Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Roads and Highways Minister-designate, has described the scrapping of road tolls by the Akufo-Addo government as illegal.
According to him, the cancellation was surprising, as the then Minority members of Parliament’s Roads and Transport Committee had advised the government against removing the tolls.
Speaking during his vetting by members of the Appointments Committee on Monday, January 20, 2025, he stated that the decision had significant financial implications for the road sector.
He hinted at the possible reintroduction of road tolls as a measure to enhance revenue generation for the development of road infrastructure.
“We urged the government not to abolish the road tolls, but it did so instead of exploring ways to improve them,” Mr. Agbodza stated. He emphasized that the system could have been reformed to reduce inefficiencies and minimize financial leakages.
Mr. Agbodza also labeled the cancellation as an “act of illegality,” asserting that it was carried out without following the proper legal procedures, despite the toll system being underpinned by legislation.
He further pointed out that the toll system was not only a legal framework but also a vital mechanism for financing road infrastructure projects.
The minister-designate also challenged the previous government’s claim that the toll system only generated GH¢80 million, suggesting that this figure was misleading.
“The abolition of the toll system has placed road contractors in a difficult situation, and it is clear that the government needs to reconsider its strategy for financing road development,” he explained.
Agbodza went on to announce that the road toll system would be reinstated, but in a revamped form. He assured that the new system would eliminate physical barriers and manual toll collection by attendants, instead introducing a more modern and efficient, technology-driven approach to ensure a fair and seamless process.
“It is a matter that has attracted national attention. The accrual to the road fund was only GH¢250 million, and we worked to increase it to GH¢1.5 billion. Today, it is over GH¢2 billion. So, we cautioned the government against cancelling the road tolls, and we were surprised that they did. It was an act of illegality to cancel it,” he reiterated.
Mr. Agbodza expressed confidence that this new road toll system would address both the concerns of road users and the need for sustainable funding for road infrastructure.
The police and military in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region have seized a cache of weapons including firearms, cartridges, and knives, in a joint operation aimed at containing recent violence in the area.
The joint operation, launched over the weekend marks a decisive response to the escalating violence that has gripped the area in recent weeks.
So far security personnel have arrested at least 16 individuals in connection with the unrest as authorities intensify investigations into illegal arms possession and related crimes.
The Security have also zeroed in on key conflict hotspots, where tensions have boiled over due to what local sources describe as a protracted land dispute among tribal factions.
On Wednesday January 1, 2025, the clashes turned deadly when unidentified assailants opened fire, killing several residents and leaving many others injured. In the aftermath, homes were set ablaze, forcing families to flee and plunging the community into fear and uncertainty.
Survivors are calling on the government and local stakeholders to ensure justice for the victims.
The Minority in Parliament has called on President John Dramani Mahama to call his party thugs to order.
Speaking to the press during a minority press conference that was held today Monday January 20, 2025 the minority caucus led by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Weija Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib vowed to cooperate in government business on the floor of parliament only if President John Dramani Mahama addresses the post-election lawlessness.
Adako-Jachie (Ash), Jan 20, GNA – Mrs Philomena Owusu-Ansah, General Manager of Prefos Limited, an electrical engineering company based in Kumasi, has stressed the need for Ghana to focus attention on the production of solar energy systems in its energy mix.
She said it was time for Ghana to reduce its over-reliance on hydro and thermal energy and focus more attention on the development of solar systems to ensure sustainable energy production in the country.
Addressing the annual thanksgiving service of the company at Adako-Jachie in the Ejisu municipality, Mrs Owusu-Ansah, pointed out that, the company was committed to work closely with the government to expand solar power systems in the country.
According to her, sunlight was always available in almost all the seasons and the country could take advantage and store enough sun and convert it into energy to power industrial machines and domestic use.
“….so, in the event of the new government administration, we will present solar power proposals to see whether they can assist in the solar system in Ghana.
This is intended to help the nation to improve its solar energy mix and reduce the over-dependence on hydropower.
We can harvest more solar from the sun, install more panels both for commercial and home use in Ghana”, she explained.
She said stable power supply enhanced development, adding that Prefos Limited was ready to support the course of quality lighting systems across Ghana.
On skills training acquisition, Mrs Owusu-Ansah stressed the need for the government to equip technical and vocational training institutions to train the youth to acquire skills to help reduce the unemployment situation in the country.
She pointed out that most of the workers at Prefos, who assembled, installed and maintained streets lights in the country received skills training from the company.
Mrs Owusu-Ansah said the company aimed to, on a larger scale, support Africa’s development and industrialization agenda by providing modern, durable high quality electrical installation and civil engineering services.
The company used the 2025 annual thanksgiving and prayer event to usher themselves into the new year with praises and worship song ministrations from some renowned Ghanaian gospel musicians and preachers.
play videoMinister of Roads and Highways-designate Kwame Governs Agbodza
The Member of Parliament of Adaklu and Minister of Roads and Highways-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has given details of the debts accumulated by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration in the road sector.
According to the minister-designate, the Akufo-Addo government left behind unpaid road construction certificates worth GH¢20 billion.
He indicated that the interest composition of the debts is more than 100% of the actual amount the state owes.
“The NPP government is leaving a minimum of GH¢100 billion commitment. What you should be worried about though is that in that same document, they are saying that certificates unpaid as of today from GoG amount to about GH¢20 billion. The ones with road fund is about GH¢15 billion.
“What you should be more worried about, my brothers and sisters and colleagues listening to us from outside of this hall is that if you take the indebtedness up to 2025 which is the road fund debt alone out of the 15 billion,” he said at his vetting on Monday, January 20, 2025.
Kwame Agbodza went on to give a breakdown of the debts as follows:
“In 2018, we were owing about GH¢113 million, the interest on the GH¢113 million this year will be GH¢665 million – the debt was GH¢113 million, and the interest on the GH¢113 million is GH¢665 million. When you take 2019, GH¢210 million. The interest on the GH¢210 million is GH¢960 million. In 2020, we were owing GH¢424 million. The interest on the GH¢424 million is 1.5 billion. In 2021, the debt was GH¢616 million. The interest on that is currently GH¢1.69 billion. In 2022, GH¢693 million and currently GH¢1.4 billion.”
play videoGoverns Kwame Agbodza is the Minister of Roads-designate
The Minister of Roads and Highways-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has reiterated the reasons why the former opposition did not support the suspension of road tolls in 2021.
According to him, road tolls were generating revenue that could pay some contractors and road maintenance workers.
The nominee, who was a ranking member on the roads committee, noted that there were incessant calls for the government to reconsider the decision, but these fell on deaf ears.
He added that the suspension of the road tolls was an illegality.
Appearing before the Appointments Committee on January 20, 2025, he said, “We decided to caution the government not to suspend road tolls; instead, let’s find ways to plug leakages in the collection process and enhance it. We met with Hon Amoako-Atta to express our commitment. We were surprised on the day that they abolished it. For me, it was an act of illegality. It was a law, so you couldn’t unilaterally undo that.”
He added, “They claim road tolls were accruing about 8 million, but today contractors are working for Ghana who are owed GH¢5000 cedis. Can you imagine the number of road maintenance workers who will be paid with GH¢80 million?”
Road tolls were abolished in November 2021 by the former Nana Akufo-Addo administration.
Ghanaian midfielder Augustine Boakye showcased his brilliance once again for French side St. Étienne during their Ligue 1 Matchday 18 encounter against Nantes on Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Boakye, who joined St. Étienne from Austrian club Wolfsberger AC, has enjoyed a stellar start to his time in France.
Against Nantes, he underlined his potential by coming off the bench to rescue a crucial point for his team, who were on the brink of defeat.
Nigeria’s Moses Simon had put Nantes ahead early in the game, setting them up for what would have been their first victory in four matches.
However, St. Étienne’s coach, Horneland Eirik, brought on Boakye with 30 minutes left to play, and the Ghanaian repaid the manager’s faith with a sublime equalizer.
With just four minutes remaining, Boakye received the ball just outside the box. A deft touch allowed him to glide past his marker before unleashing a thunderous curling strike into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
This was Boakye’s third Ligue 1 goal of the season, achieved in just 11 appearances since joining St. Étienne at the start of the 2024/25 campaign.
As the final whistle blew, St. Étienne secured a 1-1 draw, with Boakye’s moment of magic proving decisive in their fight for survival.
Queues don already start to dey appear for fueling stations sake of di tori of fuel price increase
Just few weeks into di new year, Nigerians don dey brace up for anoda increase in di price of premium motor spirit (PMS) wey pipo know as petrol.
Dis dey come as di kontri current biggest functioning refinery – Dangote Refinery – don already clear demsef from di increase even wen e neva fully take effect across di kontri.
As at today, fuel stations of di Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) still dey sell at N925 for Lagos and N965 for Abuja, but staff of one of di fuelling stations for Abuja tell BBC Pidgin say, “I dey sure say within dis week dem go give us instruction on wetin di new price go be”.
On how much dem expect di new price go be, di staff wey no wan to publish im name bicos e no dey authorised to speak to tori pipo, tok say e go be around N1,040
Dangote refinery, for inside one statement tok say “increase for petrol pump price no be from us”.
