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Free SHS a transformative legacy no future government can ignore – Dr. Kingsley Agyemang

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The Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, has reaffirmed the enduring impact of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, describing it as a game-changer in expanding access to secondary education.

Speaking at the 7th Quadrennial Conference of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) for the Eastern Region, held at Kibi Presbyterian College of Education, Dr. Agyemang highlighted the policy’s far-reaching effects.

Six Ways to Wear A Shirt Dress Like You Know What You’re Doing

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You may think a shirt dress is boring, but that’s probably because you don’t know how to style it. It is a versatile outfit that shines everywhere it goes.  It’s classy enough to work alone and flexible enough to be styled for various occasions like casual errands, work, and dates without feeling out of place. 

It’s the kind of outfit that works on its own, but also serves as the perfect piece of clothing to layer over or under outfits creatively.  A shirt dress can give you chic layers, transform depending on accessories, and fit into almost any mood, from “casual errand run” to “I own this building.”

Like a good wine, you’d find that a shirt dress pairs well with many things you already have in your wardrobe. Here are a few simple, yet smart, ways to style a shirt dress:

1. With Chunky Sneakers: Casual, but not in a lazy way

When you need to give a relaxed, soft babe vibe that won’t leave you overheating in the afternoon or cold in the evening, lean into simplicity. A pair of chunky-heeled sneakers, a sling bag, and minimal jewelry will give you the cool-babe look. 

You can swap sneakers for slip-on loafers or sleek slippers, but if you’re going with open-toe options, don’t forget the little things, like an anklets or toe rings, give the rich auntie vibe (it’s easy to look way too casual in slippers).

Shopping tip: Seek out crisp cotton or linen shirt dresses to pull off this look. They hold shape and feel breezy all day.

This look is perfect for hanging out with friends, a beach outing, brunch, or weekend wandering in Ikeja City Mall (or any mall). 

Price: ₦3,500. Where to Buy: Shop Tees and_More.

2. With Heels and Belt: Office-ready, but too cool to be “profesh”

Source: Pinterest.

For those outside of Gen Z reading this, “profesh” is a cool way of saying “professional.” Styling a dress shirt with heels suits the Nigerian workplace, being polished enough for meetings yet comfortable for any event or occasion.

To style this shirt dress, you can cinch your waist with a sharp belt at the waist (fabric or leather) to add shape. Additionally, a leather tote bag and stud earrings will instantly give you the clean, IT girl look.

3. With a Knit Vest: Chic, Classy, and Bougie

This is for the days when you want your outfit to have more depth and interest. Layer a cropped knit vest, a corset, or even a sleeveless tailored vest over your shirt dress for texture and contrast.

You can either layer a cropped or long cable-knit vest from ShopLunab at a sales price of ₦39,000, a tailored cotton vest, a lightweight sweater, or a corset.

With a Knit Vest

You can finish the look with boots or sneakers, depending on your vibe, but we’re partial to strappy heels or pointed flats if you want something chic but comfy. Gold jewelry and a structured mini bag finish up the look.

Quick Tips To Improve Your Look:

  • Roll sleeves up to the elbow for a laid‑back feel or leave them down and buttoned to look polished.
  • If your shirt dress is longer, consider ankle‑strap heels or pointed flats to make your legs look longer. If it’s short, balance volume on top with a structured layer like a vest, corset, or waist pouch.
  • Crisp cotton or linen feels airy and casual; silk blends or satiny fabrics read more formal or nighttime. Bold stripes and florals can be dressed up or down depending on your accessories.

4. With Sandals: Relaxed and Comfy

A dress shirt may seem too simple to pair with sandals, but when styled with appropriate accessories and worn with the right aura, it looks just as great as other styling options. 

You can wear a wide-brimmed hat, facecap or a silk scarf in the afternoon; a simple pearl choker; and a leather or woven tote bag. This type of style may fit casual errands, beach outings, and travels.

With Sandals

5. Street Style: Cool and Androgynous

Street Style

For a street shirt dress style, anything streetstyle goes. The basic things you need to put the look together are a pair of chunky sneakers, a face cap, an oversized sunshade, and some street-worthy jewellery.

Casual outdoor Comfortable Fashion Wedge Chunky Sneakers

You can level up and layer it with a knitted vest or a waist bag from Jumia at the price of ₦6,500 for an even edgier look. 

Price: ₦14,999. Where to Buy: Shop Amary.

6. With a Strapless Mini Dress

With a Strapless Mini Dress

This is the baddest IT girl look every fashion lover dreams of recreating. It’s quite easy to put this together; here’s how to go about it:

Layer a tailored, strapless, mini-flare mini dress on top of a shirt dress. To give the look a sexy edge, pair it with pantyhose and stilettos. 

Price: ₦5,500. Where to Buy: Shop Brief Essentials.

Apart from this mini dress, you can also layer a dress shirt under other types of dresses, like a pinafore dress and A-line gowns.

Ghana’s Most Beautiful 2025 Launch July 27

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Titiaka

 

ON JULY 27, 2025, all roads lead to the Independence Arch for the grand launch of TV3‘s Ghana’s Most Beautiful (GMB) pageant reality show.

According to the organisers, following weeks of scrutinising the best of ladies to represent the 16 regions, the candidates who will be unveiled at the launch are true representation of the rich Ghanaian culture.

They also mentioned that the launch promises an unforgettable night with stunning surprise performances, urging guests to be seated at 7pm before the programme airs live at 8pm on TV3.

Known for years of consistency in promoting Ghana’s unique culture through pageantry, Ghana’s Most Beautiful has channeled out young ladies who are leading the cause of championing women’s participation in decision-making in the country.

Last year, Titiaka from the Savannah Region was crowned the winner of Ghana’s Most Beautiful 2024. She is a graduate and former student leader at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Titiaka is the first hijabi queen and the first queen from the Savannah Region to win the competition.

Previous contestants and queens are expected to grace the launch of the event on Sunday, July 27.

 

By Prince Fiifi Yorke

Telecel CEO Honoured –

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Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai (DSc. HC.) accepting the Doctor of Science, Honoris Causa conferment

 

Telecel Ghana Chief Executive, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai, has been bestowed with an honorary Doctor of Science degree by the Accra Metropolitan University, at its first conferral and graduation ceremony since gaining a presidential charter.

The conferment of the honour Doctor was in recognition of Ing. Obo-Nai’s pioneering contributions to engineering, telecommunications, and digital inclusion, as well as her advocacy for women in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

She was honoured alongside the Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

“This decision, unanimously approved by the University Council at its recent 16th sitting, recognises your trailblazing achievements in the fields of engineering and telecommunications, your outstanding leadership as the first Ghanaian female CEO of a major telecom operator, and your relentless advocacy for youth empowerment, women in STEM, and digital inclusion across Africa,” said Prof. Goski Alabi, Acting Vice Chancellor of the Accra Metropolitan University.

Ing. Obo-Nai, DSc. HC., accepting the honour was full of gratitude as she shared a deep personal reflection on her journey.

“I thank the leadership of this university sincerely for this honour, and for seeing in my journey the values you uphold. This is a full-circle moment I will cherish forever. In my formative years, my favorite fixes were replacing light bulbs, burnt fluorescent tubes, and fridge plugs. Those small beginnings shaped my love for problem-solving. These were all building blocks to a journey that only God could have shaped so beautifully,” she said.

She dedicated the honour to her family, colleagues at Telecel Ghana, and women striving for leadership in science and technology.

 

A Business Desk Report

‘You Are Too Afraid To Fight For Your Country, Only Concerned About Japa’ – Tacha Blasts Nigerian Youths

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Reality TV star, Tacha Akide, has criticized Nigerian youths for being inactive in the country’s political and social struggles.
Naija News reports that the former Big Brother Naija housemate, in a post on 𝕏, expressed disappointment with the current generation, describing them as timid and unwilling to make sacrifices for national change.
She compared today’s youth to those of past generations, stating that earlier Nigerians were brave enough to get involved in national power and even risked their lives

Zanetor Rawlings pays courtesy call on Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

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Member of Parliament for Klottey-Korle, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, who chairs the Committee on Security and Intelligence, expressed gratitude for the continued guidance of the Asantehene, whom she described as her uncle. She also briefed him on her recent engagements, including discussions on the security situation in areas experiencing prolonged conflict across the country.

Their conversation reflected a shared concern for the welfare of affected communities and the pressing need to foster sustainable peace. Otumfuo, renowned for his long-standing contributions to conflict resolution, reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and culturally grounded approaches to peace-building.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings, who was recently appointed as part of Ghana’s delegation to the Pan-African Parliament, also shared insights from a recent engagement with the All Regions Queenmothers’ Association during their visit to the Parliament of Ghana. The discussions focused on women’s representation, the role of queenmothers in peace-building, and efforts to preserve Ghana’s cultural heritage. She highlighted the value of such interactions in bridging the gap between modern governance and traditional authority.

The visit underscored the strong ties between Ghana’s traditional and political institutions and concluded with a shared vision to deepen national unity, bolster security, and strengthen the role of traditional leaders—especially queenmothers—in shaping inclusive development.

Ejisu MP Decries Deplorable Roads

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Kwabena Boateng

 

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Ejisu, Kwabena Boateng, has appealed to government to urgently fix the deteriorating roads in his constituency, warning of dire consequences for livelihoods, security, and economic activity.

Making a statement on the floor of Parliament, the MP painted a grim picture of the road conditions across several communities in Ejisu, including Onwe, Kokobra, Achiase, Akokoamong, Kwaso, Ekyem, and Asieninpong.

He described the situation as a looming crisis made worse by the rainy season, which has rendered many of the roads impassable.

“These roads are lifelines that connect our people to schools, hospitals, markets, and their workplaces. I do not rise to lay blame. I rise to call this House to conscience – to remind ourselves that governance is a continuum, and its benefits must reach the people of Ejisu too,” Mr. Boateng stated.

The MP recounted that construction had begun on several roads in the municipality over a year ago. Key works such as the construction of bridges and gutters along the Ejisu-Onwe and Kokobra-Achiase roads offered residents hope of better infrastructure.

However, those hopes are quickly fading, as construction has stalled and contractors have vacated project sites, removing their machinery and halting progress altogether.

“The situation has worsened with the rains. These roads have become death traps – pregnant women, school children, farmers, and traders are all in danger. Vehicles get stuck, transport grinds to a halt, produce spoils, and the local economy bleeds quietly,” he lamented.

Mr. Boateng revealed that drivers in the area have become frequent victims of armed robbery, as the poor state of the roads forces them to slow down, making them easy targets for criminals lurking in the dark.

He added that many commercial drivers have stopped using the roads entirely, as the terrible conditions continue to damage their vehicles and increase maintenance costs.

“It is very unsettling to learn of robberies on these roads, and it’s even more troubling that many drivers now abandon them due to constant breakdowns and the high cost of spare parts,” he told the House.

The MP recalled a recent protest by the Concerned Drivers Association of Ejisu on July 7, 2025, which presented a petition to him and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), expressing their anger over the continued neglect of their roads.

According to him, they lamented the financial burden of frequent repairs and the health hazards caused by dust and poor road surfaces.

“The drivers can no longer bear the cost of spare parts. They are tired of the breakdowns, the dust, the robberies, and the lack of action,” Mr. Boateng stressed, adding, “Their demonstration was not just a protest. It was a desperate cry for help.”

The MP called on the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, to treat the issue of roads in Ejisu with urgency and prioritise their rehabilitation in the upcoming budget cycle.

By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliament House

Rex Omar shares three legacies he wants to leave as Coordinator of Black Star Experience

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Rex Omar is the National Coordinator of the Black Star Experience Rex Omar is the National Coordinator of the Black Star Experience

Presidential staffer and National Coordinator of the Black Star Experience, Rex Omar, has outlined three key goals he hopes to achieve before the end of his tenure.

According to him, these are legacies he wants to leave behind to support the growth of Ghana’s creative industry.

Speaking in an interview on TV3’s Showbiz 360, the veteran musician and principal advocate for creatives said he wants to see a second National Theatre built in Kumasi.

He also indicated that he anticipates that the industry can boast of a good number of fully equipped record labels capable of projecting Ghanaian music internationally.

Third on his wish-list, Rex Omar, looks forward to being able to nurture Ghana’s movie industry to have a world-class movie studio that meets Hollywood standards.

“I want to see a second National Theatre being built in Kumasi. I want to see about one, two or three stable record label company, well-resourced, that are competing to export Ghanaian music. I want to see a Hollywood standard studio built in Ghana so as to be able to draw global attention to Ghana to help our film industry,” he said.

