In the last couple of months, The Fourth Estate has been revealing the details of a questionable licence granted by the previous leadership of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) to KGL Technology Litd, which essentially handed over the most profitable business of the NLA to KGL.

The Fourth Estate’s publications have revealed how the said NLA-KGL deal is enriching KGL at the expense of the state. Among many other revelations, it has been proven that while KGL generated revenue of over GHC3 billion from operating the NLA’s lottery, it was required to pay only GHC156.7 million to the state. 

The publications have also revealed how NLA’s contributions to the Consolidated Fund of Ghana have reduced from GHC37 million in 2018 (the year before the KGL deal), to ZERO contribution for the last three consecutive years (2022, 2023 and 2024).

Indeed, at a recent appearance before the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament, the current Director-General of the NLA, Mohammed Adul-Salam, confirmed that the state could earn far more from such a deal.

Strangely, there have been a series of curious coincidences of events that suggest the GJA, as the umbrella body of journalists, may be allowing itself to be used to counter or undermine the public-interest revelations by The Fourth Estate on the state-fleecing NLA-KGL deal. 

For example, after The Fourth Estate’s main publication on the terrible deal on September 30, the GJA organised a KGL-sponsored event at Alisa Hotel on October 9, which was used by the Executive Chairman of KGL, Alex Appau Dadey, to attack The Fourth Estate and its work. The event was covered and broadcast live by a number of media organisations.

At the said KGL-sponsored GJA event, the KGL owner said, among other things, that: “Permit me to use this distinguished platform to comment on a recent publication by the Fourth Media Estate (sic) headlined NLA hands 3 billion of prime business in exchange for peanuts. At the KGL group, we are focused on our vision of creating wealth responsibly with utmost integrity and would usually not comment on irresponsible and sensational journalism, except for the fact that we remain, as corporate Ghana does, partners of the media in nation building.”

We were hoping that the leadership of the GJA would deem it fit to openly correct the unfortunate attack and characterisation of the work of The Fourth Estate by the Group Chairman of KGL. But that did not happen, affirming the conviction that the event was essentially a sponsored event for KGL to whitewash the terrible deal, and serve as a platform to vilify The Fourth Estate.

In yet another curious development, this year’s GJA awards has been christened; “GJA/KGL Media Awards,” ostensibly to reflect and demonstrate the extraordinary financial commitment of KGL to the GJA for this year’s award. Even though all GJA awards have always been rightly supported and sponsored by corporate organisations, we struggle to recall any time in the recent past when the GJA has had to co-share the title of the awards with a corporate sponsor.

Given our revelations of how state-fleecing the NLA-KGL deal has been and our public-interest commitment, it will be unconscionable on our part to accept a KGL-sponsored award. Indeed, accepting such an award will be to benefit from the proceeds of the same terrible NLA-KGL deal that we have been exposing. 

While we will cherish any public or institutional recognition for our work, we will not do so at the risk of compromising our conscience. Indeed, it will be unconscionable on our part to receive a GJA/KGL media award when just about a month ago, KGL sponsored a GJA event and used it as a platform to describe our work as “irresponsible and sensational.”

The Fourth Estate wishes all awardees at this year’s GJA/KGL Media Awards the very best.

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  President Mahama cuts sod for the construction of a 200MW solar power plant at the Dawa Industrial Enclave
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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Butey said the incident had been misrepresented to the public, noting that it arose from a misunderstanding during an internal meeting.

“It wasn’t that Abronye disrespected Kufuor. What happened was that the old man made some proposals during a meeting. It is an in-house issue, and Dr. Anane shouldn’t have even brought it out in the first place,” he explained.

According to the Acting Chairman, the matter should have been handled within party structures rather than discussed publicly.

“We should have dealt with it internally. Dr. Anane could have submitted a petition to the disciplinary committee if necessary. He wasn’t even at the meeting, so I suspect he may have been misinformed,” Mr. Butey added.

He recounted that during the meeting, former President Kufuor offered advice, and members were allowed to share their opinions. When discussions began to veer off track, Mr. Butey intervened to restore order.

“After three people spoke, I realised I made a mistake by opening the floor, so I stopped it. I informed President Kufuor that his advice had been taken in good faith and that the party would deliberate and get back to him,” he said.

Mr. Butey insisted that while Abronye’s conduct could be described as a “misstep,” it did not amount to disrespect or insult toward the former President.

“Despite Abronye’s misconduct, he did not insult Kufuor. He can’t even dare because I wouldn’t have tolerated it. In fact, he kept referring to Kufuor as his in-law throughout the discussion,” he stressed.

He cautioned party members against spreading misinformation and urged them to protect the image of the NPP’s founding figures.

“If Abronye had insulted Kufuor, the consequences wouldn’t have been good,” Mr. Butey concluded.

The clarification comes after widespread media reports suggested Abronye had allegedly disrespected former President Kufuor during a closed-door party meeting — claims that Mr. Butey says were based on “a clear misunderstanding.”

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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According to Accra-based Citin News, the tanker lost control and tipped onto its side, prompting some residents to approach the scene with containers to collect the fuel.

Residents have since raised concerns about the high risk of an explosion and are urging the Ghana National Fire Service and police to cordon off the area and prevent a potential disaster.

No casualties have been reported so far.

Source: Adomonline

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Firefighters from the Dansoman station, supported by teams from Industrial Area, Circle, and National Headquarters, responded promptly to distress calls around 10:13 a.m.

Within minutes, the first fire tender was on scene, and after more than an hour of intense firefighting, the flames were fully extinguished.

The fire destroyed the top floor, which contained three bedrooms, a hall, and a kitchen, along with most of its contents. The ground floor, comprising two bedrooms, was spared thanks to coordinated firefighting efforts.

No injuries or fatalities were reported.

The GNFS has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unknown. Residents and onlookers have praised the firefighters for their swift response, noting that without their timely intervention, the entire building could have been lost.

The private sector-led initiative, called the Solar for Industries Project, aims to supply clean and affordable energy to industries within the Dawa and Tema Free Zones, supporting sustainable industrial growth while reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Project managers revealed that the Dawa Solar Park will eventually become one of West Africa’s largest solar installations, targeting a long-term capacity of 1,000 megawatts by 2032. The project will be executed in two phases, with the first 100 megawatts expected to be completed by December 2026.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, President Mahama described the project as a key step in securing Ghana’s energy future and advancing the nation’s green industrial ambitions.

“This project is about securing our energy and industrial growth,” he said. “It reflects our government’s blueprint to integrate energy transition, industrial competitiveness, and climate responsibility.”

The President commended the developers for their commitment to delivering value and contributing to Ghana’s renewable energy targets, reiterating government support for partnerships that promote job creation, innovation, and environmental sustainability.

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In a video message on Thursday, Pelosi said she will not be seeking re-election to Congress at the end of her term in January 2027.

It marks the end of a storied political career: Pelosi, 85, served as the first female Speaker of the House and led her party in the lower chamber of Congress from 2003 until 2023.

“As we go forward, my message to the city I love is this: San Francisco, know your power,” Pelosi said.

“We have made history, we have made progress. We have always led the way, and now we must continue to do so by remaining full participants in our democracy, and fighting for the American ideals we hold dear.”

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Biya won a controversial eighth term in a fiercely disputed election last month.

He has been in power for 43 years, and addressed only one campaign rally before the election.

The nonagenarian, the world’s oldest head of state, won 54% of the vote, compared to the 35% of Issa Tchiroma Bakary, according to the official results. Tchiroma Bakary maintains he was the rightful winner of the poll and has accused the authorities of fraud, which they have denied.

The announcement of the result led to major protests across the country.

Reuters reported that 48 people lost their lives during protests across Cameroon, citing data shared by two United Nations sources.

Judges on the Constitutional Council had dismissed eight petitions, citing insufficient evidence of irregularities or a lack of jurisdiction to annul results.

Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary whose wherabouts are unknown declared himself the winner – a claim rejected by the Cameroonian ruling party.

Earlier this week, Bakary’s call for a stay at home protest was heeded by some people across Cameroon as streets were also deserted especially in his strongholds of Garoua and Douala.

The opposition leader was a former government spokesman who broke ranks with Biya to challenge him for power.

