The stage is set as Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, resumes his mediation efforts today. The Bawku Naba, Abugrago Azoka, is also in Kumasi for the peace talks.

Attention is focused on the Manhyia Palace for the next three days as mediation talks aimed at resolving the Bawku conflict begin today at the seat of the Golden Stool.

Key stakeholders from the conflict area started arriving in Kumasi on Monday ahead of the crucial discussions.

The sessions, hosted by the sole mediator, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will focus on the chieftaincy aspect of the conflict, which lies at the heart of the dispute between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities.

Journalists have gathered at the Manhyia Palace, eagerly awaiting updates on the mediation.

Background

The Bawku conflict, which has spanned ages, has reduced some communities in the area to ghost towns in the wake of the violence that has attended the conflict.

Security agencies have been deployed over the years to keep the peace in the area but that has merely papered over seemingly deep-rooted factors at the base of the conflict.

Indeed, hundreds have been killed directly as a result of the conflict, with individual members of different labour groups either quitting the area or declining posting to the affected communities.

In extreme cases, some company branches, including banks, have shut their offices in the area, while courts operating within the conflict enclave were closed by the Chief Justice some time last year.

The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, have visited the conflict zone to interact with the youth and discuss peace with the people.

For years, the Ministry for the Interior has reviewed and sustained a curfew schedule in Bawku and its environs as a measure to control the situation.

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The stakeholders — including importers, freight forwarders, business owners, and retailers — say they are all being affected by the current inefficiencies at the port.

They specifically cited avoidable delays by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), which often result in the payment of hefty penalties, commonly known as demurrage.

In conversations with importers, exporters, and freight forwarders, complaints were rife about delays reportedly caused by the port authorities. Yet, operators are being charged for inefficiencies they did not create — and it appears their concerns are going unheard.

In an interview with Ohene Amponsah, stakeholders voiced their frustrations, describing the congestion at Tema Port as a serious challenge. They warned that the ultimate burden of these inefficiencies will be transferred to the consuming public in the form of higher prices.

The Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association, Sampson Asaki Awingobit, acknowledged that although the new Director-General has intentions to streamline port operations, delays in container handling by GPHA are making business both stressful and expensive.

He appealed to the government to act swiftly to reduce delays in clearing approved goods. On the issue of clearing earth-moving equipment, Mr. Awingobit noted that a policy by the Transport Ministry is contributing to further delays. He urged the government to co-clear such equipment while maintaining surveillance, in order to avoid excessive demurrage charges.

Former National President of the Association of Custom House Agents of Ghana (ACHAG), Yaw Kyei, warned of the broader impact on business. He stressed that both stakeholders and the state risk losing substantial revenue if the situation persists.

Mr. Kyei also raised concerns that about 90% of shipping lines are owned by foreigners, meaning the high demurrage fees being paid end up benefiting foreign companies rather than the Ghanaian economy.

He further alleged that after goods and containers are poorly arranged, some officers demand unofficial payments before assisting in locating missing items.

Stakeholders have, therefore, called on the government to intervene immediately and implement long-term solutions to address these challenges.

In an interview at the Accra Regional Command on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Okatakyie announced the suspension of the three-day intended protest.

He explained that the demonstration aimed to raise awareness on galamsey (illegal mining) and influence the government’s policy on the menace through their petition, lamenting the devastation caused to the environment.

“It was clear that on Monday, the demonstration was all over the world — the internet, various homes in Ghana and abroad — which makes it fulfilling to the Generational Rights Protection Society Group. So the group has suspended the demonstration till further notice,” he announced.

He added that the decision became necessary following engagements with the police and suggestions put before the group for consideration.

Okatakyie revealed that the Deputy Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai, advised the group to re-engage with the police for further discussions on how the remaining demonstrations could be held peacefully and orderly.

The protestors had been calling for a total ban on mining activities to allow the government to conduct a comprehensive audit, while also mounting pressure on authorities to declare a state of emergency over the issue.

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He was speaking at the eighth anniversary of the West Africa Food System Resilience Program (FSRP), held in partnership with the Women in Poultry Value Chain (WIPVaC-Apex Ghana).

During the event, there was a call for the youth to engage in poultry farming and for the government to accelerate its support for the sector.

Mr. Dumelo, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, announced that proposals have already been received for the establishment of an ultra-modern poultry processing facility.

“We have received proposals for an ultra-modern poultry processing facility, and I believe within a year or two, some of these facilities will be operational. I will personally ensure that women are prioritised in these initiatives, especially in government programs like Nkoko Nkentinkenti, because women tend to manage resources better,” he said.

Mr. Dumelo also highlighted other ongoing interventions, such as a program to provide day-old chicks and poultry feed to support women in the poultry value chain.

President of WIPVaC-Apex Ghana, Mrs. Victoria Norgbey, appealed to the government and stakeholders to assist the group in acquiring essential logistics to expand their operations.

“Our major challenge is processing. We need cool rooms, cool vans, and support systems that will help us process and distribute chicken products efficiently for public consumption,” she said.

In her remarks, Gender-Based Violence Specialist at the FSRP, Francesca Pobee-Hayford, encouraged the youth to venture into poultry farming, describing it as both a sustainable and profitable field.

“Poultry farming is not only sustainable, but it can also be very rewarding financially. We urge the youth to take advantage of the many opportunities in this sector,” she emphasised.

The anniversary celebration was also supported and facilitated by the FSRP team, led by Communications and Knowledge Management Specialist Earl Ankrah.

The event highlighted the importance of poultry farming as a pathway to economic empowerment, especially for women and youth.

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The GBA’s position follows resolutions from its National Executive Council at its recent mid-year conference, where it declared the suspension unconstitutional.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Tuesday, GBA Public Relations Officer Saviour Kudze emphasized the need for clarity in the legal process.

According to him, the potential legal move is crucial to establish clear guidelines for the future.

He explained that the court action would seek judicial interpretation to prevent the arbitrary use of executive power in such matters.

The Association argues that President Mahama’s suspension of the Chief Justice violates Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates published regulations for the exercise of discretionary powers.

The GBA maintains that the absence of such rules renders the suspension unlawful.

However, Deputy Attorney General Justice Srem Sai has dismissed the GBA’s stance.

“We are convinced that our position is the right one. We don’t know whether the GBA will gather the confidence and courage to proceed to court on something like this,” he said on Joy FM’s Newsnite.

He further explained that the failure to publish the regulations does not prevent the President from exercising his discretion.

“The failure or inability to publish a CI in respect of discretionary power does not prevent the President from exercising it at all.”

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As we join workers across the country and the world to celebrate May Day 2025, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) extends its warmest congratulations and profound gratitude to all Ghanaian workers for their invaluable contributions to national development.

This year’s celebration holds particular significance. It offers us not only an opportunity to honour the hard work, dedication, and resilience of workers but also a moment of collective reflection and renewal.

After 15 years of implementing the Single Spine Pay Policy (SSPP), it is time to pause, reflect on our journey, and reset the path forward for the future of compensation and working conditions in Ghana.

Since the introduction of the SSPP, workers across the public sector have stood shoulder to shoulder with the Commission in the shared vision of creating a fair, transparent, and equitable pay system.