Aside his engagement with the Black Star Experience, Rex Omar, is known for his long-standing advocacy for musicians’ rights and proper royalty distribution in Ghana.

When asked if he has now gone silent on the issue because of his appointment by government, he clarified that he is still committed to that cause and he is now in a better position to help.

“I am still a writer; I may not necessarily be in charge of GHAMRO but they are still dealing with my songs and it is part of the creative economy. I am in a better position now to even help to make it better,” he said.

The Black Star Experience is one of the government’s flagship programs aimed at growing the creative economy.

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

AK/VPO

Asantehene’s wife and I may not have gotten our LLMs if not for Atta Mills

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Charlotte Osei (L) has credited her LLM to the late Professor John Atta Mills (R) Charlotte Osei (L) has credited her LLM to the late Professor John Atta Mills (R)

Former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Charlotte Kesson-Smith Osei, has revealed how the late President John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills played a pivotal role in supporting her and Lady Julia, the wife of the Asantehene to attain their Master of Law (LLM) degrees.

Speaking at the 13th John Evans Atta Mills Memorial Lecture on July 22, 2025, Charlotte Osei noted that had it not been for the late former president’s intervention, she and Lady Julia, the wife of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, may not have been able to pursue their Master of Law (LLM) degrees.

According to Osei, the late former President Mills had a deep commitment to mentoring young women in the legal profession.

He not only encouraged them to pursue their ambitions but also actively worked to address the barriers they encountered along the way.

“Prof Mills was particularly committed to mentoring young women in law, recognising both the barriers we faced and the immense potential we represented. As Lady Julia recounted, she sat with two young women, myself included, who likely would not have earned our Master of Laws degrees without his support,” the former EC Chairperson said.

“He was a constant advocate for young students seeking graduate opportunities. Thanks to Prof’s recommendation, one of my classmates was accepted to the London School of Economics, his alma mater, for an LLM. Upon returning to Ghana, Prof helped him secure his first job at the Ghana Stock Exchange,” she added.

Watch the video on GhanaWeb TV below:

VKB/VPO

Is the economy doing well under Mahama? What the data shows

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Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is the Minister of Finance Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is the Minister of Finance

GhanaWeb Feature by Ishmael Batoma

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, in accordance with Article 179 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 21 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), will be presenting the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Policy Review at Parliament on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

In addition to announcing adjustments to the main 2025 Budget for the remainder of the year, the finance minister is expected to give an update on the country’s economic performance.

The finance minister and President John Dramani Mahama have gained plaudits from a faction of the public on the performance of the economy.

Some Ghanaians, mostly proponents of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), have, however, maintained that Ghanaians are worse off than they were during the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.

But who is right? Before Dr Ato Forson’s presentation, GhanaWeb’s data journalist, Ishmael Batoma, examines the economic performance of the nearly 8-month-old John Dramani Mahama administration.

This article assesses the performance of major economic variables, plus other key goods and services, by comparing them to what the current government inherited.

Inflation:

The John Dramani Mahama government inherited an inflation rate of approximately 24% – meaning the price of goods and services on average increased by 24%.

The inflation rate increased slightly to 28.30% in the first month of the Mahama administration but has dropped every month to 13.70% as at June 2025 – a more than 10 percentage point drop.

Over the same period, food inflation (the increase in the price of food items) dropped more drastically compared to non-food inflation (the increase in the price of rent, transport, among others).

While food inflation dropped from nearly 28% to over 16% (about 12 percentage points), non-food inflation dropped from a little over 20% to 11% (approximately 9 percentage points).

Depreciation of the cedi:

One of the main economic challenges that was observed during the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government was the depreciation of the country’s currency, the Ghana cedi.

After seeing some gains in the last months of the Akufo-Addo government, the cedi depreciated (lost value) in the first two months of the Mahama government against its major trading currencies, the United States dollar, the British pound and euro.

From February 2025 to the end of April 2025, the cedi stabilised against the major trading currencies, especially the dollar, before significantly appreciating (gaining value).

The Mahama government inherited an exchange rate of GH¢14.7 to the dollar ($1 was selling for GH¢14.7).

As of June 2025, the rate was GH¢10.31 to the dollar – a more than 48% drop.

A pound was selling at GH¢18.69 as of the end of December 2024. From then, it dropped by about 32% to sell at GH¢14 at the end of June 2025.

The euro also saw a similar drop in value against the cedi, depreciating from about GH¢15 to the euro to about GH¢12.

Interest rate:

The Mahama government inherited an interbank weighted interest rate of about 27% from the Akufo-Addo administration.

The rate as at May 2025 is still 27%, meaning there has not been any drop in the cost of borrowing.

The monetary policy rate of 27% inherited by the Mahama government has increased to 28%.

This implies that businesses still have to borrow at a high interest rate in the first seven months of the Mahama government.

Electricity and water tariffs:

Electricity and water tariffs have increased two times already under the John Dramani Mahama government.

In May, electricity tariffs increased by nearly 15% while water tariffs increased by over 4%.

Again, in June 2025, electricity tariffs were increased by over 2% while water tariffs saw no increase.

Price of fuel:

The continuous increase in the price of fuel products was also one of the main challenges in the Akufo-Addo administration.

Petrol was selling at GH¢14.5 per litre and diesel at GH¢14.6 per litre as at the end of December 2024.

As at the end of June 2025, a litre of petrol was selling at GH¢11.77, a more than 23% drop from the price in December 2024.

The price of diesel also dropped by approximately 17%, from GH¢14.6 per litre at the end of December 2024 to GH¢12.5 per litre at the end of June 2025.

Furious protests at move to cement Togo ruling family’s grip on power

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A new constitution that has allowed Togo’s long-time head of state Faure Gnassingbé to shift to a new role as all-powerful prime minister – and escape the constraint of presidential term limits – has triggered anger on the streets of the capital, Lomé. Protests are set to continue this Friday.

At least five demonstrators have died while confronting official security forces in recent weeks.

But it is not the orthodox political opposition – predictably crushed in local elections last week – that has mobilised frustrated young Togolese people.

Instead it is musicians, bloggers and activists who have tapped into popular anger and weariness with a regime that has been in power – under the leadership of Faure Gnassingbé or, before him – his father Gnassingbé Éyadéma, for almost six decades.

That outstrips even Cameroon’s 92-year old President Paul Biya – who has just confirmed his intention to stand for an eighth successive term in elections later this year – or Gabon’s father-and-son presidents, Omar Bongo and Ali Bongo, latter of whom was deposed in a coup in August 2023.

The lessons of that episode did not escape Faure Gnassingbé, a shrewd and often discreet operator who quickly moved to devise a new constitutional structure for Togo, to prolong his own hold on power while playing down his personal profile, in a bid to defuse accusations of dynastic rule.

He will no longer need to stand for re-election in his own name.

The 59-year-old holds the premiership because his Union pour la République (Unir) party dominates the national assembly – and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, thanks to a constituency map gerrymandered to over-represent its northern heartlands and understate the voting weight of the pro-opposition coastal south.

Gilbert Bawara, Togo’s civil service and labour minister, maintains the 2024 election was above board, with “all the major political actors and parties” taking part.

“The government cannot be held responsible for the weakness of the opposition,” Bawara told BBC Focus on Africa TV last week.

He added that those with a genuine reason to demonstrate could do so within the law, blaming activists abroad for inciting “young people to attack security forces” in an attempt to destabilise the country.

The new constitutional framework was announced at short notice in early 2024 and quickly approved by the compliant government-dominated national assembly. There was no attempt to secure general public approval through a referendum.

A one-year transition concluded this May as Gnassingbé – who had been head of state since 2005 – gave up the presidency and was installed in the premiership, a post now strengthened to hold all executive power and total authority over the armed forces.

To occupy the presidency, a role now reduced to a purely ceremonial function, legislators chose the 86-year old former business minister, Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové.

This reshuffling of the power structure was presented abroad by regime mouthpieces as moving from a strong presidential system to a supposedly more democratic “parliamentary” model – in tune with the traditions of the Commonwealth, which Togo, like Gabon, had joined in 2022, to broaden its international connections and reduce reliance on traditional francophone links with France, the former colonial ruler.

The transition to new constitutional arrangements designed to perpetuate Gnassingbé’s rule passed off almost without outside comment from international partners whose attention is currently focussed on Gaza and Ukraine rather than Africa.

Nor was there any complaint from fellow leaders in the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), even after Togo held fresh legislative elections just weeks after the new constitution had been promulgated, in flagrant breach of the regional bloc’s protocol on good governance and democracy, which says that after a change of constitution at least six months must elapse before any major election is held.

Badly shaken by the decision of three military-run countries – Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger – to quit Ecowas, remaining member governments are reluctant to challenge the behaviour of others in case they follow suit.

But on the streets of Lomé it has been a different matter.

The rapper and regime critic Essowe Tchalla, known by his stage name “Aamron”, released a satirical video calling for the “celebration” of Gnassingbé’s 6 June birthday.

When he was arbitrarily snatched from his home at the end of May by regime security agents and taken to an unknown location, anger surged among young urban Togolese.

Hundreds protested on the streets of the capital on 5 and 6 June and scores were detained by government forces.

The affair took a particularly sinister twist with the discovery that Aamron had been confined to a mental hospital, a measure more reminiscent of the 1970s Soviet Union than West Africa in 2025 – and the subsequent release of a hostage video –style statement in which he was filmed admitting to psychological problems and apologising to Faure Gnassingbé, remarks he has completely disowned after being released without charge.

Meanwhile, late June brought a further wave of street protests, with the security forces confronting youths who had set up burning barricades.

Human rights groups reported widespread random detentions, often of uninvolved passers by, while informal pro-government militia, often armed, roamed the streets in pick-up trucks.

At least five people were killed and two bodies were found in the lagoons north of central Lomé, though whether they had drowned while fleeing arrest or been deliberately killed was unclear.

But it is cultural figures like Aamron – and Honoré Sitsopé Sokpor, a poet known by his alias “Affectio” and jailed in January – who have inspired this latest upsurge in protests. They connect to young popular opinion in a way that conventional politicians cannot.

Indeed, much of the Togolese public appears to have lost faith in the formal political process.

Although the local elections on 17 July passed off quietly, with Unir predictably dominant according to official results, Jean-Pierre Fabre, a leading opposition figure, said there were no other voters in his local polling station when he went to cast his ballot.

Critics see the new constitution as no more than a device to perpetuate the rule of the Gnassingbé dynasty – a regime variously described by West African regional media as a “republican monarchy” and “legalist authoritarianism”.

A leading Togolese human rights activist says popular frustration has reached unprecedented levels.

There have been previous upsurges of mass protest.

In 2017 the churches supported marches demanding reform while a charismatic new opposition figure, Tikpi Atchadam, mobilised young people across the previously regime-dominated centre-north.

In the 2020 presidential election, the regime was taken aback by the strong performance of opposition challenger Agbeyomé Kodjo, who was openly backed by the much respected 89-year old former Archbishop of Lomé, Philippe Kpodzro. Although both men have since died, the political movement inspired by the late cleric remains highly active and is regularly targeted by the authorities.

Now, once again, we are seeing frustration boil over, particularly among young urban Togolese.

With his constitutional revamp to a supposedly “parliamentary” system, Gnassingbé aims to retain full control, yet step his own personality back from the political firing line.

But that particular manoeuvre looks condemned to failure in the face of challenge from creative leaders of popular culture – bloggers, singers and grassroots activists.

On social media the hashtag #FaureMustGo is now circulating. And recent weeks have seen the launch of a new campaign for change, known as M66, which stands for “6 June Movement” from the date of Gnassingbé’s birthday.

Kuami Eugene Reacts To TikTok Challenge Backlash

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Kuami Eugene

 

Ghanaian highlife and Afrobeat singer, Kuami Eugene, is overwhelmed by the backlash he received on social media after joining the global trend, “Pretty Little Baby” challenge.

The challenge is a viral trend on TikTok where users create videos featuring baby animals, toddlers, retro fashion, and beauty tutorials set to Connie Francis’ 1962 hit song “Pretty Little Baby”.

Kuami Eugene, among the few celebrities in Africa to join the challenge, received backlash from social media followers, who called for him to take down the video of him singing. In a TikTok Live, Kuami Eugene responded to the backlash, stating that he’s amazed by the number of negative comments he received after joining the challenge.

“I recently came across this challenge on TikTok, so I decided to join it since it was trending. After recording the video, I laughed and decided to post it because I knew people would respond negatively. I was just joking, but the number of negative comments I’ve received has shocked me,” he said.

