According to him, due to this challenge, most soldiers no longer live in the barracks, particularly personnel working in Accra.

Mr Nitiwul, who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Bimbilla, disclosed this on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, stating that many soldiers now rent private accommodations within communities.

However, he bemoaned that this situation does not augur well for the personnel, as they often adopt behaviors from the communities in which they live.

“Soldiers should be in the barracks and not in a rented apartment or even in your house outside the barracks. But now, accommodation is one of the biggest challenges.

“We started some construction, but the pace was slow because we do not have adequate resources. So when you want to mobilize soldiers or instill a particular style of discipline, it may be difficult,” he stated.

He revealed that the ideal accommodation for a young soldier should be a two-bedroom apartment.

Speaking further, Mr Nitiwul noted that the Akufo-Addo-led government did not relent in efforts to resolve the problem, as many buildings were started and others commissioned.

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Moses Odonkor, aged 53, suffered fatal injuries on a trawler on Monday off the Porcupine Bank near the Blasket Islands.

Mr. Odonkor’s crewmates desperately tried to assist him, but he was pronounced dead before emergency services could be dispatched to the scene. Following the incident, the trawler immediately returned to Castletownbere.

Originally from Ghana, he had been living in Ireland for over 20 years, most recently in Skibbereen.

He is survived by his wife, Philomena, and sons, Isaac and Emmanuel. In 2023, his son Joshua (2) died after choking on a grape he was eating.

A prayer service for Mr. Odonkor took place in Hurley & O’Sullivan’s Funeral Home, Skibbereen, this afternoon shortly before 3 p.m.

A notice on RIP.ie states that he will be repatriated to Ghana “at a later date.”

It is believed that Mr. Odonkor suffered critical injuries as heavy nets were being deployed into the fishing grounds.

He was immediately rendered unresponsive after the accident, and his crewmates were unable to revive him.

The tragedy occurred within Irish territorial waters.

A Garda (the state police force of the Republic of Ireland) spokesperson said the incident was being treated as a tragic workplace accident.

Gardaí were alerted to the incident by the Coast Guard, who had received direct communication from the vessel.

“The Marine Casualty Investigation Unit, Marine Survey Office, Health and Safety Authority, and the local coroner have all been notified,” a Garda spokesperson confirmed.

Lost At Sea charity chairman, Niall Duffy, said everyone in the fishing community was deeply shocked by the tragedy.

“On behalf of the fishing community, I want to extend our sympathies to the family and his fellow crewmates on the tragic loss of a respected and well-liked crewman,” he said.

The charity supports all those impacted by tragedies at sea.

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During a brief ceremony at the Jubilee House on Monday, February 10, 2025, the committee presented its final report to President John Dramani Mahama.

The committee was tasked with investigating alleged corruption and verifying claims of embezzled state resources.

Speaking at the event, ORAL Chairman Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that Ghanaians were deeply concerned about corruption and were eagerly anticipating the president’s actions to address the issue.

According to him, the committee received 1,493 complaints through a toll-free call and 924 via emails, bringing the total to 2,417.

“Over the past 53 days, we have reviewed these petitions; 44 were received directly from CSOs and other spirited public citizens. 59 of the 230 cases had come up during the NDC’s time in opposition, but we decided to go back and review in greater detail,” he stated.

Receiving the report, President Mahama commended the team for their pro-bono services to the nation and pledged to work thoroughly with the findings.

“Every pesewa recovered from the operation will be reinvested in national development, emphasising that Ghana is no longer a ground for corruption,” he declared.

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Chairman of the committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed this on Monday, February 10, while presenting the team’s final report to President John Dramani Mahama.

Breaking down the complaints, he stated, “We received 1,493 calls through the toll-free line and 924 emails. Fortunately, all calls were automatically recorded, and the emails have been preserved for verification and validation.”

Ablakwa highlighted the significance of the ORAL Committee, questioning where petitioners would have turned for redress without the President’s intervention.

“For those who doubted the relevance and timing of the President’s intervention, this is your evidence—2,417 complaints received. Where would all these people have gone if President Mahama had not set up the ORAL preparatory team?” he asked.

The ORAL Committee’s work forms part of the government’s broader anti-corruption efforts to recover looted state assets and ensure accountability.

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At present, 15 individuals remain hospitalized at the Winneba Municipal Hospital, and the rapid increase in cases has raised serious concerns among health authorities, prompting urgent calls for national intervention.

Dr. Douglas Amponsah, the Acting Medical Superintendent at the Winneba Municipal Hospital, expressed grave concern about the surge in cholera cases.

“The loss of two children to this disease is a devastating reminder of how urgent the situation is,” he said.

Dr. Amponsah confirmed that 29 of the 356 reported cases have been officially diagnosed as cholera, with the remaining cases still under investigation. He noted that most of the cases have originated from communities with poor sanitation facilities.

“Most of the affected individuals are from fishing communities, where sanitation is a major issue. In areas with better sanitation, there have been no recorded cases of cholera. This highlights the importance of improving sanitation to curb the spread of the disease,” Dr. Amponsah explained.

The outbreak has had a particularly severe impact on pregnant women and children, many of whom come from areas lacking proper waste management.

“Children are especially vulnerable as they often play near refuse dumps, increasing their risk of contracting cholera,” he lamented. “We must address these sanitation challenges urgently to prevent further spread.”

In response to the growing outbreak, Dr. Amponsah and local health authorities have called for additional national support.

“We are doing all we can with the limited resources available, but we need the national government’s assistance to provide the necessary tools and manpower to effectively combat this crisis,” he emphasized.

James Kofi Annan, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Effutu, has stepped in to support the community. Along with his supporters, he has donated hand sanitizers, face masks, tissues, and financial assistance to the Winneba Municipal Hospital.

“We cannot remain passive while our community suffers,” Mr. Annan said. “We must unite and support our healthcare system in these challenging times.”

Mr. Annan also voiced his concern over the alarming number of reported cases, stating, “The 356 cases reported is alarmingly high, and I believe it has now reached epidemic levels. Immediate action is required to prevent further spread.”

He further explained, “When I assessed the areas where the cases are concentrated, I noticed that in regions with better sanitation, there has not been a single case of cholera. Many of these areas are equipped with running water and proper toilet facilities, which significantly contribute to improved hygiene.”

However, in areas where cases are rising, sanitation remains a major issue. “The situation is complex, especially in places where toilets are available but there is no running water, and where clogged gutters are facilitating the spread of cholera,” he added. “Water running through these areas creates breeding grounds for the disease, and children are often found playing in these unsanitary conditions.”

Mr. Annan also observed that children in these areas tend to scavenge through refuse dumps, particularly in Sanko. “I believe these refuse dumps are major contributors to the spread of cholera. We are committed to relocating these sites away from the community to eliminate the health risks they pose,” he said.

