Ahead of the 2025 African Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) ceremony holding on Saturday, talented Nollywood actress cum filmmaker, Mercy Aigbe, has reflected on her journey in the film industry.
Naija News reports that the movie star, in a post via her Instagram page on Thursday, May 8, 2025, shared throwback photos from her first AMVCA win in 2014.
As part of the activities marking Purple Month, Ghana’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle Constituency, recently held an interactive session with staff from the Gaming Commission in the Greater Accra Region. Apexnewsgh reports
The event aimed to underscore the critical importance of mental well-being in the workplace and beyond.
By Philip Tengzu
Wa, (UW/R), May 09, GNA – The Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC) has held its annual “coffee table” programme in Wa to educate utility service consumers on effective utility usage and how to seek redress regarding utility service provision.
The commission also educated the people on its mandate to mediate between utility consumers and the service providers to resolve complaints against service providers or consumers.
The team also set up a complaint desk at the programme for consumers to lodge their complaints on unresolved complaints with the utilities service providers for onward resolution.
That initiative was in accordance with the PURC’s mandate to educate the public on electricity and water usage, including their rights and responsibilities relating to access to an efficient water and electricity supply.
As part of the initiative, the PURC pitched a camp at the Wa Kejetia Lorry Station to interact with passengers and traders at the Wa market.
Mr. Abdul-Wadud Ali, the Upper West Regional Manager of the PURC, encouraged utility consumers to lay their grievances on service provision with the service providers and to report to the PURC if those grievances were not addressed.
He also urged the utility consumers to pay their bills promptly and desist from illegal connections to prevent them from being disconnected from the service.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during the exercise, Mr. Ali expressed optimism that the “coffee table” programme would enlighten the utility consumers to seek efficient service provision.
“We are happy about the outcome of the exercise so far, and we know we will receive more complaints on the service provision”, he said.
Mr. Ali explained that the initiative was also part of the efforts of PURC to make the Commission a “household name” among the people in its operational areas.
Some of the utility service consumers, who spoke to the GNA at the programme, expressed gratitude to the PURC for the education.
Madam Afisata Mumuni, a trader, indicated that the exercise had been an “eye opener” to her since she had been experiencing erratic water supply for a long time, but did not know who to report to.
The Commission also educated people on the quarterly tariff review, the capital contribution policy, the rights and responsibilities of consumers, the tariff reckoner mobile application and the PURC Electricity Consumption Estimator (PECE).
The Commission also shared its leaflets, posters and water and energy conservation tips among the people at the programme to serve as a reference guide for them in utility usage and lodging complaints.
GNA
CAE/BM
Yaw Siki
Former hiplife musician turned gospel minister, Yaw Siki, has reiterated that before accepting Christ he lived a chronic immoral lifestyle.
In a video circulating on X, Yaw Siki disclosed that he used to be addicted to pornography and often paid for sex with prostitutes. He also admitted that because he couldn’t always afford that lifestyle, he turned to frequent masturbation.
“I used to have sex with prostitutes. I was addicted to pornography and sex, but when I couldn’t afford it, I became a chronic masturbater,” he said.
He also opened up about being addicted to alcohol and smoking at a young age.
“I was a heavy drinker. Even in junior high school, I was already good at drinking and smoking,” he added.
Yaw Siki said his life began to change after he was involved in a serious accident. Waking up in the hospital made him reflect deeply on his choices.
“When I regained consciousness in the hospital after the accident, I realized I needed to change. That moment marked the beginning of my transformation,” he shared.
His story has inspired many, especially those going through similar struggles, showing that change is possible.
Alexander Afenyo-Markin flanked by Jerry Ahmed Shaib and Patricia Appiagyei
The Minority in Parliament has launched a blistering attack on President John Mahama and his administration, accusing the government of betrayal, incompetence, and a deliberate assault on the private sector just 120 days into his new term.
Addressing the media, the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, described the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s handling of the economy as “economic vandalism masquerading as governance.”
He alleged that the administration had abandoned its promise of business partnership and instead chosen to punish entrepreneurs, suppliers, and contractors who finance and fulfil government contracts with their own resources or bank loans.
According to the Minority Leader, many of these contractors have not been paid, forcing several to shut down operations, lay off workers, or plunge into unsustainable debt.
“The government is collapsing the very economy it claims to lead,” the Minority Leader declared, and added, “The people of Ghana, who sacrificed to work and build infrastructure, who supplied to state institutions, have not been paid. This is sabotage.”
The opposition also hit out at what they described as a betrayal of industrialisation promises. They cited the government’s failure to expand on the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative and the lack of tangible progress on the touted 24-hour economy programme.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin questioned the sincerity of President Mahama’s pledge to create jobs through a 24-hour economic policy, pointing out that no concrete financial allocations were made for the programme in the 2025 Budget Statement presented by Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
“Even the President’s flagship 24-hour economy, which he claimed would stimulate local industries and attract investment, has no presence in the budget,” the Minority Leader stated. “Instead, we were told a committee has been formed to consider it.”
On the issue of import duties and taxation, Mr. Afenyo-Markin accused the government of maintaining “crushing levies and regressive taxes,” including the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy, which the President had promised to abolish.
The Minority also lambasted the government’s handling of the Women’s Bank initiative.
The administration, they said, promised to establish dedicated banking services for women in every region, but only GH¢50 million was allocated to the project in the 2025 budget—an amount they called “paltry and insulting.”
“Meanwhile, over GH¢6 billion has been earmarked for the newly created Gold Board, which the Minority Leader claimed is being used to promote galamsey and fund party loyalists under the guise of supporting small-scale mining.
The group dismissed claims that the Ghana cedi’s relative strength was due to government policy, arguing instead that global trends, including a weakening US dollar, were to credit.
“This is not an NDC miracle. It is global monetary turbulence,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin noted, citing international financial analysts who pointed to investor disillusionment with the US dollar.
While acknowledging the scrapping of the E-Levy, betting tax, and emission levy, the Minority Leader stressed that these steps were insufficient to counterbalance what they described as widespread failure in other areas, including agriculture, education, and infrastructure.
He further criticised the government for what they called bloated staffing at the presidency, claiming that despite collapsing ministries in the name of efficiency, the Jubilee House remains overpopulated with partisan appointments.
“You say you’ve collapsed the Ministry of Information and appointed Felix Ofosu Kwakye as a government spokesperson. Yet he has three deputies, plus a separate communication director, director of research, and even a director for agriculture—all at the presidency.”
Citing policy analyst Michael Okoosi Kofi, the Minority said only 9 of the 26 promises made under the government’s so-called 120-day contract had any real substance, describing the rest as “symbolic and cosmetic.”
The Minority Leader said the Mahama administration had broken its promises and abandoned its own manifesto, accusing the President of swapping “truth for evasion, partnership for punishment, and prosperity for paralysis.”
“This country will not surrender,” he vowed, and continued, “We, the mighty minority, will stand by the people of Ghana and hold this government accountable.”
By Ernest Kofi Adu
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised concern over the continued threat of prank calls to its emergency lines, warning that such actions remain a major obstacle to effective emergency response.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Friday, May 9, ADO 1 Derrick Elorm Adzokpa of the GNFS Public Relations Department expressed frustration at the persistent misuse of emergency lines, even as the Service records some improvement.
“The prank calls are killing us,” he said, emphasizing the toll such calls take on the Service’s ability to respond promptly to genuine emergencies.
However, Adzokpa revealed a notable decline in prank calls this year, stating that prank calls dropped by 31.52% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. He attributed the improvement to enhanced public education and growing awareness of the consequences of misusing emergency channels.
“It means people are now understanding the effects and implications of these calls,” he said.
Despite the progress, Adzokpa cautioned that prank calls remain a serious concern, particularly because they can block access to those in real need of help.
“Sometimes when there is an emergency and you call 112 or 192 and it’s not going through, it means someone else is on the line, and that could be a prank call. You can even deny someone who has a real issue the help they urgently need.”
To mitigate the impact, he urged the public to utilize alternative contact numbers when the main lines are congested.
“The moment you call this number, you will get someone to speak to, and then we will attend to you,” he assured, providing the alternative hotlines: 0302772446 and 0299340383.
The GNFS continues to call for responsible use of emergency services and warns that even one prank call can cost lives.
The U.S. Embassy in Ghana has issued a strong warning to Ghanaians against engaging in illegal visa processes and unauthorized immigration, stressing that such actions could lead to visa refusals, revocations, or deportation.
The caution was made during a Consular Media Day held on May 9, 2025, an event aimed at demystifying the U.S. visa process, highlighting improvements in visitor experiences, and clarifying visa policy procedures.
In 2024, the Embassy received 61,000 visa applications and issued 25,000 visas to Ghanaian applicants.
Speaking at the event, Consular General Elliot Fertik reaffirmed the U.S. Embassy’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and stress-free travel experience for Ghanaians.
“We continue to welcome visitors from Ghana who are interested in studying, investing, or doing business in the US. Last year, the US embassy issued 25,000 visas to Ghanaians for work, study, or visit to the US. But with entry to the US, visa applicants or holders must follow our laws,” he said.
He cautioned that the U.S. government maintains a strict stance on illegal immigration.
“The US has zero tolerance for illegal immigrants. Those who break the rules will face the law, including visa refusal, or upright ban from entering the US,” Fertik added.
“We want to make sure that Ghanaians understand the proper way for applying for visas and what is expected of them when applying for visas.”
Fertik also pointed out ongoing efforts by the Embassy to improve the visa application process by prioritizing transparency and customer experience.
“Visitors to the US must ensure that they obey the laws and regulations. I am sure you have noticed some of the improvements we have made to improve customer experience. The Department of State’s top priority is ensuring the safety of US citizens overseas and extending help to those who need help away from home.”
He concluded by emphasizing the dual mission of the U.S. government: facilitating legal travel and protecting its borders.
“We also have the mandate of ensuring our borders are protected by protecting the US against illegal immigration by enforcing the laws,” he stated.
Trump administration warns World Cup visitors against overstaying visas
The Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs) 2025 is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, and there is great excitement and anticipation surrounding the event.
The awards night is arguably the biggest in the Ghanaian entertainment space where music, fashion, and culture merge into one.
However, as much as the TGMAs is a night to remember, there are some recurring issues that the entertainment ecosystem would prefer not to see this year.
Some of these issues include:
1. Fashion fails on the red-carpet
Red-carpet has always been a space where celebrities are allowed to express their style, make fashion statements, and create memorable moments.
But in recent years, the TGMAs red-carpet has become a place where some attendees take things too lightly, sometimes dressing in outfits that do not match the high-profile nature of the event.
The red-carpet has seen men show up in women’s clothing without any artistic direction, outfits that look rushed or mismatched, and overall styling choices that take away from the elegance of the event.
2. MCs who talk for too long
A great Master of Ceremonies can make or break an event, and while Ghana has no shortage of hosts, there has been a growing concern over how long some MCs take on stage.
Long-winded speeches, unnecessary dry jokes, and drawn-out introductions have in the past caused the event to stretch into the late hours, making it exhausting for live audience and those watching at home.
This year, the hope is for the MCs to keep things tight, professional, and engaging without dragging the night unnecessarily.
3. Technical issues
Performance quality is one of the biggest draws of the TGMAs, but it hasn’t always lived up to expectations in some instances.
Technical issues, especially with sound, have affected the delivery of some artistes, resulting in underwhelming performances.
A recent example is King Promise’s performance, which many fans felt was below par, largely due to poor sound management in the previous edition of the event.
There’s a collective wish that organisers prioritise sound checks to ensure that each artiste delivers the kind of show-stopping moment the audience deserves.
4. Guests who stay glued to their seats
One thing that affects the energy and excitement of the TGMAs especially on television is when guests remain seated during performances.
When artistes are performing and the crowd looks unresponsive, it creates a disconnect and takes away from the atmosphere.
Award shows are celebratory events and this year; attendees are encouraged to be livelier.
5. Award winners flooding the stage with large entourages
Another familiar scene at the TGMAs is award winners coming up on stage with a host of crew members.
While it could be understood that artistes want to share their moment with the people who have supported them, bringing four or more people on stage with them can become chaotic.
It clutters the stage, distracts from the acceptance speech, and often delays the flow of the show.
This year, a more modest approach would be appreciated, just the artiste and perhaps one or two team members joining the award winner on stage.
