Authorities have arrested an individual alleged to be associated with Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in connection with recent market fires across the country.
The suspect was reportedly contracted to set markets ablaze, raising suspicions about a possible coordinated campaign to disrupt economic activities in the New Year.
By Albert Allotey
Accra, Jan. 12, GNA – Mr Labram Musah, the Executive Director of Programmes of the Vision for Alternative Development – Ghana (VALD-Ghana) has urged representatives of civil society organisations to help fight the violation of the tobacco control laws.
He said the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) was willing to work to protect the health of the citizenry, but they could not be everywhere and “As advocates of the laws we need to assist them by reporting any violations of the laws when we spot them.
“If you see somebody smoking in public; the point is that you have the law in your hands immediately inform the appropriate authorities or take pictures, and trust the FDA, they will not hesitate to act.”
Mr Musah said, “Am urging all of us today, to be on the lookout and report people who violate the tobacco control laws. I believe we can stop the violation of the laws when we see them, so together we can help protect ourselves from tobacco harm.”
Mr Musah gave the advice at the presentation of a Post-Assessment of Tobacco Taxation in Ghana 2024 Report initiated by VALD-Ghana and supported by Tax Justice Network Africa at a meeting held in Accra.
The post-assessment study examines the impact of the Excise Duty Amendment Act 2023 (Act 1108), which implementation began in May 2023.
The new tax law aims to significantly increase tobacco prices, reduce consumption, and generate additional government revenue for public health initiatives.
The report was disseminated to representatives of the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), WHO Country Office, and other civil society organisations.
Dr Michael Kofi Boachie, SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science – PRICELESS: South Africa, and lead in the study said Ghana implemented an Excise Duty Amendment Act in 2023 to align tobacco taxation with the ECOWAS directive and international standards.
He said the new tax adopted the exact ad valorem rate (50%) in the ECOWAS directive, however, the specific tax was not pegged to the dollar and inflation.
As of May 2024, US$0.02 was equivalent to GHS0.30.
“This means that Ghana may be charging a specific tax lower than the ECOWAS rate depending on exchange rate movements,” he stated, adding that; “Based on the exchange rate in May 2024 we estimate that Ghana is losing GHS0.02 on each cigarette consumed.”
Dr Boachie said the hybrid tobacco excise system increased revenue from GHS220,798,555 (May 2022 – April 2023) to GHS454,466,107 (May 2023 – April 2024), about 106 per cent growth in revenue even after granting tax waivers on tobacco products from within the ECOWAS.
The challenges the GRA faced in the implementation of the tax system included illicit trade of tobacco, compliance issues with importers, tobacco industry interference in policymaking, and inadequate human resources, logistics, and capacity building for staff in customs.
To strengthen the implementation of the tax for effective tobacco control, the report recommended the specific excise component must be pegged to inflation and/or the US dollar as stated in the ECOWAS directive so that the importers will pay based on prevailing exchange rates.
“If the specific excise rate remains in the local currency, for example, GHS, then it must be increased annually to ensure that it is in line with the sum of inflation and income (GDP) growth rates.”
The report called for enforcement of existing tobacco control laws and regulations to ensure that retailers and wholesalers operated within the law.
“This requires building the capacity of the customs personnel and providing them with the necessary logistics to perform their work,” it said.
It called for enhanced coordination and collaboration between the GRA, FDA, and other relevant agencies to combat illicit trade.
“Addressing illicit trade will also require effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the impact of the new tax measures and identify areas for improvement from time to time.”
To this end, Ghana must implement tobacco track and trade systems in line with Article 8 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products as a matter of urgency.
It urged the removal of tax waivers or exemptions granted on tobacco products since the products offered no health benefits to the people.
“The government must strengthen the implementation of the WHO FCTC Article 5.3 to prevent the tobacco industry from its undue interference in tobacco control policies and regulations.”
The report called on the government to consider establishing a tobacco control fund sourced from the percentage of excise tax revenue and/or a solitary contribution (percentage of the value of tobacco products) by importers and manufacturers.
There are many countries earmarking tobacco tax revenues to support various activities. Aside from the excise taxes, some countries have a surcharge or additional levy solely dedicated to tobacco control activities.
For instance, in 2014, Kenya introduced a solatium fund to support tobacco control activities and tobacco companies pay two per cent of the value of tobacco products.
GNA
President John Mahama, who came into office on the 7th of January 2025, recently disclosed via an email that he has scrapped 7 ministries, as a cost-cutting strategy under the austerity policy of the International Monetary Fund.
This move denotes that the current administration will work with 23 ministries as opposed to 30, to keep to the agreement Ghana had reached with the IMF.
On May 17, 2023, the executive board of the International Monetary Fund authorized a $3 billion, three-year loan request for Ghana.
Prior to receiving the loan, Ghana has been trying to secure financing from the IMF since 2022.
This was a result of the country’s deteriorating economy which had raised inflation figures and depreciated its currency significantly.
As is typical, the IMF’s loan to the West African Gold Coast came with several prerequisite commitments, including the scaling down of the government.
While John Mahama won the presidential election on the promise of restoring the country’s economy, he did mention that he would do so partly with the aid of the IMF’s preexisting loan.
“When I talk about renegotiation, I don’t mean we’re jettisoning the program,” Mahama said, earlier in the month.
“We’re bound by it but what we’re saying is within the program, it should be possible to make some adjustments to suit reality,” he added.
Much like America’s President-elect Donald Trump, John Mahama secured another opportunity to lead his country and is set to continue the work he began in 2012.
The 65-year-old, who presided over Ghana from 2012 to 2017, is among the country’s most seasoned politicians, having held positions as president, vice president, minister, deputy minister, and member of parliament.
Mahama’s path to the presidency began while serving as vice president under President John Atta Mills.
However, only three years into their rule, tragedy struck when Mills died unexpectedly at the age of 68. Hours after his unexpected death, Mahama, 58, was sworn in as Ghana’s president.
Africa Magic, in partnership with MultiChoice, has announced the call for entry for the 11th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Entries opened on Monday, 23 December 2024, and will be closed on Friday, 31 January 2025.
The AMVCA celebrates exceptional talent, creativity, and innovation within the African film, television, and entertainment industry, showcasing the continent’s finest storytellers, performers, and production professionals.
Consequently, filmmakers, producers, production companies, and creators, are encouraged to submit films, made-for-television movies, or television series that were broadcast or publicly screened, from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2024, for a chance to be recognized at Africa’s most prestigious awards event.
Speaking on the upcoming edition, Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, said, “The AMVCAs have become a beacon of excellence, celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of African storytelling.
‘We are excited to once again open the doors for talented creatives across the continent to showcase their remarkable work to the world.”
The 11th AMVCA promises to be a spectacular celebration of African entertainment, giving our talented creatives their flowers and creating unforgettable memories.
The event will be broadcast live on Africa Magic channels across the continent, bringing the glitz and glamour of the awards to millions of viewers.
To enter your submissions and for more information and updates https://www.africamagic.tv/AMVCA
By George Clifford Owusu
A controversy surrounding the bust erected in memory of the late President Prof. John Evans Atta Mills has resurfaced, with the recent vandalism of a plaque bearing Koku Anyidoho’s name at Asomdwoe Park in Accra.
This development is the latest in a series of disagreements between Koku Anyidoho and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as well as the late President’s family.
The tension began on July 24, 2024, when a memorial service for the late President was disrupted by a clash between Koku Anyidoho and the NDC, including relatives of Atta Mills.
The disagreement started when Koku Anyidoho’s event ran over its allotted time, delaying the second event organized by the NDC and the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage.
