by the Minerals Commission.
“Contrary to the reports, neither he nor the company has engaged in any form of mining in a forest reserve or waterbody,” the statement read.
The release further reaffirmed Mr. Ennor Kofi’s commitment to fighting illegal mining, in line with former President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge to tackle the galamsey menace.
“As a patriotic Ghanaian and the chairman of the National Democratic Congress in the Evalue-Gwira-Ajomoro constituency, Mr. Ennor Kofi is fully aware of the commitment by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to addressing the galamsey menace, and he is fully committed to this cause,” the statement emphasized.
The company urged the public, especially the people of Evalue-Gwira-Ajomoro, to disregard what it described as “malicious and mischievous propaganda” against Mr. Ennor Kofi.
“We want to reiterate that these reports are untrue, unfounded, and baseless,” the statement concluded.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications and spokesperson for President John Dramani Mahama, has justified the government’s decision to revoke post December 7 appointments, citing irregularities in the recruitment processes.
This come after Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin on Tuesday, February 18, appealed to President Mahama to withdraw the revocation of appointments.
Addressing journalists in Accra on Wednesday, February 19, Kwakye Ofosu noted that “Let me also put it on record that this action has been taken not because of a perception or a belief that they were NPP. It is because we know that the recruitment processes were attended by irregularities.”
He highlighted instances where individuals were given backdated letters to create the false impression that they had been employed long before the elections, while others did not undergo interviews or even submit application letters expressing interest in the positions.
Kwakye Ofosu emphasised that these irregularities could not be allowed to stand and assured that the government would conduct new recruitment processes open to all Ghanaians, irrespective of their political affiliations.
“In due course, government will do recruitment and it will be open to all Ghanaians irrespective of political colouration. Indeed, your party identity will not be required. You will not be asked to show whether you’re NPP or NDC when that comes, but we will do it in a regular manner,” he explained.
He also reassured those whose employment had been revoked that they would still have the opportunity to reapply and go through due process.
“So even those who have had their employment revoked will still have the opportunity to reapply and go through due process,” Kwakye Ofosu added.
Assembly members in the twenty-six electoral areas of the Amansie South District in the Ashanti region have threatened to boycott the confirmation of the president’s nominee for district chief executive.
They are unhappy the district coordinating director, Nana Opoku Ababio, sworn-in some government appointees into the assembly without their presence.
Assembly Member for Manso Nkran electoral area, Joseph Antwi Prempeh, who led the press conference said it is unfair and disrespectful to the assembly members for such an exercise to be conducted on their blind side.
“We will also kick against the President’s appointment which will need our participation,” he said. “Our motive is to support government business but the coordinator’s disrespectfulness to us will push us to kick against government business”.
Other assembly members expressed worry that not a single member of the house was invited.
“We represent over four thousand members in our communities in the assembly so why do you want to sideline our opinions,” said Ebenezer Oppong of Aboaso electoral area.
The coordinating director for Amansie South District, Nana Opoku Ababio, however, explained a letter was issued informing the assembly members of the President’s appointment to the district.
“We did not officially invite anybody since this is a short ceremony and it doesn’t breach any law. We are on good terms and it’s not the intention to underestimate their opinion,” he said.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has warned that he will take legal action against members of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee if his name or properties are included in their investigations.
His threat follows reports that a property he has owned since 2006 was examined as part of the operation.
The ORAL Committee submitted its report to President John Dramani Mahama on February 10.
Meanwhile, the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, is expected to recommend the prosecution of individuals named in the ORAL report.
Speaking on Joy News on Wednesday, February 19, the Minority Leader asserted, “I’ll sue them. I will sue them. If I see anything inconsistent with the law, I’ll sue them. I’ll sue individual personalities. I’ll sue each one of them. I’ll sue for the law to remedy the situation.”
Afenyo-Markin accused the ORAL Committee of flying drones over his property, which borders the Police Academy, in an attempt to falsely link it to state land.
“They thought it was a state land, and because I share a wall, there’s a common boundary between my property and the Police Academy, you know, so maybe they thought that it’s a Police Academy property that I had illegally acquired. And unfortunately for them, that was not it. In any case, must you fly a drone on my property?”.
He accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of using the ORAL Committee to target political opponents rather than prioritizing governance.
“You see, sometimes politicians think that by attacking an opponent, it breaks the opponent down, and they would be popular. NDC should know that they’ve won. They’ve won with a four-year mandate. They should be busy with the implementation of their manifesto promises rather than coming after Afenyo-Markin.”
Don’t blame Mahama for assault on journalists – Kwakye Ofosu
……
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
Accra, Feb 19, GNA – The Government has appealed to the Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana (CLOGSAG) to rescind its decision to embark on strike over the appointment of Mr Samuel Adom Botchwey, as Births and Deaths Registrar.
Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications, made the appeal on Wednesday at a press conference at the seat of Government in Accra.
He said CLOGSAG’s demand that Mr Botchwey be removed from office because he was not a civil servant and that he was a politically exposed person had no legal basis.
“CLOGSAG, however, in spite of their demands, have not been able to indicate which legal basis informs their demand,” he said.
He said the Government had enormous respect for organised labour, including CLOGSAG, and was willing to engage, to dialogue, and find amicable solutions to any pressing disputes that might arise.
He said the Government was also very much committed to enhancing the welfare of Ghanaian workers.
“We are committed to ensuring that the work environment for Ghanaian workers is enhanced, is improved, and is run in a patient-friendly manner,” Mr Ofosu said.
“That said, we also welcome suggestions and opinions from Ghanaian workers through their labour organisations on how we can further improve our governance processes.”
He said, however, it must be pointed out that every Government action must be based on law.
“That is all of us, as Ghanaians, have a duty to carry ourselves and conduct our activities on the basis of the law.”
Mr Ofosu said when CLOGSAG made a specific demand for some actions to be taken in respect of appointments to certain government organisations, it must be based on law.
“So, you may ask where the law stands on all of this. We have engaged with CLOGSAG, we have made it known to them, and we believe that the President has acted in accordance with the law,” he said.
He said the Birth and Death Registry was an entity set up by law and governed by law.
He said the most recent law that governed the activities of that department was the Registration of Births and Deaths Act 2020, which is Act 1027.
He said the Act detailed how the activities of that organisation were to be conducted, and how the President must appoint a Registrar under Section 2 of Act 1027.
“The contention of CLOGSAG is that the Registrar’s position is a civil service position,” he said, adding that had to be backed by a specific provision of the law.
He said Section 2 of Act 1027, which deals with appointments of the Registrar of Births and Deaths; Section 2(1) says, the Registry shall have a Registrar of Births and Deaths, whereas Section 2(2) says, the President shall, in accordance with Article 195 of the Constitution, appoint a registrar.
He said Article 195 gave the President power to make appointments, and that in some instances, allowed him to delegate that power to other entities in the people’s organisations.
He said in a specific instance of the Birth and Death Registry, the law governing the operations of that entity spelt out clearly who should make the appointments, which was the President.
He said President John Dramani Mahama had acted in accordance with the 1992 Constitution.
