The Ghana Scholarships Secretariat has announced that the government has made available $1 million to help settle outstanding arrears owed to authorities at the University of Memphis in the United States, amid fears of looming scholarship revocations, evictions, and possible deportations of Ghanaian students.

At a press conference held in Accra on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the Registrar of the Secretariat, Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, assured the public that steps are being taken to prevent any negative fallout.

“We are on course with the issues regarding the Ghanaian students at the University of Memphis. Ghanaian students will not be deported, I give you that assurance,” he said.

According to him, the government has already made a partial payment of $400,000 to the university and is preparing to transfer an additional $1 million.

The remaining debt stands at approximately $2.2 million.

“Because the audit is ongoing, we are not paying all. We owe them $3.6 million in total, and we have paid $400,000 so far. We are now processing a $1 million payment.

“The money is currently with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department, and it will move from there to the Bank of Ghana, then to Washington for the final transfer,” Asafo-Agyei explained.

Ghanaian students in Memphis face eviction, appeal to Mahama for help

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has granted royal pardons to 19,673 individuals to mark the 26th anniversary of his accession to the throne, celebrated as Throne Day.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Justice, 2,415 people received standard pardons, while an additional 17,258 convicts benefited from exceptional clemency measures.

Of those granted standard pardons, 2,239 are currently in detention. This includes 16 inmates who received full pardons for their remaining prison terms, 2,218 who had their sentences reduced, and five whose life sentences were commuted to fixed terms.

An additional 176 individuals who are not in custody were also pardoned. Among them, 40 received full pardons or had their remaining sentences cancelled, 12 had prison terms waived but were still required to pay fines, and 111 were pardoned from fines only.

A further 12 individuals had both prison sentences and fines forgiven, while one person received a pardon for both a fine and the remainder of their prison term.

The exceptional clemency initiative applied broader humanitarian criteria to extend relief to a larger group of convicts.

It included 114 prisoners whose life sentences were reduced to fixed terms and 23 inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment.

This year’s Throne Day is notable for the scale, symbolism, and humanistic spirit of the royal pardons, underscoring King Mohammed VI’s continued commitment to reform and compassion.

The initiative also seeks to address prison overcrowding, improve incarceration conditions, maintain security within penitentiary institutions, and promote the social reintegration of inmates.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana

Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), has allayed fears of businesses and investors of shortage of Dollars for their daily transactions following recent concerns.

While indicating that the Central Bank has observed some reduction in remittances since April 2025, the Governor noted that for instances where investigations were carried out, it was observed that there was no appropriate documentation by some importers.

He said this at the 125th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) press briefing in Accra, on Wednesday, July 20.

“We do not expect a shortage of Dollars at the bank. There have been instances like that, and we moved in to investigate, only to find out that some of those importers did not have the appropriate documentation and that was what was delaying it,” the Governor said.

“What we’ve seen is that certain inflows appear to have reduced, especially remittances since April – we’re investigating that thoroughly,” the Central Bank Chief said, indicating that they were enhancing monitoring mechanisms to shore up foreign exchange inflows.

He stated that Tuesday, July 29, BoG released a notice to banks, Payment and Remittance Service Providers (PRSPs), and Money Transfer Operators (MTOs) to ensure foreign exchange properly entered the Ghanaian financial system.

He said that the Bank was following up with certain data requirements from all the players in the remittance space, which would increase inflows, and gave an assurance, saying, “… and whatever pressures you might be seeing locally will be contained.”

He also announced a stricter oversight of banks’ nostro accounts [foreign currency accounts held abroad that banks use to finance international trade] to prevent unauthorised capital flight and make Ghana’s foreign exchange earnings remain within the domestic financial system.

“From now on, we will be monitoring transactions in the nostro balances of banks, all in an attempt to make sure that we don’t have offshoring going on and that all Ghana foreign exchange that’s earned from abroad is made available to the system to fund our imports and economic activities,” Governor Asiama stated.

The Governor explained that contrary to the concerns of a seeming shortage of Dollars at banks, businesses are rather financed through nostro accounts rather than requiring physical dollar deposits from importers to facilitate trade payments.

“Banks finance trade using their nostro account – it is out of it that they pay for imports – you don’t have to carry US Dollars in Accra to pay for your imports, banks are expected to fund that for you,” he stated.

The enhanced monitoring measures, he said were expected to further stabilise the Cedi, which has appreciated by 40.7 per cent against the Dollar, 31.2 per cent against the Pound Sterling, and 24.2 per cent against the Euro.

This morning, well connected Chelsea reporter Ben Jacobs wrote that the Blues were 24 to 48 hours away from sealing a deal for Jorrel Hato.

Well, it’s taken even less time than that – Fabrizio Romano has swooped in with a late night “here we go,” meaning the deal is done and just needs to be announced.