Samuel Atta-Mills, the late President’s brother, also accused Koku Anyidoho of bringing in “fake family members” to attend the ceremony, further fueling the tension.
Koku Anyidoho, in a post on social media, said, “I wept when I saw the vandalized plaque…because when I look at the kind of things going on, it is a worrying situation for our country.”
His emotional response highlights the deep-seated tension between him and the NDC party, as well as the late President’s family.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
Kwaku Asare, a Fellow at the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has called for immediate investigations into the deaths that occurred during the 2020 and 2024 general elections, emphasizing that such actions are crucial for accountability as reported by Myjoyonline on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on January 11, Asare stressed that the Ghana Police Service should take the initiative in probing election-related fatalities without waiting for instructions from political leaders.
“The police should not wait for the President to come and tell them to investigate the death of somebody,” Asare remarked, revealing that law enforcement’s primary responsibility is to address public matters, including these tragic deaths.
He expressed concern over the lack of progress in addressing the fatalities, questioning whether political pressures had influenced the delay in investigations.
Asare’s comments were in response to recent remarks by former President John Mahama, who had directed his Executive Secretary to request an update from the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, on the status of the investigations.
President Mahama, at a National Muslim Prayer and Thanksgiving event on January 10, called for justice to prevent a recurrence of election-related violence.
He stated that if accountability is not pursued, it fosters impunity. “If these continue and justice is not served, then what it does is, it breeds impunity,” Mahama stated.
News Hub Creator1d
Mothers exude an air of classic sophistication in a skirt and blouse combo. Elegance and femininity are showcased in this timeless combination, which provides both fashion and comfort. Whether you’re heading out for a casual stroll or a black-tie affair, a flowy skirt and a form-fitting shirt will always look great.
Mothers may show the world who they are through the endless combinations of colors, patterns, and fabrics that are available to them. This outfit is perfect for moms since it embodies both a refined style and a celebration of the honorable and caring role that mothers play in society. The timeless and adaptable skirt and blouse combo is a mother’s best bet for style and comfort. This outfit is perfect for any occasion because it can go from laid-back to dressy with ease.
The vivid and elaborate motifs of Ankara tops represent cultural richness and beauty. As a tribute to African culture, the vivid patterns and colors are eye-catching. By fusing conventional patterns with contemporary styles, each design tells a tale all its own. A wardrobe staple, Ankara tops may be dressed in a myriad of ways, from casual to classy. Craftsmanship guarantees a snug fit and meticulous finishing touches with each one of these items.
Ankara tops showcase the modern elegance of African creativity and are more than just a fashion statement; they are a declaration of pride and identity. Warmth is provided by heavier materials like velvet or wool in colder months, while airiness is achieved by wearing lighter textiles like linen or cotton in warmer months. For moms who want to show off their unique style without sacrificing comfort or ease, accessorizing with a belt, bold jewelry, or fashionable shoes is the way to go. Show your support by leaving a like and a comment. For more fashion updates, hit the follow button.
Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, says President John Dramani Mahama’s reduction of ministries from 30 to 23 is more about public sentiment than genuine government reform.
According to Simons in an article titled “The stressful difference between cutting ministries & cutting costs in Ghana,” the clustering of subsectors to create ministries has always been a matter of opinion, with each government having its own approach.
For instance, the Kufuor government in the 2000s combined “youth and sports” with “education,” while the Mills government disagreed and instead paired “works and housing” with “water resources.”
Simons argues that the current administration’s decision to cut down the number of ministries is primarily driven by the public’s dislike for a large number of ministers, which is perceived as “obscene.”
He believes that this move is more about being responsive to public sentiment rather than achieving lean and efficient government reforms.
He further questions the effectiveness of such a reduction in achieving true government efficiency.
Simons points out that the real issue lies with the thousands of workers in collapsed ministries who are likely to be redistributed rather than removed from the government payroll.
He emphasises that ministries are just the tip of the iceberg, with agencies like the Police, Ghana Educational Service, and Ghana Revenue Authority being far more significant in terms of public workers and government business.
Simons also highlights the importance of state-owned enterprises like GNPC and ECG in spending efficiency, suggesting that these entities matter more than 60% of the ministries.
He notes that while being a “listening government” has its rewards, it is not synonymous with achieving efficiency gains.
Bright Simons writes: The stressful difference between cutting ministries & cutting costs in Ghana
Nollywood actress Eniola Ajao is launching the year with a significant announcement and significant move.
Yoruba actress, who made her cinema debut last year, announced she was well-prepared for her fans and supporters on her Instagram page.
She announced that she is working on a project that is expected to be released around Easter.
Child Rights International has issued a strong warning against proposals to transfer the cost of feeding students under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy to parents.
In a statement dated January 11, 2025, the organization emphasized the need to preserve the integrity of the Free SHS program, describing it as a transformative initiative that has significantly improved access to education in Ghana since its launch in 2017.
The statement categorically opposed suggestions that parents should bear the responsibility of providing food and essential supplies for their children in senior high schools.
Child Rights International argued that such proposals undermine the foundational principles of the Free SHS policy, which was designed to eliminate financial barriers to education and ensure inclusivity for all Ghanaian children.
Since its inception, the Free SHS program has been celebrated as a landmark social intervention. By covering tuition fees, feeding, accommodation, and other associated costs, it has enabled millions of students, especially those from low-income families and underserved communities, to access secondary education.
The policy’s impact has been particularly pronounced in rural areas, where the high cost of education previously prevented many families from sending their children to school. It has contributed to increased enrollment rates, reduced dropout rates, and improved literacy levels across the country.
However, the program has faced significant challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, delays in disbursing funds, and logistical issues, particularly related to feeding. These challenges have sparked public debates about the policy’s long-term sustainability.
Child Rights International’s statement stressed that any reforms to the program must focus on addressing its challenges without eroding the foundational benefits that make education accessible to all Ghanaian children.
Below is the statement.
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Free SHS: Let your children come to school with gari, shito, others – CHASS urges parents
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Black Sherif, a well-known rapper, composer, and producer from Ghana, has finally released this year’s most awaited single, “Lord I’m Amazed,” which many admirers believe will be a huge hit on the Ghanaian music scene.
Listening to Black Sherif’s most recent single is a delightful experience. He hopes that many Ghanaians, especially his followers and music aficionados, will find the song moving.
A soulful and reflective beginning to 2025, the eagerly awaited tune, which he hinted at on his Instagram account in November, was formally released on January 9.
After weeks of being teased on his social media accounts, the song is now accessible on all of the main streaming services, including YouTube, iTunes, and Amazon.
It is anticipated that Black Sherif’s latest single would be another success, solidifying his position as one of Ghana’s most promising musicians.
Black Sherif, one of the few musicians who is committed to working hard to build his name on the global music scene, thinks his most recent effort will have an immediate impact.
The rapper is a talented artiste and songwriter with unique skills. Unlike most of his pals he does not do things in rush for fame.
He has been around for a while and is doing incredibly well while keeping a quiet profile.
The release of his latest single comes after his incredible performance at the Zaama Disco concert in December of last year, which drew 23,000 people to the Untamed Empire.
By George Clifford Owusu
In a bold move, President John Dramani Mahama has reduced the number of ministries in Ghana’s civil service from 30 to 23 through an Executive Instrument.
This decision, made on January 9, 2025, is aimed at streamlining the government’s administrative structure and improving efficiency.
The new ministerial configuration is outlined in the Executive Instrument, Civil Service (Ministries) Instrument, 2025.