Dem explain say di increase na sake of di about 15% increase for di international price of crude oil “wey don see Brent Crude rise from $70 to $82 in a matter of days”.
However, di refinery say na only 5% adjustment dem make to dia price of petrol from N899.50 to N950, and dem promise say dia partner fuelling stations go continue to dey sell fuel at N970 per litre.
Dangote refinery add say if dem transfer all di cost from di rise in crude prices to di consumer, di real retail price of PMS for be around N1,150 to N1,200.
NNPC recently announce say dia Port Harcourt and Warri refineries don start to dey work again, so e no too dey clear now how much petrol NNPC dey offtake from Dangote refinery, if at all.
Independent marketers increase prices
Checks for oda independent fueling stations show say stations wey bin dey sell fuel for N970 last week don increase to between N1,050 and N1,090 per litre; dat na about N90 to N120 increase. Dis na within Abuja and di neighbouring Nasarawa and Niger States.
Already, long queues don dey appear for several fuel stations for Abuja, especially di ones wey still dey sell petrol for below N1000 per litre, as e fit be say car owners dey try to buy bifor di price increment go come into effect.
Alhaji Yakubu Dimka, a former national executive member of di Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) tell BBC Pidgin say, fluctuations for di price of petrol for Nigeria na wetin pipo suppose to dey expect since di removal of subsidy.
Oga Dimka tok say di global price of crude oil go continue to dey impact on retail price of petrol, but di impact now no go dey as serious as e for be if Nigeria still dey rely 100% on imports.
“Di price of fuel now no go eva be di same tin, e go dey go up and e go dey come down. E depend on how di marketer take buy. And we wey be independent marketers no fit say exactly how much di pump price go be,” e tok.
About dis recent reported increment, Oga Dimka tok say NNPC dey try to update dia system wit di latest ICT equipment wey go enable dem dey track and monitor loading of trucks and sales of products for dia stations in real time to prevent diversion of products.
“Di less loading of trucks by NNPC na wetin cause di shortage of products to independent marketers and cause di slight increase in price,” oga Dimka explain.
Di international price of crude oil rise to a 4-month high dis January afta di U.S. bin sama anoda fresh sanction against Russian oil.
Di International Energy Agency tok say dis new sanction go significantly affect Russian oil supply”, but e go also affect distribution chains worldwide.
Since Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announce di removal of fuel subsidy in May 2023, di implication be say di price of petrol for di kontri go dey determined by market forces wey include di global price of crude oil, foreign exchange rates and oda factors.
However, Nigeria no longer dey heavily dependent on imported petroleum products since di start of Dangote refinery in Lagos, and di recent coming back on stream of two goment-owned refineries for Port Harcourt and Warri, all in di southern region of di kontri.
Popular broadcast Journalist, Kofi Adoma Nwanwani, has found himself at the centre of a new controversy as a young man has alleged that an incident involving him getting shot in the eye was premeditated by the youth of Dormaa.
According to the young man, the supposed act was a reaction to statements Kofi made during an interview two years ago that reportedly disrespected the people of Dormaa.
The young man’s allegations are based on a video from two years ago in which one lady took to TikTok to express her disappointment in Kofi Adoma. The video reportedly surfaced during a dispute between the Ashanti and Dormaa people, where Kofi’s remarks were seen as biased and disrespectful to the Dormaa community.
According to the accuser, tensions had been brewing since the interview, with some members of the Dormaa youth allegedly vowing to “teach Kofi Adoma a lesson” for what they perceived as unfair representation of their views during the conflict.
While these claims remain unverified,social media users have expressed mixed reactions, with some sympathising with Kofi Adoma and condemning any premeditated actions against him, while others believe his past comments may have contributed to the alleged hostility.
One commenter stated, “Even if he said something wrong, it doesn’t justify any planned retaliation. We need to settle matters peacefully, not through confrontation.” Another added, “Journalists must learn to stay neutral. Words can be powerful, especially when addressing community issues.”
The vetting of Roads Minister-designate Kwame Governs Agbodza was delayed as Alexander Afenyo-Markin accused the Majority of being ‘very rude’.
The second sitting of Parliament’s Appointment Committee on Monday, January 20, 2025, was marred by heated exchanges and disagreements, delaying the vetting process for Roads and Highways Minister-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza.
Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister-Designate for Education, has reaffirmed President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to reviewing the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy.
The policy, introduced by the Akufo-Addo administration, was a central theme in President Mahama’s 2024 election campaign, where he pledged to refine and improve it if elected.
Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 20, Haruna Iddrisu clarified that the government has no plans to cancel the Free SHS policy.
Instead, he highlighted plans to make the initiative more sustainable and to broaden its scope, ensuring greater benefits for Ghanaians.
Haruna Iddrisu also announced the government’s intention to convene a stakeholder forum to gather insights and recommendations aimed at enhancing the education sector.
“Let me assure this committee that President John Dramani Mahama, has no option to cancel Free SHS. Therefore, those who listen to him, even in the cause of his campaign, he has stated that he will expand Free SHS.
“It was to tell Ghanaians that as President of the Republic, he wants to give 2 million to Article 25 of the 1992 Constitution and Article 38, which spells out the objective of our educational policy.
“Chair, the important thing is that he will subject the Free SHS to a review.”
Agbodza: NPP left GHC100bn in commitments in road sector
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Timileyin’s parents reacted differently to the situation.
Embattled gospel singer, Timileyin Ajayi’s parents have spoken out about their son’s alleged murder of his girlfriend, Salome Adaidu.
His father, Sunday Ajayi, pleaded for mercy, asking the government to intervene, while his mother, Dorcas Ajayi, seemed resigned, leaving the decision to the government, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
The Minister-Designate for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has revealed that the controversial E-Gate system at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) lacks a formal contract.
This revelation, made during his vetting in Parliament on Monday, January 20, raises serious questions about the procurement process and financial claims surrounding the project.
The E-Gate system, introduced as part of efforts to modernise operations at Ghana’s premier international airport, was reportedly set to cost the government a staggering $240 million.
However, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) refuted these claims in a statement issued on December 19, 2024, dismissing the alleged cost as inaccurate.
Agbodza, who is also the Member of Parliament for Adaklu, provided additional details during his appearance before the Appointments Committee stating that the project was part of ongoing work by the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and was initially intended to be implemented at no cost to the government.
The Minister-Designate explained that the GCAA had already been working on a similar system as part of its broader modernisation efforts. According to him, the E-Gate was meant to be developed as a complimentary feature, requiring no additional cost.
“If the government had listened to what I was saying, it wouldn’t have resulted in some of the embarrassment we saw at the airport when the former Vice President was trying to commission it. There is not even any contract for the E-Gate. There is no contract for the $1.7 million they were talking about.
“When I started talking, this project was already being implemented by the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and the E-Gate was supposed to be done for free so when I started talking, they went and prepared a memo for it.”
The President, John Dramani Mahama, will be the special guest of honour at the 49th Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Awards slated for the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Friday.
A statement from the association’s secretariat confirmed the President Mahama’s attendance and participation at the prestigious awards that recognises excellence among the country’s athletes both home and abroad.
According to the statement, the president’s attendance was an endorsement for the event and a clear indication of an interest, focus and willingness to support sports development and promotion in Ghana.
Signed by the General Secretary of the association, the statement said, “the President has shown his commitment to promoting sports in Ghana, and his attendance at the SWAG Awards despite his tight schedule will be a testament to his dedication to recognising and celebrating the achievements of Ghana’s sports heroes.”
President Mahama is expected to deliver a keynote address on the theme: ‘Gold and Glory, a call for change in national orientation and investment in sports.’
In his address, he will share his vision for sports development in Ghana and honour the achievements of the award winners.
As the longest-running award scheme in Ghana, the SWAG Awards have consistently recognised and rewarded top-performing sportsmen and women since 1975 and President Mahama’s presence at the event will undoubtedly add to the excitement and prestige of the occasion.
“The SWAG Awards have a history of attracting high-profile guests, and President Mahama’s presence will only add to the event’s glamour and appeal. As Ghana’s president, Mahama has demonstrated his support for sports, and his attendance at the SWAG Awards will be a fitting tribute to his commitment to promoting sports excellence in Ghana,” the statement explained.
The association also announced a huge entertainment package as Highlife sensation, Peter Fameye Gozah, aka Fameye, storms the stage to deliver a massive entertainment to thrill patrons.
The 49th SWAG Awards is expected to attract a large audience of sports enthusiasts, stakeholders, and media personnel.
Moreover, the 49th SWAG Awards promises to be an unforgettable and exciting evening, with over 50 top-performing athletes and officials being honoured for their contributions to Ghanaian sports.
It will be broadcast live on television and streamed online, allowing millions of Ghanaians to join in the celebration.
Economist, Dr Benjamin Amoah, has called for a deliberate approach to link the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy to businesses to tackle Ghana’s unemployment challenge.
The senior lecturer with the department of finance at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), lauded the investment of the government into the initiative over the past seven years.