Also, watch an exclusive interview with Ayisi on the latest edition of Talkertainment below:
AK/EB
A Ghanaian citizen has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to launch an urgent investigation into the procurement of 20 Soviet-era BTR-70 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), now said to be over 10 million Euros.
The citizen describes the vehicles as obsolete, unserviceable, and a danger to troops deployed in peacekeeping missions.
The petition, authored by Ola Durojaiye, also known as Kwame Danquah, outlines a litany of faults with the Soviet-era armoured vehicles, which were reportedly acquired from Azerbaijan through a local supplier, Double ST Limited.
Durojaiye alleges that the procurement process was riddled with “fraudulent practices,” “misrepresentation of information,” and a disregard for “troop safety and welfare.”
“These vehicles were commissioned despite being delivered in an advanced state of wear and tear. They lack essential spare parts and came without their main armaments, rendering them effectively useless,” Durojaiye stated in his petition.
He further claimed that the APCs, which were originally built in the late 1960s, have been retrofitted with diesel engines but without the critical support systems such as radiators and hoses. “The BTR-70s were not only outdated but also incomplete and defective. What was meant to be a strategic acquisition has turned into a logistical and operational disaster,” he noted.
According to the petitioner, seven of the APCs were deployed to Abyei in Sudan under the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) mission, but arrived unserviceable. Due to their inability to function, they had to be transported from Burma Camp to Tema Port on low-bed trailers.
“Even after dispatching a Forward Repair Team to attempt repairs in Sudan, only one APC shows any sign of limited mobility, and even that depends on parts cannibalised from the others,” Mr Durojaiye revealed.
He described the vehicles as “death traps,” citing leaking oil, malfunctioning brakes, absent communication systems, and non-bulletproof windscreens as hazards to personnel. The absence of the standard 14.5mm KPVT heavy machine guns, which were only delivered a year later and remain untested, compounded the shortcomings.
In addition to operational concerns, Durojaiye raised serious ethical and accountability questions.
He accused the military leadership of misrepresenting the vehicles’ year of manufacture as 2002 on the bill of lading, even though BTR-70 production ceased in 1984. “This points to a deliberate attempt to defraud the state and mislead stakeholders,” he alleged.
The petition also referenced past operational difficulties with BTR-60 APCs during Ghana’s involvement in the UN Mission in Sierra Leone, arguing that history should have dissuaded military authorities from acquiring similar vehicles.
Durojaiye called for a full-scale value-for-money audit of the procurement and stressed the need to prioritise soldiers’ safety over what he suggested may have been financial or political considerations.
Quoting the President’s own recent remarks at the commissioning of Regular Career Course Intake 63 at the Ghana Military Academy, he reminded the Commander-in-Chief that “officers must prioritise the welfare of their men.”
“If the manufacturer of the vehicle has long since retired it in favour of newer, more efficient versions, how can the procurement of these outmoded and deteriorated ‘hulks of scrap metal’ be justified?” he questioned.
The total cost of the 20 APCs was initially estimated at $8.8 million, with each unit reportedly purchased for $440,000. Durojaiye has pledged to provide further documentation and clarification if needed and has also copied the petition to the Minister of Defence and the Acting Chief of Defence Staff.
Below is the petition
14th April 2025
His Excellency
The President of the Republic of Ghana
Jubilee House
ACCRA
PETITION FOR AN INVESTIGATION OF THE PURCHASE OF BTR 70 ARMOURED PERSONNEL CARRIERS BY THE GHANA ARMED FORCES
1. INTRODUCTION
I, Mr. Ola Durojaiye alias Kwame Danquah, a citizen of the Republic of Ghana, respectfully submit this petition to your Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, seeking an audit of the purchase of armoured personnel carriers by the Ghana Armed Forces on grounds of;
1. Lack of Value for Money
2. Failure to Meet Operational Requirements
3. Neglect of Troops’ Welfare
4. Compromising Troop Safety
5. Mismanagement of Leadership Responsibility
6. Misrepresentation of Information
7. Fraudulent Practices
2. BACKGROUND
i. The Ghana Army acquired twenty
(20) Bronetransportor (BTR-70)
Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) for deployment in peace support operations. These vehicles were supplied by Messrs. Double ST Limited, with their origin traced to Azerbaijan, an Eurasian nation situated in the South Caucasus region and formerly part of the Soviet Union.
ii. The BTR 70 APC was produced in the former USSR in the late 1960s. The BTR 70 was succeeded by the BTR 80 which came into service in 1985 and was itself replaced briefly by the BTR 90. The BTR 82 and BTR 82A are the current versions of the APC in use.
3. INVESTIGATIONS CONDUCTED
i. The BTR-70 is a versatile eight-wheeled amphibious APC originally equipped with two 6-cylinder, 115 hp GAZ-69B petrol engines. Subsequent upgrades included AMA-49-05 V8 engines and, in certain operational theatres, diesel engines. Although an improvement over its predecessor, the BTR-60, the BTR-70 retained several notable limitations, such as restricted troop access points and reliance on dual petrol engines. By 2023, the BTR-70 had reached an operational age of 51 years, underscoring its outdated design in comparison to more modern APCs.
ii. The BTR-70 APCs procured for the Ghana Army were retrofitted with diesel engines; however, the essential accompanying components, such as radiators and hoses, were omitted, rendering the vehicles inefficient and defective. Additionally, the vehicles were delivered in advanced stages of wear and tear, highlighting their outdated condition.
iii. To salvage their appearance, personnel from the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) Corps at the 153 Armoured Regiment parade square undertook efforts to spray the exterior and reupholster the interiors. These measures were aimed at creating a semblance of presentability before the commissioning of the vehicles by the then-president, Nana Akufo-Addo. The attached images illustrate the state of the vehicles’ interiors prior to the restoration efforts by the EME personnel.
iv. In addition to the aforementioned fair wear and tear concerns, the BTR-70 APCs arrived without their standard main armaments—the 14.5mm KPVT heavy machine guns that are integral to the model’s design. However, the secondary armament, consisting of 7.62mm PKM co-axial machine guns, was present and underwent test firing.
v. The main armaments were eventually delivered in 2024, yet they remain untested due to the vehicles’ unserviceable condition, further compounding the operational challenges posed by this procurement.
vi. Contrary to standard best practices, the BTR-70 APCs to the Ghana Army were in poor state of repair and lacked essential spare parts, specialised tools, and maintenance or repair equipment. Even basic components, such as spare tires, were missing.
vii. The BTR-70 APCs arrived with numerous defects and operational challenges, some of which are detailed below:
1. Leakage of oil and lubricants, causing engine overheating after short periods of movement.
2. Malfunctioning brake and clutch systems.
3. Unserviceable rear camera monitors in most vehicles.
4. Absence of intra- and inter-vehicular communication devices, making communication within the vehicles, with other vehicles, or with the base impossible.
5. Blurred vision blocks and side mirrors on several vehicles, impairing visibility.
viii. Though equipped with a movable metal plate that typically remains raised, the plastic, non-bulletproof windscreens of the BTR-70 APCs permit penetration by small arms fire, exposing the driver’s and commander’s compartments to significant danger.
ix. Following their commissioning, seven (7) of these APCs—described as “death traps”—were shipped to Abyei, Sudan, for use by the Ghanaian battalion serving under the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). Due to their unserviceability, the APCs were transported from Burma Camp to Tema Port using lowbed trailers.
x. A forward repair team (FRT) was dispatched to Abyei in an attempt to restore functionality to these APCs. Despite their efforts, the APCs remained largely unserviceable, and the FRT has since returned to Ghana. Currently, only one (1) of the seven APCs exhibits minimal mobility. This lone functioning APC relies on alternators salvaged from other non-operational vehicles, as its alternator is dysfunctional.
xi. The FRT confirmed the Ghanaian battalion’s concerns regarding the vehicles’ extreme fuel consumption and recurrent overheating after the shortest of journeys, rendering them wholly unreliable for deployment. Since their arrival in the area of operations (AO) on 16 March 2024, during GHANBATT 2’s tour of duty, the vehicles have not been deployed, as they cannot be started, much less moved.
xii. This dismal situation, borne by no fault of the troops representing Ghana, reflects a lack of the protection and appropriate equipment necessary for executing their duties. It places these dedicated soldiers in a precarious position, compromising their ability to serve the nation with the security and efficiency they deserve.
xiii. A precedent exists from the early 2000s, when troops of the Armoured Corps used BTR-60 armoured personnel carriers (APCs) during operations in the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL). These vehicles were marred by numerous challenges. Was this prior experience not sufficient warning to avoid this make of APC entirely? As the age-old adage goes, “experience is the best teacher”—a truth proven time and time again.
xv. The decision to procure outdated APCs undermines military esprit de corps and goes against the principle of prioritising troops’ welfare over officers’ comfort or personal gain. This sentiment aligns with the recent remarks of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces. On 11 April 2025, during the commissioning of the Regular Career Course Intake 63 at the Ghana Military Academy, Teshie, Accra, the President emphasised the duty of officers to prioritise their men’s comfort while serving the nation.
xvi. The bill of lading for these APCs falsely states the year of manufacture as 2002—an apparent act of deception and fraud. It is an established fact that the production of the BTR-70 ceased in 1984 following the introduction of its successor, the BTR-80. Unlike the BTR-70, which operates on dual petrol engines unless retrofitted, the BTR-80 features a single diesel engine. Moreover, the BTR-80 has since undergone significant upgrades, culminating in the release of the BTR-82 and its advanced variant, the BTR-82A.
xvii. If the manufacturer of the vehicle has long since retired it in favour of newer, more efficient versions, how can the procurement of these outmoded and deteriorated “hulks of scrap metal” be justified?
xvii. According to the available documentation (copies attached), each of these BTR-70 armoured personnel carriers was procured at a cost of approximately $440,000.00, amounting to a total expenditure of $8.8 million ($8,800,000).
4. CONCLUSION
i. The BTR-70 APCs were acquired for deployment in the Ghana Army peace operations. However, these vehicles are not fit for purpose. They are excessively outdated and were not refurbished to ensure their operational viability for use in any peacekeeping theatre.
ii. The evidence presented supports the following issues:
1. Lack of Value for Money
2. Failure to Meet Operational Requirements
3. Neglect of Troops’ Welfare
4. Compromising Troop Safety
5. Mismanagement of Leadership Responsibility
6. Misrepresentation of Information
7. Fraudulent Practices
5. RECOMMENDATION
i. I respectfully petition the President to initiate a value-for-money audit and investigation to assess the benefits, if any, that the Ghana Armed Forces has derived from the procurement of the BTR-70 APCs.
ii. I remain available to provide any further information or clarification as required.
Respectfully submitted.
Ola Durojaiye
Post Office Box 784
Osu
Accra
Telephone: 0541222007
Email: [email protected]
Copy to:
Minister of Defence
Acting Chief of the Defence Staff
Alban Bagbin is the Speaker of Parliament
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, has praised the government for its dedicated efforts in stabilising the national currency, acknowledging the cedi’s recent marginal appreciation against the US dollar and other international currencies.
According to Speaker Bagbin, the recent appreciation of the cedi and its continued stability offer significant relief, especially in light of its poor performance in previous years.
He described the development as encouraging, noting that it creates an opportunity for traders to review and potentially reduce the prices of goods and services.
“It is a big relief as the Ghana cedi is surging in value against almost all other currencies in the world and becoming competitive again. It is refreshing that cross-border traders are already saving on the upward surge in the value. For the first time in a long while, traders have room to review the prices of their goods and services downward and people are more willing to invoice and receive payments in cedis,” he wrote on Facebook on Friday, May 9, 2025.
Bagbin further noted that the potential downward review of prices, driven by the cedi’s improved performance and its growing competitiveness against other currencies, will positively impact the lives of Ghanaians.
Attributing these positive developments to the government’s reset agenda, Bagbin called on Ghanaians to work collaboratively with the government in its efforts, emphasising that such unity and support remain essential for the nation’s progress and collective well-being of citizens.
“This, coupled with competitive tendencies will make the gains in the cedi soon reflect on the general prices of goods and services for the benefit of all Ghanaians. Inspiringly, these are only a few months in the reset agenda. Let’s keep pushing to make Ghana and Africa great,” he said.
