President John Dramani Mahama is scheduled to host a Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service today, Sunday, January 12, 2025.
The service, set to take place at 3pm, will be held at the Ohene Konadu Auditorium at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
This event is poised to bring together Ghanaians from all walks of life, united in faith and gratitude for the peaceful and successful conduct of the December 7, 2024 general elections.
The Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service is part of President Mahama’s ongoing efforts to express appreciation to God and the people of Ghana for the smooth electoral process.
Earlier this week, a similar service was organised at the Ghana National Mosque in Accra on Friday, January 10, 2025.
The December 7, 2024 general elections saw President Mahama emerge victorious, securing a decisive win with 6,328,397 votes, which represented 56.55 percent of the valid votes cast.
His closest rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), garnered 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61 percent.
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Akufo-Addo Wasn’t Comfortable During The Inauguration Of Mahama- Krontihene of Akyem Asoum ( Video)
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Krontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Obodade III, says he realised that Former President Nana Akufo Addo was not feeling comfortable during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on January 7th.
Nana Boadi Amponim Abodade III became famous for criticising Nana Akufo Addo’s approach towards traditional rulers, describing it as a disappointing legacy for the presidency. He firmly stated that Ghanaian chiefs will no longer endure a presidency like that of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The Krontihene also suggested that Samira’s fashion-forward persona would have set trends and possibly sparked envy among many Ghanaian women.
In his latest outburst, Nana Boadi Amponim disclosed that he observed that the outgone president was not comfortable during the swearing-in ceremony not because he did not want to hand over power to Mahama but because he was not sitting in his famous chair.
He further noted that he would like the chair of Nana Akufo Addo to be taken to the mausoleum to become a source of tourist attraction that will fetch the country money. According to him, the chair will be very valuable, claiming that Nana Akufo Addo dedicated a special vehicle that carried it and security personnel who protected it.
Meanwhile, in a video shared by Accra-based GHone TV, Nana Boadi Amponim remarked that the majority of Ghanaians are happy about the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama, adding that at long last people can breathe in the country. He is optimistic that the newly-elected President will execute transformational policies that will be crucial to the developmental goals of the country.
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Team Lead for ImageBureau, George Quaye, has vouched for actress and politician Abla Dzifa Gomashie to be appointed Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts in President John Mahama’s new government.
Speaking during a discussion on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, George intimated that judging from Dzifa’s experience and the fact that she has been a Deputy Minister at the same sector before, she is the best person to handle that position.
“For a government that doesn’t have time, this is not the time to tour. The sector has thirteen agencies. There are places that people can easily fit in and come together to make it work. So for me, it we were to choose a lead today, I will go for Abla Dzifa Gomashie,” he told host Kwame Dadzie.
George also noted that considering the broad nature of the sector, whoever take over as Minister must not be limited to only an aspect. He believes Dzifa has a wider knowledge of the sector than other people whose names have come up in conversations.
He said the new minister must have a firm grip of the tourism space to be able to continue the successes chalked by the former government in the area of tourism.
“You can fault the government of Nana Akufo-Addo for any and everything but definitely not tourism. That they did and did well. They got it right. They did great.
I would be a shame to see the ball drop. Somebody should pick that ball and take it to the next level,” he noted.
While the industry is awaiting the appointment of the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts by the President, stakeholders of the industry have suggested people like creative entrepreneur Baba Sadiq, musician Rex Omar, actress Abla Dzifa Gomashie, actor John Dumelo, actress Ebi Bright and former Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly boss, Kojo Bonsu.
In the meantime, the President has announced the first batch of his ministers; Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson (Minister for Finance Designate), John Abdulai Jinapor (Minister for Energy Designate) and Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine (Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Designate)
About Dzifa Gomashie
Abla Dzifa Gomashie is a renowned actress, film producer, scriptwriter and a revered politician.
She served as the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts in the National Democratic Congress during their tenure between 2013 and 2017 when John Mahama first created the ministry. Currently, she is the Member of Parliament for the NDC in the Ketu South Constituency and a also a Queen Mother in the Aflao Traditional Area.
Dzifa Gomashie holds a Master of Philosophy (2005-2008) in African Studies from the University of Ghana, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (2000-2003) with a First-Class Honors from the School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana, and a Diploma in Theatre Arts (1994-1998) from the same University.
She has an unbridled passion for arts, culture and heritage and has dedicated herself to advancing various causes in that regard. While she was the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, she played a huge role in laying the foundation for the review and drafting of documents such as the Ghana Culture Policy, Creative Arts Industry Bill, among other initiatives that are gradually taking shape in the sector.
She brought her wealth of experience in the industry to the appointment both within Ghana and internationally. She serves on the committee in FEPACI, the Film Federation of the African Union. She is also a member and rapporteur of the ECOWAS committee for the Reparation of Stolen Artefacts of Africa.
She was also instrumental in the formation of the Creative Arts Council (now Creative Arts Agency), a body that is supposed to regulate and coordinate the activities of the culture and creatives industries made up of thirteen sub-fields.
Some creative arts practitioners have posited that her relevant previous knowledge in working at the Ministry, makes her a good candidate for the position as the substantive minister (and not a deputy minister this time around). They believe with this experience, she stands a better chance of coming back to the ministry.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has thirteen Agencies, namely; Ghana Tourism Authority, Ghana Tourism Development Company, National Film Authority, National Commission on Culture, National Theatre, National Folklore Board, Creative Arts Agency, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Dubois Centre, National Museum, Hotel, Catering & Tourism Training Institute and Bureau of Ghana Languages.
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Several Kumawood actors gathered on January 11, 2025, to pay their last respects to their deceased colleague, Bright Owusu, also known as C Confion, at Sepe Buokrom Park in Kumasi, Ashanti Region.
Notable actors seen at the funeral included LilWin, Wayoosi, Vivian Jill, Kwaku Manu, musician Broda Sammy, and others.
Dressed in black funeral attire, the actors looked somber as they bid farewell to their late colleague.
The Akabenezer Production team, led by Dr. Likee, who had worked with C Confion, was also present to mourn his passing.
C Confion was highly respected for his talent and contributions to the arts, earning admiration from fans and colleagues nationwide.
His sudden death has left a significant void in the entertainment industry and in the hearts of those who loved him.
Watch video of the event below:
Big names and members of the Kumawood community have convened with family of the late C. Confion to commiserate and support them, as they bid the late comic actor farewell in a final and burial funeral rites ceremony happening in Kumasi today. pic.twitter.com/BxpxOthA98
C. Confion goes home; Family and close friends of Kumawood actor Bright Owusu, perform final burial rites for the comic actor, at his private burial ceremony in Kumasi. May his gentle soul continue to rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/tKw66H1f9s
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has assured the public that there is no cause for alarm regarding the reported pockets of petrol shortages in the northern part of the country.
A statement issued by the NPA and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra said that following reports of petrol shortages in the northern regions, the Technical Committee on Energy, set up by the Chief of Staff, met on January 10, 2025, to discuss modalities for resolving the issue.
The statement explained that the logistical challenges identified were being comprehensively addressed using a three-pronged approach.
The first approach involves granting Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) a special dispensation to load petrol from the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company (BOST) depot in Kumasi to supply retail outlets in the five regions of northern Ghana.
Secondly, OMCs are being granted a special dispensation to load additional petrol from depots in Tema to augment supplies from Kumasi to retail outlets in the northern regions.
Additionally, arrangements are being made in collaboration with BOST to move nine million litres of petrol from the pipeline between the Buipe and Bolgatanga depots into storage in Bolgatanga to immediately serve retail outlets in the five northern regions.
The statement added that the three-pronged solution was being implemented concurrently to address the issue promptly.
“Consequently, we encourage the consuming public to go about their normal business and avoid panic buying.
“The NPA wishes to reassure Ghanaians that there are adequate fuel stocks in the country, and vessels are lined up to discharge products into the country,” it stressed.