Your support, collaboration, and constructive engagement have been crucial to the policy’s achievements and the strengthening of Ghana’s public sector. We deeply appreciate your commitment and perseverance throughout this journey.

Today, as we commemorate May Day 2025 under the broader theme of “Resetting Pay and Working Conditions in Ghana: The Role of Stakeholders,” we acknowledge that while the Single Spine Salary Structure achieved important milestones, the evolving needs of our economy, workforce, and governance structures require a bold and forward-looking approach.

Accordingly, Ghana stands at the threshold of a new and transformative chapter with the proposed establishment of an Independent Emoluments Commission.

This historic step will mark a complete reset of how public sector remuneration is determined, moving from fragmented negotiations to a comprehensive, evidence-based, and constitutionally grounded framework.

The Independent Emoluments Commission will be mandated to determine the salaries and conditions of service for every public sector worker, from the President of the Republic to the least-paid public servant.

It will promote fairness, transparency, competitiveness, and sustainability in public sector pay, while helping to eliminate distortions, disparities, and inequities that have persisted despite our best efforts under the SSPP.

As we reset, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values of inclusiveness, dialogue, and mutual respect that have underpinned our journey thus far.

We will continue to count on your steadfast support, insights, and active participation as we transition into this new era.

Together, we can build a public sector compensation system that not only rewards productivity and performance but also fosters national cohesion and economic prosperity.

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission salutes all Ghanaian workers, in every sector, every region, and every profession, for your unwavering commitment to excellence, service, and nation-building.

Your hard work is the engine that drives Ghana forward, and your aspirations must remain at the heart of all public policy reforms.

We also commend organised labour, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders for their partnership and advocacy in the pursuit of fairness, equity, and improved conditions of service.

We urge all stakeholders to continue to work with us in the spirit of unity and shared purpose to successfully establish the Independent Emoluments Commission.

On this momentous occasion, we say a resounding Ayekoo to all Ghanaian workers.

Your sacrifices have laid the foundation for a brighter future.

Together, let us rise to the challenge of resetting pay and conditions of service for a stronger, fairer Ghana.

Happy May Day!

Ayekoo

Speaking in an interview with Nana Jantuah on Nhyira FM’s Kuroyi Mu Nsem show, Kwame Danso stated that instead of embarking on a nationwide appreciation tour, the opposition NPP should apologize to Ghanaians for what he described as “unpopular and burdensome policies they introduced while in power”.

“Instead of a ‘Thank You Tour’, the NPP should embark on an apology tour to Ghanaians,” he said.

He specifically cited the Electronic Levy (E-levy), the betting tax, and the much-debated National Cathedral project as examples of policy decisions that have eroded public trust in the New Patriotic party.

“To regain appeal, the NPP should apologize for the introduction of E-levy, betting tax, and the National Cathedral in which they invested so much just to dig a manhole for Ghanaians. Your ‘Thank You Tour’ lacks purpose without reconciliation with the people of Ghana,” he emphasized.

Mr. Danso further urged the NPP to assume the role of a “responsible opposition,” particularly as the country moves towards a different direction from the Nana Addo and Bawumiah–led government.

“They should focus on offering constructive ideas rather than obstructing efforts aimed at national progress,” he added.

On the topic of potential collaboration with Alan Kyerematen, Mr. Danso stated that the doors were not entirely closed.

“If the NPP wants Alan’s support, they should appoint credible mediators and offer a genuine apology,” he noted, suggesting that mutual respect and accountability are prerequisites for any form of alliance.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, the Minister said this situation prompted President John Mahama to call for a full audit into the projects.

“None of the Agenda 111 hospitals is operational as we speak, which is why President Mahama has directed that an audit be conducted to understand the true status of the project,” Mr. Akandoh stated.

He criticised the previous Akufo-Addo administration for poor planning and implementation of the initiative.

“We all know how Agenda 111 started. The way the project was handled wasn’t the best. Even if you intend to build 111 hospitals, you could stagger the project and complete them in phases,” he said.

According to the Minister, the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo had promised to hand over completed hospitals to Ghanaians before leaving office.

However, Mr. Akandoh noted, unfortunately, not a single one of them is in operation.

He added that the Agenda 111 project now falls under the Ministry of Health’s purview, and efforts are being made to assess its feasibility and sustainability.

He also cited budget inconsistencies, saying, “The estimated cost for the entire project was between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion. But by the time they left office, they had already sunk close to $400 million into it.”

“The interesting part is, if they had staggered the project as they should have, by now we could have completed more than 20 hospitals with that amount. But that wasn’t the case,” he lamented.

Referring to former President Akufo-Addo’s last State of the Nation Address, Mr. Akandoh said, “He mentioned that they had completed three hospitals and even commissioned some on December 5. But when President Mahama gave his first State of the Nation Address and referenced it, I went to verify, and unfortunately, none of those hospitals was operational.”

The Health Minister revealed that President Mahama as part of the audit has requested for a comprehensive blueprint.

“President Mahama has directed us to audit the Agenda 111 project and present him with a clear blueprint for the way forward, and we’ve been given timelines,” he said.

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He has urged the two major political parties in Parliament to work together in finding lasting solutions to the menace, rather than playing the blame game.

“We need minerals to support our country, but that doesn’t mean we should destroy it. There should be a balance between harnessing our resources to build our country and preserving it,” he stated.

Rev. Dr. Adu Gyamfi made the remark in an interview with Adom News during the 62nd Annual Refresher Course, Retreat, and Business Session of the Ghana Baptist Convention at Ejura in Ashanti region.

The three-day conference had the theme: “Ministers Pressing Forward, Finishing Strong”.

The former Executive President of the Baptist Convention encouraged ministers of the Baptist churches not to be discouraged in doing the Lord’s work but to commit themselves to crossing the finishing line.

“It’s not easy being a minister, especially in our locality where the local church takes care of you, unlike other places with a centralized system. It’s difficult for some of us to operate in certain circles,” he noted.

The 2025 retreat brought together ministers from local churches under the Ghana Baptist Convention.

On the issue of illegal mining, Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu Gyamfi suggested that there should be proper public education rather than solely relying on radical approaches to combat the menace

Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing projects at the Nkwanta South Central Market in the Oti Region, MCE Awal highlighted the importance of safeguarding the municipality’s finances to enhance service delivery and improve the lives of residents.

“Our goal is to build a transparent financial system that ensures every cedi collected is used effectively for development,” he stated. “Preventing leakages is key to building trust and delivering results.”

As part of the new measures, the MCE outlined steps including regular financial audits and the formation of a task force to oversee revenue mobilization and utilization. He also called on traders and business owners to fulfill their tax obligations, stressing that local contributions are essential to funding key infrastructure like roads, schools, and healthcare.

“When you pay your taxes, you’re not just meeting an obligation—you’re investing in the future of Nkwanta South,” he noted.

The Market Queen, Dogbe Doris, and other traders welcomed the initiative, acknowledging the critical role their taxes play in the area’s development. She further appealed to the assembly to fast-track ongoing market projects to improve trading conditions.

The MCE reaffirmed the assembly’s commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring residents that every effort is being made to ensure public funds are put to proper use.

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According to him, the country needs to realize that amidst the confusion, criminals and other individuals are being given room to misbehave.