Kuami Eugene further lamented that following the release of his latest song, ‘Do Better’, he hadn’t received any massive attention, but the challenge had received such a massive reaction. “This is because Ghanaians were just waiting for the right opportunity for me to fault and roast me,” he added.

 

BY Prince Fiifi Yorke

‘Intensify Support To End War On Gaza’

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Dr. Mahmoud Sidqi Al-Habbash (2nd R) with other dignitaries

 

Palestinians have called on international communities as well as world leaders to intensify support to end Israel’s war on Gaza that has resulted in the death of millions of people.

A delegation led by Dr. Mahmoud Sidqi Al-Habbash, Chief Justice of Palestine, made the call at a media briefing during a visit to the office of the State of Palestine Ambassador to Ghana.

According to him, apart from several infrastructure including buildings that have been destroyed, over 60,000 people have been killed and several others injured.

He said, “My families are suffering, I lost my brother, my sister and more than 80 people in my family have been killed by the Israelis in Gaza. There are no families that have not lost any member, but the Palestinian people are keen in protecting their homeland.”

Dr. Al-Habbash also stated that Palestinians are not against any attempt for peace to prevail, but are only calling on Israel to stop attacking them and also desist from preventing them from receiving humanitarian support from other international organisations.

“We are not against Jews or Judaism, we will build good relationship with them if our rights are recognised, and that is what we want. We want Israel to stop aggression against Gaza, against hospitals and children by Israel Army. We want a just solution to the Palestinian cause in accordance with International law,” he added.

He further commended the government for its continuous support to the State of Palestine over the years following the Gaza-Israel conflict, among other support in the past.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, also condemned the mass killings and reaffirmed Ghana’s support for a two-state solution as prescribed by the UN, and called for an end to the mass displacement of Palestinians.

“I urge a safe and unfettered passage of humanitarian aid and insist on the release of all hostages. As a member of the UN Human Rights Council, Ghana will continue to uphold our longstanding sacred principles of respect for the UN Charter, belief in the values of human rights, adherence to the rule-based order and entrench our enviable reputation as a global force for peace,” he stated.

 

By Ebenezer K. Amponsah

CHRAJ renews call for urgent passage of Anti-Witchcraft Bill

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Joseph Whittal is CHRAJ Commissioner
Joseph Whittal is CHRAJ Commissioner

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has renewed its call on Parliament to urgently pass the long-awaited Anti-Witchcraft Bill, warning that continued delays could lead to further abuse and violence, particularly in rural communities where witchcraft accusations remain prevalent.

According to a myjoyonline.com report on July 24, 2025, it said CHRAJ stressed that enacting the bill would not only help save lives, but also affirm Ghana’s commitment to human rights, dignity, and justice.

The renewed call came during a forum held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, to mark five years since the brutal lynching of Akua Denteh in the Northern Region.

CHRAJ Commissioner, Joseph Whittal, joined several Civil Society Organisations at the event in urging swift legislative action.

“The bill is long overdue. Why don’t you allow the bill to pass, and then anybody who thinks there is a basis for challenging it can take it to the Supreme Court? We now have another president, who, interestingly, comes from the very region where most of these witchcraft accusations are reported,” he indicated.

The call for action comes in the wake of a disturbing incident at Anhwiesu in the Central Region, where on July 22, an 11-year-old girl and three elderly women were accused of engaging in spiritual attacks.

Reports indicated that the girl, a primary six pupil, was accused by a classmate who claimed to have supernatural powers.

The classmate alleged that the girl had spiritually ‘tied’ two other pupils and conspired with the elderly women to harm a teacher.

A community-led exorcism was conducted, during which a fetish priest claimed he had ‘seen’ the girl’s alleged spiritual actions.

The child was forced to undergo a ritual, while the elderly women, who insisted they were innocent, refused to participate.

CHRAJ and rights groups say such incidents highlight the urgent need for legal protections to prevent further harm, especially to women, children, and the elderly who are often targeted in witchcraft-related accusations.

MRA/AE

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below:

Ghana confirms 16 new Mpox cases as total rises to 234

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Ghana confirms 16 new Mpox cases as total rises to 234
Ghana confirms 16 new Mpox cases as total rises to 234


Featured


Graphic.com.gh



1 minute read

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported 16 new cases of Mpox, bringing the total number of confirmed infections in the country to 234 as of July 18, 2025.

This is an increase from the 218 cases announced on July 14.

According to the GHS, no new deaths have been recorded. The overall number of Mpox-related deaths remains at zero, and there are currently no active hospital admissions linked to the disease.

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads mainly through direct contact with an infected person. This includes touching the skin, rashes, or body fluids of someone who is ill.

GHS continues to advise the public to avoid close physical contact with infected persons, wash their hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching rashes or fluids from the body, and use protective clothing when taking care of someone unwell.

Symptoms of Mpox often begin with fever and body aches, followed by a rash. The rash may appear on the face, chest, hands, or genitals.

While most people recover without complications, the disease can pose more serious health problems for children, pregnant women, and people with underlying conditions.

The public is advised to rely on trusted sources for information and to report suspected cases to health authorities promptly.

Monica’s Daughter Faces Backlash for Rapping at Wedding Despite Gospel Roots

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A wedding celebration has stirred online debate after the daughter of Monica—member of the famed Ghanaian gospel group Daughters of Glorious Jesus—delivered a rap performance during the reception.

The video, which quickly went viral, received mixed reactions, particularly from conservative Christian circles and fans of the gospel trio.

While some praised her for her confidence and creativity, others felt her actions clashed with the spiritual legacy of her family.

Critics argued that, as the child of a gospel icon, performing a secular rap—even without profanity—undermined the values the Daughters of Glorious Jesus are known for.

“This isn’t just about music; it’s about what the group represents,” one social media user commented.

Supporters, however, defended the performance as a form of artistic expression appropriate for a personal celebration.

They argued that rap is a legitimate genre and noted that the lyrics were clean, suggesting that the backlash was overblown.

Monica has not yet commented publicly, but sources close to the family say the criticism came as a surprise.

The incident has reignited conversations about how children of gospel artists are expected to behave and the place of contemporary music in Christian settings.

The Daughters of Glorious Jesus, active since the 1990s, remain respected figures in Ghana’s gospel scene.

Whether this incident will impact their public image or spark broader dialogue on faith and modern music remains to be seen.

Source:

https://yen.com.gh/entertainment/celebrities/287634-daughters-glorious-jesus-member-monicas-daughter-sparks-backlash-rapping-wedding/

NPP’s strength does not lie in individual pursuits

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Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is former Running Mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)

Former running mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called for peace within the ranks of the political party.

He believes that the party’s strength does not lie in individual pursuits but rather in the ability of the party to function as one unit.

NAPO, as he is popularly called, made this known in a post shared via social media.

He said, “The first step to rebuilding together with our values begins with a commitment to unity. This mission transcends personal ambitions and political leanings.

We must learn to coexist in harmony, united by our shared goal of building a stronger Ghana, in freedom and in purpose.

Our strength as a Party lies not in individual pursuits, but in our ability to function as one, driven by a common vision and committed to a collective future.”

Women In Gospel Congratulates Prof. Aseweh

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Prof. Patience Aseweh Abor

 

THE WOMENin Gospel have congratulated Professor Patience Aseweh Abor on becoming the first female full professor at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS).

The women’s group, in a congratulatory statement, indicated that Prof. Aseweh’s lasting achievement marks a significant milestone in the school’s academic journey and serves as an inspiration to women in academia.

They indicated that her dedication to teaching, research, mentorship, and university administration has earned her this esteemed title, as her contributions extend beyond the academic realm through her non-profit organisation, ExGlo Foundation, which promotes education and health in underserved communities.

“As a celebrated musician, actress, and social advocate, your creative expression inspires and empowers individuals, showcasing your remarkable blend of intellect and compassion. Your appointment as a full professor is a testament to your hard work and commitment to making a positive impact,” the statement read.

The statement added, “Dear Professor Patience Aseweh Abor, congratulations on this remarkable achievement! Your appointment as the first female full professor at the University of Ghana Business School is a trailblazing moment for women in academia. We’re thrilled to see your passion for education, music, and social advocacy continue to inspire and empower others. Wishing you continued success and fulfillment in your endeavours!”

Prof. Abor having joined the University of Ghana as a Graduate Assistant in 2007 has steadily rose through the ranks to become Associate Professor in 2021, Prof. Abor’s promotion to full professorship recognises her exceptional contributions to teaching, mentoring, research, and university administration.

Beyond academia, the Professor of Health and Management Sciences has steadily built a name as a musician, actress, and social advocate, captivating audiences with her messages of hope, identity, and empowerment.

Her music fuses gospel with traditional Ghanaian rhythms, particularly drawing from her roots in the Upper East Region. Her songs often reflect themes of spiritual growth, emotional healing, womanhood, andcultural pride. With her calming yet powerful voice, Prof. Abor has released several tracks and performed on notable platforms, using her voice to inspire both the old and the young.

 

BY Clifford George Owusu

50 Nigerians picked up by GIS over suspected cybercrime

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The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has apprehended about 50 Nigerian nationals in a targeted dawn operation at McCarthy Hills in the Ga South Municipality in the Greater Accra Region, following intelligence on suspected human trafficking and cybercrime activities in the area.

A statement issued on Thursday, July 24, 2025, and signed by Assistant Commissioner of Immigration M. Amoako-Atta, Head of Public Affairs, confirmed the arrests and outlined the basis for the operation.

According to the GIS, the operation was carried out based on credible intelligence regarding the illegal stay of some foreign nationals, with disturbing reports that several of them had been trafficked into the country.

The victims were allegedly coerced by their facilitators into engaging in cyber fraud activities.

“The Ghana Immigration Service in the early hours of today, July 24, 2025, conducted a special operation at McCarthy Hills in the Ga South Municipality. The operation was based on intelligence gathered on the illegal stay of some foreign nationals in the area, some of whom were trafficked into the country and forced into cyber fraud by their facilitators,” the statement read. “

Among those picked up was the landlord of the apartment where the alleged criminal activities were taking place. Authorities believe the property served as a base for the operations.

The Immigration Service assured the public that investigations are underway to establish the full scope of the activities and identify all individuals involved in the suspected trafficking and fraud network. It also noted that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

2025 E-Learning Week highlights responsible use of digital tools

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By Florence Afriyie Mensah

Kumasi, July 24, GNA – The E-Learning Center at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has opened a week-long awareness week with a call on users to leverage technology responsibly.

According to Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, KNUST Vice-Chancellor, the emphasis must always be on the responsible use of digital tools.

“You don’t try to solve problems by creating another, it is the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), immersive technologies we hammer on”.

Speaking at the opening of 2025 E-Learning Week at KNUST, she indicated that, the University had chosen to navigate the transformation with intentionality.

“We believe that improving educational technology does not only lie in improving efficiency, but advancing equity and ensuring that no one is left behind”, she indicated.

This year’s celebration is on the theme: “Transforming Education through Responsible Innovation and Inclusion in the Digital Era”.

The Awareness Week is expected to bring together innovators, educators, policymakers, researchers and industry partners, among others, to exchange ideas and share best practices.

The Vice-Chancellor mentioned that KNUST was utilizing the E-space in examinations, citing that during the first semester, over 50, 000 across the various colleges were able to take part of their examinations online.

She commended the Director of the E-Learning Center, Prof Eric Appau Asante, and team for their commitment to service and through the strategic infrastructure upgrades to ensure examinations were taken online.

Prof Dickson said training efforts of the E-Learning Center for both staff and students had demystified digital tools and built beneficiaries confidence.

Mr Emmanuel Ofori, Director in-charge of Innovation Directorate at the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, called for a Ghana where there was equity in the digital space.

“It was necessary we transformed education through responsible innovation and meaningful inclusion “so that every Ghanaian child, no matter where they are born, can learn, grow, and thrive in this digital era”.

The other area of innovation by the E-Learning Center was the virtual reality and podcast studios.

Prof Appau Asante, Director of the Center, advised that, while innovation had become the heartbeat of modern education, it must be driven with responsibility, inclusion and ethical intent.

“As we witness the rapid evolution of AI, immersive technologies, and big data shaping teaching and learning, our responsibility is to ensure that these tools become instruments, rather than barriers that deepen educational divides”, he observed.

The opening of the 2025 E-Learning Awareness Week was also used to officially commission the Drone Simulation and Innovation Center where individuals will receive intensive training in drone operation.

The Center is a donation from Mr Daniel Acquaye, CEO, Agri-Mpact Limited and also the KNUST E-Learning Center Ambassador.

