It was after that the General Manager of the Adom Brands of the Multimedia Group Limited, Abdulai Awudu reminded us to celebrate him.

Adom FM’s Programs Manager, Joshua Tigo, went on to provide further details about his life, and I became compelled to learn more about Joris Nana Benyin Wartenberg.

My search revealed that he was a man wrapped in mystery as a thinker, a writer, and a cultural force; a figure whose life straddles power, controversy, identity, and history itself.

Now, this is the story of Joris Nana Benyin Wartenberg, an enigmatic Ghanaian whose journey stretches from Sekondi to the global corridors of influence, and from colonial legacies to an ancient biblical identity.

A BEGINNING ROOTED IN HISTORY
Born in Sekondi in Ghana’s Western Region, Wartenberg’s early life was shaped by deep historical roots.

His family traced its origins to Elmina once a hub of European trade and cultural exchange before relocating to Sekondi in pursuit of commercial opportunities.
He began his education at Sekondi Methodist Primary School and, in 1964, earned admission into the prestigious Achimota School after passing the Common Entrance Examination.

His contemporaries are the venerable Ekow Ansah the Playwriter, Poet who set up TV Africa in Ghana and great musicians like Gyedu Blay Ambolley.

But his journey was far from straightforward.
Despite a suspension during his final years, Wartenberg returned with remarkable determination eventually emerging as the top A-Level student in West Africa.

The late Jerry John Rawlings was his senior at the Achimota school.

THE MAKING OF A CULTURAL FORCE
At the University of Ghana, Legon, where he studied Law and one of his mate is the revered now Professor Kwamena Ahwoi, another passion was quietly taking shape writing.

What began as an interest soon evolved into a defining legacy.

Wartenberg started crafting English-language drama, eventually authoring works that would gain academic recognition across Africa.

His intellectual curiosity extended beyond literature into physics, mathematics, and theology fields he boldly sought to connect.

He argued that creation itself could be explained through nuclear and atomic principles, positioning himself as a thinker far ahead of his time.

POWER, POLITICS, AND PERIL
Wartenberg’s brilliance brought him unusually close to power at a remarkably young age.

At just 21, he reportedly served as an advisor to then Head of State. General Ignatius Kutu Acheampong but proximity to power came at a cost.

He resigned from the Acheampong government on the advice of his father, who believed he was rising too quickly in life and that it could cut short his journey.

Nana Benyin Wartenberg then left for London and the United States.

Wartenberg later returned to Ghana and, in 1978, went straight to General Acheampong, the Head of State at the time, and advised him to resign and return the country to constitutional rule.

In a dramatic twist, he was subsequently arrested by the same regime and detained for two weeks over suspicions of involvement in a coup plot.

Though he was released, the experience marked the beginning of a series of controversies that would follow him across borders.

Upon his return to London, Wartenberg was again arrested this time by British authorities over alleged links to a cocaine dealer.

A GLOBAL ODYSSEY
From Ghana to London, and onward to Egypt and the Middle East, Wartenberg’s life unfolded like a global expedition.

He ventured into international business, navigating complex cultural and political landscapes.

Yet beneath these experiences lay a deeper, more personal discovery one that would redefine his identity.

THE REVELATION OF IDENTITY
Somewhere along his journey, Wartenberg uncovered what he describes as a profound truth: his Jewish ancestry.

This revelation reframed his understanding of history, culture, and self. He began to explore connections between West African heritage and ancient biblical lineages particularly the relationship between Judah and Joseph.

For Wartenberg, identity was no longer confined to geography. It became a bridge between continents, histories, and spiritual traditions.

SHAPING GHANAIAN MEDIA
Long before these revelations, Wartenberg had already left an indelible mark on Ghana’s cultural landscape.

While still a student at Legon, he was commissioned by a producer at the
Ghana Broadcasting Corporation
to script a television drama.

The result was Osofo Dadzie a groundbreaking Akan-language series that aired from 1972 to 1981. More than entertainment, the show was a cultural revolution.

It spoke directly to Ghanaian audiences in their own language, reflecting everyday realities with authenticity and depth.

Through this work, Wartenberg helped redefine Ghanaian television storytelling.

THE “JOSEPH PRINCIPLE” AND A BIGGER VISION
Never one to think small, Wartenberg later conceptualized what he called the “Joseph Principle.”

It was a bold ideological framework aimed at reconnecting the African diaspora with the continent linking history, identity, and destiny in a shared narrative with the then Tourism Minister and Diasporan Relations, Jake Obetstebi Lamptey and Kwamena Bartels who served under Kuffuor’s government from 2001 to 2008.

LEGACY OF A MYSTERIOUS LIFE
Former Channel Manager of Adom TV, Paa Kwesi Ackon, who worked with Wartenberg at Ghana Films, reflected on the late Wartenberg:
“He was a versatile figure in the creative arts industry.

We have lost a colossus whose footprints in the industry are indelible.”
Film Consultant, Ernest Abbeyquaye, also shared his thoughts:

“I’m shocked to hear that Wartenberg is gone. I spoke with him regularly, and it is sad that he is no more. He has many unpublished manuscripts, and it would be prudent for the family to preserve them for publication so that his works and legacy can endure.”

Joris Nana Benyin Wartenberg’s story is not easily categorized.
It challenges conventional narratives. It provokes difficult questions about history, power, and belonging.

And it offers a rare glimpse into a life lived at the intersection of cultures, ideas, and identities.
In the end, his journey is more than biography.

It is a mirror reflecting Ghana’s past, its global connections, and the enduring search for identity in a complex world.

Speaking on Ekosii Sen on Asempa FM, he stated that the concept dates back to August 2, 2024, when a free annual healthcare initiative was launched under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

According to him, the current programme largely relies on existing frameworks and guidelines developed by the former New Patriotic Party administration, and therefore proper credit should have been given.

He further noted that international partners, including USAID and other programmes, had been supporting preventive healthcare initiatives with millions of dollars annually.

Mr. Afriyie also stressed that the successful implementation of free primary healthcare depends heavily on adequate infrastructure, particularly hospitals under the Agenda 111 project. He urged the government to sustain investment in health facilities, especially in underserved communities.

“I don’t wish to politicize this issue, but it’s important to note that free primary healthcare cannot be effectively implemented without Agenda 111, which aims to establish new hospitals,” he said.

He added, “There should be an effort to build at least some hospitals each year. While Agenda 111 may have initially seemed overly ambitious, over the past ten years, we have seen the development of new district hospitals in areas that need them. This effort should be prioritised and pursued diligently.”

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The appeal was made during a solidarity message at the launch of the 150th anniversary celebrations of the Supreme Court of Ghana at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana.

Speaking on behalf of the Minority Leader, Jerry Ahmed Shaib underscored the judiciary’s longstanding contribution to Ghana’s democratic development and its central role in upholding the rule of law.

He noted that the Supreme Court has, over the years, delivered landmark decisions that have shaped the country’s constitutional order, strengthened governance structures, and advanced civil liberties.

According to him, these rulings have not only deepened democratic practice but also reinforced public confidence in the justice system.

Addressing judges, legal practitioners, and other stakeholders at the event, he cautioned against any attempts to draw the judiciary into political disputes, especially at a time when democratic institutions globally are facing growing pressure.

“We cannot forget the landmark decisions that shaped our democracy. These decisions strengthened the rule of law and reminded us in Ghana that justice is not for the privileged few but the right of all. The court must remain an impartial arbiter of our collective destiny.”

“As we celebrate the present, let us also safeguard our independence. The judiciary must never be dragged into partisan politics. Its strength lies in neutrality and its ability to interpret laws without fear or favour.”

Speaking on Accra-based UTV, she stated that while she had concerns about the office, her main issue was with how the Special Prosecutor handled public communication.

According to her, the office appeared overly vocal in the media, which she believes undermined its effectiveness.

“Me personally, I have issues with the Office of the Special Prosecutor; he talks too much,” she stated.

She argued that rather than frequently speaking about ongoing work, the Special Prosecutor should allow results and outcomes to speak for themselves.

Awo Kekeli noted that her concerns were more about style than substance, describing them as personal reservations about how the office has been managed in the public space.

Her comments come in the wake of discussions surrounding a High Court ruling affecting the prosecutorial powers of the OSP.

Speaking on Accra-based UTV, she reacted to a High Court decision that reportedly removes the prosecutorial authority of the OSP and reassigns it to the Attorney-General’s Department.

According to her, the OSP has not delivered meaningful benefits to Ghanaians despite the resources allocated to it by the state.

She argued that maintaining the office without tangible outcomes amounts to an unnecessary financial burden on the country.

Jennifer Queen therefore welcomed the court’s decision, stating that the shift in prosecutorial authority is appropriate under the circumstances.

She maintained that state institutions must demonstrate value and effectiveness, especially when they are funded with public resources.

In a post shared on his Facebook page on Thursday, April 16, he cautioned party executives against any form of manipulation during primaries, stressing that such practices undermine the sacrifices made by candidates.

“When you look at the resources and the energy which go into running political primaries, it is unconscionable for party executives to cheat any party in the elections because no one pays anyone compensation after losing resources and losing the elections. Abr) de3 Amanfo) adi bi wo Party yi mu,” he wrote.

He further urged the party’s national leadership to take a firmer stance against malpractice in internal contests, warning that failure to do so could weaken morale at the grassroots level.

“This time, the national executives should not tolerate any form of cheating which will further discourage the base of the party,” he added.

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Speaking on UTV Ghana, she argued that the policy duplicates the role of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which already provides primary healthcare services.