Asante Kotoko booked their place in the round of 16 of the MTN FA Cup with a 2-0 win over lower-tier side Acceler8z FC at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.
Despite the victory, the Porcupine Warriors had to work hard to secure the result against a spirited opponent.
Coach Prosper Ogum made several changes to his starting lineup, giving opportunities to fringe players eager to impress.
However, Kwame Poku took a moment of precision to break the deadlock just before halftime.
Poku converted from the penalty spot after Saaka Dauda was fouled inside the box, giving Kotoko a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
The visitors showed resilience in the second half, forcing Kotoko to dig deep to maintain their advantage. Substitute Ansu Henry sealed the win late in the game with a clinical finish, relieving the fans.
The victory keeps Kotoko’s hopes alive of lifting the FA Cup for the first time since their 2017 triumph. As nine-time champions, the Porcupine Warriors are eyeing a return to glory and will be hoping for a favourable draw in the next round as they continue their quest for silverware this season.
In a bold move, the ORAL Team, led by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has launched a nationwide investigation into alleged state capture by appointees of former President Akufo-Addo.
The team’s field assessment, which began in Accra, aims to gather evidence, validate claims, and compile a comprehensive report for President Mahama’s attention.
The ORAL Team’s first stop was the Dubois Centre, where they found heightened tensions between Ministry of Tourism staff and a company claiming to have been contracted by the outgone government to manage the centre.
The team invited National Security to intervene, ensuring peace and security were restored. Staff members reported locked offices and death threats, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Next, the team visited the Agric Mechanization lands in Cantonments, where they discovered that the military had been deployed to halt the opaque appropriation of lands by politically exposed persons associated with the outgone government.
The team was relieved to see that the military’s intervention had prevented further encroachment.
The ORAL Team also inspected the demolished Bulgarian Embassy, where the construction of an apartment complex by Dr. Yaw Adu Ampomah, a former NDPC appointee, remains suspended.
Additionally, they visited the Northern Development Authority (NDA) offices, where faceless characters had erected walls to grab large portions of the NDA lands under alleged dubious circumstances.
In response to a distress petition, the ORAL Team swiftly acted to protect four bungalows behind the State House, which were about to be demolished by a faceless private developer.
President Mahama’s National Security Committee intervened, and the government workers occupying the bungalows were assured of their safety.
However, Okudzeto Ablakwa noted that President Mahama has made it clear that no government bungalow is for sale, and the ORAL Team has warned faceless private developers to seek refunds from whoever they purportedly bought the state lands from.
Nana Akosua Frimponmaa Sarpong Kumankumah, the Presidential Candidate for the Convention People’s Party (CPP), has issued a stark warning about the possible collapse of Ghana’s 24-hour economy, citing concerns over the government’s current handling of ministerial responsibilities and the lack of proper oversight.
In an interview with Citi News, she emphasized the importance of a well-structured system that allows for collaborative input and feedback, particularly within ministries, and explained that while political opposition often points out deficiencies, the real challenge arises when individuals are given the power to implement solutions without adequate support.
“For some reason, it seems like you have a lot of ideas when you’re in opposition and can identify the loopholes. However, when they give us some power or resources to come up with solutions for what they think should happen at the ministry, the ministers they appoint should ensure that someone is overseeing them not necessarily criticizing, but supporting,” she said.
Nana Akosua Frimponmaa expressed frustration over the lack of avenues for constructive dialogue, noting that if ministers do not fully embrace new ideas, those ideas may not be given the chance to succeed.
She warned that the failure to allow open collaboration could have serious consequences for the country’s economy.
“If you ask me to support and you don’t provide a system that allows me to share the ideas I have, and I have to go sit in some minister’s office for the minister to scrutinize them and if the minister doesn’t believe in the idea, they’ll just put it under the table.
“If they think the knowledge should stay with their people, I can assure you and I say this again that it was not a campaign statement when I said that, the 24-hour economy might collapse in 24 hours,” she stressed.
The 24-hour Economy as promised by President John Dramani Mahama will be a deliberate policy intervention by his government to encourage and support certain businesses and companies to operate 24/7, preferably in a three-shift system of 8 hours each, by creating an enabling environment that promotes productivity, competitiveness and well-paying jobs.
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The Appointments Committee of Parliament will on Monday, January 13, 2025, begin vetting President John Dramani Mahama’s first set of ministerial nominees, as he takes steps to form his cabinet following his inauguration on January 7, 2025.
The nominations, submitted by the President on January 9, 2025, were in line with Article 78 of the 1992 Constitution, which requires prior Parliamentary approval for ministerial appointments.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, confirmed receipt of the nominees and referred them to the Appointments Committee for vetting.
“I have received on your behalf a message from the Office of the President, dated January 9, 2025. Hon. members, I will accordingly refer the nominees to the Appointments Committee for consideration and report to the House, it’s so referred,” Speaker Bagbin announced.
The Appointments Committee of Parliament includes members from both the Majority and Minority caucuses. It is chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, with Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah serving as Vice Chairman. Other members include Kwame Governs Agbodza, Mahama Ayariga, Alhasan Umar, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin as the Ranking Member, Patricia Appiagyei as the Deputy Ranking Member, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Shaibu Mahama, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, and Patrick Yaw Boamah.
The Committee reviews ministerial nominations and ensures that ministers nominated by the President are capable and suitable for their respective positions. It also recommends persons vetted to the House for approval or otherwise either by consensus or vote.
The nominees include:
1. Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson – Minister for Finance Designate 2. Mr John Abdulai Jinapor – Minister for Energy Designate 3. Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine – Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Designate
Profiles of the nominees
Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson – Minister for Finance Designate
Dr Forson is an economist, chartered accountant, and tax practitioner with deep expertise in public finance, macroeconomics, and fiscal policy. A five-term Member of Parliament, he holds a PhD in Finance from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and Master’s degrees in Taxation and Economics from the University of Oxford and KNUST, respectively. His appointment is expected to drive fiscal reforms and strengthen Ghana’s financial management.
Mr John Abdulai Jinapor – Minister for Energy Designate
Mr Jinapor brings a wealth of experience in energy economics and finance. Holding a Master’s degree in Energy Economics from GIMPA and qualifications in Economic Policy Management and Marketing from the University of Ghana, he is poised to provide leadership in resolving Ghana’s energy challenges.
Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine – Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Designate
Dr Ayine is a seasoned legal expert with over 30 years of experience. A former Deputy Attorney-General, he holds a PhD in Law from Stanford University, an LLM from the University of Michigan Law School, and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Ghana. His return to the justice portfolio is expected to advance legal and judicial reforms.
Former Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, has clarified the controversy surrounding the granting of a presidential pardon by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during the final days of his administration.
According to him, although the process for pardoning the 12 individuals was initiated, no pardon was granted as widely reported following the leak of a document issued by the Office of the President to the Council of State.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme, Tuah-Yeboah explained that the document in question was intended for the Council of State’s advice regarding the individuals the president wished to pardon.
He noted that members of the Council of State objected to granting pardons to all the individuals listed in the document.
“These individuals submitted petitions. Those petitions were vetted, and then, because the president couldn’t sit at the Jubilee House on his own to pardon people, he submitted a letter to the Council of State. The Council of State, on January 2, actually met the president as part of the consultation process. At the end of the consultation, it was decided that these individuals should not be pardoned.
“When news started circulating that the president had pardoned these individuals, the presidency issued a statement to clarify that no such decision had been taken by the president.
“The president consulted the Council of State, and at the end of the day, a decision was made not to pardon these individuals. Unfortunately, the letter forwarded to the Council of State was leaked. Instead of most people, including some media personnel, taking the time to review the letter, they concluded that the president had pardoned these individuals. However, that letter was clearly a request from the president to the Council of State as part of the consultation process. As of now, those individuals remain in prison,” he clarified.
The letter from the Office of the President indicated that President Akufo-Addo, in line with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, wished to exercise his prerogative of mercy for the 11 convicted individuals. Akufo-Addo, according to the letter, asked the Council to expeditiously consider the individuals listed to enable him to act accordingly.