GNA

Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Christian Akorlie

‘Your defamation suit against me will go nowhere!’

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Afia Schwarzenegger (L) says Sammy Gyamfi (R) legal suit against her would be thrown out of court Afia Schwarzenegger (L) says Sammy Gyamfi (R) legal suit against her would be thrown out of court

Ghanaian socialite, Valentina Nana Agyeiwaa, popularly known as Afia Schwarzenegger, has reacted to defamation suit filed against her by the CEO of Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), Sammy Gyamfi.

In a video shared on social media on July 23, 2025, Afia Schwarzenegger boldly noted that Sammy Gyamfi’s GH¢10 million defamation suit will yield no result.

Comparing the lawsuit to that of Ghanaian social commentator Kevin Taylor, Afia Schwarzenegger emphasised that the suit will be thrown out of court, just like Taylor’s.

“Have you seen how Kevin Taylor’s case went? That is the same way our case would go. Kevin Taylor has insulted Otumfour, Chief Imam, yet he walks free,” she said.

Afia Schwarzenegger called the bluff of the suit by Sammy Gyamfi, adding that she would not pay him for any dameges.

“Sammy Gyamfi, go to hell. Go and receive a defunct judgment. You have won the case. Moreover, I don’t have a pesewa in Ghana for you to take if you win the case. I don’t have any property in Ghana,” she added.

Background

On July 23, 2025, Sammy Gyamfi filed a lawsuit against Schwarzenegger, over statements by the latter, accusing him of infidelity, engaging in extra-marital affairs, and purchasing vehicles for female students at the University of Ghana.

Gyamfi, according to the suit, is requesting a restraining order on Schwarzenegger, preventing her from making any more statements about him; a public apology to be published on her social media handles and in a national newspaper; and damages to the tune of GH$10 million.

Watch the video below:

JHM/VPO

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2025 Mid-Year Budget Review: Economic performance of Mahama govt so far

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John Dramani Mahama was sworn into office as President on January 7, 2025 John Dramani Mahama was sworn into office as President on January 7, 2025

GhanaWeb Feature by Ishmael Batoma

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, in accordance with Article 179 of the 1992 Constitution and Section 21 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), will be presenting the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Policy Review at Parliament on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

In addition to announcing adjustments to the main 2025 Budget for the remainder of the year, the finance minister is expected to give an update on the country’s economic performance.

The finance minister and President John Dramani Mahama have gained plaudits from a faction of the public on the performance of the economy.

Some Ghanaians, mostly proponents of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), have, however, maintained that Ghanaians are worse off than they were during the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.

But who is right? Before Dr Ato Forson’s presentation, GhanaWeb’s data journalist, Ishmael Batoma, examines the economic performance of the nearly 8-month-old John Dramani Mahama administration.

This article assesses the performance of major economic variables, plus other key goods and services, by comparing them to what the current government inherited.

Inflation:

The John Dramani Mahama government inherited an inflation rate of approximately 24% – meaning the price of goods and services on average increased by 24%.

The inflation rate increased slightly to 28.30% in the first month of the Mahama administration but has dropped every month to 13.70% as at June 2025 – a more than 10 percentage point drop.

Over the same period, food inflation (the increase in the price of food items) dropped more drastically compared to non-food inflation (the increase in the price of rent, transport, among others).

While food inflation dropped from nearly 28% to over 16% (about 12 percentage points), non-food inflation dropped from a little over 20% to 11% (approximately 9 percentage points).

Depreciation of the cedi:

One of the main economic challenges that was observed during the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government was the depreciation of the country’s currency, the Ghana cedi.

After seeing some gains in the last months of the Akufo-Addo government, the cedi depreciated (lost value) in the first two months of the Mahama government against its major trading currencies, the United States dollar, the British pound and euro.

From February 2025 to the end of April 2025, the cedi stabilised against the major trading currencies, especially the dollar, before significantly appreciating (gaining value).

The Mahama government inherited an exchange rate of GH¢14.7 to the dollar ($1 was selling for GH¢14.7).

As of June 2025, the rate was GH¢10.31 to the dollar – a more than 48% drop.

A pound was selling at GH¢18.69 as of the end of December 2024. From then, it dropped by about 32% to sell at GH¢14 at the end of June 2025.

The euro also saw a similar drop in value against the cedi, depreciating from about GH¢15 to the euro to about GH¢12.

Interest rate:

The Mahama government inherited an interbank weighted interest rate of about 27% from the Akufo-Addo administration.

The rate as at May 2025 is still 27%, meaning there has not been any drop in the cost of borrowing.

The monetary policy rate of 27% inherited by the Mahama government has increased to 28%.

This implies that businesses still have to borrow at a high interest rate in the first seven months of the Mahama government.

Electricity and water tariffs:

Electricity and water tariffs have increased two times already under the John Dramani Mahama government.

In May, electricity tariffs increased by nearly 15% while water tariffs increased by over 4%.

Again, in June 2025, electricity tariffs were increased by over 2% while water tariffs saw no increase.

Price of fuel:

The continuous increase in the price of fuel products was also one of the main challenges in the Akufo-Addo administration.

Petrol was selling at GH¢14.5 per litre and diesel at GH¢14.6 per litre as at the end of December 2024.

As at the end of June 2025, a litre of petrol was selling at GH¢11.77, a more than 23% drop from the price in December 2024.

The price of diesel also dropped by approximately 17%, from GH¢14.6 per litre at the end of December 2024 to GH¢12.5 per litre at the end of June 2025.

Stratcon Energy sues IMANI’s Bright Simons for GH¢22m over defamation claims

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Bright Simons has been sued by Stratcon Energy for defamation claims Bright Simons has been sued by Stratcon Energy for defamation claims

Stratcon Energy and Trading Ltd, a leading bulk oil distribution and trading company, together with its Chief Executive Officer, Harry Campbell, have filed a defamation suit against Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, at the Accra High Court.

The plaintiffs are seeking GH¢22 million in general damages for what they describe as “false, malicious, reckless and defamatory publications” by Bright Simons.

They argue that the statements in question were intended to damage their professional reputation and expose them to public ridicule and contempt.

The legal action, filed on Tuesday, July 23, 2025, also requests the court to issue a perpetual injunction to prevent Simons from making or facilitating further defamatory statements against Stratcon and its CEO.

Additionally, the plaintiffs are demanding a full retraction and an unqualified public apology to be published on the same platform where the alleged defamatory statements were made, with equal prominence.

According to court documents sighted by GhanaWeb Business, the suit revolves around a series of posts made by Simons on his verified X page.

The plaintiffs contend that the posts contain defamatory remarks that question Campbell’s qualifications and credibility and suggest undue political influence in the awarding of emergency fuel supply contracts.

One excerpt cited in the writ reads; “There have been reports that Harry Campbell of Stratcon was somehow ‘imposed’ on the emergency fuel supply system. I recall that when Harry Campbell tried to break into Liberia, analysts there quickly established that he was exaggerating his standing in Ghana. The question is: how did he come into the equation in the first place?”

In the same thread, dated January 8, 2025, Simons raised concerns about the management of fuel reserves and alleged political interference in emergency energy supply arrangements.

The plaintiffs argue that these statements falsely imply unethical conduct and have harmed their personal and corporate reputations.

They further maintain that Simons’ remarks have negatively impacted Stratcon’s business prospects and relationships, citing public and media reactions to the posts, including quote tweets, comments, and citations.

Stratcon and Campbell are urging the court to take into account the widespread dissemination and potential damage caused by the posts, and to compel Simons to publicly retract the allegations.

SP/AE

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

Former GOC boss Ben Nunoo Mensah gets government appointment at TOR

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Ben Nunoo Mensah (extreme right) is a former President of Ghana Olympic Committee Ben Nunoo Mensah (extreme right) is a former President of Ghana Olympic Committee

Former President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Ben Nunoo Mensah, known for his hands-on leadership and reform-driven mindset, has been appointed to the newly reconstituted Board of Directors for the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).

His appointment, announced during an official inauguration ceremony led by the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, underscores the government’s confidence in Nunoo Mensah’s ability to contribute to the transformation of a key national asset.

Acting on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Jinapor charged the new board with the urgent task of restoring TOR’s operations and positioning it once again as a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy infrastructure.

“Your foremost duty is to get TOR back on stream. You must implement bold and strategic actions to return the refinery to profitability. TOR is not just another company; it is a vital national asset,” he told the board.

Speaking on behalf of the newly constituted board, Chairman Nayon Bilijo thanked President Mahama for the trust placed in them and assured the public of the board’s commitment to delivering results.

“We are honoured by this appointment and understand the enormity of the task ahead. We will work with urgency and dedication to revive TOR and make it a viable and efficient institution once more,” he said.

Though better known for his contributions to Ghana’s sporting excellence, Ben Nunoo Mensah brings to TOR a wealth of leadership experience and a reputation for turning around struggling institutions.

His tenure at the GOC was marked by transparency, innovation, and a deep commitment to national pride, qualities that will be crucial in tackling TOR’s operational and financial challenges.

As TOR seeks to regain its footing, the board is expected to develop and present a robust roadmap that addresses both immediate and long-term issues, ensuring the refinery contributes meaningfully to Ghana’s energy security.

See members of the new TOR Board below:

Nayon Bilijo – Chairperson

Edmond Kombat – Acting Managing Director

Thomas Martey Laari – Member

Robert Kempes Ofosuhene – Member

Dr Sebastian N. Sandaare – Member

Mugabe Saifu Maase – Member

Mohammed Issah Bataglia – Member

Osabarima Kyei Osafo Kantanka – Member

Ben Nunoo Mensah – Member

SB/VPO

Meanwhile, watch as football fans question FIFA’s move to scrap penalty rebound rule

Otumfuo Foundation, Newmont commission AI Youth Centre at Toase

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The Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation, in partnership with Newmont Ghana, has commissioned the state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI) youth centre at Toase in the Atwima Nwabiagya South of the Ashanti Region to equip the youth in innovative skills development.

The AI centre is equipped with modern tablets, projectors, smart charging units, robots and electronic kits, among others, which will provide learners with ideas of Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM).

The intervention is aimed at transforming education and empowering students within Toase and Nkawie to produce young entrepreneurs and inventors.

The Toase AI youth center forms part of the six AI Youth centers by Newmont Ghana in collaboration with Otumfuo Osei II Foundation with an estimated amount of One Million, Seven Hundred and Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 1,710,000.00) which underscores the company’s dedication to transforming lives by unearthing creativity, potential, and capacity of smart but less endowed youth in local communities.

This was signed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2023 by the two entities to partner in the implementation of education-focused interventions for students in under-resourced communities over a three-year period.

So far, three out of the six centres have been established, including Wioso, Kona and Toase, all in the Ashanti region.

The Toase centre, which includes areas like Nkawie, Abuakwa, among others, will comprise basic and Senior High Schools.

In an interview with the paramount chief of Esumeja and Vice Board Chair of the Otumfuo Osei II Foundation, Nana Okyere Kusi Ntrama, said this initiative is part of the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s vision of making sure that education reaches every person in Ghana.

He thus called on the government to consider proper research and engage people in order to ensure the policy of STEM education reaches everyone.

“I believe that every policy that the government is doing, especially with getting the STEM education on track, is to make sure the relevant people are consulted and also to be able to bring people together, whether private or public,” he added.

He further called on Toasehene and teachers to make sure that students who use the facility take good care of it.

Nana Okyere Kusi Ntrama also advised students to make good use of the facility.

“This is their time and opportunity; anytime they should use this facility, they should take good care of it and exploit as much as they can in the area of technology.

Director of Communications and External Relations for Newmont’s Business Unit in Africa, David Johnson, says education is a focus area of the company, which aligns with what the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Foundation is doing.

“There is an alignment of interest if you look at the focus areas for the Otumfuo Foundation, one of the key focus areas is education and for Newmont as well. So there is an alignment in terms of the areas of focus, and then we look at specific areas where we want to get into under education, and we identify technology because essentially that is where the world is going,” he stated.

He further added that this will create an equal opportunity for under-resourced communities to also catch up quicker.”

“Just like this cohort started last year at Wioso, and they were able to compete at the national level and became fifth. That tells you that once they have the right equipment and guidance, they will be able to do much the same as their colleagues in the big cities.”

Furthermore, the Municipal Director of Education, Nana Pokua Boako, urged students to grab this opportunity and learn. She believes that the world is now a global village where the time of using the brain to do everything has come to pass.

She again called on the government to consider creating more AI centres in the Municipality. She believes that this project by the Otumfuo Foundation will help them, but they also need more.

