At the 46th anniversary of the June 4 uprising, held at Agormanya Lasi Park in the Eastern Region, NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah announced that the party’s Functional Executive Committee (FEC) has approved a series of proposals—pending ratification by the National Executive Committee (NEC)—to honour Rawlings’ towering influence.

Top among these is the renaming of the party’s national headquarters to “Jerry Rawlings House.”

“Party headquarters across the world are named after their founders. Ghana cannot be an exception. We will begin the process to rename our national headquarters as Rawlings House,” Asiedu Nketiah declared to thunderous applause.

He also revealed plans to amend the party’s constitution to designate June 22, Rawlings’ birthday, as a significant party day. Additionally, the entire month of June is proposed to be commemorated annually as “NDC Month.”

Asiedu Nketia did not hold back in expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of Revolutionary Square, located opposite the Jubilee House.

“Please establish a planning committee to advise on how we can get Revolutionary Square back to its original status. If we need to contact the Museums and Monuments Board, it must be done.

“It doesn’t just represent a monument—it teaches our youth a lesson,” he charged.

The June 4 uprising, led by then Flight Lieutenant Rawlings in 1979, remains a cornerstone of the NDC’s political heritage, symbolising the values of accountability, discipline, and revolutionary change.

The proposed reforms are seen as a major attempt by the party to institutionalise this legacy for future generations.

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Mr. Coker reportedly passed on Saturday, May 31, 2025.

Accra-based Citi News reports that the sudden demise occurred at the Bank Hospital after a short illness.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and NDC Director of Legal Affairs, Edudzi Tameklo confirmed the news in a post on Facebook with a  glowing tribute.

Chairman Coker as he was affectionately called was admired by many for his outspoken views on national and political issues and was highly regarded by the NDC grassroots.

He served as NDC Chairman for three consecutive terms after first being elected in 2009.

He lost his re-election bid in 2022 to the current regional chairman and former Adentan MP , Emmanuel Nii Ashie Moore.

Scores of Ghanaians and NDC members have taken to social media to mourn him.

Speaking on the floor of the House on Tuesday, May 27, after Parliament resumed sitting, Mr. Ayariga urged that all NPP backbenchers present on the day in question be referred to the Privileges Committee for investigation over what he described as a “breach of privilege.”

According to him, despite a one-week ultimatum from the Speaker of Parliament for the individual responsible to own up, no one has taken responsibility. He insisted that the Majority Caucus will not allow the matter to go unresolved.

“The Majority Caucus will demand that all the NPP members of the backbench who were sitting in the direction where the unsavory statement came from should be referred to the Privileges Committee for investigation of a contempt and breach of the privileges of a member,” he stated.

Reiterating the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus’s stance, Mr. Ayariga condemned the remark and described it as a disgraceful moment in the House’s recent history.

Background

The controversy surrounds the “daughter of a murderer” comment made in Parliament, a derogatory remark directed at Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle and daughter of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.

The incident occurred during a parliamentary session on February 4, amid heated discussions commemorating the 60th anniversary of the death of Joseph Boakye Danquah.

As Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin addressed the House, an unidentified male voice from the parliamentary backbench interrupted, shouting, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!”

The comment insinuated that Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings’ father was responsible for past political killings—a claim that has long been the subject of historical debate.

The outburst triggered immediate chaos in the chamber, with members expressing shock and disapproval.

The Speaker of Parliament subsequently issued a one-week ultimatum for the MP responsible to voluntarily come forward or face severe consequences.

To date, no MP has owned up to making the statement.

Source: MyJoyOnline

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His remarks follow the arrest of Alfred Ababio Kumi, a former NPP parliamentary aspirant, by operatives of the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) earlier today.

Popularly known as Adenta Kumi, he was charged with the publication of false news after submitting a petition to President John Mahama calling for the dissolution of a committee investigating the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

In his petition, Adenta Kumi alleged that two committee members and a lawyer for one of the petitioners were seen discussing the case at a restaurant, raising concerns about bias.

Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews, the NPP spokesperson criticized the timing of Mr. Kumi’s arrest, suggesting it was politically motivated.

“The manner in which you do it determines whether it is the enforcement of the law or a political witch-hunt—and that’s what the government must be sensitive to.
So, the NDC cannot claim ignorance. They know what they’re doing. They’ve been in government before. There are seasoned individuals handling our security, and they know how to avoid political interference.
But they haven’t done so—because they know it’s political. What the NDC is doing is not law enforcement; it’s an attempt to show where the power lies. And that’s the danger to our democracy,” he said.

The NPP has accused state security agencies of undue aggression, claiming that recent arrests of opposition figures—including Kumi—reflect a broader pattern of intimidation. Ahiagbah argued that the government is exploiting state institutions to suppress dissent rather than upholding the rule of law impartially.

Mr. Kumi’s petition, submitted on May 19, called for the dissolution of the Chief Justice removal committee, citing compromised integrity after an alleged private meeting between committee members and a petitioner’s lawyer at an Accra restaurant.

His arrest shortly after has fueled accusations of political retaliation.

The NPP has condemned the arrest, framing it as part of a wider crackdown on opposition voices.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) board member characterised the incident as a misstep but emphasised Gyamfi’s significant contributions to both the NDC and the country.

“Of course, Sammy Gyamfi should have known that he is a public figure, and President John Mahama is mindful of Ghanaians’ sentiments relating to those matters,” Mr Adongo acknowledged. “I would say it is an error; he has erred, and I think he will learn from it.”

The Bolgatanga Central MP urged the public and party faithful to take a broader view of Gyamfi’s record, particularly highlighting his leadership in establishing the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

“He is a shining star for us [NDC] and has so far done very well to start GoldBod from scratch. The kinds of systems he is developing at GoldBod to ensure that we have a very robust gold export regime are commendable,” he stated.

Acknowledging the tense political environment, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee suggested that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) could exploit such moments to discredit key NDC figures.

“Given the kind of work that he did against the NPP government in 2024, you should expect that they will come after him,” he noted.

Despite the controversy, Adongo called for understanding and support for promising young leaders like Sammy Gyamfi.

“He still has a long future ahead of him, and I do believe that we cannot throw out the baby with the bathwater,” he remarked.

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Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, speaking on PM Express, said the NDC came into office not just to govern, but to repair the deep moral and economic damage left behind by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

“We do not expect to achieve excellence in four months,” Mr. Kwetey said, pushing back against rising criticism of the government’s pace.

“First of all, you must appreciate that we are taking over a country that is not in a very good place—and that is not just being political.”

The Ketu South MP described the country under Akufo-Addo as one that didn’t just suffer economic decline but something more corrosive.

“We’re talking about a country that’s gone through what I call eight years of moral decadence. You cannot have gone through eight years of such soulless leadership, as we have seen in an Akufo-Addo government, and expect that within a matter of four months, everything is going to just be excellent.”

When host Evans Mensah reminded him that the NDC itself set a 120-day target for results, Mr. Kwetey responded that “Ultimately, what matters more is what Ghanaians feel.”

“I think the people of Ghana feel confident that they have a leadership that is not perfect, but a leadership that is determined to ensure that it does far better than what we have seen over the last eight years.”

He said the real measure of the government’s success isn’t abstract timelines or campaign promises, but the faith of ordinary Ghanaians.

