A Chinese national and his Ghanaian driver have been allegedly shot and killed in a suspected robbery attack at an illegal mining site in Subri-Nkwanta, located in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region.
According to myjoyonline.com report, the gruesome shooting, which occurred on Monday July 7, 2025, has left residents of the small mining community gripped with fear.
According to eyewitnesses, the victims believed to be involved in illegal small-scale mining, locally known as galamsey were ambushed by unknown gunmen while returning from their mining site with gold concentrate, commonly referred to as “black.”
The assailants reportedly opened fire without warning, killing both men instantly before escaping into the nearby forest with the gold.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been disclosed by the police, but their bodies have been transported to the morgue for preservation and autopsy.
Police authorities say they are treating the case as a possible robbery, but further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
Some community members suspect the killings may be linked to growing tensions between rival illegal mining groups, often embroiled in disputes over land control and mining territories.
Residents say this is not the first time violence has erupted at galamsey sites in the area.
“We keep hearing gunshots every now and then. It’s becoming too dangerous to even live here,” a worried resident told reporters.
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GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
Dr Kofi Appiah Koranteng, a Deputy Registrar at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in the Ashanti Region, has held outspoken politician and flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong, partly responsible for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) heavy defeat in the 2024 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with Adakabre Frimpong Manso on Neat FM on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, Dr Koranteng stated that the former Assin Central MP’s public outbursts, divisive rhetoric, and contradictory posture significantly contributed to the party’s electoral decline.
According to Dr Koranteng, Agyapong’s controversial comments and political conduct during the run-up to the elections weakened party cohesion and public confidence.
“He cannot absolve himself of blame. Many of his actions and inactions had a damaging effect on the party’s fortunes,” he noted.
He further criticised Agyapong for losing his own parliamentary seat, a rare occurrence among high-profile party leaders. “Every serious leader exiting Parliament ensures their party retains the seat.
Kennedy Agyapong is the only MP whose seat flipped to the opposition, now the ruling party.
That should tell Ghanaians something,” he added.
Discussing the topic “The Loss of the NPP in the 2024 Elections, the Prospects of the Party in 2028, and Restoring the UP Tradition”, Dr Koranteng pointed out that despite Agyapong’s boasts about his wealth and influence in the Central Region, the NPP lost a significant number of seats there.
“This is someone who claims to have bankrolled the party, but on the other hand, complains of being neglected, while also telling supporters he was awarded lucrative contracts.
“These contradictions created confusion and eroded trust within the party,” Dr. Koranteng said.
He urged Ghanaians to critically examine Agyapong’s role and its broader impact on the NPP’s internal dynamics and national appeal.
The Board of Directors of the National Cathedral of Ghana has dismissed reports suggesting that the state-allocated site for the National Cathedral project is being repurposed into a Cultural Convention Centre.
This clarification follows an emergency board meeting held on July 7, 2025, in response to growing public concern over claims circulating in online media.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 9, the Executive Director of the National Cathedral, Dr. Paul Opoku-Mensah, emphasized that no government agency has officially communicated any change in the project’s purpose.
“The National Cathedral project has not been abandoned, nor has there been any official decision to convert the site into a Cultural Convention Centre,” the statement asserted. “The site remains legally held by the National Cathedral of Ghana, incorporated as a company limited by guarantee, with all architectural and design plans tailored specifically for its current religious and cultural vision.”
Dr. Opoku-Mensah reaffirmed that the Cathedral was conceived as a sacred national structure to host key religious state events such as state funerals and national thanksgiving services. He added that the President’s recent declaration of July 1 as Ghana’s official National Day of Prayer underscores the importance and urgency of completing the project.
In addition to its religious function, the Cathedral is designed to serve as a cultural and heritage landmark. Planned facilities include a Bible Museum, Biblical Garden, banquet hall, 350-seater restaurant, library, and conference centre — all aimed at promoting faith-based tourism and national pride.
According to the Board, approximately 8% of construction had been completed before the project was halted due to funding constraints and the politicization of the initiative, which hindered private fundraising efforts.
Responding to concerns about financial transparency, the Board cited an audit by Deloitte and Touche, which confirmed that all public funds allocated to the project were accounted for, with disbursements based solely on signed contracts and verified work.
Looking ahead, the Board revealed that discussions are underway to adopt a new approach to completing the project. This strategy involves fostering collaboration between the state, the church, and civil society to depoliticize the initiative and mobilize the necessary resources.
“The Board remains fully committed to the vision of the National Cathedral,” Dr. Opoku-Mensah concluded, “not only as a national place of worship and unity for the Christian community, but also as an interfaith and cultural space for all Ghanaians.”
The Secretariat urged the public to disregard misinformation and to support ongoing efforts to deliver what it describes as a “family house for all Christians” and a unifying national symbol.
The situation remains fluid, and stakeholders are closely monitoring developments to ensure peace prevails within the traditional area.
The Omanhene of the Kwahu Traditional Area, Daasebre Akuamoah Agyapong II, has formally requested round-the-clock security at the Abene Palace to maintain peace and order, following a decisive ruling by the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs in his favour.
The Minority Caucus has condemned government’s decision to abstain from a crucial vote on LGBTQ issues at the United Nations Human Rights Council.
The NPP MPs described the move as a betrayal of Ghanaian values and a worrying sign of indifference.
Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Damongo MP, Samuel Abu Jinapor, issued the criticism in a press statement, warning that “abstention is complicity.”
Mr. Jinapor said the abstention, which occurred during the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, amounted to tacit support for the controversial mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (IE SOGI).
He argued that by choosing not to vote, Ghana lost an opportunity to affirm its position on LGBTQ issues.
“Ghana returned to the Human Rights Council in January 2024, and had the opportunity at this 59th Session of the Council to make a statement in respect of her position on LGBTQ, through the vote on the resolution to extend the mandate of the IE SOGI, but again, chose to abstain,” he stated.
He criticised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ explanation that the vote was only about protecting people from violence and discrimination.
“The statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that ‘the question before the Council was whether persons who identify as LGBTQI should be protected against violence and discrimination or not’ is totally false,” Jinapor said.
“The question before the Council was whether to extend the mandate of the IE SOGI… which invariably includes the promotion of LGBTQ.”
He pointed out that many African countries voted against the resolution, not because they condone violence, but because they oppose the underlying agenda.
“It cannot be the case that the several countries that have consistently voted against the mandate support violence or discrimination against the LGBTQ community; they oppose LGBTQ simpliciter.”
Jinapor reminded Ghanaians that the same mandate Ghana failed to oppose seeks to eliminate laws that protect Ghanaian cultural values.
“In his 17th April, 2025 Report presented to the Human Rights Council, for instance, IE SOGI urges that ‘States should end the practices of de jure and de facto criminalisation’ of LGBTQ.”
He challenged the Government’s justification that Chapter Five of the Constitution constrained its position.
“It cannot, also, be correct that Ghana abstained from the vote because of Chapter Five of the Constitution. Nothing in article 17 of the Constitution cited by the Ministry supports individual choice of sexual orientation or gender identity.”
He said Ghana’s abstention showed the Government’s “indifference to proper human sexual rights and Ghanaian family values,” and cited the failure to pass the Anti-Gay Bill as further proof.
“The Government’s failure to lay the Anti-Gay Bill in Parliament for it to be passed into law, and its consistent abstinence from votes relating to LGBTQ is a clear manifestation of its double standards on LGBTQ issues and the promotion of Ghanaian family values.”
Mr. Jinapor stressed that Ghana’s criminal code already prohibits certain LGBTQ practices and said the Government must reflect those laws in its international stance.
“It is, therefore, disappointing that on two separate occasions, this very Government has failed to join other like-minded countries to project these Ghanaian values and norms at the international level.”
He concluded that while the Minority does not support violence against any individual, including those who identify as LGBTQ, they remain committed to defending Ghana’s cultural identity.
“We remain committed to upholding the integrity of our nation and defending her norms, values and practices, both home and abroad, and urge the general public to join us on this noble cause for people and country.”
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.
Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, Political science lecturer at the University of Ghana
A political science lecturer at the University of Ghana in the Greater Accra Region, Dr Kwame Asah-Asante, has dismissed the notion that ethnicity and religion play a decisive role in determining electoral outcomes in Ghana.
Speaking during an interview with Adakabre Frimpong Manso on Accra-based Neat FM on Wednesday, July 9, Dr Asah-Asante addressed the topic “The Loss of the NPP in the 2024 Elections, the Prospects of the Party in 2028, and Restoring the UP Tradition.”
According to him, while ethnic and religious identities may influence political discourse to some extent, they are not the primary factors that determine who Ghanaians vote for, especially in presidential elections.
“It is not the case in Ghana that a person is voted for simply because of their ethnicity or religion,” he asserted.
“These factors may play a role in shaping perception, but they do not determine the outcome of elections.”
To support his position, Dr. Asah-Asante cited the example of former President Jerry John Rawlings, who hailed from the third-largest ethnic group in the country, yet managed to win two decisive election victories.
“Rawlings came from a minority ethnic group but was overwhelmingly endorsed by the Ghanaian electorate.