Romano insists that the personal terms were already agreed “ten days ago,” and that they cover a contract until June 2032 with an option for another year. It’s assumed this is a unilateral club option.

Chelsea move fast to secure their top option

The deal has really gone rather smoothly. The personal terms were sorted almost instantly, and even this negotiation over his price only seemed to take a week or so. Ajax wanted €50m, we wanted to pay €40m – in the end, as always, you meet somewhere in the middle with bonuses and add-ons being the real variables in the equation.

It’s more impressive work from the transfer team, who have ticked off another position where depth and upgrades were needed.

Hato ready, willing and able to be a Veiga upgrade

It’s going to be really interesting to see how Hato fits in at Chelsea. A year ago we were signing Renato Veiga, unsure how he would be used. As it turned out, despite his centre back pedigree (which is ultimately what has led him to want to leave to play more in that position) the club saw him as a perfect left sided defender option – a full back, but only in a system like the one Chelsea are using under Enzo Maresca.

Hato can play the same role, and take the same position in the squad – he just appears to be an upgrade on Veiga in terms of his ceiling.

More Stories about Jorrel Hato

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has dismissed reports alleging the cancellation of a $1.2 billion bauxite lease awarded to Rocksure International in favour of foreign partners, calling the claims false, baseless, and misleading.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 30, the Ministry clarified that there was never a valid lease with Rocksure International to begin with.

It explained that although the company was associated with a proposed bauxite agreement, the lease was never ratified by Ghana’s 8th Parliament before its dissolution in January 2025.

Referencing a 2019 Supreme Court ruling, the Ministry stressed that any mining lease not ratified by Parliament is legally void. “

A cancellation cannot exist where there was no valid lease,” the statement emphasised.

The Ministry also rubbished the $1.2 billion valuation of the bauxite deposit that has been widely circulated, describing it as “unsubstantiated and grossly misleading.”

According to the statement, no official valuation has confirmed that figure, suggesting the claim is a deliberate distortion meant to stir public discontent.

Further clarifying the facts, the Ministry outlined the mandate of the Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC), which was established by law to lead the development of Ghana’s bauxite resources.

GIADEC is tasked with bringing in strategic investors and managing projects like the Western Railway Network, Takoradi Port Expansion, an alumina refinery, an aluminium smelter, and the retrofitting of VALCO for improved efficiency.

The Ministry concluded by reaffirming that all partnerships being explored are aligned with GIADEC’s legal mandate and Ghana’s broader vision to build an integrated aluminium industry.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Ministry of Food and Agriculture

The Ministry of Food and Agriculture has warned the public against a fraudulent online scheme targeting Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SME) agri-businesses with a fake grant registration.

In a statement issued on Tuesday July 29, 2025, the Ministry said the publication, circulating on social media, aimed to deceive unsuspecting individuals and businesses and should be ignored.

“The publications seek to lobby SMEs to register with an entity known as Global Farmers Association (GFA) located at Nairobi, Kenya to obtain a certificate of accreditation under a non-existing Agricultural SMEs Grant Initiative 2025,” the statement read.

“The Website, email address and contacts provided by the publications have no connection whatsoever with this Ministry.

“By this statement, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture wishes to inform the general public that the said SMEs grant initiative 2025 is fake and fraudulent,” the statement said.

The Ministry cautioned against any business dealings with entities claiming to offer the purported grant and reaffirmed its role as the lead agency responsible for agricultural policy and strategy.

Meanwhile, the Ministry recently received 2,000 metric tons of fertiliser from the Kingdom of Morocco to support national agricultural productivity.

John Dumelo, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, speaking on behalf of the sector Minister, Eric Opoku, described the donation as a “timely and strategic intervention.”

“This donation is not just a consignment of fertilizer; it is a profound symbol of the strong and enduring relationship between our two nations,” he stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to agricultural transformation.

Dampare was seen with the newly installed Odau Twafohene at the commissioning of the bridge

Former Inspector-General of Police Dr George Akuffo Dampare, who has been out of the public view since leaving office, was last Sunday July 27, 2025, seen with the newly installed Odau Twafohene Baffour Osei Afrifa during the commissioning of a bridge.

The bridge was donated to the people of Juaso, in the Asante Akyem District of the Ashanti Region, by the subchief.

The charismatic and popular former Police Chief was seen beaming with smiles while exchanging pleasantries with members of the Juaso community who rushed in turns to take photographs with him.

The bridge which was donated by Baffour Osei Afrifa is a major transit point for many schoolchildren and some residents in some parts of the Juaso community.

Dr Dampare received thunderous applause from the congregation of the Juaso St Andrew Roman Church when he was introduced.

He was again given a standing ovation when HRH Baffour Osei Afrifa thanked him for his support.