Section 2(3) of Act 1027 says, the President shall, in appointing the person as the Registrar, have regard to the relevant academic qualification, experience and knowledge of that person in civil registration, adding that the registrar shall hold office for the terms and conditions specified in the letter of appointment.
“So, the criteria for that appointment are clearly spelled out in Section 2 of this Act.
CLOGSAG has not questioned the competence of the current occupant of the position of Registrar. They only say that he is politically exposed,” he said.
He said there was no law, which says the occupant of the position of the Registrar of Births and Deaths, had to be a civil servant.
He said Botchwey was a highly experienced official, who in the past, had served as a District Chief Executive under the late President John Evans Atta Mills’ administration, adding that he had many years of public service experience.
Mr Ofosu said whilst the Government respected its partners in organized labour and sought to dialogue on more relevant matters, in this particular instance, the President had acted in accordance with a law.
“And for that reason, there cannot be a reason why Mr Adom Botchwey should be removed only because he is not a civil servant,” he said.
The Minister reiterated that there was no provision that said the position must be held by civil servants.
“If it is a view of the CLOGSAG that, in the past, civil servants have occupied it, it does not mean that any other person, apart from civil servants, cannot occupy that position.”
He said they needed to act strictly in accordance with the law, even as they continued to engage in dialogue on how the country was governed.
“We are aware of similar agitations in the past against the appointee of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and we do know that the court case emanated from that particular engagement,” he said.
“As we speak, I am not aware that the court has determined another. So, until this law is revoked, or there is judicial pronouncement that says that this particular law is illegal…..”
He said the Government appreciated the fact that a strike was one of the mechanisms through which they could drive their demands to compel the Government to take a look at their grievances.
“In this particular instance, we do not believe that sufficient basis exists to go on strike because it would be unfair to the people of Ghana, who pay the wages of all public servants, including members of CLOGSAG Group, that on the basis of a leave which is not backed by law, they go on strike,” he said.
“I don’t think that they will be doing right to the people of Ghana.”
The Nanumba North Municipality in the Northern Region has witnessed a surge in typhoid cases, largely attributed to poor sanitation and unsafe water sources.
For the past few days, the municipality has faced a severe water crisis, with the only available source being the Waapu Dam, which is deemed unwholesome. The absence of proper sanitation facilities has led to widespread open defecation, further exacerbating the situation.
Additionally, food vendors in the area rely on water tanker services for their supply, raising contamination concerns.
In response to the rising cases, environmental health officers, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service, have initiated a screening exercise for food vendors to curb the spread of the disease.
Typhoid is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food, drinks, or water. Once ingested, the bacteria can cause severe illness. Some individuals become carriers, shedding the bacteria in their stools for years and potentially infecting others.
The sanitation crisis in Nanumba North is dire, with some communities lacking proper facilities entirely. As a result, open defecation is widespread, further contaminating water sources.
Health officials are alarmed by the increasing number of cases and have intensified awareness campaigns to educate residents on safe food and water consumption practices. To combat the outbreak, health authorities, in partnership with environmental health officers, have launched a mass vaccination campaign targeting food vendors.
Alhassan Abdul Somed, the Municipal Environmental Officer for Nanumba North, emphasized the importance of the vaccination exercise. He revealed that the goal is to immunize approximately 700 food vendors and warned of consequences for those who fail to comply.
Fusheini Lugman, the nurse in charge of the vaccination campaign, underscored the urgency of the situation.
“Typhoid cases in the districts are becoming alarming, that is why we are conducting the screening exercise. Throughout the exercise, we have been educating the public on the disease to control and prevent the spread of typhoid in the district,” he said.
Some food vendors expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that it would benefit both their health and their businesses.
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ghana’s healthcare sector as the Korean Ambassador to Ghana, Park Kyongsig, paid a courtesy call on the Health Ministry, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.
The high-level meeting brought together representatives from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), and senior officials from the Ministry of Health.
Discussions focused on deepening the existing partnership in healthcare infrastructure, medical training, and strengthening health management capacity at the district and sub-district levels.
Ambassador Park Kyongsig emphasized Korea’s long-standing support for Ghana’s healthcare development, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration in maternal and child health, infectious disease control, and capacity building for healthcare workers.
He reiterated Korea’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s health systems to ensure accessible and efficient medical services for all citizens.
The health minister, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh expressed gratitude for Korea’s unwavering support and acknowledged the impact of past and ongoing projects. He cited key initiatives such as the construction of model Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) facilities, the enhancement of Ghana’s emergency medical services, improvements in hospital infrastructure, and training programs for healthcare professionals.
He also outlined policy priorities under the John Mahama administration, including the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, the provision of free primary healthcare, and the construction of regional hospitals in the newly created regions.
Representatives from KOICA and KOFIH detailed their ongoing projects in Ghana, including the construction of modern healthcare facilities, the provision of medical equipment, and specialized training programs for local healthcare practitioners. They assured the Ministry of Health of their continued support in advancing Ghana’s health agenda.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new opportunities to enhance Ghana’s healthcare system. As Ghana advances toward Universal Health Coverage, Korea remains a valued partner in ensuring a resilient, efficient, and accessible health sector.
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 photo collage of Alexander Afenyo-Markin (L) and Ernest Yaw Kumi
The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Koforidua High Court’s decision to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, after convicting him of contempt of court.
Addressing journalists in Parliament on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Afenyo-Markin stated that the Minority caucus was in the process of obtaining the court ruling and orders.
“Meanwhile, I am sure all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that our colleague remains law-abiding and that the right thing is done. However, we must express our dissatisfaction with the approach taken, as we believe he has been treated unfairly. We will present our full position once we receive a complete briefing from the lawyers,” he stated.
The Koforidua High Court issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Ernest Yaw Kumi after convicting him of contempt of court.
Reports indicate that the warrant was issued due to Kumi’s failure to appear before the court.
The MP was found to have disobeyed an interim injunction issued against him on January 7, 2025, which barred him from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament-elect for the Akwatia constituency due to an ongoing legal battle over the election.
However, despite the court order, Kumi proceeded to present himself in Parliament and was sworn-in.
Presiding Judge Justice Senyo Amedahe ruled that the MP had consistently failed to attend court proceedings in the contempt case.
He also dismissed a letter from the Minority caucus, which claimed that Kumi’s parliamentary duties prevented him from appearing in court.
The judge rejected the letter, arguing that accepting it would contradict his own ruling.
JKB/MA
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
Founder of Fountain Gate Chapel (FGC), Rev. Eastwood Anaba
Renowned Ghanaian pastor, Rev. Eastwood Anaba, recently shared a valuable piece of advice for women during a sermon.
In a viral video, the founder of Fountain Gate Chapel (FGC) encouraged women in his congregation to seek partners who bring joy, pleasure, and companionship into their marriages, rather than settling for unromantic or indifferent spouses.
“Marry a husband you can enjoy. Women also want a husband they can enjoy. Not a ‘Nika Nika’ husband; the one who only goes to sleep with his wife because he wants to produce children,” he said.