He called on Ghanaians to support the mediation efforts by the Asantehene and the National Peace Council to bring the situation under control.

Rev. Adu Gyamfi was speaking at the 62nd Annual Refresher Course, Retreat, and Business Session of the Ghana Baptist Convention Ministers’ Conference at Ejura.

“I think all of us, as Ghanaians and the media, must provide support for Otumfuo and the peace council because they are on the ground doing a lot of mediation work to ensure peace,” he emphasized.

In an interview with Adom News, he also charged the media to be circumspect in their comments, saying “they have to do things that will foster peace, not things that will fuel the conflict.”

The annual Baptist conference brought together ministers from all local Baptist churches.

The Conference President, Rev. Dr. Charles Owusu Ampofo, encouraged the ministers to hold on to their faith and not be discouraged by circumstances in life.

Speaking at the inauguration of the newly constituted Governing Council of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the Minister noted that the government intends to engage in extensive consultations to review the constitutional implications of the directive.

He urged the new Council to prioritise the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, while also championing the integration of Traditional Medicine into the curriculum. These efforts, he said, are aimed at producing job-ready graduates for the evolving market.

The government’s directive — issued on April 2, 2025, and signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama — called for the immediate suspension of post-retirement contract appointments for all retired public sector employees.

However, the Minister emphasized that this policy does not extend to those serving in academic roles.

The Chairman of the Governing Council, Nana Akyamfo Asafo Boakye Agyemang-Bonsu, expressed gratitude to the government and the Ministry of Education, pledging the Council’s commitment to enhancing KNUST’s standing as a premier institution of higher learning in Ghana and beyond.

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At a gathering with traders and the media, Chairman of the Interim Management Committee, Mr. Aikins Boakye Mensah, expressed gratitude to all donors and praised his team for their transparency and hard work.

He stated that the committee had diligently managed all resources received to ensure a swift recovery for the traders and the market as a whole.

“We’ve done a diligent job not just for the traders but for Ghana. Kantamanto is back and fully operating. Anyone who wishes to trade here should do so without fear,” he announced.

According to the committee, the market reconstruction received a total of GHC 1,111,200 in cash donations.

Of this amount, GHC 750,998 was spent on reconstruction activities, including structural repairs, new stalls, roofing, and sanitation. This leaves a balance of GHC 360,202.

In addition to the cash donations, individuals and organizations also donated building materials and supplies, valued at GHC 1,292,675 when converted to cash.

These materials played a crucial role in speeding up the reconstruction process.

Mr. Boakye Mensah assured traders and the public that every contribution has been properly accounted for. He emphasized that the remaining funds would be used prudently and called for continued cooperation among traders to maintain peace and discipline within the market.

The Interim Committee had decided to hand over GHC 2055,202 to the market executives. However, the traders rejected the move.

As a result, the committee has deposited the money at the Railways Police Station for safekeeping.

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Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, ECG’s General Manager in charge of Public Relations, William Boateng, appealed for public patience.

He explained that adverse weather conditions and increased demand—especially in urban areas like Accra—have caused widespread transformer damage, cable faults, and system overloads.

He added that some outages go unreported because residents assume ECG is already aware.

“After the festivities, we recorded several damaged transformers and multiple cable faults. Fixing these comes with significant cost,” he stated.

Mr. Boateng noted that ECG has resolved issues in Kumasi and is currently working in Obuasi and parts of Accra.

He also revealed that the company is upgrading to a fibre optic system in the capital to handle rising demand but said the process is slower due to Accra’s congestion and infrastructure challenges.

He urged customers to report faults promptly and assured the public that ECG is committed to restoring a stable power supply.

Watch the video below:

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At the meeting, the CDS expressed his appreciation and admiration for the Generals’ exceptional professionalism and dedicated service to the country.

He extended gratitude on behalf of the President and Commander-in-Chief, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the Ghana Armed Forces.

He then informed the Generals that, to aid command and control in the Armed Forces, many of them present would be honourably released from service in accordance with Ghana Armed Forces regulations.

The Commandant of the National College of Defence Studies, Major General Irvine Aryeetey, speaking on behalf of the Generals, said the current changes in the Military High Command structure were not unusual but consistent with the history and tradition of the Ghana Armed Forces.

He explained that, as tradition demands, new intakes succeed their predecessors. He cited the transition from then-CDS Lieutenant General O.B. Akwa to Vice Admiral S. Amoama as an example—five intakes apart (Intakes 18 and 23). Similarly, the change between Vice Admiral S. Amoama and General Thomas Oppong-Peprah involved three intakes (Intakes 23 and 26).

He concluded that the current change in command between the immediate past CDS, General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, and the current CDS, Major General William Agyapong—four intakes apart—was well within military tradition.

He expressed gratitude to the CDS for formally inviting and honouring them, describing the gesture as a novelty.

The meeting concluded with a luncheon hosted by the CDS, during which he wished the outgoing Generals well in their future endeavours.

Also present at the meeting were the Service Chiefs and the Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters.

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The President made the pledge on Wednesday, April 29, during the launch of the healthcare delivery initiative at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in Accra.

Following his announcement, he urged corporate bodies to also support the initiative.

“I want to encourage corporate Ghana, businesses, the mines, the banks, and all other companies that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund is reaching out to your clients who save their money in your banks or do business with you. Some of them are even your own staff.

“So, as part of your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), if you give anything, consider that you are giving to your own staff or customers. I would like to encourage all corporations in Ghana, both private and public, to, at the end of the year, donate a portion of their annual CSR to the Ghana Medical Fund because it is going to do a lot of good for the country,” he said.

The initiative fulfills a campaign promise President Mahama made to Ghanaians during the NDC manifesto launch on August 24, 2024, in Winneba.

The fund will assist people suffering from chronic conditions such as kidney failure, diabetes, and other health issues.

While acknowledging the National Health Insurance Scheme’s (NHIS) role in healthcare delivery, the government has emphasized the need to cover specialized treatments.

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According to JoyNews’ environmental journalist, Erastus Asare Donkoh, who has been closely covering the issue of illegal mining (galamsey) in the country, the armed men stormed the premises of the commission and made off with five of the machines.

Erastus reported that the men claimed they were acting on orders from a higher political authority to take the seized machines.

He noted that there was a confrontation between the commission’s officers and the security personnel, but the officers were overpowered, and the machines were driven away.

However, shortly after the machines were taken, the security men returned all five excavators to the commission. Upon inquiry, it was revealed that the so-called political authority had ordered the return of the machines.

Erastus explained that these excavators had been seized by the commission from illegal miners operating within forest reserves in the Ashanti region.

At the time of this report, JoyNews could not confirm the individuals behind the action.

“It is still unclear who directed that the seized excavators from the Kyemira extension of the Offin Shelter Belt should be returned or released,” he told Maame Esi Nyamekye Thompson on Joy FM’s midday news on Tuesday, 29th April.

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The advisory warns U.S. citizens to “exercise increased caution” when traveling to Ghana due to rising violent crimes, weak law enforcement, and underreported serious offenses such as sexual assault.

It also flags indicators of widespread violence, political unrest, and organized crime.

In a statement signed by the Deputy Ranking Member of the Committee, Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, the Minority described the development as a “serious indictment” of Ghana’s reputation as a safe and democratic country.

