Gospel musician Great Ampong has shared a personal conversation he once had with the late legendary highlife icon Daddy Lumba.
He disclosed that the late singer expressed concern about the declining number of males in his family.
Speaking in an interview on Neat FM with Ola Michael on December 8, 2025, Ampong revealed that Daddy Lumba felt compelled to have more male children to sustain the family line.
According to him, Lumba explained that his mother had two girls and one boy, and when he started his own family, the trend repeated. His wife also gave birth to two girls and one boy.
Ampong said Lumba feared this pattern could lead to a future where no males remained in the family.
“We were once having a conversation and he told me that there’s no male in the family. The men are finishing. His mother gave birth to two girls and one boy.
Great Ampong apologizes to NDC in a new song
“When he started his own family, he realised his wife was following the same trend by giving birth to two girls and one boy,” he said.
Ampong noted that this concern influenced Lumba’s decision to be with another woman, in hopes of expanding his lineage by having more sons.
“From the look of things, it will get to a time where no males will be found in the family so he decided to be with the other woman also so he could get more male children,” he stated.
The gospel musician also opened up about the level of trust Lumba had in him, stating that the late highlife legend often took him around town, showed him his properties, and even sought his opinion on potential land projects.
“We were so close and he used to take me around town to show me some of his properties. He wanted to do some projects on some of his lands and he asked for my opinion,” he said.
He added, “When he’s in a good mood, we used to communicate like father and son. He had a level of trust and love for me, that’s why he made me get close to him.”
FG/EB
Meanwhile, watch as Jacinta talks about her success in the comedy industry:
Gospel musician Great Ampong has shared a personal conversation he once had with the late legendary highlife icon Daddy Lumba.
He disclosed that the late singer expressed concern about the declining number of males in his family.
Speaking in an interview on Neat FM with Ola Michael on December 8, 2025, Ampong revealed that Daddy Lumba felt compelled to have more male children to sustain the family line.
According to him, Lumba explained that his mother had two girls and one boy, and when he started his own family, the trend repeated. His wife also gave birth to two girls and one boy.
Ampong said Lumba feared this pattern could lead to a future where no males remained in the family.
“We were once having a conversation and he told me that there’s no male in the family. The men are finishing. His mother gave birth to two girls and one boy.
Great Ampong apologizes to NDC in a new song
“When he started his own family, he realised his wife was following the same trend by giving birth to two girls and one boy,” he said.
Ampong noted that this concern influenced Lumba’s decision to be with another woman, in hopes of expanding his lineage by having more sons.
“From the look of things, it will get to a time where no males will be found in the family so he decided to be with the other woman also so he could get more male children,” he stated.
The gospel musician also opened up about the level of trust Lumba had in him, stating that the late highlife legend often took him around town, showed him his properties, and even sought his opinion on potential land projects.
“We were so close and he used to take me around town to show me some of his properties. He wanted to do some projects on some of his lands and he asked for my opinion,” he said.
He added, “When he’s in a good mood, we used to communicate like father and son. He had a level of trust and love for me, that’s why he made me get close to him.”
FG/EB
Meanwhile, watch as Jacinta talks about her success in the comedy industry:
Ghana’s economy grew by 5.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2025, according to provisional data released on Wednesday by the Ghana Statistical Service.
Although slightly lower than the 7.0 per cent growth recorded in Q3 2024, the latest figures show broad-based improvements across key sectors, especially agriculture, services and non-oil activities.
The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reported that nominal GDP for Q3 2025 reached GH¢339.4 billion, up from GH¢293.1 billion a year earlier. Non-oil nominal GDP also rose strongly to GH¢331.5 billion, compared to GH¢278.5 billion in Q3 2024 — a sign that the economy’s momentum continues to come from non-oil sectors.
Real GDP for the quarter stood at GH¢50.8 billion, higher than GH¢48.2 billion recorded in the same period of 2024. Non-oil real GDP also improved to GH¢48.7 billion, from GH¢45.6 billion last year.
Agriculture leads expansion
Agriculture posted a remarkable 8.6 per cent growth, recovering sharply from 2.5 per cent in Q3 2024. The fishing sub-sector was the standout performer, expanding by 23.1 per cent after contracting by 6.4 per cent in the previous year. Analysts say the strong agricultural performance is good news for food supply and price stability.
Industry struggles as oil drags output
The industrial sector grew by just 0.8 per cent, a steep slowdown from 11.4 per cent in Q3 2024. The main drag was the oil and gas sector, which contracted heavily by 18.2 per cent. Despite this, manufacturing remained resilient, expanding by 3.9 per cent, up from 7.4 per cent last year.
Mining and quarrying also contracted by 2.8 per cent, adding further pressure on the sector’s overall performance.
Services sector remains the backbone
Services maintained its position as the largest part of the economy, accounting for 40 per cent of GDP. The sector grew by 7.6 per cent and contributed nearly 59.5 per cent to overall growth, with ICT again leading the charge at 17.0 per cent.
Sub-sectors driving growth
The main drivers of GDP growth in Q3 2025 were: • ICT • Crops • Trade • Transport and storage • Manufacturing • Education
Together, these accounted for about 86 per cent of total growth.
Biggest gainers and losers
The top five expanding sub-sectors were:
• Fishing (23.1 per cent) • ICT (17.0 per cent) • Transport & Storage (10.4 per cent) • Trade (10.0 per cent) • Crops (8.3 per cent)
The largest contractions came from: • Oil & Gas (-18.2 per cent) • Health & Social Work (-9.7 per cent) • Mining & Quarrying (-2.8 per cent) • Accommodation & Food Services (-7.2 per cent) • Other Personal Services (-3.5 per cent)
The report also noted that the GDP deflator showed slower growth, signalling some moderation in prices during the period.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) says it will continue to provide the needed support to the embattled Member of Parliament (MP) for Kpandai Constituency, Matthew Nyindam, following a High Court ruling ordering a rerun of the constituency’s election.
Addressing a press conference at the party’s headquarters yesterday in Accra, the National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye, described the victory of the MP for the area as legitimate, hence the party will not rest until that choice is vindicated.
He said, “We will walk every step of this legal journey with you. We will fight in every court, at every hour, with every resource at our command, to defend the mandate you freely gave. Your victory was legitimate. Your choice was just. We will not rest until that choice is vindicated and your rightful Member of Parliament is restored.
“We see your clearly expressed will, written in the indelible ink of 3,734 votes. We hear your sovereign voice, which this judgment tried to silence. Do not lose heart. The New Patriotic Party has not abandoned you. We have not retreated. We are with you, completely and unfailingly.”
The party’s action follows Parliament’s formal notification to the Electoral Commission (EC) on Monday, December 8, 2025, that the seat had become vacant, in line with a High Court ruling ordering a rerun of the constituency’s election.
In a letter dated December 4, 2025, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, informed the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, that the seat was vacant pursuant to the court ruling delivered on November 24, 2025.
But according to the NPP, the ruling sets a dangerous precedent it believes will create chaos, as well as destroy the country’s democracy, stressing that the party will deploy various legal options to overturn the judgment.
The party also accused the High Court of ignoring key electoral regulations, specifically Regulation 48(2) of C.I. 127, which states that the absence of a candidate or agent does not invalidate acts lawfully conducted by the returning officer.
The NPP further described the ruling as “double standard” in the court’s reasoning, stating that the judge refused to attribute vandalism at the collation centre to the petitioner due to insufficient evidence, yet later relied on “speculation and unsubstantiated assertions” to conclude that irregularities affected the results.
According to the party, the petitioner provided no credible alternative tally and failed to demonstrate how disputed votes amounting to just over 500 could overturn a margin of 3,734, cancelling the entire election, and rewarding the petitioner for failing to provide evidence.
“This is a grotesque perversion of the burden of proof. The Kpandai judgment stands dangerously out of step. This is the core, unforgivable flaw measured against this unbroken line of authority, the Kpandai judgment is starkly, dangerously out of step,” the party noted.
The NPP also argued that the court abandoned the constitutional duty to act proportionately, citing Section 19 of PNDCL 284, the party noted that the court had three options: to cancel the election, seat another candidate, or dismiss the petition.
The National Organiser of the party indicated that because these choices touch Article 42 on the right to vote, the court is constitutionally bound to act cautiously to preserve the voters’ choice where possible, making reference to the Supreme Court’s substantial compliance doctrine in previous electoral cases.
The NPP mentioned that the court could have relied on all existing records gazette for lower remedies such as scrutiny, recollation or a limited rerun instead of annulling the entire election that has no convincing reason for such action to be taken.
The party also urged the appellate court to set aside judgment and restore the mandate the people of Kpandai overwhelmingly gave to the Member of Parliament for Kpandai, Matthew Nyindam.
The NPP also accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and its leadership of attempting to undermine democratic institutions, annexing seats and rewarding violence.
“This catastrophic judgment did not happen in isolation. It is part of a deliberate pattern. It is a thread in a sinister, calculated agenda by the National Democratic Congress to use captured state institutions to silence opposition, suppress dissent, and hold Ghana’s democracy hostage,” the National Organiser added.
Veteran Nigerian singer, Innocent Idibia, better known as 2Baba, has appealed to Nigerians to forgive him and his family, days after his marital crisis with his wife, Natasha, made headlines.
Naija News recalls that 2Baba and Natasha became the topic of discussion online after a video of the singer’s arrest in the United Kingdom emerged online following an altercation.
Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed allegations that President John Dramani Mahama plans to seek a third presidential term, describing the claims as “baseless and imaginary.”
His reaction follows assertions by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that the President secretly intends to pursue a third term despite Ghana’s constitutional two-term limit.
Government is seeking private equity and development finance institutions to help rebuild its diagnostics and treatment infrastructure after years of equipment failures left major hospitals unable to deliver basic services.
President John Dramani Mahama made this known at the WHX Leaders Africa Summit in Accra, urging DFIs, private equity and venture investors to co-finance the continent’s health industrialisation.
President Mahama said government funding alone cannot sustain the country’s medical systems, many of which have deteriorated despite a previous retooling effort that installed MRI, CT and laboratory equipment across public hospitals.
“We spent more than US$250million installing MRIs, CT scanners and laboratory tools, but many of them are now broken down,” he said.
“The experience demonstrated why PPPs are not optional anymore; they are a must if we are to restore diagnostic and treatment capacity nationwide. The opportunity is enormous,” he added.
Much of that equipment is now out of service, undermining national health delivery and slowing rollout of the new GH¢2.1billion (US$200million) Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also called MahamaCare.
According to the president, fund managers reported that widespread breakdowns in diagnostics equipment have made it difficult to enroll patients or process claims for high-cost treatments such as cancer care and dialysis.
He said the absence of functioning machines has exposed a structural weakness in the health system, adding that “PPPs are not optional anymore”.
Weak tax collection deepening debt and fuelling inequality – Study
The failure of public-sector maintenance has created severe access gaps, especially for patients outside Accra and Kumasi.
Mahama cited cases in which patients had to be transported by ambulance to private facilities for CT or MRI scans because public hospitals lacked working machines.
Government now plans to channel investment into diagnostic imaging, laboratories, cancer treatment, dialysis and biomedical engineering services through structured partnerships with private operators.
President Mahama said the model is intended to prevent a repeat of previous cycles when state-owned equipment collapsed within a few years due to weak maintenance and procurement systems.
The shift comes as Ghana confronts a rising burden of noncommunicable diseases, which account for more than 45 percent of morbidity nationally.