That alone shows that competence and national appeal matter more than tribal affiliations,” he explained.
Touching on the role of religion, he pointed out that although Muslims form the second-largest religious group in Ghana, they have consistently voted based on diverse considerations rather than religious loyalty.
“If religion were the yardstick, we would have seen Muslims across the country rally behind a specific candidate in the 2024 elections—but that didn’t happen,” he said.
Dr Asah-Asante urged political commentators and analysts to refrain from using religion or ethnicity as simplistic explanations for voting patterns, noting that Ghanaians are increasingly focused on policies, leadership qualities, and party performance.
He called for a shift in political analysis that emphasises governance, accountability, and development rather than divisive identity politics.
Ghanaian culinary sensation and digital content creator Abena Amoakoa Sintim-Aboagye
Ghanaian culinary sensation and digital content creator Abena Amoakoa Sintim-Aboagye, popularly known as Chef Abbys, has been named among TIME magazine’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Influential Creators in the World.
This recognition follows her recent appearance as Ghana’s representative at TikTok’s showcase during the prestigious 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in France.
Chef Abbys joins an elite group of global influencers, including Kai Cenat, Khaby Lame, Taylor Cassidy, James Jones, Kellie Gerardi, Alix Earle, Sean Evans, and Olivia Dunne, among others.
Chef Abbys has captivated global audiences with her vibrant culinary content that celebrates Ghanaian and African cuisine. With more than 1.4 million followers on TikTok, she has carved out a niche by transforming everyday meals, such as waakye, kenkey, jollof, and banku, into rich visual narratives. Her content blends food, culture, and storytelling, offering viewers a deeper connection to African heritage.
“Every ingredient has meaning. Every method carries memory,” Sintim-Aboagye told TIME in an interview. “When you cook a country’s traditional food, you learn its values, its struggles, and its soul. It teaches you respect for the people and the heritage behind the dish.”
Born and raised in Ghana, Sintim-Aboagye has emerged as a leading voice in the digital culinary world. Her approach is rooted in cultural preservation and education. As a self-described “African Food Tourist,” she shares recipes from across the continent, showcasing dishes such as babenda from Burkina Faso and amiwo from Benin, alongside Ghanaian staples.
Her recognition by TIME and inclusion in TikTok’s 2025 Global Discover List underscore her impact in bridging cultures through food and digital media.
Through her videos, Chef Abbys not only instructs but also inspires—a quality that has made her a household name among young Africans in the diaspora and food enthusiasts worldwide. Her work illustrates how digital platforms can be powerful tools for cultural exchange and the global appreciation of African traditions.
A photo collage of Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah
Media personality Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah has cautioned President John Dramani Mahama over the actions of his Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, accusing him of potentially damaging the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
According to Afrifa-Mensah, Ablakwa’s posture on the international stage could have dire consequences for Ghana, and he therefore advised Mahama to relieve the minister of his post.
His comments follow the United States government’s recent revision of its visa reciprocity policy for Ghana, which has seen a significant reduction in both the validity period and the number of entries permitted for most non-immigrant visa categories.
Under the updated guidelines issued by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ghanaian nationals applying for business and tourism visas (B-class) will now be issued single-entry visas valid for just three months.
This marks a departure from the previous policy, which allowed multiple entries over periods ranging from one to five years.
Speaking on his “For the Records” show on July 9, 2025, Okatakyie lambasted the minister for his recent spat with a top-ranking member of the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Senator James E Rischa who had called him out on social media.
He argued that Ablakwa’s undiplomatic behaviour is partly to blame for the new visa restrictions, which he believes will hurt Ghanaian students the most.
“Now Americans are saying all non-immigrant visas will be limited to just three months with single entry because of Okudzeto Ablakwa,” Afrifa-Mensah said.
“Today, he is acting as Foreign Affairs Minister on social media, attacking American senators. But someone of his diplomatic standing shouldn’t speak carelessly. Even if you are a Foreign Affairs Minister, you are not on the same level as senators of other nations.
“He is on social media responding to everyone and making calls at the embassy, is that his work?”
He warned that if not checked, Ablakwa’s conduct could contribute to the downfall of Mahama’s government.
“One of the people who will destroy Mahama’s government is Okudzeto Ablakwa,” he cautioned.
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GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
The Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) team is set to represent Ghana at the 2025 International University Sports Federation (FISU) Games, scheduled to take place from July 16 to July 28, 2025, in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany.
The team comprises talented student-athletes drawn from the University of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), the University for Development Studies (UDS), and the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR).
These athletes will compete in various track and field events, proudly flying the flag of Ghana on the world stage.
“We are pleased to share this exciting news about the GUSA team, whose dedication and hard work have earned them the opportunity to participate in this prestigious international event.
The athletes are expected to uphold their commitment, resilience, and determination as they aim to win medals for Ghana.
We extend our best wishes to the entire team and encourage them to continue striving for excellence,”
a statement from the Ghana University Sports Association said on July 9, 2025.
The Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) is the governing body responsible for sports within Ghana’s public universities. Its core mandate is to promote sports, organize inter-university competitions, and showcase the talents of Ghanaian university athletes on both national and international platforms.
The International University Sports Federation (FISU) is the global governing body for university sports. FISU is tasked with organizing and overseeing international sports competitions for student-athletes. Its primary aim is to promote sportsmanship, encourage healthy competition, and foster international collaboration among university students worldwide.
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GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
The Afrobarometer 2025 report, themed Citizen Engagement and Citizen Power serves as a mirror
Human rights advocate Farida Bemba Nabourema has sounded the alarm over the growing erosion of civic space across Africa, accusing governments of using COVID-19 as a pretext to crack down on citizen freedoms and stifle dissent.
Speaking at the launch of Afrobarometer’s 2025 flagship report on citizen engagement on July 8, 2025, Nabourema warned that authoritarian practices are on the rise, threatening democracy and civic participation across the continent.
“Protests have been banned in my country since 2020. Even press conferences are not allowed. COVID provided governments the perfect excuse to consolidate power and silence citizens,” Nabourema, Director of the Katutu Civil Rights Center, told participants at the event.
She stressed that while the pandemic may have initially justified emergency measures, many governments have refused to roll back restrictions long after the health crisis ended.
“Political parties are still not allowed to hold meetings.
“This is not about citizens disengaging it’s about governments systematically deploying resources to crush civic engagement,” she added.
Sy Mamabolo, Chief Electoral Officer of the Electoral Commission of South Africa, called for deeper decentralisation of governance.
“We need to bring our best talent not only to the national level but to local government, where real community interaction and development happen,” Mamabolo said.
He underscored the importance of empowering local authorities to champion citizen engagement.
Audrey Gadzekpo, Emeritus Professor of Communications and Board Chair of CDD-Ghana, acknowledged that while protest culture remains low among African youth, there is still hope.
“The data shows low levels of protest, but I draw hope from research,” she said, encouraging continued efforts to inspire youth involvement in democratic processes.
Felix Biga, Chief Operating Officer of Afrobarometer, reflected on the key lessons of the day, emphasising that civic engagement must start with inclusive education, empowered local governance, and an unwavering defense of democratic spaces.
“Amidst some of the findings, there’s still hope that things can improve,” Biga said.
He also announced plans to launch a French version of the report in Senegal and introduce a capacity-building video library to broaden access to data literacy across the continent.
The Afrobarometer 2025 report, themed Citizen Engagement and Citizen Power, serves as both a mirror of current realities and a roadmap for the future of democracy in Africa.
It highlights not only the resilience of citizen engagement but also the urgent need to protect the spaces where citizens can express themselves freely.
The Afrobarometer 2025 report, launched alongside country scorecards, offers a comprehensive analysis of citizen engagement across 39 African countries.
Key findings show that:
Voting remains the most common form of participation, with 72% of citizens casting ballots in their most recent national elections.
Community engagement is strong, with 47% attending local meetings and 42% joining others to raise issues.
Protest participation, however, remains low at 9%, in part due to legal and political restrictions highlighted by Nabourema.
The report indicates that the erosion of civic space is not isolated to one country but is a growing trend across the continent, with repressive regimes limiting freedoms under the guise of security, public health, or order.
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GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
Ghanaian highlife star Kuami Eugene has revealed that, despite achieving widespread acclaim in secular music, he still identifies as a minister of God.
In a recent interview on Joy Prime, the award-winning artiste reflected on his early musical and spiritual journey, which began in the church. According to him, his gospel roots continue to define who he is.
“Sometimes I see a post on social [media], somebody wants to bring something, [and] Eugene Marfo will just pop up. I’m still a minister of God and the transition started from the church”
“The church taught me everything I know, how to play the piano, guitar, everything. When I was schooling, I was playing drums for the church while still doing music. But the push wasn’t there like I’m getting now”
Kuami Eugene also recounted a pivotal moment in his journey: a trip to the Volta Region for a gospel event that changed his life’s course.
“She [a female friend who was a pupil teacher] invited me for a three-day church convention. I was Minister Eugene Marfo then. That was actually where I got my first pay, so shoutout to that female friend of mine”
,he fondly recalled.