The former lawmaker’s remarks follow a recent Bloomberg report which highlighted the cedi as the world’s best-performing currency, noting a 16% appreciation against the US dollar since April 2025.
MAG/VPO
Ghana U20 head coach, Desmond Ofei
Ghana U20 head coach Desmond Ofei applauded his players for fighting hard to earn their win against the Central African Republic U20 in their game at the 2025 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Thursday.
In what was their final Group C game of the tournament, the Black Satellites dominated the contest but struggled to breach the opponent’s defense.
Eventually, in the 84th minute, a stunning finish from substitute Joseph Opoku propelled Ghana to a narrow 1-0 victory.
Speaking in his post-match interview, Coach Desmond Ofei acknowledged that the game was tough.
He noted that he was happy for his players for securing the win after giving everything in the game.
“We didn’t rush the game. That was very important. The boys controlled the game, worked the ball well, and stayed patient even when the goal didn’t come early. I’m happy for them — they earned this win,” the coach said, as quoted on the Ghana FA website.
Following the win against the Central African Republic, Ghana has progressed to the quarter-finals of the 2025 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
Odzala-Kokoua National Park is one of 23 protected areas run by African Parks
A major conservation charity linked to Prince Harry has admitted that human rights abuses were committed by its rangers in Congo-Brazzaville, following an independent review into allegations made by members of the Baka community against African Parks rangers.
In a report published last year by the British newspaper the Mail on Sunday, community members accused African Parks rangers of beating, waterboarding and raping locals to stop them from accessing their ancestral forests, which are now in a conservation area.
Despite commissioning an independent review into the actions of its rangers in Congo-Brazzaville, African Parks has not made the findings of the review public.
Instead, it has published a statement acknowledging that human rights abuses occurred in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park, which it manages. It has excluded details of the abuse.
The review, carried out by Omnia Strategy LLP, a London-based law firm, was handed directly to African Parks.
In a statement, Omnia said it has been carrying out an independent investigation into the alleged abuse in Odzala-Kokoua since December 2023.
Its statement did not include its findings and recommendations, which it said had been sent directly to African Parks.
The BBC reached out to both Omnia and barristers from Doughty Street Chambers, which was involved in the investigation, to request their findings, but they declined to comment beyond their published statement.
Prince Harry sits on the board of African Parks and has been involved with the charity since 2016. In 2023, after serving six years as president, he was made a member of the Board of Directors, the governing body of the organisation.
The BBC has requested comment from Prince Harry.
African Parks said it had improved its safeguarding processes in the past five years both in the Odzala-Kokoua National Park and institutionally. Additional measures it has put in place include appointing an anthropologist to ensure the Baka communities are better supported and working with local human rights NGOs to support the local community. It also said it would carry out an independent human rights impact assessment.
The charity Survival International, which lobbies for the rights of indigenous people, and has raised the issue of the abuse of the Baka people with Prince Harry, criticised African Park’s decision not to make the findings of the investigation public.
Survival told the BBC “African Parks has committed to more reports, more staff and more guidelines – but such approaches have not prevented horrific abuses and violations of international human rights law in the decade or more that African Parks has known of these atrocities, and there is no reason to believe they will do so now”.
When the allegation were first made public last year, Survival said that African Parks had known about the alleged abuse of the Baka people since 2013.
At the time, African Parks said it had reached out to Survival to find out more, but that the latter had refused to cooperate.
Survival said it wished to protect its sources in the local community for fear of retaliation.
African Parks, which is headquartered in Johannesburg, is arguably one of Africa’s largest conservation charities. It manages 23 protected areas in 13 African countries, and is backed by powerful patrons.
On its website, African Parks lists a number of high-profile donors including the European Union, Rob Walton, heir to the Walmart fortune, and Howard Buffett, son of Warren Buffet.
In its 2023 annual report, the charity said its funders provided it with more than $500,000 (£375,000) per year.
Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, has underscored the government’s commitment to tightening loopholes within Ghana’s tax exemptions regime, describing it as a major source of revenue loss for the country.
He made the remarks when he met with a delegation from the South Sudan Revenue Authority, led by the institution’s Deputy Commissioner, who are in Ghana to understudy the country’s tax exemptions framework.
When it comes to hair care, ladies are always on the lookout for ways to protect and preserve their locks. One simple yet effective way to do this is by wearing a satin bonnet to sleep. A satin bonnet is a soft, breathable cap that covers your hair while you sleep, providing a range of benefits that can transform your hair care routine.
Satin bonnets have become increasingly popular among women, particularly those with natural hair, due to their ability to reduce friction and prevent breakage. When you sleep, your hair can rub against your pillowcase, causing friction that leads to tangles, knots, and breakage. A satin bonnet helps to minimize this friction, allowing your hair to glide smoothly against the fabric and reducing the risk of damage.
In addition to preventing breakage, satin bonnets can also help to preserve your hairstyle. Whether you’ve spent hours styling your hair or you’ve just gotten a fresh blowout, a satin bonnet can help to maintain your style while you sleep. This means you can wake up with beautiful, bouncy hair that requires minimal touch-ups.
One of the key benefits of satin bonnets is their ability to maintain moisture in the hair. Unlike cotton pillowcases, which can absorb moisture from your hair, satin bonnets help to lock in moisture and keep your hair hydrated. This is especially beneficial for ladies with dry or damaged hair, as it can help to prevent further dryness and breakage.
Satin bonnets are also great for reducing frizz and flyaways. When your hair rubs against a cotton pillowcase, it can cause friction that leads to frizz and flyaways. A satin bonnet helps to minimize this friction, resulting in smoother, more manageable hair.
When choosing a satin bonnet, look for one made from high-quality, breathable satin that will provide comfort and protection for your hair. Satin bonnets come in a range of colors and styles, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste and preferences.
Incorporating a satin bonnet into your hair care routine can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of your hair. By reducing friction, preserving hairstyles, maintaining moisture, and reducing frizz, satin bonnets can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy-looking hair you’ve always wanted.
Whether you’re looking to protect your hair from damage, preserve your style, or simply wake up with better-looking hair, a satin bonnet is definitely worth trying. With its range of benefits and comfortable design, it’s no wonder satin bonnets have become a staple in many women’s hair care routines. So why not give it a try? Your hair will thank you!
Lil Win during the visit to Kwaku Twumasi’s house
Actor and producer Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known in showbiz circles as Lil Win, has extended a heartwarming gesture of support to ailing Kumawood veteran, Kwaku Twumasi, who has been battling health complications following a mild stroke suffered years ago.
In a video circulating on social media, Lil Win paid a personal visit to Mr. Twumasi’s residence.
During the encounter, he donated GH¢10,000 to aid the veteran actor’s medical treatment and general well-being. The donation was complemented by essential supplies, including foodstuffs, toiletries, and bottled water.
The visit was marked by poignant moments, as Lil Win sat with Mr. Twumasi in prayer, asking for divine healing and strength for the seasoned actor.
Visibly moved by the act of kindness, Mr Twumasi expressed his gratitude, stating that he was overwhelmed by the gesture and deeply touched that he had not been forgotten.
“I am truly grateful. This visit and support mean more to me than words can express,” Mr. Twumasi said. “May God bless Lil Win for remembering those who paved the way.”
Lil Win’s generosity has sparked widespread praise across the entertainment industry and social media, with many describing it as a shining example of compassion, humility, and solidarity within the Kumawood fraternity. Industry observers and fans alike have lauded the young actor for acknowledging the contributions of veteran performers and offering support during challenging times.
By Gifty Amofa
Accra, May 9, GNA – Inspector General of Police, Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has assured that the National Elections Security Taskforce will maintain a safe environment for the declaration of the December 7, 2024, Ablekuma North election results.
“We as security agencies are not arbiters of elections results, that responsibility lies with the Electoral Commission, but we have to secure the environment within which the truth would be determined and not to decide the outcome,” he said.
Mr. Yohuno made this statement during a meeting with the security taskforce, led by the Ghana Police Service, ahead of the collation.
He said the Taskforce, comprising all security agencies, would deploy personnel to act firmly but with restraint.
“Our presence will be visible but not provocative. We will act swiftly but not recklessly. We will remain neutral in both appearance and action,” he added.
The IGP said that the Taskforce would guard against any attempt to disrupt the process through threats or violence.
He noted that the collation of the Ablekuma North constituency results had become contentious, with both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) declaring victory, escalating tensions.
“The eyes of the nation, as well as the world, are upon us to see how we manage this situation. Our task is both singular and profound—to ensure the collation process is conducted peacefully, fairly, and in full compliance with the law.”
He disclosed that representatives from the Electoral Commission (EC) and a section of the Police Management Board met prior to the general meeting to discuss the way forward.
During the meeting, Mr. Samuel Tettey, Deputy Chair of the EC in charge of Operations, expressed the EC’s readiness to complete the collation for the three outstanding polling stations in Ablekuma North and requested police assistance.
Mr. Yohuno urged the EC to provide the Taskforce with a roadmap for finalising the collation.
“History reflects on nations tested by pivotal moments. This is such a moment. The way we handle Ablekuma North will resonate across the country, setting the tone not only for this election but also for public confidence in years to come,” he said.
“Let us not just secure ballot boxes but also believe in the system. Let’s protect not only physical lives but the spirit of democracy. Let’s stand firm, not in confrontation, but in conviction. Ghana deserves nothing less,” he advised.
The Police assured the Taskforce of its full support, stating that engagements with key political stakeholders, including the EC, would ensure a shared understanding of the process.
Ablekuma North is the only constituency where results remain undeclared following the December 7, 2024, general elections due to a dispute between the NPP and NDC over the winner.
Present at the meeting were Mr. Samuel Tettey, EC Deputy Chair in charge of Operations, heads of other security agencies, the Police Management Board (POMAB), and Ms. Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education.
GNA
KAS
Christian Li (2 L) inspecting the exhibited bead crafts
Women at the Chosen Rehabilitation Centre have completed a two-month bead-making training, funded by Vivo Energy Ghana in partnership with Engage Africa through its Energising Hope Programme.
The month of April marked the successful completion of the skills training programme, with Vivo Energy Ghana present at the close-out ceremony to celebrate trainees’ achievements and inspire a lasting sense of pride and accomplishment.
The hands-on bead craft training sessions, facilitated by skilled trainers from Engage Africa, equipped trainees with technical skills, creativity, discipline, and self-reliance, helping trainees to build a foundation for independent living and income generation upon reintegration into society.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, Christian Li, commended the women’s efforts during the training.
He stated, “We are proud to stand with you all as you complete your journey of learning and growth. At Vivo Energy Ghana, we believe true empowerment comes from equipping people with the tools and opportunities to unlock their potential.”
“This training is not only about crafts but also about creating a pathway to dignity, confidence, and a fresh start. Today’s exhibition is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and renewed purpose.” he added.
The training programme culminated in a colourful exhibition at the rehabilitation centre where trainees proudly showcased a wide array of handcrafted beadwork including jewellery to decorative pieces. The exhibition marked the successful completion of the programme and highlighted their readiness to transition with newfound skills.
The Corporate Communications Manager of Vivo Energy Ghana, Shirley Tony Kum, expressed optimism in the skills acquired by the trainees.
“At Vivo Energy Ghana, true energy lies in the power to inspire hope and change lives. Through the Energising Hope initiative, we have seen resilience, creativity, and transformation. It is our hope that the skills acquired through this training will serve as a launchpad for a brighter, independent future.” she noted.
For many trainees, this was their first experience in handcrafting, creating beautiful pieces like necklaces, bracelets, bags and keyholders. Each bead strung with hope, patience, and the belief that life outside the walls could be different.
They expressed immense appreciation to Vivo Energy Ghana for the Energising Hope initiative, which is transforming the lives of the less privileged.
The Energising Hope programme is one of several initiatives under Vivo Energy Ghana’s community investment portfolio, reflecting the company’s dedication to inclusive growth in the communities it serves.
A Business Desk Report
A dispute between Esianfua Royal Estate, a prominent real estate developer in Mankessim, and Australian mining firm Atlantic Lithium has intensified, with the estate developer moving to reclaim land previously allocated for a mining project. The action follows what the estate describes as “failed promises and a breach of payment obligations.”
The contested land, located in the Mfantseman Municipality of Ghana’s Central Region, was initially granted to Atlantic Lithium for development. However, Esianfua Royal Estate alleges that the company has failed to meet financial commitments agreed upon more than two years ago.