Officials say early detection capacity is critical, yet limited equipment uptime has reduced the effectiveness of planned reforms.
Government is also positioning its domestic health agenda within a broader continental push for “health sovereignty”.
The president called on pharmaceutical manufacturers, vaccine producers, medtech firms and biotech companies to co-invest in local production hubs. He argued that Africa’s experience during COVID-19 demonstrated the risks of dependence on foreign supply chains.
Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, said the country is building a national health intelligence system and expanding digital health tools to improve disease surveillance and resource allocation.
He described primary health care and the Delta-Medica Trust Fund – focused on training health professionals – as core elements of Ghana’s transformation strategy.
Minister of Trade, Elizabeth Ofosu Adjare, added that Ghana is aligning regulatory frameworks with global standards and developing industrial parks for pharmaceutical and medical device production.
She said the African Continental Free Trade Area provides a unified market to scale the ‘Made-in-Africa’ manufacturing agenda.
President Mahama told delegates that current political alignment across African governments and growing investor interest creates a favourable window for capital deployment.
All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:
Accra, Dec. 10, GNA — Parliamentary proceedings took a dramatic turn on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, as Mr Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader, condemned attempts by the Minority to prevent an open debate on the Kpandai parliamentary seat vacancy.
Speaking on the Floor of the House amid heckling by the Minority, Mr Ayariga, also the Leader of Government Business in Parliament, insisted that the matter must be discussed transparently and in full view of the media.
He argued that Ghanaians had a right to judge the facts for themselves.
“Mr Speaker, your ruling was whether or not, within the seven days, you could be called upon to remove the MP from the chamber, and you ruled accordingly that by our CI 19, there is an automatic stay for seven days. So, within those seven days, the judgment could not be executed. The member will have a right to be in the chamber, but after seven days, then the ruling will be triggered automatically,” Mr Ayariga said.
He added, “How will the speaker rule if he has not heard all the sides of the matter? We will not allow this matter to be heard in secrecy. It must be treated in the full glare of the media. I want them to capture the facts based on which you are mounting your protest so that Ghanaians will be the judges as to who is right.”
The Majority Leader outlined the constitutional obligations of Mr Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, the Clerk to Parliament, in notifying the Electoral Commission of a parliamentary vacancy. According to Mr Ayariga, following the Tamale High Court ruling that ordered a rerun of the Kpandai constituency election, the Clerk acted within the statutory timelines set out under Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, aide to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has criticised Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, accusing him of lacking independence in handling the Kpandai parliamentary election dispute.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Wednesday, December 10, Aboagye described the recent developments surrounding the Kpandai seat as the “most shocking and rogue ruling” he has witnessed, raising concerns about both the High Court and Parliament’s handling of the matter.
“The Speaker is a pure NDC man, so he will never take a fair decision. He is not fair, just, and he is not independent-minded,” he alleged, claiming that Bagbin’s conduct undermines public confidence in the parliamentary arbitration process.
The comments follow Parliament’s declaration of a vacancy in the Kpandai seat after a High Court in Tamale ordered a rerun of the constituency’s parliamentary election.
In a letter dated December 4, 2025, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, notified Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa of the vacancy, as mandated under Article 112(5) of the 1992 Constitution. The correspondence referenced Suit Number NR/TL/HC/E13/22/25, in which the Clerk was listed as the fourth respondent.
The High Court ruling, delivered on November 24, 2025, directed a fresh election in Kpandai, triggering the EC to initiate the rerun process.
The declaration sparked chaos in Parliament on Tuesday, December 9, after Minority MPs demanded the withdrawal of the letter and the reinstatement of embattled MP Matthew Nyindam until the court injunction concludes.
The Majority, however, rejected the Minority’s stance and proceeded with parliamentary business despite disruptions from the minority.
Ayariga slams Minority: Kpandai vacancy debate must not be held in secrecy
Movie producer and social commentator, Stanley Ontop has been arrested,
He was arrested and detained in the State Criminal Investigation Department in Delta state on Tuesday, December 9.
Confirming this development to LIB, the spokesperson of the command, SP Bright Edafe, said Stanley was arrested following a petition from a female colleague.
Unconfirmed reports claim actress Queeneth Hilbeth wrote a petition against him to the police following their protracted online battle. The content of her petition is yet to be disclosed.
A Ghanaian lady Linda Otchere’s vibrant kente wedding to a white man named Craig Dawson, has captivated social media
Videos from the couple’s wedding in the UK showed a colourful ceremony, while highlighting a striking difference in their physiques
Many online users who came across the wedding images have reacted to the couple’s wedding
A Ghanaian lady in the UK, Linda Darkwa Otchere, has married a white man in a colourful wedding ceremony, leaving many social media users in awe.
Linda and her husband, Craig Dawson, tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
Ghanaian lady, Linda Otchere, marries ‘obroni’ in the UK in colourful kente wedding. Photo source: @hardlin_hair Source: Instagram
As it is with many such Ghanaian ceremonies, the wedding of Linda and Craig Dawson was dominated by colourful kente outfits.
See the wedding invitation of Linda and Craig below:
Linda Otchere’s colourful kente wedding gown
Linda Otchere rocked a kente gown in shades of red, goold, green, and purple colours, The off shouldered fitted her body with the down part falling gracefully like a mermaid dress.
Linda’s dress looked like a perfect balance of the traditional Ghanaian kente cloth with contemporary bridal fashion style.
She wore a silver-looking pair of strap heels and held a bridal fan which matched the colours of her dress.
Watch Linda Otchere’s wedding dress beloiw.
Another video showed Linda Otchere and her husband arriving at the wedding auditorium with their bridal train in tow.
The groom wore a green kaftan and had a sash of his bride’s kente around his neck. His groomsmen dressed in traditional kente with the couple and their bridal train dancing to a Ghanaian gospel song.
Watch the video below:
After the traditional wedding, the bride changed from her kente into a white wedding gown, while the groom changed into a white kaftan with kente designs. The two sat hand-in-hand.
More than three months before the colourful wedding celebration, Linda Otchere and Craig Dawson had done their civil marriage registration in August.
Watch the video below:
Linda Otchere’s obroni husband is a giant
Apart from the colourful nature of Linda Otchere’s wedding ceremony with Craig Dawson, another notable thing was the man’s physique.
While Linda could be described as a cutie, her husband is huge in build and stands like a giant next to her.
Linda Otchere and her husband, Craig Dawson, pose for a loved-up shot. Photo source: @hardlin_hair Source: Instagram
Reactions to Linda Otchere’s wedding with obroni
The videos of Linda Otchere and Craig Dawson have sparked massive reactions online. While many congratulated the couple, some people referred to the massive difference in their physiques.
Atanga Asabea
“If not today, I never knew that David and Goliath are still alive. David in female form.”
Kofi Peasah said:
“Eeii eeiii Eeii some women don’t fear anything ooo yooo anyway congratulations cheers.”
Joseph Kweku Otoo said:
“God bless their marriage na eiiiiiii hmmm. Those guys dancing behind no which tune are they dancing to.”
Mena Pat said:
“The way she looked up at his face got me laughing . Oyibo by thunder by fire. Congratulations sis.”
Video of Papa Shee’s wedding in 2022 emerges
Meanwhile, YEN.com.gh reported that images of Evangelist Papa Shee’s wife had emerged online from their simple wedding in 2022.
The videos show the musician-turned-evangelist and his partner rocking similar colours and dancing on their wedding day.
Resurfacing amid Papa Shee’s support for Daddy Lumba’s Germany-based wife, Akosua Serwaa, after Lumba’s passing, the videos have triggered many reactions.
The Graduate Unemployed Nurses and Midwives Association says it will stage a protest over what it describes as the government’s prolonged delay in posting its members, some of whom have been home for up to five years.
A planned demonstration for this week was called off after the association was unable to finalise security arrangements with the Greater Accra Regional Police Command.
Frustration among the graduates continues to mount.
In an interview with Citi News on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Gamal Osman, who completed his training in 2021, said the long wait has left many struggling to cope.
“I have been in the house for four years. I completed school in 2021. We are all stranded. Remember, completing school and depending on someone is not easy. How to even buy water is not easy,” he said.
The association insists it will continue to pursue all lawful avenues to demand the posting of its members until government takes action.
Rising Breast Cancer cases strain Korle Bu – Surgeon demands more centres
The Bono Regional Police Command has made significant progress in dismantling multiple armed robbery syndicates following a sustained intelligence-led operation across Berekum, Drobo, Nkaseim and surrounding communities.
Several suspects believed to be involved in a series of robbery incidents and related crimes have been arrested and put before the courts.
They include ex-convict Johnson Amponsah Kwame Diawuo, aged 47, identified by police as the leader of one of the gangs; Shadrach Owusu, also known as Shark, aged 25; Kwafo Samuel, an ex-convict aged 30; Latif Mustapha, also known as Star Boy, aged 28; Mosby Owusu, aged 20; Kofi Iddrisa, aged 45; and Baba Kumi Foster, aged 35.
Police investigations established that on November 18, 2025, some members of the gang attempted to rob travellers along the Berekum–Drobo road. A patrol team intervened swiftly, preventing the attack.
During subsequent interrogations, suspects Kwafo Samuel and Shadrach Owusu confessed to taking part in the attempted robbery and named Johnson Amponsah Kwame Diawuo as the mastermind.
They also admitted involvement in several other robberies in the Nkaseim area of the Ahafo Region.
Targeted operations later led to the arrest of Johnson Amponsah at his hideout in Nyamennae, a suburb of Berekum.
A search of his room uncovered quantities of Indian hemp, two motorcycle helmets, and two machetes, which were retrieved as evidence.
In a separate operation aimed at dismantling another gang operating around Berekum, the Regional Police Intelligence Directorate arrested suspects Latif Mustapha and Mosby Owusu at Domfete. Latif initially attempted to evade arrest by hiding in the ceiling of his room but was captured after an extensive search.
Police later retrieved a full military camouflage uniform, a military jacket, a toy Glock pistol with soft foam bullets, a taser, military boots, pepper spray, several knives, talismans, an HP laptop, a NEC laptop, and other items believed to be used for criminal activities.
Further investigations uncovered a Parabellum Model R-9 pistol loaded with two rounds of ammunition concealed in the room of suspect Mosby Owusu. Police say the weapon originated from Latif Mustapha, who allegedly sold it to Mosby for GH¢9,000 but continued to access it intermittently.
Efforts to clamp down on accomplices involved in the receiving and transport of stolen motorcycles and tricycles to neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire led to the arrest of suspects Kofi Iddrisa and Baba Kumi Foster at Ewiakrom, near Nkrankwanta. Three motorcycles and a tricycle believed to have been stolen were retrieved.
On December 2, 2025, suspects Johnson Amponsah Kwame Diawuo, Shadrach Owusu and Kwafo Samuel were arraigned before the Fiapre Circuit Court on charges of conspiracy to commit robbery and attempting to commit robbery. They were remanded by the presiding judge, His Worship Akua Adoma Addae, to reappear on December 22.
On the same day, suspects Latif Mustapha and Mosby Owusu appeared before the Sunyani District Court B, where they were charged with illicit trafficking of firearms, possession of firearms without lawful authority, and unlawful possession of military uniforms.
They were remanded and are expected back in court on December 15. Meanwhile, suspects Kofi Iddrisa and Baba Kumi Foster, who are being investigated for dishonestly receiving stolen items, have been granted police enquiry bail.
The Bono Regional Police Command says efforts are underway to arrest other accomplices still on the run and to recover additional weapons linked to the syndicates.
