The initiative forms part of a major empowerment initiative aimed at equipping beneficiaries with employable skills, promoting entrepreneurship and improving livelihoods.

The nationwide programme, which is being implemented in partnership with the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), is expected to support beneficiaries seeking to start or expand careers in dressmaking, tailoring and other segments of the garment industry.

Announcing the initiative, Alhaji Agongo said the project was inspired by his extensive travels across the country, during which he witnessed the difficult living conditions faced by many underprivileged families and vulnerable individuals.

The founder of the collapsed Heritage Bank said many young people and women remain trapped in poverty despite possessing the determination and potential to improve their circumstances if given the necessary support and tools.

“Across our country, I have seen firsthand the struggles of many young people and families. Many of them need only a little support to break free from poverty and build sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

He noted that a significant number of the intended beneficiaries would include school dropouts, widows, orphans, and other socially disadvantaged persons, who often face economic hardship and limited access to employment opportunities.

Alhaji Agongo expressed the belief that the fortunes of many disadvantaged Ghanaians could be transformed if more affluent and successful citizens extended a helping hand to people in need.

The businessman stressed that the initiative is strictly non-partisan and has been designed with clear guidelines to ensure transparency, fairness, and equal access for beneficiaries across the country.

He added that the programme is broad-based and expected to benefit thousands of people from diverse social and economic backgrounds.

Track record of philanthropy
The sewing machine initiative is the latest in a long list of philanthropic interventions undertaken by Alhaji Agongo, who has earned a reputation for supporting vulnerable communities through education, healthcare, and humanitarian assistance.

In July this year, he donated food items, clothing, and other relief supplies valued at GH¢1.4 million to victims of the devastating June 29, 2026 floods that affected several communities in Accra.

Over the years, Alhaji Agongo has also made substantial contributions to Ghana’s health sector, including support for the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he has assisted with donations of medical equipment and infrastructural support to improve healthcare delivery.

His charitable activities have extended to the construction and renovation of school buildings in various communities, helping to improve learning conditions for thousands of students.

He has also sponsored the education of many underprivileged children through the payment of school fees and provision of educational materials.

In addition, the businessman has supported vulnerable patients by settling hospital bills and providing financial assistance to individuals in need of urgent medical care.

For Alhaji Agongo, philanthropy is both a social responsibility and a religious obligation.
“As a Muslim, my faith teaches me that service to mankind is service to Allah. Giving is not a choice but a duty,” he said.

“It is the humane thing to do, and I am privileged that I can afford to share,” he added.

Agongo said he hopes to use the distribution of 10,000 sewing machines to create opportunities for thousands of women and young people to acquire livelihoods, build sustainable businesses, and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic development.

Also read:

• Alhaji Seidu Agongo: A philanthropist who believes in love, unity and human co-existence

• Seidu Agongo pledges nationwide support for Okere community football league

The three Freda Owusu, her husband Emmanuel Acheampong, and Mr. Osei Kuffour, a relative of Freda Owusu, were picked up after they identified a baby found with a traveler, Aliya Salomey, as their missing child, and circulated the claim on social media.

A subsequent identification parade conducted at Ejisu proved that the baby in Aliya Salomey’s custody was not theirs, leading to their arrest for false information and defamation.

Police have now released the trio after preliminary screening.

In a new development, however, the police have arrested the woman under whose care Freda Owusu reportedly left her child before the baby went missing at the Asafo Market.

The woman, whose name has been withheld for investigations, is currently in custody and assisting police with enquiries.

“The parents and the uncle of the missing child have been released after interrogation, but the woman who was allegedly entrusted with the baby before it went missing has been arrested to assist with further investigations,” Ejisu Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Samuel Kofi Gamson told Nhyira News.

The baby was reportedly stolen from the Cape Coast Bus Terminal section of the Asafo Market, at the area known as Opera Site, in the early hours of Sunday, September 20, 2026.

How False Accusation Arose

The case took a dramatic turn when the Ejisu Divisional Police arrested Aliya Salomey, who was travelling with a baby on board a VIP bus heading towards Accra after fellow passengers became suspicious of her interaction with the infant and reported her at Ejisu.

She was granted police enquiry bail after her husband appeared at the station and testified that she was his wife and that the baby belonged to them.

According to the Ejisu Divisional Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Samuel Kofi Gamson, no official report of a missing child had been filed at Ejisu at the time she was granted bail.

The parents of the missing baby later went to Ejisu, identified a photograph of the baby and the suspect as their missing child and his abductor, and posted the claim on social media, prompting police to re-arrest Aliya Salomey.

After the identification parade, the family admitted the baby was not theirs.

Case Transferred

Meanwhile, arrangements are in place to conduct a DNA test on the baby found with Aliya Salomey to scientifically establish maternity before she is formally cleared of the child-stealing allegation.

The entire case has now been transferred to the Asokwa Police Station for further investigation, where the parents initially reported the theft of their child.

“We have transferred the case to the Asokwa Police Station, where the parents first reported their child’s disappearance, for further investigation,” the Commander confirmed.

Police say investigations are ongoing to trace the missing infant and to establish the circumstances under which he went missing while under the care of the newly arrested caretaker.

Also read:

• Police launch manhunt for suspect as five-month-old baby is stolen at Asafo market

• Asafo Market baby theft: Police search for suspect after granting her bail; family wants…

Mr Kyerematen said commercially viable infrastructure projects such as the expressway should be structured to attract private capital, particularly where investors can recover their investment through toll revenues.

Speaking at a public lecture at the British Council in Accra on the theme, “Transformation of the Ghanaian Economy: From Stability to Prosperity,” he questioned the decision to use public funds to finance the entire project.

“You are using four billion dollars to finance a commercial road, which currently can be financed by the private sector. What happens in every country? Once the toll road is constructed, you don’t use government resources to fund it. It can pay for itself,” he said.

He argued that the government could instead allow private investors to finance, construct and operate the road under an arrangement that would enable them to recover their investment over an agreed period.

“We need to commend the government for at least thinking about public-private partnerships between our two actors, because it doesn’t make sense that for over 60 years we continue to rely on government resources to finance everything,” he said.

Mr Kyerematen said the principle should extend beyond the expressway to other infrastructure projects capable of generating revenue.

“Once the road is constructed, you don’t use government resources to fund it if it can pay for itself. Let the private sector manage that. Can you imagine what we can do with our public resources if we free them up?” he asked.

He said such an approach could release government resources for other pressing infrastructure needs, including roads within communities across the country.

The proposal comes as the government prepares to commence construction of the 175.6-kilometre expressway after the clearing of its right-of-way.

President John Dramani Mahama announced on September 14 that US$2 billion had been secured for the project and placed in a dedicated account at the Bank of Ghana. He said the money was sourced from taxpayers and that the project would not be financed through borrowing.

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson had earlier said US$1.7 billion had been secured and that the government expected the full funding requirement to be available by the end of 2026, also without borrowing.

The government’s current model also envisages the expressway generating revenue after completion.

The Chief Executive Officer of Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited, Francis Ahlidza, has said the road will be operated as a commercial asset to enable government to recover the taxpayers’ investment within the concession period.

He said the government established Accra-Kumasi Expressway Limited as a special-purpose company to oversee the development, construction and maintenance of the road.

Mr Ahlidza has also said economic analysis is being undertaken with the expectation that the investment could be recovered over a 50-year period, while generating additional revenue for expansion of the road network.

Mr Kyerematen’s proposal therefore centres on whether that commercial potential should be used to attract private capital from the outset rather than requiring the state to provide the initial financing.

He said greater use of private capital should form part of a broader economic transformation strategy in which government creates the policy and regulatory environment while commercially viable projects attract private investment.

Also read:

• Accra-Kumasi Expressway to be ready by 2028 if all goes as planned – MD

• Accra-Kumasi Expressway: Only nation-wreckers will oppose project – Frank Amoakohene

The latest figure represents a significant increase from the US$18.2 billion recorded in June 2026.

It is also more than double the US$11.1 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

Cocoa exports reached US$2.7 billion by August 2026, up from US$2.4 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

Oil exports also increased, rising from US$1.8 billion in August 2025 to US$2.4 billion in August 2026.

On the import side, Ghana spent US$13.5 billion during the first eight months of 2026, compared with US$11.2 billion over the same period in 2025.

Oil imports recorded a sharp increase, rising from US$3.2 billion in August 2025 to US$4.7 billion in August 2026.

Non-oil imports also increased from US$7.9 billion to US$8.7 billion over the same period.

The developments have resulted in a trade surplus of US$8.8 billion, compared with US$7.6 billion recorded in August 2025.

Analysts say the stronger trade balance could provide additional support for Ghana’s foreign exchange position and help strengthen the country’s international reserves.

However, Ghana’s international reserves have fluctuated.

Reserves fell from US$12.94 billion to US$11.04 billion in August, before recovering marginally to US$12.02 billion.

Despite the strong export performance, concerns remain about the outlook.

One area of concern is the reported pause in gold exports by the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) since August 2026.

Analysts are also watching developments in global interest rates.

The recent decision by the US Federal Reserve to raise interest rates could put pressure on gold prices in the coming months.

A sustained decline in gold prices could, in turn, affect one of the major drivers of Ghana’s export earnings.

The latest figures therefore point to a stronger trade position, but the outlook remains dependent on developments in gold prices, commodity exports and global financial conditions.

Also read:

• Gold boom pushes Ghana’s export earnings to record $18.2bn in first half of 2026

• Ghana’s total export earnings hit US$31.1bn in 2025; trade balance reaches record US$13.6bn

She said the ultimate measure of success in healthcare leadership should be whether patients can actually “feel the difference” in the quality, accessibility, and humanity of care they receive.

Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at a conference of Senior Nursing and Midwifery Managers from across the country, Ms. Darko-Opoku said strategies and policies could only be considered successful when they produced meaningful change at the bedside.

“Strategies are easy to announce. Policies can be beautifully written. Presentations can be impressive. Budgets can be approved. Committees can be constituted.

“But somewhere at the end of all of that is a patient, and that patient does not experience our policy documents. The patient experiences the system,” she said.

With the conference themed “From Strategy to Impact,” the GMTF Administrator said the theme presented an important challenge to health sector leaders to examine whether their decisions were genuinely improving patient outcomes and the working environment for healthcare professionals.

She urged senior nursing and midwifery managers to recognise the enormous influence they wield, stressing that their leadership could shape entire wards, hospitals, and the careers of young professionals.

According to her, leadership extends beyond technical competence to include how senior professionals treat patients, junior colleagues and other members of the healthcare team.