According to the document, the following ministries have been established:
– *Ministries of National Importance*: Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Defence, and Ministry of Education
– *Ministries Focused on Development*: Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Ministry of Roads and Highways, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Sports and Recreation, and Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources
– *Ministries Supporting Social Welfare*: Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, and Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology
– *Ministries Fostering Economic Growth*: Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture, and Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry
Notably, some ministries have undergone name changes or mergers.
For instance, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has been split into two separate ministries: the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment.
Similarly, the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has been merged with the Ministry of Local Government.
This reorganization is expected to enhance the government’s ability to deliver services efficiently and effectively.
By reducing the number of ministries, President Mahama aims to eliminate redundancies, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and promote better coordination among government agencies.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
Ohemaa Benz, a communicator with Agyapa TV and known for her critical stance towards Mahama, is accused of attempting to undermine his reputation while advancing the agenda of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a public statement, Abass Nurudeen urged Ghanaians to ignore Benz’s comments, describing them as misrepresentations of Mahama’s objectives.
The NDC’s statement highlighted that a video featuring Ohemaa Benz, where she shared her views on the Free SHS policy, was being distorted by NPP supporters to imply it reflected the stance of Mahama’s administration.
The statement further characterized Benz as a vocal critic of Mahama and the NDC, referencing her participation in the Atene show hosted by El Lizato.
The NDC labeled her remarks as an attempt at propaganda by the NPP.
Additionally, the statement reaffirmed Mahama’s dedication to improving the Free SHS initiative, emphasizing his intent to make it more effective and accessible for all children in Ghana.
Ohemaa Benz previously suggested that parents of senior high school students should refrain from pressuring President Mahama about the Free SHS policy, claiming it is not among his priorities.
She argued that Mahama is more focused on establishing a 24-hour economy rather than prioritizing the Free SHS initiative.
Cassiel Ato Forson
THE three individuals nominated by President John Dramani Mahama for appointment as Ministers of Finance, Energy, and Justice and Attorney General will face the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 13, 2025.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Minister-designate for Finance; John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister-designate for Energy; and Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, Minister-designate for Justice and Attorney General, will have their appointments considered by members of the Appointments Committee at 9:00 am at the Committee Rooms 1, 2 & 3, New Administration Block, Parliament House in Accra.
Pursuant to Article 78(1), President Mahama, on January 9, 2025, presented to Parliament Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, John Abdulai Jinapor, and Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, for consideration for appointment as Ministers.
In accordance with Order 172 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin referred the nominees to the Appointments Committee for consideration and report to the House.
By Ernest Kofi Adu
During an appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz, Bulldog, the former manager of Shatta Wale, Bulldog couldn’t contain his excitement after John Dramani Mahama’s decisive victory in the 2024 elections.
The jubilant Bulldog expressed his heartfelt enthusiasm for Mahama’s return to power, saying he would go to extraordinary lengths to support the newly inaugurated president.
Scores of people have been reported injured after gunmen opened fire on a bus at Pusi-Namoo, a suburb of Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region.
The bus was reported to be traveling from Garu in the Upper East Region to Kumasi in the Ashanti Region when the gunmen ambushed it and opened fire on the travelers.
The incident, which occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, resulted in several passengers sustaining serious gunshot wounds. The injured persons have been taken to the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga.
It is not clear what triggered the attack; however, sources say it is linked to the Bawku conflict.
The police have since taken control of the crime scene.
Meanwhile, a violent clash between combatants in Bawku on Friday afternoon resulted in the death of two individuals.
The confrontation took place in the Kpalore-Gozesi area, leading to the arrest of four people and the seizure of eight assault rifles by security forces.
The arrested individuals have been transferred to the Upper East Regional Police Headquarters in Bolgatanga for further investigation.
This latest incident has raised the death toll to 41 since the conflict resurfaced in October 2024.
The ongoing chieftaincy dispute continues to fuel tensions in the region.
Despite the imposition of a dawn-to-dusk curfew, the area remains unstable, with communities experiencing self-imposed isolation due to the volatile situation.
George Quaye is a media personality
Events consultant cum media personality, George Quaye is of the view that Ablah Dzifa Gomashie is better placed to perform excellently at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.
He believes that the National Democratic Congress’ government has no time to waste in this second term of John Dramani Mahama and therefore does not have the time to waste.
George Quaye, who was speaking on Accra-based United Showbiz, indicated that John Mahama is leveraging experience in the selection of ministers and therefore does not have time to try new people at this time.
“If there is any government that doesn’t have time, it is this government. This is not the time to try people. So if you look at the trend, the man is using a lot of wisdom to select people. The man is looking at experience.
“This is an industry that says it wants one of us and we have one of us in there already who, beyond everything else, has the experience. She does not have only experience in arts but also in tourism,” he said on Accra-based United Television.
He further added, “Her experience makes her the best fit for handling the ministry. Mahama cannot follow the sentiments of the people in the industry; then you’ll choose people they want. But for a party that does not have time, you need someone who has been there before, who has learnt from their experience, so that they are supported by the people who are around.”
Watch as Mahama pledges to introduce Islamic banking instruments, reduce Hajj fares
Some residents of Tumu in the Sissala East Constituency of the Upper West Region have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to recover all alleged looted state funds, which can be used to create jobs for the youth.
They said that if such funds and other captured state assets were retrieved and the culprits punished, it would serve as a deterrent to other officeholders from engaging in corrupt practices.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency at Tumu on Friday, the residents spoke about their expectations for the president’s tenure to ensure good governance for Ghanaians.
Mr. Bashiru Gomina, a teacher, called for accountability in governance, saying: “The only thing I expect him to do is to investigate and prosecute all officeholders who looted public funds.”
Mr. Gomina’s remarks reflect a strong public demand for transparency and justice in tackling corruption, which has been a major issue in Ghanaian politics.
Mr. Yusif Dormoyuga, a community broadcaster, called on the president to work hard to meet the voters’ expectations.
“The way he was voted for was extraordinary. I expect him to justify the trust reposed in him by working hard to prove the high endorsement,” he said.
“If President Mahama works well, anybody in the NDC can also win for another four years…”
Mr. Alidu Bayana, a curator, urged the president to prioritize job creation for the youth and called for the need to fulfill promises such as the abolition of the E-levy and the Betting Tax.
“The new administration’s ability to address these concerns would be crucial in gaining the trust of the population,” he said.
Miss Elhan Zakaria, a level 200 university student, commended Ghana for the peaceful nature of the elections and expressed her delight in seeing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia conceding defeat and congratulating the president-elect.
She urged President Mahama to create job opportunities for the youth and implement the 24-hour economy policy to benefit the unemployed.
She also called for reforms in the Free Senior High School policy and advocated the cancellation of the teacher licensure examination to alleviate challenges in the education sector.
Mr. Sule Issifu, a farmer, congratulated the president on his election and reminded him to consider paying attention to the Tumu-Wa and Tumu-Navrongo highways to connect the area to the regional capitals and, by extension, to Leo in Burkina Faso to facilitate trade.
Who’s the itty-bitty city-state with the global passport the world thinks is great?
There’s new year cheer for Singapore as it reclaims its place at the top of a quarterly ranking of the world’s most powerful passports.
Holders of this desirable red travel document enjoy visa-free access to 195 out of 227 destinations worldwide, according to the Henley Passport Index, more than citizens of any other place on the planet.
Japan is second in the ranking, with an open door to 193 destinations, having secured the silver medal by regaining visa-free access to neighboring China for the first time since the Covid-19 lockdowns.
The EU member states of France, Germany, Italy and Spain are at No. 3, along with Finland and South Korea, with access to 192 destinations with no prior visa needed.