They attributed the advisory to the government’s failure to address growing insecurity, law enforcement breakdown, and impunity in the face of rising violent incidents — particularly in Bawku.

The caucus also raised concerns about the government’s silence on serious allegations, including drug trafficking and money laundering, warning that the situation could deter investors and harm Ghana’s global image.

They demanded immediate action from the government to restore the rule of law, rebuild trust in security institutions, and restore Ghana’s standing in the international community.

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The company confirmed the incident in a media release issued on 28 April 2025, stating that although its platforms remain fully operational, a forensic investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the breach.

According to MTN, early indications show that the affected customers’ data may have been compromised. The company said it would contact customers directly as part of its response efforts.

MTN assured the public that the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its systems remain central to its operations.

The company noted that it is working closely with leading cybersecurity experts and has devoted significant resources to contain and manage the incident.

Customers have been advised to remain vigilant by updating mobile and banking applications, using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and avoiding the disclosure of sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, and OTPs through phone calls, text messages, or emails.

MTN added that customers concerned about potential fraud may place alerts on their credit reports with major credit bureaus as a precautionary measure.

The company emphasised that safeguarding customer information remains a top priority and pledged to continue providing updates as the investigation progresses.

MTN encouraged affected and concerned customers to contact its support team through the toll-free number 100 for further information.

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The reconstituted Council is chaired by Justice William Anaam Atuguba, a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Ghana.

Members of the Council include the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong; Dr. Abdul Nasser Alidu and Ms. Shika Acolatse (Government nominees).

Others are Prof. Eric Anane, representative of Convocation (Professorial); Anastasia Asante (Esq), representative of Convocation (Non-Professorial); Dr. Jerry Opoku-Ansah – UTAG, UCC branch; Robert Ipiin Gnankob – Postgraduate Students; and Samuel Danso Akoto – Alumni Association.

The rest are Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai – Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC); Mr. Mohammed A. Quantson – Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS); and Mr. Benjamin Mensah-Gorman – Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU).

The Registrar, Gideon Enoch Abbeyquaye (Esq), serves as the Secretary to the Council.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that the window to address the menace of galamsey is rapidly closing.

He called on the over 50 civil society groups that released statements on the issue in late 2024 to re-mobilize and support the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and the President in tackling the crisis.

He stressed that national unity and urgency are required to curb the environmental destruction and lawlessness associated with illegal mining, urging all stakeholders to recommit to the cause before it is too late.

He said, “What we need to do now is for all the over 50 groups that issued statements in the last quarter of 2024 to rise up together. The Lands Minister has invited us all, as Ghanaians, to join in this fight. The window of opportunity is closing, and we need to act quickly to resolve this menace. Some individuals are parading as party members, claiming nothing can be done about them. If we don’t assist the Minister and the President, we will be in trouble. It is crucial that we come together as Ghanaians.”

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The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Kobre in the Pru East District.

The armed robbers made away with valuables, an unspecified amount of money, and the motorbike.

Robbery cases have increased recently in the district, with two separate incidents recorded in the last two days, resulting in the loss of lives and property.

In response to the latest attack, the Pru East DCE, Abdul-Nasir Dauda, stated that his office is implementing measures to curb the frequent attacks.

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This adjustment, as communicated by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), is a strategic measure aimed at stabilizing the energy sector and addressing longstanding operational and financial challenges.

Speaking at the Committee of Ministers meeting for the West African Gas Pipeline Project in Accra, Mr. Jinapor emphasized the critical role of this review in ensuring the sustainability of the nation’s power supply and supporting ongoing reforms within the sector.

“I want to appeal to Ghanaians and the general consuming public to bear with us, even as we make some of these difficult but unavoidable decisions to ensure that we have stable and reliable power sources for our economic development,” he stated.

Hon. Sawyerr Maame Pokuah Queenstar MP-Agona East and Chairperson-Local Government and Rural Development Select  Committee made this known during a visit to Zoomlion’s IRECOP facility in Ho, Volta Region.

Hon. Sawyerr emphasized the need for sustainability in sanitation efforts, noting that “most things that got started in 2016 will be held on and a different thing is done in 2020, a different thing is done in 2024, 2025, I think it’s not helping the country.”

She stressed the importance of continuity, regardless of the government in power, to enable companies like Zoomlion to deliver effectively.

“We need continuation no matter what it is or which government is in power. That is the only thing that can help the private sector to be able to deliver what they intend to do for Mother Ghana.” – Hon. Sewyerr

The Committee expressed concern over Zoomlion’s financial challenges, particularly the non-payment of arrears.

Hon. Sawyerr stated that “we are going to make sure we talk to this current government to let them understand that what we have seen, we can not follow suit what was done before.”

She assured that the Committee would push for change and support Zoomlion in getting the necessary support.

Hon. Sawyerr commended Zoomlion’s efforts, saying, “We are impressed, there are problems, we have made them aware, and I am sure we will come up with solutions to address them.”

The Committee reiterated its commitment to work with the private sector, including Zoomlion, to address the identified issues and ensure effective sanitation management in Ghana.

Sophia Kudzordji, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at Jospong Group, explaining the rationale behind the visit, said the visit was to enable the Committee to witness firsthand the company’s innovative waste management solutions.

The idea is for them to see what is happening, what investments are being made, what they can glean out of it for discussions, especially in parliament,” Kudzordji emphasized.

According to Madam Sophia, the Committee was impressed by Zoomlion’s state-of-the-art facilities, including medical waste treatment plants. “They didn’t know we have anything like a medical waste treatment plant in this part of the country.”

Job Creation and Capacity Building
Kudzordji also emphasized the impact of Zoomlion’s operations on job creation and capacity building.

About 80% of the people working at the Ho facility are from this area,” she said, highlighting the company’s commitment to building livelihoods in local communities.

In a statement signed by PPP Chairman Nana Ofori Owusu, the party said the suspension was carried out in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution, following advice from the Council of State and a prima facie determination by the President.

The party emphasized that the Chief Justice was also given an opportunity to respond to the allegations against her.

“We believe the President acted within the bounds of the Constitution and upheld the principles of rule of law and respect for human rights,” the statement noted.

The PPP, however, expressed concern over the Ghana Bar Association’s (GBA) call for the reversal of the suspension, describing it as “perplexing” and potentially undermining constitutional procedures.

“Such calls could be interpreted as an attempt to suspend due process itself,” the party warned.

The PPP urged all stakeholders to remain calm and allow the legal process to proceed without interference, adding that accountability must apply to all arms of government, including the judiciary.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Burning Issues, Deputy General Secretary of PUWU, Reverend Enoch Paul Hayes, alleged that ECG is being unfairly blamed for the ongoing power outages and the issue of missing containers—all in a bid to portray the company as incompetent.

“Why must we always tag a dog just to hang it? The current power outages are being blamed on ECG to create the impression that it is underperforming so they can sell it off,” Rev. Hayes stated.

His comments come in the wake of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s confirmation that Cabinet has approved the privatization of ECG—a move that has sparked tension at the company’s headquarters, Electro Volta House, where staff have begun expressing their disapproval.

Rev. Hayes questioned the handling of the missing containers incident, noting that several agencies, including the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Customs, are involved in clearing goods at the port.