He refused to file complaints with the Constitutional Council, whose judges have been appointed by Biya.

The paramount ruler delivered the stern directive on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace during a courtesy call from the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasised that reliance on illegal, armed groups violates state law and undermines the traditional governance system of Asanteman.

“I will destool any chief who engages the services of land guards. They know very well that they have no such authority. When those lands were entrusted to them upon their enstoolment, I never instructed them to hire land guards to protect them. I did not grant them the power to employ people to use guns and harm others,” the Asantehene cautioned.

He stressed that land disputes must be handled through peaceful, established channels and urged chiefs to bring disagreements before the Manhyia Palace for amicable resolution.

The warning aligns with Ghana’s Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), which criminalises the use of land guards and imposes penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for those who employ force or intimidation to control land unlawfully. Chiefs already act as fiduciaries of stool lands and now face both state prosecution and immediate destoolment for violations.

The Asantehene’s firm stance reinforces efforts by both traditional and state authorities to curb land-related violence and restore public safety and investor confidence in the Ashanti Region.

Source: David Apinga

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Media personality and Guinness World Record sing-a-thon contestant Afua Asantewaa Aduonum has raised concerns over alleged death threats from a mysterious group known as the Kubala Kingdom.

Described as a three-member self-styled African tribe living deep in the Scottish woods of Jedburgh, the group is reportedly isolated from mainstream society.

In a series of emotional posts on her verified social media accounts, Afua disclosed that her life is in danger following a recent online encounter that escalated into threatening emails.

According to Afua, the threats began after she spoke out against the Kubala Kingdom and warned her followers about associating with the group. She claims the messages contained personal information, including details about her three daughters.

“They have been threatening my life through emails. He stated categorically that he knows I have three daughters and other private details about me, so I can’t take it lightly. It started from Instagram and extended to my email,” Afua said.

She shared one of the messages, which read:

“The king stretched his hand of promise towards you about a day which cometh forth, yet you have mocked what is meant to be covered until the appointed time. Know therefore that you may have more questions to answer on that day. Where the word of the king is, there is power. Kubala Kubala Ilizwe.”

Although Afua has never met the person behind the threats, UK authorities have reportedly contacted her to obtain copies of the emails as part of an ongoing investigation.

“They are trying to gather enough evidence, and I am complying. To report him officially is yet to be done. I don’t know what he wants from me,” she explained.

Afua said she went public to warn others who might also be at risk. Her followers have responded with messages of concern and support, urging authorities to act swiftly to ensure her safety.

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In a release dated November 5, 2025, and a policy paper titled Ghana’s Policy Position on Virtual Assets and Service Providers, the BoG outlined Ghana’s first national framework for regulating virtual assets such as cryptocurrencies, tokens, and related technologies.

According to the Bank, a registration exercise conducted in July 2025 identified over 100 companies providing services such as exchange, wallet management, brokerage, and investment advisory to a user base of more than three million Ghanaians.

To strengthen supervision, the bank explained it will establish a Virtual Assets Regulatory Office (VARO) to oversee the sector.

The new office will coordinate with other state institutions and enforce compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards.

“The Bank recognises that virtual assets can no longer remain outside Ghana’s financial regulatory remit,” the document stated. It added that the VARO will act as a link between government oversight and the virtual assets industry, and work with agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the National Communications Authority (NCA).

The announcement marks a major policy shift from the Bank’s earlier cautionary position. In 2018 and 2022, the Bank warned that cryptocurrencies were not legal tender and directed financial institutions to avoid processing crypto-related transactions. The 2025 policy moves from warning to regulation.

The Bank said Ghana’s regulatory approach will be risk-based and activity-specific, ensuring that oversight intensity matches the risks involved in each type of virtual asset service.

High-risk activities such as trading and custody will face stricter licensing rules, while low-risk services will go through simplified procedures.

The Bank reaffirmed that virtual assets will not be recognised as legal tender in Ghana. It said the new regulatory framework aims to promote innovation, consumer protection, and financial stability while reducing exposure to money laundering, fraud, and terrorism financing.

The policy paper also proposes a National Virtual Assets Literacy Initiative (NaVALI), to be developed in partnership with the SEC and the Ministry of Education.

The initiative will promote public awareness and financial literacy, especially among young Ghanaians who make up most crypto users.

Ghana’s policy direction follows international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).

The move places Ghana among a small group of African countries taking structured steps to regulate digital assets while supporting innovation.

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At the centre of it is the woman’s husband and the children’s father, Yaw Afriyie, who abused his family at will, spent time in jail for inflicting wounds on two of his children, and yet showed no signs of slowing down.

Afriyie was found hanging from a tree in a suspected case of suicide that has shocked the Central Region.

The horrifying fire incident, suspected to have been deliberately set by the estranged husband, claimed the lives of his wife, their five children and a grandchild at Akyempim in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality in the Central Region.

Firefighters were called in at 1:04 a.m., got to the scene in 16 minutes, but found the bedroom engulfed in flames and padlocked from the outside.

The officers, however, doused the fire in 12 minutes, but the act was too late to save a single life inside.

The Fire Service said the charred bodies of the victims were later handed over to the police at Atekyem for further investigation.

A statement from the police described the incident as “deeply tragic” and urged the public to remain vigilant and practice fire safety at all times.

The bodies, now at the Dunkwa Municipal Government Hospital mortuary, would be handed over to the families for burial after post-mortem.

Afriyie was said to be having potency issues and had suspected his wife of adultery.

The fire victims, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) said, comprised five children, aged between seven months and 15 years, an older daughter and their mother.

Preliminary investigations by the GNFS and the police suggest that the estranged husband, Yaw Afriyie, intentionally started the fire in the room where his family was sleeping.

Afriyie, aka Batman, is alleged to have locked the door from the outside to prevent them from escaping the furnace before fleeing the scene.

His body was later found hanging from a tree after supposedly taking his own life in a nearby bush on the outskirts of Akyempim, where the police discovered the body.

Information gathered by the Daily Graphic indicated that Afriyie, a farmer and small-scale miner, had been married to Ama Dapaah for more than a decade.

That marriage, the newspaper gathered, had a history of abuse.

A source told the Daily Graphic that Afriyie had abused his wife and the children several times over the years, with the incidents increasing more recently.

The source stated that Afriyie had spent three months in jail recently for causing life-threatening injuries to two of his children.

The injuries to the children, the eyewitness said, happened because the wife escaped a weapon thrown at her that landed on them.

They were hospitalised at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital for months.

The source said the abuse caused Ama Dapaah to move out of her matrimonial home to her parents’, also at Akyempim, after several mediation efforts to get Afriyie to desist from the violent acts proved futile.

His sense of insecurity appeared to increase daily, with the tempo of abuse rising at every turn in a family that gained notoriety for the regular feud.

The Upper Denkyira East Municipal Commander of Police, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Simon Boavo, corroborated the story, stating that Ms Dapaah had appealed for mercy for Afriyie after he was sentenced, explaining that he was the breadwinner.

He said the woman urged the court to temper justice with mercy, compelling the court to sentence him to only three months in jail.

DSP Boavo said after his jail term, Afriyie reunited with his wife and family, but the abuse continued.

After mediation failed, the families advised Ms Dapaah to move to her family’s house with the children.

DSP Boavo recounted eyewitness accounts that indicated that Afriyie had chanced upon Ama Dapaah outside her home around 12 midnight on the day of the incident, and questioned her about why she was still in town at that time of the night when the children were asleep.

He was said to have urged her to go and sleep and even escorted her to the house.

DSP Boavo said neighbours and family members had also told the police that the estranged husband had threatened to kill Ama Dapaah any time and then commit suicide before the enstoolment of the new Denkyirahene, but indicated that no one reported the matter to the police, describing the incident as unfortunate.

Source: Graphic.com.gh

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The party executives claim that Naa Koryoo falsely accused Hawa Koomson of attacking her convoy and causing the deaths of two party members — allegations that have since been disproved.

Addressing a press conference, the NPP’s Deputy Central Regional Secretary, Charles Kojo Odoom, said the claims were deliberately intended to tarnish the reputation of the former Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.

“Then Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak clarified that Naa Koryoo later retracted her allegations, admitting that her convoy had not been attacked and that she was not at the alleged scene,” Odoom said.