The fourth position in the rankings is a testament to the power of the European Union’s border-free Schengen area, which guarantees free movement to more than 425 million EU citizens. It’s held by seven EU countries, each with visa-free access to 191 destinations: Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway and Sweden.
Squeaking into fifth place are five countries — Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland and the United Kingdom — all of which have visa-free access to 190 destinations.
The mobility gap
Now in its 20th year, the index, created by London-based global citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners, tracks global freedoms in 227 countries and territories around the world, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
At the opposite end of the ranking, at No. 106, Afghanistan remains locked in bottom place, with visa-free access to just 26 destinations, two fewer than a year ago. Syria is at No. 105 (with 27 destinations) and Iraq is at No. 104 (with 31 destinations).
This means that the gap between the travel freedoms enjoyed by the citizens at the top and bottom of the ranking has never been wider.
“The very notion of citizenship and its birthright lottery needs a fundamental rethink as temperatures rise, natural disasters become more frequent and severe, displacing communities and rendering their environments uninhabitable,” said Christian H. Kaelin, chair of Henley and Partners, in a press release.
“Simultaneously, political instability and armed conflicts in various regions force countless people to flee their homes in search of safety and refuge.”
Climbers and fallers
The rest of the top 10 is dominated by European countries, with a few exceptions. Australia and Greece are tied at No. 6, while Malta, Poland and Canada are at No. 7.
Eighth place is shared by Czechia and Hungary, the United States and Estonia are at No. 9, and No. 10 is held by Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia and the United Arab Emirates.
The UAE is one of the index’s biggest success stories in global mobility, having secured access to an additional 72 destinations since 2015, allowing it to climb 32 places to 10th spot with visa-free access to 185 destinations.
China is also a big climber, having jumped up the list from 94th place in 2015 to No. 60 in 2025.
Only 22 of the world’s 199 passports have fallen down the ranking in the past decade and some surprising names are at the top of the list.
Venezuela is at No. 1, followed by the United States as the second-highest faller. It’s dropped seven places from No. 2 to No. 9.
The South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu is at No. 4, followed by the British passport at No. 5 — a former No. 1. Canada is No. 5 on the losers list, having dropped three places in the ranking in the last decade.
Henley & Partners’ list is one of several indexes created by financial firms to rank global passports according to the access they provide to their citizens.
Arton Capital’s Passport Index takes into consideration the passports of 193 United Nations member countries and six territories — Taiwan, Macao, Hong Kong, Kosovo, the Palestinian territories and the Vatican. Territories annexed to other countries are excluded.
It’s also updated in real-time throughout the year, but its data is gathered by close monitoring of individual governments’ portals.
Arton’s Global Passport Power Rank 2025 puts the United Arab Emirates in the top spot, with a visa-free/visa-on-arrival score of 180. Second place is held by Spain, with a score of 179.
The most powerful passports for 2025:
1. Singapore (195 destinations)
2. Japan (193)
3. France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, South Korea (192)
4. Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway (191)
5. Belgium, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, United Kingdom (190)
6. Greece, Australia (189)
7. Canada, Poland, Malta (188)
8. Hungary, Czechia (187)
9. Estonia, United States (186)
10. Lithuania, Latvia, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates (185)
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The legal representation of Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), has denied allegations that its client contacted the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee regarding the return of a state land parcel allegedly acquired illegally.The allegations, made by ORAL Committee member Martin Kpebu, suggested that Mr.
Asante Kotoko will face lower-tier side Acceler8z FC in an MTN FA Cup match at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
Kotoko advanced to the Round of 32 by defeating Future Stars FC 2-0 in the previous round, setting up today’s match against Acceler8z FC on January 12, 2025.
Acceler8z FC secured their spot in the Round of 32 by beating Sefwi All Stars with a narrow 1-0 victory.
Asante Kotoko are the favourites to win the match due to their impressive current form, with four wins and one draw in their last five matches.
However, Acceler8z FC will aim to cause an upset against the second-most successful side in the competition’s history.
“We are facing Kotoko to beat them and advance to the Round of 16 because we know what we are capable of. In matches like this, you have to show up because Kotoko is a big team, everything about them is big,” Acceler8z FC coach Obed Boahen told Accra-based Happy FM.
Watch the live streaming below:
EE/MA
Lead of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that ORAL swiftly intervened on Saturday morning following a distress petition from government workers occupying four bungalows behind the State House. The bungalows were under threat of demolition by a private developer who allegedly sent thugs, claiming to have purchased the land last year.
Diezani Alison-Madueke is a former Nigeria oil minister
Close to $53m (£43m) in alleged illicit funds recovered from Nigeria’s former oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke, among others, will be used to fund public services, the country’s justice ministry says.
The money is being sent back to Nigeria from the US, whose authorities allege that Alison-Madueke enriched herself and others while leading Nigeria’s state oil firm by awarding contracts in exchange for bribes.
The US alleged that the money was then used to buy a 65-metre superyacht called the Galactica Star, plus multiple luxury properties in California and New York.
Alison-Madueke, 64, has always denied all allegations of wrongdoing.
Her alleged ill-gotten gains are also under scrutiny in the UK, where two years ago she was charged with bribery offences, including gifts of Louis Vuitton luxury goods, payment of private school fees, and at least $127,000 in cash.
A key figure in the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, she also served as the first female president of the oil exporters group Opec.
Her time as Nigeria’s minister of petroleum resources began in 2010 and ended in 2015. She previously served as transport minister and the minister for solid minerals and steel development.
The US Department of Justice announced in 2023 the final resolution of two civil cases on the forfeiture of assets that were reportedly laundered in and through the US by Alison-Madueke and her associates.
On Friday, the US and Nigeria confirmed that the sum of $52.88m would be repatriated to the West African nation.
This will be the first repatriation to Nigeria of assets outside the West African country linked to Alison-Madueke, the Reuters news agency reports.
Speaking at the formal signing ceremony in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, said the return of the funds marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to combat corruption.
Fagbemi said $50m of the money will go through the World Bank to support rural electrification projects, and the remaining $2.88m will be directed to the International Institute of Justice to strengthen the justice system and promote anti-corruption efforts.
Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has emphasised the need for accountability as well as the careful monitoring of the returned funds.
“The ministry of justice must guarantee that these funds are used transparently and effectively to improve the lives of Nigerians,” he said.
In November 2022, the US government repatriated to Nigeria $20.6m in assets allegedly stolen by former Nigerian military leader Gen Sani Abacha.
Five years ago, Washington transferred $311.8m to the Nigerian government as part of a previous agreement to repatriate assets that traced back to the Abacha regime.
The Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, has strongly rejected claims that he contacted the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee regarding the return of a parcel of land he is accused of acquiring illegally.
The allegations, made by Martin Kpebu, a member of the ORAL Committee, suggest that Mr. Quaicoe had agreed to hand back a state-owned piece of land in return for the committee halting further action against him.
Ohemaa Benz, a communicator for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), recently made some comments about free Shs that has stirred up some debate. She claimed that parents giving provisons to children for school is nothing new, as it has always been the responsibility of parents. Benz also said that if President John Mahama decides to cancel the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, she wouldn’t mind, explaining that it’s not his main concern.
Benz explained that Mahama intends to address the “potholes” in the Free SHS program, but she clarified that he does not see it as his primary responsibility to fully address the policy. She said, “Don’t pressure him. He’s trying to continue what Akufo-Addo started, and the potholes in Free SHS are what he’s coming to address, but it’s not something he’s coming to put on his shoulders.’
Her comments have received criticism, with many people saying that education should be a top priority and not be overlooked.
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Events consultant George Quaye has expressed his belief that Ablah Dzifa Gomashie is the best candidate to excel at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.