“Why was ECG solely blamed when other institutions also play a role? Our mistake was ordering more than we could clear—Ghana, why?” he lamented.

He warned that privatizing ECG could deepen the country’s energy woes and vowed that the union would fiercely resist any attempt to hand the company over to private interests.

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• Binduri MP optimistic about lasting peace in Bawku
• Goaso Hospital appeals for urgent infrastructure and staffing improvements

About 11 others are said to be in critical condition after the accident, which occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Nyumuase in the Atebubu-Amantin Municipality.

The injured are currently receiving treatment at the Mathias Hospital in Yeji.

The incident involved a mini bus with registration number AS 4360-23, carrying 19 passengers from Ejura to Yeji.

All the victims, believed to be businessmen involved in cattle trading, were returning from their day’s activities when the accident occurred.

A survivor told Adom News that the driver was speeding and hit a pothole, which led to the crash.

The Pru East District Chief Executive (DCE), Abdul-Nasir Dauda, attributed the accident to the poor condition of the road from Amantin to Yeji and urged drivers to exercise caution on the stretch.

Meanwhile, some of the deceased are expected to be buried today, April 29, 2025, in accordance with Islamic tradition.

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The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved a tanker with registration number GT 6870-24, carrying an estimated 54,000 litres of fuel.

The circumstances leading to the fire outbreak are unclear, but eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle lost balance and fell on its side, sparking the fire.

Personnel from the Anyinam Fire Station responded promptly to the emergency call and rushed to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters quickly took control of the situation, employing cooling techniques and closely monitoring the tanker to prevent an explosion.

Their swift and coordinated response brought the fire under control before it could escalate into a deadly blaze.

The Ghana National Fire Service has since been commended for their timely intervention, which prevented a potential tragedy and ensured the safety of commuters and residents in the area.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, the Minister emphasized the need for inclusive development, stating that women, often marginalized in employment opportunities, are a key focus of the programme.

“Women are a key component of what we are doing because they are mostly a marginalized group. Therefore, we are reserving a percentage of applications for women. We hope to achieve a maximum of 60% of the total applications from women and 15% for people living with disabilities to ensure that our initiative is inclusive for all marginalized individuals in our society,” he said.

The Minister added that men are not excluded. However, he encouraged more women and persons with disabilities to apply in order to ensure broader representation and impact.

“While we welcome applications from men, we hope to see more women apply so that everyone is well represented. Additionally, we are including individuals within the galamsey enclave and those who are being rehabilitated from drug abuse, so they can create a better life for themselves.”

The programme, launched on March 19, is being implemented by the National Youth Authority (NYA) and aims to provide practical, vocational training to equip young Ghanaians with employable skills.

It also targets individuals from galamsey-prone areas and those recovering from drug abuse, offering them a pathway to rehabilitation and sustainable livelihoods.

Watch the video below:

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The warning follows an active rainstorm currently affecting the northern and transition belts.

According to the forecast, the storm is expected to move southwards, bringing increased cloudiness and potential thunderstorms or rain to coastal and middle sectors, including Accra, Cape Coast, Takoradi, and parts of the Volta Region, later this morning into the early afternoon.

Weather data shows that Accra, Kasoa, and Cape Coast have a 40% chance of thunderstorms this afternoon.

Significantly, the public is being cautioned about moderate to strong winds and possible localized flooding in parts of the northern sector.

The Agency urges residents, especially those in low-lying areas, to take precautionary measures, as these conditions may pose risks to life and property.

Meanwhile, the state of the sea remains rough.

According to Sylvia Awumey, a journalist based in Ketu South, the incident occurred at approximately 6:15 p.m. on Monday.

She reported that the deceased, Christopher Ahordo, popularly known in the area as Colombo, had unusually extended his working hours beyond his typical 5:00 p.m. closing time under unclear circumstances.

Eyewitnesses stated that while Colombo was in the process of closing his mobile money (MoMo) shop at about 6:15 p.m., two men dressed in long robes, with their faces covered and wielding pump-action guns, approached him.

They seized a bag believed to contain money, and as they were leaving the scene, one of the robbers shot him in the left side of his chest.

Colombo is said to have died at the scene. Witnesses indicated they were unable to assist him immediately, as the assailants were firing indiscriminately while fleeing into a nearby bush.

The incident reportedly occurred at Gbagblakope, near the Diamond Cement Factory in Aflao.

According to Sylvia, residents retrieved the body and conveyed it to the Ketu South Municipal Hospital mortuary.

The matter has since been reported to the municipal police, who are now handling the investigation.

MoMo robberies have become a common occurrence in Ghana, with several people losing their lives. This year alone, multiple incidents have been reported in the Ashanti Region, with fatalities recorded.

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Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show, Mr. Mahmoud discussed the peace talks that officially began yesterday at the Manhyia Palace, where various factions involved in the Bawku conflict have gathered for mediation talks, facilitated by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in the hope of finding a lasting resolution to the years of violence that have plagued the area.

This renewed push for peace follows President John Mahama’s reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to supporting the Asantehene’s leadership in efforts to restore calm and unity in the Upper East Region.

Mr. Mahmoud explained that the Bawku conflict has persisted due to past efforts that failed to address the root causes of the violence.

While there have been periods of peace, he noted that these efforts lacked the necessary measures to ensure long-term stability.

“The Bawku conflict has remained because we have not solved it or implemented sufficient measures to ensure that, once we resolve it, the peace is maintained,” he said.

“That’s why, even when we experience periods of peace, something always comes along to disrupt the peace process, and the conflict returns. It’s been a cycle of peace and conflict, back and forth, and that’s where we find ourselves now.”

Mr. Mahmoud stressed that the key to ending the violence lies in finding a permanent solution, rather than relying on the temporary fixes of the past that have failed to prevent the conflict from recurring.

“We need to find a lasting solution, not like what we have done in the past, where the conflict keeps occurring again and again,” he added.

“I believe this is one of the reasons the government has referred the matter to Otumfuo for mediation, to find a long-lasting resolution. I am confident that this Otumfuo-led mediation will bring lasting peace to Bawku,” he concluded.

Dr. Aubynn stated that the involvement of politicians in the menace, despite its devastating impact, is undermining the fight.

“The worst of it all, and I have said and written about it since 2009, so it’s not a new thing, the worst of it all is the involvement of politicians in this business. It becomes so difficult to resolve when you have politicians, some of whom are in very leading positions, involved. You can’t successfully push them out,” he said in an interview on Accra-based Channel One TV.

Highlighting the complex and deeply entrenched nature of galamsey, Dr. Aubynn noted that vested interests make meaningful reform extremely challenging.

To support his point, he recalled former President Akufo-Addo’s public defense in January 2023, when he categorically dismissed claims that Akonta Mining Company Limited was involved in any illegal mining activities in Ghana.

“That is how come, I think, the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at one point in time said Akonta Mining was not doing anything illegal, even though the facts spoke otherwise,” he said.

Akufo-Addo’s defense came at a time when many groups and individuals demanded punitive measures against the company and its owners, led by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, for alleged illegal activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.

Subsequently, the Mahama-led administration revoked the company’s license following “overwhelming evidence” of illegal mining and criminal syndication.