“Not just in terms of the character of the leadership, but in terms of the desire to accomplish something for the country,” he said. “Not to spend all the time lamenting over the past, but try to fix the problem.”

Mr. Kwetey insisted that the current government is not repeating the mistakes of the NPP.

“It’s a leadership that you can clearly see is laying foundations and sowing seeds that will bring about a transformation of the economy,” he said. “And generally, it’s a leadership that wasn’t there before.”

He framed the challenge not as one of optics or political messaging but as a long-term project that demands patience and trust.

The new government, he said, is focused on deep reforms, not flashy results.

“We are not here to play to the gallery,” he said. “We are here to restore the very soul of the country, which was crushed by an administration that lost its moral compass.”

For Fifi Kwetey, the road to national recovery will be hard, and it will take more than four months—but what matters now is that the country is finally on the right path.

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He said they want glory now while distancing themselves from the severe economic mess they created during their time in power.

During his appearance on JoyNews’ PM Express, the Ketu South MP accused the NPP of cherry-picking economic narratives to cover up its failings.

“They want to take credit for the recent cedi stability but forget that they were the very architects of the collapse,” he said.

“You can’t run away from the disaster and come back when it looks like a fix is on the way.”

According to Mr. Kwetey, the NPP’s behaviour is hypocritical and disingenuous.

“It’s almost as if they caused the house to burn down and now want applause for showing up with a cup of water,” he said.

“They ran away from every negative indicator—the inflation, the debt, the hardships—but now that the currency is inching back up, they want to suddenly own it.”

He accused the NPP of abandoning responsibility the moment Ghana’s economy spiralled under their watch, only to re-emerge with self-congratulatory rhetoric now that the NDC government is implementing tough but necessary reforms.

“If they had that much faith in their own economic team, why did they spend their last year in power pointing fingers and hiding behind excuses?” he asked.

Mr. Kwetey warned that Ghanaians must not fall for what he described as the NPP’s desperate attempt to stay politically relevant by distorting the facts.

“This is an opposition that created the crisis. Now they want to claim the recovery they did nothing to bring about,” he said.

He then turned his attention to the judiciary, suggesting the NPP is now in panic because they can no longer rely on the protection they allegedly enjoyed from the Chief Justice.

“The NPP’s worry is that they feel her departure makes it difficult for them now to feel safe when cases are brought against them,” he said.

“Because they are now afraid that the person who could possibly be manipulating the system to help them is no longer there.”

Mr. Kwetey was reacting to growing concerns around the Chief Justice, against whom a prima facie case has been established. For him, this is not about political vengeance but about principle.

“If the person in charge of the country’s justice system can’t be held to the same laws the rest of us must obey, then what kind of justice do we have?” he asked.

He added: “As far as I’m concerned, if she has done everything okay, there’s no problem. But if there’s a problem and it’s established, then that’s it. She has to go.”

When host Evans Mensah posed a counter question, suggesting that the NDC might also have a vested interest in removing her to ensure favourable court rulings, Mr. Kwetey dismissed the idea.

“We are looking for justice,” he stressed. “Justice simply means that if you truly abuse the system, you should go. Whether it benefits us or not is not the point. The point is that wrong is wrong.”

He said he trusts the Council of State and the individuals involved in reviewing the matter. “These are noble people, including a former Chief Justice and a former Speaker of Parliament,” he said. “They will not go on a witch hunt.”

He also defended President John Mahama’s leadership and sense of fairness. “I know John Mahama. He’s not petty. He doesn’t target innocent people. But once a case is established, we must act.”

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The incident, which occurred on Saturday, 11 May, and has since gone viral on social media, shows Mr. Gyamfi handing dollars to a self-styled preacher, Nana Agradaa, after a brief exchange.

The footage sparked public backlash and reignited conversations about ethical leadership.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Mr. Gbande admitted that while Mr. Gyamfi’s actions were not unlawful, they were inappropriate given his status and the sensitivity of the political landscape.

“At this point, I would like to align myself with a number of reasonable Ghanaians who say, ‘Okay, it should never have happened, it shouldn’t happen again.’ He hasn’t broken the law, but we think that because of where he is, it shouldn’t have happened,” Mr. Gbande said.

He noted that although the gesture may have been well-intentioned, its execution did not resonate well with the public. “That gesture, even though it was of good intention, didn’t sit well with a lot of people. I think they are right, and we take responsibility and join our colleague to still apologise to the people of Ghana. It will never happen again. We would keep learning,” he added.

However, Mr. Gbande, who’s also a presidential staffer, criticised the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he described as hypocritical criticism, questioning their moral authority on matters of corruption.

“It doesn’t give anybody from the NPP the audacity to sit on TV and want to criticise this matter because they don’t have any moral credibility as far as corruption-related offences are concerned. They themselves represent corruption,” he asserted.

The NDC’s apology comes amidst growing calls from civil society and political observers for accountability and discipline in political office, especially in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, he defended the government’s handling of the case involving the Chief Justice and emphasized that no one should be above the law, not even the one who presides over it.

“This country’s very soul thrives on freedom and justice,” the Ketu South MP stated.

“But if it’s pretty clear that the one who is supposed to be in charge of the justice of our country herself is not able to live up to the high mantra of doing things according to the law, then charity must begin at home,” he added.

Mr. Kwetey reiterated that the probe into the Chief Justice’s conduct is not politically motivated but driven by a deep commitment to accountability.

“As far as I’m concerned, if she has done everything okay, there’s no problem,” he noted. “But if there’s a problem and it’s established, then that’s it.”

He insisted that the process must be allowed to unfold without interference.

“I trust the people who make up the Council of State, including a former Chief Justice of our country and a former Speaker of Parliament. I think those are noble people who will not simply go on a witch hunt. They will be able to do a proper job,” he said.

He also defended President Mahama’s integrity in handling the matter.

“I know John Mahama as a person. He is not a petty-minded person who simply wants to take an innocent person and punish,” he said.

The NDC General Secretary emphasized that a prima facie case has already been established and that the next steps must follow the law.

“Clearly, once a case is established against her, she has to go. And if the case is shown that she actually has no case to answer, there is no problem,” he asserted.

Mr. Kwetey accused the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) of panicking over the situation.

“The NPP worries that they feel her departure makes it difficult for them to feel safe when cases are brought against them. Because now they are afraid that the person who could possibly be manipulating the system to help them is no more,” he said.

When host Evans Mensah pointed out that the same logic could be used to accuse the NDC of wanting her removed for their advantage, Mr. Kwetey responded: “We are looking for justice. Justice simply means that if you truly abuse the system, you should go. If you are guilty, you should be out.”

He rejected any suggestion that the government was using the situation to neutralize judicial opposition.

“This is not about fear. It’s about principle. The law must be applied, even at the highest levels,” he stated.

For Mr. Kwetey, the message is clear: the pursuit of justice must be blind to position or power.

And in this case, the Chief Justice should face scrutiny like any other public servant, he concluded.

“Let justice take its course, even if it reaches the Chief Justice,” he said.

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In a post on Facebook, Mr. Sosu argued that the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) committed no crime.

According to him, Mr. Gyamfi’s critics are only upset because they never imagined his elevation could become a blessing to others.