The Command has urged the public to provide credible information to aid ongoing investigations and reaffirmed its commitment to improving safety and security across the region.
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is Ghana’s former President
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Former Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has criticised the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) over what she describes as the unfair treatment of former appointees of the erstwhile New Patriotic Party (NPP) government who have been accused of corruption.
Speaking on a panel discussion on Movement TV on December 6, 2025, she argued that bail conditions for appointees facing corruption and related charges have now become excessively high, suggesting these measures are being used as punishment rather than a judicial requirement.
According to her, she has “lost hope” in the country because the legal fraternity has become politicized, especially in the handling of cases involving politically exposed persons.
Abubakar further claimed that former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, under the NPP administration, could have sanctioned the entire leadership of the NDC Members of Parliament (MPs) over the alleged double salary scandal but chose to exercise restraint.
“When we were in government, there was the double salary scandal. They had more than fifteen MPs implicated and other issues. If we had taken action, by now almost the entire front bench of the Majority would have been in Nsawam. But the President didn’t want that. How do you wipe out the leadership of a whole political party in the name of double salary?” she questioned.
She added that despite the government’s restraint at the time, today’s bail conditions for political appointees are set as high as GH₵800,000, which she believes reflects political motivation rather than fairness.
“I have lost hope in Ghana because it is glaring that what is happening is politically motivated. I have heard the national chairman of the NDC listing all the top political appointments they will sack from the Chief Justice to the Electoral Commission,” she claimed.
The double salary issue first surfaced when reports emerged that about 48 Members of Parliament, who served as ministers under then former President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, had allegedly received double salaries.
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service subsequently opened investigations into the claims.
Earlier reports suggested that 25 MPs were invited by the CID for questioning, although further documentation indicated that nearly 48 former NDC appointees were involved with some allegedly admitting to receiving double payments.
The alleged conduct violates Section 124 (1) of the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), which deals with stealing.
Data showed that several ministers took double salaries between 2012 and 2016, with some receiving double payments monthly throughout their tenure. Others did so for shorter periods due to reshuffles.
However, the CID later clarified that investigations had not been suspended, contradicting claims by the then minority MPs who accused the CID of embarrassing them by publicly inviting them for questioning.
The development reportedly caused tension within the NDC. The then Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Nadowli/Kaleo, Alban Bagbin, took to Twitter in April 2018, expressing anger at what he suggested were internal leaks to the CID.
“If anybody thinks that leaking our names to the police CID thwarts our chances and advances their selfish claim to leadership in our party, then think again. Because when we go down, we go down together,” he tweeted at the time.
AM
#TrendingGH: Extension of IGP’s contract draws praise and criticism
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The Government of Ghana has announced that it will summon officials of the Israeli Embassy in Accra on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, following what it describes as inhumane and unjustified treatment of Ghanaian travellers — including four Members of a Parliamentary delegation — at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport.
In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, condemned the actions of Israeli authorities, revealing that seven Ghanaian nationals were detained upon arrival in Tel Aviv on Sunday, December 7, without legitimate cause.
Among those held were four members of a parliamentary delegation attending the Annual International Cybersecurity Conference. They were reportedly detained for more than five hours before being released, only after what the ministry described as “strenuous diplomatic intervention.”
The remaining three travellers were deported on the next available flight and have since returned to Ghana.
The Ministry described the treatment of the delegation and other travellers as a deliberate targeting of Ghanaians, calling the conduct of Israeli authorities “extremely provocative, unacceptable, and inconsistent with the longstanding friendly relations between the two countries.”
It also dismissed claims by Israeli authorities that the incident resulted from alleged non-cooperation by Ghana’s Embassy in Tel Aviv regarding deportation processes.
The ministry maintained that Ghana’s mission has been “responsive and compliant with international law,” describing Israel’s justification as “untenable.”
In the statement, the government noted that it is also considering appropriate reciprocal measures should Israel fail to address the concerns satisfactorily.
Former Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, has questioned the basis of suggestions from some individuals proposing that President John Dramani Mahama could be considered for a hypothetical third term.
He clarified that although there is no widespread public call for such an extension, the very idea being entertained by a few voices is, in his view, misguided.
In a Facebook post on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Ofosu Nkansah argued that even entertaining the notion ignores Ghana’s constitutional safeguards on presidential tenure and risks shifting attention from more pressing governance issues.
He referenced former President John Agyekum Kufuor to emphasise his point, noting that despite leaving office “strong and fit to continue,” Kufuor never sought to override the two-term limit.
According to him, even with the “solid foundation” Kufuor laid for national development, he did not contemplate a third term, demonstrating respect for constitutional order.
Ofosu Nkansah questioned why, by contrast, a similar idea was now being floated around former President Mahama, whose cumulative years in office already exceed five.
He challenged those advancing the suggestion to point to any legacy significant enough to justify a constitutional amendment, dismissing the conversation as “selfish” and “useless.”
He warned that attempts to normalise such proposals undermine Ghana’s democratic principles and could create a dangerous precedent for future leadership.
#TrendingGH: Extension of IGP’s contract draws praise and criticism
Watch some videos from the NPP’s 2025 Constitution Amendment
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In a statement released in Accra, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was appalled by what it described as the unjustifiable and humiliating treatment of Ghanaian travellers.
According to the ministry, seven citizens, including four members of a parliamentary delegation attending an international cybersecurity conference in Tel Aviv, were detained on Sunday, December 7, andreleased only after more than five hours of diplomatic intervention. Three others were deported to Ghana on the next available flight.
Officials in Accra say the pattern suggests that Ghanaian travellers were deliberately targeted and subjected to inhumane treatment.
The incident has struck a sensitive point in a relationship that, while historically cooperative, has seen moments of friction in recent years.
Ghana and Israel maintain full diplomatic ties, and officials from both sides regularly affirm their determination to deepen cooperation in trade, agriculture, health, and security.
However, the airport episode adds to a set of existing disagreements that have quietly shaped their recent interactions.
Ghana-Israel historical feuds
These issues include differing views on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Ghana initially expressed strong support for Israel after the October 7 attack.
Migration has created another point of friction. The Israeli ambassador to Ghana has publicly stated that a visa-free arrangement is unlikely in the near term due to concerns about some Ghanaians overstaying their visas.
These disagreements remain far from a breakdown in relations. The two countries have navigated periods of tension before, most notably in 1973 when Ghana, alongside many African states, severed ties after the Yom Kippur War and an OAU resolution. Diplomatic relations were later restored and have since grown into a steady partnership.
Even so, Accra says the latest incident is inconsistent with the spirit of their bilateral history.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will summon Israeli embassy officials to register its displeasure and is weighing possible reciprocal measures.
As both governments reaffirm their desire for deeper cooperation, the handling of this dispute may determine how resilient the partnership remains in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
Ghana must urgently adopt innovative and sustainable financing mechanisms to strengthen its national data ecosystem and support inclusive development, Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem has said.
Delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Annual Forum for Data Producers, Users and Enhancers, the Deputy Minister stressed that a resilient statistical system is indispensable for effective governance, economic transformation and social progress.
He warned that in an era marked by global economic volatility, climate pressures, demographic shifts and growing public demand for accountability, countries without credible data systems risk poor planning, inefficient resource allocation and widening inequalities.
“In such an environment, credible data is not optional. It is indispensable. It is the foundation on which resilient nations are built,” he said.
Mr. Nyarko Ampem emphasised that high-quality data exposes disparities, improves transparency and strengthens governance. Citing World Bank research, he noted that each dollar invested in data yields up to $32 in economic returns through better policy targeting, improved public-sector efficiency and enhanced investor confidence.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged Ghana’s significant strides in modernising its statistical system. These include West Africa’s first fully digital Population and Housing Census, the institutionalisation of high-frequency surveys, expanded enterprise and agricultural data, and the integration of geospatial and data-science methodologies. Digital dissemination tools such as StatsBank and the Ghana Stats App have also improved public access to official statistics.
But despite these achievements, he said Ghana’s statistical ecosystem still faces structural weaknesses, particularly heavy dependence on donor financing, fragmentation of administrative databases across ministries and agencies, and limited interoperability.
To address these bottlenecks, he pointed to the forthcoming National Strategy for the Development of Statistics III (2026–2030) and the Power of Data Initiative, which together will provide a coordinated framework for long-term investment, innovation and capacity development across the entire national statistical system.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to shifting from donor-reliant financing arrangements toward national ownership and sustainable investment. He revealed that the 2026 Budget allocates GH¢207 million to priority statistical operations, including rebasing GDP and CPI, completing major national surveys and strengthening economic and price measurement systems.
Mr. Ampem Nyarko called on development partners to maintain their support but under stronger coordination and closer alignment with Ghana’s national priorities. To data producers, he urged continuous innovation and inter-institutional collaboration. To data users including policymakers, researchers and journalists, he issued a challenge to “demand more data, use more data, and champion transparency and accountability.”
He also encouraged the private sector to seize emerging opportunities in the data economy, highlighting areas such as fintech, precision agriculture, satellite analytics and credit-scoring technologies.
Finally, he reminded citizens that data has a direct impact on their daily lives. “It shapes the schools your children attend, the hospitals you access, the jobs created in your communities, and the taxes collected,” he said, urging the public to support efforts to build a data-responsive society.
There’s a growing frustration with Asante Kotoko SC technical team following, the increasing number of injury concerns at the club with first round of 2025/26 Ghana league season yet to elapse.
Asante Kotoko SC already has as many as 14 first team players sidelined with injuries.
However, the Reds will receive major boost with the return of Elvis Kyei Baffour to the squad. He returns to training after a long injury layoff, giving Asante Kotoko a major boost in attack.
The attacking midfielder visited the treatment room for over two months with an ACL but successfully passed the medical team fitness test to join group training.
Kyei will be available for selection this weekend when Asante Kotoko SC host Dreams FC at home, should he impress head coach Abdul Karim Zito Kabutey.
The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams has urged the technical team of Black Stars to assemble the best of players for 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament, if the country wants to excel.
He believes call ups should be based on quality and not on sentiment and past history. Noting that, every decision taken should be driven by performance not emotions and with that, Ghana will excel at the 23rd FIFA World Cup edition.
The four-time African Cup of Nations winners, Ghana is housed in group L, alongside England, Croatia and Panama.
“We must call up the best, as I have already insisted”
“A lot of it is emotional but you also need technical capabilities and sound judgement. You have to decide based on performance and readiness not just past history or popularity. The country must go with it’s best”, the member of Parliament said.
“Wherever we found it, the coach has my support. Whoever is responsible for the team will have my support”.
The Black Stars will open their account with Panama on June 17, 2026 in Toronto before playing England six days later. Ghana is aiming for a better campaign after failing to shine in the last edition- 2022 Qatar World Cup, picking no win in a group of Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has condemned the alleged mistreatment of Ghanaian citizens at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport.
In a statement dated December 10, 2025, issued by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the government said it is worried by reports that Ghanaian travellers have been deliberately singled out and subjected to what it described as inhumane and distressing treatment since Sunday, December 7.
According to the statement, seven Ghanaians were detained that day without any valid reason. Four of them were members of a parliamentary delegation travelling to Tel Aviv to attend the Annual International Cybersecurity Conference.
Ghana not affected by US green card review – Ablakwa
They were eventually released after more than five hours, following intense diplomatic engagement. The other three travellers were deported on the next available flight and have since returned to Ghana.