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In a statement, the Police assured that efforts are underway to identify and arrest the perpetrators.

Meanwhile, the Police have encouraged anyone with credible information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.

.

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Dr. Joseph Ankomah, the Medical Superintendent, made the appeal during a visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, noting that since GMH was upgraded to hospital status in 1987, there has been little to no significant improvement in its infrastructure and equipment, despite a continuous increase in both inpatient and outpatient attendance.

Originally established as a dispensary in the early 1950s at the then education office, the hospital was relocated to its current site in 1962 and later upgraded to a municipal hospital in 1987.

The facility comprises nine wards and a 10-bed Accident and Emergency Unit, providing general outpatient and inpatient services, major and minor surgeries, and specialized clinics, including eye, ear, nose, and throat (ENT), oral health, mental health, and physiotherapy.

Dr. Ankomah informed the committee that the hospital frequently experiences breakdowns of its Lightwave health information system equipment, alongside a lack of adequate staff accommodation. He also cited a shortage of office space and critical personnel, including doctors, radiographers, and supply chain officers, among others.

He explained that the aging infrastructure and equipment contribute to a high maintenance burden and called for the construction of a new hospital to address these challenges.

The facility also struggles with untarred internal roads, which become dusty during the dry season and muddy during the rainy season. Furthermore, the hospital’s only anesthesia and X-ray machine, as well as its sole vehicle, are currently out of service.

Dr. Ankomah urged the government to prioritize the construction of internal roads, introduce special incentive packages to attract and retain staff in the region, and build a lodge to accommodate caregivers of admitted patients.

Following the tour, Dr. Sebastian Sandaare, Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, echoed the concerns and appealed to the Minister of Health, Kwabena Minta Akandoh, and other key stakeholders to take urgent steps to improve the facility’s infrastructure, staffing, and equipment.

He assured hospital management and staff that the committee would submit a full situational report to the government for immediate action.

As a medical practitioner himself, Dr. Sandaare stressed the need for the immediate posting of critical healthcare personnel and the construction of new staff accommodation.

This advanced passport technology, which has been in development for ten years, replaces the previous version and elevates Ghana’s travel document to global standards.

The new e-passport features enhanced security elements and meets international civil aviation requirements.

The innovative system promises faster and more efficient service delivery, with standard applications processed within 15 working days and expedited services available within 24 hours. Notably, the solution is also cost-effective for both the government and applicants.

As part of the government’s 24-Hour Economy initiative, passport offices nationwide will operate shift systems to ensure continuous service delivery.

During the launch ceremony, where symbolic copies were presented to Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and other dignitaries, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced a partnership with Ghana Post.

“To ensure seamless delivery, we’re offering free home delivery services through Ghana Post. Applicants with address challenges may collect their documents at designated post offices,” the Minister stated.

The Ministry emphasized that this upgrade reflects Ghana’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology while improving citizen convenience in passport acquisition.

The newly introduced travel document incorporates an advanced microprocessor chip that securely stores the holder’s biometric data and photographic information.

This innovative system will be fully integrated with the National Identification Authority’s database for comprehensive identity verification.

The e-passport boasts multiple cutting-edge security features, including sophisticated anti-fraud mechanisms with both latent and patent indicators. These measures provide unparalleled document security and protection against forgery.

This chip-embedded passport represents a significant technological advancement over Ghana’s current biometric passport system, offering citizens a more secure and internationally recognized travel document.

Some of the officials who witnessed the event were Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations), Stanislav Dogbe,  Minister of Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of  Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam George, MP for Cape Coast South Kweku George Ricketts-Hagan, Managing Director of Ghana Post, Rita Sraha, MP for Ablekuma South, Alfred Oko Vanderpuije and Deputy Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai.

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The former Energy Minister said the exercise, which was expected to unite the party and renew hope, is taking a different turn—risking an implosion.

In a statement, he called on the party’s leadership to urgently redirect the initiative to its original purpose.

“What was intended to restore our party’s shine and reconnect us with the grassroots is instead unraveling into bouts of discord, blame-shifting, and internal strife. This regrettable turn of events threatens to inflict serious collateral damage on the very fabric of our party,” he bemoaned.

Agyarko stressed that the increasing internal divisions threaten to undermine the trust and goodwill the NPP has diligently built among the Ghanaian people.

He called for an approach that prioritises genuine reconciliation, solidarity, and purposeful engagement—essential to preserving the NPP’s dignity and unity.

“It is time to apply the brakes and reassess the direction of the Thank You Tour. We must pull back from what increasingly looks like an imminent collision course.”

“Let us seize this moment to renew our collective resolve and ensure that the mission of the Thank You Tour is accomplished in a manner worthy of our party’s proud legacy,” he added.

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This initiative, part of President Mahama’s “Big Push” infrastructure agenda, aims to boost agricultural productivity, stimulate economic growth, and alleviate poverty in the region.

Among the roads under consideration are the Mpraeso–Obomeng–Nkawkaw, Abooso–Mpaem, Mpaem–Kwahu–Adawso, and Feyiase–Kwahu Tafo routes. Others include Ekye Amanfrom–Takoratwene, Takoratwene–Dome, Takoratwene–Donkorkrom, and Donkorkrom–New Kyeiase.

Earlier today, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, led a team of engineers to inspect the proposed site of the bridge and assess several key road corridors.

Speaking to the media in Donkorkrom following the assessment tour, Agbodza assured residents that President Mahama is “committed to opening up the Afram Plains once and for all.”

“The bridge, when completed, will strategically connect the Eastern, Ashanti, and Oti Regions. It will open up the area for large-scale agriculture and attract investment in agro-processing,” he emphasised.

The project is expected to enhance economic development, foster regional integration, and generate income through agriculture and other productive sectors.

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The suspects, identified as Goutam Katriya, 35, Miraj Sarvaych, 22, and Manash Damani, 42, are Indian nationals engaged in gold trading activities in Kumasi and Accra on behalf of Unique MM, a company allegedly owned by one Musah Salifu.

They were arrested at a private residence near Atinga Junction in Kumasi, which had reportedly been converted into a gold trading hub.

The arrest followed a tip-off from a patriotic whistleblower who reported that the suspects were buying gold at “black market” rates for smuggling purposes.

At a press conference in Accra, the Director of Investigations at National Security, Chief Superintendent Osman Alhassan, disclosed that GH₵1.9 million, 4,500 Indian rupees, 4.363 kilograms of gold, two counting machines, a CCTV recorder, and an Indian passport were found in their possession.

Preliminary investigations by National Security revealed that none of the suspects possesses a valid license to buy or trade gold in Ghana.

The suspects, who have reportedly operated in the country for over a decade, were also unable to provide residence permits, work permits, or tax payment records related to their business activities.

Further investigations indicate that Musah Salifu, the Ghanaian listed as the sole shareholder of Unique MM, is merely a front for Goutam Katriya, who is the real beneficial owner and alter ego of the company.

Chief Superintendent Alhassan issued a strong warning to both Ghanaians and foreign nationals against violating the Ghana Gold Board Act and other laws regulating the gold trade in the country.

“This arrest is only the beginning of GoldBod’s ruthless war against illegal gold trading and smuggling. We know the arrested suspects smuggle gold through unapproved border points into India.