“Sometimes the greatest lesson a young practitioner receives is not from a classroom. It is from watching a senior person work,” she said.

Ms. Darko-Opoku also called for a healthcare culture where young professionals are encouraged to ask questions, learn from mistakes, and develop confidence while maintaining high professional standards.

Healthcare must remain human

Drawing from her experience at the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Ms. Darko-Opoku said serious illness affects far more than the individual patient, often placing an enormous emotional and financial burden on entire families.

She said this reality had reinforced the Fund’s commitment to supporting Ghanaians facing serious chronic illnesses, in line with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision that no Ghanaian should feel that survival depends solely on the amount of money their family can raise.

However, she stressed that financing treatment alone cannot solve the challenges confronting the health sector.

“A patient can have financial support, but if the service is unavailable, there is still a problem. A hospital can have equipment, but if there are not enough appropriately trained professionals, there is still a problem,” she explained.

She added that infrastructure and equipment must also be properly managed and maintained to ensure that investments in healthcare deliver lasting value.

“We need you.”

Ms. Darko-Opoku appealed to nursing and midwifery leaders to work closely with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, particularly by sharing their frontline experience and identifying gaps that may not be visible from policy offices.

“We need your experience. We need your honesty. We need your knowledge of what happens after policies leave Accra and arrive in hospitals,” she told the gathering.

She said the Fund needed the partnership of nurses and midwives to better understand the realities patients face and to build a health system that is not only better equipped but also better coordinated, better led, and more humane.

She further challenged health leaders to question practices that had become accepted simply because they had existed for a long time.

“A long delay should not become normal because it happens every day. Poor communication should not become normal because everyone is busy. Broken equipment should not become normal because it has been broken for six months,” she said.

According to her, meaningful transformation often begins with seemingly small leadership decisions that are consistently implemented.

“Small leadership decisions, repeated consistently, become institutional culture and institutional culture eventually becomes the health system,” she stated.

Who are you raising?

The GMTF Administrator also challenged senior health managers to measure their leadership by the professionals they mentor and develop.

She asked, “Who are you raising? Who is becoming better because they worked under you? Who will be ready when you are no longer in that office?”

She said leadership positions were temporary, and the true legacy of a leader would be reflected in the people and systems left behind.

Ms. Darko-Opoku further called for stronger representation of nursing and midwifery leadership at the highest levels of health policy formulation.

She noted that the country’s changing population, evolving disease burden, expanding technology, and rising patient expectations required nurses and midwives to contribute not only to policy implementation but also to policy design.

“Your experience belongs at that table,” she said, emphasising that frontline knowledge of patient care could provide insights that statistics and spreadsheets alone could not capture.

Concluding her address, Ms. Darko-Opoku urged health leaders to make strategy personal, leadership human, and professionalism visible.

She said the real measure of the conference would not be the reports produced, but the practical actions taken and the lives improved as a result.

“When we speak again of moving ‘From Strategy to Impact,’ may we have more than reports to show for it. May we have lives that were made better because we chose to lead differently,” she said.

Also read:

• WHO hails Ghana Medical Trust Fund’s first-year impact, calls for sustainable financing

• Novartis backs Ghana Medical Trust Fund to expand access to specialised healthcare

The two officers, LFM Sene Famous of the Sogakope Fire Station and FM Yao Addo Kumi of the Adidome Fire Station, were commended for their efforts in rescuing and supporting residents affected by the floods.

A statement issued by the GNFS Public Relations Officer for the Volta Region noted that as part of the recognition, the officers received assorted items in appreciation of their dedication to protecting lives and property during the emergency.

The GNFS said the gesture was intended to highlight the courage and commitment of firefighters who routinely work under difficult and hazardous conditions to respond to emergencies and protect communities.

The Service said their actions during the flood demonstrated the critical role firefighters play in disaster response and community protection.

Also read:

• IGP summons Volta Regional Commander over alleged extortion, intimidation

• Volta floods: More than 30 houses collapse, scores displaced in Keta

The MP in an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express said he would not be intimidated by the threat of arrest.

He said his training as a lawyer required him to be bold and courageous, particularly when representing vulnerable clients.

“If a client can speak for him or herself, the client will never hire a lawyer. And so if you are a lawyer and you’re a coward, then you are not worth your training as a lawyer.”

Baffour Awuah said he was prepared to face EOCO when he goes to court.

“And so tomorrow I’m going to court. Raymond should arrest me. My brother, I am ready. He has power. He thinks that he can abuse the power today. It is okay.”

He accused EOCO boss Raymond Archer of abusing state power after the lawyer intervened in the case involving his client, Salomey Bafoo.

He said his actions were aimed at protecting a poor woman whose fundamental human rights, he argued, had been infringed upon by state actors.

“Let the Ghanaian people judge that a certain lawyer, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, came to the rescue of one of us, a poor lady from a village in Techiman Hansua with three children, three minor children, the least of them four years old.”

Baffour Awuah also defended individuals who allegedly helped him avoid what he described as an attempted abduction.

“If people assist me to avoid being abducted, that certainly cannot be unlawful.”

He further accused EOCO of lacking proper legal advice over its actions.

“I think that Raymond needs good legal advice at EOCO. It is obvious that he’s not getting it, and that is why he’s writing these letters. They will not fly.”

The MP also alleged that an EOCO official assaulted his colleague, Afuaqua, during the incident.

He said Afuaqua’s eye was bruised and that they had advised him to lodge a formal complaint.

Baffour Awuah said the controversy would not stop him from defending his client.

“It is obvious that everybody in this country accepts that what Raymond has done is unlawful.”

“With all humility, when I am defending a poor person, I do it wholeheartedly. And so this is not going to cow me until I see my client out. It won’t cow me to submission.”

The MP also said he remained confident despite the circumstances.

“I dwell in the shadows of the Almighty. I’m clear in my mind that I’m secured and fortified by the Most High God. Nothing, nobody will prevail against me so long as, particularly, I’m fighting for the poor,” he added.

Also read:

• I’ve never come across a woman that strong – Manhyia South MP recounts botched…

• This is unlawful – Manhyia South MP on EOCO’s attempted arrest

Mr Frimpong remains in custody in Amsterdam, with his extradition hearing scheduled for November 18, 2026.

Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM, Mr Dafeamekpor said the MP’s legal team had pursued both a substantive bail application and an appeal, but neither was granted.

“The extradition hearing will take place on the 18th of November 2026. He’s still in custody. He’s still in the hands of the Dutch government in Amsterdam. We have done two applications, one substantive, one appeal for his bail, but they all got refused,” he said.

Mr Frimpong was arrested at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam in May 2026 after travelling from Ghana. Parliament subsequently confirmed his detention and said it was engaging Ghana’s diplomatic mission in The Hague for further details.

His detention is linked to allegations involving romance scams and money laundering.

Mr Dafeamekpor said Parliament is now preparing for the substantive extradition hearing in November.

“So we are preparing to deal with the substantive hearing of the matter on the 18th of November,” he said.

He added that Parliament is also preparing a statement on the MP’s current status.

Mr Dafeamekpor has previously urged the media to avoid publishing unverified information about the case, noting that the legal team was still working to obtain official documents relating to Mr Frimpong’s arrest and detention.

Also read:

• Foreign Affairs Ministry providing consular support to detained Asante Akyem North MP – Ablakwa

• Lawyers file bail application for detained Asante Akyem North MP in Dutch court

The Forum, one of the activities marking this year’s Asogli Te Za celebrations, was scheduled to begin earlier, but the delay became a subject of discussion among participants and guests gathered for the event.

Some invited guests arrived after 1000 hours, contributing to the delayed commencement of the programme and prompting renewed conversations about the persistent practice of late starts at major public events.

Togbe Afede, addressing the gathering, expressed regret over the delay and apologised to participants for the inconvenience caused by the late start of the Forum.

He said the situation called for a change in attitude towards time, stressing the need for individuals and organisations to attach greater value to punctuality, particularly when attending important programmes.

The Agbogbomefia noted that the popular adage that “time is money” appeared to have lost some of its practical value in the current dispensation, where delays had increasingly become accepted at public functions.

He therefore urged the public to move away from the expression “African time” and develop a culture that respected agreed times for meetings, ceremonies and other important engagements.

Togbe Afede said punctuality was essential for productivity, accountability and efficient use of time, urging organisers, invited guests and participants to collectively work towards ending the culture of late starts at major programmes.

Also read:

• Volta Economic Forum shifts focus from investment promises to projects, jobs and capital

• Volta’s investment test: Can billions in opportunities finally translate into jobs and industries

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express hours after the incident, the lawyer said the woman approached him after he had addressed the media and told him he was needed at EOCO.

He said she then firmly held his wrist. “She firmly held my wrist with the greatest of respect. I’ve never come across a woman that strong before.”

According to him, the grip was so tight that he had to free himself. “She held my hand so tight, so firmly that I had to wriggle myself from her hand.”

Mr Awuah said he offered to drive the woman to EOCO, but she refused.

“She was insistent on resisting me from sitting in my car, but would rather arrest me like a common criminal and put me in their car.”

He said he then asked her to produce an identification card showing she was from EOCO. “What even shows you are from EOCO? She couldn’t even produce it.”

Mr Awuah said the incident made him suspect that he could be the target of an abduction.

“I thought that, Look, this is one of the kidnappings that have been going on, illegal these are this is one of the kidnappings, state-sponsored kidnappings that have been going on, and so I will not sit in the car.”

He insisted that he was prepared to go to EOCO if the proper process was followed. “When EOCO is right ready to do the right thing, I will go there. I’m not afraid of anything.”

Mr Awuah also rejected the suggestion that he had fled to Parliament to evade a lawful arrest.

“This is an unlawful arrest. This is an unlawful arrest. An attempt to abduct me by persons who don’t want to work with the law, and so it is not wrong if I’m seeking sanctuary.”

He added, “In fact, you seek sanctuary against kidnappers, and so if I’m seeking sanctuary, it is not wrong.”

The think tank says tackling corruption requires more than broad constitutional provisions, stressing the need for clear and enforceable measures to improve accountability and address possible illicit enrichment by public office holders and their families.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, IEA Fellow and former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo said the Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh, had proposed significant changes to Article 286.

“The Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh Committee proposed strengthening Article 286(4) through mechanisms addressing unexplained increases in the wealth of public officials, including lifestyle and wealth audits, a reverse burden of proof, subject to appropriate safeguards, and stricter deadlines for asset declarations,” she said.