Following the gospel event, Eugene auditioned for MTN Hitmaker, where he placed as the second runner-up. He was soon signed by Lynx Entertainment, a move that launched his professional music career.
He credited his rise to divine favour, family support, and the guidance of mentors including Richie Mensah and Eric Goka.
Kuami Eugene, born Eugene Marfo, has since become one of Ghana’s most celebrated musicians. Known for hits such as Angela, Wish Me Well, Open Gate, and Monica, he has won several accolades including Highlife Artiste of the Year and Artiste of the Year at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards.
Despite his commercial success, Kuami Eugene insists that his gospel foundation remains a core part of who he is, a musician with a mission that began in the church and continues to inspire beyond the pulpit.
Sammy Gyamfi Speaks About The Death Of NPP MP Kumi Ernest
News Hub Creator22h
On his official Facebook handle, Honorable Sammy Gyamfi reacted to the death of Honorable Kumi Ernest, the MP for Akwatia. In his post, Honorable Sammy Gyamfi expressed his deepest sorrow over the demise of Honorable Ernest Kumi.
Honorable Sammy Gyamfi affirms in his Facebook page that, death is inevitable and everyone will taste death. “We shall surely meet again” – Honorable Sammy Gyamfi stated.
Below is the full message from Honorable Sammy Gyamfi concerning the death of Honorable Enerst Kumi.
“Fare thee well my dear brother, Enerst Yaw Kumi. Rest in the bossom of our maker, the Lord. We shall surely meet again”. – Honorable Sammy Gyamfi added.
Honorable Sammy Gyamfi is the National Communications Director for the National Democratic Congress.
Ernest Yaw Kumi was elected in 2024 on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and had only been in Parliament for a few months. Though he faced court challenges over his seat, the Supreme Court recently cleared him of all contempt charges, and he had been preparing to serve fully. Unfortunately, his life was cut short after a brief illness.
Many of his colleagues were shocked by the news, especially because Mr. Kumi was seen on television just days earlier looking healthy and full of energy. His sudden death has left a deep sadness in the House. Many have shared their condolences on social media.
Some described him as a young, determined politician who had a bright future ahead of him. Others said he was respectful and committed to working for the people of Akwatia
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has officially credited $367 million to the account of the Bank of Ghana, following the successful completion of Ghana’s fourth review under the Extended Credit Facility programme.
The funds, received on Wednesday, July 9, mark the fifth tranche of the $3 billion IMF programme approved in 2023.
This disbursement is also expected to strengthen Ghana’s external buffers, stabilise the cedi and help government meet critical balance-of-payment needs.
It forms part of the $3 billion IMF programme agreed upon in 2023, aimed at restoring debt sustainability and accelerating economic reforms.
The programme, which began in May 2023, was initiated to restore stability after a period of economic turbulence marked by high inflation, cedi depreciation and unsustainable debt levels.
Under the agreement, Ghana undergoes periodic reviews to assess progress on fiscal, structural and financial reforms.
According to Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana has so far exceeded expectations under the IMF programme, helping to restore both local and international confidence in the economy.
The latest disbursement is expected to support budget operations, further stabilise the cedi and help the country meet external obligations as government intensifies efforts to rebuild macroeconomic resilience and return to growth.
The release also comes as Ghana continues debt restructuring negotiations with external creditors and Eurobond holders under the G20 Common Framework; a critical component for the full implementation and success of the IMF programme.
Some economists have stressed the importance of channeling the funds into critical sectors such as agriculture to drive growth and ensure long-term sustainability.
“But I think if I were to suggest I will say we should use it to support the agric sector in the mean and perhaps some of the road projects that have stalled because the stalling of those road projects tend to increase the cost and then we have seen that agric is mainly the fulcrum. It is a very important aspect. Now the government has launched the 24 hour economy. I think agric should be at the heart of it,” Professor Patrick Asuming said.
After several days of public confusion and endless rumors, the mystery around Nana Agradaa’s whereabouts has finally been solved. The popular televangelist, who is currently serving a 15-year jail sentence at Nsawam Prison, had gone completely silent, sparking fears that she might have escaped or been secretly transferred.
But in a surprising turn of events, a female prison officer identified as Paloma has come out with the truth. In a TikTok video that has spread like wildfire, Paloma revealed that Agradaa was never missing she was hiding inside the prison’s toilet area for days.
Paloma explained that Agradaa chose to stay out of sight because she didn’t want to deal with certain media people who had been spreading stories about her. These reports claimed that Agradaa had vanished from prison, making the public wonder if there had been an escape or a secret move by prison authorities.
According to Paloma, Agradaa was afraid of further embarrassment and negative stories in the news. That fear pushed her to isolate herself in a place where no one would think to look—inside the prison’s washroom. During that period, she avoided both fellow inmates and prison officers.
“She wasn’t gone. She was just hiding in the toilet area. We found her later,” Paloma calmly said in the video.
The Ghana Prisons Service has since confirmed that Nana Agradaa is still being held at Nsawam and that she began her sentence on July 5, 2025. They also made it clear that she is safe and has not been harmed in any way.
While some people on social media laughed at the situation, others showed concern about Agradaa’s emotional state. A few even questioned if life in prison is becoming too much for her. Many users also called out the media for reporting false stories without proper checks.
The whole incident has left many people asking new questions. Should prison officers be allowed to share information about inmates online? How do rumors like these spread so fast and cause fear?
One thing is certain: Nana Agradaa’s name continues to dominate conversations, even from behind bars. Whether seen as a victim or not, her recent actions have drawn the attention of the entire nation once again.
Meredith Naakai Lamptey Addy, Ghana’s Permanent Delegate (Ambassador) to UNESCO)
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Meredith Naakai Lamptey Addy as Ghana’s Permanent Delegate (Ambassador) to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Her appointment, made under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, positions her as the head of Ghana’s permanent delegation to UNESCO at the organization’s headquarters in Paris.
The appointment was announced by the Ghana Commission for UNESCO in a post on Facebook on July 8, 2025, which read, “A hearty congratulations to H.E. Mrs. Meredith Naakai Lamptey Addy on your appointment as Ghana’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO. We bid you welcome to the Commission!”
Meredith Naakai Lamptey Addy is the daughter of the late business mogul and financier of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), David Lamptey, who served as Member of Parliament for the Klottey Korle Constituency in 1996.
In 2023, she contested the NDC parliamentary primaries in the Klottey Korle Constituency, where she ran against Dr Zanetor Rawlings and lost.
Lamptey Addy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Ghana and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).
She served as her father’s personal assistant at Sidalco Group of Companies, which included Dominion Oil, Radio XYZ, and TV XYZ, during her national service between 2008 and 2009.
Lamptey Addy is actively involved in party activities, serving as the Ranking Member of the NDC National Business Development Committee. She is also a member of the NDC National Welfare Committee, the Sports Committee, and the GaDangme Caucus.
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GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH), Dr. Hintermann Mbroh, has reaffirmed the hospital’s unwavering commitment to becoming a premier destination for medical tourism in Ghana.
He made this known during a strategic engagement session with hospital leadership and board members in Ho.
According to Dr. Mbroh, the hospital is strategically positioning itself as a leader in innovative healthcare delivery, with a clear roadmap to support Ghana’s newly adopted national medical tourism policy.
He disclosed that HTH had begun its journey toward medical tourism even before the initiative was included in the national policy agenda by the current government.
“We began this vision long before it became part of national policy. In fact, Ho Teaching Hospital was specifically mentioned in the governing party’s manifesto as a key facility for medical tourism,” he pointed out.
With the government’s formal endorsement of medical tourism, Dr. Mbroh noted that the hospital is now focused on realigning its internal strategies to reflect and support the national agenda.
He emphasised that HTH’s previous board had already laid the groundwork with a robust roadmap for enhancing healthcare services tailored to medical tourism.
“The current priority is to harmonise that plan with the broader national strategy and begin laying the necessary groundwork for implementation, this involves strengthening our internal systems, clearly defining responsibilities, and creating accountability structures that support the execution of our vision,” he stated.
Dr. Mbroh further stressed the need for targeted investments to improve infrastructure and service delivery.
Key among the identified priorities are increasing bed capacity and upgrading critical infrastructure such as oxygen supply systems, generators, and other essential medical equipment.
“While we have already made significant innovations and improvements, we must ensure these efforts translate into a satisfying experience for all patients, including international visitors, and we need to be clear on what makes our care exceptional and invest wisely to meet urgent needs,” he pointed out.
The Board Chairman of the hospital, Dr. Delanyo Tsidi Dorvlo, underscored the board’s commitment to advancing the medical tourism agenda. He said the board is actively identifying and prioritising investment areas that will yield quick gains while building a foundation for long-term development.
“As a board, we are committed to ensuring the hospital is equipped to play this role effectively, these investments will not only support our medical tourism ambitions but will also elevate the overall quality of care for all our patients.”
Dr. Koku Awoonor-Williams, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Health, reaffirmed the government’s vision of transforming Ho Teaching Hospital into a national hub for medical tourism.