According to her, government resources should instead be directed toward pressing issues affecting citizens, including unpaid salaries of teachers who, she claimed, have gone months without payment.

She also pointed to concerns raised by the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) and importers, noting that funds allocated to the new healthcare policy could be used to address challenges at the ports.

Jennifer Queen maintained that while improving healthcare is important, the current policy does not reflect the most urgent needs of Ghanaians.

“We already have NHIS. Government should prioritise paying workers and addressing pressing issues instead of introducing a policy that duplicates existing services,” she said.

She therefore urged government to reassess its priorities and focus on resolving critical economic and social issues.

He delivered the remarks at the UPSA Law School Honorific Lecture and Awards Ceremony in Accra on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, held under the theme “Celebrating the Lifetime Achievements of Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata.”

Drawing from his own experience during the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Mr Tsikata underscored the importance of safeguarding the independence of the justice system from political interference.

“Political affiliation, settling political or personal scores, or wanting to show where power lies should not be the reason for criminal prosecution. Not even for a criminal investigation,” he said.

He further stressed that fairness, integrity, and professionalism must guide the administration of justice, warning that any abuse of legal processes erodes public trust in the rule of law.

Mr Tsikata’s comments formed part of broader reflections on his long-standing career and experiences within Ghana’s legal and political space.

A former Chief Executive of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), he was at the centre of a widely publicised criminal case that attracted both domestic and international attention.

In 2008, he was found guilty on charges of causing financial loss to the state during the Kufuor administration. The case was linked to a loan guarantee he approved in the 1990s while leading GNPC, involving a private firm that later defaulted.

While the prosecution maintained that his decision resulted in financial loss to the state, his defence argued that the action was taken in the national interest and within the scope of his authority.

He was subsequently handed a five-year custodial sentence by an Accra Fast Track High Court. The ruling generated intense public debate, with some critics describing the trial as politically driven, particularly in light of the change in government. Others, however, viewed it as a step towards ensuring accountability in public office.

Mr Tsikata served part of his sentence at the Nsawam Medium Security Prison before receiving a presidential pardon in 2009 from the late former President John Evans Atta Mills.

In 2010, the Supreme Court of Ghana overturned his conviction, ruling that the trial was flawed and amounted to a miscarriage of justice, thereby clearing him of all charges.

The case continues to stand as one of Ghana’s most referenced legal and political episodes, often cited in discussions surrounding the relationship between law, governance, and political transitions.

The facility was reportedly locked and marked with a red bandana, bringing operations to a halt and disrupting access to services for residents.

Speaking to Adom News’ Dormaa-Ahenkro-based affiliate, Gift FM, the NDC Constituency Vice Chairman, Richard Kwasi Asamoah, confirmed the incident and linked it to disagreements over the nomination of a District Manager for the NHIS.

He explained that constituency executives had been asked to propose a candidate for the role, with the Constituency Organizer, Tweneboah Enock, initially put forward and taken through the necessary processes for consideration.

However, the situation reportedly escalated after it emerged that another individual, Awuah Joshua, had been selected instead.

According to him, the development did not sit well with some party youth, who subsequently locked the office in protest.

Mr. Asamoah further alleged that the Member of Parliament, Racheal Owusuaa, influenced the change in nomination, citing concerns about working relations with the initially proposed candidate. He noted that the matter has since been referred to higher party authorities for intervention.

He also suggested that the situation reflects a broader pattern, referencing earlier disputes over appointments, including that of the District Director of NADMO, which he said had similarly generated tension among local party executives.

While condemning the closure of the NHIS office, Mr. Asamoah called for calm and urged party supporters to pursue dialogue instead of confrontation. He warned that unresolved internal disputes could affect party cohesion and commitment ahead of future elections.

He further appealed to regional executives to act swiftly to address such issues, stressing the need for transparency and engagement in decision-making processes.

Despite confirming that some individuals affiliated with the party were involved, he said it remains unclear who led the action. He urged the youth to remain restrained and work towards unity.

The incident has raised concerns about access to healthcare services in the district as efforts continue to restore normal operations.

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Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews, Mr Jinapor said the NPP’s decision to elect Dr Bawumia as its flagbearer reflects strong confidence in a leader he believes possesses the vision, competence and integrity required to address Ghana’s challenges.

“The NPP elected a very extraordinary man, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, a very solid personality in Ghanaian politics, with a lot of experience, a man of enormous integrity, clarity of thought, and with a clear vision for our country,” he said.

Mr Jinapor also pointed to Dr Bawumia’s policy proposals, particularly his commitment to introducing a flat tax regime at Ghana’s ports, arguing that it would improve predictability for businesses, stimulate private sector growth and reduce the cost of living.

“Dr Mahamudu Bawumia promised and committed to a flat tax rate at the port to ensure that the private sector thrives and that importers are given the opportunity to import with a tax regime which gives them predictability,” he stated, adding that similar models have been implemented successfully in other countries.

Beyond policy proposals, the former Lands and Natural Resources Minister highlighted Dr Bawumia’s role in government, citing the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme as a key initiative that boosted Ghana’s gold reserves at the Bank of Ghana and contributed to currency stability.

“For me, one of the things I am most proud of was the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme,” he noted, while also referencing the Agenda 111 hospital project as part of the former Vice President’s broader governance record.

Mr Jinapor acknowledged, however, that the NPP faces a significant task in rebuilding after what he described as a poor performance in the 2024 general elections.

“We had such a bad year in 2024. There’s absolutely no two ways about that,” he admitted.

He disclosed that the party has begun a comprehensive reorganisation process from the polling station level up to the national structure, with expectations that the exercise will be completed by September.

“We have just begun our reorganisation from the polling station to electoral area, to constituency, to regional, and to national,” he explained.

Despite the NPP’s current Minority position in Parliament, Mr Jinapor insisted that effectiveness is not solely determined by numbers.

“Numbers don’t carry the day. Numbers carry the vote… that doesn’t necessarily mean that you will win the argument,” he said, pointing to past parliaments where the party influenced national debate despite being in the minority.

He added that the Minority Caucus, under the leadership of Alexander Afenyo-Markin, remains focused on holding the government accountable and presenting alternative policy options.

“It’s not going to be easy… but we are pulling our weight,” he said.

Mr Jinapor further indicated that the NPP will intensify its parliamentary efforts when the House resumes, stressing the importance of offering credible alternatives to the governing administration.

“We will do even a lot more to hold the government accountable and present an alternative view in parliament. That is what the Ghanaian people need,” he added.

He expressed confidence that Dr Bawumia and the NPP will present a compelling policy platform to address key national concerns, including youth unemployment and rising living costs.

“By the grace of God, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and the NPP will be putting a strong formula, strategy and blueprint before the Ghanaian people… to ensure that we win the confidence of the Ghanaian people,” he said.

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr Kodua alleged that recent arrests of some individuals were attempts to intimidate critics and suppress opposing views.

He described the manner of arrests as heavy-handed, claiming some individuals were picked up without clear justification, and warned that such actions undermine democratic principles.

According to him, disagreement with opinions should not be grounds for intimidation, stressing that freedom of expression must be protected.

Mr Kodua maintained that the NPP would not be silenced and would continue to speak on issues of national concern, insisting that attempts to divert public attention would not succeed.

“During our time in opposition, if we had engaged in similar actions, none of them would have remained unscathed. The president should recognize that as a leader of this country, he and his government must show tolerance; criticism is a part of democracy. The NDC’s diversionary tactics to shift attention away from LGBTQ issues will not be effective. Just because you disagree with someone’s statements does not justify intimidating them with arrests.

“We will not back down from discussing these issues. The NDC seems to act as if they are the only party that has ever held power. No one should be concerned about the NDC’s maneuvers; we will continue to speak out against them,” he added.

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Speaking on Accra-based UTV, he said the current administration has demonstrated strong economic management, leading to recognition from global bodies such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

According to him, the government’s approach to governance, including operating with a relatively lean number of ministers, has contributed to efficiency and improved economic outcomes.

He argued that within a short period in office, the Mahama-led administration has been able to stabilise and improve the economy, contrasting it with what he described as years of mismanagement under the previous government.

Ellembelle KK noted that Ghana’s current recognition on the global stage is rooted in what he described as economic prudence and fiscal discipline.

“The praise from the World Bank and IMF is a result of good leadership and sound economic management under President Mahama,” he added.

He maintained that the administration’s policies have positioned the country on a path of recovery and growth.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, he insisted that there was nothing unlawful about the social media post that led to the arrest.

“They are making arrests in a manner akin to Rambo. Some individuals don’t even understand the reasons behind their arrests. We are supposed to be in a democracy, and using state institutions to intimidate members of the NPP is exactly what we oppose. Certain judges have been coerced into remanding others, and those are the judges assigned to these cases. Mahama and the NDC need to understand that we are not living under military rule,” he said.

Mr Kodua accused the National Democratic Congress government of using state institutions to suppress dissent, warning that such actions would not be accepted in a democratic dispensation.

He further described the manner of some arrests as heavy-handed, arguing that individuals are sometimes picked up without clear explanations of their alleged offences.

According to him, the government must remain tolerant of criticism, stressing that political opposition and free expression are essential elements of democracy.

He also cautioned that power is temporary and urged the administration to uphold democratic principles and the rule of law.

“We will not back down from discussing these issues. The NDC seems to act as if they are the only party that has ever held power. No one should be concerned about the NDC’s maneuvers; we will continue to speak out against them,” Mr Kodua added.