The proposal seeks to provide stronger mechanisms for scrutinising substantial and unexplained increases in the wealth of public officials.

According to the IEA, although the government has indicated a preference for addressing some of the concerns through legislation, the institute believes the key recommendations should be entrenched in the Constitution.

“The IEA’s position is that combating corruption requires more than general constitutional principles and that clear enforceable obligations are necessary to create credible mechanisms for detecting and addressing illicit enrichment by public officials and their families,” Prof. Akuffo said.

She nevertheless cautioned that any strengthened accountability regime must be designed with adequate safeguards to protect the rights of public officers and prevent potential abuse.

“The debate should nevertheless carefully consider due process, evidentiary standards and safeguards against abuse,” she said.

Prof. Akuffo said the objective should be to establish an accountability system that protects legitimate rights while ensuring that public officials can be called upon to explain significant and unexplained increases in their wealth.

“A stronger accountability system must simultaneously protect legitimate rights and ensure that public office holders can be required to explain significant and unexplained increases in wealth,” she added.

The IEA’s position comes after the inauguration of the 11-member Constitution Review Implementation Committee (CRIC), which has been tasked with advancing approved proposals for the review of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

The inauguration followed the government’s release of its position paper on recommendations contained in the report of the Constitution Review Committee chaired by Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh.

The CRIC is chaired by Presidential Legal Counsel and former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Marietta Brew.

Its mandate includes examining the government’s position paper alongside the Constitution Review Committee’s report and developing a comprehensive framework for implementing the proposals that receive approval.

President Mahama on Thursday rang the closing bell of the Nasdaq Stock Exchange, in a ceremony that highlighted the government’s efforts to promote Ghana as a competitive destination for global businesses and investors.

The event formed part of the President’s engagements in New York on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

It also provided an opportunity for Ghana to showcase its economic and investment prospects to the international business community.

Ahead of the ceremony, the Nasdaq billboard at the iconic Times Square featured an image of President Mahama alongside the message: “Ghana is Open for Business.”

The display formed part of efforts to project Ghana’s investment opportunities to a global audience and reinforce the government’s message that the country is ready to engage international investors.

President Mahama, who was accompanied by officials and representatives from Ghana’s economic and investment sectors, received applause from Nasdaq officials after ringing the closing bell.

“Thank you,” President Mahama said following the applause.

The ceremony comes at a time the government is highlighting recent improvements in key economic indicators as part of its broader efforts to restore investor confidence and strengthen Ghana’s position in the global economy.

During his stay in New York, President Mahama has also been holding engagements with world leaders, international institutions and private-sector stakeholders as part of Ghana’s participation in the UN General Assembly.

In the petition dated Wednesday, September 23, 2026, Mr Awingobit expressed concerns about the location of the development at 10 Giffard Road in the Airport Residential Area, citing its proximity to military, defence and aviation installations.

The project, being developed by Sentuo Group, is expected to feature about 582 premium apartments, a 600-room hotel, a 2,500-capacity conference facility, healthcare facilities, a shopping mall and other commercial and recreational facilities.

Mr Awingobit said his concerns were not about the investment itself or Chinese participation in Ghana’s economy, but rather the strategic location and scale of the proposed development.

“My concern is specifically about the strategic location of this particular development and the possible national-security implications of placing a very large, high-rise, mixed-use private development in close proximity to sensitive national-security, defence and aviation infrastructure,” he said.

Calls for security assessment

The petitioner is asking the government to establish whether the Ghana Armed Forces, Ministry of Defence, National Security, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and other relevant institutions have undertaken a comprehensive security assessment of the project.

He wants such an assessment to examine the height and design of the proposed structures, technological infrastructure, access arrangements and their potential implications for nearby strategic installations.

Mr Awingobit has also raised questions about the management of surveillance and security systems within the development.

These include CCTV networks, security-control rooms and data infrastructure, as well as the systems that would govern access to sensitive areas and security facilities.

He is calling for appropriate oversight by Ghanaian security agencies over the security arrangements at the complex.

He also wants security personnel who may be deployed to the development to undergo the necessary vetting.

Airport security concerns

Mr Awingobit further wants the government to assess the project’s proximity to Kotoka International Airport and examine potential security scenarios that could arise from its location.

Among his key demands is an immediate suspension of further construction until an independent, multi-agency security assessment is conducted.

He proposed that the assessment involve the Ministry of Defence, Ghana Armed Forces, National Security, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and Ghana Airports Company Limited.

He is also seeking a strategic land-use review and a counter-surveillance assessment, alongside enhanced checks on beneficial ownership and the source of funds for the project.

Mr Awingobit further called for a review of the proposed tenancy arrangements and mechanisms for vetting future occupants of the development.

‘Not anti-China’

The petitioner stressed that his concerns should not be interpreted as opposition to Chinese investment or the Sentuo Group.

“This petition is not anti-China. It is not anti-investment. It is not an objection to foreign direct investment,” he said.

He argued that Ghana’s pursuit of economic development must be balanced with the protection of national security.

Mr Awingobit is therefore urging President Mahama to direct an immediate and comprehensive national security assessment of the project before additional construction work is undertaken.

He said addressing potential security concerns after the development has been completed could prove more difficult and costly.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Mr Baffour Awuah said an EOCO official approached him after he had addressed the media outside court and told him he was needed at the agency.

He said the official then held his wrist firmly, forcing him to wriggle himself free. “She held my hand so tight, so firmly that I had to wriggle myself from her hand,” he said.

According to him, he offered to drive himself to EOCO, but the official insisted that he could not use his own vehicle.

He said he subsequently asked to see identification proving the officers were from EOCO, but the request was denied.

“It was at that point that I asked her, Where is your ID? What even shows you are from EOCO? She couldn’t even produce it,” he said.

Mr Baffour Awuah said the circumstances made him suspect that the incident could be linked to the kidnappings he alleged had been occurring.

“I thought that, look, this is one of the kidnappings that have been going on, illegal; this is one of the kidnappings, state-sponsored kidnappings that have been going on, and so I will not sit in the car,” he said.

He maintained that he was prepared to cooperate with EOCO if the agency followed what he described as the proper process.

“I would rather sit in my car and now make sure that when EOCO is right ready to do the right thing, I will go there. I’m not afraid of anything,” he said.

The MP also rejected the suggestion that he was avoiding lawful arrest by proceeding to Parliament after the incident.

“This is an unlawful arrest. This is an unlawful arrest,” he said.

He described the attempted arrest as “an attempt to abduct me by persons who don’t want to work with law.”

Mr Baffour Awuah said seeking sanctuary at Parliament was therefore justified. “It is not wrong if I’m seeking sanctuary. It is not wrong if I’m seeking sanctuary,” he said.

“In fact, you seek sanctuary against kidnappers, and so if I’m seeking sanctuary, it is not wrong.”

The demonstration, held on Wednesday, September 23, under the theme “GHANA AYƐ MMƆBƆ”, brought together Ghanaians from different political parties, movements and associations at Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza near the UN Headquarters.

The organisers said the protest was intended to draw international attention to issues they believe require urgent action and to demand measurable progress on commitments made during the 2024 election campaign.

Ahead of the demonstration, one of the organisers, Kwasi Obeng-Fosu, told Asaase Radio that the group would focus on freedom of speech, illegal mining, job creation, education, the 24-hour economy, support for women-owned businesses and the automatic posting of newly qualified teachers and nurses.

Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, featured prominently during the protest, with the demonstrators expressing concern about the continued destruction of Ghana’s forests and water bodies.

They questioned why President John Dramani Mahama had not declared a state of emergency over illegal mining, recalling his previous calls for such a measure while in opposition.

The protesters also turned their attention to what they described as delays in fulfilling key campaign commitments, particularly the 24-hour economy.

They called for clear timelines, targets, and measurable outcomes for the policy, which they said had raised expectations among young people seeking employment.

The group also raised concerns about jobs created under the previous administration, which they alleged were terminated after the change of government. They questioned whether such actions were consistent with the government’s campaign commitment to job creation.

Other programmes and commitments cited included the proposed Women’s Development Bank, the Adwumawura initiative, the pledge to support 10,000 businesses annually, and the planned abolition of the double-track system in senior high schools.

The organisers said they wanted government to provide evidence of implementation, timelines for outstanding commitments, and measurable results rather than simply promises.

Freedom of expression was another major issue raised at the demonstration.

The protesters expressed concern over the arrest and prosecution of social media commentators and other citizens over statements they said were critical of the government.

They also questioned the circumstances surrounding the handling of some recent cases, including the transportation of suspects to the Adenta Circuit Court.

The organisers called for consistency and fairness in the application of the law, arguing that citizens should not feel intimidated from expressing views critical of the government.

They further raised concerns about recent reports of large quantities of suspected cocaine being trafficked from Ghana to other countries.

The demonstrators said the reports raised questions about Ghana’s international reputation and called for decisive measures to identify and dismantle networks involved in the illegal drug trade.

The organisers stressed that their objective was not simply to criticise the government but to demand evidence of progress on its campaign commitments.

They said a petition would be presented to Ghanaian representatives in the United States and that the demonstration marked the beginning of a broader diaspora-led accountability campaign.

The group said it would continue monitoring the government’s response to the issues raised and document progress on outstanding commitments, particularly in employment, environmental protection, education and governance.

Mr Ayariga made the commitment on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, during a tour of the two markets with the Minister for Transport and the Accra Metropolitan Mayor, where they assessed the state of the facilities and held discussions with market leaders.

The Minister said government’s objective is to build modern markets that improve the trading environment while protecting the livelihoods of people who already depend on the facilities.

“You will be part of the process, and you will lead the discussions on how the redevelopment should be done and how the allocations should be made,” he assured traders.

He said the redevelopment plans would reflect the realities of each market, including the need to address congestion and improve economic opportunities for traders.

Mr Ayariga also disclosed plans to engage the Ministers for Lands and Natural Resources and Finance to explore funding options for the redevelopment, while market leadership welcomed the government’s consultation and expressed their willingness to collaborate on the project.

Mr Ayariga gave the assurance on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, when he toured the two markets together with the Minister for Transport and the Accra Metropolitan Mayor to assess their current condition and engage market leaders on the proposed redevelopment.

He explained that the 24-hour model market initiative is intended to improve trading conditions, expand economic opportunities and provide modern facilities while ensuring that existing traders remain central to the redevelopment process.

“We are not coming to take your businesses away from you. You will be part of the process, and you will lead the discussions on how the redevelopment should be done and how the allocations should be made,” he said.

Mr Ayariga also said the redevelopment would take into account the specific needs of the two markets and the broader congestion challenges in Accra.