The government described the actions of the Israeli authorities as unfair and humiliating, stressing that Ghanaian nationals were unjustly targeted. It also recalled that Ghana and Israel have enjoyed friendly relations for over 60 years, marked by smooth and uninterrupted travel between citizens of both countries.
Ghana rejected claims by Israeli authorities that the deportations were due to a lack of cooperation from the Ghanaian Embassy in Tel Aviv, describing that explanation as completely unacceptable. The statement maintained that the embassy has consistently acted in line with international law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further announced plans to summon officials from the Israeli Embassy in Accra to formally register Ghana’s displeasure in the strongest terms, adding that the government is considering appropriate reciprocal measures.
“Following our enquiries, we find the justification provided by the Israeli Government being an alleged non-cooperation of our Embassy in the deportation of Ghanaians in Israeli custody as totally untenable as the facts confirm that our mission in Tel Aviv has been responsive and compliant with international law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will this morning summon officials of the Israeli Embassy in Accra to convey our displeasure in the strongest possible terms,” part of the statement read.
Read the full statement below:
The Government of Ghana is appalled at the ill-treatment meted out to Ghanaian travellers by Israeli authorities.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has condemned the alleged mistreatment of Ghanaian citizens at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport.
In a statement dated December 10, 2025, issued by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the government said it is worried by reports that Ghanaian travellers have been deliberately singled out and subjected to what it described as inhumane and distressing treatment since Sunday, December 7.
According to the statement, seven Ghanaians were detained that day without any valid reason. Four of them were members of a parliamentary delegation travelling to Tel Aviv to attend the Annual International Cybersecurity Conference.
Ghana not affected by US green card review – Ablakwa
They were eventually released after more than five hours, following intense diplomatic engagement. The other three travellers were deported on the next available flight and have since returned to Ghana.
The government described the actions of the Israeli authorities as unfair and humiliating, stressing that Ghanaian nationals were unjustly targeted. It also recalled that Ghana and Israel have enjoyed friendly relations for over 60 years, marked by smooth and uninterrupted travel between citizens of both countries.
Ghana rejected claims by Israeli authorities that the deportations were due to a lack of cooperation from the Ghanaian Embassy in Tel Aviv, describing that explanation as completely unacceptable. The statement maintained that the embassy has consistently acted in line with international law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further announced plans to summon officials from the Israeli Embassy in Accra to formally register Ghana’s displeasure in the strongest terms, adding that the government is considering appropriate reciprocal measures.
“Following our enquiries, we find the justification provided by the Israeli Government being an alleged non-cooperation of our Embassy in the deportation of Ghanaians in Israeli custody as totally untenable as the facts confirm that our mission in Tel Aviv has been responsive and compliant with international law.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will this morning summon officials of the Israeli Embassy in Accra to convey our displeasure in the strongest possible terms,” part of the statement read.
Read the full statement below:
The Government of Ghana is appalled at the ill-treatment meted out to Ghanaian travellers by Israeli authorities.
Accra, Dec. 9, GNA – The Electoral Commission (EC) says only the candidates who contested the 2024 Parliamentary Election in the Kpandai Constituency will be eligible to take part in the upcoming rerun ordered by the High Court.
Mr Fred Tetteh, the Deputy Director of Research at the EC, said the Commission would not issue a new notice of poll and that “no fresh candidates will be added aside the NPP, NDC and APC candidates who contested in 2024.”
He noted that although Parliament had formally notified the Commission of a vacancy, a date for the rerun was yet to be fixed.
“We have received the notification from Parliament, but the Commission has not settled on a date for the rerun,” Mr Tetteh told the Ghana News Agency in an interview on Tuesday.
The Tamale High Court, in November 2025, annulled the election of Mr Matthew Nyindam as Member of Parliament for Kpandai following a petition alleging irregularities.
The court directed that a fresh parliamentary election be conducted within 30 days.
In a letter dated December 4, 2025, the Clerk to Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, informed the EC Chairperson, Mrs Jean Mensa, of the vacancy created after the court’s decision.
Mr Tetteh said the EC was reviewing the Court’s directives and Parliament’s notice to determine the next procedural steps.
“Preparations are ongoing, and once the Commission meets, an official date will be communicated,” he added.
The EC is expected to announce a timetable for the rerun in the coming days as political developments in the constituency continue to unfold.
While the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has welcomed the Court’s ruling, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has rejected the decision.
It questioned why the entire election is to be rerun instead of only the affected polling stations.
Mr Nyindam, the incumbent MP, has filed notices of appeal and a stay of execution against the ruling of the Tamale High Court.
The NPP, at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, also took issue with the Clerk of Parliament’s decision to notify the EC of the vacancy before the determination of the appeal.
The Kpandai Constituency, located in the Kpandai District of the Northern Region, recorded 27,947 votes (53.47 per cent) for Mr Nyindam in the annulled 2024 polls.
His closest contender, Mr Daniel Nsala Wakpal of the NDC, polled 24,213 votes (46.33 per cent), while the APC candidate, Mr Donkor Eric Nipani, obtained 104 votes.
According to the 2024 electoral data, the constituency has 152 polling stations and a voter population of 66,850.
Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed claims that President John Dramani Mahama intends to seek a third term in office, describing the allegations as unfounded.
The comments follow claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that President John Dramani Mahama has a hidden plan to seek a third term in office, despite the constitutional two-term limit. They cited statements by some National Democratic Congress (NDC) supporters and activists on social media calling on Mahama to remain in office beyond two terms.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face on Tuesday, December 9, with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu rejected the claims, saying, “The NPP have whipped itself into needless frenzy. President Mahama has stated emphatically that he will respect the Ghanaian Constitution. Because he’s a consummate democrat, so there’s no third term anywhere for him or any other person as far as the constitution is concerned.
“Anyone can say what they want. The fact that some people have gone on Facebook to say he should go for a third term doesn’t mean that will happen. The man himself has said he’s not interested.”
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu urged the opposition to refrain from what he described as needless speculation.
“So NPP should stop wasting their time and everybody’s time, and purporting to be angry. It’s an absurd fantasy they’re getting themselves into. The President has not expressed any intent. Any talk about it is a complete waste of everybody’s time,” he added.
President John Dramani Mahama on August 27 reaffirmed his commitment to Ghana’s constitutional two-term presidential limit, saying his absence from the 2028 ballot would strengthen efforts to enforce fiscal discipline and curb the recurring election-year overspending that has contributed to cyclical economic crises.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on a three-day state visit, President Mahama criticised the tendency of incumbent governments to bypass fiscal safeguards in a bid to gain electoral advantage.
Big Push road agenda fully funded for 2025–2026 – Kwakye Ofosu
The Attorney-General’s prosecution witness, Edith Ruby Opokua Adumuah, Head of Finance at the National Signals Bureau (NSB), came under intense scrutiny at the High Court (General Jurisdiction 10) during cross-examination in the ongoing trial of Kwabena Adu-Boahene, former Director of the NSB, and two others.
The defence, led by Samuel Atta Akyea Esq, questioned the witness on her role in the EOCO investigations, exposing discrepancies in her testimony regarding authorisation letters, EOCO statements, and her authority to represent the NSB. The Deputy Attorney-General, Dr Justice Srem-Sai, appeared alongside counsel Esi Yankah and Rabiatu Abdulai for the State.
The Cross-Examination
During cross-examination on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Atta Akyea sought to establish whether Madam Adumuah had complied with the court’s directive to produce letters authorising her participation in EOCO investigations and her testimony in court.
The witness indicated she had brought the required document.
The presiding judge then instructed that the document be produced directly by the witness instead of the prosecution, prompting an apology from the Deputy Attorney-General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai. A brief recess was taken so the prosecution could make copies.
Defence Challenges Timing and Authority of Exhibit 1
When proceedings resumed, Atta Akyea directed the witness to Exhibit 1, a letter previously tendered in evidence.
He asked her to confirm that the document was not authored by the Minister of National Security, to which she agreed. Counsel further suggested that Exhibit 1 was written after she had already submitted all her statements to EOCO.
The witness responded that she could not recall the timeline, explaining that she acted under the instructions of the NSB Director-General, who in turn took directions from the National Security Coordinator.
When asked to recall her last EOCO statement, she replied that she did not remember until she was shown a document dated 9 May 2025.
The prosecution announced that additional EOCO statements had been filed and tendered them without objection from either side.
Witness Confirms EOCO Caution and Acknowledges Right to Counsel
Attention quickly shifted to Exhibits 2 and 3, both EOCO statements signed by the witness.
The defence confirmed that she had signed a statement dated 1 May 2025 acknowledging investigations into financial loss to the state, tax fraud and money laundering. She also confirmed being reminded of her right to legal counsel during the EOCO engagement.
This triggered a tense moment when Atta Akyea demanded the name of the lawyer who represented her during the interrogation.
The Deputy Attorney-General objected, arguing that the witness was entitled to privacy regarding her choice of counsel.
The defence countered that the attorney–client privilege concerns only the substance of communication, not the identity of the lawyer.
The judge, John Eugene Nyante Nyadu, overruled the objection, clarifying that privilege attaches to confidential communications rather than the name of counsel.
The witness then named her lawyer as Rosenberg Owusu.
Court Confronts Question of Whether Witness Was a Suspect
The exchanges deepened when the defence asked whether she was under investigation at the time she signed Exhibit 3.
The witness insisted she did not know.
When the defence asked whether her lawyer was present at the time, the judge interjected with an analogy, but Atta Akyea maintained that the nature of a caution statement implies that it is given by a suspect who has been advised of their right to remain silent.
The Deputy Attorney-General criticised the line of questioning, but the judge ordered him to withdraw the comment.
The defence repeated its position that the presence of legal counsel and the wording of the caution statement indicated that the witness was under criminal investigation.
The witness explained that she went to EOCO upon the instruction of her boss and chose to bring a lawyer but was unsure whether that changed anything.
EOCO’s Interest in Witness’s Private Properties Revisited
In a later line of questioning, Atta Akyea suggested that on 29 March 2023, when she signed Exhibit 3, she was not acting in any official capacity for the NSB. The witness insisted she had been cleared for the assignment.
Counsel then asked whether her private properties were under investigation by EOCO.
The witness denied this. However, she admitted when reminded by the defence that she had earlier shown her private properties to EOCO officials during the course of inquiries.
The courtroom grew even more charged when the presiding judge questioned the direction of Atta Akyea’s line of inquiry, asking where certain questions were coming from as the defence continued to scrutinise the basis of the witness’s involvement in the EOCO investigation.
Responding to questions about standard investigative procedures, Madam Adumuah stated that she assumed EOCO, like other investigative bodies, followed established practices. She noted that her understanding was based on what she believed to be the usual protocol employed by such agencies.
The defence subsequently put it to her that National Security never hired a lawyer on her behalf.
The witness agreed, asserting that no such arrangement had been made.
This led to a renewed focus on Exhibit 1, the authorisation letter dated 15 July 2025. Atta Akyea argued that the letter was issued at a time when she had not been charged and while the trial was already underway.
The witness maintained that she had never been charged and insisted that her appearance in the matter was strictly under the instructions of her superiors.
The Deputy Attorney-General intervened, objecting strongly to what he described as an attempt by the defence to create a misleading impression that the witness first obtained authorisation to deal with EOCO only in July 2025.
He reminded the court that the witness had previously said she held two documents: an earlier approval dated 25 March 2025, and the 15 July 2025 letter. He cautioned that comparing Exhibit 1 to a document that had not been tendered risked misleading the court.