In a statement issued by B.B. Simpson, Esq., legal counsel for Esianfua Royal Estate, the developer confirmed its official withdrawal from the deal, citing prolonged delays and a lack of fulfillment on the part of Atlantic Lithium.
“We cannot continue this deal with Atlantic Lithium. They have disappointed us, and we cannot waste our land for them any longer,” the developer stated.
The situation has raised concerns among residents and stakeholders, who fear the dispute could damage the reputation of Mankessim, the wider Mfantseman area, and the Central Region. Many have described the fallout as unfortunate and a setback for the region’s investment climate.
In an effort to provide clarity and outline the next steps, Esianfua Royal Estate has scheduled an emergency stakeholders’ meeting.
The meeting will take place on Monday, May 11, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the company’s office in New Nkusukum, near Romowil School in Mankessim. The agenda includes details and implications of the land repossession, future development plans for the reclaimed land and addressing concerns of existing investors and clients.
Roseford Advocates, the law firm representing Esianfua Royal Estate, has extended formal invitations to clients and media houses, encouraging all affected parties to attend for transparency and collaborative resolution.
The local community is now closely following developments, hoping the meeting will bring clarity and help restore investor confidence in the area.
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.
Tiwa Savage
Nigerian Afrobeats star Tiwa Savage has sparked dating rumours with American R&B icon Usher Raymond after a viral moment during an afterparty in London.
The buzz began when Usher brought Tiwa Savage out as a surprise guest during his Past Present Future tour stop at the O2 Arena on Wednesday night.
The two wowed the crowd with a performance of Savage’s hit song Somebody’s Son, igniting excitement among fans.
The rumours intensified at the afterparty, where the duo participated in the popular “30 seconds challenge.” Usher challenged Tiwa to freestyle, and during her spirited performance, she sang: “He loves me” — a line that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
“I’m a little drunk! But it’s alright. I think I’m drunk enough… Usher, are you drunk enough? Listen, he loves me,” Savage freestyled, smiling and swaying to the beat as fans cheered.
The clip has since gone viral on social media, with many fans speculating that the two artists might be more than just friends or collaborators.
This isn’t the first time the pair has shared the stage. In 2022, Usher brought out Tiwa Savage during his headline performance at the Global Citizen Festival in Accra, Ghana — a moment fans now see as the beginning of a possible connection.
Neither artist has confirmed nor denied the dating rumours, leaving fans to continue guessing as the speculation grows.
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has launched a blistering critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s first 120 days in office, describing the period as “120 days of bitter governance” and a “great deception” by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Speaking at a press conference at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) headquarters in Accra yesterday, Mr. Afenyo-Markin said President Mahama had marked his own “script” and awarded himself accolades in a self-congratulatory tone, despite failing to fulfil the “sacred promises” he made in the run-up to the 2024 general election.
“Candidate John Mahama marketed his ‘First 120 Days’ social contract as a hardcoded, time-bound pledge to the people. But what we’ve seen instead is betrayal — the taxes remain, illegal mining persists, contractors remain unpaid, and industries continue to collapse,” the Minority Leader said.
He described Mahama’s inauguration promises of a “national reset,” truth-telling, and decisive governance as nothing more than “a political bait and switch.”
Among the unfulfilled pledges he cited were the ban on illegal mining, increases in cocoa prices, and the rollout of a 24-hour economy, mass job creation, and improved industrialisation.
“Promises have collapsed. The excuses have run dry. Ghanaians were not given a reset — they were sold recycled failure,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated.
Executive Lawlessness
The Minority Leader accused President Mahama of constitutional breaches, including failing to ensure that his appointees declared their assets before taking office, as mandated by Article 286 of the Constitution. Instead, he said, the President imposed “a bizarre punishment” of salary forfeiture without legal or institutional oversight.
Illegal Mining
He again criticised the President’s silence on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which he said had intensified under the NDC’s short reign. “Our rivers run red, our forests are torn apart, and there is no state of emergency in sight,” he said, adding that deporting foreign nationals caught in galamsey instead of prosecuting them betrays campaign promises.
Dismissals and Partisan Recruitment
The Majority Leader condemned what he called the “massacre of livelihoods,” alleging that civil servants, nurses, and teachers employed under the previous administration have been dismissed without cause. “This is not inclusiveness — it is ideological cleansing,” he said.
Energy Crisis
In a scathing analogy, Mr. Afenyo-Markin referred to the worsening power outages as “Dumsor Pro Max,” stating that President Mahama has failed to address the power crisis effectively. “Where is the Energy Minister?” he quipped. “We’re using flashlights to look for him.”
Judicial Interference and ‘Court Packing’
He also accused the Mahama administration of undermining judicial independence, including efforts to force out the Chief Justice and push through seven “hand-picked” Supreme Court appointments without due process. “This is not reform — it is court packing disguised as democracy,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said.
Threats to Free Speech
The Minority Leader indicated that dissenting voices, including journalists, labour unions, and opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), are being silenced through intimidation, state security raids, and online harassment. “The return of iron-fist governance is here,” he warned.
Third-Term Agenda
Mr. Afenyo-Markin said there are ongoing internal efforts within the NDC to engineer a constitutional change that would allow President Mahama to seek a third term. “Ghana is not a monarchy. We will not be ruled for life,” he said, vowing that the Minority will resist any unconstitutional reforms.
The Minority Leader called on Ghanaians and Parliament to reject what he termed “the lame-dark days” of the Mahama administration, asserting, “The clock has run out. Accountability must take centre stage.”
He pledged that the Minority in Parliament would stand firm to oppose any attempts to subvert the constitution or democratic institutions.
“We are wide awake. We will fight every illegality in Parliament. This is not just a press conference — it is a call to defend the Republic,” he intimated.
By Ernest Kofi Adu
On May 9, 2001, Ghana’s football community was shaken to its core, and the nation was left grappling with a tragedy that would forever change the landscape of African football. What should have been an exciting football match turned into one of the deadliest days in Ghana’s sporting history, with 126 lives lost in the May 9th disaster at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe and late President JJ Rawlings
Renowned statesman, veteran football administrator, and former diplomat, Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has called for an impartial and thorough inquiry into the death of Ghana’s former President, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, citing “unexplained circumstances” and growing public suspicion surrounding the events leading to his passing.
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe’s appeal, contained in his latest book, A Nation into Retirement: The Narrative of a Statesman, stressed that Ghana owed it to the memory of Rawlings and the conscience of the nation to pursue truth and transparency.
“These unexplained circumstances deepen the mystery surrounding Rawlings’s death,” the ex-military medical doctor remarked.
“It is crucial that we uphold the principles of accountability and transparency, particularly in matters involving national figures. Only through clarity and truth can we address the concerns of those left behind and preserve the integrity of our systems.”
In a startling revelation, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe hinted at the alleged involvement of two retired Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) captains, whose conduct, following Rawlings’s death, has raised eyebrows.
“There are whispers of involvement from two retired captains of the Ghana Armed Forces. I am familiar with these individuals, and they know me personally. Their actions following Rawlings’s death—particularly their alleged remark, ‘Mission accomplished’—warrant scrutiny. In military parlance, such a statement carries grave implications,” he said.
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe’s comments reinforce growing calls for a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the former president, who led Ghana from 1981 to 2001.
“Such an inquiry must compel all relevant individuals, including these captains, to share what they know,” he urged.
He also questioned the medical protocols observed during Rawlings’s final days at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, insisting that an autopsy and full pathology report, especially one including chemical analysis, should have been conducted and publicly disclosed.
“In all civilised nations, autopsies are standard, following the death of a former head of state. If such an examination were carried out, the findings should be disclosed to the public. This is crucial for clarity and accountability.”
Adding to the mystery, Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe raised concern over reports that five nurses who attended to the former president at the Cardiothoracic Unit had allegedly left the country shortly after his death.
According to him, Rawlings’ cousin, “Michael Sosuoudis, informed me that these five nurses vanished from the country shortly after Rawlings’s passing.
Allegedly, they were flown abroad and have only maintained sporadic contact with Michael, expressing their condolences,” he revealed.
Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe’s 700-page memoir chronicles his personal journey and reflections on Ghana’s complex political landscape.
“This book is to teach and let the youth know what happened 68 years ago, because that will help them adjust themselves to the present challenges facing not only this country but the world at large,” Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe said.
He described the book as a heartfelt reflection on his lifelong commitment to public service, leadership, and truth-telling, especially during Ghana’s turbulent military era.
“It appears there have been a lot of distortions in our history books. The true state of what happened has not been reported, and I feel the youth must know the truth, particularly about the military regimes,” he said.
A Nation into Retirement is described as a bold attempt to reclaim historical integrity and guide the next generation towards a more informed and principled future.
Some NDC Asawase constituency executives addressing a gathering after the MCE’s election
The constituents and executives of the Asawase Constituency have voiced their strong support for Ben Abdallah Alhassan, the newly appointed Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Asokore Mampong.
Speaking on their behalf at a press conference, Deputy Director of Elections for the Asawase Constituency, Aminu Mohammed, conveyed their collective gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for selecting Alhassan.
Addressing a crowd of supporters gathered to celebrate the appointment, Aminu Mohammed emphasised the constituency’s unified commitment.
“We, the constituents and executives of Asawase, pledge our full support for Ben Abdallah Alhassan’s candidature and leadership. We are committed to working alongside him to ensure the successful implementation of his mandates,” Mohammed declared.
Mohammed highlighted the resilience and unwavering support of the people of Asawase Constituency and Asokore Mampong Municipality, reaffirming their dedication to Alhassan’s efforts to deliver on the promises outlined in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto.
“The people of Asawase Constituency and Asokore Mampong have vowed to rally behind Honorable Ben Abdallah Alhassan, offering their unwavering support,” Mohammed stated, reflecting the community’s collective resolve.
The Asawase constituents expressed confidence that Alhassan’s leadership would usher in significant improvements to infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities within the municipality.
Mohammed, speaking on their behalf, urged community unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to build a prosperous and inclusive Asokore Mampong.
“As we move forward, let us unite as a community to support Honorable Ben Abdallah Alhassan in his efforts. Let us work together to build a prosperous, inclusive, and vibrant Asokore Mampong that we can all be proud of,” Mohammed urged, echoing the constituency’s call for collaboration.
In closing, Aminu Mohammed reiterated the Asawase constituency’s appreciation to President Mahama for the “bold and forward-thinking decision” in appointing Ben Abdallah Alhassan, expressing optimism for a future of progress and prosperity for the Asokore Mampong community under his leadership.
Afua Asantewaa gained massive attention in December 2024 when she embarked on her second attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon by an individual.
The existing record, set by Indian singer Sunil Waghmare in 2012, stood at 105 hours.
Afua Asantewaa’s second attempt began on December 21, 2024, at Heroes’ Park in Kumasi, Ghana, and ended on December 26, 2024 and she reportedly sang for 121 hours and 39 minutes.
However, despite the duration and the excitement surrounding the feat, Guinness World Records has disqualified her attempt.
The decision from GWR hinged on a breach of the organisation’s guidelines regarding rest breaks during endurance activities.
According to GWR rules, participants are allowed a five-minute rest for every hour of continuous performance.
These breaks can be accumulated over time, but any rest taken must not exceed the time accrued.
This means that if a performer sings for four hours straight, they are permitted a 20-minute rest break.
In reviewing the evidence submitted after Afua’s performance, GWR identified specific instances where these guidelines were not followed.
One of such instances occurred at 23:25 during what was logged as sequence 19. According to GWR, Afua Asantewaa took a 15-minute break, though she only had an opportunity for five minutes of rest time.
Another violation followed in sequence 21, where she took a 105-minute-long break despite having only accumulated 10 minutes of eligible rest.
These instances were considered rule violations, as rest breaks are the only time an individual may pause their activity in such a record attempt.
Any excess rest time beyond what is earned is viewed as a breach, and it invalidates the attempt entirely.
Guinness World Records emphasised that their decision to disqualify Afua Asantewaa is a matter of upholding the standards and fairness that define all record challenges.
They stated that for a record to be approved, all guidelines must be followed without exception.
Similar reasons for disqualification in first attempt
In December 2023, Afua Asantewaa made her first attempt to break the existing Sing-a-thon world record.