He said this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, noting that, it was worrying that there had not been a strategic collaboration between the implementation of the initiative with the private sector to absorb students after school.
Figures provided by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) show that the country’s almost 12 million Ghanaians were employed, but some 2.6 million others were unemployed, representing an unemployment rate of 14.7 per cent.
Also, some 530,000 individuals transitioned from employment into unemployment status between the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of 2023, the Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey (AHIES) Labour Force Bulletin, disclosed.
Dr Amoah said, “There is nothing wrong with building human capital, but what we’ve had not is any proper plan in channelling the knowledge that we have developed from the free SHS concept into job creation and onto the job market.”
He stated that while some of the students had progressed to various tertiary institutions, with some graduating,” the question is, how many of these beneficiaries have been employed? And how many of them are paying taxes?”
The economist, therefore, asked the government to deliberately involve private sector businesses in the implementation of the Free SHS programme, as those employed would eventually contribute to economic growth by paying taxes.
“The only way the State will benefit from this investment is to create an avenue where when these beneficiaries go through the system, they quickly get employed. And then when they are employed, we can tax them. It is through the taxes that we will get from them that will be an indirect or paying for the investment that has been made in them,” he added.
Connecting the situation to skilled labour emigration, Dr Amoah said it was important to conscientise the youth while in school so that they could accomplish their dreams in Ghana, rather than travelling abroad to seek for greener pastures.
Achieving this, he said, would require the creation of a system that would not only aid the transition of students into the world of work but motivate them to stay and work in Ghana.
“We realise that the individual who stays in Ghana and works and contributes through taxes gives a higher return on capital to the State than the one who travels out at a periodically send remittances,” he said.
“We need to also look at how best we can incentivise the private sector to absorb these individuals, because once they are employed, they are definitely going to pay taxes, and the economy will benefit from the taxes that they will pay,” Dr Amoah said.
Meanwhile, the current government has hinted of launching the ‘Adwumawura’, the One Million Coders and National Apprenticeship programmes as priority job creation initiatives in its first budget.
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Accra, Jan.20, GNA–Mr Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, has commended former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for quickly conceding defeat after realising the NPP had lost the 2024 general election.
“I must commend former Vice President Bawumia that despite the rhetoric that the NPP will not handover power, but quickly conceded defeat when he realised the NDC has won the December 7 Election convincingly,” he said.
Mr Kwame Agbodza was responding to a question from Mr Frank Annor- Dompreh, the NPP Member of Parliament for Nsawam- Adoagyiri and First Deputy Minority Chief Whip, to mention three things or policies he could commend the NPP government for.
This came to light when Mr Kwame Agbodza appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament in Accra on Monday for vetting.
The nominee also lauded the NPP government for having a good vision about education by implementing the Free Senior High School policy.
Responding to the legacy he would like to leave at the Roads Ministry upon his approval, Mr Kwame Agbodza said he would chart a way towards ensuring an efficient and viable road industry.
“I’m unhappy about the level of debt in the road sector, and so, we will find a sustainable way to paying road compensation.
“I will also do things profitably and on timely manner and promote the vision of President Mahama at the Ministry to deliver on his mandate,” he explained.
On road sector debt left behind by the previous government, Mr Kwame Agbodza said the Akufo-Addo-led government left GHc135 billion debt in 2024.
The debt, he explained, comprised GHc100 billion commitment to road contractors, GHc20 billion unpaid certificates and GHc15 billion owing road stakeholders by the Road Fund.
The Minister-designate for Roads and Highways said upon his approval, his outfit would collaborate with the Minister of Finance to find a sustainable way to offset the debt.
He averred that more funds should be expended on road maintenance rather than constructing new ones.
He expressed misgivings about the bad lightning system on the Tema Motorway and other major road networks because of the absence of streetlights and pledged to resolve those challenges upon approval.
Touching on the electronic gate (e-gate) at the Kotoka International Airport, Mr Kwame Agbodza explained that the e-gate constructed by the previous government “has no contract and Ghana ought not to have even pay one dollar,” noting, “the e-gate should have been done for free” because it was part of the National Border Management System being implemented by the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority.
The Minister-Designate for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has revealed that approximately ₵345 million will be needed to fully implement the government’s proposed free tuition policy for tertiary institutions.
Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee in Parliament on January 20, 2025, the Tamale South MP emphasized the policy’s potential to make tertiary education more accessible to a large number of students nationwide.
He noted that the allocated funds would cover tuition fees for students entering tertiary institutions, ensuring equitable access to higher education.
Haruna Iddrisu further explained that the government plans to channel the required funds directly to the affected universities.
He added that the initiative would include provisions for reimbursing students who have already paid their tuition fees, safeguarding fairness in the policy’s implementation.
“The country will require about ₵345 million of the population of students who enter tertiary institutions that is what the state will be required to do. We intend to provide that money to the affected universities, at least, to make refunds to those who have already paid fees,” he stated.
He further emphasised that the new policy will offer flexibility to parents, allowing those who are willing to pay fees to do so under the framework introduced by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“The beauty of this is that parents who are willing to pay can do so under this policy that has been introduced by the NDC,” he stated.
The announcement comes after the NDC pledged to implement the free tertiary tuition policy during their 2024 campaign, aiming to ease the financial burden on students and their families while promoting greater access to higher education.
The minister-designate in his submission pledged to follow the policy through and ensure its effective implementation.
I acknowledge my temperament, I’ll work on it – Kwame Agbodza
Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza has revealed that Ghana’s road sector has been sunk into great debts with insurmountable interest payments.
According to him, the erstwhile government incurred high amounts of debt, attributing these debts to financial mismanagement.
“In 2018, we owed about GHC113 million; the interest on the GHC113 million this year will be GHC665 million.
Ho, Jan. 20, GNA – The World Bank Family Network has donated assorted books to the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) through the instrumentality of Professor John Owusu Gyapong, the immediate Past Vice Chancellor of the University.
During his sabbatical leave at Georgetown University, Professor Gyapong secured a significant educational donation of a 40-foot container of books for the country.
This was as a result of his introduction to the book project by his colleague Professor Bernhard Liese, whose wife is connected to the World Bank Family Network.
While making the application, the former Vice Chancellor ensured that UHAS was a beneficiary institution, alongside some second-cycle institutions in Ghana.
UHAS received 32 boxes of educational materials that cut across various disciplines and 22 boxes were allocated to the Main University Library, while 10 boxes were for the UHAS Basic School.
The donation reflects Professor Gyapong’s commitment to enhance the fluency of English language among students, especially in Ghana.
Present at the handing over ceremony were the Vice Chancellor, Professor Lydia Aziato, the Registrar, Ms. Yaa Amankwaa Opuni, Deans and Directors.
Ms. Yaa Amankwaa Opuni, the Registrar expressed the gratitude of Management to Professor John Owusu Gyapong for his contributions and continued support to the development and growth of UHAS.
She also charged the leaderships of the University Library and the UHAS Basic School to maximise the use of the academic resources received.
Dr. Theresa Adu, the University Librarian, on her part appreciated Professor John Owusu Gyapong for the donation and promised to ensure that the materials would be used to serve their intended purpose.
Private legal practitioner and activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor
Private legal practitioner and activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has expressed his admiration for Bernard Ahiafor, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee of Parliament, following his handling of the tense ministerial vetting sessions on Monday, January 20, 2025.
Barker-Vormawor shared his thoughts on X, stating, “May God grant us all the serenity and maturity of @Ben_Ahiafor. In the face of immaturity and tantrums, he has kept his dignity intact. To those criticising him for refusing to engage Afenyo-Markin in his temper tantrums, what would you have him do? Engage in a fistfight? Strength is not loud; it is patient and deliberate. Shalom.”
The vetting process, which saw heated exchanges and escalating tensions, was particularly fraught when Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, raised concerns about the appointments of Chief Executive Officers and Managing Directors.
However, the Majority side argued that these issues fell outside the scope of the ministerial vetting, leading to further disputes.
The session, which was scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM with the vetting of Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minister of Roads and Highways-designate, was delayed due to the rising tensions.
By 11:54 AM, the vetting had not yet started.
In an attempt to restore order, the session was briefly suspended for five minutes, but tensions remained high even after the break.
Afenyo-Markin, visibly frustrated, accused his colleagues, including the Deputy Speaker, of rude behavior and criticised Chairman Ahiafor for proceeding in bad faith.
He claimed that despite the brief suspension, the session resumed without the presence of the Minority members.
“Chairman, don’t raise your voice. You suspended the sitting for five minutes, and when I said I was having a meeting with my caucus, you started the session without me,” Afenyo-Markin protested. “I want to register my protest that you proceeded in bad faith,” he noted.
He added, “This is not the understanding we had. I was responding to a point of order when you rudely interrupted me. Chairman, lower your voice. All of you have been rude to me this morning, including you, Chairman. The rate at which I’ve been interrupted is unacceptable.”
Despite his outbursts, Afenyo-Markin later apologised to the Chairman after objections were raised.