Speaking on Accra-based United Showbiz, Quaye emphasized that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, in its second term under President John Dramani Mahama, cannot afford to waste time.
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GOtv’s Step Up is more than just a promotion; it’s a celebration of the magic of entertainment. From blockbuster movies to family-friendly cartoons and everything in between, GOtv brings the world’s best stories straight to your living room. This is your chance to make 2025 unforgettable, one show at a time.
By Anthony Adongo Apubeo
Bolgatanga, Jan 12, GNA – The Upper East Regional branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed confidence in the Minister-Designate for Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, to transform the justice system and ensure fairness for all.
“This nomination is a testament to your unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and outstanding contributions to the nation,” a statement, signed and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Bolgatanga by Mr Jonathan Salifu, the Regional Communications Officer of the party.
“We are confident that your expertise, vision, and commitment to justice will bring transformative progress to this critical sector.”
The statement expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for entrusting the ministry they described as vital to the Member of Parliament for the Bolgatanga East constituency and pledged the support of the region to enable him to succeed.
“The Upper East Regional Executive Committee of the National Democratic Congress, under the leadership of Regional Chairperson Alhaji Mumuni Bolnaba, extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga East, Hon. Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, on his well-deserved nomination as Minister-Designate for Attorney-General and Minister for Justice
“As you embark on this significant journey, we have no doubt that you will champion reforms that will strengthen the justice system and enhance its accessibility for all.
“The Upper East Region stands firmly with you, praying for God’s guidance, wisdom, and protection as you take on this noble responsibility. “We wish you every success in this exciting new chapter,” it added.
Meanwhile, Dr Ayine via a Facebook post, had reacted to his nomination, captioned it as “Leadership, Justice, Equality and Fairness to all.”
Dr Ayine was nominated alongside two others as cabinet minister-designate by President Mahama to mark his first set of ministerial nominations since he assumed office on January 7, 2025.
The two others are Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister-Designate for Finance and Mr John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister-Designate for Energy.
Dr Ayine is the current MP for the Bolgatanga East constituency and a senior lawyer with three decades of experience in practice as well as a founding partner of Ayini and Partners Law Offices.
He previously served as the Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice under the first term of President Mahama.
He holds a PhD in Law from the Stanford University Michigan Law School, and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Ghana.
He has also lectured at the University of Ghana Law School for many years.
GNA
A shocking revelation has emerged, casting a shadow over President John Dramani Mahama’s new administration.
Mustapha Gbande, a Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is claiming that the previous government, led by Nana Akufo-Addo, has planted spying devices in the Jubilee House.
This alleged move is believed to have been orchestrated to monitor Mahama’s government.
According to Gbande, the NDC received information that the outgoing administration had bugged the premises to collect information on the party and the new government.
He described the individuals involved as “malicious.”
The current situation has led to President Mahama postponing his relocation to the Jubilee House, pending security assessments and spiritual cleansing rituals.
Gbande explained that these measures are necessary to “cleanse and purify the area” after the previous administration’s alleged malfeasance.
As the controversy unfolds, President Mahama remains in his former office, awaiting clearance to move into the Jubilee House.
The situation has raised questions about the transition process and the potential for alleged sabotage.
However, the NDC has assured that steps are being taken to secure and reorganize the presidential residence, but the allegations of spying have undoubtedly cast a pall over Mahama’s presidency.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
Mussa Dankwah, Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, has expressed the opinion that allegations of forgery of the Electoral Commission (EC) would not have arisen if the Commission had, as required by law, posted copies of pink sheets at the various polling stations.
He expressed shock that no one is in the possession of the original or true results from the Ablekuma North constituency.
President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang will this afternoon (12 January 2025) join worshippers at a Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service.
The event, which is open to the public, will take place at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) Ohene Konadu Auditorium in Madina at 3 p.m.
This follows a similar event held last Friday at the National Mosque in Kanda, Accra, dubbed the National Muslim Prayer and Thanksgiving Service.
During that gathering, President Mahama reiterated his administration’s pledge to promote religious inclusivity and tolerance, including a proposed additional public holiday for Muslims during Eid-ul-Fitr.
“The move is aimed at ensuring that all Muslim citizens can enjoy the public holiday without conflict with their places of work,” the President stated. He emphasised that this would not affect productivity, as the Public Holidays Act would be modified to maintain the same number of annual holidays.
The President also announced several initiatives to support the Muslim community, including the establishment of a new Hajj committee and scholarships for Muslim students to study medicine, law, and ICT.
“Hijabs can be worn freely in public, promoting religious tolerance and acceptance,” President Mahama declared, reaffirming his commitment to equality and the recognition of all citizens.
President Mahama took a firm stance on addressing election-related violence, tasking his executive secretary to seek a comprehensive report on the killings that occurred during the 2020 and 2024 elections.
“I have asked my executive secretary to write to the Inspector General of Police to give us a report on the status of investigations into these killings,” he said.
Condemning the violence, which claimed five lives in 2024 and eight in 2020, the President described it as senseless and warned of the consequences of unresolved injustices.
During the event at the National Mosque, President Mahama expressed deep gratitude to Allah for His protection during the election campaign.
“By the time we arrived at the rally at Madina, we had travelled 30,000 kilometres and not a single accident,” he said. “We asked [the Chief Imam] for prayers so that Allah would grant our heart’s desires. If Allah has listened to our supplication and granted our heart’s desires, it is only proper to thank Allah.”
National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, also praised the Muslim community for their prayers and peaceful conduct during the elections.
“The Muslim community demonstrated that leaders should be chosen based on integrity and capacity, rather than religious affiliations,” he stated.
The National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at UPSA is expected to be another opportunity for the nation’s leaders and citizens to come together in gratitude, prayer, and unity as Ghana embarks on a new chapter under President Mahama’s leadership.
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.
Kwasi Kwarteng, former spokesperson for the Ministry of Education
Kwasi Kwarteng, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Education during the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has challenged the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to demonstrate its ability to manage the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme effectively.
According to Kwarteng, during the previous administration, the NDC consistently criticized the quality of food provided to Free SHS students, claiming it was substandard.
He argued that now that the NDC is in power, they should back their criticism with action by ensuring students are fed luxuriously, even suggesting the use of high-end establishments.
“They criticized the food we provided for Free SHS students, saying it wasn’t good enough. Now that they’re in power, let’s see them feed the students in grand style. Perhaps they can take them to places like Kempinski and Lancaster three times a day so everyone can see how capable they are of managing the education sector,” Kwarteng said in an interview on Oyerepa TV on January 9, 2025.
He continued: “This is the nature of organic politics we practice here. They heavily criticized the policy because they felt the previous government was benefiting from it. Now that they are in power, they should show us what they can do. Maybe on Saturdays, they can also treat the students to luxurious meals at these five-star establishments in the morning, afternoon, and evening.”
The erstwhile opposition the NDC criticized the then ruling government of supplying SHS students with expired foods.
AM/KA
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Veteran journalist Kweku Baako Jnr
Veteran journalist Kweku Baako Jnr was put on the spot by renowned broadcaster Dr. Randy Abbey, who asked him why he chose to marry later in life.
The conversation occurred during a panel discussion on Good Morning Ghana on January 9, 2024, which marked Dr. Abbey’s final episode as a host.
The broadcaster compared Baako to his close friend Kwesi Pratt Jnr, who married much earlier in life.
“I’ will still ask the question I want to ask you. How come, despite the fact that you guys were like twins and everything, Kwesi married early, and you married late?” Dr. Abbey asked.
Kwesi Pratt attempted to deflect the question, asking, “Is it a question to ask?” However, Dr. Abbey pressed on, and Baako obliged with a response.