“I am especially grateful to my older brother and friend, IGP George Akuffo Dampare for his continuous support and immense encouragement in bringing this project to life” Baffour Afrifa said with rapturous applause.

The donation forms part of the broader effort by the Odau Twafohene to develop the Juaso community where he hails from.

Last year, he donated an 8-unit classroom fully installed with air conditioning and state of the art technology to enable smart teaching and learning for the St Andrew Roman Primary School in Juaso.

Meanwhile, watch as Prophet Worlasi shares bombshell prophesies on Bawumia and NPP on The Lowdown:

Nurses in Nigeria’s public hospitals began a seven-day “warning” strike on Wednesday, demanding improved remuneration, better working conditions and increased recruitment, after a two-week ultimatum to the government expired without resolution.

The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) warned that if their demands are not met by next week, the union will embark on an indefinite strike, the first in over two decades.

“We hope that before the seventh day, we’ll have attention and a positive response from the federal government,” said Christianah Adeboboye, head of the nurses’ and midwives’ union in Lagos.

A meeting on Tuesday between the union and a government delegation led by Labour Minister Muhammad Dingyadi ended in a stalemate.

“When you look at the composition of the meeting, it already shows that no outcome could have been gotten out of that meeting,” said Toba Odumosu, union secretary in Lagos, citing the absence of Health Minister Ali Pate as a critical gap.

The impasse highlights the growing divide between healthcare workers and the government, leaving patients vulnerable as hospitals prepare for further disruptions.

The union is advocating for the recruitment of more nurses, citing a sharp decline in personnel, as over 42,000 nurses have left Nigeria for jobs abroad in the past three years, according to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

President John Dramani Mahama

The Buipe Inland Port in the Savannah Region will soon be fully operationalized and integrated into the national transportation strategy, President John Dramani Mahama, has announced.

This, the President said would go a long way to enhance logistics and position the Savannah Region as a gateway to the Sahel, boosting regional trade and reducing transport costs.

The President made a disclosure during a courtesy call on him by the Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, the Overlord of Gonjaland at the Presidency in Accra.

The Yagbonwura’s historic visit to the Presidency was to congratulate President Mahama on his re-election in the December 7, 2024, general elections.

President Mahama together with Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang received the Yagbonwura and his entourage of Paramount Chiefs at the forecourt of the Presidency.

The President said the Savannah region, together with the other newly created regions, would benefit from sports stadia for the development of youthful sporting talents.

“Indeed, we’ve asked them to start looking for the land for the Savannah Regional Sports Stadium. It will have all the facilities,” the President said.

“A region youth employment plan, region-specific youth employment plan, is going to be launched aligned with the national 24-Hour Economy.”

President Mahama said skills training centres would be established in Savannah and youth cooperatives would be supported to engage in agribusiness.

He said the Government would extend rural electrification and solar energy solutions to deprive communities such as Kodjokura, Kpalbe, and Wasipe, all in the Savannah region.

“No child should study in darkness and no clinic should operate without power,” he said.

“These are not just promises, they are policy commitments grounded in the express needs of our people and supported by practical development framework.”

The President reiterated that none of these aspirations could be achieved without the active partnership of traditional authorities.

“I’ve always maintained that Ghana’s progress is most suitable when it includes our chiefs and our people, our elders, and community leaders.

“We will not leave you out as spectators, but as co-architects,” he said.

Dampare was seen with the newly installed Odau Twafohene at the commissioning of the bridge

Former Inspector-General of Police Dr George Akuffo Dampare, who has been out of the public view since leaving office, was last Sunday July 27, 2025, seen with the newly installed Odau Twafohene Baffour Osei Afrifa during the commissioning of a bridge.

The bridge was donated to the people of Juaso, in the Asante Akyem District of the Ashanti Region, by the subchief.

The charismatic and popular former Police Chief was seen beaming with smiles while exchanging pleasantries with members of the Juaso community who rushed in turns to take photographs with him.

The bridge which was donated by Baffour Osei Afrifa is a major transit point for many schoolchildren and some residents in some parts of the Juaso community.

Dr Dampare received thunderous applause from the congregation of the Juaso St Andrew Roman Church when he was introduced.

He was again given a standing ovation when HRH Baffour Osei Afrifa thanked him for his support.

“I am especially grateful to my older brother and friend, IGP George Akuffo Dampare for his continuous support and immense encouragement in bringing this project to life” Baffour Afrifa said with rapturous applause.

The donation forms part of the broader effort by the Odau Twafohene to develop the Juaso community where he hails from.

Last year, he donated an 8-unit classroom fully installed with air conditioning and state of the art technology to enable smart teaching and learning for the St Andrew Roman Primary School in Juaso.