He then criticized husbands who fail to show affection or support their wives in simple, meaningful ways.
“They don’t know anything about pleasure. They have never even buttoned their wife’s dress for her or done the zip. You can’t even tell him, ‘Can you fix my zip?’ They will see the woman struggling alone to bring this zip up, and the gentleman is just walking about,” he added.
Rev. Eastwood Anaba also encouraged men to be more attentive and romantic, even in small gestures.
“Ladies, may you have a man who also gives you some pleasure, takes you to a restaurant, and buys you food. Even if it’s a chop bar, it’s a restaurant. Some of you, your wives, are not even looking for something big. She’s not looking for Kempinski. Even if it’s a chop bar, she knows that you’ve tried,” he said.
Watch the video below:
ID/EB
Click here to follow the GhanaWeb Entertainment News WhatsApp channel
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest Twi news on GhanaWeb TV here:
A photo collage of Alexander Afenyo-Markin (L) and Ernest Yaw Kumi
The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Koforidua High Court’s decision to issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, after convicting him of contempt of court.
Addressing journalists in Parliament on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Afenyo-Markin stated that the Minority caucus was in the process of obtaining the court ruling and orders.
“Meanwhile, I am sure all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that our colleague remains law-abiding and that the right thing is done. However, we must express our dissatisfaction with the approach taken, as we believe he has been treated unfairly. We will present our full position once we receive a complete briefing from the lawyers,” he stated.
The Koforidua High Court issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Ernest Yaw Kumi after convicting him of contempt of court.
Reports indicate that the warrant was issued due to Kumi’s failure to appear before the court.
The MP was found to have disobeyed an interim injunction issued against him on January 7, 2025, which barred him from being sworn in as the Member of Parliament-elect for the Akwatia constituency due to an ongoing legal battle over the election.
However, despite the court order, Kumi proceeded to present himself in Parliament and was sworn-in.
Presiding Judge Justice Senyo Amedahe ruled that the MP had consistently failed to attend court proceedings in the contempt case.
He also dismissed a letter from the Minority caucus, which claimed that Kumi’s parliamentary duties prevented him from appearing in court.
The judge rejected the letter, arguing that accepting it would contradict his own ruling.
JKB/MA
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications
Spokesperson for President John Dramani Mahama and Minister of State for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that the current government was able to service debt payments due to financial buffers left by the previous administration.
Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, former Finance Minister, had earlier asserted that the NPP government strategically built buffers in Ghana’s Debt Reserves Accounts to ensure the continuous servicing of the country’s debt obligations.
His statement followed President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to honor the fourth coupon payment to bondholders under the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).
While the NPP maintained that the previous government had put in place financial mechanisms to support debt servicing, Kwakye Ofosu strongly refuted this claim during a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.
Addressing the media in Accra, Kwakye Ofosu categorically denied the NPP’s assertions, stating that there was no financial buffer left behind by the previous administration to facilitate debt payments.
“Subsequent to the announcement of these payments and the announcement that the sinking fund has been reactivated, we have had some rebuttals from the NPP whose officials have claimed that we have been able to do that as a government only because they left some buffers and that it is not because of any specific intervention from President John Mahama. I wish to place on record that this narrative is untrue,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.
He explained that the sinking fund, also known as the debt service reserve account, is specifically used to hold funds for bondholder payments and other debt obligations.
He mentioned that this account has both cedi and dollar components, with clear statements tracking all transactions over a specific period.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu also challenged the NPP to provide proof of the so-called financial buffers they claim to have left in place.
“For officials of the former government to be able to say that these payments and honoring of these obligations have been the outcome of work they did, they need to point specifically where those buffers were located,” he argued.
He further revealed that the last recorded transaction under the NPP administration in the debt reserve account was on October 22, 2024, with a balance of only $64,387, an amount far from sufficient to cover payments totaling GH¢6 billion.
He reiterated that the government remains committed to sound financial management and ensuring that debt payments are met without relying on misleading narratives.
In contrast, he also noted that on January 31, 2025, the NDC government, under Minister of Finance Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson deposited $96,915,182 into the account.
Similarly, in the cedi-denominated reserve account, Kwakye Fosu said the last transaction before the NPP left office occurred on January 2, 2025, with a balance of GH¢155,463,435.
He pointed out that under the NDC administration, an additional GH¢9 billion has been secured, bringing the total fund to GH¢15 billion, an amount earmarked for servicing maturing coupons in July and August.
The Member of Parliament for Kwadaso Constituency, Professor Kingsley Nyarko, has bemoaned the rate of hooliganism in Ghana football, which led to the death of Asante Kotoko fan Francis Yaw Frimpong, well-known as Pooley.
He indicated that, as a staunch supporter of Kotoko, the circumstances under which Pooley lost his life are tragic.
The MP lamented the precarious situation the deceased’s immediate family, especially his wife and children, have been put in due to the misfortune.
Speaking in Parliament, Professor Kingsley Nyarko called on football authorities to put stringent measures in place to ensure that various match venues are safe and secured to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“I am a Kotoko fan, and I can see that the man was a strong supporter of Kotoko. He went to support his team and did not come back, leaving behind a widow and his children. This shouldn’t happen again,” he commented.
The Kwadaso MP joins a list of high-profile politicians who have condemned the incident.
Pooley was stabbed during Kotoko’s game against Nsoatreman on February 2, 2025.
The Ghana Police Service have arrested six individuals believed to be involved in the chaotic incident that led to the demise of the Asante Kotoko supporter.
Pope Francis don develop pneumonia for im two lungs and im condition still dey “complex”, di Vatican tok.
Di 88-year-old don dey suffer from one respiratory infection for more dan one week and e dey on admission for Rome Gemelli hospital on Friday, 15 February.
“Di follow-up chest CT scan wey di Holy Father do dis afternoon… show say e get bilateral pneumonia, wey require additional drug therapy,” di Vatican tok.
Dem say lab tests, chest X-ray and di Pope clinical condition “still dey critical”.
Even wit im health condition, di Vatican say di pontiff still dey in “good spirits” and e spend di day “reading, resting and praying”.
Pope Francis also express im gratitude to well-wishers and ask dem to “pray for am”.
Bifor im admission last week, di Pope bin get bronchitis symptoms for several days and e delegate officials to read prepared speeches for events.
E suppose lead several events ova di weekend for di 2025 Catholic Holy Year wey run through to next January, however, dem don cancel all di public events on di Pope calendar through to Sunday.
On Monday, the Vatican say doctors don change di Pope drug therapy for di second time during im hospital stay to tackle wetin at di time dem tink say na “polymicrobial infection of di respiratory tract”.
Di Pope especially dey prone to lung infections as e develop pleurisy wen e be adult and dem remove part of one of im lungs wen e be 21.
During im 12 years as leader of di Roman Catholic church, dem don hospitalise di Argentine plenty times including for March 2023 wen e spend three nights for hospital wit bronchitis.
Wetin be Pneumonia?
Pneumonia na inflammation of di lungs, na infection mostly dey cause am.
Most pipo dey get beta in 2 to 4 weeks, but babies, older pipo, and pipo wit heart or lung conditions dey at risk of getting seriously ill and fit need treatment for hospital.