“We will conduct a clean-up exercise this week as part of an awareness campaign, and we will also utilize local radio stations to disseminate important information on cholera prevention and hygiene,” Mr. Annan continued.

He added, “We have distributed tissues, hand sanitizers, and liquid soaps to address immediate needs. While we know these supplies may not be enough, I visited the headquarters of the Ghana Health Service yesterday. Unfortunately, I could not meet the Director-General as he was at Parliament.”

“I will follow up and ensure we obtain the necessary resources to support our efforts. I am confident that with the clean-up campaign, we will see a reduction in the number of cases,” he assured.

Mr. Annan also promised, “I am committed to helping relocate the dumping sites in the fishing areas of Effutu Municipality, and I will organize regular clean-up exercises to prevent the further spread of cholera.”

Despite the challenges, Dr. Amponsah remains optimistic. “We are taking all the necessary steps, but we need full support from both the community and the national government to stop this outbreak and prevent further fatalities,” he concluded.

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While some of the youth supported the three shortlisted applicants, others believed Konkombas had been marginalized in the process.

Fourteen aspirants were shortlisted for the District Chief Executive positions in the Oti Region.

However, some Konkomba youth strongly opposed the list, arguing that their tribesmen who applied were unfairly excluded.

The group, led by some executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), criticized the vetting committee led by Oti Regional Minister John Kwadwo Gyapong for not shortlisting any of the 17 Konkombas who applied for the Municipal and District Chief Executive (MDCE) positions in the region.

Addressing the press, the Nkwanta North NDC Deputy Communications Officer, Gideon Bilinyi, accused Mr. Gyapong of leading a deliberate agenda against Konkombas, citing a viral audio in which the minister allegedly expressed disapproval of appointing Konkombas to public office.

In the tape, Mr. Gyapong was reportedly heard saying, “So, when you are talking about Oti, for me, to talk about Konkombas, I will talk about Ewes. You think of the Konkombas? No, trust the Ewes because they dominate.”

This, according to the group, explains why all 17 Konkomba candidates were excluded from the MDCE shortlist.

However, another faction argued that the committee conducted a fair vetting process and gave all candidates equal opportunities before selecting the most qualified ones.

A spokesperson for this faction, Ernest Lagsah, alleged that Nkwanta North MP John Oti Bless attempted to influence the process by pushing for his preferred candidate, Anthony Kwesi Ntefui, who, according to Lagsah, performed poorly during the vetting.

“Hon. John O.K. Bless attempted to corrupt the process by compromising the standards set for the committee. He insisted that his choice, Mr. Anthony Kwesi Ntefui, who performed woefully during the process, be included in the list. However, the committee disagreed, so he resorted to inciting his supporters to accuse the Regional Minister of bias against Konkombas,” Lagsah stated at a press conference in Kpassa.

He maintained that all shortlisted candidates were qualified for the position and urged President Mahama to appoint the most suitable candidate to lead the Nkwanta North District.

“If His Excellency John Dramani Mahama finds them [shortlisted applicants] worthy, we encourage him to appoint any of them as our District Chief Executive in fulfillment of the provisions of the constitution and his promise to ensure balance in his appointments,” he added.

Mr. Lagsah acknowledged the contributions of other tribes in the Oti Region to the NDC’s victory and the election of Konkomba candidates in the parliamentary seats of Krachi Nchumuru, Krachi East, and Nkwanta North constituencies.

However, during the press conference, a violent clash erupted between the two factions. The situation was quickly brought under control by the Chief of Kpassa, Ubor Tassan Konja IV, preventing potential bloodshed.

Ubor Tassan Konja IV called for peace and urged both factions to accept whoever President Mahama appoints.

“Everyone cannot be DCE. Let us support whoever is appointed to the position. What we want is development and progress. I am pleading with you. I don’t want us to experience the repercussions of the tribal conflict in 2012. President Mahama will appoint whoever qualifies to lead us,” he stressed.

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Linda Agyemang, a nurse at the Kumasi South Hospital, and her three children, aged between 7 and 14, died after they were trapped in a three-bedroom apartment.

The fire incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 8, 2025, with the cause yet to be determined.

Reports indicate that firefighters received a distress call around 4:30 a.m. and arrived at the scene within ten minutes.

Unfortunately, the occupants had already been consumed by the fire.

The community has been left devastated by the tragic incident, with loved ones grieving over their loss.

The Ghana National Fire Service is currently investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the fire.

The charred remains have been transported to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) morgue for autopsy.

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The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. when a Hyundai Grace Mini Bus with registration number AC 1477-21, driven by 25-year-old Akwesi Yeboah, veered into the opposite lane and collided head-on with an oncoming Shackman Trailer Truck, registered CR 1228-25, and driven by 33-year-old Padmond Kakari.

One male passenger aboard the Hyundai Grace Mini Bus died on the spot. The two drivers and another passenger sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to the Obuasi Government Hospital.

However, suspect driver Akwesi Yeboah was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy.

Confirming the incident to Adom News, the Assembly Member for the Dadwen/Kyekyewere Electoral Area, Kwabena Appiah Kubi, stated that two people died in the accident while others received medical attention.

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Led by the chief of Omanpe, Nana Opong Payin III, the council slaughtered a sheep and poured libation, calling on the gods of Aowin to accept their sacrifice and act against Mr. Larbi if he defies the ban.

According to the council, the MP has disrespected them by allegedly fabricating false stories against the paramount chief and some divisional chiefs in the Aowin Traditional Area.

They acknowledged that Mr. Larbi was elected to represent the constituents but insisted that due to his continuous disrespect, they could no longer work with him. As a result, he is forbidden from setting foot in any community within their jurisdiction.

The traditional council emphasized that they have no issues with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) or the government.

They, however, urged that any government-led development projects should be directed through the Regional Minister or the yet-to-be-named Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

The council has been at odds with Mr. Larbi in recent weeks over his alleged involvement in illegal mining operations in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve.

Although the MP has strongly denied the allegations, maintaining that he has been actively working to combat illegal mining in the area, there have been calls for President John Mahama to intervene.

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The President made the pledge in a post on Facebook, sharing a video highlighting the challenges faced by residents.

Mr. Mahama revealed that the community has been identified, with immediate steps underway to provide a lasting solution.

“Earlier today, the MP for Lower West Akim, Owen Kwame Frimpong, visited the Asuokow community and assured them that the Eastern Regional Minister will also visit, as we work to permanently and urgently resolve the challenge the people and the schoolchildren are confronted with,” the President stated.

He added that his Reset Ghana agenda prioritises removing obstacles to education and healthcare, ensuring that every Ghanaian has equal opportunities.

“Our quest to Reset Ghana includes a determination to remove barriers to education and healthcare across the country,” he stated.

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The company has acknowledged the difficulties and reiterated its commitment to restoring normal supply as soon as possible.