He further indicated that he would engage the Ministers for Lands and Natural Resources and Finance on the resources required for the project, while market leaders welcomed the engagement and expressed their readiness to work with government.

Mr Darko said the incident raises concerns about the protection of lawyers in the discharge of their professional duties, particularly when they appear before the courts to represent clients.

Reacting to the development in a Facebook post, he said: “Defending clients should not never imperil a lawyer,” while stressing the importance of ensuring that lawyers can perform their professional duties without being subjected to actions that undermine the legal process.

He also warned against actions that could weaken Ghana’s democratic institutions, arguing that the incident involving Nana Baffour Awuah should concern all citizens.

“Today it is Nana Baffour Awuah; tomorrow it could be any one of us,” he said.

Mr Darko called for respect for constitutional processes and the rule of law, insisting that Ghana must be governed by the Constitution rather than the power of those in government.

“Ghana is governed by the Constitution, not by the power of those in government. The rule of law must always prevail over political power,” he stated.

Mr Darko said the incident was unacceptable, particularly because Nana Baffour Awuah was at the court in his capacity as both a sitting Member of Parliament and a lawyer representing a client.

He argued that such circumstances require respect for Parliament and the proper legal process.

“I strongly condemn what happened today at the Accra High Court involving the Manhyia South MP, Hon. Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah and alleged officers of EOCO,” Mr Darko said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

According to him, “a sitting MP and lawyer appearing in court for his client should not be subjected to such actions without due respect for Parliament and the proper legal process.”

Mr Darko further cautioned that no state institution should operate outside the Constitution, insisting that there are lawful channels for addressing any matters concerning Members of Parliament.

“No institution, regardless of its powers, should operate above the Constitution,” he stated, adding that Parliament “must not be intimidated, undermined or treated with disrespect.”
[18:28, 23/09/2026] Ernest Von:

Firefighters from the Accra City, Circle, Ministries and Industrial Area fire stations have been deployed to the scene.

The firefighters have managed to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjoining buildings, which are also used for commercial purposes.

Efforts are ongoing to fully bring the fire under control and prevent further damage.

More soon…

The institute argues that the current four-year mandate is adequate for elected governments to prepare and implement their policies, provided they are sufficiently prepared before assuming office.

Former Chief Justice and IEA Fellow, Justice Sophia Akuffo, said there was no compelling justification for extending the existing term.

She made the remarks at a press briefing ahead of an IEA “Views and Reflections” seminar, which is examining the recommendations of the Prempeh Committee and the government’s position on proposed constitutional reforms.

The Prempeh Committee has recommended that presidential and parliamentary terms be extended from four to five years.

Government has accepted the recommendation, arguing that an additional year would allow administrations more time to formulate, implement and evaluate policies.

The IEA, however, maintains that political parties and prospective governments should undertake adequate preparations before taking office to ensure that they can begin implementing their programmes immediately.

Justice Akuffo said governments should not spend a significant portion of their tenure setting up their administrations.

“Four years you prepare before you come into office. In fact, you prepare before you even vie for power, so that on the day you come to power, from that day you’re on your feet and running,” she said.

She also raised concerns about delays in appointing ministers and other key officials, arguing that such delays further reduce the time available for governments to deliver on their mandates.

“It shouldn’t take six months to appoint ministers and people into key positions as has been our experience in times past,” she said.

The IEA said the debate over the proposed five-year tenure should consider both the need for effective policy implementation and the importance of democratic accountability.

While proponents of the extension argue that an additional year could provide governments with more time to implement long-term programmes, critics contend that shorter electoral cycles strengthen citizens’ ability to hold elected officials accountable.

The institute said an important question is whether policy discontinuity is actually caused by the four-year electoral cycle or by broader challenges, including weak institutions, inadequate planning and the tendency of successive administrations to abandon or redesign programmes started by previous governments.

It further recommended that any consideration of extending the tenure should be linked to efforts to strengthen the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC).

According to the IEA, a credible long-term national development framework could help successive governments implement major programmes within the existing four-year mandate while ensuring continuity around a shared national development agenda.

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According to him, EOCO’s claim that he was invited to assist with an investigation is false, insisting that the invitation in February 2026 was directed to a law firm he previously worked with and not to him in his personal capacity.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr Baffour Awuah said he was no longer the senior partner of the law firm at the time the invitation was issued because he had become a Member of Parliament.

“Whatever EOCO said is not true. I was never invited by EOCO. It was the law firm I previously worked with, but I am no longer a senior partner, that was invited in connection with a case involving Equity Savings and Loans,” he said.

He explained that in February, EOCO wrote to Sarkodie Baffour Awuah and Partners, requesting to meet the senior partner of the firm in connection with a matter involving SIC Savings and Loans and Equity Finance.

Mr Baffour Awuah said he initially believed the invitation was directed at him and therefore informed EOCO that, as an MP, he would comply with the established parliamentary protocols.

He said he subsequently realised that EOCO was seeking information from the law firm regarding a case it had handled, rather than seeking his personal involvement.

“I figured for me as an MP, I was no longer the senior partner for the firm, so I asked my managing partner to respond on the time we would go to EOCO, which she did,” he explained.

According to him, the managing partner subsequently engaged EOCO and provided the information required as part of its investigations.

“From that time, they were dealing with her and not me,” he said.

Mr Baffour Awuah maintained that he is a law-abiding citizen and has no reason to fear an invitation from a state investigative agency.

“During Akufo-Addo’s regime, I was not an employee of the state, so it is not like I have gone to do something that will make security agencies be interested in me. I am a very law-abiding citizen, so I am not scared of EOCO’s invitation,” he said.

His comments follow a confrontation at the Accra High Court on Wednesday involving the MP and a woman who identified herself as an EOCO official.

Mr Baffour Awuah, who is representing social commentator Salomey Baffoe in court, said the woman asked him to accompany her to the EOCO office but failed to provide identification or an arrest warrant when he requested one.

He subsequently left the court premises.

The MP accused EOCO of attempting to link him to wrongdoing without evidence, alleging that some officials had been looking for grounds to implicate him because of his outspoken political activities since entering Parliament.

“Since going to Parliament I have been vocal, so they have been desperately looking for something to tag me with,” he alleged.

He questioned how EOCO could claim that he had signed documents or acted on behalf of someone as a lawyer when, according to him, he was no longer serving as the firm’s senior partner.

“They are running on complete falsehood. Since February, after we lodged a police report on EOCO, there has not been any invitation. We cannot run this country on falsehood,” he said.

EOCO, however, has maintained that the attempted arrest formed part of lawful steps taken in connection with an ongoing investigation.

The Office said Mr Baffour Awuah had been invited twice in February 2026 to assist with the investigation but did not honour the invitations.

Mr Baffour Awuah disputed that account, arguing that if an arrest was intended, the appropriate legal procedures should have been followed.

He said an invitation that is not honoured could be followed by an application to court for an order, rather than an attempt to arrest someone without producing the relevant warrant.

“A lawful arrest in this instance would have been for them to produce an arrest warrant, but there wasn’t any,” he said.

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The directive follows reports received by the GES that some school heads were collecting admission fees, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues and other unauthorised charges from parents and guardians.

In a statement signed by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at the GES dated September 23, 2026, the GES said the collection of such fees was contrary to the government’s Free Senior High School policy.

The Service stressed that no student or parent should be compelled, directly or indirectly, to pay admission fees, PTA dues or any other unauthorised charges as a condition for admission, enrolment, participation in school activities or access to school services.

The GES further reminded school heads that the issue of PTA dues is currently before the courts. It said discussions and collection of PTA dues and levies should therefore remain on hold until the matter is determined by the courts.

The Service also directed heads of schools to refund any unauthorised fees or levies already collected and submit evidence of the refunds to GES management.

It warned that any person found flouting the directive would face appropriate administrative sanctions, including possible removal from office.

The GES has meanwhile encouraged parents and members of the public to report cases of unauthorised fees and levies to management for investigation and the necessary action.

Read the statement below:

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He made the call on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at a high-level side event on reparatory justice in New York, held as part of activities marking the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

President Mahama said laws and procedures in countries holding African cultural properties should be reviewed to reduce the legal and administrative barriers that make restitution difficult.

He argued that the continued possession of African artefacts and human remains was not merely a question of ownership, but also one of dignity, identity and justice.

“Human remains are not collectibles. They are not specimens. They are our ancestors. They are our fathers, mothers, kings, and elders,” he said.

According to the President, generations of Africans have been separated from important elements of their history and cultural identity following the removal of artefacts and human remains during conquest, punitive expeditions and colonial rule.

He cited the 1874 British destruction and looting of the Asante Royal Palace in Kumasi, noting that some of the heritage taken from Ghana has since been returned, including the Mpomponsuo sword in 2024.

President Mahama also referred to the case of King Badu Bonsu II of Ahanta, who was executed by Dutch authorities in 1838 and whose head was taken to the Netherlands for phrenological studies before his remains were returned to Ghana in 2009.

He said such cases demonstrate the need for restitution efforts to cover not only cultural objects but also the human remains of Africans held abroad.

“Restoring them is not a matter of legal ownership; it is a fundamental test of our shared human dignity,” he said.

President Mahama said Africa was prepared and had the capacity to receive and preserve returned cultural properties and human remains.

He indicated that Ghana was prepared to commit to the development of appropriate museum facilities to preserve and safeguard such items.

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The decision follows an engagement with the leadership and traders of the Yam Market at Agbogbloshie on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, announced the decision during the engagement, which was also attended by the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Mayor, Michael Kpakpo Allotey.

According to Mr Ayariga, the temporary hold will give the government and the AMA an opportunity to assess the conditions on the ground, review the proposed redevelopment plan and agree with stakeholders on a practical arrangement for the area.

He said the consultations would also seek to ensure that existing market operators are considered in any redevelopment plan while improving infrastructure and the overall condition of the market.

Mr Ayariga explained that the government’s objective under the 24-Hour Economy Market initiative is to improve market infrastructure across the country, rather than simply construct new facilities without taking existing commercial activities into account.

He said the government had directed Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to develop improved market infrastructure, stressing the need for the relevant stakeholders to work together in determining the most suitable approach for Agbogbloshie.

The latest engagement therefore provides an opportunity for the government, the AMA, market leadership and traders to reassess the proposed redevelopment and find a solution that balances the planned infrastructure improvements with the interests of businesses already operating in the area.

The project will remain on hold while the consultations continue.