“HTH must leverage its unique location, its affiliation with the University of Health and Allied Sciences, and its highly trained staff to become a national and international centre of medical excellence,” he stated.
He emphasised the need for strong patient-provider relationships, quality care, and hospitality.
“Your professionalism is the foundation on which we will build this vision.”
With national backing, a clear strategic vision, and a strong leadership team, Ho Teaching Hospital is poised to play a central role in Ghana’s emerging medical tourism sector.
The leadership believes that by enhancing infrastructure, improving service delivery, and embracing innovation, the hospital can attract patients from across the West African region and beyond, boosting healthcare outcomes and contributing to local economic development.
A 25-year-old Level 200 student of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Fatawu Amponsah, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for robbery by the Asante Akropong Circuit Court in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District.
The student, who also works as a driver’s mate, pleaded guilty and was convicted on his own plea by presiding judge Gloria Mensah Bonsu.
Three 18-year-olds have been sentenced to ten years in prison each for their role in a violent robbery that left several residents of Boubai in the Asokore Mampong Municipality injured and traumatised.
The Atasemanso Circuit Court in Kumasi sentenced Mamudu Issah, Samuel Takyi, and Alhassan Abubakari on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, after they pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery and seven counts of robbery. Issah was given an additional three-year sentence for causing harm, but the sentences will run concurrently.
The incident occurred on July 1, 2025, between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The three suspects, accompanied by three other accomplices still at large, rode on two unregistered motorbikes and attacked residents at Boubai, wielding machetes.
The robbers made away with mobile phones, bags, and cash from their victims during the early morning attack.
Community volunteers from the area intervened swiftly, leading to the arrest of the suspects at their hideout in Aboabo later that same day.
The volunteers handed over the suspects to police along with ten recovered mobile phones and three bags believed to be stolen property.
All three suspects entered guilty pleas to the charges when the case was arraigned before the Ataasemanso Circuit Court.
Following sentencing, the convicts were processed and transferred to the Central Prisons in Kumasi to begin serving their respective terms.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Godwin Ahianyo, Head of the Public Affairs Unit in Ashanti Region, commended members of the public, particularly the community volunteers, for their swift response and cooperation in the operation.
“We continue to encourage the public to support policing efforts and promptly report suspicious activities,” Mr Ahianyo stated.
The police have assured that efforts are still underway to arrest the remaining accomplices.
Ghanaian music heavyweight Kwesi Slay has made a bold return to the music scene after a prolonged hiatus, reigniting the mic with renewed lyrical fire, creative clarity, and deeper artistic resolve.
Emerging from the creative shadows, the Ashaiman-born rapper Bernard Kwesi Appiah, popularly known as Kwesi Slay, has returned with fresh vigor, debuting his six-track EP Aben—a bold declaration that success is near (in Twi, “aben” means “it is near”).
This marks his first major project since 2021’s standout single “Eye Clear” featuring Kofi Mole, which garnered significant attention on streaming platforms. In the years prior, he dropped fan favorites like “Street Ways” and “Wedi Bet” in 2017, along with a series of collaborations with industry heavyweights such as Medikal, Kwesi Arthur, and Kuami Eugene.
On Aben, Kwesi Slay reconnects with his roots while evolving his sound. Standout tracks include the anthemic “Street Ways” and “Wedi Bet”, while fresh collaborations with Ko-Jo Cue, Cabum, Kemenya, and Wanlov underscore his commitment to creative synergy. The EP features production from a diverse pool of talents including Lyrical Beatz, Kemenya TV, and Kwesi Slay himself.
He first cemented his place in Ghana’s rap elite with gritty, street-savvy anthems such as “3y3 Normal” featuring Yaa Pono and the viral breakout “Seven” with Kwesi Arthur. His sound became the soundtrack of a generation—fusing raw energy with social commentary.
Slay went silent for over two years, a move that stirred both concern and speculation among fans and industry watchers. But now, with new music projects in the pipeline and a sharpened voice, Kwesi Slay has made it clear: his break was not an exit, but a reset.
“I needed to disconnect in order to realign. It was a period of recalibration and creative rebirth,” the rapper said. “Sometimes, silence is the loudest form of preparation. I’ve lived, I’ve grown, and now I’m ready to speak again—louder than ever.”
His upcoming releases are expected to be soul-baring and hard-hitting, blending poetic introspection with street realism—a sonic evolution fans are already calling “Slay Season.”
Kwesi Slay’s return reaffirms his authenticity. Known for collaborations with Medikal (“Frass”), Quamina MP (“Pussy Cat”), and Kuami Eugene (“Follow Me”), he has consistently pushed boundaries while staying true to his roots.
“This is not about reclaiming fame,” he said. “It’s about representing a truth—mine, and that of every dreamer who’s ever had to pause to gather strength.”
According to his management, his re-entry will include collaborations with both local and international talents, alongside a potential headline tour. They also confirm that he’s working on a new multi-track project set for release later this year.
With crisp production, sharpened flows, and deeper storytelling, Kwesi Slay’s return is being hailed as a pivotal moment for Ghanaian hip-hop—bridging past grit with future ambition.
President Trump together with government officials at a meeting with the Liberian President
U.S. President Donald Trump during a high-level diplomatic meeting with the President of Liberia Joseph Boakai, could not hide his admiration for the West African leader’s eloquence.
At a meeting which was meant to focus on strengthening U.S. – Africa trade and security ties, Trump who appeared visibly impressed paused the conversation to offer his compliments.
“We thank you, such good English. That is beautiful. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully? You were educated where?” Trump asked, addressing the Liberian president in front of gathered U.S. and African dignitaries.
A video of the meeting which has gone viral shows the Liberian President, maintaining composure, and replying simply, “In Liberia.”
Trump, appearing surprised, continued, “That’s interesting, beautiful language. I have people at this table who cannot speak nearly as you.”
Some attendees chuckled lightly at the exchange.
Liberia’s history is deeply intertwined with the United States, stemming from the American Colonization Society’s efforts to repatriate formerly enslaved African Americans.
This led to the founding of Liberia in 1822, with the capital, Monrovia, named after U.S. President James Monroe. While the U.S. initially delayed official recognition, diplomatic relations were established in the 1860s, and close ties developed, particularly during the Cold War.
Trump to the President of Liberia: “Such good English. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”
Recent media reports have heavily focused on a $100 million gold deal between Engineers and Planners (E&P) and Azumah Resources.
However, Azumah Resources has stated that it was not aware of the deal in question and was not a party to the signing between E&P and the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) that took place on July 7, 2025.
In a related development, E&P has released details of a prior agreement signed with Azumah Resources on October 9, 2023.
In a statement issued on July 9, 2025 and sighted by GhanaWeb Business, E&P dismissed claims that it only signed the agreement to acquire Azumah after the elections, calling such suggestions false.
The company clarified that the acquisition agreement was signed on October 9, 2023, between E&P and Azumah Resources, a private company owned by Australian nationals, not the Australian government.
Reactions following the deal have raised concerns due to the political exposure of Ibrahim Mahama, the owner of E&P. Critics suggest the deal may have political undertones.
However, E&P has maintained that neither the government, the President, nor any public official influenced the signing of the agreement, which occurred before the December 2024 elections.
Responding to claims of a contract termination, E&P said the allegations are unfounded, noting that it has continued to fund the operations of the mine since the October 2023 agreement.
On July 3, 2025, Azumah Resources issued a disclaimer stating that it was not involved in the signing of the agreement between E&P and EBID.
E&P clarified that the July 7, 2025 event was merely the signing of an acquisition facility agreement between the lender, EBID, and the borrower, E&P.
“Despite the subject matter involving the acquisition of Azumah, the presence of Azumah was not required. In any case, the Resident Directors of Azumah were present at the ceremony,” the statement sighted by GhanaWeb Business noted.
E&P also alleged that there is a deliberate attempt to sabotage its efforts to raise the necessary acquisition capital.
“There is a vested interest in E&P’s failure to secure funding — an attempt by some directors of Azumah to unduly benefit from significantly higher gold prices,” the statement claimed.
The company added that it has already obtained a No Objection Letter from the Minerals Commission to acquire the mine and will proceed in accordance with the agreement, which includes the disbursement of funds by EBID to Azumah’s shareholders.
E&P said it intends to begin development activities at the mine immediately and is aiming to commence gold production within 36 months.
“Ghanaians should support their own and not allow mercenaries to derail this historic project. This is the first time a wholly-owned Ghanaian company is acquiring a large-scale gold mine. This is not politics, it is a purely commercial transaction conducted on an arm’s length basis,” the statement concluded.
See the full statement below:
ADDRESSING FALSE ALLEGATIONS IN THE MEDIA(PICTURES OF THE 9TH OCTOBER, 2023 SIGNING CEREMONY ATTACHED):
1. Allegation – E&P only signed the agreement to acquire Azumah after the elections.
Response – FALSE – The agreement was signed on 9th October 2023. Attached are pictures of the 9th October, 2023 signing ceremony between E&P and Azumah Resources which is a private company own by Australians and not the state.