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In an exclusive interview with JoyNews, he said conflicts such as the ongoing crisis in the Middle East have had negative spillover effects on developing economies like Ghana.

“The world would have been better off without this war, and emerging economies such as Ghana would have definitely been better off without this war,” he stated.

His comments come amid recent adjustments in global energy markets and ongoing domestic discussions over fuel price fluctuations and subsidy interventions.

Mr. Abu Jinapor also referenced the Russia-Ukraine conflict, arguing that its economic impact on Ghana had been underestimated by some critics at the time.

He said current developments vindicate earlier warnings that global instability significantly affects inflation, fuel prices, and fiscal planning in Ghana.

According to him, such a move would help the government save funds to recruit more teachers, particularly at the basic school level.

Speaking on Adom TV’s Badwam programme, Mr Azumah acknowledged the importance of the Free SHS policy but expressed concern over its growing financial burden on the state. He noted that although the policy has strong political backing, its current cost structure could negatively impact other critical areas of the education sector.

“I believe the policy is good, but in its current form, it is putting significant pressure on the national budget, making it difficult to address other key needs in education,” he stated.

Mr Azumah further suggested that government appointees and MPs who earn above GH¢15,000 monthly should be made to pay for their children’s secondary education.

He added that many Ghanaian parents are capable of paying school fees and should be given the option to do so, rather than relying entirely on government support.

His comments come on the back of recent remarks by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, who revealed that financial constraints prevented the government from recruiting 50,000 teaching and non-teaching staff as earlier planned.

Mr Iddrisu explained that while there is a pressing need to expand the teaching workforce to improve education delivery, budgetary limitations have made it difficult to proceed with the recruitment.

He emphasised that the government has had to make tough decisions in managing limited resources, affecting multiple sectors, including education.

Despite the challenges, the Minister assured that addressing the teacher deficit remains a priority, stressing the need to create fiscal space for future recruitment.

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The court ruled that such prosecutions are void where they proceed without prior authorisation from the Attorney General, stating that while the OSP has investigative powers, it can only initiate and pursue prosecutions with the consent or approval of the AG in line with Article 88(4) of the 1992 Constitution.

The decision effectively transfers all ongoing OSP-related prosecutions before the courts to the Attorney General’s office.

Reacting to the development in a Facebook post that has since gone viral, H. Kwasi Prempeh wrote:

“Mr. Special Prosecutor, please don’t appeal, and don’t resign o; don’t! Don’t even fight it in the media. Relax koraa. You and your staff should just sit tight and collect your pay and perks and spend your budget as planned, ok. That, too, counts as public service in 🇬🇭. Don’t kill yaself over this! Country broke or no broke, we all dey inside—unequally, of course!”

The declaration is scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 3:00pm via a live broadcast on TikTok and Facebook.

In a formal invitation addressed to party faithful, supporters and the general public, Titus-Glover described the upcoming announcement as the beginning of a renewed political vision focused on repositioning the party for future success.

According to him, his bid will prioritise energising the grassroots base of the NPP, strengthening internal party structures, and fostering unity among members across the country.

He noted that these efforts are crucial in preparing the party for a strong showing in the 2028 general elections, adding that effective organisation at the base level will be key to achieving electoral victory.

Titus-Glover further called on fellow patriots and well-meaning Ghanaians to support what he described as an important journey toward rebuilding and consolidating the party’s strength.

Reacting to the ruling in a social media post, the legislator questioned the implications of the decision on Ghana’s anti-corruption drive.

Mr Sosu was reacting to a cryptic message posted by H Kwasi Prempeh, a respected member of civil society who wrote the following after the ruling:

The court’s directive effectively places a temporary halt to the prosecutorial independence of the OSP, requiring that all cases currently being handled by the office be transferred to the Attorney-General until the legal challenge is resolved.

While details of the substantive case before the court remain under consideration, the ruling has sparked debate among legal and governance stakeholders about its potential impact on the fight against corruption.

The OSP, established as a specialised anti-corruption body, has been at the forefront of investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offences, particularly those involving public officials.

The temporary reassignment of its prosecutorial mandate is therefore expected to have significant implications for ongoing and future cases.

At a press conference on Wednesday, April 15, the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, raised concerns over what he said were recent arrests involving members of the opposition party.

He argued that the developments undermine democratic governance and the rule of law, cautioning that such actions risk setting a dangerous precedent in the country’s political space.

According to him, the party believes there is a deliberate attempt to intimidate and silence its members through arrests and prosecutions it considers unjustified and lacking legal merit.

He added that these actions, in his view, erode public confidence in the justice system and threaten constitutional freedoms.

Mr Frimpong further warned that future political outcomes could see a reversal of fortunes, insisting that today’s actions should be carefully considered by those in power.

He said: “Somewhere in 2025, this government was arresting, detaining and arbitrarily arraigning members of our party before some kangaroo courts. We came to you and we were not calling on the media, CSOs, and the clergy to come to the defense of the NPP but rather let you all be aware of what the NDC is doing.

“They are sidestepping our constitution, the respect for the rule of law, liberty, freedom of expression, and we want to send a signal to them that no condition is permanent and definitely, the tables will turn.

“And we don’t want a situation where the tables will turn, and people will come to the NPP government and ask why these things are happening.”

According to him, the project stalled due to financial constraints that led to the suspension of payments to the contractor, Queiroz Galvão.

Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony for key infrastructure projects in the constituency, Mr Ayariga explained that the contractor had been relying on a loan facility to execute the project, but work came to a halt when Ghana’s financial challenges disrupted funding.

“The contractor was working and drawing payment from a loan facility. But when the financial crisis hit and lenders suspended support to Ghana, the contractor could no longer continue because there was no guarantee of payment,” he stated.

He noted that the suspension of the loan facility meant the contractor could no longer raise payment certificates, ultimately forcing a halt to construction works.

Despite the setback, Mr Ayariga expressed confidence that work will soon resume on the road project. He revealed that government is actively working to restore the loan arrangement, with the Ministry of Finance leading efforts to renegotiate and finalise the agreement.

“As we speak, the Finance Minister is working to redraft and sign the loan agreement to allow work to continue,” he added.

The Bawku Central MP further disclosed that he, together with the Roads Minister and other stakeholders, has engaged the contractor, who has been directed to return to site while funding arrangements are being concluded.

He assured constituents that the contractor will resume work and complete the project within the tenure of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.

His comments follow a disclosure by the Minister for Health that at least GH₵1.2 billion will be required each year to roll out the initiative, which seeks to expand access to basic healthcare services nationwide.

Speaking in an interview with Joy News, Dr Ayew Afriyie argued that Ghana already has an established foundation for primary healthcare delivery through Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and community health workers.

“Who doesn’t know about dietary plans to prevent healthcare? Who doesn’t know about promotive healthcare? There are community health workers and auxiliary nurses who have been educating people all this while,” he stated.

He further raised concerns about the state of existing health infrastructure, noting that several district hospitals continue to operate from outdated colonial-era buildings or repurposed CHPS facilities.

According to him, government should prioritise completing ongoing hospital projects under the Agenda 111 programme rather than committing substantial resources to a new initiative.

“The most important thing is that every place has a CHPS compound. Every place has a health centre. What they lack is state-of-the-art district hospitals,” he said.

“You must think through and ensure that Agenda 111 projects are ongoing. You may not complete all at once, but you can restructure them so that within the next 10 years, most are completed.”

Dr Ayew Afriyie also questioned the rationale behind committing fresh funding to primary healthcare when significant investments have already been made into Agenda 111.

“You’ve invested almost $4.7 billion into Agenda 111 and not fully utilised it, yet you plan to spend $1.2 billion annually on primary healthcare,” he added.

He maintained that while strengthening primary healthcare is important, government must adopt a balanced and pragmatic approach that prioritises existing infrastructure gaps alongside new policy initiatives.

The announcement followed a public engagement at Kejetia in Kumasi, where the actor interacted with traders, drivers, graduates, and other citizens.

According to him, the discussions revealed widespread concerns about economic hardship and a growing public demand for a new direction in governance.

Agya Koo said the movement is being driven by the voices of ordinary Ghanaians who believe the country needs a “third force” beyond the two dominant political traditions.

He stressed that Ghana’s development should not be limited to only two major options, insisting that a broader platform is needed to reflect the aspirations of the people.

The Base – Ghana First movement, he explained, will serve as a nationwide political structure aimed at building what he described as a better Ghana through grassroots mobilisation across all 16 regions.

He added that the movement will be guided by principles of transparency, unity and progress, with a focus on giving ordinary citizens a stronger voice in national decision-making.

The initiative marks Agya Koo’s latest involvement in public advocacy, as he joins a growing list of public figures engaging more directly in political conversations ahead of the evolving national discourse.

Speaking at the Jubilee House, President Mahama noted that “prison is not a place to wish your enemy,” underscoring the importance of humane conditions and a more rehabilitative system.

He made the remarks when he received the Ghana Prisons Service Council, led by Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, who briefed him on the current state of the prisons and the urgent need for transformation.

The Council highlighted key challenges facing the Service and called for a comprehensive approach to reform.

In response, the President assured the delegation of government’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised and improving infrastructure and welfare within the system.

He also endorsed the “Think Prison, Think 360 Agenda,” a reform initiative aimed at adopting a holistic approach to prison management, with a focus on rehabilitation, reintegration, and the well-being of both inmates and prison staff.

The meeting was attended by Council Chairman Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi and Director-General of Prisons Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, among other officials.

He insists the President will assent to it when it is formally presented.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, the MP aligned himself with the presidency’s recent position that the issue is not an immediate national priority.