Atta Akyea fired back, describing the prosecution’s comments as a subtle and unprofessional attempt to coach the witness by suggesting answers, insisting the witness was not confused by his questioning.
The Attorney-General demanded the withdrawal of the word “unprofessional”.
The judge reiterated earlier guidance to the witness to answer questions directly before offering explanations. After clarifying issues surrounding permissions required for public servants, the court overruled the AG’s objection.
Controversy Over an Untendered Memo
The defence pressed the witness on her claim that she possessed two letters. She explained that one was an authorisation letter while the other was a memo permitting her to cooperate with EOCO.
Atta Akyea challenged her, arguing that she had never informed the court about any memo.
The witness insisted she had been instructed to show it but not tender it.
When counsel asked her to specify the date of the memo, the AG objected on grounds that the document had not been admitted into evidence.
The defence countered that the witness herself introduced the memo and should therefore be able to speak to its date.
The judge ultimately withheld the objection.
After a two-hour break, Mr. Atta Akyea announced that he had no intention of tendering the memo, prompting further clarifications from the bench. The AG suggested marking the memo for identification, but the judge stressed that only tendered documents could be admitted.
NSB Status and Mandate Examined
The defence then turned to the question of whether the witness legitimately represented the National Signals Bureau. Madam Adumuah explained that the Bureau of National Communications had transitioned into the NSB following the enactment of the 2020 security legislation.
However, Atta Akyea argued that based on her own testimony, she could not have been presented as the representative of NSB. The witness disagreed. When asked whether the NSB had ever filed a complaint to EOCO in the matter, she stated that she did not know the origins of the investigation and only acted upon instructions from her boss.
Counsel suggested that she could not rely on Exhibit 1 to speak for NSB.
The witness dismissed the assertion as an opinion.
The defence also questioned her understanding of the distinction between the NSB and the National Security Council Secretariat. She acknowledged the difference but insisted that the NSB evolved from structures overseen by the National Security Coordinator.
Atta Akyea then argued that she had produced no documentation authorising her to testify on behalf of the National Security Council Secretariat. The witness responded that she took instructions from her Director-General and would not necessarily be privy to letters issued at higher levels.
Witness Stands Her Ground on Oaths and Instructions
The defence further suggested that she was attributing decisions to the National Security Coordinator without knowledge. The witness disagreed, stating that she acted according to oaths she had sworn, allegiance, secrecy, and office, and that she would not have appeared in court without proper authorisation.
The defence warned that all three oaths carried consequences, to which the witness acknowledged that she was aware.
When questioned about the statutory frameworks governing the NSB and security services, the witness confirmed her familiarity with the relevant acts.
Counsel then suggested that under these laws, no official, including her superior, had the authority to permit her to breach her oaths.
The judge intervened, expressing uncertainty about the relevance of that direction of questioning, but the defence persisted. The witness disagreed, maintaining that proper processes had been followed.
Questions on Documents Submitted to EOCO
Attention shifted to the documents she submitted to EOCO.
The witness said all documents were delivered through the Director-General, and she simply forwarded them.
When asked to catalogue them, she said she could not provide a chronological list.
Counsel then asked which documents she had submitted to EOCO that had later been filed in court.
The AG objected, describing the line of questioning as a fishing expedition that had become a recurring feature of the cross-examination.
Atta Akyea rejected the objection, asserting that cross-examination allows counsel to test a witness’s truthfulness and credibility.
He argued that if the AG found cross-examination uncomfortable, the witness should be withdrawn.
The judge overruled the objection.
When the question was put again, the witness stated that she did not know which of the documents had been filed.
Atta Akyea then indicated that he had no further questions for the witness.
The judge adjourned the suit to 10 December at 1:00 p.m.
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Egypt and Iran have been drawn in 2026 World Cup Group G alongside Belgium and New Zealand
The Egyptian Football Association says it has sent a formal letter to FIFA requesting that LGBTQ+ “Pride Match” celebrations at one of their 2026 World Cup matches do not go ahead.
The local organising committee in Seattle, one of the host cities for the FIFA tournament next summer, have said the match at Lumen Field on 26 June will feature celebrations of the LGBTQ+ community.
Following Friday’s draw and Saturday’s fixture allocation, it has been confirmed that Seattle will host the Group G match between Egypt and Iran.
In Iran, the maximum punishment for homosexual relations is the death penalty, while in Egypt, morality laws are frequently used to suppress LGBTQ+ rights and relationships.
And in a statement, external on Tuesday, the Egyptian FA said it has sent a formal letter to Fifa secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom, rejecting “in absolute terms” any activities linked to LGBTQ+ support during the match.
The game takes place on the weekend of Seattle Pride, and two days before the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots – generally regarded as the birth of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Plans were put in place before the teams involved in the fixture were selected, or the draw for the World Cup was made, and has been organised solely by the local committee and not affiliated with Fifa itself.
The lengthy Egyptian FA statement claimed the initiative would clash with “the cultural, religious and social values” of both Egypt and Iran, and urged Fifa to ensure the match would remain focused solely on football.
It cited FIFA’s statutes on political and social neutrality, arguing matches should not be used to promote causes that are “sensitive or of a contentious nature”.
The statement read: “The Egyptian Football Association explained in the letter that, while Fifa is committed to ensuring a respectful and welcoming environment for all fans, and in order to maintain the spirit of unity and peace, it is necessary to avoid including activities that could provoke cultural and religious sensitivities between fans present from both countries, Egypt and Iran, especially since such activities are culturally and religiously incompatible with the two countries.
“The federation also relied on FIFA’s established principle of respecting cultures and encouraging all parties to organise events in a way that respects the beliefs and identities of the participating communities.
“Therefore, in order to ensure that the match is held in an atmosphere of respect and focus solely on the sporting aspect, the Egyptian Federation categorically rejects these calls and demands that FIFA not hold any events or performances related to supporting homosexuality inside the stadium on matchday.”
The Pride Match plans have also reportedly drawn criticism from Iranian media.
Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s Football Federation, was quoted by local news agency ISNA as saying Tehran and Cairo had both raised “objections against the issue”, which he labelled an “irrational move that supports a certain group”.
However, the BBC understands reports suggesting Iran have officially appealed to FIFA about the Pride Match are untrue.
The Seattle Pride Match Advisory Committee (PMAC), set up by organisers to help with the event, has previously said the game will still go ahead as planned.
Six games are scheduled to take place in Seattle; however, there are problems with switching the fixture for the Pride Match.
Co-hosts USA face Australia on June 19, which has already been designated to mark Juneteenth – the celebration of the end of slavery in the United States – while the other group matches feature either Egypt or Qatar, another country with strict laws against same-sex relationships.
Following the draw, Eric Wahl, a member of PMAC, said it was a positive these nations had been drawn to play in the fixture.
“The Egypt v Iran match in Seattle in June just happens to be the Pride match, and I think that is a good thing, actually,” he wrote on social media, external.
“There are LGBTQAI+ people everywhere. All are welcome to be themselves in Seattle.”
It is not the first time an attempted gesture of support for LGBTQ+ people at the World Cup has run into issues.
At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – a country which also has laws against same-sex relationships – Fifa said players who wore the OneLove armband in support of LGBTQ+ people would receive yellow cards.
Before that tournament, then-UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said LGBT football fans who attended the Qatar tournament should show “a little bit of flex and compromise” in respect of the country’s laws – remarks described as “tone deaf” by critics.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has intensified its crackdown on unlicensed foreign exchange trading, arresting dozens of suspects and confiscating significant sums of money in a coordinated operation across Accra.
At a press briefing in Accra on Tuesday, December 9, the CID Director-General, COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, detailed the latest swoop carried out in partnership with the Bank of Ghana. She said the joint team targeted known hotspots—Tudu, Circle, the Airport enclave, and Cantonments—on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.
According to her, the exercise began in the early morning with the arrest of 29 individuals engaged in illegal forex trading. “In total, 29 suspects, including Togolese, Beninois, Nigerians and Ghanaians, were arrested,” she told journalists. A second round of operations, conducted about an hour later, netted an additional 12 suspects, bringing the day’s total to 41.
Police also recovered large volumes of cash in multiple currencies. COP Donkor outlined the seizures, which included GH¢1,266,770 in Ghana cedis, 100,000 CFA francs, 3,383,570 Nigerian naira (including 1,266,770 naira held as e-cash on a Moneypoint machine), and $5,105. She added, “All cash exhibits have been secured and will be forwarded to the Bank of Ghana for safekeeping as investigations continue, after which the suspects will be charged and put before the court.”
This week’s arrests follow similar enforcement actions carried out earlier in the year. COP Donkor disclosed that an operation on November 20, 2025, at Osu Oxford Street and the Kwame Nkrumah Circle enclave resulted in 28 arrests. Those suspects were later granted police enquiry bail by the Accra Circuit Court.
Since the nationwide exercise began in August 2025, she said, “In all, a total of 90 suspects have so far been arrested… Out of this number, 13 have been charged and brought before the Accra Circuit Court.”
Describing the effort as part of a broader national campaign to sanitise Ghana’s forex space, COP Donkor reaffirmed that enforcement would continue with even greater intensity.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, she expressed appreciation to the Bank of Ghana for its collaboration and issued a warning to unlicensed traders.
“We also urge all individuals involved in this illegal trade to desist, as offenders will be arrested and prosecuted. We further advise the general public to deal with the banks for all their forex transactions,” she cautioned.
She further emphasised that the crackdown would extend beyond the capital. Unauthorised foreign exchange dealers, she warned, risk arrest if they fail to obtain a Bank of Ghana licence. The police expect continued cooperation from the central bank as they move to enforce compliance across all regions.
I Shouted for Help — Teacher Speaks Out as Viral Video Sends Waves Through Harare Court
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According to a report by Ghpage on Sunday, December 7, 2025, a 33-year-old Zimbabwean teacher, Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge, appeared in a Harare courtroom today in connection with a viral video involving a 16-year-old student. During the hearing, Makedenge reportedly told the court, “I shouted for help,” claiming that she was in a difficult situation and that the events had been misunderstood. She has pleaded not guilty to the charges against her.
The video, which first surfaced recently, came to public attention after the boy allegedly shared the incident with a family member. When the family reviewed his phone, they found the video, which was later shared within the community, triggering a national conversation about the case. Authorities have emphasized the importance of protecting minors under Zimbabwean law, where the age of consent is 18.
Makedenge was granted bail of US$100 during her initial court appearance. Her trial began on December 2, 2025, at the Harare Magistrates Court and is still ongoing. Reports indicate that the incident has affected her professional life and could impact her visa and teaching position abroad.
Public reaction has been strong, with citizens expressing concern for the safety and protection of minors. Social media users have called for strict enforcement of child protection laws and highlighted the need for accountability when adults are involved in incidents with minors.
While Makedenge maintains her version of events, the prosecution relies on video evidence and the student’s account to support their case. The trial has reignited discussions about how society handles such cases and the responsibilities of authority figures in protecting young people.
Parliament’s notice to the EC has made Nyindam’s Kpandai seat vacant
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reaffirmed its support for the embattled Member of Parliament for the Kpandai Constituency, Matthew Nyindam, following the declaration of his seat as vacant.
At a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye said the party stands firmly behind Nyindam.
Gary Nimako slams Parliament for hasty declaration of vacant seat in Kpandai
“The NPP stands as one solid rock behind the MP for Kpandai, Matthew Nyindam. His fight is our fight, his cause is our cause, and his cause will be the cause of every NPP member. Do not lose heart.