2. Allegation – The President or Government of Ghana and its appointees influenced this acquisition or the financing of it in any way.
Response – FALSE – Every single milestone in this transaction, (ie signing of agreement to acquire the project and offer letter for financing) was satisfied before the elections in December 2024.
3. Allegation – Azumah terminated the agreement in December 2024.
Response – Azumah unilaterally purported to have terminated the acquisition agreement signed on 9th October 2023. This was despite E&P continuing to fund the operations. In June 2025, the court in effect rule the termination to be of no effect.
4. Allegation – The letter making rounds dissociating Azumah from the signing ceremony.
Response – The signing ceremony organised on 7th July 2025, was the signing of the Acquisition facility agreement between two parties, Lender – EBID and Borrower- E&P. Despite the subject matter regarding the acquisition of Azumah, the presence of Azumah was not required. In any case, the Resident Directors of Azumah were present at the ceremony.
CONCLUSION
There is a deliberate effort to create conditions that would have made it difficult for E&P to raise the required acquisition capital. There is a vested interest in E&P’s failure to raise the funding, to open the avenue for some of the directors of Azumah to unduly take advantage of the significantly higher gold prices.
THE WAY FORWARD
1. E&P has already obtained the No Objection Letter from the Minerals Commission to acquire the mine.
2. E&P will continue with the process in line with the agreement for EBID to make payment to the shareholders of Azumah.
3. E&P will commence development activities at the mine and do well to see the first production within 36 months.
4. Ghanaians should support their own and not allow mercenaries to divert attention from this historic project, the first time ever for a wholly owned Ghanaian company to acquire a large scale mine.
5. This is not politics. This is a pure commercial transaction on an arm’s length basis.
6. God bless our homeland Ghana
SSD/MA
Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe
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play videoJoao Pedro (hand raised) refused to celebrate against his boyhood club after scoring
Chelsea Football Club cruised past Brazilian side Fluminense by 2-0 to secure their spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final in Miami on July 8, 2025.
The Blues outplayed their opponents in the initial stages of the match as they pressed for the opener, but they struggled to penetrate their defence.
Newly signed attacker Joao Pedro, who started the game, found the back of the net in the 18th minute with a powerful drive that went past the goalkeeper.
Fluminense ignited their performance to pile pressure on the London-based club consistently for some time but could not make an impact in the first half.
The second half began with Chelsea showcasing their dominance, with Caicedo, Fernandez, and other players making brilliant efforts to maintain the lead.
Pedro, who signed for Chelsea from Brighton and Hove Albion this season, stole the spotlight after bagging another goal to seal a 2-0 victory.
The Blues qualified for the finals, and they are awaiting the winner between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Real Madrid to play against them on July 13, 2025.
Chelsea have made a whopping sum of 80 million euros for reaching the final and are on course to earn an additional 30 million euros if they emerge champions.
Watch the match highlights below:
SB/MA
Meanwhile, watch as historian Annam details how Swedru All Blacks started as a military club
The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has commended vendors at the Central Business District for adhering to the “red line” policy, a boundary initiative aimed at regulating street trading along key pavements in the capital.
He made the remarks during a visit to the market area to monitor compliance.
He further assured that ongoing construction works at the Tuesday Market and other sites will soon provide vendors with designated spaces to trade.
“I am very happy that they have listened to us, and they are making our work easier. I have seen that some of them do not have spaces, and I am going to create spaces for them.”
Responding to concerns that the decongestion exercise may be short-lived, Michael Allotey reaffirmed his commitment to sustained enforcement through public engagement and the use of fines to ensure lasting compliance.
“I will make sure I fix the problem on the street. People will have to be comfortable with where they work. The driving must flow, and people should not be worried when coming to Accra because of the overcrowding.”
Ukraine’s capital Kyiv is again under a massive overnight Russian drone attack, local officials say, with at least two people reported killed and 13 injured, and fires burning across the city.
Authorities in Kyiv say drone wreckage hit the roof of a residential building in the central Shevchenkivskyi district.
Footage on social media, as yet unverified by the BBC, shows blasts in the night sky, as air defence units begin repelling the attack. Ukraine’s military has also warned of a threat of a ballistic missile attack.
Ukraine reported the biggest ever Russian aerial attack on Tuesday night, after 728 drones and 13 cruise or ballistic missiles struck cities around the country in multiple waves.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, Kyiv’s military administration reported Russian drone strikes in six city districts.
“Residential buildings, vehicles, warehouses, office and non-residential buildings are burning,” administration head Tymur Tkachenko said in a post on Telegram.
“Unfortunately, we have two dead,” he later said. “These people were killed by the Russians. This is a terrible loss”.
In Kyiv’s Podilsky district, a primary healthcare centre was “almost completely destroyed”, Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said.
City residents have been urged to shelter until the air raid siren is lifted, and also close the windows when they return to their homes because there is a “lot of smoke” in Kyiv.
Overnight, Ukraine’s air force reported a threat of Russian drone attacks in a number of regions. It was not immediately clear whether there were any casualties outside Kyiv.
Russia’s military has not commented on the reported latest attack.
In other developments:
Ukraine’s emergency service DSNS said late on Wednesday that three people had been killed in a Russian air strike in the town of Kostiantynivka – close to the front line in eastern Ukraine
The US resumed sending some weapons to Ukraine, Reuters reported late on Wednesday, days after it halted shipments of some critical air defence arms
It comes after US President Donald Trump expressed growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth,” Trump told reporters on Tuesday. “He’s very nice to us all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was “pretty calm about this. Trump’s way of talking is generally quite harsh, the phrases he uses”.
The two leaders have been in regular contact, but this has so far failed to translate into tangible steps towards a ceasefire in Ukraine – something Trump once said he would be able to achieve in a day.
Trump has been threatening sanctions on Russia since taking office in January, but has so far not imposed any.
Later on Thursday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of a summit in Malaysia.
Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
President John Dramani Mahama has submitted the final list of nominees for Deputy Ministerial positions to Parliament for approval.
The nominations, made in accordance with Articles 78(1) and 79(1) of the 1992 Constitution, were officially communicated to the Speaker of Parliament on Wednesday.
The list features Members of Parliament selected to serve in various key ministries, as part of the President’s ongoing efforts to enhance government efficiency and strengthen service delivery across critical sectors.
The nominees and their respective ministries are as follows:
1. Dorcas Toffey, MP – Ministry of Transport 2. James G. Quayson, MP – Ministry of Foreign Affairs 3. Mohammed Adam Sukparu, MP – Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations 4. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, MP – Ministry of Health
The Tarkwa District Magistrate Court One has sentenced Prince Awuah, a 26-year-old illegal miner, to 16 months imprisonment with hard labour for unlawful entry and causing damage.
He pleaded guilty to the charges and was convicted on his plea.
Prosecuting Police Sergeant Enoch Assan-Donkoh told the court presided over by Mr Charles Owusu Nsiah that the complainant , Solomon Donkor, is a farmer and a resident of Aboso, while Awuah reside at Ndadieso, a suburb of Aboso.
He said on April 19, 2025, around 2230 hours, the complainant, together with his family and relatives, locked their houses and retired to bed.
According to him, the next day, around 0200 hours, the complainant’s elder brother, who is a witness in the case, woke up to have prayers and detected smoke in his room.
Sergeant Assan-Donkoh said the witness went outside and discovered Awuah had lit some clothes on fire and was attempting to spread it to the electricity meter box to burn the entire house.
He said the witness called out for help, and some residents, including the complainant, came to his aid, and they arrested the convict at the Aboso police station, where an official complaint was made against him.
Prosecution said the police conducted a search on the accused and found a lighter in his possession.
During interrogation, Sergeant Assan-Donkoh said the accused admitted the offence, and blamed his actions on the influence of alcohol and Indian hemp.
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.
Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has described the condition of sports infrastructure in Ghana as “quite gloomy,” urging a sustained and collaborative effort to reverse the decline.
Speaking to Joy Sports after presenting the NSA’s first report to the new Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, Ankrah admitted the current state of facilities is concerning.
“It’s quite gloomy, but we need to address them,” he said. “From Nkawkaw, where Honourable Bryan Acheampong intends to support Accra United through the construction of a stadium, subject to him presenting the relevant documents, I think it’s a good intervention.”
He called on corporate Ghana, private individuals, and foreign investors to partner in revitalising sports infrastructure across the country, noting that such efforts align with the government’s reset agenda.
Ankrah also asked for patience from the public. “It will take time. What we’ve come to meet is not something we can fix in a few months. It’s taken years to reach this point, and it will take years to fix,” he added.
The NSA says it remains committed to long-term solutions, not shortcuts.
Nearly a decade after surviving a tragic accident, Italy-based Ghanaian artiste and OGB Music boss, Ogidi Brown, has shared an emotional reflection on the experience.
In an interview with ZionFelix in Italy, Ogidi Brown recounted the accident that left him in a wheelchair, noting that he was a passenger at the time it occurred.
In a touching statement, he expressed gratitude that the accident didn’t happen in Ghana, even if it was his destiny.
“I thank God it didn’t happen in Ghana,” he said, citing the lack of support and inadequate compensation for accident victims in the country.