Below are the individuals on the list:
1. Akwasi Alhassan
Convicted of murder and sentenced to death on March 19, 1993. He has spent 31 years in prison, with his sentence commuted to life imprisonment by presidential order.
2. Beatrice Ofori
Convicted of human trafficking on June 6, 2023, and sentenced to eight years with hard labour. The 64-year-old suffers from severe hypertension, leading to significant mobility challenges, and has spent much of her sentence in the prison infirmary.
3. Frank Obeng
Sentenced to 40 years for manslaughter, Obeng is serving his term in Nsawam Prison. His sentence has been reduced to 12 years following the presidential pardon.
4. Stephen Nyarko
Convicted of conspiracy to rob and robbery in December 2010, he was sentenced to 30 years. Having served 22 years, including time on remand, his pardon recognises
BAI/MA
Watch the moment John Mahama was sworn in as President
You can also watch how Sammy Gyamfi, Sosu attended John Mahama’s swearing-in ceremony
Kontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Abobade III
The Kontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Abobade III, has stated that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was not pleased about losing the prestigious presidential chair.
According to him, during the presidential inauguration held on January 7, 2024, Akufo-Addo appeared uncomfortable with the fact that President John Dramani Mahama would take over, judging by his demeanor at the event.
Nana Boadi Amponim Abobade III indicated that this discomfort stems from Akufo-Addo’s special attachment to the chair, which was even transported in an armored V8 vehicle when he traveled around the country.
Speaking in an interview with GhOne TV, the traditional ruler expressed concern about Akufo-Addo’s unusual fondness for the presidential chair.
“During the inauguration, I noticed that former President Akufo-Addo was uncomfortable. It wasn’t about relinquishing power, but rather his attachment to the chair. If we’re talking about famous chairs, this one comes second only to Otumfuo’s.
“You see, this chair is flown around, transported in a V8, and guarded by armed men with AK47s. It’s a renowned chair. If we put it in a museum, Ghana would earn a lot of money. Akufo-Addo wasn’t sitting in that chair during the swearing-in ceremony, and I could see he was really uncomfortable,” he said.
The traditional ruler added that Ghanaians can now breathe a sigh of relief after John Mahama’s inauguration as president.
“Overall, I think Ghana is happy and relieved. At long last, we can breathe,” he concluded.
President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the Lands Commission to provide a thorough report on all state land transactions within the next 14 days as per reports from Modern Ghana on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
This directive, issued on January 10, is part of the government’s efforts to protect public lands and ensure accountability in their management.
In a letter from the Presidency, the Commission was asked to submit a comprehensive update on recent and ongoing transactions related to state and public lands.
The communication also called for the immediate suspension of all activities related to the sale, lease, or processing of transactions involving these lands.
The Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, emphasized that the suspension is necessary to preserve the integrity of public land transactions.
“I am directed to formally communicate a directive for the immediate cessation of all activities relating to the sale, lease, or processing of transactions involving state and public lands,” the letter stated.
The government has also committed to revisiting the regulatory framework governing public land management to promote greater transparency.
“This directive has been issued to protect and preserve state and public lands for the collective benefit of the citizenry and future generations,” the statement added.
The move comes amid increasing concerns over the alleged exploitation of state lands by politically influential individuals in the past administration.
The review aims to ensure that public lands are managed with greater accountability and fairness.
In a poignant display of faith and humility, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife, Hajia Samira Bawumia, have embarked on a spiritual journey to Mecca, seeking divine guidance and protection after his defeat in the 2024 presidential elections.
Dr. Bawumia, who contested as the presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), conceded defeat to his rival, John Dramani Mahama, in a phone call on December 8, 2024.
This marked a significant turning point in Ghana’s political landscape, as Mahama secured his second non-consecutive term as President.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Dr. Bawumia expressed his gratitude to the Almighty Allah for His grace and mercy.
Accompanied by his wife and friends, he performed the Umrah, a sacred Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, seeking divine guidance and protection for himself, his family, and the nation of Ghana.
This gesture of devotion and surrender underscores the couple’s deep commitment to their faith and their determination to navigate the challenges of defeat with dignity and resilience.
As they seek solace in their spiritual beliefs, Dr. Bawumia and his wife embody the values of humility, gratitude, and trust in a higher power.
In the aftermath of the election, Dr. Bawumia’s decision to concede defeat and congratulate President Mahama on his victory has been widely praised as a demonstration of his commitment to democratic principles and the peaceful transfer of power.
In a shocking move, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Ashanti Regional Secretariat has introduced a development levy for applicants vying for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executive (MMDCE) positions.
This new requirement has sparked controversy, with many questioning the party’s motives.
According to a notice issued by the Regional Secretary, applicants are required to pay a development levy as part of the nomination process.
The levy is categorized into two groups: GHC 1,500 for current constituency executives and 2024 parliamentary candidates, and GHC 3,000 for all other categories of applicants.
In addition to the development levy, applicants must also be in good standing with the party and have paid their dues for the last 24 months at a rate of GHC 2 per month.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in the disqualification of the application.
This move has raised eyebrows, with many wondering if the NDC is essentially selling MMDCE positions to the highest bidder.
The party’s decision to introduce a development levy has also sparked concerns about the potential for corruption and favoritism in the selection process.
The NDC’s Ashanti Regional Secretariat has not provided any further explanation for the introduction of the development levy, leaving many to speculate about the party’s intentions.
Below is the notice:
*NDC ASHANTI REGIONAL SECRETARIAT*
NOTICE: DUES & DEVELOPMENT LEVY FOR MMDCE NOMINATIONS
All applicants for the MMDCE positions are required to pay the following Development Levy as part of the nomination process: 1. GHC 1,500 – Applicable to Current Constituency Executives and 2024 Parliamentary Candidates. 2. GHC 3,000 – Applicable to All Other Categories of Applicants.
In addition, all applicants must be in Good Standing with the Party and should have paid their dues for the last 24 months at a rate of GHC 2 per month.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in the disqualification of the application.
Olayiwola Aminat Omowunmi, wife of actor and producer Ibrahim Yekini, has revealed details about their marriage and how she resisted naysayers.
Aminat shared her nearly 10-year relationship with actor Itele on Bimpe Akintunde’s talk show Iriri Mi, revealing they met during his acting struggles.
On January 7, 2025, Ghana inaugurated the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic, ushering in a fresh cohort of lawmakers alongside seasoned legislators to chart the nation’s legislative course.
This historic event followed the December 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections, marking another chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey.
The 9th Parliament sees the inclusion of 115 first-term Members of Parliament (MPs), bringing fresh perspectives, ideas, and energy to the legislative process.
These new lawmakers join 156 continuing Members and four returning MPs, forming a dynamic assembly tasked with addressing the pressing challenges facing the nation.
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) also emerged as the majority party in the 9th Parliament, holding 183 seats. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) occupies 88 seats, while four seats are held by independent MPs.
In terms of gender distribution, out of the 276 MPs, 40 are women, representing 14.5 percent of the House. The NDC has 30 female MPs, while the NPP has 10. Though these figures represent progress, they also highlight the need for further initiatives to achieve gender parity in Ghana’s political landscape.
With regards to regional representation, the Ashanti Region leads with 22 new MPs, followed by the Greater Accra and Eastern Regions, each having 15.
Other regions such as the Bono Region (7), Western Region (9), and Northern Region (8) also feature prominently.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (R) and William Ato Essien
Former Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, has clarified the controversy surrounding the granting of a presidential pardon by former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo during the final days of his administration.
According to him, although the process for pardoning the 12 individuals was initiated, no pardon was granted as widely reported following the leak of a document issued by the Office of the President to the Council of State.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme, Tuah-Yeboah explained that the document in question was intended for the Council of State’s advice regarding the individuals the president wished to pardon.
He noted that members of the Council of State objected to granting pardons to all the individuals listed in the document.