Throughout the proceedings, Ahiafor’s calm demeanour stood despite the intense confrontations around him.
Read his post below:
May God grant us all the serenity and maturity of @Ben_Ahiafor.
For in the face of grave immaturity and tantrums, he retains his dignity.
To those of you saying he is weak for refusing to engage Afenyo-Markins in his temper tantrums, what would you have him do?
Engage him in a…
— Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor (@barkervogues) January 20, 2025
Asante Kotoko have bolstered their squad with the signing of 24-year-old right-back Daniel Adrian Adjetey on a one-and-a-half-year deal following a successful medical.
Adjetey, who brings significant international experience, previously played for Naestved in Denmark’s Division 2 and BFC Daugavpils in Latvia’s top division.
He began his career in Ghana with Nania FC, where he developed a reputation as a reliable right-back, combining defensive stability with attacking prowess.
Kotoko’s Head Coach, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, expressed his excitement about the new addition, particularly in light of the squad’s recent injury concerns.
“With Kotei’s unfortunate ACL injury, it was important that we reacted in the market. In Daniel, we are not just bringing in a player but someone who brings quality, experience, and competitiveness,” he said. Ogum added:
“He will not only strengthen our squad but also challenge Lord Amoah for that position, which is key for us moving forward. We’re confident he’ll make an impact both defensively and offensively.” Speaking about his move to the Porcupine Warriors, Adjetey shared his enthusiasm:
“It’s an incredible feeling to join Kotoko. This is one of the biggest clubs in Africa, and I’m honored to be part of it. I’ve had the privilege of playing abroad, but coming back to represent Kotoko feels special.
The project presented by the club’s management is exciting, and I’m confident this is the right place for me to grow as a player and contribute to something great.
I know the expectations here are high, and I’m ready to work hard, compete for my place, and give my all to help the team succeed.
“Adjetey is expected to provide much-needed depth and competition in the right-back position as Kotoko look to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the season.
Artiste manager Mr. Logic, and musician Monique Spence
Red Panther Music Productions, the record label belonging to artiste manager, Christopher Nelson, popularly known as Mr. Logic, has debunked claims made by former signee, Monique Spence.
In a statement issued by the Head of Public Relations, Aaron Martins, he noted that the artiste Monique Spence, popularly known as Mo’ Spence, agreed to bear all service and production costs provided by the label until the end of their contract.
“Monique Spence professionally signed a managerial contract with the record house, which obliges all services and production costs provided by the label to be borne by the artiste until the end of the duration.
“The label secured all necessary visual production arrangements with selected visual production houses. Unfortunately, the artiste has not fulfilled scheduled attendance,” the statement read.
The statement further noted that the record label bears the cost of where the musician stayed during her stay in the country.
“Her residential estate was a sublet facility. Therefore, Red Panther Music Production held the legal tenancy throughout the period of 24 months of her stay till her exit in December 2024, while the tenancy approached an end in February 2025.
“Repairs of the estate and arrears of 6 months are the responsibility borne by the company according to the sublet contract. All arrangements with the homeowner were solely a company-to-landlord transaction,” the statement added.
What happened?
Monique Spence, a former Canadian musician signed to Mr. Logic’s record label, accused Mr. Logic of defrauding her and threatening her life if she steps foot in Ghana.
In a video shared on social media, Monique Spence alleged that she was made to bear the cost of production, which wasn’t the initial agreement.
These allegations come after Monique Spence claimed that Mr. Logic, who also served as her manager, defrauded her under the guise of promoting her music career.
Former President Nana Akufo-Addo claimed his government constructed 11,000km of new roads
One of the issues that was hugely debated on during the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administration was the amount of new roads the government had constructed since it took over office on January 7, 2017.
Akufo-Addo, in one of his State of the Nation addresses, claimed that his government had constructed an unprecedented 11,000 kilometres km of new roads since 2017, which was refuted by a number of experts who asserted that the figures were grossly exaggerated.
Now Ghanaians get to know the exact kilometres of new roads constructed by the Akufo-Addo government.
Speaking at his vetting at Parliament on Monday, January 20, 2025, Minister of Roads and Highways-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, disclosed that the records the Akufo-Addo government handed over to the John Dramani Mahama administration showed that the previous government constructed less than 700 km of new roads.
“He made us aware of a certain figure of new roads at that time. It wasn’t pleasant to try to contradict the president because his sources of information are better than mine. But the figure 11,000 km just jumped out as new roads. And my side said that was a bit less than the truth. Since then, the agencies under the road ministry attempted to adjust the figure. And you remember our view was that only 617 km of roads were new roads at that time.
“At the transition, they provided details. At the time of the transition, the new roads constructed were 673 km, which is not far from the 617 km we talked about at that time, because it means that a few more routes have been completed. So, that issue is in the record of Parliament that indeed Ghana did not construct 11,000 km of new roads since 2017. Rather, 673 km have been constructed as new roads.”
He added, “The bulk of the work in the 13,624.25 km is re-gravelling and gravelling – that is 6,185.90 km. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”
Watch videos from the minister-designate’s vetting below:
The BRICS group of emerging-market powers — the acronym stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — has gone from a slogan dreamed up at an investment bank two decades ago to a real-world club that controls a multilateral lender.
Comprising 10 member states, it pairs several major energy producers with some of the biggest consumers among developing countries.
The group has been increasing its ranks, enhancing its economic clout in a US-dominated world.
Who are the new members of BRICS?
The bloc expanded in early 2024 to include Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia and Egypt. Saudi Arabia was also announced as a new member, though the kingdom has yet to take a final decision on whether to join.
Argentinian President Javier Milei, who took office in December 2023 and is steering his country’s geopolitical alignment toward the US and away from China and Brazil, declined a membership invitation.
In November 2024, Turkey said it had been granted “partner-country status,” short of its expectation that it would gain full admission. A number of other countries have also been offered such second-tier membership, which would come without voting rights.
The group agreed by consensus to admit Indonesia in January 2025, according to Brazil’s government. Nations still seeking to join include Malaysia and Thailand.
What is the impetus for expansion?
The push has been driven largely by China, now the world’s pre-eminent industrial power, which is trying to boost its global clout.
South Africa and Russia have backed the expansion. India was initially hesitant because it was concerned that a bigger BRICS would transform the group into a mouthpiece for China, while Brazil was worried about alienating the West — although both eventually agreed to an enlargement.
For new members, BRICS offers the potential for easier access to financing from its wealthier members, and a political venue independent of Washington’s influence.
What does a larger BRICS mean for the world?
The addition of major fossil-fuel producers may give the bloc more scope to challenge the dollar’s dominance in oil and gas trading by switching to other currencies, a concept referred to as dedollarization.
That prospect has drawn the ire of US President-elect Donald Trump, who said any nation that abandons the greenback can forget about selling anything to America and find another “sucker” to trade with.
Analysts at Bloomberg Economics say the expansion of BRICS is “more about politics and less about economics.” Beijing is trying to build an alternative world order by pulling southern hemisphere countries into its economic orbit in a challenge to US hegemony.
The enlarged alliance may become a stronger counterweight to the Group of Seven industrialized nations — the US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the UK. Russian President Vladimir Putin, isolated by the US and its allies over his war in Ukraine, is also keen to see Washington’s global influence recede.
Other groupings that are already promoting a move toward a more “multipolar” world — and away from the post-Cold War dominance of the US — include OPEC, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Southern Common Market (Mercosur), and the African Union.
What does BRICS do?
The biggest achievements of the group have been financial. The countries agreed to pool $100 billion of foreign-currency reserves, which they can lend to each other during emergencies.
That liquidity facility became operational in 2016. They also founded the New Development Bank, a World Bank-inspired lending institution that has approved almost $33 billion of loans since it began operations in 2015, mainly for water, transport and other infrastructure projects.
By comparison, the World Bank committed $117.5 billion to partner countries in fiscal 2024.
How did BRICS get started?
“BRIC” was coined in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill, then at Goldman Sachs Group Inc., to draw attention to strong economic growth rates in Brazil, Russia, India and China. The term was intended as an optimistic scenario for investors amid market pessimism following the terrorist attacks in the US on Sept. 11 that year. The four nations took the concept and ran with it.
Their rapid growth at the time meant they had shared interests and challenges, and combining their voices could increase their influence.
The first meeting of BRIC foreign ministers was organized by Russia on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in 2006.
The group held its first leaders’ summit in 2009. South Africa was invited to join in 2010, adding another continent and the letter “S.”
Who’s in charge?
For most of the time BRICS has existed, China’s gross domestic product has been more than twice the combined economic output of the four other members prior to the expansion.
In theory, that should give it the most sway. In practice, India, which recently surpassed China in population, has been a counterweight.
BRICS didn’t formally endorse China’s big push to build infrastructure abroad, called the Belt and Road Initiative. That’s partly because India objected to such projects in disputed territory held by Pakistan, its neighbor and archrival.
The New Development Bank has no dominant shareholder: Beijing agreed to the equal holdings for each member advocated by New Delhi.
The bank is headquartered in Shanghai, but has been led by an Indian and two Brazilians, most recently former President Dilma Rousseff.