Several areas, including Tamale, Bimbilla, Kasoa, and Ho, have endured severe water shortages for weeks, significantly disrupting daily activities.

In Ho, the situation has become particularly dire, placing immense pressure on essential institutions such as hospitals and prisons, which have been forced to seek alternative sources of water to maintain operations.

In an interview with Accra-based Channel One TV, the Communications Manager, Stanley Martey, reassured residents that efforts were underway to resolve the crisis. For residents in Ho, Mr. Martey promised a stable water supply within a week, stating that the company was working tirelessly to normalise the situation nationwide.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused, but as we have stated, we are working around the clock to restore supply. By the end of the week, we expect the situation to improve within the municipality,” he stated.

He further revealed that a spare water pump had been treated and was on standby, with another expected to be installed by Thursday. However, Mr. Martey warned against water theft, stressing that such actions worsen the crisis for other residents.

“We urge people to refrain from stealing water so that the limited supply can be distributed fairly. This will ensure that as many residents as possible have access to water and can sustain themselves during this difficult period,” he advised.

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The containers were traced to a warehouse in Sapeiman, Ga South Municipality, where a special operation was launched following a tip-off.

The hidden currency, primarily bundles of U.S. dollars, was discovered inside wooden boxes filled with cement.

During the sting operation, additional boxes opened in the warehouse revealed more cash concealed in compartments barricaded with plywood and sealed with charcoal.

According to National Security operatives, two containers remain unaccounted for, but state security trackers are actively pursuing them.

Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway for four suspects, including a ringleader known only as Alhaji.

The warehouse search uncovered even more alarming discoveries, including boxes of metals suspected to be gold bars, counterfeit Ghana cedi notes in ₵50 and ₵100 denominations, as well as fake Ghana Army uniforms and boots.

Health authorities have expressed concern over the rising fatalities, attributing them to misdiagnoses, delays in seeking treatment, and the high cost of medical care.

In response to the worsening situation, regional health officials are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak. Measures under consideration include providing free treatment for affected patients and launching public awareness campaigns to encourage early medical intervention.

Officials stress that prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing further deaths.

Dr. Damien Punguyire, the Regional Health Director, has linked the increasing fatalities to initial misdiagnoses, with many cases being mistaken for malaria.

He explained that improper treatments often delay the administration of appropriate care, leaving patients vulnerable to severe complications. “By the time individuals realize their condition is deteriorating, it is often too late,” he stated.

Dr. Punguyire emphasized the importance of early intervention, urging individuals experiencing prolonged fever, neck pain, or body aches to seek immediate medical attention.

He advised that those diagnosed with malaria should return to a health facility if their symptoms persist or worsen within 12 to 24 hours.

He also highlighted preventive measures, cautioning against overcrowding and recommending increased water intake to keep the throat moist and prevent cracks that could facilitate bacterial entry.

“With timely diagnosis and proper care, nobody should die from this disease,” he assured.

His disappointment follows Dr. Amoakohene’s issuance of a stern two-week ultimatum to illegal miners operating in forest reserves and waterways, warning them to vacate or face the full force of the law.

The regional minister reaffirmed his commitment to protecting natural resources and supporting President John Mahama’s vision of promoting responsible mining.

“Anyone in the forest reserve mining should vacate those places. We are giving them up to two weeks. If you are mining within the forest reserves and you don’t want to be on the bad side of the law, you have two weeks to leave the place,” Dr. Amoakohene declared.

Reacting to the ultimatum on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 8, Mr. Fuseini argued that illegal miners should not be given time to fold up.

He explained that allowing time for illegal miners to vacate the sites only exposes weaknesses in enforcement efforts.

“We don’t give criminals time to prepare. If someone defecates in your backyard and you catch them, you don’t give them time to clean it up—you order them to do it immediately,” he stressed.

He warned that such delays allow offenders to exploit loopholes in the system, making the fight against galamsey less effective.

Mr. Fuseini instead praised Professor Brown Klutse, the EPA boss, for her bold and decisive action in directly ordering illegal miners to leave forest reserves without hesitation.

“That is why I commend Prof. Brown Klutse, the EPA boss, when she went around ordering people to leave the forest reserves,” he noted.

He maintained that galamsey is an existential threat and must be tackled with full force, without offering illegal miners any grace period.

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The accident left one Okada rider dead and two others, including another rider and a passenger, were in critical condition.

The accident reportedly occurred when one rider, carrying a passenger, was traveling from Agona K.T.K to Agona Kwanyarko, while the other was heading in the opposite direction.

According to eyewitness accounts, both riders were speeding, and a power outage in the area may have contributed to the crash.

Following the accident, the victims were rushed to the Agona Swedru Municipal Hospital for treatment.

However, when news broke that one of the Okada riders had died, a group of his colleagues stormed the hospital, assaulted medical staff, and vandalised hospital equipment in a fit of rage.

According to Assemblyman for Agona Asafo Electoral Area, Ishmael Odoom, some of the Okada riders slapped a doctor on duty, chased out nurses, smashed their phones, and destroyed computers in the hospital.

Mr Odoom condemned the violent actions of the Okada riders, stating that such behavior is unacceptable and must be addressed by law enforcement.

He also noted that the accident could have been prevented if the riders had been more cautious on the road.

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The Assemblyman of the area, Hassan Peace Brother, told the media that around 5 a.m. on Saturday, a cleaner at the dumping site reported seeing what appeared to be a human leg in the container.

“I quickly rushed there and saw that a young man was lying inside the container,” he said.

He immediately called the Bole District and Divisional Commands, who arrived at the scene and removed the body for identification.

The body has since been deposited at the Sawla District Hospital mortuary.

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This clarification comes after Ablakwa petitioned the company to provide official documentation to the Appointments Committee of Parliament, following claims by the Minority that he owns the property.

In a letter addressed to the Appointments Committee on Monday, February 3, Finali Limited provided details of Ablakwa’s tenancy arrangement.

The company stated that a tenancy agreement was signed on March 1, 2017, between Husni Altheebeh and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Nuhela Seidu, with Finali Limited granting consent for the arrangement on August 8, 2018.

The letter further confirmed that a renewal agreement was signed on March 1, 2022, and the tenancy is still in effect.

This official statement contradicts claims by the Minority that Ablakwa owns the Airport Hills residence under a different name.

By making the documents public, the Foreign Affairs Minister aims to put an end to speculation and prove his transparency.

“The tenancy is still subsisting, and the requisite consent has been granted thereon,” the letter from Finali Limited read, reinforcing that Ablakwa remains a tenant.

With this clarification, Ablakwa has sought to clear any doubts about his property ownership status.

Speaking on TV3 on Saturday, February 8, he challenged his critics to provide evidence to support their claims.