“This has serious negative consequences for the Ghanaian economy. We are still gathering intelligence on several illegal gold traders and smugglers. Very soon, we shall take necessary action,” he stated.

The suspects will remain in NIB custody until May 12, 2025, when they are scheduled to reappear before the court.

In a related development, GoldBod has reiterated its directive for all foreigners engaged in gold trading to exit the market by April 30, 2025.

All individuals involved in gold transactions have also been directed to trade in Ghana cedis at the Bank of Ghana Reference Rate.

Any breach of these directives constitutes a punishable offense under the GoldBod Act, 2025 (Act 1140), as outlined in a press release issued by the Board on April 23, 2025.

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The tragic incident occurred on Thursday and quickly went viral, with footage capturing the final moments of the entertainer as he appeared visibly distressed before collapsing.

Disturbing, who was also a cobbler and musician, had gained prominence through his active involvement in the Justice for Mohbad movement.

In a statement shared on TikTok, his wife, Omowunmi, revealed that he struck his head against a stone during the fall.

She explained that she was in the kitchen at the time when neighbours alerted her to the emergency.

“Yesterday morning, my husband was on TikTok Live while I cooked his food. Suddenly, he had a seizure, fell, and hit his head on a stone. Blood was coming out of his head. A young boy and some neighbours saw him, thought he had fainted, and poured water on him. They called me from the kitchen,” she said.

He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors placed him on oxygen. However, he sadly passed away on Friday morning.

Omowunmi further revealed that the late TikToker had a medical history of seizures and was undergoing treatment, dismissing online speculation that his death was the result of a spiritual attack.

“The last time he had a seizure was in February. It is purely a medical issue,” she said.

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CADA, a Sydney-based station, admitted that “Thy,” host of the “Workdays with Thy” programme, was developed using technology from the US-based artificial intelligence company ElevenLabs.

The revelation, first reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, has sparked widespread criticism as listeners were unaware that the voice behind the daily show was not real.

Since November 2024, “Workdays with Thy” has been airing weekdays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., featuring a mix of international hits. In its programme description, the station simply described Thy as playing “the hottest tracks from around the world” without any mention of the AI technology behind the voice.

While Thy’s voice and appearance were modelled on a real ARN Media employee, CADA said that the music selection was still handled by “music experts.” However, the station’s failure to disclose Thy’s artificial nature has raised questions about transparency and trust in the growing use of AI in media.

The controversy echoes a more transparent approach by other broadcasters. For instance, FBFF Live 95.5 in Portland, Oregon, introduced “AI Ashley” in 2023, a virtual version of their human host Ashley Elzinga — but disclosed the AI element from the outset.

Despite the backlash, “Workdays with Thy” had attracted about 72,000 listeners by March 2025, according to figures released by CADA. The station is not alone in its use of AI DJs; Melbourne-based Disrupt Radio also features an AI host known as Debbie Disrupt.

ElevenLabs, launched in January 2023, is known for its sophisticated text-to-speech and voice cloning technologies. It has collaborated with the estates of famous personalities such as Jimmy Stewart, Burt Reynolds, and Jerry Garcia to create immersive audio experiences.

“The purpose of these iconic voices is to add a deeper and new level of immersive experience to listening and reading the content,” said Dustin Blank, Head of Partnership at ElevenLabs, in an earlier interview with Decrypt.

The rapid advancement of AI in the music and broadcasting industries is stirring debate globally, as AI programmes increasingly compose music, replicate voices, and now, replace traditional radio hosts. Critics argue that while technology offers new possibilities, lack of transparency risks undermining audience trust.

The Governing Council is chaired by Mr Abdulai Salifu, a former diplomat, with Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, the Vice-Chancellor of UDS, serving as Vice-Chairman.

Other members include Dr Fatimatu Iddrisu, Dr Arnold Abubakari Mashud, Madam Magdalene Awunyeliya, Professor Edmund Muonir Der, Dr Yaa Nyarko, Professor Mamudu Abunga Akudugu, Mrs Bruce Akambotuu, Mr Mohammed Abdulai, and Professor Terry Ansah, representing the UDS Alumni Association.

The rest are Mr Emmanuel Asampana, Mr Alhassan Issah Dokurugu, and Mrs Abiba Nyar.

Key stakeholders, including Prof. Ahmed Jinapor, the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission; Queen Nozizwe Pearl Mulela, the wife of King Misuzulu KaZwelithini of the Zulu Nation in South Africa; and some members of the UDS community, attended the inauguration ceremony.

Mr Iddrisu administered the Official Oath and the Oath of Secrecy to Council Members, urging them to support the Vice-Chancellor in ensuring efficient governance and academic excellence.

He said the inauguration reflected the government’s utmost trust in the Council’s integrity and ability to represent the University’s best interests, saying, “You have a responsibility to protect the identity and integrity of UDS.”

The Education Minister commended members of the outgone Council for their dedicated service and urged the new members to build upon that foundation by setting higher standards for institutional development.

He assured them of the government’s full support and pledged non-interference in their decision-making processes.

Mr Salifu, the new Council Chairman, expressed his gratitude to President John Mahama for the confidence reposed in them and affirmed the Council’s commitment to advancing the University’s mission and goals.

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Headmaster Emmanuel Ofoe Fiemawhle disclosed that only 22 staff members currently reside on campus to supervise a student body of approximately 5,000.

He described the shortfall as a significant impediment to maintaining discipline and effective oversight, particularly among boarders.

“We have 22 of our staff who serve as hall masters and other auxiliary workers. So, it is difficult to manage the students as boarders.
If you want to look at the sources of indiscipline, it is because the numbers are not enough to manage the students as boarders,” Mr. Fiemawhle explained during a visit to the school by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education.

He further urged that the issue of residential infrastructure be prioritised.

“I think we should be considering that as part of the priority of the GETFund. For some time now, I haven’t received anything for residential infrastructure,” he added.

Chairman of the Education Committee, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, acknowledged the staffing gaps witnessed across multiple schools and pledged that steps would be taken to address the situation.

“We have also seen the shortage of staff in the various schools that we went to. In Accra Academy, with a student population of almost 6,000, they lack staff, and they must be provided with the same.
So, we recommend to the Minister of Education to fight for clearance from the Minister of Finance so that they can recruit teachers for senior high schools as well as auxiliary staff,” he stated.

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The suspension followed the establishment of a prima facie case after three separate petitions were filed calling for her removal.

However, the political parties involved have strongly condemned the decision, calling it a direct attack on the independence of the judiciary.

Speaking to JoyNews, NPP Director of Communications Richard Ahiagba expressed the party’s concerns, stating that the suspension undermines judicial independence and is a politically motivated move aimed at weakening the judiciary.

“All of us are united, the five political parties are united in leading this demonstration. The indications we are getting are that other political parties are warming up to join. In the coming days, you will see that the number of parties supporting this will increase.

This is a call for all Ghanaians to come out and demonstrate against the President’s move to remove the Chief Justice, which we find to be against the constitution, egregious, and a political attempt to subjugate the judiciary,” he said.

Mr. Ahiagba confirmed that the demonstration would begin at 7 am on May 5, starting from a park opposite the Supreme Court, proceeding through Parliament House, and ending at the Jubilee House, where the petition will be submitted to President Mahama or a representative.