Did Russia’s invasion of Ukraine affect the group?
The other BRICS countries have adopted a broadly neutral stance toward the war, viewing it as more of a regional issue than a global crisis. However, the war changed Russia’s relations with BRICS institutions.
The New Development Bank quickly froze Russian projects, and Moscow hasn’t been able to access dollars via the BRICS shared foreign-currency system.
Essentially, with US sanctions piling up, other BRICS countries prioritized ongoing access to the dollar-based financial system over helping Russia.
Moscow has proposed changes to cross-border payments between BRICS countries, a system that would circumvent the global financial system and help sanction-proof its own economy.
The alternatives include developing a network of commercial banks that can conduct such transactions in local currencies as well as establishing direct links between central banks, a report prepared by the Russian Finance Ministry, the Bank of Russia and Moscow-based consultancy Yakov & Partners shows. It also envisions the creation of centers for mutual trade in oil, gas, grain, gold and other commodities.
Are investors still interested in BRICS?
There’s still interest in emerging markets. But BRICS is largely irrelevant as an investment theme today due to geopolitical changes and the members’ different economic trajectories. US-led sanctions have put Russia off limits for most foreign investors, and some sectors in China — especially technology companies — have also been sanctioned or face potential investment bans.
China also is a maturing economy, increasingly separated from other emerging markets and facing a structural slowdown. Brazil’s economy slowed markedly following the end of a global commodity boom about a decade ago.
South Africa’s economy has been hamstrung by rolling power blackouts and logistics snarls, although it’s recently made some tentative progress in tackling those problems.
India is still a growth story that investment banks compare with China 10 or 15 years ago, though it’s unclear if it can follow China’s manufacturing-led model.
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Sports journalist Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as Countryman Songo, has criticised the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) decision to reconstitute the Black Stars Management Committee.
He argued that restructuring the committee without revamping the technical team may not necessarily lead to positive results.
The host of the “Fire for Fire” show on Adom TV stated that the GFA’s decision to retain the Black Stars coach while focusing on other areas demonstrates poor managerial skills.
“Reconstituting the Black Stars Management Committee while keeping the coach is a display of remarkable ineptitude,” Countryman Songo wrote on X.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that the GFA is planning to dismiss assistant coaches John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann to recruit new personnel and strengthen the technical team.
About the Black Stars Management Committee
Dr. Randy Abbey, an Executive Council member of the GFA, has been appointed to chair the committee and lead engagements with the government and other key stakeholders.
Stephen Appiah, the former Black Stars captain, will serve as Vice Chairman, focusing on player relations.
Samuel Aboabire, Chairman of the Greater Accra Regional Football Association and a GFA Executive Council member, along with Moses Armah, President of Medeama Sporting Club, will manage operations and matchday activities, ensuring that the interests of sponsors, partners, and collaborators are well attended to.
Richard Nsenkyire, President of FC Samartex 1996, the Ghana Premier League champions, will oversee special duties.
All eyes dey on United States of America as di whole world dey wait for di inauguration of di 47th US president.
On im part, US President-elect Donald Trump break tradition unto who im invite and who im no invite come im inauguration – coronation style.
Both Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance dey set to take oath of office and begin new administration inside one long day of celebrations wey go include musical performances and parade.
However, unlike traditional inaugurations of US presidents, dis one go include plenty foreign leaders, including Trump close supporters and even some of im rivals.
At least seven sitting heads of state and two former leaders na im dem invite. According to Reuters, about 500,000 guests dey expected in total.
Dis na breakdown of some of who dem invite and who dem no invite and why di guest list dey so different from wetin dey happun bifor:
Wetin different about dis inauguration?
President-elect Trump dey break wit US tradition for dis event.
Usually, presidential inaugurations na domestic affair: meaning say di president and vice president go take dia oath wit US officials, past heads of state and other American VIPs present on di steps of US Capitol building.
Dem dey allow di public to watch from di surrounding grounds.
However, for dis event, wey go get inaugural speech, parade, musical performances and balls, go also be international affair.
Tori be say na close to twelve world leaders na im dem invite.
Foreign leaders no dey usually attend US presidential inauguration; instead na diplomats like kontri ambassadors to di US, or foreign ministers, dey act as representatives.
Who dem no invite?
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer no get invitation, im office confam on Thursday. However, dem invite di far-right politician, Nigel Farage of di Reform UK party, and im go dey present.
Trump completely ignore European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen, and most of European Union and members of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation).
Germany President Olaf Scholz, wey dey lead EU largest economy, dem shun am too.
Dem however send invitation to Alice Weidel, leader of di opposition party Alternative for Germany (AfD), wey her co-leader Tino Chrupalla go attend.
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Modi and Trump bin share “bromance” since di first Trump presidency.
Following im election victory for December, Modi bin dey among di first to call and congratulate Trump.
While di PM no go attend, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar go represent am.
Santiago Abascal, wey dey lead di Spanish right-wing Vox Party, and Andre Ventura of Portugal majority Chega party, go dey dia.
French President Emmanuel Macron no get invitation, although Macron and Trump get friendly relations.
Instead, French far-right politician Eric Zemmour of di Reconquest party go dey present.
Who dem invite?
Several heads of state, popular leaders wey support Trump go show, but so too some of im rivals go also show. Dem include:
Argentina President Javier Milei: Milei don confam say im go attend.
Trump bin hail di leader one time as a man wey fit “make Argentina great again” and, for December, im welcome Milei for im Mar-a-Lago residence for Florida.
Chinese President Xi Jinping: Trump invite Xi to di ceremony for December, move wey im tok tok pesin say na signal of im readiness to interact wit im Chinese counterpart, even wit di trade war wey dey hang for air.
Xi no go attend, however, Vice President Han Zheng go show.
Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni: Meloni, of di Brothers of Italy party, visit Mar-a-Lago for January. Her office say she fit to attend if her schedule permit.
Hungary Prime Minister Viktor Orban: Orban na close Trump supporter and im bin don say im believe di president-elect go end Russia war on Ukraine.
According to local media, im no go fit make am sake of one state address.
Ecuador President Daniel Noboa: Noboa bin hail Trump December victory as victory for Latin America, too.
Im office confam say im go pause im re-election campaign to travel go Washington for di inauguration.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele: Bukele office never confam say im go attend yet.
Trump son, Donald Trump Jr, na friends wit Bukele, and for July 2024, im bin attend im inauguration for San Salvador.
Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro: politician wey dem nickname di “Trump of di Tropics” bin also get invitation, but im no go attend sake of im ban from travelling.
Im kontri Supreme Court seize im passport as im dey face several investigations, including alleged attempt to turn di results of di 2022 general election, wey im lost.
Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawieck, wey recently become leader of di European Conservatives and Reformists party for EU parliament, go also attend.
The Minister-Designate for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has denied assertions made by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo that his administration built 11,000 kilometers of new roads between 2017 and January 2025.
Agbodza refuted the former President’s claim during his vetting before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 20, by presenting what he called factual facts on road construction finished during that time.
Governs Kwame Agbodza, the Minister-Designate for Roads and Highways, has addressed concerns about his temperament, assuring his commitment to improving in this area as he prepares for his new role.
During his vetting on Monday, January 20, the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, raised concerns that could potentially impact Mr. Agbodza’s tenure if confirmed as Minister.
In response, Mr. Agbodza expressed a willingness to listen and adapt, emphasizing his readiness to work on maintaining a balanced and professional demeanor in his interactions.
He acknowledged that while he is passionate about his work and the issues he cares about, however, he recognises the importance of maintaining a balanced and professional approach in his interactions with others.
“I want to thank colleagues for the feedback. I think it is important. They raised issues about my temperament and you are right. When I believe in something, sometimes you tell me I should be mindful of the way I put it. I will work on it,” he stated.
Agbodza: NPP left GHC100bn in commitments in road sector
The Chairman of the Appointments Committee of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, engaged in a heated exchange with the Ranking Member, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, during the ministerial vetting of Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minister of Roads and Highways-designate.
The calm and serene atmosphere in the vetting room quickly became tensed and heated when Ahiafor was accused by Afenyo-Markin of proceeding in bad faith, following a 5-minute recess taken by the committee.
The misunderstanding began when Afenyo-Markin took the floor to give his remarks.
However, he was sharply interrupted and prevented by Ahiafor, who told him to wait for his turn to speak, as another member, Mahama Shaibu was already addressing the committee.
Afenyo-Markin, who also serves as the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament of Effutu, was insistent on speaking, despite being told to wait for his turn, an effort by the Chairman to maintain decorum at the committee.
To assert his authority in the room, the Chairman said, “Honorable Ranking and Minority Leader, you do not have the floor. You don’t have the floor now; allow Honorable Mahama Shaibu to conclude, then I can give you the floor,” raising his voice at Afenyo-Markin, attempting to silence him.
Offended by the Chairman’s attitude, Afenyo-Markin also raised his voice in return, warning Ahiafor not to raise his voice at him.