“I challenge them to put out that evidence that shows that the Airport Hills residence belongs to me and that I’ve put it in my sister’s name. That’s absolutely untrue. That property doesn’t belong to me,” he stated.

Ablakwa, who was sworn into office as Foreign Affairs Minister on Friday, February 7, clarified that Members of Parliament receive rent allowances as part of their conditions of service.

According to him, this allowance enables MPs to secure accommodation in suitable locations, including Cantonments, where he resides.

“What they failed to tell the Ghanaian people is that MPs receive rent allowances,” he emphasized, dismissing any suggestions of impropriety in his housing arrangements.

He further explained that his residence is legally funded through his rent allowance, as is the case for many MPs who do not have government-provided accommodation.

He criticized attempts to mislead the public with false claims about his property ownership, urging transparency in political discourse.

“It is important that we focus on facts and not allow misinformation to mislead the public,” he added.

Ablakwa reaffirmed his commitment to integrity and accountability in public service.

He encouraged Ghanaians to seek accurate information and avoid being swayed by baseless allegations.

“I have always upheld transparency, and I will continue to serve with honesty and dedication,” he concluded.

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Speaking on TV3 on Saturday, February 8, he emphasized the need for a more responsive and citizen-friendly passport system.

“It is unacceptable for Ghanaians to endure long waiting periods for passports. My vision is to establish a 24-hour service that ensures swift and reliable passport issuance,” he stated.

Ablakwa, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, was sworn into office on Friday, February 7.

He acknowledged the frustrations many Ghanaians face in obtaining passports and assured the public that urgent reforms would be implemented.

“We need a modern, efficient passport system that meets international standards. I am committed to making this a reality,” he added.

He further explained that leveraging technology and streamlining administrative processes would be key to achieving this goal.

“We will invest in digital solutions, expand processing centers, and enhance service delivery to ensure that passports are issued within the shortest possible time,” he noted.

Ablakwa also hinted at a decentralization strategy to make passport services more accessible across the country.

As he assumes office, the Foreign Affairs Minister called for collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and the public to make the 24-hour passport service a success.

He assured Ghanaians that his ministry would prioritize efficiency and transparency in passport issuance.

“This is about serving the people better. We will do whatever it takes to make passport acquisition a seamless process for all Ghanaians,” he concluded.

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He emphasized the need for fiscal discipline and the elimination of unnecessary expenses.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 17 ministers at the Presidency in Accra, he charged the newly appointed eight sector ministers and nine regional ministers to prioritize the protection of the public purse.

The President urged his ministers to embrace a modest lifestyle, avoiding extravagant spending and luxury travel.

He reminded them that the resources at their disposal belong to the Ghanaian people and that their decisions must reflect a commitment to responsible governance.

This directive aligns with President Mahama’s broader strategy of running a lean government, as seen in his recent appointments.

He also hinted at introducing a code of conduct to guide appointees in carrying out their duties.

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Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Miss Nelson expressed gratitude to President John Mahama for fulfilling his promise to end the injustice against them.

“People were deliberately using power to terrorize citizens who they believe do not belong to their party. I was on remand for 17 days because the police claimed they were preparing witness statements or looking for one excuse or another to keep us.

“I lost my job when I was on remand. There was so much injustice and incompetence demonstrated by the police. It was a political agenda,” she stated.

According to her, five months after the incident, the trial is yet to begin.

The Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, on Friday, February 7, 2025, filed a nolle prosequi to discontinue the case against individuals associated with the Democracy Hub protests.

In the notice of abandonment, Dr. Ayine stated that the state no longer intends to pursue the case against the accused individuals.

The individuals include social activists Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Felicity Nelson, and social media influencer Elorm Ama Governor-Ababio, also known as Ama Governor.

Others affected are Michael Amofa, Nii Ayi, Frederick Boateng, Deportee Iddrisu Yusif, Wendell Isaac Yeboah, Fanny Otoo, and Samuel Samakor.

The protest, initially peaceful, turned violent between September 21-23 when clashes broke out between demonstrators and police.

The protesters blocked roads, dismantled police barriers, obstructed traffic, and burned properties at Accra’s 37 Roundabout. Currently, 54 protesters are being held, with nine in prison custody and the rest in police custody.

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In the notice of abandonment, Dr. Ayine stated that the state no longer intends to pursue the case against the accused individuals.

The individuals include social activists Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Felicity Nelson, and social media influencer Elorm Ama Governor-Ababio, also known as Ama Governor.

Others affected are Michael Amofa, Nii Ayi, Frederick Boateng, Deportee Iddrisu Yusif, Wendell Isaac Yeboah, Fanny Otoo, and Samuel Samakor.

A total of 53 protesters were arrested during the three-day protest, which took place from September 21 to September 23. The protesters had demanded greater government action against illegal mining (galamsey) and were arrested and charged for unlawful assembly after they blocked roads, dismantled police barriers, obstructed traffic, and set fire to properties at Accra’s 37 Roundabout.

The charges against the group sparked widespread public debate, with many Ghanaians and civil society organizations calling for their release.

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At a press conference on Friday, February 7, WAEC revealed that investigations into alleged malpractice and irregularities are nearing completion.

John Kapi, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, expressed confidence that the council would conclude its probe and release the withheld results by the set date.

“The Council has continued its hearing for the affected candidates and has been releasing results as appropriate. The Council wishes to assure all stakeholders that all cases of malpractice will be finalized, and results released by February 28,” Mr. Kapi stated.

The assurance follows a legal battle and threats from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) to stage nationwide protests over the withheld results.

Despite the overall success of the exams, WAEC reported several instances of malpractice, including photocopying answers, hiding foreign materials, smuggling mobile phones, and collusion in exam halls.

Acknowledging the legal battle, Mr. Kapi noted that the increase in malpractice cases was alarming and urged all stakeholders to speak out against the issue to maintain the credibility of the examination.

WAEC has withheld over 10,500 results due to suspected malpractice.

In response to widespread controversy and anxiety among parents and candidates, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu filed a motion for Mandamus on behalf of the affected candidates.

On Friday, January 30, 2025, the High Court in Accra ordered WAEC to immediately release the withheld results. The court ruled that WAEC’s decision to withhold the results without clear reasons was unjustified, as the reasons given were ambiguous, citing both “alleged examination malpractice” and “alleged irregularities.”

Justice Ali Baba Abature, who presided over the case, emphasized that invigilators reported no malpractices or irregularities during the examination.

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Read below the full statement:

The Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Bagbin
Speaker
Parliament of Ghana
Accra

February 4, 2025

Dear Right Honourable Speaker,

PETITION TO INVESTIGATE UNSAVOURY COMMENTS ON FORMER PRESIDENT RAWLINGS AND HONOURABLE ZANETOR AGYEMAN-RAWLINGS

The J.J. Rawlings Foundation has learnt with absolute disbelief the unprintable words uttered by a New Patriotic Party member of parliament against the late former President of the Republic, Jerry John Rawlings and his daughter, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday January 4, 2025.