“The NPP has not abandoned you. We have not retreated. We are with you completely and unfailingly. We will walk every step of this legal journey with you. We will fight in every court, at every hour, with a calculated agenda,” he emphasised.
Kpandai MP speaks on High Court’s election rerun decision
Parliament has officially notified the Electoral Commission (EC) of a vacancy in the Kpandai Constituency following a court ruling ordering a re-run of the 2024 parliamentary election in the area.
JKB/AM
Former President Kufuor shares how he became a Catholic and a Freemason
Yoruba Nollywood actress Oyewunmi Olufunmilayo has opened up about the personal challenges she faced in her marriage, revealing a tumultuous relationship that affected both her personal life and career.
Speaking in an interview with FeelRightNews TV, she recounted how her husband frequently subjected her to physical abuse, driven by suspicion whenever she returned from movie shoots.
According to Oyewunmi, her husband wrongly believed that she engaged in inappropriate behavior with male colleagues on set, despite her repeated explanations to the contrary.
The actress described a difficult period where her professional commitments were constantly under threat due to her husband’s mistrust and violent tendencies.
This created an environment of fear and tension, forcing her to confront the painful choice between her career and her marriage.
She eventually made the decisive move to end the marriage, prioritizing her safety and professional aspirations over a relationship that had become unsustainable.
In her words: “I was once married. But my husband usually beat me. Whenever I returned from location, he would beat me, saying I allowed another man to touch my body on set. I usually explained to him that it’s not real, but he wouldn’t believe me.”
“It got to a point that I told him to choose between me and my career or divorce me. He asked what I meant, thinking I was joking and that I couldn’t leave him. But I did; I divorced my husband,” she added.
Watch interview below from 0:04 to 0:43 timestamp;
The Football Association has announced that the second registration window for the 2025/26 season will open at 00:01am on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and close at 11:59 p.m. GMT on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
This mid-season window provides clubs with a crucial opportunity to strengthen their squads as the campaign intensifies, allowing teams to address weaknesses, reinforce key positions and add depth ahead of the second half of the season.
Both the International Transfer Matching System (ITMS) and Domestic Transfer Matching System (DTMS) will be active throughout this period, enabling clubs to complete player transfers, local and foreign, before the deadline.
The GFA reminds all clubs to process their transactions through the ITMS/DTMS within the stipulated time frame. It further cautions that any club failing to meet the minimum squad requirement of 20 approved players will be deactivated.
The 2025/26 football season, which kicked off on September 12, 2025, is scheduled to conclude on May 30, 2026.
Clubs are kindly reminded to fully comply with the directive and take note as there shall be no extensions to the window
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah is the Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi
The Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of pursuing a calculated plan aimed at securing a dominant majority in Parliament to enable changes to the Constitution.
Speaking to journalists in Parliament on December 9, 2025, Oppong Nkrumah compared the current developments to earlier controversial exits in Ghana’s public service.
He recalled that before the NDC assumed office, there was what he described as an openly signalled agenda to remove the Chief Justice, which was later carried out under the cover of due process.
‘Fight’ breaks out in Ghana’s parliament
According to him, a similar approach is now being applied to the Electoral Commission.
“There is a pre-advertised agenda to remove the EC Chairperson and her deputies. It is being carefully rolled out, and they will keep saying it is all about procedure. If anyone still doubts us, we are saying clearly that there is an agenda to secure an overwhelming majority in this House for the purpose of constitutional amendments,” he stated.
Oppong Nkrumah also assured that the Minority will remain resolute and will continue to caution Speaker Alban Bagbin against any pressure to declare the Kpandai seat vacant, stressing that the Speaker has already ruled on the issue.
“All we can do is to stand firm and remind Mr Speaker not to give in to any pressure to declare the seat vacant, because he has already made a decision on the matter. No amount of pressure should cause him to reverse that ruling,” he said.
His statement come at a time of rising tension in Parliament, following a standoff in which Minority MPs prevented Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga from addressing calls for the withdrawal of a letter that declared the Kpandai parliamentary seat vacant.
The situation led to a temporary suspension of proceedings after Minority MPs, clad in black, chanted slogans, banged tables, and disrupted the sitting.
At the centre of the dispute is a letter dated December 4 from the Clerk of Parliament to Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa, notifying her of the vacancy of the Kpandai seat after a High Court decision.
The Minority has described the letter as inappropriate and regrettable, arguing that it undermines the rule of law.
Watch the video below:
@channel1tvgh
“We are left with no choice but to withdraw cooperation.” Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, MP for Ofoase- Ayirebi reacts to the Kpandai seat vacancy controversy in Parliament, accusing the NDC of a grand scheme for absolute power emphasizing that procedures are being used to perpetrate injustice. #Kpandai #GhanaPolitics #KojoOppongNkrumah #ParliamentDrama #ChannelOneNews #ChannelOneTV
Energy Economist with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ebenezer Baiden, says the latest tariff adjustment fails to consider the very macroeconomic indicators that normally guide quarterly reviews.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on December 9, he stressed that the current upward review is driven by a different structure that focuses on long-term investments and debts, not the usual inflation and exchange rate pressures.
Mr Baiden explained that this round of adjustment marks a shift from the regular quarterly process.
“So what it is is that this adjustment doesn’t look at macroeconomic indicators,” he said.
He noted that the quarterly mechanism “will look at exchange rates, inflation, and then the fuel mix and all.”
But the increase announced now, he maintained, is part of a structural plan that runs for three to five years.
He described the new framework as one that captures past investments and outstanding financial obligations.
“This is a structural adjustment, three to five year adjustment, and it’s looking at the investments you’ve made, over time, all the debts you have incurred to clean your books, and then now reset you again for the next mile. So this is what effectively the case has been.”
According to him, ECG has commissioned new projects that are already operational. He said these projects come with significant cost commitments that must be honoured.
He highlighted the company’s digitisation programme as one of the major investments now reflected in operations.
“The digitisation drive, for example, of ECG, has transformed our operations significantly. Now, today, customers can buy credits without even going out of their homes. You can recharge at home, and all these are the effects of some of the investments that have happened.”
Mr Baiden noted that ECG remains committed to delivering efficient service but admitted the company must sometimes rely on customers to help sustain operations.
“Services. Will continue to deliver services, quality services, to customers, but it gets to a point where you will need that push from customers.”
He stressed that the approved increase still falls short of what the company requires.
“So, as we sit here, the 9.8% we say it’s not adequate. But what can we do? We should now use it to still deliver the same services to customers.”
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) says it will continue to do everything possible to keep the lights on, even though the latest tariff adjustment falls short of what the company believes is needed to sustain its operations.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Hopeson Adorye (L) has disclosed full details surrounding the legal settlement
Politician and social commentator Hopeson Adorye has disclosed full details surrounding the legal settlement reached between his family and Evangelist Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Agradaa, following a series of defamatory allegations.
Speaking on CTV’s “Oman Ghana Nkusuo”, hosted by Yaa Titi, Adorye explained that although Agradaa and her team initially attempted to offer an official apology through his lawyers, his family was not ready to accept it.
According to him, the intention at the time was to pursue the case fully in court.
He recounted that on the first day of the legal process, his wife chose not to attend to avoid any possible confrontation with the opposing counsel.
Adorye stated that he also refused to accept any gifts or gestures intended to pacify them.
Court rulings and legal costs
Adorye revealed that the court ruled against Agradaa in the first suit, directing her to pay GH¢6,000 to his wife, Empress.
He emphasised that they declined to take that compensation.
Instead, the family focused on recovering the substantial costs they had incurred during the legal process.
He disclosed that his lawyer charged GH¢60,000 as an initial retainer for the first suit.
When a second suit was filed—after Agradaa allegedly claimed his wife had AIDS—another GHS60,000 was paid, bringing the total legal fees to GH¢120,000.
Additionally, filing fees amounted to GH¢14,800 per suit, totalling GH¢28,000, bringing the full expenditure to GH¢148,000.
Adorye said that when Agradaa’s team pleaded for forgiveness, they made it clear that acceptance of the apology would only be possible if the full amount spent on the case was reimbursed.
Terms of Settlement
He stated that Agradaa’s team eventually pleaded to pay GHS100,000 toward the legal costs, which his side accepted.
The parties also agreed on several conditions:
Agradaa would issue an unqualified public apology.
She would post the apology across all her social media platforms.
The court would direct NITA and other relevant bodies to delete all defamatory videos from the internet.
Adorye confirmed that his lawyers filed the Terms of Settlement on the same day the public apology was released.
Some of the agreed payments have already been made to his lawyers, and once the remaining balance is paid, they will move the motion in court to finalise the settlement.
He stressed that beyond the money, the most important victory for his family was the court’s directive to remove the defamatory videos, which he described as their primary goal.
Adorye concluded by reassuring the public that the case is nearing completion as long as all financial obligations are fulfilled.
Anim was arrested on November 25, 2025, over allegations of defiling a 14-year-old girl
A 40-year-old man, identified as George Anim, has reportedly died while in police custody at the Twifo Praso Police Station in the Central Region.
Anim was arrested on November 25, 2025, over allegations of defiling a 14-year-old girl.
He was initially detained at the Assin Awinsan District Police Station and later transferred to Twifo Praso, where he was said to have died three days after his arrest.
Family members who viewed the body claim to have seen marks they believe suggest possible assault, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death.
Suspecting foul play, the family has demanded answers from the police on what may have caused the alleged injuries.
Following a petition to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), a police delegation was dispatched to meet the family.
The team reportedly assured them that a thorough investigation would be conducted to uncover the truth behind Anim’s death.
Hearts of Oak have been dealt a blow with goalkeeper Benjamin Asare ruled out for approximately two weeks due to injury.
Asare has already missed the club’s last three matches and is not expected to feature in Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Nations FC.
His absence has come at a difficult time for the Phobians, who have managed just one victory in their last four games and were also knocked out of the FA Cup at the round of 32 stage by third-tier side True Life FC.
The shot-stopper was away on international duty earlier this month and sat out the match against Swedru All Blacks. However, upon his return, he has been unable to regain his place due to the setback, missing further fixtures against Young Apostles, Vision FC and Karela United.
Solomon Agbasi has stepped in as his replacement and is likely to continue in goal until the number one is fully fit again. Hearts will hope Asare returns within the expected timeframe as they look to stabilise their campaign.
Asare has made eight league appearances this season, keeping five clean sheets, and remains an important figure in the team’s defensive setup.
Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Lydia Yaako Donkor
The Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service (GPS), Madam Yaako Donkor, has disclosed that security agencies have intensified a crackdown on unauthorised foreign exchange trading hotspots across Accra.
The intelligence-led operation, carried out in collaboration with the Bank of Ghana (BoG), targeted key areas including Tudu, Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Airport and Osu.
“A total of 41 suspects, comprising both Ghanaians and foreign nationals, were arrested for engaging in unauthorised foreign exchange trading,” Madam Donkor told journalists.
She urged members of the public to conduct foreign exchange transactions only through licensed banks and approved financial institutions.
Madam Donkor was speaking to the media at the CID Headquarters in Accra, alongside officials of the central bank, as she outlined ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal forex activities within the capital.
The operation comes at a crucial time, as the festive season ushers thousands of tourists and returning Ghanaians into the country, many of whom rely on forex services during their stay.
The CID’s operation acknowledges that patronising illegal forex operators exposes individuals to fraud and other financial risks. Ensuring that foreign exchange transactions are conducted legally will help protect visitors, promote financial discipline, and enhance Ghana’s image as a safe and reputable destination under the popular December in GH campaign.