“These individuals submitted petitions. Those petitions were vetted, and then, because the president couldn’t sit at the Jubilee House on his own to pardon people, he submitted a letter to the Council of State. The Council of State, on January 2, actually met the president as part of the consultation process. At the end of the consultation, it was decided that these individuals should not be pardoned.
“When news started circulating that the president had pardoned these individuals, the presidency issued a statement to clarify that no such decision had been taken by the president.
“The president consulted the Council of State, and at the end of the day, a decision was made not to pardon these individuals. Unfortunately, the letter forwarded to the Council of State was leaked. Instead of most people, including some media personnel, taking the time to review the letter, they concluded that the president had pardoned these individuals. However, that letter was clearly a request from the president to the Council of State as part of the consultation process. As of now, those individuals remain in prison,” he clarified.
The letter from the Office of the President indicated that President Akufo-Addo, in line with Article 72(1) of the 1992 Constitution, wished to exercise his prerogative of mercy for the 11 convicted individuals. Akufo-Addo, according to the letter, asked the Council to expeditiously consider the individuals listed to enable him to act accordingly.
Below are the individuals on the list:
1. Akwasi Alhassan
Convicted of murder and sentenced to death on March 19, 1993. He has spent 31 years in prison, with his sentence commuted to life imprisonment by presidential order.
2. Beatrice Ofori
Convicted of human trafficking on June 6, 2023, and sentenced to eight years with hard labour. The 64-year-old suffers from severe hypertension, leading to significant mobility challenges, and has spent much of her sentence in the prison infirmary.
3. Frank Obeng
Sentenced to 40 years for manslaughter, Obeng is serving his term in Nsawam Prison. His sentence has been reduced to 12 years following the presidential pardon.
4. Stephen Nyarko
Convicted of conspiracy to rob and robbery in December 2010, he was sentenced to 30 years. Having served 22 years, including time on remand, his pardon recognises
BAI/MA
Watch the moment John Mahama was sworn in as President
You can also watch how Sammy Gyamfi, Sosu attended John Mahama’s swearing-in ceremony
Accra Hearts of Oak advanced to the next stage of the MTN FA Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Home Stars FC.
Following a tightly contested first half, the Phobians broke the deadlock when Mawuli Wayo dazzled his marker with a clever dummy before calmly finishing. Enock Asuobonteng doubled the lead with a clinical effort, and Asamoah Boateng added a third to seal the win.
Asante Kotoko Overcome Acceler8 FC with Late StrikeMeanwhile, Asante Kotoko overcame a spirited Acceler8 FC with a 2-0 victory.
Kwame Opoku opened the scoring in the 43rd minute, while Henry Ansu sealed the win with a goal deep into injury time in the 97th minute, securing the Porcupine Warriors’ place in the next round.
Dreams FC Suffer Shock ExitIn a dramatic upset, Premier League side Dreams FC were knocked out of the competition by True Democracy FC.
Attram De Visser Upset Kotoku Shining StarsFriday night also witnessed another upset as Attram De Visser stunned Kotoku Shining Stars to progress to the next stage.
President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the Lands Commission of Ghana to halt the sale of all public lands with immediate effect.
This directive was contained in a letter signed by the Executive Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama, to the Executive Secretary of the Lands Commission, which was dated January 9, 2025.
“I am directed to formally communicate a directive for the immediate cessation of all activities relating to the sale, lease, or processing of transactions involving State and Public Lands.
“This directive has been issued to protect and preserve State and Public Lands for the collective benefit of the citizenry and future generations. As such, all ongoing and pending transactions must be halted without delay to facilitate a comprehensive review of the current framework governing the management of such lands,” parts of the letter read.
The President also ordered the Executive Secretary to submit a comprehensive report of all recent land sales and ongoing transactions.
“You are further requested to submit a detailed report of all recent and ongoing transactions concerning State and Public Lands to this office within fourteen (14) days of this communication.
“Your immediate attention to this matter is required,” the letter concluded.
BAI/MA
Watch the moment John Mahama was sworn-in as President
The Ghanaian captain, who scored against his boyhood club Marseille last week and received a standing ovation for refusing to celebrate, wasted no time making his mark again.
Despite Ayew’s opener, Le Havre struggled to capitalise on their advantage. Yoann Salmier missed a golden opportunity to extend the lead, and Lens punished the hosts when debutant Goduine Koyalipou headed in the equalizer before halftime.
Lens dominated the second half, with relentless pressure culminating in Deiver Machado’s 77th-minute winner.
While Ayew’s leadership and sharpness offer hope for Le Havre’s survival fight, the team’s sixth consecutive defeat leaves them four points adrift of safety.
For Ayew, back-to-back goals highlight his determination to lift his struggling side in the new year.
Popular Ghanaian fashion stylist, Charlie Dior, has expressed his opinion that the marriage of former Black Stars midfielder, Sulley Ali Muntari, and model Menaye Donkor does not appear to be a genuine union.
Dior based his assertion on the couple’s decision to keep their marriage out of the spotlight, refusing to share any insights with the public.
The fashion influencer mentioned that this lack of transparency makes Sulley and Menaye’s union seem perfect, which he believes is not the case.
“We hear street talk about them. The fact that they don’t talk about it or put it out there, for me, that’s not genuine. They are portraying everything as perfect at home, which I don’t think is true,” he said on GhOne TV.
Charlie argued that celebrity couples should be more public due to their status in society.
“We know there’s pressure on celebrity marriages from the public and family. But if you have that celebrity status, you owe us something. You owe us some explanation in some way.”
Charlie Dior compared Sulley and Menaye’s marriage to Ghanaian musician Praye TiaTia and his wife, Selly Galley, calling them his power couple.
“My power couple would be Selly Galley and Praye Tiatia. I follow them on Instagram, and they seem more relatable than Sulley Muntari and Menaye.”
“Because they (Praye and Selly Galley) make it more relatable. I follow them on Instagram, and they share their struggles with us. When she was expecting, she shared her journey, which feels more genuine,” he shared.
Sulley Muntari and his wife Menaye have been together since 2010 and have two children.
The couple has kept their marriage fairly private, with their last public appearance dating back to 2021.
Watch Speaker Bagbin’s hilarious response to Akufo-Addo during presidential inauguration
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned the recent surge in violence, vandalism, and lawlessness perpetrated by elements within the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement, the NPP urged President John Dramani Mahama to demonstrate true leadership by publicly condemning these actions and taking necessary steps to restore order and sanity in the country.
The NPP’s condemnation comes on the heels of reports of marauding NDC thugs forcibly ejecting public servants from their offices and residences, violent invasions of private homes and offices, car seizures, and a general atmosphere of fear and instability.
These actions, the NPP asserts, threaten to erode the very foundations of Ghana’s democracy.
The NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, emphasized that Ghana has always been a beacon of peace and democracy, and such conduct cannot be allowed to continue unchecked.
He called on the public, traditional authorities, religious leaders, and the diplomatic community to join the NPP in denouncing these acts of violence and lawlessness.
Furthermore, the NPP urged the security agencies, particularly the Inspector General of Police (IGP), to exhibit professionalism and impartiality in addressing these acts of lawlessness.
The party expects swift and decisive action to restore order and ensure the safety of all Ghanaians.
A heated debate has erupted over the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy in Ghana, with Child Rights International (CRI) firmly opposing recent proposals to have parents provide food and accommodations for senior high school students.
This suggestion, made by the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) and the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), has sparked concerns that it may undermine the policy’s purpose of promoting inclusivity and removing financial barriers to education.
*Background of the Free SHS Policy*
The Free SHS policy, introduced by the previous government, aims to ensure equitable access to secondary education for all Ghanaian students.
The policy has been a cornerstone of Ghana’s educational system, providing opportunities for students from low-income backgrounds to access quality education.
*CCI’s Stance on the Issue*
CRI has urged stakeholders to uphold the Free SHS policy, emphasizing that any deviation from its framework could erode its impact and deepen social inequalities.