Meanwhile, watch as Prophet Worlasi shares bombshell prophesies on Bawumia and NPP on The Lowdown:

John Setor Dumelo, the Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture

John Setor Dumelo, the Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, has urged graduates of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) to utilise their talents to shape the present and future of Ghana’s development.

He said the country’s emerging human resource stood at a critical intersection, not merely inheriting Ghana’s legacy, but serving as the bridge between its current status and future growth.

Dumelo, also the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayawaso West Wuogon, and an alumnus of GIMPA, made the call in Accra at the July session of the 25th Congregation of the Institute as the Guest Speaker.

Speaking on the theme: “From Heritage to Creative Futures: Inspiring Development through Artistic Education and Enterprise,” he charged the graduates to apply their training to enhance development, whether their future lay in public governance, law, technology, or the creative economy.

“I know first-hand the power of a GIMPA education, not only in shaping capable professionals but also in cultivating visionary thinkers who can bridge policy and practice, theory and innovation, tradition and transformation,” Dumelo said.

He envisioned a Ghana where fashion designers would become global ambassadors of Ghanaian culture, exporting not just garments, but stories woven in kente and dyed in tradition.

“…and a future where the creative economy is not just a sideshow but a pillar of national development,” he said.

Dumelo called for a Ghana where digital artists, filmmakers, and musicians owned their intellectual property, had access to funding, and were protected by a robust legal framework shaped by the country’s emerging legal minds.

“Let’s build a Ghana where government policy actively invests in artistic education as a tool for national identity, youth employment, tourism growth, and international recognition,” he said.

The Deputy Minister, drawing from his experience in the entertainment industry, said Ghana lacked not talent, but systems, support, and structural training.

He urged the graduates to step boldly into the creative frontier and called on GIMPA to continue leading not only in governance and business but also in artistic innovation and creative enterprise.

Professor Yaw Agyeman Badu, Chair of the GIMPA Governing Council, said Ghana’s cultural heritage, especially in the performing arts and creative industries, was an invaluable national asset.

He said it would take deliberate investment and academic engagement to transform that heritage into sustainable economic and social enterprise.

“Whether we operate within the artistic realm or beyond, the message remains clear — our heritage informs our attention, and education fuels innovation,” Prof Badu said.

“That legacy is a call to action, not just for creatives, but for scholars, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to unite in shaping a prosperous, inclusive Ghana.”

Degrees conferred during the ceremony included Bachelor of Science and master’s degrees from the GIMPA Business School, Bachelor of Laws (LLB), and LLM in Dispute Resolution, Law and Practice, and Criminal Law and Justice from the GIMPA Law School.

Other graduates received Bachelor of Science, Executive Masters, Master’s, and MPhil degrees from the School of Public Service and Governance and the School of Technology and Social Sciences.

Some officers of the Ghana Armed Forces

In a decisive move to curb escalating violence and insecurity in Bawku, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have deployed 400 additional troops to the area under the ongoing security initiative, Operation Maidabuuri II.

The reinforcements, drawn from the Northern, Southern, and Central Commands, were officially dispatched on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

The deployment underscores the government’s renewed commitment to restoring law and order in the conflict-affected municipality.

Bawku has been plagued by periodic violence fueled by entrenched ethnic tensions and criminal activity.

Operation Maidabuuri II, already operational in the region, seeks to stabilise the situation by enhancing military presence, bolstering intelligence-gathering, and fostering collaboration with local communities.

During a briefing ahead of the deployment, the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, urged the troops to uphold discipline, professionalism, and integrity in the execution of their duties.

“You are representing not just the Ghana Armed Forces but the entire nation,” he stated.

“There will be rigorous monitoring to ensure high operational standards are maintained and the mission is not compromised.”

The GAF has reiterated that the operation will go beyond military enforcement to include community engagement and trust-building, which are seen as essential components in achieving lasting peace in Bawku.

According to the police, they may soon apprehend the culprits based on the intelligence they have.

The Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Police, DSP Godwin Ahianyo, has disclosed that police intelligence gathered so far indicates the shooter who assassinated the Kusasi Chief of the Ashanti Region is believed to be the same individual responsible for the killing of another person.

Speaking on JoyNews on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, DSP Ahianyo said that although no arrests have been made yet, they may soon apprehend the culprits based on the intelligence they have.

He also said that the security situation in Asawase has been strengthened to ensure people’s safety.

“So far, I must say that we have not made any arrest in respect of the unfortunate shooting incident that happened a couple of days ago in the Asawase area. But I must say security is very tense and our men are on the ground ensuring that there is absolute peace and safety within the Asawase community,” he said.

DSP Ahianyo continued, “Our intel tells us that the individual that shot the chief on Wednesday is the same person who perpetrated the same crime on Friday, so we are on the heels of that individual and gathering our intel.