He added, “We went to the registry, we submitted our notice for the demonstration on the 5th. Our request is for the police to provide security, and we have every intention to make it a peaceful demonstration. Their role is to support us and ensure that the demonstration goes on peacefully, without any disruption to public order.”

He also emphasized that this demonstration is about defending Ghana’s democracy. “Ultimately, we see this as an effort aimed at destroying our democracy, and we will not stand for it.”

Mr. Ahiagba addressed the withdrawal of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM) from the protest. He accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of plotting to disrupt the upcoming demonstration by influencing participants to withdraw.

“I’m not sure any political party worth its salt would want to withdraw from a legitimate demonstration. If you go back in our history, in May 1992, when the ban on political party activities was lifted, this country came alive. Now, when we have the chance to preserve our democracy, it’s strange for any political party to say they won’t be part of it,” he said.

He suggested that the NDC might be behind efforts to weaken the resolve of participating parties.

“We know about efforts to water down our resolve. We know about efforts by the government to weaken our front. But we urge the leadership of GUM to stand strong and stand for democracy. If you don’t have democracy, you don’t have a political party. So, they should reconsider their position,” he said.

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Describing the situation as unfortunate, the Regional Minister expressed worry that “our opponents are politicising the power failures” and called on NEDCo to proactively address the problem.

He also urged the company to improve its communication with the media and the general public.

Interacting with the media in Sunyani on the sidelines of a visit to the company’s power plant, Mr. Akwaboa tasked NEDCo to address the technical challenges contributing to the power outages.

“In my discussions with them, I got to understand that the company has some technical challenges. So, it’s not about ‘dumsor,’ and I have asked them to tackle those challenges and restore full power supply,” he stated.

“Though they have a genuine problem, when they explained it to me, those problems cannot also justify taking off our lights. In fact, it’s not about dumsor but technical challenges, and I have tasked them to resolve those challenges today.”

“Why are those challenges recurring in 2025?” the Regional Minister questioned, emphasising that “it’s not about His Excellency bringing back dumsor, as our opponents are saying. In fact, we are here to reset, and we are resetting the country.”

Mr. Akwaboa therefore asked the media to remain circumspect in their reportage in order not to make the government unpopular in the eyes of the masses.

After taking the Minister through the operations of the company, Mr. Eugene Odoi Addo, the Sunyani Area Manager of NEDCo, urged the public to remain calm as the company tackled the technical challenges.

He said some engineers had arrived from Tamale to support the Sunyani Area in resolving the challenges and assured that the problem would be addressed as soon as possible.

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The distressed family says the illicit mining activities have left a trail of destruction — polluting water bodies, degrading fertile lands, and threatening their very livelihood.

Residents accuse the illegal miners of operating with impunity, tearing through lands that hold not only economic but also deep cultural and historical significance for the Asona Clan.

Speaking to journalists over the weekend, family spokesperson Mohammed Boakye painted a grim picture of the situation, revealing that despite numerous complaints to the local authorities, no meaningful action has been taken.

Boakye emphasized that the lands being plundered are vital to the clan’s heritage and future, urging the government to enforce existing mining laws and protect their land rights.

He further called for a thorough investigation into how the illegal miners gained access to the area and demanded that any officials found complicit be held accountable.

As the crisis deepens, the Asona Clan is hopeful that their passionate appeal will spark swift intervention from national and regional authorities to save their lands — not just for themselves, but for generations yet unborn.

He asserts the controversy will not impact the country’s environmental sanitation efforts, contrary to widespread concerns that suggest so.

His comments follow remarks by the Chief Executive of the YEA, Malik Basintale, indicating that the agency’s contract with Zoomlion for waste management will not be renewed in its current form.

According to the Chairman, the information out in the public domain is incongruous with the realities on the ground, emphasising the need for an urgent stakeholder engagement to spell out the facts about the brouhaha surrounding the sector.

He was speaking after the Committee completed a tour of the Jospong Group of Companies’ waste treatment plants in four regions.

“Let me also emphasize that there are news items out there purporting to be coming from the YEA. That is not wholly true,” he stated, adding that “people should not panic over it because it’s not going to affect the work of environmental sanitation.”

He indicated that the issues pertaining to YEA and its agencies under the waste management module are within the remit of Parliament and it is an issue the Committee will prioritise in its report after touring the middle belt of Ghana to ascertain firsthand information on waste management.

“The workers there, if the allocations that they are talking about are something that we need to have a second look at, we will discuss it in our report, and it will come to the floor of Parliament. That is the arena where the representatives of the people meet and discuss, and debate issues.

“So, we don’t want this thing to go out there, that, look, Ghana is in crisis because 40-something thousand people are going to be laid off and the implications of sanitation…. –Certainly it calls for concern.

“But we should not panic because it is not something that is outside the domain of Parliament that the people have to resolve,” he reiterated.

Frimpong Addo, who is also the MP for Manso Adubia, emphasized the importance of government-private sector collaboration in addressing challenges in waste management to protect the environment.

“We just have to sit down with the private sector entity and see how there is that cooperation. It is a cooperation between the private sector and the government.

“So, if there is a problem, we just have to sit down and think through some of the challenges that have resulted in these headlines that we are reading,” he re-emphasised.

The four regions toured by the Committee include the Ashanti Region region where the MPs were briefed on the operations of the Kumasi Compost and Recycling Plant (KCARP), the Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the Medical Waste Treatment Plant.

The team continued its tour to the Western North, Bono, and Ahafo regions, where the Integrated Recycling and Compost Plants (IRECOP) in Sefwi Wiawso, Sunyani, and Goaso, respectively, were visited.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mrs Dapaah stated that there was no legal basis for establishing a prima facie case against the Chief Justice.

“My position has been that there is no basis whatsoever for finding a prima facie case in respect of at least the three petitions that have come,” she said.

She rejected claims that President Mahama had followed due process, insisting that his actions violated constitutional provisions.

“I do not agree with anyone who says the President used due process to remove the Chief Justice. I believe President Mahama has sinned against the Constitution,” she stressed.

Mrs Dapaah explained that under the Constitution, when the President determines a prima facie case against a Chief Justice, he may set up a committee to investigate further.

However, she stated that this discretionary power must not be abused.

“The fact that the Constitution uses the word ‘may’ means the President’s decision is not automatic. It should not be based on prejudice, and it must be subjected to constitutional checks,” she said, referencing Article 296 of the Constitution.

According to her, if the President had been transparent, he would have provided clear reasons for establishing a prima facie case, but he failed to do so.

“The President should have given reasons for the prima facie case. Without those reasons, it is very grave,” she said.

She further explained that even though the President has the right to suspend a Chief Justice once a prima facie case is established, that discretion can still be reviewed constitutionally.

“The fact that the President’s discretion can be subjected to constitutional review still stands. So it is wrong to suggest that once the President acts, he cannot be questioned,” she said.

Mrs Dapaah cited the precedent of Agyei Twum’s case to support her argument that presidential discretion must be exercised fairly and transparently.

Her comments come in the wake of widespread public and legal debate over the suspension, with many questioning the transparency, motives, and procedural fairness of the President’s decision.

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