The presidency has come under scrutiny after indicating that LGBTQ matters are currently not a priority for the government, sparking debate about its commitment to the proposed legislation.

But Mr Nyakotey said the President’s position must be understood within context.

“I will say yes, I agree with the President. What I heard the President say was that the bill is not a priority now, and whether it’s a priority or not depends on the context.”

He pointed to developments under former President Nana Akufo-Addo to explain the sensitivity surrounding the issue.

“During the time of President Akufo-Addo, we remember on the 31st of January, I think 2021, there was an advocacy centre that was opened at Osu. And then not long after, the President was interviewed, and he said that LGBTQ rights were bound to be granted. This is what he said at the time.”

According to him, those comments triggered public anxiety and strong reactions.

“So naturally, there was a lot of agitation because people did not have confidence in the President that he was going to do the right thing. Once we had the elections, the agitations went down.”

Mr Nyakotey argued that President Mahama has since made Ghana’s position clear on the international stage.

“And if you remember, even on your news item of March 27, 2026, in the US, the President insisted, and defended the stance of Ghana and the stance of the government, that the international community should not come and impose any ideas on us.”

He stressed that the President has already signalled his readiness to act once the legislative process is complete.

“So the President defended it and said that once it gets to him, it’s going to be signed.”

The MP clarified that the current delay is procedural, not political.

“This is a private members’ bill, which is initiated by a group of individuals. So today, as we are speaking, there’s no document before the President to sign.”

He maintained that once the bill is properly transmitted, there will be no hesitation from the presidency.

“I believe strongly that once we transmit a document or put a before the President, the President is going to sign it.”

At the 2023 Russia-Africa summit, Ibrahim Traoré, President of Burkina Faso, challenged African leaders when he said, “Why do our heads of state travel the world begging?” About two years later, in September 2025, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, his Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo echoed similar sentiments when he said, “We didn’t come to the United States to beg. We’ve moved beyond the dynamic of holding out our hands.”

The country’s leaders have said at different times that it was shameful for African leaders to keep begging the international community for financial assistance, while frowning on foreign debt as one that undermines sovereignty. Yet, Burkina Faso under Traore is now more indebted and dependent on international aid than before the coup.

Burkina Faso experienced a military coup in January 2022, when Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba ousted President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré, citing the government’s failure to contain escalating insecurity and economic strain. A second coup followed in September 2022, bringing Captain Traoré to power. In the aftermath, the military junta pledged to restore security, stabilise the country, and lay the groundwork for economic recovery. It also promised to boost agricultural productivity, improve self-reliance, and create jobs.

However, data from Burkina Faso’s Directorate General of the Treasury and Public Accounting shows that total public debt has been steadily increasing since at least 2021, rising from 5.998 trillion to 8.311 trillion CFA francs as of the second quarter of 2025—a 38.56% increase in four and a half years. According to government projections included in the explanatory memorandum of the 2026 Finance Law, it is expected to reach 8.784 trillion CFA francs by the end of 2025, representing a further increase of 9.4% compared to 2024.

The external share of this debt, which is loans taken from foreign entities, represents 40.3% of the total, or 3.349 trillion FCFA, an increase of 506 billion FCFA since 2021.

Between 2023 and 2024, this external debt increased by 9%, driven mainly by multilateral debt, which now represents 89.4% of the total outstanding external debt.

Domestic debt, representing 59.7% of the total, comprises nearly 80% securities (treasury bills and bonds) issued on the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) sub-regional financial market. It amounted to 4.962 trillion FCFA in the second quarter of 2025, compared to 3.155 trillion FCFA in 2021.

According to the debt bulletin data, the debt linked to the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is recorded as domestic debt. Its contributions amounted to 369.21 billion FCFA in the second quarter of 2025.

If international partners were to withdraw funding, “there will likely be shortfalls in wage payments, including those of civil servants,” said Beverly Ochieng, senior analyst at Control Risks, a specialist global risk consultancy. “Social services, particularly education and medicines, are likely to be restricted.”

Ochieng also said it could lead to the introduction of new taxes to cover the shortfalls resulting from any such withdrawal or reduction of foreign aid to Burkina Faso.

Major projects rely on development finance

The Burkinabe government’s data also offers some insights into official development assistance (ODA) received between 2021 and 2024. While bilateral aid has declined, multilateral aid has increased.

Bilateral aid fell from $699.65 million in 2021 to $269.21 million in 2024, a drop of 48.4%, attributed to the departure or suspension of disbursements by some partners, including France. However, this was offset by other sources. Multilateral aid reached its highest level since 2015, when it rose to $1.518 billion in 2024. Contributions from international NGOs have almost doubled, rising from $86.57 million to $157.58 million between 2021 and 2024.

The names of donors are familiar. The World Bank remains Burkina Faso’s largest multilateral contributor, with $632.85 million in 2024, up from $586.3 million in 2023. The United Nations comes in second with $543 million.

These institutions did not simply finance abstract budget lines. Four major projects launched between 2024 and 2026 illustrate the concrete nature of the cooperation in strategic sectors of the country. For the Water Security Project, 91.2 billion FCFA out of 92 billion is financed by the World Bank. There is also the Urban Mobility and Development Project (with 118.93 billion out of 124.8 billion externally funded), the ECOTEC Entrepreneurship Support Project (with 98.98 billion out of 106 billion externally funded), and an economic infrastructure rehabilitation project financed by the Islamic Development Bank. These four projects alone represent more than 440 billion FCFA, almost entirely financed by foreign partners.

The total amount of published ODA is $1.94 billion for 2024, but it could be higher, as data relating to contributions from the Global Fund and the United States were not available when the document was provided.

The situation is compounded by increasing budgetary pressure as debt servicing reached 1.17 trillion FCFA in 2024.

Humanitarian needs hinge on foreign support

The spiral of insecurity that has plagued the country for many years has inevitably increased reliance on external partners to address the challenges. In 2025, according to the UN Resident Coordinator in Burkina Faso, 155 partners mobilised $271.3 million to assist 1.7 million people. For 2026, humanitarian needs are estimated at 735 billion CFA francs, nearly half (364.68 billion) of which is covered by external partners.

Furthermore, in February 2026, Burkina Faso and the United Nations concluded a partnership amounting to 850.2 billion FCFA, of which 645.7 billion was earmarked for agriculture and water.

Data compiled from official Burkinabe sources is clear: international financial flows to Burkina Faso have not stopped. But its leaders continue to trumpet a sovereignty rhetoric that mocks foreign financial assistance in Africa as a whole.

“The historical cooperation between Burkina Faso and other Western donors is the cornerstone of humanitarian aid,” said Ochieng. “And as long as current partners maintain pragmatic and non-confrontational relations with the military government, this active cooperation will remain in place.”

Internal fund mobilisation continues

Authorities in Burkina Faso continue to mobilise more local finance, even if current outcomes have been insufficient to meet the country’s financial obligations and its quest for sovereignty.

Extraction of resources such as gold has been ramped up. According to the Prime Minister in a speech to the National Assembly on January 30, 2026, the country produced a total of 94 tonnes of gold in 2025. In previous years, total production stood at 60.8 tonnes in 2024 and 57.3 tonnes in 2023. In 2021 and 2022, production was 67.1 tonnes and 58.2 tonnes, respectively, according to the Ministry of Mines.

Then there was the Patriotic Support Fund, financed by voluntary contributions, taxes on consumer goods, electronic communications, imported products, and mandatory deductions from salaries, the mining development fund, and other sources.

Between 2023 and the end of 2025, this fund mobilised nearly 500 billion FCFA, exceeding the initial target of 450 billion. “This means that we have internal capabilities that were not sufficiently exploited,” said Finance Minister Aboubacar Nacanabo in February 2026. But this fund is primarily intended for the support of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) and the acquisition of military equipment.

According to Ochieng, Burkina Faso is pursuing its goal of financial autonomy in various ways. “For example, in the mining sector, where the majority of operators are foreign, the country has adopted a policy that facilitates increased participation by local entities, and has allowed local banks to finance the expansion of mining activities,” she said.

For now, though, the country continues to rely on loans and support from international organisations to meet its obligations at home, even though this was not what the current military rulers promised when they said it was time to stop begging for help.

This article was produced with support from the African Academy for Open Source Investigations (AAOSI) and the African Digital Democracy Observatory (ADDO) as part of an initiative by Code for Africa (CfA). Visit https://disinfo.africa/ for more information.

Despite the presence of Russian instructors since April 2024, is Niger truly safer than before?

Ever since the men of Africa Corps set foot on Nigerien soil, the junta led by General Abdourahamane Tiani has been lavish in its praise of this new alliance. In official statements, Moscow is now presented as the providential partner, the one stepping in where the West has failed, the one that would honour the country’s sovereignty without humiliating conditions. For example, following the airport attack, General Tiani praised the bravery of the Russian partners, who he said, alongside the Nigerien military, “routed the enemy in the space of twenty minutes”.

And yet, on the ground, armed groups continue to strike. And yet, the contracts remain classified. And yet, no one truly knows what these instructors are doing, or how many of them there are.

The turning point of summer 2023

Everything shifts in July 2023, when the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland overthrows Mohamed Bazoum. The coup does not merely trigger a political crisis, it sets off a sweeping diplomatic avalanche. French soldiers pack their bags and leave. The Americans, for their part, abandon their prized drone base in Agadez, where more than 1,000 American soldiers were deployed at the time of the coup. In March 2024, Niger denounces “with immediate effect” the military cooperation agreement with Washington, deeming it had been “unilaterally imposed”.