The organization has called for direct engagement with the government to address the program’s logistical challenges, stressing that parents should not bear the burden of policy implementation.
*NAGRAT’s Proposal*
Angel Carbonu, President of NAGRAT, has suggested that parents should be made to pay for their children’s feeding and accommodation in senior high schools.
He argued that the current economic climate makes the program unsustainable in its present form. Carbonu also proposed that the government should identify financially distressed families and offer targeted bursaries to support them, rather than providing blanket subsidies.
*Implications of the Proposal*
If implemented, the proposal could have significant implications for students from low-income backgrounds, who may struggle to afford the additional costs.
This could lead to a decrease in enrollment rates and perpetuate social inequalities.
*The Way Forward*
CRI has emphasized the need for a national economic dialogue to involve stakeholders in crafting practical solutions to the current crisis.
The organization has also called for transparency about the country’s financial challenges, stressing that “our inability to tell the truth is why we are in this situation.”
A 13-year-old girl narrowly escaped an alleged ritual killing after being abducted by four unidentified men on Friday at Aburi-Kitase in the Akuapem South Municipality of the Eastern Region.
The teenager, who lives near the residence of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, went missing around 8 pm while heading to buy food in Kitase.
According to Citi News sources, the abductors had bound the girl’s hands and legs and were reportedly preparing to harm her by slashing her breast. However, they fled the scene when a good Samaritan fired warning shots upon discovering their activities.
Speaking to Citi News, the Assembly Member for the Kitase Electoral Area, Frank Amankwah, confirmed the incident and linked the growing insecurity in the area to the malfunctioning streetlights along the Ayi Mensah to Peduase Lodge stretch.
Amankwah called on the Inspector General of Police to bolster security in the area and address the rising prevalence of social vices near the Peduase Presidential Lodge.
“I have made several complaints about these traffic issues. From Ayi Mensah to Peduase Lodge, the street lights situated there are all not functioning. Boys from Ashiaman, Madina, Nungua, and nearby towns all come here, so if something like this happens, we cannot identify the source of it.
“So, I am pleading for adequate security in the area. It is very unfortunate how loose the security is in Peduase Lodge. I plead with the IGP and all the security apparatus to come to our aid.” he urged.
Sunyani, (Bono), Jan. 12, GNA – The Local Government Service Association of Physical Planners (LoGSAPP) has called for expeditious investigations into recurring cases of market fires in the country.
A statement issued and signed by Mrs Gifty Nyarko, the Interim National President of the Association and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Sunyani described the fires as disturbing, saying the causes ought to be determined and tackled.
“There is therefore a critical need for swift investigations to ascertain the causes of the fires, especially the recent outbreak at the Kantamanto Market”, it stated.
The statement advocated strict regulations and enforcement of fire safety measures and standards, including adherence to building codes and regulations during the design, construction and maintenance of markets and other public spaces.
“The fire incidents are tragic and cause serious economic hardship to the victims and their immediate families”, it stated, calling for holistic assessment and in-depth investigations.
“These situations disrupt the local economy, cause financial losses and deeply saddened and destroy vital commercial space that provides means of income and sustenance for many,” it added.
The statement sympathised with the victims and their families, saying as urban planners, “we understand the critical importance of ensuring that markets are safely managed, properly structured and capable of withstanding emergencies”.
It urged relevant institutions, agencies and stakeholders to prioritize fire safety improvements at market places, and underlined the need for enhancing safety infrastructure, calling for the mounting of modern fire detector alarms and hydrants at strategic market locations.
The provision of regular fire safety training for traders and market women in addressing emergencies, fire prevention and fighting is also necessary.
It also called for regular inspections of electrical wiring systems to tackle the problem of short circuits and overloads in markets and other public places and gatherings. GNA
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has taken a significant step towards understanding its defeat in the 2024 general elections by establishing an Election Review Committee.
Chaired by former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, the committee’s primary objective is to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the party’s performance in the 2024 elections.
Admirable Ankara Gown Styles Suitable For Fashionable Women
News Hub Creator1d
Every lady wants to feel comfortable in her clothes and still look stylish. Wearing clothing that blends comfort and style is crucial for women, especially moms, regardless of the occasion or frequency of use.
Due to its comfort and style, a maxi dress is currently one of the most popular items of clothing. Because of their adaptability and extreme comfort, maxi dresses are perfect for a variety of occasions, from formal dinners to more laid-back get-together with loved ones.
The vibrant colours, unique patterns, and cultural significance of Ankara designs have made them more and more popular. When incorporated into maxi dress designs, Ankara textiles have the potential to significantly enhance any woman’s wardrobe. Here:
Any ensemble is known to be elevated by the vivid and eye-catching prints that are typical of Ankara fabrics. Selecting a maxi dress with eye-catching Ankara prints can make you stand out at any event. Use a few accessories to bring out the print. Styles that fall off the shoulder are timeless and universally attractive.
A modern twist on the traditional Ankara fabric, an off-the-shoulder Ankara maxi dress will elevate your look. This style works great for business meetings as well as a night out. Wrap dresses are incredibly flattering and versatile, which is why women adore them. Ankara wrap maxi dresses are a magnificent combination of the traditional wrap dress form with elegant Ankara textiles.
An essential piece of clothing is the feminine and figure-flattering peplum dress. This one-of-a-kind peplum Ankara maxi dress combines the elegance of Ankara fabrics with the stylishness of a peplum design. This style is perfect for evening or formal events.
Acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou has revealed that, despite decades of working in Hollywood, he is still struggling financially. The actor, known for his standout roles in Blood Diamond, Gladiator, and Amistad, made this startling revelation during an interview with CNN, shedding light on the inequities he has faced in the entertainment industry. Djimon, a two-time Academy Award nominee, expressed frustration over being undervalued throughout his career. “I’m still struggling to make a living. I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid” he said. He added that he has yet to receive the kind of paychecks that many of his peers enjoy, despite his critical acclaim and contributions to major films. The actor also opened up about the broader challenges Black actors face in Hollywood, highlighting the persistent struggle for fair opportunities and pay equity. “I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought that I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect. “So, this conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon,” Djimon added. Despite the challenges, Djimon Hounsou remains committed to his craft and optimistic about the future.
In a swift response to recent incidents of alleged infiltration of state institutions by party supporters, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged its members to report any unlawful activities to the authorities.
This call to action comes after media reports surfaced of NDC supporters storming the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO) on Wednesday morning.
Emmanuel Nii Ashie Moore, the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the NDC, has denied reports of similar incidents at Kotoka International Airport.
In a statement, Ashie Moore emphasized the need for party supporters to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the regional police commander or himself.
Andy Kwame Appiah-Kubi, the immediate past Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to reassess his campaign promise of limiting the number of ministers to 60, should the demands of governance require otherwise.
Speaking on TV3 on January 11, 2025, Appiah-Kubi acknowledged the appeal of a lean government but emphasized that it should not hinder the country’s progress.
“Let Mr. Mahama consider that campaign message as presidential candidate then. Now he is our President, let him think presidential. If for any reason he thinks that Ghana cannot do with 60 ministers, let him do what is good for the country,” Appiah-Kubi stated.
He also drew comparisons to former President John Agyekum Kufuor, who modified his campaign promises once in office, after grappling with the complexities of governance.
He further advised Ghanaians to remain adaptable, understanding that campaign commitments may need to be adjusted when faced with the realities of leadership.
“I cited also President Kufuor, who before he became President, gave out certain indices. He came to be a President, and the realities dawned on him that what he was talking about in his capacity as a presidential candidate was different from what he was seeing in his seat as President,” he explained.
While advocating for a lean government to help reduce state expenditure, Appiah-Kubi emphasized that national interest should always take precedence over sticking rigidly to campaign pledges.
“Indeed, bringing us a lean government is a policy that I admire and respect, but let us not hold him to it,” he added.
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American rapper and YouTuber, Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., popularly known as DDG, has expressed uncertainty about continuing to live in the United States.