Mr. Speaker, the toxic and untruthful comments were not only an indictment on Parliament but on the entire country. It exposed a desire by a select few members of Parliament to hide under the guise of the August House to provoke a toxic atmosphere within the political environment.

President Rawlings was the first President of the Fourth Republic and was instrumental in nurturing the current political dispensation which is the longest and most successful in our country’s history. His exceptional sacrifice, selfless leadership and unrelenting commitment to rebuilding our political and socio-economic fabric was evident from his first emergence onto Ghana’s political scene on May 15th 1979, and throughout his chairmanship of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC), into the 4th Republic as Ghana’s First President of the Fourth Republic.

He took difficult decisions that Ghana required to uplift her out of political and economic turmoil. He took a tough stance on right and wrong at a time when Ghana had lost her societal moral fibre. He was indeed ‘Ghana’s Strong Man’ which allowed others the luxury to be weak on unpopular and tough decisions.

Internationally President Rawlings is admired and recognized for his commitment to a participatory leadership approach and his anti-corruption credentials. It is totally dishonest for anyone to attempt to reduce his legacy in one misguided moment of flippancy.

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings has been an effective, efficient and reliable MP since 2017. More so holding on to her seat as an opposition member of parliament and winning three times in a row is no small feat. For a colleague MP to crudely shut her down during Parliamentary proceedings exposes his misogyny and bias against women, but more so, it is a matter of gross abuse and disrespect that cannot be ignored, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, it is disheartening and disturbing when the House that is expected to protect the image and reputation of past leaders of this country who worked hard to maintain and protect institutions like Parliament, receive abuse and offensive behaviour as occurred on Tuesday January 4, 2025.

As an institution formally established to record, protect and highlight the enduring legacy of former President Jerry John Rawlings, we on behalf of millions of Ghanaians formally petition the Parliament of Ghana to investigate the matter and compel the offending member of Parliament to acknowledge responsibility and retract the defamatory remark which was inflammatory, despicable, unconscionable and disgraceful.

Your urgent action on the matter will be appreciated.

Yours Sincerely,

Yaa Asantewaa Agyeman-Rawlings
(Executive Director)

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Reports indicate the incident occurred during a forceful takeover of ancestral farmland that has sustained the community for centuries.

In an interview with Adom News, some peasant farmers who depend on the land claimed that the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council had sold it to a private developer.

As a result of the alleged sale, they are being forcibly evicted, and a confrontation during their resistance led to the fatal shooting of Theophilus.

At a press conference, the aggrieved farmers expressed outrage over the destruction of 7,000 acres of crops by the estate developer.

The devastated farmers reported that their valuable crops, including cocoa, palm fruits, pawpaw, oranges, plantains, cassava, and cocoyams, were destroyed in the process.

The farmers have appealed to the authorities for intervention and support in this desperate situation.

Meanwhile, Benet Kwasi Adu, President of the West Akyem Cooperative Cocoa Farmers Association, has voiced deep concern over the widespread destruction of cocoa farms due to galamsey, rubber plantation, and sand mining activities.

He has urgently called on authorities to intervene and protect the country’s cocoa farms.

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Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Jiagge, a lawyer and chartered insurer, stated that he challenged her appointment on multiple grounds, including concerns over her qualifications.

“As a person, I have always contested her appointment, first as a Ghanaian, secondly as somebody informed about the provisions of her job, and thirdly as a shareholder,” he said.

He disclosed that he sold his shares in SIC, worth approximately GHS 200,000, after the regulator failed to act on a petition he submitted challenging her eligibility for the role.

“I must specifically say that I sold my shares because the regulator refused to act on the petition I submitted to them,” he added.

Jiagge cited Section 55 of the relevant regulations, arguing that Duah-Yentumi did not meet the necessary qualifications for the position.

“We cannot keep violating laws that we create for political expediency. That was my position,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, Duah-Yentumi, who was recently dismissed, had filed a lawsuit challenging her removal and the appointment of James Agyenim-Boateng as the new Acting Managing Director. However, she has since withdrawn the case.

Jiagge has called for a forensic audit of SIC, particularly regarding the allocation of business to a specific company.

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The disaster occurred during Friday morning rush hour in the busy road intersection.

Owner and driver of the car, Attobra Kyeremateng, who was the only occupant, told JoyNews the incident happened 30minutes after leaving home.

He was alerted of sparks beneath the vehicle. He pulled over in an attempt to extinguish the fire, but the engine went into flames.

“I observed some smoke while on my way. I stopped to check but realized the smoke had stopped. Five minutes after taking off again, I saw the smoke again and stopped to use the fire extinguisher to control the fire from under the car, but that could not contain the blaze,” he narrated.

Fire officers arrived to put out the fire but nothing could be salvaged.
The vehicle is third-party insured.

“Everything we should give thanks to God… since God has saved me, we give thanks to God,” said Mr. Kyeremateng.

Several other students, mostly boys from Salaga township, have fled the school, and their whereabouts remain unknown.

Sources in the community indicate that on Thursday, 6th February, students from Salaga on campus marched to the headmaster’s office, demanding the release of three suspects arrested by the police following an earlier altercation between two student groups.

They argued that the arrests were one-sided and insisted that members of the other group involved in Saturday’s altercation should also be detained to ensure fairness.

However, the headmaster failed to grant their demand, prompting the students to begin pelting stones in protest.

The disturbance later attracted youth from Kpembe, a suburb of Salaga, who stormed the school and assaulted the students, leaving one unconscious.

Despite the new incident, the police have yet to make any arrests. However, officers have been deployed to the school to maintain order and protect lives and property.

Background

Twenty students were arrested on Tuesday, February 4, following a violent clash at the school on Saturday that left one person seriously injured. 17 of those arrested have since been granted bail and are required to report periodically to the police.

The remaining three were to be processed for court.

Police also retrieved a locally manufactured gun.

According to sources, the dispute began on February 1, 2025, between two day students during an entertainment event.

The disagreement was later reported to their respective groups in Kpembe and Salaga townships, fueling tensions that led to the violent outburst.

A seven-member committee has been set up to investigate the incident, with findings expected to include the cause of the clash and recommendations for preventing similar occurrences in the future.

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Frustrated youth in the area feel marginalized despite their consistent and overwhelming support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) since 1992, accusing the party of toying with their emotions.

On Thursday, a group of irate youth stormed the office of constituency chairman Shaddad Umar Jallo, burning tires and shattering glass doors to express their displeasure.

Reports indicate that they initially planned to demonstrate against President Mahama and block traffic on the Accra-Tema motorway, but party leadership in the constituency managed to calm tempers before the situation escalated.

The youth, however, remain adamant that they will no longer be pacified with mere promises.