He noted that in Ghana, many victims are left to struggle with little or no help. “Some would even be glad to receive as little as GHS 10,000,” he said. “Sadly, others don’t get any compensation at all.”
Brown further contrasted his experience with the support he has received from the Italian government. He revealed that the authorities were deeply concerned about his welfare following the accident, ensuring he had proper accommodation and providing him with a high-quality wheelchair and a motorized device to aid his mobility.
“They gave me an expensive wheelchair, and every five years, I can apply for a new one,” he said.
Despite the support, Ogidi Brown clarified that insurance payouts abroad are not as enormous as many people believe.
“The monthly payments I receive are not as massive as people think,” he noted, pushing back against assumptions about life in Europe after such incidents.
Solomon Owusu is a leading member of the Movement for Change
A leading member of the Movement for Change, Solomon Owusu, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to rerun the entire parliamentary election in the Ablekuma North constituency.
Speaking on TV3 New Day on Wednesday, July 9, he established that all key stakeholders, including the EC, the NPP and the NDC, have admitted that the original results from the 281 polling stations cannot be traced, leaving the integrity of the electoral process in question.
“All of them at this stage are saying that the foundation document, based on which you can make a declaration, they don’t have the originals.
“If you are an institution, what would you do? Are you going to rely on a photocopy or a stamp copy, or whatever, to declare your results?” he asked.
He emphasised that relying on unofficial copies or unverifiable figures is unacceptable and called for a fresh vote across the entire constituency to restore confidence.
“The reasonable thing that should have even been done was to rerun the entire constituency.”
His comments follow a press conference by the NPP, during which the party’s General Secretary announced that the NPP will not take part in any rerun in the constituency.
AS/EB
You can also watch the latest news in Twi on GhanaWeb TV below:
Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe
Azumah Resources Limited denies involvement with E&P
Azumah Resources has insisted that it is not selling the Black Volta Gold Project to Engineers and Planners (E&P), despite the signing of a funding facility on July 7 between E&P and the ECOWAS Bank.
In a statement issued on July 8, 2025, Project Director Rob Cicchini clarified that E&P has not secured full funding for the project and lacks the capacity to develop the mine.
He stated that E&P does not have the required resources to fully finance the project.
“The future of this project should be in the hands of those who can deliver, not those who cannot. A sale to E&P, without a demonstrated ability to fund the full development of the Black Volta Gold Project, would not be in Ghana’s national interest.
“Even if E&P could raise the funds to acquire the project, it has already demonstrated, over several years, that it does not have sufficient resources to fund the development,” he said.
Cicchini further emphasised that the project would be difficult to execute if sold to E&P.
“Without that funding, Ghana would suffer. Local communities would suffer. Jobs would be lost. Growth would stall. Azumah Resources is proud to assist the government of Ghana in delivering real value for all Ghanaians,” he stated.
Azumah Resources also noted that E&P has yet to present any formal offer either to assist in funding the Black Volta Mine or to invest in Azumah.
“E&P does not own any shares in Azumah,” the company stated.
“We are very disappointed that E&P has made and continues to make a number of misleading public statements. Their statements are visible to mining companies around the world and severely impact upon their international standing as a Ghanaian company,” it added.
Azumah said it remains open to funding from international banks, and commented, “With their reported availability of funds from international banks, Azumah looks forward with great interest to receiving any offer of funding from E&P. However, Azumah takes note of the comments made by E&P in the press and will consider these when evaluating any future potential transaction with E&P.”
The company also advised stakeholders to disregard the signing event that took place this week between E&P and the ECOWAS Bank.
“Azumah urges all regulators, financial institutions, potential investors, and the Ghanaian public to disregard this week’s staged event and any related claims. The dispute between Azumah and E&P should be resolved through international arbitration and not through media stunts,” Cicchini concluded.
SSD/MA
Cheque Fraud EXPOSED: How it works and how to stay safe
GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
Dwight Howard and wife Amber Rose Howard are reportedly splitting up
Just six months after tying the knot, former NBA star Dwight Howard is facing an unexpected split as his wife, Amber Rose Howard, has reportedly filed for divorce, and wants the couple’s marital assets fairly divided.
The pair, who only made their relationship public in December 2023, surprised fans by announcing their engagement and then marrying just a month later on January 11, 2024.
But according to TMZ, court documents show that Amber Rose, who is known in the music scene by her stage name Amy Luciani, filed for divorce in Georgia on July 1, 2025.
Within the filing, she cited that her marriage to the eight-time NBA All-Star is “irretrievably broken” and that “there are no prospects for reconciliation.”
She is now seeking an equitable division of all marital property and assets, potentially putting a significant portion of Howard’s fortune at stake.
The rapper and social media personality has also wiped any trace of Howard from her social media pages.
It’s a sharp contrast to just months ago when she publicly gushed about how the ex-Orlando Magic center had changed her life.
Back in December 2025, Luciani posted a video of Howard admiring her diamond ring at a club, writing:
“I was enjoying you so much out of the public eye but here we are… I prayed reallllll deep on a Thursday not knowing 2 days later God would send me a Bible totin’, tattooed giant with the same heart as me. Thank you.”
Howard responded in the comments with a string of heartfelt emojis, an infinity sign, a red heart, and a lock and key.
The couple even made a public appearance together at the Atlanta screening of “Den of Thieves 2” to mark their relationship milestone.
So far, neither Howard nor Luciani has commented publicly on the filing or what led to the sudden breakdown of their whirlwind romance.
FKA/MA
Meanwhile, watch as historian Annam details how Swedru All Blacks started as a military club
Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has said that calls by party supporters for the revocation of the appointment of a former aide to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to a position at the Presidency are justified.
Speaking on Face to Face on Channel One TV, Gbande acknowledged the frustration among grassroots members, describing the President’s decision as “unpopular” and “a bad one” from the perspective of the party base.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reaffirmed its decision not to participate in the Electoral Commission’s planned rerun of parliamentary elections in 19 polling stations in the Ablekuma North constituency, scheduled for July 11, 2025.
This comes in the wake of Justice Ali Baba Abature’s ruling on Wednesday, July 9, which dismissed the party’s 2024 parliamentary candidate, Nana Akua Afriyie’s application for an interim injunction, describing it as “unmeritorious.”
The court held that halting the rerun would obstruct the Electoral Commission’s constitutional mandate and deny constituents representation in Parliament.
The NPP had argued that the EC’s decision to organise a rerun contradicted a binding High Court ruling from January 4, 2025, which directed the collation and declaration of results from 62 outstanding polling stations.
According to the party’s legal counsel, only three polling stations were uncollated as of January 27, based on public communications from the EC.
Speaking after the ruling on Citi Eyewitness News, NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed stated that the party maintains its belief that it legitimately won the original election and sees no reason to re-contest.
“We think that we have won the election. The law will definitely speak on this particular matter. We don’t go to contest for an election that we have won,” Mohammed said.
He added that the party would pursue all available legal remedies, underscoring its commitment to the rule of law.
“We intend to pursue further the case in court, and at any point in time, the remedy that the court will proffer, we as a law-abiding party, a corporate institution — the NPP — will follow suit,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and security during the upcoming parliamentary rerun in Ablekuma North.
Ablekuma North rerun will be fair and peaceful – NDC assures
In spite of the seeming economic gains, especially with the stability of the local currency in the past few weeks, the Africa Policy Lens has issued a strong warning against how the economy is being managed by the Mahama administration.
According to the Africa Policy Lens (APL), the economy is running on a “borrowed breath”.
Reacting to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) injection of US$367 million into Ghana after its fourth review of its Extended Credit Facility Program, the APL bemoaned Ghana’s over-reliance on foreign support, therefore cautioning that without proper measures for home-grown solutions, the country may suffer a serious setback.
“Ghana’s economy today is running on borrowed breath, temporary fixes, not fundamental strength,” a statement by APL read.
It continued; “The IMF disbursement is like a steroid shot: it pumps up reserves, props up the cedi, and gives a cosmetic boost to market confidence. But the real muscles, domestic production, access to affordable credit, and a disciplined fiscal framework, remain weak and undertrained.”
“Until these foundational issues are addressed, each foreign injection only postpones the inevitable collapse.”
“Ghana doesn’t need more steroids; it needs structural fitness. And that will only come through bold reforms, local productivity, and a home-grown growth model that is not outsourced to Washington.”
Read APL‘s full statement below:
Fiscal impact of IMF disbursement: Real reform, not Washington remedies
Ghana’s economic recovery is leaning heavily on foreign lifelines, the latest being a US$367 million disbursement from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) following the fourth review of its Extended Credit Facility program.
This injection of cash, while timely, exposes a deeper and more uncomfortable truth: the economy is surviving on external steroids, while its core growth drivers, domestic production, affordable credit, and consistent fiscal discipline, remain dangerously underdeveloped. Though the disbursement has boosted reserves and stabilized the currency, it masks the structural weakness that continues to define Ghana’s macroeconomic landscape.