“I’m sure that pretty soon, we will be able to get those perpetrators and bring them to justice. Per our analysis we’ve done so far and what we have gathered, we suspect that it’s one particular person who actually shot those two victims.”

DSP Ahianyo acknowledged that the arrest of the perpetrators may take time but assured the public of the police’s readiness and commitment to apprehending the suspects and bringing them to justice.

“Our PID men are on the ground picking intel. Crimes, when they are committed, it takes a matter of time to be able to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. I can assure the good people of Kumasi and Asawase and its enclave that our men are working assiduously to be able to get these persons who perpetrated these heinous crimes,” he assured.

On July 22, 2025, the Kusasi Chief of the Ashanti Region and Chief of the Kadi Divisional Area in Binduri, Abdul-Malik Azenbe, was shot and killed by unidentified gunmen.

According to eyewitnesses, two men arrived on a motorbike at the chief’s residence near the Asawase F-Line Community Centre at about 8:40 p.m.

One of the assailants, armed with an AK-47 rifle, reportedly opened fire on the chief before both men fled the scene.

On Friday, July 25, 2025, another man was shot dead by two unknown assailants on a motorbike at Asawase. He is reported to have been shot twice killing him instantly.

MAG/MA

Meanwhile, watch as Prophet Worlasi shares bombshell prophesies on Bawumia and NPP on The Lowdown:

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has launched investigations into the conduct of some of its personnel following an incident of assault on a JoyNews team and an eyewitness during the demolition of a facility around Spintex in Accra on July 30.

In a statement issued by the Department of Public Relations at its General Headquarters in Burma Camp, the Armed Forces said the probe was initiated in line with a directive from the Presidency.

According to the GAF, the investigation seeks to address what it described as the “inappropriate conduct” of certain soldiers during an encounter with members of the media.

“The Ghana Armed Forces wishes to assure the general public that the investigations will be thorough and those found culpable will be dealt with accordingly,” the statement read.

The GAF reiterated its commitment to professionalism, noting that it is doing everything possible to maintain its high standards of conduct.

Background

Armed military officers on Wednesday, July 30, obstructed JoyNews reporter Carlos Carlony from covering a demolition exercise at Spintex in Accra and physically assaulted a civilian who was speaking to the journalist at the scene.

At the time of filing this report, Mr Carlony had been taken into custody by operatives from the National Security, and his mobile phone confiscated.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News after his release, Mr Carlony narrated that the incident started while he was interviewing an eyewitness at the scene.

“We got there before the military arrived and I was speaking to an eyewitness who had witnessed the demolition. From nowhere, we heard sirens coming, and the military just stormed the place and interrupted me during the interview,” he recalled.

He explained that the soldiers questioned why he and his crew were filming. Carlos said he calmly informed them that they were journalists there to report the story.

“I told them we were journalists just telling the story. Beyond that, I tried to speak to the head of the team to let him understand that we were on the grounds to report,” he said.

Mr Carlony recounted that just as he was preparing to go on air and speaking with his producer, one of the soldiers approached him from behind.

“Around that time, we were to go on air, so I was speaking to my producer. And in the process of talking to my producer, another military man from behind said it seemed I was filming and so he punched me from behind, two direct blows to my neck,” he stated.

“At that point, I lost control and almost fell down.”

According to him, after the assault, the soldiers informed him that he was being taken away. He was forced into a vehicle along with the Group CEO of McDan and three others and driven to the National Security Headquarters.

“After all these things happened, they now said I would be arrested, and they pushed me into the vehicle together with the Group CEO of McDan and three others to the National Security Head Office,” he explained.

“They kept us there for about 45 minutes. They came in, monitored the room, and asked me questions. I told them I was from JoyNews. At this point, they had taken our phones and went through them.”

He added that he was asked to write a statement, but he insisted on hearing from his boss first.

“They asked me to write a statement, and I told them I had to hear from my bosses before we take it from there,” he said.

“Briefly, that was what happened. There was no confrontation at all. We were actually filming when they came in and assaulted me.”

Read the full statement below

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

A screenshot from a video of the incident

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has commenced investigations into the reported assault of a civilian and the attempted arrest of a JoyNews journalist, Carlos Calony, by uniformed soldiers at a demolition site near Spintex, Accra.

The Department of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces confirmed that it has begun internal investigations into the conduct of the soldiers involved in the incident.

“In line with the directive from the Presidency, the Ghana Armed Forces wishes to inform the general public that investigations have begun into the inappropriate conduct of some soldiers during an encounter with journalists around Spintex in Accra today,” the statement noted.

Signed by Captain VA Arhin of the Ghana Navy, the release assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and those found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action.

“The Armed Forces remain professional and will do everything possible to maintain their known high standards,” it added.