Presiding Member of the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, Godwin Twumasi, urged the national leadership to take swift action, warning of further unrest.

“We have become a laughing stock. Our friends and neighbors in the NPP keep questioning our motivation for supporting the NDC when we are constantly left out during appointments,” he lamented.

Mr. Twumasi highlighted that the only notable appointment Ashaiman has received is Alfred Kwame Agbeshie’s role as the 2nd Majority Leader in Parliament.

He pointed to President Mahama’s campaign promises as the root of the growing frustration.

“President Mahama promised to appoint someone from Ashaiman and to fix our deplorable road network. Until these promises are fulfilled, we don’t know how to convince the masses for 2028,” he stressed.

Mr. Twumasi stated that appointing someone from Ashaiman does not necessarily have to be their MP. “Anyone competent enough in any role will help settle this,” he added.

With tensions rising, the 2nd Deputy Constituency Youth Organizer, Regina Agbagba, called on President Mahama to intervene before the situation spirals out of control.

“The youth have made it clear that our MP, Ernest Norgbey, has worked tirelessly, helping the NDC secure over 69,000 votes in the 2024 elections.

“Apart from President Mahama, Sammy Gyamfi, Ato Forson, Kwame Agbodza, Asiedu Nketia, and others made the same promise,” she recounted.

Expressing her frustration, she questioned Ashaiman’s role in the party. “Are we only good for demonstrations? Is that all we can do?

“The success the party attained here was by sweat and blood, with sleepless nights and lives put on the line. Ashaiman deserves better,” she cried.

Deputy Women’s Organizer, Beatrice Esinam Agbeko Teye, credited party executives for preventing what could have been a more troubling situation.

“We can only ask our constituents to remain calm. They want Ashaiman’s contribution to be recognized, and we trust in the president’s decision,” she said.

Meanwhile, Constituency Organizer Mark Apetor noted that beyond seeking appointments, many youth in the area are also demanding employment opportunities, particularly in local factories.

Despite efforts by party executives to ease tensions, there are fears that the youth may soon run out of patience.

The police have since stepped in to contain the situation and maintain peace in Ashaiman.

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He charged supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to stand by their party members in confrontations with the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

“If the NDC, led by Mahama Ayariga, does not act reasonably and continues to prevent the EC from completing the collation, they will never know peace in Parliament,” he added.

He also called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, to intervene decisively against what he described as the NDC’s disruptive tactics.

“If the IGP also decides to look on unconcerned and allow these people to continue like this, we will continue to demonstrate,” Mr. Annoh-Dompreh warned.

As the people of Ablekuma North await the official declaration from the EC, both the NPP and NDC candidates have mounted ‘thank you’ billboards in the area, each claiming victory.

Listen to Mr Annoh-Dompreh in the video above:

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However, before any official announcement, both candidates have put up billboards thanking voters for electing them.

Some residents have expressed concern about the situation, calling for patience to maintain peace.

“The NDC is claiming victory, and the NPP is also claiming victory, yet the final result has not been declared. We, the youth, want peace, so we appeal to them to exercise restraint. They are all saying ‘Thank You’ to voters when there is no declaration. We want them to wait for the EC to announce the results so that there will be peace,” one resident said.

Others believe the delay is not only causing political tension but also affecting development in the constituency.

“The EC must work on this and declare the winner so voters know who their leader is. When it comes to development, the elected MP lobbies the government for projects.

Right now, Ablekuma North does not know who to turn to, and that is not good for us,” another resident stated.

Meanwhile, the EC has not provided a timeline for resuming the collation process. Officials say they are waiting for security clearance from the Ghana Police Service before proceeding, but it remains unclear when that will happen.

The Ablekuma North Constituency is the only outstanding constituency from the December 7 election without a winner due to recurring disagreements.

Despite a re-collation exercise by the EC to determine the winner of the seat, the decision remains in limbo.

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According to the chiefs, identifying the legislator responsible will enable them to determine their next course of action.

In their petition, the chiefs expressed outrage over the incident and demanded immediate action.

The alleged verbal attack occurred during parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday, February 4, when a male voice was heard shouting, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down! Daughter of a murderer, sit down!”

This happened while Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin was addressing the House and calling for calm amid heated discussions surrounding the 60th anniversary of the death of Joseph Boakye Danquah.

The voice was alleged to be that of Damongo MP, Samuel Abu Jinapor. However, he has denied the claims, insisting that such language is not characteristic of him.

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The Nsawam-Adoagyiri Member of Parliament (MP) stated that he did not provoke Madam Hardcastle in any way and was therefore shocked by her attitude toward him.

“She rained crude insults on me. It was terrible, and I had never witnessed such before, so I went to report to the Appointments Committee Chair, Ahiafor, that I had been assaulted,” he said.

The heated exchange occurred on January 28 during a recess in the Parliamentary Appointments Committee proceedings, where Hardcastle referred to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus as a “Micro-Minority.” This led to a confrontation with Annoh-Dompreh.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh stated that he tried hard to restrain himself to de-escalate the matter.

He further revealed that the women on the Appointments Committee came to apologize to him, as did Hardcastle, who later invited him for lunch, but he had to turn down the offer.

“All the ladies on the vetting committee came and knelt before me, saying they had all seen what had transpired. I was angry, but at that moment, I was just praying. I asked myself, with everything I had gone through during this election, moving here and there, ending up at the Supreme Court, being falsely accused of firing a gun, and enduring all sorts of propaganda allegations, what was really happening in my life? I was just consoling myself and decided to leave everything to God,” he recounted.

According to him, he saw the situation as a difficult period of his life, considering the controversy that marred his re-election, but sought solace in God.

“Then suddenly, the lady herself came to me. She spoke Ewe, and I responded to her in Ewe. She was alarmed by that. I told her I grew up in the Volta Region, and Ewes don’t behave the way she did.

“She asked that we have lunch together, but I told her I was okay. I decided to let sleeping dogs lie. It was only when she left that I heard she made another derogatory comment against me,” he bemoaned.

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Community members told Adom News that the suspect sneaked into the room of the victim with a stick and struck his head, killing him in his sleep.

The deceased’s friends who saw Peter rushing out of his room discovered his lifeless body and reported the incident to the Kalba Police Post, leading to Peter’s arrest.

During interrogations, the suspect admitted to committing the crime, telling police that his nephew did not respect him.

The body of the deceased has since been released to the family for burial in accordance with Islamic customs.

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He stated, “Straight answer, by her credentials, she is not, and I can’t say otherwise. By her credentials, she is not,” when Joy FM’s Winston Amoah asked if she was suitable for the job on the Super Morning Show on Thursday.

Mr. Kpebu further explained that Ms. Akanvariba has no educational qualifications in public sector reform and lacks the requisite skills in the area, emphasizing that she is not the ideal candidate to lead the country’s public sector reforms.