The disbursement pushes Gross International Reserves from US$10.67 billion to an estimated US$11.04 billion, raising import cover marginally from 4.7 to 4.8 months. A stronger reserve position helped the cedi appreciate sharply from GHS 14.15 to 11.85 per dollar, a 16% gain within a month. But this currency bounce is externally induced, not domestically earned.
The real production economy remains sluggish, with real private sector credit growth sliding into negative territory at −1.1% in April 2025. In simpler terms, businesses can’t access affordable capital, and productive sectors aren’t leading the recovery.
The fiscal impact of the disbursement is equally paradoxical. While the GHS 4.35 billion equivalent of IMF cash helped finance 22% of the cumulative fiscal deficit for early 2025, it only delays the reckoning with Ghana’s chronic overspending and revenue underperformance.
Primary balance and overall deficit indicators remain negative, and government expenditure continues to outpace revenue in structural terms. Without serious revenue mobilization and expenditure control reforms, these external inflows merely plug short-term holes in a leaky ship.
On the monetary front, while Net Foreign Assets jumped to GHS 134.5 billion and liquidity conditions improved, lending to the productive private sector has stagnated. Banks remain risk-averse amid high non-performing loan levels, with NPLs hovering around 23.6%.
The financial sector’s liquidity may be improving, but that liquidity is not flowing into the real economy. This is a clear indication that the supposed “recovery” is not broad-based, it’s trickling down slowly, if at all.
Moreover, Ghana’s reliance on concessional debt, while preferable to commercial borrowing, still contributes to long-term debt accumulation. With total public debt standing at GHS 769.4 billion (55% of GDP), the real problem is not debt alone, but what the borrowed money is used for. With minimal capital expenditure and weak industrial growth, the debt isn’t fueling transformation, it’s merely sustaining survival.
Ghana’s economy today is running on borrowed breath,temporary fixes, not fundamental strength. The IMF disbursement is like a steroid shot: it pumps up reserves, props up the cedi, and gives a cosmetic boost to market confidence. But the real muscles, domestic production, access to affordable credit, and a disciplined fiscal framework, remain weak and undertrained.
Until these foundational issues are addressed, each foreign injection only postpones the inevitable collapse. Ghana doesn’t need more steroids; it needs structural fitness. And that will only come through bold reforms, local productivity, and a home-grown growth model that is not outsourced to Washington.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has officially inaugurated a new 10-member Governing Board of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), tasking it to strengthen the country’s appeal as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI).
Chaired by Akwasi Oppong-Fosu, the board is expected to play a strategic role in supporting GIPC’s mandate to attract and retain quality investments that drive economic growth and job creation.
Other members include Dr. Zakaria Mumuni, Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Sampson Ahi, Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem, CEO of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Simon Madjie, Dr. Reuben Owusu Gyamfi, CEO of the Ghana Association of Banks John Awuah, Major Christine Naa Adoley Oko (Rtd), and President of Greater Accra Markets Association Mercy Afrowa Needjan.
During the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday July 9, 2025 , the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare underscored the critical function of GIPC in driving Ghana’s investment agenda.
She also hinted at an impending review of the GIPC Act to better position the institution to meet current investment trends and deliver effectively on its mandate.
“I am confident that you know the mandate of the board for which you have been called to serve – primarily to bring foreign direct investment into Ghana. We are looking at your law again to make it more robust, more effective and to help you achieve your mandate as reposed in you by His Excellency the president of the Republic of Ghana,” Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare said.
Chairperson of the new 10-member Governing Board of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Akwasi Oppong-Fosu on his part underscored the role of GIPC while pledging to ensure that it supports the sector minister to transform the country.
“We do not take these responsibilities lightly. We pledge that we are committed to supporting your efforts in achieving the vision of the His Excellency the president in transforming this country,” he said.
The Kwabenya Circuit Court has remanded into custody a 36-year-old man, identified as a friend of the late Nana Kofi Amoah, in connection with the tragic death of the immigration officer and staunch Asante Kotoko supporter.
The court’s decision was made on Monday, July 8, 2025, as investigations into the shocking case continue.
The suspect is believed to be one of the last individuals to have seen Amoah before his disappearance on Thursday, July 3rd.
His alleged involvement has raised serious questions, and security authorities are intensifying efforts to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the murder.
Nana Kofi Amoah’s body was found near Berekuso, showing signs of stab wounds to the neck and chest, with partially burnt remains, reportedly wrapped in a woolen carpet—details confirmed by his brother, Akwasi Amoako.
The police and investigative agencies have assured the public that a thorough probe is underway to ensure justice is served.
President John Mahama is scheduled to visit the Western North Region on July 15, 2025, as part of his nationwide “thank you” tour, following his election victory in December 2024.
The President is expected to address a grand durbar at Juaboso, which would be attended by traditional authorities, heads of departments, Metropolitan, Municipal District Chief Executives (MMDCES) and party faithful.
A statement signed by George Ofori Danquah, the Western North Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress, directed constituency executives to liaise with their respective Members of Parliament and MDCEs to ensure effective mobilisation of the party base for the event.
The ruling National Democratic Congress won eight out of the nine parliamentary seats in the Western North Region.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Northern Excellence Awards (NExA), has honored the Vice President, National House of Chiefs & Paramount Chief, Buipe Traditional Area, His Royal Majesty, Buipewura Abdulai Jinapor II, as the NExA2025 Development-Oriented Chief of the Year Award.
The Northern Excellence Awards (NEXA) board described His Royal Majesty Buipewura Abdulai Jinapor II as a distinguished traditional leader whose name has become synonymous with visionary leadership, progressive development, and social impact.
“In an era where traditional leadership must rise to meet modern challenges, Your Royal Majesty has stood tall as a beacon of transformation, championing the socio-economic advancement of the Buipe Traditional Area and beyond. Your unwavering dedication to community welfare, coupled with your strategic foresight, has ushered in a new era of industrial growth and hope for thousands across Northern Ghana,” parts of the award citation read.
The NEXA, indicated that his resolute efforts in spearheading the industrial transformation of Buipe to his impactful advocacy against drug abuse, his reign has not only inspired progress but has created a legacy of action, compassion, and purpose.
“The Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign, under your leadership, continues to resonate across communities empowering youth, restoring lives, and reinforcing public safety and dignity. Your contributions reflect the true spirit of excellence and development that the Northern Excellence Awards exist to honour,” it further added.
The Executive Director of Northern Excellence Awards (NExA), Abdul-Latif Alhassan, at the event noted that NExA honored individuals and institutions who have left indelible marks in areas such as education, health, agriculture, digital innovation, gender empowerment, civic leadership, humanitarian service, and cultural conservation.
“Each award presented tonight is not just a trophy, it is a testimony. A reminder that excellence does exist among us, and that the North is rising, with purpose and pride.
To our award recipients: your work inspires. You represent the bold face of Northern potential, we simply pause to say thank you,” he said.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare has officially inaugurated 12-member governing board of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA).
The governing board of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), chaired by Hudu Mogtari, is expected to provide strategic direction to the Authority as it pursues its mandate of setting and maintaining standards for goods and services across the country.
The newly inaugurated board includes West African Regional Director for CUTS International Appiah Kusi Adomako, Micheal Agbeko Kwadjo Seneyah, Roderick Kwabena Daddey-Agyei, Dramani Bukari, Ph.D., and Samuel Akrofi.
The rest are Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, President of the Association of Ghana Industries Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, Acting CEO of Ghana Shippers Authority Professor Ransford Edward Van Gyamfo, Professor Charles Tortoe, Jane Dede Senam Tachie-Menson, and Rodaline Zumale Adama.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, speaking during the inauguration on Wednesday July 9, 2025 charged the board to support the Authority in promoting quality assurance and safeguarding consumer interest in both domestic and international markets.
She also urged the board to ensure standard harmonization for effective trading with other countries under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“We also want you to work very hard in the area of the African Continental Free Trade Area because it is our best bet. We need to do a lot of standard harmonization because once we harmonize our standards with other countries it makes the trading with those countries very easy under the African Continental Free Trade Area,” Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare said.
Chairperson of the governing board of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) on his part expressed the commitment of the board to deliver on their mandate.
“I wish to commit that we will work together to enhance the work of the Ghana Standards Authority working with management and staff of Ghana Standards Authority. We believe that the job of protecting the safety of consumers, protecting industry and contributing to the development of this country is our key priority and we must make sure that we work towards that,” he said.
The Album introduces a dynamic and refreshing soundscape
Celebrated Ghanaian twin duo DopeNation has officially released their third studio project, GhanaPiano (The Album), a genre bending 17 track album that boldly reimagines the fusion of Ghanaian musical roots with the electrifying pulse of Amapiano.
As self-produced artists, DopeNation not only take center stage as performers but also as sonic architects, crafting every sound on the album from scratch, a true testament to their artistry and innovation.
GhanaPiano (The Album) introduces a dynamic and refreshing soundscape that merges Ghana’s cultural rhythms from Highlife to Afrobeat and HipLife with South Africa’s infectious Amapiano wave.