Meanwhile, the Presidency, through a statement signed by the Minister of Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has condemned the incident.

The statement described the attempted arrest of the journalist and the assault on the eyewitness as “utterly unacceptable” and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to media freedom.

“I am directed by President John Dramani Mahama to unequivocally reaffirm his unwavering commitment to the freedom and safety of journalists,” the statement read.

“A free and unfettered press is a cornerstone of our democracy, essential for accountability, transparency, and informed public discourse.”

President Mahama has instructed the Minister of Defence and the National Security Coordinator to investigate the matter and ensure that those responsible are disciplined accordingly.

The Presidency emphasised that appropriate punitive measures must be implemented swiftly to uphold democratic principles and prevent future misconduct.

The incident occurred when Calony was covering the demolition of a warehouse reportedly owned by prominent businessman, Dr Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan.

Armed individuals believed to be operatives of the National Security stormed the location and confronted the journalist, questioning his presence and his right to report from the site.

The situation escalated when Calony began interviewing a civilian eyewitness. A soldier in military uniform began whipping the civilian, with several other uniformed men joining in the assault.

The journalist and his cameraman were ordered to stop recording the incident. Despite his protests and insistence on his right to report, Calony was reportedly detained and taken to the National Security’s Blue Gate facility in Accra.

The cameraman, who narrated the incident to JoyNews, said the officers accused Calony of filming them without permission.

“They have taken Carlos because they said they suspect he filmed them when they came. So, they seized his phone and took him to National Security,” he said.

AM/SEA

GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey

Former US presidential candidate Kamala Harris says she will not run for governor of California.

Following her unsuccessful 2024 presidential bid, reports suggested Harris was weighing entering next year’s election to lead her home state of California, where she had served as a US senator and worked as a prosecutor.

“After deep reflection,” the former vice-president, a Democrat, said in a statement on social media, “I’ve decided that I will not run for Governor in this election.”

“For now, my leadership – and public service – will not be in elected office,” she added, saying she would share “more details in the months ahead about my own plans.”

Her decision leaves the door open for her to mount another try for the White House in 2028, while also removing a possible frontrunner from the race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, a fellow Democrat understood to have his own presidential ambitions.

In her statement, Harris appeared to address worries within her own party about its direction and future after she lost November’s election to President Donald Trump.

“As we look ahead, we must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking—committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook,” she posted.

Primaries for California’s next governor are set to take place in June 2026, before the general election in November. Newsom is completing his second and final term and the new governor will take office in 2027.

Democrats dominate the state’s political leadership, and whoever wins the party’s nomination will be expected to then take the governorship. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the last Republican to serve as governor, left office in 2011.

An economic powerhouse of America, California would be the world’s 5th largest economy if it were a country. It’s also home to the Silicon Valley, where companies like Apple and Meta are based, giving its governor, as well as its regulations and laws, influence at the national level.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Ghana’s public debt declined to 43.8% of GDP by June 2025, down from 55% in March, according to the Bank of Ghana’s latest economic data.

The improvement reflects accelerated progress under President John Mahama’s debt restructuring strategy, exceeding the government’s 2028 target of sub-55% ahead of schedule.

While external debt rose to $59.4 billion (from $49.5 billion in March), domestic debt fell sharply to 312.7 billion cedis (from 326.9 billion cedis).

The divergence stems from the cedi’s 40.7% cumulative appreciation against major currencies this year, reducing local-currency liability burdens.

External debt restructuring 90% completed since Ghana entered an IMF-backed exchange program in December 2022 contributed significantly to the fiscal recalibration.

Finance Ministry records confirm the restructuring aimed to stabilize macroeconomic indicators under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.

The central bank’s data precedes Wednesday’s monetary policy briefing, where further details on inflation and growth targets are anticipated.

Head of Missions at the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, Dr. John Apea, has called for a re-examination of the evidence in the case involving William Ato Essien, founder of the defunct Capital Bank.

His comments follow the Court of Appeal’s decision on Wednesday, July 30, to grant Ato Essien bail of GH¢10 million with two sureties, pending the outcome of his appeal. Essien is currently serving a 15-year prison sentence for the misappropriation of over GH¢90 million in public funds.

As part of his bail conditions, he is required to surrender his passport to the court registry and report monthly to the Registrar of the Court.

Essien was convicted by the Accra High Court in 2023 after he failed to honour a restitution agreement in which he committed to repaying GH¢90 million to the state in order to avoid a custodial sentence.

Speaking on Channel One Newsroom, Dr. Apea, a vocal advocate for Essien’s release, welcomed the court’s ruling as a step in the right direction.

He emphasised that support for Essien’s bail and calls to revisit the case are based on principles of fairness and concerns about his health, rather than his former financial standing.