In a recent post on his verified X account, the rapper suggested he might consider relocating to Lagos or London.
He expressed his growing discontent with life in the United States, describing his home country as increasingly less appealing in the current climate.
He tweeted, “America lowkey not it no more ngl.. might have to move to London or Lagos.”
The remark comes as Los Angeles continues to grapple with wildfires that have caused widespread disruption.
While DDG did not explicitly link his comment to the wildfires, the timing of his statement has led to speculation that the natural disasters may be influencing his thoughts on relocating.
Tribune Online reports that at least 16 people have died as wildfires rage across Los Angeles, with officials warning that the death toll could rise further.
Chairman of John Dramani Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loot, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has insisted that the former Director-General of the National Intelligence Bureau Nana Attobrah Quaicoe, reached out and decided to hand over the land he bought during the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo tenure.
Nana Attobrah Quaicoe in a letter from his lawyers, denied the claim that he had gone to see the ORAL Team to take back a piece of land he had bought that belonged to the state.
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has stated that he cannot rely on politicians for the development of the Asante Kingdom.
In a strongly worded statement on the role of politicians in the development of Ashanti during a courtesy call by the World Bank Vice President for Western and Central Africa, Ousmane Diagana, the Asantehene said, “In terms of development, if we have the infrastructure everything will be fine. I cannot depend on the politicians for my development.
“I don’t want to depend on them, so let’s have a social contract and then we do it,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stated.
He therefore called for a social contract to effectively drive development calling for all Kumasi projects to be managed in Kumasi and not Accra.
“I want all my Kumasi Projects to be Managed in Kumasi and not in Accra,” he stressed.
Mr. Ousmane Diagana who was in the region to find out why projects meant for Kumasi kept delaying compared to the others and what exactly the problem was pledged to work with his team to ensure the needed support to fastrack the completion of the projects in the Ashanti Region.
Member of Parliament for Bongo Edward Abambire Bawa
The Member of Parliament for Bongo and a member of the 12-member committee set up by President John Dramani Mahama to avert a looming energy crisis, Edward Abambire Bawa, has claimed that the country does not have the strategic fuel reserves required for national security purposes.
He made this claim on TV3’s The KeyPoint programme on January 11, 2024, while responding to a question from co-panellist lawyer Martin Kpebu.
Kpebu had asked why the country could not rely on strategic fuel reserves to address what has been described as a looming energy crisis, attributed to the Akufo-Addo government’s failure to purchase fuel for the nation’s energy needs.
Edward Bawa stated that the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST), which is mandated to store a certain percentage of fuel for national security purposes, had not been fulfilling this responsibility.
“My brother, if you want me to be blunt, BOST was never putting any storage down… Usually, we say for the strategic stock, we should have at least six weeks of reserves. The truth of the matter is that BOST was never doing that.
“If you look at what civil society and others always say—that BOST should move away from competing with the BDCs and instead focus on executing their mandate of being strategic stockholders—unfortunately, we do not have that.
“Indeed, if we look at the current situation…SEND Power had diesel that could take us up to 20-something days, but that will not be enough,” he added.
His statement infuriated the other panellists on the show, who were shocked to learn that the country had no reserve fuel to rely on in the event of an emergency.
Watch a video of Bawa’s remarks below:
More fire 🔥 Take your time and watch how Hon. Edward Bawah @edabambirebawa MP for Bongo constituency and Energy spokesperson for the NDC exposes the incompetent NPP and what happened during the TRANSITION meeting with Akufo-Addo. NPP NEVER 👎 AGAIN pic.twitter.com/hb3HVn4mxG
John Dumelo disagrees with calls for MPs to use siren
The Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, John Dumelo, has stated that he does not need a siren to assist with his parliamentary duties.
He believes that while sirens can make transportation easier, they are not necessary for him as an MP.
Dumelo mentioned that some of his fellow MPs are in favor of using sirens for transportation, sparking a long-standing debate.
However, he does not agree with this viewpoint.
He specifically disagreed with a statement made by his colleague, Kwame Obeng Asare, also known as A Plus, who expressed a newfound understanding of the necessity for MPs to use sirens.
“I was with him in parliament for orientation, but I just left. A Plus says we need sirens, maybe that’s his opinion, but personally, I don’t think I need a siren.
“I know some people do, and it’s a debate that has been ongoing for some time, but personally, I don’t,” he said in a video shared by EDHUB on X.
Dumelo was elected as an MP in the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency in the 2024 Parliamentary election under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party.
A previous attempt to pass a law allowing government officials, including MPs, to use sirens faced heavy public criticism and ultimately failed.
Watch video below:
Personally, I don’t need sirens as a member of Parliament. – Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Hon. John Dumelo pic.twitter.com/irfsLvzzaN
play videoThe extent of this year’s fire also affected traders dealing in bags and other fashion accessories
A fire at Ghana’s largest market for imported clothes and fashion accessories is disrupting the industry nationwide.
Despite being an almost annual occurrence, this year’s fire completely consumed the entire Kantamanto Market. As the primary source of supply for traders in a country largely dependent on used clothing, the disaster is expected to have a lasting impact on livelihoods.
The Ghana News Agency (GNA) interviewed second-hand clothes dealers at the Ho Central Market, many of whom have been forced to close their shops due to the shortage of goods. The traders described the situation as devastating for their businesses.
The extent of this year’s fire also affected traders dealing in bags and other fashion accessories.
Charles Acquah, a used clothes trader with 17 years of experience, appealed to the government and traditional authorities to prioritize the livelihoods of the thousands who depend on the Kantamanto Market and ensure its swift restoration.
“This will affect us gravely if the market is not restored quickly because that is where we all earn our livelihoods to feed our families. If we can’t get goods from there, it will be a major problem,” he said.
“We’ve heard that the traditional ruler has said the market should not be rebuilt. We are pleading with the government to intervene and reconstruct it. The number of people who depend on the market is uncountable.
“If our livelihoods are taken away, many of us might resort to crime. The government must consider our plight,” Acquah added.
Kofi Appiah, a middle-aged trader who has been selling clothes at Kantamanto for over a decade, expressed his despair.
“We have been affected in so many ways. Kantamanto is where we source our goods. Now, where are we supposed to go?
“This is not the first time, but this year’s fire was massive—it destroyed the entire market. We don’t know what to do now. We are pleading with the government to address the situation urgently because this is critical. We are in dire straits,” he lamented.
He also urged both the government and traditional leaders to prioritize the livelihoods of those dependent on the market.
Madam Victory, a single mother who sells used brassieres and other accessories, shared her struggles following the fire. She said the disaster would make it extremely difficult to support her three school-going children.
“We have been gravely affected, and we are pleading with the government to intervene. They should engage Nii Ayibonte to allow for the market’s reconstruction, as has been done after previous fires,” she said.
An unidentified English Premier League player who was arrested by the police during a training session on suspicion of recording a sex tape without the person’s permission has been granted bail, as reported by The Sun.
The report indicated that the player in question is said to be an international who was interrogated by the police for six hours following the allegations.
One of the footballer’s teammates noted that they initially thought the incident was a joke, only to realise it was a serious case after the questioning was done.
“A lot of stars initially thought it was a prank when two uniformed officers strode onto the pitches during training. Everyone was in disbelief. Players were open-mouthed. No one was sure what was going on,” one source told The Sun.
The report mentioned that the player’s phones and other devices were seized by the police to be inspected for video footage and recordings.
The police spokesperson told The Sun that the accused was released due to inadequate evidence.
“A man in his 20s was arrested at an address on suspicion of voyeurism. It was determined no further action would be taken due to insufficient evidence,” he said according to The Sun.
The UK media outlet noted that a woman reported the said player to the police for allegedly filming their sexual encounter without her consent.
The woman was reportedly asked to leave the player’s house after the incident and told friends that “she felt violated and humiliated.”