Within months, Niger finds itself alone, confronting its own demons: the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara pressing from the west, Boko Haram threatening from the southeast, and a state whose security foundations have just been shaken from within.

It is into this vacuum that Russia moves. On 10 April 2024, the first Africa Corps instructors land in Niamey aboard an Ilyushin-76, with military equipment on board. The outfit, partly heir to the Wagner Group’s methods and doctrine, arrives with a three-part pitch: train Nigerien soldiers, strengthen aerial defence, and improve intelligence capabilities. The programme sounds ambitious. The reality proves far more complicated.

Screenshot of posts on Facebook celebrating the transfer of military equipment to Niger from Russia. The post was copypasted at least 50 times between November 28 and 29, 2024. ‘This important equipment strengthens the defense capabilities of the Republic of Niger and contributes to the consolidation of its sovereignty,’ the report said. Source: CfA through Meta Content Library.

Screenshot of posts on Facebook made in February 2026, reporting the deployment of Russia’s Africa Corps officers alongside the Nigerien army to repel the terrorist attack on Niamey airport. The post was copypasted dozens of times. Source: CfA through Meta Content Library.

Training soldiers, but which ones?

At Niamey’s Air Base 101, training sessions have indeed taken place: drone operation, aerial surveillance, asymmetric warfare tactics, skills the Nigerien armed forces desperately need. Russian technicians are also said to have brought back into service equipment previously acquired but left idle for lack of maintenance.

But therein lies the problem. Of the 100 military instructors deployed in April 2024, military sources cite a gradual return of the majority to operational zones in Ukraine, leaving only around twenty men on the ground, according to the site ActuNiger, Above all, these training programmes remained concentrated in the capital. In the areas where danger is most immediate, the Tillaberi region, the remote stretches of Diffa, Nigerien soldiers still face the same ambushes, with no measurable shift in the dynamics on the ground. According to ACLED, some 1,500 civilians and soldiers died in jihadist attacks from the coup until August 2024, compared to 650 in the year preceding the coup. In 2024, Niger recorded the highest global increase in terrorism-related deaths, with 930 fatalities, a rise of 94%, according to the Global Terrorism Index 2025. Training a handful of battalions in Niamey is simply not enough to alter the face of a war being fought hundreds of kilometres away.

It is precisely this gap between official announcements and field realities that exasperates Moussa Mahamadou, a teacher based in Niamey who has been closely following the security situation for several years. “They talk to us about training, cooperation, and strategic partnership. But I want to see concrete results. Are the people of Tillaberi and Tahoua sleeping better at night? Can the farmers of Diffa go out and tend their fields without fear of being attacked? The answer is no. This cooperation, for now, is nothing but a smokescreen, a political façade that does absolutely nothing to change the daily reality of Nigeriens living under the threat of violence.”

On Monday, December 4, 2023, the Russian delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, Colonel General Lunaus-Bek Yevkurov, held fruitful discussions chaired by the Minister of State for National Defence, Lieutenant General Salifou Mody. Photo credit: A Niamey News

A shield for the capital, an illusion for the rest

On the matter of aerial defence, the Russians have delivered concrete results. In less than a month after the arrival of the first instructors, Russia chartered three cargo flights to deliver military equipment to Niamey, radar systems, an anti-aircraft defence platform, and surveillance equipment. The capital is better protected than it once was, according to official narratives.

But that shield stops at the city’s gates. In the border regions, populations have been living in fear for years. According to FEWS NET (October 2025), the Tillaberi region accounts for nearly 60% of the country’s total security incidents, where attacks by the Islamic State in the Sahel and JNIM are most intense and frequent in the far north-west. The Dosso region recorded a 195% increase in security incidents and nearly 600% more deaths in 2025 compared to the previous year. And even Niamey itself is not impregnable. The attack on the airport on 29 January 2026, claimed by the Islamic State, served as a painful and unambiguous reminder: two ASKY civilian aircraft damaged, a munitions stockpile in flames, and satellite imagery showing partially burned areas near the runway.

This geography of protection, everything for the capital, nothing for the periphery, has not gone unnoticed by Adamou Issoufou, an independent analyst specialising in governance and natural resources. In his view, the concentration of security assets around Niamey is no accident whatsoever. “Look at where this equipment is being deployed. Around the capital, around sensitive infrastructure, around strategic corridors. Not in the villages of Tillaberi. Not in Diffa. Why? Because the real objective is to protect the regime and secure access to the country’s mineral wealth. Niger sits atop uranium, oil, and gold.

The Russians did not come here out of idealism. They came to secure a seat at the table. And the junta, in return, gets the guarantee of remaining in power. Ordinary citizens, meanwhile, are nothing more than spectators to this arrangement.”

Intelligence: when promises meet the reality of the Sahel

The third pillar of the partnership, intelligence sharing, is perhaps the most revealing illustration of its underlying fragilities. The episode did not go unnoticed among specialists. In May 2025, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) abruptly terminated technical intelligence cooperation agreements with Russia and Turkey. According to security sources cited by the Zagazola portal, the General Directorate of Documentation and External Security (DGDSE) assessed that “the equipment and operators deployed by both countries did not meet operational standards”, particularly in the domain of telephone interception. This decision forced Niamey to urgently turn to a Moroccan company specialising in communications interception.

The CNSP shocked its Russian partners by cutting short the intelligence cooperation, but promptly signed in 2025, with Mali and Burkina Faso, a regional agreement to use Roscosmos satellite services, Russian high technology for imagery and geolocation, but without Russian agents on the ground.

Alkassoum Tahirou, a merchant long established in Niamey, has a far more direct way of capturing what he feels. His words, delivered with a quiet and settled bitterness, carry the weight of popular wisdom. “Where we come from, we say that one hare has left and another has arrived. France left, Russia came. But both hares are utterly useless to us, the ordinary citizens. Neither one truly cares about our security, our peace, or our social cohesion. These are arrangements made between the powerful. The farmer from my village who can no longer go to market for fear of being attacked, nobody is interested in him. Not Paris, not Moscow, not even Niamey.”

The ghosts of the contract

What does all of this actually cost? No one truly knows. No contract has been made public. No official figures have been released regarding the cost of the equipment delivered or the remuneration of the instructors. And how many of them are there, for that matter? Between 60 and 100 men, according to diplomatic sources, up to 350 according to other estimates. The junta says nothing.

This silence carries a measurable economic cost. According to Africa Defense Forum, the junta has been forced to cut its budget by 40% since the coup, and has accumulated $519 million in arrears on its international debt. The World Bank estimates that Niger’s economic growth in 2024 was 45% lower than it was before the putsch. It is in this context of financial distress that the junta sought, according to analyst Liam Karr of the Institute for the Study of War, “to barter Niger’s natural resources for loans and weapons.”

The most tangible illustration of this opaque barter is the uranium affair. In 2024, the junta revoked the operating licences of Orano, the French company 90% controlled by the state, bringing to an end more than fifty years of nuclear cooperation. By late 2025, according to Le Monde and several French government sources, an agreement valued at an estimated $170 million was reportedly negotiated with Rosatom, the Russian nuclear giant, for the transfer of approximately 1,000 tonnes of uranium yellowcake stockpiled at the Arlit mine.

Niger is the world’s seventh-largest uranium producer. In December 2025, Niger officially signed a memorandum of understanding with Rosatom for the development of new mining sites. This is the probable quid pro quo for a security cooperation whose terms remain unknown.

This silence is far from inconsequential. Specialists in these kinds of security partnerships know all too well that agreements with outfits such as Africa Corps frequently contain deeply uncomfortable clauses, namely legal immunity for foreign personnel, access to natural resources, and discreet economic arrangements operating well below the public radar. In a country where Parliament has been suspended and replaced by a Consultative Council that neither legislates nor holds the executive to account, there is simply no one left to ask the questions that urgently need answering.

The battle of narratives

The Russian-Nigerien cooperation is also being fought in the realm of perception and public opinion. On social media, images of Russian cargo planes touching down in Niamey, or of demonstrators waving flags bearing the red star, are multiplying at a striking pace. Media outlets aligned with Moscow hail each equipment delivery as a historic milestone. The communication machine is well-oiled, effective, and omnipresent.

On the other side, international media outlets continue to highlight the grey areas, the ongoing attacks, and the questions that remain unanswered. The result is a public debate torn in two, where hard facts struggle to find their way through the noise of competing narratives.

It is against this polarised backdrop that a more measured voice deserves to be heard. Hama Danda, a retired civil servant and an attentive reader of the national press, firmly refuses to succumb to the prevailing pessimism.

Seated in the courtyard of his home, he chooses his words deliberately. “People are far too impatient. A security cooperation of this scale cannot be built in a single year, or even two. It takes time to train men properly, to master the equipment, for results to become visible on the ground. I listened carefully to the head of state when he spoke. In his major interview, General Tiani was unambiguous that this cooperation is mutually beneficial, conducted in full respect of Niger’s sovereignty and its political choices. These are not empty words. Our authorities do not lie to the people. We must trust them and allow time to do its work. The results will come.”

Photo credit: Nigerien Ministry of Defence

An alliance to stabilise the country, or to consolidate power?

Some analysts are raising a question that few dare voice openly: what if this cooperation were serving, first and foremost, domestic political interests? Strengthening the defence of Niamey and its strategic infrastructure also means tightening the regime’s grip on the country. In a context where the junta’s legitimacy remains contested on the international stage, securing control of the airspace above the capital is anything but a trivial detail.