The lawmaker, who is also a human rights lawyer, encouraged Sammy Gyamfi to stay focused in the wake of calls for punitive action against him.

“It is well. You committed no crime. The haters are hurt. They can’t believe that God can lift and bless you such that you can become a blessing unto others. Leave them – let them do their worst. We got you. God has your back. Stay focused and blessed,” Mr. Sosu wrote.

Meanwhile, although Mr. Gyamfi has apologised for the gesture, he has been summoned by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah.

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According to him, Mr. Gyamfi, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (Goldboard), made an unwarranted gesture.

In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Dartey stated that Sammy Gyamfi wanted to test President John Mahama on the Code of Conduct for appointees.

In this regard, the lawyer believes an example must be made of Sammy Gyamfi to serve as a deterrent to appointees and Ghanaians at large.

“Sammy Gyamfi wants to test the President on the Code of Conduct and find out whether he is serious in his campaign, or it is a nine-day wonder or a mere joke.

Because anyone who hears this will know that Sammy Gyamfi’s action is not the best. So the president must punish him and set him as an example,” he stated.

However, Mr. Dartey expressed skepticism about any sanctions over Mr. Gyamfi’s action, considering his role and contribution in the NDC.

“Considering his role in the NDC and his scale of importance, whether the President will act is another thing altogether. If the president fails, then clearly the code of conduct is just paper policy and paper laws. It will mean he is not serious. I may be wrong and if I am wrong, then I’m sorry,” he noted.

His remarks come in the wake of widespread backlash after Sammy Gyamfi was captured in a viral video gifting dollars in public to Nana Agradaa.

The latter has claimed it was $800 for fuel after she requested it.

Despite Sammy’s apology, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has summoned him for an explanation, which Mr. Dartey believes is in the right direction but has emphasised the need for it to yield results.

“Nobody is a saint; we are all mortals with our weakness and faults. That is why the rod is there to punish and correct us when we go wrong.

Because if Sammy Gyamfi, the pillar of resistance in the NDC, wasn’t made a minister but as CEO will gift gold contrary to the President’s directive, he must be disciplined then we can take the President seriously,” he added.

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His nomination is announced in line with Article 243 of the 1992 constitution as the Local Governance Act, 2016(Act 936) as amended by the Local Governance (Amendment) Act,2017, and currently pending approval by the Asante Akyem Central Assembly.

Asante Akyem Central Municipal is one of the 260 metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies(MMDAs) in Ghana and forms part of the 43 MMDAs in the Ashanti region with Konongo as its Administrative Capital.

Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo is a Deputy Director of the Ghana Education Service(GES) holds a PHD, and is also a Reverend Minister.

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In an exclusive interview with JoyNews on Thursday, May 8, Prof Oquaye questioned the neutrality of committee members appointed to investigate such matters, suggesting that personal affiliations could override the facts presented.

He explained that the current process for suspending a sitting Chief Justice risks concentrating excessive power in the hands of the president, stating that, “once the President decides you should go, you are on your way out,” he said.

Prof Oquaye’s comment comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding a petition for the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

He questioned the fairness and transparency of the disciplinary mechanism, particularly the influence the president wields in triggering the process.

“I don’t know why, very often, we don’t analytically recall historical events,” he said, urging Ghanaians to examine the long-term implications of such procedures.

The former Speaker’s comments come amid national debate over a petition to remove Ghana’s Chief Justice.

He expressed dismay over how the matter has unfolded publicly, including media leaks and questions over due process.

While declining to comment on specific facts of the petition case, he emphasised the need for a principled discussion on the fairness of the process.

“What I am very much keen upon is exactly the issue that I’ve discussed, and it must be resolved as a preliminary issue,” Prof Oquaye said.

“If you were to put me in such a trial, I wouldn’t go and I wouldn’t plead, I wouldn’t say anything.”

He criticised the notion of closed-door disciplinary proceedings, describing them as akin to a “star chamber court” and inherently unjust.

“Nobody wants a secret trial, even in our traditional system, which is guaranteed by this constitution,” he noted, adding that, unlike other judicial staff who can appeal disciplinary actions, the Chief Justice in this process has no such recourse.

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According to Frank Davies, Justice Atuguba should remain quiet in retirement and refrain from making public comments that, in his view, undermine the judiciary.

Speaking on JoyFM’s Top Story on Wednesday, May 7, Mr. Davies stated that Justice Atuguba’s choice of words was unbecoming of someone who once served on the nation’s highest court.

“Justice Atuguba, don’t do this. He is now telling us that the Supreme Court is politicised. That is his language,” he said.

“The language Justice Atuguba uses on radio—‘rubbish’ and all that—for a Justice of the Supreme Court… I hold him in high regard. I have sat on the General Legal Council with him for many years and have learned so much from him. I would rather pray that Justice Atuguba stops these commentaries.”

His comments follow Justice Atuguba’s criticism of the NPP’s handling of the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Justice Atuguba dismissed the NPP’s reaction to the suspension as “rubbish,” stating that their posture merely advances a political narrative.

The Supreme Court, in a narrow 3–2 ruling delivered on Tuesday, dismissed a case brought by Old Tafo MP Ekow Vincent Assafuah. The case challenged President Mahama’s decision to suspend and initiate removal proceedings against the Chief Justice following allegations of misconduct.

“Scanning through the events in court, that is rubbish,” Justice Atuguba said, arguing that the NPP had raised no objections when Justice Torkornoo made rulings in their favour.

Mr. Davies further accused the retired judge of demonstrating political bias in favour of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), warning that his remarks risk damaging the credibility of sitting judges.

“Now, he is just trying to paint them with a brush. What he said was that if the panel had not been reconstituted, would we have had a 3-2 decision? Excuse me, Justice Atuguba, stop doing this to the judiciary,” he stated.

Addressing claims about recent Supreme Court decisions, Mr. Davies rejected allegations that Chief Justice Torkornoo had manipulated court panels to influence outcomes.

“These quarrels about unanimous decisions, and that when Justice Torkornoo was Chief Justice she empanelled justices to secure predetermined rulings, are simply not true,” he said.

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Justice Atuguba described the GBA’s activities as “repugnant” and chastised the umbrella body for Ghana’s lawyers for being selective in their engagement on national issues.

The GBA had intensified its opposition to President Mahama’s suspension of the Chief Justice, warning of imminent legal action unless the directive is revoked. Its stance was outlined in a National Executive Council resolution from its recent mid-year conference, where it declared the suspension unconstitutional.

According to the GBA, President Mahama, who is neither a judge nor a judicial officer, exercised discretion “in the absence of a published Constitutional Instrument, Statutory Instrument, or Regulation(s)” as required under Article 296 of the 1992 Constitution.

Responding to the issue on The Pulse, aired on Joy News on Tuesday, 7 May, Justice Atuguba accused the GBA of varying its vocalism according to which political party holds power.

He recalled that in 2015, former Chief Justice Georgina Wood had delegated him to represent her at Law Week celebrations, where he noted in his lecture that “The Ghana Bar Association appears to be moved to comment on national issues according to their political colouration.”

“I think during Kufuor’s time, they started muting their voices… The proper approach is to be consistently vocal and proactive, and what they were doing contradicted that. Now, when the NDC comes to power, you hear them again,” he said.