Watch Speaker Bagbin’s hilarious response to Akufo-Addo during presidential ianuguration inauguration
The Nigerian singer Asake has sparked concern among his fans on social media after debuting a shocking new look in a viral video.
On Saturday, Asake shared footage of himself alone in the studio, teasing his upcoming project. However, fans were caught off guard by the Afrobeat sensation’s drastically different hairstyle, which was noticeably shorter than his signature dreadlocks.
Prominent figures in Kumawood gathered at Sepe Buokrom Park in Kumasi to bid a final farewell to their colleague, Bright Owusu, popularly known as C Confion on Saturday.
The funeral service saw an outpouring of support from stars including Dr. Likee, LilWin, Wayoosi, Vivian Jill, Kwaku Manu, and gospel musician Broda Sammy, among others.
Members of the Akabenezer Production team, led by Dr. Likee, who worked closely with C Confion in his career, also attended to honour his memory.
C Confion, who passed away on December 6, 2024, at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, was celebrated for his unique comedic talent and memorable performances, particularly in skits produced by Dr. Likee’s group.
His wit, humour, and charm left a lasting impression on fans and colleagues alike, earning him widespread admiration within the entertainment industry.
The funeral attracted a large crowd of family, friends, fans, and sympathizers who came to pay their last respects to the beloved actor.
C Confion’s passing is a significant loss to Kumawood, but his legacy as a talented comedian and cherished personality will continue to resonate within the industry and beyond.
Sunyani, Jan. 12, GNA – International Anti-Corruption Crusader, Mr Raphael Godlove Ahenu has lauded the government’s ‘Operations Recover All Loot’ describing the initiative as a landmark decision that will stem the growing trend of corruption in the country.
President John Dramani Mahama launched the ORAL aimed at helping to reclaim misappropriated public funds and state properties.
Mr Ahenu also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Global Media Foundation, an anti-corruption and media advocacy non-profit organisation told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview in Sunyani that the “ORAL reflects President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to reset and turn the fortunes of the nation round.
“That is a bold and realistic intervention towards the fight against corruption and strengthening governance structures and President Mahama must therefore be commended for that,” he stated, saying, “the initiative truly underscores the government to reset the country”.
Mr Ahenu called on Ghanaians to support the government in that regard, noting that the ORAL remained critical step in ensuring that public resources were utilised for the benefit of all.
“The ORAL will empower anti-corruption agencies and legal institutions to aggressively pursue and recover assets that have been unlawfully acquired,” he stated, adding “by doing so public trust and confidence in the government’s ability to manage the nation’s resources would be deepened too”.
He highlighted the relevance of the ORAL saying, “recovering public misappropriated funds and properties is not just about justice, but also about redirecting the resources to vital sectors of the economy”.
“That will further have a direct and positive impact on the lives of citizens and thereby contribute to the nation’s progressive development,” he said stressing the need for collective approach in fighting corruption, which remained the bane of socio-economic development.
“By supporting ORAL, we are taking a stand for integrity and accountability in our society,” he stated, saying he was highly optimistic that the ORAL would transform the nation’s governance landscape.
Mr Ahenu called on the government to facilitate transparency and public involvement in the process to build a future where resources were safeguarded and used for the common good of the people.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has called on new Members of Parliament to prioritise the nation’s interests over partisan politics.
Speaking at an orientation for the new MPs in Accra on Saturday, January 11, 2025, the Speaker emphasised the importance of focusing on Ghana’s challenges and working diligently to address them.
“I want to urge you to stay focused and work assiduously towards addressing the challenges facing our nation. That is the number one, not the [political] party [or] the nation. It is very critical and those of you who are not observant please refocus,” Bagbin stated.
He highlighted the long-term benefits of putting Ghana first, noting that politicians who prioritise the nation’s interests tend to advance further in their careers.
“Those who really take Ghana first advance in politics than those who are extremely partisan. When you are extremely partisan you may ascend in a regime but in the next one you will collapse because you are seen to identify yourself with one personality who may be the leader so after that leader you are not relevant again,” Bagbin added.
Authorities have arrested an individual alleged to be associated with Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in connection with recent market fires across the country.
The suspect was reportedly contracted to set markets ablaze, raising suspicions about a possible coordinated campaign to disrupt economic activities in the New Year.
Accra, Jan. 12, GNA – Mr Labram Musah, the Executive Director of Programmes of the Vision for Alternative Development – Ghana (VALD-Ghana) has urged representatives of civil society organisations to help fight the violation of the tobacco control laws.
He said the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) was willing to work to protect the health of the citizenry, but they could not be everywhere and “As advocates of the laws we need to assist them by reporting any violations of the laws when we spot them.
“If you see somebody smoking in public; the point is that you have the law in your hands immediately inform the appropriate authorities or take pictures, and trust the FDA, they will not hesitate to act.”
Mr Musah said, “Am urging all of us today, to be on the lookout and report people who violate the tobacco control laws. I believe we can stop the violation of the laws when we see them, so together we can help protect ourselves from tobacco harm.”
Mr Musah gave the advice at the presentation of a Post-Assessment of Tobacco Taxation in Ghana 2024 Report initiated by VALD-Ghana and supported by Tax Justice Network Africa at a meeting held in Accra.
The post-assessment study examines the impact of the Excise Duty Amendment Act 2023 (Act 1108), which implementation began in May 2023.
The new tax law aims to significantly increase tobacco prices, reduce consumption, and generate additional government revenue for public health initiatives.
The report was disseminated to representatives of the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), WHO Country Office, and other civil society organisations.
Dr Michael Kofi Boachie, SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Science – PRICELESS: South Africa, and lead in the study said Ghana implemented an Excise Duty Amendment Act in 2023 to align tobacco taxation with the ECOWAS directive and international standards.
He said the new tax adopted the exact ad valorem rate (50%) in the ECOWAS directive, however, the specific tax was not pegged to the dollar and inflation.
As of May 2024, US$0.02 was equivalent to GHS0.30.
“This means that Ghana may be charging a specific tax lower than the ECOWAS rate depending on exchange rate movements,” he stated, adding that; “Based on the exchange rate in May 2024 we estimate that Ghana is losing GHS0.02 on each cigarette consumed.”
Dr Boachie said the hybrid tobacco excise system increased revenue from GHS220,798,555 (May 2022 – April 2023) to GHS454,466,107 (May 2023 – April 2024), about 106 per cent growth in revenue even after granting tax waivers on tobacco products from within the ECOWAS.
The challenges the GRA faced in the implementation of the tax system included illicit trade of tobacco, compliance issues with importers, tobacco industry interference in policymaking, and inadequate human resources, logistics, and capacity building for staff in customs.
To strengthen the implementation of the tax for effective tobacco control, the report recommended the specific excise component must be pegged to inflation and/or the US dollar as stated in the ECOWAS directive so that the importers will pay based on prevailing exchange rates.
“If the specific excise rate remains in the local currency, for example, GHS, then it must be increased annually to ensure that it is in line with the sum of inflation and income (GDP) growth rates.”
The report called for enforcement of existing tobacco control laws and regulations to ensure that retailers and wholesalers operated within the law.
“This requires building the capacity of the customs personnel and providing them with the necessary logistics to perform their work,” it said.
It called for enhanced coordination and collaboration between the GRA, FDA, and other relevant agencies to combat illicit trade.
“Addressing illicit trade will also require effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the impact of the new tax measures and identify areas for improvement from time to time.”
To this end, Ghana must implement tobacco track and trade systems in line with Article 8 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products as a matter of urgency.
It urged the removal of tax waivers or exemptions granted on tobacco products since the products offered no health benefits to the people.
“The government must strengthen the implementation of the WHO FCTC Article 5.3 to prevent the tobacco industry from its undue interference in tobacco control policies and regulations.”
The report called on the government to consider establishing a tobacco control fund sourced from the percentage of excise tax revenue and/or a solitary contribution (percentage of the value of tobacco products) by importers and manufacturers.
There are many countries earmarking tobacco tax revenues to support various activities. Aside from the excise taxes, some countries have a surcharge or additional levy solely dedicated to tobacco control activities.