Internal Russian government documents consulted by the BBC reveal that Moscow’s partnerships with African juntas rest on a well-tested model: the security of administrative centres and incumbent regimes, in exchange for mining concessions. This pattern, first tested in Sudan as early as 2017, where Wagner secured gold mining concessions in exchange for training the security forces of the Bashir regime – was then refined in the Central African Republic from 2018 onwards, with control over diamond mines granted in exchange for the personal protection of President Touadéra.

The model was subsequently systematised across the Sahel following successive coups. In Mali, the junta invited Wagner in 2021, culminating in 2023 in the signing of an agreement to build the country’s largest gold refinery. In Burkina Faso, Captain Traoré reportedly ceded a mine directly as payment for the deployment of Russian forces. Niger, sitting atop strategic reserves of uranium, oil, and gold, follows the same logic: the revocation of Orano’s licences and the negotiations initiated with Rosatom in 2025 do not represent a rupture, but rather the faithful reproduction of a model that Moscow has patiently refined from one end of the continent to the other.

An unanswered equation, a people left without certainty

The four voices gathered in the course of this investigation paint the portrait of a society divided in the face of an alliance it does not fully comprehend. Between the scepticism of Moussa Mahamadou, who is waiting for tangible proof on the ground; the distrust of Adamou Issoufou, convinced that the country’s natural resources lie at the very heart of the deal; the disillusionment of Alkassoum Tahirou, who sees in the great powers nothing but actors indifferent to ordinary suffering; and the measured patience of Hama Danda, who places his trust in time and in the authorities: the national sentiment is, at its core, profoundly divided.

Three years on from the coup, the fundamental questions remain entirely unanswered. Have the Russian instructors genuinely altered the balance of power against the armed groups? Or does their presence amount to little more than a geopolitical symbol, with limited operational impact on the ground? And at what price, human, financial, and institutional, has Niger purchased this new form of security?

The only available elements point to a mixed assessment: a capital better protected, yet exposed to the first jihadist attack in its history; forces trained in Niamey, but the countryside of Tillaberi and Diffa still drenched in blood; intelligence systems deemed ill-suited, rejected and replaced in haste; and contracts that have never been made public.

In this war of many faces, military, diplomatic, and informational, sweeping announcements rarely precede decisive victories. Niger has chosen its side. What remains to be seen is whether that choice will succeed in bringing peace back to the villages of Tillaberi, Tahoua, and Diffa, or whether it will merely shift the fault lines in a Sahel that shows no signs of settling.

Cet article a été réalisé avec le soutien de l’Académie africaine des enquêtes sur les sources ouvertes (AAOSI) et de l’Observatoire africain de la démocratie numérique (ADDO), dans le cadre d’une initiative de Code for Africa (CfA). Pour plus d’informations, consultez le site https://disinfo.africa/.

Speaking on UTV Ghana, he explained that improving healthcare systems is a fundamental responsibility of every government.

According to him, previous administrations under Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor, and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo all invested in procuring medical equipment to strengthen the country’s health sector.

He emphasized that the current administration is therefore continuing a long-standing practice rather than introducing a new initiative.

“Procuring medical equipment is not new; successive governments have done it as part of improving Ghana’s healthcare system,” he said.

Mr. Awuku further noted that under the Akufo-Addo administration, efforts went beyond equipment procurement to include the introduction of the 112 hospital project aimed at expanding healthcare infrastructure across districts and regions.

He urged the government to recognize that such interventions are part of a broader, ongoing national effort to improve healthcare delivery.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Nukpenu cautioned against what he described as attempts to over-politicise the concerns raised by traders and freight forwarders, insisting that the system is not entirely flawed but requires continuous refinement.

“Let us not play the ostrich. Everything is not right at the ports,” he said, noting that issues such as wrong declaration of goods and undervaluation are often driven by human interference.

He explained that similar systems introduced in the past faced challenges but were eventually manipulated by users, stressing that no digital system is entirely immune to human behaviour.

“When ICUMS came, what happened? At the end of the day, people found ways around it,” he stated.

Mr. Nukpenu urged stakeholders to remain calm and engage constructively with the implementers of the system to address existing gaps.

“All I will urge them is to be calm and sit with them to correct it. When you see issues, suggest productive avenues instead of making threats,” he said.

He further argued that some of the concerns being raised should be properly verified before conclusions are drawn.

“Some of the things are allegations, so subject all documents to strict proof so they can be looked into and corrected,” he added.

According to him, human creativity often makes it difficult to completely block revenue leakages, but systems can still be improved through cooperation.

“When you come to human beings, we are more creative than machines,” he noted.

Mr. Nukpenu also referenced ongoing engagements by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), saying the Commissioner-General has been engaging stakeholders to explain the purpose and expected benefits of the system, while assuring that challenges will be addressed.

He made the comments amid growing tension between government and the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) over the implementation of the Publican AI system.

GUTA President, Clement Boateng, has outlined a series of actions to protest challenges at the ports, particularly concerns about increased duties and inefficiencies linked to the system.

However, following a meeting with the Ghana Shippers Authority led by CEO Prof. Ransford Gyampo, GUTA agreed to suspend some planned actions, although key directives, such as halting payments and suspending clearing operations, remain in force pending further talks with the Transport Minister.

Mr. Nukpenu urged all parties to continue engaging in good faith to ensure the system is improved for both revenue generation and smooth trade operations.

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Speaking on Accra-based UTV, he commended government for procuring over 24,543 medical equipment for CHPS compounds and clinics, describing it as a positive step toward improving healthcare delivery.

However, he raised concerns about the lack of completed facilities to house the equipment.

According to him, the previous administration under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo initiated 112 hospital projects, many of which remain uncompleted.

He noted that although the current government has indicated efforts to continue the projects, including reported financial allocations, visible progress has been limited.

Mr. Awuku questioned the practicality of deploying medical equipment without adequate infrastructure, asking where such equipment would be installed if facilities are not ready.

“The NDC government should commit the same energy they are using to procure medical equipment to complete the uncompleted hospitals,” he stated.

He therefore called on government to ensure equal focus is placed on completing abandoned hospital projects so that investments in healthcare equipment will yield meaningful results.

He also referenced past stalled projects, stressing that taxpayer funds must be used efficiently and not left to waste.

The Bono Regional NPP Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, and the Sunyani East Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando, were arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on Monday.

Abronye DC was reportedly picked up over alleged threats directed at a judge presiding over a case at the Adentan Circuit Court, while Baba Amando is being investigated in connection with alleged false publication.

Condemning the arrests, NPP National Organiser Henry Nana Boakye alleged that the developments form part of a broader strategy to deflect public attention from governance challenges, including economic and legislative concerns.

However, speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Nukpenu urged the Police to carry out their duties professionally and avoid creating the impression that political actors are behind arrests, stressing that law enforcement remains the sole responsibility of the Police.

“Who arrested them? Was it NDC headquarters or Jubilee House? Is the Police now the NDC headquarters or Jubilee House?” he asked.

Nukpenu cautioned that any failure by the Police to act diligently risks undermining public trust and fuelling unnecessary political tensions.

“If they don’t know their job and make arrests without thorough investigation and create the impression that the NDC is behind it, they have to be careful,” he warned.

He further urged the Police to ensure that arrests are backed by solid evidence and pursued to their logical conclusion, criticising what he described as a growing tendency to blame political actors for the shortcomings of state institutions.

“If they have the basis for an arrest, they should do it diligently. I am tired of the nonsense in this country, that when agencies are not working well, we turn to blame political actors,” he said.

He added that the appointment of the Inspector General of Police does not make the office subservient to the President.

“The fact that the President appoints the Police Chief doesn’t make him a puppet. The IGP and CID should be diligent with their work so we can have peace in this country,” he added.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Nukpenu questioned the significance of the arrest of NPP Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, accusing him of neglecting his region and engaging in what he described as unproductive commentary in Accra.

“If Abronye has been arrested, so what? Who is he?” he quizzed. “Someone who has reduced his region to nothing and has moved to Accra just to talk loosely, that’s his business. We don’t have to waste productive hours discussing this,” he stated.

The NDC organiser also downplayed claims that recent arrests were politically motivated, arguing that such sentiments are often driven by individuals he described as lacking direction within their political structures.

“People feeling restricted or gagged is the feeling of unproductive people, those who don’t know what to do with their party and political systems, not the NDC,” he added.

He, however, called on security officials to be transparent about the circumstances surrounding the arrests, describing the situation as unnecessary theatrics.

“CID boss Lydia Donkor and IGP Yohuno should come out and tell us if they carried out the arrest on the orders of someone at the Presidency. This nonsense arrest to show bravado, then they are released and granted bail—what does it achieve?” he questioned.

His comments come amid heightened political tensions following the arrest and bail of Abronye DC and the NPP Sunyani East Communications Officer, Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando, by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

Abronye DC was reportedly picked up by police over alleged threats directed at a judge presiding over a case at the Adentan Circuit Court, while Baba Amando is being investigated in connection with alleged false publication.

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Addressing party executives and grassroots supporters at Asawase in the Ashanti Region as part of his ongoing “Thank You Tour”, Mr Asiedu Nketia said the NDC’s philosophy is rooted in inclusiveness and equal opportunity for all Ghanaians, regardless of background or ethnicity.

The tour, which marks the second phase of post-election engagements following the NDC’s victory in the 2024 general elections, began in Asawase, a stronghold of the party and the constituency of Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak.