The eminent retired judge added that President Mahama had not violated any constitutional provisions in suspending the Chief Justice.

“I think originally they [GBA] adopted a balanced position on this matter… So, which law have they now found to have been broken?” he questioned.

Justice Atuguba also criticized the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) over its handling of the Chief Justice’s suspension, dismissing its response as “rubbish” and suggesting it merely advanced their political narrative.

This came as the Supreme Court, in a narrow 3-2 ruling on Tuesday, 7 May, dismissed a case brought by Old Tafo MP Ekow Vincent Assafuah challenging the President’s decision to suspend and initiate removal proceedings against the Chief Justice following misconduct allegations.

“Scanning through the events in court, that is rubbish,” Justice Atuguba stated, arguing that the NPP had raised no objections when Justice Torkonoo made decisions favorable to them.

The suspension has sparked cross-party controversy. While the Presidency maintains it complies with constitutional requirements, the NPP has condemned it as a politically motivated attack on judicial independence.

The party has staged protests in Accra, attended by hundreds of supporters, executives, sympathizers, and members of other opposition parties.

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During his campaign in opposition, Mahama laid out 25 specific promises, boldly setting himself a 120-day deadline for full implementation if elected.

These pledges cut across critical sectors: nine economic promises, four governance reforms, seven in education and social welfare, three on national security and justice, and one each on environment and tourism, respectively.

So, what is the scorecard for the President’s first 120 days?

According to a detailed assessment by JoyNews Research, Mahama’s administration has achieved a 52% completion rate.

In the breakdown ahead, we present the specifics: which promises have been delivered, which are in progress, and which remain pending. Let’s get into the details.

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According to him, Afenyo-Markin must bow his head in shame over the act of violence he allegedly exhibited.

In a viral video that has sparked widespread condemnation, Mr Afenyo-Markin was captured visibly agitated while attempting to hit an officer behind a barricade during the protest.

However, the Effutu MP clarified in a statement that his reaction was a protest against the actions of an officer he identified as Constable Forson, denying allegations that he was the aggressor.

He alleged that Constable Forson struck him forcefully in the chest near his heart as he approached the barricade to present a petition.

Afenyo-Markin noted that senior police officers and colleagues promptly intervened, offering him water to help him regain composure before he presented the petition.

But in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Gbande, who also serves as the Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency, alleged otherwise.

He claimed that Afenyo-Markin slapped the police officer unprovoked, and therefore, the officer cannot be accused of being the aggressor.

“A few years ago, policemen were used to stop even protesting MPs from going to the EC’s office, but now, they even had the chance to go to the Jubilee House.

“Afenyo-Markin, who is the leader of the Minority and in whom the NPP pins its hopes, slapped a police officer. The NPP and Afenyo-Markin should bow their heads in shame,” he claimed.

In a related development, while the police have invited Mr Afenyo-Markin as part of investigations, the lawmaker has also lodged a formal complaint and petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate and institute disciplinary action against the said policeman.

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In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Kennedy dismissed the claim as mere political talk.

Dr. Kennedy’s remarks come in the wake of widespread criticism over President Mahama’s recommendation of seven Court of Appeal justices for nomination to the Supreme Court.

According to the NPP, the nominations—following the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo—form part of a veiled attempt to pursue a third-term agenda.

However, Dr. Kennedy has said it is unfortunate for the two issues to be politicised or conflated.

“Petitions were brought against the Chief Justice, and in accordance with Article 146, the President forwarded them to the Council of State, which I believe is a wise move,” he said.

He further emphasized that suspending the Chief Justice was the right move, as she could not have presided over her own case due to a clear conflict of interest.

Dr. Kennedy noted that while judicial independence is essential, it should not come at the expense of accountability.

“So if petitions have been brought against the Chief Justice, she must respond, but that does not mean she is guilty. We must ensure there is due process by allowing the system to work,” he urged.

Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Deputy General Secretary, Mustapha Gbande, has described the claims as a tactic to divert attention from the constitutionally sanctioned suspension of the Chief Justice, warning that such political games risk damaging institutions far beyond the NDC or Mahama.

Listen to Dr. Kennedy in the audio above:

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Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he accused the NPP of resorting to “rumour-mongering and paranoia” in the face of legal and constitutional processes they clearly oppose but cannot stop.

“One, it is no longer just that Chief Justice Torkornoo was unfairly treated, but that they can see into the future that President Mahama would have to do a third term. And for that, they are scared,” said the Director of Operations at the Presidency.

When asked directly whether President Mahama intends to pursue a third term, Gbande retorted, “Evans, why are we being invited into this distracting conversation? Is it in the place of the NPP to determine constitutional interpretation?”

He described the claims as a tactic to divert attention from the core issue at hand—the constitutionally sanctioned suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo—saying, “They are inviting President Mahama to do a great injustice to the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.”

Mustapha Gbande warned that such political games risk damaging institutions far beyond the NDC or Mahama.

“The manner in which they are politicising this whole matter would injure the Chief Justice herself,” he cautioned. “You are further exposing the Chief Justice politically and aligning her to a particular opinion or argument from a group of people, which is not fair to her.”

He lashed out at the NPP for hypocrisy and selective outrage, questioning why the party was suddenly concerned about commentary from NDC members while ignoring the initial leaks and coverage by media figures aligned with them.

“Why is it that Egyapa Mercer is accusing Sammy Gyamfi and Edudzi of commenting on the matter, when Paul Adom-Otchere was the one who actually serialised the Chief Justice’s response and put it out there?” he asked. “Why are they running away from that conversation?”

Mustapha Gbande insisted that the NPP had no moral ground to question the process since it was rooted in law, not public sentiment.

“They have demonstrated, but at the end of the day, the inconsistencies with which they have finished their demonstration is my trouble,” he said.

He argued that the protest itself, which brought thousands of NPP supporters into Accra, proved the point that constitutional freedoms were intact and being exercised, even as the same demonstrators alleged their rights were being undermined.

“In fact, to demonstrate early morning, bringing people from Winneba and Kumasi to come and protest in Accra, that is a right given to them by the same Constitution they claim is under threat,” Mustapha Gbande said.

He called on the NPP to “hasten slowly” and stop projecting imaginary scenarios as facts.

“Tomorrow, if people come out to say things that even border on criminality as far as the Chief Justice is concerned, the NPP will be put to shame,” he warned.

Mustapha Gbande concluded that if the NPP truly cared about the judiciary, they would allow due process to take its course instead of dragging judges into political crossfire and manufacturing fear over constitutional ghosts that don’t exist.

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Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Afenyo-Markin emphasised that in Ghanaian politics, party identity often holds more weight than the individual candidate.

“When going into a presidential election, it is not about the individual. Look at the history of those who went as independent candidates. In the end, it is the party brand that matters,” he said.

He referred to the legacy of the NPP, explaining that voters relate to its tradition and achievements.

“People know the NPP tradition – UP, PP, PFP, and now the NPP. They know the ‘Osono’ party. They know what Kufuor did, what Busia did, and what Akufo-Addo has done on the NPP ticket.”

Afenyo-Markin recalled his university days, noting how difficult it used to be for students to publicly associate with the NDC.