He made the call at a high-level side event on the next steps for reparatory justice held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

According to President Mahama, the focus should now shift to implementing the Accra Next Steps Commitments on Reparatory Justice, which he described as a framework for turning the United Nations’ recognition of the historical injustices linked to the trafficking and enslavement of Africans into practical action.

“We must move from acknowledgement to action, from commitments to implementation,” he said.

The President identified the establishment of a permanent and institutionalised global system for restitution as the first priority.

He urged the United Nations and countries that hold African cultural property to develop clear and standardised legal and diplomatic procedures to support provenance research, improve access to historical archives and address legal obstacles that hinder restitution.

He also called for the unconditional return of human remains to Africa as an immediate priority.

The second proposal focuses on strengthening Africa’s ability to receive, preserve and manage cultural artefacts returned to the continent.

President Mahama rejected the argument that restitution should be postponed until African countries have sufficient facilities to preserve returned items.

“Capacity constraints must never be used as a justification for continued possession. Capacity must serve as a bridge to return, not a barrier to justice,” he said.

He noted that efforts were already underway to develop the required infrastructure, citing initiatives such as the African Union’s Great African Museum and the AU-EU Museum Partnership.

The third pillar seeks to make cultural heritage a driver of economic and social development.

President Mahama appealed to multilateral development banks, international financial institutions, foundations and private-sector organisations to support investments in Africa’s cultural infrastructure.

Such investments, he said, should include regional archives, conservation laboratories, digitisation initiatives and professional training programmes.

He argued that properly preserved and presented cultural heritage could contribute significantly to education, national identity, tourism and the creative economy.

The proposals come after the UN General Assembly adopted Resolution 80/250 on March 25, a development Ghana has described as an important step in efforts to advance the global reparatory justice agenda.

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Speaking at the High-Level Side Event on the Next Steps, hosted by President John Dramani Mahama in New York on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, the minister said Ghana has received formal communication from Washington.

“We have received formal notice from the United States of America that even though they voted against this resolution, they are willing to begin to work with us towards that fair and just world we all seek,” he said.

The US was one of three countries that opposed the Ghana-led resolution when the UN adopted it in March 2026. In all, 123 countries voted in favour and 52 abstained.

The minister said the US decision shows that the initiative is not meant to divide countries, but to promote healing and reconciliation.

“The Ghana-led effort is not about dividing the world. It is rather about bringing us together. It is rather about healing. It is rather about genuine reconciliation.”

He said President Mahama, who chairs the Global Advisory Panel on Reparatory Justice, is pursuing it in good faith.

“There are no hidden agendas. There is no secret motive. All we seek is to build a new world, a fair and just world, a world without racism, a world without discrimination.”

He said Ghana hopes for the return of African artefacts held in museums and private collections in Europe and the United States, noting that the objects are integral to Africa’s identity, culture and heritage.

“They represent our soul. They represent our spirit, our humanity, our culture, our heritage.”

He praised France, Germany and the Netherlands for publicly pledging to return artefacts and urged other countries to do the same.

Since the resolution, Ghana’s reparatory justice agenda has focused on moving from international recognition to action, including the return of cultural heritage and the development of legal and policy frameworks.

In a letter dated September 23, 2026, the GES directed all Regional Directors to inform heads of SHSs and Senior High Technical Schools about the payments.

According to the GES, the funds have been transferred into the various accounts of the schools.

The Service has also instructed heads of the schools to submit official receipts for the funds received to the Director-General through their respective Regional Accountants.

The letter, signed by GES Director-General Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis, said the payments formed part of efforts to support the schools in meeting their financial obligations.

The GES urged all Regional Directors and heads of schools to cooperate with the process and ensure that the necessary documentation for the funds received is submitted.

Read the statement below:

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The legal team says the correspondence cited by EOCO was directed to Mr Baffour Awuah in his capacity as Senior Partner of Sarkodie Baffour Awuah & Partners and related to an investigation involving one of the firm’s clients, SIC Life Savings and Loans Company Limited.

The clarification follows an attempted arrest of the MP by EOCO officials at the Accra High Court on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

EOCO has stated that Mr Baffour Awuah was invited twice in February to assist with an investigation but failed to honour the invitations, leading to the subsequent attempt to arrest him as part of measures to secure his attendance.

However, the law firm, in a statement issued on behalf of the MP, insists that he was not the subject of the investigation.

According to the statement, EOCO’s letter dated February 10, 2026, invited the Senior Partner of the firm to appear before the Executive Director or his representative on February 17 “to assist with the investigations.”

It said Mr Baffour Awuah responded to the Office on February 18, informing EOCO that he had subsequently become a Member of Parliament and had referred the matter to the Clerk to Parliament for advice.

The lawyers said the firm nevertheless continued to engage with EOCO through a lawful representative, who attended three separate interrogation sessions on March 4, March 18 and April 30.

They said the representative provided investigators with the information requested and subsequently submitted a formal written statement dated April 30.

The statement further indicates that no additional invitation was received after the representative had engaged with investigators and supplied the requested information.

The legal team therefore rejects the suggestion that the MP simply ignored EOCO’s investigation, arguing that the matter had been handled through the law firm and that the information sought by investigators had been provided.

The lawyers have also raised questions about the timing of the attempted arrest, suggesting it may be connected to Mr Baffour Awuah’s recent role as legal counsel for Salomey Awiti Bafoh in the ongoing case involving UK-based TikTok user Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, popularly known as “Ghana Jollof”.

According to the statement, the attempted arrest “appears to have arisen only after” the MP became vocal in his representation of Ms Bafoh.

That assertion has not been independently established. EOCO, for its part, has maintained that the attempted arrest was linked to an ongoing investigation and followed earlier invitations extended to the MP.

The incident occurred shortly after Mr Baffour Awuah appeared at the High Court in connection with Ms Bafoh’s bail application.

The situation reportedly escalated outside the court premises before the MP eventually drove away.

EOCO later explained that the arrest was not completed after its officers assessed that further action could pose a risk to public safety.

The Office has also acknowledged Mr Baffour Awuah’s status as a Member of Parliament, stating that it recognises and respects the constitutional privileges and immunities enjoyed by MPs.

EOCO, however, maintains that parliamentary membership does not automatically terminate an investigation or place an individual beyond the reach of the law.

It has stressed that while it will continue to pursue its mandate, it will not act in a manner inconsistent with parliamentary privilege or other constitutional protections.

The conflicting accounts have placed the circumstances surrounding the February correspondence and the attempted arrest at the centre of the dispute, as EOCO maintains that its investigation remains ongoing.

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The handover took place on the sidelines of the 2026 Second Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament underway in Accra. 

Mr Afenyo-Markin, the Third Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, would, however, continue to serve as a member of Ghana’s delegation to the regional body until 2028. 

In his remarks, Mr Afenyo-Markin assured the new head of delegation of his full support and cooperation to ensure continuity and effective representation of Ghana’s interests. 

He called for a stronger, people-centred approach to West African integration, insisting that the benefits of regional cooperation must be felt directly by citizens. 

He said the true value of integration should be measured by the opportunities available to young people, the ease with which citizens and businesses can move across borders, and the collective ability of member states to confront challenges that no individual country can tackle alone. 

“Regional integration must be understood beyond treaties, protocols, and meetings of institutions,” he stressed, adding that its value must be felt in communities across the region. 

The week-long programme, being held from Monday, September 21 to Sunday, September 27, also serves as the Second Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament of 2026, bringing together ECOWAS parliamentarians, government officials, diplomats, international organisations and civil society.  

The seminar is on the theme: “Climate Change as a Factor of Environmental Degradation, Population Displacement and Growing Insecurity in the ECOWAS Region.” 

On climate and security, Mr Afenyo-Markin cautioned against reducing every conflict in the region to climate change, but noted that environmental pressures could intensify existing vulnerabilities such as poverty, competition over land and water, and weakened livelihoods. 

He emphasised the need to take the work of the ECOWAS Parliament closer to the people, recalling decentralised engagements previously held in Liberia in 2019 and Winneba in Effutu in 2021. 

He reaffirmed his commitment to the objectives of the ECOWAS Parliament and the broader vision of a more integrated, peaceful, and prosperous West Africa. 

The ECOWAS Parliament, also known as the Community Parliament, is the legislative arm of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).  

It serves as a forum for dialogue, consultation, and consensus for the people of West Africa to promote regional integration. 

The incident occurred at the elderly woman’s home at Old Town, a suburb of Bibiani, where four rooms were reportedly engulfed in flames.

Assemblyman for Old Town, Mubarak Zakaria, said he rushed to the scene after being alerted to the fire and immediately contacted the Bibiani Municipal Fire Service.

Firefighters responded swiftly and managed to bring the blaze under control, preventing it from causing further damage to the property.

However, several personal belongings, including clothes, shoes, bags, materials meant for sale and other valuables, were destroyed in the fire.

The assemblyman commended the fire personnel for their prompt intervention, saying their swift response helped to contain the situation.

Acting Municipal Fire Commander, ADO I David Azuma, confirmed that the Service received a distress call and immediately dispatched personnel to the affected house.

He said the firefighters successfully contained the fire without allowing it to cause extensive damage to the building.

Mr Azuma urged the public to immediately contact the nearest fire station whenever they detect a fire to enable firefighters to respond quickly.

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He said his decision to contest the position is the result of careful planning and years of experience within the party, particularly his work as a regional organiser.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr Bodja said he does not consider the transition from regional organiser to national organiser a major leap, insisting that his experience has prepared him adequately for the task.

“It is something I have carefully planned and where I want to be at a certain stage in my life. I don’t see moving from regional organiser to national organiser as a big jump. I am fully prepared for the task,” he said.

Mr Bodja said he is among the most experienced candidates in the race and has built significant visibility and recognition within the NPP.

He pledged to address what he described as leadership and structural challenges confronting the party if elected.

“I will fix the leadership and structural issues we have in the party,” he said.

According to him, the NPP needs a National Organiser who can effectively mobilise supporters, develop strategies, build networks and use modern technology to strengthen the party’s grassroots structures.

“We need an effective organiser that can mobilise, strategise, be creative and build relationships with networks across the country,” he said.

He added that understanding and using online tools should form part of modern political organising, particularly in mobilising and engaging supporters.

Mr Bodja cited his experience as Regional Organiser in the Volta Region, where he said he implemented strategies that contributed to electoral victories for the party.

He expressed confidence that the experience gained at the regional level would enable him to deliver more if given the mandate to serve as National Organiser.

“As a regional organiser in the Volta Region, I have been able to implement things that have led the party to victory, and I am sure given the opportunity as national organiser, there is a lot more that I could do to bring the NPP back to power,” he said.