“Our Municipal has six circuits, and this one will serve two circuits because of proximity. So it will serve Toase and Nkawie circuit, and we will plead with other stakeholders and the government to come to our aid.”

The facility was designed and will be managed by Coral Reef Innovation Hub.

 

Mid-Year Budget: Peasant Farmers want 50% of ‘Big Push’ funds for Agric

Stay Clear of Angela List Amid Rising Allegations of ‘Fraud’ & Abuse

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Angela List
Angela List

A strong wave of caution is being sounded from within Ghana’s business community, urging prominent businessman Ibrahim Mahama to steer clear of embattled Adamus Resources CEO, Angela List, whose recent actions and associations have sparked serious legal and ethical concerns.
According to credible sources familiar with the unfolding situation, Angela List is reportedly making strategic overtures to draw closer to Ibrahim Mahama, with the aim of leveraging his influence and credibility for personal protection and business relevance amid mounting scrutiny.
However, several business leaders and insiders are warning that such proximity could backfire disastrously for the respected industrialist.
The caution stems from a deepening scandal involving Ms. List, who is already embroiled in multiple controversies within the mining and corporate space.
Most recently, she has been accused by businessman Michael Benziecie of orchestrating a $100,000 fraud under the pretext of granting access to a mining concession near the operations of Adamus Resources.
Benziecie alleges that after meeting List through the Minerals Commission CEO, he was misled into a sham deal that eventually saw the same land awarded to another group through a separate, shady transaction.
Beyond this, Ms. List is also facing a rapidly unfolding scandal involving corruption, manipulation, and mismanagement spanning Liberia, Ghana, and beyond.
A detailed investigation by Global Times reveals a damning picture of a once-powerful businesswoman whose empire is collapsing under the weight of controversy.
Known for her strategic connections and strong influence across governments and industries, Angela List’s reputation is now tarnished, with her former allies distancing themselves as multiple scandals come to light.
The collapse of her two-decade marriage to Paul List, an Australian mining magnate, marked the beginning of a dramatic unraveling.
Her alleged toxic alliances with corrupt officials and her pattern of undermining economic reforms have reportedly caused severe setbacks in both Liberia and Ghana..
Regional and International Scrutiny Intensifies
As the ripple effects of Angela List’s alleged misconduct spread beyond Ghana and Liberia, international watchdogs and development partners are reportedly taking notice. Organizations focused on transparency and good governance, including Transparency International and the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), are said to be monitoring the developments closely.
There is concern that List’s involvement in extractive industries—where transparency is crucial—may have compromised due diligence processes and exposed state institutions to manipulation. Diplomats and economic observers in Accra and Monrovia suggest that international partners could reconsider cooperation or funding in sectors where she had substantial influence, particularly in mining.
An anonymous source within an international NGO stated, “Her name has come up far too often in contexts involving stalled contracts, unfulfilled obligations, and sudden political interference. It’s damaging not just to Ghana and Liberia, but to the entire region’s credibility.”
Internal Investigations and Whistleblower Claims
Reports suggest that internal investigations are being conducted within agencies and ministries that previously worked with List’s companies. Several whistleblowers are believed to be cooperating with authorities, shedding light on how contracts were awarded, payments processed, and oversight evaded.
Some of the claims involve high-level officials who allegedly turned a blind eye to contract breaches and regulatory violations in exchange for undisclosed favors. If substantiated, these revelations could trigger a new wave of political and legal consequences.
Calls for Asset Freezing and Prosecution
Amid growing public anger, civil society coalitions in both Ghana and Liberia are demanding concrete action: the freezing of Angela List’s assets, prosecution for financial crimes, and a ban on future government contracts.
One prominent activist, speaking at a recent press conference in Accra, said, “We cannot keep letting powerful individuals walk away from damage they cause. Angela List’s legacy is one of broken systems and betrayed trust. The government must show that no one is above the law.”
Uncertain Future for Angela List
For Angela List, the future remains uncertain. Once regarded as a powerhouse in West Africa’s mining sector and a symbol of private sector leadership, she now faces the prospect of legal battles, reputational ruin, and permanent exclusion from political and business influence.
As multiple investigations unfold and former allies speak out, the businesswoman’s downfall may serve as a cautionary tale in the ongoing fight against corruption and elite impunity across the continent.
Whether this moment becomes a turning point for transparency and accountability in West Africa remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: Angela List’s empire, once untouchable, is now teetering on the edge of collapse.
In light of these controversies, respected voices within the private sector are urging Ibrahim Mahama not to associate his name or brand with Ms. List. Some warn that her pattern of behavior and questionable business dealings could ultimately bring reputational harm to anyone closely aligned with her.
“She’s actively seeking proximity to influential individuals like Mr. Mahama, not for collaboration, but for cover,” one senior business executive remarked. “If he opens the door to her, she will bring scandal and disgrace.”
Others are calling on Mr. Ibrahim Mahama to cancel any potential plans for business partnerships or investments involving Angela List, emphasizing that while she may appear resourceful, her track record reveals a troubling pattern of manipulation, legal impropriety, and disregard for lawful business conduct.
As regulatory bodies like the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) begin investigations into the mounting allegations, the broader business community continues to watch closely, warning that Ghana’s corporate reputation is on the line.
With public interest growing and the scandal showing no signs of slowing down, Ibrahim Mahama is being urged to exercise discernment, and extreme caution.

Isak not in Newcastle’s pre-season Asia tour squad

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Alexander Isak has not been named in Newcastle’s squad for their pre-season tour of Asia.

On Saturday, Magpies boss Eddie Howe said the striker would “absolutely” be part of the squad for their games in Singapore and South Korea.

Newcastle have selected a 30-man group for the trip but said Isak “misses out with a minor thigh injury”.

The Sweden international, who scored 27 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions last season, has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool this summer.

The 25-year-old was also left out of Saturday’s 4-0 defeat at Celtic as Newcastle began their pre-season fixtures.

Earlier this week, Liverpool signed Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike for an initial £69m, a player for whom Newcastle had unsuccessfully bid £70m.

Newcastle, at least publicly, have maintained that Isak is not for sale and Howe said at the weekend he remains “confident” the player will still be at the club at the start of the season.

“I think it’s difficult for me to give 100% clarity on any player,” Howe said after their defeat by Celtic.

“Alex is happy at Newcastle. He loves the players he plays with, the staff, the team and I’ve never had any issue with him.”

BBC senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel reported last week that Liverpool’s pursuit of Isak “suggests they have had some private encouragement” and their interest in the Swede is likely to remain.

Meanwhile, defender Lewis Hall has not featured since February with a foot injury but has been included in the Newcastle tour squad as he steps up his recovery before the new season.

Newcastle face Arsenal on Sunday 27 July in Singapore before travelling to South Korea to take on a K-League All-Star team on 30 July and Tottenham on 3 August.

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.

Archipalago Angrily Blasts LUV FM Over “Legit Artiste” Post

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Ghanaian social media personality and musician Archipalago Mufasa has expressed strong anger towards LUV FM, following a viral post made by the station on their social media platforms.

As part of their popular online series “You Say Wetin?”, LUV FM posted a graphic asking fans, “Who should be recognised as a legit artist?” The poll featured four personalities: Ghana Pop Smoke, Archipalago Mufasa, Ablekuma, Nana Lace, and Handsome So Nice

While the post was likely meant to be humorous or to spark light-hearted debate, it didn’t sit well with Archipalago. He quickly took to social media to fire back at the station, calling the post disrespectful and insulting to his music career.

Do you think the work I’m doing is a joke? I’m not playing around—I’m putting in real effort like your top artistes. Do you know how much money I’ve spent on my music? Don’t disrespect me!” he ranted in frustration.

Archipalago was offended by the comparison, suggesting that the others featured in the poll were not serious musicians, and therefore it was wrong to place him in the same category.

His reaction drew mixed responses from the public. Some supported him, saying he had every right to be upset. Others felt the post was harmless and that Archipalago might have overreacted.

As of now, LUV FM has not issued any official response to the backlash.

Whether it was meant as a joke or not, this situation has reignited conversations about how media platforms treat entertainers—especially those still climbing the ladder. For Archipalago, one thing is clear: he believes he deserves respect for his hustle.

NPP is eager to win the 2028 General Elections –Osei Adjei

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A former Minister for Foreign Affairs under the Kufuor regime, Mr. Akwasi Osei Adjei, has expressed his contentment over the proceedings of the New Patriotic Party (NPP’s) National Delegates Conference held over the weekend, rating the conference 8/10.

According to him, the just ended National Delegates Conference, held at the University of Ghana stadium, which facilitated over 50 amendments in the party’s Constitution brought back the “NPP-spirit”, as well as the “eagerness” to win the 2028 General election.

Look of the Week: Charli XCX is the anti-bride

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Editor’s Note: Featuring the good, the bad and the ugly, ‘Look of the Week’ is a regular series dedicated to unpacking the most talked about outfit of the last seven days.

CNN —

While evolving bridal fashion trends have made suits, bright colors and shorter hemlines more common, the image of a demure, virgin-like woman in princess gown is still ubiquitous in western culture.

Mustapha Hamid, 6 Others Get GH¢14m Bail

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Dr. Mustapha Abdul Hamid

 

“My Lady, I am not guilty,” was the only thing former Chief Executive of National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid constantly said as the court clerk read out the charges levelled against him and nine others by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in the ongoing alleged GH¢280 million extortion scheme trial.

Just like him, Jacob Kwamina Amuah, Wendy Newman, Albert Ankrah, Isaac Mensah, Bright Bediako-Mensah and Kwaku Aboagye Acquaah all pleaded not guilty to the 25 counts of conspiracy, extortion and money laundering levelled against them.

Their lawyers prayed the court to grant them bail pending the trial, indicating that they were already on OSP enquiry bail which they have all respected.

Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng did not oppose the application, but urged the court to impose conditions that will compel the accused persons to appear for the trial. He singled out Dr. Abdul-Hamid and Jacob Kwamina Amuah, indicating that they are flight risk.

Paul Bariga, counsel for the former NPA boss, refuted this claim and argued that nothing had been put before the court to suggest that the accused person contemplated leaving the jurisdiction since he was granted bail by the OSP.

The court, presided over by Justice Mary Yanzuh, after listening to both sides, granted Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Jacob Kwamina Amuah, and Wendy Newman a bail of GH¢2 million each with two sureties each to be justified.

One surety must be a public servant earning a net salary of GH¢5,000 a month and must provide landed property in Accra.

Albert Ankrah, Isaac Mensah, Bright Bediako-Mensah, and Kwaku Aboagye Acquaah were granted a bail of GH¢2 million each with two sureties, one of whom must be justified with a landed property.

One surety must be a public officer earning not less than GH¢2,000 and must submit a valid ID card to the court’s registry.

In addition, all the accused persons are to deposit their passport at the court’s registry and must report to the OSP once every two weeks.

However, as of 6pm yesterday, only Dr. Abdul-Hamid had met his bail conditions, hence the other six were detained by the OSP.

Disclosures

Meanwhile, the court has directed the OSP to file its disclosures in one month and follow it up with witness statements of its witnesses.

The accused persons, on the other hand, are to file the names and addresses of all persons they will call to testify for them in case a prima facie has been made against them at the close of the prosecution’s case.

Justice Yanzuh added that if the accused persons intend to file an alibi, they should do so at the registry of the court. The case was adjourned to August 26.

Charges

Dr. Abdul-Hamid and six other individuals and three (3) companies have been charged by the OSP for their various alleged roles in an extortion scheme that resulted in them amassing an excess of GH¢280 million for themselves.

The three companies caught in the OSP’s alleged corruption and extortion web are Propnest Limited, Kel Logistics Limited and Kings Energy Limited.

Court documents indicate that between 2022 and December 2024, Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Jacob Kwamina Amuah and Wendy Newman, acting under the colour of their official duties, allegedly orchestrated and operated a criminal extortion scheme through which they unlawfully collected GH¢280,516,127.19 from petroleum transporters and oil marketing companies.

The OSP says the scheme, initiated by Abdul-Hamid who sold the idea of the criminal enterprise to Amuah, who also recruited Newman as the primary conduit for receiving the proceeds of the alleged crime.

From the proceeds, Amuah is alleged to have handed GH¢24 million directly to Abdul-Hamid between January and December 2024.

BY Gibril Abdul Razak

Ashanti Kusasi Chief Shot Dead, Top Investigators Hunt For Culprits

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The late Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe

 

TOP CRIME scene investigators at the police headquarters in Accra have been temporarily moved to Kumasi to hunt for the killers of the Kusasi Chief in Ashanti Region, Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe, who met his untimely death in front of his house on Tuesday evening.