“Back then, if you were contesting for SRC or hall president and someone said, ‘Oh, that guy is NDC,’ that was the end of your campaign. So even if you weren’t NPP, you would say you were.”

He commended the NDC for recognising this image problem and making efforts to correct it, particularly through campus outreach.

“Today, let me commend the NDC. Sometimes, you must recognise something good in your opponent. Over the years, the NDC has worked on their image, and it has helped them. On campuses, they started outreach programmes, and students in TEIN became bold enough to say, ‘I am NDC.’ It was no longer only NPP students who were vocal,” he lauded.

He added that the long-held perception that academia naturally leaned toward the NPP has also shifted.

“We took it for granted that the academic space belonged to us. But over time, the NDC has worked hard. Now you see doctors and professors boldly talking about their party. That wasn’t the case 20 or 25 years ago.”

He also mentioned that the NDC had made strategic efforts to improve its presence within the legal profession.

“I once gave an interview and spoke about how people used to believe almost every lawyer was NPP. The NDC saw this and decided to invest in that area too.”

According to Afenyo-Markin, these developments should serve as lessons for the NPP, which is now in opposition.

“In Parliament, as the opposition, we must take note. We need to focus on engaging the youth, professionals, the business community, and students. We must help them understand not only our ideology, but also what we can do for them,” he stated.

He concluded by urging the NPP to begin preparations ahead of the 2028 general elections.

“As part of our rebranding, it is our duty as the Minority Caucus to give people confidence in the party. With that in place, we will be repairing the NPP vehicle for whoever wins the flagbearership to take over and lead us to victory in 2028.”

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According to him, the NPP must focus on learning from its defeat and mistakes for a strong comeback in the 2028 election.

In an interview on Asempa FM Ekosii Sen, the former General Secretary emphasised that the electoral loss should be a moment of sober reflection for the NPP.

“When you go into an election, there is an overwhelming goodwill for the new government, and it is normal. So you plan your communication and everything for the people to know that you are learning.

“That is why we put together this Prof. Oquaye committee. This is not the time for us to vent because it has never healed anything,” he said.

He stated that it was unnecessary to identify and blame anybody for the defeat.

“This is not the time to name and shame but for sober reflection. The document is not meant for public consumption so we can just put together a team to deliberate on the report and take the necessary steps because that is what matters,” he added.

Listen to Mr. Agyepong in the audio above:

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Speaking to party stakeholders at the beginning of his national Thank You Tour in Takoradi on Saturday, Dr. Bawumia said internal bickering, leading to certain explosive comments by key members against the party and government, contributed to the party’s defeat.

“Unity is key in every group endeavour but for the 2024 Elections we faced the issue internal issues.”

“Some of our own members attacked the party and government publicly and our opponents, the NDC, played back these words by our own members against us through series of adverts in the media.”

“They used the words against us and if the attack is coming from your own members, you can imagine the effect.”

Dr. Bawumia called for a United front within the party, saying such bickering, which affected the party in 2024, will continue to derail the cause of the party of not curbed.

“These people (NPP), up until now, still do not know why they lost the election, and I am happy they are still trying to figure it out. Even after the report presented by Prof. Mike Oquaye, they still do not know why they lost. You see? They don’t know, and they will not know,” he said on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, April 23.

Dr. Tanko-Computer’s comments followed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent statement that the party’s defeat was due to voter apathy among its supporters, rather than any religious factors.

Dr. Tanko-Computer added that the NDC is working hard to retain power in the 2028 elections, saying, “We are preparing 30% for them in 2028, and thank God, we are moving in the right direction.”

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In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Gyamfi explained that although he could not name the individual members, their advice significantly influenced the President’s decision.

“The President forwarded these petitions to the Council of State in accordance with the law and also to the Chief Justice. Out of the 31 members, 30 voted for an investigation into the petition. These are eminent personalities—not partisan or politically exposed people,” he said.

His comments come after President John Mahama suspended Chief Justice Torkornoo on Tuesday, April 22, following the establishment of a prima facie case in response to three separate petitions calling for her removal.

The action, in line with Article 146(6) of the 1992 Constitution, and after consultation with the Council of State, has set the stage for a formal inquiry by a five-member committee.

The suspension has sparked heated public debate, with many—especially members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)—describing it as politically motivated and a witch hunt.

However, Gyamfi cautioned against hasty judgments and the politicisation of the process, stressing that no one has declared the Chief Justice guilty.

“Nobody in the NDC declared that we would sack the Chief Justice when voted into power, neither has any NDC member submitted any petition,” he said.

“But we are creating the impression that the Chief Justice is a demigod and above the law. Is that what people are saying? Are we governed by the rule of law or by the Chief Justice? Nobody is saying she is guilty, but there are issues to be answered,” he stated.

He concluded, “I don’t know who the last person is, but they all can’t be NDC members, have personal issues with the Chief Justice, or hate her for pursuing a partisan interest.”

Listen to Sammy Gyamfi in the audio above:

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According to him, the NDC, as a corporate body, never supported the calls for a state of emergency.

“Go and check me. I spoke on it even on Good Morning Ghana. I said I disagreed with them—that the problem was not to declare any state of emergency.

“What we had to do was to declare a state of emergency on Akufo-Addo and his gang and vote them out because they were the ones supervising the illegal mining menace,” he stated.

Mr. Gyamfi, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Gold Board (Goldbod), disclosed this in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, while acknowledging that some individuals within the party had supported the calls.

“It was in 2017/18 when the NPP banned mining that we exported more gold, and such a feat has not been attained since then. The ban was a façade, and so I didn’t support calls for a state of emergency because they would have hidden behind it and taken people’s concessions,” he added.

Sammy Gyamfi’s clarification comes amid growing calls for President John Mahama to declare a state of emergency, as illegal mining activities continue to worsen.

There has been pressure on the President to follow through on his earlier promises to declare a state of emergency.

Meanwhile, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has affirmed the government’s commitment to addressing illegal mining activities.

He stated that the government is exploring all possible measures, including declaring a state of emergency and temporarily banning small-scale mining, to clamp down on the menace.

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During a press conference on Monday, April 21, at the constituency party office in Kpandai, the Real Concerned Youth issued a statement clarifying that their intention was not to attack anyone but to promote unity and uphold the values that bind the NDC in the district.

They emphasised their commitment to defending the party’s integrity and ensuring due process in the DCE selection.

The youth, led by Janfour Benipoumchie, reminded the public that the power to appoint a District Chief Executive rests solely with the President of the Republic.

Their position, as the Real Concerned Youth of the NDC in Kpandai, is clear and principled: “The President has the right to appoint any qualified, competent, and loyal member of the party from the three shortlisted candidates, should he deem them fit.”

“In fact, we want to remind them that 17 party members in total applied for the DCE position when the three names were published by Tamale radio. The remaining 14 aspirants and their numerous supporters did not rise up in protest. Were they fools? Don’t they also have followers? Couldn’t they have destabilised the party? They did not, because they respected the process.

“Even though it did not go their way, they still respected the process and kept faith. If those 14 had reacted with the same energy and resistance being shown now, would the three shortlisted individuals have had the peace of mind to travel to Accra for vetting? This shows the maturity and discipline of the remaining 14 aspirants. That is what we call respect and love for the party,” Janfour Benipoumchie stressed.