The veteran journalist, who is the Editor-in-Chief of the New Crusading Guide newspaper, candidly admitted that his youthful lifestyle influenced his decision to delay marriage.
“Lack of self-discipline. I was virtually a rolling stone. Yeah, I was a rolling stone. And that affected my opportunities to access decent women,” Baako confessed.
He added that despite his past, he eventually found the perfect partner, “Thankfully, I got a woman just the right fit-for-purpose.”
Dr. Abbey humorously remarked, “That’s why you are still paying school fees, while Kwesi has grandchildren.”
Baako joked in return, saying, “Korle Gono has taken all my children,” prompting further laughter when Dr. Abbey quipped, “That’s why you don’t drive past there [Korle Gono]. Because you hear, ‘Daddy, Daddy.’”
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BAI/MA
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The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has issued a strong statement on the role of politicians in the development of the Ashanti Region.
During a courtesy call by the World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa at the Manhyia Palace on January 10, 2025, the Asantehene highlighted the persistent delays in projects meant for Kumasi and attributed these delays to bureaucratic hurdles in Accra.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasized the need for the project office to be located in Kumasi rather than being managed from Accra.
“I don’t know what is delaying it, but the project office should be here. We shouldn’t be running projects here when we have the office in Accra. The project unit should be here, and the project coordinator must also be resident here, so that at least the stakeholders, the district assemblies, will be able to coordinate to know how it goes. So these are issues that I want us to look at properly to fruition,” he said.
He insisted that the project coordinator should be a resident of Kumasi to ensure better coordination and efficiency.
“I cannot depend on the politicians for my development. I don’t want to depend on them,” he stated, expressing his disappointment with the way Ashanti politicians have managed the city and its people.
The Asantehene also called for a social contract to effectively drive development, stressing the importance of infrastructure. “In terms of development, if we have the infrastructure, everything will be fine. I don’t want to depend on politicians, so let’s have a social contract and then we do it,” he added.
The World Bank Vice President responded positively to the Asantehene’s concerns, acknowledging the need for localized management to overcome bureaucratic delays and ensure the timely completion of projects in Kumasi.
AM/KA
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Bright Simmons, the Honorary Vice President of IMANI Africa, has analyzed President John Mahama’s decision to cut the number of ministries from 30 to 23, suggesting that it is more of a response to public sentiment than a real step toward improving government efficiency as reported by Myjoyonline on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
In his article The Stressful Difference between Cutting Ministries & Cutting Costs in Ghana, Simmons cautioned that this restructuring may not lead to actual cost savings.
Simmons noted that the public’s dissatisfaction with a large government is largely driven by its optics, not its actual cost.
He pointed out, “Cutting down the number of ministries and ministers is thus an exercise in ‘reading the sentiments’ of the public, and in being ‘responsive,’” rather than a genuine attempt to streamline the government.
The restructuring, according to Simmons, is a symbolic gesture aimed at showing a government that listens to the people, rather than addressing deeper inefficiencies in the public sector.
He also highlighted the inconsistency of past attempts at ministry restructuring, with decisions often being arbitrary and not based on any clear logic.
While smaller ministries may see cuts, Simmons emphasized that larger government agencies, such as the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Education Service, are the real drivers of government spending.
He suggested that substantial savings would come from reforming these sectors, rather than from reducing ministerial titles.
Simmons concluded by urging the government to look beyond cosmetic changes and focus on real reform to tackle inefficiencies and reduce government expenditure.
Since the fashion business is always evolving, it is crucial to stay updated with the most recent trends if you wish to create an impression with your wardrobe. Think about these tips if you want to be trendy while still creating your own style:
First, make a texture blend: combining several fabrics is a great approach to make an outfit stand out. You may add dimension and visual appeal to an outfit by combining various textures, like a silk dress with a smooth leather jacket.
Colors that are bright and eye-catching are a great way to grab people’s attention. Bold colors like electrifying blue, sunshine yellow, and blazing red may take your clothing to the next level. A splash of color can liven up any ensemble and boost your confidence.
Third, experiment with prints; combining different patterns can make for striking outfits. Mixing and matching patterns is a great technique to make an ensemble pop. Animal prints, stripes, and floral patterns are all viable options for this. Just use a consistent color scheme to make it all flow together.
4. Choose Your Accessories Carefully: The proper accessories have the power to completely transform an outfit. Transform an everyday outfit into a head-turning look by adding a bold belt, earrings, or stack of bracelets. Be careful that the accessories you choose go with the overall style and color palette of your clothing.
5. Athleisure Chic: Accessorize with pieces that combine comfort and style with athleisure features. Sneakers, a fitted blazer, or a sweater paired with a pleated skirt is a great way to achieve a modern, sporty-chic look.
6. Sustainable Fashion: When you’re out shopping for clothes, consider brands who are committed to being socially and environmentally responsible. Use sustainable resources, recycle clothing, or embrace the past. It will be a reflection of your ethics and your taste in fashion.
With these ideas, you may make fashionable, eco-friendly, and ethically sound clothing.
Veteran actor Djimon Hounsou is opening up about his experiences in Hollywood as a person of colour, highlighting the ongoing struggles for fair recognition and compensation in the film industry.
Born in Benin, Hounsou has built an impressive career spanning over two decades, starring in some acclaimed films like Blood Diamond and Gladiator.
Despite his accolades, including two Academy Award nominations, the 60-year-old actor disclosed in a recent episode of CNN’s African Voices Changemakers that he continues to face challenges, particularly around pay equity.
“I am still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou shared. “I have been in the filmmaking business for over two decades with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I am still struggling financially. I am definitely underpaid.”
Reflecting on his early career, Hounsou recounted his breakout role as Cinqué in Steven Spielberg’s 1997 historical drama Amistad, which brought him widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.
However, he feels the Academy Awards overlooked his performance, and he attributes the snub to stereotypes and bias.
“I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought that I had just come off the boat and the streets,” he remarked. “Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect.”
This is not the first time Hounsou has spoken out about wage disparities in Hollywood. In a March 2023 interview with The Guardian, he expressed frustration over consistently being undervalued for his contributions.
“I still have to prove why I need to get paid,” he explained. “They always come at me with a complete low ball: ‘We only have this much for the role, but we love you so much and we really think you can bring so much.’”
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President John Dramani Mahama has revoked the Civil Service (Ministries) Instrument, 2021 (L.I. 12), ushering in a new era of governance with the introduction of the Civil Service (Ministries) Instrument, 2025 (E.I. 1).
This restructuring is expected to streamline operations within key government ministries and ensure a more efficient public administration system.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Special Aide to the President, said the realignment has reduced the Ministries from 30 to 23, reflecting President Mahama’s commitment to an agile, efficient government that is better equipped to serve Ghanaians.
In addition to the traditional ministries, the new instrument also introduces ministries aimed at promoting youth empowerment, gender equality, and cultural growth.
It also merged others while some Ministries including Information,
National Security, Parliamentary Affairs, Railway Development, Public Enterprises, and Sanitation and Water Resources have been revoked.
The new Executive Instrument, which came into force on January 9, 2025, establishes a revised list of ministries, focusing on critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and national security.
Among the ministries now firmly part of the civil service are the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Defence, and Ministry of Education, as well as newer institutions like the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition and Ministry of Digital Technology and Innovations.
No explanation was given for the revocation of L.I. 12, but sympathisers of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have already gone to town, arguing that this was a necessary step to modernize the structure of government ministries in response to evolving national and global challenges.
The move is also seen as an effort to better align ministries with the government’s broader development goals.
Among these are the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.