Mr Bodja described himself as a young leader with vision, creativity and flexibility, saying these qualities would help him introduce new ideas into the party’s organisational structures.

“I am that young man filled with vision, creativity and flexibility. I am that organiser that will make the party an envy to others,” he said.

He appealed to NPP delegates to support his candidature and pledged to serve them diligently if elected.

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Signed by the Acting Executive Director, Raymond Archer, the letter was addressed to Baffour Awuah as Senior Partner of his law firm, Sarkodie Baffour Awuah and Partners, inviting him to appear before the Office under Section 19 of Act 804.

It followed an earlier invitation dated February 10, asking him to assist with an investigation. Mr Baffour Awuah replied on February 18, saying he had passed EOCO’s confidential invitation to the Clerk of Parliament for advice.

EOCO did not accept that, insisting that the February 10 letter was addressed to him as an officer of a law firm, and not a member of parliament.

“Therefore, the Office disagrees with forwarding an official letter specifically addressed to a designated officer of a law firm to Parliament,” the letter stated.

It added that it would not recognise any correspondence from the Clerk on the matter.

“Please take note that any correspondence from the Clerk of Parliament on this matter will not be recognized since the Office is not aware of any established protocol or law which prevents the said person from honouring a lawful invitation,” the letter said.

The letter closed with a warning “that failure to honour this invitation may leave us with no choice than to compel him to appear before the Office.”

EOCO has since said its officers tried to arrest the MP on Wednesday, September 23, but stopped after the situation escalated and they judged that going further could endanger the public.

It said he then went to Parliament to seek sanctuary, although the House is on recess.

Mr Baffour Awuah has said the woman who approached him at the court did not provide an identification or arrest warrant, and that he drove away because he feared for his safety.

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In a statement posted on his social media on Wednesday, September 23, Mr Dafeamekpor said law enforcement agencies must follow the constitutional procedures applicable to Members of Parliament when seeking to arrest or serve processes on them.

He referred to Article 117 of the 1992 Constitution, which provides protections regarding the service of civil or criminal processes on the Speaker, Members of Parliament and the Clerk to Parliament while they are on their way to, attending or returning from parliamentary proceedings.

Mr Dafeamekpor argued that the established procedure requires matters involving the arrest of a sitting MP to be channelled through the Speaker of Parliament.

He described the reported attempt to arrest Mr Baffour Awuah within the precincts of the court as “absolutely unacceptable” and cautioned EOCO and other law enforcement agencies against actions that could undermine the authority and dignity of Parliament.

He said Parliament and state institutions, including EOCO, must maintain the cordial relationship that exists between the various arms and institutions of the state while ensuring that the law is followed.

“Where a law provides a procedure for a right to be exercised, it’s only that procedure that must be followed,” Mr Dafeamekpor stated, citing the case of Boyefio v NTHC.

He further warned that parliamentary leaders would resist any attempt to breach what he described as established protocols governing the treatment of MPs.

His comments followed a confrontation at the Accra High Court on Wednesday involving Mr Baffour Awuah and a woman who identified herself as an EOCO official.

The Manhyia South MP, who is also representing social commentator Salomey Baffoe in court, said the woman asked him to accompany her to the EOCO office but failed to provide identification or an arrest warrant when requested. He subsequently drove away from the court premises.

EOCO, however, has said the attempted arrest was part of lawful steps taken in connection with an ongoing investigation. The Office said Mr Baffour Awuah had been invited twice in February 2026 to assist with the investigation but did not honour the invitations.

Mr Dafeamekpor also expressed concern about the timing of the incident, noting that Parliament was hosting an ECOWAS Parliament conference in Accra.

He said what he described as procedural improprieties could affect Ghana’s image both locally and internationally.

“If the Hon. Baffour-Awuah is alleged to have committed any offence, for which EOCO requires his presence, by all means, let the law speak but let the law follow lawful procedure in Article 117 in doing so,” he stated.

See the post below:

HON. BAFFOUR & THE ATTEMPTED ARREST BY EOCO WITHIN THE PRECINCTS OF COURT
——————————————

1. Article 117 provides a terse procedure as to how The Speaker, MPs and the Clerk to Parliament shall be served with any Civil or Criminal processes.

2. This Constitutional protection…

— Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Esq. MP. (@etsedafeamekpor) September 23, 2026

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EOCO explains attempted arrest of Manhyia South MP Baffour Awuah

He said inadequate accommodation remains a major challenge for schools in Ayirekremu and nearby communities, making it difficult to attract and retain qualified teachers, particularly those posted from outside the area who often struggle to find safe and affordable housing.

According to him, the situation affects staff stability, continuity in teaching, and learning outcomes for pupils.

“Teachers need a conducive environment to live and work. Without housing support, postings become short-term and the children suffer,” he stated.

Ndakeba made the remarks during a visit where the Krachi East Municipal Assembly, together with the Member of Parliament, renovated a dilapidated teachers’ bungalow in the community.

He commended the Mahama Government for what he termed renewed attention to community challenges, and praised the MP and Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for responding to community concerns through practical interventions.

He urged stakeholders to prioritise teachers’ accommodation, stressing that improving teacher welfare is key to raising academic performance and expanding opportunities for the youth.

He also appealed to relevant agencies and development partners to work with the MP and MCE to sustain targeted support in underserved communities.

The MCE for Krachi East, Sarfo Nketia, assured residents that the Assembly would continue to prioritise education through infrastructure improvements to make teaching and learning more attractive.

He noted that from 2025 to date, the Assembly has undertaken projects including classroom renovations, construction of teachers’ bungalows, a six-unit classroom block, and the provision of furniture to enhance learning.

The MCE urged residents to continue to support the NDC government and the Assembly’s development agenda.

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Jerry John Yenabi Foundation saves 99 lives with free anti-snake venom in Krachi Nchumuru District

Afenyo-Markin asks Chief Justice to review arrests of suspects on court premises

Krachi Nchumuru is predominantly a farming district where residents, especially farmers working on farmlands and along bush paths, face frequent encounters with snakes.

For many communities, the challenge has not only been the bites themselves, but the shortage or complete absence of anti-snake venom at the time victims urgently need it.

Health workers and residents have long pointed to delays in accessing treatment as a key reason preventable deaths continue to occur.

In response, the Jerry John Yenabi Foundation has supplied anti-snake venom to health facilities across the district and ensured stocks are available to be administered free of charge.

The Foundation says the goal is simple: reduce deaths from snakebites by making the life-saving treatment readily accessible at the nearest point of care.

Speaking to Adom News, Jerry John Yenabi, CEO of the Foundation, said the initiative was driven by the urgent need to protect lives in farming communities where snakebites are a recurring threat.

He noted that many farmers and community members have died in the past because anti-snake venom was unavailable or could not be secured in time.

He stressed that no one should lose their life to snakebites when effective treatment exists.

He further urged residents to seek medical care immediately after any suspected snakebite, emphasizing that the Foundation has supplied health facilities with sufficient stock to respond quickly.

According to him, early reporting and prompt treatment remain critical to improving outcomes and preventing complications.

A nurse at St. Luke Catholic Hospital at Chinderi Kumado John Jnr, also reinforced the call for urgency, advising community members not to delay or rely on unverified home remedies when a bite is suspected.

He explained that timely reporting to a nearby health facility significantly increases the chances of recovery, particularly now that anti-snake venom is available within the district.

The Foundation’s intervention is being welcomed as a practical response to a persistent health risk in rural farming areas, with local health workers hopeful that sustained supply and continued public education will further reduce fatalities and protect livelihoods across Krachi Nchumuru.

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His call follows an alleged attempt by officers believed to be from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to arrest Manhyia South MP, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, after he appeared at the Accra High Court on Wednesday, September 23.

Speaking at a press conference in Parliament, Mr Afenyo-Markin said the reported incident raises questions about the procedures governing the activities of investigative agencies within court premises.

He said the MP, who is a lawyer, had gone to court to represent a client and was allegedly approached by EOCO officers shortly after leaving the courtroom.

“Honourable Baffour is a lawyer by profession. Upon his account, he went to defend his client in court, then just after exiting the courtroom on the court premises, EOCO appeared there, laid an ambush and made an attempt to arrest him,” he said.

The Minority Leader called on the Chief Justice to clarify whether investigative agencies are permitted to enter court premises specifically to arrest suspects or accused persons.

“I think the justice delivery system, our Chief Justice, must look at this, whether or not EOCO or any investigating agency is allowed to enter court premises with the sole aim of accosting a suspect or an accused person. That must be looked at in context,” he said.

Mr Afenyo-Markin also questioned the procedure allegedly followed by the agencies in seeking the presence of a Member of Parliament for investigations.

He said established practice requires agencies such as EOCO, the Office of the Special Prosecutor and the Ghana Police Service to formally communicate with the Speaker of Parliament when they need an MP to appear before them.

According to him, such requests are then referred to Parliament’s leadership, which works with the legal directorate to facilitate the MP’s appearance before the relevant agency.

“There is nothing like preferential treatment, but because of the nature of the MP’s work, that procedure has been set in place, and that is what all state security agencies observe,” he said.

The Minority Leader said the alleged attempt to arrest the Manhyia South MP appeared to raise questions about whether that established process was followed.

“So the question is: what has changed?” he asked.

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The new fares, agreed with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), will take effect from Saturday, September 26, 2026.

The adjustment follows consultations between the Ministry and commercial road transport operators held from September 8 to 22.

According to the communiqué, the decision was reached after taking into consideration changes in ex-pump prices of petroleum products, spare parts, vehicle maintenance and other operational costs.

The parties also said they considered the financial difficulties facing drivers, commuters and the travelling public before settling on the adjustment.

According to the parties, the review considered the rising cost of operating commercial vehicles while also taking into account the financial pressures facing drivers, commuters and other road users.

The Ministry and transport operators also factored in the price of diesel, with the unions acknowledging government’s intervention on diesel prices as a measure that helped moderate the extent of the increase.

The eight percent increase will be calculated from the approved transport fares that took effect on May 24, 2025.

The revised fares cover shared taxis, intra-city trotros, intercity services and haulage operations.

The approved fare schedule will serve as the reference for transport operators and commuters, with operators required to display it at loading terminals and stations.

Commercial transport operators have been directed to charge only the approved fares, with the unions warning that those who charge above the authorised rates will face sanctions.

The review follows several days of negotiations between government and transport operators over the cost of commercial transportation, with the latest agreement settling on an eight percent adjustment.