However, officials at Guinness World Records later disclosed that her attempt was unsuccessful due to violations related to her rest breaks.
“Afua Asantewaa’s sing-a-thon attempt was not successful due to guidelines around rest break timings not being met. These rules are standard across all of our ‘longest marathon’ records,” Alina Polianskaya, PR Executive for Guinness World Records, stated, in response to an email from Joy FM entertainment journalist Kwame Dadzie.
AK/EB
A Ghanaian citizen has petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to launch an urgent investigation into the procurement of 20 Soviet-era BTR-70 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), now said to be over 10 million Euros.
The citizen describes the vehicles as obsolete, unserviceable, and a danger to troops deployed in peacekeeping missions.
The petition, authored by Ola Durojaiye, also known as Kwame Danquah, outlines a litany of faults with the Soviet-era armoured vehicles, which were reportedly acquired from Azerbaijan through a local supplier, Double ST Limited.
Durojaiye alleges that the procurement process was riddled with “fraudulent practices,” “misrepresentation of information,” and a disregard for “troop safety and welfare.”
“These vehicles were commissioned despite being delivered in an advanced state of wear and tear. They lack essential spare parts and came without their main armaments, rendering them effectively useless,” Durojaiye stated in his petition.
He further claimed that the APCs, which were originally built in the late 1960s, have been retrofitted with diesel engines but without the critical support systems such as radiators and hoses. “The BTR-70s were not only outdated but also incomplete and defective. What was meant to be a strategic acquisition has turned into a logistical and operational disaster,” he noted.
According to the petitioner, seven of the APCs were deployed to Abyei in Sudan under the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) mission, but arrived unserviceable. Due to their inability to function, they had to be transported from Burma Camp to Tema Port on low-bed trailers.
“Even after dispatching a Forward Repair Team to attempt repairs in Sudan, only one APC shows any sign of limited mobility, and even that depends on parts cannibalised from the others,” Mr Durojaiye revealed.
He described the vehicles as “death traps,” citing leaking oil, malfunctioning brakes, absent communication systems, and non-bulletproof windscreens as hazards to personnel. The absence of the standard 14.5mm KPVT heavy machine guns, which were only delivered a year later and remain untested, compounded the shortcomings.
In addition to operational concerns, Durojaiye raised serious ethical and accountability questions.
He accused the military leadership of misrepresenting the vehicles’ year of manufacture as 2002 on the bill of lading, even though BTR-70 production ceased in 1984. “This points to a deliberate attempt to defraud the state and mislead stakeholders,” he alleged.
The petition also referenced past operational difficulties with BTR-60 APCs during Ghana’s involvement in the UN Mission in Sierra Leone, arguing that history should have dissuaded military authorities from acquiring similar vehicles.
Durojaiye called for a full-scale value-for-money audit of the procurement and stressed the need to prioritise soldiers’ safety over what he suggested may have been financial or political considerations.
Quoting the President’s own recent remarks at the commissioning of Regular Career Course Intake 63 at the Ghana Military Academy, he reminded the Commander-in-Chief that “officers must prioritise the welfare of their men.”
“If the manufacturer of the vehicle has long since retired it in favour of newer, more efficient versions, how can the procurement of these outmoded and deteriorated ‘hulks of scrap metal’ be justified?” he questioned.
The total cost of the 20 APCs was initially estimated at $8.8 million, with each unit reportedly purchased for $440,000. Durojaiye has pledged to provide further documentation and clarification if needed and has also copied the petition to the Minister of Defence and the Acting Chief of Defence Staff.
Below is the petition
14th April 2025
His Excellency
The President of the Republic of Ghana
Jubilee House
ACCRA
PETITION FOR AN INVESTIGATION OF THE PURCHASE OF BTR 70 ARMOURED PERSONNEL CARRIERS BY THE GHANA ARMED FORCES
1. INTRODUCTION
I, Mr. Ola Durojaiye alias Kwame Danquah, a citizen of the Republic of Ghana, respectfully submit this petition to your Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, seeking an audit of the purchase of armoured personnel carriers by the Ghana Armed Forces on grounds of;
1. Lack of Value for Money
2. Failure to Meet Operational Requirements
3. Neglect of Troops’ Welfare
4. Compromising Troop Safety
5. Mismanagement of Leadership Responsibility
6. Misrepresentation of Information
7. Fraudulent Practices
2. BACKGROUND
i. The Ghana Army acquired twenty
(20) Bronetransportor (BTR-70)
Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) for deployment in peace support operations. These vehicles were supplied by Messrs. Double ST Limited, with their origin traced to Azerbaijan, an Eurasian nation situated in the South Caucasus region and formerly part of the Soviet Union.
ii. The BTR 70 APC was produced in the former USSR in the late 1960s. The BTR 70 was succeeded by the BTR 80 which came into service in 1985 and was itself replaced briefly by the BTR 90. The BTR 82 and BTR 82A are the current versions of the APC in use.
3. INVESTIGATIONS CONDUCTED
i. The BTR-70 is a versatile eight-wheeled amphibious APC originally equipped with two 6-cylinder, 115 hp GAZ-69B petrol engines. Subsequent upgrades included AMA-49-05 V8 engines and, in certain operational theatres, diesel engines. Although an improvement over its predecessor, the BTR-60, the BTR-70 retained several notable limitations, such as restricted troop access points and reliance on dual petrol engines. By 2023, the BTR-70 had reached an operational age of 51 years, underscoring its outdated design in comparison to more modern APCs.
ii. The BTR-70 APCs procured for the Ghana Army were retrofitted with diesel engines; however, the essential accompanying components, such as radiators and hoses, were omitted, rendering the vehicles inefficient and defective. Additionally, the vehicles were delivered in advanced stages of wear and tear, highlighting their outdated condition.
iii. To salvage their appearance, personnel from the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (EME) Corps at the 153 Armoured Regiment parade square undertook efforts to spray the exterior and reupholster the interiors. These measures were aimed at creating a semblance of presentability before the commissioning of the vehicles by the then-president, Nana Akufo-Addo. The attached images illustrate the state of the vehicles’ interiors prior to the restoration efforts by the EME personnel.
iv. In addition to the aforementioned fair wear and tear concerns, the BTR-70 APCs arrived without their standard main armaments—the 14.5mm KPVT heavy machine guns that are integral to the model’s design. However, the secondary armament, consisting of 7.62mm PKM co-axial machine guns, was present and underwent test firing.
v. The main armaments were eventually delivered in 2024, yet they remain untested due to the vehicles’ unserviceable condition, further compounding the operational challenges posed by this procurement.
vi. Contrary to standard best practices, the BTR-70 APCs to the Ghana Army were in poor state of repair and lacked essential spare parts, specialised tools, and maintenance or repair equipment. Even basic components, such as spare tires, were missing.
vii. The BTR-70 APCs arrived with numerous defects and operational challenges, some of which are detailed below:
1. Leakage of oil and lubricants, causing engine overheating after short periods of movement.
2. Malfunctioning brake and clutch systems.
3. Unserviceable rear camera monitors in most vehicles.
4. Absence of intra- and inter-vehicular communication devices, making communication within the vehicles, with other vehicles, or with the base impossible.
5. Blurred vision blocks and side mirrors on several vehicles, impairing visibility.
viii. Though equipped with a movable metal plate that typically remains raised, the plastic, non-bulletproof windscreens of the BTR-70 APCs permit penetration by small arms fire, exposing the driver’s and commander’s compartments to significant danger.
ix. Following their commissioning, seven (7) of these APCs—described as “death traps”—were shipped to Abyei, Sudan, for use by the Ghanaian battalion serving under the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). Due to their unserviceability, the APCs were transported from Burma Camp to Tema Port using lowbed trailers.
x. A forward repair team (FRT) was dispatched to Abyei in an attempt to restore functionality to these APCs. Despite their efforts, the APCs remained largely unserviceable, and the FRT has since returned to Ghana. Currently, only one (1) of the seven APCs exhibits minimal mobility. This lone functioning APC relies on alternators salvaged from other non-operational vehicles, as its alternator is dysfunctional.
xi. The FRT confirmed the Ghanaian battalion’s concerns regarding the vehicles’ extreme fuel consumption and recurrent overheating after the shortest of journeys, rendering them wholly unreliable for deployment. Since their arrival in the area of operations (AO) on 16 March 2024, during GHANBATT 2’s tour of duty, the vehicles have not been deployed, as they cannot be started, much less moved.
xii. This dismal situation, borne by no fault of the troops representing Ghana, reflects a lack of the protection and appropriate equipment necessary for executing their duties. It places these dedicated soldiers in a precarious position, compromising their ability to serve the nation with the security and efficiency they deserve.
xiii. A precedent exists from the early 2000s, when troops of the Armoured Corps used BTR-60 armoured personnel carriers (APCs) during operations in the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL). These vehicles were marred by numerous challenges. Was this prior experience not sufficient warning to avoid this make of APC entirely? As the age-old adage goes, “experience is the best teacher”—a truth proven time and time again.
xv. The decision to procure outdated APCs undermines military esprit de corps and goes against the principle of prioritising troops’ welfare over officers’ comfort or personal gain. This sentiment aligns with the recent remarks of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces. On 11 April 2025, during the commissioning of the Regular Career Course Intake 63 at the Ghana Military Academy, Teshie, Accra, the President emphasised the duty of officers to prioritise their men’s comfort while serving the nation.
xvi. The bill of lading for these APCs falsely states the year of manufacture as 2002—an apparent act of deception and fraud. It is an established fact that the production of the BTR-70 ceased in 1984 following the introduction of its successor, the BTR-80. Unlike the BTR-70, which operates on dual petrol engines unless retrofitted, the BTR-80 features a single diesel engine. Moreover, the BTR-80 has since undergone significant upgrades, culminating in the release of the BTR-82 and its advanced variant, the BTR-82A.
xvii. If the manufacturer of the vehicle has long since retired it in favour of newer, more efficient versions, how can the procurement of these outmoded and deteriorated “hulks of scrap metal” be justified?
xvii. According to the available documentation (copies attached), each of these BTR-70 armoured personnel carriers was procured at a cost of approximately $440,000.00, amounting to a total expenditure of $8.8 million ($8,800,000).
4. CONCLUSION
i. The BTR-70 APCs were acquired for deployment in the Ghana Army peace operations. However, these vehicles are not fit for purpose. They are excessively outdated and were not refurbished to ensure their operational viability for use in any peacekeeping theatre.
ii. The evidence presented supports the following issues:
1. Lack of Value for Money
2. Failure to Meet Operational Requirements
3. Neglect of Troops’ Welfare
4. Compromising Troop Safety
5. Mismanagement of Leadership Responsibility
6. Misrepresentation of Information
7. Fraudulent Practices
5. RECOMMENDATION
i. I respectfully petition the President to initiate a value-for-money audit and investigation to assess the benefits, if any, that the Ghana Armed Forces has derived from the procurement of the BTR-70 APCs.
ii. I remain available to provide any further information or clarification as required.
Respectfully submitted.
Ola Durojaiye
Post Office Box 784
Osu
Accra
Telephone: 0541222007
Email: [email protected]
Copy to:
Minister of Defence
Acting Chief of the Defence Staff
The equity market extended its bullish trajectory on Thursday, May 8, 2025 rose by broad-based gains in financial and energy stocks.
The benchmark GSE Composite Index rose 20.77 points to close at 6,417 points translating into a year-to-date gain of 31.28%.
Trading activity was markedly elevated, with volumes surging 112.6% to 1.92 million shares while total turnover nearly doubled to GH¢6.98 million.
The rally added GH¢237.9 million to the market’s total capitalisation which climbed to GH¢140.27 billion.
Investor sentiment was buoyed by sustained interest in telecoms and financial stocks.
MTN Ghana (MTNGH) led trading activity accounting for GH¢5.69 million of the total value traded on the day, supported by a 0.01 gain in its share price to GH¢3.30 extending its year-to-date return to 32%.
GCB Bank topped the list of price gainers climbing GH¢0.20 to close at GH¢7.60 reflecting a 19.31% gain since the start of the year.
SIC Insurance continued its impressive run advancing 0.07 pesewas to GH¢0.77 bringing its year-to-date performance to 185.2%.
Oil marketing firm GOIL edged up by 0.01 to GH¢1.77 while TotalEnergies Marketing Ghana gained GH¢0.49 to end the session at GH¢25.00.