“Ato Essien is an ordinary Ghanaian just like everybody else, and that is why I find it very disheartening when people are saying the rich get away with issues. He is an ordinary Ghanaian. He is someone who has been able to build himself up,” he said.

Dr. Apea also cited Essien’s deteriorating health as a key factor justifying the bail.

“This bail will allow him to access better medical care, which is a fundamental human right,” he stated.

Ato Essien granted GHS10m bail pending appeal

Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Canada plans to recognise a Palestinian state in September, becoming the third G7 nation to make such an announcement in recent days.

Carney said such a move would depend on democratic reforms, including the Palestinian Authority holding elections next year without Hamas.

His remarks come a day after the UK announced it would recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire and other conditions and a week after France made a similar announcement.

Most countries – nearly 150 of the UN’s 193 member states – formally recognise a Palestinian state.

Carney cited the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, and the 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel by Hamas as reasons behind Canada’s dramatic shift in foreign policy.

He told Wednesday’s news conference: “The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable and it is rapidly deteriorating.”

He said a recognition of Palestinian statehood would hinge on commitments by the Palestinian Authority to fundamentally reform its governance, to hold general elections in 2026 without Hamas and to demilitarise the territory.

He added that Canada had long been committed to a two-state solution as part of a negotiated peace process, but said that “this approach is no longer tenable”.

“The prospect of a Palestinian state is being eroded before our eyes,” he said.

Carney added that he had spoken with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas earlier on Wednesday about the announcement.

The prime minister has been under pressure in recent days to address Palestinian statehood, after the UK and France – close allies of Canada – came out with their own statements on the issue.

Nearly 200 former Canadian ambassadors and diplomats signed a letter on Tuesday calling on Carney to recognise a Palestinian state.

The letter, shared with Canadian media outlets on Wednesday, said Israel’s actions in the West Bank and Gaza violated Canada’s interests and values.

Canada’s principles, it said, “are being abandoned daily with the massive displacement, indiscriminate bombardment and starvation of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and the violent attacks by extremist settlers in the West Bank”.

Recognition of a Palestinian state, the letter said, “will not only reinforce our long-standing commitment to the self-determination of the Palestinian people but also our total rejection of any effort to displace or expel Palestinians”.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Ajax centre-back Jorrel Hato.

Sky Sports News understands Chelsea will pay an initial fee of £35.5m, plus add-ons, for the 19-year-old.

Ajax had originally valued the player at around £52m.

Hato is due to arrive in London in the coming days to undergo a medical and finalise the paperwork on a long-term contract.

He was not included in Ajax’s squad for the Como Cup final on Sunday as he did not want to risk injury ahead of his move to Stamford Bridge.

The defender fits into Chelsea’s strategy of signing young developing players on low base wages on heavily incentivised contracts.

The club have been keen to sign Hato as he can also provide cover to Marc Cucurella at left-back, who played nearly 70 games last season for Chelsea and Spain.

Hato would mark the seventh new signing in the summer transfer window for Enzo Maresca, following the arrivals of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian, Dario Essugo and Mamadou Sarr.

Can Hato succeed in the Premier League?

Sky Sports’ Patrick Rowe:

Despite only being 19 years of age, the jump into the Premier League will not faze Jorrel Hato.

Still a teenager, he has played over 100 times for Ajax, captained the club at just 17 and played six times for the Netherlands.

Whenever he is tasked with stepping up, he not only delivers, he excels.

Hato is capable of playing at both centre back or left back, adding valuable competition and depth to Chelsea’s backline, who are facing a quick turnaround before the 2025/26 season begins following their Club World Cup triumph.

However, this isn’t a signing just to make up the numbers. Chelsea fans should be excited by the player they are securing. His rise has already been astronomical – but he is just getting started.

Sunderland in talks to sign Chelsea’s Guiu

Latest from Sky Sports’ Keith Downie and Kaveh Solhekol:

Sunderland are in talks with Chelsea to sign Marc Guiu.

The 19-year-old is available on loan and Sunderland have made an approach to the Blues.

The forward only made three Premier League appearances last season, totalling 71 minutes.

Sky Sports to show 215 live Premier League games from next season

From next season, Sky Sports’ Premier League coverage will increase from 128 matches to at least 215 games exclusively live.

And 80 per cent of all televised Premier League games next season are on Sky Sports.

The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) Composite Index gained 105.82 points to close at 6,776.09 on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, driven by active trading in MTN Ghana shares.

Total market turnover reached GH¢12.08 million across 3.88 million traded shares.

MTN Ghana (MTNGH) dominated trading volume, with 3.44 million shares changing hands at GH¢3.35 per share a 3.1% daily increase.