The revocation of L.I. 12 and the establishment of the new ministries have already sparked discussion across the political spectrum on social media, with many analysts noting the potential for improved governance, but also questioning the impact on existing programmes and ongoing initiatives.
While the full implications of the realignment are yet to be felt, the restructuring is seen by some people as a pivotal step toward creating a more responsive and effective government that can meet the dynamic needs of the country’s population.
By Ernest Kofi Adu
The Former spokesperson for the Ministry of Education during the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration Kwasi Kwarteng, has urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to prove its ability to effectively manage the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme.
Speaking on Oyerepa TV on January 9, 2025, Kwarteng aimed the NDC for their previous criticisms regarding the quality of food provided to Free SHS students under the past administration.
Kwesi Kwarteng challenged the NDC to follow through on their criticisms by significantly improving the food standards for students, even suggesting that the government consider high-end dining options as a benchmark.
“They criticized the food we provided for Free SHS students, saying it wasn’t good enough. Now that they’re in power, let’s see them feed the students in grand style. Perhaps they can take them to places like Kempinski and Lancaster three times a day so everyone can see how capable they are of managing the education sector,” he said.
He also added, “Maybe on Saturdays, they can also treat the students to luxurious meals at these five-star establishments in the morning, afternoon, and evening.”
He again pointed out what he called the “organic politics” at play, where political rivalry often leads to sharp criticisms. Likewise, he emphasized that the NDC should move past words and demonstrate their competence by delivering tangible improvements in the Free SHS programme.
In opposition, the NDC had accused the previous government of providing substandard and even expired food to SHS students. Now that they are in power, the party faces the challenge of delivering on their promises and improving the programme they once heavily criticized.
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The woman claiming her daughter is singer Davido’s oldest child has reacted to claims that two DNA tests have been done to prove her wrong.
Earlier this week, Davido’s former lawyer, Prince Bobo Ajudua took to the Instagram page created for the child alleged to be Davido’s daughter.
Ajudua stated that two DNA tests were done, with one done in a hospital chosen by the mother of the child, yet the mother keeps claiming Davido is her child’s father (read here).
However, the child’s mother, Ayo Labinjoh,
Commuters aboard an Ash Ssangyong Istana public transport vehicle with the registration number AS9845-22 narrowly escaped a potentially deadly robbery attempt after a group of unidentified gunmen tried to stop their vehicle in Atebubu, a town located in the Bono East Region of Ghana.
The shocking incident unfolded as the vehicle was traveling through the busy town when the assailants, armed with firearms, opened fire on the vehicle in a bid to force it to stop.
President John Dramani Mahama
The Concerned Youth of Essikado-Ketan, a group of young activists from the Essikado-Ketan constituency, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to fulfil a campaign promise made during the 2024 elections.
According to the group, then-candidate Mahama pledged to appoint Professor Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah as a minister if he won the elections, in recognition of the constituency’s support.
The youth emphasised that this promise was instrumental in securing a historic victory for Professor Dr. Ayensu-Danquah, who became the first National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate to win the Essikado-Ketan parliamentary seat.
Having delivered on their part by voting overwhelmingly for the NDC, the group believes it is now President Mahama’s turn to honour his commitment.
They further highlighted the constituency’s and the Western Region’s pivotal role in the NDC’s record-breaking electoral performance, urging the President to acknowledge their efforts by appointing Professor Dr. Ayensu-Danquah to a ministerial position.
A portion of their statement reads, “We voted massively for the NDC to make history in this constituency because we believed and trusted in your promise to us.”
EE/MA
The Ashanti Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abass Nurudeen, has refuted claims made by Ohemaa Benz, a communicator and journalist, that President John Mahama is not concerned about the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy.
Ohemaa Benz, who is a journalist with Agyapa TV in the Ashanti Region and is known for her criticism of John Mahama, allegedly aimed at tarnishing his image while serving the interests of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a statement signed by Abass Nurudeen and released to the public, the NDC urged Ghanaians to disregard the journalist’s remarks, labeling them as falsehoods that misrepresent Mahama’s vision.
“Our attention has been drawn to a circulating video featuring a female journalist, Ohemaa Benz, expressing her personal views on the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy. Unfortunately, these views are being deliberately misrepresented by NPP propagandists as the official position of the newly-elected Mahama administration.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the individual in question, Ohemaa Benz, is a journalist with Agyapa TV and a regular panelist on the Atene show hosted by El Lizato. She is widely known as one of the fiercest critics of H.E. John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as evidenced by her commentary in the attached video. We urge the general public to disregard this desperate propaganda effort by the NPP,” the statement said.
The statement also clarified Mahama’s commitment to the Free SHS policy.
“President John Dramani Mahama remains fully committed to his promise of enhancing the Free SHS policy, ensuring it becomes more effective, inclusive, and accessible to all Ghanaian children,” it emphasised.
It will be recalled that Ohemaa Benz had asked parents with children in senior high school to stop pressuring President Mahama over the Free SHS policy, claiming it is not a priority for him.
According to her, President Mahama prioritises his much-touted 24-hour economy over the Free SHS policy.
She alleged that the President would focus on successfully implementing the 24-hour economy rather than emphasising Free SHS.
In a viral video, Ohemaa Benz remarked that parents unable to afford their children’s secondary education should allow them to stay home.
Her comments sparked backlash from sections of the public, who expressed anger over her remarks.
Watch as Mahama pledges to introduce Islamic banking instruments, reduce Hajj fares
SB/MA
Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr
Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr has asserted that Ghana has only had one republic, not four as widely accepted by the public.
According to him, although the country’s constitution has been overthrown and new ones created due to military takeovers, the republican status of the country has never changed since it became a republic on July 1, 1960.
“I also disagree with the concept of a 4th Republic. Ghana has always had only one republican state which has never changed,”
Pratt said during a panel discussion on the Good Morning Ghana program on January 9, 2024.
He explained that the idea of a new republic was created by those who overthrew the country’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, to create the impression of a new beginning after their actions.
“This idea of a second, third, and fourth republic must have its origins in the overthrow of the Nkrumah government, where opponents of Nkrumah and reactionary elements wanted to portray the Nkrumah era as a different kind of republic, and that we needed a new republic,” Pratt added.
He also mentioned that some people are now referring to a “second independence” after President John Dramani Mahama was sworn into office on Tuesday, January 7, 2024.
Watch Kwesi Pratt’s remarks in the video below:
There is no ‘4th Republic’ – Kwesi Pratt on Ghana’s Republican status#GoodMorningGhana #MetroTV pic.twitter.com/EMgqfzrE2L
— Metro TV Ghana (@metrotvgh) January 9, 2025
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Dr. Gideon Boako (R) and Dr. Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, former aides of Dr. Bawumia are now MPs
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia may have lost the 2024 presidential election, but his influence will still be felt in the governance process of the country for the next four years.
While Dr. Bawumia did not succeed in his bid for the presidency, some of his close associates, whom he mentored, emerged victorious in the 2024 parliamentary elections.
These associates, who gained prominence through their work with the vice president, are now members of the 9th Parliament of Ghana.
They will play a crucial role in drafting laws for the country and providing oversight of the John Dramani Mahama government in accordance with the 1992 Constitution.
The proteges of the former vice president, Dr. Gideon Boako and Dr. Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, though relatively new to Ghana’s political scene, are tasked with shaping the country’s legislation.
Here are brief profiles of the two men:
Dr. Gideon Boako:
Dr. Gideon Boako represents the Tano North constituency in the Ahafo Region.
He is a financial economist with extensive experience in academia, public policy formulation, and consulting for both governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Dr. Boako was a member of Ghana’s Economic Management Team under the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration.