Di symptoms include:
. Cough
.Shortness of breath
.High temperature
.Chest pain
.Making wheezing noises wen you breathe – babies dey make grunting noises
.For older pipo, e dey common make dem dey confused
The Second Vice President of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Abena Ruthy, has clarified that not every musician in the country is a member of the union.
In a discussion on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, Abena Ruthy emphasised that not every artiste in the country is automatically a member of the union, revealing that hiplife musician Okomfour Kwadee is even not a member of MUSIGA.
She explained that while the union had supported Kwadee in the past and is willing to do so again on humanitarian grounds, they are not obliged to provide assistance.
“There was a conversation about Kwadee recently, and he is not even a member now, but our president urged us to help him. So, that is what we are doing. We are a family. We are not obliged to help, but we are trying to look out for him as much as we can,” she said.
Abena Ruthy added that the union only supports members in good standing.
“There is a narrative out there that as long as you sing, everyone thinks you are part of us. But we have members in good standing. As it stands now, he is not a member in good standing,” she explained.
She also urged musicians in the country to join MUSIGA to receive support in times of need.
“If something good is happening, you should sign on because it is important. We hope that more people will contribute, and we hope the education will help people understand the need to join,” she added.
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
The Member of Parliament for Dome/Kwabenya, Faustina Elikplim Akrugu has expressed the view that finding solutions to challenges confronting Unit Committee members in the local government architecture will lead to improved local governance and community development.
In a statement on the floor of the House, she noted that local governance continues to form the bedrock of Ghana’s participatory democracy, ensuring that governance is brought closer to the people.
In the world of fashion and social media, it’s often said that talent and flair for style run in families. This couldn’t be more true for Sandra Ababio and her stunning daughter, who is quickly making a name for herself as a young style influencer. At just a tender age, she is not only captivating audiences with her fashion choices, but she is also showcasing the beautiful bond she shares with her mother—a bond that is evident for all to see.
Recently, social media was abuzz with compliments for Sandra’s daughter, who looked nothing short of flawless in a series of stylish outfits. From chic dresses that scream sophistication to trendy casual wear that speaks to her youthful spirit, each look effortlessly embodies a unique blend of creativity and poise. She perfectly combines vibrant colors, patterns, and accessories, creating an ensemble that resonates fashion-forward yet relatable—a signature style reminiscent of her mother’s own journey through the world of fashion.
One standout look featured a stunning maxi dress adorned with vibrant floral prints that accentuated her youthful energy. The dress flowed gracefully around her, capturing the essence of carefree summer days while exuding a sense of maturity that belies her age. Completing the outfit was a long braid hairstyle that added a touch of elegance and charm, making her look not just fashionable but also radiant.
Comments poured in from her followers, with one user exclaiming, “She looks like you. Your daughter is very gorgeous!” Such sentiments echo the thoughts of many who see the striking resemblance between mother and daughter—not just in features, but in style and demeanor. It’s a testament to the nurturing influence that Sandra has had in shaping her daughter’s passion for fashion and self-expression.
Sandra Ababio has built a formidable presence in the fashion world, with her keen eye for trends and an ability to connect authentically with her audience. As a devoted mother, it’s evident that she has passed on these qualities to her daughter, fostering creativity while encouraging her to embrace her individuality. Their relationship symbolizes the notion that style is not solely about appearance but also about confidence, self-love, and connection.
Beyond glitz and glamour, what sets this dynamic mother-daughter duo apart is their approach to fashion as a vehicle for empowerment. They inspire young women everywhere to express themselves through clothing, breaking free from societal norms, and challenging conventions. As Sandra’s daughter continues to evolve as a style influencer.
The owner of Elmina Sharks Football Club, Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, has been charged by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for allegedly breaching the Division One League Regulations and the GFA Disciplinary Code.
The charges stem from a dispute during a league match between Elmina Sharks and Swedru All Blacks at the Dr. Nduom Sports Complex, when Dr. Nduom allegedly entered the field without authorization to protest a penalty decision, disrupting the match.
The GFA accuses Dr. Nduom of inciting players, officials, and fans against the match officials and using social media to escalate tensions. He has until February 19 to respond to the charges.
Meanwhile, Kingsley Smith Arthur, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Elmina Sharks, claims the individuals who attacked referee Morrison are imposters, not genuine supporters of the club.
“A player pointed out one of the imposters from Swedru, claiming he had seen the man during our first-leg match, this alleged imposter hit the player, leading to a confrontation. At that moment, after striking the player, the imposter grabbed the referee.” He explained
“If you watch the video, you’ll notice a man in white attire holding the referee, with ‘Elmina Sharks’ written on the back. These are the imposters we’re talking about, and we have video evidence to prove it.” He emphasised.
Asante Kotoko officially resumed first-team training on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Adako Jachie Training Center—their first session since the tragic passing of Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Pooley, a devoted fan of the club.
Pooley was fatally stabbed during Kotoko’s clash against Nsoatreman on Sunday, February 2, 2025. The incident occurred after an on-field altercation between players escalated into the stands, leading to the heartbreaking attack.
In response, Asante Kotoko suspended all football activities, including boycotting the Ghana Premier League, as they demanded justice and called for improved security measures in the league.
However, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, the club announced that while they remain committed to seeking justice in Pooley’s memory, their medical team had advised them to resume training to maintain the players’ physical and mental fitness.
On Wednesday, the team, alongside club officials, engaged in physical drills before transitioning to ball training. Players including goalkeeper Mohammed Camara, Justice Blay, and Baba Yahaya were all present for the session.
Ghana’s public funding has been instrumental in enhancing health and nutrition outcomes, but ongoing challenges pose a threat to these achievements, according to the World Bank’s latest Public Finance Review report.
A key issue is that the NHIS is no longer receiving its full allocation from the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), following the introduction of a capping law in 2017.
This law limits the amount of statutory funds allocated to the NHIS as a percentage of total government revenue, diverting funds to other government priorities.
Furthermore, the NHIS is experiencing a significant gap between its budgeted allocations and the actual cash disbursements received from the Ministry of Finance, further constraining its operations.
Inefficiencies in Spending Worsen the Crisis
The report also highlights inefficiencies in NHIS spending, with high administrative costs consuming a substantial portion of its budget.
Currently, less than 60% of the NHIS budget is allocated to paying claims, reducing the funds available for actual healthcare services.
Regarding social assistance programmes, the World Bank acknowledges that Ghana’s key initiatives—such as the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP), Labour-Intensive Public Works (LIPW), and the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP)—are well-targeted at low-income households. However, the effectiveness of these programmes remains limited due to insufficient benefit levels.
Energy Subsidies Overshadow Social Protection Spending
Collectively, these social assistance programmes account for only 0.2% of Ghana’s GDP, with a target of 0.3% by 2025, and just 1.0% of total government spending.
This is significantly lower than the average 1.5% of GDP allocated by comparable countries. By contrast, energy subsidies in Ghana amounted to approximately 2% of GDP (equivalent to US$1.5 billion) in 2023.