The CID boss reaffirmed the police service’s commitment to working closely with regulatory institutions to sustain the fight against illegal forex trading and safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s financial system.
Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has rejected claims that the Big Push road agenda is stalling due to the absence of mobilisation payments.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face on Tuesday, December 9, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that the government deliberately opted not to issue mobilisation fees upfront, citing previous situations where contractors received mobilisation but failed to deliver on projects.
However, he assured that contractors will be paid promptly once they complete work and submit certified certificates.
“We have said that we will not pay mobilisation fees, because there are instances where contractors have been paid mobilisation [fees], and they have not done the work. However, if a contractor raises a certificate after doing work, and it is certified to reflect the actual work done, within a matter of 30 days, the certificates will be honoured.”
He added: “And the Finance Minister [Dr Ato Forson] has made that very clear. So those who claim that Big Push is not being done because mobilisation has not been done are clearly wrong on that one. This year alone, another GHC30 billion has been allocated for Big Push roads to be contracted. Because roads are one of the biggest problems we have in this country.”
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu emphasised that the government has committed significant resources to roads, noting that at least GHC43 billion has been earmarked for the Big Push since the administration took office—GHC13.9 billion for 2025 and GHC30 billion for 2026.
“One of the major campaign promises that President John Dramani Mahama put before the people of Ghana was a Big Push agenda. And since we have been in power, at least GHC43 billion has been earmarked for that expenditure. GHC13.9 billion in 2025 and GHC30 billion in 2026.
“Indeed, as I speak to you, there are about 30 different roads that are at various stages of construction. Some of those roads are roads that we inherited, that the NPP, as usual, left no money for, did not leave any funding mechanism for. So that has been packaged and added to new roads that are being constructed,” he said.
He further disclosed that the Finance Minister has close to a billion dollars set aside specifically for these infrastructure commitments.
Addressing specific projects, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu highlighted the Accra–Kumasi road as a major national concern, describing it as a long-standing bottleneck that has become increasingly unsafe.
“The Accra-Kumasi road has been a long-standing bottleneck. It has become a death trap. Every now and then, there was some digging or some construction going on. But never gets completed. The President has stated that those roads will be continued.
“However, it has become necessary because of the constraints on those roads and the dangers that they pose. And the number of lives that are being lost daily. It has become necessary to open another corridor, which is shorter.
“It is less than 200 kilometres, 197 kilometres. But this will be a modern expressway that will have facilities that will aid rapid movements between Accra and Kumasi, with various other facilities along the stretch.
“And every country that has developed has done so by creating expansive infrastructure that facilitates the movement of goods and people.”
Bissue, a former Secretary to the now-dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining
An Accra High Court has granted an application filed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for its first prosecution witness to testify in camera in the case involving Charles Cromwell Nanabayin Onuawonto Bissue and others.
The Court cited a significant risk to the witness should his identity be publicly disclosed.
They are accused of bypassing procedures of IMCIM to benefit a company deemed unqualified.
The case stems from a media investigation and a subsequent complaint to the OSP, which triggered their arrests and the current prosecution.
The witness is said to be an undercover journalist working with TigerEye Pl
Maame Akua Adiyiah, the lead prosecutor in the case for the OSP, said the witness had genuine fear for his safety.
The prosecutor argued that the court had the authority to grant protection to the witness, allowing him to testify with his face only shown to the parties involved in the case.
She said the witness’ safety was paramount and that the court should not wait until something happened before taking action.
“The OSP believes that refusing this application may deter the witness from testifying, which would not be in the interest of justice,” she added.
Lawyers for the accused persons argued that the witness’s employer, TigerEyePI, was not a registered entity, and there was no evidence to support the witness’s claim of fear.
They also argued that the prosecution’s application was inadequate and did not meet constitutional and court act criteria.
They questioned the witness’s status as an undercover investigator, noting that his employment details did not mention that.
Bissue, the former Secretary to the now-dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining, and two others are standing trial for allegedly receiving bribes and illicit gifts to unlawfully fast-track the issuance of a mining concession sticker for an unlicensed company.
They are accused of taking bribes and other illicit benefits to expedite the issuance of a mining concession sticker for an unlicensed company.
The accused persons face six counts of using public office for profit and three counts of corruption by a public officer.
The matter has been adjourned to January 12, 2026, for trial.
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) says the latest water tariff adjustment only covers the most basic survival needs of Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL).
Acting Executive Secretary of PURC, Dr Shaffic Suleman, said the Commission had to make tough choices to ensure Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) can keep operating while protecting consumers from unbearable increases.
He said the decision was driven by what he described as a strict focus on critical inputs.
“So we did a balancing act, and that is not easy at all, and further consultations to try as much as possible. But the most important issue, as I’ve indicated, is the investment.”
He explained that the approved 15% adjustment simply gives GWCL enough room to secure the most urgent items needed to keep water flowing.
He said the tariff only captured what was necessary to “at least sustain their current operations.”
“What the 15% did was to actually capture the most critical investments that Ghana water, for instance, will require to be able to at least sustain their current operations and possibly push them a little bit to also invest in new extensions, building new laboratories, the most important building new laboratories to be able to test the quality of water that the consumer is getting at the pump at every point in time.”
Dr Suleman said the Commission did not approve everything the utilities demanded. He insisted that the PURC only accepted what would improve service in the immediate term.
“So we added some reasonable amount of investment that will allow them to be able to improve on their services, especially the laboratories that they requested for and some pipe extensions, and most importantly, also the chemicals that they use to actually treat the water. Okay, so these are the investments that were considered.”
When asked if the situation Ghana Water faces is the same for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Dr Suleman said the Commission used the same rigid criteria for both utilities.
He said ECG, too, had many investment proposals, but the PURC only approved the most essential ones.
“Looking at the investments that were proposed, very important investment, as I said, for this time around, what we did was to indicate to the Electricity Company of Ghana and then Ghana Water Company Limited, not only to bring investments that they would just want us to pass through the tariff, but they must indicate the outcome of the investment.”
He said the Commission demanded clarity from the utilities about the impact of every investment before any approval.
“Assuming they are building a BSP in this particular area. They must tell us the current load for the area and the benefit of the new investment. And most importantly, how will the new investment influence the improvement of the quality of service to the consumers?”
Dr Suleman said the PURC had to reject several proposals because of the economic situation and the need to protect consumers.
“So they did that, unfortunately, because of the economic conditions and the least of that, well, we couldn’t allow all those investments to pass through the tariff. Have to carefully select the most critical ones.”
He said ECG’s long-term projects were excluded entirely.
“In fact, we have to reduce the majority of the as for the short-term investment. We didn’t consider them at all. We only look at the medium term. We took the most important short-term and critical investment.”
Only ongoing medium- to short-term works were considered, he stated.
“The long-term investment, none of them was accepted. Medium and short-term investments. We only considered those that are ongoing, but all those that are yet to commence have also been taken, and then we focus more on the investment, and that’s what resulted in the 9.6% you see.”
Dr Suleman admitted that ECG will still struggle, just as Ghana Water will. But he insisted the Commission had no choice.
“It will not be easy for them as well. They will also be having issues as to whether more should have been allowed, but it’s a balancing act.”
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) says the latest water tariff adjustment only covers the most basic survival needs of Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL).
Acting Executive Secretary of PURC, Dr Shaffic Suleman, said the Commission had to make tough choices to ensure Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) can keep operating while protecting consumers from unbearable increases.
He said the decision was driven by what he described as a strict focus on critical inputs.
“So we did a balancing act, and that is not easy at all, and further consultations to try as much as possible. But the most important issue, as I’ve indicated, is the investment.”
He explained that the approved 15% adjustment simply gives GWCL enough room to secure the most urgent items needed to keep water flowing.
He said the tariff only captured what was necessary to “at least sustain their current operations.”
“What the 15% did was to actually capture the most critical investments that Ghana water, for instance, will require to be able to at least sustain their current operations and possibly push them a little bit to also invest in new extensions, building new laboratories, the most important building new laboratories to be able to test the quality of water that the consumer is getting at the pump at every point in time.”
Dr Suleman said the Commission did not approve everything the utilities demanded. He insisted that the PURC only accepted what would improve service in the immediate term.
“So we added some reasonable amount of investment that will allow them to be able to improve on their services, especially the laboratories that they requested for and some pipe extensions, and most importantly, also the chemicals that they use to actually treat the water. Okay, so these are the investments that were considered.”
When asked if the situation Ghana Water faces is the same for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Dr Suleman said the Commission used the same rigid criteria for both utilities.
He said ECG, too, had many investment proposals, but the PURC only approved the most essential ones.
“Looking at the investments that were proposed, very important investment, as I said, for this time around, what we did was to indicate to the Electricity Company of Ghana and then Ghana Water Company Limited, not only to bring investments that they would just want us to pass through the tariff, but they must indicate the outcome of the investment.”
He said the Commission demanded clarity from the utilities about the impact of every investment before any approval.
“Assuming they are building a BSP in this particular area. They must tell us the current load for the area and the benefit of the new investment. And most importantly, how will the new investment influence the improvement of the quality of service to the consumers?”
Dr Suleman said the PURC had to reject several proposals because of the economic situation and the need to protect consumers.
“So they did that, unfortunately, because of the economic conditions and the least of that, well, we couldn’t allow all those investments to pass through the tariff. Have to carefully select the most critical ones.”
He said ECG’s long-term projects were excluded entirely.
“In fact, we have to reduce the majority of the as for the short-term investment. We didn’t consider them at all. We only look at the medium term. We took the most important short-term and critical investment.”
Only ongoing medium- to short-term works were considered, he stated.
“The long-term investment, none of them was accepted. Medium and short-term investments. We only considered those that are ongoing, but all those that are yet to commence have also been taken, and then we focus more on the investment, and that’s what resulted in the 9.6% you see.”
Dr Suleman admitted that ECG will still struggle, just as Ghana Water will. But he insisted the Commission had no choice.
“It will not be easy for them as well. They will also be having issues as to whether more should have been allowed, but it’s a balancing act.”
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
In November alone, 15 persons were bitten by snakes
Residents of the Sissala East Municipality have expressed worry over the rampant snakebites in the area amid shortage of anti-snake venom (ASV) in the Tumu hospital, a situation they fear could endanger lives.
In November alone, 15 persons were bitten by snakes revealing a rather strange phenomenon as compared to other months.
Clifford Vengkumwini, the Sissala East Municipal Director of Health Services, told the GNA that the municipality had run out of the crucial medication to save lives from the snakebites.
“We have ran out of the anti-snake serum last week. We requested some from the Regional Medical Stores but we are yet to receive. In the last cases, the patient’s relatives had to buy from the open market”, he said.
Vengkumwini said the municipality recorded seven cases in July, two in August, two in September, and zero in October, while March recorded the highest number with 12 cases.
He said, “We recorded a total of 15 cases in November comprising eight males and seven females. This shifts the trend of cases. There is a surge in cases of snake bites with the new peak in November with 15 cases”.
Many residents mostly farmers who spend long hours on their farms expressed worry over the absence of anti-snake venom and the increasing danger it posed.
Some community members who suffered snakebites described the high cost of buying the medicine from the open market as unbearable.
Lutuf Nibisi, a resident who had to buy the anti-snake serum told the GNA that the situation was frightening for farmers.