He urged the IGP to take action against Naa Koryoo for misleading the public and called on her to issue an unqualified apology to Hawa Koomson.

Supporting the call, Awutu Senya East NPP Constituency Secretary, Michael Addy, said Naa Koryoo’s conduct had embarrassed the people of Kasoa.

“She has disgraced the good people of Kasoa. She should do the honourable thing and apologise,” Addy stressed, accusing her of using populist tactics for attention rather than focusing on development issues.

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The fierce grand finale promises prestige, pride, and unforgettable rivalry as the three powerhouse schools all eye the coveted trophy and the ultimate bragging rights.

Watch the livestream below:

Profile of finalists:

This year’s final, slated for today at the SGS Auditorium, University of Cape Coast, is more than just a battle of intellect. It is a war of legacies, one that promises nerve-racking intensity, tactical brilliance, and high-stakes drama as each contender eyes the coveted NSMQ trophy and the ultimate bragging rights.

Mfantsipim School — The Defending Champions

Known fondly as BOTWE, Mfantsipim School enters this year’s finale as the defending champions and the school to beat. After powering past GSTS and Mankranso SHS in a commanding semifinal display and having lifted their third national trophy in 2024, they now aim to achieve a rare back-to-back victory, a feat that would cement their dominance in NSMQ history.

Their rich NSMQ pedigree dates back to 1999, when they clinched their first national title, followed by wins in 2014 and 2024. BOTWE’s consistent dominance has earned them multiple runner-up positions in 2000 and 2016.

Regionally, the Cape Coast-based powerhouse has equally shone, winning the Central Regional Championship in 2021 and finishing as runner-up in 2023. Despite a third-runner-up spot in 2025, their national form remains unmatched.

They now stand just one victory away from securing their fourth national crown and enter the grand finale not just as favourites but as a team with the poise and pedigree to dismantle any challenger, a threat that their rivals, Opoku Ware and St. Augustine’s, know all too well.

Opoku Ware School — The Royal Eyeing a Third National Title

Opoku Ware School (OWASS), the pride of the Ashanti Region, returns to the grand finale with eyes firmly set on their third national title. Their semifinal victory over St. Peter’s SHS and Achimota School was not just dominant, it was commanding. With two national titles and several runner-up finishes, Opoku Ware is no stranger to the pressures of the big stage.

Their first taste of national glory came in 1997, followed by another championship in 2002. Over the years, OWASS has also finished as runners-up in 1995, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2016, 2020 and 2023, establishing themselves as one of the tournament’s most consistent performers.

Their resurgence in recent years has been remarkable. After being crowned Regional Champions in 2025, OWASS powered through the national stages with commanding performances, proving they are a formidable force capable of toppling any contender. If momentum means anything, OWASS could very well script a fairytale comeback and reclaim the national title after more than two decades of waiting.

St. Augustine’s College — The Saints Hungry for Glory

St. Augustine’s College (AUGUSCO), another Cape Coast giant, is back in the national final with one mission: to claim their third NSMQ title and reaffirm their place among the elite. St. Augustine’s College fought their way to the finals with grit and strategy after their electrifying semifinal win over Pope John SHS and Amaniampong SHS.

The Saints first lifted the trophy in 2007 before reclaiming it in 2019, marking a decade of dominance in the competition. Their strong showing this year reflects not only their academic depth but also a strategic and confident approach to each contest.

In regional competitions, St. Augustine’s has been equally impressive, winning the Central Regional Championship in 2019, finishing as runner-up in 2020 and 2022, and earning second runner-up in 2023. Their runner-up finish in 2025 underscored their readiness to reclaim national glory.

Source: Clara Seshie

Speaking at a press conference at the Kasoa Odupong Ofaakor Palace, Nai Atopi stressed that these communities are part of Awutu Ofaakor lands and not under the authority of Gomoa Fetteh.

He urged residents to disregard the recent announcement by the Sumankwahene of Gomoa Fetteh, Nana Adama Amoaquandoh, which imposed a ban on drumming and noise-making from November 6 to 28, 2025.

“The people of Kasoa Ofaakor, Papaase, and Akweley are not under the Gomoa Fetteh Stool, so they should feel free to go about their normal activities, including drumming and noise-making,” Nai Atopi stated.

He warned residents not to be intimidated by individuals claiming authority from Gomoa Fetteh, describing such actions as an overreach.

Nai Atopi, who also serves as Chief of Awutu Kwashie Abbey and Boundary Chief of the Awutu Traditional Council, cautioned that anyone attempting to enforce the ban within Kasoa Ofaakor and its environs should be treated as a trespasser.

He further advised churches and residents to report anyone who tries to seize instruments or disrupt activities to the police, describing such individuals as “acting unlawfully and should be treated as thieves.”

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Thursday’s operation, led by officials of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), turned dramatic when a yam seller attempted to flee from the task force.

The exercise, which forms part of the city’s broader campaign to enforce sanitation by-laws, targeted traders selling directly on drains and in areas deemed public health hazards.

Public Health Director at AMA, Florence Kuukyi, explained that the AMA remains resolute in restoring cleanliness and order in Accra’s markets.

“We have already arrested about 12 people, and for those we couldn’t arrest, we’ve confiscated their wares. We know that once we have their items, they will come for them,” she said.

However, speaking to JoyNews’ Stephen Mensah, one aggrieved trader questioned the fairness of the operation.

“When we came here, they told us not to sell on the drains. They also said they wouldn’t seize our goods if we stayed at a safe distance away from the drains. So why are they taking our goods today?” the trader lamented.

The Clean Ghana Campaign, spearheaded by the AMA, has, over the past few years, launched several enforcement exercises across major markets, transport terminals, and public spaces in Accra.

These operations aim to rid the city of open dumping, indiscriminate disposal of waste, and trading on drains — practices officials say contribute to flooding and public health risks.

Source: Myjoyonline

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Speaking to the press on Thursday, November 6, Mr. Osei-Owusu clarified that individuals who forfeited their membership and later sought to rejoin the party would be treated as new entrants, without the privilege of voting or reclaiming previous positions.

“You lose membership when you contest against a party candidate or when you campaign for a candidate other than the party’s candidate. It is automatic. So, the party’s amnesty was specific that anybody who has a punishment hanging over their heads has been granted amnesty, except those who have forfeited their membership. If you have forfeited your membership, then apply,” he explained.

He added that such members must restart the membership process, with a mandatory two-year period before they can contest any party position.

“Generally, my view has been that you forfeit your membership today, and if you rejoin, you are a beginner. Until two years have elapsed, you do not qualify to compete for any position. If you had a voting right and you lost your membership, you may have rejoined but you don’t return to your position. You are starting afresh; therefore, you do not qualify,” Mr. Osei-Owusu said.

The Committee Chair also revealed that the voter album will be presented to presidential aspirants on November 13, 2025, and expressed confidence in the Committee’s preparedness for the party’s primaries, scheduled for January 2026.

The five aspirants vying for the NPP’s presidential slot ahead of the 2028 general elections are former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former Agriculture Minister and Abetifi MP Dr. Bryan Acheampong, former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, and former Education Minister Dr. Osei Adutwum.

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Hawa Koomson said, “Everyone has seen that I was not the one who did what Naa Koryoo claimed. I am sad and very happy at the same time, because today, I have been vindicated.”

She further thanked God and the authorities involved, noting, “I thank God for what He has done. That wicked mind that Naa Koryoo had against me, just because of politics, is now exposed. I am happy today that her bad intentions are out in the open. I also thank the Minister for not hiding the truth because of politics, but coming out and revealing the facts to vindicate me, and the people who conducted the investigation.”

Her comments follow a briefing by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mubarak, who confirmed that investigations by the Election Security Task Force found no evidence that Philis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, the current MP for Awutu Senya East’s convoy was attacked.

The Minister clarified that Naa Koryoo was not present at the scene of the incident that led to the death of Yusif Larri Idriss, who was reportedly shot during a confrontation involving occupants of a Mahindra pickup truck.

Kasoa has long been regarded as a political hotspot, with both the 2020 and 2024 general elections witnessing clashes between supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

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I never knew Naa Koryoo had a Mahindra in Kasoa –

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Hawa Koomson revealed that her mother called her in tears upon hearing that the allegations were false, reminding her of the values with which she was raised.