The World Bank emphasize that external funding remains crucial for sustaining these social assistance programmes, as domestic resources alone are inadequate to meet growing needs.
As Ghana continues its efforts to strengthen its healthcare and social protection systems, addressing these financial shortfalls will be essential to maintaining progress and ensuring the most vulnerable populations receive the necessary support.
A heavy rainstorm has caused significant damage in Nintin, a community in the Mampong Municipality of the Ashanti Region, ripping off the roofs of several buildings, including the Presbyterian Basic School.
The incident occurred around 3 p.m. on February 18, 2025, following a drizzle that was accompanied by a powerful and destructive storm.
Beyond Nintin, a nearby community, Hwidiem, has also been affected. The storm has additionally disrupted electricity supply in the area, leaving residents and pupils stranded.
Members of the communities are therefore asking for support to help rebuild their lives.
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed 11 distinguished individuals, including former Speaker of Parliament Doe Adjaho, former Attorney General, Betty Mould Iddrisu, and former Member of Parliament Cletus Avoka, to serve on the Council of State.
The appointments, in accordance with Articles 89 to 92 of the 1992 Constitution, are part of a broader effort to provide advisory support to the President in governance.
The Minority leader and Member of Parliament for Efutu, Alexander Afenyo Markin, has expressed his disapproval of the attacks directed at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) after it declared former Finance Minister Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta a fugitive.
In an interview with Joy News’ Elton Brobbey, Afenyo-Markin shared his perspective on the matter.
“I don’t think there was any reason to attack him,” Afenyo Markin said, referring to the Special Prosecutor.
“If there are disagreements, there are systems in place to address them. The OSP is a respected institution in its field, and its work should be respected.”
When asked about the minority’s concerns regarding the situation, Afenyo-Markin acknowledged that such disagreements are common.
However, he emphasised that he took it upon himself to engage with the concerned parties and help manage the situation.
“By the grace of God, the necessary clarity has been provided,” he added. He further explained that Ken Ofori-Atta is undergoing medical treatment and has submitted evidence from a respected medical facility to support his case.
He also mentioned that, in light of this new information, the OSP has set 2nd June as the date for further engagement.
“As a nation, we should allow our institutions to function properly and not attack the individuals involved,” Markin concluded.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Member of Parliament for Ketu South, Eric Edem Agbana, has recounted an incident involving National Security operatives storming the residence of former Deputy Minister of Local Government, Kwadwo Agyekum, in 2017.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb TV’s George Ayisi, Agbana expressed concerns over what he described as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) selective approach to constitutionalism and the rule of law.
According to him, under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration, there were instances where individuals remained in police custody despite court orders for their release.
He further highlighted what he described as an unprecedented number of National Security raids on private properties and homes, citing a specific case involving a former deputy minister.
“In 2017, I was with former Deputy Local Government Minister Kwadwo Agyekum in his office when we received an early morning call that National Security operatives were at his house looking for him. Without a search warrant, they subjected him to harassment and embarrassment. He later lodged a complaint that some gold bars, for which he had a legal license, had been taken from his home by some of the operatives,” he recounted.
Edem Agbana also questioned the NPP’s newfound advocacy for legal processes, arguing that the party remained silent during its eight years in government despite similar incidents.
“If at any point in time there is an illegality, all of us should speak out. But the pretense that those now raising issues about the legality of ORAL just woke up from an eight-year slumber is something we will not accept,” he asserted.
Agbana’s remarks come in response to concerns raised by the NPP regarding the legality of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, an anti-corruption initiative introduced under the John Dramani Mahama-led administration.
Watch the video below:
JKB/MA
Meanwhile, you can also watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
On Saturday, February 8, 2025, Dancegod Lloyd clinched the top spot as “Dancer of the Year” at the 2nd edition of the Ghana Dance Industry (GHADI) Awards, held at the National Theater. DWP Academy won “Street Dance Group of the Year”, while Afronitaaa and Abigail both received “Dance Merit Awards” for their roles as Street Dance Culture Ambassadors.
The “Dancer of the Year” category, which sparked online controversy ahead of the event, featured stiff competition among Dancegod Lloyd, Incredible Zigi, AfroNitaaa, Endurance Grand, Ezuntey Flex, and Bboy Lyricx. Despite the competitive lineup, Dancegod’s impact within the dance space earned him the ultimate title.
DWP Academy secured the “Street Dance Group of the Year” award, beating Millitantz Dance Family, 4Bent Dance Crew, Arenees Dance Crew, Team Hubes Dance Crew, DGL Dance Crew, Flawless Dance Studio, and I AM AZONTO Dance Crew.
Meanwhile, Team Hubes was awarded “Dance Athletes of the Year (Group)”, Afrikiko Leisure Centre was named “AfroLatin Dance Club of the Year”, Agoo Cultural Group won “Traditional Dance Group of the Year”, and Let’s Dance Africa was recognized as “Praise Dance Group of the Year”.
The event, a hybrid of competitive and honorary awards, saw 22 dance icons honored for their outstanding contributions to the dance industry, including Afronitaaa, Mr. Drew, Laladzy, Abigail, and Allo Maadjoa. Among the international dance personalities recognized were Buddy Doubara Agedah (organizer of the Nigerian Afrolatin Dance Festival in Abuja and Lagos) and Prince “MIK” Ofori (organizer of the CDC Festival in Germany).
In a statement, the CEO of Dancetera and founder of the Ghana Dance Industry Awards emphasized the importance of celebrating dancers. He stated:
“After the 1st edition in 2021, we took a long break. But I can now say that the Ghana Dance Industry Awards has finally arrived. It’s been a long time coming. This moment is a moment of triumph for dancers and choreographers nationwide. What most people don’t realize is that our dancers are not just the best in Ghana or Africa, they are among the best in the world.
“They deserve to be celebrated at home for their local and global strides. We, therefore, urge all dancers to embrace the GHADI Awards and help it serve its purpose for the common good of the ecosystem. The Ghana Dance Industry Awards is designed by us, for us, and we must ensure it remains credible and relevant year after year.”
Guests were treated to a vibrant array of dance performances, carefully curated across various dance expressions. Performers for the night included NOYAM, UADT, Arenees, Black Illusion, Militantz, Flawless, 4Bent, Ballet Ghana, Let’s Dance Africa, DWP, Flames, Gh Safari, One Ghana, Omowise & Teniola, Luumva & Mavis, Milord & Elsie, Krump Ghana, House Dance Ghana, Deaf Dancers Gh, Team Hubes, Kobi Rana, and the DiAsa Queens.
Several notable figures were in attendance, including lecturers from the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana, notably Terry Bright Ofosu (1989 National Dance Champion and Head of the Dance Department) and Dr. Artistedes Hargoe. Other distinguished guests included Adjetey Sowah (1986 World Dance Champion), Lumo Bortei Doku (AfroLatin dance grand master), Mr. Parker of Apex Ballroom, Nana Gazur (Chief), and Nana Dadzie of the Ghana Dance Association.