“It is too glaring that, by paper qualifications, she is not the right candidate, and when it comes to practice, she doesn’t carry it either.”

He then called on the president to provide clarity on his choice of Lydia Lamisi, saying, “I believe we should ask for an interview, and the president should respectfully and specifically give us insights into what went into that decision.”

President John Dramani Mahama nominated Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba as Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms. The announcement was made by the Minister Designate for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Wednesday, February 5.

She is a health practitioner and Member of Parliament (MP) for Tempane in the Upper East Region.

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Dartey, 42, was convicted of multiple offenses, including making false declarations before the court, conspiracy, dealing in firearms without a license, delivering firearms without notice to the carrier, smuggling goods from the United States, and illegally exporting firearms without a license.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed that Dartey was found guilty by a jury after trial on April 23, 2024.

According to court records and trial evidence, he provided a tip that led to the prosecution of a 16-defendant marriage fraud scheme involving soldiers at Fort Liberty and foreign nationals from Ghana.

During the trial of U.S. v. Agyapong between June 28 and July 2, 2021, Dartey also lied under oath about his sexual relationship with a defense witness.

Additionally, he purchased seven firearms in the Fort Liberty area and directed a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to buy three more firearms and send them to him in North Carolina.

Dartey then concealed the firearms inside blue barrels beneath rice and household goods. With the help of an Army Chief Warrant Officer, he smuggled the barrels out of the Port of Baltimore, Maryland, on a container ship bound for the Port of Tema in Ghana.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) intercepted the shipment and reported the seizure to the DEA attaché in Ghana and the ATF Baltimore Field Division.

Announcing the sentencing, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Daniel Bubar, emphasized the severity of the offenses.

The case was investigated by the ATF, the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement.

Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II presided over the sentencing, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel J. Diaz prosecuted the case.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Atuahene questioned why critics were opposed to the appointment although those who were previously, including Asiamah, had suffered, with some even passing away.

He said, “Even Asiamah suffered, and even those he was in court with are no longer alive. So why are you against his appointment? You don’t like constructive criticism?”

His comments come in after the Minority in Parliament, led by Dr. Gideon Boako, the MP for Tano North, criticized President Mahama for discontinuing the criminal charges against Asiamah.

The Minority believes that these charges should proceed despite his appointment, raising concerns about governance and accountability.

But Dr. Atuahene expressed frustration over the situation, asking why the NPP didn’t take action when they were in power but were now opposing Asiamah’s appointment under President John Dramani Mahama.

To him, the NPP minority is only making noise.

“The NPP is making noise. Do you have any integrity at all? The plane cannot fly without a pilot,” stressing the importance of leadership in the central bank.

Dr. Atuahene dismissed the Minority’s calls for prosecuting Asiamah.

“Even their threat of going to the IMF is nothing. The IMF doesn’t even think about Ghana. They should just stop talking and leave it.”

He also advised Asiamah to surround himself with capable people.

“Asiamah should surround himself with good people, and his closest people must be well-experienced bankers” he added.

He accused politicians of trying to outsmart others and said that whenever he tried to address issues related to the IMF and the banking sector, some politicians threatened him.

“Some people threaten me, and I had to be advised by top security officials to be careful where I go. Sometimes when I speak, the only thing they do is threaten me. Are they the only ones who have gone to school?” he revealed.

Further, he criticized the NPP government, claiming that their actions had pushed Ghana into a difficult position.

“The NPP government has taken Ghana to a ditch,” he stated, expressing disappointment over the collapse of the BoG under their watch.

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Reports suggest that Mr. Agyenim-Boateng is unable to access the office because it has been locked, with the keys in Hollistar’s possession.

President John Mahama appointed Mr. Agyenim-Boateng on January 24, 2025, marking a significant shift in the leadership of one of Ghana’s premier insurance firms.

In an interview on Accra-based Citi FM, Mr. Agyenim-Boateng revealed that he visited the headquarters to officially introduce himself to the management.

“On January 24, 2025, I was named by His Excellency the President. Afterward, I was in touch with the office and proceeded there. It must have been on a Thursday when I met with the management team.

“When I went there, I had a very good introductory meeting, but it was obvious I could not access the office, which I needed to work from. Therefore, for the most part, I have worked offsite, dealing with critical issues of SIC from another location,” he stated.

However, his predecessor did not attend the meeting, which was expected to facilitate a smooth transition.

“It has become apparent that the real difficulty regarding why I have not been able to access the office is because the person before me, the predecessor, has actually locked up the office and bolted with the keys. It is strange.

“As I speak to you, I haven’t seen any handing-over notes from this outgoing MD. I have seen the handing-over notes of the previous MD,” he added.

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Miss Duah-Yentumi is in court challenging her removal and seeking a restraining order against Mr. Agyenim-Boateng as Acting MD.

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A fact-finding mission by the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the 2024 electoral defeat in the Twifo Atti Morkwa constituency of the Central Region turned violent when the constituency youth organiser, Kwadwo Debrah, allegedly bit off a polling station secretary’s finger during an altercation.

Tension is currently high within the NPP in Twifo Atti Morkwa, with some party members calling for the expulsion of the officer involved and urging the police to take action.

The violent clash between the constituency youth organiser, Kwadwo Debrah, popularly known as “Last Two,” and the polling station secretary, Frank Kwaku Baah, occurred last Sunday during a meeting with a section of the party’s committee set up to investigate the party’s defeat.

The committee had visited the constituency to engage grassroots leaders in identifying factors that contributed to the loss and to recommend strategies for rebuilding the party.

Altercation

According to Frank Baah, some polling station executives at the meeting blamed the constituency executives for the party’s electoral defeat.

He alleged that Kwadwo Debrah, the constituency youth organiser, became agitated over some of the remarks and, without provocation, attacked him from behind by slapping him.

“The altercation turned violent when Kwadwo Debrah bit off my finger, leading to severe bleeding and my hospitalisation at Twifo Praso Government Hospital,” Baah recounted.

He has since called for justice, stating that he has been left maimed.

“I’m still in shock and pain,” he said. “The party must take action against Debrah and ensure that he faces the consequences of his actions.”

The case has been reported to the Twifo Atti Morkwa District Police Command for further investigation, but no arrests have been made yet.

The tragic incident occurred in the late afternoon of Wednesday, February 5, 2025, throwing residents into a state of mourning.

Eyewitnesses told Adom News that the bus was traveling from Dambai to Krachi at high speed when it struck the rider, who was navigating the highway.

The teen rider, only identified as Unyimbe, sustained severe head injuries and died instantly at the scene.

Speaking in an interview, the residents called for the construction of speed ramps to curb the menace.

The police have since visited the scene, with an investigation underway.

Drivers have also been urged to adhere to speed limits and exercise caution on the roads to prevent further tragedies.