 “My mother cried when she called me. She told me she gave birth to me, knows me well, and nurtured me. I always pray to God to keep us out of trouble,” Hawa Koomson said.

She described the political tensions with Naa Koryoo as dangerous and deeply personal, alleging that her son was targeted.

“I always tell God that no one should meet a politician like Naa Koryoo. In 2020, because I was vigilant, things went well. But just because I decided not to speak, this woman came at me. She even stabbed my son and tried to kill him. I don’t even know what my son and I did to her,” she said.

Hawa Koomson added, “She was able to instigate her people, and they all hated me and my son. If not for God, my son, who is 33 years old, would have been dead. She is around the same age as my son and wanted to take his life. Will your mother be happy if someone tries to kill her child?”

She noted that the truth is finally coming to light, and those who supported Naa Koryoo are beginning to see her true nature.

“Even now, her own people are starting to fight her as they are realizing what kind of woman she is. But God has been so good — I have been vindicated,” Hawa Koomson said.

Her comments follow a briefing by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mubarak, who confirmed that investigations by the Election Security Task Force found no evidence that Naa Koryoo’s convoy was attacked.

She clarified that Naa Koryoo, now the MP for Awutu Senya East, was not present at the scene of the incident that led to the death of Yusif Larri Idriss, who was reportedly shot during a confrontation involving occupants of a Mahindra pickup truck.

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Naa Koryoo yet to apologise over alleged convoy attack – Hawa…

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Madam Koomson expressed disappointment over what she described as a consistent campaign of falsehoods against her by Naa Koryoo, whom she considered like a younger sister.

“This woman, if she ventures into acting, it won’t be good at all because the way she acts and lies is unbelievable,” she said. “I was shocked when I saw a video of her lying about me during an interview. I wonder why someone can lie like that just to make people see me as a bad human being.”

According to her, the lies have affected how people perceive her, but she remains thankful that the truth is beginning to emerge.

“Everywhere I go, people think I’m a very bad person because of what has been said about me. Some people even have the courage to tell me that I’m such a nice person but that others keep destroying my name. Even Nana Yaa Jantuah once told me the same thing — that I’m a good person but people have painted me black,” she said.

She added that although she initially chose to ignore Naa Koryoo’s attacks out of respect, she later realized that the lies were damaging her image.

“I saw Naa Koryoo as a small sister or even a daughter, so I decided not to pay attention to her rants. But I didn’t know she was using that time to destroy me. I thank God that today I have been vindicated,” Hawa Koomson stated.

Her comments follow revelations by the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Muntaka Mohammed, in Parliament that Naa Koryoo denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 elections — contradicting earlier reports that suggested otherwise.

Hawa Koomson, who lost the 2024 parliamentary contest to Naa Koryoo, said she believes the truth is now unfolding.

“The truth is gradually coming out, and everyone can now see what really happened,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry has confirmed that investigations into the Awutu Senya East election violence are ongoing, with the driver of the Mahindra vehicle already traced as part of efforts to establish the full facts of the case.

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• Naa Koryoo has denied convoy attack by Hawa Koomson in 2024…

The seized assets include multiple real estate properties, fuel stations, and logistics vehicles such as SINOTRUK fuel tankers and articulated trucks.

The court has so far confirmed five of the fuel tankers, while several other vehicles, residential, and commercial properties across Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale await judicial validation.

Among the properties pending confirmation are Kings Energy Filling Stations at Millennium City, Lapaz, Opeikuma, and Dansoman; luxury apartments in East Legon, Roman Ridge, and Airport Residential; and undeveloped lands in North Legon, Adenta, and Tema. A Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 and several plots in Tema West have also been frozen.

The OSP explained that the actions are part of its mandate under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), aimed at preserving suspected proceeds of corruption pending the High Court’s final determination.

“The freezing and seizure orders are necessary to prevent concealment or dissipation of assets believed to be tainted by corruption-related offences,” the OSP stated, adding that efforts are ongoing to trace additional assets linked to the alleged GH¢291 million extortion, abuse of office, and money laundering scheme.

The case involving Dr. Hamid and others is set to resume in the Criminal High Court on November 13, 2025.

Speaking to JoyNews, Black Sherif said, “I salute my finalists. I love you guys so much, and I want to congratulate you. I’m very proud of you, and I know your friends and families are also proud of you. This is Black Sherif sending out my heart to you guys. Whether you carry the trophy or not, you are all champions. Today is a big day, celebrate, enjoy some ‘jama,’ and go home peacefully. I love you.”

The 2025 NSMQ grand finale promises to be one of the most thrilling academic showdowns in recent memory, featuring three powerhouses of Ghanaian secondary education: Mfantsipim School, Opoku Ware School, and St. Augustine’s College.

Together, these schools boast a combined seven national titles, each eager to add another to their legacy. Held at the University of Cape Coast, this year’s finale is more than a battle of intellect; it is a clash of histories and pride.

The stage is set for an unforgettable contest of brilliance, strategy, and school spirit as the finalists compete for the prestigious NSMQ trophy and ultimate bragging rights.

Kudus missed the game at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium due to a minor injury, depriving Spurs of one of their most creative players.

“Mohammed Kudus is an unbelievable player and we missed him in the game against Copenhagen,” Van de Ven told Telecom Asia. “Hopefully, he will be fit for us at the weekend against Manchester United. He’s an important player for us, and I don’t know the details of his absence, but hopefully he should be back.”

Kudus has featured in 15 matches this season, contributing one goal and four assists, and is expected to play a key role when Spurs host Manchester United this weekend.

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Ghanaian-Romanian musician Wanlov the Kubolor has likened his experience at Ghanaian boarding schools to life in an American prison, saying his time at Adisadel College made incarceration in the U.S. feel “like a hotel.”

Speaking on Prime Morning’s Throwback Thursday segment, Wanlov recounted how the strict and often harsh conditions at school unexpectedly prepared him for prison life abroad.

“When I went to prison in America, I felt like I was in a hotel because of the kind of hustling I had gone through in Adisadel,” he said, adding that the food and treatment at school were far worse than what he encountered behind bars.

He recalled some meals in the school dining hall being so poor they occasionally contained wall geckos and other unwelcome surprises.

“We used to eat turkey and rice that gave everyone stomach problems the next day because the turkey was expired,” he recounted.

Wanlov noted that, although he grew up in a peaceful home where his father rarely disciplined him harshly, the boarding school system shaped him into someone who would later punish his juniors—a behaviour he later realised was not part of his true nature.

Drawing parallels between the two environments, he said the strict schedules, limited freedom, and coping mechanisms in Ghanaian boarding schools mirrored life in prison.

“When I got to the American prison, the inmates thought I had been there for years because of how I handled things. But that was just the training I got from secondary school. For me, prison was like a normal holiday,” he said with a chuckle.

According to the 2022 Auditor-General’s Report, five university staff members received salaries for nearly two years despite being absent from duty, with some reportedly abroad or on study leave without proper authorization.

Appearing before the Committee on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Richard Ohene Asiedu revealed that the university had recovered less than GH¢20,000 so far, adding that efforts were ongoing to trace the affected staff.

“We have been trying to contact some of the lecturers who are either abroad or on study leave. So far, the amount recovered is below GH¢20,000,” he told the Committee.

PAC members expressed disappointment over the university’s weak internal controls and lax enforcement measures. Deputy Chairman Samuel Atta Mills described the situation as “planned chaos,” criticizing KTU for failing to prevent and address the irregularities.

“This is government money—GH¢817,000 paid to separated staff. You claim you can’t reach them or show a recovery plan. This looks like deliberate negligence,” he said.

Mr. Atta Mills also disclosed that three of the five affected staff members did not sign bonds of agreement to return after their study leave, calling the lapse a “conspiracy to defraud the state.”

He directed the university to recover the outstanding funds within 90 days, warning that management members would be held personally accountable if they failed to comply.

“We are giving you 90 days to retrieve every pesewa. You have guarantors—use them. If the money isn’t recovered, you will refund it yourselves,” he warned.

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  NPP concludes voter album verification ahead of January 2026 presidential primaries
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In a statement issued by the Presidency Communications Directorate on Thursday, November 6, the government said the ceremony will be held under the auspices of President John Dramani Mahama.