The top police officers have made the important trip to the Ashanti Regional capital following an order by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who is eager to get the killers nabbed in the coming days.

The Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, announced the police administration’s decision to move the top crime scene investigators to Kumasi whilst addressing the bereaved family yesterday.

Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe was reportedly shot three times in the left side of his stomach at close range by unknown gunmen on Tuesday evening. The perpetrators have since gone into hiding to escape arrest.

The late chief was standing in front of his house at Asawase F-line near the Community Centre at 8:35pm when the tragic incident happened. Eyewitnesses in Asawase are suspecting contract killing.

DCOP Teye-Cudjoe, announced that the police are doing everything possible to hunt for the killers to face the law, saying, “We have started investigations, and surely we will arrest all the suspects.”

The Ashanti Regional Police Commander also indicated that the police have done all the necessary paper works and other protocols for the release of the lifeless body to the bereaved family for burial.

The police also assured residents of Asawase that they are in full control of security in the area, urging the public to assist with information to arrest the killers.

FROM I.F. Joe Awuah, Kumasi

Singer Sean Kingston’s mother sentenced to 5 years in prison in $1 million fraud case

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Singer Sean Kingston

Janice Turner, the mother of singer Sean Kingston, has been sentenced to five years in prison after she and her son were convicted in a $1 million fraud case. 

Back in  March, a jury found Janice Turner, 63, and Sean Kingston, 35, guilty of five wire fraud-related offenses, court records show. They were indicted in July 2024, weeks after authorities raided Kingston’s rented seven-bedroom, 7,966 sq ft. home in Southwest Ranches

Kingston and Turner, according to the indictment, orchestrated a lucrative wire fraud scheme from April 2023 to March 2024. They falsely represented that they made legitimate wire transfers for vehicles, jewelry, and other goods.

But the businesses never received payment.

Among their alleged fraudulent transactions included: $480,000 for two watches, $285,000 for another watch, and $159,702.78 for a car, totaling more than $1 million in goods.

Turner was facing up to two decades in federal prison. Her attorneys urged U.S. District Court Judge David S. Leibowitz sentence Turner to two-and-a-half years because of her charity work, “myriad of health issues, and minimal criminal history.”

At the sentencing, Leibowitz reportedly described Turner as the “nerve center” of the fraud scheme, according to Local 10.

In a document filed days before the sentencing, Turner’s attorneys acknowledged that she will be deported to Jamaica due to her conviction.

In 2006, Turner pleaded guilty to bank fraud and served more than a year in federal prison.

“Ms. Turner will go to prison; she has earned the prison sentence,” the filing said. “However, a sentence greater than thirty months is a waste of taxpayer resources based upon the history and characteristics of Ms. Turner.”

Kingston, whose real name is Kisean Anderson, will be sentenced on Aug. 28

Kingston, a South Florida native, is best known for hit songs “Beautiful Girls,” “Fire Burning” and “Eenie Meenie,” with Justin Bieber. During the late 2000s, he became a best-selling reggae artist, with several Billboard Top 10 singles.
 

Lands minister rejects call for state of emergency over galamsey

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Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah is the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah is the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has rejected growing calls for a state of emergency to be declared over the escalating menace of illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on July 23, 2025, he acknowledged the severe impact of galamsey on the environment, water bodies, and the health of communities in affected areas.

However, he maintained that the government is focused on delivering practical and lasting solutions through a national emergency response framework, rather than formally invoking emergency powers.

“There is no doubt that illegal mining is a serious threat, but our strategy is to implement a national emergency response that is grounded in practical reforms and community involvement,” Buah stated.

His comments come amid renewed public pressure for decisive action against galamsey with several civil society groups, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens demanding stronger enforcement measures.

Some have called for the deployment of security forces and the closure of heavily impacted mining sites.

Buah, however, assured the public that the government remains committed to fulfilling its campaign promise to eradicate illegal mining.

He also disclosed that a major overhaul of the mining licensing regime is underway to make it more transparent and efficient, a move expected to encourage illegal miners to regularise their operations.

The minister also underscored the importance of community-based efforts in tackling the problem.

He highlighted several ongoing government initiatives including nationwide public sensitisation, stakeholder engagement, and the ‘Tree for Life’ project which aims to restore degraded forest lands.

“These reforms and initiatives form part of a long-term strategy to deal with illegal mining in a sustainable and inclusive manner,” he indicated.

The government’s renewed approach, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah added, reflects its commitment to protecting natural resources while promoting responsible mining practices.

MRA/AE

Meanwhile, watch as KOD cites diaspora investment as the key to Africa’s rise:

High Court to deliver ruling on AG’s motion against Torkornoo’s application on rights violation

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Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine (L) and Justice Gertrude Torkornoo (R) Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine (L) and Justice Gertrude Torkornoo (R)

Suspended Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Sackey Esaaba Torkornoo is set to know her fate on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 9am when the Human Rights Division of the Accra High Court delivers its verdict on a motion filed by the Attorney General.

The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, is urging the High Court to dismiss an application for judicial review brought before it by Justice Torkornoo.

During court proceedings on July 23, 2025, the court directed both legal teams to file their written legal submissions in support of the motion to strike out the Chief Justice’s application by close of day on Monday, July 28, 2025.

Additionally, the court ordered that the Applicant/Respondent (Chief Justice) file her written submissions in opposition by Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

Also, all parties are expected to address the court on eight specific legal issues including whether the application duplicate matters already decided or pending before the Supreme Court, the authority of the deponent to the motion, and whether the High Court has jurisdiction to entertain exhibits from the Article 146 impeachment committee proceedings.

Both parties—the Attorney General, represented by his deputy, Justice Srem Sai, and Justice Torkornoo’s counsel, Kwabena Adu-Kusi and Solomon Aubin—are also required to file soft copies of their written submissions by midnight on the respective filing days.

Background

In court documents filed by Deputy Attorney General Dr Justice Srem Sai, the state argued that the issues raised by Justice Torkornoo have either already been resolved or are currently under consideration by the Supreme Court.

Justice Torkornoo has approached both the Supreme Court and now the High Court, seeking to halt her removal process following the determination of a prima facie case against her by President John Dramani Mahama.

She claims her constitutional rights have been violated, arguing that she was not adequately informed of the basis on which the President and the Council of State made a prima facie determination regarding the petitions against her.

Justice Torkornoo also alleges that she has been subjected to invasive searches when appearing before the committee and has questioned the neutrality of Justice Gabriel Scott Pwamang, who is participating in the proceedings despite being involved in a related case.

Consequently, the Attorney General has outlined several related cases that have either been determined by the Supreme Court or remain pending before it.

These include Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo v The Attorney-General & 5 Others (J8/113/2025), Centre for Citizenship Constitutional Electoral Systems LBG (CenCes) v The Attorney-General & 2 Others (J1/20/2025), and Vincent Ekow Assafuah v The Attorney-General (J1/18/2025).

According to Dr Ayine, these ongoing or concluded matters render the current High Court application improper.

“The issues forming the basis of the originating motion have either been adjudicated by the Supreme Court or are pending before it. This Honourable Court is therefore urged to strike out the Chief Justice’s application for judicial review,” he said.

Justice Torkornoo was suspended by President John Dramani Mahama after the President, in consultation with the Council of State, found a prima facie case against her based on three petitions for her removal.

MAG/VPO

Meanwhile, watch what Jane Reindorf Osei says about Ghana’s readiness for tourism investment:

‘I paid people to insult me just to be popular’

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Akuapem Poloo is an actress and socialite Akuapem Poloo is an actress and socialite

Actress and socialite, Rosemond Brown, often referred to as Akuapem Poloo, has disclosed that in the early days of her career, she used to pay people to insult her on social media just to get attention.

In an interview on Joy Prime TV on July 23, 2025, Poloo explained that when she first ventured into the showbiz scene, there was very little media interest in her.

According to her, nobody was talking about her or inviting her for interviews, so she decided to take matters into her own hands and create a buzz around herself.

Poloo said that after she managed to create a buzz around herself, her popularity grew, and she started receiving attention from the media and offers from musicians.

She stated that musicians then started to pay her to twerk to their songs on social media, and that helped her financially.

She mentioned Ghanaian musician Fameye as one of the artistes who paid her GH¢5,000 to twerk in social media videos to promote his song.

“At first when I started, I was paying for people to insult me for about a year. I’ve been in the game and no one calls me and I was not getting anything but after that people were calling me for interviews, skin care deals. Stars would call me to dance or twerk on their songs and they would pay me. Even Fameye was giving me GH¢5000 to twerk on his song,” she said.

Speaking about her early acting days, Akuapem Poloo said the money was very little.

She recalled being paid as low as GH¢20 for roles, except for her work with GBC’s Obra series where she was treated better, thanks to veteran actress Maame Dokono.

“As for the acting, GH¢20, with GBC they were giving me something better because of legendary Maame Dokono, so she was taking good care of us but with the others it was GH¢20,” she said.

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

AK/VPO

Minister of Finance to deliver 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review today

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Finance minister to present 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review on July 24 Finance minister to present 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review on July 24

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, is expected to present the 2025 Mid-Year Budget Review to Parliament today, Thursday, July 24, 2025.

The presentation comes amid heightened public and political interest with many watching to see whether the government will maintain its original expenditure framework or request a supplementary budget in response to fiscal pressures and global economic developments.

The country’s Financial Administration Act mandates this review and aligns with Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which requires the Finance Minister to update Parliament on the execution of the national budget and outline the fiscal strategy for the remaining half of the year.

Dr Forson’s presentation also comes at a time when Ghana’s macroeconomic indicators have shown notable improvement, raising expectations for a budget policy that promotes fiscal discipline, boosts investor confidence, and ensures long-term price stability.

He is expected to address the country’s economic performance, debt obligations, revenue mobilisation measures, among others.

The budget presentation will be streamed live on www.ghanaweb.com and also on GhanaWeb TV on YouTube at 10 am.

SSD/AME

Watch the latest episode of BizTech below:

Real Madrid preparing £100 million bid to sign Rodri from Manchester City

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Rodri is the winner of the 2024/2025 Ballon d'Or Rodri is the winner of the 2024/2025 Ballon d’Or

Spanish giants Real Madrid are plotting to submit a bid worth €100 million to sign Manchester City midfielder Rodri during the summer 2025 transfer window.

According to British media outlet The Sun, Los Blancos manager Xabi Alonso considers the reigning Ballon d’Or winner the ideal midfield profile.

The record UEFA Champions League winners are said to be looking for a player who can control the midfield and dictate the pace of the game, as they continue to struggle.

However, Manchester City are reportedly not considering letting the Spanish midfielder depart the club, having suffered massively in the 2024/2025 season.

City manager Pep Guardiola is also unwilling to approve the sale, should the club agree on a transfer fee with Real Madrid.

Rodri’s Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury, which ruled him out for the entire season, led to the club struggling throughout.

Despite the player reaffirming his commitment to the club after recovering from the injury, it remains to be seen if the deal will get done.

SB/VPO

Meanwhile, watch as football fans question FIFA’s move to scrap penalty rebound rule

NPP Slams NDC Over Galamsey Surge

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Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong

 

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament have launched a blistering attack on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, accusing it of deep complicity and hypocrisy in the worsening illegal mining (galamsey) crisis, which they now describe as a full-blown national emergency.

In a statement released yesterday, the Ranking Member of the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, said the NDC government had failed woefully in tackling galamsey, despite making lofty campaign promises to end the menace once in office.

According to the Minority, barely six months into the NDC administration, illegal mining activities have not only escalated but are being actively shielded by elements within the ruling party.

“Ghana is bleeding from the effects of a clueless, hypocritical and deceptive government,” the statement said, lamenting that the very people who lambasted the Akufo-Addo administration over galamsey have now turned a blind eye to even greater environmental destruction.

The Minority alleged that some of the worst galamsey activities are taking place in President Mahama’s hometown of Bole-Bamboi, particularly in Tumtumba, where illegal miners have destroyed the Yonkamba stream, a tributary of the Black Volta.

“If the President cannot safeguard the natural resources of his own backyard, what hope is there for the rest of the country?” the statement queried.

Misusing Funds and Equipment

The statement noted that there had been disparity in government commitment, pointing out that the 2025 budget allocated GH¢50 million to fight illegal mining – five times more than the previous year’s GH¢10 million allocation under the NPP. Yet, there has been little evidence of tangible action.

The Minority further accused some Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) of diverting equipment meant for development projects to support galamsey operations.