“Chairman, don’t raise your voice. You suspended sitting for five minutes and called me for a discussion. I told you I was having a discussion with my caucus. We didn’t spend more than 5 minutes. Chairman, let’s operate in good faith. You had called me and I said ‘give me a moment, I will join you’, then the next moment you go ahead and start.
“Chairman, I want to register this protest that you have proceeded in bad faith. It is not the understanding we had. We got to a point where I was responding to a point of order where you came in rudely to say that you have ruled,” Afenyo-Markin said amid shouts of ‘ei, ei, ei,’ from the members, calling for him to withdraw his word.
Ahiafor once again sharply interjected Afenyo-Markin over his claims, urging him to refer to and be guided by the rules of the committee, which do not permit the usage of certain language, such as rudely.
In a high tone, he said, “Honorable member, you could be guided by the rules that in this House, you don’t use insulting, disparaging and abusive language…”
Unperturbed by Ahiafor’s words, Afenyo-Markin interjected again, saying, “Chairman, bring your voice down, bring your voice down. Bring down your voice, you are raising it. Bring down your voice.”
Following the release of 10 amazing singles in 2024, Sofie returns with “Leo Sun,” her first full-length mixtape. “Leo Sun” is available on all digital streaming platforms worldwide here: https://unitedmasters.com/m/leo-sun-sofie
This 10-track masterpiece chronicles the journey of falling in love in your 20s, healing and standing up for what you believe in. It’s a deeply personal and eclectic project that captures Sofie’s diverse artistry within the Afro/R&B soundscape.
“Leo Sun” brings together every song Sofie dropped in 2024, plus three bonus tracks, offering listeners a blend of Afrobeats, R&B and Pop. From the infectious energy of ‘Party Pooper’ to the introspective, melodic tones of ‘FAME,’ Sofie’s versatility shines throughout the mixtape.
Tracks like ‘Krobo Princess’ highlight her ability to weave cultural pride into her music, while ‘FALLING IN LOVE’ is a R&B/Pop banger about embracing the moment and what can come from shooting your shot. The bonus tracks add elements of vulnerability showcasing Sofie’s real life and growth as an artist.
Whether you’re driving, unwinding or reflecting, “Leo Sun” is the perfect soundtrack to ground you in 2025.
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Wa, (UW/R), Jan. 20, GNA – The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has commenced assessing 165 people who have expressed interest in heading the various Municipal and District Assemblies in the Upper West Region.
The vetting, which started on Monday, January 20, 2025, is expected to end on Friday, January 24, 2025.
Three aspirants, Mr Albert Kansuglo Kachu and Yakubu Naaba Saani from the Sissala East Municipality and Mr Issa Kantagyere from the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa District, who is also the Upper West Regional Communications Officer of the NDC, had announced withdrawal from the contest.
The vetting committee is made of Professor Benjamin Kumbuor, a former government appointee, Mr Cletus Seidu Dapilah, Member of Parliament (MP) for Jirapa Constituency, who represented the MPs, Mr Abdul-Nasir Saani, the party’s Regional Chairman and Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the NDC’s Regional Secretary.
The rest are: Mr Thomas Mwinbahaara, the Regional Organiser, Madam Prisca Domanyevi, Regional Women’s Organiser, Mr Basiera Sankara, the Regional Youth Organiser, Alhaji Al-Hassan Yakubu and Hajia Bintu Al-Hassan, Members of the Council of Elders.
According to the party’s regional leadership, the five-day exercise is a significant and pivotal process in the efforts of the NDC’s new government to identify and place competent individuals as heads of the eleven MDAs in the region.
Some of the aspirants, who spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), indicated their resolve to facilitate the development of their respective constituencies if given the opportunity.
Madam Helen Tanlugu, an aspirant in the Sissala East Municipality, said she had an interest in the development of the municipality and would work hard to achieve it if she is appointed the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Sissala East.
“The Sissala East Municipality has a lot of internal revenue that can be used for the development of the municipality.
All is about inclusive decision making which, if I am given the opportunity, I am going to bring on board,” she explained.
Madam Tanlugu told the GNA that she would ensure accountability in her leadership which would enhance the development of the municipality and encourage the taxpayers to religiously pay their taxes.
A heated debate erupted during the vetting of Minister-designate for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, as members of Parliament’s Appointments Committee clashed over procedural issues. The Minority Leader and Ranking Member on the Committee, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, drew criticism for his prolonged opening remarks, with South Dayi MP, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, urging him to seek redress in court rather than disrupt proceedings.
Music powerhouse, Lynx Entertainment has taken a giant leap into the digital distribution space after 18 years of dominating and empowering the music industry in Ghana and Africa.
The indefatigable Ghanaian record label, under Lynx Group Limited, has nurtured some of the continent’s biggest music stars and churned out many global hits till date.
As the company nears two decades of operations, it has announced a significant addition to its roster; offering direct music distribution worldwide for labels and artistes.
Lynx Entertainment has partnered with technology giant, Vydia, to provide digital infrastructure to enable first-hand distribution of music to global Digital Service Providers (DSP) without any resort to third parties.
According to the CEO of Lynx Group; Richie Mensah, the bold move is to ensure that African artistes and labels are adequately represented in the fast-growing digital distribution scene.
He explained that as the continent embraces the limitless possibilities of digital distribution, there is the need to safeguard the interest of artistes and labels in Africa, thus, maximizing gains for stakeholders.
Richie Mensah stated that for the first time, African creatives will need no third-party distributors or agents as they can get their music listed on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal and others in the comfort of their homes.
Lynx Entertainment’s distribution platform delivers music to about 200 stores globally while ensuring content protection, rights management, advanced payments, and data tracking.
The premium technology works to empower creators to distribute, protect, monetize and store their content through one centralized and easy to use platform that has a transparent royalty payout process
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.
Ghanaian comedian Lekzy DeComic has opened up about the anxiety he faced while publicizing his comedy show.
The New False, which was held on December 28, 2024.
In an interview on Hitz FM on January 20, 2025, Lekzy, whose real name is Emmanuel Nkansah Ansong, recounted the challenges and fears he encountered during the promotion of the event.
Lekzy revealed that he struggled to secure a venue and eventually settled on the UPSA auditorium.
The choice of venue seemed appropriate, as it was a popular location for political party launches, aligning with the political connotation of his show’s title, The New False.
However, the publicity campaign, which included billboards featuring artwork of a man behind a mask, initially failed to generate the expected response.
“For the first four days after the billboards went up, I realized people were not responding to it. I was like, ‘Have I wasted money or what?’ Then I saw George Quaye make a post about it, and bloggers like Ameyaw Debrah and others started talking about it,” Lekzy said.
The comedian’s anxiety grew as the publicity gained traction, with media outlets like Multimedia covering the story.
The situation escalated when people began attributing the campaign to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Chairman Wontumi, speculating that he was funding it to ridicule the New Force movement.
“It started freaking me out, and I got scared when they started attributing it to Chairman Wontumi. People were alleging that he was the one paying to ridicule the New Force movement. I said, ‘No, now this thing is getting extreme,’” Lekzy explained.
Lekzy also shared that even the individual he hired to mount the billboards questioned if he had legal representation, warning that he would need to take responsibility for any issues that arose.
Despite the initial fears and challenges, The New False successfully took place, selling out the venue.
ID/MA
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Meanwhile, watch as Empress Gifty weeps uncontrollably as she pays last respects to her mother below:
Hell broke loose at Obuasi, one of Ghana’s major mining communities in the Ashanti Region, on Sunday, January 19, 2025, when personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces clashed with some youth in the area.
For hours, reports indicate the mining community was more like a war zone, with gunshots ringing throughout the community as personnel of the army battled with the youth, who are believed to be small-scale miners.
The incident reportedly occurred after a group of small-scale miners reportedly besieged the mines of AngloGold Ashanti.
Here are details of the incident so far as GhanaWeb has it:
Deaths and injuries:
Early reports on the incident indicated that the deadly clash resulted in the deaths of 8 people, all of them being small-scale miners.
However, the Ghana Armed Forces stated that only 7 people were killed in the clash. It indicated that all 7 people were illegal small-scale miners.
The army also indicated that one of its personnel was hit by pellets from a pump-action gun and had received some medical treatment.
Eyewitness account/Destruction:
An eyewitness told myjoyonline.com that the small-scale miners besieged AngloGold Ashanti mines at midnight fully armed and immediately opened fire, leaving scores dead and others injured.
According to the report, agitated members of the small-scale miners took to the streets, vandalising properties and burning tyres following the incident.
Four vehicles, including buses, have reportedly been torched, further heightening fears among residents.
Army’s account:
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the persons who attacked the AngloGold Ashanti mines were illegal miners and not small-scale miners, who numbered about 60.
The statement further indicated that the 60 men breached the AngloGold Ashanti mines security fence and intruded the Cote D’or Ramp to enter the Deep Decline of the mines.
Following the breach, retaliation by officers on the ground resulted in shooting since the illegal miners were wielding various weapons.