“We are always in the bush. Without the anti-snake medicine, our lives are at risk. Initially when I went out to buy the medicine one pharmacy said they did not have and another Pharmacy sold it for GH¢850.00 and this I thought was too costly and if you didn’t buy your patient’s life could be in danger”.
A visit by the GNA to the Tumu hospital led to one situation of a nursing mother Muniratu Asmiru from Jawia in the Sissala West District who was been treated after she got a snake bite on her farm during harvesting of her grains.
She was asked to buy the anti-snake serum outside of the facility.
Madam Muniratu who got bitten by a snake in a sister District appealed for urgent help saying, “We could not afford the medicine easily. The government should assist us because this anti-snake venom is the only effective treatment for poisonous snakebites”.
Investigation by the GNA also indicated that some two children that got bitten early in the year died out of the attack but that cannot be linked to the absence of the anti-snake serum.
Osman Kanton, the Health Committee chairman in the Sissala East Municipality, urged government and health authorities to speed up the supply of anti-snake serum to the Sissala East hospital to prevent avoidable casualties especially during this period of harvesting.
He advised farmers to put on protective clothing, especially wellington booths anytime they go to the farm.
The National Vice President of the National Poultry Farmers Association of Ghana, Dr Boris Baidoo, has cautioned egg sellers and food vendors against profiteering in the sale of eggs, following a significant reduction in poultry feed prices under the leadership of President John Mahama and his hardworking Minister for Agric Eric Opoku.
Speaking in a phone interview with Chief Jerry Forson on Accra 100.5 FM’s morning show, Dr Baidoo said that with the current decrease in production costs, no vendor has the right to sell a single egg for more than GH¢3 or two for GH¢5.
He stressed that both fried-egg sellers and cooked-egg vendors must comply with the new pricing guidelines set by the Association.
According to him, vendors who cook and sell eggs should price them at two eggs for GHS5, describing it as fair to consumers and still profitable for producers.
He emphasised that a crate of eggs contains 30 pieces, and with feed prices now lower, poultry farmers can break even, earn reasonable profits, and pay their workers without inflating egg prices.
Dr Baidoo reaffirmed his support for the National Chairman, the national leadership of the Association, and poultry farmers across the country as they work to stabilise egg prices.
He also commended the President of Ghana for the renewed attention given to the poultry sector, stating that the government’s support is helping strengthen local production.
With curtailed importation and improved monitoring, the sector can grow more sustainably.
Mohammed Kudus (Sitting in the middle) celebrating the goal with team mates
Ghana international Mohammed Kudus scored his first UEFA Champions League goal for Tottenham Hotspur on December 9, 2025, helping the team secure a 3-0 victory over Slavia Prague.
The attacking midfielder started the Round 6 encounter and played 58 minutes before being replaced by Mathys Tel.
Tottenham opened the scoring in the 26th minute when Slavia Prague defender David Zima inadvertently headed a corner into his own net. Spurs continued to apply pressure after halftime and were rewarded in the 50th minute following a VAR-confirmed penalty.
Kudus stepped forward and confidently struck the ball down the middle to double the lead, marking his maiden Champions League goal for the club.
The result was wrapped up in the 79th minute through a second spot-kick. Although Jindrich Stanek saved Xavi Simons’ initial effort, the ball still found its way into the bottom corner to seal a commanding victory for the Premier League side.
Kudus, who joined Spurs in the summer from West Ham United, now has eight goal contributions this season. He will aim to build on that form when Tottenham face Nottingham Forest in the Premier League this weekend.
With many staying at home the atmosphere is quiet but tense
Security has been tightened across Tanzania, with police and military seen patrolling major cities ahead of anticipated anti-government protests called to coincide with Independence Day.
By midday local time (09:00 GMT), however, no demonstrations had begun.
Residents in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza, and several other urban centres reported an unusually slow start to the day, with many people choosing to remain indoors amid uncertainty over whether protests would happen.
The demonstrations were called to demand political reforms in the wake of October’s post-election unrest, which left an unknown number of people dead.
The authorities have admitted using force against protesters, claiming that some groups were attempting to overthrow the regime.
On Tuesday, BBC reporters observed nearly empty streets in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam. This was a stark contrast to the city’s usual weekday bustle.
Although quiet, the atmosphere remained tense.
In a statement, police spokesperson David Misime assured the public of their safety and the protection of their property, saying the situation remained calm nationwide.
He also urged citizens to dismiss old photos and video clips circulating on social media that falsely suggest protests are taking place.
Security vehicles were seen driving along major roads and intersections, while officers took up positions at strategic locations, including around key public infrastructure.
On social media, activists and campaigners urged supporters to stay alert, suggesting any demonstrations were unlikely to begin until the afternoon. The messaging echoed previous protest calls in Tanzania, when turnout increased later in the day.
“We will move out, it is our right to protest… I know police are everywhere in the town and even in the street where I live… we have plans, so wait, you will see what will happen,” a resident of Arusha told the BBC.
“I am scared for my children; if these protests happen, it will create a bad atmosphere. Like now my husband is hospitalised, how am I going to attend to him? I feel protesters should call off plans to move to the streets, we need to live in peace,” said a resident of Mwanza in northern Tanzania.
Motorists who ventured out reported frequent checks at roadblocks, where officers questioned drivers about their destinations.
The government has not issued detailed comments on the heightened security measures or on the planned protests.
Tanzanian authorities have banned the planned protests and cancelled independence day celebrations, urging citizens to stay indoors.
Meanwhile, in neighbouring Kenya, several activists were arrested on Tuesday as they were holding a solidarity protest outside the Tanzanian high commission in the capital, Nairobi.
The Football Association has announced that the second registration window for the 2025/26 season will open at 00:01am on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and close at 11:59 p.m. GMT on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
This mid-season window provides clubs with a crucial opportunity to strengthen their squads as the campaign intensifies, allowing teams to address weaknesses, reinforce key positions and add depth ahead of the second half of the season.
Both the International Transfer Matching System (ITMS) and Domestic Transfer Matching System (DTMS) will be active throughout this period, enabling clubs to complete player transfers, local and foreign, before the deadline.
The GFA reminds all clubs to process their transactions through the ITMS/DTMS within the stipulated time frame. It further cautions that any club failing to meet the minimum squad requirement of 20 approved players will be deactivated.
The 2025/26 football season, which kicked off on September 12, 2025, is scheduled to conclude on May 30, 2026.
Clubs are kindly reminded to fully comply with the directive and take note as there shall be no extensions to the window
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has revealed that none of the long-term investment proposals submitted by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) made it into the latest tariff adjustment.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Shaffic Suleman, stated that only the most critical short- and medium-term projects were approved.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he said the economic climate made it impossible for PURC to pass on the full investment burden to consumers, despite acknowledging the urgent need for expansion and upgrades in the power sector.
Dr Suleman said the Commission applied a strict filtering process that required ECG and the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) to justify the impact of every project they proposed.
“They must indicate the outcome of the investment,” he explained.
“Assuming they are building a BSP in this particular area, they must tell us the current load for the area, the benefit of the new investment, and most importantly, how the new investment will influence the improvement of quality of service to the consumers?”
He said ECG complied with the request, but the Commission had to take a tough decision due to the harsh economic realities.
“Unfortunately, because of the economic conditions and the least of that, well, we couldn’t allow all those investments to pass through the tariff,” he said. “We have to carefully select the most critical ones.”
Dr Suleman revealed that the Commission rejected every long-term investment proposal submitted by ECG. “As for the short-term investment, we didn’t consider them at all,” he said. “The long-term investments none of them were accepted.”
He said PURC considered only medium- and short-term projects, with a focus on those that were already ongoing.
“Medium and short-term investments, we only considered those that are ongoing, but all those that are yet to commence have also been taken,” he explained. What made the cut was “the most important or critical investment.”
These decisions, he said, culminated in the 9.6% tariff adjustment approved for ECG, a figure he admitted would not make operations easy for the utility. “It will not be easy for them as well,” he said.
“They will also be having issues as to whether more should have been allowed, but it’s a balancing act.”
Addressing the water sector, Dr Suleman said the 15% adjustment for GWCL was designed to sustain current operations and support essential upgrades.
He said the Commission approved investments in new laboratories to test water quality, chemical purchases for treatment, and selected pipe extensions.
“We added a reasonable amount of investment that will allow them to be able to improve on their services,” he said.
But even that, he admitted, remains inadequate.
“The most important issue, as I’ve indicated, is the investment,” he said, adding that the PURC had to protect consumers while safeguarding system stability.
The Commission, he noted, had to strike “a balancing act, and that is not easy at all.”
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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.
SURAHEP plans to launch a Training and Certification Academy
The Paramount Chief of Traditional Medicine of Hausa Land and National President of the Supreme Royal Association of Herbal Practitioners of Nigeria (SURAHEP), Dr Abdul Razak Toure, has outlined an ambitious five-year plan to reposition traditional medicine as a central pillar of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Speaking during a national gathering of traditional medicine royals, practitioners, and stakeholders, Dr Toure said the event marked “a defining moment” for custodians of one of Africa’s oldest knowledge systems.
He stressed that traditional medicine must evolve with unity, ethics, and professional standards to secure its future in Nigeria.
“SURAHEP was founded with a clear purpose: to unite, strengthen, and elevate the practice of traditional medicine.
“Our vision is to become the leading, globally recognized authority for ethical, culturally grounded, and professionally practiced traditional medicine,” he said in his welcome address.
Dr Toure further unveiled a detailed roadmap structured to transform SURAHEP from a national association into a recognized regulatory and regional force.
They are as follows:
Year One: Legitimacy and Policy Engagement
The association will pursue official recognition, expand membership, reinforce its ethical code, and deepen engagements with government institutions.
Year Two: Professionalization
SURAHEP plans to launch a Training and Certification Academy, standardize professional courses, and collaborate with academic bodies to validate indigenous practices.
Year Three: National Expansion
This phase will focus on establishing regional chapters, integrating pilot traditional medicine programs into government health centers, and documenting remedies through a “Knowledge Bank Initiative.”
Year Four: Systemic Recognition
Leveraging strengthened ties with Emirate Councils and advanced certification systems, SURAHEP aims to push for official regulatory authority status.
•Year Five: Global Positioning
The association seeks to host a West African Traditional Medicine Summit, establish a digital registry for practitioners, and achieve financial sustainability.
Dr Toure emphasised that unity remains the cornerstone of this transformation.
“We must move as one family — committed to ethics, transparency, accountability, and the greater good of our communities,” he noted, adding that traditional healers are “cultural ambassadors and guardians of knowledge.”
In his appreciation message, Dr Toure extended gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Health for its “openness, guidance, and engagement,” noting that the ministry’s support is crucial in advancing traditional medicine toward national integration.
He also commended the kings and queens of traditional medicine across Nigeria for their unwavering cultural leadership.
“You represent the heritage and dignity upon which traditional medicine stands,” he said.
Dr Abdul Razak Toure also acknowledged the dedication of SURAHEP members, partners, committee leaders, and all individuals who contributed to the success of the gathering.
“To everyone who traveled far and near to be here, your presence is a reminder that we share one purpose: to uplift traditional medicine, preserve our heritage, and work toward a healthier, stronger Nigeria,” he said.
The event closed with renewed calls for unity, accountability, and professionalism as SURAHEP positions itself to shape the future of traditional healthcare in Nigeria and across West Africa.
“This is the beginning of a new era. May our work continue to bring healing, dignity, and progress to our people,” Dr Toure declared.
Great Ampong is a gospel musician