For instance, in 2014, Kenya introduced a solatium fund to support tobacco control activities and tobacco companies pay two per cent of the value of tobacco products.
President John Mahama, who came into office on the 7th of January 2025, recently disclosed via an email that he has scrapped 7 ministries, as a cost-cutting strategy under the austerity policy of the International Monetary Fund.
This move denotes that the current administration will work with 23 ministries as opposed to 30, to keep to the agreement Ghana had reached with the IMF.
On May 17, 2023, the executive board of the International Monetary Fund authorized a $3 billion, three-year loan request for Ghana.
Prior to receiving the loan, Ghana has been trying to secure financing from the IMF since 2022.
This was a result of the country’s deteriorating economy which had raised inflation figures and depreciated its currency significantly.
As is typical, the IMF’s loan to the West African Gold Coast came with several prerequisite commitments, including the scaling down of the government.
While John Mahama won the presidential election on the promise of restoring the country’s economy, he did mention that he would do so partly with the aid of the IMF’s preexisting loan.
“When I talk about renegotiation, I don’t mean we’re jettisoning the program,” Mahama said, earlier in the month.
“We’re bound by it but what we’re saying is within the program, it should be possible to make some adjustments to suit reality,” he added.
John Mahama
Much like America’s President-elect Donald Trump, John Mahama secured another opportunity to lead his country and is set to continue the work he began in 2012.
The 65-year-old, who presided over Ghana from 2012 to 2017, is among the country’s most seasoned politicians, having held positions as president, vice president, minister, deputy minister, and member of parliament.
Mahama’s path to the presidency began while serving as vice president under President John Atta Mills.
However, only three years into their rule, tragedy struck when Mills died unexpectedly at the age of 68. Hours after his unexpected death, Mahama, 58, was sworn in as Ghana’s president.
Africa Magic, in partnership with MultiChoice, has announced the call for entry for the 11th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Entries opened on Monday, 23 December 2024, and will be closed on Friday, 31 January 2025.
The AMVCA celebrates exceptional talent, creativity, and innovation within the African film, television, and entertainment industry, showcasing the continent’s finest storytellers, performers, and production professionals.
Consequently, filmmakers, producers, production companies, and creators, are encouraged to submit films, made-for-television movies, or television series that were broadcast or publicly screened, from 1 December 2023 to 31 December 2024, for a chance to be recognized at Africa’s most prestigious awards event.
Speaking on the upcoming edition, Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, said, “The AMVCAs have become a beacon of excellence, celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of African storytelling.
‘We are excited to once again open the doors for talented creatives across the continent to showcase their remarkable work to the world.”
The 11th AMVCA promises to be a spectacular celebration of African entertainment, giving our talented creatives their flowers and creating unforgettable memories.
The event will be broadcast live on Africa Magic channels across the continent, bringing the glitz and glamour of the awards to millions of viewers.
To enter your submissions and for more information and updates https://www.africamagic.tv/AMVCA
A controversy surrounding the bust erected in memory of the late President Prof. John Evans Atta Mills has resurfaced, with the recent vandalism of a plaque bearing Koku Anyidoho’s name at Asomdwoe Park in Accra.
This development is the latest in a series of disagreements between Koku Anyidoho and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as well as the late President’s family.
The tension began on July 24, 2024, when a memorial service for the late President was disrupted by a clash between Koku Anyidoho and the NDC, including relatives of Atta Mills.
The disagreement started when Koku Anyidoho’s event ran over its allotted time, delaying the second event organized by the NDC and the JEA Mills Memorial Heritage.
Samuel Atta-Mills, the late President’s brother, also accused Koku Anyidoho of bringing in “fake family members” to attend the ceremony, further fueling the tension.
Koku Anyidoho, in a post on social media, said, “I wept when I saw the vandalized plaque…because when I look at the kind of things going on, it is a worrying situation for our country.”
His emotional response highlights the deep-seated tension between him and the NDC party, as well as the late President’s family.
Kwaku Asare, a Fellow at the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), has called for immediate investigations into the deaths that occurred during the 2020 and 2024 general elections, emphasizing that such actions are crucial for accountability as reported by Myjoyonline on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on January 11, Asare stressed that the Ghana Police Service should take the initiative in probing election-related fatalities without waiting for instructions from political leaders.
“The police should not wait for the President to come and tell them to investigate the death of somebody,” Asare remarked, revealing that law enforcement’s primary responsibility is to address public matters, including these tragic deaths.
He expressed concern over the lack of progress in addressing the fatalities, questioning whether political pressures had influenced the delay in investigations.
Asare’s comments were in response to recent remarks by former President John Mahama, who had directed his Executive Secretary to request an update from the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, on the status of the investigations.
President Mahama, at a National Muslim Prayer and Thanksgiving event on January 10, called for justice to prevent a recurrence of election-related violence.
He stated that if accountability is not pursued, it fosters impunity. “If these continue and justice is not served, then what it does is, it breeds impunity,” Mahama stated.
Mesmerizing Skirt And Blouse Styles Fashion Forward Mothers Can Recreate.
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Mothers exude an air of classic sophistication in a skirt and blouse combo. Elegance and femininity are showcased in this timeless combination, which provides both fashion and comfort. Whether you’re heading out for a casual stroll or a black-tie affair, a flowy skirt and a form-fitting shirt will always look great.
Mothers may show the world who they are through the endless combinations of colors, patterns, and fabrics that are available to them. This outfit is perfect for moms since it embodies both a refined style and a celebration of the honorable and caring role that mothers play in society. The timeless and adaptable skirt and blouse combo is a mother’s best bet for style and comfort. This outfit is perfect for any occasion because it can go from laid-back to dressy with ease.
The vivid and elaborate motifs of Ankara tops represent cultural richness and beauty. As a tribute to African culture, the vivid patterns and colors are eye-catching. By fusing conventional patterns with contemporary styles, each design tells a tale all its own. A wardrobe staple, Ankara tops may be dressed in a myriad of ways, from casual to classy. Craftsmanship guarantees a snug fit and meticulous finishing touches with each one of these items.
Ankara tops showcase the modern elegance of African creativity and are more than just a fashion statement; they are a declaration of pride and identity. Warmth is provided by heavier materials like velvet or wool in colder months, while airiness is achieved by wearing lighter textiles like linen or cotton in warmer months. For moms who want to show off their unique style without sacrificing comfort or ease, accessorizing with a belt, bold jewelry, or fashionable shoes is the way to go. Show your support by leaving a like and a comment. For more fashion updates, hit the follow button.
Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, says President John Dramani Mahama’s reduction of ministries from 30 to 23 is more about public sentiment than genuine government reform.
According to Simons in an article titled “The stressful difference between cutting ministries & cutting costs in Ghana,” the clustering of subsectors to create ministries has always been a matter of opinion, with each government having its own approach.
For instance, the Kufuor government in the 2000s combined “youth and sports” with “education,” while the Mills government disagreed and instead paired “works and housing” with “water resources.”
Simons argues that the current administration’s decision to cut down the number of ministries is primarily driven by the public’s dislike for a large number of ministers, which is perceived as “obscene.”
He believes that this move is more about being responsive to public sentiment rather than achieving lean and efficient government reforms.
He further questions the effectiveness of such a reduction in achieving true government efficiency.
Simons points out that the real issue lies with the thousands of workers in collapsed ministries who are likely to be redistributed rather than removed from the government payroll.
He emphasises that ministries are just the tip of the iceberg, with agencies like the Police, Ghana Educational Service, and Ghana Revenue Authority being far more significant in terms of public workers and government business.
Simons also highlights the importance of state-owned enterprises like GNPC and ECG in spending efficiency, suggesting that these entities matter more than 60% of the ministries.
He notes that while being a “listening government” has its rewards, it is not synonymous with achieving efficiency gains.
Bright Simons writes: The stressful difference between cutting ministries & cutting costs in Ghana