“The military patrol deployed on Operation HALT II duties at the mentioned location were fired upon by the illegal miners when the soldiers tried to stop them from accessing the Deep Decline. The illegal miners were wielding locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, gas cylinders, knives, heavy-duty industrial bolt cutters, axes, and machetes,” part of the statement added.
However, the shootout became fatal as the soldiers resorted to self-defence.
Blame game:
Proponents of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are blaming the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the deadly clash.
They have claimed that remarks by the leading NDC members emboldened the attack on the mining firm.
The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has said that the NDC is fully responsible for the clash because it was due to comments made by the party in the event leading to the 2024 general election.
“Rather bow your heads in shame. Your irresponsible election comments have brought us this lowest ebb! God should save this country, I am sick!” he wrote on X on January 19, 2025.
What the government has said:
President John Dramani Mahama, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, directed an investigation into the incident so that the persons found culpable for the incident would be held accountable.
“The government wishes to express deep regret over the tragic loss of up to eight (8) lives, said to be illegal miners, following a violent clash at a mining site at Obuasi.
“In response to the unfortunate incident, President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully are brought to justice,” part of the statement read.
The government also asked the management of AngloGold Ashanti to bear the medical expenses of the injured individuals fully and facilitate the burial arrangements of those who have lost their lives.
“The security agencies have also been tasked to take prompt action to restore peace in the area and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences,” it added.
Old video of Captain Smart:
Following the incident, a video of broadcaster, Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, urging the youth of Obuasi to besiege AngloGold Ashanti, has gone viral.
In the said video, Captain Smart went on a rant against AngloGold Ashanti over what he described as the company’s denial of indigenes’ rights with the support of the military.
“I am telling the youth of Ghana in Obuasi to enter the hole (AGA site). When you get up, storm there. Everyone should go and look for what to eat when you are hungry. You must be mad. Storm the place. Listen, AGA, if you don’t take care, we will chase you out of this country, I swear.
“Because listen, you cannot dig a cyanide hole of about a hundred meters in South Africa. Can you dig three cyanide square holes measuring a hundred meters each in South Africa and get away with it? But for the daft leadership we have in this country, why won’t these things happen? That is what I want Nana Addo and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to understand: that AGA is destroying Obuasi, and the youth of Obuasi should rise,” he stated during a rant on his editorial captioned “Mining Effect: Military Terrorism, Maiming Farmers in Farmlands at Obuasi.”
BAI/AE
Watch the latest compilation of Twi news below:
You can also watch videos from the vetting of President Mahama’s ministerial nominees below:
For the third consecutive week, the government has recorded a massive oversubscription in its treasury bills auction held on January 17, 2025.
The auction received total bids amounting to GH¢8.839.83 billion, exceeding the target of GH¢6.353 billion by GH¢2.486.83 billion.
According to results released on January 20, 2025, the government secured GH¢5.688.24 billion for the 91-day bill, accepted GH¢1.318.67 billion for the 182-day bill, and GH¢1.883.88 billion for the 365-day bill.
However, not all bids in this week’s auction were accepted.
The interest rates for the latest auction were 28.41% for the 91-day bill, 28.97% for the 182-day bill, and 30.28% for the 365-day bill.
Meanwhile, the government aims to borrow GH¢6.001 billion in this week’s upcoming auction.
Treasury bills have become the government’s primary source of borrowing due to its lack of access to the international capital market.
The new government has assured that plans will be put in place to regain access to the international market and reduce its reliance on domestic borrowing.
SSD/MA
Watch as Ghanaians share their views on National Cathedral project, cutting down of ministries:
Some football fans expressed their displeasure at Arsenal legend, Paul Merson for lambasting Thomas Partey for his performance against Aston Villa in the Premier League.
During the post-match analysis of Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Aston Villa on Sky Sports, Paul Merson fumed about Partey’s inability to mark Ollie Watkins tightly.
He added that former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher would never have committed such a mistake.
“With the two goals, Merino and Partey, you want to stop the game and get the referee to give Partey a microphone and ask, ‘What were you thinking?’ because I wonder what he was thinking; I just don’t know.
“Jamie [Carragher] would have never done that in his life, even playing about 600 games. He would have stood with him and never given him space,” Merson said.
In reaction to the remarks, some football fans rejected the pundit’s criticism of Partey, citing the fact that the player is a midfielder, not a defender, and was playing out of position.
Others described the comments as harsh, sidelining his efforts and focusing on his setbacks.
Some also slammed him for comparing Partey to Carragher, whose natural position was a defender.
Read some of the comments below:
And they forgot that Thomas Partey is playing as a makeshift fullback; he’s not a right-back by trade.
Don’t play him at RB, we have said that a 1000 times! Play a defender there, play a youth RB there, and things go wrong you cannot blame the kid! Kiwior was available, play him on the right side of defence. Play timber as a RB. Stop playing him out of position then blaming him.
Merson was so ott with all the comments on this game, we have many injuries Partey is midfielder he was put again at RB to cover, blame Arteta for not putting Kiwior at cb and Timber at rb. Who really cares what Carragher comes out with and he was not a great defender
A Ghanaian woman in Barcelona, Spain known as Florence Sarpomaa has broken down in tears calling for help from Ghanaians to return home after her ‘japa’ opportunity turned to tears.
Sarpomaa claims that she was sent to Spain by her uncle to seek for greener pastures.
According to her, the plan did not work out as her uncle started maltreating and when she started complaining he threw her out of the house.
The Roads and Highways Minister-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, has expressed deep concern over the escalating financial crisis in Ghana’s road sector, citing unsustainable debt accumulation and soaring interest payments as critical issues.
During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 20, 2025, Mr Agbodza disclosed alarming figures that highlight the sector’s financial mismanagement.
Kwame Governs Agbodza, the Minister-Designate for Roads and Highways, has expressed concerns about the growing debt within the ministry.
In his appearance before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 20, 2025, Agbodza revealed that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government left a minimum of GHC100 billion in outstanding commitments.
He further disclosed that as of January 20, 2025, unpaid certificates from the Government of Ghana amounted to GHC20 billion, with an additional GHC15 billion in unpaid road funds.
“In 2017, our respected colleague who is no longer a member of Parliament, [Amoako Atta] in his words was alarmed by the fact that the NDC government was leaving a commitment debt of GHC17 billion in the road sector and GHC1.5 billion being certificates approved which were not paid.
“At the transition committee, it turns out that as of today [January 20], I have not been to the ministry yet, but what they presented to the committee, the NPP government is leaving a minimum of GHC100 billion commitment. What you should be worried about in that same document, they are saying that certificates unpaid as of today [January 20] from GoG amount to about GHC20 billion. The ones with road funds is about GHC15 billion.
Agbodza revealed that a GHC113 million debt in the road sector in 2018 has now ballooned to GHC665 million due to accumulated interest.
He further disclosed that in 2020, the debt stood at GHC424 million, but the accrued interest has since risen to GHC1.5 billion.
Agbodza expressed serious concerns about the financial implications and how he would explain the situation to his constituents in Adaklu.
“Out of the GHC15 billion, in 2018, we were owing about GHC113 million, the interest on the GHC113 million this year will be GHC665 million. When you take 2019, the debt is GHC210 million, and the interest on the GHC210 million is GHC960 million.
“2020, we were owing GHC424 million, and the interest is GHC1.5 billion. In 2021, the debt was GHC616, the interest currently is GHC1.69 billion. The question is how do I explain this to the taxpayers in Adaklu?
Governs Agbodza proposed implementing better contract management in the road sector, emphasizing that significant funds are being wasted. He stated firmly, “This cannot continue.”
There is no contract for E-Gate at KIA – Agbodza claims
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The second sitting of the Appointment Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 20, 2025, was marked by disagreements.
Despite the presence of Roads and Highways Minister-designate, Kwame Governs Agbodza, the vetting process was delayed due to exchanges and interjections by the committee members.
The Ranking Member and Effutu MP, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, among others, raised preliminary issues regarding the non-existence of a Cabinet Secretary, which attracted a comment from Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga.
Mr. Ayariga asserted that Mr. Afenyo could use other mediums to air his concerns, stating that they were present to vet ministerial nominees, and that process should proceed.
Minority Chief Whip and Nsawam Adoagyiri MP, Francis Annoh-Dompreh, who was not happy with Mahama Ayariga’s remarks, objected.
However, the Chairman of the Committee and Akatsi South MP, Bernard Ahiafor, sought to prevent Annoh-Dompreh from speaking to save time for the main proceedings.
The Chairman’s directive did not sit well with the Chief Whip, resulting in a heated argument and murmurs among the committee members.
The decision follows recent violent incidents in the town, including vehicle burnings
AngloGold Ashanti Schools have announced a temporary closure due to rising security concerns in Obuasi.
This decision follows recent violent incidents in the town, including the burning of vehicles and destruction of property, linked to clashes between small-scale miners and military personnel guarding the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine.
These clashes have reportedly resulted in eight deaths.
In a press release dated January 19, 2024, the school management emphasized that the closure aims to ensure the safety of students, staff, parents, and other stakeholders.
The schools will remain closed on January 20 and 21, 2025, with a planned reopening on January 23, depending on the restoration of calm in the area.