Citing the case of Suaman, the statement alleged that the local DCE is directly supervising the use of DRIP (District Road Improvement Project) machines for illegal mining. “This is not just a betrayal of the intended purpose of these resources—it is a disgraceful abuse of public trust,” it stressed.

The statement also referenced reports of seized excavators mysteriously disappearing, describing the situation as “a web of collusion” enabled by political cover-ups.

UTAG and TUC Join the Outcry

The Minority drew attention to growing public outrage and institutional discontent, referencing statements from both the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG). On May Day, the statement said the TUC publicly criticised the government’s “half-hearted” approach to fighting illegal mining, a move that reportedly attracted backlash from NDC loyalists.

UTAG, meanwhile, has issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding decisive action or risk strike action. Their demands include a public denouncement of galamsey, declaration of a state of emergency, repeal of L.I. 2462, prosecution of complicit officials, and impartial enforcement of environmental laws.

According to the Minority, the response from government operatives to such calls has been one of vilification, rather than introspection. “The stakes are too high for silence or games. This is no longer a political debate; it is a moral emergency,” the statement emphasised.

Media and Civil Society Silenced

The Minority also expressed concern over what it described as a “renewed culture of silence” among media houses and civil society organisations (CSOs). It accused the government of pressuring journalists and editors to suppress reports exposing environmental degradation and official complicity.

“Once vocal advocates have gone conspicuously quiet,” the statement said, adding that CSOs now behave like “a second chamber of the Presidency.” It singled out the government’s alleged attempts to silence investigative journalist Erastus Asare Donkor, who has exposed illegal mining operations in forest reserves such as Tano Anwia and Jimira.

Health and Environmental Crisis

Beyond the environmental toll, the Minority cited rising health concerns, particularly in galamsey-affected regions. It claimed that neurologists are reporting increased gallbladder-related conditions linked to polluted water and toxic waste from mining sites.

“The silence and inaction of the government in the face of such clear and present danger is nothing short of criminal,” the statement warned.

Accountability

The Minority demanded an end to what it termed “empty rhetoric, feigned concern, and calculated hypocrisy” by the government. “If the TUC is wrong, show us the results. If UTAG is exaggerating, take us to the rivers and prove them wrong. But if they are not, then it is time to listen – not insult. It is time to act,” the statement said.

Insisting that galamsey is not merely an environmental issue but a governance test, the Minority declared the NDC government’s failure as both embarrassing and dangerous.

“The Ghanaian people deserve better than press releases and photo ops. They deserve clean water, preserved forests, good health and effective leadership. And if the NDC cannot deliver that, then they have no business being in power,” the statement concluded.

By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliament House

PNP launches GHC2m fundraising drive to revive party operations

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The People’s National Party (PNP) has announced the launch of a national fundraising campaign aimed at raising GHC2 million to support its operational needs, including the payment of rent for its regional and district offices across the country.

The decision was adopted at the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Sunday, July 21, 2025, and forms part of broader efforts to reposition the party as a credible alternative to Ghana’s dominant political forces.

According to a statement signed by Sulemana Seidu, General Secretary of the party, the campaign will help settle outstanding rent on the party’s 174 district offices and 16 regional offices, which are not only critical to grassroots mobilisation but are also a requirement under Electoral Commission (EC) regulations to ensure compliance with national political party laws.

Beyond rent obligations, the funds will also be used to procure a reliable vehicle for national constituency tours and support other key logistical and operational needs vital to strengthening the party’s presence nationwide.

To crown the campaign, the party will host a Grand Fundraising Dinner on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the Best Western Hotel in Accra.

“The PNP remains committed to reviving Ghana’s multiparty democracy and breaking the cycle of two-party domination,” the statement read.

“We are building a stronger, law-abiding, and people-centric alternative. We call on all patriots, comrades, and well-meaning Ghanaians to support this noble cause.”

The PNP has framed the campaign as part of its broader mission to restore credibility, hope, and true democratic representation to Ghana’s political system.

The party is inviting voluntary contributions, sponsorships, and participation in organised fundraising activities as it seeks to meet its GHC2 million target.

Embrace AI – AT CEO tells students at TEDxUCC

More structures demolished at Ramsar site

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Demolition of unauthorised structures at the Ramsar Buffer Zone in Tema continued last Tuesday with five uncompleted buildings being pulled down.

The exercise is part of the government’s efforts to reclaim encroached wetlands and reduce perennial flooding in the region.

The demolition was done by a joint team from the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).

The renewed operation followed a similar exercise two months ago at Sakumono, where several unauthorised structures on the Ramsar site were demolished. This development sparked public reaction and called for more humane engagement with affected residents.

Justification

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, stated that the exercise was part of a broader government strategy to reduce flooding and enforce environmental regulations.

“This is a flagship programme. It is for the good of Ghana. We are overlooking individual interests and focusing on the welfare of most citizens,” she said.

The minister dismissed claims that resistance from some residents meant the operation had failed, emphasising that the work was carried out as scheduled.

For his part, the Director-General of NADMO, Major (retd) Dr Joseph Bikanyi Kuyon, said, “We had identified buildings for demolition today, and we brought them down. So, yes, the day was successful. Only one excavator was available. We didn’t want to overwork it”.

Dr Kuyon added that the demolition exercise started two months ago and was briefly halted due to official travels but has since resumed with renewed commitment.
 

Concerns

However, the Sakumono Jorshie Mantse, Nii Bortey Gbormorgor, voiced concern about how the demolitions were being executed and called for a more human-centred approach to resolving land and settlement disputes.

“They said they are removing people from the streets, but the same people are now being forced back onto the streets because their homes have been destroyed,” he said.

Nii Bortey said many affected residents had lived in the area for years and acquired the land through legitimate means, only to have their homes demolished without proper consultation or provision of alternative shelter.

Nii Bortey stated that authorities had previously marked buffer zone structures and warned residents not to construct beyond specified boundaries.

He, however, claimed that the exercise had extended into areas where land had been leased and legally developed years ago.

‘I don’t drive government vehicle to functions outside official duties’

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Prof Gyampo has stated that he doesn't use government vehicles for personal engagements Prof Gyampo has stated that he doesn’t use government vehicles for personal engagements

CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, Prof Ransford Gyampo, has stated that he does not use government vehicles for personal engagements.

In a video snippet from his interview with ChannelOneTV shared by SikaOfficial on July 24, 2025, he stated his commitment to the responsible use of public resources.

According to Prof Gyampo, government vehicles are to be used exclusively for official duties.

Sharing his views on how appointees and civil servants exploit privileges available to them, he indicated his resolve to promote austerity within the Ghana Shippers Authority.

“I don’t drive a government vehicle to any function apart from trips linked to official duties. If I’m going to church, a wedding, a funeral, or anywhere else, I use my own car,” he stated.

He stressed that he had his own car before being appointed by the government and pays for his own fuel.

“I came to this interview with my driver. Anytime, I’m driving my own car, I provide money for fuel,” he added.

“I don’t live in a government apartment; I still live on campus. Although, I’m entitled to live in a government apartment because I remain a faculty member at the University of Ghana, Legon, I prefer to live on campus,” Prof Gyampo further emphasized.

“Right now, I’m paying for accommodation on campus at a commercial rate. When you go on secondment, the government is supposed to provide you with housing. I’ve been informed that something was being arranged for it, but I prefer to live on campus because I like the ambiance. I’m on secondment, not sabbatical. I am a staff member of the university on loan to the government, and I live on campus while paying commercial rates for my accommodation,” he explained.

This policy reflects a broader effort for accountability and efficiency within public service and sets a commendable example for other officials.

Watch video below.

NAD/VPO

Nana Agradaa’s 15-year jail sentence sparks public debate

Filmmaker, moved by the NSRI camera rescue volunteers, dedicates his time to raising awareness

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Tribune Reporter|Published

Filmed at Strand Beach, the video features actress Shiefaa Hendriks in a portrayal that merges realism and symbolism

Image: National Sea Rescue Institute

SOUTH African filmmaker and ocean lover Kabeer Shaik has teamed up with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) to create a powerful new awareness video spotlighting the NSRI’s Beach Safety Camera Project.

Kwabena Agyepong and the NPP’s missed opportunity – Naa Kwaamah Siaw-Marfo writes

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In the annals of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has produced a long list of political titans, charismatic campaigners, intellectual heavyweights, and skilled tacticians. Yet, among them, one figure stands apart, not just for what he offered, but for what the party never allowed him to become: Kwabena Agyei Agyepong.

Once considered a natural successor to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Agyepong now evokes a different kind of memory, not of a dream realised, but of promise unfulfilled.

A former Press Secretary to President John Agyekum Kufuor and later General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyepong, was widely seen as the party’s future. Polished, articulate, and principled, he had the pedigree, the presence, and the policy focus. Despite his deep roots in the Danquah-Busia tradition, however, he was never fully embraced by the very political structure he helped shape.

His journey with the NPP began in the early 1990s, when he emerged as one of its most promising young stars. As a key figure in shaping the party’s media and communications strategy, his role in building the NPP’s public profile was instrumental. Loyal, disciplined, and intellectually grounded, Agyepong stood out for his ability to distil complex policy into messages the average Ghanaian could understand.

But it may have been this same clarity and conviction that set him apart, and ultimately cost him. In a party where loyalty to personalities increasingly overshadowed commitment to principle, Agyepong’s technocratic frankness was often perceived as a form of political defiance.

His ambition to lead the NPP was clear. In 2007, he joined a crowded field of 17 candidates vying to succeed President Kufuor as the party’s presidential nominee. His presence among the heavyweights signalled not just personal belief, but faith in the NPP’s democratic ideals.

That contest was won by Nana Akufo-Addo, who went on to lead the party to victory in the 2016 election. Kwabena Agyepong, though unsuccessful, remained committed to the NPP and continued to serve in various roles.

His election as General Secretary in 2014 marked a new chapter, one in which he sought to bring order, enforce discipline, and refocus the party on its founding ideals. But just a year later, he was suspended, accused of unilateral decision-making, despite having a constitutional mandate to act.

The suspension of Agyepong, alongside then National Chairman Paul Afoko and Second Vice Chairman Sammy Crabbe, marked a defining shift in the party. It signalled a movement away from ideological contest to a more rigid consolidation of power. In that moment, the NPP appeared less tolerant of internal dissent, even when it came from founding members with legitimate concerns.

Kwabena Agyepong’s calls for unity and respect for party structures were drowned out by suspicion and political manoeuvring.

Though he has since resurfaced at party events and declared his intent to contest the 2024 flagbearership, his campaign gained little traction. Lacking resources and institutional backing, his bid was quietly sidelined by a party machinery now shaped by entrenched factions and strategic alliances.

Despite offering a distinct message rooted in discipline, renewal, and policy, Agyepong’s voice found little resonance in a political culture increasingly swayed by populism and personality.

In a landscape where charisma, cash, and compromise often define political viability, Agyepong remains an outlier, measured, methodical, and morally grounded.

What truly distinguishes him is not just what he has done, but what he represents: a brand of leadership committed to institutional integrity, public service, and accountability. Agyepong is that rare blend of technocrat and politician, able to explain policy with clarity while challenging the excesses of his own party with candour.

Ironically, it may be this integrity that has kept him from rising to the top.

As the NPP confronts the challenge of renewal in a post-Akufo-Addo era, it must reckon with the kind of leadership it sidelined. Kwabena Agyepong may never have had the populist appeal of some of his peers, but he brought a depth and direction that could have redefined the party, and perhaps the country’s political narrative.

He is the presidential candidate the NPP never had. Yet in many ways, he remains a powerful symbol of what the party might have been.

7 Rihanna Maternity Looks That Deserve Their Own Fashion Week

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When Rihanna steps out, the world watches, but when Rihanna is pregnant? The world pauses. This year,  she redefined maternity style once again, proving pregnancy is not a deviation from one’s style; it’s an opportunity to enhance it.

From red carpet appearances to fashion week shows, Rihanna indulged us in high-concept fashion, baby bump snaps, and sartorial stories.

Here are our favourite Rihanna maternity looks of 2025, each one proving that fashion can be both bold and personal at the same time.

1. Monochrome in the Rain, But Make It Rihanna

May 5, 2025 – Pre-Met Gala, NYC

Who else would turn a rainstorm into a full-on style moment? Rihanna arrived in a ribbed grey knit co-ord with a long-sleeve crop top and asymmetrical skirt, all putting her baby bump in the spotlight.

Rihanna, May 5, 2025 – Pre-Met Gala, NYC

She accessorised with matching grey boots and leg warmers, black beanie, pearl choker, and brown faux fur clutch that added some texture and richness to the look.