The GSE Financial Stock Index (GSE-FSI) mirrored the broad-market gains adding 7.55 points to close at 3,138 points with its year-to-date return improving to 31.82%.
SP/MA
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One lady wey bin dey work for one bank for Ghana as national service staff don dey sentenced to forty five days imprisonment.
Di High court bin sentence Deborah Seyram Adablah afta dem find say she “attack di judge” wey dey sit on top one case she file against di finance officer of di bank ova “breach of promise and sexual harassment.”
Seyram bin sue di pesin she describe as her ‘sugar daddy’ oga Ernest Kwasi Nimako say e fail to fulfil di promise e make to her.
According to Seyram, di man wey be di finance officer of di bank at di time, promise to take care of her.
She also tok for di court documents say her ‘sugar daddy’ bin promise to give her moni as capital for business, rent for three years, one car, monthly allowance and moni for medical bills.
But di man no gree do these tins afta dia relationship scata.
Sake of dat, Seyram tok say she no go return di car wey di man don give am as dem kontinu dia battle for court.
On 16 May 2023, di high court order say make Seyram hand over di car wey e dey fight ova wit her ‘sugar-daddy’ to di court registrar.
Justice Olivia Obeng Owusu wey give di order tok say make she submit di car to di court until dem go finish di case proper.
Wetin happun for court
As part of di ruling, di court also order di finance officer, wey also be deacon for church, oga Ernest Nimako say make e submit di car documents to di court registrar.
Di court also order say make di plaintiff stop to dey comment on di mata on top social media.
For July 2023, di court bin strike out di name of di bank from di case afta dia lawyers file one motion .
Di court also award Ghc 6,000 cost against Seyram say she mention di name of di bank for di case wey involve one of dia officers.
But on 28 November 2023, di court wey justice John Bosco Nabarese bin dey preside dismiss di main case against di bank officer.
Di court tok say even though di relationship between Seyram and di bank finance officer na “immoral wey dey against society, di writ no get reasonably cause of action.”
Di court add say “di foundation of di relationship no be sometin wey di court gatz to give judicial stamp.”
“You no fit to recover di price of sometin you don commit for immoral act.”
Na so di court award Ghc 10,000 against Seyram Adablah at dat time.
For March 2024, di criminal investigation department of di police (CID) bin submit report to di court say di plaintiff (Seyram) bin assault dia officers di time dem go her house to enforce di order to collect di car.
Police detective Sergeant Thomson Ayitey tok say “Seyram bin obstruct police from dia work and she assault dem”.
Seyram and her lawyers on 15 June 2023, also file appeal against di order.
For February 2024, lawyers for di bank officer file application for di high court dey seek “summary judgement.”
Dem tok say even though di court don dismiss di main case against dia client, dem show di court say di plaintiff, Seyram Adablah no get chance to succeed for any case for dis mata.
At dat time, na two motions dey bifor di court, one na contempt application di lawyer of di banker file against im former lover on 6 June 2023.
Di oda one na application weySeyram Adablah file to set aside di order wey tok say make she submit di car to di court; dem file dis one on 15 June 2023.
Why di court find her guilty of contempt
As di case kontinu to drag, Deborah Seyram Adablah wey become popular on top social media bin dey use her TikTok account to do plenty videos wia she dey comment about di case.
Inside one of di latest videos wey dem present for di court, Seyram tok say di judge wey dey sit on top di mata dey bias.
Inside dat video, she tok say wetin di bailiffs wey collect di car from her do na wrong tin.
She allegedly attack di justiciary, she tok say if you get case for court and you no get power, you no fit get justice and oda tins.
She also accuse di judge, Justice John Bosco of “favouritism and unprofessional conduct.”
Inside di video dem play for di court, she warn di judge to dey “fair for im rulings or e go face her anger.”
“Be ready to dance to dis drum you dey beat, you no fit to sit dia and chop salary for our sweat and still dey side-line me,” she tok for di TikTok video.
Na so di court issue bench warrant say make dem arrest her.
Inside anoda video for her TikTok page, Seyram tok say she see say di court issue warrant say make dem come arrest am, na so she go hand herserf ova to di court.
She tok for dat video say “di contempt case na dead on arrival. I dey advise, make you no go court if you get case, I know di system.”
Di court find her guilty of contempt and di judge sentence her to 45 days for di Nsawam prison.
Inside anoda TikTok live video she do afta di court sentence her, Seyram tok say dem dey prepare to carry her go prison.
“Na di same judge wey throway my first case, na im jail me 45 days, na normal tin. I go surely come back afta di 45 days.”
She add say “I go inform una everitin wey go happun bifor I enta di prison.”
She tok her followers say make dem no worry about her she go dey fine.
Di court jail Seyram for 45 days sake of im dey guilty of contempt of court afta im fire di judge on top her case for tiktok
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has escalated its criticism of the previous administration’s environmental record, with Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande alleging direct complicity in Ghana’s deforestation crisis.
During a recent radio interview, Gbande claimed the Akufo-Addo government systematically enabled the destruction of forest reserves and water bodies through inadequate regulation of mining activities.
“President Akufo-Addo and his Lands Minister didn’t just fail to prevent illegal mining – they actively created conditions for environmental devastation through policies and appointments,” Gbande stated on Citi Eyewitness News. His remarks reflect growing political tensions over Ghana’s environmental management, particularly regarding illegal small-scale mining operations known locally as galamsey.
The NDC official contrasted what he described as past negligence with current enforcement efforts, noting increased military and police operations against mining crimes since the new administration took office. Environmental analysts observe that while crackdowns have intensified recently, lasting solutions will require addressing the complex economic drivers behind illegal mining.
Government records indicate Ghana lost approximately 60% of its forest cover between 2017 and 2023, though attributing responsibility remains contentious. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources under the previous administration had implemented various anti-galamsey initiatives, including the deployment of military task forces and community mining programs.
As the political debate continues, environmental advocates emphasize the need for bipartisan solutions to protect Ghana’s natural resources. The current administration faces mounting pressure to demonstrate measurable progress in ecosystem restoration while balancing the livelihoods of communities dependent on mining activities. With Ghana’s forest reserves continuing to dwindle, the environmental policy decisions of coming months may prove crucial for the country’s ecological future.
In today’s fast-paced professional world, how you dress speaks volumes before you even say a word. For women, corporate fashion is about striking the perfect balance between style, professionalism, and comfort. Whether you’re attending meetings, giving presentations, or simply getting through a busy workday, your outfit can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. This guide provides chic, versatile, and practical corporate wear ideas that every modern working woman should consider adding to her wardrobe.
1. Classic Blazer and Trousers
A tailored blazer paired with well-fitted trousers is a timeless choice. Opt for neutral tones like black, navy, or grey for a sophisticated look.
2. Pencil Skirts with Blouses
A high-waisted pencil skirt styled with a tucked-in blouse offers a chic and polished silhouette. Pair with heels for a power outfit.
3. Shift Dresses
These dresses are comfortable, professional, and easy to style. Choose solid colors or subtle patterns for a refined appearance.
4. Button-Up Shirts and Cigarette Pants
A crisp white or pastel button-up shirt paired with slim-fit cigarette pants is both stylish and business-ready.
5. Blouse and Palazzo Trousers
Palazzo trousers offer comfort and flair. Combine them with a structured blouse for a modern take on office fashion.
6. Midi Skirts with Structured Tops
A-line or pleated midi skirts paired with tailored tops add femininity and class to corporate attire.
7. Matching Suit Sets
Coordinate blazer-and-pants or blazer-and-skirt sets are power outfits. Go for bold colors like burgundy or emerald for a standout look.
8. Wrap Dresses
Perfect for both meetings and after-hours events, wrap dresses are flattering and versatile.
9. Sleeveless Tops with Blazers
For warmer weather, wear a sleeveless top under a blazer for breathability without compromising on professionalism.
10. Accessories and Footwear
Complete your outfit with low-heeled pumps or loafers, a structured handbag, and minimalistic jewelry for a sleek finish.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has issued a weather alert, urging residents across the country to prepare for isolated thunderstorms this afternoon.
The forecast predicts a mix of partly cloudy skies and sunny conditions in the morning, but thunderstorms are expected to develop from late afternoon into the evening, particularly in coastal, central, and northern regions.
Kotoka International Airport, Terminal 3
The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has successfully repossessed prime airport lands from McDan Group of Companies following a decisive court ruling in its favour.
The judgement, delivered on May 6, 2025, by an Accra High Court, grants GACL full re-entry and possession of over 16 acres of land formerly occupied by subsidiaries of the McDan Group.
The lands in question, measuring approximately 10.63 acres and 5.66 acres, are located adjacent to and opposite the Action Chapel International, near the Kotoka International Airport. They were previously held by McDan Shipping Company and Airport Logistics Limited, both under the McDan Group umbrella, since 2012.
In February 2025, GACL filed a writ and a statement of claim against the two entities, citing longstanding breaches of land lease agreements and outstanding ground rents.
The company sought the recovery of $26,296 in accrued ground rent for the use of the lands.
Additionally, there was a perpetual injunction to restrain the defendants from any interference with the lands.
Following legal proceedings, GACL applied for summary judgment on the grounds that the defendants had no valid defense. The court ruled in GACL’s favour, awarding all reliefs sought and ordering the defendants to pay GH¢50,000 in legal costs.
In December 2024, McDan Aviation’s operations at Terminal 1 of the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) were suspended due to debt obligations. Although those specific debts were later cleared, the land dispute remained unresolved until this legal intervention.
GACL’s management has lauded the court’s decision as a significant asset recovery win.
“The repossession of these lands not only safeguards millions of dollars’ worth of state assets but also reinforces our commitment to accountability and lawful management of public property,” a source within the company stated.
The successful litigation is being credited to the collaborative efforts of GACL’s Legal Department and the company’s Managing Director Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, who spearheaded the push for asset recovery.
With this development, GACL is expected to explore new plans for the reclaimed lands, potentially for aviation-related expansion or strategic partnerships, as part of broader efforts to optimise airport infrastructure and revenue generation.
SP/MA
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Samuel Abu Jinapor
The Minority Caucus on the Foreign Affairs Committee in Parliament has stated that the chip-embedded passports project was already being implemented before the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to over the governance.
The group in a statement signed by the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, set the record straight.
The Minority said the record shows that the innovative project, described as ushering in “a new era [of] modernisation, convenience, and deep respect for Ghanaian citizens,” is the result of years of determined leadership, strategic planning, execution, and sustained institutional effort by the Akufo-Addo government.
“At its thirty-eighth (38th) Session held from 24th September to 4th October, 2013, the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) adopted the ICAO Traveller Identification Programme (ICAO TRIP) Strategy to, among others, provide a holistic, coherent and coordinated travel identification system, including the design and manufacture of Machine Readable Travel Documents (MRTDs) and electronic MRTDs (eMRTDs), which is a chip-embedded travel document.
“Following the adoption of this Strategy, discussions about issuing chip-embedded passports began in Ghana, but did not yield much results. Upon assuming office in 2017, the Akufo-Addo Government, as part of its digitalisation agenda, took a bold decision to transform the country’s biometric passport system by upgrading the biometric passports to chip-embedded electronic passports as well as provide an integrated online passport application and delivery system,” the minority said.
They explained that after receiving and reviewing several proposals, the Central Tender Committee, by a letter dated 21st February 2018, granted approval for the Government to engage 25th Century Technology Limited to implement the project under a Design, Build, Finance, Manage, Maintain and Transfer (DBFMMT) Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The model, it added, placed the financing obligations on the developer so as not to overburden the public purse.
“To execute the Project, 25th Century Technology Limited and Buck Press Limited, a reputable service printing outlet with expertise in passport printing, established a special purpose vehicle known as Biometric Travel Solutions Limited.
“After extensive engagement with relevant stakeholders, including the National Security, the Ghana Immigration Service and other international partners, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, under the leadership of Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, on behalf of Government, signed a Public-Private Partnership Agreement with Biometric Travel Solutions Limited to execute the Project.
“Biometric Travel Solutions Limited duly executed the Project, and on Monday, 2nd December 2024, then-President Akufo-Addo officially launched the biometric chip-embedded passport in Accra, where biometric chip-embedded passports were issued to the President, the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, Ministers of State and other dignitaries,” the Minority noted.