“The state funeral is in recognition of Mrs. Rawlings’ invaluable contributions to the advancement of the rights of women and children in Ghana, as well as her role in national development,” the statement, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President, noted.

Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings, wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, served as Ghana’s First Lady from 1981 to 2001. She was widely acclaimed for her advocacy for women’s empowerment and for founding the 31st December Women’s Movement.

The funeral is expected to attract dignitaries from across Ghana and abroad, honouring her legacy of service, activism, and dedication to the nation.

The 25-year-old, currently playing for Kosovo side FC Drita, has been named in coach Gernot Rohr’s squad for an international friendly against Burkina Faso later this month after switching nationality from Ghana.

Salifu, who was born and developed his career in Ghana, has opted to represent Benin at the senior level.

He first rose to prominence in the Ghana Premier League with Eleven Wonders before joining Hearts of Oak in 2021. His arrival proved pivotal, helping the Phobians secure both the league title and the FA Cup in a historic campaign.

Since moving abroad, Salifu has continued his upward trajectory, playing a key role in FC Drita’s league success in Kosovo.

Benin, who recently qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, will compete in Group D alongside DR Congo, Senegal, and Botswana.

Squad below:

Addressing a press conference at the NPP headquarters in Accra, Committee Chairman Joseph Osei-Owusu said the exercise covered all constituencies and external branches of the party.

He revealed that all presidential aspirants would receive the provisional voter register on Thursday, November 13, 2025, allowing a two-week period for verification and feedback before finalisation.

“The nationwide voter album verification and validation exercise has been successfully concluded. In the interest of transparency and fairness, all aspirants will be furnished with the provisional voter register on Thursday, November 13, 2025, for verification and feedback,” he stated.

Mr. Osei-Owusu noted that while minor administrative discrepancies, such as spelling errors and omissions, were identified, they did not compromise the integrity or credibility of the register and were being corrected. He also confirmed that delegates who had passed away or forfeited their membership had been removed, in line with the party’s constitution.

The five aspirants vying for the NPP flagbearer slot are Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong.

To ensure transparency, the Committee outlined several measures, including exclusive election-day security by the Ghana Police Service, strict access control at voting centres, and full oversight by the Electoral Commission (EC). The EC will supervise the printing, distribution, and monitoring of ballot papers and enforce operational guidelines to guarantee a credible and peaceful election.

Ahead of the primaries, the Committee will meet with aspirants, the EC, the Police Service, and the National Council of Elders to sign a peace pact.

Mr. Osei-Owusu reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to a free, fair, and transparent process, urging party members and the media to avoid spreading misinformation that could undermine confidence in the elections.

“Together, we will uphold the NPP’s tradition of democratic excellence and institutional discipline,” he assured.

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In a letter dated June 27, 2025, and signed by Deputy Superintendent of Police Justice Oppong on behalf of the Director-General of the CID, the Department forwarded a duplicate docket from its Special Investigation Unit (SIU) to the Attorney-General following a reported altercation between Hon. Afenyo-Markin and a police officer during a public demonstration.

According to the CID’s report which has been sighted by Adomonline.com, the incident occurred on May 5, 2025, when operatives from the Cybercrime Unit received a one-minute, 13-second video bearing the official Ghana Police Service watermark.

The footage, captured during the “Save the Judiciary” demonstration, showed a physical altercation between police personnel and a group of demonstrators, including Hon. Afenyo-Markin.

Preliminary analysis of the video reportedly revealed the MP striking G/Cpl. Forson Abel, a police officer stationed at the Tesano District, while officers attempted to enforce a restricted boundary marked with metal barricades. The case was subsequently referred to the SIU for investigation.

G/Cpl. Forson Abel later lodged a formal complaint at the Tesano Police Station on May 6, 2025, alleging that he had been assaulted by Hon. Afenyo-Markin.

He presented a police medical report and witness statements from senior police officers, including Superintendent Isane Ocansey and ASPs Sulemana-Jallo Abdulalai and Nicholas Mensah, who corroborated his account of being struck by the MP without provocation.

However, Hon. Afenyo-Markin also filed a counter-complaint on the same day, alleging that he had, in fact, been assaulted by G/Cpl. Forson during the incident.

Following this, a team from the SIU, together with personnel from the Crime Scene Management and Cybercrime Units, visited the scene for crime reconstruction.

Two CCTV cameras at the Accra International Conference Centre were identified as possibly capturing the event, and the National Security Secretariat was requested to provide footage for review.

The CID noted that while video received from the National Security Bureau did not capture the alleged assault, analysis of the initial footage obtained from the Police Public Affairs Department was used to caution Hon. Afenyo-Markin.

He was released on self-recognizance bail in the presence of an independent witness and issued a police medical form for hospital examination.

Statements were also taken from Hon. Sammy Awuku and Richard Ahiagbah, who were reportedly present during the confrontation.

The report, however, indicated that Hon. Afenyo-Markin had failed to return the completed medical form despite several reminders.

The docket has now been submitted to the Attorney-General’s Department for further legal advice on the matter.

Below is the letter:

In a statement, the family said the outpouring of love since her death on Thursday, October 23, 2025, has been a source of great comfort during this period of mourning.

They have also invited individuals, groups, and institutions to submit tributes in honour of the late former First Lady. Tributes may include personal reflections, experiences, photographs, videos, or memories that highlight her impact and legacy.

Tributes can be sent via email to tributes@nanakonadu.org. Hard-copy tributes and photographs can be delivered to Trudy at the Office of former President Jerry John Rawlings, located at No. 1 Sekou Toure Link, Ridge, near the Ridge Hospital. The family requests that all submissions be made within two weeks of this announcement. For further enquiries, they provided the contact number 027 6500 008.

“The family deeply appreciates your prayers, kind words, and continued support during this difficult time,” the statement added.

Full Announcement from the Agyeman-Rawlings and Allied Families:

The Agyeman-Rawlings and allied families express their profound gratitude to the people of Ghana and friends around the world for the overwhelming outpouring of love and sympathy following the sudden passing of Her Excellency Dr. Mrs. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Individuals, groups, and institutions who wish to submit tributes in her honour may send them by email to tributes@nanakonadu.org.

Friends and well-wishers are encouraged to share experiences of how she impacted their lives, as well as digital photographs, videos, and other memories, including their names and contact details. Hard-copy tributes and photographs may be delivered to Trudy at the Office of Former President Rawlings, No. 1 Sekou Toure Link, Ridge, near the Ridge Hospital.

Kindly submit tributes within two weeks of this announcement.

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Ghana will face Japan on 14 November before travelling to take on South Korea four days later, as part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Tentatively, we are looking at the end of this week or the weekend to confirm the squad and the full complement of the team,” Twum said.

He added, “The plan is for the advanced team to depart Accra on Friday for Japan, followed by the rest of the technical team. I don’t yet know if there will be local players. Depending on their number, they will hopefully travel on Sunday to Japan. We will then receive the players after their respective matches on Tuesday.”

The Black Stars’ Asia tour comes as anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup draw, scheduled for 5 December in Washington, where Ghana will learn its group-stage opponents.

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Mr. Butey, who also serves as the first National Vice-Chairman, made this disclosure in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem show.

He confirmed that several prominent figures, including Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi; Bono Regional Chairman Kwame Baffoe Abronye (Abronye DC); Communications Team Member Ernest Owusu Bempah; former Lands Minister Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh; and another lawyer, have all been referred to the committee for alleged breaches of party discipline.

“All misconducts have been referred to the disciplinary committee. They will sit on the cases on Friday, and everyone found culpable will be suspended,” he stated firmly.

Mr. Butey stressed that the NPP would not shield any member, regardless of their influence or position within the party.

“Nobody is above the party, not even me. The committee will write their recommendations, and we will take further action. If they recommend suspension, I won’t hesitate,” he declared.

His comments come amid growing internal tensions and concerns over indiscipline among certain party executives and communicators.

Mr. Butey, who assumed leadership responsibilities following Chairman Stephen Ayesu Ntim’s medical leave, said his focus is to restore order and unity in the NPP ahead of the 2028 general elections.