The transaction contributed GH¢11.52 million to total market value. SIC Insurance Company (SIC) declined 4.5% to GH¢1.05 amid active selling, while Standard Chartered Bank Ghana (SCB) held steady at GH¢28.00.

The Alternative Market (GAX) recorded no trades. Market capitalization rose to GH¢143.46 billion, extending the year-to-date index gain to 0.39%.

By Jibril Abdul Mumuni

Accra, July 30, GNA- The Christian Council of Ghana has urged rival factions in the Bawku conflict to embrace dialogue, uphold the sanctity of human life, as they resolve their differences peacefully.

In a press statement copied to the Ghana News Agency and signed by Reverend Dr. Cyril Fayose, General Secretary of the Council, the Council noted its particular concern regarding the devastating impact of the conflict on churches and mission establishments in Bawku.

The Council highlighted that Bawku is home to numerous Christian congregations and mission facilities, many of which have suffered damages and the suspension of their activities.

These institutions, according to the Council, have long contributed to peacebuilding and social development in the region, and their safety and continuity are essential for the well-being of all residents.

The statement further called on local opinion leaders, religious groups, civil society organisations, women’s groups, and youth groups, all of whom play crucial roles in mediation and reconciliation, to intensify their efforts towards lasting peace.

The Council urged the security agencies stationed in Bawku to carry out their duties with utmost professionalism, impartiality, and restraint.

“Security personnel must avoid any actions that may inflame tensions or alienate the local population. The foremost responsibility is to protect the citizens, including vulnerable groups and places of worship, without discrimination or intimidation,” the Council stated.

Declaring its solidarity with all peacebuilding stakeholders, the Council called for a non-violent resolution to the conflict.

It also urged the government to implement inclusive and sustainable peace initiatives that meaningfully engage all relevant parties.

Additionally, the Council called on pastors and church members across the nation to commit to fervent prayer for peace, healing, and divine guidance for all those working towards reconciliation in Bawku.

The Council noted that continued instability in Bawku did not only endangered lives but also undermined social cohesion and development in the Upper East Region and beyond.

“Restoring peace is a shared responsibility, one that requires the collective effort of traditional leaders, ethnic communities, religious institutions, security agencies, and government authorities,” the statement said.
GNA

Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong

By Philip Tengzu

Wa, (UW/R), July 30, GNA – The Rotary Club of Wa has held its ninth handing over and tenth anniversary to celebrate the successes chalked in impacting the lives of people in the region and beyond within the ten years of its existence.

Rotarians in Ghana and beyond including the Assistant Governor (AG) of the Rotary District 9104, Rotractors and friends of the Rotary Club participated in the event, which was held in Wa.

The Club chronicled the interventions it executed within the period in partnership with other Rotary Clubs, Rotary Foundation and individual donors under the 2024/2025 Rotary theme of “The Magic of Rotary”, which had impacted the lives of many people.

The projects included the Jirapa water expansion project, the Bole school Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), the Eremon Senior High Technical School computer and WASH projects, the Sabuli and Karni health projects, and six boreholes for communities under the GhanaWASH project, among others.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Zakarea Al-Hassan Balure, the Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Wa, expressed gratitude for the partnerships they had received over the years, which had helped them to execute many impactful projects.

He said the Club, under his leadership, executed six projects including the WASH project at Bole Senior High School and renovation of the classrooms at the Korabaso primary School and donation of USD 2,500.00 worth of equipment to the Karni Health Centre among others.

He added that through his leadership and with the support of Club members, the Rotaract Club of Wa would soon receive its charter presentation to operate under the Rotary International.

He encouraged continuous commitment of the members to enable the Club to achieve its set goals for the ensuing Rotary year, while assuring his unwavering commitment to the course of the Club.

Mr Jonathan Kwofie, the President of the Rotary Club of Wa, called for unity among the members in respect of the 2025/2026 theme of “Unite for Good” to harness their collective synergies in impacting lives in society.

“From this year’s theme, we are encouraged as Rotarians to foster unity among ourselves and the communities, we work with.

“Cohesion brings a sense of belongingness, making individuals feel connected and supported.

We can only tremendously achieve and impact the world with a shared purpose and common goal as Rotarians”, he explained.

Mr Kwofie announced that the Club had planned to establish electronic libraries in the Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University and three Senior High Schools in the region, carry out prostate and cervical cancer screenings in Wa, and refurbish the Wa SHS Laboratory and equip it with modern equipment within the next year.

The Club is also set to construct an ultra-modern kitchen for the Wa Methodist School for the Blind as its 10 year anniversary legacy project with support from other Rotary Clubs and individuals.

The Rotary International operates on seven focus areas – peace and conflict prevention/resolution; disease prevention and treatment; water and sanitation; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; economic and community development, and environmental protection.

GNA

Edited by Caesar Abagali/ Christian Akorlie