“In order to safeguard lives and property and to promote the welfare of our students, staff, parents, and all stakeholders, the AngloGold Ashanti Schools will be closed on Monday, January 20, and Tuesday, January 21, 2025,” the statement read.
A group of 23 Constituency Organisers of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Central Region has expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for appointing Ekow Payin Eduamoah as the Central Regional Minister.
In a statement, the organisers commended Eduamoah for his dedication and service to the party at various levels. They highlighted his contributions as a Branch Executive, Constituency Organizer, two-term Member of Parliament (MP) for Gomoa East, and the current Central Regional Vice Chairman of the NDC.
“As field marshals, we feel honored and humbled that President Mahama continues to recognize and reward hardworking party executives with key leadership positions,” the statement read.
The statement was jointly signed by Joseph Kojo Mensah (Ajumako Enyan Essiam), Raymond Armah Narh (CR Dean of Organizers), and Nanka-Bruce (Cape Coast South).
The group expressed confidence in Eduamoah’s ability to foster unity in the region and effectively lobby for the region’s fair share of national development projects.
The organisers outlined key infrastructural projects they expect the new minister to prioritize and revive, including:
Komenda Sugar Factory – To boost employment and the sugar industry.
Fisheries University at Anomabo – To enhance education and skill development in the fisheries sector.
Fishing Processing Plant at Elmina – The second largest in West Africa, which remains underutilized.
Nursing and Teacher Training Colleges at Ajumako Biseasi – To expand access to tertiary education in the region.
The organizers also applauded the appointments of other key figures from the Central Region, including:
Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, PhD – Minister of Finance.
Nana Ama Klutse – CEO of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Felix Ofosu Kwakye – Acting Spokesperson for the President.
Additionally, they praised Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang for making history as Ghana’s first female Vice President, emphasizing that the Central Region remains eternally grateful for her elevation to such a high office.
The statement concluded with a call for hard work and dedication from all appointees, urging them to deliver on their mandates for the betterment of the region and the nation.
“We say Ayekoo to all appointees and expect nothing but hard work from them,” the statement added.
You can also watch as Archbishop Duncan-Williams calls for justice, says it’s the pillar of national peace and stability
The second round of the 2024-25 Premier League season continues this weekend with mouth-watering fixtures to look forward to in the domestic top-flight.
Basement club Accra Lions host inconsistent Medeama SC at the WAFA Park in Sogakope in Saturday’s only Premier League fixture.
Lions will be desperate to return to winning ways after losing 3-0 at home to League leaders Gold Stars FC. The remaining Premier League matches will take place across eight centres on Sunday January 26, 2025.
In-form Asante Kotoko welcome Karela United to the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi while Hearts of Oak make the long journey to Nzema to battle Basake Holy Stars.
High-flying Bechem United entertain second-placed Nations FC at the Nana Gyeabour Park, Young Apostles host Nsoatreman FC in the Bono derby at the Wenchi Stadium while Berekum Chelsea welcome Premier League new boys Vision FC to the Golden City park.
Heart of Lions host Aduana FC seeking to return to winning ways after they suffered their first home defeat of the season against Nations FC.
Defending champions FC Samartex 1996 host struggling Dreams FC at the Nsenkyire Arena while Legon Cities will continue their push for survival with a tricky home tie against league leaders Bibiani Gold Stars.
What authority does that pastor have in Ghana to take that money from Akufo-Addo? -Yaa Brefo
News Hub Creator3h
Renowned media journalist, Yaa Brefo in a live interview on Onua FM makes mention of a how a renowned pastor in Ghana received money from former president Akufo-Addo on the basis that the pastor gave Ghana a loan. This follows a report the leader of NDC’s team ORAL, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa presented that pastor Victor Kusi received money from Akufo-Addo on the basis that Ghana took a loan from him.
‘What authority does that pastor(Victor Kusi) have in Ghana to take that money from Akufo-Addo? The loan even according to Akufo-Addo is not documented. Why then does Pastor Victor Kusi receive money from the accounts of Ghana? Victor Kusi is a good friend of mine but this does not sound right to Ghanaians”, Yaa Brefo tells Akufo-Addo.
According to Yaa Brefo, Akufo-Addo does not even have that power to take money from a single individual for a whole country. Pastor Victory Kusi also has should not have taken any money from Akufo-Addo. That pastor cannot be too rich that he is the only one that can lend Ghana money.Ghanaians must be very attentive to whatever is going on and co-operate with the current government, says Yaa Brefo.
Kindly click on the follow button and watch the interview below.
Kwame Agbodza, the nominee for the Roads and Highways Ministry, has revealed that some road contractors in Ghana are owed as little as ¢5,000 by the government, highlighting concerns over the management of road toll funds.
During his vetting by the Appointments Committee on Monday, January 20, Agbodza discussed the controversial cancellation of road tolls by the Akufo-Addo administration.
He expressed his surprise at the decision, stating that instead of cancelling the tolls, the government should have worked to improve the system by addressing the leakages and enhancing its effectiveness.
Mr Agbodza criticised the move as an act of illegality, pointing out that such a decision could not be made unilaterally.
He suggested that there was some negligence in how the cancellation was handled, particularly as the government had claimed the road toll was generating only ¢80 million.
The minister nominee emphasised that road tolls would be reintroduced, albeit in a modernised form.
He stated that the future system would involve technology, allowing for fairer and more efficient collection without the need for physical road obstructions or manual toll collection, ensuring a smoother experience for drivers.
“We decided to caution the government not to cancel the road toll but rather find a way to make it better. This means that we should find a way to block the leakages and enhance it. So it was surprising that it was cancelled or they claimed they zeroed it. For me, it was an act of illegality. They couldn’t unilaterally do that. I believe there was some level of negligence in the way it was done.”
“They claimed road toll was accruing just ¢80 million, but today there are road contractors working in Ghana who are owed GH¢5,000. So the road toll is coming back but not in the form of building obstructions on the road for drivers to stop and somebody taking money from them but this coming in a form of technological and fair manner that will make it easy to collect,” he stated.
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Ghanaian rapper, Opanka, has disclosed that his two years stay in the United States had nothing to do with his music career.
Contrary to popular speculation, Opanka clarified his time in the States was just to further his education.
In a recent interview, the rapper, who has been making waves in the Ghanaian music industry for years, stated that his decision to prioritise his education over his music career is his commitment to personal growth and development.
“My two years living in the states had nothing to do with me putting my music career on hold. The power that social media or technology is carrying, you can travel out for shows and that’s why I travelled out.
“You could be in Ghana and people outside Ghana will be hearing your music, you could equally be outside the country and people here will hear it. Right now, let’s say you travel out and you post something on YouTube, it’s the same YouTube that you would watch it and when they are on digital stores too, it’s the same thing,” he stated.
Opanka added that he went to America for a concert and he got the opportunity to further his education.
“First of all, I went to America for an award show and a concert. The whole thing was supposed to take us a month. After the concert, I had the opportunity to go to school and I believe everyone knows that education is power.
“So, meaning the knowledge I will acquire from education, when I add it to my music, everything will be on a different level. As I’ve gotten that opportunity, I thought it was wise to do it and I could still do the music as I’m outside the country,” he added.
The Convention Peoples Party (CPP) has thrown its support behind the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s initiative to operationalize Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), a task force led by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to reclaim misappropriated state assets.
According to the CPP’s 2024 flagbearer, Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Kumankumah, ORAL is a commendable initiative by President John Dramani Mahama’s administration aimed at addressing the misuse and dissipation of state resources over the years.
Speaking on Accra-based CTV’s “OMAN GHANA NKUSUO” morning show co-hosted by Obaapa Yaa Titi and Odehyeeba Kofi Essuman on Monday, January 20, 2025, she commended the ORAL Chairman for his selfless dedication to the cause and urged him to extend the initiative to cover historical loot dating back to 1966—when the CPP government, led by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, was overthrown in a coup.
Madam Kumankumah emphasized that following the 1966 coup, numerous CPP-owned properties were confiscated and repurposed for state use, including:
The Ministry of Information building in Accra The CPP’s Brong Ahafo Regional Office in Sunyani The CPP’s Central Regional Office in Cape Coast, now housing the Ghana Education Service.
She urged the ORAL task force to extend its mandate to recover these properties, emphasizing that the confiscation of CPP assets played a role in the party’s political suppression and ultimate criminalization following the coup.
While supporting the initiative, Madam Kumankumah cautioned NDC appointees, stating that ORAL would become a benchmark for accountability when the NDC eventually leaves office.
She warned against any misuse of public resources, emphasizing that history would judge all political officeholders by the same standards.
The CPP’s endorsement of ORAL adds momentum to the initiative as it seeks to recover lost national assets and promote transparency in governance.
Meanwhile, find out why K.T. Hammond has dragged Captain Smart to court below:
![Drama, chaos rock Appointment Committee [Video]](https://www.ghanamma.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/5e0f72f5c6cb86b470d26ade8ddc1025.jpeg "Drama, chaos rock Appointment Committee [Video]")