He noted that recent criticisms from members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), who accused the NDC of sidelining Ashantis in the appointment of some District Chief Executives (DCEs) from northern Ghana, were inconsistent with the party’s long-standing commitment to merit-based governance.

According to him, under President John Dramani Mahama, appointments are made based on ability, experience and capacity to deliver, not on ethnic identity or regional origin.

He stressed that all appointees are first and foremost Ghanaians, and that the party does not discriminate between citizens from different parts of the country.

Mr Asiedu Nketia further argued that excluding qualified individuals on the basis of origin would itself amount to discrimination, especially in the distribution of public office.

He contrasted the NDC’s approach with what he described as past practices by political opponents, where non-indigenes in certain areas were allegedly sidelined after elections in favour of locally aligned candidates.

He also questioned the consistency of the opposition’s stance, noting that the same critics who oppose the appointment of northerners in the Ashanti Region have previously supported candidates from northern Ghana for national leadership positions.

According to him, the NDC’s governance approach prioritises performance and accountability, with appointees retained based on results and removed when they fail to meet expectations, regardless of background.

He added that the government remains focused on economic recovery and stabilisation following what he described as a challenging economic situation inherited by the administration.

While acknowledging concerns from some supporters about the pace of economic relief, he urged patience, explaining that rebuilding the economy remains the immediate priority for national benefit.

Mr Asiedu Nketia also highlighted the party’s electoral gains in the Ashanti Region, describing the performance as unprecedented.

He credited the success to strong grassroots mobilisation and improved campaign coordination, including enhanced polling station monitoring to reduce electoral irregularities.

He expressed appreciation to supporters in Asawase and across the region, assuring them that the NDC would continue to pursue inclusive governance and balanced development across the country.

The meeting, held on Monday, April 13, 2026, brought together ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait.

These envoys included the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Dakhel; the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Murad Suliaman Mohammed Al-Mandoos; the Ambassador of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Khalid Bin Jabor Saif Jasser Al-Mesallam; and the Chargé d’Affaires of the State of Kuwait, Husain Alebrahim.

Discussions centred on the escalating tensions in parts of the Middle East and their humanitarian impact, with both sides stressing the urgent need for peaceful resolution through dialogue.

Mr. Ablakwa reiterated Ghana’s foreign policy stance, emphasizing respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and adherence to a rules-based international order.

The GCC envoys acknowledged the existing cooperation between their countries and Ghana at both bilateral and multilateral levels, and called for sustained diplomatic engagement to promote peace and stability.

Both sides agreed on commitment to strengthening relations and supporting efforts aimed at resolving conflicts through peaceful means.

This formed part of discussions when the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa met with the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Cong Song on Monday, April 13, 2026.

Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, continues to pose a major environmental and socio-economic challenge in Ghana. The practice has led to the destruction of water bodies, degradation of farmlands, and pollution of major river systems, prompting sustained government efforts to curb its spread.

Excavators, dredging machines, and other capital-intensive equipment used at some illegal mining sites have often been linked to foreign financing and, in some cases, Chinese involvement.

In view of this, the two sides explored ways of strengthening cooperation to address the menace of illegal mining, with a focus on public education and environmental reclamation initiatives.

Mr. Ablakwa noted that Ghana is ready to consider new projects under its partnership with China, particularly in areas that will help mitigate the impact of illegal mining and promote sustainable development.

He also highlighted the importance of ongoing bilateral projects and expressed optimism that strengthened collaboration would yield positive outcomes for both countries.

On his part, Ambassador Cong Song reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s development agenda and enhancing cooperation in key sectors, including trade and people-to-people exchanges.

He further stressed that China does not support illegal mining activities and is committed to working with Ghana to address the challenge.

Both parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening bilateral ties and promoting initiatives that support environmental protection and national development.

Abronye DC was reportedly arrested in connection with alleged threats made against a presiding judge at the Adenta Circuit Court, while Baba Amando was taken into custody over claims of false publication.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Monday, April 13, the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, called on the police to exercise restraint and professionalism in carrying out their duties.

Also addressing the media, the National Organiser of the NPP, Henry Nana Boakye, criticised the arrests, describing them as a calculated attempt by the government to divert public attention from what he termed its poor performance.

He argued that the government is under mounting pressure due to unfulfilled promises, including the passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, tackling unemployment, reducing the cost of doing business at the ports, and executing the ORAL agenda.

According to him, these challenges have led to what he described as the harassment of members of the opposition party.

The outspoken politician was reportedly picked up on Monday, 13th April 2026, to assist with ongoing investigations into allegations of offensive conduct conducive to the breach of the peace, false publication, and conduct likely to cause fear and panic.

While the police have yet to issue a formal charge sheet, sources close to the investigation suggest that this latest legal entanglement is significantly tied to alleged threats directed at a presiding judge at the Adenta Circuit Court.

The nature of the alleged threats has raised eyebrows within the legal community, coming at a time when judicial independence is a subject of intense national debate.

This is not the first time the NPP firebrand has found himself in the crosshairs of the law. This arrest follows a similar incident in September 2025, where Abronye was detained on charges of offensive conduct.

News of the arrest spread rapidly through the capital on Monday, sparking reactions within the ruling party.

Supporters of the Regional Chairman often view his rhetoric as a necessary boldness in political communication, while critics argue that his statements frequently cross the line into illegality.

The Ghana Police Service is expected to provide a detailed briefing on the specifics of the investigation within the next 24 hours. Until then, the Bono Regional Chairman remains in custody as detectives process the statements and evidence gathered so far.

In a statement dated April 13, 2026, Mr. Ankou said his decision follows careful consideration as he prepares to contest for the position of Constituency Secretary in Madina, a role he previously sought in 2018 and 2022.

He described his time at the Assembly as an honour, noting that he worked closely with assembly members, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders to promote development in the municipality.

Mr. Ankou expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, the Municipal Chief Executive, and other officials for their support during his tenure.

He explained that his resignation is to allow him to focus fully on his political ambitions, stressing the importance of the constituency secretary role in party organisation.

Mr. Ankou further assured that he remains committed to the development of the municipality and will continue to contribute in other capacities.

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Speaking on the AM Show on JoyNews, he noted that the controversy appears to be driven more by the personalities involved rather than clear evidence of wrongdoing.

According to him, while concerns have been raised, key questions must be addressed regarding the process. He explained that these include whether all eligible parties were invited to tender, whether they responded within the stipulated timeframe, and whether due process was followed.

Lom Nuku Ahlijah emphasized that in a democratic system, citizens have the right to question and seek clarification on decisions of public interest.

He added that such concerns should not be dismissed but rather addressed in good faith.

He further stressed that public officials have a responsibility to explain decisions to the people, as they serve the interests of the state and not personal interests.

He therefore called on the Minister and the Minerals Commission to provide clear explanations on the Damang tender process, noting that many Ghanaians do not fully understand how the decision was made.

“This is a matter of public interest, so the Minister and Minerals Commission must explain the Damang tender when concerns arise,” he added.

Speaking on Accra-based UTV, he stressed that wrongdoing must be addressed based on the act committed, not the political affiliation of the individual involved.

According to him, public officials who engage in corrupt or unconstitutional acts should be held accountable regardless of their party ties, adding that the laws of the country must be applied without interference.

He expressed concern that political bias often influences how people judge wrongdoing, leading to selective justice and enabling misconduct.

Dr. Antwi noted that political parties sometimes defend their members even when they are clearly at fault, which undermines accountability and weakens institutions.

He cited examples from countries such as South Korea, where former leaders have been prosecuted for wrongdoing, suggesting Ghana can adopt similar standards to strengthen its democracy.

He also criticised what he described as partisan favoritism, particularly during election periods, where opportunities such as loans are often given based on party loyalty rather than merit.

Dr. Antwi emphasised that such practices exclude deserving citizens and hinder national development.

He urged the party to prioritise loyalty and commitment.

Speaking during his “Thank You Tour” of the Ashanti Region, Mr. Asiedu Nketia said the party does not need members who frequently switch affiliations, stressing that committed and dedicated members are key to sustaining electoral success.

“We want loyal and committed members. Those who move from one side to another should be avoided,” he stated.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia, however, expressed gratitude to supporters and voters for their contribution to the party’s electoral victory, noting that the success was driven largely by grassroots efforts.

He also urged members to reward hardworking executives during the ongoing branch reorganisation, emphasising the need to retain dedicated individuals ahead of future elections.

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Speaking during his “Thank You Tour” of the region, Mr. Asiedu Nketia said elections are won at the branch level, praising party members for their hard work.

He noted that a strategic division of the Ashanti Region into five operational zones, with dedicated teams deployed across Kumasi constituencies, played a key role in securing what he described as a historic performance for the NDC in the region.

“For the first time in the history of Ashanti politics, we crossed the threshold,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to branch members, regional executives, and supporters for their efforts.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia also urged party members to reward hardworking individuals during ongoing branch reorganisation exercises.

He stressed the need to retain committed executives to sustain future electoral success.

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Speaking during his “Thank You Tour” of the Ashanti Region, Mr. Asiedu Nketia said the NDC remains committed to inclusiveness, insisting that all Ghanaians are considered equally for opportunities in government.

According to him, individuals are given positions based on their ability to contribute to national development, not their ethnic background.

“We are not selective. Whoever deserves the position will be rewarded regardless of where they come from,” he stated.

Mr. Asiedu Nketia also dismissed claims that the party sidelines certain ethnic groups, particularly Asantes, describing such assertions as unfounded.

He argued that competence and hard work remain the guiding principles for appointments.