The closure was carried out on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, as part of an enforcement exercise targeting unlicensed traditional medicine facilities.

TMPC Regulatory Officer, Divine Ajiraku, said the facility had been operating for three years without renewing its licence, in breach of the requirements of the Traditional Medicine Practice Act, 2000 (Act 575).

According to him, the Council had visited the facility weeks earlier and given its management sufficient time to regularise its documentation, but no action was taken.

Mr Ajiraku said the failure to comply left the Council with no option but to shut down the facility.

He added that the Council will issue a letter directing the management to report to its office and complete the required processes before the facility can be reopened.

No arrests were made during the exercise.

Meanwhile, the owner of the Asempa facility, which was previously closed by the Council, has been invited by the police for questioning.

The invitation follows allegations that the owner vandalised the padlocks used by the Council to secure the facility and subsequently reopened it for business.

The latest enforcement exercise forms part of the TMPC’s ongoing efforts to curb the operations of traditional medicine practitioners who do not have the required licences.

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The directive is contained in a letter from the Office of the President dated September 22, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama.

The engagement is expected to address the growing incidence of hate speech, abusive language, threats and other harmful content on social media and emerging digital platforms, while protecting freedom of expression.

According to the letter, Ghana’s media environment has changed significantly, with public discourse increasingly shaped not only by traditional media organisations but also by bloggers, content creators, influencers and users of platforms such as TikTok.

Many of these actors, the President noted, command substantial audiences but are not necessarily subject to recognised editorial standards or clear accountability mechanisms.

President Mahama described the development as a “difficult but important public-policy challenge.”

He stressed that while hate speech, threats, incitement and other unlawful conduct must be addressed, legitimate criticism, political commentary, satire and dissent must not be criminalised.

The President also expressed concern about what he described as “disproportionate arrests over mere criticism or politically charged commentary.”

According to him, such actions may be counterproductive, create “undeserving martyrs” and undermine public confidence in state institutions.

He said there is “an urgent need for a coherent national roadmap that protects freedom of expression while providing an appropriate and proportionate response to genuinely harmful digital content.”

Stakeholders

The MFWA and GJA have consequently been tasked to lead a broad, stakeholder-inclusive process involving the National Media Commission, Ghana Police Service, religious bodies, civil society organisations and traditional media organisations.

Social media content creators, bloggers and influencers, legal and human-rights experts, representatives of digital platforms, where possible, as well as relevant state regulatory and security institutions are also expected to participate.

The engagement will examine the adequacy of Ghana’s existing legal, regulatory and institutional framework.

It will also seek to clarify the distinction between lawful criticism and unlawful speech, propose practical guidelines for law-enforcement agencies and recommend appropriate policy, legislative, regulatory and non-legislative measures.

Alternatives to prosecution

The process is further expected to consider public education, media and digital literacy, as well as professional and ethical standards for online content creators.

Accessible complaints and redress mechanisms will also be explored.

The President has further called for consideration of alternatives to arrest and prosecution in cases that do not involve threats, incitement, violence or other clearly criminal conduct.

The MFWA and GJA have been asked to submit a proposed framework and timetable for the stakeholder engagement, together with recommendations arising from the process, for the President’s consideration.

The anti-corruption organisation is also seeking an investigation into private interests allegedly registered or asserted over the lands on which the two facilities are located.

The petition follows an investigative documentary by Corruption Watch titled “Publicly Funded, Privately Controlled! The Multi-Million-Cedi Astroturf Exposé”, which examined the financing, construction, ownership and management of the two facilities.

According to the organisation, more than GH¢17 million in public funds was used in the construction of the two facilities.

At Hohoe, Corruption Watch said its investigation found that the Hohoe Municipal Assembly contracted Wembley Sports Construction Company Limited to construct the facility with substantial funding from state institutions.

It, however, said the facility was not formally handed over to the Assembly and had instead been under the control and/or management of persons associated with former Hohoe MP and Minister, John Peter Amewu.

The organisation further alleged that the land on which the Hohoe facility is located had been registered in the name of Thomas Amewu, the brother of Mr Amewu.

Corruption Watch said the Hohoe Municipal Assembly had publicly stated that it considers the facility to be state property and intends to demand its handover.

At Agogo, the organisation said the Sports and Cultural Complex was fully funded by Ghana National Gas Company Limited and constructed by Wembley Sports Construction Company Limited.

It said Owusu Bempah, then a senior Ghana Gas official, had asserted ownership and/or control over the facility and claimed an interest in the underlying land.

The facility, which was commissioned in 2022, was reportedly privately managed while its ownership was being contested until 2024, when the Asante Akim North Municipal Assembly took custody following a directive from Ghana Gas.

Corruption Watch said Mr Bempah continues to assert ownership of the land on which the facility is situated.

The organisation is therefore asking the Attorney-General to review contracts, payment and completion records, Assembly reports, correspondence, land records and other documents relating to the financing, construction, ownership and management of both facilities.

It also wants the Attorney-General to determine the lawful ownership and custody of the facilities and establish the legal basis for any control or management outside the respective Municipal Assemblies.

Corruption Watch is further calling for investigations into the chain of title and circumstances surrounding the registration, acquisition or assertion of private interests in the lands, including the interests associated with Thomas Amewu in Hohoe and Owusu Bempah in Agogo.

The organisation wants authorities to establish what land-title due diligence was conducted before public funds were committed to the projects and what safeguards were put in place to protect the public investment.

It is also asking the Attorney-General to determine whether revenues were generated from either facility while they were outside the control of the respective Assemblies, who collected such revenues and whether any amounts should be accounted for and recovered for the benefit of the Assemblies or the State.

Corruption Watch said where evidence points to procurement or financial irregularities, corruption, conflict of interest, abuse of office or other suspected wrongdoing, the relevant matters should be referred to the appropriate investigative, regulatory or prosecutorial institutions.

It has also called for investigations into the use of Corporate Social Responsibility funds of state-owned enterprises to finance public infrastructure for personal benefit, including political campaign purposes.

Corruption Watch stressed that publicly funded infrastructure should not, without lawful authority and transparent arrangements, migrate into private ownership or control.

It is therefore asking the Attorney-General to establish the complete legal position regarding the two facilities and their underlying lands and take appropriate action to protect the public interest.

Read the statement below:

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The Office of the Attorney-General said significant progress has been made in the negotiations, with the government seeking to acquire the facility at a price “much lower” than the amounts involved in the arbitration proceedings.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 23, the Attorney-General’s Office said the negotiations with Befesa began before the final award was issued by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) tribunal.

“Despite the commencement of arbitral proceedings and before the final award, the Government of Ghana had entered into negotiations with Befesa to purchase the Teshie Desalination Plant at a price much lower than the amounts sought from the arbitration,” the statement said.

According to the government, acquiring the facility would give the state full ownership while helping to avoid further costs and restore a key source of water supply to about one million residents in eastern Accra.

“The award notwithstanding, significant progress has been made in the negotiations for the purchase of the plant to avoid the payment of the said $235 million,” the Attorney-General’s statement added.

The government says it expects to conclude the negotiations “within the shortest possible time” to facilitate the plant’s return to full operation.

The development follows a final ruling by an ICC tribunal ordering Ghana Water to pay US$235 million, net of taxes, to Befesa Desalination Developments Ghana Ltd in termination payments arising from the Water Purchase Agreement.

The tribunal found that Befesa had validly terminated the agreement but rejected a separate claim for about US$402 million in alleged unpaid water charges, ruling that the two claims could not be recovered cumulatively.

A related arbitration under Ghana’s state guarantee also principally held the Republic liable for obligations owed by Ghana Water.

The Teshie plant, which has a production capacity of 60,000 cubic metres of water daily, has remained out of operation since October 2025 amid contractual and maintenance disputes.

Its shutdown has affected water supply to parts of Teshie, Nungua, Spintex and Sakumono.

While the government has not disclosed the proposed purchase price or detailed terms of the ongoing negotiations, it says the acquisition is being pursued as a way to resolve the financial dispute and restore the plant to full operation.

Also read:

• Ghana Water ordered to pay $235m over Teshie desalination plant dispute

• How a $125m plant meant to fix Teshie-Nungua’s water crisis became a $235m judgment…

According to EOCO, its officers attempted to arrest the MP on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, as part of an ongoing investigation.

In a statement, the Office said its officers were acting in the lawful discharge of their statutory responsibilities.

EOCO said it had previously invited Mr Baffour Awuah on two occasions in February 2026 to assist with the investigation, but the invitations were not honoured.

“The Office has since taken steps to secure his attendance in accordance with the law and the attempted arrest today represents one of the lawful steps,” EOCO stated.

Arrest attempt unsuccessful

The Office explained that the situation escalated during the attempted arrest, forcing its officers to abandon the operation.

“During today’s attempted arrest, the situation escalated and the arrest was not successfully completed as officers assessed that a counter action would have endangered public safety,” EOCO said.

The Office also said it had identified two individuals who, based on the circumstances captured in video footage, allegedly intervened to facilitate the MP’s escape.

According to EOCO, the conduct of the two individuals is being assessed, after which the Office will take any lawful steps deemed appropriate.

Parliament sanctuary

EOCO further confirmed that Mr Baffour Awuah subsequently proceeded to the precincts of Parliament to seek sanctuary, although Parliament is currently on recess.

The Office said it recognises and respects the constitutional privileges and immunities enjoyed by Members of Parliament.

It assured that its operations would be conducted strictly within the Constitution and applicable laws.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Membership of Parliament does not, by itself, bring an investigation to an end or place an individual beyond the reach of the law,” EOCO stated.

“At the same time, EOCO will not take any step that is inconsistent with parliamentary privilege or any other protection provided by the Constitution.”

Investigation ongoing

EOCO said the investigation remains active and that it will carefully review the circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s incident, including available video evidence, to determine its next steps.

The Office reaffirmed its commitment to discharging its statutory responsibilities while respecting the Constitution, the rule of law and the institutional privileges of Parliament.

The domestic fire, which occurred on Sunday, September 20, at a residence near Susanna Lodge, claimed the life of the child after she was reportedly unable to escape the blaze.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) later confirmed that the girl’s elder brother had also died at the Bank Hospital, where he was receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the fire.

The tragedy has left the family mourning, with other members who were in the building at the time of the incident receiving medical care.

In a statement, the MoGCSP said it shared in the grief of the bereaved family and all others affected by the incident.

The Ministry also used the tragedy to urge parents, guardians and caregivers to take practical steps to protect children from potential hazards in the home.