The youth condemned the use of derogatory language, such as “weak,” “unpopular,” or claims that someone had been “smuggled” into the process, calling such statements unfortunate, inaccurate, disrespectful, and misleading.

“Just take a look at those referring to the party leadership as weak, unpopular, and smuggled. Who among them possesses the qualities that are closer to the rank and file of the party in Kpandai? Every single individual who showed interest in this contest is a proud member of our party and has served in various capacities, sacrificed, and earned the right to be appointed as the DCE of Kpandai. We call on our colleagues to stop these baseless attacks and personal insults. We shall gain nothing by threatening each other. If anything, we weaken our party and give power to our opponents to use against us,” he added.

The group also condemned the recent attack on the Constituency Chairman, Mr. Kwame Bawa, popularly known as “Who Knows,” during the press conference held by the allegedly aggrieved youth on April 20.

They described the attack as unnecessary and disrespectful, noting that disagreements with a leader’s stance should always be addressed with respect and dignity to ensure party unity.

The Real Concerned Youth further criticised calls for the resignation of the Constituency Chairman, suggesting that such actions only served the interests of a few individuals rather than the broader party membership.

“Accusing the Constituency Chairman of betraying the constituency simply because you disagree with the process does not reflect the values of the NDC. The NDC is bigger than a few individuals’ interests. We also take serious issue with the threat issued to the President that if the President does not choose from the three names, the NDC in Kpandai will be ‘dead and buried.’ How can a few individuals from a polling station we always lose threaten the movement to appoint an individual of their interest as the DCE?” Janfour asked.

They assured the regional and national leadership that the views of the Real Concerned Youth in Kpandai represented the majority of NDC members in the district. They made it clear that the voices of the self-proclaimed aggrieved youth, who had not even won their own polling station, should not be taken seriously.

The Real Concerned NDC Youth in Kpandai expressed confidence that the NDC in the district is alive, strong, and reshaping. They called for the appointment of a DCE who would support the resetting agenda of President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government—someone who could help move the district forward, regardless of whether they were from the original shortlist.

The group also reiterated their support for the careful and thoughtful approach taken by the national leadership, as outlined by the National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who had addressed the issue of delays in MMDCE appointments.

They reminded everyone that the leadership has received multiple petitions and concerns from across the country and is taking its time to vet, consult, and appoint the most suitable candidate.

In conclusion, the Real Concerned NDC Youth in Kpandai called for unity within the party and urged their colleagues to focus on the party’s success rather than individual interests. They pledged their full support for whoever is appointed as DCE, provided the candidate is NDC, and called on all party members in Kpandai to do the same.

They also urged the President, the National Chairman, and other party executives to disregard the press conference held by the allegedly aggrieved youth, describing it as “misinforming, misleading, and ultimately selfish.”

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“He had an idea, but he went beyond. I don’t think that is the character of the person who appointed him. You should look at your leader. The demeanor of your leader and work accordingly. Your leader is not reckless so you can’t be reckless,” he stated.

Ade Coker stressed that Mr. Boadi must resort to creative ways to solve challenges.

“He should build markets for them. We want to see him building the central market and rehabilitating the place and making sure there are other satellite markets where people can go and trade. These ad-hoc measures have not been of help to us in this 21st century. Go to other countries, and you can even sleep in their markets. So I disagree with what he intended to do. If I had his phone number, I would have called him and told him you don’t sit on national television and say this,” he suggested.

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He claimed that prominent NDC figures, including former President John Mahama, promised to allow illegal mining to continue under the pretext of creating jobs.

“We told them that it is wrong for them to go and stand on a campaign trail as a presidential candidate and tell the people that ‘I don’t see the reason why the NPP would come and arrest them, people in the pit and that when I come to the office I will release you all the galamseyers,'” Aboagye said, referring to Mahama’s 2024 campaign remarks.

Aboagye also criticized the politicization of the galamsey issue, claiming the NDC is not doing enough to address the problem. He argued that the practice would not be eradicated unless it is depoliticized.

“Until we depoliticise galamsey, no matter the structures put in place, it will not work,” he emphasized.

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Chairman of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, James Agalga, has accused Rev. John Ntim Fordjour of fabricating the controversial allegations of two aircraft being involved in drugs and money laundering which have dominated recent political discussions.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, April 12, Mr Agalga criticised the Assin South MP for what he described as a reckless and malicious attempt to tarnish the image of the State.

Mr Agalga questioned the motives behind Ntim Fordjour’s actions, particularly his decision to bypass official security channels in favour of a public press release.

“If your Ranking Member was not being malicious, why was he ranting against the security agencies instead of assisting them to probe the matter?” he asked.

He further asserted that Ntim Fordjour lacked the necessary facts to support his claims and had simply constructed a false narrative to fuel public suspicion.

“He didn’t have his facts right and he was being malicious. He sat down and concocted the story and threw it against the state,” Mr Agalga stated firmly.

The comments come amid rising tensions over the role of security agencies and concerns about political interference in national security matters.

Mr Agalga emphasised the need for parliamentary leaders to act responsibly and not compromise the integrity of state institutions for political gain.

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In a statement, Jantuah explained that President John Mahama has been calm and gentle with the NPP, especially when compared to the actions of the NPP while they were in power.

Jantuah, a former General Secretary of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), made these remarks in response to recent raids on the homes of former government officials, including a failed attempt by operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to arrest Assin South MP, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour,, at his residence in Spintex on Wednesday.

The incident followed allegations that two suspicious flights had landed at Kotoka International Airport, reportedly carrying drugs and cash.

The raid was described by some as politically motivated, with claims that it was an attempt to use security agencies to intimidate and harass opposition members.

However, in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Jantuah rejected these claims, stating that the NPP members were being treated far better than they deserved.

“They did worse things, and for them, Mahama is giving them farmgate treatment. What exactly is being done to NPP members? Where is the intimidation here? We have to separate the human aspect from those engaged in vandalism,” she stated.

Jantuah also criticized the Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee for going public with his findings.

“Why do you even come to the media after you had the tip-off? If he doesn’t trust anybody, at least he should trust his Speaker, or there is someone he can trust because this is of national interest. Who leaves evidence in any clandestine activity?” she chided.

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According to Tsikata, he rejected the offer because he was determined to secure an acquittal for the MP in order to eliminate any future legal uncertainties.

Dr Ayine, just two months ago, extended immunity to several Ghanaians facing trial in various courts, including the Supreme Court.

This immunity was also offered to Gyakye Quayson, who had been on trial for three years on charges including deceit of a public officer, forgery of a passport, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration.

At the time the offer was made, a prosecution witness was still testifying. Many were surprised when Tsikata turned down the deal.

However, after Quayson was acquitted based on the merits of the case and the legal arguments presented by his legal team, Tsikata issued a statement explaining why he made the risky decision to reject the Attorney General’s offer.

Dr Ayine, during a press briefing on ongoing prosecutions, confirmed that he had offered to withdraw the case but noted that Quayson’s legal team had declined.

Tsikata elaborated that the decision was based on legal and security considerations.