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According to him, the party was founded on the principles of probity and accountability, and therefore individuals who violate the law must be allowed to face the full rigours of justice. He stressed that political affiliation should not be used as a shield against accountability.

He further noted that the Accra High Court gave Sedina Tamakloe Attionu ample opportunity to appear and defend herself, but she failed to do so, resulting in her being tried and convicted in absentia.

His comments follow a decision by a United States District Court approving her extradition to Ghana to serve a 10-year prison sentence for causing financial loss to the state. The ruling came after a formal request by the Government of Ghana seeking her return.

Court documents indicated that the U.S. court found sufficient legal grounds under the extradition treaty between Ghana and the United States, noting that the offences for which she was convicted also constitute crimes under U.S. law.

Sedina Tamakloe Attionu, who has been residing in the United States, is expected to be handed over to Ghanaian authorities after the necessary administrative processes are completed.

Speaking in an interview on Adom TV’s Badwam programme, Lawyer Bediako said the development should serve as a lesson to public officials and political actors to act responsibly in the discharge of their duties.

He also cautioned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) against protesting when similar legal actions are taken against their former appointees, insisting that the law must be applied fairly and consistently.

He added that the situation should prompt Ken Ofori-Atta to reconsider his decision not to return to Ghana to account for his stewardship.

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The Global InfoAnalytics poll shows that 78% of delegates are worried about job opportunities, while 13% are indifferent and 9% say they are not concerned.

Despite these concerns, 88% of respondents expressed confidence that the employment situation will improve.

Analysts say the findings point to a “dual mindset” within the party’s grassroots—frustration over current economic conditions, but continued belief in the party’s ability to deliver solutions.

The report notes that although job concerns remain widespread, particularly amid high youth unemployment and ongoing economic pressures, confidence in future progress remains strong.

The survey also highlights slight variations across age groups, with delegates aged 25–34 showing the highest levels of concern and slightly lower optimism compared to older respondents.

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The survey, released by the firm’s Executive Director, Mussa Dankwah, on Monday, April 13, 2026, shows that Johnson Asiedu Nketia continues to lead in what is described as a “top-of-the-mind” baseline assessment of potential candidates.

Despite maintaining the top spot, his advantage appears to be narrowing. The poll reveals that his lead has dropped from 16 percentage points in Week 1 to 10 percentage points in Week 2, indicating growing competition within the party.

In the latest findings, Asiedu Nketia secured 29 percent support. He is followed by Cassiel Ato Forson with 19 percent, while Haruna Iddrisu garnered 11 percent.

Julius Debrah and Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang each recorded 8 percent in the survey.

The poll also highlights a significant portion of undecided voters, with 24 percent of respondents yet to choose a preferred candidate, suggesting that the race remains fluid.

In comparison, Week 1 results had placed Asiedu Nketia at 28 percent, with a larger undecided bloc of 36 percent, while other contenders trailed behind.

The findings suggest that although Asiedu Nketia remains the frontrunner, the gap is narrowing as other aspirants gain ground, amid lingering uncertainty over who will ultimately enter the race.

The late politician passed away on Sunday, April 12, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre, where he was receiving treatment. He was 60 years old.

In a message of condolence, Dr. Bawumia described the late Braimah as a devoted stalwart of the New Patriotic Party who contributed significantly to the growth and development of the party.

He extended his sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, the people of the Salaga South Constituency, and the Savannah Regional branch of the party.

Dr. Bawumia prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased, asking Allah to grant him Jannah and accept his soul.

Salifu Braimah served as the first Savannah Regional Minister following the creation of the region and later represented the Salaga South Constituency in Parliament. He was widely regarded within the New Patriotic Party as a grassroots organiser and development-oriented politician who played a key role in the early administrative structures of the new region.

During his time in public service, he was involved in regional coordination efforts aimed at strengthening governance and improving local development outcomes in the Savannah Region.

Until his passing, he remained an active figure within the party.

The directive, issued by the Regional Chairman, forms part of measures to mourn the late former Member of Parliament for Salaga South and first Savannah Regional Minister, who passed away on April 12, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre.

As part of the mourning arrangements, the party has also ordered that all party flags across the region be flown at half-mast in honour of the deceased.

The party described Hon. Braimah, popularly known as Uncle Sally, as a devoted patriot who served both the party and the nation with distinction.

He died at the age of 62 after a short illness.

Burial arrangements are underway, with plans to lay him to rest in Kpembe in accordance with Islamic traditions.

The Savannah NPP has expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the bereaved family, assuring them of its support during this difficult period.

According to him, such offices would serve as accessible platforms for constituents to directly engage their MPs, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly while improving communication between lawmakers and the people they represent.

He made the remarks at a traditional and stakeholders’ forum held in Kasoa, where a new constituency office for the Awutu Senya East MP, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, was commissioned.

The Minister described the facility as a step in the right direction, noting that it would enhance the MP’s ability to interact with residents and respond effectively to local issues.

He stressed that replicating such initiatives nationwide would promote decentralisation and bring governance closer to the people.

He further urged stakeholders and relevant authorities to support the initiative to ensure that all constituencies benefit from improved access to parliamentary representation.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Local Government Committee of Parliament, Queenster Pokua Sawyer, clarified that plans to construct stores at the demolished Kasoa Old Market site were initiated under a previous administration and not by the current Awutu Senya East MP.

The NDC made significant gains in the region, doubling its parliamentary seats from four to eight — the first time in the party’s history it has achieved such a feat in Ashanti.

The party also improved its presidential performance, with John Dramani Mahama securing over 43,000 more votes than he did in the 2020 elections. In contrast, the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) recorded a reduction of more than 429,000 votes in 2024 compared to 2020.

Dubbed “Phase 2” of the tour of what is often referred to as the NPP’s “World Bank,” Mr. Asiedu Nketia is also expected to engage party leaders and grassroots supporters. The interactions will focus on assessing their views on the government’s performance so far, while also outlining the administration’s plans for the near future.

The tour will begin on Sunday, April 12, at Asawase, where he is scheduled to meet supporters at the Aboabo Astro Turf at 4:00 p.m.

The tour will continue across several constituencies in the region over the following days.

On Monday, April 13, he will visit:

• Manso Nkwanta at 9:00 a.m.
• Manso Adubia at 11:00 a.m.
• Odotobri at 1:00 p.m.
• Fomena at 2:30 p.m.
• Bekwai at 4:00 p.m.
• Bosomtwe at 5:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, April 14, the team will move to:

• Sekyere Afram Plains (Dagomba) at 9:00 a.m.
• Kumawu at 11:00 a.m.
• Effiduase Asokore at 1:00 p.m.
• Juaben at 2:30 p.m.
• Oforikrom at 4:00 p.m.
• Asokwa at 5:30 p.m.

On Wednesday, April 15, the tour will cover:

• Atwima Mponua at 9:00 a.m.
• Atwima Nwabiagya South at Church of Pentecost, Asenemaso Central at 11:00 a.m.
• Atwima Kwanwoma at Saviour Church, Adumasa at 1:00 p.m.
• Old Tafo at Tafo Methodist Church, opposite the NDC Party Office at 2:30 p.m.
• Manhyia North at Moshie Zongo Park at 3:30 p.m.
• Manhyia South at Abbis Park Sub-Metro, Ash Town at 4:30 p.m.
• Subin at the forecourt of the Regional Party Office at 5:30 p.m.

The tour will conclude on Thursday, April 16, with visits to:

• Bosome Freho at 9:00 a.m.
• Asante Akim South at 11:00 a.m.
• Asante Akim Central at 1:00 p.m.
• Asante Akim North at 2:30 p.m.
• Ejisu at 4:00 p.m.

The tour forms part of the NDC’s efforts to consolidate its gains in the Ashanti Region while strengthening engagement with party supporters at the grassroots level.

Members of the opposition New Patriotic Party in the Ashanti Region have, for months, criticised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government for allegedly failing to operationalise hospitals under the initiative.

They argue that the Akufo-Addo-led administration commissioned health facilities including Kokoben, Sewua, and Trede hospitals before exiting office.

However, speaking on Nhyria FM’s Kro Yi Mu Nsem on Thursday, April 9, 2026, Mr. Nurudeen dismissed the allegations, describing Agenda 111 as unplanned projects initiated by the NPP.

“The NPP never considered establishing Agenda 111 hospitals. It was the COVID-19 pandemic that drew their attention to such projects. If you look at their 2016 manifesto, there was nothing indicating they would construct these hospitals,” he told host Barima Kofi Dawson.

Mr. Nurudeen insisted that the projects allegedly commissioned had not been completed, stressing that they lack essential facilities such as electricity and other medical installations needed for operation.

He explained that the previous administration failed to secure sufficient funding for completion, leaving the current government with the burden of finishing the projects.

“Many of the facilities they commissioned cannot be operational because they lack essential amenities like electricity, making it difficult to employ health professionals,” he said.

Mr. Nurudeen further alleged that Agenda 111 became a “corruption machinery” at the presidency under the previous administration, claiming that contracts were awarded by the Chief of Staff instead of the Ministry of Health.

He also alleged that over $500 million was spent on the projects, an amount he said could have completed more than 50 fully equipped hospitals.

According to him, the current government will require over $2 billion to complete all Agenda 111 infrastructure projects.

“Because of corruption, they wasted $500 million and our assessment indicates that we need $2 billion to complete all the projects. Meanwhile, the economy we inherited is bad, with over $30 billion in debt. This year alone, we are paying about ¢50 billion in debt servicing,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mr. Nurudeen says the government is working to secure the necessary funds to complete the projects.