This was not just knitwear; this was attitude in a look. Rihanna’s monochromatic grey layers felt relaxed with architectural precision. The leg warmer-over-heel combo? Fashion forward.

2. Pregnant, Powerful, Pinstriped

May 5, 2025 – Met Gala Red Carpet

Rihanna’s 2025 Met Gala look was a custom Maison Margiela design by John Galliano, featuring a half-corseted suit, which became a fashion moment.

She wore a tightly creased pinstripe suit with a boned bustier, a one-sided train, glitzy shoulder pads, and a white button-down shirt paired with an oversized polka-dot tie. A dramatic, wide-brimmed hat topped it off with a final flourish of bossed-up, old-fashioned drama.

Rihanna, May 5, 2025 – Pre-Met Gala, NYC

This look turned the past on its head when it came to menswear, exaggerating the silhouette, emphasising her bump, and mixing surreal cuts with retro homage. She did not give up the limelight; she took it, proving again that maternity is a force, not a fashion restriction.

3. Goth-Glam Bump Reveal After Dark

May 5, 2025 – Met Gala After Party

After the red carpet, Rihanna arrived at the Met Gala after-party in full vamp goddess attire, donning a black bustier top with an over-the-top plunge, a leather lace-up skirt, and a fitted jacket that she left undone to flaunt her bump.

Rihanna, Met Gala After Party

Lace heels, a diamond choker, and a lace headband put the outfit together; retro, erotic, and all unapologetic. Where her gala outfit was structural, this was sultry and flowing, a body-and-power celebration, born for midnight seduction and dance-floor domination.

4. Ocean Blue Opulence at Cannes

May 19, 2025 – Cannes Film Festival

Rihanna electrified the French Riviera in an eye-watering blue gown at Cannes, adorned with cut-outs and bow-tied drapings of generous proportions around her middle. Asymmetrical to highlight her bump beautifully, it was the focal point of the look.

Rihanna, Cannes Film Festival

Her diamond ear cuffs and strappy stilettos completed the look with minimal fuss. Her bronzed glow gave Cannes just the right amount of Rihanna magic.

It was fresh, female, and unabashedly provocative. Among a sea of conventional gowns, Rihanna defied convention, and it paid off.

5. Paris Fashion Week, But Victorian Streetwear-Version

June 27, 2025 – Paris Fashion Week

Only Rihanna could blend streetwear with Victorian drama and make it a moment. For Paris Fashion Week, she wore a quilted floral-embroidered coat lined with a geometric print over a mint green cropped waistcoat and white top.

Rihanna, Paris Fashion Week

Her baggy grey pants moderated the look easily, and her amber-coloured sunglasses and vintage jewellery gave it a quirky, high-fashion feel.

The layered look fused cultures, centuries, and trends into something entirely original. This wasn’t maternity fashion; however, this was an art form of art, with her pregnancy woven right into the narrative.

6. Schoolgirl Street Chic avec Riot Rose

June 27, 2025 – AWGE Menswear Show, Paris

With her son, Riot Rose, Rihanna attended the AWGE menswear show with an adorable yet stylish look. She wore an oversized pinstriped button-down shirt open over her belly, paired with a black pleated mini skirt and grey slouchy socks over white lace-up heels.

Rihanna, AWGE menswear show in Paris, France with Riot Rose

A bright yellow Dior tote added a pop of colour, soft glam finishing long waves off her effortlessly cool look. And, of course, Riot Rose, who was wearing a purple jogger beside her, made the scene unforgettable.

It was a laid-back slay that balanced fashion and motherhood; soft, chic, and unique.

7. Blue-Hued Fairytale at the Smurfs Premiere

June 28, 2025 – Brussels, Belgium

Wrapping up the previous month in ethereal perfection, Rihanna showed up at the Smurfs premiere in a sheer, pastel blue mermaid dress with subtle beading, rosettes, and feathered details.

The dress draped over her baby bump like a dream, with a transparent overlay that whispered elegance. Soft waves, minimal bling, and a rosy glow gave this look a feel that was straight out of a fairy tale for the modern era.

Rihanna at the Smurfs Premiere

It was blue carpet fantasy executed correctly; whimsical, feminine, and filled with subtle nods to childhood, motherhood, and cinematic whimsy.

This year, Rihanna reminds the world that pregnancy style doesn’t have to be modest, muted, or traditional. Her looks ranged from bossy tailoring to whimsical gowns, from streetwear to high concept couture, and every outfit centred the bump, not concealed it.

Across every moment, rainstorms in NYC, French runways, red carpets, after-parties, and animated premieres, Rihanna wore pregnancy like a crown. She didn’t just dress for maternity; she reshaped it, once again setting the bar sky-high.

What is your favourite Rihanna 2025 maternity fashion look?

Gov’t will act on Auditor-General’s report – NIA Deputy CEO assures

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Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Alhaji Mohammed Nasiru, says the Mahama-led administration will not hesitate to crack the whip on public officials and civil servants found complicit in financial irregularities.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, July 24, Alhaji Nasiru stressed that the approach by John Dramani Mahama’s team to manage the economy prudently will extend beyond government appointees to include public and civil service personnel who have contributed to systemic inefficiencies.

“The approach by the John Dramani Mahama administration regarding how we can prudently manage the economy will not only end with him and his appointees. We will surely extend it to the public and civil servants who have been in the circle and making sure that at the end of the day, they find ways to push the blame on the government,” he said.

According to him, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson is committed to stabilising the economy, and any infractions identified will be swiftly dealt with.

“Ato Forson is looking for every means to stabilise this economy, and if we find infractions that are against the law, immediately we will take action on that,” he added.

His comments follow revelations in the Auditor-General’s 2024 report, which shows a 109% surge in financial irregularities within public boards, corporations, and statutory institutions, rising from GH¢8.8 billion in 2023 to GH¢18.4 billion in 2024.

The report attributes most of the infractions to unpaid taxes, locked-up investments, unretired imprest, inter-agency debts, and outstanding employee loans with GH¢15.57 billion classified as recoverable.

Yemi Solade Claims He’s Senior to Pete Edochie, Sparks Massive Debate on Who Truly Started Nollywood

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Veteran Yoruba actor reignites the Yoruba vs Igbo Nollywood origin debate, insisting Yoruba filmmakers pioneered Nigeria’s home video industry before the Igbo-led “Living in Bondage” era.

Veteran actor Yemi Solade has stirred nationwide controversy after boldly declaring himself a senior to legendary Nollywood icon Pete Edochie, while also insisting that Yoruba filmmakers not the Igbos founded Nigeria’s home video industry.

Ghana Crypto Regulation on the Horizon as Crypto Adoption Grows

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Ghana is getting serious about crypto. According to a report from Bloomberg, the Central Bank of Ghana plans to present a draft law to regulate crypto platforms by September this year. If passed, the country will begin issuing licenses to virtual asset providers—marking a big shift in how the government views cryptocurrencies.

Why Now?

This isn’t just a sudden move. Crypto use has been quietly booming in Ghana over the last few years. More than 3 million adults—about 17% of the adult population—are now using digital currencies like Bitcoin and USDT. That’s a huge number for a country with limited access to traditional banking, especially in rural areas.

For many Ghanaians, crypto isn’t just a trend. It’s a real tool for saving money, sending funds across borders, and dealing with rising living costs. But until now, there hasn’t been a clear set of rules for companies offering crypto services.

That’s what the Central Bank is trying to change.

What Will the New Law Do?

If the draft regulation passes through parliament, it will create a legal path for crypto exchanges and other virtual asset platforms to operate officially in Ghana. These platforms will need licenses and will have to follow certain rules—most likely including anti-money laundering checks and user protection policies.

This move could help clean up the space and protect regular people from scams or shady operators. It could also give more confidence to companies wanting to work in Ghana’s crypto space.

A Step Toward Safer Crypto Use

Elsie Addo Awadzi, who serves as the Second Deputy Governor at the Bank of Ghana, shared that this move is part of a bigger goal. Which is to bring Ghana’s financial systems into the modern digital age. The country has already started testing its own digital currency, the e-cedi, so this new crypto law fits right into that plan. 

By setting up a clear structure, Ghana isn’t trying to stop people from using crypto. Instead it’s trying to make it safer and more stable for everyday users. Such as Ghanaians who are already using digital currencies to save, invest, or send money. 

What It Means for Africa

Ghana is one of the biggest countries in Africa, and a lot of people look at it as a tech leader in West Africa. If this new law passes, it could encourage other African countries to follow its lead. Right now, many nations across the continent are still figuring out what to do with crypto. But Ghana might be one of the first to get it right.

Final Thoughts

With so many Ghanaians already using crypto every day, having clear rules in place feels like it’s coming at just the right time. This isn’t about shutting things down—it’s about catching up with how the world is changing.

For regular folks, this Ghana crypto regulation could make a big difference. By helping them feel safer, building trust, and letting them use the digital tools they depend on with a peace of mind.

My husband refuses to wash my panties

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File photo of a worried woman File photo of a worried woman

Dear GhanaWeb,

It’s been nine months since my husband and I got married. Nine solid months and we’ve quarrelled about the same thing till now.

My husband helps with washing. In fact, he does the washing most times because my hands itch whenever I wash.

He didn’t know this until we got married before I told him. He initially struggled to embrace this about me but he’s managing it now and I’m grateful.

However, the problem is he said he won’t wash my panties or bra if he helps with the washing. At first, I thought it was a joke but he has truly never washed them. He doesn’t have any reason, he only said it makes him uncomfortable so he won’t ever do it.

I took it on a lighter note, thinking he was going to change his mind but till now he has never washed them.

I do not understand that he can wash everything except my panties and brassieres just because it makes him uncomfortable. I get angry anytime he leaves them hoping he changes his mind but he’s still stubborn.

He also gets angry and sounds like washing our clothes is a crime or like he’s doing me a favour. He washes every week and we argue every week about this and go a day or 2 without talking to each other. I’ve done all I can to make him change his mind but he won’t.

Why can’t he wash them for me? I’m beginning to get tired and fed up with him. I feel like we can’t keep arguing over the same thing.

He removes them when we are having sex, so I see nothing wrong with him washing them. I am his wife and I deserve that privilege.

Please what can I do to make him start washing my panties?

FG/AME

Meanwhile, you can watch GhanaWeb TV’s exclusive interview with Arathejay below:

How trial of acting CJ’s brother sparked arrest warrant for Kevin Taylor

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Acting Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie and Kevin Ekow Baidoo Taylor Acting Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie and Kevin Ekow Baidoo Taylor

A high-profile case involving Eugene Baffoe-Bonnie, the brother of Ghana’s Acting Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, led to an arrest warrant being issued for Kevin Ekow Baidoo Taylor, the host of With All Due Respect on Loud Silence TV.

The warrant, issued by Justice Eric Kyei-Baffour, a Court of Appeal judge sitting as an additional High Court judge, was made on January 16, 2020, after Taylor posted a video on Facebook.

In the video, titled “The Men in Red, Tainted Judiciary”, Taylor made serious accusations against Justice Kyei-Baffour.

“Today I will tell you about the men in red, yes, the men in red, and how some of them have been compromised,” Taylor said. He claimed that Kyei-Baffour’s promotion from the High Court to the Court of Appeal was part of a plot to serve government interests.

Taylor also accused members of then ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) of selecting Kyei-Baffour to target officials from the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government. He further alleged that the judge had distorted the law to favour the NPP government in the case against Eugene Baffoe-Bonnie.

In response, Justice Kyei-Baffour ruled that Taylor’s video was an attack on the judiciary and an attempt to incite public outrage against him and the court. The judge described Taylor’s remarks as “scandalous” and issued an arrest warrant for Taylor to appear in court and explain why he should not be held in contempt.

The warrant was directed at the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Ghana Police Service, the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), now known as the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), and National Security, instructing them to “take appropriate steps for the apprehension and production of the said Kevin Taylor before the court.”

In a surprising turn of events, on July 22, 2025, the Supreme Court of Ghana overturned the arrest warrant in a 4-1 ruling.

The panel, led by Justice Imoro Amadu Tanko and joined by Justices Senyo Dzamefe, Gbiel Simon Suurbaareh, and Philip Bright Mensah, quashed the warrant. Justice Ernest Gaewu dissented.

Taylor had filed an application on July 2, 2025, arguing that the High Court had not given him a fair opportunity to respond before issuing the warrant.

After the ruling, Taylor was seen leaving the courtroom with his lawyers, visibly pleased with the outcome.

AM/KA

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