“I am now the leader of the party, and the boldness and bravery I have is huge. If they recommend suspension, I will not hesitate. They can leave for the party to collapse; the NPP must stand on discipline,” he asserted.

According to insiders, the disciplinary action forms part of a broader effort to sanitize the party’s internal structures and reinforce its commitment to discipline, loyalty, and respect for authority after months of public altercations and factional divisions.

The NPP Disciplinary Committee, chaired by senior party elder Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, is expected to issue its recommendations shortly after Friday’s sitting, paving the way for the National Executive Committee to take final action.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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The family is urging Ghana’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Attorney General, and the judges handling the case to expedite proceedings and ensure a swift conclusion to the matter.

According to them, despite multiple court appearances since the case began, the trial has been plagued by repeated adjournments, leaving the family in anguish.

“This raises a serious concern — what exactly is happening with our judicial system regarding this case? A swift resolution is imperative. Is justice delayed, justice denied? We are sending this appeal to the IGP, the Attorney General, the judges handling my sister’s case, and to whom it may concern. Cases of this nature must be treated with the utmost urgency,” they pleaded.

Their appeal comes as Wednesday, November 5, 2025, marked what would have been Joana’s 22nd birthday — a day the family described as bittersweet, filled with grief instead of celebration.

In an emotional video statement, Joana’s sisters described the past eight months as a period of unbearable pain and frustration. They lamented the slow pace of the judicial process and the frequent adjournments that have stalled justice for their late sister.

“Today, instead of celebrating a future that was stolen, we are mourning the loss of our innocent sister. Her memory remains a light to us, yet also a source of deep sorrow as we continue to seek answers and, most importantly, justice,” one of her sisters said.

Joana Yabani, a final-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, was found dead around 5:00 a.m. on February 27, 2025, near the KNUST Disability and Rehabilitation Centre by campus security personnel.

She was allegedly strangled by a schoolmate believed to be her boyfriend, who remains in police custody as investigations continue.

In a statement issued on Thursday, November 6, the ministry announced that the tribunal’s decision vindicates the government’s termination of the PDS concession agreement. The LCIA ruled that the demand guarantees issued for the PDS–ECG transaction were void ab initio (invalid from the outset), confirming that the Government of Ghana acted within its rights to cancel the deal.

The ministry noted that the controversy surrounding the PDS arrangement stemmed from poor decisions made during the selection and approval of the concessionaire under the previous administration.

These missteps, it said, contributed to Ghana’s loss of approximately $190 million in compact funding from the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in 2019.

It added that legal and administrative measures are underway to recover any amounts due to ECG and the State as a result of the arbitration outcome.

“The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to accountability, transparency, and sustainable energy reforms consistent with President John Dramani Mahama’s agenda,” the statement added.

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In a statement, the Assembly said the exercise is part of efforts to boost its finances and improve service delivery across the capital city.

The Head of Public Affairs for the AMA, Gilbert Nii Ankrah, who signed the notice, said the Revenue Mobilisation Task Force will be visiting “business premises, properties, and advertising locations to reconcile bills and collect outstanding payments.”

All businesses, property owners, and outdoor advertising firms operating in Accra are required to cooperate with the task force.

Ratepayers have been directed to make available valid receipts for Business Operating Permits, Property Rates, and Outdoor Advertising Fees for verification.

“The Assembly urges all ratepayers to support this important exercise, as the funds collected will enable the AMA to continue delivering essential services such as sanitation, infrastructure development, and public safety for the benefit of all residents of Accra,” the statement read.

The AMA issued a stern warning to defaulters, stating that “no excuses will be accepted from defaulters or their agents,” and advised those who may not be present to leave their payment receipts with their caretakers to avoid penalties.

The operation will also crack down on unauthorised outdoor advertisements. The task force has been mandated to remove all illegal billboards, with the offending companies bearing the cost of removal.

“Companies found to have erected such billboards without the requisite permits will be surcharged with the cost of removal,” the Assembly stated.

Such revenue mobilisation exercises are a common feature of local government administration in Ghana, as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) strive to generate internally raised funds to complement central government grants.

Ratepayers seeking clarification or bill reconciliation have been advised to contact the Metro Director of Finance at the AMA Head Office.

The confirmation was made on Wednesday night during a ceremony at Parliament’s D.F. Annan Auditorium in Accra, where sponsors and partners of the 2025 tournament were honoured.

Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, who moderated the event, revealed that the partnership with Sunderland was secured through the efforts of Primeval Media Limited and with the approval of Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin.

“Through the efforts of the organisers, Primeval Media Limited, and the Office of the Right Honourable Speaker, we have secured a partnership with Sunderland Football Club in England. So, the winner of the next edition will travel to England,” he said.

In a symbolic gesture, Sunderland presented a framed No. 3 jersey to Speaker Bagbin, representing his position in Ghana’s political hierarchy.

Introduced in 2024 as a platform to promote peace and unity ahead of national elections, the Democracy Cup continues to harness the power of football to advance democratic values nationwide.

Hearts of Oak lifted the 2025 crown in September with a narrow 1-0 victory over Great Olympics at the University of Ghana Stadium, reclaiming the title after losing the inaugural final to Asante Kotoko.

As Kotoko did after their maiden triumph—when they played Major League Soccer side D.C. United in Washington—plans are underway for Hearts’ international friendly this year, with Germany and the United States being considered as possible venues.

Sunderland shares a special connection with Ghanaian football, having previously featured Black Stars legends Asamoah Gyan and John Mensah.

Speaking in a one-on-one interview on the AM Show, Paul Adom-Otchere said that although President Akufo-Addo may have made mistakes during his tenure, his overall impact on Ghana’s political evolution remains unmatched.

“He may have made some mistakes, but after you look at it, I call him the most impactful politician of the Fourth Republic,” he said.

“He was the politician who gave the biggest mobilisation, fought the most for press freedom, and defended parliamentary processes at critical moments in our democratic history.”

Paul Adom-Otchere pointed to Akufo-Addo’s early political career and advocacy for constitutionalism, including his opposition to attempts to alter the 1992 Constitution during his time as Chair of Parliament’s Subsidiary Legislation Committee.

He also credited him with playing a major role in shaping Ghana’s multiparty democracy and media landscape.

According to him, Akufo-Addo’s 2016 electoral victory — which saw him defeat then-President John Mahama by the largest margin in Ghana’s Fourth Republic — cemented his place in political history.

“He still holds the record of having won the largest margin as an opposition candidate coming into the ballot,” Mr. Adom-Otchere noted, adding that the former President’s legacy will be remembered for both his political resilience and his contribution to democratic freedoms.

Mobile phone footage of the incident on Tuesday shows Sheinbaum speaking to a group of supporters on a street near the National Palace in Mexico City.

In the video, a man approaches her from behind and attempts to kiss her on the neck and place his hands on her body.

Sheinbaum moved away quickly and a member of her team stepped in, but she was visibly shaken. The offender has been arrested.

“My view is, if I don’t file a complaint, what will happen to other Mexican women? If they do this to the president, what will happen to all women in our country?” Sheinbaum said at a news conference on Wednesday.

“I decided to press charges because this is something that I experienced as a woman, but that we as women experience in our country,” she said. “I have experienced it before, when I wasn’t president, when I was a student.”

She added that she had decided to press ahead with bringing charges against the suspect as he had allegedly harassed other women in the crowd.

“A line must be drawn,” she said.

Women’s rights groups and feminist commentators have said the incident shows the extent of ingrained machismo in Mexican society, where a man believes he has the right to accost even the president if she is a woman.

Femicide is also a huge problem in Mexico, with a staggering 98% of gender-based murders estimated to go unpunished.

Sheinbaum promised to tackle the issue as a candidate, but so far in her administration there has been no discernible improvement in that area of violent crime.

The incident also comes amid discussions about presidential security and the wider safety of politicians.

As president, Sheinbaum has broadly followed the approach of her predecessor, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, in having close and regular contact with her supporters on the streets or in campaign events.

On occasion, that has presented security concerns for her team. However, she confirmed in her new conference she had no intention of changing her policy of interacting with her supporters.

The incident also happened just days after the murder of Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan, a municipality in the violent state of Michoacan, at the local Day of the Dead celebrations.