According to them, it was necessary to note that through the hard work and dedication of the Akufo-Addo government, the planning, procurement, and execution of the project that led to Ghana issuing electronic chip-embedded passports were achieved.
“Every essential aspect of the chip-embedded passport programme, from policy formulation to contract execution and logistical delivery, was meticulously completed by the Akufo-Addo Government before it handed over on 7th January 2025.”
However, they consider the purported re-launch of the project to be “unnecessary” and an attempt by incumbent government officials to distort the narrative and appropriate the far-reaching legacy of the Akufo-Addo government—both inaccurate and unsupported by the record.
“The purported re-launch of the Project that was already completed and ready for roll-out serves no functional purpose and constitutes an unnecessary burden on the public purse,” the Minority stated.
A Daily Guide Report
A former Chief Executive Officer of the Volta River Authority (VRA) and Chairman of the Committee probing the Akosombo Dam spillage disaster, Ing. Isaac Kirk Koffi, has identified three key factors that contributed to the widespread devastation in September 2023.
In that month, the VRA conducted a controlled spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong Dams as a preventive measure to safeguard the structural integrity of the dams. The move, however, quickly turned catastrophic, submerging thousands of homes and displacing entire communities downstream.
In response to the disaster, the newly elected Mahama-led administration committed to investigating the causes of the flooding. On March 14, 2025, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, inaugurated a five-member committee led by Ing. Koffi to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Friday, Ing. Koffi outlined human settlement patterns, technical decisions, and poor stakeholder coordination as the main drivers of the crisis.
“Human Nature: People are living in some of the flood zones, both upstream and downstream. Going forward, we think those areas should be protected. There should be an LI where areas within the downstream are protected,” he said.
“Because, as it has happened, we can see it happening in the future. When nobody stays there, anytime there is a spillage, human activities in those areas are not affected.”
He also emphasized that while the dam itself remained structurally sound, aspects of the technical response were inadequate.
“The Dam Itself: The decision to spill was taken, but it wasn’t safeguarded. Elsewhere, dams have collapsed; certain things did not work well. It was either their gates could not open, but in this case, they were able to open the gates, and they spilled the water that needed to go out.”
“Nevertheless, the amount of water they spilled is something we can also talk about later. Also, the spillage was a result of inflow, which was more than what was expected,” he added.
On inter-agency coordination, Ing. Koffi noted gaps that, in his view, worsened the impact of the spillage.
“The cooperation between the stakeholders, we think there were some deficiencies over there, and that must be worked on, like the Emergency Preparedness Plan,” he explained.
The Committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to help prevent a recurrence of such disasters in the future.
Mahama: VRA bosses will be sacked if Akosombo Dam flooding recurs
Accra, May 9, GNA-The ECOWAS Court of Justice has opened its 2025 External Session in Lagos, underscoring the need for stronger regional judicial cooperation, improved enforcement of judgments, and greater access to justice across West Africa.
In his opening remarks, Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, President of the ECOWAS Court, highlighted the importance of external sessions in bringing the Court closer to citizens and raising public awareness of its mandate.
“This initiative delivers justice directly to the grassroots and enhances visibility,” he said, citing Article 26(1) of the Court’s Protocol.
Justice Gonçalves noted the Court’s expanding human rights role and accessible legal model, sharing that it had received 737 initiating applications and issued 465 judgments since inception.
He clarified the Court’s function as a legal complement—not an appellate body—to national courts, urging Member States to enforce its binding decisions.
Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, praised the Court’s contributions to human rights and regional integration.
“The ECOWAS Court is now a pillar of regional jurisprudence,” she said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between domestic and regional courts.
Representing the Lagos State Governor, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice – Mr Lawal Pedro welcomed the Court, affirming the State’s commitment to regional legal cooperation.
“This session is a civic moment that deepens public understanding of justice and the rule of law,” he stated, encouraging young legal professionals to engage with the proceedings.
Justice Kazeem Alogba, Chief Judge of Lagos State, described the session as a landmark for the State’s judiciary.
Reflecting on a recent roundtable between ECOWAS judges and Lagos justices, she noted it deepened mutual understanding and reinforced Lagos’ support for regional judicial integration. She also commended the Court for its support in expanding Lagos’ judicial infrastructure.
The External Session will run for several days, during which the Court will hear multiple cases to promote awareness of regional legal processes and improve access to justice.
GNA
CA/
The Ghana cedi is experiencing a significant appreciation against the United States dollar, a development met with optimism by the Speaker of Parliament, the Right Honourable Alban S.K. Bagbin.
His comments come on the heels of a Bloomberg report indicating that the Ghana cedi has been the best-performing currency globally against the US dollar since the beginning of April, appreciating by a remarkable 16%.
Speaker Bagbin, in a statement shared on his social media platform, lauded the cedi’s resurgence as a major relief for Ghanaians and the national economy.
He noted the positive impact on cross-border traders, who are already seeing an upward surge in the value of their earnings.
This appreciation, according to the Speaker, will likely lead to a review of prices for goods and services, potentially making them more affordable for the average Ghanaian.
“It is refreshing that cross-border traders are already saving on the upward surge in the value. For the first time in a long while, traders have room to review the prices of their goods and services downward and people are more willing to invoice and receive payments in cedis,” Speaker Bagbin stated.
He further emphasized the potential for this trend to positively influence the general pricing of goods and services, ultimately benefiting all Ghanaians.
While the recent appreciation is welcome news, the Ghana cedi has faced considerable challenges in recent years. Several factors typically influence the exchange rate of the cedi, including inflation rates, fiscal deficits and public debt, foreign exchange reserves, amongst others.
Ghanaian musician Criss Waddle
Ghanaian musician Criss Waddle has once again thrown jabs at the New Patriotic Party (NPP), claiming they would have exploited the US-China trade war and recent events surrounding the new Pope to impose additional levies on Ghanaians.
In a post shared on X on May 9, 2025, Criss Waddle mocked the NPP, claiming the party would have introduced bizarre taxes, such as a “Pope levy” and a “Trump levy”, if they had remained in power.
To buttress his point, he referenced how the NPP introduced a ‘COVID levy’ during the pandemic and stirred public anxiety with frequent national addresses.
“Like by now, there will be ‘Fellow Ghanaians’ and the whole country will start to panic due to the Pope’s death. We Ghanaians living somewhere would have to begin paying the Pope levy, Trump levy, and China levy of 8.90,000%,” he wrote.
The Bie Gya hitmaker also lamented the economic hardships Ghanaians endured under the NPP’s administration, adding, “Herh! We’ve suffered before.”
His post has sparked reactions on social media, with some users agreeing with his sentiments and criticising the past government’s handling of the economy.
Read the post below:
Like by now fellow Ghanaians,Then the whole country starts to panic,Due to the Pope’s Death,we Ghanaians living in our somewhere have to start paying Pope levy,Trump Levy and China Levy 8.90,000%.Herh We’ve suffered before 🤣🤣🤣
— Criss Waddle (@CrissWaddle) May 9, 2025
JHM/EB
Former Speaker of Parliament Prof Aaron Mike Oquaye and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo (from left)
A former Speaker of Parliament, Prof Aaron Mike Oquaye, has taken a swipe at Ghanaians who are criticising the ongoing processes on petitions for the removal of the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaking in an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse, on May 8, 2025, Prof Oquaye pointed out that even though he has issues with the processes outlined in the 1992 Constitution for the removal of the Chief Justice, which he has expressed in the past, those ‘crying’ now did not complain about it when they were in power.
He said that he has written extensively about the issues he has with the process for over a decade, asserting that persons who were okay with the law when they were in power should not be complaining about it now.
“Why is it that Ghanaians have watched this being their law for so long, and some people who today are criticising the system said nothing? They did not speak about this. When I was mounting the IEA Constitutional Review Series, I wrote on all these things.
“It is published in my contribution to the University of Ghana alumni lecture, which I gave at the jubilee time at the Great Hall in Legon; 10 years ago, I had written on this… Why do we allow such things to happen? And then we cry foul when it appears as if a particular best person is going to suffer. And this is what personally I don’t like,” he said.
He added, “Let us talk by the principle of it. What is good for the goose is good for the gander – everybody, that is important.”
Prof Oquaye, who was the Speaker of Ghana’s 7th Parliament, pointed out that one of the issues he has with the law on the removal of the Chief Justice was the composition of the committee which the president is supposed to set up to probe the petition(s).
“You pick any two Supreme Court judges; then you also can pick three other civilians who are not judges, not lawyers and so on, that you think can do justice or go into the matter. The five go and sit. Judgment is by majority. So, the two Supreme Court judges will say yes, and the three civilians – ordinary people – say no.
“That three must hold, right? Because it’s a majority. And then, thereafter, there is no appeal. The matter is closed… if it were you, would you like to appear before such a court? It’s ridiculous. I don’t believe anybody is there in our law. Let me just finish this,” he said.
Watch his remarks in the video below:
Chief Justice Suspension: “What did those crying foul today do when they had power? What’s good for the goose is good for the gander” — Former Speaker Mike Ocquaye questions #ThePulse pic.twitter.com/S3zE1IUeB6
— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) May 8, 2025
BAI/AE
Watch the latest episode of TWI news below:
US ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales says the decision is
The US has announced that it is cutting $50m (£37m) in aid to Zambia’s health sector, due to the country’s failure to address the “systematic theft” of donated drugs and medical supplies.
This “difficult” decision was taken after repeated warnings to the Zambian government to safeguard vital drugs meant for the country’s most vulnerable patients, said US ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales.
“We are no longer willing to underwrite the personal enrichment of fraudsters or the corrupt when patients go without or have to buy life-saving medications that we have provided for free,” he added.
The Zambian government said it had taken measures to tackle the issue.
Health Minister Elijah Muchima thanked the US for its “generous support”, while saying that the problem of theft predated the current government which took office in 2021.
The US cuts are separate to the sweeping foreign aid freeze announced by President Donald Trump in January.
The US accounts for about a third of public health spending in Zambia, according to a statement from the US embassy in the country.
But US officials said they had discovered the “country-wide theft” of medical products that were intended to be distributed for free to the public and were now being sold by private pharmacies.
More than 2,000 pharmacies across Zambia were found selling donated drugs and medical supplies in a year-long investigation conducted by the US embassy.
“Shockingly, across these visits, 95 percent of the pharmacies that were selling the kinds of products that the United States provides, were also selling stolen goods,” the statement said.
Nearly half of the pharmacies visited were found selling medication and supplies donated by the US government, it said.
Other pharmacies were also selling stolen medical stocks purchased by the Zambian government, the Global Fund, and other donor, it added.
The US embassy said it had presented its findings and offered experts to help stop further theft and bring the culprits to justice in April last year but no action was taken.
“I regret that to date, the government’s actions have fallen drastically short of demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding US assistance and the lives we aim to save,” the embassy said.
Zambia’s law enforcement operations have focused on “low-level actors” and have led to the arrest of “only a few mid-level officials” instead of investigating supply sources and pursuing the masterminds behind the theft of medicines, according to the US embassy.
Gonzales said the US “can no longer justify to the American taxpayer continuing to provide such massive levels of assistance”.
He said the cuts would affect drugs to treat malaria, HIV and TB.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly,” Gonzales said, shedding tears as he explained how the measure would affect Zambian patients.
The aid cuts will take effect January next year to give the Zambian government time to develop alternative arrangements but he said “the decision had been made”.
In response, the Zambian health minister said “an advanced digital stock tracking system” had been set up to help monitor supplies of medicines.
He also reassured Zambians that there were sufficient stocks of all drugs so there was “no immediate risk of shortages”.
Since the Trump administration took office, it has cut billions of dollars in global health programmes, hitting African countries including Zambia, where HIV remains a major threat especially for adolescents and young adults.
Trump announced the aid freeze on his first day in office in January in line with his “America First” foreign policy.
The aid cuts have affected health programmes across Africa, including shipments of critical medical supplies, including HIV drugs.
The majority of the US Agency for International Development’s (USAID) programmes, which provided health and humanitarian assistance to vulnerable nations, have since been terminated.
In March, Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema said Trump had “slapped us on both cheeks”, saying it was time for his country to strengthen its treasury to procure its own medicines.