It advised households to keep matches, lighters and other sources of fire out of children’s reach, ensure electrical appliances and installations are safe, and avoid leaving young children unattended.

The Ministry further encouraged families to have emergency evacuation plans and, where appropriate, teach children how to respond during emergencies.

The MoGCSP said it had taken note of the ongoing investigation by the GNFS into the circumstances surrounding the fire and called for the process to be concluded to establish the cause.

According to the Ministry, determining what caused the fire would help provide clarity on the tragedy and guide measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

It stressed that protecting children from harm was a shared responsibility involving families, caregivers, communities and relevant institutions.

The Ministry expressed its deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and wished them strength and comfort as they come to terms with the loss.

The initiative, dubbed “Operation Restore Fleet,” follows concerns raised about the state of some ambulances and is aimed at reducing vehicle downtime and clearing unserviceable vehicles from the Service’s central workshop.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, September 22, the NAS said engineers and technicians were working around the clock to repair ambulances that had developed major faults after six years of continuous operation across the country.

The Service said ambulances that are beyond economic repair would be permanently cleared and evacuated from the workshop to decongest the facility and create space for faster repairs.

Chief Executive Officer of the NAS, Dr (Med) George Kojo Owusu, said the operation was intended to drastically reduce vehicle downtime and ensure that every serviceable ambulance was returned to the road.

He said the 307 ambulances procured in 2020 under the one-ambulance-per-constituency initiative had been operating continuously on difficult terrains for more than six years, resulting in the need for major repairs, specialised Mercedes-Benz parts and assessments following accidents.

Dr Owusu said Management was also engaging two additional qualified auto mechanics to support the existing workshop staff, who he said were currently few relative to the volume of work.

He added that the NAS had engaged the Ministry of Health with a comprehensive plan for sustainable spare parts procurement and the establishment of regional maintenance capacity to prevent the future accumulation of grounded ambulances.

Dr Owusu assured the public that despite the challenges, all 16 regions remained operational at varying levels and continued to respond to emergency cases through the 112 emergency line.

“Our commitment remains unchanged: timely care saves lives. We are not at rest; we are at work to ensure that when Ghanaians call 112, help will come,” he said.

The NAS expects Operation Restore Fleet to be completed within the coming weeks and said regular updates would be provided to the public.

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According to the MP, the woman could not provide identification or an arrest warrant to establish her authority, prompting him to fear for his safety.

“I told her, ‘Go, I will follow you,’ but she said she would forcibly take me into their vehicle. At that point, she could not produce any evidence that she was indeed from EOCO,” he said.

He said he also asked whether she had an arrest warrant but she was unable to produce one.

“It became obvious to me that it was one of the recent kidnappings that have been happening. It is true. I had to defend and protect myself for the benefit of the good people of Manhyia South, my children, and my whole family,” he added.

Mr Baffour Awuah said he subsequently drove to Parliament, where he sought safety and joined his colleagues while also attending to scheduled committee work.

“I needed to put myself at a place where I would be safe so that I could also protect and defend the interest of my client for the benefit of her children, particularly the four-year-old who is waiting for the release of her mother. And that is why I had to drive to safety,” he explained.

“I’ve come to Parliament, my colleagues are behind me, and I thank them very much.”

The MP further alleged that the woman attempted to take him away while he was travelling to Parliament.

“So from there, I had to drive to Parliament because I was also required to do committee work in Parliament. And so, she attempted to kidnap me whilst I was on my way to Parliament,” Mr Baffour Awuah narrated at a press briefing in Parliament shortly after the incident.

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The victim, Opoku Afriyie, a resident of Kenyasi No. 2 in the Asutifi North District of the Ahafo Region, is a sound system operator and commercial motorcycle (Okada) rider.

He is receiving treatment at the Asutifi North District Hospital for injuries he allegedly sustained during an incident involving personnel and inmates of the Kenyasi Settlement Camp Prison over an alleged yam theft.

According to the victim’s family, the incident occurred about a week ago, but no arrests have been made. The family is consequently calling for the circumstances surrounding the incident to be thoroughly investigated.

Afriyie’s mother questioned what she described as an apparent disparity in the handling of the case.

“If it were my son who had attacked officers and inmates of the prison, he would have been arrested and prosecuted long ago. So why has no arrest been made?

“My last-born child owns three farms, has a wife and a newborn baby, and now he might be permanently deformed because of this attack.”

Kwaku Oppong, the victim’s uncle, said security personnel had a constitutional obligation to respect the rights and dignity of persons suspected of wrongdoing.

“The Constitution of Ghana promotes equality before the law and absolute protection of human rights and dignity. These prison officers are security personnel who should have known better and acted accordingly.

“No one is guilty until proven so with evidence; he was only a suspect and should never have been subjected to such violence,” he said.

The family’s account of the incident has not been independently established, and the circumstances leading to Afriyie’s injuries remain subject to police investigation.

Nana Anokye Pimsan Barima, the victim’s elder brother, expressed disappointment over the incident and said the family was considering further action if it was not satisfied with the outcome of the investigation.

“We are deeply disappointed in these prison officials. My brother pleaded with them that he was not a thief, but they refused to listen and hacked him over yams,” he alleged.

He added: “If justice is not served properly, our family and community members will organise demonstrations to demand justice for Opoku Afriyie.”

Afriyie remains in hospital, where the family says he is experiencing severe abdominal, head, eye and waist pain. They also claim that some of his fingers and hands have been deformed as a result of the injuries.

The family is seeking justice and financial assistance towards his medical expenses.

The Ghana Police Service is yet to issue a public statement on the incident or announce any arrests. However, the Asutifi District Police Command, led by Superintendent Harold Yamoah Ponkor, says investigations are ongoing.

The police investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the identities and roles of persons who may have been involved and whether any criminal offences were committed.

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His comments follow a tense confrontation at the Accra High Court on Wednesday, September 23, involving lawyers for detained Techiman-based nurse Salomey Baffoe Awiti and security personnel believed to be EOCO officers.

In a video circulating online, a woman believed to be a security officer is seen standing at the entrance of a car as Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah attempts to get in.

The two exchange words before a scuffle breaks out. A heavily built man believed to be part of the lawyer’s team then opens the car door, pushes the woman aside and allows the MP to drive off.

Another vehicle, believed to belong to the security personnel, is subsequently seen following the MP’s car.

The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain unclear, including whether the security personnel were EOCO operatives and whether they were attempting to arrest the MP.

But reacting to the incident, Martin Kpebu said the manner in which the alleged arrest was being pursued represented a setback to democratic practice.

“From what I’m seeing, it’s a retrogression in our quest for a better democracy. It’s a retrogression,” he said.

Mr Kpebu argued that where an MP is required by law enforcement authorities, the appropriate parliamentary procedure should be followed rather than having security officers attempt to arrest the legislator directly.

“As far as I’m aware, by the Parliament Act 300 and then the constitutional architecture, when you need a parliamentarian, whether he’s on suspicion of having committed an offence, my understanding so far is that you would write to the Speaker of Parliament,” he explained.

He said the Speaker would then engage the MP and make arrangements for the legislator to present himself at a suitable time.

Mr Kpebu recalled that during Prof Mike Oquaye’s tenure as Speaker, arrangements were sometimes made for police officers to meet MPs within Parliament rather than removing them from the premises.

He said such procedures were important to prevent a situation where a government could use the police or other security agencies to target outspoken opposition MPs.

According to him, political parties in government must therefore be mindful of how state institutions are used against members of the opposition because power can change hands.

“Look, listen, this is our democracy. No party can stay in office forever, so the tables should always turn,” he said.

The comments come as lawyers for Salomey Baffoe Awiti continue efforts to secure her release after she was remanded for two weeks in connection with the case involving the Ghana Jollof TikTok account.

The High Court has adjourned the bail application hearing to Thursday, September 24, following a request by the prosecution for additional time to respond to the defence’s application.

According to him, the project will be restructured and completed under the government’s Big Push initiative.

Speaking during a tour of Big Push projects in the Greater Accra Region, Mr Agbodza said the existing arrangement for the road had to be completely overhauled before work could proceed effectively.

“So the original scope, and perhaps the contract, will have to be completely overhauled. Whatever, I’m not sure if the contractor has got a valid contract. He said, let me hear. Do you have a valid contract? You don’t,” he said.

Mr Agbodza explained that although the contractor was already working on the road when President John Mahama assumed office, there was no approved contract or scope of work guiding the project.

He said this had created the impression among residents and businesses in the area that the contractor was simply not working or was not being paid.

The Minister said President Mahama has directed that the road from the TOR roundabout through the relevant section be completed as a concrete dual carriageway, while the stretch from Medina to the Kpone Barrier will also be completed.

“We are here today to first of all, through Urban Roads’ directive to you, resume full operations on the project, and we’ll cover the full cost of what we are going to do,” he said.

Mr Agbodza said the project has now been brought under the Big Push programme, with the government committed to ensuring its completion.

The Tema-Kpone road has been a major concern for commuters and heavy-duty vehicle operators, with its poor condition causing significant inconvenience.

Tanker drivers recently staged a sit-down strike to demand urgent government intervention over the state of the road.

Mr Agbodza also questioned the level of support from corporate institutions operating within the Tema industrial enclave towards improving road infrastructure in the area.

He noted that major companies such as VALCO and the Tema Oil Refinery operate around the area and benefit from the road network.

“Ghanaians and corporate citizens are happy to pay to extend electricity to their houses. They are happy to pay and extend water to their houses, but no one wants to pay extra money to extend road to wherever they are working,” he said.

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The District Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Harold Opoku Yamoah Ponkor, said the disregard for road safety regulations among some riders was contributing to road crashes, some of which result in deaths and permanent disabilities.

Speaking to Adom News at Kenyasi during a free DVLA registration exercise organised by the Asutifi North Member of Parliament, Chief Superintendent Ponkor urged riders to exercise greater caution and comply with traffic regulations.

He said some commercial motorbike and pragia operators continued to ignore road safety rules despite repeated warnings from the authorities.

According to him, riders must recognise that roads are shared by all road users and therefore have a responsibility to operate their vehicles in a manner that does not endanger others.

“The roads are not meant for them alone,” he stressed, urging riders to respect traffic laws and prioritise the safety of passengers, pedestrians and other motorists.

The Police Commander further warned that the police would no longer entertain excuses when riders are arrested for reckless riding.

He said offenders would be prosecuted, regardless of appeals from the riders or other stakeholders.

Chief Superintendent Ponkor therefore advised Okada and pragia operators in the district to change their attitude towards road safety to help reduce accidents and save lives.

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