The Minister for Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts, Hon. Dzifa Abla Gomashie, commended the organizer for a well-executed event and pledged her support to the dance community. However, she expressed her disappointment at the absence of some industry stakeholders, saying:
“And where are the musicians? Where are the fashion people? Everything you do, dance is there with you. So why are you not here with us? Please, dance, theatre, and music go hand in hand. When we stand for you, we urge you to also stand by us.”
The red carpet segment was hosted by Xclusizive Zake (Dancer) and Essilfua Boris (TV Personality). The main awards ceremony was expertly handled by seasoned MCs Jay Foley and Chrystal Kwame-Aryee, with DJ Alinko on the music deck.
President John Dramani Mahama, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, inaugurated the 9th Council of State of the 4th Republic of Ghana.
Article 89 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana provides for the creation of a Council of State, whose role is to “counsel the president in the performance of his functions.”
The article also specifies the composition of the Council of State with 14 appointees of the president including the President of the National House of Chiefs, and one elected regional representative from each region of the country.
Among the 14 appointees, there must be a former Chief Justice, a former Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Ghana, and a former Inspector-General of Police.
Here is a brief introduction to the men and women serving on the 9th Council of State:
1. Former Chief Justice – Sophia Akuffo
President Mahama appointed former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo to fulfill the constitutional requirement of including a former Chief Justice on the Council of State.
Justice Sophia Akuffo served as Ghana’s Chief Justice from 2017 to 2019 after her appointment by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. She was also appointed by Akufo-Addo as Chairperson of the COVID-19 Response Public Trust Fund in 2020.
Akuffo served as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana for two decades. In January 2006, she was elected as one of the first judges of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Initially elected for two years, she was subsequently re-elected until 2014.
She trained as a lawyer under Akufo-Addo and holds a Master’s in Law (LL.M.) from Harvard University, United States. She previously served as a member of the Governing Committee of the Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute and as Chairperson of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Task Force.
2. Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) – Mohammed Ahmed Alhassan
Former IGP Mohammed Ahmed Alhassan was appointed by President Mahama to fulfill the constitutional requirement of a former Inspector-General of Police on the Council of State.
COP (rtd) Mohammed Ahmed Alhassan served in the Ghana Police Service for several decades. He was appointed IGP during Mahama’s first administration in 2013.
In 2005, Alhassan was appointed as Police Commissioner for the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).
3. Former Chief of Defence Staff – Michael Samson-Oje
Air Marshal Michael Samson-Oje (rtd) was appointed by the president to fill the Council of State requirement of a former Chief of Defence Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces.
He was a senior commander in the Ghana Air Force and was appointed Chief of Defence Staff by Mahama, a position he held from 2016 to 2017.
Before becoming Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Samson-Oje served as Chief of Air Staff. Prior to that, he was the Station Commander of Takoradi Air Base.
4. President of the National House of Chiefs – Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, the Paramount Chief of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area in the Western Region, is a member of the Council of State by virtue of his position as the President of the National House of Chiefs of Ghana.
Ogyeahoho Gyebi, who was elected President of the National House of Chiefs in 2020, also serves as the President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs.
Other 11 Appointees of Mahama to the Council
5. Daasebre Boamah Darko II
Daasebre Boamah Darko II, the Chief of Akyem Kukuratumi in the Eastern Region, was appointed by Mahama to the Council of State. He is also the Adontenhene of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council.
6. Osabarima Kwesi Atta II
The Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area, Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, was also appointed to the Council.
He has been the Paramount Chief of Oguaa (Cape Coast) for over 25 years and is known as a promoter of peace, an educationist, a sports enthusiast, an administrator, an advocate for traditional values, and a philanthropist.
7. Justice Vida Amankwah Akoto-Bamfo
Former Supreme Court Justice Vida Amankwah Akoto-Bamfo is also a member of the 9th Council of State.
She was appointed to the Supreme Court by the late former President John Evans Atta Mills and served from 2009 to 2019.
Akoto-Bamfo rose through the ranks on Ghana’s bench, serving as a District Magistrate, Circuit Court Judge, High Court Judge, Appeals Court Judge, and ultimately a Supreme Court Judge.
8. Mankpanwura Jakpa Achor-Ade Borenyi I
Mankpanwura Jakpa Achor-Ade Borenyi I, the Paramount Chief of the Mankpan Traditional Area in the Savannah Region, was appointed by President Mahama.
He is a member of the National House of Chiefs and previously served as Chairman of the Research and Traditional Affairs Committee of the Savannah Regional House of Chiefs.
9. Cletus Avoka
Cletus Avoka, a former Member of Parliament for the Zebila Constituency in the Upper East Region, is another appointee of Mahama.
Avoka served in Ghana’s Parliament from 1993 to 2024, representing Garu-Tempane, Bawku West, and later Zebila. He held several leadership roles, including Majority and Minority Leader.
10. Edward Doe Adjaho
Former Speaker of Parliament, Edward Doe Adjaho, was appointed to the Council of State and has been elected as its Chairman.
Adjaho, a former MP for the Avenor-Ave Constituency, served in Parliament for over two decades (1993–2013) and was Speaker of the 6th Parliament.
11. Dr. Eunice Brookman-Amissah
Dr. Eunice Brookman-Amissah, a former Minister for Health (1996–1998) and Ghana’s former ambassador to the Netherlands, was also appointed by the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.
12. Betty Mould-Iddrisu
Former Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Betty Mould-Iddrisu, was appointed to the Council.
She was Ghana’s first female Attorney General and has also held key positions at the Commonwealth Secretariat.
13. Cynthia Komley Adjetey
Businesswoman Cynthia Komley Adjetey, popularly known as “Happy Yourself,” was appointed to the Council. She is renowned for her entrepreneurial ventures in the fishing industry.
14. Molly Anim Addo
Former Ambassador Molly Anim Addo, who served as Ghana’s ambassador to Italy and other European nations, is another appointee.
15. Nana Saa Gyamfuaa II
The Queen Mother of the Ayima Traditional Area in the Bono Region, Nana Saa Gyamfuaa II, is the only queen mother on the 9th Council of State.
Elected Regional Representatives on the Council of State:
Nene Drolor Bosso Adamtey I, chief of the people of Se, won the Greater Accra Council of State election.
Nene Drolor Bosso Adamtey I, aside from his traditional roles, is a renowned entrepreneur.
He is also an international consultant and public speaker with a passion for promoting Ghanaian culture, heritage, and business opportunities.
2. Alhaji Muhammed Mumuni – Northern Region:
Alhaji Muhammed Mumuni, a former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, was elected as the Council of State representative for the Northern Region.
Alhaji Muhammed Mumuni, a leading member of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), is also a former Minister of Foreign Affairs.
He was the running mate of the late former President Prof John Evans Atta Mills in the 2004 presidential election.
3. Michael Kwame Mumuni – Upper West Region:
The 1st Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress in the Upper West Region, Michael Kwame Mumuni, won the Council of State elections for the Upper West Region.
The NDC regional vice chairman was challenged by 10 other men for the position.
4. Gabriel Dovoe Kwabla Kwamigah-Atokple – Volta Region:
For the Volta Region, businessman Gabriel Dovoe Kwabla Kwamigah-Atokple emerged winner of the Council of State election.