Manzo had called on Sheinbaum for greater federal support in Uruapan in the fight against drug cartels. Around 35 candidates were killed in the lead up to the general election last year in what was considered the bloodiest campaign in modern Mexico.

Since taking office, Sheinbaum has made in-roads in improving the country’s dire security situation, particularly clamping down on fentanyl-trafficking – a key issue for her US counterpart, President Trump.

Dr. Hamid, a former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), is standing trial alongside nine others for their alleged involvement in the case.

In his application, Dr. Hamid argues that the release of his passport is necessary to allow him to travel to Canada to attend a political engagement.

The Republic has, however, opposed the request.

As part of his bail conditions, the Court ordered Dr. Hamid to surrender his passport. He also remains on the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) stop list.

Case update: The Republic v. Mustapha Hamid and 9 Others

The Criminal High Court is scheduled to hear on 13 November an application filed by the first accused person, Dr. Mustapha Hamid, seeking the release of his passport in the ongoing GH¢291 million case involving allegations… pic.twitter.com/RAAZAXYMhC

— Office of the Special Prosecutor-Ghana (@ospghana) November 6, 2025

The Porcupine Warriors will travel to the Accra Sports Stadium for the Matchday 9 encounter, with both teams yet to suffer a defeat in the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.

Beyond the long-standing rivalry, the fixture promises added excitement as it brings together Zito and his former colleague and friend, Hearts coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani.

Reflecting on their shared history, Zito recalled their successful period at Kotoko, where Dramani managed the senior team while he handled the youth side.

“I’ve worked with him before when he was at Kotoko. I was with the U20s and he was with the senior side,” Zito said.

“The telepathy between us worked well; we won the Premier Division twice and the U20 twice. That tells you how in sync we were.”

Zito commended Dramani for his performance since taking charge of Hearts but stressed that their friendship would take a back seat once the match begins.

“Beyond Hearts and Kotoko, we’re brothers. We talk a lot and he’s doing very well with Hearts of Oak,” he noted.

“We’ve played twice — I won the President’s Cup and he won the GHALCA Top 4 — so this third one is to prove a point. I said earlier that the timing of that GHALCA Top 4 wasn’t good for Kotoko, and now I feel vindicated.”

With both coaches tied at one win apiece in recent encounters, Zito made clear his determination to come out on top.

“Automatically, we are going there with the mindset of beating him at the end of the day,” he declared.

Kick-off for the much-anticipated clash is scheduled for 16:00 GMT on Sunday.

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In the petition dated October 27, 2025, Mr. Kpebu argued that the directive issued by the Commission’s Director-General, which declared SMC degrees unrecognized, was both procedurally and substantively flawed.

He stated that the decision violated principles of fairness, due process, and legitimate expectation.

According to the petition, SMC University was accredited by the former National Accreditation Board (NAB) between 2012 and 2018 as a recognized foreign tertiary institution operating in Ghana.

During that period, the university offered several postgraduate programmes, including Doctor of Finance (DFin), Doctor of Management (DoM), and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).

Mr. Kpebu explained that NAB’s withdrawal of SMC’s accreditation in 2018 was based on the school’s “home-country accreditation” status but permitted already enrolled students to complete their programmes and graduate with valid degrees.

He cited multiple NAB communications confirming that those degrees would remain legitimate even after the withdrawal.

However, the recent GTEC directive reportedly reversed those assurances, instructing employers and institutions to disregard SMC degrees — a move Mr. Kpebu described as ultra vires (beyond the Director-General’s authority).

He argued that the decision lacked the approval of the GTEC Board, thereby contravening the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023).

“The directive seeks to apply retrospectively to degrees lawfully earned years earlier, which is contrary to Article 107 of the 1992 Constitution that prohibits retrospective laws,” the petition stated.

Mr. Kpebu further claimed that the decision breached the rights of SMC graduates to natural justice and fair hearing, warning that it could lead to reputational harm, job losses, and misconceptions about their qualifications.

He, therefore, urged the GTEC Board to:

1. Suspend the directive pending a full review.
2. Reaffirm the validity of degrees earned under NAB accreditation up to 2018.
3. Issue an official clarification to employers and the public to correct misinformation.

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The 20-year PDS concession, launched in 2019 under the Millennium Challenge Compact between the Government of Ghana and the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), aimed to improve ECG’s efficiency and electricity distribution through private-sector management.

However, the contract was short-lived. Within months, the government suspended and later terminated the deal after discovering that payment guarantees submitted by PDS—purportedly issued by Al Koot Insurance and Reinsurance Company of Qatar—were fraudulent. Investigations and Qatari court rulings confirmed the guarantees were forged.

PDS subsequently filed a legal claim in London, seeking over US$390 million in compensation for alleged wrongful termination. ECG, represented by Cherie Blair KC of Omnia Strategy LLP, successfully defended Ghana’s position, arguing the termination was justified.

Speaking on Channel One TV, Vanderpuye accused Dr. Bawumia of directly causing the concession’s failure by altering key terms of the agreement.

“All this PDS issue, I put the blame strictly on the doorstep of Dr. Bawumia. If he had not varied the conditionalities underpinning this arrangement, we wouldn’t have arrived at this situation. He used the delegated powers given to him to handle the PDS and, on his own discretion, changed the bank guarantee to an insurance guarantee,” he stated.

Vanderpuye argued that the decision compromised the credibility of the deal and created room for fraud. He cited earlier comments by Hohoe MP John Peter Amewu, who described the PDS arrangement as “a scam created for people to steal money.”

He also criticized the Vice President for failing to consult his team before making such changes, which he said undermined government oversight and jeopardized the initiative.

After nearly three years of arbitration, the London tribunal dismissed all PDS claims, upholding ECG’s position that the fraudulent guarantees invalidated the concession.

Speaking on Channel One TV, Mr. Vanderpuye said PDS must also issue a formal apology to Ghanaians for what he described as a failed and deceptive venture that denied the nation a crucial opportunity to reform its power distribution sector.

“The PDS was an opportunity for us to fix the structural problems of ECG once and for all,” he stated. “We had a chance to receive support to build our capacity and strengthen the institution, but we lost it. The whole thing turned out to be a mirage.”

He welcomed the government’s intervention to terminate the concession and the final resolution of the arbitration case but insisted that closure of the legal process should not end the pursuit of accountability.

“I’m happy there has been finality as far as arbitration is concerned, but the best course now is for PDS to refund all monies collected on behalf of ECG and apologise to Ghanaians,” he asserted. “Every individual involved in that deal should also face the law.”

PDS assumed control of ECG’s operations in 2019 under a 20-year concession agreement, part of the Millennium Challenge Compact between the Government of Ghana and the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). The deal aimed to inject private-sector efficiency into ECG and enhance power distribution nationwide.

However, the contract was short-lived. Within months, the government suspended and later terminated the agreement after discovering that payment guarantees purportedly issued by Al Koot Insurance and Reinsurance Company of Qatar were fraudulent. These guarantees were meant to secure PDS’s financial obligations.

Investigations confirmed that Al Koot had not authorised the guarantees—a finding later upheld by Qatar’s Court of Cassation, which ruled the documents were forged.

PDS subsequently filed an arbitration case in London, claiming wrongful termination and demanding more than US$390 million in compensation. ECG, represented by Omnia Strategy LLP under Cherie Blair KC, successfully defended Ghana’s position. The tribunal dismissed all PDS claims, bringing closure to years of controversy surrounding the concession.

Mr. Vanderpuye said the ruling vindicated Ghana’s stance but stressed that accountability must go further.

“We must ensure that PDS refunds every property and amount that rightfully belongs to ECG,” he emphasised. “Only then can Ghanaians have confidence that justice has truly been served.”

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, the former Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture alleged that from the moment Naa Koryoo entered politics in Kasoa, she resorted to lies and propaganda as a strategy to win public sympathy and eventually the parliamentary seat.

“From day one, Naa Koryoo came to Kasoa and started fabricating lies because she was taught that if she went that route, she would win the Awutu Senya East seat — and she succeeded,” Hawa Koomson stated.

She added that her refusal to follow such tactics made her a target for malicious attacks and false accusations.

“I made up my mind not to tow her line. I don’t know how to lie because I was not brought up that way. But someone trained to fabricate lies to make them appear true — that’s exactly what she did in 2020,” she explained.