“At the time the Attorney-General was withdrawing the other cases, the prosecution in Gyakye Quayson’s trial had not closed its case. The last prosecution witness was still testifying. If the Attorney-General had withdrawn the case at that stage, under section 59 of the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), the judge could only ‘discharge’ the accused,” he stated.

He further explained, “According to section 59(4) of Act 30, the accused could, at a future date, be recharged with the same offences and would not be able to claim he had already been tried and acquitted (‘autrefois acquit’).”

In contrast, Tsikata clarified why other accused persons, such as Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and social activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, accepted the Attorney General’s offer.

“In those cases, the prosecution had closed its case and the defence had begun testifying. So, when the prosecution withdrew, the accused were ‘acquitted and discharged’ under section 59(2)(b)(ii) of Act 30. This means the same charges cannot be brought against them in the future,” he said.

Tsikata concluded: “It is in the best interest of Gyakye Quayson that his trial should end with an acquittal and discharge—not a mere discharge that would leave him open to future jeopardy. That is why the defence preferred to make a submission of no case at the end of the prosecution’s case to secure an acquittal and discharge.”

With this outcome, the Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, walks a free man—shielded from the possibility of future prosecution, even if a new administration assumes power after future elections.

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His confirmation was a decisive victory, with all members voting in favor of his appointment.

In an interview with Adom News, Mr. Dordoe expressed his commitment to working collaboratively with assembly members and community leaders to foster unity and drive development in the district.

He acknowledged the longstanding water crisis affecting Nkwanta North, particularly in the Sibi community, and pledged to prioritize its resolution as part of his legacy as DCE.

The new DCE emphasized that access to potable water has been one of the biggest challenges faced by residents in Sibi for decades.

To address this, Mr. Dordoe promised to engage with both government and non-governmental organizations to find lasting solutions to the water crisis.

The newly elected Presiding Member for the Nkwanta North District Assembly, Alhassan Abubakari, also expressed a shared commitment to resolving the district’s challenges.

He highlighted the need for continued collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve sustainable development for the district.

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“Honourable Ntim Fordjour is okay, he is in high spirits. I speak to you from his residence—actually, he just entered the room where I am. I just want to let everybody rest assured that indeed, this democracy will be protected,” Ahiagbah said on JoyNews’ The Pulse.

This comes after several NPP bigwigs stormed the MP’s residence on Wednesday, April 9, to prevent his arrest.

“As a democratic country, we will not allow ourselves to descend into this kind of undemocratic behaviour. Certainly, we are behind him,” Ahiagbah added.

The NIB reportedly attempted to arrest the MP over the recent AirMed flight controversy. Rev. Fordjour had alleged that two aircraft landed in the country for the purposes of money laundering and illicit drug trafficking.

He called on the government to investigate and address the matter.

However, the government dismissed the claims, describing them as an attempt to tarnish the image of the John Mahama-led administration.

The NIB’s visit was reportedly to arrest and question the MP over the allegations he made.

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The criminal jurisdiction of the Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Mary Ekue Yanzuh, delivered the ruling on Wednesday, April 9, concluding a three-year legal battle.

Mr. Quayson faced five charges, including forgery of a passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration for office.

Speaking in an interview after the court proceedings, Mr. Quayson expressed satisfaction with the decision, noting that the outcome was expected.

“Well, it’s the same as your reaction. It’s almost expected because you see, when a man is innocent, no matter what you do, it will be pronounced as some later date. They were for persecution. They were trying to prosecute, but this is a court of law. That’s the difference between prosecution and persecution,” he said.

Mr. Quayson also commended Justice Yanzuh for her work, calling the ruling justice for both himself and the country.

“I’m very proud that our lady justice, Mary… I was going to tell her in the courtroom, but Bruce doesn’t allow that. I was going to tell her she’s a very decent human being. And more blessings for her. Thanks to God, thanks to all these people behind me—family, friends, my dear sister here, member of parliament. We are all in this together, and I think this is a day for a synod. Justice for a synod and justice for Ghana,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the lawmaker announced he would release an article on the matter soon.

“It’s not about me. So I will release, if you’re more interested, I have a short brief article. I can give it to you guys to go and put your own thoughts together. Whatever portion you want to release, all of it or part of it, that’s fine. But you know, this is… Justice for everybody, including you guys,” he added.

The ruling brings finality to the long-standing legal battle over claims that Mr. Quayson held Canadian citizenship when he filed to contest the 2020 parliamentary elections—an act the prosecution argued violated the Ghanaian Constitution.

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Additionally, Madam Bawah is seeking GH₵10 million in compensation over alleged defamatory statements made during an interview in March 2025.

A letter issued through her lawyers at R.O. Solomon Consulting noted that Abronye claimed their client was advised against lobbying for a ministerial role and instead took a presidential staffer position with a GH₵95,000 monthly salary, supposedly a stress-free position.

Abronye also allegedly stated that, due to this salary, Bawah had become disrespectful to Ghanaians.

However, the lawyers have dismissed the claims as false, reckless, and malicious, asserting that the statements have caused severe embarrassment, reputational damage, and public ridicule for Bawah.

The letter acknowledged the constitutional right to free speech but emphasized that it does not extend to spreading deliberate falsehoods aimed at damaging reputations.

The lawyers have threatened to initiate legal action if Abronye fails to publicly apologize and retract the comments on the same platforms they were shared, and the compensation is not provided.

• Barker-Vormawor criticizes NIB’s invitation to Abronye over Mahama allegations

Quashie made the disclosure on JoyPrime’s News Flash on Monday, April 7, following allegations made by the MP about some aircraft allegedly landing in the country to engage in cocaine trafficking and money laundering activities.

“I can confidently say that the processes (to arrest him) are almost complete,” Quashie stated.

He noted that Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who plays a significant role in the process, is currently “out of the country,” but expressed optimism that upon his return, the arrest will be effected.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, had alleged that certain aircraft that landed in the country over the past few days were involved in illicit drug trafficking and money laundering activities.

His claims, made during a press conference, sparked widespread attention, particularly in political circles, with many questioning the validity of the MP’s assertions.

The government has since denied the allegations, explaining the circumstances surrounding the landing and departure of the aircraft.

As a result, there is mounting pressure on Rev. Fordjour to provide concrete evidence to support his claims.

The situation continues to unfold, with further developments expected in the coming days, especially after the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to which the MP belongs, backed the allegations and called for a thorough government investigation.

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• Ntim Fordjour threatens to sue Kwakye Ofosu [Video]

His death, which occurred on Sunday at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, has deeply saddened the political and diplomatic community.

While the exact cause of his sudden demise is yet to be confirmed, the news has been met with an outpouring of grief from various political figures.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, was among the first to express condolences, describing Yalley as a “brother and friend.”

In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, Bagbin highlighted Yalley’s significant contributions to the NDC, particularly his role as President of the NDC Professionals Forum.

He noted, “Ambassador Yalley was a champion of professionalism in politics and a key figure in our party’s development.”

Yalley’s career spanned both legal and diplomatic fields. A seasoned lawyer, he also served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Pensions Regulatory Authority before being appointed Ghana’s Ambassador to India in 2014 by President John Mahama.

Throughout his tenure, Mr Yalley was noted for his commitment to promoting Ghana’s international relations and advocating for Ghanaian interests abroad.