Kwamigah-Atokple, popularly known as Tanko, beat his 12 male contenders for the position.
5. Richard Atikpo – Oti Region:
Renowned football administrator Richard Atikpo won his re-election bid to represent the people of the Oti Region on the Council of State.
Richard Atikpo, the bankroller of Ghanaian football club Legon Cities, was the Oti Region Council of State representative during the second term of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
He previously contested in the NDC parliamentary primaries for the Ketu South Constituency in the Volta Region.
6. Hakeem Addae – Central Region:
Another executive of the ruling NDC won the Council of State election for the Central Region.
The NDC constituency chairman for the Twifo Atti Morkwa Constituency, Hakeem Addae, was elected as the Council of State Member to represent the Central Region.
7. Evelyn Korang – Eastern Region:
Evelyn Korang, former Eastern Regional Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, was elected as the Council of State representative for the Eastern Region.
She is the first female to be elected to the Council of State Member position for the region.
She beat 23 people to the position, including the chief of Kwahu Obomeng, Nana Effa Penamang.
8. Dr Maxwell Boakye – Western Region:
Dr Maxwell Boakye, a 32-year-old entrepreneur, was elected to serve as the representative for the Western Region on the Council of State.
Dr Boakye, a gold dealer, secured 17 of the 28 electoral college votes to win the contest.
9. Odeneho Dr Afram Brempong III – Bono Region:
The Paramount Chief of the Suma Traditional Area, Odeneho Dr Afram Brempong III, was elected to represent the Bono Region.
Odeneho Brempong III, aside from his traditional duties, is a management consultant as well as an entrepreneurship business development and organisational intelligence management expert.
He holds a doctorate in Business Administration from California Intercontinental University, USA, a Master’s degree in Strategic and Consultancy Management from Paris Graduate School of Management, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from the University of Cape Coast.
10. Nana Pimampim Yaw Kagbrese – Bono East Region:
The Paramount Chief of the Yeji Traditional Area, Nana Pimampim Yaw Kagbrese V, was elected as the Council of State representative for the Bono East Region.
Nana Kagbrese secured 11 of the 22 electoral college votes, beating his 10 challengers for the position.
11. Yaw Okyere – Ahafo Region:
For the Ahafo Region, the NDC Regional Chairman for the region, Yaw Okyere, emerged victorious in the Council of State Election.
Okyere secured six votes to beat his keen contender Abraam Agyemang, who had four votes out of the 12 votes cast.
12. Michael Aidoo – Western North Region:
The Western North Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Michael Aidoo, won the Council of State election for the region.
Beyond politics, Aidoo is a philanthropist and also a distinguished businessman. The NDC chairman, who is a contractor and consultant, is also the Founder and Chancellor of KAAF University.
In the Savannah Region, Tingawura Alhaji Samson Seidu Abudu was elected as the region’s Council of State representative.
Tingawura Alhaji Samson Seidu Abudu is the chief of Tinga. He is also the Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Council of Elders in the Savannah Region.
14. Chiana Pio Thomas More Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III – Upper East Region:
Chiana Pio Thomas More Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III was elected to represent the Upper East Region.
Ayagitam III is the Paramount Chief of the Chiana Traditional Area in the Upper East Region.
15. Yaw Owusu Obimpeh (Ashanti Region)
Former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, won the Ashanti Regional Council of State election with 49 out of 86 votes.
16. Naa Saaka Abuba (North East Region)
The Chief of Kuba, Naa Saaka Abuba, was elected as the Council of State representative for the North East Region, securing seven out of 12 votes against his competitor, Asabigi San Malunga Nasamu.
BAI/MA
Also, watch some videos of GhanaWeb CEO’s interview with the Minister of Climate Change and Sustainability
Meanwhile, watch as 72-year-old Kenyan Kwame Donkor is shockingly discovered on NSS payroll
play videoMember of Parliament for Nhyiaeso Constituency, Dr. Stephen Amoah
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Parliament, has clarified the alleged misconceptions surrounding the payment of coupons to bondholders, emphasising that the previous NPP administration made timely payments.
Dr Stephen Amoah, NPP Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, speaking at a press conference on behalf of Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, a former Finance Minister, said: “…We started paying them from 2023, and never ever since then defaulted on coupons. We want to make this clear to our stakeholders and the public.
“… The previous NPP administration paid a total of GH¢17.25 billion in cash and GH¢9.77 million in kind to bondholders between August 2023 and December 2024,” Dr Amoah told the press in Parliament House on Tuesday.
Additionally, individuals who did not tender their bonds received coupon payments amounting to GH¢551.17 million, he noted.
“There is this misconception that the bondholders were not paid, and the previous government was not performing its obligation. That’s not true,” he said.
The Minority urged the public to disregard any misinformation, emphasising that they had made funds available for the upcoming fourth coupon payment.
“We hope you put this across and make this clear to the public,” he concluded.
Following a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, the Ministry of Finance has honoured the Payment-In-Cash (PIC) coupon of GH¢6.081 billion to all Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) bondholders.
The government had also honoured the Payment-In-Kind (PIK) portion of GH¢3.46 billion, deposited into the respective bondholders’ securities accounts in line with the DDEP Memorandum.
Additionally, the government had also paid into the Debt Service Recovery Cedi Account (Sinking Fund) an amount of GH¢9.7 billion as a buffer for the fifth DDEP coupon that will fall due in July and August 2025.
Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister, Government Communications, made this known in a statement signed and issued on Monday February 17, 2025.
It noted that President Mahama was committed to the government’s honouring of all obligations under the DDEP.
“Through the 2025 budget Statement, the Government will announce further measures that will help to restore market confidence in the economy, prioritise spending and improve transparency and accountability in public finances.
“Ultimately, the Government seeks to restore fiscal prudence while ensuring value for every pesewa spent. Despite the challenging economy that was bequeathed by the previous administration, the Government is determined to bring back a stable Cedi, control spiraling inflation and create jobs for the teeming youth of our country,” it added.
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has responded to criticism from his coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, following his penalty miss in the Champions League clash against Club Brugge on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Gasperini’s side suffered a 3-1 defeat after conceding three first-half goals. Lookman, introduced as a substitute, made an immediate impact by scoring just a minute after coming on.
With momentum shifting in Atalanta’s favor, they were awarded a penalty—but Lookman stepped up and missed the crucial spot-kick.
The miss provoked an intense reaction from Gasperini, who, during his post-match press conference, harshly criticized the Nigerian forward, labeling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen. His remarks sparked public outrage, with many deeming them disrespectful.
Despite the backlash, Lookman has now addressed the situation, expressing his disappointment with Gasperini’s comments.
The reigning African Player of the Year took issue with being singled out for blame following Atalanta’s elimination from the competition.
In his statement, Lookman not only addressed the penalty incident but also highlighted the disrespect and frustration he felt over his coach’s remarks.
Check out the full statement below:
🚨 Ademola Lookman’s statement after penalty miss and Gian Piero Gasperini’s strong words.