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Eyewitnesses reported that the fire broke out suddenly, quickly engulfing the truck and its contents. Fortunately, the driver and his assistant managed to escape without injury.

However, the entire consignment of second-hand clothes was destroyed in the blaze.

Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded quickly and worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames.

Despite their efforts, bystanders criticized the firefighters for their perceived inefficiency and poor handling of the situation.

An investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire, with faulty wiring or overheating within the vehicle being suspected as potential factors.

Additionally, Ayawaso West Wuogon Member of Parliament (MP) John Dumelo has been named the Deputy Minister-Designate for Agriculture, while Asuogyaman MP Thomas Ampem Nyarko has been named the Deputy Finance Minister.

Builsa South MP Dr. Clement Apaak has also been nominated Deputy Education Minister-Designate, and Bodi MP Sampson Ahi is the Deputy Minister-Designate for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry.

Felix Ofosu Kwakye, the Spokesperson for President Mahama, announced these appointments.

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The court, presided over by Eric Daning, remanded Owusu in connection with the tragic death of Francis Frimpong, a fervent supporter of the Kumasi Asante Kotoko Football Club (FC).

The deceased was stabbed to death on Sunday, February 2, 2025, during a match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC at the Nsoatre Professor Amoah Koromansah II Stadium, as part of match 19 of the Ghana Premier League.

Owusu and two other suspects, including Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, 58, the owner and financier of Nsoatreman FC, and Joseph Kyeremeh, popularly known as ‘Santos’ in the football fraternity, appeared before the court on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

They are scheduled to reappear on Monday, February 17, 2025.

When the case was heard, the police prosecutor, Inspector Alexander Oppong, informed the court that the suspects were involved in the murder of the deceased.

He added that a search conducted in Owusu’s room led to the retrieval of two dresses with suspected bloodstains and an MP 23 pistol with 15 rounds of ammunition.

After preliminary investigations, Baffour-Awuah, a former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, and Kyeremeh were charged with “abetment to commit crime, to wit murder,” under Sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offenses Act 1960 (Act 29).

The court granted them GH₵500,000 bail each with three sureties, one of whom must be justified.

As part of his bail conditions, Baffour-Awuah, also a former Member of Parliament for the Sunyani West Constituency, is prohibited from leaving or traveling outside the Sunyani Municipality without judicial approval.

They were also ordered to submit their passports to the court registry and report to the police daily until the next adjournment date.

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Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, 5th February, the Minority, led by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tano North, Dr. Gideon Boako, insisted that the prosecution should be allowed to proceed despite Dr. Asiamah’s appointment.

They argued that dropping the charges raises serious concerns about governance and accountability.

According to the Minority, the decision to discontinue the case could have far-reaching economic and political consequences for Ghana.

“Political and economic risk analysts will not be kind to Ghana given that some global financial institutions may refuse to do business with Ghana due to the uncertainty over these charges being re-instated by a future Attorney-General. This will likely increase the cost of Ghana’s international transactions,” they warned.

They stressed that halting the prosecution does not equate to clearing Dr. Asiamah of wrongdoing and that a future government could still reinstate the charges, potentially undermining confidence in his decisions as BoG Governor.

The Minority further questioned the implications of Dr. Asiamah’s position on Ghana’s international financial standing.

“Dropping the charges does not mean he has been absolved of the crime. These charges can be brought back under a different government; and what will become of the decisions he will make as Governor?” they asked.

They argued that allowing an individual with unresolved legal issues to lead the central bank could create uncertainties in financial policymaking and damage Ghana’s credibility on the global stage.

As a result, the Minority announced plans to formally notify the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of their concerns.

“We will be writing to the IMF to draw attention to this, given that he will also, as Governor of the Bank, be a member of the IMF Board of Governors, exposing Ghana to international ridicule,” they stated.

They emphasised that transparency and accountability should not be compromised, particularly at a time when Ghana is under an IMF programme and requires strong financial leadership.

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According to reports, the accident occurred when the Honda Civic attempted a wrongful overtaking and crashed into the O.A Mini Bus, which was on the shoulder of the road.

The injured passengers have been rushed to the Mankesim Government Hospital for treatment, while one of the drivers is feared dead.

Preliminary information indicates that the O.A Mini Bus, registered AS 1024-24, was traveling from Obuasi to Accra, while the Honda Civic was heading from Apam to Mankesim.

Speaking to Adom News, the O.A Mini Bus driver, Nuru Ibrahim, recounted that upon reaching Ekumfi Eyisam, he noticed the Honda Civic attempting a dangerous overtaking.

Despite trying to create space, the Honda Civic continued in his direction, resulting in the fatal crash.

Nuru confirmed that the Honda Civic driver is feared dead, while other victims are receiving medical attention.

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The inferno, which broke out in the early hours of Wednesday, destroyed over 20 wooden residential structures, leaving residents devastated.

The infant was trapped in one of the wooden structures that was completely consumed by the flames.

Despite the swift response by firefighters from the Legon and Abelemkpe Fire Stations, the tragedy could not be averted.

Emergency responders arrived just 12 minutes after receiving the distress call and successfully extinguished the fire in about 2 hours.

Their timely intervention prevented the fire from spreading to neighboring structures, including a warehouse.

The charred remains of the infant were retrieved and handed over to the police for further investigations.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has commenced an inquiry into the cause of the blaze, which has left dozens of families displaced and grappling with the loss.

In an interview, the distraught residents revealed that toilet facilities and cemeteries had been destroyed, forcing them to exhume the bodies of their loved ones.

They also raised concerns over an imminent health crisis, as some residents continue to use the polluted seawater for household chores.

As a matter of urgency, they have appealed to the government and other well-meaning Ghanaians to come to their aid.

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The approval follows the committee’s recommendation of their nominations.

The nominees include Dr. Rashid Pelpuo as Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment; Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed as Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Samuel Nartey George as Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations; Kofi Adams as Minister for Sports and Recreation; and Joseph Bukari Nikpe as Minister for Transport.

The House debated the motion for their approval on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, with Second Deputy Speaker Andrew Asiamah Amoako presiding over the proceedings.

The Minority Caucus, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, approved four nominees but opposed Samuel Nartey George’s appointment as Communications Minister-designate.

They cited concerns over his past remarks criticizing former President Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

However, the Majority Caucus rejected this reasoning and expressed disappointment over the Minority’s opposition.

They argued that the Ningo-Prampram MP’s nomination was justified and that the objections against him were untenable.

After hours of deliberation, the Minority acknowledged the competence of the other four nominees but insisted on a secret ballot for Mr. George’s approval.

Amidst the Majority’s opposition, the Minority abstained from voting, leaving his fate to be determined by a majority decision.

The Second Deputy Speaker then confirmed the appointments through a voice vote, with the Minority opting out of the process.

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