Ghanaian rap sensation King Paluta has finally met his look-alike, a passionate fan known as King Holy.
Holy’s striking resemblance to the artist has drawn attention both online and offline.
The emotional encounter took place after months of King Holy actively promoting King Paluta’s music on social media, building fan engagement, and amplifying the artist’s brand.
The resemblance between the two is so intense that fans have often mistaken King Holy for the real Paluta in public appearances and videos.
King Paluta expressed appreciation for the support, acknowledging how the fan’s consistent efforts have contributed to the growth of his music.
He expressed willingness to work with his look-alike due to their shared passion for music.
Fans are already calling for a collaboration or music video appearance to seal the moment.
Watch video below:
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, has made a number of proposals to the Constitutional Review Committee.
He made the proposal when the Committee consulted him as part of the ongoing nationwide consultations.
The consultations aimed at reforming Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
The Speaker highlighted the importance of developing a Constitution that reflects Ghana’s unique context and national aspirations.
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court in Lagos has granted music producer and former manager of gospel artist Mercy Chinwo, Ezekiel Onyedikachi (known as EeZeeTee), a ₦20 million bail in connection with an alleged $255,000 forex transaction fraud filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Accra, May 08, GNA – The 2025 Ghana Fashion Week promises lots of excitement as the hottest traditional fashion brands will be outdoored in Houston, TX, United States of America (USA).
The event, which runs from May 24 to 26, 2025, will feature runway displays and presentations.
The fashion week would see Ghanaian designers converge in Houston to showcase the various collections and designers in Houston, TX.
The three-day spectacle would welcome some top models from around the world as they dazzle patrons with their unique outfits.
From the silky ‘Kaba and Slit’ to the kingly smock attires, the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture and Ghanaian dress styles that represent a fusion of traditional motifs and contemporary fashion would be showcased.
The Ghana Fashion Week would also line up established and emerging Ghanaian brands who would be presenting the collections to the diaspora.
Ghanaian fashion brands who have thrived with their works in the United States of America would also be recognised and awarded at the event.
GNA
KOA
The government is finalising a policy document aimed at reviewing taxes and levies on vehicles and equipment imported into the country for industrial and agricultural purposes.
The policy which is expected to be tabled before Parliament for approval is to help stimulate industrial growth and provide crucial support to the agriculture sector.
It is part of the promises made by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the run-up to the December 7 general election.
Although highly anticipated in the 2025 budget, details of this initiative were not featured in the financial document which was the government’s first major policy statement.
Speaking to the media at the opening of the ninth Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative (ASCI) Regional Meeting in Accra on May 6, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, assured that the government would soon table the document to review taxes and levies on imported equipment meant for agriculture purpose before parliament for approval.
The two-meeting day was co-hosted by Proforest and Solidaridad to help chart a bold course for sustainable agriculture that protects livelihoods, forests, the climate, and enhances economic productivity.
The meeting also included high-level delegation of ministers, government officials, civil society actors, and private sector leaders from– Cameroon, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone, representing 75 per cent of Africa’s tropical forests and 25 per cent globally.
ASCI is a multi-stakeholder platform that puts producer countries in Africa at the forefront of defining the principles for the sustainable development of cocoa, rubber, palm oil, coffee and other commodities, in a way that protects livelihoods and natural resources.
Mr Opoku said the government was also in the process of establishing farmers service centres in all the agricultural districts across the country.
He said the centres were expected to serve as a one stop shop for all the farmers in the districts with tractors, combine harvesters and all the equipment that would be required by farmers for their activities.
“Then we have the improved seeds, fertilisers, agricultural extension officers and their motorbikes at the centre.
“So, if the farmer goes to the centre and then indicates to the centre that, I want tractors for my farming activities, even if the farmer does not have money, the centre will release the tractors to go and work for him,” he said.
The minister underlined the country’s commitment to sustainable, climate-smart agriculture and the importance of aligning national priorities with global trade standards and environmental targets.
“Ghana has taken bold steps, particularly in the tree crop sector, through the establishment of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) which plays a pivotal role in regulating and supporting the sustainable growth of priority crops such as oil palm, rubber, coconut, mango, cashew, and shea to reshape the future of non-cocoa tree crops.
Ghana Country Representative of Solidaridad West Africa, Eric Amoako Agyare, said Solidaridad has been active in West Africa’s oil palm sector since 2012, working to improve yields at both the farm and mill levels through the introduction of best management practices (BMP) and improved processing technology.
He said Solidaridad and other partners were implementing the National Initiatives for Sustainable and Climate-smart Oil Palm Smallholders (NISCOPS) programme, with funding support from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Kingdom (UK) Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
“As part of this programme, we are pleased to co-host this 9th ASCI platform meeting in partnership with Proforest,” he said.
Group Director of Proforest, Abraham Baffoe, said the platform has a track record of working regionally across ten countries to contribute to the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agenda.
“The lessons from producers and companies we have learned on the ground are critical to driving progress and engaging all stakeholders to effectively implement regulation, such as European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR),” he said.
He said participating countries were expected to deepen commitments on sustainable agricultural production for the region through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the development of joint strategies.
Former Special Prosecutor and legal luminary Martin Amidu has issued a firm warning to President John Dramani Mahama, stating that the president would be in breach of his constitutional duties if he accepts the resignation of a suspended Supreme Court judge who is currently under investigation.
In a strongly worded opinion piece sighted by MyNewsGH, Amidu emphasized that the president must allow the Article 146 proceedings to run their full course and should not interfere by accepting any resignation that preempts the findings of the committee.
Ghana will have to contend with sprint heavyweights, Great Britain and France in Heat 1 of the World Relays on Saturday in China.
Team Ghana arrived in Guangzhou on Thursday with hopes of booking a spot at the World Championships later this year in Tokyo, Japan.
In all, 6 teams will compete for two automatic spots in the first heat, including Ghana, Great Britain and NI, France, Korea, Colombia, and Poland.
Elsewhere, Olympic medalists, South Africa have been drawn in Heat 2, along with powerhouse Jamaica and Germany.
The first 2 of each heat qualify to finals and earn automatic slots at the 2025 World Athletics Championships.
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.
Emmanuel Sarpong of Berekum Chelsea has declared his team is fully motivated ahead of their crucial FA Cup semifinal clash against Asante Kotoko.
He emphasized the club’s determination to secure a spot in the final and a ticket to continental football.
Speaking with Ghana Sports Page, Sarpong revealed that club leadership has pledged full support should the team qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup, adding an extra layer of motivation to an already high-stakes fixture.
“Our leaders are ready to sponsor us for Africa, so motivation-wise we are ready,” Sarpong said confidently.
“Sunday’s game is a must-win. for Berekum Chelsea” We are well prepared, physically, spiritually, mentally and everything and we are ready to deliver on Sunday.
Yes, we are ready and focused on beating Asante Kotoko because our coach Samuel Boadu has told us we can also do it. Our technical team led by Obed Nana Kwame Nketia has assured us that, they’re ready to sponsor us in Africa so we should do our best to beat Kotoko and we will beat them”, he told ghanasportspage.com
Football is not about names anymore, Justice Blay, Samba Oneil and others are the same as us just that we didn’t have the opportunity to wear Kotoko jersey because, Patrick Asiedu, and Lord Amoah, we were all playing together here and they had the opportunity to join Kotoko.:. He stated.
With a spot in the final and a potential return to continental football on the line, Chelsea are expected to come out with full intensity against a Kotoko side equally hungry for silverware.
The game is slated for May 11, 2025, at the TNA Stadium.
File photo of a worried woman
Dear GhanaWeb,
I need to get something off my chest, something I’ve carried for years. I once visited a priest and used a charm to make a man love me. That man is now my husband. A year after using the charm, we got married.
By the grace of God, we have four children, though sadly, all of them have some health challenges.
It was never my intention to manipulate anyone. I was genuinely in love with him, but he wasn’t focused. He was handsome and charming, and women constantly threw themselves at him. Because of this, he became complacent, he didn’t work, and women often sponsored his lifestyle.
I thought I could help him grow into the man I saw in him: a responsible husband and father.
The charm worked. He listened to me, got a job, pursued a master’s degree, and now we are financially stable. We have a home, a car, and on the surface, a perfect life. He is a good man, kind, responsible, and obedient. We go to church, raise our children, and live quietly.
But something inside me is unsettled. He agrees with everything I say. He never argues, never cheats, never asserts himself. Even in our intimate life, I have to initiate everything. It has become dull. I crave spontaneity, passion, disagreement, even healthy conflict.
I want a partner, not a follower. I feel like I run the home alone: the kids, decisions, everything. It’s draining. I don’t want to control everything anymore.
In my frustration, I’ve made mistakes. I’ve cheated, more than once, hoping to feel something I don’t get at home. And now, I don’t even want to be near him. I want to be free, but I feel trapped, not because of love, but because of guilt and fear. Part of me wonders if the charm is still working, or if he is just genuinely devoted. I don’t know.
The health challenges of our children, two with cerebral palsy, one with mild symptoms, and the youngest who still can’t speak properly, weigh heavily on me.
I sometimes fear it’s karma for what I did, and that’s partly why I haven’t left him. Our children are improving, and I’m grateful for that, but I’m overwhelmed.
I don’t want to reverse everything. I’m scared it might destroy the life we’ve built or harm the children. I just want balance. I want my husband to take initiative, to lead, to be a partner with his own will and ideas. I need help.
Is there a way to modify a charm, to adjust its effects without undoing everything?
I’m exhausted. Money can’t fix this. I just want peace and a more natural relationship. Please, if anyone out there has knowledge or experience with such things, help me. I want to do what’s right, for my family and myself.
FG/EB
Martin Kpebu is a private legal practitioner
Private legal practitioner, Martin Kpebu, has addressed the unending discourse on asset declaration, stating that the 1992 Constitution clearly spells out the provision which is binding on all public officials before their assumption of office.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb, Kpebu explained that asset declaration expressly stated in Article 286(1) of the 1992 Constitution, requires public officeholders including the president, vice president, ministers of state, Members of Parliament, judges, ambassadors, and others who earn salaries equivalent to or higher than that of a director in the civil service, to comply with the asset declaration provision.
“All assets and liabilities owned by the person, directly or indirectly, including money, properties, shares, business interests, and debts, must be declared before taking office,” Martin Kpebu explained.
He emphasised that asset declaration must be done at three key stages of an appointee’s engagement by the government: before assuming office, at the end of every four-year period, and at the conclusion of the official’s term in office.
According to the legal luminary, declaration documents are submitted to the Auditor-General, who is required to keep them confidential unless the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) is having an investigation and requests open declaration.
Kpebu also emphasised that failure to declare assets, or making false declarations, is an offense that can lead to serious consequences, including disqualification from holding public office.
“Public Office Holders (Declaration of Assets and Disqualification) Act, 1998 (Act 550), which gives legal effect to Article 286 of the constitution.
“Non-compliance can result in removal from office or other sanctions,” he stated.
He also noted that while declarations are currently confidential, there have been growing calls for reforms to enhance transparency.
These include proposals to make asset declarations publicly accessible and to enforce stricter timelines for submission.
MRA/AE
Meanwhile, watch GhanaWeb’s tour of Odweanoma Paragliding Field below:
Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu’s colleagues were hoping he would be found alive
The bodies of a journalist and his partner have been found in South Africa in an advanced stage of decomposition, more than two months after they went missing, local media groups have said.
Police said they had found human remains, but DNA tests still needed to be conducted to confirm they were those of radio journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Precious Mdhluli.
In a joint statement, two media groups said that police had achieved a breakthrough after arresting five suspects.
The couple were murdered and their bodies dumped in a bush in northern Limpopo province, the media groups said, adding that the deaths had left them in shock and disbelief.
The suspects had reportedly been arrested with stolen furniture, appliances and the parts of a car belonging to the couple who had been missing since 18 February.
Ndlovu was the founder of a local radio station, Capital Live, in South Africa’s capital Pretoria.
The African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) said that a forensic team had already identified the remains as those of the couple.
“I am terribly sad. We held out hope that despite the number of days that the couple had gone missing, they would still be found alive. Our deepest condolences go out to the families of our brother and sister,” said AMCF chairperson Elijah Mhlanga.
South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world, with many people living in fear.
Official data showed that 26,232 murders took place in 2024, an average of 72 per day.