Apart from his diplomatic achievements, Sam Pee Yalley was widely respected for his advocacy work, particularly in promoting female leadership within Ghana.

His commitment to social causes and political professionalism earned him admiration across the political spectrum.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Ofosu referred to Rev. Fordjour as a “noisemaker” and suggested that, if he were President Mahama, he would have ignored the Ranking Member of the Interior and Defence Committee. Despite this, Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged the necessity of an investigation into the allegations to set a precedent.

“The investigation is just so that an example will be set, for people to refrain from such behaviour,” he said.

However, Rev. Fordjour, on the same show, strongly rebuked the statement, saying he would not take it lightly.

“I have taken judicial notice of that statement and I am going to sue Kwakye Ofosu. The threat is clear; he is saying they are not interested in investigations but only want to make an example out of me,” Rev. Fordjour asserted. “This is a willful attempt to prosecute and cause harm. These are enough evidence,” he added.

Rev. Fordjour sparked public debate after alleging that two flights—AirMed flight NH23AM and Cavok Air private jet Antonov AN 12 B—landed in Ghana between March 20 and March 25, 2025, carrying suspected cocaine and an undisclosed amount of cash. The NPP has since called for investigations into the matter.

Despite President Mahama’s directive for a probe, Rev. Fordjour has insisted that nothing will stop him from exposing the truth.

“I am ready; they can come and make every example they want out of me. I have never seen any government intolerant like this. They can crucify me, jail me for 100 years; we will expose them,” he declared.

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The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications accused Rev. Fordjour of attempting to mimic North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who gained prominence for exposing corruption in the Akufo-Addo-led government.

However, Ofosu pointed out that unlike Ablakwa, who supported his claims with substantial evidence, Rev. Fordjour has failed to provide any proof to back his allegations.

In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Ofosu advised the former Deputy Education Minister to improve his approach if he intends to be taken seriously like Ablakwa.

He stressed the importance of presenting credible evidence, stating, “Even if you tell this story to my 10-year-old daughter, Adepa, she will know that you are telling lies.”

Ofosu continued, “Haven’t we had MPs do legislative oversight on government? Those days Ablakwa spoke on the hiring of jets, didn’t he present concrete evidence? If you want to be like Ablakwa, do it well. Do it with a modicum of intelligence and let people know you are serious.”

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In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Ofosu accused the Ranking Member of the Interior and Defence Committee of creating unnecessary public disaffection, stating that Fordjour has no evidence to support his claims.

“There is nothing in there. If he had evidence, he wouldn’t have waited for someone to call him; he would have made the matter public, even holding a press conference,” Mr. Ofosu said. “I am daring him. If Ntim Fordjour can present evidence of a cocaine haul, I will resign from government that very day. He has nothing,” he vowed.

Rev. Fordjour recently ignited public debate by alleging that two flights—AirMed flight NH23AM and Cavok Air private jet Antonov AN 12 B—landed in Ghana between March 20 and March 25, 2025, carrying suspected cocaine and an undisclosed amount of cash. The NPP has called for investigations into the matter.

Despite President Mahama ordering a probe, Mr. Ofosu asserted that Fordjour’s allegations are baseless and lack merit.

Listen to Kwakye Ofosu in the video attached above:

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This case follows a certiorari application filed by the NDC and its candidates, challenging the EC’s handling of the 2024 election results in these constituencies.

Previously, the High Court in Accra had directed the EC to collate and declare results in the affected areas. Since then, the EC has announced results for three of the four constituencies, with only Ablekuma North still pending.

Initially, the NDC candidates faced challenges in serving their case documents to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidates involved.

The Supreme Court later intervened, allowing substituted service to ensure proper legal procedures were followed.

During a hearing on Thursday, April 3, the applicants’ lawyers requested more time to respond to the EC’s reply to their case.

However, the EC’s lawyer, Justin Amenuvor, opposed the request, arguing that the legal deadline for submitting responses—seven days after being served—had already passed.

Despite this, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the applicants, granting them an extra seven days to file their response. The case will proceed once all submissions have been made.

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Assin South Member of Parliament (MP), John Ntim Fordjour, says he stands by his comments regarding the two flights suspected to be linked with illicit activities.

According to him, he is not a coward to run from the truth, stressing that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government must prepare itself for more exposés.

“I am not scared of anyone, and if you follow my public advocacy, I venture into areas others fear to enter. We have just begun the exposés—there are many more to come in the coming weeks,” he declared in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem.

Rev. Fordjour, who is a Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, alleged at a press conference on Tuesday that an air ambulance and a private jet may have been involved in drug trafficking or money laundering.

The flights in question—AirMed flight N823AM and Cavok Air’s Antonov An-12B—allegedly landed at Kotoka International Airport from Gran Canaria, Spain, before departing on March 25, 2025.

He noted that intelligence revealed the AirMed flight N823AM, an air ambulance, did not transport any patients but allegedly carried suspicious cargo suspected to contain cocaine and US dollars.

President John Mahama has since ordered the National Security and relevant authorities to conduct a full-scale investigation into the allegations, tasking them to immediately and fully collaborate with the lawmaker.

However, the former Deputy Education Minister has described the order as unnecessary.

He stated that he has made the details of the information available to him public, hence the onus now lies on the security agencies to speak to the issues.

“I have provided enough information, and that is why they must release the details. The President’s tweets calling for collaboration are neither here nor there.

“Two flights arrived in the country—National Security should tell us what they brought in or took out. If they have questions, I am in my office in Parliament,” he stated.

At a press conference, the chief expressed his sincere apologies and condemned the behaviour, stating that it does not reflect the values of the people of Banda Boase.

He announced plans to engage with the youth and the community to address their concerns.

The chief further expressed gratitude to President Mahama for recognizing the Banda MP, Ahmed Ibrahim and appointing him as the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy Religious Affairs and Sanitation.

He also congratulated the DCE nominee, Peter Donji, and pledged his full support to him.

Meanwhile, Mr. Donkor has distanced himself from the violent act, urging supporters to focus on supporting the DCE nominee.

He expressed trust in President Mahama’s decisions, acknowledging that he has the sole prerogative to nominate individuals to occupy the offices of MMDCEs.

The assemblyman said the violent act by the youth was unfortunate and stressed that it was wrong for them to have engaged in that act.

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He urged patience from Ghanaians, noting that the new government is still setting up and cannot be expected to resolve an eight-year-long problem in just three months.

“The government is barely three months old, and of course, Ghanaians would expect the government to come out with a strong policy direction. Do you think that you can compare the failure of a government in eight years to fight galamsey to a government that is barely three months old?” he quizzed.

“I will plead that Ghanaians and ourselves would exercise some patience and allow the government to clamp down on these negative operations happening around our forest reserves and our water bodies.”

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If approved, they will support the president in governance at the local level as he completes his second term.

The nominations were announced in a statement signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama, and addressed to the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs.

Meanwhile, the nomination for the Kpando District, which would have brought the total to 72, is still pending.

This follows the revocation of appointments for all Chief Executives of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) on January 8, 2025.

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Read the full list below:

“When they signed the agreement with the GIZ, my ministry is not in existence so the Labour Minister has to handle it but let me put it on record that YEA effectively represented George Opare Addo; that morning, Malik even briefed me on the programme and I okayed it,” he said.

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