“It saddens me on a day like this to have to write this statement – most of all because of what we have achieved together as a team and as a city.
Di ex-minister don give di prosecutor between 14-31 May to return to di kontri to face investigation
Di special prosecutor of Ghana don remove di kontri ex-finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta from di wanted list over corruption investigations.
Oga Kissi Agyebeng last week bin tok say di former minister ‘na fugitive from justice’ sake of im comot di kontri as dem dey investigate am for im role in plenty goment contact as im be minister from 2017-2023.
For one press conference, di prosecutor tok say, “di minister get questions to answer ova some contracts like di PDS contract for di kontri electricity company, di procurement of contractors and materials and oda payment for di national cathedral project, contract by di ministry of health for 307 Mercedes Benz ambulances and contract by di Ghana revenue authority to SML for transaction audit.”
Lawyers for di former minister bin exchange letters wit di prosecutor wey dem tok say di minister go dey out of di kontri indefinitely.
Na so di prosecutor tok say im no go accept dat kind excuse wia “di ex-minister neva satisfy di office say im medical condition no fit make am travel to Ghana to answer di questions.”
Di lawyers, according to di prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng only present one letter from one ogbonge hospital for di US wey tok say dem dey monitor di minister to see if dem go make am undergo some surgery.
Days afta dem declare di former minister wanted, officials of di opposition party, wia im be member of, tok say im dey traumatised.
“Di minister Ken Ofori-Atta don dey traumatised by how dem label am as wanted fugitive. Im comot di kontri wit permission wia im go make imsef available for investigation,” di minority leader Alexander Afenyo Markin tok for parliament a day afta dem declare di minister wanted.
Meanwhile, prosecutor don remove di ex-minister on top wanted list.
Inside one statement from di prosecutor’s office on 18 February dem tok say lawyers for di ex-minister don write to dia office to give date wey im go return.
“Dem give us definite date wen di minister go come meet us and answer di questions, na so we don reschedule di meeting wit di ex -minister.”
Minority leader for parliament oga Alexander Afenyo-Markin tok say “di ex minister go return between 14 – 31 May 2025 to answer di questions.”
But di prosecutor office tok say even though dem remove di ex-minister on top di wanted list, dem go put am back if im fail to return to di kontri and meet di prosecutor during dat time dem gree.
“If Ken Ofori-Atta no return within di date im give us to return, we go carry am put on top di wanted list again wia we go consider say im na fugitive from justice.”
“Di OSP go carry all legal steps to ensure say im return to di kontri and face di prosecutors,” oga Kissi Agyebeng add.
Ghana bin dey under $3bn IMF programme, to deal with di kontri economic crisis.
During di tenure of di ex-finance minister, sabi pipo and di opposition party tok say im supervise di crisis.
Eighty lawmakers for im own party, di goment NPP for 2022 write petition to di president at di time, Nana Akufo-Addo, say make im sack di finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta, wey be di president cousin from office, otherwise dem no go be part of goment business for parliament.
For one press conference, di MPs tok say “di economy don spoil, na so if you no sack dis minister, we no go dey parliament wen di goment dey present di budget,” leader of di caucus Andy Appiah Kubi tell journalists.
But di president at di time tok say im no go sack di minister, unless im finish dey negotiate di IMF deal for di kontri.
Di special prosecutor say im get questions to answer in five contracts wey im sign as im be finance minister from 2017 – 2023
Kissi Agyebeng tok say if di minister fail to appear bifor di office between 14 – 31 May, dem go carry am put di wanted list again
The Head of Client Experience at Stanbic Investment Management Services (SIMS), Miriam M. Amissah, has urged couples to prioritize financial planning and avoid starting their marriages with debt.
Speaking during an X-Spaces discussion on the eve of Valentine’s Day, themed “My Money, Your Money, or Our Money?” Madam Amissah stressed the importance of transparency, communication, and prudent spending in relationships.
Embattled Akwatia Member of Parliament (MP), Ernest Yaw Kumi, walked out of the parliamentary chamber on Wednesday while proceedings were still ongoing.
This followed the Koforidua High Court’s decision to convict him of contempt and issue a bench warrant for his arrest.
The first-time MP was seen packing his belongings and leaving the chamber barely a minute after entering.
The court issued the warrant after Mr. Kumi failed to appear for a hearing, despite an interim injunction against him on January 7, which barred him from being sworn in as the MP-elect for Akwatia due to an ongoing legal dispute over his election.
Justice Senyo Amedahe, who presided over the case, ruled that the MP repeatedly failed to appear in court during the contempt proceedings.
The judge also dismissed a letter from the Minority Caucus, which claimed Mr. Kumi’s absence was due to his parliamentary duties.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for President John Dramani Mahama and Minister of State for Government Communications, has refuted claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that the current government was able to service debt payments due to buffers they left in its previous administration.
Dr Mohammed Amin Adam, former Finance Minister had said that the NPP government strategically built buffers in Ghana’s Debt Reserves Accounts to ensure the continuous servicing of the country’s debt obligations.
This came after President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to the Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to honour the fourth coupon payment to Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) bondholders.
The Karaga MP noted that while the current administration is taking credit for the payment, it was important to recognise that the previous NPP government had already put in place financial mechanisms to support these obligations.
At a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday February 19, Kwakye Ofosu categorically stated that this narrative is untrue and provided details to support his assertion.
“Subsequent to the announcement of these payments and the announcement that the sinking fund has been reactivated, we have had some rebuttals from the NPP whose officials have claimed that we have been able to do that as a government only because they left some buffers and that it is not because of any specific intervention from President John Mahama. I wish to place on record that this narrative is untrue,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.
He explained that the sinking fund, officially known as the debt service reserve account, is where money is kept pending the payment of bondholders and other creditors. This account has both a cedi component and a dollar component, and statements of account can show transactions over a certain period.
Kwakye Ofosu challenged the NPP to provide evidence of the buffers they claimed to have left.
“For officials of the former government to be able to say that these payments and honoring of these obligations have been the outcome of work they did, they need to point specifically where those buffers were located,” he argued.
He noted that the last movement in the account under the NPP was on October 22, 2024, with a balance of $64,387, which is insufficient to cover payments in the range of GHS6 billion.
In contrast, on January 31, 2025, the NDC government, under Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, lodged an amount of $96,915,182 into the account.
“If you look at the cedi denominated reserve account, you will find also that when the NDC took over on January 7, 2025, the last time that anything had happened in that account before the NPP left was January 2, 2025. The amount of money in that account was GHS 155,463,435,” Kwakye Ofosu added.
He further stated that an additional GHS9 billion is currently sitting in the fund to pay for maturing coupons in July and August, bringing the total to GHS15 billion.
Read also
Don’t blame Mahama for assault on journalists – Kwakye Ofosu
A photo collage of Alexander Afenyo-Markin (L) and Ernest Yaw Kumi
![Convicted Akwatia MP walks out of Parliament [Video]](https://www.ghanamma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/f059fbfd4b0664a45eab31a1a97735ee.jpeg "Convicted Akwatia MP walks out of Parliament [Video]")