The result is a rhythmic crossover that is deeply African yet globally palatable. With each track, DopeNation weaves complex drum patterns, melodic log drum grooves, rich vocal textures, and masterful arrangements that keep listeners moving, reflecting, and vibing in equal measure.
Beyond its musical brilliance, the album is a cultural statement. It celebrates collaboration across borders, the evolution of African sound, and the power of self-expression.
DopeNation’s production finesse shines through every second of the project, establishing them not just as hitmakers but as one of Africa’s most forward-thinking musical forces.
The duo’s ability to produce, write, and perform across multiple genres is on full display, underscoring their place as trendsetters within the modern music movement.
From high energy anthems to soulful grooves and experimental soundscapes, DopeNation ensures each song serves a purpose both musically and emotionally.
Every beat, hook, and lyric are purposefully crafted, affirming their reputation as one of the few African acts with complete creative control over their music.
This album marks a major milestone in DopeNation’s journey, signifying not just growth, but a bold new era of sound.
With all 17 tracks fully produced by the duo themselves, GhanaPiano (The Album) is not only a celebration of African excellence it is a declaration of independence, creativity, and evolution in an ever-changing music landscape.
The album is now available on all major streaming platforms.
GA
GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
The Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has called for a collective and bipartisan approach to address what he describes as a “broken” Electoral Commission (EC).
His comments follow growing concerns after the Commission’s decision to rerun elections in 19 polling stations within the Ablekuma North constituency.
In a Facebook post on July 8, 2025, Dr Boamah, who also served as the immediate past Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), expressed deep concern over the state of the EC.
He noted that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) had previously failed to heed warnings and concerns raised ahead of the 2024 general elections.
“The issues that were flagged before the elections were ignored, and now the consequences are unfolding,” Dr Boamah stated.
He warned that Ghana’s democracy is at risk if electoral processes are not conducted with integrity and transparency.
Despite his criticism, the Minister struck a conciliatory tone, urging the NPP and all political stakeholders to come together in the national interest.
He emphasised that restoring trust in the EC should not be treated as a partisan issue, but as a shared democratic obligation.
“It is not too late to act. Let’s work together to fix the broken Electoral Commission and save Ghana’s democracy,” he stressed.
Read the Facebook post below:
MRA/MA
Meanwhile, watch as Parliamentary leadership visits wife of late Ernest Yaw Kumi
Amaralingaeswara Rao is among the three men who have been missing since they were abducted in Mali
A week after three Indians were kidnapped in Mali, their families say they still have no information about their whereabouts and are concerned about their safety.
India’s foreign ministry said the men, who worked in a cement factory in Mali, were “forcibly taken” by a group of “armed assailants” last Tuesday.
The Mali government is yet to comment, but the abductions took place on a day an al-Qaeda linked group – Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) – claimed it had carried out several attacks in the African country.
According to government data, some 400 Indians live in Mali, a country that India has had trade relations with since the 1990s.
Last week’s incident comes after five Indian citizens were kidnapped in Niger, in April during an attack by armed men who also killed a dozen soldiers, Reuters news agency reported. There’s no update on their whereabouts.
Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso are fighting an insurgency linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (IS) that began in northern Mali in 2012 and has since spread to neighbouring countries.
Mali is the eighth-largest nation in the African continent and falls in the Sahel region of Africa, which the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) described as the “epicentre of global terrorism” earlier this year. The region accounts for “over half of all terrorism-related deaths”, according to GTI.
In a statement a day after the abductions, India’s foreign ministry urged citizens living in Mali to “exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant and stay in close contact with the Indian embassy in [Mali’s capital] Bamako”.
The men were taken from the Diamond Cement Factory, operated by Indian-business conglomerate Prasaditya Group, in Kayes city. The firm and factory have not issued any statements so far. The BBC has reached out to them for a response.
The same day the men were abducted, Jihadist fighters had launched a series of simultaneous attacks on military posts across numerous towns in Mali.
A resident of Kayes, where the cement factory was located, told the BBC that gunshots could be heard “everywhere” during the attack.
The abductions have sparked a wave of panic among the Indian relatives of those living in Africa.
The Indian government said it was in touch with the authorities in Mali, the factory where the men worked, and the relatives of the kidnapped men – but BBC Telugu has spoken to family members of two of the men who said they had little information about their relatives.
The mother of Panad Venkatramana, one of the abducted men who worked as an engineer at the factory, said she last spoke to her son on 30 June.
“He said he was going to work and would call later,” Narsamma, who goes by only one name, said.
“Three days later, we received a call from the company, but we couldn’t understand what the caller was saying. Later, we saw on television that my son had been kidnapped,” she added.
Venkatramana is from the eastern state of Odisha and his family have lodged a complaint with the local police, seeking their help to find him.
They have found support from former Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik who posted on X, urging Foreign Minister S Jaishankar to “personally intervene in the matter” and ensure “early and safe release” of Venkatramana.
In the southern states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the family members of another of the abducted men – Amaralingaeswara Rao who worked as an assistant general manager at the factory – are waiting anxiously for him to return home.
His father Koorakula Venkateswarlu told BBC Telugu that his son went to Mali eight years ago to support his family.
“The salary [in India] was low. He has three children to raise,” Mr Venkateswarlu said.
His son was planning to visit India in October and had booked flight tickets. But now, he says, they have no idea when they will see him.
Ghanaian midfielder Ebenezer Ofori played a key role for FK Zalgiris on Wednesday July 9, 2025, helping his side to defeat Hamrun Spartans F.C. 2-0 in the first leg of their clash in the first qualifying round for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
In the game played at the LFF Stadium in Vilnius, Ofori started for the home team and played the entire 90 minutes.
Operating in the midfield, the 30-year-old provided good cover for the defence of FK Zalgiris and combined well with the attackers when the team moved forward.
In the 85th minute, Ebenezer Ofori set up Comoros forward Kassim Hadji to score to seal a delightful 2-0 win for the hosts.
Before that equaliser, a goal by Liviu Antal earlier in the 59th minute had already set up Hamrun Spartans F.C. on their way to defeat.
The victory on Wednesday night gives Ebenezer Ofori and his teammates a good advantage heading into the second leg of the tie against the Maltese opponent next week.
The leadership of Ghana’s Parliament, led by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, paid a visit to the family of the late Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi, to commiserate with them.
The atmosphere at the late MP’s residence was filled with deep sorrow, as family members and fellow MPs struggled to come to terms with the tragic loss.
The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu has hit back at the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over its recent criticisms of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
Responding to claims that President John Mahama is delaying action on the bill, the Abura Asebu Kwamankese MP argued that the NPP lacks the moral right to criticise.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr Ofosu stated that the NPP, under former President Akufo-Addo, had eight years to pass the bill but failed to act.
“Yet, they remained hesitant, even when Akufo-Addo had the opportunity to sign it before leaving office. How do you expect us to do in six months what you failed to deliver in eight years?” he questioned.
He emphasised that both the NDC and President Mahama have consistently demonstrated their support for the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
“Between us and them, we know who is genuinely committed to the bill. We all saw the shenanigans they pulled in court just to delay the process so Akufo-Addo would not sign the bill. These things will not sidetrack us. We are committed to ensuring that the bill is passed not to promoting LGBTQ activities in Ghana,” he asserted.
Mr Ofosu also rejected suggestions that the NDC MPs who sponsored the bill have gone silent following their party’s electoral victory.
The debate over the controversial bill has reignited following Ghana’s abstention from a United Nations Human Rights Council vote during its 59th session.
The vote sought to renew the mandate of the Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. At the end of the vote, 29 member states voted in favour, 15 opposed, while Ghana was one of three countries that abstained.
Amid public backlash, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration clarified that Ghana’s abstention was guided by the principles enshrined in Chapter 5, Article 17 of the 1992 Constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on gender, race, colour, ethnicity, religion, creed, or social and economic status.
The Ministry also dismissed suggestions that Ghana has compromised its stance on homosexuality.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
The Ministry of Interior has disclosed that it is working closely with the United States Embassy to verify the authenticity of suspected counterfeit US dollars seized during a recent security operation in Sapeiman, Accra.
In addition, the Ministry revealed that it is collaborating with the Bank of Ghana and the Ghana Gold Board to authenticate intercepted gold bars and Ghanaian cedis that were discovered during the same operation.
On February 9, 2025, National Security operatives confiscated counterfeit currency and suspected gold bars concealed in 12 containers at Sapeiman, a suburb of Accra.
Providing an update to Parliament on Wednesday, July 9, Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka Mohammed stated that investigations are ongoing to track down individuals linked to the illegal consignment.
“The National Security is also collaborating with the United States Embassy to confirm the authenticity of the suspected counterfeit currency. At the same time, there is communication with the Bank of Ghana and the Ghana Gold Board to verify the legitimacy of the intercepted gold bars and Ghana cedis,” the Minister explained.
Addressing additional concerns, Mr. Muntaka also debunked rumours suggesting that Members of Parliament or former ministers are involved in a separate drug-related case. This follows the seizure of 3,313 kilograms of cocaine in operations conducted across the Central and Western Regions.
“None of the suspects is a Member of Parliament, a minister, or a former minister,” he clarified.