Hawa Koomson claimed the political rivalry escalated during the 2020 elections when she was falsely accused of bringing armed men into the constituency.

“I was accused of bringing armed men into the constituency. It took only God’s intervention; that’s why I was not arrested or prosecuted,” she said.

The former MP also alleged that during the Ablekuma North re-run, Naa Koryoo’s husband led a group that attacked her, leaving her narrowly escaping a stabbing incident.

“Naa Koryoo wanted to disgrace me and wanted me dead. Her husband led people to come and attack me and almost stabbed me during the Ablekuma North re-run. I would have been in prison by now, and I am grateful to God for His intervention,” she recounted.

Her comments follow Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka’s recent revelation in Parliament that Naa Koryoo had denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 general elections — contradicting earlier reports that had fueled tensions in the constituency.

Hawa Koomson maintained that the truth is now emerging, expressing gratitude for what she believes is divine vindication after years of public vilification.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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The advisory notes that although the earlier rainstorm system has weakened, it continues to produce moderate to heavy rainfall along the western coast, with effects expected to extend inland to the Ashanti, Bono, Ahafo, and Eastern forest belts.

Cities including Kumasi, Obuasi, Tarkwa, Goaso, Techiman, and Sunyani are likely to experience thunderstorms and rain, with a 40–60% probability. Misty and foggy conditions are also expected during the early morning hours across forested and mountainous zones, potentially reducing visibility for drivers and commuters.

As the day progresses, a mix of sunshine and clouds is expected, but late afternoon showers and evening thunderstorms remain highly likely across the northern corridor, including Tamale, Yendi, and Kintampo.

Meanwhile, residents along the coast from Takoradi to Accra can expect sunny intervals with isolated showers, and the sea is forecast to remain calm.

GMet is urging the public—especially farmers, market women, and drivers—to remain vigilant and observe safety precautions, as heavy downpours and gusty winds could cause temporary flooding and disruptions in parts of the Ashanti and middle belt regions.

In a statement shared on social media, Forson referenced the viral TikTok campaign under the hashtag #JusticeForOchanya, where several girls have come forward to share experiences of sexual abuse, many implicating teachers and authority figures.

“These stories reveal a disturbing pattern of manipulation and exploitation,” she said.

Forson explained how abuse often begins with subtle grooming tactics—compliments, touches, or small gestures—before escalating into full-blown assault. She noted that perpetrators are often trusted figures in schools and communities, making it even harder for victims to speak out.

“Teachers wait until the last day of school, just when students are leaving, to make their move. In their minds, you’re no longer a student. It happens in secondary schools and even universities. And if adults struggle to fight back, how much harder is it for a teenager?” she lamented.

The actress criticized the “culture of silence and protection” around predators, revealing that many cases reported in schools are ignored or covered up by authorities.

“I remember an incident in a girls’ school where students reported a teacher. After investigations, it didn’t go anywhere. He continued to teach. Even when you think the girls are ‘interested,’ the law sets an age of consent for a reason; children can’t truly consent, and adults should know better,” she said.

Forson extended her message to male victims as well, noting that boys also suffer sexual abuse, though society often dismisses it.

“We have a pedophilia problem in this country. Until we start holding adults accountable, nothing will change,” she warned, calling for urgent national reflection and action from parents, schools, and law enforcement to stop shielding offenders and start protecting victims.

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The 25-year-old was reportedly on the radar of Manchester United, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur during the summer transfer window following an impressive campaign that saw his stock rise sharply.

Despite the attention, Semenyo signed a contract extension keeping him at the Vitality Stadium until 2030.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he admitted there were discussions about a potential move but said the project at Bournemouth was too exciting to walk away from.

“There was a lot of interest and back-and-forth with the club [over a possible transfer],” he said. “But I knew in my head that the manager has something up his sleeve this year. How we finished the season last year was fantastic, and with the players we’ve brought in, we could continue that momentum.”

Semenyo reserved special praise for head coach Andoni Iraola, whose high-intensity philosophy has transformed the Cherries’ style of play.

“He’s unbelievable, honestly,” Semenyo added. “Once everyone got into his playing style, it’s been incredible. It’s just relentless, and everyone is fully invested.”

Semenyo played a key role in Bournemouth’s impressive league finish last season, scoring 11 Premier League goals. He has continued that form into the new campaign, netting six times in his first 10 matches.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the former MP explained that she only learned her successor, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunnor, owned a Mahindra after reports suggested the vehicle was used to transport weapons during the incident that left one person dead.

“Until my son was stabbed and they packed weapons in a Mahindra to a polling station, I never knew Naa Koryoo had a Mahindra in Kasoa because we don’t use the same route,” she said.

Hawa Koomson stressed that on the day of the alleged shooting, she was nowhere near the location of the attack and did not drive the black car her opponents claimed was involved.

“The area she claims the incident happened, I was nowhere near there. They said a black car was used, but that day I didn’t drive a black car. My friend brought a white Range Rover, and that’s what I sat in with my bodyguard,” she explained.

The former Minister for Special Development Initiatives added that she never crossed into the other side of Kasoa where the violence reportedly occurred.

“On election day, I didn’t cross to the other side of Kasoa — Walantu and its environs — so I didn’t even see any Mahindra,” she noted.

Hawa Koomson emphasized her transparent relationship with the Kasoa Police Command, saying she always informs them of her movements.

“The Kasoa Police are my friends. I don’t go anywhere they are without announcing my presence. And that day, they didn’t see me where the incident happened,” she stated.

Her remarks follow the disclosure by Interior Minister Mubarak Muntaka in Parliament that Naa Koryoo denied any attack on her convoy during the 2024 elections — contradicting earlier claims made by the NDC parliamentary candidate.

Hawa Koomson, who lost the 2024 parliamentary contest to Naa Koryoo, said she believes the truth is gradually unfolding.

“God works in mysterious ways. When the Ablekuma North incident happened, I said God will fight my battles for me,” she added.

The Interior Ministry has confirmed that investigations into the Awutu Senya East election violence are ongoing, with the driver of the Mahindra already traced as part of efforts to establish the full facts of the case.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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He explained that issues of land ownership and traditional leadership are outside the Police Service’s mandate and should therefore be referred to the appropriate traditional channels for resolution.

“Any chief who approaches the Police Commander with land issues should be directed to seek my intervention,” the Asantehene stated. He added that if the Police Commander becomes aware of any ongoing land dispute, he must immediately bring it to the Asantehene’s attention for action.

Otumfuo also urged DCOP Akoto to focus on strengthening security across the region, intensifying efforts to curb theft and other social vices, and ensuring law and order to promote lasting peace and stability in the Ashanti Region.

The advice was given during a courtesy call by the new Police Commander at the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.

The outgoing Regional Police Commander, COP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, expressed gratitude to His Majesty for his guidance and support during his tenure and formally introduced DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto as his successor.

Speaking at the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, during a courtesy call by the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto, the Asantehene described the use of land guards as illegal and alien to Asanteman’s traditional governance system.

“I will destool any chief who engages the services of land guards. They know very well that they have no such authority. When those lands were entrusted to them upon their enstoolment, I never instructed them to hire land guards to protect them. I did not grant them the power to employ people to use guns and harm others,” Otumfuo Osei Tutu II cautioned.

He advised that chiefs or individuals involved in land disputes should channel their grievances through the Manhyia Palace for peaceful resolution rather than resorting to violence or unauthorised security measures.

“If you have any land disputes with anyone, bring it before me, and we will resolve it amicably, for peace to prevail,” he added.

The Asantehene emphasized that the use of land guards not only violates traditional authority but also threatens public safety and peace within the region. His remarks coincide with the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), which expressly prohibits the use of land guards and prescribes severe penalties for anyone who employs, engages, or promotes such illegal activities.

The operation targeted persons allegedly engaging in illegal activities around the demolition site. According to police sources, the suspects were caught smoking substances believed to be Indian hemp and obstructing the exercise.

Nkawkaw Divisional Police Commander, ACP Tamimu Halidu, confirmed the arrests to Adom News, stating that all seventeen suspects are currently in police custody and will undergo screening before being arraigned in court.

He emphasized that the police remain committed to maintaining law and order during such operations and warned residents against using demolition or construction activities as cover for criminal behavior.

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