He served as a technical advisor at the Office of the President and was the spokesperson for Dr. Mahamudu. Additionally, he served on the boards of the State Insurance Corporation (SIC) Financial Services LTD and the Danquah Institute (DI).
He also acted as a spokesperson for the NPP campaign team during the 2024 election.
Before entering politics, Dr. Gideon taught finance and economics at institutions such as the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the University of the Witwatersrand, and the Garden City University College.
He is a Research Fellow at the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) and holds Research Associate/Fellowship positions at various institutions globally.
Dr. Boako has consulted for organisations such as the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the International Institute for Social Studies (ISS) in The Hague, among others.
He holds a Ph.D. in Finance, as well as master’s degrees in Finance and Business Administration
.
Dr. Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama
Dr. Abdul-Kabiru Tiah Mahama represents the Walewale constituency in the North East Region.
He is a chartered economist and development economist with expertise in welfare, livelihood, and economic policy analysis.
Dr. Tiah Mahama holds an MPhil in Development Studies and a PhD in Development Studies.
Prior to his political career, he held various positions in project management and served as the National President of the Ghana National Service Scheme.
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Kwame Nkrumah received a citation at Pennsylvania University
Former Ghanaian President Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah obtained numerous degrees from various universities in the United States, revealing uncommon personal details.
According to the Pennsylvania Archives and Records Center, Nkrumah’s real name, as captured in his academic records, was Francis Nwia-Kofi Nkrumah .
His country of origin was listed as British West Africa Gold Coast, and he had transferred from another US university to continue his education
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At the University of Pennsylvania, Nkrumah was admitted to the Graduate School of Education in 1941.
He then pursued a new course, earning a university scholarship to study for a Master’s degree in Philosophy in 1943.
In 1944, he successfully passed his preliminary examination for a doctorate and worked as an instructor-informant for Zelig Harris in the African Studies graduate group for a while.
Afterward, he left the United States to study in the United Kingdom for further studies before returning to Ghana in 1947 to commence his political journey.
Through Nkrumah’s diligence and perseverance, his Pan-African movement advocating for independence yielded positive results, leading the nation to gain independence in 1957.
His contributions earned him selection as the Prime Minister of the Gold Coast in 1960.
See images of Nkrumah’s transcript and student visa below:
Watch the full swearing-in ceremony of John Dramani Mahama as President
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The National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service—Christian Worship and Celebration—is being held today, Sunday, January 7, 2024, in honor of President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang.
This event, which is part of the activities marking the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, is taking place at the auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
The Islamic version of the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service was held on Friday, January 10, 2025.
Watch a livestream of the event below:
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Ghana’s President John Mahama has scrapped seven government ministries as part of a cost-saving measure under the International Monetary Fund’s austerity program, the president said in an e-mailed statement.
The new government will work with 23 ministries instead of the original 30 to fulfill a pledge for a leaner and more effective administration. The country sought a $3 billion bailout from the Washington-based lender in 2022 because it couldn’t keep up with debt payments.
The Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin
The Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, openly acknowledged his affiliation with the Freemason fraternity during the opening ceremony of the induction and orientation programme for members of the 9th Parliament of the 4th Republic of Ghana on Saturday, January 11, 2024.
Afenyo-Markin, who has faced criticism in the past for discussing his membership in both the Freemasons and the Catholic Church, shared insights from the fraternity’s rule book to guide the Members of Parliament.
He began his address with a quote from the rules that stated, “The second-degree working tools of the Freemason’s rule book provide: ‘We have all sprung from the same stock, partakers of the same nature, and sharers in the same hope. And although distinctions amongst men are necessary to preserve subordination, yet ought no eminence of situation make you feel superior over the other.”
“‘For he who is placed at the lowest ebb of fortune’s wheel is equally entitled to our regard. As the time will come, the wisest of men knows not how soon, when all distinctions, save those of goodness and virtue, shall cease, and death, the grand leveller of all human greatness, shall reduce us to the same state,'” he said.
Afenyo-Markin who is the Member of Parliament for Effutu, then warmly welcomed the new members of the 9th Parliament and encouraged them to approach the induction and orientation process with seriousness.
He emphasised that the programme would provide valuable insights into the workings of the House, particularly for new MPs, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to the legislative process.
Additionally, he urged new members of the House to draw inspiration from the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who began his legislative journey as a backbencher and has now ascended to the position of Speaker.
Watch his remarks in the videos below:
When the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, quoted from the Freemasons’ book during the Induction and Orientation Programme for Members of the Ninth Parliament (Cohort 1), held on Saturday, 11th January 2025.#GraphicOnline pic.twitter.com/2kMyiWOhBA
— DailyGraphic GraphicOnline (@Graphicgh) January 12, 2025
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Some key dates in Ghana’s history:
12th Century – Various states established by the Akan people emerge and develop the gold trade.
1482 – Portuguese and later other European states set up posts to trade gold with the Akan states.
1500s – Transporting slaves overtakes gold as the main export in the region.
1600s – Dutch, English, Danish, and Swedish settlers arrive; slave trade becomes highly organised.
1642 – The Portuguese relinquish their territory to the Dutch and leave the Gold Coast.
1701 – Asante king Osei Tutu oversees a massive territorial expansion, backed by a disciplined royal and paramilitary army. The Asante or Ashanti Kingdom dominates the area for the next two centuries.
1807 – British ban on slave trade becomes effective.
19th Century – Sees a series of power struggles between Britain and Ashanti Kingdom for control of the area.
1821 – British Gold Coast colony established, after UK takes over the interests of other European countries. Britain steadily expands its colony through the invasion and subjection of local kingdoms.
1822-24 – First Anglo-Ashanti War.
1850 – Britain purchases and incorporates the Danish Gold Coast into its colony.
1872 – Britain acquires the Dutch Gold Coast.
1873-74 – Second Ashanti War; British sack the Ashanti capital Kumasi.
1893-94 – Third Ashanti War.
1895-96 – Fourth Ashanti War.
1900 – Ashanti Uprising. British forces capture Kumasi. Ashanti lose their independence.
1901 – British Gold Coast colony incorporates all the kingdoms and tribes into a single unit.
1948 – Rioting after British colonial police kill three World War Two veterans during a protest march demanding compensation for their war service. It becomes a milestone in Ghana’s struggle for independence.
1957 – Independence for the state now called Ghana, this unifies the Gold Coast, Ashanti, the Northern Territories, and British Togoland as one single country.
Ghana is the first country in black sub-Saharan Africa to shake off colonial rule, inspiring liberation struggles around the continent. Kwame Nkrumah becomes prime minister.
1964 – Nkrumah represses political opposition; Ghana becomes a one-party state, with Nkrumah as president for life.
1960s – Nkrumah promotes the concept of Pan-Africanism, which merges the teachings of Jamaican politician Marcus Garvey’s “Back to Africa” movement, the US’s Martin Luther King and Ghana’s WEB Du Bois, and plays a key role in founding of the Non-Aligned Movement,
1966 – Army overthrows Nkrumah and establishes military rule. A series of alternating military and civilian governments, affected by economic instabilities rule Ghana from 1966 to 1981.
1981 – Flt Lt Jerry Rawlings takes power. In the mid-80s he oversees economic and gradual political reforms.
1992 – New constitution, multi-party politics is restored.
1994-95 – Interethnic fighting in northern Ghana sees 1,000-2,000 people killed
2007 – Major off-shore oil discovery announced.
2010 – Offshore oil production starts.
2017 – Ghana and Ivory Coast set up a commission to implement an international ruling on a maritime border dispute involving oilfields.
